Nigeria: Wike Unveils Comprehensive Transport Reforms for FCT

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has announced that plans have been finalized to introduce sweeping reforms in the FCT’s transportation sector to enhance safety and commuter comfort.

GRAMMY Museum Selects 172 Students and Announces Guest Artists for Expanded GRAMMY Camp

...Programs to Take Place in Miami, Los Angeles, and New York

The GRAMMY Museum announced today that 172 talented high school students from 126 U.S. cities across 25 states have been selected to participate in the newly expanded GRAMMY Camp this summer, which will now be held in Miami and New York in addition to its flagship Los Angeles location.

First Asset Management Wins 2024 Fund Manager of the Year at Capital Market Choice Awards

First Asset Management Limited, a subsidiary of First HoldCo Plc, has been named Fund Manager of the Year 2024 at the inaugural Capital Market Choice Awards, organised by Nairametrics Financial Advocate Limited. The award affirms the firm’s strong track record in fund management, innovation, and wealth creation.

Access Bank Launches Initiative to Support 50,000 Female Agents in Rural Nigeria

Access Bank has joined forces with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Microsave Consulting Global Consulting Pte Ltd. to enhance financial inclusion for low-income women in rural parts of Nigeria.

PSG Sees 180% Surge in Merchandise Sales Ahead of Champions League Final

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has experienced a dramatic 180% spike in global merchandise sales following the team’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League final, according to its merchandise partner, Fanatics.

New CFA Institute Report Urges Private Capital Solutions to Unlock Africa’s Capital Markets News Story:

A new report by CFA Institute, titled Capital Formation in Africa: A Case for Private Markets, highlights the urgent need to mobilise private capital to address structural investment gaps across sub-Saharan Africa. The study explores how private markets, especially private equity and private debt, can play a pivotal role in building efficient and integrated capital markets that support the region’s socioeconomic development.

Real Madrid Becomes First Club Valued Over €6bn, Tops Global Rankings at €6.28bn

Real Madrid has retained its position as the world’s most valuable football club, according to the latest valuation report by Football Benchmark, with an enterprise value (EV) of €6.28 billion (US$7.1 billion). The Spanish club is now the first in history to surpass the €6 billion mark.

Mauritanian Economist Sidi Ould Tah Elected AfDB President as Adesina's Decade-Long Tenure Nears End

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has elected Mauritanian economist Sidi Ould Tah as its next president following three rounds of voting on Thursday afternoon.

Volvo to Cut 3,000 Office Jobs Globally in Major Cost-Reduction Drive

Volvo Cars has announced plans to cut approximately 3,000 jobs worldwide, primarily targeting office-based roles, as part of a major initiative to reduce costs amid economic headwinds and industry-wide challenges.

Ayra Starr Makes History as First Nigerian Female Artist to Surpass 1 Billion YouTube Views

Ayra Starr has cemented her status as a trailblazer in Nigerian music by becoming the first female artist from the country to cross one billion cumulative views on YouTube. The Mavin Records singer, aged 21, joins an elite circle of Nigerian artists, including Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Rema, and CKay, who have reached this milestone.

Borussia Dortmund Unveil €30m-a-Year Vodafone Deal as Exclusive Shirt Sponsor

German football powerhouse Borussia Dortmund has secured a new main sponsorship agreement with telecommunications giant Vodafone, marking a strategic shift in the club’s commercial approach. The five-year deal, reported to be worth €30 million (US$40.6 million) annually by Bild, will see Vodafone's logo featured on Dortmund’s jerseys across all Bundesliga, domestic cup, and European fixtures.

Don’t Panic: Steps to Take If Your Spotify Account Gets Hacked

In a world where we stream more than we download, losing access to your Spotify account can feel like someone just walked off with your entire music library. Whether you use it for daily focus playlists, gym motivation, or late-night unwinding, a hacked account is more than an inconvenience; it’s a security risk. Here’s what to do if your Spotify account has been compromised and how to protect it going forward.

Nigeria: FG’s Sukuk Attracts Massive ₦2.2tn Subscription, Boosting Infrastructure Funding

The Debt Management Office (DMO) has announced that the recently issued Series VII Sovereign Sukuk, valued at ₦300 billion, received an overwhelming subscription of ₦2.205 trillion. The disclosure was made in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja.

LG Showcases Smart, Sustainable HVAC Solutions at Mega Clima 2025

At Mega Clima 2025, West Africa’s premier HVAC exhibition hosted at Lagos’ Landmark Centre, LG Electronics is unveiling a suite of cutting-edge heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) innovations that emphasise energy efficiency, smart technology, and environmental sustainability. This bold showcase reflects LG’s commitment to healthier indoor environments and supports Africa’s rapidly transforming built landscape.

Trump Escalates Trade Tensions with Threats of 50% EU Tariffs and 25% Smartphone Tax

US President Donald Trump escalated trade tensions on Friday by threatening to impose a 50% tariff on all imports from the European Union, just hours before the two sides were scheduled to begin trade talks.

Brentford FC Partners with Joma as New Kit Supplier

English Premier League club Brentford FC has announced Spanish sportswear company Joma as its new official kit supplier, ending its partnership with UK-based brand Umbro.

Sahara Group Opens Applications for Elite Upstream Graduate Program

Asharami Energy, the upstream subsidiary of Sahara Group, has announced the launch of its Sahara Upstream Graduate Engineer Program (SUGEP), reinforcing the company’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineering talent in Africa’s oil and gas sector.

Africa’s Mining Future in Focus: AMW 2025 to Ignite Investment, Innovation, and Sustainability

As global demand for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and copper soars to new heights, Africa’s abundant reserves have positioned the continent as a key player in the global shift toward clean energy. These resources are central to powering electric vehicles and renewable energy infrastructure, placing African markets under increasing global scrutiny as countries seek stable, long-term access to essential minerals.

Afreximbank to Host ACTIF2025 in Grenada to Strengthen Africa-Caribbean Trade and Investment

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with the Government of Grenada, has announced that the fourth edition of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2025) will take place in St. George’s, Grenada, from 28 to 29 July 2025. The event will be held under the theme: “Resilience and Transformation: Enhancing Africa-Caribbean Economic Cooperation in an Era of Global Uncertainty.”

Publicis Groupe Acquires Captiv8, Strengthens Global Lead in AI-Powered Influencer Marketing

Publicis Groupe, the French multinational advertising powerhouse, has taken a major step forward in the influencer marketing and social commerce arena with its acquisition of Captiv8.

NIPR Re-elects Ike Neliaku as President, Daudara as Vice President

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has re-elected Dr. Ike Neliaku as its President and Chairman of the Governing Council. The announcement was made on Thursday during the 2025 Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW) held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Adesina Cautions Against Fallout of U.S. Tariffs on Africa, Urges Strategic Diversification and Investment-Led Growth

As the United States escalates tariffs with widespread global impact, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), has raised alarm over the potential economic shockwaves facing African nations. The heightened trade measures, he warns, could destabilize economies across the continent and accelerate a global realignment in strategic partnerships.

Toyota’s Next-Gen RAV4 Sets New Standards in Electrification and Digital Experience with Arene Platform Debut

Toyota has revealed the all-new sixth-generation RAV4, a robust evolution of its iconic SUV that introduces groundbreaking advancements in electrification and digital innovation. Set to debut in 2026, the next-generation RAV4 will be the first vehicle to feature Toyota’s Arene software platform, marking a pivotal step toward fully software-defined vehicles.

Chelsea FC Unveils 2025/26 Kit with ‘London, It’s Our House’ Cultural Campaign

Chelsea Football Club has unveiled its new 2025/26 home kit with a bold, culture-driven campaign titled ‘London, It’s Our House.’ Featuring a mix of footballing talent and musical icons, the campaign aims to position Chelsea not just as a football club, but as a key part of the capital’s cultural identity.

Bigi Returns as Lead Sponsor of Nigerian Idol Season 10, Live Shows Begin This Sunday

The spotlight is back on as Bigi, Nigeria’s much-loved carbonated soft drink, steps in once again to sponsor Nigerian Idol Season 10, which goes live this Sunday, 25 May.

Simba Solar Powers Nigeria’s Industrial and Commercial Transformation with Clean Energy Solutions

Simba Solar, a key player in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector, is deepening its role in supporting the country’s industrial and commercial evolution through innovative solar technologies. By enabling a shift from fossil fuels to clean, sustainable energy, the company is helping to enhance energy independence, boost climate resilience, and drive long-term economic development.

Prudential Zenith Life Signals Strategic Transformation with Appointment of New Board Chair and CEO

...‘Tokunboh Ishmael Named Board Chair; Funmilayo Abimbola Omo Appointed Managing Director/CEO

Prudential Zenith Life Insurance Limited (PZL) has announced the appointment of ‘Tokunboh Ishmael as Chair of its Board of Directors and Funmilayo Abimbola Omo as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer. The leadership transition follows Prudential plc’s acquisition of the remaining 49% stake in PZL, underscoring the Group’s deepening commitment to Nigeria and its broader African growth strategy.

European Commission Joins Forces with CAF as Official Partner for 2025 AFCON in Morocco

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has entered into a strategic partnership with the European Commission (EC), naming the EC an official partner of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments, both men’s and women’s, set to be hosted in Morocco.

Airtel Africa Partners with Publicis Groupe Africa to Lead Integrated Marketing Across 12 Countries

Airtel Africa has selected Publicis Groupe Africa as its integrated marketing partner following a competitive pitch process. The new collaboration spans 12 key African markets and aims to elevate Airtel’s brand presence through unified, cross-market strategies.

Tinubu Administration Secures $450 Million Investment in CNG Development - Minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has announced that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has attracted over $450 million into Nigeria’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) value chain.

MTN Nigeria Pursues Over ₦5bn Debt from SleekChip, Drags 20 Banks to Court

MTN Nigeria has initiated legal proceedings against more than 20 banks as part of its efforts to recover nearly ₦6 billion in interconnect fees owed by SleekChip Technologies Limited, an international direct access and transit service provider licensed in Nigeria. The telecom giant is enforcing a court judgment authorising it to reclaim the outstanding funds through garnishment proceedings.

NGX Ends Slightly Higher Amid Mixed Sentiment as Berger, Mutual Benefits, ABC Lead Losers

The Nigerian Exchange Ltd. (NGX) closed Tuesday’s trading session on a marginally positive note, with the market capitalisation inching up by N20 billion to N68.965 trillion, representing a 0.03 per cent increase from Monday’s N68.945 trillion.

Nigeria's Digital Sector Draws $191M in Q1 FDI, Targets $5B in Startup Investments by 2027

Nigeria’s digital economy is undergoing a major transformation, fuelled by bold reforms, infrastructure expansion, and renewed investor confidence. In the first quarter of 2024 alone, the sector attracted $191 million in foreign direct investment (FDI), a sharp increase from the $22 million recorded during the same period in 2023.

First Asset Management Unveils N20 Billion Series 1 Infrastructure Fund to Drive Sustainable Development Across Key Sectors

In a bold effort to bridge Nigeria’s infrastructure financing deficit, First Asset Management, a leading Nigerian investment firm and subsidiary of First HoldCo Plc., has launched the N20 billion Series 1 Offer under its ambitious N100 billion FBN Infrastructure Fund Programme. This milestone reflects the firm’s commitment to catalysing economic growth through sustainable, long-term investments tailored to the country’s infrastructure needs.

Emirates Elevates First Class Experience with New Luxury Enhancements

Emirates, the world’s largest operator of international first-class travel, has unveiled a series of new enhancements designed to elevate its signature luxury offering. With 26,800 first-class seats available weekly, each one a private suite, Emirates continues to refine its award-winning ‘Fly Better’ experience through bespoke touches in the air and on the ground.

TotalEnergies Targets 2026 for South Africa Drilling as Regulatory Reforms Accelerate

TotalEnergies is setting its sights on launching offshore drilling operations in South Africa by 2026, pending final regulatory clearances. Mike Sangster, Senior Vice President for Africa Exploration & Production at TotalEnergies, made the announcement during the Invest in African Energy Forum in Paris. He highlighted South Africa’s emerging role in the company’s broader multi-energy strategy across the continent.

Italy Strengthens Strategic Collaboration with African Development Bank Under Mattei Plan

Italy has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB), positioning the institution as a key partner in advancing its Mattei Plan for Africa.

LSETF, MAA Announce Strategic Alliance to Power 2025 African Martech & E-commerce Conference

The Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) has partnered with Marketing Analytics Africa (MAA) to co-host the 2025 edition of the African Marketing Technology & E-commerce Conference (AMTEC), set to take place on Saturday, May 24th, 2025 at Landmark Event Centre, Lagos.

PMI Report Warns Global Economic Growth at Risk Without Surge in Project Management Talent

A new report by the Project Management Institute (PMI) has warned that a global shortage of project management professionals could threaten long-term economic growth unless nearly 30 million new project professionals are developed by 2035.

IFC and Canada Back Husk Nigeria with $5M to Expand Solar Mini-Grids

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), in collaboration with the Government of Canada, has committed $5 million to Husk Nigeria to support the expansion of renewable energy access in underserved regions across the country.

Verto Secures $1 Million Milken-Motsepe FinTech Prize for Transforming Cross-Border Payments

Verto, a global fintech company delivering enterprise-level cross-border payments, FX, and banking solutions across emerging markets, has won the Grand Prize in the Milken-Motsepe Prize in FinTech. The $1 million award was announced on May 5 at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Los Angeles.

Juventus Rides On With Jeep in €69m Front-of-Shirt Sponsorship Until 2028

Juventus has confirmed a renewed partnership with Jeep in a new shirt sponsorship agreement worth €69 million (US$77.3 million), which will run through the 2027/28 season.

Nigeria Tops Shell's Global Payments with $5.3 Billion in 2024 Disbursements

Shell Plc has released its 2024 Payments to Governments Report, revealing that Nigeria received the highest share of its global payments, amounting to $5,336,840,193—the largest sum paid to any single country out of a global total of $28,095,510,413.

IATA Launches Decade-Long Plan to Transform Global Baggage Operations

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has introduced a 10-year Global Baggage Roadmap designed to modernise baggage operations across the aviation industry.

WISCAR and British Deputy High Commission Host Inspiring Book Reading and Advocacy Event

Mentorship can be a turning point for hundreds of women in Nigeria, and WISCAR (Women In Successful Careers) has been just that. This past week, WISCAR, in partnership with the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos, hosted a Book Reading and Advocacy Event that convened university students, Chevening Awards alumni, WISCAR alumnae, and women professionals. The event aimed to ignite dialogue on leadership, mentorship, and the evolving role of women in today’s workplace.

India, Netherlands, Spain and USA Claim Top Honours at the 2025 WARC Awards for Effectiveness

...Celebrates strategic brilliance and impactful marketing worldwide

The WARC Awards for Effectiveness 2025, in association with LIONS, have announced their top honours, awarding five Global Grand Prix titles to outstanding marketing campaigns from around the world. This year’s most prestigious recognitions go to India, the Netherlands, Spain, and the USA, with the United States taking home two Grand Prix wins.

Cannes Introduces Red Carpet Nudity Ban: Will It Really Change Anything?

In a dramatic shake-up ahead of the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, organisers have updated the official dress code to prohibit one of its most iconic sartorial statements: naked dressing. The revised guidelines for evening gala screenings at the Grand Théâtre Lumière now explicitly state, “For decency reasons, nudity is prohibited on the red carpet, as well as in any other area of the festival.”

The Quiet Flame Shines Brightest: An Ode to Igho Sanomi at 50

By Lanre Alfred

Yes, Igho Sanomi at 50 exceeds a headline; it is a hymn. A ballad of enterprise without arrogance. Of power without pride. Of faith without fanaticism. He is what happens when vision, coupled with virtue and affluence, elevates empathy. Sanomi reminds us that success need not be noisy, that influence can be wielded with grace, and that the most powerful men are often the ones whose names are whispered in prayer by those they helped in silence.

Tariff Hike Triggers Drop in Internet Users, Shifts in Data Use and Subscriber Movement — NCC Report

Nigeria’s telecommunications sector is feeling the impact of a steep 50 percent tariff hike introduced in January 2025, with a noticeable decline in internet subscriptions and shifting usage patterns across networks, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

NNPC, Dangote Deepen Alliance to Bolster Nigeria’s Energy Security and Economic Growth

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) and Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals have reaffirmed their commitment to working together to strengthen Nigeria’s energy security and promote inclusive national prosperity.