Beauty Queen “Beauty Tukura” indeed looks good in just about anything. But when it comes to posing for a photoshoot, the reality star proves time and again that you can be comfortable, fun, or even tell a beautiful story without uttering words.
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Narrative does change; as life goes on, the beauty of who you are will be defined by your intentions toward yourself, your fans, and your craft. Kiddwaya is a major player in Entertainment industry, and he is using his influence and individuality to improve the relationships of the fans and Stan.
How Kiddwaya moved away from other people’s realities to pursue his own reality without taking away his wholesome personality needs to be adequately studied. Kiddwaya channeled his intuition into a dream life and the goals he has always desired at a time when so many people believed in life on social media and were faking impressions just to keep up with the gram. He took the importance of social media and celebrities’ lifestyles to a different level, thereby steadily building his fortress and creating a diversified niche.
The reality of a favorite can also influence the stans, which explains the WDG’s extraordinary composure and positivity adoration. a base that took time not just to keep up with their favorite alone but also took a cue from his positive and global impact. Boldness and a proper understanding of life are their forte—class beyond class, you might say.
Due to Kidd Waya’s significant actions over the course of his three years of fame, this special edition of Ranks Africa Magazine is dedicated to him.
So now it’s over to you. What do you think of this issue, both in print and online? What do you like and what is missing? Let us know RanksAfrica@gmail.com or @RanksAfrica on Twitter and Instagram and we’ll see what we can deliver in our forthcoming issues.
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The influence of Kunle Afolayan is long-lasting and profound. Prior to the monumental success of ANIKULAPO, Kunle Afolayan has always worked with magic, both historically and currently. He served as an inspiration for many filmmakers even before cinema and online streaming were widely adopted in Nigeria; to his credit, movies like Irapada, The Figurine, Phone Swap, October 1, Roti, The CEO, Mokalik, etc. have all been named the finest movies by movie lovers.
Without a doubt, Kunle Afolayan revolutionized how viewers rated Nigerian films. He is one of the most well-known directors to emerge in the last two decades. He also fits the description of a director who is aware of the idea of talent stardom.
Even though Kunle Afolayan has not yet received an Oscar, he will always be considered one of the best in the world. For this reason, a special edition of Ranks Africa Magazine has been created to recognize and commemorate him.
With nearly three decades of professional acting experience, Kunle Afolayan is not just a talented filmmaker but also a very skilled actor who is pleasant, charming, and easygoing.
We also name 14 actors in this special issue of the magazine who you should watch out for in 2023. The list includes actors who are having breakout years, stars of highly anticipated films for the awards season, and even actors who are making their film debuts.
So now it’s over to you. What do you think of this issue, both in print and online? What do you like and what is missing? Let us know RanksAfrica@gmail.com or @RanksAfrica on Twitter and Instagram and we’ll see what we can deliver in our forthcoming issues.
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In Nigeria, becoming a successful entrepreneur and influencer is not simple, especially for well-known individuals. There is pressure attached. Hard work, expertise, and frequently a small bit of luck is necessary.
One of the few people who had a successful business before becoming famous is Niyi. Since Niyi Lawal was presented to the world via the reality television show “Big Brother Naija” season 6’s “Shine Ya Eye,” many have come to the conclusion that you don’t need to be an entertainer before you join the show.
Due to the way he conducts himself on the show, Niyi continues to be one of the most respected #BBNAIJA naija alumni.
We at Ranks Africa have decided to celebrate those who have achieved professional success and used their enterprises to have a positive influence on their industry as well as society at large. This is the driving force behind this magazine.
This time around, Niyi Lawal, a successful serial entrepreneur and fashion influencer, is the subject of our focus story. You’ll find this quite interesting.
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Ranks Magazine is a media outlet documenting creative minds today for tomorrow, which Identify and Promote Business, People and Industries from the perspective of every people & connecting people to latest business news
Two things happen when you live through an era of rapid change, as we are now. Firstly, there is an inevitable surge of artistic creativity and second the contrarians, the non-conformists and the anti-heroes come into their own. We witness the rise of the rebel: those who don’t play by the normal rules, who flourish in chaotic, unpredictable times and welcome uncertainty without fear. This is what this edition of Ranks Africa Magazine, celebrating Entrepreneur, Cross Okonkwo is all about. This edition celebrates the curious revolutionaries who think differently and this is reflected in the articles and contents carefully put together in this edition.
This edition, gives an insight into the life and brand of Ikechukwu Sunday Cross Okonkwo, popularly known as Cross, Entertainer, Lifestyle & Fitness Entrepreneur and the King of the Cross Nation.
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Taking a giant step from certainty to uncertainty, Cross da Boss inspires entrepreneurs, setting a new standard beyond entertainment on this exclusive edition of Ranks Magazine which explores his entrepreneurship journey, growth and lifestyle.
To all members of the CROSS NATION across the globe, this is a must have ‘master piece’ of your king and serial Entrepreneur available.
The Lagos State Government is set to begin the pilot phase of its innovative digital house numbering system, known as the Identifier Project, in Ikeja next week.
Announced in a statement on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the project aims to modernise how properties are identified, documented, and serviced across the state.
Under the initiative, every property will be assigned a unique digital identity. Each identifier will incorporate QR codes for quick scanning and verification, as well as colour codes specific to each local government area. These features are designed to make navigation easier, strengthen security measures, improve service delivery, and streamline land documentation processes.
According to the state government, the digital numbering system will help emergency services, utility providers, and government agencies locate addresses more efficiently. It is also expected to enhance urban planning and property tax administration, while reducing duplication or errors in official records.
The Identifier Project reflects Lagos’s broader ambition to leverage technology for smarter governance. If successful in Ikeja, the system will be rolled out to other parts of the state, marking a significant step toward creating a fully integrated and accessible property database for Africa’s most populous city.
By combining traditional numbering with cutting-edge digital tools, Lagos is positioning itself as a leader in tech-driven urban management—setting an example other Nigerian states may soon follow.
The Lagos State Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Funmi Sesi, has called on the Federal Government to sell crude oil to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in naira rather than in U.S. dollars.
Speaking during a tour of the refinery with members of the Labour Writers Association of Nigeria, Sesi argued that such a policy shift would significantly reduce the refinery’s operational costs. She noted that cutting costs at the production stage could translate into lower pump prices for Nigerians, easing the burden on citizens already grappling with high living expenses.
The Dangote Refinery, one of the largest in Africa, is seen as a strategic asset for Nigeria’s quest to achieve self-sufficiency in petroleum products. Sesi’s remarks add to ongoing public debates on how the refinery’s operations and government policies can be aligned to deliver affordable fuel locally.
Her position also highlights the broader conversation about using Nigeria’s natural resources to strengthen the local currency and stimulate the domestic economy, rather than relying on foreign exchange for transactions within the country.
Burkinabe Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo officially handed over 155 buses to the Société de transport en commun (SOTRACO) on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the company’s headquarters in Ouagadougou.
The Council of Ministers of December 5, 2024, approved the acquisition of five hundred (500) buses as part of the implementation of the Presidential Initiative for Quality Education (IPEQ), with a view to facilitating student mobility. Among the vehicles delivered today, 125 are intended for the implementation of the IPEQ. The remaining 375 buses are expected by the end of October 2025.
The operation, with a total cost of 44.865 billion FCFA excluding taxes, is entirely financed by the Burkinabe government, with support from the Vista Bank Group.
The acquisition of these buses addresses several major challenges facing large cities: traffic congestion, road insecurity, air pollution, and the high cost of travel for households.
To address these challenges, the Government has initiated a structural reform of SOTRACO, now a semi-public company with a majority stake held by the State (89.73%). The recapitalization, increasing the share capital from 800 million to 5 billion CFA francs, aims to improve the performance and reliability of the public transport service.
𝐃𝐂𝐑𝐏/𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞
Primature du Burkina Faso
In a ceremony reflecting both diplomacy and mutual respect, Madagascar’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Madam Rafaravavitafika Rasata, welcomed Her Excellency Madam Chandapiwa Nteta, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Botswana to Madagascar.
Ambassador Nteta, who will be based in Maputo, presented the Minister with the illustrated copies of her Letters of Credence, a formal step that officially confirms her role as Botswana’s representative to Madagascar.
The meeting, held in the capital, marked more than a protocol event. It signaled a renewed commitment to deepen cooperation between the two Southern African nations, with discussions expected to focus on trade, cultural exchange, and regional collaboration.
Both women stand as examples of a growing presence of young, dynamic leaders in African diplomacy—figures who are shaping their countries’ foreign policy with a fresh vision for partnership and mutual growth.
The occasion also underscores the long-standing friendship between Madagascar and Botswana, a relationship built on shared values of unity, peace, and sustainable development in the region.
Courtesy: Rasata Rafaravavitafika
Lesotho, a small, mountainous kingdom often called the “Kingdom in the Sky,” is making an ambitious leap into the clean energy future. In a groundbreaking move, the country has become the first in Africa to harness its rivers for the production of green hydrogen—a fuel widely regarded as one of the cleanest and most promising energy sources for the decades ahead.
The initiative uses an underground production system powered by Lesotho’s fast-flowing rivers. Through electrolysis, electricity generated from renewable hydropower is used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is captured, stored, and can be used as fuel without emitting carbon dioxide, making it a cornerstone in global decarbonization efforts.
Lesotho’s mountainous terrain and abundant river systems give it a natural advantage in producing hydropower. This same advantage is now being extended to green hydrogen production. The approach ensures a steady supply of clean energy to drive the electrolysis process year-round, even during seasonal variations in rainfall.
Green hydrogen has been attracting global attention because of its versatility. It can replace fossil fuels in industries that are difficult to decarbonize, such as steelmaking, shipping, and aviation, while also serving as a large-scale energy storage solution. With nations around the world racing to secure clean fuel supplies, Lesotho’s strategic investment positions it as a potential export hub for southern Africa and beyond.
The project could also bring a wave of economic benefits to the landlocked nation, from job creation in engineering and maintenance to attracting foreign investors seeking sustainable energy partnerships. If scaled effectively, Lesotho could supply not only its domestic market but also neighboring countries eager to meet climate targets.
As the global energy landscape shifts, Lesotho’s bold step shows that even small nations can play a decisive role in shaping the future. By transforming its natural waterways into engines of innovation, the country is proving that Africa’s renewable energy revolution can rise from unexpected places—and flow far beyond its borders.
Nigeria’s young scholars have once again proven their brilliance on the global stage, earning top honours at the 2025 TeenEagle UK Global Finals in London.
Seventeen-year-old Nafisa Abdullah Aminu emerged as World’s Best in English Language Skills, surpassing more than 20,000 contestants from 69 countries. Her achievement places her among the most exceptional young linguists in the world.
Fifteen-year-old Rukayya Muhammad Fema claimed the Champion title in Debate Skills, showcasing sharp reasoning and persuasive eloquence that impressed international judges. In addition, Hadiza Kashim Kalli received the Outstanding Talent Gold Medal for her exceptional abilities.
Overall, the Nigerian delegation delivered an outstanding performance, securing 1 gold, 2 silver, 5 bronze medals, and 5 Honourable Mentions. This remarkable medal haul positioned Nigeria among the competition’s highest-ranking nations.
The TeenEagle competition is renowned for celebrating academic excellence, creativity, and leadership among secondary school students worldwide. This year’s results highlight the intellectual talent and competitive spirit that Nigeria continues to contribute to the global academic community.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has commenced the receipt of 4,000 compressed natural gas powered trucks, an integral part of its fuel distribution logistics programme set to start on August 15.
The initiative aims to transform the fuel distribution landscape within Nigeria by reducing logistics costs and enhancing supply efficiency for customers.
The fleet of fuel tankers, being imported through Apapa Port, represents a significant capital investment estimated at N720 billion. This expenditure underscores the company’s commitment to pioneering innovative solutions as the world’s largest single-train refinery continues to expand its operational capabilities.
The first consignment of trucks recently departed Apapa Port and was formally received at the refinery site in Ibeju-Lekki by Vice-President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Ltd, Devakumar Edwin. The arrival was met with enthusiasm from refinery personnel and customers alike, many of whom were present to witness the tangible progress towards improved fuel accessibility.
Members of the public who observed the convoy’s journey from Apapa to Ibeju-Lekki expressed commendation for Dangote’s proactive approach in addressing the chronic logistics challenges that have long impeded the downstream sector.
Speaking on the rollout, Group Chief of Branding and Communication, Dangote Industries Limited, Mr Anthony Chiejina, provided further insights into the implementation strategy:
“The commencement of the initiative marks a groundbreaking development in Nigeria’s fuel distribution network. Given the complexities inherent in global supply chains, the delivery of these specialised CNG-powered tankers is indeed commendable. This approach ensures that we maintain operational efficiency while scaling up the fleet.
“Our unwavering commitment to this programme is reflected in our ongoing collaboration with key regulatory bodies and stakeholders to facilitate seamless deployment. We believe this initiative will significantly lower distribution costs and improve fuel availability for our customers nationwide.”He added that over the next six weeks, the refinery expects at least sixty shiploads of these trucks to arrive in the country.
Credit: Guardian News
Retrust Microfinance Bank has delivered a remarkable feat, growing its balance sheet to ₦8.9 billion (approx. $5.7 million USD) entirely through organic means and in less than six months of operation — a rare milestone in Nigeria’s competitive banking sector.
This growth comes without any external capital injection, highlighting Retrust’s commitment to responsible banking and sustainable business practices. The bank’s rapid ascent is attributed to its technology-enabled services, strategic product design, and deep understanding of local market needs — particularly among individuals, small businesses, and underserved communities.
Alhaji Tajudeen Olawale Olatinwo, Chairman of the Board and a retired senior bank examiner at the Central Bank of Nigeria, emphasized sustainability and vision, stating:
“We built Retrust on pillars that matter: trust, innovation, and disciplined execution. What we’re seeing is the outcome of a clearly defined vision, unwavering consistency, and shared purpose.”
Dr. Oluwatosin Olatujoye, Board member, lauded the bank’s grassroots approach, noting that the growth reflects strengths in deposit mobilization, risk management, loan performance, and partner engagement.
Meanwhile, Managing Director Babatunde Oladimeji described this milestone as a validation of Retrust’s vision, strategy, and customer-centered culture — emphasizing that sustainable growth stems from solving real problems with integrity.
Retrust’s success is supported by a suite of inclusive banking products tailored to meet diverse needs:
Chowdeck, a profitable food delivery startup, has successfully raised $9 million in Series A funding to expand its operations in Nigeria and Ghana and launch a highly anticipated quick-commerce strategy powered by dark stores and hyperlocal logistics hubs.
The funding round was led by Novastar Ventures with strong participation from Y Combinator, AAIC Investment, Rebel Fund, GFR Fund, Kaleo, HoaQ, and others. Chowdeck’s leadership says the investment will dramatically shorten delivery times and further deepen its grocery, meal, and medicine services.
CEO Femi Aluko shared his vision, stating:
“We’re thrilled about this round as it brings us closer to our vision of becoming Africa’s number one super app. This funding will supercharge our growth plans, enabling us to expand into more cities, reduce delivery times, scale our grocery footprint, and attract the best talent…” Business Insider AfricaThe Guardian Nigeria
Chowdeck’s Growth Snapshot:
Launched in October 2021, currently serves over 1.5 million customers.
Operates in 11 cities with a fleet of over 20,000 riders.
Averages 30-minute delivery times, with dark store-enabled deliveries dropping to as low as 20 minutes.
Plans to open 40 dark stores by end of 2025 and scale to 500 by 2026.
Recently acquired Mira, a POS provider, to enhance merchant tools and logistics efficiency.
This funding and strategic pivot position Chowdeck as a potential pan-African “super app,” building on local insights and profitability to outmaneuver competitors, including foreign operators who have withdrawn from the market.
The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, announced the launch of phase two of the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), which adds another 45 vetted and approved tour operators to the existing 65 operators that have participated in the programme since its launch in February 2025.
TTOS was conceptualised by Minister Schreiber to address the long-standing challenge faced by tour operators in bringing large tour groups from the burgeoning source markets of India and China to South Africa. It replaced manual, inefficient and paper-based processes that required prospective tourists to travel long distances just to apply for a visa, which then often took weeks to process and required a return trip for collection, with a new online system whereby tour operators upload applications online and get digital outcomes, on average, within 24 hours. The selected tour operators have entered into agreements with the Department to assume responsibility for the tourists they bring to the country.
Since the launch of the TTOS online portal just six months ago, TTOS has already succeeded in bringing an additional 25 024 tourists from India and China to South Africa who would otherwise have been deterred by the visa delays that previously undermined the ability of group travellers from these countries to spend valuable foreign currency in South Africa.
The latest research from Operation Vulindlela shows that one new formal sector job is created for every 13 tourists who visit our country, suggesting that TTOS has already created 1 924 new jobs during its first phase. Building on this success and after a rigorous inter-departmental assessment process, Home Affairs has now expanded the original group of operators from 65 to 110, further boosting the prospects for growing the tourism industry at a time of major economic headwinds for our country.
“TTOS demonstrates the power of our digital transformation agenda to enable economic growth and create jobs. The fact that we have attracted over 25 000 tourists in just six months working with a small handful of tour operators, confirms the enormous potential of growing this digital-first approach. That is exactly what we doing through the expansion of TTOS, as well as the pending introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and dedicated visa schemes for events and the creative industries. Taken together, our digital transformation agenda is set to take South Africa to a whole new level as a global destination.”
– Dr Leon Schreiber, Minister of Home Affairs, South Africa
“Each reform we implement must be viewed as an individual piece of the bigger digital transformation puzzle we are building. All of our work is guided by our vision to deliver Home Affairs @ home, by building digital channels that enable both South Africans and legitimate travellers to obtain services online, from the comfort of their own homes. TTOS demonstrates the power of turning this vision into practice.”
– Dr Leon Schreiber, Minister of Home Affairs, South Africa