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“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.

NALA Introduces Payment Services Enabling Transfers from the UK and EU to Nigeria

NALA, a Tanzanian fintech startup, has begun accepting payments from the United Kingdom and the European Union to Nigeria. Customers can use the app to transfer money from their cards, bank accounts, or Google or Apple Pay to a Nigerian bank account.

Users can download the app from the App Store or Play Store, sign up, and verify their identity before using the platform. When sending money to Nigeria, enter the recipient’s bank information, select a payment option, and approve the transfer.

“Currently, NALA allows customers to send money into Nigeria. We are working on the licencing to allow customers to also send money out of Nigeria,” NALA’s Founder and CEO, Benjamin Fernandes, says.

The Tanzanian company states it consistently strives to offer the most competitive prices compared to other service providers. Customers can also compare prices from several providers within the app, ensuring they get the best deal.

MTN’s Fintech Partners with Saana Capital, Enabling MoMo Users to Seamlessly Send and Receive Money Across Africa

MoMo Payment Service Bank (PSB) has entered into a strategic collaboration with Saana Capital, an internationally licensed cross-border company authorized by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This partnership aims to facilitate bill payment services and establish seamless inbound and outbound transfer capabilities across the African continent.

Incorporating both inbound and outbound services, this collaboration empowers individuals and businesses to conveniently send and receive money. In the context of inbound payment transfers, funds are received from various sources, including online sales, invoices, and subscriptions. On the other hand, outbound payment transfers involve sending funds to partners, suppliers, employees, and other entities to cover obligations such as bills, salaries, and taxes.

Previously, the availability of the inbound service was limited to customers seeking to send money from Uganda and Rwanda. However, with this newly forged partnership, this service, inclusive of payment functionalities, will be extended to benefit individuals across Africa.

Presently, MoMo subscribers within approximately 15 markets, including Nigeria, Ghana, Sudan, Ivory Coast, Uganda, Zambia, Benin, Cameroon, South Africa, and Madagascar, have surpassed 51 million as of August 2022 under the MTN MoMo network.

TikTok plans to establish a presence in Kenya and collaborate with the government.

After a meeting with TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, on Thursday, Kenyan President William Ruto revealed that offensive or inappropriate content will undergo removal from the short-form video platform.

TikTok has committed to collaborating closely with the Kenyan government to moderate content on its platform, ensuring alignment with community standards.

State House officials further disclosed that TikTok intends to establish a regional office in Nairobi and expand its Kenyan workforce, acknowledging Kenya’s standing as one of the most engaged nations on the short-form video app.

According to the 2023 Reuters Institute Digital News Report, Kenya boasts the world’s highest TikTok usage rate, with 54% of users in the country utilizing the app for various purposes and 29% for news consumption.

This development comes in response to a petition urging lawmakers to ban TikTok in Kenya. Kimani Ichung’wa, the Majority Leader, pointed out that since the app primarily employs young individuals, parliamentary oversight of its suspension becomes complex.

Echoing this sentiment, Opiyo Wandayi, the Minority Leader, concurred, emphasizing that given Kenya’s elevated unemployment rate and the prevailing challenging times, the nation cannot thrive autonomously in the digital era.

In light of these considerations, President Ruto affirmed that YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook have committed to fostering revenue generation from youth-generated content. He highlighted that the government has initiated discussions with these companies’ leadership to cultivate opportunities for talented Kenyan individuals.

Moreover, on August 2, 2023, the Kenyan Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy announced its intention to review legislation safeguarding social media users. The ministry also expressed apprehensions about the current trend of TikTok users streaming live content between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m., often sharing explicit material.