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JustMarkets Wins “Best Global Broker 2025” at Money Expo India

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Nigeria-headquartered multi-asset broker JustMarkets has added another accolade to its 2025 achievements, clinching the “Best Global Broker 2025” award at Money Expo India (MEI) 2025 held at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai  .

A Global Award for a Global Broker

The award recognizes brokers demonstrating exceptional global presence, innovative technology, and a steadfast commitment to empowering traders with the tools they need to thrive across financial markets  .

At the event, Prem Pandey, JustMarkets’ Business Development Manager, expressed gratitude and pride. He remarked:

“Winning ‘Best Global Broker 2025’ at MEI is a fantastic milestone for our brand, our dedicated team, and each client and partner who supports us. It means we’re heading in the right direction…”  .

As an elite sponsor of the expo, JustMarkets showcased its latest mobile trading app and connected with clients, partners, and industry innovators—strengthening its global footprint in the fintech space  .

Another Year of Recognition

2025 has already been busy for JustMarkets. The broker earned the title “Most Innovative Broker in Africa” earlier in the year at FMAS:25 in Cape Town, an award recognizing its forward-thinking initiatives and impact on the African trading market   .

What This Means for Nigeria’s Fintech Scene

•A vote of confidence: The MEI award enhances global recognition of Nigerian fintech innovation.

•Improved investor sentiment: Continued excellence may encourage more institutional interest in domestic brokerages.

•Competitive standards highlighted: JustMarkets’ award underscores the growing sophistication of African brokers on the world stage.

Already boasting a solid track record since 2012, JustMarkets serves clients in over 160 countries and has amassed more than 50 industry accolades    . Its latest win at MEI cements its reputation as a broker-of-choice in alignment with the evolving needs of global traders.

Zimbabwe’s ZiG Reserves Hit US$750 Million, Achieve One-Month Import Cover

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Zimbabwe has recorded a key milestone in its efforts to stabilise the newly introduced Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency, with reserves now standing at US$750 million, enough to cover one month of the country’s import requirements.

The development was confirmed by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), which has been steadily building up both foreign currency and gold reserves since the rollout of ZiG in April 2024.

Gold Reserves More Than Double

As at August 15, 2025, the RBZ held 3.5 tonnes of gold, valued at US$376 million. This marks a significant increase compared to 1.5 tonnes held in April 2024 when ZiG was first introduced.

RBZ Governor Dr. John Mushayavanhu explained that the central bank’s reserves accumulation strategy is central to the country’s monetary reforms:

“The objective is to strengthen the country’s reserve assets, thereby enhancing currency stability and supporting the envisaged economic growth trajectory,” he said.

Medium-Term Target: Three to Six Months Import Cover

While the current one-month import cover falls short of international standards, Dr. Mushayavanhu noted that the RBZ’s medium-term goal is to build reserves equivalent to three to six months of import cover — the global benchmark for economic resilience and currency stability.

The strengthening of reserves is expected to bolster confidence in the ZiG, reduce reliance on foreign currencies in domestic transactions, and advance Zimbabwe’s plan to transition towards a mono-currency regime.

Significance for Zimbabwe’s Economy

  • Stability: A stronger reserve base provides a buffer against external shocks.
  • Confidence-building: Growing reserves may improve market trust in the ZiG.
  • Economic growth: Greater monetary stability supports the government’s wider growth agenda.

The ZiG, introduced as a structured currency backed by gold and foreign exchange, remains at the centre of Zimbabwe’s strategy to restore confidence in its financial system after years of inflationary pressures and currency volatility.

Source: The Zimbabwe Mail

Rising Tensions in Nollywood’s YouTube Space: Producers and Actors at Loggerheads Over Fees and Promotion

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A quiet but significant rift is emerging in Nollywood’s fast-growing YouTube market, as producers and actors clash over rising fees and poor post-production support. At the center of the debate is whether the business model for YouTube films can sustain the new demands being made by A-list actors.

The Cost of Star Power

Several producers have raised alarm over the high appearance fees now being requested by actors. In one striking example, a producer disclosed that a popular actor charged ₦500,000 per day, with a five-day shoot amounting to ₦2.5 million in total.

For producers working in the YouTube film sector where revenue is highly dependent on views and advertising, such costs are often far above the returns. “That kind of figure is simply unsustainable,” one filmmaker lamented.

The Bigger Concern: Promotion

While the issue of fees is troubling, producers argue that the real challenge comes after the cheque has been cleared. Many A-list actors, they say, fail to promote the very projects they are paid millions to headline.

Reports from multiple producers describe a common pattern: calls and messages go unanswered, requests to repost movie posters are ignored, and excuses are made when promotional content is requested. Some actors reportedly claim to be “on set” or “busy,” while others avoid the subject entirely.

Industry observers stress that this attitude undermines the very foundation of digital filmmaking. “The work of an actor doesn’t end when the director yells ‘cut,’” one producer explained. “An actor’s image and fan base are part of the marketing strategy. A single repost, behind-the-scenes photo, or short video can drive significant attention to a YouTube film.”

Producers Feel Shortchanged

For many filmmakers, the lack of support feels like betrayal. After paying millions in fees, they are left to push the film alone, with little help from the star power that was supposed to attract viewers. Without adequate promotion, films often struggle to gain traction, limiting revenue and jeopardizing future projects.

The ripple effect is clear: fewer views mean less income, and less income makes it harder to finance the next production. “We cannot continue to pay high fees without getting value in return,” another producer noted.

Comparing Actors and Crew

Some actors have attempted to justify their rates by pointing out that crew members are also paid daily. However, producers and insiders argue that the comparison is flawed.

Film crews often endure long, grueling hours, working from setup to wrap without extended breaks. A director of photography, sound recordist, or production manager is active throughout the day, often from dawn to midnight. By contrast, many actors are only required for a few scenes, with long intervals of downtime between takes.

“Actors asking to be paid like crew members is not logical,” one production manager argued. “The workload is completely different. The crew sustains the production. Actors, while important, do not work at the same intensity.”

The Sustainability Question

The economics of YouTube films remain delicate. Alongside actors’ fees, producers must cover equipment rental, feeding, transportation, post-production editing, and distribution. If most of the budget is consumed by one or two actors, little is left to maintain production quality.

Analysts warn that if the trend continues, producers will begin to pivot towards fresh talent—new actors willing to perform at fairer rates while actively supporting films through their own social media.

A Shifting Landscape

The warning signs are already visible. New faces are steadily gaining popularity on YouTube, building loyal fan bases through consistent engagement and genuine collaboration with producers.

As one veteran filmmaker concluded, “The A-list actors may soon find themselves edged out of the YouTube space. The audience follows consistency, energy, and authenticity. If the stars won’t give that, others will rise to take their place.”

For now, the standoff between producers and actors marks a critical turning point in Nollywood’s digital journey. Whether through compromise or disruption, the industry appears headed for a rebalancing of power in the YouTube film economy.

 

Written By Adesina Kasali – Medullar Concept

Nigeria Records Rare Energy Milestone as Gas Flaring Drops to 7.16% in July 2025

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Nigeria has achieved a significant energy milestone, as gas flaring fell to 7.16 percent in July 2025, even as daily natural gas production rose to 7.59 billion standard cubic feet per day (BSCFD).

This development was disclosed in a statement released on Saturday by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

According to the Commission, the figures represent one of the country’s lowest flare levels in recent history, marking progress in the dual pursuit of increasing energy output while reducing environmental impact.

“The simultaneous growth in output and decline in flaring underscores the Commission’s drive to boost production while advancing its 2030 zero-flare commitment,” the NUPRC noted.

Gas flaring, the practice of burning off excess natural gas during oil extraction, has long been a challenge in Nigeria’s petroleum sector. It contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and economic losses, as flared gas could otherwise be harnessed for power generation or industrial use.

Industry experts believe that the July 2025 data reflects the growing effectiveness of the NUPRC’s monitoring and compliance framework, alongside new investments in gas processing and utilization infrastructure.

Nigeria’s gas sector has been receiving renewed attention under ongoing reforms, as the country positions itself as a reliable supplier in both domestic and export markets. With global demand for cleaner fuels rising, officials say cutting flaring not only protects the environment but also enhances Nigeria’s competitiveness.

The Commission reaffirmed that it remains committed to enforcing stricter penalties for violations, incentivizing investments in gas capture technologies, and ensuring steady progress toward the national target of ending routine flaring by 2030.

 

Modola Osifuwa: Grammar Queen, Skit Maven, and a Rising Creative Powerhouse in Nollywood

Nigerian content creator and actor Modola Osifuwa, popularly known as Modola, has carved a distinct identity in the digital entertainment world. Born Omodolapo Osifuwa on February 5, 1993, in Ibadan, Oyo State, she hails from Ijebu land in Ogun State. Her journey from drama clubs to becoming one of Nigeria’s most engaging skit creators reflects her lasting impact on modern comedy.

From Classroom to Camera

Modola’s passion for performance began in school, where she excelled in drama and literary societies. She graduated from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) in 2015, after which she completed her NYSC in 2019. 

While at university, she explored modeling and acting in indie films, early pursuits that planted seeds for her future career. 

Defining Her Brand: The Grammar Queen

Modola’s leap into comedy transformed quickly from passion to notoriety. She became acclaimed for her fluent British accent, seamlessly switching between English, Yoruba, and Pidgin in her skits. That trademark delivered both sophistication and humor, earning her the nickname “Grammar Queen.” 

Her skits often pair language play with relatable scenes and cultural satire a combination that resonates widely. She has collaborated with top Nigerian comedic talents like Mr. Macaroni, Broda Shaggi, Officer Woos, Mummy Wa, and more. 

On-Screen Roles & Film Work

Modola in Abanisete

Beyond digital skits, Modola has stepped into filmmaking. She starred in the short film “Strawberry Chinny” (2024), selected for the Essence Film Festival’s Cultural Connections section in New Orleans. 

She also appeared in the Yoruba web series “Omo Momizs” produced by Biodun Stephen, adding range and visibility to her profile. 

Online Influence & Brand Partnership

Modola bridges entertainment and influence. On Instagram, she commands over 300,000 followers, with engagement levels considered very good averaging over 9,000 likes and nearly 400 comments per post. Her growth and audience engagement place her among Nigeria’s respected digital creators. 

Earnings from sponsored content, modeling, acting, and advertising contribute to her estimated net worth in the $80,000–100,000 range. 

Her brand collaborations often hinge on her linguistic charm, her media presence, and her skillful storytelling approach.

Why Modola Matters

  1. Distinct Voice
    Modola’s linguistic dexterity, particularly her British English polish—sets her apart in Nigeria’s skit and comedy space.
  2. Cultural Bridge
    Alternating between accent, language, and genre, she invites diverse audiences to find connection.
  3. Versatility
    From modeling and skits to short film and web series, she proves that digital creators can cross formats.
  4. Empowering Digital Creators
    Her rise exemplifies how content creators can shape careers not just from mimicry, but by anchoring identity and voice.

The Road Ahead

At 32, Modola continues to expand her creative canvas. With a strong online presence, credited acting roles, and a signature comedic style, she’s positioned to evolve beyond skits potentially into mainstream film, series production, or leadership in content innovation.

Morocco Crowned CHAN 2024 Champions After Defeating Madagascar

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The Atlas Lions of Morocco have been crowned champions of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a commanding victory over Madagascar in the tournament’s final.

The North Africans showcased their trademark discipline, technical strength, and attacking flair to outclass Madagascar, sealing their third CHAN title in history.

A Historic Night for Moroccan Football

The final, played before a packed stadium of passionate supporters, saw Morocco control the game from the first whistle. Their midfield dominance and clinical finishing proved too much for Madagascar, a side making their first-ever appearance in a CHAN final.

Goals in both halves gave the Moroccans a deserved win, while Madagascar struggled to break down a well-organised defence.

Morocco’s Consistency at CHAN

This victory further cements Morocco’s reputation as one of the most consistent teams in the tournament’s history. They previously lifted the trophy in 2018 and 2020, and with this win, they become the first team to secure three CHAN titles.

Head coach [Name] praised his team’s resilience and preparation, noting that the triumph was a reward for years of investment in home-based players and football infrastructure.

Madagascar’s Journey

Despite the defeat, Madagascar leaves the tournament with pride. Their unexpected run to the final captured the imagination of football fans across the continent. The team’s spirited performances, including upsets over more established football nations, signaled their growing presence in African football.

The Bigger Picture

Organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the CHAN competition is distinct from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as it features only players who play in their home country’s domestic leagues. Morocco’s success at CHAN is seen as a validation of the strength and depth of their local league system.

With the trophy secured, celebrations erupted across Moroccan cities, as fans hailed the team not just as champions, but as symbols of national pride.

 

Nigeria Federal Government Approves Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port, A Major Boost for Ogun’s Industrial Agenda

The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has disclosed that the Federal Government has granted formal approval for the establishment of the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port (IDP), a project expected to transform trade and logistics in South-West Nigeria.

Governor Abiodun, who confirmed the approval in a statement issued from Abeokuta, said the dry port would serve as a critical alternative to the already overstretched Lagos seaports, providing importers and exporters with direct access to cargo handling, customs clearance, and warehousing facilities within Ogun State.

A Strategic Milestone for Ogun

The governor described the development as a “game-changer” for Ogun, adding that the port will reinforce the state’s vision of becoming the country’s foremost industrial hub.

“The Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port is not just about easing the pressure on Apapa and Tin Can ports; it is about unlocking new economic opportunities for our people. It will strengthen Ogun’s position as the natural gateway to Nigeria’s economy,” Abiodun said.

He further noted that the facility will provide efficient trade routes for manufacturers, agro-allied businesses, and exporters in the state and beyond, while also reducing turnaround time for cargo movement.

Understanding Inland Dry Ports

Inland Dry Ports (IDPs) are designed to bring shipping and customs services closer to industries located far from coastal ports. They function as extensions of seaports, allowing containers to be cleared, stored, and distributed without requiring businesses to transport goods directly from Lagos.

Nigeria has, in recent years, embarked on several dry port projects as part of efforts to decongest Apapa. Examples include the Kano Dry Port in Dala, the Ibadan Dry Port at Erunmu, and the Funtua Inland Dry Port in Katsina State. When operational, these facilities are expected to deepen regional trade, reduce logistics costs, and attract investments.

The Ijebu-Ode facility will be the first of its kind in Ogun State, a region already hosting several industrial clusters and multinational companies due to its proximity to Lagos.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Analysts say the project could become a catalyst for industrial expansion. By reducing transport bottlenecks, manufacturers and exporters will save costs while enjoying faster clearance processes.

The governor explained that the project is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, ranging from port operations and logistics to warehousing, security, and auxiliary services.

Federal and Private Sector Partnership

The dry port initiative is a public-private partnership supported by the Federal Government through the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), which serves as the project regulator. Ogun State will provide enabling infrastructure and incentives, while private investors are expected to drive construction and operations.

The Federal Ministry of Transportation, in line with the National Transport Policy, has reiterated its commitment to the project, stressing that the facility will not only benefit Ogun but also neighbouring states like Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, and even Lagos, where port congestion remains a persistent challenge.

Ogun’s Gateway Advantage

Governor Abiodun has consistently positioned Ogun as Nigeria’s “Gateway State.” In recent years, his administration has pursued large-scale infrastructure projects including the Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport, industrial parks, and road expansions designed to support heavy-duty transport.

The approval of the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port, experts say, fits seamlessly into this broader economic roadmap. With Ogun sitting at the corridor between Lagos and the rest of the country, the dry port could become one of the busiest inland ports once operational.

Looking Ahead

While timelines for the commencement of construction and completion have not yet been announced, Governor Abiodun has assured residents that the state government will work closely with the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to fast-track implementation.

Industry watchers note that the success of the project will depend on factors such as rail and road connectivity, efficient customs operations, and consistent government support.

For now, the approval represents a significant step forward for Ogun, and a clear indication of the Federal Government’s commitment to decentralising port operations and boosting Nigeria’s logistics capacity.

📌 Key Takeaway: The Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port is set to be a transformative project, bridging Ogun’s industrial ambition with Nigeria’s larger drive for efficient trade logistics. It signals new opportunities for investors, manufacturers, and communities across South-West Nigeria.

Haile Selassie: Fifty Years After the Fall of Ethiopia’s Last Emperor

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This year marks half a century since the death of Emperor Haile Selassie I, the last monarch in Ethiopia’s ancient Solomonic dynasty. His reign, which lasted from 1930 until his overthrow in 1974, left a legacy that still stirs admiration, criticism, and spiritual devotion across the world.

A Monarch of Global Standing

Haile Selassie was not merely Ethiopia’s ruler; he became one of the most recognisable statesmen of the twentieth century. In 1936, following Italy’s invasion of his country, he addressed the League of Nations in Geneva. His plea for collective security and condemnation of fascist aggression made him a symbol of resistance against tyranny. The speech gave him a stature on the international stage that few African leaders, before or since, have matched.

During his reign, Selassie pushed for modernization: he introduced a written constitution, sought to centralise state power, and expanded Ethiopia’s presence in global diplomacy. He played a founding role in the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), today’s African Union, with its headquarters established in Addis Ababa as a testament to his pan-African influence.

Divisions at Home

Yet the emperor’s domestic legacy remains contested. Supporters remember him as a reformer who attempted to modernise Ethiopia’s education, legal system, and economy. Critics argue that his reforms were often too slow and superficial, leaving much of the population trapped in poverty while an elite minority benefited.

The 1973–74 famine, poorly handled and hidden from the international community, eroded his authority. Discontent among students, workers, and the military culminated in his overthrow in September 1974 by the Derg, a Marxist military junta. His death under mysterious circumstances the following year marked the end of a monarchy that had claimed descent from King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.

A Figure of Worship

Beyond politics, Selassie’s image took on an extraordinary spiritual dimension. In Jamaica and across the Caribbean, the Rastafarian movement proclaimed him a divine messiah. Though he himself rejected such deification, Rastafarians hailed him as the fulfillment of biblical prophecy and a symbol of Black liberation. His 1966 visit to Jamaica remains a historic moment, where thousands gathered to greet him as a living god.

Memory and Controversy

Today, Haile Selassie occupies a complex place in history. In Ethiopia, statues of him have been both erected and torn down, depending on the political climate. For some, he is a national hero who defended Ethiopia’s independence and global dignity. For others, he remains a symbol of authoritarian rule and neglect of the poor.

In a recent interview with the BBC, his great-nephew reflected on the emperor’s life and the need to see him as a human figure shaped by both his triumphs and failures. Listen to the full conversation here.

Enduring Legacy

Fifty years on, Haile Selassie remains one of the few African rulers to achieve global icon status. He stood at the intersection of tradition and modernity, faith and politics, liberation and repression. His story is as much about Ethiopia’s path through the twentieth century as it is about the enduring search for African leadership on the world stage.

 

Adire at a Crossroads: How a Yoruba Art Form Can Survive the Age of Cheap Imitations

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Adire, the resist-dyed indigo cloth of the Yoruba, is more than fabric. It is memory set in cotton, a visual language of motifs that travel from mother to daughter. Today that language competes with mass-printed look-alikes that undercut price, dilute meaning, and pull buyers away from the makers who keep the craft alive. Preserving Adire now requires clear standards, better markets, and a new generation of practitioners who value skill as much as style.

What Adire Is

Adire developed in southwestern Nigeria and spread through Yoruba trade networks. Women led the craft, building workshops and markets that drew buyers from across West Africa. Abeokuta remains the historic center, with active trading hubs at Itoku, Lafenwa, Kuto, and Asero. 

Three core resist methods define the tradition. Oníkò ties raffia around pebbles or kernels to create dotted constellations. Alábéré stitches raffia into patterned seams that hold back dye. Elẹ́kọ paints cassava-starch paste as a resist, then dyes the cloth many times to achieve a deep blue or blue-black before washing out the paste. Motifs carry names and stories, from Olókun to Ibadandun. 

A Women’s Economy

For generations Adire sustained networks of dyers, stencil cutters, raffia suppliers, and cloth traders. It gave rural and urban women control over production and pricing, and it turned courtyards and market lanes into schools of technique and entrepreneurship. That social value sits inside every wrapper and scarf, even when the buyer only sees a striking pattern.

12 Nigerian Students Top the World in English at 2024 Cambridge Exams

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Nigeria has once again made a global academic statement. At the 2024 Cambridge O Level and IGCSE examinations, twelve Nigerian students earned the prestigious “Top in the World” distinction in English, standing out among the 16 Nigerians who achieved top marks across all subjects.

The award—part of the Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards—was presented at a ceremony hosted by Cambridge University Press & Assessment, in partnership with the British Council, at the British Council Recognition event in Lagos. 

Meet the Top Achievers

At the IGCSE June 2024 exam:

  • Ohimal Okoye was named “Top in the World” for English as a Second Language (Count-in-Language).  

At the November 2024 series for English as a Second Language with Speaking Endorsement:

  • Alvin Ebiuwhe
  • Amanda Enechukwu
  • Emmanuella Oze
  • Grace Sanya
  • Kamsiyochukwu Onochie
  • Kenechukwu Morayo Uba
  • Mercy Abilogun-Wole
  • Moboluwaduro Asalu
  • Ololade Olayinka
  • Tanamera Bassey
  • Ifunnaya Onaga
    All earned global recognition as the best performers in their subject.  

One of them, in particular, stood out: Kenechukwu Oluwanifemi Uba, of Caleb British International School, Magodo, Lagos, was named “Top in the World” for the November 2024 IGCSE English as a Second Language (Speaking Endorsement). Her award was formally presented at the ceremony, with her certificate signed by Rod Smith, Group Managing Director of International Education at Cambridge. 

What These Awards Mean

Being named “Top in the World” means each student achieved the highest standard mark globally in their subject—a remarkable achievement for individuals and the nation alike. 

At the event, Mr. Deep Adhikari, Regional Exams Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at the British Council, praised the awards as a testament to Nigeria’s deep commitment to education. He noted they are a testament to parents’ investments and the country’s strong academic culture. 

Mr. Eyitayo Akanji, Director of Examinations for the British Council in Nigeria, highlighted how such recognition opens pathways to scholarships and admissions to world-class universities, including Ivy League institutions. 

Cambridge International’s Regional Director in Sub-Saharan Africa, Juan Visser, affirmed that while digital exams are being introduced, paper-based assessments will remain vital in regions like Nigeria, where digital access varies. He underscored that critical thinking remains the central aim of the Cambridge curriculum. 

A Proud Moment for Nigeria

This milestone confirms that Nigerian learners are competing—and succeeding—at the highest global level. From family support to quality teaching, the infrastructure around these students played a critical role.

Their achievements don’t just make headlines—they inspire other students, underscore the strength of Nigerian schools, and reinforce the value of investing in academic excellence.