Why I picked Nigeria over UK for GWR 24-hour makeover attempt – Tacha

Reality TV star and entrepreneur Tacha has revealed why she chose to host her Guinness World Record attempt for the most makeovers done in 24 hours in Nigeria instead of the United Kingdom.

The event, part of her Tacha Beauty Festival, aims to highlight Nigeria’s creative potential and put the country’s beauty industry on the global map.

Tacha, in an interview with Egungun, explained that she initially planned to hold the event in London, with sponsorship from NYX, but decided to prioritise showcasing Nigerian talent and creativity.

‘The plan was London. We already had plans, we had a brand that wanted to sponsor us NYX.

‘But I said, London is not that country that will give me the vibe I want. Then I thought, see my people, they are here.

‘It always makes sense to carry your country along, I’m putting the Nigerian beauty industry on a freaking global map’ she said.

The influencer has been planning the feat for two years and is determined to succeed.

She began the 24-hour record attempt on Saturday night, targeting 150 makeovers.

By Sunday morning, she had already completed 115 makeovers in 12 hours, surpassing the previous record of 113 makeovers in 24 hours.

Tacha dedicated her effort to her late mother, citing her drive and passion for success as a personal motivation.

Despite minor setbacks, including power disruptions, Tacha maintained a fast-paced routine, completing each makeover in minutes.

The event is a celebration of beauty, culture, and resilience, and a testament to Nigerian creativity.

Edo APC leaders pass vote of confidence on Okpebholo

Leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikpoba-Okha local government area have passed a vote of confidence on the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.

The Ikpoba-Okha APC leaders said Governor Okpebholo’s leadership has steered the state toward progress and prosperity as well as inspired confidence in the hearts of the citizens

This was contained in a communique issued at the end of Ikpoba-Okha APC leaders meeting held at the residence of a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon Ehiozuwa Agbonyima.

The communique noted that various initiatives launched under Okpebholo’s administration, such as the Flyover Bridge and other road projects demonstrated the Governor’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all Edo citizens.

It commended what it termed Okpebholo’s relentless efforts to enhance infrastructure, education, healthcare, and the focus on economic development and job creation.

The communique said the Edo Governor’s initiatives have fostered a spirit of togetherness and empowerment among the people of Edo State, as well as encouraged active participation in the governance process.

According to the communique, ‘As you continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come your way, please know that you have our full support. Your leadership and vision for a better Edo State resonate with our aspirations, and we stand behind you in your quest to elevate our state to even greater heights.

‘We, the good people of Ikpoba-Okha APC, hereby pass a vote of confidence on you for your seamless efforts to make Ikpoba-Okha State a better place for all.’

Addressing the gathering, Hon Agbonyima urged the APC members to be patient with the administration of Okpebholo.

He cautioned against having a divided party in the state.

He said, ‘What is important is working as a team. We can never win any election if we are not working together.

‘Okpebholo is working. He is among the Governors who are working. We have to be patient. Promises were made to the Legacy PDP group. Some of you complained that they are PDP. Do not forget they supported us, and we cannot push them away.

‘We should not start complaining and making derogatory statements at this time. We have other positions that people have complained about.

Our Governor has said Ikpoba-Okha is the most populated local government. He said he will do all to ensure Ikpoba-Okha benefits the most.’

Ikpoba-Okha APC Chairman, Hon Sunny Ogbewe, urged the party members to believe in the ability of Okpebholo to deliver good governance.

Mbah’s defection ends PDP’s presence in southeast – Okechukwu

A founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Osita Okechukwu, has said that the planned defection of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) marks the final collapse of the opposition party’s presence in the entire southeast region.

Governor Mbah is expected to formally join the APC on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

Speaking with journalists on Sunday in Abuja, Okechukwu described the governor’s exit as a defining political moment and clear evidence that the Southeast has finally bid farewell to the PDP.

The former Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON) said Mbah’s decision to leave the PDP for the APC was ‘pragmatic, rational, and inevitable,’ adding that it symbolises the end of the PDP’s dominance in the region, from controlling all five states in 1999 to none in 2025.

Recalling the words of the late Rt. Hon. Dr. Chuba Okadigbo, who lamented that the PDP ‘pays good deeds with bad coins,’ Okechukwu said Mbah’s move vindicates that statement. He cited several instances, including the 1999 Jos presidential primary, where Okadigbo was allegedly betrayed, and the 2003 elections, when the Southeast failed to rally behind the Buhari/Okadigbo ticket.

Okechukwu faulted the PDP’s alleged disregard for equity and justice, pointing to the 2023 presidential primary, where no southern aspirant was allowed to contest despite appeals for power rotation.

‘The last straw that broke the PDP’s camel’s back,’ he said, ‘was the marginalisation of the Southeast during the dispute over the National Secretary position.’

He referenced a communiqué issued by the PDP Southeast Zonal Executive Committee on May 14, 2023, warning that the zone would reconsider its relationship with the party if Sunday Udeh-Okoye was not promptly confirmed as National Secretary following Senator Samuel Anyanwu’s exit to contest the Imo governorship election.

Okechukwu also recalled the remarks of former Senate President and PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, who lamented the Southeast’s continued neglect by the party despite its long-standing loyalty.

He concluded that the PDP’s serial betrayal and disregard for the Southeast justified Mbah’s defection.

‘Governor Mbah’s exit is not an isolated event,’ Okechukwu said. ‘It represents the final chapter in the Southeast’s disillusionment with a party that failed to reward faithfulness, fairness, and friendship.’

Why I’m not married to my baby’s father – Seyi Shay

Singer Seyi Shay has revealed why she isn’t married to the father of her daughter, despite maintaining a close and respectful relationship with him.

Speaking in an interview with Chude Jideonwo, the singer addressed long-standing speculations about her marital status, explaining that their bond remains strong.

‘It’s a technical issue, you understand? But he’s great, he’s cool, he’s around. He’s Nigerian, he’s in the UK at the moment, and he’s also in the music industry on the corporate side of things. We just work together, raising our child and we are great friends,’ she said.

Seyi Shay further described their relationship as one built on mutual respect, saying, ‘We are really brilliant friends now. We co-parent really well.’

Seyi Shay welcomed her daughter in 2022 and has since attributed motherhood for transforming her outlook on love, family, and career

JAN, Johnson and Johnson kick off WiSTEM2D program for students in Lagos

Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN), in partnership with Johnson and Johnson, has launched this year’s edition of the Winning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Manufacturing and Design (WiSTEM2D) program.

The initiative is designed to motivate secondary school students to explore careers in STEM fields and develop critical skills needed to thrive in the modern workforce.

This year’s edition adopts a blended learning model, combining digital engagement with in-person activities to enhance participants’ creativity, problem-solving abilities, and confidence.

The program commenced with the National WiSTEM2D Innovation Camp in Lagos, where 66 top-performing students gathered for a full day of immersive learning. Participants interacted with STEM professionals, participated in design-thinking workshops, and showcased their innovative ideas in an ideathon and pitch contest before industry experts.

The highlight of the event was the pitch competition, where three schools emerged as winners:

First Place: Festac Senior College, Festac Town – represented by Betiku Adedolapo, Okorocha Mmesoma, Davidson Chioma, and Igwe Mmaduabuchi – for their project on decentralized waste and recycling stations to bring disposal points closer to communities.

First Runner-Up: Bola Ige Millennium Senior Secondary School – represented by Giwa Faridat Oluwafunmilayo, Anozie Ngozi Maryolivia, Nnodim Goodness, Enukoha Mary, and Omonigho Joy – for their Automated BinBot, a device that separates dry and wet waste to reduce pollution and improve sanitation.

Second Runner-Up: Lagos State Senior Model College – represented by Ezeanya Chisom, Johnchukwu Confidence, Chukwuka Favour, and Nnedu Chukwuemeka – for a project combining health awareness with waste management, including replacing single-use plastics with reusable alternatives and converting organic waste into fertilizer.

Speaking at the event, JAN’s Assistant Director of Programs, Mr. Olaolu Akogun, described the initiative as part of the organisation’s ongoing effort to inspire the next generation of innovators.

‘We are excited to continue our collaboration with Johnson and Johnson through the WiSTEM2D program. This initiative breaks barriers in STEM by equipping young leaders with tools, mentorship, and opportunities to succeed. We are confident it will inspire a new generation of innovators and change-makers to drive Nigeria and Africa’s future,’ he said.

Ms. Jaiyesimi Oyefunke, Country Lead at Johnson and Johnson Nigeria, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting education and youth empowerment through sustainable partnerships.

While the Innovation Camp directly impacted 66 students through hands-on sessions, the reach of the WiSTEM2D program extends further. The next phase – an online STEM Challenge – is set to begin next week, engaging over 750 students across Nigeria.

Through its interactive digital platform, the challenge will expose participants to STEM concepts in fun and competitive ways, broadening access and inspiring more young Nigerians to develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

With the ongoing partnership between Junior Achievement Nigeria and Johnson and Johnson, the WiSTEM2D program continues to drive a nationwide movement of young innovators prepared to shape the country’s scientific and technological future.

Some staff of Johnson and Johnson Nigeria, Junior Achievement Nigeria, and participants at the WiSTEM2D Innovation Camp in Lagos.

EU, German embassy, launch initiative to tackle gas flaring in Nigeria

The European Union and the German Embassy in Abuja have launched the German-Nigerian Flare4Value project initiative aimed at tackling gas flaring in Nigeria.

The initiative is expected to unlock new economic opportunities through gas optimisation and greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation.

It was unveiled during this year’s Green Diplomacy Week in Abuja.

Declaring the event open in Abuja, Head of the German-Nigerian Hydrogen Office, Kristina Fuerst said the initiative ‘marks a significant milestone in the German-Nigerian partnership and our joint commitment to transforming environmental challenges into economic opportunities.’

She added that ‘gas flaring reduction is not only a climate priority but a gateway to energy access, industrial growth, and sustainable development for Nigeria.’

Deputy Ambassador of the Republic of Germany in Nigeria, Johannes Lehne, reiterated the significance of emission reduction.

Lehne said, ‘The strategic significance of gas flaring reduction represents both an environmental imperative and an economic opportunity.

‘By capturing and utilising flare gas, we not only cut emissions but also create value for power generation and industry.’

Speaking further, he emphasised that Flare4Value ‘reflects the strength of the German-Nigerian partnership and the EU’s wider commitment to supporting Nigeria’s leadership in climate action.’

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Dr Vitalis Obi noted that the Flare4Value initiative underscores Nigeria’s shared commitment to reducing emissions and unlocking the full potential of its gas resources.

He noted that, through partnerships such as this, Nigeria can transform flare gas into an engine for cleaner energy, industrial growth, and sustainable development.

The project is implemented under H2-diplo, a GIZ programme commissioned by the German Federal Foreign Office and financed by the International Climate Initiative (IKI).

H2-diplo supports Germany’s international energy and climate diplomacy, partnering with countries to advance the use of green hydrogen in diversifying and decarbonising their economies.

Programme Manager for Energy, Circular Economy and Climate Change, Godfrey Ogbemudia said: ‘Reducing what goes into the atmosphere today is a responsibility we all share. It’s encouraging to see Nigeria’s flare-reduction efforts already yielding results; this project takes those gains even further.’

Ogbemudia, who represents the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS added that the initiative ‘isn’t only about environmental protection; it’s about creating new business opportunities through gas commercialisation and cleaner energy solutions that benefit people and the planet.

Nigeria is one of the world’s top seven gas-flaring countries, losing billions in potential revenue each year while contributing significantly to GHG emissions.

In 2022 alone, the country flared around 275 billion standard cubic feet of gas, emitting over 16 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent.

This not only exacerbates climate change but also contravenes Nigeria’s Climate Change Act (2021), which mandates strict carbon budgeting and emissions reduction.

The German-Nigerian Flare4Value initiative is designed to address this challenge head-on.

It focuses on reducing flare-gas emissions, improving gas utilisation, and aligning Nigeria’s oil and gas sector with its Energy Transition Plan.

A key innovation of the project is its exploration of flare gas-to-hydrogen pathways, turning waste into clean energy carriers while creating space for industrial growth.

Through structured dialogue, technical collaboration, and private-sector engagement, the project provides a high-level bilateral platform for Germany and Nigeria to deepen cooperation on climate action.

With its launch under the EU Green Diplomacy Week, it showcases the EU’s commitment to forging strong partnerships in multilateral decarbonisation efforts.

Nigerian partners include the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gas Aggregator Company of Nigeria (GACN), the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, and the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA).

The project was formally introduced at a virtual kick-off meeting on 29 September, followed by last Thursday’s high-level event in Abuja.

A study tour to Germany is planned for October, bringing Nigerian public and private-sector actors together with German stakeholders.

The initiative will culminate in a multistakeholder conference in Abuja on 4 December 2025, where a discussion paper on flare-gas reduction will be launched alongside a B2B exchange platform for Nigerian and German businesses.

By linking flare-gas reduction with hydrogen development, the Flare4Value project bridges climate action and economic opportunity.

It supports Germany’s and the EU’s broader energy diplomacy while advancing Nigeria’s national priorities, reducing emissions through targeted gas recovery, creating new industrial and economic value, and strengthening Nigeria’s energy transition for a more resilient and diversified economy.

Rights group faults FIJ over ‘false’ corruption report, accuses platform of unethical journalism

A civil society organisation, the Niger Delta Rights Advocates (NDRA), has condemned the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) over what it described as an ‘unethical and misleading’ report alleging corruption against a public servant under the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Director of Research and Documentation at NDRA, Dr. Chuks Alozie, accused FIJ of publishing a one-sided story that allegedly maligned Mr. Adagiri Ismail, a senior officer of the NCoS.

Alozie said FIJ’s online reports of October 6 and 8, 2025, portrayed a suspect currently facing trial as a victim and hero, in a manner inconsistent with the standards of professional journalism.

‘FIJ’s reports of October 6 and 8 were clear attempts at hoodwinking the public. They portrayed a suspected criminal standing trial before an FCT High Court (Charge No. CR/669/23) as a hero, which runs contrary to journalistic ethics,’ Alozie stated.

According to the NDRA, the case stemmed from an alleged act of impersonation and forgery of Mr. Ismail’s office documents.

The suspect, identified as Aliyu Raji, was said to have used forged letterheads and office insignia to obtain millions of naira through false pretences and fraudulent contract awards.

Alozie noted that the suspect was initially granted bail and subsequently approached FIJ for media coverage after filing a fundamental rights suit against the complainant and the police.

The court, however, reportedly dismissed the case and awarded ?1 million in costs against the applicant in favour of all respondents.

The NDRA accused FIJ of failing to exercise due diligence by not investigating all sides of the story or granting Mr. Ismail a right of reply before publication.

The group demanded an immediate retraction or corrigendum from the online platform, insisting that the reports breached the ethical codes governing responsible journalism.

‘While citizen journalism strengthens democracy, it must not be used as a tool for defamation or sedition. Defending the rights of an individual facing criminal prosecution should never come at the expense of truth, fairness, and balance’, Alozie warned.

The NDRA reaffirmed its commitment to media freedom but urged journalists and citizen reporters alike to uphold the principles of integrity and impartiality when handling sensitive corruption-related cases.

PodFest Naija 2025 debuts, unite creators, others in Lagos

Nigeria’s first-ever podcast and storytelling festival, PodFest Naija – A Festival of Stories, made a landmark debut on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, drawing over 1,500 creators, storytellers, brands, and policymakers for a day of powerful conversations, cultural showcases, and innovation.

Curated by The Muvmnt Studio in partnership with Eventful, the festival delivered on its promise to bring Nigeria’s most influential voices together to celebrate storytelling, collaborate across industries, innovate new formats, and learn from leading voices shaping the future. From live podcast recordings to interactive brand activations, six themed stages, and a major masterclass on monetization, the festival became the cultural and creative heartbeat of Lagos for a day.

In her keynote address, Honourable Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, emphasised the growing importance of podcasting in amplifying Nigeria’s creative voice globally.

‘Podcasting has become one of the most powerful tools for projecting our soft power and amplifying Nigerian creativity to the world,’ the Minister stated. ‘It is a veritable medium that transcends borders, democratising how stories are told and who gets to tell them.’

She further highlighted podcasting as a strategic tool for youth engagement and job creation.

‘Our young people are not just listeners. They are creators. They are hosts. They are writers. They are sound engineers, researchers, and digital entrepreneurs. Everything that speaks to that value chain from the bottom to the top. I think podcasting covers everything. Mr. President is really committed to looking at how we can fortify the future of the young people. And the only way that we can do that is by absorbing as many young people into the job market as possible.’

Tosin Adefeko, Curator of PodFest Naija and CEO of AT3 Resources – The Muvmnt Agency, reflected on the festival’s journey and purpose:

‘When we started this journey, our vision was simple: to tell better stories. Over time, we realized that everyone was working in silos, and there was no platform bringing the tribe together. We knew something had to change.’

‘Podfest Naija was born out of that realization. It’s a festival of stories, a creative convergence designed to celebrate our voices, collaborate across communities, innovate in how stories are told, and learn from one another. Whether we like it or not, the podcast ecosystem is here to stay, and we intend to stand at the forefront of that movement.’

The festival’s lineup featured over 40 storytellers and cultural icons, including Chude Jideonwo, Tunde Onakoya, Adaora Mbelu, Rufai Oseni, Morayo Afolabi-Brown, Masoyinbo, and many others, who led conversations that cut across generations, genres, and industries. Major brands, including Coca-Cola, Sterling Bank, UAC Foods, Bet9ja, Crown Flour Mills, and others, powered immersive activations throughout the venue, reinforcing the intersection between storytelling, culture, and brands.

One of the day’s most anticipated moments was the unveiling of ‘The Next Big Podcaster,’ an initiative by The Muvmnt Studio to spotlight emerging talent set to redefine the podcast space. Pearllie Hart was announced live on stage as the winner, positioning her as a podcaster to watch under The Muvmnt Studio’s spotlight.

As Nigeria cements its place in the global creative landscape, PodFest Naija stands as a rallying point for creators, policymakers, and brands to celebrate creativity, collaborate on ideas, innovate formats, and learn from shared experiences, shaping narratives that travel beyond borders.

CSOs, APC clash over mass defection of Ondo lawmakers

The Coalition of All Civil Society Organisations in Ondo State (CACSOD) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have traded words following the mass defection of opposition lawmakers in the State House of Assembly to the ruling party.

The development followed the official defection of two Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers – Oladiji Oguntudo, representing Akure South Constituency I, and Raymond Daodu, Deputy Minority Leader and member representing Akoko South West Constituency I – to the APC during plenary.

Before their defection, Oguntudo and Daodu were the only remaining PDP members in the Assembly, which is presided over by Speaker Olamide Oladiji and already dominated by the APC. Their move now gives the ruling party total control of all 26 seats, leaving the parliament without an opposition.

Reacting to the development, the Coalition of All Civil Society Organisations in Ondo State (CACSOD) described the situation as a major threat to democracy and accountability.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Alo Martins, the coalition warned that a legislature without opposition undermines checks and balances and weakens governance.

‘A democratic system without an effective opposition is a democracy in name only,’ the statement read.

However, the APC defended the defections, describing them as an endorsement of the ruling party’s performance and leadership. The party said the lawmakers’ decision to join its ranks reflects growing public confidence in its efforts to deliver good governance and improve the lives of Ondo residents.

‘Opposition lawmakers are essential for checks and balances, rigorous policy debates, and oversight of the executive arm. When the legislature becomes a one-party chamber, it risks degenerating into a rubber stamp, unable to question policies, demand transparency, or defend citizens’ interests.’

The group described the mass defection as a ‘betrayal of the electorate’s trust,’ noting that the lawmakers were elected based on specific party manifestos and platforms.

CACSOD said, ‘Voters who supported opposition candidates now find themselves represented by members of the ruling party without their consent. Such political opportunism undermines the integrity of elections and erodes citizens’ faith in the democratic process.’

The coalition called on the National Assembly and the ongoing Constitution Review Committee to strengthen the anti-defection law, particularly Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, which allows defections on the grounds of internal party division.

It said the clause had been ‘grossly abused by politicians who manufacture or exaggerate internal crises to justify crossing over to the ruling side.’

CACSOD added, ‘We further call for a constitutional amendment that makes it mandatory for any elected official who wishes to defect from the party under which they were elected to first resign from office and seek a fresh mandate under their new platform.’

The group warned that the absence of opposition in the Assembly could erode accountability, stifle dissenting voices, and embolden impunity in governance.

It urged citizens to be vigilant and reject politicians who engage in ‘political carpet-crossing’ for personal gain.

‘Citizens must shine their eyes. We must no longer reward political carpet-crossers who prioritize personal gain over public service,’ the group said.

Reaffirming its commitment to defending democracy, the coalition stated, ‘Democracy loses its meaning when every voice in the legislature sings the same tune. For governance to serve the people, there must always be room for dissent, dialogue, and accountability.’

But in a swift reaction, the APC dismissed the criticism, describing the defections as a validation of the party’s progressive governance under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement signed by its Director, Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro, the party explained that both leaders have demonstrated a clear commitment to the development of Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.

The APC added that it rejected the notion that a political movement is a betrayal of democratic values, maintaining that in a competitive polity, elected representatives retain the right to choose the platform that best enables them to serve their constituents.

According to the party, to suggest otherwise is to stifle democracy and undermine the will of the people.

‘Also, we take umbrage with CACSOD’s assertion that the absence of opposition equates to the death of democracy. This is a myopic view that fails to recognize that democracy thrives on performance, accountability, and the consent of the governed. If political actors and parties fail to offer credible leadership, coherent programmes, or measurable results, they forfeit the confidence of their members and supporters.

‘We welcome our new members, the House Minority Leader, Hon. Olajide Oguntodu, Akure South 1, and Hon. Oluwatoyin Daodu, from Akoko South West 1, and pledged to treat them with dignity and equity. They will be mentored, supported, and given the platform to aspire to any position for which they are suitably qualified. Our doors are open to talent, integrity, and dedication,’ the statement read.

The party urged civil society and all well-meaning citizens to judge political developments by their substance and outcomes rather than alarmist rhetoric.

It, however, added that the people of the state deserve governance that works – practical, accountable, and results-oriented, stressing that APC remains committed to providing exactly that.

Startup unveils data-driven technology to revolutionise sports predictions

A new technology designed to bring empirical precision to sports predictions is on the horizon. According to the Founder of City Rebels Predictions (CRSPredictions), Osifeso Olamiji, the innovation aims to transform sports forecasting from guesswork into a science-driven process powered by data, logic, and analytics.

In a statement, Olamiji said the goal is to help fans understand the science behind sports outcomes rather than depend on luck.

‘I wanted to build something that changes how people think about sports. Behind every match lies data – patterns, probability, and logic. That’s what CRSPredictions helps people see,’ he said.

Unlike conventional prediction platforms, CRSPredictions focuses on responsible engagement, positioning itself as an educational and analytical tool rather than a gambling hub. This distinction, Olamiji noted, has earned the platform credibility among young stakeholders seeking more than mere speculation.

Beyond sports analysis, he said the platform also aims to serve as a knowledge hub for young Africans. Through mentorship programmes, training, and data literacy workshops, CRSPredictions seeks to show how analytical thinking in sports can be applied to real-world problem-solving.

‘If you can analyse a football match properly, you can analyse a business decision. It’s all logic, patience, and structure,’ he explained.

Looking ahead, Olamiji revealed plans to launch a mobile app, integrate machine learning tools, and forge partnerships with African sports data firms to further enhance the platform’s capabilities.

‘Africa has the passion. Now, we need to match that passion with precision. That’s the future we’re building. I just want to prove that if you stay consistent, your idea can grow. CRSPredictions is still young, but we’re building something Africa will be proud of,’ he added.

Launched in July 2022, CRSPredictions, according to the founder, uses structured data to interpret player and team performance. The platform, he explained, offers deep-dive analyses, player trends, and predictive models designed to make sports debates more informed. ‘We’re not guessing. We predict based on information. We want users to see the logic and the data behind every result.’

With a background in Computer and Mathematical Sciences, combined with early lessons from street trading, Olamiji drew inspiration to merge logic with passion through CRSPredictions. By 2024, while serving as an Admin Officer in a Petroleum and Engineering company, he was managing both roles, an experience he said strengthened his organisational mindset.

‘Working in a structured environment helped me understand systems and organisation. It gave me the discipline to build CRSPredictions sustainably, not as a hustle, but as a real business,’ he explained.

Olamiji, who cut his entrepreneurial teeth in Mandilas Market, Lagos, trading in automobiles and fashion, also admonished the youths.

‘You learn that business isn’t about comfort; it’s about creativity and consistency. Every setback taught me to adapt and innovate,’ he said, adding that the years he spent on Mandilas Street laid the foundation for his business discipline.