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From Harare to History: Tafadzwa Mandiwanza Becomes Ireland’s First Female Paediatric Neurosurgeon

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From the bustling streets of Harare, Zimbabwe, to the cutting-edge surgical theatres of Ireland, Dr. Tafadzwa Mandiwanza’s journey is a story of resilience, brilliance, and groundbreaking achievement. Her rise to become Ireland’s first female paediatric neurosurgeon is not just a personal milestone — it is an inspiration to women and girls across continents who dare to dream beyond limits.

Born and raised in Zimbabwe’s capital, Mandiwanza’s ambition was shaped early by her mother, a dedicated nurse whose compassion and strength deeply influenced her. Watching her mother care for patients with quiet dignity instilled in young Tafadzwa a deep desire to make a difference through medicine.

“My mother showed me that healing goes beyond medicine — it’s about empathy, patience, and courage,” she has said in past interviews.

At just 19 years old, she left her homeland for Ireland, carrying little more than determination and a dream. She enrolled at University College Cork (UCC), where her academic excellence and discipline set her apart. After completing her medical degree, she continued her specialist training in Dublin and Cork, navigating one of medicine’s most demanding disciplines — neurosurgery — with unwavering focus.

Her talent and dedication earned her a prestigious fellowship at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, one of the world’s foremost centers for paediatric neurosurgery. There, she honed her expertise in treating complex neurological conditions in children, mastering delicate surgical techniques that save and transform young lives.

Returning to Ireland, Dr. Mandiwanza shattered a glass ceiling that had stood unbroken for generations, becoming the first woman ever appointed as a paediatric neurosurgeon in the country’s history. Her appointment not only marks a historic achievement in Irish medicine but also highlights the growing diversity and global influence of African-born professionals contributing to healthcare innovation worldwide.

Colleagues describe her as calm under pressure, deeply empathetic with patients, and fiercely committed to excellence. Her work involves performing intricate brain and spinal surgeries on children — operations that demand precision, compassion, and courage in equal measure.

Beyond the operating room, Dr. Mandiwanza is passionate about mentorship and representation. She frequently advocates for gender equality in medicine, encouraging young women to pursue careers in science and surgery — fields still largely dominated by men.

“There’s nothing extraordinary about being a woman in surgery,” she once remarked. “What’s extraordinary is when you believe you can, and you do.”

Her remarkable journey — from Harare to Cork, from a dream to history — stands as a powerful reminder that talent knows no borders and that determination can defy even the most entrenched barriers.

Today, as Dr. Tafadzwa Mandiwanza continues to heal young patients and inspire future generations, her story resonates far beyond Ireland and Zimbabwe — a testament to how courage, purpose, and compassion can change not only one life but the course of history itself.

Mike Tyson Returns to Kinshasa, Reconnects with Ancestral Roots During 50th Anniversary of ‘Rumble in the Jungle’

In a historic homecoming filled with emotion and pride, boxing legend Mike Tyson returned to Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where he confirmed his ancestral roots trace back to the Central African nation. The visit coincided with the 50th anniversary celebrations of the iconic “Rumble in the Jungle” — the 1974 heavyweight title fight that saw Muhammad Ali triumph over George Foreman, forever etching Kinshasa into global boxing history.

Tyson’s arrival drew widespread excitement, with fans, local officials, and cultural performers turning out to welcome him “home.” The former heavyweight champion was received as a prodigal son, symbolically bridging the past and present of African boxing heritage.

Speaking at a ceremony organized to commemorate the golden jubilee of Ali’s legendary victory, Tyson expressed deep pride in reconnecting with his ancestral homeland.

“To stand here in Kinshasa, where one of boxing’s greatest moments took place, feels like coming full circle,” Tyson said. “This land holds power, history, and pride — and I feel it in my spirit.”

The event — attended by sporting icons, historians, and dignitaries — featured musical performances, traditional dances, and tributes to Muhammad Ali, whose 1974 triumph transcended sport to become a symbol of African resilience and identity.

Organizers of the anniversary celebration said Tyson’s participation added a powerful emotional layer to the occasion, linking generations of boxing greatness. His discovery of Congolese roots, confirmed through genealogical tracing, further deepened the cultural resonance of his visit.

“Mike Tyson’s return is not just about boxing — it’s about heritage, belonging, and the unbreakable connection between Africa and its global sons and daughters,” said Jean-Claude Mbuyi, a member of the DRC Boxing Federation.

Throughout his stay, Tyson visited key historical sites and met with young Congolese athletes, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with discipline and pride.

The “Rumble in the Jungle”, staged in Kinshasa’s Stade du 20 Mai (now Stade des Martyrs) on October 30, 1974, remains one of the most celebrated sporting events in history. Ali’s knockout victory in the eighth round over Foreman not only reclaimed his world heavyweight title but also symbolized a moment of unity and pride for postcolonial Africa.

Fifty years later, Tyson’s return to the same soil — carrying the weight of his own storied career and a rediscovered ancestry — reaffirmed the enduring bond between boxing, Africa, and the spirit of resilience that defines both.

₦419.57 Million Box Office Hit “Ori” Wins “Outstanding Cinematic Achievement” at 2025 FilmOne Exhibitors’ Showcase

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The blockbuster movie ‘Ori’, produced by veteran filmmaker Muyiwa Ademola and direct by Tope Adebayo and Adebayo Tijani has been honoured with the “Outstanding Cinematic Achievement” award at the 2025 FilmOne Exhibitors’ Showcase, a prestigious annual event that celebrates excellence and innovation in Nigerian cinema.

The film, which has grossed an astounding ₦419.57 million at the Nigerian box office, holds the record as the highest-grossing indigenous film of 2025, reaffirming the growing commercial and cultural impact of locally produced, language-driven storytelling in Nollywood.

Presented by FilmOne Entertainment group CEO Kene Okuwosa, the award celebrates Ori for its exceptional storytelling, superior production values, and artistic contribution to the promotion of indigenous-language cinema. The recognition underscores the film’s success in bridging traditional narratives with contemporary cinematic techniques, resonating deeply with both local and international audiences.

Speaking on the achievement, FilmOne praised the film’s creative depth and audience reach, noting that Ori exemplifies the evolving sophistication of Nigerian filmmaking and the rising global appeal of homegrown stories.

“Ori represents the power of authentic storytelling and the strength of indigenous cinema,” FilmOne stated. “Its success reinforces our commitment to celebrating the filmmakers who continue to shape the identity of Nigerian cinema.”

For producer Muyiwa Ademola, the honour marks another high point in a career defined by creative excellence and cultural advocacy. Known for his consistent dedication to Yoruba-language film production, Ademola has long been regarded as one of Nollywood’s most respected creative forces.

“This award is a testament to the enduring relevance of our culture and the passion of everyone who worked on Ori,” Ademola said. “I’m deeply grateful to the fans who made this film a success and to the industry for recognizing the value of our stories.”

The recognition also highlights FilmOne Entertainment’s ongoing efforts to amplify indigenous filmmakers and diversify Nigeria’s cinematic landscape, ensuring that regional languages and cultural identities continue to thrive on the big screen.

With its record-breaking box office performance and critical acclaim, ‘Ori’ stands as a landmark achievement for Nollywood — a reminder that Nigerian audiences are increasingly embracing films that reflect their languages, heritage, and shared experiences.

EFCC Recovered ₦500 Billion, Secured 7,000 Convictions Under My Watch — President Tinubu

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has disclosed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has recovered more than ₦500 billion and secured over 7,000 convictions within the first two years of his administration, underscoring what he described as a renewed commitment to accountability and transparency in governance.

The President made the revelation during his keynote address at the 7th EFCC-NJI Capacity Building Workshop for Justices and Judges, held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the National Judicial Institute (NJI) in Abuja. The event, themed “Enhancing Justice in the Fight Against Economic and Financial Crimes,” brought together key figures in the judiciary and anti-corruption institutions to deliberate on strengthening Nigeria’s justice system.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu commended the EFCC under the leadership of its Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, for what he called “remarkable strides in asset recovery and conviction efficiency.”

“As an administration, we have prioritized public accountability by strengthening anti-corruption agencies and granting them the independence needed to carry out their statutory duties,” Tinubu said. “This enabling environment is reflected in the results we have seen — with the EFCC securing over 7,000 convictions and recovering assets worth more than ₦500 billion.”

The President further noted that proceeds from recovered assets have been reinvested into critical national programs, including the Students’ Loan Scheme and the Consumer Credit Initiative, which are designed to expand access to education and financial inclusion for Nigerians.

Tinubu emphasized that his government remains resolute in ensuring the independence of anti-corruption institutions, noting that the EFCC’s achievements are proof of what can be accomplished when political interference is minimized and due process is upheld.

“Our fight against economic and financial crimes is not just about punishment; it is about building a culture of integrity, justice, and accountability,” he added. “We will continue to support the EFCC and other anti-graft agencies to ensure that public trust in government institutions is fully restored.”

EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, in his remarks, reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to intensifying the war against corruption, money laundering, and financial crimes. He also called for continued judicial collaboration to ensure timely and fair adjudication of corruption cases.

The workshop, jointly organized by the EFCC and the National Judicial Institute (NJI), is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the judicial arm in handling economic crimes and promote greater synergy between the bench and anti-corruption bodies in Nigeria’s broader quest for transparency and good governance.

President Tinubu Urges Judiciary to Embrace Crypto Literacy in Fight Against Financial Crimes

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on members of the Nigerian judiciary to enhance their understanding of cryptocurrencies and emerging digital financial technologies, emphasizing that such knowledge is now essential in effectively combating modern economic and financial crimes.

The President made the remarks while delivering his keynote address at the 7th EFCC-NJI Capacity Building Workshop for Justices and Judges, held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the National Judicial Institute (NJI) in Abuja. The event, themed “Enhancing Justice in the Fight Against Economic and Financial Crimes,” was organized by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in collaboration with the NJI.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu said the rapid evolution of technology and the growing use of digital currencies have created new opportunities for both innovation and illicit financial activities. He stressed that the judiciary must stay informed and adaptable to ensure that justice delivery keeps pace with global financial realities.

“The world of finance is changing rapidly, and so are the methods used to commit economic crimes,” Tinubu stated. “Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology have redefined global transactions, and we must equip our judiciary with the knowledge and tools necessary to understand and adjudicate cases involving these technologies.”

The President noted that crypto-related crimes, cyber fraud, and digital money laundering are becoming increasingly complex, requiring legal practitioners and judges to be well-versed in the digital economy. He urged judicial institutions to integrate financial technology (fintech) education and cryptocurrency literacy into their training programs to ensure accurate interpretation and enforcement of relevant laws.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the institutional and operational capacity of the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to address both traditional and emerging financial crimes.

“Our administration remains determined to build a justice system that is not only fair and firm but also forward-looking,” he added. “We must bridge the knowledge gap between technology and the law to ensure that no crime goes unpunished simply because it was committed in a digital space.”

EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, in his address, echoed the President’s call, noting that the rise of cryptocurrency-based transactions has made financial crime investigations more sophisticated. He pledged continued collaboration with the judiciary to develop specialized training programs on digital forensics, blockchain analysis, and cybercrime prosecution.

The workshop brought together justices, judges, prosecutors, and anti-corruption experts to discuss the evolving nature of financial crimes and the need for judicial adaptation in an increasingly digital world.

Analysts say Tinubu’s call marks a significant step toward aligning Nigeria’s justice system with the realities of the global financial ecosystem, where digital literacy is becoming a vital tool in safeguarding economic integrity.

Nigeria Unveils $410 Billion Clean Energy Investment Plan to Become Africa’s Renewable Energy Hub — VP Shettima

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Vice President Kashim Shettima has announced a bold $410 billion clean energy investment strategy aimed at transforming Nigeria into Africa’s leading renewable energy hub by 2060, as part of the Federal Government’s long-term energy transition agenda.

Shettima made the announcement while delivering his keynote address at the Nigerian Renewable Energy Innovation Forum (NREIF) 2025, held on Monday in Abuja, where policymakers, industry leaders, and global energy stakeholders gathered to chart pathways for sustainable energy development in the country.

According to the Vice President, the clean energy roadmap — anchored on the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan (ETP) — seeks to harness the country’s abundant renewable resources, including solar, wind, hydro, and bioenergy, to accelerate industrial growth, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability.

“Nigeria is blessed with vast renewable energy potential, and our goal is to turn that potential into prosperity,” Shettima said. “The government has developed a comprehensive investment framework that will mobilize $410 billion by 2060 to ensure energy security, create jobs, and drive inclusive development.”

He noted that in the short term, Nigeria requires $23 billion in targeted investments to expand energy access for millions of citizens still living without reliable electricity — a key step toward reducing energy poverty and stimulating rural development.

The Vice President emphasized that the plan focuses on building public-private partnerships, strengthening clean energy infrastructure, and promoting local manufacturing of renewable technologies such as solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicle components.

“Our strategy is not just about clean energy; it’s about economic transformation,” he added. “We are creating new industries, developing local capacity, and positioning Nigeria to lead Africa’s renewable energy revolution.”

Shettima reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to decarbonization, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth, stressing that Nigeria’s energy transition will be both pragmatic and people-centered.

He also called on international development partners, investors, and climate finance institutions to collaborate with Nigeria in achieving its net-zero emission target by 2060, noting that global cooperation will be critical to bridging the country’s financing and technology gaps.

Participants at the NREIF 2025, which included representatives from the African Development Bank (AfDB), World Bank, and leading energy firms, commended the initiative as a transformative step toward sustainable development.

With the announcement, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its vision to make Nigeria a continental leader in renewable energy, aligning with global climate goals while driving industrial innovation and social progress.

ChatGPT Users in Nigeria to Pay More as OpenAI Introduces 7.5% VAT on Subscriptions

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Starting November 1, 2025, Nigerian users of ChatGPT will see an increase in their subscription costs as OpenAI, the company behind the popular artificial intelligence chatbot, begins applying a 7.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) to all its paid services in compliance with Nigerian tax regulations.

The new VAT charge means that subscribers to ChatGPT Plus — previously priced at ₦31,500 ($20) per month — will now pay approximately ₦33,862.50 ($22.43). The adjustment applies to all OpenAI’s billable offerings available to Nigerian customers, including premium and enterprise services.

In a notification sent via email to Nigerian users, OpenAI explained that the decision aligns with Section 10 of the Value Added Tax Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (2004, as amended) and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Information Circular 2021/19, which mandate foreign digital service providers to collect and remit VAT on transactions involving Nigerian customers.

“From November 1, 2025, a 7.5% VAT will be added to your ChatGPT Plus subscription fee in accordance with Nigerian tax laws,” the company stated. “This ensures compliance with local tax regulations governing non-resident service providers.”

The implementation of VAT on OpenAI’s products follows Nigeria’s growing efforts to expand its digital tax net and ensure that foreign technology companies operating in the country contribute to tax revenues. Since 2022, the FIRS has enforced digital service taxes on global platforms such as Netflix, Google, Meta (Facebook and Instagram), and Spotify.

The move is part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to increase non-oil revenue by taxing the digital economy — a rapidly expanding sector with millions of Nigerian users.

While some users have expressed concern over the increased subscription cost amid Nigeria’s rising inflation and weakening currency, analysts note that the price adjustment is a reflection of global compliance trends as more countries move to tax cross-border digital services.

With this change, OpenAI joins the growing list of international tech companies adhering to Nigeria’s VAT framework, reinforcing the government’s resolve to regulate and capture value from the booming digital economy.

Banks’ Fee Income Surges 23% to ₦986.5bn in H1 2025 Amid Rising Fintech Competition

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Despite growing competition from fintech companies, Nigerian banks recorded a strong 23 percent increase in fee and commission income, reaching ₦986.5 billion in the first half of 2025, according to data compiled from the half-year financial statements of leading deposit money banks (DMBs).

 

The performance underscores the resilience of traditional banks in sustaining non-interest income growth amid a rapidly evolving digital finance landscape.

 

Analysts attribute the surge to higher transaction volumes, increased electronic banking fees, and growth in account maintenance charges, card services, and remittance transactions. The rollout of new digital platforms and revised tariff structures also contributed significantly to the improved earnings.

 

Major Tier-1 banks, including Access Holdings, Zenith Bank, GTCO, UBA, and FBN Holdings, led the rally, collectively accounting for over 70 percent of the total fee income. Access Holdings topped the chart with robust gains from electronic channels and trade services, while GTCO and Zenith Bank reported strong recoveries in digital transaction fees and credit-related commissions.

 

Industry watchers note that while fintech startups such as Opay, PalmPay, and Moniepoint continue to capture younger and unbanked demographics with lower-cost digital services, traditional banks have responded by expanding their mobile platforms and improving customer experience to retain market share.

 

“Banks are aggressively monetizing their digital ecosystems while leveraging scale and trust to maintain profitability,” said a Lagos-based financial analyst. “Fintech competition has forced innovation rather than erosion of value.”

 

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s push toward a cashless economy and rising adoption of instant payment channels have further boosted transaction-based revenues.

 

However, experts warn that the rapid shift toward digitalization could intensify pricing pressure as fintechs continue to offer cheaper, more flexible options to customers.

 

With the second half of 2025 underway, market observers expect the upward trend in fee income to continue, supported by seasonal spending, growing e-commerce activity, and increased cross-border remittances.

 

In summary, the ₦986.5 billion fee income reported across the banking sector signals that Nigerian banks are not only surviving but also thriving in the face of fintech disruption—by innovating, diversifying, and monetizing their vast digital ecosystems.

 

 

Dangote Refinery Confirms Over 310 Million Litres of Petrol Ready for Loading, Opens Supply to All Marketers

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Amid mounting concerns over rising petrol prices across Nigeria, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced that it currently holds over 310 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)—commonly known as petrol—ready for distribution. The company has assured that it is fully prepared to supply marketers nationwide and stabilize fuel availability.

Speaking in Lagos, the Vice President of Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, disclosed that the refinery is now operating at sufficient capacity to meet Nigeria’s domestic petrol demand and still maintain export commitments. He extended an open invitation to all licensed petroleum marketers, urging them to “bring their trucks” and lift products directly from the facility.

“We have over 310 million litres of petrol in our storage tanks, ready for immediate loading,” Edwin said. “The refinery is fully open to all marketers—major, independent, and depot owners. We are ready to supply enough products to meet Nigeria’s needs and even export to neighbouring countries.”

The announcement comes amid a period of nationwide anxiety over fluctuating fuel prices, long queues at filling stations, and concerns about product scarcity. Many Nigerians have expressed frustration over the rising cost of petrol, which has affected transportation, electricity generation, and the overall cost of living.

Edwin emphasized that the Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest integrated refining complex, was established precisely to end such crises by ensuring local production and reducing reliance on imported petroleum products.

Industry observers see the refinery’s readiness to supply as a potential turning point for Nigeria’s energy market, which has long struggled with unstable supply chains and foreign exchange pressures tied to fuel imports.

Located in the Lekki Free Zone, Lagos, the 650,000 barrels-per-day Dangote Refinery officially began refining operations earlier this year and has since produced diesel, aviation fuel, and now petrol for commercial use.

Edwin assured that the company remains committed to transparency and collaboration with all stakeholders in the downstream sector, stressing that pricing will be competitive and guided by prevailing market conditions.

He further reiterated the refinery’s long-term goal of achieving energy self-sufficiency for Nigeria while positioning the country as a major exporter of refined petroleum products within Africa.

Analysts believe that if the refinery sustains consistent distribution and fair pricing, it could significantly ease the burden on consumers, stabilize fuel supply, and contribute to the federal government’s efforts to strengthen the nation’s energy security.

Saudi Arabia to Build World’s First ‘Sky Stadium’ as Part of Futuristic NEOM City Project

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Saudi Arabia has announced an ambitious plan to construct the world’s first “sky stadium”, a revolutionary sporting arena that will be suspended 350 meters (1,150 feet) above ground level within its cutting-edge urban development, The Line, part of the $500 billion NEOM megacity project.

Officially named the NEOM Stadium, the project represents another bold step in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing effort to redefine architecture, sustainability, and global sports infrastructure under its Vision 2030 development agenda.

Designed to seat 46,000 spectators, the NEOM Stadium will be a marvel of modern engineering — blending state-of-the-art technology, advanced environmental design, and futuristic aesthetics. The stadium is expected to be powered entirely by renewable energy, reflecting NEOM’s commitment to clean energy and sustainable urban living.

According to project details released by the NEOM management team, the sky-high arena will “redefine the experience of live sports,” offering panoramic views of the linear city below and an immersive digital environment that integrates artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and cutting-edge acoustics for spectators.

Construction is projected to be completed by 2032, two years before Saudi Arabia hosts the 2034 FIFA World Cup, during which the NEOM Stadium is expected to stage matches up to the quarterfinal stage.

The innovative design places the stadium within The Line’s vertical urban structure, seamlessly integrating it into the city’s architecture rather than occupying traditional ground space. This approach aligns with NEOM’s vision of building compact, eco-efficient urban systems where work, leisure, and living coexist in harmony.

Beyond football, the NEOM Stadium is expected to serve as a global entertainment hub, hosting concerts, esports tournaments, and major cultural events, making it one of the most versatile and technologically advanced venues in the world.

Saudi officials say the sky stadium will not only symbolize the country’s growing influence in global sports but also demonstrate its capacity to blend innovation with sustainability on a scale never before attempted.

Once completed, the NEOM Stadium is poised to become a landmark of 21st-century architecture—a fusion of sport, technology, and environmental consciousness—cementing Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a rising powerhouse in the global sports and entertainment industry.