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Nigeria Police Cybercrime Centre Dismantles ₦7.7bn Fraud Syndicate After Telecoms System Breach

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Nigeria Police Cybercrime Centre Dismantles ₦7.7bn Fraud Syndicate After Telecoms System Breach

The Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre has recorded a major breakthrough with the dismantling of a highly organized criminal syndicate behind a large-scale cyber-enabled fraud estimated at ₦7.7 billion.

According to official sources, the operation was launched after a formal petition was submitted by a Nigerian telecommunications company, which reported repeated unauthorized intrusions into its billing and payment systems. Preliminary investigations revealed that the attackers had exploited vulnerabilities within the company’s digital infrastructure to manipulate transaction processes and divert substantial funds over an extended period.

Cybercrime investigators traced the illicit activities through digital forensics, financial transaction analysis, and coordinated intelligence gathering. The probe uncovered a structured network involving technical specialists, financial mules, and intermediaries who worked together to conceal the origin and movement of the stolen funds.

The Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre confirmed that the syndicate employed advanced techniques to bypass internal security controls, including the use of compromised credentials and unauthorized access points within the billing architecture. These actions enabled the group to generate fraudulent transactions without immediate detection.

Authorities said the successful takedown underscores the growing sophistication of cyber-enabled financial crimes targeting critical digital infrastructure in Nigeria, particularly within the telecommunications and financial services sectors. The Centre emphasized that the case highlights the importance of timely reporting, inter-agency collaboration, and continuous system audits by private-sector operators.

Investigations are ongoing, with suspects in custody and further arrests expected. The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to strengthening cybercrime enforcement and protecting both corporate systems and public trust in Nigeria’s digital economy.

OpenAI to Retire GPT-4o and Other Legacy ChatGPT Models as Users Shift to GPT-5 Series

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OpenAI to Retire GPT-4o and Other Legacy ChatGPT Models as Users Shift to GPT-5 Series

OpenAI has announced plans to retire several of its older ChatGPT models, marking another step in the company’s transition toward its newer generation of systems. The models affected include GPT-4o, GPT-4.1, GPT-4.1 mini, and o4-mini. The change will take effect on February 13, 2026.

The update was disclosed in a blog post published on Thursday, January 29, 2026, by OpenAI. The company clarified that the decision applies only to ChatGPT and does not involve any changes to its API offerings, which will continue to operate as before.

According to OpenAI, the retirement reflects significant progress made in its newer models, particularly GPT-5.1 and GPT-5.2. These improvements, the company said, have already driven a sharp shift in user behavior.

“We’re announcing the upcoming retirement of GPT-4o today because these improvements are now in place, and because the vast majority of usage has shifted to GPT-5.2, with only 0.1% of users still choosing GPT-4o each day,” the company explained.

OpenAI noted that most users have already migrated to GPT-5.2, leaving only a small fraction of daily activity on GPT-4o. Retiring older models, the company added, allows its teams to concentrate resources on improving the systems that are most widely used.

The GPT-5 series introduces a broader range of personalization features, including enhanced personality expression, stronger support for creative ideation, and more flexible response customization. Users can select base interaction styles, such as Friendly, and adjust factors like warmth and enthusiasm to better suit their preferences.

“Our goal is to give people more control and customization over how ChatGPT feels to use, not just what it can do,” OpenAI said.

The move underscores OpenAI’s strategy of streamlining its product lineup while deepening the user experience around its latest models.

Nigeria’s Entertainment Industry Is a Global Powerhouse, Says Interior Minister as Government, TAMPAN Deepen Collaboration

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Nigeria’s Entertainment Industry Is a Global Powerhouse, Says Interior Minister as Government, TAMPAN Deepen Collaboration

Nigeria’s creative economy received renewed institutional recognition as the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, described the country’s entertainment industry as one of Nigeria’s strongest global assets, citing its cultural power, economic relevance, and growing international reach.

In a statement following an extended engagement with the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), the minister praised the sector as a defining symbol of Nigeria’s soft power. He noted that the industry continues to distinguish itself through creativity, humour, emotional depth, and commercial impact, positioning Nigeria as a cultural force well beyond its borders.

The meeting was held with TAMPAN’s national leadership, led by its President, Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr. Latin. According to the minister, the discussion extended across the afternoon and focused on strengthening engagement between government institutions and practitioners within the creative sector.

The interaction followed a recent honour conferred on Tunji-Ojo by TAMPAN, where he was named “Man of the Year” at the association’s National Professional and Empowerment Summit. The award, he said, reflects the industry’s acknowledgement of reforms and improvements in service delivery under the Ministry of Interior, particularly in areas affecting citizens, creatives, and business operations.

Beyond recognition, the meeting centered on future-facing collaboration. Both parties explored practical areas where policy, governance, and the creative industry can intersect to support national development. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that governance should not exist in isolation, describing it as a shared responsibility that requires active participation from professional bodies, industry leaders, and committed stakeholders.

The minister reaffirmed a joint commitment between his office and TAMPAN to nurture Nigeria’s creative talent pool through structured partnerships, empowerment initiatives, and supportive frameworks that allow the industry to thrive sustainably. He stressed that empowering creatives is not only a cultural imperative but also an economic strategy, given the sector’s role in job creation, youth engagement, and global perception.

For Ranks Africa, the engagement highlights a growing alignment between public institutions and Nigeria’s entertainment industry, signaling a broader recognition of the sector as a pillar of national development and a strategic contributor to Nigeria’s global influence.

Between Abiola Kosoko and Jide Kosoko: The Oloja of Lagos pugna -TheKayodeBadmus

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Between Abiola Kosoko and Jide Kosoko: The Oloja of Lagos pugna -TheKayodeBadmus

Just as everyone continues to raise concerns about the drama going on in Ijebu and its quest for a new Awujale, the announcement of a new Oloja of Lagos greeted us days ago. The Kosoko family announced legendary actor, Jide Kosoko as the Oloja-elect, a decision which threw observers in a frenzied mood.

For starters, the Oloja of Lagos which was historically known as Oloja Ereko is the traditional Minister of Commerce in Lagos. The Oloja handles markets, trade and other economic activities occurring in Eko. The title dates back to the days of Oba Kosoko who reigned as Oba of Lagos from 1845 to 1851 when he was deposed by the British for refusing to sign an agreement putting an end to slave trading. What followed was an outright war with British forces invading Eko with war boats in what is known as Bombardment of Lagos or Reduction of Lagos. Yoruba people called it Ogun Ahoyaya (boiling cannons) or Ogun Agidingbi. Kosoko after the falling of his empire then fled to a part Ijebu with his followers. The place is known as Epe this day. He was replaced with Oba Akitoye whom Kosoko had coincidentally deposed himself to emerge king…(story for another day).
Years later, following several diplomatic agreements, Kosoko was allowed to return to Lagos but not as Oba. He was granted the honour to hold an economic office titled Oloja of Ereko.

Now back to the present day…the last Oloja of Lagos was Chief Adebola Ige who passed on in December 2017. Following his death, several disagreements arose within the Kokoko family which made the family set up a peace and reconciliation committee. This committee was headed by actor Jide Kosoko. After various processes, including a well-reported peaceful electoral process, Prince Abiola Kosoko; grandson of Olojo Kosoko, who was the first son of Oba Kosoko unanimously emerged as candidate for the vacant stool. He was subsequently introduced to the public by the head of the family, Alhaji Mutiat Alli-Balogun on December 31, 2020.

Then the waiting period began.

For five years, the Kosoko family continually beseeched the Oba of Lagos and the Lagos State Government to ratify and confirm the Oloja-elect, Abiola Kosoko as the substantive Oloja of Lagos. This was consistently ignored over time.


Abiola Kosoko, a Lagos State Polytechnic graduate and tourism expert is the founder of Origin Zoo and Gardens, Nigeria’s first privately owned animal park. Over the last five years, the Oloja-elect and the Kosoko family have tried to get an installation but they kept hitting a brick wall.

Somebody in the know hinted me that the Oloja-elect didn’t have the support of the Iga Iduganran palace because the Oba doesn’t have a particular liking for him. This cannot be independently verified though, but Abiola Kosoko who doubles as the Alashe of Ebute-Iga in Ikorodu kept waiting with hopes that his installation would happen soon.

However, while he waited, he ensured the resuscitation of the Kosoko heritage. Abiola Kosoko led the refurbishment of the Kosoko Palace and established it into the Kosoko Memorial Museum which was commissioned on April 4, 2024 by the then Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John. Artefacts and war relics used by Oba Kosoko who owned a personal army were adopted into this new museum which is now one of Lagos’s top tourism centres. Afrobeats superstar and one of the descendants of Oba Kosoko, Adekunle Gold is a frequent advocator of this museum where he also shot a video for one of his hit tracks, ‘Don Corleone’ last year.

Furthermore, Abiola Kosoko has over the years partnered with different local and international bodies to promote the Kosoko legacy, Lagos as a cultural hub and indeed Nigeria’s tourism economy. In August 2025, the museum hosted a delegation of the United States of America mission in Nigeria headed by the Consul General, Mr Rick Swart while advocating for partnerships between the Kosokos and the US mission. He also parlied different parastatals of the Lagos State government who as well recognised him as the Oloja-elect.
What begs the question however remains, who did Abiola Kosoko offend? Who has continued to prevent his installation as Oloja of Lagos?

In a shocking twist, Lagosians woke up to news days ago that veteran thespian and prominent member of the Kosoko dynasty, Prince Jide Kosoko has been selected as the next Oloja. While nobody saw this coming, it is surprising because the filmmaker was a part of the process that led to the emergence of Prince Abiola. Even more surprising is the fact that the head of the family who raised Prince Abiola’s hand as the family’s choice on December 31, 2020, 95-year-old Madam Mutiat Alli Balogun is the same person who has now endorsed Prince Jide’s emergence.
It now appears the selection of Prince Jide Kosoko has Iga Idugaran backing as insiders say his installation would be concluded very soon. But again, nobody has offered explanation as to what happened to the former Oloja-Elect, Prince Abiola Kosoko or what his offences were.

-TheKayodeBadmus

NTDA, Culture Ministry Align on Strategy to Strengthen Nigeria’s Global Tourism Position

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NTDA, Culture Ministry Align on Strategy to Strengthen Nigeria’s Global Tourism Position

The Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, Olayiwola Awakan, paid a working visit to Hannatu Musa Musawa, Honourable Minister of the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, as part of ongoing efforts to align policy direction, operational priorities, and long term strategy for Nigeria’s tourism sector.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the NTDA to brief the Minister on its current initiatives and forward looking plans, with particular emphasis on boosting inbound tourism, expanding Nigeria’s visibility at major global tourism markets, and reshaping how the country’s story is told internationally. Discussions centred on presenting a more accurate and compelling narrative of Nigeria, one that reflects the nation’s cultural depth, creative energy, people, and diverse destinations.

Tourism was highlighted as more than a leisure industry, but as a strategic platform for national cohesion, economic inclusion, and renewed confidence. Both parties acknowledged the sector’s potential to create jobs across regions, support creative and cultural industries, and strengthen Nigeria’s global image through authentic experiences rather than stereotypes.

The Honourable Minister commended the progress recorded by the Authority and reaffirmed the Ministry’s full support for its mandate. She noted that direct engagement with Nigeria often changes perceptions, as visitors encounter the country’s warmth, diversity, and shared humanity, qualities that are rarely captured by headlines alone.

The meeting was also attended by the Permanent Secretary, Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, alongside senior officials from both institutions. Together, they agreed on the need for deeper coordination and sustained collaboration to position Nigeria as a welcoming, market ready, and unified tourism destination.

The engagement concluded with a shared commitment to open Nigeria more confidently to the world, unlock opportunities across all regions, and build a tourism ecosystem that delivers value for communities, creatives, and the wider economy.

NTDA, Culture Ministry Align on Strategy to Strengthen Nigeria’s Global Tourism Position

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The Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, Olayiwola Awakan, paid a working visit to Hannatu Musa Musawa, Honourable Minister of the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, as part of ongoing efforts to align policy direction, operational priorities, and long term strategy for Nigeria’s tourism sector.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the NTDA to brief the Minister on its current initiatives and forward looking plans, with particular emphasis on boosting inbound tourism, expanding Nigeria’s visibility at major global tourism markets, and reshaping how the country’s story is told internationally. Discussions centred on presenting a more accurate and compelling narrative of Nigeria, one that reflects the nation’s cultural depth, creative energy, people, and diverse destinations.

Tourism was highlighted as more than a leisure industry, but as a strategic platform for national cohesion, economic inclusion, and renewed confidence. Both parties acknowledged the sector’s potential to create jobs across regions, support creative and cultural industries, and strengthen Nigeria’s global image through authentic experiences rather than stereotypes.

The Honourable Minister commended the progress recorded by the Authority and reaffirmed the Ministry’s full support for its mandate. She noted that direct engagement with Nigeria often changes perceptions, as visitors encounter the country’s warmth, diversity, and shared humanity, qualities that are rarely captured by headlines alone.

The meeting was also attended by the Permanent Secretary, Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, alongside senior officials from both institutions. Together, they agreed on the need for deeper coordination and sustained collaboration to position Nigeria as a welcoming, market ready, and unified tourism destination.

The engagement concluded with a shared commitment to open Nigeria more confidently to the world, unlock opportunities across all regions, and build a tourism ecosystem that delivers value for communities, creatives, and the wider economy.

Global Smartphone Use Hits 5.3 Trillion Hours in 2025 as Emerging Markets Drive Growth

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Global smartphone usage reached a new high in 2025, with users spending a combined 5.3 trillion hours on iOS and Android devices worldwide. This represents a 3.8 percent increase compared to the previous year, underscoring the continued expansion of mobile-first lifestyles across both developed and emerging markets.

The figures are drawn from the State of Mobile 2026 report released by Sensor Tower, a leading authority on mobile data and digital consumption trends. The report tracks time spent across applications, services, and platforms, offering a clear picture of how deeply smartphones are embedded in daily life.

India emerged as the world’s largest mobile market by time spent, accounting for an estimated 1.23 trillion hours in 2025. Its lead reflects a combination of population size, affordable data access, and the rapid growth of mobile entertainment, payments, and social platforms. Indonesia followed in second place with 414 billion hours, while the United States ranked third at 385 billion hours, driven by high smartphone penetration and sustained engagement across streaming, social, and productivity apps.

Brazil placed fourth with 301 billion hours, highlighting Latin America’s strong mobile culture, while Russia ranked fifth at 200 billion hours. Mexico followed with 175 billion hours, closely trailed by Pakistan at 169 billion hours. The Philippines recorded 153 billion hours, reflecting its reputation as one of the world’s most socially active mobile markets. China Mainland ranked ninth with 148 billion hours, a figure shaped by its regulated but highly developed app ecosystem. Nigeria completed the top ten with 129 billion hours, reinforcing Africa’s growing importance in global mobile consumption.

Together, these markets illustrate a clear shift. Growth is no longer concentrated only in high-income countries. Instead, emerging economies with young populations, expanding connectivity, and mobile-first digital habits are increasingly shaping global usage patterns. As smartphones continue to serve as primary tools for communication, entertainment, commerce, and work, total time spent is likely to keep rising, even as growth rates gradually stabilize.

The 2025 data confirms one central reality: mobile is no longer just a channel. It is the dominant environment through which much of the world now experiences the digital economy.

Omije Ojumi Laid to Rest as Family Phone Call Sparks Emotional Confrontation at Burial

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Omije Ojumi Laid to Rest as Family Phone Call Sparks Emotional Confrontation at Burial

What began as a quiet burial for late Nigerian gospel singer Evangelist Bunmi Akinnaanu Adeoye, widely known as Omije Ojumi, took an unexpected turn when a tense exchange involving her son unfolded in full view of mourners.

The burial ceremony, held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Atan Cemetery in Yaba, Lagos, drew family members, colleagues, and sympathizers dressed in white to bid the singer a final farewell. The mood was solemn until a sudden disruption shifted attention away from the rites.

According to footage later aired by Asiwaju TV, the incident was triggered by a phone call that came in shortly before the emotional outburst captured on video. An attendee at the burial, identified by witnesses as the sister of Omije Ojumi’s alleged husband, announced to the gathering that the singer’s children were receiving a call from a man claiming to be their biological father.

In the recording, the caller introduced himself as the children’s father and said he wished to pay his last respects to Omije Ojumi. He further alleged that the late singer had prevented him from having access to the children for several years. His remarks were delivered over the phone as mourners listened.

The children reportedly refused to take the call directly. In response, the alleged husband’s sister placed the phone on loudspeaker so the message could be heard. Moments later, Omije Ojumi’s young son reacted visibly, expressing anger and rejecting the man’s claim in a manner that stunned those present.

The scene, which was captured on video and rapidly circulated online, transformed the burial from a private moment of grief into a public spectacle. As the clip spread across social media, it prompted widespread debate and speculation, with many Nigerians questioning the circumstances that led to such a confrontation on a day meant for mourning.

Subsequent reports suggest that the outburst was less a spontaneous act and more the result of long-standing family tensions brought to the surface at an inopportune moment. What remains clear is that a personal dispute, aired publicly, overshadowed the final farewell of a beloved gospel singer and left mourners grappling with an emotionally charged aftermath.

Veteran Actor Jide Kosoko Emerges Oloja of Lagos-Elect, Awaits Traditional Installation

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Veteran Actor Jide Kosoko Emerges Oloja of Lagos-Elect, Awaits Traditional Installation

Veteran Nigerian actor Jide Kosoko has been declared the Oloja of Lagos-elect, marking a significant cultural milestone for the respected screen icon and community leader.

The declaration positions Kosoko to assume the traditional role following the completion of customary rites. In line with long-standing palace protocols and Lagos State traditions, he now awaits formal installation and capping by the Oba of Lagos, a process that confers full recognition and authority.

The Oloja title carries deep historical and communal importance, symbolizing stewardship, continuity, and service within Lagos’ traditional structure. Kosoko’s emergence reflects a convergence of cultural heritage and contemporary public life, underscoring the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in modern society.

Widely admired for a career spanning decades in film, television, and theatre, Kosoko has also been an active participant in civic and cultural advocacy. His selection is being received as a nod to experience, public trust, and a lifelong commitment to Yoruba culture.

Upon installation, the Oloja of Lagos-elect is expected to work closely with palace institutions and community stakeholders, contributing to the preservation of customs while supporting social harmony across the city.

Ranks Africa Acquires BestofLagos, Rebrands as TOHO Nigeria – Premier Tourism & Hospitality Platform

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Ranks Africa Acquires BestofLagos, Rebrands as TOHO Nigeria – Premier Tourism & Hospitality Platform

Ranks Africa, a leading Pan-African ratings and media company, has officially acquired the BestofLagos platform and rebranded it as TOHO Nigeria, a comprehensive hub dedicated to tourism and hospitality insights, media, policy, rankings, and business engagement across Nigeria and Africa.

As part of this expansion, Ranks Africa will also publish a dedicated Tourism & Hospitality Print Magazine (Nigeria & Africa) under the TOHO Nigeria ecosystem. The magazine will spotlight destinations, hotels, restaurants, chefs, creatives, operators, investors, and policymakers shaping Africa’s tourism and hospitality economy, while serving as a permanent reference for industry excellence and sector growth.

TOHO Nigeria is positioned to become the go-to platform for the Nigerian and African tourism ecosystem, combining data-driven insights, sector analysis, industry recognition, and networking opportunities.

TOHO Nigeria is set to become the go-to platform for the Nigerian and African tourism ecosystem, combining data-driven insights, sector analysis, industry recognition, and networking opportunities. Key pillars of the platform include:

  • Directory & Rankings – Highlighting top hotels, restaurants, attractions, and tourism-driven service providers across Nigeria and Africa.
  • Insights & Policy – Providing research, policy guidance, and strategic recommendations to inform stakeholders and government agencies.
  • Media & Content – News, feature stories, and spotlights celebrating achievements across the tourism, hospitality, and creative industries.
  • Awards & Recognition – Honouring excellence in tourism, hospitality, and creative-driven tourism initiatives.
  • TOHO Business Events – Hosting conferences, networking sessions, expos, and masterclasses to connect industry leaders, investors, and emerging talent.

Under the new structure, TOHO Nigeria aims to strengthen public-private partnerships and collaborate with government bodies, tourism agencies, and international stakeholders to grow Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality sector. The platform will also serve as a resource for policy advocacy, sector benchmarking, and promotional campaigns that elevate Nigeria as a premier destination for both domestic and international travelers.

TOHO Nigeria is more than a media or ratings platform — it is a strategic hub for insight, recognition, policy conversation, and business growth within the tourism and hospitality ecosystem,” said [Founder/CEO Name], Ranks Africa. “Through TOHO and our Tourism & Hospitality Print Magazine, we are building a credible platform that spotlights excellence, attracts investment, and supports long-term sector development.

With this acquisition, Ranks Africa and TOHO Nigeria are set to redefine how tourism and hospitality excellence is measured, documented, promoted, and celebrated, creating meaningful opportunities for businesses, creatives, destinations, and policymakers across Nigeria and Africa.

For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, contact:
info@toho.ng

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