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Aisha Madina Maishanu Wins The Future Awards Africa Prize for Journalism 2025

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Aisha Madina Maishanu Wins The Future Awards Africa Prize for Journalism 2025

The Future Awards Africa (TFAA) 2025 celebrated excellence, innovation, and impact in Africa’s youth sector, and this year’s Prize for Journalism was awarded to Aisha Madina Maishanu, recognizing her outstanding contributions to investigative reporting and storytelling across the continent.

The award, presented at the prestigious ceremony hosted by @TFAAfrica, highlights Maishanu’s commitment to truth, integrity, and amplifying underrepresented voices in the media. Her work, which spans critical issues such as social justice, governance, and youth empowerment, has earned her both national and international acclaim.

In an emotional acceptance speech, Maishanu expressed gratitude to her mentors, colleagues, and the communities that have inspired her reporting. “Journalism is more than a career; it is a responsibility. I dedicate this award to every person whose story has been silenced or overlooked,” she said.

The Future Awards Africa, now in its second decade, continues to spotlight young Africans making transformative impacts across diverse fields, from technology and entertainment to journalism and social entrepreneurship. This year’s edition further underscored the power of storytelling in shaping narratives and driving societal change.

Maishanu’s recognition is expected to inspire a new generation of journalists across Africa to pursue bold, honest, and impactful reporting.

Follow updates from the ceremony and more inspiring winners on @TFAAfrica.

 

ECOWAS, AU, and China Urge US to Respect Nigeria’s Sovereignty

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ECOWAS, AU, and China Urge US to Respect Nigeria’s Sovereignty

Abuja, Nigeria – Regional and global actors have collectively cautioned the United States against interfering in Nigeria’s domestic affairs, emphasizing the importance of respecting the country’s sovereignty.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) issued a statement warning against divisive narratives that could undermine Nigeria’s political stability and urged international partners to support the country in addressing internal challenges, particularly security concerns.

Similarly, the African Union (AU) reaffirmed its position that Nigeria’s domestic governance is an internal matter and stressed that external interference could destabilize ongoing political and social processes.

Adding to the chorus, China called on the United States to refrain from commenting on or intervening in Nigeria’s internal matters, highlighting the principle of non-interference in sovereign nations’ domestic affairs.

These warnings come amid growing international attention on Nigeria’s political landscape and security situation, with regional and global partners emphasizing diplomatic engagement over external meddling.

I can also create a short, viral-ready social media version that highlights the trio of ECOWAS, AU, and China warning the US, perfect for news feeds. Do you want me to draft that?

Lagos State Moves to Raise N200bn in Domestic Bond Market to Fund Infrastructure Projects

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Lagos State Moves to Raise N200bn in Domestic Bond Market to Fund Infrastructure Projects

The Lagos State Government has returned to Nigeria’s domestic debt capital market with plans to raise up to N200 billion under its N1 trillion Debt and Hybrid Instruments Issuance Programme, in a renewed push to finance priority infrastructure across the State.

The bond issuance, structured as a 10-year tenor, opened for subscription on Thursday, November 6, 2025, with pricing guidance set between 16.15% and 16.25%, according to offer documents distributed by the lead issuing house, Chapel Hill Denham Advisory Services Limited.

As the lead issuing house and bookrunner, Chapel Hill Denham is coordinating the process through a book building exercise, which allows investors to submit bids indicating the volume of bonds they wish to purchase and the yield they are willing to accept. The bidding window closes on Thursday, November 13, 2025, after which the final interest rate and allocation will be determined based on market demand.

Book building is widely used in capital markets to establish fair pricing for securities by gauging real-time investor appetite. The bookrunner manages the bids, aggregates investor interest, and sets a final price that reflects prevailing market conditions.

According to Lagos State authorities, proceeds from the bond issuance will be directed toward the development of critical physical and social infrastructure, including transportation networks, housing expansion, healthcare delivery improvements, and educational facilities upgrade. The move aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ Agenda, which prioritizes urban renewal, mobility enhancement, and inclusive social development.

Lagos—Nigeria’s leading commercial and financial hub—accounts for approximately 20% of the nation’s GDP and maintains one of the most diversified subnational economies on the continent. The State has an established track record in the Nigerian bond market, with previous issuances supporting major projects such as the Lagos Blue Line rail infrastructure, road network rehabilitation, and healthcare capacity expansion.

Market analysts note that the latest issuance comes amid a rising interest rate environment, with subnational borrowers increasingly turning to the domestic capital markets for long-term funding to bridge infrastructure gaps.

If successfully completed, the N200 billion raise is expected to accelerate the State’s ongoing capital project pipeline while reinforcing investor confidence in Lagos’ fiscal sustainability and governance framework.

FEC Approves Three New Policies to Boost Digital Trade, Innovation and Global Competitiveness

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FEC Approves Three New Policies to Boost Digital Trade, Innovation and Global Competitiveness

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved three major policy frameworks aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s transition into a digital, innovation-driven and globally competitive economy. The approval marks a strategic step in the Federal Government’s efforts to diversify the nation’s economic base beyond oil and strengthen the country’s position in emerging global markets.

According to a statement issued by the State House over the weekend, the new policies were presented by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, and are aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for sustainable economic expansion and inclusive growth.

The policies focus on three key areas:

  1. Strengthening Nigeria’s Intellectual Property System – to protect innovators, creators and investors, while fostering commercialization of research outputs and creative works.
  2. Unlocking Opportunities in Digital Trade – by establishing a regulatory environment that enables secure, accessible, and borderless digital transactions across sectors.
  3. Expanding Nigeria’s Services Export Capabilities – to increase the country’s participation in the global knowledge economy, particularly in technology, finance, creative industries, outsourcing and professional services.

In the statement, the State House noted that the policy initiatives are expected to open new pathways for job creation, foreign exchange earnings and private sector investment.

“The policies are designed to strengthen Nigeria’s intellectual property ecosystem, unlock opportunities in digital trade, and expand the country’s footprint in the global services export market,” the statement said.

The move comes at a time when digital trade and knowledge-based services are among the fastest-growing contributors to global GDP, with developing economies tapping into technology-enabled export markets to boost revenue and drive innovation.

Analysts say the successful implementation of the approved policies will require coordinated collaboration between government agencies, the private sector, and international partners. However, with Nigeria’s expanding tech ecosystem and its growing population of young digital talent, the country is positioned to benefit significantly from the renewed focus on innovation-led growth.

Charles Soludo Re-Elected Anambra Governor With 422,664 Votes

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Charles Soludo Re-Elected Anambra Governor With 422,664 Votes

Awka, Nigeria – Charles Chukwuma Soludo, former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has secured a second term as Governor of Anambra State after winning the state’s gubernatorial election with a total of 422,664 votes.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) formally announced the results on Sunday, declaring Soludo, the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the winner following his clear lead across multiple local government areas in the state.

Soludo’s re-election consolidates his political standing in the South-East and reaffirms APGA’s enduring influence in Anambra, a state where the party has held power for over a decade.

The election, which featured competitive turnout and strong participation from youth and civil society observers, saw Soludo maintain significant support from grassroots networks built during his first tenure. Analysts say his victory reflects continued confidence in his administration’s reform agenda focused on security, infrastructure revamp, local economic development, and community-driven governance.

Soludo initially rose to national prominence as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria from 2004 to 2009, where he led the landmark banking consolidation reform. His second term as governor now provides continuity for ongoing state development plans, including urban renewal efforts in Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi, and initiatives aimed at expanding manufacturing, technology innovation hubs, and internal revenue generation.

With the election concluded, attention now shifts to governance, policy implementation, and the political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general cycle.

Elektron Finance Lists N4.64bn Infrastructure Bond on NGX, Strengthening Long-Term Capital Access

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Elektron Finance Lists N4.64bn Infrastructure Bond on NGX, Strengthening Long-Term Capital Access

Elektron Finance Lists N4.64bn Infrastructure Bond on NGX, Strengthening Long-Term Capital Access

The Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) has recorded a boost in capital market activity following the official listing of the N4.64 billion infrastructure bond issued by Elektron Finance SPV Plc, marking the first tranche under its N200 billion Bond Issuance Programme.

The 22.00% Series 1 Senior Guaranteed Fixed Rate Infrastructure Bond was listed on the exchange on Monday, November 3, 2025, and is structured as a 15-year instrument set to mature in July 2040. With a fixed coupon rate of 22% per annum, the bond currently stands as one of the most attractive long-term, yield-bearing instruments available to investors on the NGX.

The bond issuance benefits from significant credit enhancement measures. It is backed by the Infrastructure Credit Guarantee Company Plc (InfraCredit) and co-obligated by Victoria Island Power Limited, elevating the security profile of the instrument and reducing perceived default risk for investors.

Market analysts note that the presence of InfraCredit’s guarantee has effectively positioned the bond as a low-risk, high-yield investment option, particularly appealing to pension funds, insurance companies, and other institutional investors looking to hedge against inflation and market volatility while securing predictable returns.

The NGX confirmed that the bonds were listed at a par value of N1,000 per unit, with coupon payments scheduled on a semi-annual basis—specifically on January 7 and July 7 each year, beginning July 2025.

In line with standard infrastructure financing structures, amortised redemption payments will commence 36 months after issuance, continuing periodically until final maturity in July 2040, ensuring systematic and disciplined repayment over the lifespan of the bond.

The listing underscores ongoing efforts to deepen Nigeria’s infrastructure financing framework through capital market instruments and reflects growing investor appetite for long-dated securities that offer strong credit security and stable income.

 

✅ A one-minute broadcast news script

U.S. Introduces New Visa Review Policy Linking Health Status and Financial Capacity

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U.S. Introduces New Visa Review Policy Linking Health Status and Financial Capacity

The United States government has announced a significant shift in its visa screening process, introducing new requirements that place greater emphasis on applicants’ health conditions and financial ability to cover medical expenses while residing in the country.

The directive, issued under the Trump administration, instructs U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide to assess whether visa applicants may be likely to depend on publicly funded medical services once they enter the country. The new measure expands on existing health screening procedures traditionally used to identify communicable diseases and public safety risks.

Under the revised evaluation system, consular officers are permitted to conduct more detailed reviews of applicants’ medical histories. Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancer, and certain mental health conditions will now be examined to determine whether they could lead to future reliance on state-funded healthcare.

In addition to medical records, officers are now required to assess applicants’ financial capacity, including proof of health insurance, savings, income sources, or other means of covering potential medical treatment without government support. This assessment also extends to dependents, such as children and elderly relatives whose healthcare needs may place financial strain on the sponsoring household.

The new policy effectively links a visa applicant’s long-term health outlook with their financial stability. U.S. officials say the measure is intended to ensure that individuals entering the country are capable of supporting themselves and maintaining their healthcare needs independently.

According to the State Department, the directive “aims to prevent situations where visa holders become economically dependent on government-funded medical services,” while prioritizing applicants who demonstrate sustainable financial self-sufficiency.

Analysts note that the updated screening criteria may result in stricter visa approval outcomes, particularly for applicants from low-income backgrounds or those managing chronic health conditions without robust insurance coverage.

The policy is expected to generate ongoing debate, especially among immigration advocacy groups who argue that the changes could disproportionately affect families, students, elderly applicants, and individuals seeking medical treatment in the United States.

Afreximbank Projects Africa’s Rice Market to Reach $29.2bn by 2030

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Afreximbank Projects Africa’s Rice Market to Reach $29.2bn by 2030

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has projected that the value of Africa’s rice market will rise from $24 billion in 2024 to $29.2 billion by 2030, driven by growing consumption and population expansion across the continent. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 4 per cent, according to the newly released Afreximbank Commodity Bulletin Number 1 – 2025.

Despite recent gains in local rice cultivation, Afreximbank noted that Africa still depends heavily on imports to meet demand. The report shows that while rice production increased from 36.9 million tonnes in 2018 to 39.8 million tonnes in 2022, the growth has not kept pace with consumption trends, which continue to be fueled by rapid population growth, rising urbanisation, and changing dietary preferences.

“In 2024, Africa’s rice market was valued at US$24 billion, with projections to reach US$29.2 billion by 2030, reflecting a 4 per cent compound annual growth rate,” the bulletin stated.

The report highlights several key challenges affecting the continent’s ability to achieve self-sufficiency in rice production. These include:

  • Inadequate rural and processing infrastructure
  • Limited access to improved seeds and modern mechanisation
  • High production and logistics costs
  • Climate-related disruptions such as droughts and flooding

These constraints, Afreximbank warned, continue to undermine productivity and weaken the competitiveness of locally produced rice when compared to cheaper imports from Asia and other regions.

The bank emphasized the need for stronger investment in irrigation systems, storage facilities, seed development, and mechanised farming, along with policies that encourage private sector participation across the rice value chain.

Agricultural economists say closing the gap between local supply and consumption could significantly reduce Africa’s food import bill, strengthen rural economies, and improve food security.

 

Adunola Olajumoke Anjorin: Redefining Beauty, Empowerment, and Humanity Through Mohcute Cosmetics

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Adunola Olajumoke Anjorin: Redefining Beauty, Empowerment, and Humanity Through Mohcute Cosmetics

 

Ranks Africa Spotlight: Adunola Olajumoke Anjorin

Graceful, intentional, and purpose-driven — that is the quiet power of Adunola Olajumoke Anjorin. She moves through life with a blend of warmth and clarity, building brands, nurturing relationships, and uplifting communities with steady conviction.

As the visionary behind Mohcute Cosmetics, Adunola has created a beauty brand that reflects her philosophy: confidence begins from within. Mohcute Cosmetics offers a curated range of quality skincare and beauty solutions designed to help individuals feel beautiful in their own skin. Every product tells a story of self-love, care, and authenticity.

Yet, her work does not stop at beauty. Through marriage counseling and relationship coaching, she offers couples practical support grounded in empathy, emotional intelligence, and real-world understanding. Her approach is gentle but direct — guiding couples toward connection, healing, and shared growth.

Her commitment to humanity is most deeply expressed through the Mohcute Charity Foundation, founded in 2017. The foundation focuses on empowering children, especially in underserved communities, with access to quality education. Whether it is school outreach, educational sponsorships, or awareness campaigns, Adunola is dedicated to shaping futures — one child, one story, one opportunity at a time.

Awards and Recognition

  • Women in Business Leadership Award (2023)
  • Named among Top 100 Inspiring Nigerian Entrepreneurs by African Women Impact Network
  • Emporor Award (2020) – Best Skincare Brand of the Year

Her Life Philosophy

“Success is most meaningful when it uplifts others. Live purposefully, love genuinely, and leave every person and place better than you found them.”

This belief threads through her personal and professional world. It informs how she leads, how she serves, and how she connects.

What Inspires Her

Adunola is fascinated by transformation — how a moment of kindness, a choice to persevere, or a leap of faith can reshape lives. She sees challenges as refining seasons, not endpoints. In every person, she sees potential waiting to unfold.

A Glimpse Into Her Lifestyle

When she’s not coordinating foundation projects or curating new beauty formulations, Adunola savors the softer sides of life:

  • Travel excites her — not just the destinations, but the stories, cultures, and perspectives discovered along the way.
  • She thrives in spaces of community, whether hosting relationship empowerment gatherings or supporting women entrepreneurs.
  • Time with family and close friends remains her sacred grounding space.
  • She enjoys reading inspirational books, journaling personal reflections, and engaging in creative projects that encourage emotional expression and self-discovery.
  • And when she gives back — whether through mentorship or charity outreach — it isn’t just an activity, it is where she feels most aligned.

Adunola Olajumoke Anjorin is part of a rising generation of African women redefining leadership — not with noise, but with impact; not with ego, but with empathy. Her journey is still unfolding, yet her influence already speaks loudly:

Beauty is deeper than the surface. True success uplifts others. And purpose is a life lived in service to something greater than oneself.

Full List of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in the Energy Sector 2025 Curated by Ranks Africa

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Full List of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in the Energy Sector 2025 Curated by Ranks Africa

In a world rapidly shifting toward sustainability, innovation, and transformation, Africa’s energy sector stands at the very center of progress — and the people driving that progress are nothing short of extraordinary.

The Energy 100 celebrates a remarkable group of visionaries, trailblazers, and leaders who are redefining how the continent produces, distributes, and consumes energy. From pioneers in oil and gas to champions of renewable energy, clean tech innovators, policy advocates, and daring entrepreneurs bringing light to underserved communities — these individuals are shaping Africa’s energy destiny.

They are the minds behind the grids, the strategists fueling industries, and the innovators illuminating homes across nations. Their influence transcends business — it fuels opportunity, inspires change, and powers Africa’s collective ambition for a cleaner, brighter, and more resilient future.

Each name on this list represents more than a title. It stands for courage, commitment, and contribution. Together, they form the backbone of an industry that powers every city, every sector, and every dream on the continent.

As Ranks Africa unveils this inaugural edition of The Energy 100, we celebrate not just success stories but impact stories — stories of people building Africa’s energy future with integrity, innovation, and purpose.

Welcome to The Energy 100: Africa’s Most Impactful People in the Energy Sector 2025 —
where we spotlight the brilliance, passion, and power behind Africa’s energy evolution.

The Visionaries & Industry Titans

These are the game changers — the visionaries building legacies that define the continent’s industrial backbone.

Tony Elumelu (CFR), Aliko Dangote (GCON), Wale Tinubu, Dr. Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi (OFR), Benedict Peters, Akin Akinfemiwa, Omamofe Boyo, Ademola Akinrele (SAN), Alex Irune, Adeola Ogunsemi, Ayotola Jagun, Nana Fatima Mede, Paulino Jerónimo, Roger Brown, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, and Diamantino Pedro Azevedo.

Women Shaping the Energy Transition

These women are breaking barriers and leading Africa toward a just and inclusive energy future.

Funmi Oladeinde-Ogbue, Eyono Fatayi-Williams, Dame Winifred Akpani, Adesua Dozie, Folashade Ibidapo-Obe, Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani, Olubukola Arowolo Verheijen, Adeola Akinrinmade, Emelia Akumah, Justina Erastus, Habiba Ali, Damilola Asaleye, Charlotte Essiet, Chioma Sylvia Inyama, Folake Soetan, Engr. Jennifer Adighije, Olajumoke C. Ajayi, Audrey Joe-Ezigbo, Kike Asuelime, Christabel Aniemeka, Fatma Thabet Chiboub, and Leila Benali.

Innovators & Clean Energy Pioneers

They’re lighting up homes, driving renewables, and redefining how Africa thinks about energy sustainability.

Prince Ojeabulu, Ifeanyi Orajaka, Femi Adeyemo, Tonye Irims, Sulaiman Yusuf, Mustapha Abdullahi, Nosa Edward Igbinedion, Engr. Felix Ekundayo, Olabode Sowunmi, Otto Canon Chimenem, Kègndé Paulin Akponna, Segun Adaju, Engr. Wole Ogunsanya, Sandra Chukwudozie, Yerwang Shambo, Adeotun Popoola, Olakunle Williams, Dr. Daere Akobo, and Hope Ofuka.

Powering Policy & Leadership

These names represent the policymakers and executives shaping the frameworks that power Africa’s energy growth.

Dr. Abdul Rahim Jalloh, Mohamed Arkab, Karim Badawi, Dr. Khalifa Abdulsadek, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Gwede Mantashe, Ibrahim Uwizeye, Natangwe Ithete, Lefoko Maxwell Moagi, Habtamu Itefa, Mamadou Sangafowa-Coulibaly, Birame Souleye Diop, Gaston Eloundou Essomba, Doto (Dr.) Biteko, Opiyo Wandayi, Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, John Abdulai Jinapor, Aimé Sakombi Molendo, Sosthène Nguema Nguema, Antonio Oburu, Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima, Carlos Joaquim Zacarias, Wilmot J. M. Paye, and Nj Ayuk.

Corporate Catalysts & Strategic Drivers

Strategic minds behind some of Africa’s biggest energy institutions — they bring vision, finance, and governance to life.

Dr. Owen D. Omogiafo, Olavi Hangula, Olayemi Adeboyejo, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Henry Okolie-Abooh, Dr. Chima Desmond Anyaso, Dr. Habeeb Okunola, Adeola Akinrinmade, Ademola Akinrele (SAN), Kola Adesina, and Engr. Charlotte Essiet.

The New Generation of Energy Leaders

Young, fearless, and full of innovative fire — these are the next wave of energy excellence shaping Africa’s future.

Joshua B. Narh, Kevin Okyere, Ladipo Soyombo, Olugbenga “Olu” Ajala, Obed Kraine, Engr. Emeka Ene, Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, Osa (Osayande) Igiehon, Tony Attah, and Dr. Khalifa Abdulsadek.

Together, They Power the Continent, from oil rigs to solar farms, boardrooms to policy tables — The Energy 100 is more than a list. It’s a reflection of Africa’s unstoppable momentum. These individuals remind us that energy is not just about power — it’s about possibility.

See full List Here

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