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Olivia Yacé Steps Down as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania Days After Bangkok Coronation

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Olivia Yacé Steps Down as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania Days After Bangkok Coronation

Olivia Yacé, who represented Côte d’Ivoire at Miss Universe 2025 and was recently named Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, has announced her resignation from the continental title only days after the coronation held in Bangkok.

Olivia Yacé Steps Down as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania Days After Bangkok Coronation

Her decision was disclosed in an official statement in which she explained that the choice was rooted in personal principles she considers essential to her public life and professional conduct. She cited respect, dignity, excellence and equal opportunity as values she intends to protect as she plans her next steps.

Yacé’s withdrawal marks an unexpected development in the aftermath of the global pageant, where she had been celebrated as one of the leading finalists. Her statement did not outline further details regarding the circumstances surrounding her departure, but it made clear that the decision was deliberate and aligned with her long-standing commitments.

Pageant officials in Côte d’Ivoire are expected to release additional guidance on the transition process and the implications for regional representation within the Miss Universe organisation.

Ogun State Moves to Prosecute DJ Chicken Over Multiple Road Accidents

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Ogun State Moves to Prosecute DJ Chicken Over Multiple Road Accidents

Ogun State, Nigeria – 24 November 2025 — The Ogun State Ministry of Justice has announced that it is fast-tracking legal action against Ademola Abiodun, popularly known as DJ Chicken, following a series of road traffic incidents that have raised public safety concerns.

The move comes after multiple crashes involving Mr. Abiodun, including a serious accident on 1 November 2025 in Sagamu, Ogun State. On that day, Mr. Abiodun collided with two motorcycles, leaving a rider and a female passenger with significant injuries. Reports indicate that he attempted to leave the scene without rendering assistance, prompting passersby to intervene until law enforcement arrived. The Ogun State Police Command launched an investigation, ensuring that medical care and privacy for the victims were prioritized.

Concerns escalated on 23 November 2025, when Mr. Abiodun was involved in another vehicle crash in Lekki, Lagos State. Although no injuries were reported, the lone-car incident narrowly missed pedestrians, who only avoided harm due to quick reflexes. Authorities note that this marks at least the third documented accident involving Mr. Abiodun in the last two months. Video footage of at least two of the crashes has circulated widely, showing the reckless nature of his driving.

In a statement, the Ministry emphasized that while civil remedies such as compensation for accident victims are possible, some road users present such a clear danger to public safety that criminal intervention is necessary. “Mr. Abiodun’s repeated disregard for road safety, including returning to the wheel only three weeks after a serious crash, makes it imperative for the State to act to protect the public,” the statement read.

Accordingly, the Attorney-General and Honourable Commissioner for Justice, Oluwasina Ogungbade, SAN, has directed that relevant officers expedite proceedings on the pending Sagamu crash case for prompt arraignment. The Office of the Attorney-General is coordinating closely with the Ogun State Police Command to ensure swift and thorough legal action.

The State Ministry of Justice reaffirmed its commitment to public safety, warning that reckless driving will not be tolerated and that individuals who endanger lives on the roads will be held fully accountable under the law.

 

Reggae Legend Jimmy Cliff Dies at 81 After Battle with Pneumonia and Seizure

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Reggae Legend Jimmy Cliff Dies at 81 After Battle with Pneumonia and Seizure

Iconic Jamaican Singer and Global Ambassador of Reggae Leaves Behind a Lasting Musical Legacy

Kingston, Jamaica – 24 November 2025 — Jimmy Cliff, the iconic Jamaican singer, songwriter, and global ambassador of reggae music, has passed away at the age of 81. His death was confirmed by his wife, Latifa Chambers, in a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday.

Cliff, whose career spanned over six decades, played a pivotal role in popularizing reggae worldwide and influencing generations of musicians. According to Chambers, he suffered a seizure related to a prolonged battle with pneumonia, a serious lung infection that had affected his health in recent months.

In her statement, Chambers expressed deep gratitude to friends, fans, and the medical team who supported Cliff throughout his career. She described their encouragement as a source of strength for the legendary musician and a comfort to her and their children during this “difficult process.”

Jimmy Cliff’s legacy is defined by timeless hits such as “The Harder They Come,” “Many Rivers to Cross,” and “You Can Get It If You Really Want.” Beyond his musical achievements, he was a cultural icon who used his platform to advocate for social change and bring Jamaican music to global audiences.

The music world mourns the loss of a trailblazer whose voice and spirit transcended borders, leaving an indelible mark on reggae and world music. Memorial arrangements are yet to be announced.

 

Walmart Opens Its First Fully Branded Store in South Africa at Clearwater Mall

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Walmart Opens Its First Fully Branded Store in South Africa at Clearwater Mall

Clearwater, South Africa – Global retail giant Walmart has officially opened its first fully branded store in South Africa today, marking a significant milestone in its expansion across the African continent. The store, located at Clearwater Mall, offers South African shoppers direct access to a wide range of Walmart products, including groceries, household items, and other everyday essentials, all under one roof.

The launch has generated considerable interest, with crowds of shoppers gathering to explore the store and experience the global retailer’s offerings firsthand. This expansion signals Walmart’s commitment to strengthening its presence in South Africa and providing consumers with greater choice and convenience.

Industry analysts note that Walmart’s entry into the South African market comes at a time when retail competition is intensifying, with both local and international players seeking to capture consumer spending. The Clearwater Mall location, strategically situated to attract significant foot traffic, is expected to play a pivotal role in establishing Walmart’s brand in the country.

Walmart’s expansion into South Africa reflects its broader strategy to grow in key emerging markets across Africa, where consumer demand for quality products at competitive prices continues to rise. Shoppers visiting the new store can expect a familiar Walmart experience, characterized by a wide product range, competitive pricing, and a focus on convenience.

The opening of the Clearwater Mall store underscores the retailer’s long-term ambitions on the continent, with further store rollouts likely as Walmart seeks to cement its position in the South African retail landscape.

The Herd: Banditry, Kidnapping, and the Business of Crime in Nigeria

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The Herd: Banditry, Kidnapping, and the Business of Crime in Nigeria

Watching The Herd reveals chilling insights into the evolution of crime in Nigeria. What might at first seem like random acts of violence is, on closer examination, a structured, strategic business.

A key moment in the film underscores this shift. Sheikh, the gang’s master, becomes enraged when his men conduct a kidnapping without informing him. They defend themselves, saying it did not occur in his territory. This seemingly small exchange illustrates a rigid territorial hierarchy and a deliberate expansion strategy.

The narrative follows Halil, a former trainee under Sheikh who is forced to leave and establish his own gang. This mirrors reality: criminal networks are no longer static; they train members, create splinter groups, and systematically expand into new territories. This explains the alarming increase in kidnappings in regions previously untouched by banditry, including the South.

The film portrays these criminals as strategic, business-minded operators, not merely violent actors. They train recruits, allow them to gain experience, and eventually let them branch out to form independent gangs. Each new group becomes a node in an expanding network, constantly seeking new opportunities and territory.

Even within gangs, there is hierarchy, rules, and control. Sheikh’s displeasure at off-territory kidnappings signals internal governance and strategic oversight, highlighting that these organizations operate much like corporate entities—setting rules, monitoring operations, and enforcing discipline.

The Herd serves as a stark reminder that the criminal landscape in Nigeria is evolving, with organized, adaptable networks steadily expanding and fragmenting into smaller, autonomous groups. This is a reality often overlooked, but one that explains why kidnapping and banditry are no longer confined to the North.

The film’s portrayal is both timely and sobering, reflecting the urgent need for strategic intervention and comprehensive solutions.

May God help Nigeria.

 

Written By Adesina Kasali

 

EU Raises Concern Over Africa’s Underfunded Renewable Energy Potential

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EU Raises Concern Over Africa’s Underfunded Renewable Energy Potential

The European Union has drawn attention to the gap between Africa’s considerable renewable energy resources and the modest level of investment directed toward them. According to the EU, the continent holds an estimated 60 percent of the world’s highest-quality solar resources, yet receives only about 2 percent of global energy investment. The disparity reflects long-standing structural and financial barriers that continue to limit the pace of clean-energy development.

Although Africa’s solar capacity is among the strongest anywhere in the world, the sector faces a combination of high capital costs, restricted access to financing, geographic hurdles, and persistent supply chain difficulties. These constraints have slowed the deployment of renewable projects at a time when demand for energy continues to rise.

In a recent statement, the EU noted that Africa’s solar potential represents a significant opportunity for both domestic growth and global climate targets. However, the continent’s ability to harness this potential depends on sustained investment and the removal of barriers that keep project costs high and scale limited.

The challenge is underscored by the current reality: an estimated 600 million people across Africa live without electricity. With the continent’s population projected to double by 2050, the need for reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy has become central to economic planning. For many countries, expanding access to power is not only a development priority but also a crucial part of meeting international climate commitments.

The EU’s assessment adds to a growing call for a more coordinated effort between African governments, global partners, and private investors. The region’s renewable capacity is widely recognised. The question now is whether the investment required to unlock it can grow at the pace the future demands.‏

NDLEA Intercepts Cocaine Hidden in Auto Parts at Lagos Airport

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NDLEA Intercepts Cocaine Hidden in Auto Parts at Lagos Airport

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has intercepted a shipment of cocaine concealed in automobile parts at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, leading to the arrest of a freight agent and an auto parts dealer.

According to a statement issued by Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy, NDLEA officers discovered the drugs inside a brake servo component. The package contained 48 pellets and a block of cocaine with a combined weight of 2.30 kilograms. The consignment, packed alongside other auto parts, was scheduled for export to Gabon.

The freight agent, Ameh Solomon, who presented the shipment for processing, was taken into custody on the spot. A follow-up operation at the ASMPDA market in the Trade Fair Complex, Ojo, resulted in the arrest of an auto parts dealer, Nwafor Tochukwu Boniface.

The agency describes the seizure as part of its ongoing effort to disrupt trafficking networks that use commercial shipments and airport cargo channels to move illicit substances across West and Central Africa.

Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs Adopts Paperless Operations Through 1Gov ECMS

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Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs Adopts Paperless Operations Through 1Gov ECMS

The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction has migrated fully to the 1Government Cloud Enterprise Content Management System, a development officials describe as a key step in Nigeria’s move toward digitised public service under the Nigeria First Policy. The activation took place at the ministry’s headquarters in the Federal Secretariat, Abuja.

At the launch, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Bernard Doro, said the transition reflects the administration’s wider plan to modernise government institutions. He noted that digital workflows will help reduce inefficiencies, improve service delivery, and make the ministry more responsive to citizens who depend on its programmes. According to him, the shift aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda and its emphasis on the responsible use of technology across the public sector.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Didi Esther Walson-Jack, described the adoption of the 1Gov ECMS as a major turning point. She explained that the platform supports automated processes, improves collaboration, and reduces the heavy reliance on paper that has long slowed government operations. She added that nineteen ministries already on the system will no longer accept paper-based correspondences, encouraging other MDAs to follow suit.

Walson-Jack also commended Galaxy Backbone Limited for providing the digital infrastructure that supports the platform. She noted that the shift to a paperless environment will strengthen efficiency across government and place Nigeria on a firmer path toward modern administrative practice.

The adoption of the 1Gov ECMS marks an important moment for a ministry whose mandate centres on assisting vulnerable citizens. It signals a broader push to streamline public service and introduce tools that can support faster, more transparent, and more accessible governance.

Across the Nation: Energy, Innovation, and Governance in Focus

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Across the Nation: Energy, Innovation, and Governance in Focus

Africa’s Solar Paradox

The European Union has spotlighted a stark contrast between Africa’s vast renewable energy potential and the level of investment it attracts. With 60% of the world’s prime solar resources, the continent draws only 2% of global energy investment. Barriers such as high capital costs, limited funding, geographic challenges, and supply chain bottlenecks continue to impede progress.

Currently, 600 million Africans lack electricity, a gap that looms even larger as the population is projected to double by 2050. Ensuring affordable, sustainable energy is increasingly urgent—not just for economic growth, but for meeting global climate targets.

NDLEA Cracks Cocaine Ring at Lagos Airport

In Lagos, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) intercepted 2.30 kilograms of cocaine cleverly concealed within automobile parts at Murtala Muhammed International Airport. A freight agent and an auto parts dealer were arrested following the seizure, which uncovered 48 cocaine pellets intended for export to Gabon. NDLEA emphasized the operation as part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on drug trafficking through Nigeria’s transport corridors.

Crayfish Prices Surge Amid Market Pressures

Household staples are feeling the pinch as crayfish prices in Lagos continue their upward climb. Traders predict a paint bucket of crayfish could cost between N15,000 and N20,000 by December if current trends persist. Fuel hikes, transportation costs, poor roads, and seasonal shortages are squeezing margins and reducing consumer access to this essential ingredient, highlighting broader challenges in Nigeria’s food supply chain.

Digital Leap for Humanitarian Services

The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction has gone live on the 1Government Cloud Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS), marking a pivotal step toward paperless governance under the Nigeria First Policy. Minister Dr Bernard Doro described the initiative as aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing efficiency, responsiveness, and transparency. Head of the Civil Service, Dr Didi Esther Walson-Jack, hailed the adoption as a milestone, noting that 19 ministries already using the system will no longer accept paper-based correspondence.

Global Fashion Moves: Ralph Lauren Acquires South Africa’s Polo

In corporate news, the Ralph Lauren Corporation has completed the acquisition of South Africa’s Polo brand, resolving longstanding trademark disputes. The integration promises to position the local label within the global luxury market while preserving jobs.

Atiku Abubakar Warns on TSA Appointment

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed concern over the appointment of Xpress Payments Solutions Limited as a new collecting agent under the Treasury Single Account (TSA). He described the move as a “dangerous revival” of monopolistic revenue structures, warning that it risks turning Nigeria into a “private holding company” controlled by vested interests. Atiku criticized the timing and secrecy of the decision, calling it “state capture masquerading as digital innovation.”

 

Monetary Policy in Focus: Markets Await CBN MPC Decision

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Monetary Policy in Focus: Markets Await CBN MPC Decision

Nigeria’s Central Bank Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is set to meet on Monday, 24th, and Tuesday, 25th November 2025, as economists and market participants watch closely for signs of a shift in the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR).

At its previous meeting in September, the MPC cut the MPR by 50 basis points to 27%, marking the first reduction of the year. The decision was guided by improving macroeconomic fundamentals: stronger output growth, stable exchange rates, a rebound in external reserves, and inflation easing to its lowest level in five months.

Despite these positive indicators, the market remains divided on the Committee’s next move. Some analysts expect a further 25–50 basis point cut, citing continued deceleration in inflation, improved foreign exchange liquidity, and a need to stimulate credit growth. Others anticipate the MPC will hold at 27%, choosing to assess the impact of the September adjustments before any additional changes.

With Nigeria’s economy showing signs of stabilisation yet facing persistent credit constraints, the upcoming MPC meeting is widely regarded as a key moment for monetary policy direction and investor confidence heading into the final weeks of 2025.

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