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“Nations that have achieved successful soft landings on the moon.”

India’s Chandrayaan-3 has accomplished a significant feat by smoothly entering the lunar orbit, marking the most recent success in achieving a soft landing on the moon.

Launched in mid-July, the mission meticulously maneuvered through various Earth orbits, progressively attaining the necessary velocity for its upcoming lunar expedition.

Following a flawless landing on Wednesday, a rover powered by solar energy will commence an exploration of the relatively unexplored lunar south pole. Over its two-week operational span, it will transmit crucial data back to Earth.

The Indian Space Research Organisation shared this achievement earlier through a post on Facebook.

A lunar landing, often referred to as a Moon landing, entails the intricate process through which a spacecraft arrives on the lunar surface.

A “soft landing” signifies the skillful touch down of an aircraft, rocket, or spacecraft that results in minimal damage or disruption to the vehicle and its cargo, in contrast to a “hard landing.”

In addition to India, Russia, the United States of America, and China have all successfully executed soft landings on the moon.

Russia pioneered lunar landings in 1959, achieving a significant milestone.

In 1970, they successfully retrieved lunar samples through an unmanned mission.

The United States achieved its maiden soft landing in 1966.

As of 2022, the United States holds an unparalleled record, boasting a total of 11 successful soft landings globally. It remains the sole nation to accomplish manned moon landings.

China’s Chang’e 3 lander achieved a historic touchdown in 2013, marking the first moon landing since the USSR’s Luna 24 mission.

A groundbreaking moment arrived in 2019 with the success of Chang’e 4, which achieved the inaugural soft landing on the moon’s far side.

This remarkable achievement solidified China’s position as the pioneer in achieving a soft landing on the mysterious “dark” side of the moon.

Moniepoint Microfinance Bank has introduced its new application along with a debit card for improved services.

Moniepoint Microfinance Bank has unveiled its foray into the realm of personal banking through the introduction of a consumer app and a debit card.

According to an official statement, the newly rolled-out app will empower users to conduct transfers, settle bills, and purchase airtime, while the accompanying debit cards will have the versatility to function at ATMs, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, and online platforms.

The bank emphasized that these debit cards, facilitated by globally recognized payment processors including Mastercard and Verve, will grant users the convenience of seamless and dependable transactions within the expansive network of over 1.5 million businesses currently utilizing its platform.

Highlighting a distinctive feature of the app, Moniepoint underscored the presence of a card dispute resolution mechanism.

This mechanism allows users to register complaints for unsuccessful card transactions and track their progress until a complete reversal is achieved.

In the words of the bank, “Moniepoint Inc., operating through one of its Nigerian subsidiaries, has already achieved a prominent position in the in-person payments sector.

By introducing this personal banking solution, Moniepoint Microfinance Bank, another subsidiary of Moniepoint Inc., seeks to extend its trusted banking infrastructure from serving businesses to catering to their clientele and workforce.”

Expressing the rationale behind this strategic move, Ope Adeyemi, the Senior Vice President for Channels and Sales Tools at Moniepoint, affirmed, “The launch of a personal banking product represents a means to foster stronger connections between businesses and their customers, underpinned by our dependable infrastructure and services.

Our commitment to delivering financial well-being has guided us in this direction.

As we already collaborate with numerous businesses, extending our reliable services to their customers and employees felt like the natural progression.

Through this initiative, we are resolute in our mission to empower countless individuals across the continent.”

The bank also disclosed its intentions to introduce additional services, including salary advances, in the forthcoming months.

“Preserving Personal Privacy in the Digital Age: A Deep Dive with Aisha Lawal”

Undoubtedly excelling in her career, actress Aisha Lawal sets herself apart from some peers by maintaining a low profile on social media, as she explained in an interview with Saturday Beats.

She attributed this choice to her Yoruba upbringing, valuing the prestige of keeping certain aspects private.

A product of Ibadan, Oyo State, Aisha embraced the Yoruba adage that hidden things carry greater value.

With a mother who is a no-nonsense retired principal, she strives to avoid actions that might embarrass her children in the future.

While some actors believe that controversies can elevate their careers, Aisha emphasizes the importance of a clean reputation.

She compares a clean record to a clear blackboard where anything written is visible, unlike a cluttered one.

She champions the notion that every form of publicity, positive or negative, holds value, yet a clean slate is equally advantageous.

Speaking about her role in the popular movie ‘Jagun Jagun’, Aisha Lawal shared her intuition about scripts and how she assesses them.

She looks for challenging roles and evaluates the storyline’s appeal before considering her remuneration.

Her affinity for epic movies sets her apart from many actresses her age, who often shy away due to the intricacies involved.

Aisha’s willingness to embrace challenges stems from her passion for acting.

Amidst the burgeoning quality films in the industry, Aisha expresses excitement about the positive shifts in the movie landscape.

She applauds the strength of Nollywood’s storytelling and celebrates its rise from obscurity, asserting that the industry’s growth is sustainable.

“Niger military junta grants French ambassador 2 days to depart – Report”

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After the seizure of power by military rulers in Niamey on July 26, there has been a development involving the French ambassador. The country’s foreign affairs minister revealed on Friday that the military rulers have demanded the departure of the French ambassador from Niger within a span of 48 hours, according to a report from AFP.

In response to the French ambassador’s non-compliance with an invitation for a meeting from the minister, along with other actions taken by the French government that are perceived as against Niger’s interests, the authorities have chosen to revoke their approval of Sylvain Itte and have formally requested his departure within the given 48-hour timeframe.

This decision comes in the wake of a series of declarations and protests demonstrating hostility towards France following the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum by the Nigerien army. President Bazoum and his family are currently detained.

The military leadership alleges that Paris has intentions of military intervention in Niger to reinstate Bazoum, and they further assert that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is unduly influenced by France, a former colonial power in the region.

In response to the coup, ECOWAS has imposed significant economic sanctions on Niger and has even raised the possibility of employing armed force to restore the country’s constitutional order.

With approximately 1,500 troops stationed in Niger, France has been actively engaged in supporting the efforts against jihadist groups that have afflicted both Niger and the broader Sahel region for a considerable period of time.

Ranks Africa’s Engine Room spotlights Tony Elumelu, Tosin Olaseinde, Veekee James, Kanaga Jnr, and Jennie Nwokoye.

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We are thrilled to reintroduce our Engine Room series, where we cast a spotlight on the individuals propelling brands, the key figures orchestrating behind-the-scenes efforts, and notable leaders. In this edition, we turn our focus to a lineup of remarkable individuals.

Leading the way is African billionaire Tony Elumelu, renowned as the founder and CEO of Heirs Holdings, as well as the Tony Elumelu Foundation. Joining him is Tosin Olaseinde, the visionary behind Money Africa, a platform dedicated to financial literacy and investment education. Also in our spotlight is Kanaga Jnr., an industrious and innovative entrepreneur known for founding TKJ Apparel. Victoria James, the trailblazing founder of Veekee James clothing brand, graces our feature as well.

This edition also shines a light on Jennie Nwokoye, the driving force behind Clafiya, a startup platform offering accessible and personalized healthcare solutions.

Tosin Olaseinde / Money Africa

Read About Tosin Olaseinde Jnr Here

Victoria James | Veekee James

Read About Veekee James Jnr Here

Tony Elumelu | Heirs Holdings | Tony Elumelu Foundation

Read Here About Tony Elumelu

Kalu-Anaga Emmanuel Eme | TKJ APPAREL

Read About Kanaga Jnr Here

Jennie Nwokoye | Clafiya

Read About Jennie Nwokoye Here

At Ranks Africa, we will establish contact with these remarkable individuals, aiming to illuminate their narratives within the pages of our Africa Catalyst magazine. Through comprehensive interviews and firsthand accounts, our goal is to vividly portray tales of achievement and success.

Introducing Lionel Messi’s recently appointed bodyguard, ensuring his protection both on and off the field.

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In a recent viral video, a clean-shaven, medium-built man was seen patrolling the sidelines during a Major League Soccer match featuring football star Lionel Messi playing for Inter Miami.

This man’s close presence to Messi raised questions about his identity. As per La Nacion, the individual is Yassine Chueko, a former member of the US Navy SEALs, known for serving in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

Chueko was brought on board by Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham to ensure Messi’s safety due to the growing number of pitch invaders in recent years.

This measure has been taken to provide enhanced security for Messi during Inter Miami matches.

The bodyguard, skilled in martial arts, boxing, and taekwondo, can be seen closely following Messi even during matches.

Besides preventing pitch invaders, Chueko’s responsibilities include ensuring Messi’s secure transition from the team bus to the changing rooms.

With the addition of Messi’s former Barcelona teammates, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, there is increased attention on the club.

Jorge Mas, the Club Director, acknowledged the security risks associated with the presence of these players and emphasized the implementation of strict security measures, including bussing players through a tunnel and preparing security protocols for home and away games.

Mas recalled the preparations made during Messi’s time with the Argentine team in Miami before the World Cup, indicating the club’s readiness for handling such situations.

 

 

Streaming Platforms: A Solution to Nollywood’s Distribution Problem

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Streaming Platforms: A Solution to Nollywood’s Distribution Problem

By Adesina Kasali

 

The Nollywood movie industry, is one of the largest film industries in the world, which has long faced challenges in distributing its content to a wider audience. The traditional distribution models have limited the reach of Nollywood films, both domestically and internationally.

 

However, with the rise of streaming platforms, there is a potential solution to this longstanding distribution problem. Here, we explores how streaming platforms can effectively solve Nollywood’s distribution challenges and revolutionize the industry.

 

Streaming platforms offer a global reach that traditional distribution models cannot match. By partnering with streaming platforms, Nollywood filmmakers can overcome geographical barriers and make their content available to a larger viewer base. This allows Nollywood films to reach audiences in different countries, increasing their international visibility and potential revenue. This can be verified with some recent Nollywood Movies such as Gangs of Lagos, Brotherhood, King of Thieves, Anikulapo, Jagunjagun ti mention but few.

 

As well, streaming platforms provide a convenient and cost-effective way for viewers to access Nollywood content. With the increasing popularity of streaming services and the rise of internet connectivity, audiences can watch Nollywood films from the comfort of their homes or on their mobile devices. This accessibility helps to expand the viewership and popularity of Nollywood films, reaching a wider range of audiences.

 

This can as well be verified with the Nollywood trending movie, Jagunjagun a film Produced by Filmmaker Femi Adebayo which has 5 debut in Global Non-English Movie.

 

Streaming platforms often employ personalized recommendations and algorithms to help users discover new content based on their preferences. This can greatly benefit Nollywood films by increasing their visibility and exposure to viewers who may not have been previously aware of the industry. By leveraging these recommendation systems, Nollywood can attract a wider range of viewers and expand its fan base.

 

Streaming platforms provide an avenue for Nollywood filmmakers to generate revenue through various monetization models. These platforms typically offer revenue sharing models that allow filmmakers to earn from the views and subscriptions generated by their content. This can help Nollywood filmmakers monetize their work more effectively and provide a sustainable source of income for the industry.

 

One of the major challenges faced by Nollywood is piracy, which significantly impacts revenue and hampers the growth of the industry. Streaming platforms can help combat piracy by offering legal and easily accessible alternatives to pirated content. By providing a legitimate platform for viewers to access Nollywood films, streaming platforms can help reduce piracy and ensure that filmmakers receive their rightful earnings.

 

Streaming platforms have the potential to revolutionize Nollywood’s distribution landscape. By offering a global reach, accessibility, personalized recommendations, and revenue generation opportunities, streaming platforms can help solve Nollywood’s distribution problem.

 

However, it is important to address challenges such as piracy and the need for strong internet infrastructure in certain regions. By embracing streaming platforms, Nollywood can expand its reach, increase revenue, and gain international recognition, ultimately propelling the industry to new heights.

King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, ceremoniously inaugurated the FUJI: A Opera London Pop-Up 2023

The King of Fuji Music, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, ceremoniously inaugurated the FUJI: A Opera London Pop-Up 2023, immersing attendees in a captivating journey of sights and sounds. Stepping through the doors was akin to entering a universe where imagination reigned supreme.

Every aspect of the event held the promise of magic, from the meticulously designed set to the palpable anticipation for the performances.

 

The success of this extraordinary experience was made possible by the collaboration of esteemed partners such as @theafricacentre, FUMAN, The Dawn Commission, @awhitespacelagos, Mayegun Resort, 3101 Media, and @pedrosafrica.

A heartfelt appreciation goes to our media partners, @colourfulradio, @padiiradio, @goldmynetv, @thebeat1036fm, @thelagosweekender, @bellanaijaonline, @lagbolefuji.tv, @wetalksound, @djabass, @pulsenigeria247, and @nostalgicsound_ng, for their invaluable support in spreading the word and amplifying the essence of this remarkable event.

 

FUJI To The World!

 

#fujiopera

#fujimusic

#fujioperagoestolondon

#fujiLondonPopU

No Substance,’ Mixed Reactions Trail Singer Burna Boy’s Seventh Album

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‘No Substance,’ Mixed Reactions Trail Singer Burna Boy’s Seventh Album

Netizens have taken to different social media to share their thoughts on Burna Boy’s new project ‘I Told Them.’

 

Burna, born Damini Ogulu, released a fifteen-track album Friday, featuring top international acts like J.Cole and 21 Savage.

 

Nigerians have since taken to social media to share their thoughts on the new project, comprising of lead singles ‘Cheat On Me,’ ‘Thanks’ and ‘Sittin on Top of the World.’

 

While many registered their displeasure with the new body of work, others celebrated the singer.

 

Abazwhyllzz tweeted, “Please, we’re still looking for the substance. No offense.”

 

Mehjoy_ wrote, “Burna sampled Jeremih’s birthday sex in city boys. I knew that beat was familiar.”

 

Fineandrich also tweeted, “You’re a mid artist, plus, you talk too much.”

 

Another tweep, Alexanderzito_ wrote, “You degraded Afrobeats just to release your Afro-nonsense gave J.Cole his first miss Zero substance music with Seyi Vibez. Omo! Atlantic go work hard to push this mid wey you release.”

 

Recall Burna made headlines Tuesday, after he stated, during an interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, that 90 percent of Nigerian music lacks substance.

 

“90 percent of them have no real-life experiences that they can understand which is why you hear most of the Nigerian music or African music or Afrobeats as you people call it, is mostly about nothing, literally nothing. There’s no substance to it,” he said.

 

While many slammed the ‘Big 7’ crooner, fans have since celebrated him and the new project.

 

EbukaReuben1 tweeted, “The Giant, 12 years till now you are doing it back to back, you deserve all your flowers, you have dominated and you will still dominate, keep up the good work man.”

 

Benny7gg simply tweeted, “The greatest. ”

 

Gattiboy777 tweeted, “Tested, approved, and trusted.”

 

Shawnifee wrote, “Let’s go! It’s that time to enjoy beautiful music!”

 

Sammie Rambo wrote, “My boy you do this one well.”

Ogun court sentences two individuals to imprisonment for the theft of Dangote truck components.

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In Isabo, Abeokuta South Local Government area of Ogun State, a Magistrate Court rendered a verdict on Thursday, sentencing Emmanuel Choice and Ojuola Akande to a three-month jail term. The duo was found guilty of stealing motor parts from a truck owned by Dangote Cement Transport company. In a separate case, Olaiya Abdulrahman received a six-month prison sentence for causing injury to Olusegun Olusanya due to reckless driving.

According to the prosecutor, Lawrence Olu-Balogun, on August 22, 2023, Emmanuel and Ojuola stole several motor parts from Dangote Cement Transport trailers, resulting in a loss valued at N976,715.00. The stolen parts included tires, rims, and drum hubs. Their actions were in violation of Sections 516 and 383 of the Criminal Code Vol. II Laws of Ogun State of Nigeria, 2004, constituting offenses related to conspiracy, felony, and theft.

Similarly, on August 12, 2023, Abdulrahman drove recklessly, colliding with Olusegun Olusanya on Afami Road in Yewa-North local government area. Olusanya sustained injuries including broken ribs and a shoulder bone. The prosecutor stated that Abdulrahman’s actions were in violation of Section 6(1) and Section 13 (1) (a) of the Federal High Way Act CAP 135 of Federation of Nigeria, 2004, which are applicable in Ogun State.

All three defendants pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them. The Chief Magistrate, E. O. Idowu, subsequently found them guilty as charged. Emmanuel and Ojuola were sentenced to three months in prison without the option of a fine. On the other hand, Abdulrahman was sentenced to six months in prison with the possibility of paying a fine of N10,000 if he can also provide N200,000 to compensate the injured victim.