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Seyi Tinubu Meets Prominent Young Igbo Entrepreneurs to Launch “Change Nigeria” Initiative

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Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has held a high-profile meeting with a group of leading young Igbo entrepreneurs under a new initiative known as “Change Nigeria.”

The meeting, which brought together some of the most influential names in Nigeria’s business landscape — including Obi Cubana, E-Money, Seyi Vodi, Zenco, Chima Anyaso (Ofuji), and Ituma Enviable — focused on youth empowerment, economic collaboration, and national integration.

According to insiders familiar with the gathering, the discussions centred on building strategic partnerships among young Nigerian business leaders to drive national development through innovation, entrepreneurship, and private-sector collaboration.

Although specific details of the meeting were not made public, sources suggest that “Change Nigeria” aims to create a new generation of business-driven social leaders who can contribute to economic transformation while strengthening unity across Nigeria’s diverse regions.

The engagement has since sparked wide conversation on social media, with many Nigerians commending Seyi Tinubu’s outreach as a major step toward bridging ethnic and economic divides in the country. Commentators described the initiative as a refreshing approach to fostering inclusive growth and national solidarity through youth-led collaboration.

Observers note that with the combined influence and resources of the participants, “Change Nigeria” has the potential to become a driving force for mentorship, job creation, and enterprise support across the country.

More details about the outcomes and roadmap of the “Change Nigeria” initiative are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

$450m Steel Company to Commence Operations in Ogun by 2026

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A $450 million steel-producing company, Stellar Steel Company Limited, is set to begin operations in Ogun State by the middle of 2026

The investment, from Stellar Steel Company Limited, a subsidiary of the Galaxy Group and RSIN Group, headquartered in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China, is expected to produce hot-rolled coil steel, iron steel doors and gas cylinders, a move projected to significantly reduce Nigeria’s steel import bill.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Vice Chairman of RSIN Group, Mr. You Xiaotan, said the project was progressing according to schedule and would be completed next year.

“Stellar Company Limited is the biggest investment for our whole group in Nigeria. We are here to give an update to His Excellency that our project is going very smoothly. We have already finished all the levelling and foundation work, so everything is under schedule.

“The total investment for this project is $450 million, and we will finish the project and commence operations next year,” he said.

Mr. Xiaotan further disclosed that more companies from Fujian Province are being encouraged to invest in Ogun State due to the state’s rapidly growing economy.

In his remarks, Governor Abiodun recalled that the state recently cemented a sister-state agreement with Shandong Province, which has opened doors for new partnerships and investments.

He pledged continued government support to ensure that investors enjoy a seamless experience through streamlined approval processes and efficient issuance of Certificates of Occupancy.

“When the likes of you come here, it validates that we have done all that is needed to attract investors.
Your presence translates to prosperity for our people because you create jobs and increase our Gross Domestic Product,” Governor Abiodun said.

“Thank you for coming to validate that Ogun State remains the industrial capital of Nigeria. We will continue to provide the necessary support and incentives to ensure your smooth operation,” he added.

Governor Abiodun assured the company of his administration’s willingness to facilitate any waivers, tariffs, or reliefs through the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to ease the setup process.

The establishment of Stellar Steel Company Limited further strengthens Ogun State’s position as Nigeria’s leading destination for industrial and manufacturing investments.

The Future Awards Africa Unveils Nominees for 19th Edition, Adds New Categories to Honour More Achievers

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Threads of Legacy: Here are the nominees of The Future Awards Africa 2025

 

The Future Awards Africa (TFAA), the continent’s most prestigious awards platform celebrating young African excellence, is proud to announce the nominees for its highly anticipated 19th edition. This year’s ceremony, themed “Threads of Legacy,” shines the spotlight on the young changemakers whose work today is shaping the fabric of Africa’s tomorrow.

The nominees represent a cross-section of the continent’s brightest minds and boldest talents — creators, tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, advocates, innovators, educators, and leaders who are not just breaking boundaries but weaving enduring legacies. In recognition of the growing diversity of young African achievement, this year’s edition features 25 categories, the most in TFAA history. Arts and Literature have been split into two distinct categories. Performing Arts has been introduced to celebrate dynamic expressions on stage and beyond, and Service to Young People (an honorary category) has been added to honour exceptional individuals championing youth causes across the continent.

Speaking on this year’s nominees, Ayodeji Razaq, Executive Director of The Future Awards Africa (TFAA), said, “The story of Africa’s future is being written today, thread by thread, through the work of these nominees. They are artists, tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, advocates, and innovators whose achievements do more than inspire — they create legacies that others can build on. Each name on this list is proof that young Africans are not waiting for the future to happen; they are actively shaping it. This is what The Future Awards Africa exists to celebrate. We are honoured to spotlight their stories, preserve their contributions as part of Africa’s collective memory, and excited for the mark they will leave on generations to come.”

This year’s list of nominees includes notable names such as Rasheedat Ajibade, Fola David, Akinyemi Oluwaseun Omotayo(Asherkine), Victor Ugo, Poco Lee, Gbubemi Ejeye, Tomike Adeoye, Kelvin Umechukwu, Hauwa Shaffii Nuhu, and Dongio Casil (Djec fashion)from Cameroon, each representing the spirit of youth-led impact that defines TFAA.

Here is the full list of nominees:

CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION

1.     Chiamaka Iwenofu

2.     Umearigolu Casmir Chukwuebuka (ianumeh)

3.     Taiwo Abisoye Joel

4.     Daniel Obasi (AMAH Studios)

5.     Julie C. Godwin

PHOTOGRAPHY

1.     Ayo makinwa

2.     Amazing Klef

3.     Emeka Amafor

4.     Thompson Ekong

5.     Chika Onuu

EDUCATION

1.     Adeola (Della) Abayomi

2.     John Onuigbo

3.     Chioma Ukpabi

4.     Abigael Anaza-Mark

5.     Afeez iyiola

JOURNALISM

1.     Blessings Mosugu (News Central Television)

2.     Muhammad Ibrahim (Halal Reporters)

3.     Yousra Elbagir

4.     Madina Dahiru Maishanu

5.     Emmanuel Onwuka

CONTENT CREATION

1.     Mariam Apaokagi (Taooma)

2.     Dezny (Destiny Ogie Osarewinda)

3.     Nasboi (Lawal Nasiru Bolaji)

4.     Shankscomics

5.     Steven Ndukwu

6.     Folagade Banks (Mama Deola)

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

1.     Victor Ugo (MANI)

2.     Kieva Chris-Amusan (Fertitude)

3.     Kemi Olakunle (HealthVest (formerly Health4Moni)

4.     Imodoye Abioro: (CEO of Healthbotics)

5.     Lola Aderemi (Co-Founder of Pharmarun)

COMMUNITY ACTION

1.     Fatima Mohammed Habib

2.     Aderinsola Akinwumi

3.     Akinyemi Oluwaseun Omotayo (Asherkine)

4.     Hammed Kayode Alabi

5.     Grace Oyemade

ARTS

1.     Uzo Njoku

2.     Ahmed Alsagheer

3.     Haneefah Adam

4.     Samson Bakare

5.     Ayobola Kekere-Ekun

LITERATURE

1.     Adedayo Agarau

2.     Hauwa Shaffii Nuhu

3.     Troy Onyango (Kenya)

4.     Chioma Rosemary

5.     Chukwuebuka Ibeh

ACTIVISM AND ADVOCACY

1.     Claire Benson Idoko    (Nedeevah Aid Foundation)

2.     Damilola Osuolale       (KIDNEY HEALTH EMPOWERMENT FOUNDATION)

3.     Solomon Ayodele        (Boys Quarters Africa)

4.     Aisha Hamman            (Lift Africa Foundation)

5.     Ufuoma Nnamdi Udeh

FASHION

1.     Richmond Barnes (Will and Barnes Group)

2.     Elyon Adede (Elexiay)

3.     Dongio Casil (Djec fashion) (Cameroon)

4.     Makililo Nelson (Maklinscout)

5.     Mohammed Abbas Ossu (Abbaswoman)

LAW

1.     Markanthony Ezeoha

2.     Annie Oti

3.     Mina Obeten

4.     Bernice Asein

5.     Ogenetega Adedipe

FILM

1.     Femi Dapson

2.     Oluwadamilola Apampa (Dammy Twitch)

3.     Ella Chikezie

4.     Adedapo Adedeji (DapoKing)

5.     Niyi Fagbemi.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

1.     Tomiwa Aghedo

2.     David Onilude

3.     Muyiwa Babarinde

4.     Bode Roberts

5.     Oreoluwa Agunbiade

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

1.     Dr. Bukola Jaiyeola

2.     RJ Musah

3.     Fatima Babakura

4.     Ogechukwu Obah

5.     Tomike Adeoye

TECHNOLOGY

1.     Kieva Chris-Amusan (Fertitude)

2.     Oluwatobi Oseni (Payshiga Technologies)

3.     Christiana Onoja (Founder Shecode.ai)

4.     Toluwanimi Adegbite (Founder Cirvee)

5.     Kelvin Umechukwu (Bumpa)

PERFORMING ARTS

1.     SHEILAH GASHUMBA (GASHUMBA, DJ) (Uganda)

2.     Babatunde Kasumu (Babs Cardini, Magician)

3.     Daniella Peters (Spoken Word Artist)

4.     Big Bimi

5.     Iweh Pascal Odinaka (Poco Lee)

INTRAPRENEURSHIP

1.     Samuel Frank (Sahara Impact Ventures)

2.     Abiodun Ayobami (Finxpire Digital Network Ltd)

3.     Hakeem Akiode (Youverify)

4.     Elizabeth Abati (Google)

5.     Solomon Ayodele (Wema Bank)

ON AIR PERSONALITY

1.     Adaeze Aduaka

2.     Jay on air

3.     Azeezah Hashim (Kenya)

4.     Daniel Adaaja

5.     Riyah Abdul (Ghana)

AGRICULTURE

1.     Basirat Abdullahi,( Founder, Happy Birds)

2.     Ajoke Amusat (The grocery lady)

3.     Baliqees Salaudeen (Green Republic Limited)

4.     Adetiloye Aiyeola (Produce Export Development Alliance)

5.     Owoyemi Olasunkanmi

GOVERNANCE

1.     Otobong Obo

2.     Nafisat Buge

3.     Muhammed Kadade Sulieman

4.     Daniel OTABOR

5.     Abdulhaleem Ringim

MUSIC

1.     Okeowo Oladotun Alani, DOTTi

2.     Ayo Maff

3.     Folarin Odunlami (FOLA)

4.     Oluwafisayo Isa (Darkoo)

5.     Nasboi

SPORT

1.     Chijioke Mbaoma (Enyimba)

2.     Sodiq Ismail (Remo Stars)

3.     Ola Aina (Nott’m Forest)

4.     Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC)

5.     Rasheedat Ajibade

ACTING

1.     Gbubemi Ejeye

2.     Teniola Aladese

3.     Debo Adedayo (Mrmacaroni)

4.     Mike Afolarin

5.     Tomi Ojo

SERVICE TO YOUNG PEOPLE (Honorary)

1. Ali Baba

YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR

1.     Fola David

2.     Tolulope Makinwa

3.     Alma Asinobi

4.     Kemi Olakunle (Health Vest)

5.     Ayelabola Ololade

6.     Hammed Kayode Alabi

7.     Olaolu Akeredolu-Ale (Olaolu Slawn)

The awards will be judged by a distinguished panel of leaders and visionaries who have left indelible marks on their fields, ensuring a rigorous and transparent selection process that reflects the excellence of the nominees. TFAA 19th edition promises to be a celebration of innovation, courage, and legacy; a reminder that the future is here, now, and African.

For press enquiries or further details, please contact: info@thefutureafrica.com.

Odunlade Adekola Returns with Star-Studded Epic Olori Ogun (Warlord)

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Odunlade Adekola Returns with Star-Studded Epic Olori Ogun (Warlord) — Set for Cinema Release November 28

Nollywood powerhouse Odunlade Adekola is set to captivate audiences once again with his latest blockbuster epic, Olori Ogun (Warlord) — a film that promises an unforgettable blend of royalty, power, and drama.

Unveiled during the FilmOne Film Exhibition Showcase 2025, the trailer for Olori Ogun left industry insiders and guests in awe, described as a rich and cinematic experience that reaffirms Adekola’s creative brilliance and commitment to top-tier storytelling.

What makes this project even more unique is its four-director collaboration — a rare feat in Nollywood. The film was co-directed by Abbey Lanre, Adebayo Tijani, Tope Adebayo, and Odunlade Adekola himself, each bringing a distinct artistic vision that contributes to the movie’s grandeur and depth.

Set against a backdrop of tradition, valor, and conflict, Olori Ogun (Warlord) explores themes of leadership, sacrifice, and destiny, presented through breathtaking cinematography and powerful performances.

“This film is a celebration of culture and courage — an epic story that reflects the strength of our people,” said Odunlade Adekola. “We wanted to create something larger than life, something that stays with audiences long after the credits roll.”

The movie features an impressive cast of Nollywood veterans and rising stars, each adding authenticity and emotional weight to the production.

Scheduled for nationwide release on November 28, 2025, Olori Ogun (Warlord) will debut exclusively at Silverbird Cinemas, where fans can immerse themselves in one of the most ambitious epic dramas of the year.

Audiences are already gearing up for a cinematic spectacle filled with battles, intrigue, and royal drama — proof that Nollywood continues to raise the bar in epic storytelling.

🎬 #OloriOgun #SilverbirdCinemas #ComingSoon #NollywoodRoyalty #EpicMovie #NovemberPremiere #CinemaVibes #MeetTheCast #WatchWithUs #NigerianFilmMagic

Creativity Not Enough to Build a Career in Film Industry – Filmmaker Laju Iren

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Nigerian filmmaker and storyteller, Laju Iren, has emphasized that creativity alone is not sufficient to build a successful and sustainable career in the film industry. She made this known while speaking on the realities of filmmaking in Nigeria, stressing that aspiring filmmakers must combine talent with strong business sense, discipline, and continuous learning.

According to Iren, many young creatives often assume that passion and artistic vision are all it takes to succeed in the industry. However, she pointed out that the film business demands more — including strategic planning, networking, marketing skills, and a clear understanding of audience preferences.

“Creativity is important, but it’s only one part of the puzzle,” she explained. “Filmmaking is not just about telling stories — it’s also about managing budgets, leading teams, promoting your work, and understanding the market. You need to treat your creativity like a business if you want longevity.”

Iren, who is known for her inspirational films and storytelling workshops, advised upcoming filmmakers to invest in professional development and stay open to collaboration. She noted that the evolving digital landscape has created more opportunities for storytellers, but also raised the level of competition.

“The world is watching African stories now, and that’s exciting,” she said. “But it also means we must raise our standards. You can’t rely solely on raw talent — you must refine it, learn the craft, and understand the business side of things.”

Laju Iren’s remarks reflect a growing conversation within Nollywood about the need for professionalism, financial literacy, and sustainability in the creative industry. As streaming platforms and international collaborations expand the reach of Nigerian films, her message serves as a timely reminder that passion must go hand in hand with purpose and planning.

Boma Akpore and Wale Ojo Unveil Teaser for “This Is Not A Nollywood Movie” at FilmOne Showcase

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One of the biggest highlights at the FilmOne Film Showcase Exhibition 2025 was the unveiling of the teaser for “This Is Not A Nollywood Movie,” an upcoming action-comedy film produced by Boma Akpore and directed by Wale Ojo.

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Described as a “mad and zany” cinematic experience, the film promises a refreshing blend of veteran Nollywood legends and Gen Z stars, merging the old and new generations of the Nigerian film industry in one entertaining production.

Speaking at the event, Wale Ojo, the film’s director and one of its lead actors, expressed excitement about the project, describing it as a unique experiment that bridges eras of Nigerian cinema.

“The only way I can describe this mad and zany action comedy is that we have gone to great lengths to put together the OGs of Nollywood — Hank Anuku, Julius Agwu, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Chidi Mokeme, and Bimbo Akintola — with the Gen Zs of the new Nollywood to create an enriching and madly funny film,” Ojo said.

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He also revealed that behind-the-scenes clips, photos, and exclusive videos will be released in the coming weeks to build anticipation ahead of its nationwide cinema debut.

“This Is Not A Nollywood Movie” features an impressive cast lineup that includes Boma Akpore, Broda Shaggi, Olumide Oworu, Hank Anuku, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Bimbo Akintola, Julius Agwu, Chidi Mokeme, Michael Sunny B, Shatta Bandle, and Ify Onyeka.

The much-anticipated film is slated for nationwide theatrical release on December 5, 2025, and is expected to deliver a bold mix of humor, nostalgia, and social commentary — a testament to the evolving creativity of Nollywood’s new era.

“It’s an understatement to say you don’t want to miss it,” Ojo added enthusiastically.

FG Spent ₦12.36 Trillion on Debt Servicing in 2024 — 52.7% Above Budget Allocation

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The Federal Government of Nigeria spent a total of ₦12.36 trillion on debt servicing in 2024, marking a 52.7% increase above the initially approved allocation of ₦8.27 trillion, according to the Budget Office’s Fourth Quarter Report.

The expenditure accounted for 35.26% of the total ₦35.05 trillion national budget, underscoring the growing pressure of debt obligations on the country’s fiscal sustainability.

The report also revealed that Nigeria’s total public debt-to-GDP ratio climbed to 61.22% by the end of 2024 — a figure that exceeds both domestic and international prudential limits. This rise reflects the combined impact of increased borrowing and a weakening revenue base.

According to the Budget Office, the Federal Government recorded a fiscal deficit of ₦13.51 trillion during the year, driven primarily by higher debt service costs, elevated recurrent expenditure, and underperformance in oil revenue.

Analysts say the figures highlight Nigeria’s deepening fiscal challenges, as debt servicing continues to consume a significant portion of national resources, leaving limited fiscal space for infrastructure and social investments.

Nigeria’s growing debt burden has been a key concern for policymakers and economists, who warn that without stronger revenue mobilization and better expenditure management, the country risks facing mounting fiscal vulnerabilities in the years ahead.

Lagos Government Warns of Revocation of Housing Allocations Over Non-Compliance

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The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to enforcing compliance within its housing estates, warning that it will revoke allocations of allottees who fail to adhere to the rules and regulations guiding government-owned estates across the state.

The measure, according to the government, is aimed at promoting the well-being of residents and ensuring that the infrastructure and facilities within the estates are properly maintained.

The warning was issued by the Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, during the monthly stakeholders’ forum and public enlightenment meeting organized for residents of state government housing estates in the Epe Division. The event was held at the Sir Michael Otedola Housing Estate, Epe.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing, Engr. Abdulhafiz Toriola, Akinderu-Fatai stressed the importance of strict compliance with the operational guidelines of the estates. He particularly highlighted the payment of facility maintenance fees and insurance premiums as non-negotiable obligations for all allottees.

“It is crucial that residents and homeowners fulfill their responsibilities by adhering to the rules set to sustain the standards, aesthetics, and structural integrity of our housing estates,” Akinderu-Fatai stated.

He explained that the government’s housing projects are designed not just to provide shelter, but to create well-planned communities with functional infrastructure that must be preserved through collective responsibility.

The commissioner also reaffirmed the state’s zero-tolerance stance on the misuse or neglect of public assets, warning that the Ministry of Housing will not hesitate to revoke allocations from defaulters who disregard the established guidelines.

The stakeholders’ forum provided an avenue for residents to engage with government officials on challenges facing their estates, including maintenance, security, and service delivery.

Akinderu-Fatai urged residents to continue supporting the government’s vision of sustainable housing development through responsible ownership and community cooperation.

FCMB Group Unveils ₦160 Billion Public Offer to Meet CBN’s Recapitalisation Requirement

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First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Group Plc has announced details of its planned ₦160 billion public offer at the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) as part of its ongoing efforts to meet the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) new minimum capital requirement of ₦500 billion for international commercial banks.

The move is a major step in the bank’s recapitalisation strategy, designed to strengthen its financial position, enhance resilience, and sustain long-term growth amid Nigeria’s evolving banking reforms.

Speaking during the announcement, Group Chief Executive Officer, Ladi Balogun, said the public offer reflects the Group’s commitment to maintaining a strong capital base and improving shareholder returns.

“This public offer is a critical step in reinforcing FCMB’s capital adequacy and positioning the Group to continue delivering sustainable value to our customers, shareholders, and stakeholders,” Balogun stated.

He noted that FCMB has raised approximately $863 million through the Nigerian capital market over the years, largely supported by domestic investors, which underscores confidence in the bank’s performance and growth prospects.

The planned ₦160 billion offer will provide the institution with additional funding to support expansion, digital transformation, and customer-focused initiatives, while ensuring full compliance with the CBN’s recapitalisation directive announced earlier in 2024.

Balogun added that the Group’s strong corporate governance, diversified business model, and consistent earnings performance give it a solid foundation for the next phase of growth.

With this development, FCMB joins other major financial institutions in the Nigerian banking sector embarking on large-scale capital raising exercises to meet the CBN’s recapitalisation threshold before the 2026 deadline — a policy aimed at strengthening the resilience and global competitiveness of Nigerian banks.

NNPCL Posts ₦4.27 Trillion Revenue, ₦216 Billion Profit in September 2025

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced a total revenue of ₦4.269 trillion for September 2025, along with a profit after tax (PAT) of ₦216 billion, reflecting the company’s strengthened financial performance and operational efficiency during the period.

According to the company’s latest financial and operational report, NNPCL also remitted ₦10.073 trillion to the Federation Account between January and August 2025, further underlining its crucial role in sustaining government revenue and national economic stability.

The report attributed the strong financial showing to improved crude oil production, enhanced refining operations, and increased gas sales, as well as strategic cost management and investment in value-driven projects.

In a related development, NNPCL confirmed that work on the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline Project has reached 88% completion, marking a major milestone in Nigeria’s gas infrastructure expansion agenda.

The AKK Gas Pipeline, one of the country’s most significant energy projects, is designed to transport natural gas from the southern region to central and northern Nigeria, supporting industrial growth, power generation, and economic diversification.

NNPCL emphasized that the near-completion of the AKK project aligns with the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas initiative, aimed at positioning natural gas as a key driver of national development and cleaner energy transition.

“The AKK Gas Pipeline is central to our commitment to expanding gas utilization across Nigeria,” the company stated. “At 88% completion, we are closer than ever to achieving a major leap in domestic gas infrastructure that will power industries and improve livelihoods.”

The company reaffirmed its dedication to transparency, operational efficiency, and value creation for Nigerians, adding that ongoing reforms and strategic partnerships will further enhance profitability and long-term growth in the coming quarters.