Folashade Oluwafemiayo: the quiet thunder of Nigeria’s para powerlifting

Folashade Oluwafemiayo arrived in Riyadh already known as a phenomenon, and she proved it again when she won Nigeria's 11th and final gold medal at the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games. Competing in the +86kg category

in the women’s heavyweight event, she delivered the kind of power only a few athletes on earth can match, lifting well above 150 kilograms, a zone she has dominated for years. Her performance was not only commanding, it was a reminder that Nigeria has produced one of the greatest para powerlifters of her generation.

Folashade’s career has been a cascade of extraordinary moments. From her world record and Paralympic silver in 2012, to repeated world titles, to her unforgettable 152.5kg world record lift at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics (held in 2021), she has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible. Each time she steps onto the platform she carries the quiet confidence of someone who knows her strength is not luck but legacy, a legacy she continues to build with every championship she attends.

What makes her story even more striking is how little attention she receives compared to the weight of her achievements. Nigeria is a global powerhouse in para powerlifting, and athletes like Folashade are the reason. Their results are not flukes but they are proof of raw Nigerian talent, resilience and discipline at the highest level.

Folashade embodies greatness. Her technique, focus and mental strength match her physical ability. She has overcome setbacks, rebuilt her career and returned stronger, lifting weights that place her firmly among the most dominant women in para sport worldwide. Her future remains bright because she is not slowing down, her recent form suggests she has more records to break and more international stages to conquer.

Nigeria’s para powerlifters have already proven what they can achieve over and over again. Imagine what they could become with better funding, scientific coaching and long term development. Folashade Oluwafemiayo is a symbol of that possibility, a world class champion who continues to shine.

Her gold in Riyadh is more than a medal. It is a reminder that Nigeria’s greatness often lies in places the spotlight rarely reaches, and that athletes like Folashade deserve to stand not just on the podium, but at the center of national pride and investment.

Meet Commodore Kelechi Ndukwe: The Nigerian Rising Through the Ranks of the U.S. Navy

Commodore Kelechi R. Ndukwe’s story carries the quiet power of a journey built on discipline, belief and deep cultural pride. Today he leads Destroyer Squadron 60 and Task Force 65 in Spain, a role that places him at the center of some of the U.S. Navy’s most strategic missions across Europe and Africa. Yet the path that brought him here began decades earlier with a family whose dreams reached far beyond the shores they left behind.

His parents emigrated from Nigeria in the late 1970s. Those early sacrifices created the foundation that shaped their son’s career. Whether described as Nigerian born or as a native of Columbus, Ohio, one thing is clear across all accounts: Kelechi Ndukwe’s identity is deeply tied to his Nigerian heritage. It is a heritage he carries with visible pride, and one that continues to inspire people across the international Nigerian community.

He earned a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Notre Dame, a discipline that sharpened the analytical mind he would later bring to complex naval systems. He was commissioned through the Naval ROTC program at Notre Dame and went on to complete a master’s degree in national security and strategic studies at the U.S. Naval War College. The combination of technical grounding and strategic insight became the backbone of his leadership style.

His naval career is marked by rising levels of responsibility across the world’s waters. From early service as an auxiliaries officer and fire control officer to key billets on destroyers and cruisers, he showed a capacity for solving problems under pressure and leading diverse teams. His assignments took him through the Mediterranean, the Arabian Gulf, the Western Pacific and the Horn of Africa, regions where diplomacy, security and maritime cooperation intersect every day.

The world took notice when he assumed command of the USS Halsey, making history as the first Nigerian-heritage officer to lead a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer. It was a milestone that resonated far beyond naval circles. For young Nigerians at home and abroad, his achievement became a symbol of possibility, a reminder that excellence can emerge from any background when anchored in discipline and purpose.

Today, as Commodore of Destroyer Squadron 60 and Commander of Task Force 65, Ndukwe oversees multiple warships, multinational operations and missions vital to international stability. From this vantage point he leads not only as a tactician but as a mentor, shaping the next generation of officers and sailors. Colleagues frequently describe his style as steady, thoughtful and grounded in service to others.

While he rarely seeks the spotlight, the significance of his journey continues to ripple outward. Nigerian diaspora organizations celebrate him as proof that identity is a strength rather than a boundary. Naval communities point to his career as a testament to preparation and character and for many young people watching his rise, his story has become an invitation to dream beyond familiar limits.

Commodore Kelechi Ndukwe stands at the intersection of two nations’ stories, one rooted in heritage, the other in service, and he honors both with every step he takes. His ascent through the US Navy is more than a personal triumph, it is a narrative of resilience, opportunity and global citizenship and it reminds us that the impact of a life lived with integrity can reach far beyond the waters a person commands.

Shehu Bamidele Breaks World Guinness Record With 98 Hours of Non-Stop Pool

Shehu Bamidele stepped into the Silverbird Galleria on Victoria Island during Poolfest Naija 2025 with a determination that would soon place him among the world’s record breakers. Before a vibrant Lagos audience filled with supporters, officials and media crews, he achieved a remarkable milestone by setting a new Guinness World Record after playing 8 ball pool continuously for 98 hours. His feat surpassed the previous global mark and brought new recognition to the growing world of cue sports in Nigeria.

Bamidele’s journey toward this historic achievement was shaped by years of practice and quiet discipline. Raised in Lagos, he discovered early the unique combination of precision, calmness and strategy that cue sports require. As he grew, he became a familiar face in competitive pool halls around the city, known for his controlled style and sharp focus. His decision to chase a world record came from a desire to show that Nigerian talent could command global attention not only in mainstream sports but also in niche spaces that reward patience and technical skill.

In the months leading up to the attempt, Bamidele and his team carried out a rigorous four day test run designed to replicate official Guinness World Records procedures. The rehearsal followed every guideline from documented rest intervals to rotating witnesses and continuous camera coverage. The test proved that the challenge was physically and logistically possible, and it helped refine the teamwork required to support Bamidele through such a demanding performance. By the time Poolfest Naija arrived, both the athlete and the organisers had perfected the coordination needed for a flawless attempt.

The record run began on September 2 and stretched into the early hours of September 7. During those days, Bamidele played without pause beyond the brief breaks permitted under the rules. Spectators watched him maintain accuracy even as fatigue set in. The venue grew increasingly animated as the hours passed, with supporters cheering through long nights and celebrating each new milestone. When the ninety-eight hour arrived, the hall erupted. Bamidele had officially rewritten the world record, and his emotional gratitude reflected the significance of the moment as he thanked the organisers, sponsors and the many Nigerians who stood by him throughout the attempt.

His achievement carries meaning far beyond the pool table. For cue sports globally, it highlights the depth of skill and stamina required to master the game. For Nigeria, it stands as another testament to the country’s ability to deliver world class performers across diverse fields and for young athletes and dreamers, it offers a clear example of what dedication, preparation and bold ambition can produce.

Interest in Bamidele’s journey continues to grow, and his triumph is already inspiring conversation about building stronger youth programs and wider recognition for cue sports in Nigeria. There is also anticipation around potential future records as his team explores new opportunities especially as Bamidele receives his official confirmation from the Guinness World Records as the longest marathon playing pool by an individual at a record 98 hours, 26 minutes and 37 seconds. 

Shehu Bamidele’s accomplishment is more than a personal victory. It is a national moment that shows how passion can open paths to global achievement. During those 98 hours on the green felt, he transformed an everyday game into a historic performance and reminded the world that greatness can emerge from places often overlooked. His story now stands as a bright chapter in Nigeria’s growing legacy of innovators, achievers and record breakers.

Cross River’s Food Revolution: How Governor Bassey Otu Is Building a Model of Agricultural Security for Nigeria

When Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State received the Best Governor Award in Food Security at the Africa Food Heroes Awards in Abuja, it was more than a ceremonial honour, it was an acknowledgment of a bold vision taking shape in real time. It signaled that Cross River has stepped onto the continental stage as a state determined to secure its future through food, agriculture, and the empowerment of its people.

Across Africa today, food security has become one of the greatest tests of leadership. Climate volatility, fluctuating markets, and rising population pressures demand not just policies, but courage, innovation, and a readiness to rethink old systems. Governor Otu’s strategy is built precisely on this kind of forward-looking leadership , a mix of practical interventions, structural reforms, and a deeply people-centred approach.

His blueprint draws inspiration from some of the most successful agricultural models on the continent, including the well-documented gains made in Kebbi State, where intensive irrigation, dry-season farming, outgrower schemes, mechanisation hubs, and strong private-sector linkages have produced remarkable yields and lifted thousands of farmers into prosperity; but Otu is not copying; he is adapting. He is taking what works and reshaping it for Cross River’s unique ecology, culture, and economic landscape.

Since taking office, he has focused on building agricultural systems that thrive beyond a single season, systems that guarantee production whether rains fall or fail. Central to this vision is a shift toward irrigated agriculture and dry-season cropping. Cross River’s comparative advantage, rich soil, abundant water bodies, and favourable agro-climatic zones, makes it ideal for the kind of multi-season farming that powers food-secure regions. The state is already laying the groundwork for irrigation clusters that will allow farmers to produce two to three cycles of rice and other staples annually, ensuring reliable supply and dramatically increasing yields.

Governor Otu understands that production alone does not deliver prosperity. Farmers need markets, capital, modern tools, and the confidence that their labour will not be wasted and that is why his administration is forging strong partnerships with processors, millers, and agro-investors through contract farming and offtake agreements. These partnerships guarantee farmers a buyer for their harvests, protect them from price crashes, and encourage banks to lend to them because repayment becomes far more predictable. It is a strategy that has lifted thousands out of poverty in other regions, and Cross River is positioning itself to replicate and exceed those results.

Mechanisation has also become a defining feature of his agricultural agenda. The state’s ongoing tractor expansions and planned mechanisation hubs are designed to ensure that no farmer is left behind in the transition to modern agriculture. These hubs will offer mechanised land preparation, harvesting, threshing, drying, and storage, all at affordable rates, allowing even smallholder farmers to operate at commercial scale.

The governor is equally focused on ensuring that what is produced in the fields does not rot before reaching consumers. Investments in processing plants, mini-mills, storage centres, and value-addition enterprises are already being aligned with production clusters, reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening Cross River’s presence in regional food markets. In the long run, these facilities will form part of a broader agro-industrial ecosystem capable of producing everything from polished rice to packaged gari, processed cassava derivatives, and other high-demand food products.

Perhaps the most visionary component of his strategy is the financing architecture under development, a blended model involving targeted grants, credit guarantees, farmer cooperatives, donor support, and private-sector investment. This structure is designed to create a predictable, scalable, and sustainable flow of capital into agriculture, empowering farmers, reducing risk, and making sure no promising initiative collapses due to lack of funding.

What makes all of this remarkable is not only the range of policies, but the coherence of the vision. Governor Otu is building a system: a seamlessly connected chain from land to water, from seed to harvest, from harvest to market, and from market to wealth creation. It is a model that has been proven in places like Kebbi, Rwanda, and Ethiopia, regions that transformed agriculture into engines of economic renewal. Cross River is now moving confidently into that league.

At the centre of this emerging success is the governor’s unwavering belief in the people of Cross River, the farmers who rise with the sun, the youths who see agriculture as a viable future, the investors who believe in the state's potential, and the communities whose strength and resilience have always been its greatest assets.

The Africa Food Heroes Award is not merely a recognition of past achievements, but a signal of what is coming. Cross River is rising. Its fields are awakening. Its farmers are being empowered. Its policies are gaining national and continental attention and under Governor Otu’s leadership, agriculture is no longer just a sector, it is becoming the backbone of a prosperous, self-sufficient and food-secure future.

Covenant University Tops Nigeria and Africa in the 2026 Times Interdisciplinary Rankings

Covenant University has always carried itself with a quiet kind of confidence, the sort that comes from discipline, clarity of purpose and an unbroken record of delivering on its promises. Yet even for an institution accustomed to excellence, its recent feat sent a wave of pride across Nigeria and the African continent. 

When the 2026 Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings were released, the University emerged first in Nigeria, first in Africa and forty ninth in the world. It was a moment that felt less like a surprise and more like the confirmation of a journey that had been building strength over many years.

From the earliest days of its founding in Ota, the University cultivated a culture that blended high spiritual values with intellectual ambition. The mission to raise a new generation of leaders was not written as a slogan but lived in the daily routines of staff, students and faculty. Every lecture hall, every lab, every walkway reflected a commitment to excellence. The campus itself, beautifully structured and thoughtfully maintained, projected an atmosphere that invited serious study and purposeful dreaming. Students walked through the gates with the understanding that they were entering a space built to shape their minds, character and future.

Consistency became one of Covenant’s most defining traits. Year after year, the institution invested in people, infrastructure and research. Academic staff rose steadily in rank, guided by a system that rewarded merit and innovation. The faculty grew richer with scholars who brought global perspectives to local challenges and local insight to global conversations. Staff members behind the scenes, from librarians to technical teams, contributed to an ecosystem that worked with unusual harmony. The University Library stood as a symbol of this vision, a modern resource centre that empowered thousands of students and academics to reach beyond previous limits.

Along the way, the world began to take note. Covenant University collected awards for outstanding learning environments, celebrated victories in national engineering competitions, earned recognition for policy innovation and technology integration, and watched its students shine in entrepreneurship and sustainability programmes. These were not isolated achievements but footprints that marked an upward journey. Every success carried the same message and excellence here was deliberate, structured and sustained.

That long journey reached a new height with the announcement from the Times Higher Education team. Interdisciplinary science represents the frontier of modern knowledge, where ideas from engineering, health, social sciences, technology and policy blend to tackle the world’s most complex problems. To rank among the top institutions globally in this field is to stand in rare company. To lead the entire African continent is to reshape expectations of what African universities can be and to do both while rising from a campus in Nigeria is to declare a powerful truth that vision coupled with discipline will always command attention.

For Covenant University, the honour felt like a spotlight coming on at the right moment. Students celebrated with a renewed sense of pride, professors smiled with the satisfaction that comes from many years of hard work, and the institution’s friends and partners across the world paused to acknowledge a rising force in global education. The story resonated even more because it echoed the core values that built the University - Spirituality, Possibility Mentality, Capacity Building, Integrity, Responsibility, Diligence and Sacrifice. These values were not decorative ideals but working tools that shaped decisions, inspired commitments and strengthened resilience.

The achievement also opened a new chapter especially with global recognition at this scale. The University now stands positioned to attract deeper international collaborations, larger research investments and a broader network of scholars who want to be part of something extraordinary. It signals to students around the world that Africa holds places where serious scholarship thrives. It signals to partners that excellence can be found wherever people choose to believe in possibility and act on it.

Covenant University’s story is still unfolding, but this moment stands as one of its brightest. The University has stepped onto the world stage in a manner that commands attention, not through noise but through substance. Its rise carries the quiet confidence of an institution that knows who it is, where it is going and why it must continue to lead.

In this achievement, the world is invited to witness a truth that has been growing for years. Greatness does not happen by accident - It is built, nurtured and sustained and Covenant University has built such greatness, and with this global recognition, it has announced it boldly to the world.

Mansurah Abdulazeez: The Kano Scientist Turning African Plants into Global Possibilities

Mansurah Abdulazeez’s story begins in Kano, where her curiosity for how life works was stronger than the limitations society tried to place around her. She grew up asking deeper questions than most children her age, always wanting to understand the inner workings of the world around her. That instinctive hunger for knowledge would one day carry her into the heart of modern genetics and biotechnology, fields where she would rise to become one of Northern Nigeria’s most respected scientific voices.

Her path became clearer when she left for Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, to study Biochemistry. ABU was where her passion matured into purpose. She immersed herself in the intense world of laboratory work, discovering how plants, cells and molecules could come together to explain disease and healing. She stayed on at ABU for her Master’s and later her PhD, focusing on the medicinal power of African plants. This work took her far beyond the classroom. She spent time in Thailand as a visiting scholar at Chiang Mai University, widening her perspective and gaining access to new techniques that shaped her future career.

Her return to Nigeria was not the end of her academic journey. It was the beginning of her mission. She joined Bayero University Kano, where she has spent years building her career in the Centre for Biotechnology Research. Through steady progress and a deep commitment to scientific excellence, she rose to become Deputy Director of Research and Genomics at the centre. In that role she became a bridge between advanced scientific inquiry and the urgent health challenges facing everyday Nigerians.

Her research focuses on something profoundly meaningful: identifying the hidden healing potential of African plants. Mansurah examines how natural compounds found across Nigeria’s biodiversity can fight cancer, hypertension and other serious conditions. It is a marriage of tradition and innovation, where indigenous knowledge meets global biomedical science.

Her work began attracting international attention when she secured a major national research grant of more than thirty million naira to support drug discovery from local plants. Not long after, her efforts were recognised abroad. She received the Science by Women Fellowship in Spain, where she joined leading researchers studying complex problems like therapy resistance in breast cancer. That experience did not change who she was, It strengthened her belief that African scientists deserve a stronger presence in global research conversations.

Mansurah has published widely, contributing dozens of studies and reviews to scientific literature. Her papers highlight the anticancer and cardiovascular potentials of Nigerian medicinal plants, giving global audiences a scientific lens into resources that are abundant on the continent yet understudied. International platforms have profiled her work, including journals and features that spotlight her as a rising force in African science.

Yet behind all the achievements is a woman who remains grounded. She mentors young scientists, especially girls from Northern Nigeria who have never seen someone like them in a laboratory coat leading advanced research. She tells them that brilliance is not tied to geography, and that their dreams are valid whether or not the world recognises them immediately. Her story has become a beacon of what is possible when talent meets opportunity and determination.

Dr. Mansurah Abdulazeez represents a generation of Northern Nigerian women who are stepping confidently into fields once seen as out of reach. She proves that world class research can grow from local soil and that Africa’s scientific future will be shaped by those who dare to push past boundaries. Her story is still unfolding, but it already carries a powerful message that knowledge can transform destinies, persistence can move mountains, and from places often overlooked can emerge minds capable of changing the world.

Nigeria Shines in Rabat as Super Falcons Soar and Nnadozie Makes History

The night in Rabat carried the kind of electricity that only football can generate, and at the heart of it stood Nigeria, radiant and unmissable. The CAF Awards had barely begun before it became clear that this would be an evening written into the legacy of Nigerian football, especially for the women who have lifted the nation with their brilliance. When the Super Falcons were announced as the Women’s National Team of the Year, the applause did more than celebrate a trophy. It echoed the remarkable path this team has walked, shaped by grit, unity and the belief that no deficit is beyond redemption. Their triumphant WAFCON comeback, overturning a two goal gap to lift their tenth continental crown, set the tone for Nigeria’s presence on this global stage.

Chiamaka Nnadozie deepened that sense of national pride when her name rang out once again as the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year. Winning the honour for the third consecutive time placed her in a rare sphere of sustained excellence. She stood there, just twenty four years old, embodying the journey from local pitches to the European spotlight, now guarding goalposts for Brighton in England. Her command, courage and consistency throughout WAFCON and across the year made this latest award feel not just deserved, but inevitable. In her rise, countless young Nigerian girls find a mirror reflecting possibility.

Yet the night also carried moments of bittersweet reflection. Rasheedat Ajibade, who had inspired Nigeria with exceptional leadership and intensity, missed out on the coveted Women’s Player of the Year award. Her nomination alone was a testament to her standing among Africa’s finest, and even without the win, she walked away with the aura of a player destined for even greater heights. And on the men’s side, the story was similar for Victor Osimhen. After a year of extraordinary performances and global recognition, he did not claim the top men’s prize, which instead went to Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi. For many Nigerian fans, it was a moment of quiet disappointment, but also a reminder that even giants face seasons of near misses, seasons that prepare them for the next ascent.

The evening featured triumphs from other corners of the continent as well, with several nations celebrating their brightest stars and emerging talents. But even within that rich parade of achievements, the Nigerian imprint remained unmistakably bold. The women had not only shown up, they had dominated the narrative, rewriting what African excellence looks like.

As the curtains drew close, one message lingered in the air: Nigeria’s story is still unfolding. The Super Falcons reminded Africa that dominance is forged in resilience. Nnadozie demonstrated the beauty of consistency on the global stage. Ajibade showed that leadership is as much about presence as it is about plaques and Osimhen, though without a win this time and absent from the event due to injury, remained a symbol of relentless ambition whose journey is far from finished.

From the bright lights of Rabat to the dreams of young players in Lagos, Kano, Aba and Jos, the night proved that Nigeria’s stars continue to rise, inspire and reshape what is possible. And somewhere within the cheers and reflections, Africa was reminded once more that when Nigeria steps onto a stage, win or lose, the story remains unforgettable.

Nigeria’s Brightest Month: How Detty December Turns the Nation Into a Festival of Joy

Detty December in Nigeria rises each year like a warm tide, casting a glow across the country as families return home, airports fill with laughter, and cities prepare for their most spirited month. From Lagos to Calabar, December becomes a tapestry of culture, reunion, creativity, tourism and economic opportunity. It is a season where lights shine brighter, music sounds fuller, and people rediscover the warmth of being together after long months apart.

Lagos sets the pace. The entire city seems to shimmer, and nothing captures this more beautifully than Ajose Adeogun on Victoria Island. Every year, Zenith Bank transforms the boulevard into a breathtaking Christmas wonderland. Glowing archways, stars, ornaments and colourful sculptures turn the entire stretch into a festive attraction visited by thousands. Families stop for photos. Tourists stroll slowly, admiring the lights. Children look upward in awe. This single street has grown into a landmark of the season, announcing that December has truly arrived.

As the decorations sparkle, the arts rise with remarkable energy. Classical concerts and theatre productions become some of the most cherished highlights of the month. The MUSON Centre in Onikan hosts events whose message and harmonies settle like velvet into the night air, while choirs deliver performances that draw audiences into joyous mood and calm reflection. At Terra Kulture in Victoria Island, theatre lovers gather for stage plays rich with humour, culture, heritage and social commentary. These shows offer something deeper than celebration, they give December its emotional layers and artistic soul.

Dining out becomes another joyful thread. Restaurants across the city - Ikoyi, Lekki, Victoria Island, Ikeja and Surulere, overflow with families and friends sharing long-awaited meals. New dining spots join established favourites as people enjoy seafood plates, grilled delicacies, fusion menus and traditional dishes that remind them of home. Tables become places of reunion, healing and laughter.

Then come the beaches - vibrant, crowded, alive. New beach resorts continue to spring up across the Lekki coastline, joining old favourites already filled to capacity every weekend. Music plays all day, vendors serve fresh coconut drinks and grilled food, the waves crash in rhythm with cheerful voices, and returning diaspora mingle with locals over a shared love of the sun and sea. The coastline transforms into one of the most energetic hubs of December life.

At night, Lagos explodes into sound. Concerts headline the calendar as giants like Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, Ayra Starr, Tems and others draw crowds so massive that tickets sell out long before the doors open. Fans dance under the evening sky, thousands of voices singing in unison. These shows have become global pilgrimages. Nigerians in the diaspora book flights just to feel the music live, turning each venue into an international gathering of culture and pride.

All of this comes with real economic weight. In 2024 alone, the Lagos Detty December season generated an estimated US $71.6 million across hospitality, tourism and entertainment. Hotels accounted for over US $44 million, short-let apartments for another US $13 million, and restaurants, nightlife, vendors and transport added millions more. The city welcomed about 1.2 million visitors, a number that continues to rise each year as the season becomes recognised globally. This influx means jobs, business growth, foreign currency inflow, and expanded opportunities for small and large enterprises.

Calabar, meanwhile, offers a cultural spectacle unmatched anywhere on the continent. The Calabar International Carnival turns the city into a river of colour. Dancers in shimmering costumes glide through the streets. Floats tell stories rooted in history. Drums pulse like a heartbeat. Families watch from pavements, children wave flags, and visitors from across Africa and abroad join the celebration. More than 300,000 tourists visited during the 2024 carnival period alone, spending over ₦8.87 billion on transport and millions more on hospitality, food, souvenirs and entertainment. For artisans, performers, vendors and tour operators, December is the most empowering month of the year.

Yet beneath the spectacle lies the heart of Detty December: reconnection. People who have lived apart for months or years embrace again. Friends reunite over meals and beach outings. Families welcome relatives returning from London, Toronto, Texas, Dubai or Johannesburg. These moments offer emotional healing, softening a year’s worth of stress, loneliness and distance. December becomes a form of therapy, a reminder of belonging and a renewal of love.

With this mix of joy, culture and economic strength, the potential for Detty December is enormous. If Nigeria positions the season strategically, improving infrastructure, upgrading event venues, expanding hotels, strengthening security, beautifying public spaces, supporting local artisans, and marketing the festival internationally, it could grow into one of the world’s most successful annual cultural tourism circuits. The kind that not only entertains but creates long-term revenue, jobs, investment opportunities and global visibility.

By the time December thirty one arrives, the entire country feels alive in unison. Fireworks paint the sky over Lagos. Colours dance above Calabar. Music echoes across beaches.  Families gather for photos. Strangers cheer together as the countdown begins. The year shifts gently into the next, carried by joy, gratitude and renewed hope.

Detty December becomes more than a holiday. It becomes Nigeria’s brightest month, a living celebration of culture, unity, tourism, creativity, homecoming and economic possibility. A season that proves the country knows how to shine, welcome the world, honour its people and step confidently into a new year with warmth, pride and vision.

FIRS Steps Into Nigeria’s Clean Energy Future With New CNG Plant at Headquarters

The Federal Inland Revenue Service has taken a decisive step in Nigeria’s energy-transition journey with the commissioning of a Compressed Natural Gas plant at its new corporate headquarters in Abuja, an investment that aligns the nation’s chief tax authority with the federal government’s CNG-first policy while signalling an institutional commitment to cleaner and more cost-effective operations. The project, completed within the premises of the agency’s modern office complex, is designed to fuel the Service’s growing fleet of CNG-enabled vehicles and demonstrate the practicality of shifting government transportation systems away from petrol in favour of a cheaper domestic energy source.

The commissioning ceremony drew senior officials from the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative, energy-sector developers and public-sector stakeholders, all affirming the significance of the FIRS move at a time when the government is pushing aggressively to expand nationwide CNG adoption. With petrol prices volatile and import-dependent, and with abundant natural gas reserves underutilised for mobility, CNG is being positioned as the backbone of Nigeria’s next-stage transportation economy.

For FIRS, the new plant is both a symbolic and financial milestone. By adopting a fuel that can cost around forty per cent less than petrol for equivalent distance travelled, the Service expects to cut a sizable portion of its annual fuel spending. Analysts note that a standard government vehicle travelling about forty thousand kilometres a year could save hundreds of thousands of naira annually once fully converted, and a fleet-wide transition could yield savings running into tens or even hundreds of millions. Such real-world reductions make CNG an attractive choice for ministries and agencies confronting high operational costs.

Beyond economics, the environmental benefits formed part of the day’s message. CNG produces fewer emissions and less particulate pollution compared with petrol and diesel, a change that aligns with Nigeria’s wider climate commitments. In a city like Abuja, where transport emissions are a major contributor to air-quality concerns, a public institution adopting cleaner energy sends an important signal to both corporate fleets and private motorists.

Speakers at the event emphasised that government institutions hold a strategic role in catalysing private-sector investment. With more agencies now converting their fleets and installing refuelling infrastructure, private developers gain the demand certainty needed to scale CNG distribution hubs and lower costs further. The FIRS plant therefore stands as an anchor node in what policymakers hope will become a fast-widening national network of refuelling stations serving buses, logistics vehicles, taxis and passenger cars.

Officials also underscored the importance of safety and proper technical standards. Because CNG relies on high-pressure storage and precision in compression systems, operational reliability will be central to public confidence. The installation at the new FIRS headquarters is built to international specifications, and the agency highlighted its commitment to rigorous maintenance and training to ensure smooth and safe operations.

The broader context of the commissioning ties into the federal administration’s ambitions under the Presidential CNG Initiative, which targets the conversion of up to a million vehicles to CNG within the next few years. As more public-sector fleets switch and more refuelling points open, the initiative plans to create jobs across the gas-to-mobility value chain, from plant construction to vehicle conversion workshops and technical maintenance.

The Abuja event concluded with calls for other ministries, departments and agencies to emulate the Service’s leadership by adopting CNG and supporting the infrastructure rollout required for sustained national impact. With the new plant already positioned for active service, FIRS has placed itself at the forefront of Nigeria’s transition toward cleaner, cheaper and domestically powered transport systems, setting an example that could accelerate the country’s shift into a more resilient energy future.

Dangote Cement Launches N100 Billion Commercial Paper Offer

Dangote Cement Plc has moved to strengthen its short-term funding position with the launch of a N100 billion commercial paper offer, the opening tranche of its much larger N500 billion issuance programme. The offer opened for subscription on 17 November 2025 and closes on 19 November 2025, attracting attention across Nigeria’s fixed-income market as investors continue to seek stable corporate instruments with competitive yields.

The company structured the notes in two parts. The first is a 181-day paper offered at a 16.10 percent discount rate, giving an implied yield of about 17.50 percent at maturity. The second is a 265-day paper priced at a 16.70 percent discount rate, offering investors a return of roughly 19 percent. Market analysts note that these yields reflect the rising interest rate environment and the growing preference for high-grade corporate issuers capable of meeting near-term obligations.

Institutional investors remain the main target for this issuance, with a minimum subscription of N50 million and room for additional commitments in increments of N1,000. The structure is designed to accommodate pension funds, fund managers, banks and large corporates seeking secure short-duration placements backed by one of Nigeria’s most capitalised industrial groups.

Offer documents released during the subscription window confirmed that the proceeds will be channelled into working capital, an area critical to Dangote Cement’s nationwide operations and extensive supply chain. The company’s long history with commercial paper programmes suggests that it views the debt market as a reliable and flexible tool for managing operational liquidity without resorting to longer-term borrowing.

The new tranche also reinforces confidence in Nigeria’s corporate debt market. Investors often gravitate towards issuers with strong cash flow, proven creditworthiness and significant domestic relevance, qualities that have kept Dangote Cement’s debt instruments in steady demand over the years. Although detailed settlement and maturity schedules are contained in the internal deal documents shared with professional investors, the public programme information confirms that both tranches are structured along standard market conventions for corporate notes in Nigeria.

With this N100 billion issuance now completed, market watchers expect Dangote Cement to return periodically as it draws on the balance of its N500 billion programme. The company’s approach ensures it can continue to optimise its capital structure while giving investors dependable short-dated instruments in a market where strong corporate paper is consistently sought after.

Anu Adasolum: Building the Engine Powering Africa’s Next Commerce Revolution

Anu Adedoyin Adasolum’s rise in African enterprise shows how powerful change can happen when someone understands their environment deeply and chooses to solve real problems with clarity and courage. Her journey is marked by a commitment to structure, discipline and a strong belief that progress in Africa must be built on local insight, not borrowed models.

Her education, which included studies in the United Kingdom, offered her a good grounding in how organisations and economies function. Yet it was her decision to immerse herself in the realities of African commerce that shaped the direction of her life. She began her career at Dangote Industries where she learned the discipline of executing large scale operations. She strengthened her analytical instincts at KPMG Nigeria, gaining a close view of how businesses operate at different stages of maturity.

Her move to Jumia Nigeria placed her in the heart of the everyday trading ecosystem. There she worked directly with vendors, sourcing networks and the massive world of informal commerce. She saw the struggle many merchants faced: supply chains without structure, inventory systems without visibility, logistics without dependability and daily trading without reliable data.

An even deeper perspective came at Rensource Energy where she rose to the role of Chief Operating Officer. While building energy solutions for businesses, she uncovered a much broader truth. African merchants were not held back by lack of ambition, but by lack of infrastructure. They needed more than power. They needed order. They needed tools that understood their struggles. They needed systems designed for them. This reinforced something she has always believed, that Africa’s most effective progress will come from understanding local dynamics and creating solutions that grow out of those realities.

This was the foundation for Sabi.

In 2020, Anu co-founded Sabi alongside Ademola Adesina with a mission to build a commercial backbone for African merchants. Not just a marketplace, but a full infrastructure platform offering inventory management, fulfilment support, logistics, data, financing and business tools, all shaped around how African trade actually works, not how outsiders imagine it should work.

The impact was immediate. Within eighteen months Sabi was approaching half a billion dollars in annualised trade volume. The platform expanded rapidly, securing a seed round, a bridge round, a strong Series A and a major Series B that pushed the company’s valuation close to the three hundred million dollar mark. Merchants responded quickly because they recognised that Sabi was built for them, with their challenges and their realities in mind.

By late 2023 Sabi crossed the one billion dollar mark in annualised trade volume. More than two hundred thousand merchants were on the platform. Expansion moved into other African markets, proving that a locally grounded model could thrive across borders.

Through all these achievements, Anu has remained anchored in a central principle: African markets require African solutions shaped by local understanding and operational excellence. Her leadership continues to show that when structure meets insight, and when innovation respects the realities of those it intends to serve, transformational results follow.

Anu Adedoyin Adasolum stands today as one of the most impactful female business builders of her generation, a leader shaping Africa’s commercial future by grounding progress in local truth and building systems that allow millions to thrive.

Nigeria Pushes Forward as More Benin Bronzes Return Home

Nigeria’s latest reception of repatriated Benin Bronzes is more than a ceremonial handover. It is an assertion of truth, justice and cultural sovereignty. For over a century these masterpieces of the Benin Kingdom were displayed abroad as if their presence in foreign museums were normal. It never was. There was no moral, legal or cultural justification for the violent removal of these sacred works during the 1897 invasion of Benin. Their seizure was a clear act of plunder, carried out to break a thriving African kingdom and enrich institutions in Europe and North America. That is the beginning and the end of the matter.

What is happening today is not generosity from foreign museums. It is the slow correction of a crime. Every plaque, commemorative head and royal object that returns to Nigeria restores a piece of history that was wrongfully taken. The most important step is not the building of new galleries or the creation of modern storehouses, although these are useful. The core issue is that these bronzes belong in Nigeria because they were created here, commissioned here and lived their cultural lives here. Their return is not a favor. It is an obligation.

Recent restitutions have highlighted this truth. The Netherlands transfer of more than one hundred bronzes, Germany’s large scale agreement, returns from American museums and earlier handovers by British institutions all signal a global shift. Yet that shift only gained momentum because Nigeria, Edo communities and the court of the Oba insisted that these objects are part of their living heritage. They were not silent. They were not passive. Nigeria refused to accept the colonial narrative that claimed these objects were better kept abroad. That argument collapses under any moral examination. The question has never been about foreign ability to store or polish bronze. It has always been about rightful ownership.

Nigeria is making plans to expand museum capacity, develop conservation facilities and strengthen cultural institutions, which is commendable but these efforts should never be used by foreign institutions as bargaining tools or excuses for delay. The artefacts must come home first then Infrastructure can be the next conversation.

As more bronzes return, Nigeria faces an opportunity to rebuild the story that colonial violence attempted to interrupt. The bronzes are not static objects. They represent communities of bronze casters, ivory carvers, royal guilds and custodians of memory. They document the sophistication of Benin court life, the diplomacy of West African states and the artistic brilliance that flourished long before European intrusion. Restoring them to Nigeria restores the narrative to its rightful place.

The future will bring more debates about display, governance and museum development, but these are internal matters for Nigeria and the Edo people. The world’s role is simple: return what was taken. The latest handover from the United States and earlier restitutions from Europe are steps in that direction, but thousands of pieces remain abroad and Nigeria has waited long enough.

The return of every bronze is a reaffirmation of identity, dignity and ownership. It is a reminder that cultural heritage cannot be separated from the people who created it. No level of foreign cataloguing or conservation can replace that connection. As more nations follow the path of restitution, the world is finally recognizing something Nigeria has known since the day these objects were stolen - the bronzes belong at home.

 

Tony Elumelu Pledges $1 Billion to Boost Kenya’s Infrastructure

Tony Elumelu’s new one billion dollar commitment to Kenya has become one of the most talked-about private sector moves in East Africa, not only because of its scale but because of what it signifies for the future of African-driven development. The announcement came after his meeting with President William Ruto at State House in Nairobi, where both men discussed Kenya’s urgent need for stronger infrastructure, greater energy capacity, and deeper agricultural resilience. What emerged is a pledge that stretches beyond finance, touching on the political, economic, and symbolic layers of Africa’s growth story.

The new commitment focuses on energy generation, food security, and the expansion of road and rail networks. Kenya’s energy demand has surged as its population grows and industries multiply. Elumelu, through Transcorp and Heirs Holdings, has long positioned energy as the foundation of Africa’s transformation. His entry into the Kenyan power space is seen by analysts as a strategic fit, since his companies have managed large power assets in Nigeria with an emphasis on efficiency, availability, and long-term scale. Kenya, which already runs one of Africa’s strongest renewable mixes, remains in need of private capital to stabilize its grid and expand generation, especially in geothermal, wind, and solar.

Food security adds another layer to the deal. Kenya’s agricultural landscape is rich but faces challenges that range from climate change to low mechanisation and inconsistent value chain development. By channeling investment into this sector, Elumelu is signalling confidence in Kenya’s role as a regional agricultural powerhouse. Private capital in agribusiness, especially in processing and irrigation, could help reduce post-harvest losses, increase export potential, and strengthen resilience to climate shocks. It also aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 plan, which lists agriculture as a key driver of industrialisation.

Transport infrastructure forms the backbone of the commitment. Kenya serves as a trade gateway for East and Central Africa, and its ambitions rest heavily on efficient road corridors and a modern rail system. Elumelu’s pledge fits into a wider Kenyan plan to modernise transport and reduce logistics bottlenecks that currently raise the cost of doing business. Part of the broader commitment includes a one hundred and fifty million dollar injection from United Bank for Africa into Kenya’s Road Infrastructure Securitisation Programme, a financial model designed to attract private investors into road construction and rehabilitation. This marks a shift away from relying solely on international loans, signalling Kenya’s growing appetite for innovative domestic and continental financing.

For Kenya, the investment represents more than capital. President Ruto has repeatedly argued that African development must increasingly be financed by Africans. Elumelu’s move supports this approach by proving that African private sector players now have both the capacity and the confidence to take on billion-dollar, multi-sector investment programmes. The meeting between the two leaders also underscored the growing diplomatic importance of private investors who shape economic narratives across the continent as much as governments do.

For Elumelu and his companies, the Kenya commitment deepens their pan-African footprint. His philosophy of Africapitalism, the belief that African private capital should drive African development, finds a strong test case in East Africa’s biggest economy. It also aligns with his recent regional engagements, including investment dialogues across Zambia, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The move shows a deliberate strategy to expand beyond West Africa into regions with rising economic momentum and clear long-term infrastructure needs.

Although the commitment is significant, it comes with realistic challenges. Projects of this size and ambition require clear policy frameworks, transparency, and efficient execution. The partnership will also need to balance investor returns with public good, especially for energy pricing, toll roads, and community impact. Kenya’s macro-economic environment, with its currency pressures and fiscal constraints, will demand careful structuring to ensure long-term sustainability. Yet the potential gains are substantial, especially if the projects improve productivity, lower logistics costs, and stimulate broader economic participation.

Transcorp’s own momentum adds weight to the pledge. The group recently announced a profit after tax increase of more than twenty percent for the first nine months of 2025, driven by power and hospitality growth. Strong financials give the conglomerate both the credibility and the liquidity to take on ambitious regional investments like this one.

Elumelu’s one billion dollar Kenya commitment stands as one of the most symbolic examples of intra-African investment in recent years. It brings together political will, private ambition, and regional opportunity. If executed well, it could strengthen Kenya’s energy backbone, boost its agricultural resilience, modernise transport corridors, and reshape how large infrastructure is financed on the continent.

More importantly, it may signal a new era in which African investors play a defining role in building African economies, not as supporting partners, but as central drivers of the continent’s next phase of growth.

Nigerian Creator Wins TikTok UK Video of the Year

Bemi Orojogun, the Nigerian content creator fondly known as London Bus Aunty, has captured the attention of millions after winning Video of the Year at the TikTok UK Awards 2025. What started as a simple habit of filming London’s famous red buses has now evolved into a cultural moment that resonates across continents, earning her one of the platform’s most coveted honours. Her achievement drew warm commendations from the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, who celebrated her for bringing joy to people through her unique lens on city life and for showcasing the spirit of London’s transport culture in the most charming way.

Bemi’s videos revolve around an idea so simple yet so magnetic that it has taken on a life of its own. She positions herself at a London roadside or bus stop, often dressed in bright scarves and warm colours, and lets a red double-decker bus glide past behind her. She rarely speaks in the clips and relies on no special effects. The beauty lies in her natural presence, her warm smile and the calm, everyday magic of the city moving around her. Her gentle delight in these scenes turns an ordinary moment into something unexpectedly soothing and joyful for viewers who find comfort in the slow, simple pulse of London street life.

Her winning video, which helped her clinch the TikTok UK honours, featured a smooth procession of buses passing behind her with near-perfect timing. The clip exploded across the platform, gathering millions of views and comments from users who felt the calm energy of her work. Many have come to describe her content as a quiet celebration of the mundane, a reminder that city routines can be beautiful when seen through the right eyes.

The judging criteria for the award leaned heavily on originality, emotional impact, audience engagement and cultural relevance, all of which Bemi’s videos embody. Her clips have sparked a wave of imitations across the world, with viewers recreating “bus aunty” moments in their own cities. Her work consistently drives high engagement, bringing together Londoners, Nigerians, diaspora communities and global audiences who appreciate the positive energy she radiates. She has turned what many overlook-the passing of a bus, into a gentle storytelling moment that resonates well beyond the United Kingdom.

During her acceptance moment, Bemi expressed heartfelt gratitude. She thanked the bus drivers who unknowingly became part of her videos, appreciated her growing community of viewers, acknowledged her Nigerian heritage with pride and encouraged creators everywhere to start small, stay consistent and find joy in the little things. Her message reflected the same sincerity that defines her content, making the victory feel both personal and communal.

Several of her videos have played a significant role in her rise. Her Greenwich clip, where multiple buses passed behind her in perfect rhythm, soared past forty million views. Her rainy-day bus video, with droplets on the lens and her bright scarf glowing against the grey London weather, became an instant fan favourite. Her early-morning shot of the first Route 53 bus captured the quiet beauty of dawn, while her Christmas bus clip charmed thousands with its festive decorations and her soft, amused expression.

Bemi’s success holds deeper meaning for Nigerian creators and African voices in the digital space. She proves that creativity does not require complicated setups or expensive equipment. Her content stands as a reminder that sincerity travels far, and that diaspora storytellers continue to shape global trends with fresh, culturally rich perspectives. By simply being herself, she has broadened the visibility of Nigerian creators and challenged expectations about who can thrive on platforms like TikTok.

In many ways, her award represents more than a viral moment. It reflects the power of everyday joy, the unexpected beauty of routine, and the connection people find in simplicity. Her work has turned London’s red buses into symbols of shared delight, embraced by viewers across borders and celebrated at the highest levels of London’s civic leadership. Bemi Orojogun’s London Bus Aunty story reminds us that small ideas, when nurtured with heart, can move millions and even earn a nod from the Mayor.

Rasheedat Ajibade Named CAF Player of the Year Finalist

Rasheedat Ajibade’s rise in African football has not only been a journey of talent and grit, but a powerful reminder of how far dedication can take a young woman determined to write her name in history. That journey reached another defining chapter this week as the Nigeria Super Falcons forward earned a place among the three finalists for the prestigious CAF Player of the Year (Women) award, one of the highest honours in African football.

Ajibade stands tall alongside two Moroccan stars, Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanaa Mssoudy, completing a highly competitive shortlist that reflects the growing strength and visibility of women’s football across the continent. The presence of two North Africans and one West African testifies to a shift: African women’s football is diversifying, expanding, and producing world-class talent across regions.

For Nigerians, Ajibade’s inclusion is more than a personal milestone. It is a celebration of the Super Falcons’ legacy, decades of dominance, resilience, and representation on the continental stage. Ajibade, known for her explosive pace, creativity up front, and fearless approach to the game, has consistently delivered for both club and country. Her performances for Atlético Madrid Femenino and her leadership during crucial Super Falcons fixtures have earned her admiration from fans and analysts alike.

Yet beyond the goals, assists, and trophies, it is her spirit that stands out. Ajibade plays with a fire that mirrors the dreams of countless young girls watching from fields, classrooms, and living rooms across Nigeria. From her grassroots beginnings to her continental acclaim, her journey proves what is possible when raw talent meets relentless hard work.

While the football world awaits the final announcement, one thing is already clear: Rasheedat Ajibade has cemented her place among Africa’s finest. Her story continues to inspire, her success continues to shine, and her rise continues to bring pride not only to Nigeria but to the entire African football family.

A New Chapter for Knowledge in Cross River State

The Cross River State Library has reopened its doors, not just as a reading space, but as a cultural landmark reborn. In a city where history breathes through old streets and the fragrance of the Marina glides with the wind, the renovated library stands as one of Calabar’s most meaningful restorations. It is the return of a quiet giant, one that watched generations grow and has now stepped back into the world with its head held high.

Long before Calabar became Nigeria’s tourism capital, before international visitors flocked to its festivals and waterfronts, the library was already weaving itself into the city’s soul. Built in the mid-20th century, it served as a sanctuary for scholars, teachers, students, researchers, missionaries, and dreamers. Its shelves once carried the ambitions of thousands of young people who walked in hoping to find answers on paper. The building itself was modest but revered, a place where the city’s intellectual spirit lived.

But time is neither gentle nor patient. The building aged, books thinned, furniture wore out, rain crept through weak spots, and the once-busy hall dimmed into silence. Yet even in this fragile state, the library remained a reference point for Calabar residents. Everyone remembered it, its smell, its rows of aging shelves, its stubborn endurance. And then came the turning point: the decision that the Cross River State Library deserved to rise again.

One of the most fascinating choices during its renovation was the deliberate preservation of an old, weather-beaten wall. While the rest of the building received fresh paint, new roofing, polished interiors, and modern facilities, this wall was left untouched. Its cracks, faded patches, and scars were not mistakes, they were memories. The wall became a monument to resilience, a physical reminder of the years the library survived through neglect, community patchwork, and sheer endurance. It stands today as a quiet storyteller, whispering to visitors: “I lived through the worst, so you may learn in the best.”

Step inside now and the transformation is both stunning and heartwarming. The Cross River State Library feels alive again. Its reading hall glows with natural and artificial light, its furniture is modern and comfortable, and its atmosphere invites focus rather than demands it. A digital research zone opens the library to the world, giving learners access to internet resources, online catalogues, and workstations for academic or creative projects. Children now have a dedicated, colorful reading corner where early literacy is treated as a gift, not an afterthought. A multipurpose hall hosts community discussions, book readings, exhibitions, and literary events that enrich Calabar’s cultural landscape. And deeper inside, the archives preserve precious documents and historical records tied to Calabar’s heritage.

The books themselves are a journey. Some are new, fresh, vibrant. Others are old companions rescued from the former library, titles on Efik history, colonial Calabar, classic Nigerian literature, African novels, global bestsellers, children’s stories, educational texts, and even vintage volumes carrying library stamps from decades past. It is a collection that respects the past while embracing the future.

Yet one of the library’s most charming advantages lies just beyond its walls. A short stroll away, the famous Calabar Marina opens into a breathtaking waterfront that has long been one of Nigeria’s most peaceful public spaces. The water glitters, boats drift lazily, palm trees sway, and the ambience is perfect for reflection. Visitors now make the library-and-Marina combo their personal ritual: read a book inside, then walk out to the Marina to digest it with the help of sea breeze and scenery. It is an experience that blends learning with leisure, history with nature, a rare harmony that exists almost nowhere else in the country.

This synergy between the library and its surroundings has also given Cross River State an unexpected but powerful tourism gift. In a world where travelers increasingly seek destinations with cultural depth, the renovated Cross River State Library now stands as a new stop for visitors eager to explore Calabar beyond festivals and food. It offers a gentle but profound story about heritage, knowledge, and preservation. Tourists who wander into the library find themselves tracing the city's evolution through its books, its architecture, and that one unrenovated wall left intentionally as a reminder of the journey.

The revival of the Cross River State Library is not just a renovation, it is a statement from Cross River State to the world. A declaration that this is a place where culture is preserved, where history is honored, where modern learning thrives, and where tourism extends beyond sights to meaningful experiences. In a time when humanity is rediscovering the value of quiet places, the library stands ready to welcome locals, visitors, scholars, wanderers, and curious minds from every corner of the globe.

And so, the Cross River State Library begins a new chapter, one that celebrates knowledge, embraces community, beautifies the city, enhances tourism, and reminds the world that Calabar is not just a destination but a story worth reading.

Innoson: The Underrated Revolution

The story of Innoson is not just the rise of a Nigerian car manufacturer; it is the story of a man who refused to believe that greatness must come from abroad or from spotlighted cities. It is a story born in Nnewi, a place outsiders rarely understand, a place that has powered Nigeria quietly for decades without receiving matching acknowledgment. And at the center of that landscape is Chief Innocent Ifediaso Chukwuma, a man whose journey reflects the stubborn brilliance of the “worthy unknown”- those Nigerians who build without applause, who transform without noise, and whose work is so steady that the world often fails to notice until their achievements become impossible to ignore.

Long before Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing became a national symbol, Innocent was a trader walking the tightrope of survival. He did not start with a grand vision or a foreign partnership; he started with a simple understanding of his environment. Nigerians needed affordable transportation. Nigerians needed spare parts. Nigerians needed someone who could fill the massive gaps left by import dependence and erratic government policies. In the bustling spare parts markets of Nnewi, Innocent learned the rhythm of Nigerian roads, what breaks, what lasts, what people can afford, and how fragile the country’s reliance on foreign products really was. That lived experience shaped his approach more than any textbook could.

From motorcycle parts to motorcycle assembly, from plastics to components manufacturing, Innocent built an ecosystem brick by brick, often in silence. Many did not pay attention but as his companies expanded, his understanding deepened: if Nigeria must truly industrialize, someone must dare to enter the space long dominated by foreign companies and second-hand imports. Someone must be willing to be the first to be doubted, the first to fail publicly if it came to that, the first to put “Made in Nigeria” on a car and stand boldly beside it.

Thus began the audacious birth of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing. It was not a glamorous launch. It was not backed by the kind of publicity that surrounds foreign investments. It was a quiet statement of intent from a man who had spent a lifetime listening to the realities of ordinary Nigerians. Innoson’s early years were slow, technical, and grueling. Setting up an automotive assembly plant in a country where power supply was inconsistent, policies were unstable, and consumer confidence leaned heavily toward imported used cars was not an entrepreneurial act, it was an act of near-spiritual belief.

Yet progress came. Machines roared to life in Nnewi. Skilled workers, many trained from scratch, began fabricating parts, welding bodies, upholstering seats. The vehicles that rolled out were rugged, built for African roads, priced to compete effectively and backed by after-sales support that understood the frustrations of Nigerian drivers. It wasn’t merely a factory; it became a symbol. A reminder that Nigeria could build. That Nigerians could design. That manufacturing was not beyond the reach of a Black nation often painted as a consumer rather than a creator.

Milestones followed: locally produced cars unveiled to the nation, buses built with durability in mind, a range of pickups, SUVs, minibuses, and even locally made tricycles designed to disrupt an import-heavy market. Recognition came slowly but steadily. Capacity grew. Awards trickled in. Government fleets, private companies, and individuals began to take a chance on a brand that carried the nation’s name on its badge.

But to tell Innoson’s story honestly is to acknowledge a few challenges that still stand in the way; rising import costs for component, market flooded with cheaper used vehicles and so on. Scaling production requires massive capital, patient investors, and a stable supply-chain infrastructure. 

Yet through all this, the company continues to push forward. It continues to expand, innovate, recruit, and invest. It continues to deepen local content and prepare for a future where vehicles may shift to electric models or alternative fuels. It continues to look toward West African markets where a proudly African brand could one day dominate and perhaps most importantly, it continues to embody the spirit of the worthy unknown Nigerians who grow the economy from hidden corners, who dare to attempt what others only discuss, and whose work quietly rewrites the boundaries of possibility.

Innoson’s story is not merely about cars. It is about national confidence. It is about industrial courage. It is about a generation of builders who do not wait for perfect conditions but create progress in spite of imperfection. It is about the idea that greatness can rise from Nnewi, Aba, Minna, Kano, Osogbo, or any other town that Nigeria rarely puts on magazine covers.

What the future holds for Innoson depends on both the company and the country. If Nigeria commits to consistent industrial policies, if financing becomes more accessible, if Nigerians increasingly choose to support local innovation, and if the company continues to evolve technologically, Innoson could become not just Nigeria’s automotive pride but Africa’s. It could carve a space in global supply chains. It could inspire competitors. It could ignite a manufacturing renaissance in regions long overlooked.

But even if the journey remains challenging, the legacy is already profound: Innocent Chukwuma proved that Nigerian industrialization does not always need foreign saviors. It needs vision, stubbornness, skill, and a deep understanding of local realities. It needs those worthy but ignored Nigerians who build with their hands before the world learns their names.

That is the essence of Innoson’s story, a testament to what Nigeria can become when its unknown giants rise, demanding nothing but the chance to build.

Dangote’s $1 Billion Bet on Zimbabwe: A New Chapter in African-Led Development

Dangote’s recent investment commitment in Zimbabwe has become one of the most symbolic African business stories of the decade, an inspiring reminder that African enterprises, once underestimated and often dismissed, are now shaping continental destinies. For many everyday Nigerians who have watched the rise of the Dangote Group not as distant admirers but as silent witnesses to decades of grit, the announcement of over US $1 billion in new investments in Zimbabwe carries a special weight. It speaks of possibility. It speaks of Africa rising by the work of its own hands.

The agreement, signed in November 2025, covers an ambitious network of projects: a major fuel pipeline expected to run from Namibia through Botswana into Zimbabwe, large-scale power generation infrastructure, and a new cement manufacturing plant meant to anchor local industrialisation. For Zimbabwe, these investments promise more than financial inflows, they signal renewed confidence from Africa’s largest industrial conglomerate at a time when the country seeks to strengthen its economy, expand energy access, and advance its Vision 2030 agenda.

Yet the significance extends far beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. To many Nigerians watching from afar, this move is emotionally symbolic. It is a reminder that African businesses, once confined to local markets, now stand shoulder-to-shoulder with global players by exporting not just products but also confidence, capacity, and long-term vision. It is a powerful image: a Nigerian-built industrial empire investing heavily to unlock Zimbabwean potential. This is the Africa many have dreamt of, one where success in one corner of the continent becomes a catalyst for progress in another.

Dangote’s renewed commitment also has a deeper backstory. His first attempt to establish a cement plant in Zimbabwe dates back to 2015, a period when the political and regulatory environment made large-scale investment difficult. A decade later, he returned, publicly acknowledging that conditions had improved and that transparency had strengthened. This persistence, waiting until the soil is ready, then planting boldly, is part of what makes the story inspiring. It carries lessons for emerging African entrepreneurs who may not have the same resources, but possess the same dreams.

For Zimbabwe, the benefits could be transformative. The cement plant will support construction and infrastructure growth, the energy projects may ease power shortages, and the pipeline could reshape regional fuel logistics. Jobs will be created, skills will be developed, and with them, new doors may open for local communities. For Dangote Group, the investment expands its continental footprint while aligning strategically with its petroleum and refining ambitions.

But like every serious investment, the journey ahead carries risks. Zimbabwe’s macro-economic environment remains fragile, infrastructure gaps may pose challenges, and cross-border coordination for the pipeline is complex. Successful execution will require patience, discipline, and collaboration from all sides. Still, these risks do not overshadow the larger story, one of renewed optimism, continental cooperation, and shared progress.

For Nigerians, especially the forgotten, the overlooked, and the striving, the story resonates on a personal level. It is a reminder that greatness does not always emerge from comfort or applause; sometimes it comes from steady, determined steps taken quietly over decades. Dangote’s move into Zimbabwe reinforces a truth long carried by the worthy unknowns of Nigeria: that resilience, ambition, and consistency can move mountains, reshape industries, and inspire nations.

Across Africa, where many still battle economic uncertainty and limited opportunity, this investment stands as a signal that the continent’s future will not only be influenced by external powers, it will be built by Africans themselves and perhaps that is the most powerful message of all.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And this is only the beginning.