Author: user user

FG denies planned tariff hike, says subsidy support stays

The federal government moved to shut down reports of an imminent electricity tariff increase, saying no rate hike is planned for any consumer band and that subsidies for lower-usage households will continue.

Sadiq Wanka, special adviser to the President on Power Infrastructure in the Office of the Vice President, said in a signed statement Friday that recent media coverage had misrepresented remarks he made at an industry event in Lagos on July 22.

‘There is no planned tariff hike for any grid consumer across any service band,’ the statement said, adding that the government ‘remains committed to protecting vulnerable households through continued tariff support.’

The clarification follows comments Wanka delivered at the Asharami Square 3.0 conference, where he discussed investment opportunities opened up by the Tinubu administration’s power-sector reforms.

According to the statement, he used the occasion to reaffirm, not announce, tariff policy already set out in the National Integrated Electricity Policy, a document finalised in December 2024 and approved by the Federal Executive Council in May 2025.

That policy lays out a gradual shift toward cost-reflective pricing, a transition currently limited to so-called Band A customers, typically urban users who receive at least 20 hours of power daily.

For all other bands, the statement said, Wanka was explicit that the government has no plan to strip out subsidies. Instead, officials are looking at how to make existing support more efficient and better targeted.

Central to that effort is the Power Consumer Assistance Fund, a mechanism created under the Electricity Act 2023 to channel subsidies directly to vulnerable consumers, either through their electricity accounts or other identity-linked systems.

The statement framed the fund as a way to improve transparency in subsidy delivery and shore up investor confidence in a sector that has struggled for decades with underinvestment, currency mismatches, and inconsistent cost recovery.

The statement also nodded to the media’s role in shaping public understanding of the policy, saying the administration backs platforms such as Asharami Square that aim to help journalists convey ‘the full context of complex policy discussions.’ It closed by saying the government ‘counts on the continued support of the media in this important national duty.’

Riot Games rolls out parental control in the US for its titles

IN a continued effort to make games a platform for fun and safety online, leading gaming company Riot Games has introduced new parental controls in the US for its titles to combat toxicity.

Riot Games has been on the front lines in fighting toxicity in games, especially with the gaming world known for its unforgiving trash-talking culture that led to several altercations, both online and offline, even more so in online games such as League of Legends, Valorant, and TFT.

In fact, back in 2022, Riot forged a partnership with another gaming company, Ubisoft, to launch the ‘Zero Harms in Comms’ project, having a database partnership training artificial intelligence (AI) to gather data detecting toxic behavior.

Today, their latest initiative is parental control, allowing the parents of players aged 18 below to have control over what the underage player plays, and who they engage with within the Riot Games’ circle of titles.

Enabling parental control settings allows them to turn text and voice

chat off; limit text and voice chat to friends only; prevent sending or accepting friend requests; view the friends connected to their child’s account; restrict access to specific Riot games; and disable account access entirely.

To enable parental control, the parents must enter Parent Portal by logging in using their child’s account and providing an email address designated under the account management tab. They will then receive an email that will enable them to access Parent Portal.

In their FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions), Riot Games reassured parents that their child would be unable to remove or bypass the parental control once enabled. They may only do so once they turn 18.

Currently, this feature is available only on League of Legends, Valorant, and TFT on PC, with TFT on mobile planned to have the same feature by early 2027.

Riot Games plans to bring this feature to more countries.

However, they acknowledge that ‘different countries have different restrictions, guidelines, and requirements of parental control settings.’

Lagos 2027: Grace Coker emerges APM deputy governorship candidate

The deputy governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) for the 2027 Lagos State governorship election, Hon Grace Oluwatobi Coker, has reaffirmed her commitment to providing purposeful leadership if elected.

Coker made the pledge on Saturday following her emergence as the running mate to the party’s governorship candidate, Prince Laja Adeoye. She also expressed gratitude to God, the party leadership, supporters and Lagos residents for the confidence reposed in her.

Describing her nomination as both an honour and a privilege, Coker pledged to work closely with Adeoye to secure victory for the APM in the 2027 governorship election.

She thanked God for what she described as His grace and mercy throughout her political journey and expressed appreciation to Adeoye for choosing her as his running mate.

Coker described Adeoye as her leader, mentor and principal, saying she was honoured to serve alongside him in pursuing their vision of repositioning Lagos State.

She also appreciated the APM leadership at the national, state, local government, ward and polling unit levels, as well as party stakeholders and candidates, for their encouragement and support.

The deputy governorship candidate further acknowledged the dedication of the party’s campaign team, volunteers and supporters, commending their sacrifices, commitment and prayers towards the party’s success.

She thanked her family, friends and associates for their unwavering support throughout her political journey.

Coker also expressed gratitude to the people of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, her home constituency, and Lagos residents for their confidence in her, assuring them that their trust would not be taken for granted.

Reaffirming her loyalty to the Allied Peoples Movement, she pledged to work closely with Adeoye, the party leadership and members to deliver victory for the party in the 2027 election.

According to her, the APM is committed to offering Lagos residents ‘a new direction anchored on purposeful leadership, accountability, inclusion and sustainable development.’

She also prayed for divine guidance and wisdom as the party intensifies preparations for the 2027 general elections.

Commonwealth Games: Erokhina reaches 100m breaststroke semi-finals, Iakovides eliminated

Maria Erokhina secured her place in the 100m breaststroke semi-finals at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, marking the first time a Cypriot swimmer has qualified for a semi-final at the Games.

According to the Cyprus Olympic Committee, the Cypriot swimmer finished seventh in the fourth heat with a time of 1:10.70 and was ranked 16th out of 28 competitors, securing a place in the semi-finals.

The 100m breaststroke semi-final will take place on Saturday at 22:55 Cyprus time.

Furthermore, Filippos Iakovides finished fifth in his heat in the 50m freestyle with a time of 24.48 and was ranked 45th out of 68 swimmers, failing to qualify for the next round.

Global steel overcapacity threatens African manufacturing, PAMA says

The tightening of steel trade policies in advanced economies poses a significant threat to Africa’s industrial ambitions, warns the Pan-African Manufacturers Association (PAMA).

In a recent report, PAMA said that the EU and UK’s decision to reduce tariff-free steel import quotas will likely divert cheap steel exports to Africa, exacerbating the continent’s existing steel overcapacity issues.

The report explained that global excess steelmaking capacity is expected to exceed 720 million tonnes by 2027, which illustrates the widening gap between the world’s ability to produce steel and its capacity to absorb it commercially.

The report stressed that as major importing economies tighten market access, displaced exports are more likely to seek alternative destinations.

It stated that Africa’s steel market could face growing exposure to the diverted global exports.

Although the report noted that lower-priced imported steel may temporarily reduce production costs for downstream industries-including construction, engineering, machinery manufacturing and metal fabrication- longer-term consequences deserve careful attention.

‘Persistent inflows of underpriced imports can weaken domestic steel producers, reduce capacity utilisation, discourage investment in modern production facilities and delay the emergence of internationally competitive regional steel value chains.’

PAMA urged policymakers to take immediate action to protect the continent’s steel industry, citing the risk that underpriced imports would weaken domestic producers.

‘A competitive domestic steel sector is crucial for Africa’s industrial development.’ ‘We cannot afford to let cheap imports undermine our efforts to build a robust manufacturing sector.’

According to the report, the implications of global steel overcapacity extend beyond the African steel industry.

The report explained that steel is a strategic industrial input that supports infrastructure development, transport equipment, energy systems, and capital goods manufacturing.

‘A competitive domestic steel sector, therefore, plays a central role in broadening industrial capabilities, strengthening supply-chain resilience and increasing local value addition across the manufacturing economy.’

‘The latest measures adopted in Europe and the United Kingdom reinforce a more forceful, visible shift in global industrial policy.’

The report noted that governments are relying less on the assumption that markets alone will determine industrial outcomes. It stated that instead, they are making greater use of safeguard measures, anti-dumping investigations and other trade-remedy instruments to preserve productive capacity in strategically important industries.

‘Industrial competitiveness is rapidly being shaped by deliberate policy choices as much as by comparative advantage.’

‘For African policymakers, this presents both a warning and an opportunity,’ the report warned. It noted that a weakened steel sector could have far-reaching consequences for Africa’s economic growth.

The shift in global industrial policy requires African policymakers to be proactive, PAMA advised. ‘We need to strengthen our trade monitoring and use WTO-consistent trade-remedy instruments to protect our markets.’

The AfCFTA presents an opportunity for Africa to strengthen regional steel value chains, it said. By expanding intra-African sourcing and creating a larger integrated market, Africa can support globally competitive steel production and reduce its reliance on imports, the report added.

However, to achieve this goal, the report stated that it will require careful planning and coordination. ‘We need to invest in modern production facilities and develop our industrial capabilities to compete with global players.’

‘African manufacturers must monitor international industrial policy to stay competitive.’ ‘The global steel market is constantly evolving, and we need to stay ahead of the curve to succeed.’

Aerospace engineering in your pocket: Why the Oppo Find N6 is the world’s most durable foldable

Foldable smartphones have come a long way in recent years. While users once questioned their durability and reliability, today’s innovations have transformed foldables into everyday productivity companions that are built to last.

Leading this evolution is the Oppo Find N6, a foldable smartphone engineered to withstand the demands of modern life without compromising on design, performance, or portability. Built around Oppo’s Armour Shield Architecture, the Find N6 combines aerospace-inspired engineering, industry-leading durability, and flagship innovations to prove that foldables can be just as dependable as they are sophisticated.

n Engineered to go further. At the heart of the Oppo Find N6 is its Armour Shield Architecture, an advanced structural design that reinforces the device using premium materials while maintaining an ultra-slim profile.

Despite its refined form factor and the industry’s thinnest bezels on a book-style foldable, the Oppo Find N6 is designed to withstand the realities of everyday use. Whether it’s navigating unpredictable weather, working outdoors, or simply enduring the wear and tear of daily commutes, the device delivers durability without sacrificing elegance.

Setting a new benchmark for foldable smartphones, the Oppo Find N6 carries IP56, IP58, and IP59 ratings, allowing it to withstand dust, water immersion, and even high-pressure, high-temperature water jets. From unexpected downpours to accidental spills and more demanding environments, users can stay productive with confidence knowing their device is built to handle more than everyday challenges.

n A foldable built for the long run. A foldable is only as reliable as its hinge, and Oppo has reimagined this critical component with the 2nd-Generation Titanium Flexion Hinge.

Manufactured using aerospace-grade titanium alloy, the hinge delivers greater strength while remaining remarkably lightweight. Together with Auto-Smoothing Flex Glass, it enables the industry’s first Zero-Feel Crease, creating a display that feels smooth and immersive whether you’re reviewing reports, reading documents, editing presentations, or watching videos.

The hinge is also certified to withstand one million folds, demonstrating the Find N6’s ability to support years of daily opening and closing without compromising performance. It’s an engineering milestone that reinforces the device’s position as one of the most dependable foldables available today.

The Oppo Find N6 is priced at ?139,999. Customers can also enjoy exclusive offers and freebies available for a limited time. Globe subscribers can avail of the Find N6 through GPlan 2499 with ?73,600 cashout, while Smart users can purchase the device under Smart Infinity Plan 5000, with exclusive benefits.

More information can be found at www.oppo.com/ph or Oppo Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

Davido taps direct sales for upcoming album Oriade

Davido has launched direct album sales for his upcoming project Oriade before its release on digital streaming platforms. The album is available for purchase in Nigerian naira, Ghanaian cedi, Kenyan shilling, and South African rand. Fans can order through the dedicated site oriadé.live.

The 13-track album, which drops on streaming platforms on July 31, 2026, sells on pre order price of $7.99.

This album marks 15 years in music for Davido, who has been a leading force in the Afrobeats music scene. The title Oriade combines Yoruba words for destiny and crown. A cinematic video teaser shows Davido in traditional attire in a minimalist space, ending with the album logo.

Businessday has reported on the rise of direct-to-consumer models in the Nigerian music industry. As the industry generated N901 billion in revenue in 2024, projections point to a billion-dollar valuation by 2033. However, artists in this part of the world face low margins from streaming platforms.

Businessday also highlighted how direct-to-fan sales help reduce dependence on foreign streaming royalties. Artists can sell music directly to fans and retain more value. The report mentioned platforms such as Dbanj’s CREAM, which allows direct purchases via mobile data, USSD codes, and bank integrations. It offers artists higher payouts, up to 70 million naira for one million track downloads.

Davido, signed to Sony under exclusive license, taps this direct-to-consumer approach with Oriade. By offering sales in local African currencies, he reaches fans across key markets in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa. This method comes before the album arrives on streaming services. It gives the artist greater control over distribution and revenue.

The strategy aligns with industry efforts to improve earnings for musicians. Many voices in the sector see direct-to-consumer models as a way to keep more income local.

This move reflects broader changes in music consumption in Africa. Artists explore ways to connect with audiences and build sustainable income.

My husband still slept with side chick after taking fidelity oath – Viral Canada-based Nigerian woman

A Canada-based Nigerian woman, Mrs Ezinne Nwanorue, has alleged that her husband, Franklin Nwanorue, continued an extramarital affair even after publicly taking an oath to remain faithful to their marriage.

Mrs Nwanorue made the allegation in a post shared on her Facebook page, Ezinne Frank Nwanorue, on Thursday.

According to her, she endured emotional pain in the marriage despite her husband sponsoring her relocation to Canada.

The couple had gone viral on Tuesday after uploading separate videos in which they vowed not to engage in extramarital affairs, invoking death upon themselves if either violated the pledge.

In his video, Mr Nwanorue declared that he would remain faithful to his wife after joining her in Canada.

He also stated that his wife was inspired by God to make the declaration and that he willingly accepted it because he wanted the best for his family.

‘I confess and I promise that if I come to Canada and cheat on you, let me die in the name of Jesus,’ the husband said in a video.

Mrs Nwanorue also made a similar declaration in a separate video, promising to remain sexually faithful to her husband.

‘This is me confessing to my husband, Franklin Chimaobim Nwanorue, that I will remain sexually faithful to him, and if I become unfaithful, let me die, in the name of Jesus,’ she said.

However, days after the videos surfaced online, Mrs Nwanorue claimed her husband had already broken the spirit of the oath by allegedly sleeping with another woman.

She accompanied her claim with what she described as a comment from a woman who allegedly admitted to having an affair with her husband after he made the public declaration.

‘This is a comment from my husband’s side chick in Nigeria. She confessed that even after my husband made his confession, he still slept with one of his side chicks. I have suffered a lot at his hands.

‘My husband sponsored my relocation abroad, and what I owe him is to help him obtain a visa, and God will do it for me. But my husband will not live to enjoy Canada if he cheats on me.

‘He has sworn an oath to be sexually faithful after he comes to Canada. I believe in God and I trust His judgment. My husband must surely die if he cheats on me,’ she wrote.

Friends, associates, family mourn Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi

An atmosphere of grief has enveloped family members, friends, and associates following the passing of Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi, whose death has left a deep void within the Ogunwusi family and among those privileged to have known him.

Since news of his demise became public, tributes have continued to pour in from across the country, with many remembering him as a man of honour, humility, and remarkable generosity. Friends and associates described Prince Ogunwusi as a dependable confidant whose warmth, wisdom, and willingness to support others endeared him to people from all walks of life.

Members of the Ogunwusi family paid glowing tribute to the late prince, recalling his unwavering devotion to family, his respect for tradition, and his commitment to fostering unity among relatives and friends. They noted that his life was defined by compassion, integrity, and a quiet strength that inspired everyone around him.

Business associates and longtime friends also celebrated his legacy, describing him as a gentleman whose sincerity, professionalism, and genuine concern for others earned him widespread admiration. Many recounted fond memories of his kindness and the positive impact he made both in his personal relationships and within the wider community.

Condolence messages have continued to flood in from traditional rulers, community leaders, captains of industry, and prominent personalities, all praying for the peaceful repose of his soul while asking God to grant his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Though his passing has brought immense sorrow, those who knew Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi have taken comfort in the legacy of a life well lived, one marked by dignity, selfless service, and an enduring commitment to humanity. As preparations begin for his final rites, he will be remembered as a beloved family man, a loyal friend, and a respected member of the Ogunwusi royal family, whose memory will continue to live in the hearts of many.

New Zealand and Philippines reinforce ties with memorandum of cooperation in education

NEW ZEALAND has welcomed the signing of the first memorandum of cooperation (MOC) in education with the Philippines, marking a significant milestone in the relationship between both countries and creating a framework for collaboration across all levels of education.

The MOC was announced during the official visit by Minister of Foreign Affairs Rt. Hon. Winston Peters of New Zealand, coinciding with the two countries’ 60 years of diplomatic relations.

The memorandum formalizes and reaffirms the commitment of the New Zealand Ministry of Education, Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) and the New Zealand Qualifications Authority to work in partnership with the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), as well as the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). This includes partnership in the full education spectrum: from early childhood to tertiary, technical and vocational education, and training.

ENZ Group General Manager for International and Sector Engagement Sahinde Pala said the MOC reflects the strength of an education partnership that has been steadily growing between the two countries.

‘This [MOC] is an important step forward in our education partnership,’ Pala said. ‘It builds on years of collaboration between our governments, education agencies and institutions, [while providing] a framework to deepen that cooperation for years to come.’

Improved understanding, recognition

THE embassy said the arrangement will promote: (1) greater student, educator and academic mobility; (2) stronger institutional and research partnerships; and (3) knowledge sharing in areas such as education policy, qualifications recognition, workforce development, lifelong learning and capacity building.

A key example is the partnership between the New Zealand Qualifications Authority and CHED, including qualifications referencing work that has improved understanding and recognition of bachelor’s degrees between the countries, as well as supported learner and labor mobility.

The relationship is also supported by regular ministerial engagement and education policy dialogue. In 2025, delegations from CHED and TESDA met with ministers, senior officials and government agencies.

The education relationship between the countries is built on genuine two-way exchange. While increasing numbers of Filipino students are choosing the Oceanic country for their studies, the two benefit from the flow of knowledge, skills, research and professional connections that education partnerships create. Education has become one of the strongest foundations of the broader New Zealand-Philippines relationship.

Growing education linkages

SINCE 2014, 335 Filipinos have received Manaaki Scholarships across tertiary study, short-term training and English language programs that help scholars build skills, gain global experience and create lasting links binding New Zealand and the Philippines.

Both countries also work together to strengthen education systems through regional and multilateral fora, including the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or APEC forum and Asean-related education initiatives, where both countries advance shared priorities in quality education, skills development and workforce readiness.

The Philippines is one of New Zealand’s most important education partners in Southeast Asia. Filipino student enrolments have grown by 36 percent since 2023, as it reached 2,635 students in 2025, making the Philippines New Zealand’s ninth-largest international student market.

Building on this momentum, a delegation of 16 New Zealand education providers will return for the ‘Study with New Zealand Study Expos’ in Cebu on September 19, 2026 and Iloilo on September 22, 2026. They are expected to give Filipino students and families the opportunity to meet education providers directly and explore the range of study opportunities available in the Oceanic country.