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Okomu Oil Appoints Amina Maina as Independent Non-Executive Director

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Okomu Oil Palm Company Plc has announced the appointment of Mrs. Amina Maina as an Independent Non-Executive Director, effective October 16, 2025.

The appointment was disclosed in a regulatory filing with the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) on Wednesday. The company noted that her appointment remains subject to ratification by shareholders at the next Annual General Meeting (AGM).

According to Okomu Oil, the move is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the company’s corporate governance framework, enhance strategic oversight, and align its board composition with global best practices in diversity and sustainability leadership.

In the statement signed by the Company Secretary, Chukwuebuka Omerole of P.C. Obi & Co., the board expressed confidence that Mrs. Maina’s extensive experience will contribute meaningfully to the company’s long-term goals.

“The board looks forward to leveraging her broad expertise to support Okomu Oil’s long-term strategy, performance delivery, and sustainability trajectory,” Omerole stated.

Mrs. Maina, a seasoned corporate executive with a track record in industrial development, strategy, and leadership, is expected to bring valuable insight to the company’s growth and governance priorities as Okomu Oil continues to expand its footprint in Nigeria’s agribusiness sector.

American Singer America Singer Ciara Arrives in Lagos to a Heartwarming Welcome

American music superstar Ciara has officially arrived in Lagos, Nigeria, and the city welcomed her with infectious excitement and warmth.

Touching down in the vibrant metropolis, the Grammy-winning singer was greeted with a floral reception, cheers, and joyful smiles from fans and hosts alike. Ciara looked effortlessly stylish in black athleisure wear, oversized sunglasses, and a cap reading “I Love Jesus,” embodying a mix of confidence, grace, and faith.

Her arrival was hosted by Delphino Entertainment in collaboration with Lagos Tourism, marking a cultural moment that bridges global celebrity with the creative pulse of Africa’s entertainment capital.

In a statement, Delphino Entertainment said:

“An incredible honor hosting @Ciara with Lagos Tourism, sharing the pulse of our city, its people, and the magic that makes Lagos unforgettable.”

The singer appeared visibly touched by the warm reception, clutching a bouquet of fresh roses and hydrangeas as fans waved and recorded the moment. Her calm composure and wide smile reflected a genuine sense of connection — part homecoming, part celebration of shared culture.

Ciara’s Lagos itinerary, powered by @delphinoentertainment and coordinated through @owl.select, is expected to spotlight the city’s music, fashion, and cultural vibrance, bringing together artistry, style, and community in true Lagos fashion.

 

Davido Sets the Pace with ‘5ive Alive’ Nigerian Tour

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Nigerian superstar Davido deserves special recognition for including Nigeria in his ‘5ive Alive’ Tour — a move that feels both patriotic and people-centered. In an industry where many artists chase global stages while neglecting their home audience, Davido’s decision to bring the show home stands out as a refreshing gesture of loyalty.

There was a time when Nigerian artists regularly toured local cities — performing in Lagos one week, then Port Harcourt, Ibadan, or Abuja the next. Those were the days when concerts helped connect artists directly with their grassroots fans. But once the doors of international fame opened, the game changed. Many began prioritizing foreign tours, chasing the dollar while leaving local stages quiet.

Some even redefined “touring” by hopping from one nightclub to another across the United States, performing for tiny crowds but calling it a “world tour.” The idea of a structured Nigerian tour suddenly became unfashionable — until now.

Davido’s ‘5ive Alive’ Tour marks a return to that homegrown connection. And it couldn’t have been an easy decision. Taking a full-scale production across Nigerian cities means dealing with unpredictable logistics — from transporting massive stage setups to places like Yola, Enugu, and Ibadan, to battling our infamous bad roads and limited infrastructure. Yet, he chose to do it.

Financially, too, it’s no small sacrifice. Ticket prices for the Nigerian shows range from ₦5,000 to ₦10,000, while fans in North America reportedly paid around $63 (roughly ₦90,000). Clearly, Davido isn’t in this for profit alone. What he’s doing is deeper — reaffirming his bond with Nigerian fans and investing directly in the country’s creative economy.

Every stop of this tour will spark ripple effects: hotels will record full bookings, food vendors and bars will flourish, Uber drivers will cash out, security outfits will stay busy, content creators will feast on fresh material — and yes, even the nightlife scene will enjoy its fair share of the boom. In simple terms, everybody in town will smile las las.

We saw the viral clips of Davido’s electrifying performance in Uyo, where he kicked off the Nigerian leg of the tour. The crowd was massive, voices hoarse from singing along to every hit. But funny enough, when it’s time to protest for change, those same voices often vanish. Energy for concerts — always full. Energy for civic duty — zero.

And while we’re keeping it real, was that a dad bod making an appearance on stage? With all the money and luxury Davido’s got, he might want to hit the gym before the next show — and maybe drag his bestie, Cubana Chief Priest, along for the workout.

Jokes aside, what Davido has done deserves applause. Beyond entertainment, his ‘5ive Alive’ Tour reminds us that impact starts from home. It’s a statement of pride, patriotism, and purpose — one that the rest of the industry should take notes from.

South Korea Honours Donald Trump with Gold Crown and Grand Order of Mugunghwa

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Former U.S. President Donald J. Trump has been awarded South Korea’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, along with a gold crown, in recognition of what Seoul describes as his contributions to peace and diplomacy on the Korean Peninsula.

The Grand Order of Mugunghwa is traditionally reserved for South Korean presidents and their spouses, as well as a few distinguished foreign leaders. Trump’s recognition marks the first time an American president has received the honour, underscoring South Korea’s acknowledgment of his diplomatic efforts during his administration, particularly in fostering dialogue with North Korea.

The ceremony, held in Seoul, was attended by senior government officials and diplomats. South Korean representatives cited Trump’s “historic engagement” in inter-Korean talks and his role in initiating direct U.S.–North Korea diplomacy as reasons for the award.

The gold crown, presented alongside the medal, symbolizes national unity and respect, reflecting South Korea’s appreciation for what it called “bold steps toward regional stability.”

While opinions remain divided over the long-term outcomes of Trump’s Korea policy, the award highlights Seoul’s intent to honour diplomatic milestones that shaped a significant period in the peninsula’s recent history.

Tanzania Imposes Curfew in Dar es Salaam After Election Day Clashes

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Tanzania’s government has declared a citywide curfew in Dar es Salaam, the country’s largest commercial hub, following violent clashes between police and protesters on election day. The unrest erupted amid growing tensions over the credibility of the polls.

According to reports from Muhimbili National Hospital, dozens of injured people were brought in after confrontations broke out in several parts of the city. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as protesters set vehicles ablaze and damaged public infrastructure while security forces responded with force to disperse the crowds.

The demonstrations coincided with presidential and parliamentary elections, widely seen as a foregone conclusion for incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her ruling party. The main opposition leader remains in jail on treason charges, which he denies, and his party has boycotted the election — a move that critics say has left voters without a real alternative.

Protesters have accused the government of undermining democracy and demanded reforms to guarantee free political participation and transparent electoral processes. Authorities, however, deny any wrongdoing and insist the election was conducted fairly.

Tanzania’s Inspector General of Police, Camelius Wambura, announced that a curfew would take effect from 18:00 local time (15:00 GMT), urging residents to remain indoors until further notice. He did not specify when the restrictions would be lifted.

The government has yet to release an official casualty figure or provide details about the extent of the damage, but the unrest marks one of the most serious public order challenges in Tanzania since President Suluhu took office.

Observers warn that the developments could heighten political tensions in a country long seen as one of East Africa’s more stable democracies.

Source: BBC / AOL News

“Gingerrr” Smashes Box Office Records with ₦378.6 Million — and Counting!

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The Nigerian film industry is buzzing with excitement as Gingerrr, the blockbuster comedy-drama starring Kiekie, Bisola Aiyeola, Wunmi Toriola, and Bolaji Ogunmola, continues its unstoppable run at the box office. Since its debut on September 26th, the film has grossed an impressive ₦378,600,067, cementing its place among the highest-grossing Nigerian films of all time — and it’s still climbing.

Produced by a powerhouse female cast and crew, Gingerrr has joined the elite ranks of Nollywood hits such as Everybody Loves Jenifa, The Wedding Party, and Chief Daddy. What’s even more remarkable is that the movie has held the number one spot in Nigerian cinemas every week since its release — an achievement few local films can boast of.

Now, Gingerrr is set to take its success global as it heads to UK cinemas, marking another milestone for the growing international appeal of Nollywood. Industry analysts are predicting an even stronger revenue surge, as diaspora audiences have shown increasing enthusiasm for Nigerian-made films that blend humor, authenticity, and cultural depth.

The film’s success has also shaken up the current box office rankings. Wunmi Toriola’s Queen Lateefah now takes the 11th spot with ₦365 million, while AY’s The Waiter and Timini Egbuson’s Reel Love follow closely at 12th and 13th, respectively.

With less than ₦10 million separating Gingerrr from Chief Daddy, the numbers suggest that the record books may soon need updating. The film’s continued dominance underscores a vital truth about Nollywood’s current landscape — female-led projects are thriving, both commercially and creatively.

Gingerrr’s success isn’t just a win for its cast and crew; it’s a testament to the growing strength of Nigerian storytelling, the loyalty of its audiences, and the unstoppable rise of women shaping the future of African cinema.

As the film expands into international markets, one thing is clear — Gingerrr isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

Dr. Wendy Okolo: The Nigerian Aerospace Engineer Redefining the Skies

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Dr. Wendy Okolo stands as a shining example of excellence, resilience, and representation in the world of aerospace engineering. A proud Nigerian, she has not only carved her name into NASA’s history but continues to inspire a new generation of scientists, innovators, and dreamers across Africa and beyond.

Okolo made history when she earned her Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington at just 26 years old — becoming the first Black woman to do so. Her achievement marked a major milestone, not just for representation in STEM, but also for women of color globally who aspire to break barriers in male-dominated fields.

At NASA’s Ames Research Center in California, Dr. Okolo applies her expertise to cutting-edge research in flight dynamics, vehicle controls, and systems health monitoring — all critical aspects of modern aerospace innovation. Her work contributes directly to the safety, efficiency, and advancement of next-generation aircraft and space systems.

Beyond the laboratory, Dr. Okolo has become a strong voice for inclusion and gender equity in science and engineering. Within NASA, she has championed initiatives that support new mothers, worked to eliminate gender bias from technical job descriptions, and mentored young women entering STEM fields. Her leadership reflects both scientific brilliance and a deep commitment to building equitable systems where talent, not bias, defines opportunity.

Her impact has not gone unnoticed. Over the years, she has received multiple honors, including the prestigious NASA Exceptional Technology Achievement Medal, awarded for outstanding innovation and contributions to aerospace research.

In 2023, Dr. Okolo expanded her influence beyond the laboratory with the release of her book, “Learn to Fly: On Becoming a Rocket Scientist,” now available on Amazon. In it, she shares her personal journey — from her Nigerian roots to NASA’s frontlines — offering a candid and inspiring roadmap for anyone aspiring to reach new heights, literally and figuratively.

Dr. Wendy Okolo’s story is one of vision and perseverance. She continues to prove that brilliance knows no borders — and that the future of aerospace will soar higher when diversity is at its core.

Nestoil Group Affirms Uninterrupted Operations Amid Lagos Office Sealing Lagos, Nigeria — Nestoil Group has reaffirmed that its operations across Nigeria remain fully functional despite the temporary sealing of its Lagos head office by security operatives, following a court order related to a commercial dispute. The clarification comes after reports surfaced that the company’s headquarters in Victoria Island had been sealed over a debt issue involving FBNQuest Merchant Bank Limited and First Trustees Limited, both subsidiaries of First Bank of Nigeria Limited. In an official statement released on Tuesday, Nestoil described the development as a procedural matter currently before the courts and emphasized that it has not affected business continuity across its subsidiaries and project sites. “Nestoil is aware of the reports and ongoing legal processes referenced in the media. The situation relates to a commercial matter currently before the courts, which is being addressed through appropriate legal and regulatory channels,” the company said. The statement further noted that proactive measures have been implemented to ensure smooth operations. Employees are working remotely while the Group engages relevant authorities and stakeholders to resolve the matter through lawful means. “Nestoil remains fully operational across all business lines. Our subsidiaries, projects, and commitments in the oil, gas, power, and infrastructure sectors continue without disruption. Proactive measures have been implemented to protect our workforce, sustain operations, and uphold our obligations to clients and partners,” the statement added. The company also assured clients, partners, and investors of its financial stability, reaffirming its commitment to all ongoing projects within the energy and infrastructure sectors. Nestoil described the sealing of its Victoria Island office as a temporary step in an ongoing commercial process and expressed confidence that the issue would be resolved promptly through lawful and constructive engagement. ⸻ Would you like me to adapt this into a publish-ready press release format (with headline, dateline, and spokesperson quote formatting), or keep it as a neutral news report for editorial use?

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Nestoil Group Affirms Uninterrupted Operations Amid Lagos Office Sealing

Lagos, Nigeria — Nestoil Group has reaffirmed that its operations across Nigeria remain fully functional despite the temporary sealing of its Lagos head office by security operatives, following a court order related to a commercial dispute.

The clarification comes after reports surfaced that the company’s headquarters in Victoria Island had been sealed over a debt issue involving FBNQuest Merchant Bank Limited and First Trustees Limited, both subsidiaries of First Bank of Nigeria Limited.

In an official statement released on Tuesday, Nestoil described the development as a procedural matter currently before the courts and emphasized that it has not affected business continuity across its subsidiaries and project sites.

“Nestoil is aware of the reports and ongoing legal processes referenced in the media. The situation relates to a commercial matter currently before the courts, which is being addressed through appropriate legal and regulatory channels,” the company said.

The statement further noted that proactive measures have been implemented to ensure smooth operations. Employees are working remotely while the Group engages relevant authorities and stakeholders to resolve the matter through lawful means.

“Nestoil remains fully operational across all business lines. Our subsidiaries, projects, and commitments in the oil, gas, power, and infrastructure sectors continue without disruption. Proactive measures have been implemented to protect our workforce, sustain operations, and uphold our obligations to clients and partners,” the statement added.

The company also assured clients, partners, and investors of its financial stability, reaffirming its commitment to all ongoing projects within the energy and infrastructure sectors.

Nestoil described the sealing of its Victoria Island office as a temporary step in an ongoing commercial process and expressed confidence that the issue would be resolved promptly through lawful and constructive engagement.

Would you like me to adapt this into a publish-ready press release format (with headline, dateline, and spokesperson quote formatting), or keep it as a neutral news report for editorial use?

Sanusi Lamido Blames Nigeria’s Economic Crisis on Delayed Fuel Subsidy Removal

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Abuja, Nigeria — Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor and Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, has said that Nigeria’s current economic hardship is the direct result of the government’s failure to remove the fuel subsidy more than a decade ago.

Speaking at the Oxford Global Think Tank Leadership Conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Sanusi described the subsidy regime as a “dangerous financial arrangement” that placed the nation in a position of limitless fiscal exposure.

According to him, what Nigerians commonly called a fuel subsidy was effectively an open-ended hedge, where the federal government guaranteed that citizens would not pay beyond a fixed pump price regardless of fluctuations in oil prices or exchange rates.

“The government told 200 million Nigerians they would not pay more than a fixed amount per litre, no matter what happened to oil prices or exchange rates. When oil went from $40 to $140, the federal government paid the difference. When the naira depreciated from N155 to N300, the government paid the difference,” Sanusi explained.

He added that the policy not only drained public finances but also forced the government into a cycle of borrowing to sustain the subsidy payments.

“At some point, we were borrowing money not just to pay subsidies, but to service the interest on the loans taken to pay those subsidies. That was bankruptcy by policy,” he stated.

Sanusi, who served as CBN governor from 2009 to 2014, recalled that he had warned the federal government as early as 2012 that postponing subsidy removal would have long-term inflationary and fiscal consequences.

“If we had removed it then, inflation would have risen slightly from 11 to about 13 per cent and stabilised. Now, we are facing inflation above 30 per cent. This is the cost of delay,” he said.

The Emir noted that Nigeria’s fiscal troubles stem largely from a pattern of short-term political decision-making taking precedence over sound economic policy. He stressed that this has fueled public misunderstanding of the distinct responsibilities of government institutions such as the Central Bank and the Ministry of Finance, further complicating efforts to stabilize the economy.

Sanusi’s comments come at a time when Nigerians continue to grapple with rising inflation, high living costs, and a weakened naira — challenges that many analysts link to years of policy inconsistency and heavy fiscal dependence on oil revenues.

Dangote to Invest $1 Billion in Zimbabwe’s Cement, Coal, and Power Sectors

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Harare, Zimbabwe — Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, is set to invest $1 billion in Zimbabwe, marking a major expansion of the Dangote Group’s footprint across Southern Africa.

The investment, which will span cement manufacturing, coal mining, and power generation, represents a renewed push by the Nigerian industrialist to strengthen the conglomerate’s operations on the continent.

According to government officials, preparations are underway for a high-level meeting between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Dangote, following a series of renewed discussions during the Afreximbank Annual Meetings held in Abuja in June.

Paul Tungwarara, investment adviser to President Mnangagwa, confirmed that the billionaire’s visit to Zimbabwe is imminent.

“The richest man in Africa is coming to Zimbabwe at the invitation of President Mnangagwa. The two have been in constant communication, and we are presently working on the logistical aspects of the visit,” Tungwarara said.

“We are keen to ensure that he makes a significant investment in Zimbabwe and avoid what happened during his previous visit in 2015, when he came but did not return.”

Dangote’s renewed interest follows two earlier investment missions in 2015 and 2018, which did not yield concrete agreements. This time, officials say the political and economic environment is more conducive, with the government prioritizing large-scale industrial and energy projects to drive growth.

If finalized, the project will be one of the largest private sector investments in Zimbabwe in recent years, promising to boost infrastructure development, create jobs, and strengthen regional industrial integration.

The initiative also aligns with the Dangote Group’s Africa-wide growth strategy, which includes cement plants and energy projects in several countries such as Nigeria, Ethiopia, Senegal, and Tanzania.