Back-to-Back: Dangote Refinery Retains Top Spot as Europe's Largest Jet Fuel Supplier

Nigeria has retained its place at the centre of Europe's imported jet fuel market, with Dangote Petroleum Refinery emerging as the continent's largest supplier for a second consecutive month.

The latest export data shows the Lekki-based refinery again supplied more jet fuel to Europe than the United States, extending a breakthrough first recorded in June and adding fresh fact to Nigeria's growing presence in international fuel trade.

Figures compiled by global commodities intelligence firm Kpler indicate that Europe imported about 2.06 million tonnes of jet fuel in July. More than 400,000 tonnes came from Dangote Refinery, representing roughly 20 percent of the month's total imports. That was enough to place the Nigerian refinery ahead of established suppliers from the United States and the Middle East.

The July performance follows an even larger shipment in June, when Dangote exported a record 466,000 tonnes of jet fuel to Europe. Those exports enabled Nigeria to overtake the United States as Europe's leading external supplier of aviation fuel for the first time. Holding on to that position a month later suggests the refinery is becoming an established source of supply rather than a temporary entrant.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals said in a statement on Thursday that the result reflects its expanding role in the global aviation fuel market and its ability to consistently meet the quality standards required by international customers.

The refinery attributed its performance to a combination of scale, technology, export capability and its location on Nigeria's Atlantic coast. Together, those advantages have allowed it to compete in a market long supplied by refiners in the United States, the Middle East and Asia.

Production has continued to rise alongside exports. Jet fuel loadings at the Lekki export terminal reached a record 550,000 tonnes in June, while crude deliveries to the refinery climbed to an all-time high of 660,000 barrels per day, providing the volumes needed to sustain higher exports.

The shift also reflects changes in the global energy market. Europe imported limited quantities of jet fuel from Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Oman during July, but disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz and other geopolitical developments have encouraged buyers to widen their supplier base.

Dangote Refinery said those changing market conditions have created opportunities for new suppliers capable of delivering consistent volumes without compromising international quality standards.

David Bird, Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Refinery, said the company's export business now extends beyond aviation fuel to diesel, petrol and other refined petroleum products shipped to customers across Europe, Africa and other parts of the world.

According to Bird, the expanding export portfolio is strengthening Nigeria's position as a net exporter of high-value refined petroleum products.

Retaining the top spot for a second consecutive month points to Nigeria's growing capacity to compete in markets once dominated by traditional refining centres, while demonstrating that Nigerian-made petroleum products can earn a place among the world's leading suppliers.

Retaining the top spot for a second consecutive month points to Nigeria's growing capacity to compete in markets once dominated by traditional refining centres and strengthens the country's standing in the global petroleum trade.

Nigeria Eyes Up to $50 Billion in Offshore Investments by 2030

Nigeria's offshore petroleum industry is on course for significant expansion, with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) projecting that 22 major offshore projects scheduled between 2026 and 2030 could attract between $30 billion and $50 billion in investment.

According to the commission, the projects are expected to increase oil and gas production, create jobs, expand critical infrastructure, strengthen energy security and reinforce Nigeria's position as a leading destination for upstream investment.

The projection was presented at the Society of Petroleum Engineers' Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE 2026) in Lagos by Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, Chief Executive Officer of the NUPRC, who was represented by Enorense Amadasu, the commission's Executive Commissioner for Development and Production.

Eyesan disclosed that since 2024, the NUPRC has approved more than $57 billion in Field Development Plans (FDPs), with several of those approvals already progressing into Final Investment Decisions (FIDs).

She explained that the commission is not only developing Nigeria's proven oil and gas reserves but also maintaining a strong pipeline of exploration opportunities to support long-term production growth and national energy security.

The country's licensing programme has become a key part of that strategy. Since 2022, successive licensing rounds have opened access to some of Nigeria's most prospective oil and gas acreages.

During the 2025 Licensing Round, 31 companies emerged as successful bidders for 37 oil and gas blocks after completing what the commission described as a robust, data-driven and technology-enabled evaluation process.

With preparations already underway for the 2026 Licensing Round, Eyesan said Nigeria is demonstrating that investment certainty is becoming a lasting feature of its regulatory framework.

The NUPRC also acknowledged that infrastructure gaps continue to limit Africa's energy potential. To address this, Nigeria is expanding gas gathering systems, processing facilities, pipelines and export infrastructure, while promoting shared facilities, open access, third-party access and field tie-backs to reduce costs, accelerate project delivery, maximise existing infrastructure and bring stranded oil and gas resources into production.

Beyond infrastructure, Eyesan said stronger collaboration among the government, security agencies, industry operators, host communities, private partners and Host Community Development Trusts has improved the protection of critical energy assets, further strengthening Nigeria's upstream sector.

Recent developments underline the scale of activity across the industry. In November 2025, the NUPRC announced that the Federal Government had approved oil field development plans worth about $20 billion between January and October 2025.

A month earlier, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) Limited confirmed a $2 billion Final Investment Decision for the HI offshore gas project in Nigeria.

On March 11, the Federal Government also approved a targeted fiscal incentive designed to fast-track Shell's $20 billion Final Investment Decision for its deepwater project.

Together, these developments highlight continued activity across Nigeria's upstream petroleum industry as new offshore projects, regulatory reforms and infrastructure expansion create opportunities for increased investment, employment, energy security and long-term economic growth.

14-Year-Old Ekunke Odey Goodness Becomes First-Ever FIDE World Amateur Rapid Chess Champion

Nigeria delivered a commanding performance at the inaugural FIDE World Amateur Rapid Chess Championship in Abuja, with local players sweeping all three podium positions in a landmark moment for the country's growing chess community.

Leading the charge was 14-year-old Ekunke Odey Goodness, who scored 9 points from 11 rounds to become the first player to win the newly introduced global title. His victory places his name permanently in the competition's history while highlighting the remarkable rise of young Nigerian chess talent.

Organised jointly by FIDE and the Nigeria Chess Federation, the tournament brought together players from several countries for 11 rounds of rapid chess, played with 15 minutes per player and a 10-second increment after every move.

Goodness finished at the top of the standings, while FM Eugene Ekpoikong Unwana claimed the silver medal with 8½ points. FM Bomo Lovet Kigigha also finished on 8½ points but secured bronze after the tie-break system was applied, completing a clean sweep for the host nation.

The race for the title remained fiercely contested until the closing rounds.

One of Goodness' strongest challengers was 17-year-old Joseph Sambo, whose impressive campaign became keen after he defeated the eventual champion in Round 8. Earlier in the tournament, Sambo had also overcome FM Bomo Lovet Kigigha, who doubles as Goodness' coach and mentor.

Sambo strengthened his title ambitions with another victory over AIM Sahil Sanjay Shejal in Round 9, putting himself firmly in contention. However, successive defeats to Unwana in Round 10 and Lanre Seye Oluwalasinu in the final round ended his challenge, leaving him fourth overall with 7½ points, just outside the medals.

Unwana, meanwhile, produced a strong finish when it mattered most. Victories over Kigigha in Round 9 and Sambo in Round 10 earned him a final-round showdown with Goodness.

Going into the decisive match, Goodness led with 8½ points, while Unwana had 8 points. Playing the White pieces, Unwana needed a win to overtake the leader, but the contest ended in a draw. The result lifted Goodness to 9 points and confirmed him as champion, while Unwana secured second place. Kigigha finished third on tie-break despite matching Unwana's score.

The event also featured strong international participation. AIM Sahil Sanjay Shejal finished as the highest-ranked Indian player in fifth place with 7½ points, while fellow Indian AFM Aryan Raj was defeated by Goodness in Round 7. Earlier, Goodness had shared the points with Kigigha in their Round 6 encounter.

Beyond crowning a world champion, the tournament showcased the depth of Nigerian chess. Young stars such as Goodness and Sambo competed confidently alongside experienced players like Unwana and Kigigha, underlining the country's growing presence on the international stage.

For Goodness, the triumph marks the biggest achievement of his young career. At just 14, he leaves Abuja as the first-ever FIDE World Amateur Rapid Chess Champion, while the inaugural tournament demonstrated Nigeria's ability to host a world-class event that attracted competitors from Nigeria, India and other countries.

Super Falcons Turn WAFCON Survival Mission into a Six-Goal Masterclass

Just days after a shock opening defeat placed Nigeria's 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign in serious danger, the nine-time African champions delivered the response their supporters had been waiting for. On a dramatic evening at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Morocco, the Falcons overwhelmed Egypt 6-2 to secure a place in the quarter-finals, proving that resilience can be just as decisive as talent.

Nigeria entered the final Group C fixtures carrying the weight of an unexpected loss to Malawi in their opening match. Although a hard-earned 1-0 victory in their second outing revived hopes, the Falcons still faced a daunting challenge. They needed a convincing win over Egypt while also keeping a close eye on the outcome of the Malawi-Zambia clash, where every development had the potential to reshape the group standings.

Rather than allowing the pressure to dictate the occasion, Nigeria chose to dictate the football. The breakthrough arrived almost immediately. Asisat Oshoala confidently converted an early penalty to hand the Falcons the perfect start before later leaving the pitch after being substituted. Her replacement, Gift Monday, maintained Nigeria's attacking intensity and doubled the advantage deep into the first half.

Egypt found a route back into the contest just before the interval. Michelle Alozie was adjudged to have elbowed an Egyptian player inside the penalty area, and Nadine Ghazi made no mistake from the spot to reduce the score to 2-1.

The break changed neither Nigeria's ambition nor their approach. Introduced in the second half, Uchenna Kanu made an immediate impact in the 57th minute by taking advantage of defensive lapses to restore Nigeria's cushion. The goal shifted the momentum firmly in the Falcons' favour as they repeatedly exposed Egypt's backline.

Christy Ucheibe then converted another penalty to give Nigeria a fourth goal, but the contest still had another twist. Ghazi struck brilliantly for her second goal of the evening, narrowing the score to 4-2 at a moment when updates from the Malawi-Zambia encounter continued to keep qualification calculations alive.

That brief uncertainty lasted only moments as Rasheedat Ajibade stepped up to convert Nigeria's third penalty of the match, extinguishing any hopes of an Egyptian comeback and restoring complete control. Deep into stoppage time, substitute Joy Omewa added the sixth goal to complete an emphatic victory that reflected Nigeria's attacking quality and determination.

The final whistle confirmed the Super Falcons' place in the quarter-finals, with Nigeria finishing second in Group C behind Malawi. The reward is a last-eight meeting with the winners of Group B, where Cameroon, Ghana and Mali are still battling to finish on top.

The scoreline alone tells only part of the story. Throughout the evening, the Falcons had to contend with the pressure of knowing that their fate was being influenced by another match. Yet they never lost sight of the one objective they could control which was scoring goals. They did exactly that, finding the net six times and converting three penalties in one of their most decisive performances of the tournament.

Championship-winning teams are often defined not by how they begin, but by how they respond when their backs are against the wall. After an opening setback threatened to derail their campaign, the Super Falcons answered with courage, clinical finishing and a performance worthy of their rich continental pedigree.

Nigeria's journey at WAFCON continues, and with confidence restored, the Falcons remain firmly in contention for another African crown.

Nigerian Innovation Scores Another Global Win as Moove Enters Africa's Unicorn Club

Around the world, investors are increasingly looking to Nigerian-founded technology companies for the next generation of transformative businesses. The latest evidence of that confidence has come with a landmark investment in Moove, a mobility technology company founded by Nigerians, marking one of the biggest startup successes the continent has recorded this year.

The company has secured $250 million in Series C funding, a milestone that has lifted its valuation to $2.1 billion and officially placed it among Africa's unicorn startups, companies valued at more than $1 billion.

The scale of the investment is equally remarkable. Based on publicly reported deals, Moove's Series C raise stands as the largest single funding round announced by an African startup in 2026, reflecting growing international confidence in technology companies emerging from the continent.

Behind the record-breaking investment is a coalition of some of the world's leading financial institutions. Mubadala Investment Company led the funding round, while Woven Capital, Toyota's Growth Fund, and Ion Pacific participated as co-lead investors.

The latest financing also broadened Moove's global shareholder base. New investors joining the company include BlueCrest Capital Management, Sona Asset Management, and The Raptor Group.

Meanwhile, several existing investors strengthened their commitment to the company's long-term vision by participating in the round, they include; BlackRock, MUFG, Franklin Templeton, Uber, Left Lane, Silverbacks Holdings, Square Associates, The Latest Ventures, Endeavor Catalyst, and the Ontario Power Generation Pension Plan.

Moove's rise to unicorn status is another indication that Nigerian-founded businesses are steadily expanding their influence in the global technology landscape. Beyond the impressive valuation, the company has demonstrated that homegrown innovation can attract substantial international capital while competing at the highest levels of the global startup ecosystem.

For Nigeria's innovation story, the achievement reinforces the country's reputation as a leading source of entrepreneurial talent and technology-driven solutions, while showing that globally respected investors continue to identify Nigerian-founded companies as businesses with the potential to shape the future of mobility and digital innovation.

As Africa's latest unicorn, Moove has not only crossed a significant financial milestone but has also delivered another powerful reminder of the growing global impact of Nigerian entrepreneurship.

Dangote Refinery IPO Draws Continental Interest Ahead of Historic Market Debut

The Dangote Refinery's planned initial public offering (IPO) is shaping up to be one of the largest capital market transactions in Africa's history. Valued at about $5 billion, the listing on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) is expected to be the biggest public offering ever undertaken on the continent, drawing interest from stock exchanges eager to participate in the landmark transaction.

Interest has emerged from across Africa, with exchanges in South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, Ghana and Rwanda all exploring opportunities to be part of the listing. The widespread attention reflects the scale of the offering and the growing appeal of one of Nigeria's most ambitious industrial investments.

Since commencing operations in 2024, the Dangote Refinery has rapidly established itself as a major force in the global refining industry. With a processing capacity of 650,000 barrels of crude oil per day, the Lagos-based facility has expanded exports of refined petroleum products, including jet fuel, to markets across Africa and Europe. The refinery has benefited from shifts in global energy supply chains and is now seeking fresh capital to support expansion of its operations and broader regional growth plans.

Among the exchanges expressing interest is the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), which hopes to secure a secondary listing after the company's planned debut on the Nigerian Exchange later this year.

Speaking to CNBC Africa, JSE Chief Executive Officer Valdene Reddy said the refinery is expected to list in Nigeria first before pursuing a secondary listing in Johannesburg.

"They will go and list in Nigeria first but with a strong intent to hopefully bring that listing to South Africa shortly thereafter on the JSE. It would be a great opportunity for diversified play of high demand but of such a strong African corporate listing on the JSE," she said.

The proposed listing comes as the JSE pursues new listings across sectors including mining, fintech, property and construction, while also implementing regulatory reforms aimed at making its market more attractive to companies seeking primary or secondary listings.

The Dangote Refinery's IPO is expected to give investors access to one of Africa's largest industrial enterprises through the public market. The widespread interest from stock exchanges across the continent speaks to the refinery's significance, demonstrating how a Nigerian-built industrial project has become one of the most sought-after corporate listings in African finance.

Nigeria Moves Ahead with 90,000km Fibre Network to Expand Broadband Nationwide

Nigeria is preparing to embark on one of its most ambitious infrastructure projects yet, with the federal government set to begin the rollout of a 90,000-kilometre fibre optic network that will extend broadband access across the country.

The network, expected to begin physical deployment within the next few weeks, will reach all six geopolitical zones, every state, all 774 local government areas and wards, creating a stronger backbone for faster and more reliable internet services.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, announced the development after briefing the President at the State House in Abuja on the progress of three flagship initiatives under his ministry.

According to the minister, all resource mobilisation and contractual processes have been completed, clearing the way for construction to begin.

"We're now at the point where, in a few weeks, we should start to lay that fibre; so people will start seeing us around the country deploying the fibre. This is going to transform Nigeria for good," Tijani said.

He added that the project would provide fibre optic infrastructure to every geopolitical zone, state, local government area and ward, significantly improving broadband coverage and internet quality nationwide.

The minister linked the progress to a series of reforms introduced by the federal government, including the designation of digital infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure, adjustments to telecommunications tariffs and tax harmonisation measures long sought by industry operators.

According to Tijani, the reforms have strengthened the communications sector, whose contribution to Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has risen from between 16 and 18 per cent when the administration took office to nearly 21 per cent today.

The government is also working to extend mobile network coverage to underserved communities. Tijani disclosed that deployment of about 3,700 telecommunications towers will begin around October after months of planning and capital mobilisation. The project is expected to bring telecom services to more than 20 million Nigerians who currently lack adequate network access.

"Today we're at a point where, before the end of the year, we'll also start to deploy close to 3,700 towers. It's taken a lot to put this project together and raise the required capital, but we are now ready to begin deployment around October," he said.

Another milestone will come on October 1 when Nigeria officially launches an alphanumeric postcode system. Tijani said the initiative will place the country among a select group of nations with an advanced digital addressing system.

Together, the nationwide fibre rollout, new telecommunications towers and the alphanumeric postcode system reflect Nigeria's continued investment in infrastructure that can support innovation, expand access to digital services and unlock new economic opportunities.

Nigeria's Locally Assembled Drones Signal a New Era of Homegrown Innovation

Nigeria's ambition to build more of the technology it uses is becoming a reality. At the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), locally assembled drones are emerging as a symbol of the country's growing engineering and manufacturing capacity.

Built through partnerships with private companies, the drones are designed for surveillance, agriculture and other practical uses. They are part of a wider effort to strengthen local manufacturing, create jobs, reduce reliance on imports and develop technologies that can compete in regional and global markets.

The progress was showcased on Tuesday when members of the Presidential Communications Team toured six factories, production facilities and the NASENI showroom at the agency's headquarters in Abuja.

The delegation included the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga; the Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare; the Special Adviser on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala-Usman; and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

Among the technologies displayed were locally assembled unmanned aerial vehicles, agricultural equipment, diagnostic test kits and other products developed through partnerships with industry players.

One of the highlights of the visit was NASENI's collaboration with Caverton Drones. Project Coordinator, Ese Obukonise, demonstrated surveillance drones, agricultural drones, pressure pumps and a locally assembled helicopter produced through the partnership.

NASENI's Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Halilu, said the agency is focused on developing technologies that create jobs, shorten production time and add value to the economy in line with the Federal Government's Nigeria First policy.

He also challenged the belief that successful manufacturing means producing every component within one country. According to him, modern industries thrive through collaboration and by focusing on areas where they have the greatest advantage.

Using Apple Inc. as an example, Halilu noted that while the company's products are designed in California, they are assembled in countries such as China and India.

"If you attempt to make everything 100 per cent local, you're pushing yourself out of civilisation," he said, adding that countries must build on their strengths to create sustainable businesses that can grow into international markets.

Halilu added that NASENI remains committed to innovations that can be produced commercially and expanded beyond Nigeria.

The visitors praised the agency's progress after inspecting the facilities.

Sunday Dare said the technologies on display showed meaningful progress in technology transfer, artificial intelligence and agricultural mechanisation. He also highlighted the local production of diagnostic test kits, noting that almost 80 per cent of the test kits used in Nigeria are still imported. He suggested that Ministries, Departments and Agencies should first determine whether products are available locally before turning to imports.

Bayo Onanuga described the agency's recent transformation as remarkable. He noted that although NASENI was established in 1992, the progress made over the past three years has been significant and encouraged the agency to continue building on its achievements.

Hadiza Bala-Usman also commended the agency's leadership, describing Khalil Halilu as focused and intentional. She said she had known him since the 2014 elections and praised the vision that has helped reposition NASENI into a stronger innovation-driven institution.

As investment in science, engineering and manufacturing continues to grow, NASENI's locally assembled drones are demonstrating that advanced technology can increasingly be designed and assembled in Nigeria while supporting industrial growth, skills development and new economic opportunities.

Nigeria Opens Africa’s First Renewable Energy College to Tackle One of Clean Energy's Biggest Challenges

Nigeria has built Africa's first Renewable Energy College, placing technical skills at the centre of its clean energy ambitions and offering a new model for workforce development on the continent.

The Barefoot Renewable Energy College, Osara (BARECKS), was commissioned alongside the Green Hydrogen Research and Demonstration Pilot Plant on Tuesday at the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Kogi State. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the ceremony.

The achievement addresses a problem that has long shaped Africa's energy transition. While many countries possess abundant renewable resources, far fewer have the trained technicians needed to install, operate and maintain the technologies that make those resources useful.

That challenge is especially familiar in Nigeria as the country enjoys vast reserves of sunlight, wind, biomass and water, yet turning those natural advantages into electricity, employment and industrial activity has remained difficult. BARECKS was established to narrow that skills gap through practical, vocational training rather than conventional classroom instruction alone.

The college will train technicians, installers, operators and maintenance professionals in renewable energy technologies, while serving as a platform for research and innovation. Its curriculum takes inspiration from India's internationally recognised Barefoot model, where women with little or no formal education were trained as solar engineers and helped electrify rural communities.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the institution as a first for Africa and said it was modelled after India's celebrated Barefoot vocational colleges.

"This is the first institution of its kind on the African continent, modelled on the celebrated vocational colleges of India that turned unlettered grandmothers into solar engineers," the President said.

The President said the same model that transformed rural communities in India could equally help expand access to clean energy across Nigeria.

"If that method could light the villages of Rajasthan, it can light the settlements of Kogi, Ondo and Cross River. Nigeria assumes, from today, the position of pacesetter in renewable energy capacity development across Africa," he said.

The project also addresses a key issue across the continent. Ambition has rarely been the obstacle; the shortage has been people equipped with the technical expertise to turn plans into functioning systems.

"Our continent has never suffered a deficit of intention. We have suffered the scarcity of hands trained to execute them," the President said.

The college reached completion within two years of its groundbreaking, a delivery timeline that stands out for a public infrastructure project of its scale.

Recalling the groundbreaking ceremony held two years ago, the President said the pace of delivery demonstrated what determined execution could achieve.

"Two years ago, we stood on this ground for the groundbreaking of this institution, with red earth underfoot and the ambition of a few determined Nigerians for company. Today, we stand before a world-class edifice, completed to international standards," he said.

The commissioning also included a call for development partners, research institutions, private-sector organisations and international bodies to collaborate with the college in expanding technical training, renewable energy research and innovation.

Its opening comes as Nigeria pursues the objectives set out in its Energy Transition Plan (ETP), which charts a path towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2060. Progress has been slower in some areas, particularly rural electrification and the deployment of off-grid solar systems.

According to the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Nigeria needs at least five million off-grid solar systems to supply electricity to communities that remain unserved or underserved.

The financial landscape is becoming more favourable. Earlier reports showed that clean energy funding flowing to developing countries, including Nigeria, has risen to $21.57 billion. Energy and climate specialists have also argued that stronger policy incentives for large-scale solar projects could unlock an estimated $2.5 billion carbon market opportunity for the country.

International support has followed a similar direction. In September 2025, the European Union announced a €545 million package to expand renewable energy investment across Africa.

The value of BARECKS will ultimately be measured less by its buildings than by the expertise it produces. Every technician trained, every installer certified and every researcher equipped through the institution brings Nigeria closer to converting its renewable energy potential into reliable power, stronger industries and wider economic opportunity.

How Pewbeam AI Is Positioning Nigeria at the Forefront of Conversational AI

Every Sunday, in churches around the world, a familiar scene plays out. A pastor quotes or paraphrases a Bible passage during a sermon, and the media team quickly searches for the correct scripture to display on the screen. Those few moments can interrupt the flow of worship and distract both the preacher and the congregation. For Nigerian product designer and design engineer Dára Sobaloju, it was a challenge worth solving.

After spending nearly two years refining the concept, Sobaloju developed Pewbeam AI, an intelligent platform that listens to sermons, recognises Bible references in real time and automatically displays the appropriate scripture without manual input. Instead of relying on searches and clicks, the platform allows worship to continue seamlessly while the technology works in the background.

Although the idea appears simple, building it required overcoming significant technical hurdles and one of the biggest challenges was teaching the system to understand context rather than simply matching keywords. Pastors often paraphrase passages or refer to biblical stories without mentioning the exact chapter and verse. Pewbeam AI is designed to interpret those references and identify the intended scripture. When it is not sufficiently confident, it displays nothing instead of risking an incorrect verse, preserving the integrity of the worship experience.

Sobaloju also built the platform with flexibility in mind. Recognising that churches operate with different technology setups, he engineered Pewbeam AI to perform reliably across a wide range of environments. Whether used with advanced multimedia systems or older computers still in active service, the platform combines real-time speech-to-text processing, an offline-first architecture, optional cloud connectivity and Faster Whisper, an optimised implementation of OpenAI's speech recognition technology, to deliver accurate scripture recognition with minimal delay.

The innovation is already attracting strong market interest. According to Sobaloju, thousands of churches have joined Pewbeam AI's waitlist ahead of its wider rollout, demonstrating strong demand for a solution that addresses a long-standing challenge faced by churches. While the company's revenue and turnover have not been publicly disclosed, the growing waitlist points to considerable commercial potential.

The opportunity extends well beyond Nigeria as millions of churches across Africa and other parts of the world use projectors and digital displays during worship. A platform that can accurately recognise sermons and present Bible passages in real time has the potential to become an important tool for churches globally.

Pewbeam AI also arrives as conversational AI continues to reshape digital experiences. Nigeria has approximately 51 million WhatsApp users, representing about 95 percent online penetration. Across Africa, 54 percent of social media users have bought or sold products through social platforms, with WhatsApp leading much of that activity. Increasingly, people expect technology to understand natural language instead of requiring multiple menus and complicated interfaces.

That trend is already visible across leading digital platforms. Users can book holidays through Booking.com using conversations, design graphics in Canva with written instructions, edit videos through InVideo AI and complete increasingly complex tasks with ChatGPT, which is sending significantly more referral traffic to publishers and e-commerce platforms than it did a year earlier.

For Sobaloju, these developments confirm that conversational AI represents the next phase of digital interaction, and he believes Nigeria has an opportunity to play a leading role.

Beyond founding Pewbeam AI, he has built a reputation as one of Nigeria's emerging innovators in AI-powered product design. Combining software engineering, product design and storytelling, his work focuses on solving practical problems through technology. His Figma plugins are already used by more than 50,000 designers worldwide, demonstrating the growing international reach of Nigerian innovation.

His philosophy is straightforward: solve local problems exceptionally well, and the solutions can scale globally. Rather than replicating products developed elsewhere, he believes African innovators should create solutions rooted in local realities and expand from there.

Pewbeam AI embodies that approach. By addressing a genuine need within churches through advanced artificial intelligence, the platform has already attracted thousands of prospective users before its full launch.

If that momentum continues, Pewbeam AI could become one of Nigeria's leading exports in the growing faith technology industry, reinforcing the country's growing reputation as a source of practical, globally relevant AI innovation.

First HoldCo's $1 Billion Capital Raise Signals New Phase of Growth for Nigeria's Banking Giant

Confidence in one of Nigeria's oldest financial institutions is receiving the investing public attention as First HoldCo Plc embarks on a N1.4 trillion ($1 billion) public share offer, a landmark fundraising exercise expected to strengthen its banking operations while accelerating expansion into other fast-growing areas of financial services.

The offer, which officially opened on Monday, August 3, follows approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and places 10.4 billion shares before investors. Early indications suggest demand has been exceptionally strong.

Speaking on the offer, First Bank Chief Executive Officer, Olusegun Alebiosu, said investor appetite could see the exercise conclude much sooner than anticipated.

"The sale is starting today, the reality here is that I am not sure it will stay more than one week based on the pressure we are getting," he said.

The capital raise comes at a time when First HoldCo is building momentum on several fronts. Beyond reinforcing the capital base of its banking business, the group plans to deploy the proceeds to expand its presence in insurance underwriting and financial technology, strengthening its position as a diversified financial services provider.

The fundraising exercise also represents the culmination of a restructuring process that began last year. Following ownership and leadership disputes that led Barbican Capital Ltd. to dispose of its stake, about one-quarter of First HoldCo's shares were transferred to RC Investment Management Ltd., which acted as a bridge holder. At the time, the company disclosed that those shares would eventually be offered to the investing public after obtaining the required regulatory approvals, a process now completed with the CBN's approval.

Investors have already responded positively to the company's trajectory. Over the past week, First HoldCo's share price has gained more than eight percent, climbing to N134 . The stock has also appreciated more than fourfold since July 2025, when the shares formerly held by Barbican Capital were transferred to RC Investment Management.

That sustained market performance has lifted First HoldCo's valuation above N6 trillion, making it the first banking stock on the Nigerian Exchange to achieve the milestone.

The company's financial performance has further strengthened confidence. For the six months ended June 30, 2026, First HoldCo reported a pretax profit of N653.54 billion, compared with N356.15 billion  recorded during the same period in 2025.

The improvement was driven by stronger operating income, lower credit-loss provisions and growth across several of the group's business segments, underscoring the company's improving earnings capacity ahead of the capital raise.

Meanwhile, market watchers continue to monitor changes in the company's ownership structure. Chairman and billionaire businessman Femi Otedola has increased his holdings from 9.99 billion shares to 11.77 billion shares, raising his ownership stake from 21.96 percent to 25.88 percent.

Headquartered in Lagos, First HoldCo traces its origins to First Bank, founded in 1894. Formerly known as FBN Holdings Plc, the group adopted the First HoldCo name in February 2025 and today maintains interests spanning commercial banking, investment banking, asset management and insurance brokerage.

As the public offer progresses, the company is seeking to reinforcing the foundation for its next chapter, one built on stronger banking operations, broader financial services capabilities and sustained investor confidence in a Nigerian institution that has remained a central player in the country's financial landscape for well over a century.

Delta Launches $100 Million Fund to Attract Private Investment

Delta State has unveiled a bold investment strategy aimed at accelerating infrastructure development and attracting more private sector participation, introducing a $100 million (approximately ₦133 billion) Viability Gap Fund designed to reduce investment risks and unlock high-impact projects across the state.

The announcement was made by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori during the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 in Asaba, where government leaders, business executives and development partners gathered to explore new opportunities for economic transformation.

According to the governor, the Viability Gap Fund is intended to give investors greater confidence by lowering the risks associated with strategic projects. He said the initiative will help bring critical investments to fruition, stimulate economic activity and promote shared prosperity throughout Delta State.

Oborevwori explained that the summit was created to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and the capital required to execute them, while showcasing the state's comparative socio-economic advantages to investors seeking viable opportunities.

Beyond the unveiling of the investment fund, discussions at the summit focused on how states can position themselves for sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive global economy.

Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, said the current global economic environment, despite its disruptions, continues to present significant opportunities for Delta State, Nigeria and Africa. She urged governments to embrace fiscal prudence, reduce trade costs, improve project execution and strengthen the country's maintenance culture.

She also encouraged policymakers to study the Lekki Deep Sea Port in Lagos, describing it as a project worth examining because of its impact on employment. According to her, the port has created about 5,000 jobs, demonstrating the value of well-executed infrastructure investments.

Speaking at the summit as Special Guest of Honour, Vice President Kashim Shettima said Nigeria's economic direction is receiving positive recognition from international credit rating agencies, including Fitch, S&P and Moody's, which he said reflects growing confidence in the country's development trajectory.

He argued that diversification remains one of the strongest indicators of responsible leadership, stressing that economies built solely on natural resources cannot guarantee lasting prosperity. While resources may finance development, he said, enduring progress depends on ideas, strong institutions and thriving enterprises.

Shettima also called on state governments to move beyond documenting assets and focus on translating opportunities into tangible investments that generate businesses, jobs and long-term economic value.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, noted that states and local governments are now receiving unprecedented revenues following recent economic reforms that have contributed to greater macroeconomic stability. He urged both governments and entrepreneurs to take advantage of the improved fiscal environment to expand economic opportunities and promote shared prosperity.

Delta State's new investment initiative comes as Nigeria continues to embrace de-risking strategies to improve financing and encourage private sector growth.

With the launch of the $100 million Viability Gap Fund, Delta State is positioning itself to attract greater private investment, strengthen investor confidence and accelerate projects capable of supporting long-term economic development and job creation.

Four PAP Scholars Graduate with Distinctions as Scholarship Programme Builds Nigeria's Skilled Workforce

Nigeria's investment in developing skilled professionals continues to yield results, with four beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) graduating with distinctions as part of a new cohort of scholars who have successfully completed postgraduate studies under the programme's overseas scholarship scheme.

A total of 16 PAP-sponsored students earned master's degrees in strategic fields, including software engineering, oil and gas, data science and engineering, financial management, law, construction engineering management and global public health.

The four distinction recipients are Nina Orubebe in Financial Management, Tonbra Tonlagha in International Hospitality and Tourism, Kemien Egbekun in Law, and Simon Douye in Construction Engineering Management.

The scholars studied at institutions in the United Kingdom and the United States, including Carnegie Mellon University, Coventry University, Manchester Metropolitan University, the University of Dundee, Anglia Ruskin University, the University of Bedfordshire, Aston University, the University of Cambridge, the University of South Wales and Northumbria University.

The latest achievement adds to the programme's growing impact. Since Dr Dennis Brutu Otuaro assumed office as Administrator in March 2024, PAP says it has produced 111 master's and doctoral degree holders, comprising 57 graduates from foreign universities and 54 from Nigerian institutions. During the same period, about 9,000 undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships have been awarded in Nigerian tertiary institutions, while 247 beneficiaries have received scholarships for higher-degree studies overseas.

Congratulating the graduates, Otuaro said their success demonstrates that sustained investment in education is producing professionals equipped to contribute to the development of the Niger Delta and Nigeria. He noted that the scholars completed their programmes on schedule and said their achievements further strengthen the region's human capital base.

He urged the beneficiaries to apply the knowledge and skills they acquired to advance their communities and support national development.

Responding to criticism over the expansion of the scholarship initiative, Otuaro said the programme would remain committed to its mandate.

Established in 2009 following the Federal Government's amnesty initiative for repentant Niger Delta militants, the Presidential Amnesty Programme has grown beyond disarmament and reintegration to focus on education, vocational training and skills acquisition, helping to equip thousands of young Nigerians with the expertise needed to drive development, expand opportunities and promote lasting peace in the oil-producing region.

Nigerian Product Leader Makes History with UK Telecoms Award

Success on the global stage is seldom defined by talent alone but often times it is shaped by resilience, perseverance and the determination to press forward when opportunities seem distant. That story is reflected in the rise of Nigerian product leader Obiageli Okafor, who has become the first African to receive the Women in Telecoms Champion award at the Comms Council UK Awards 2026.

Presented on July 17, 2026, the award recognises her contribution to the United Kingdom's telecommunications industry and her efforts to expand access to opportunities for professionals across Africa and beyond.

Okafor is a Senior Product Manager at global cloud communications company 8×8. Her path to that role, however, was far from straightforward.

Having built experience in Nigeria and Dubai, she relocated to the United Kingdom in search of new opportunities. Instead, she encountered repeated job rejections and took on three jobs to support herself while rebuilding her career. Those difficult years would ultimately shape the work that has earned her international recognition.

Rather than allowing those setbacks to define her future, she channelled them into helping others and co-founded PMHelp, a nonprofit organisation that has provided mentoring and career support to more than 52,000 people across over 70 countries, helping many navigate pathways into product management and related fields.

She also co-founded Capstone, an AI-powered platform that enables product managers to develop practical skills through workplace simulations, bridging the gap between learning and real-world experience.

Her latest honour comes at a time when gender representation remains a significant challenge across the UK's telecommunications industry. Figures cited by industry body techUK show that women make up less than one-fifth of the workforce, with the imbalance even more pronounced in management and director-level positions. To address the gap, Ofcom and leading telecoms companies have committed to attracting, retaining and promoting more women across the sector.

Speaking with journalists in Enugu on Monday, she admitted the announcement came as a surprise.

"I was genuinely shocked.

"My first thought was gratitude, for everyone who had believed in me, from my family and colleagues at 8×8 to my PMHelp community, and for the younger version of myself in Nigeria who could never have imagined standing on a stage in London receiving recognition from an entire industry."

She believes the milestone will encourage more Africans to pursue ambitious goals.

"Being the first African to receive this recognition means our people now know there are no barriers stopping us from achieving what we want.

"Talent has no borders, and African women belong in every room where technology is being built, and decisions are being made."

The recognition coincides with another milestone in her career, the publication of her first book, Impossible to Ignore, a practical guide to building professional visibility. According to Okafor, the approach outlined in the book helped grow her LinkedIn following from just over 2,000 to more than 11,000 within a few months, leading to recruiter interest, speaking invitations, industry awards and new opportunities.

Okafor's story is one of determination meeting opportunity. From overcoming early setbacks in a new country to breaking new ground in one of Europe's most competitive industries, she has demonstrated how resilience, excellence and a commitment to lifting others can leave a lasting mark far beyond national borders.

NACCIMA Opens Applications for $150 Million International Financing Programme for Nigerian Businesses

For many Nigerian businesses, securing affordable long-term capital has remained one of the biggest barriers to growth. Seeking to change that reality, the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has launched applications for a $150 million offshore financing programme designed to support investment across critical sectors of the economy.

The facility, developed in partnership with German banking group ODDO BHF SE, will provide eligible companies with access to funding at single-digit interest rates. Applications are now open through a dedicated online portal unveiled during the Infrastructure Conference (INFRACON) 2026 in Abuja.

According to NACCIMA, the programme is open to businesses operating in manufacturing, agro-allied processing, energy, logistics, mineral beneficiation, transportation, and information and communication technology (ICT). The association also stated that 20 percent of the total fund has been reserved for projects within Nigeria's digital economy.

Eligible businesses can access financing starting from a minimum of $10 million, with a minimum repayment tenor of 7.5 years. Under the terms of the facility, beneficiaries must commit between 35 percent and 50 percent of the financing to procuring eligible machinery, equipment, technology and services from Europe, while the remaining funds may be invested in Nigeria or other approved markets.

Waheed Olagunju, Chairman of the Joint NACCIMA–ODDO BHF Working Group Committee, said the initiative was created to connect viable Nigerian enterprises with international capital needed to strengthen their operations.

He explained that the Joint NACCIMA–ODDO Committee has established a rigorous framework that enables viable, ESG-compliant Nigerian companies to obtain financing from $10 million upwards for the acquisition of European machinery, equipment and technology required to scale their businesses.

To qualify, applicants must provide at least three years of audited financial statements as evidence of financial viability and demonstrate compliance with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards.

NACCIMA added that applicants must also be verified financial members of recognised organised private sector associations, including NACCIMA, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), or the Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI).

The programme forms part of the association's wider effort to expand Nigerian businesses' access to international financing through strategic partnerships, supporting industrial development and enhancing the capacity of local enterprises to compete in an increasingly global marketplace.

Historic Performances Lift Nigeria to Seventh Place and Africa's Best Finish at 2026 Commonwealth Games

The curtain has fallen on the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, and Team Nigeria leaves with plenty to celebrate. A remarkable campaign that produced 24 medals across four sports earned the country seventh place on the final medals table, making it the highest-ranked African nation at the competition.

Nigeria finished with 10 gold, seven silver and seven bronze medals, a reward for weeks of outstanding performances that combined record-breaking achievements with memorable podium finishes.

Athletics proved to be the heartbeat of the country's success, producing several landmark victories. Samuel Ogazi sprinted into the record books by becoming the first Nigerian to win Commonwealth Games gold in the men's 400 metres. Ezekiel Nathaniel followed with another breakthrough, claiming the nation's first title in the men's 400m hurdles, while Chukwuebuka Enekwechi secured Nigeria's maiden gold medal in the men's shot put.

Goodness Nwanchukwu maintained her dominance in para-athletics by successfully defending her women's discus throw F42-44/F61-64 crown, adding another gold medal to the national tally.

The silver-medal performances were equally significant. Udodi Onwuzurike finished second in the men's 200 metres, Ruth Usoro claimed silver in the women's long jump, and Jessica Oji added another runner-up finish in the women's shot put.

Nigeria also celebrated a series of notable bronze-medal achievements. Tobi Amusan reached the podium in the women's 100m hurdles, while Kayinsola Ajayi finished third in the men's 100 metres. Temitope Adeshina delivered one of the competition's defining moments for the country by earning bronze in the women's high jump—Nigeria's first medal in the event at the Commonwealth Games in more than 70 years.

Ella Onojuvwevwo rounded off an impressive outing with two podium finishes, first taking bronze in the women's 400 metres before helping Nigeria secure another third-place finish in the mixed 4x400m relay.

There was also late drama in the men's 4x100m relay. The Nigerian quartet had initially been awarded silver, but following a review triggered by Canada's successful appeal over a lane infringement, the result was revised and the team received bronze instead.

Beyond athletics, Nigerian competitors also boosted the overall tally through impressive performances in para-powerlifting, weightlifting and judo, underlining the country's growing strength across multiple sporting disciplines.

Australia topped the final medals table with 171 medals, including 70 gold, while England finished second with a total of 110 medals. Canada, India, Scotland and New Zealand occupied the remaining places in the top six, with Nigeria completing the top seven as Africa's leading nation.

The Glasgow edition was notably different from previous Commonwealth Games. Around 3,000 athletes competed for 215 gold medals, a streamlined programme compared with Birmingham 2022, which featured more than 5,000 athletes and 280 medal events.

Glasgow's hosting role also came under exceptional circumstances after Victoria, Australia, withdrew from staging the Games in July 2023, allowing the Scottish city to step in and successfully organise the event.

For Team Nigeria, Glasgow 2026 will be remembered as a competition where barriers were broken, new milestones were established and another generation of athletes announced itself on the international stage. Finishing seventh in the world and emerging as Africa's top-performing nation reflects the depth of talent within Nigerian sport and provides fresh momentum as the country's athletes set their sights on future global competitions.

Dangote Backs Itori Expansion With $800 Million Investment

Dangote Industries Limited is making one of the biggest manufacturing investments in Nigeria this year, committing more than $800 million to expand its cement plant in Itori, Ogun State, in a move that will double the facility's annual production capacity from six million to 12 million metric tonnes.

The investment follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Dangote Industries Limited and Sinoma International Engineering Co. Ltd. The agreement was executed by Dangote Group President Aliko Dangote and Sinoma Chairman Lin Zhong, extending a partnership that has delivered several of Africa's largest cement manufacturing facilities.

For Dangote Cement, the expansion answers two priorities at once: meeting rising demand within Nigeria and supplying more cement to export markets across Africa. When completed, the Itori plant will serve both domestic customers and international buyers, strengthening Nigeria's footprint in regional and global cement trade.

Addressing the signing ceremony, Aliko Dangote said the project forms part of the company's long-term expansion strategy and its contribution to Nigeria's industrial development. He credited President Bola Tinubu with creating an environment that has encouraged private sector investment, adding that the decision to enlarge the Itori facility was driven by Nigeria's renewed adoption of concrete for road construction and the company's export ambitions across the African continent.

Dangote said the investment also aligns with the company's Vision 2030 target of producing between 90 million and 100 million metric tonnes of cement annually.

He said doubling the Itori plant's capacity would strengthen local supply, expand export volumes, generate additional foreign exchange earnings, create jobs and deepen regional trade. He described the investment as a demonstration of the company's confidence in Nigeria's economy and in Africa's manufacturing potential.

Dangote also acknowledged Sinoma's role in the group's expansion over the years, noting that the engineering company has been instrumental in delivering world-class cement plants that now underpin the group's manufacturing network.

Lin Zhong described the agreement as another defining moment in the relationship between both companies. He said their collaboration has consistently produced some of the continent's most modern and efficient cement production facilities and that the Itori project would build on that record.

According to him, Sinoma will deploy its engineering expertise, advanced technology and international experience to deliver the expansion to the highest standards.

He added that the project reinforces Nigeria's emergence as a strategic manufacturing and export hub for Africa while highlighting growing international confidence in the country's industrial sector. He said partnerships of this scale remain essential to advancing infrastructure development, economic growth and sustainable industrialisation across the continent.

With production capacity set to reach 12 million metric tonnes annually, the expanded Itori plant will rank among Nigeria's major cement production centres, supplying both domestic and export markets while strengthening the country's industrial and manufacturing base.

World Book of Records Honours Pastor William Kumuyi for Global Impact

The General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William Folorunsho Kumuyi, has received international recognition from the World Book of Records, London, for his outstanding contributions to education, humanitarian service and global outreach.

Reacting to the honour, Pastor Kumuyi expressed gratitude for the recognition but stressed that his lifelong mission remains unchanged. He said his focus continues to be winning souls for Christ while giving God the glory for the impact recorded through the Global Crusade with Kumuyi over the past five years.

"I received an Inclusion Letter from the World Book of Records, London, @WBRLONDON. Humbled by this recognition, my focus remains unchanged: winning souls for Christ.

"Through five years of #GCK, God enabled us to reach over 50 million lives and see more than 900,000 saved. All glory to God alone!" he wrote.

The Inclusion Letter, signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the World Book of Records, Santosh Shukla, confirmed Pastor Kumuyi's recognition in the organisation's Excellence (E1) category.

According to the letter, the honour was conferred in recognition of his "outstanding contributions to education, academic excellence, visionary leadership, global outreach initiatives, humanitarian service, and community development, impacting millions of lives across continents through faith-based leadership, educational advancement, and international social empowerment programmes."

The World Book of Records described the Excellence (E1) category as one reserved for individuals whose achievements and service have made remarkable contributions across diverse fields. It noted that the recognition extends to accomplishments in academic, professional, social and humanitarian endeavours.

"The E1 category is designated to honour and recognize exceptional achievements, distinguished service, or notable contributions in various fields. The recognition spans academic, professional, social, and humanitarian efforts.

"Awardees are acknowledged for their dedication, leadership, or impact, thereby setting benchmarks of excellence and motivating future generations to emulate their accomplishments," the letter stated.

The organisation congratulated Pastor Kumuyi on the recognition and wished him continued success in his future endeavours.

Pastor Kumuyi is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, convener of the Global Crusade with Kumuyi and founder and Chancellor of Anchor University, Lagos. His ministry and educational initiatives have reached millions of people across different parts of the world, with the Global Crusade with Kumuyi recording more than 50 million lives reached and over 900,000 people making decisions for Christ within five years, according to the cleric.

Nigeria Introduces New Food Procurement Guidelines to Promote Healthier Diets

The Federal Government has launched the National Guidelines for Public Procurement of Food and Related Services, introducing a framework that places nutrition, food safety and quality at the heart of food procurement across public institutions.

The guidelines were unveiled in Abuja on 13 July 2026 during an event themed "Public Procurement of Food: Promoting a Culture of National Wellness Through the Food Value Chain." They are expected to shape meals served in public institutions such as schools, hospitals, correctional centres and military establishments. By establishing evidence-based nutrition standards, the framework aims to encourage healthier diets while reducing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in Nigeria.

During the unveiling, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, described the initiative as a shift from treating public food procurement as a routine administrative exercise to recognising it as a strategic instrument for improving public health and advancing national development.

He noted that government demand for healthier, safer and more nutritious food would encourage producers, suppliers and manufacturers across the food value chain to improve quality and align with higher public health standards.

As Nigeria's largest institutional purchaser of food, the government has the capacity to influence food production, nutrition standards and consumer behaviour, Mr Salako observed. To achieve this, the guidelines establish limits on sodium, sugar and unhealthy fats in food procured by public institutions while promoting balanced and nutritious diets.

The minister explained that the framework complements existing national policies, including the National Guideline for Sodium Reduction, the Trans Fat Regulation and the 2023 National Policy on Food Safety and Quality, reinforcing the country's encompassing efforts to improve food safety and nutrition.

He also highlighted the global impact of unhealthy diets, noting that they contribute to about 7.2 million deaths every year. Excessive consumption of salt, sugar and unhealthy fats, coupled with inadequate intake of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, remains a major driver of the trend.

Turning to the Nigerian context, Mr Salako revealed that the average adult consumes between 3.9 grammes and 4.9 grammes of sodium daily, almost double the World Health Organisation's recommended limit of 2 grammes.

He further pointed to the growing consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, linking the trend to rising cases of obesity and diabetes. He noted that this prompted the introduction of the Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Tax, while industrial trans fats have also been restricted under Nigeria's Trans Fatty Acid Regulation.

According to the minister, these measures are designed to tackle dietary patterns that continue to fuel non-communicable diseases, placing enormous pressure on healthcare systems, household incomes and the national economy.

Looking ahead, the minister stressed that the success of the guidelines will depend on effective implementation rather than their launch alone. He urged procurement and accounting officers across government institutions to ensure full compliance, emphasising that procurement decisions have a direct impact on public health, productivity and public confidence in government.

He reaffirmed that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will continue promoting disease prevention through healthier public policies as part of Nigeria's drive towards achieving universal health coverage.

Temitope Adeshina Ends 72-Year Wait with Historic Commonwealth Games High Jump Medal

Temitope Adeshina has etched her name into Nigeria's sporting history after winning the bronze medal in the women's high jump at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, becoming the first Nigerian woman to claim a Commonwealth Games medal in the event.

The Nigerian athlete cleared 1.90 metres in a fiercely contested final to finish third behind Australia's Eleanor Patterson, who won gold, and Nicola Olyslagers, who secured the silver medal.

Her podium finish ended a 72-year wait for a Nigerian medal in the high jump at the Commonwealth Games. It was also the country's first podium appearance in the event since Emmanuel Ifeajuna captured gold at the 1954 British Empire and Commonwealth Games in Vancouver, Canada.

According to the National Sports Commission (NSC), only two Nigerians had previously won Commonwealth Games medals in the high jump before Adeshina's accomplishment, underscoring the significance of her achievement.

The bronze medal mirrors a journey of steady progress. At her first Commonwealth Games appearance four years ago, Adeshina finished 10th, but she continued to improve through consistent performances in local and international competitions before returning to Glasgow with greater confidence and experience.

She maintained her composure throughout the final despite competing against some of the world's best high jumpers, producing a series of quality jumps that secured her place on the podium.

The NSC described the performance as a landmark moment for Nigerian athletics. In a statement signed by Kola Daniel, Special Adviser on Media to the Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, the commission praised Adeshina's determination, resilience and commitment, describing the medal as the reward for years of hard work and dedication.

The commission also noted that Adeshina has developed into one of Nigeria's leading field athletes through consistently strong performances on both the domestic and international stages.

Her bronze medal added to Team Nigeria's tally at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and is expected to inspire more young Nigerians, particularly women, to pursue careers in field events while encouraging greater investment in athletics development across the country.

Brock Lesnar Declares Oba Femi the Future After Nigerian Star's SummerSlam Victory

Oba Femi's remarkable rise in WWE reached another defining milestone on Saturday night as the Nigerian wrestling star defeated former UFC and WWE champion Brock Lesnar in a brutal Hell in a Cell clash at SummerSlam; but beyond the victory itself, it was what happened after the final bell that captured the attention of the wrestling world.

Before a packed US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Lesnar embraced the Lagos-born wrestler, took a microphone and declared that while he represented WWE's past, Oba Femi was its future. The tribute followed a bruising Hell in a Cell contest in which Femi secured one of the biggest victories of his career in his first appearance inside the unforgiving steel structure.

The SummerSlam showdown was the latest chapter in a rivalry that had unfolded over several months. Femi first defeated Lesnar at WrestleMania 42 in April before going on to win the 2026 King of the Ring tournament in June. Lesnar later returned from what appeared to be retirement, attacked the Nigerian star and levelled the rivalry by defeating him in their rematch at Clash in Italy, setting up a decisive encounter at SummerSlam.

Once the match began, both men lived up to the occasion. Lesnar unleashed multiple German suplexes, drove Femi into exposed wooden boards beneath the ring with a devastating Tombstone, and repeatedly attacked him with steel steps in a relentless bid to wear him down.

Femi absorbed the punishment, fought back with two chokeslams, and turned the momentum in his favour. The decisive moment came when Lesnar attempted to use a steel chair, only for Femi to knock it from his grasp with a stiff right hand before delivering his trademark Fall From Grace to seal the victory.

The contest ended with a rare display of mutual respect. Addressing the SummerSlam crowd, Lesnar publicly endorsed Femi, describing himself as WWE's past and the Nigerian as its future.

Femi admitted he had not anticipated the gesture. "The hug and public endorsement was definitely a shock, and I didn't see that coming.

"I know that deep down, Brock has always respected me, and he knows that deep down, I respect him as well," Femi said.

With victories over Lesnar at WrestleMania 42 and SummerSlam, together with his 2026 King of the Ring triumph, Oba Femi's outstanding year continues it's positive drive, adding another memorable chapter to the growing international success story of the Nigerian wrestler.

From Sixth to Gold: Corporal Ezekiel Nathaniel's Commonwealth Triumph Inspires Nigeria

Four years ago, Corporal Ezekiel Nathaniel left the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games with a sixth-place finish. Today, he is a Commonwealth champion.

The Nigerian hurdler delivered the performance of his career on Friday night at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, powering to victory in the men's 400 metres hurdles final with a winning time of 48.47 seconds. The impressive run earned him the Commonwealth gold medal and marked one of the most inspiring comeback stories of the Games.

Nathaniel's latest success is a testament to persistence, disciplined preparation and the determination to return stronger after falling short on a previous Commonwealth stage.

The achievement has also been celebrated within the Nigeria Police Force, where Nathaniel serves as a Corporal. Describing the victory as a proud moment for both the Force and the nation, the Police praised the athlete for displaying the resilience, tactical discipline and commitment expected of its personnel while representing Nigeria before a global audience.

In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Aniete Iniedu, the Police highlighted the significance of Nathaniel's achievement, noting that his commanding display in Glasgow reflects the rewards of dedication and sustained support for sporting excellence.

The statement also conveyed the congratulations of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Riliwan Disu, who applauded Corporal Nathaniel for raising both the Nigerian flag and that of the Nigeria Police Force on the international stage. According to the IGP, the athlete's accomplishment should inspire officers across every command to pursue excellence in their respective fields.

Beyond celebrating one athlete's success, the Police leadership pointed to the victory as evidence of its broader investment in sports development. The Force said Nathaniel's gold medal aligns with the IGP's Strategic Agenda on Police Sports Development, Personnel Welfare and Capacity Building, adding that structured institutional support has helped create an environment where talented officers can excel in international competitions.

The Force reaffirmed that, under the current leadership, it remains committed to identifying, nurturing and supporting athletic talent within its ranks. It described sports as an essential component of tactical fitness, personnel welfare, institutional morale and positive youth engagement across Nigeria.

On behalf of the management, officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, IGP Olatunji Riliwan Disu extended heartfelt congratulations to Corporal Ezekiel Nathaniel and wished him continued success as he pursues greater accomplishments on the world stage.

Nathaniel's Commonwealth triumph is another reminder of the quality of Nigerian talent. His journey from sixth place in Birmingham to standing atop the podium in Glasgow depicts the resilience that continues to define many of the country's finest athletes and reinforces Nigeria's growing reputation for producing champions capable of excelling on the biggest international stages.

Africa's Biggest Football Night Returns to Nigeria as Lagos Wins Hosting Rights for CAF Awards 2026

Lagos will host the CAF Awards 2026 after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) selected Nigeria to stage the continent's most prestigious football awards ceremony, returning the event to the country for the first time in almost a decade.

The ceremony will take place at the newly transformed Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, where Africa's leading footballers, coaches, administrators and senior figures in the game are expected to gather for an evening honouring the year's outstanding achievements.

The choice of Nigeria continues a busy period for the country's football calendar especially when in October, it will also welcome delegates for the 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly, placing two of the governing body's flagship events in Nigeria within the same year.

Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman are widely expected to feature prominently when CAF unveils the shortlist for the Men's Player of the Year award after producing another season of performances that kept them among Africa's elite.

Lookman enjoyed another influential campaign with Atalanta, delivering decisive goals and consistently producing in key moments. Osimhen maintained the remarkable scoring form that has established him as one of the continent's most feared forwards, adding another prolific season to his growing body of work.

Either player winning the award would add another chapter to Nigeria's rich football history. Only six Nigerians have previously been named African Player of the Year, placing the country among the competition's most successful nations.

The return of the CAF Awards also recalls Nigeria's previous turn as host. The country staged the event in 2016, with the ceremony held in Abuja in January 2017. Algeria's Riyad Mahrez collected the Men's Player of the Year prize that evening, while Nigeria's Asisat Oshoala was named Women's Player of the Year.

The annual awards recognise excellence across African football, honouring players, coaches, clubs and national teams in both the men's and women's game. Subject to CAF's final approval, this year's programme is expected to include Men's Player of the Year, Women's Player of the Year, Goalkeeper of the Year, Coach of the Year, Young Player of the Year and several awards for clubs and national teams.

CAF has not yet announced the date of the ceremony or confirmed the final list of award categories. Those details are expected in the coming months.

For Nigeria, hosting the CAF Awards and the 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly in the same year places the country at the centre of African football's calendar, with Lagos preparing to welcome many of the sport's biggest names for one of its most anticipated occasions.

Nigerian Professor Emerges Rwanda's Highest-Ranked Business and Management Researcher

Professor Ogechi Adeola has been named Rwanda's highest-ranked researcher in Business and Management in the 2026 AD Scientific Index, a recognition that also places the Nigerian academic among the Top 10 Scientists in Rwanda. The latest ranking reinforces the growing presence of Nigerian scholars in shaping research and academic excellence across the continent.

Proffesor Adeola serves as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Enterprise) at the University of Kigali, where she has built a reputation for advancing research, innovation and institutional scholarship. The latest honour acknowledges the impact of her work and the influence it continues to have within the academic community.

The achievement comes on the heels of another major international distinction when in 2025, she was named among the Stanford–Elsevier World's Top 2% Scientists, placing her in a select group of researchers whose scholarly contributions have earned global recognition for their sustained impact.

In a statement, the University of Kigali said the honour recognises Professor Adeola's unwavering commitment to research, innovation and academic leadership. The institution added that her work demonstrates how high-quality scholarship can expand knowledge while providing practical responses to societal challenges.

The university also noted that her research has strengthened its international profile and made significant contributions to scholarship in Rwanda, across Africa and within the wider global academic community.

Professor Adeola's latest recognition was conferred through the AD Scientific Index, a global ranking that measures the scientific performance and research impact of more than 2.6 million researchers across 24,000 institutions in 221 countries. The index recognises scientists whose body of work has demonstrated consistent academic influence over time.

Congratulating the Nigerian scholar, the University of Kigali described the honour as a landmark in her academic career, saying it underscores her outstanding contribution to academia and the distinction with which she represents the institution on both the national and international stage.

Beyond the ranking itself, the accomplishment speaks to the calibre of Nigerian academics whose research continues to command respect in universities and research institutions around the world. As African scholarship gains greater prominence on the global stage, honours such as Professor Adeola's affirm the depth of Nigerian expertise and the enduring value of intellectual excellence, innovation and academic leadership in advancing knowledge across borders.

Lagos Generates ₦1.67 Trillion in Six Months, Reaches 90% of Mid-Year Revenue Target

Lagos State generated ₦1.67 trillion in recurrent revenue during the first half of 2026, reaching 90% of its January-to-June target as ongoing reforms strengthened internally generated revenue and improved tax administration.

The state's Second Quarter 2026 Budget Performance Report shows that recurrent revenue stood at ₦1,667,058,379,835.53 as of June 30, 2026. This represents 45% of the full-year recurrent revenue estimate of ₦3,700,509,565,766.67 and 90% of the half-year projection of ₦1,850,254,782,883.33.

The performance exceeded the corresponding period in 2025, when Lagos achieved 86% of its half-year projection. However, the report noted that revenue collections remain below the level required to meet the full-year estimate.

According to the report, stronger revenue administration, improved compliance, tighter enforcement and efforts to curb leakages contributed to the improved performance. It added that collections from some revenue sources were affected by seasonal factors, collection cycles and reduced demand for certain government services, but are expected to improve as economic activity strengthens in the second half of the year.

The report stated that the overall cumulative recurrent revenue performance for the period ended June 30, 2026, was ₦1,667,058,379,835.53, representing 45% of the annual estimate and 90% of the half-year target.

On the spending side, recurrent expenditure reached ₦767.15 billion, representing 36.4% of the annual estimate and 72.83% of the half-year projection of ₦1.05 trillion. Capital expenditure stood at ₦772.64 billion, equivalent to 33% of the full-year estimate of ₦2.34 trillion and 66.10% of the half-year target of ₦1.17 trillion. The report attributed the pace of capital spending to procurement processes, contract awards, project mobilisation and milestone-based payments.

The results come as Lagos implements its ₦4.44 trillion 2026 budget, approved by the Lagos State House of Assembly in January after Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu presented an initial ₦4.24 trillion proposal in November 2025.

The approved budget provides ₦2.052 trillion for recurrent expenditure and ₦2.185 trillion for capital projects. It also earmarks ₦440.45 billion for personnel costs, ₦143.88 billion for recurring debt servicing and ₦383.40 billion for debt repayment. Key sectoral allocations include ₦1.37 trillion for economic affairs, ₦338.45 billion for health, ₦249.13 billion for education and ₦235.96 billion for the environment.

Lagos has continued to expand its internally generated revenue, which increased from ₦815.86 billion in 2023 to ₦1.26 trillion in 2024, reinforcing the state's fiscal capacity.

To sustain infrastructure development, the state sought approval from the Lagos State House of Assembly in July 2026 to issue a ₦200 billion bond. The planned issuance follows its return to the domestic debt market in November 2025, when it announced plans to raise up to ₦200 billion through a 10-year bond under its ₦1 trillion Debt and Hybrid Instruments Issuance Programme.

The report also referenced the 2025 second-quarter budget implementation report, which showed cumulative recurrent revenue performance of 43.8% of the annual recurrent revenue estimate of ₦2,915,603,868,255.12 and 86% of the January-to-June projection of ₦1,457,801,934,127.6.

Beyond its fiscal performance, Lagos continues to attract investment and strengthen its economic profile as the state attracted $2.73 billion in capital inflows during the third quarter of 2025.

In 2025, the Global Tech Ecosystem Index also ranked Lagos as the world's fastest-growing tech ecosystem, citing its emergence as a leading technology hub with multiple unicorn companies. Together, these milestones reflect the state's expanding capacity to finance development, attract investment and support Nigeria's economic growth.

Nigerian Web Hosting Firm HoganHost Earns Place Among World's Top 25 WordPress Hosting Providers

The technology powering the internet is often invisible, yet it forms the backbone of businesses, organisations and creators across the world. As demand for faster, safer and more reliable online services grows, competition among web hosting providers has become increasingly intense.

Against that backdrop, Lagos-based web hosting company HoganHost has secured a place among the Top 25 WordPress Hosting providers in the 2026 HostAdvice Web Hosting Awards, joining a global list recognised for performance, reliability, customer experience and expert evaluations.

The achievement places the Nigerian firm alongside some of the world's leading hosting providers, marking another milestone in the country's expanding digital technology sector.

According to HoganHost Chief Executive Officer, Joseph Effiok, the recognition represents years of focused hard work in the company's drive to expand its footprint across Africa's digital infrastructure ecosystem.

HostAdvice, the organisation behind the awards, is an international web hosting review and comparison platform that evaluates providers across categories such as WordPress hosting, cloud hosting, dedicated servers and customer service. Its annual awards help businesses and website owners identify dependable hosting solutions.

WordPress powers more than 40 per cent of websites worldwide, making it one of the most competitive areas of the hosting industry. Providers are assessed on core standards including speed, security, uptime, technical support and WordPress-specific features.

HoganHost provides shared hosting, WordPress hosting, cloud hosting, reseller hosting and virtual private server (VPS) services. The company is accredited by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) and other internet authorities, and says it has received several industry recognitions over the years.

As digital adoption accelerates across Africa, global recognition for companies like HoganHost points to the growing capability of Nigerian technology firms to deliver infrastructure and services that compete confidently on the international stage.