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EXCLUSIVE: RANKS AFRICA MAGAZINE SPECIAL EDITION IN PARTNERSHIP KIDD WAYA
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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Ranks Africa Magazine: Without a doubt, Kunle Afolayan revolutionized how viewers rated Nigerian films.
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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RANKS MAGAZINE-FASHION EDITION: NIYI LAWAL BRIDGING THE CULTURE
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.
THE PRINT COPY IS GOING TO BE AVAILABLE FROM 30TH OCT. 2022
You can order by sending Email Ranksafrica@gmail.com or DM @ranksafrica on instagram
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RanksBusiness Magazine: Taking a giant step from certainty to uncertainty, Cross da Boss inspires entrepreneurs
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.
The Hardcopy is 8,000 and 2,000 for digital copy
PAY TO Worldlink ICT Services 1014791447, zenith bank
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LIMITED EDITION AVAILABLE
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.
ICON EDITION: LAYCON FROM LOCKDOWN ICON TO UNSTOPPABLE SUPER STAR
The history of the Nigerian Entertainment landscape in the last decade cannot be said to be complete without a reference to the year 2020 which significantly affected all spheres of the entertainment industry. From Music, Movie, Comedy, to Cinema and Shows, every aspect were significantly affected as a result of the global pandemic which led to months of lockdown across the world including Nigeria. In the midst of this pandemic, while many entertainers were struggling to survive, and some pushed off the scene due to the New Normal, a new star was born, changing the face and phase of entertainment in Nigeria. His name is Olamilekan Agbelese popularly known as LAYCON, the phenomenal champion of the Lockdown episode of the “Big Brother Naija” reality TV show, who is now the Unstoppable Superstar.
Ranks Magazine is a Single Character Tabloid that intends to holistically capture the life, career growth and creativities of certain individuals who have distinguished themselves in their chosen fields of endeavours. It has a tripartite motive of; serving as a compendium for the personality, x-raying the known and revealing the unknown.
This edition, gives an insight into the lockdown ICON of Big Brother Naija, x-raying his rise to stardom, critique of his album and perspectives of fans about him. A perspective analysis of this phenomenon GOD IN HUMAN BODY is presented in this edition and it is insightful. As you flip through the pages, you will no doubt see the depth of research and robust intellectual analysis in all the discourses.
Welcome to the world of Ranks.
Chief Editor: Charles Omotayo.
Creative Director: Wale Kazeem
Project Coordinator: Wale Kazeem | Lanre Adegbaju
Photographer: Lopeze Photography
Stylist: Leereeks The Stylist
Read below Excerpts
ICON EDITION: AGAIN, WHO IS LAYCON?
ICON EDITION: THE UNSTOPPABLE JOURNEY OF LAYCON
VIEWS AND PERSPECTIVES OF FANS AND FRIENDS ABOUT LAYCON
Laycon: The Long Walk to Shall We Begin Album
WHY SOME FANS CHOOSE TO GO ON EVERLASTING JOURNEY WITH LAYCON
You can Download full Magazine
https://ranksmagazine.com/product/laycon-icon-edition/
Ranks Africa Partners Unstoppable Super Star LAYCON in ICONIC EDITION of Ranks Magazine
Ranks Africa is up to something with The Lockdown ICON who is now Unstoppable Superstar Olamilekan Agbeleshe ‘LAYCON’ with forefront Fanbase ICONS, who are currently redefining Fanbase ideologies and goals.
The partnership is to produce a Single- Character Magazine which intends to holistically capture the life, career growth and creativity of LAYCON who have distinguished himself as REALTY STAR AND RAPPER with uncommon melodies. Ranks Magazine has a tripartite motive of; serving as a compendium for the personality, x-raying the known and revealing the unknown of the personality and promoting the works and creativity of the personality.
The September Male Edition is nicknamed ICONS EDITION to illuminate the positive beacons in a sea of negativity, especially at a time like this when youths of this age are finding entertainment and self-reliance unworthy.
The September Editon will be out on the 10th September also open for partnership in form of adverts and promotions.
ICONS, let’s do this for the culture. READ NOW
For Advert Placement: +23480875771401 or Email info@RanksAfrica.com
Photographer @Lopeze_photography
Stylist : @leereeksthestylist
Creative Director: @rhwaley
@ranksafrica
@ranksmagazine
GRILL FEST GIDI-OWAMBE: THE OUTDOOR EDITION: Where Fashion Meets Culture and Music
Lagos Prepares for an Unforgettable Experience
Grill Fest Gidi, an event that embodies the vibrant spirit of Lagos, is set to take place on December 7, 2024, at 4 PM at The Amore Garden in Lekki. This highly anticipated event promises to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing the best of Nigerian fashion, music, and culture.
According to the CEO Mediatank Entertainment and Convener Grillfest Gidi AYOKUNLE Okuneye “Grill Fest Gidi is designed to cater to fashionistas, stylists, and anyone looking to showcase their unique sense of style. Attendees are encouraged to come in groups, dressed in their best attire, to compete for the title of “Best Dressed Group.” However, it’s not just about fashion – groups must also create content that showcases their knowledge of Nigerian culture, history, and traditions.”
Get ready for an unforgettable night in Lagos! Mediatank Lead, Adesina Kasali (Medullar), has revealed that the upcoming event promises to be an exciting experience, featuring a carefully curated lineup of artists and hosts.
In a deliberate effort to showcase diverse talents, the event proudly presents: White Money and Abike Sugar as hosts.
The evening’s entertainment will reach new heights with the iconic Sir Shina Peters, the Juju legend, taking the stage. His electrifying performance will leave the crowd in awe, solidifying his status as a music legend. Other artists includes: AnyiDons, Terry Apala, Kinetics Band. Hypemen: Everything (GOE), Hadvantage, Balooo, Mato with DJ Ivatar, DJ Yeankz, DJ Riley and many more
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DC4Zy4VIux8/?igsh=NGxjMjgzb3N0Z24y
In a nod to Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, our artist lineup was carefully selected to represent various regions. We journeyed to the east to bring the best of Nigerian talent to the stage, creating an unforgettable experience for our audience.
With its thoughtful curation and exceptional performances, Grill Fest Gidi promises to be an unforgettable night in Lagos. Don’t miss out on the excitement! Join us at Mori Garden on December 7, 2024, for an unforgettable experience.
Tickets for Grill Fest Gidi are now available, with prices as follows:
– Single ticket: ₦30,000
– Couple/group of two: ₦50,000
– Group of ten: ₦200,000
Proudly Supported by Crown Flour Mills, Bigi Budweiser, Onburd.
Nigerian stock market is not a reflection of the economy”– Egie Akpata
“Nigerian stock market is not a reflection of the economy”– Egie Akpata
“The Nigerian economy is largely informal. And when you bear in mind that Agriculture is the biggest sector, and that sector is almost non-existent in the stock market.
“Also, the Nigerian stock market is not a reflection of the Nigerian economy at all. There are very large companies in some sectors that are just not represented,” he said.
This gap, he noted, highlights the limitations of the stock market as a comprehensive measure of economic activity.
Resilience of the stock market in 2024
Despite these limitations, Akpata acknowledged the resilience of the Nigerian stock market in 2024 despite the economic challenges
“But from the stock market point of view, year-to-day return is just 30%. That 30% is kind of what was initially concentrated because the year-to-date return was 30% by April and it’s been flat since April.
“The initial run-up in that index, the all-share index was highly concentrated in a couple of very large stocks, the likes of Dangote Cement, BUA Foods, Geregu Power, and a few others that had very exceptional performance in Q1. But ever since then, the return position has kind of broadened out,” he stated.
Key drivers of market performance
Akpata identified the banking and petroleum sectors as the primary drivers of stock market performance in 2024.
Banking sector: Akpata explained how Nigerian banks have benefitted from significant economic changes in 2024, particularly in foreign exchange (FX) and interest rates
“The banks have somewhat benefited from big changes this year. One is the FX rates. There was a period where banks had very large FX gains.
“And so the government decided that they wanted 70% of those gains. And those gains seem to be disappearing from the accounts of the banks because nobody wants to hand over 70% of their money to the government.
“But at the same time, when you look at the interest rate environment, in February last year, the one-year discount on a Treasury bill was 2.25%. In the last auction last week, it was 23.5%. Now, when you have that kind of movement, basically a 10-fold movement in rates, somebody is benefiting in some way.
“And that’s typically the banks because high interest rates mean higher revenues for them, and more often than not, higher margins. Particularly when we are now in an environment where a bank can get about 30% risk-free from the central bank of the Nigerian government. So what are you paying on deposits? The average big bank’s cost of funds is less than 10%.”
He further explained that these dynamics mean that banks now have very big margins and are benefiting. They are happy to pass the costs on to customers and shareholders. The net beneficiary is from that
Petroleum sector: Akpata disclosed that both upstream and downstream petroleum companies experienced significant revenue growth. He attributed this to petrol price deregulation and favourable exchange rates.
“Petrol prices are now four times higher than they were at the start of last year, boosting downstream company revenues. Upstream companies, on the other hand, have benefited from dollar-denominated revenues’ he explained.
“Downstream petroleum companies don’t have a choice. There’s no cheap petrol anywhere so they pass those costs on to you 100%,” he said.
Challenges faced by listed companies
Akpata also highlighted the challenges some listed companies faced due to macroeconomic conditions. A major issue was the naira’s depreciation, which negatively impacted firms with significant foreign currency liabilities.
“Very large companies like MTN, Nestle, and Dangote Sugar now have negative shareholders’ funds due to foreign exchange losses. It is not a normal situation for such large firms to theoretically have no capital,” Akpata stated.
Additionally, rising costs and declining purchasing power limited the ability of some companies to pass on expenses to consumers, further straining their performance.
Temu is now the most downloaded app in Nigeria in the past few days ·
An image that denotes Temu in Nigeria
Chinese eCommerce company Temu is now the most popular app in Nigeria’s Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The app is now the most downloaded in recent days garnering over 500 million downloads on the Andriod store.
According to Similar Web, OPay is currently the second most popular app in Nigeria, Crypto Mayors is third, while WhatsApp is third. On the Apple App Store, Temu retains its number one position while second place went to a social networking app called Bammby, and OPay is third.
Temu’s rapid rise in popularity in these stores comes as no surprise as many Nigerians have been inundated with ads from Chinese eCommerce platform.
The company reportedly spent $1.3 billion on Meta ads. Its ad spend jumped 1,000% year-over-year for the period from January to November 2023. Within this period, 76% of Temu’s ad spend went to social media, while 13% went to other forms of ads.
The company has also gotten numerous ad spots on Super Bowl which cost $7 million for a 30-second ad. It did this two years in a row giving away $15 million in coupons in the process.
Launched in 2022, Temu is owned by PDD Holdings, the parent company of the Chinese eCommerce giant, Pinduoduo. PDD Holdings, founded by former Google employee Colin Huang, built its reputation on offering low-cost products shipped directly from suppliers.
Temu’s appeal is its low-priced products, which gives it a competitive advantage in most markets, but especially in Nigeria where inflation and a generally worsening economy have eroded people’s purchasing power.
Per this Techpoint Africa article, Nigeria is a key African market for Temu as it has one of the highest populations of tech-savvy youth thanks to affordable Chinese smartphones.
Also, Nigeria’s eCommerce market which was valued at $12 billion in 2019, is projected to reach $75 billion by 2025. Furthermore, digital payment systems, which have seen increased adoption, are facilitating this growth by making online transactions more secure and accessible.
Temu’s aggressive charge has allowed it to enter 80 markets in a short period. Its entrance into the Nigerian market means stiff competition for players like Jumia, who is already dialling back marketing spend to increase its profit margin. But while a Temu victory might seem assured in Nigeria, the company’s quality of service is something that has come in to question a number of times.
Lagos seals mega plaza over environmental pollution
Lagos seals mega plaza over environmental pollution
The Lagos State Wastewater Management Office, (LSWMO) has sealed a mega plaza on Breadfruit Street, Lagos Island, for environmental pollution.
LSWMO said in an ‘X’ post on Sunday that the plaza discharges untreated water to public drains and roads which could affect the people of Lagos, calling such an act an ‘environmental nuisance’
After a proper investigation carried out by the agency and enough photographic evidence, the LSWMO sealed the plaza for the ‘unacceptable behaviours’.
“The pumping machine is used at night to pump untreated wastewater into the public drains, which pollutes the environment, exposing the citizens to communicable diseases, through this discharge of untreated wastewater onto the roads, drains and lagoons,” the statement read.
LSWMO general manager, Adefemi Afolabi said the state maintains zero tolerance for such injurious acts, stating that any organisation that commits such an offence would continue to be sanctioned under the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017.
Similarly, the state also sealed a section of a social facility, Bar 38, over environmental infractions in June.
The state Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, speaking after the operation said that the section of the facility was sealed as a result of noise pollution and the emission of harmful air into the environment, which pose serious health hazards to surrounding communities.
Dr Babatunde Ajayi, General Manager of LASEPA, also reiterated the agency’s unwavering commitment to environmental preservation and regulatory compliance across Lagos State.
CBN tells Nigerians to report cash withdrawal issues from December 1, banks to face penalties
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) urges bank customers to report ATM and branch cash withdrawal difficulties starting December 1, 2024, through designated state-specific phone numbers and email addresses.
The CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso announced this directive during the 2024 Annual Bankers Dinner organized by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) in Lagos.
Cardoso acknowledges cash availability issues at ATMs, which impact ordinary Nigerians. To address this, the apex bank will conduct spot checks on Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) and penalize underperforming institutions
“We recognize the ongoing challenges with cash availability at ATMs, which disproportionately affect ordinary Nigerians.
“To address this, we are conducting spot checks across Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) and will impose penalties on underperforming institutions.
“Effective December 1, 2024, customers are encouraged to report any difficulties withdrawing cash from bank branches or ATMs directly to the CBN through designated phone numbers and email addresses for their respective states,” he stated
He assured that guidelines with reporting procedures will be widely distributed to raise public awareness.
Regulatory compliance and penalties
Cardoso emphasized the need for compliance from all stakeholders, including Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), Mobile Money Operators, and PoS agents, to enhance service delivery.
“I repeat, financial institutions found engaging in malpractices or deliberate sabotage will face stringent penalties,” he warned
The governor added that the apex bank would maintain a robust cash buffer to meet demand during high-pressure periods like the festive season.
To foster digital transactions and trust, Cardoso reiterated CBN’s commitment to addressing payment delays, particularly for vulnerable populations.
He explained that trust is fundamental to fostering digital transactions, and the CBN must take every necessary step to preserve that trust in payment systems.
Cardoso assured that Payment gateways for financial transactions will become better in 2025. Key initiatives under the Payment System Vision 2025 include:
Implementing an open banking framework.
Advancing contactless payment systems.
Expanding the regulatory sandbox.
Issuing revised guidelines for agency banking.
“Additionally, we will issue revised guidelines for agency banking and continue to strengthen electronic payment channels,” he stated
Anti-money laundering and financial system reforms
Cardoso disclosed that Nigeria aims to exit the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list by Q2 2025.
He outlined plans to combat money laundering, cybercrime, fraud, and corruption, ensuring a sound financial ecosystem.
Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju, President/Chairman of CIBN, praised the resilience of Nigeria’s economy and banking sector despite macroeconomic challenges. He highlighted steady GDP growth from Q1 to Q3 of 2024, attributing it to government policies and CBN initiatives.
“For example, the Nigerian economy continues to be more resilient and agile as shown in the steady growth from 2.98 per cent in Q1 to 3.19 per cent in Q2 and now 3.46 per cent in Q3 of 2024.
“The bank recapitalization exercise also attests to the fact that we are well on our way towards not only strengthening the financial sector but also supporting a $1 trillion economy envisaged by 2030,” he said.
Olanrewaju noted that the Nigerian banking industry has demonstrated resilience this year despite macroeconomic challenges, including rising inflation and exchange rate fluctuations.
48-year-old CEO of a $1 billion startup: My secret to success is, ‘I hire the best and I get out of their way’
Fawn Weaver speaks at Forbes Power Women’s Summit 2024 on September 11, 2024 in New York City.
Some bosses like to stick their nose into everything their employees are working on. Fawn Weaver isn’t one of them, she says.
Weaver, a 48-year-old self-made millionaire, founded Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey in 2016. Her Shelbyville, Tennessee-based company became the fastest-growing American whiskey brand in history, achieving a $1.1 billion valuation in May, according to Forbes and the International Wine and Spirits Record.
That growth didn’t come from micromanaging, Weaver told LinkedIn’s “This Is Working” video series last week.
“I have two things that everyone in the company knows,” said Weaver. “One is called HBU: highest and best use of time. So if it is not my highest and best use of time, it usually will not bubble up to me.
“The second [policy] is: If someone else can do it, then someone else should do it.”
It makes more sense for Weaver to occupy herself with high-level business duties than check over employees’ work multiple times per day or dictate how people should complete their tasks.
“Micromanaging does not work,” Weaver said. “I have built this entire company on ‘intrapreneurs.’ Everyone owns their jobs. They own their descriptions fully, and I don’t bother that. I hire the best and I get out of their way.”
Weaver’s mindset echoes that of billionaire tech entrepreneur Mark Cuban. Earlier this year, Cuban wrote that while new employees may require some hand-holding to understand company flow and culture, afterward, you should let them do their jobs. If you’re micromanaging, something’s wrong, he added.
“Micromanage early. Trust the process or fix what’s broken if you always have to micromanage,” Cuban wrote in March, on social media platform X.
Seventy-three percent of workers consider micromanagement to be the biggest workplace red flag, saying it contributes to negative and anxious feelings, according to an August 2023 survey from job platform Monster. Forty-six percent said they’d leave their job because of it.
If you’re unsure of how to handle your micromanaging boss, try over-communicating. Anticipate what concerns or questions they may have and answer them before they get the chance to ask, according to bestselling author and New York University professor Suzy Welch.
“Swamp them with evidence of your competence and character,” she said in 2019. “Tell them what you’re doing all the time. Eliminate every possible surprise. And most important of all, don’t screw up.”
For Weaver, running a company is already like “slaying dragons,” and worrying about other people’s duties would just add stress. Being a good boss means putting the best, most-qualified talent in place to handle the rest, she said.
“What comes to me are only the things that no one else can do,” said Weaver.
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Oil bunkers revealed what I told Army, says Investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo
Investigative journalist, Fisayo Soyombo, on Saturday, revealed key details of his recent encounter with the Nigerian Army, calling for a complete overhaul of the country’s security structures to tackle illegal crude oil bunkering effectively.
Soyombo also shared how the oil bunkers provided him with an account of the sensitive information he had previously shared with the Nigerian Army, aimed at curbing illicit bunkering operations.
During an interview on Arise TV, Soyombo confirmed that his arrest occurred while conducting an undercover investigation.
He disclosed that he had been investigating the security network that protects illegal bunkers, which he described as a complex issue.
Fisayo, the founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, was detained for three days by the 6 Division of the Nigeria Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, before his release on Friday.
He said that his release followed widespread media coverage of his arrest.
Further shedding light on the incident, the award-winning journalist explained that the Army’s grievance stemmed from not being properly briefed about the investigation.
He said, “Everyone other than the Nigerian Army already knows what happened. I am an investigative and undercover journalist. I was investigating illegal oil bunkering. It’s a complex story.
“It happened that someone within the security setup got offended for not being bribed, as illegal bunkers often bribe security personnel. One individual got upset, tipped others off, and suddenly they arrived.
“Everyone else ran away except me. So, there was no arrest. The Nigerian Army didn’t arrest me. They spotted me, flashed their torch, and I came out to engage them.”
Soyombo explained that he had assumed it was a “settlement conversation” and voluntarily approached the soldiers, knowing he had nothing to hide, saying, “All the others fled into the bush, but I stayed because I knew I had nothing to hide.”
Soyombo recounted his three-day detention, claiming it vindicated his actions.
He said, “I spent three days in military detention, and everything I told the highest levels of the Army was confirmed.
“The illegal bunkers told me everything I had shared with the Qrmy. Was I wrong not to have carried the Army along?
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“How could I have been grilled for three days, and yet, everything I told you came out before I was released? The oil bunkers even echoed my statements. They were on point, without a single mistake.”
He further asserted, “This incident is proof of how bad the system is. Illegal bunkering will not stop in this country because there are collaborators in multiple security formations.”
Soyombo also urged the Nigerian Army to clarify why the information he shared was leaked before his release.
“The Nigerian Army has to explain why everything I mentioned in my statement got out before me and was relayed to the illegal oil bunkers,” he said. “They even sent my last interview to them.”
He accused the Nigerian Army spokesperson of compromising his security by prematurely linking him to the illegal bunkering network.
Soyombo added, “My organisation only announced my detention and made no mention of oil bunkering, but the statement released by the Army alerted the bunkers that I was onto them.”
The journalist expressed concern for his safety, emphasising that the Army, which should be working with him to combat illegal oil bunkering, had instead placed his security at risk.
He said, “If not for the precautions I took before the investigation, my organisation wouldn’t have known my location. I might still be in detention today.
“They even told me they would continue the investigation for as long as necessary, even if it took two months. The only reason I’m out now is because it became public.”
Soyombo shared a light-hearted moment from his detention, revealing, “They gave me food and everything, so they knew I wasn’t a criminal.
“Yes, I watched part of the Liverpool vs Real Madrid Champions League match on Wednesday in the house of the area commander, so they knew I wasn’t a criminal.”
Finally, Soyombo hinted at stepping back from undercover journalism, revealing, “I don’t think this will change how I approach future stories, but I do know I’m running out of time.
“I might have just one, two, or three more undercover investigations before I stop. I would rather stop than change my approach.”
Nigeria, France sign MOU on critical minerals
Nigeria, France sign MOU on critical minerals
Nigeria and France have agreed to develop joint projects to promote and diversify the critical minerals value chain in the solid minerals sector of both countries.
Critical minerals such as copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements are essential to clean energy technologies.
In the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by both countries on the sidelines of the official visit to France by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently, both countries agreed to collaborate on research, training and Franco-Nigerian students exchanges for knowledge and skills transfer.
A key component of the MOU is the promotion of sustainable mining activities by executing projects and programmes that reduce the environmental impact of mining on carbon emissions, water consumption, and climate change.
It also includes the establishment of joint excrative and processing projects through co-financing by public and private entities to diversify and secure the supply of critical minerals and decarbonise energy projects critical to the value chain.
Mr Dele Alake, minister of solid minerals development, signed for Nigeria while the Inter-Ministerial delegate for Critical Ores and Metals of the Republic of France, Benjamin Gallezot, signed on behalf of France.
Both nations agreed to adopt international best practices in the execution of projects conceptualised to improve the conditions of the local populace affected by mining whilst placing a premium on transparency.
The MOU is expected to open new opportunities for the remediation of over 2,000 abandoned pits in the country through its plan to intervene in environmental rehabilitation and post-mining projects.
Through regular bilateral and multilateral training, seminars, and events, administrators of institutions in the critical metals sector are expected to improve their capacity to manage the sector’s value chain.
The Vibrant City of Lagos Set To Experience Grill Fest Gidi-Owambe: The Outdoor Experience
In the heart of Lagos, a city renowned for its infectious energy and rich cultural heritage, a monumental celebration is set to unfold. On Saturday, December 7, 2024, the prestigious Amore Garden, Lekki, will transform into a vibrant spectacle of music, dance, and merriment, as Owambe: The Outdoor Experience takes center stage.
This highly anticipated cultural extravaganza is carefully crafted to bring Nigerians together under the stars, united in their quest to celebrate the country’s incredible cultural heritage. As Adesina Kasali (Medullar), the Event Media Director, aptly puts it, “Owambe: The Outdoor Experience is designed to be a celebration of our rich cultural heritage, bringing people together to revel in the beauty of Nigerian culture.”
The event promises to be an unforgettable experience, boasting an impressive lineup of performances that will leave attendees screaming for more. The legendary Sir Shina Peters, renowned for his Afrojuju sound, will share the stage with other talented artists, including Anyi Dons, Terry Apala, and Kinetics Music. The dynamic duo of White Money and Abike Shugaa will host the event, bringing their signature charisma and energy to the stage.
According to Okuneye Ayokunle Oluwaseun, the convener and CEO of Media Tank Limited, “Owambe: The Outdoor Experience is not just a party, it’s a movement. We’re bringing Nigerians together to celebrate our incredible heritage and showcase the beauty of our culture.” This sentiment echoes the event’s mission to foster unity and pride among Nigerians, while promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage.
A Celebration of Nigerian Culture Owambe: The Outdoor Experience is a testament to the power of culture in bringing people together. The event celebrates the diversity and richness of Nigerian culture, providing a platform for attendees to connect with their heritage and revel in the beauty of Nigerian music, dance, and art.
Event Details
– Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
– Time: 4 PM till you drop
– Venue: Amore Garden, Lekki
Tickets for Owambe: The Outdoor Experience are available online or at selected outlets. Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of a truly unforgettable experience. Join the movement and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Lagos!
This event is proudly supported by Crown Flour Mills, Budweiser, Bigi Drinks, Onburd, City FM, and Vybez FM.
Top 10 African countries with the highest beer production
The list is courtesy of BarthHass.
South Africa stood out as the largest beer producer on the continent in 2023, with an impressive output of about 35.1 million hectoliters.
Beer, one of the world’s oldest and most beloved beverages, holds a special place in African societies. Beyond its role as a drink shared at celebrations, ceremonies, and social gatherings, beer has become a cornerstone of thriving industries across the continent.
Across the continent, beer production has seen remarkable growth, driven by increasing demand, youthful populations, and evolving tastes. However, the beer industry is not without its challenges. Rising production costs, raw material shortages, and regulatory pressures often test its resilience.
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Inflation and currency devaluation have also impacted the market, while in some regions, cultural and religious restrictions limit beer consumption. Yet, these hurdles also highlight the industry’s potential for growth and diversification
Craft brewing is gaining momentum, and regional exports are expanding, underscoring the sector’s resilience. Global brewing giants and local producers alike are investing heavily, recognizing Africa’s potential in the global market, where the continent accounts for nearly 8% of beer consumption.
Among the leading contributors, South Africa stood out as the largest beer producer on the continent in 2023, with an impressive output of about 35.1 million hectoliters. Nigeria followed as the second-largest producer, contributing approximately 17.73 million hectoliters.
Below are the top 10 African countries with the highest beer production:
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Rank Country Beer production (In million hectoliters) Global rank
1 South Africa 35.1 10th
2 Nigeria 17.73 23rd
3 Ethiopia 12.67 31st
4 Angola 12 32nd
5 Cameroon 9.1 36th
6 Democratic Republic of the Congo 5.2 46th
7 Tanzania 4.69 49th
8 Ivory Coast 4.6 50th
9 Kenya 4.5 51st
10 Mozambique 4.1 55th