Category: Business Day

SpaceX is preparing to make its biggest move yet into the US telecommunications industry, telling investors it plans to launch a Starlink mobile service for consumers, a step that could transform the satellite internet provider into a direct rival to wireless giants Verizon, AT and T and T-Mobile.

The plans, disclosed during a recent investor roadshow ahead of a potential initial public offering, signal that Elon Musk’s privately held space company wants to move beyond providing broadband internet from orbit and become a full-service mobile operator, according to a Financial Times report on Friday.

If launched, the service would mark a significant expansion for Starlink, which has already become the world’s largest satellite broadband network with more than 10 million subscribers. It would also deepen competition in the US communications market, long dominated by a handful of traditional telecom companies that rely on extensive ground-based infrastructure.

SpaceX already works with T-Mobile to provide direct-to-cell satellite connectivity that extends mobile coverage to remote and underserved areas. The new proposal goes much further by offering a retail mobile service under the Starlink brand, potentially allowing consumers to buy mobile plans directly from SpaceX rather than through an existing carrier.

According to the report, SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell also told investors that the company could eventually build its own terrestrial mobile network in the United States, combining ground infrastructure with its growing satellite constellation.

SpaceX did not immediately respond to requests for comment outside normal business hours.

The expansion has been made possible by SpaceX’s aggressive push to secure wireless spectrum. Last year, the company acquired wireless spectrum licences from EchoStar in transactions worth nearly $20 billion, giving Starlink access to valuable airwaves needed to support direct-to-cell communications.

Those purchases are expected to accelerate SpaceX’s ability to offer nationwide mobile services without relying entirely on partnerships with existing telecom operators.

The strategy reflects a broader shift in the communications industry, where satellite technology is increasingly being viewed as a complement and in some cases a competitor, to conventional mobile networks.

Unlike traditional carriers, whose coverage depends on thousands of cell towers, satellite-based mobile services can reach rural communities, offshore locations and disaster-hit regions where terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable or damaged.

The implications extend well beyond the United States.

For African telecom operators, a successful Starlink mobile service would reinforce concerns that the company is steadily evolving from a broadband provider into a full-scale telecommunications competitor. Operators across the continent have already warned that Starlink is attracting many of their highest-paying residential and enterprise broadband customers by offering faster internet speeds in areas where fibre and 4G or 5G networks remain limited.

Executives at several African operators have increasingly argued that satellite providers are competing for the most profitable customers without making the same level of investment in local terrestrial infrastructure, spectrum rollouts and nationwide tower networks. Many of those operators continue to spend billions of dollars expanding fibre backbones, building base stations and meeting licence obligations imposed by regulators.

Industry executives also fear that if Starlink eventually combines broadband, voice and direct-to-device mobile services into a single offering, it could become even more attractive to corporate clients, financial institutions, mining companies and affluent urban households, customer segments that traditionally generate a disproportionate share of telecom revenues.

That concern is particularly pronounced in markets such as Nigeria, Kenya, Zambia and Zimbabwe, where Starlink has expanded rapidly and demand has outpaced supply in some locations. Several operators have acknowledged that satellite broadband is becoming an increasingly attractive alternative for businesses seeking reliable high-speed connectivity.

The pressure could accelerate a new phase of competition across Africa, forcing telecom companies to improve network quality, expand fibre deployment, introduce satellite partnerships of their own and diversify into digital financial services, cloud computing and enterprise solutions to protect revenues.

The mobile ambitions also strengthen Starlink’s long-term negotiating position with telecom operators globally. Rather than serving only as a wholesale partner that complements mobile coverage, SpaceX could increasingly decide where it wants to collaborate and where it wants to compete directly.

Brokerage firm Oppenheimer said earlier this month that Starlink’s continued expansion has the potential to disrupt the $1.6 trillion US communications industry as satellite technology becomes more integrated into everyday mobile connectivity.

The announcement also reinforces how central Starlink has become to SpaceX’s financial future.

While the company remains the world’s leading commercial launch provider, investors increasingly view Starlink as its primary growth engine because of its rapidly expanding subscriber base, recurring service revenues and global reach.

A successful entry into consumer mobile services would open another large revenue stream, allowing SpaceX to compete across broadband, mobile connectivity and enterprise communications from a single satellite platform.

Questions remain over pricing, regulatory approvals and how quickly SpaceX can build the terrestrial infrastructure needed to support a nationwide retail service. The company also faces the challenge of convincing consumers that satellite-powered mobile connectivity can match the reliability and speed of traditional cellular networks.

Still, the proposal highlights SpaceX’s ambition to evolve from a space launch company into a diversified communications powerhouse.

For African operators, the announcement is another reminder that the competitive threat from Starlink is no longer confined to fixed satellite broadband.

If the company succeeds in extending its satellite network into mainstream mobile services, telecom executives across the continent may have to prepare for a future in which their biggest competitor is not another mobile operator, but a communications network operating from space.

Rising insecurity across Nigeria’s major sesame seed-producing belts and the increasing threat of flooding during the current farming season are raising concerns over the country’s ability to sustain its position as one of the world’s leading sesame exporters in 2026.

Experts warn that attacks by bandits on farming communities and flooding could slash cultivation and harvest volumes, jeopardising export earnings from one of Nigeria’s most valuable non-oil exports.

Nigeria is Africa’s largest producer of sesame and a leading global exporter, supplying major markets such as China, Japan, and Turkey. But security challenges and climate disruptions threaten to reduce next season’s export volumes.

Ubale Sani, a professor at the Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Bayero University, Kano, noted that continued insecurity, low mechanisation, poor rural infrastructure and climate uncertainties remain major obstacles to reversing Nigeria’s sesame production trend.

Sesame cultivation has grown rapidly over the past two decades, transforming from a subsistence crop into one of Nigeria’s leading export commodities owing to surging demand and government efforts to diversify non-oil exports.

The crop is particularly attractive due to its drought tolerance, adaptability to semi-arid conditions and its multiple industrial applications, ranging from food production and oil extraction to pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturing.

Nigeria produced 450,000 metric tonnes of sesame seeds in 2024, according to data from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), and this figure accounted for 6.2 percent of global output, placing the country among the world’s top five producers.

Despite the impressive production figures, national output has recorded a steady decline over recent years, falling by nearly 20 percent from over 523,000 metric tonnes recorded in 2019.

Nigeria’s export performance, however, has remained relatively strong. The country’s earnings from sesame grew by 20 percent year-on-year from N128.1 billion in the first quarter of 2025 to N153.8 billion in the corresponding period of 2026.

However, Amniu Alhassan Fagge, a lecturer and researcher at the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, BUK, warned that maintaining that momentum in earnings from the commodity may become increasingly difficult if farmers are unable to cultivate their fields safely or if excessive rainfall damages crops during the growing season.

He noted that the crop is predominantly cultivated by smallholder farmers operating on one to three hectares of land under rain-fed conditions with limited mechanisation and low external inputs.

Most post-harvest operations, including drying, cleaning and packaging, remain manual, increasing production costs and reducing efficiency, Fagge said.

The sesame supply chain typically moves from farmers through aggregators and licensed buying agents before reaching exporters who undertake cleaning, sorting and limited processing before shipment through Lagos ports.

Impacting livelihoods

The crop’s economic importance extends beyond export earnings, providing livelihoods for more than 500,000 farmers across northern Nigeria while supporting thousands of workers involved in aggregation, transportation, processing and export logistics.

Women also play significant roles in harvesting, cleaning and aggregation activities, making the value chain an important source of household income in rural communities.

Also, Hasaan Tahir Yaro, president of Kano Small and Medium Scale Traders, Farmers and Entrepreneurs Development Association (KASCOTE), noted that any disruption to production could have wider implications for rural employment, foreign exchange earnings and Nigeria’s drive to expand agricultural exports.

International buyers continue to rely heavily on Nigerian sesame for confectionery products, bakery ingredients, tahini production, edible oil extraction and industrial applications.

White sesame remains the country’s predominant export variety due to its high demand in confectionery and bakery industries, while brown sesame and mixed-colour varieties are widely used for oil extraction and industrial processing.

Organic sesame production is also gradually expanding through certified cooperatives targeting premium international markets.

The stakeholders and experts are therefore calling for enhanced security around farming communities, improved flood control measures and greater investment in mechanisation and extension services to safeguard production.

They also advocate increased access to improved seed varieties, better rural roads and expanded irrigation facilities to reduce dependence on rainfall and improve resilience against climate shocks.

As global demand for sesame continues to rise, stakeholders believe Nigeria possesses enormous potential to strengthen its position in the international market, provided urgent measures are taken to protect farmers and improve productivity.

Without decisive intervention, however, the dual challenge of insecurity and flooding could undermine the country’s export prospects in 2026 and reduce the volume of sesame available for international buyers, with corresponding consequences for foreign exchange earnings and rural livelihoods.

For 50 years, Maltina has been woven into the fabric of Nigerian consumers’ lives. From family celebrations to everyday moments at home, there is always excitement for every consumer.

The company said this longevity milestone is no accident. Maltina has consistently recognised changing consumer needs and found new ways to remain relevant without losing sight of what has always defined it.

‘Today, that ability matters more than ever as the rules of consumer engagement have shifted. Consumers don’t simply want to hear from brands; they want to experience them. They gravitate towards brands that show up in spaces they already occupy, contribute meaningfully to moments they already value, and create opportunities for participation rather than passive consumption,’ it said.

The company explained that Maltina’s recent collaboration with the Morayo Brown Show, a leading family and lifestyle talk show, demonstrates the power of experience-led partnerships.

‘As part of its May 27 celebrations under the ‘Nourishment Fit For You’ campaign, the brand sponsored the programme’s live studio experience, engaging audiences throughout the week through interactive activities, practical demonstrations, and specially curated Maltina gift packs,’ it said.

‘Rather than relying on traditional sponsorship visibility alone, Maltina transformed its brand promise of nourishment and happiness into a lived experience-creating memorable moments of surprise, connection, and joy that audiences could actively participate in and remember long after the programme ended,’ it added.

Also, the brand extended its consumer engagement strategy beyond the screen to Ikeja City Mall, one of Lagos’ busiest shopping destinations for children and families. Continuing to expand the boundaries of the Nourishment Fit For You message, the brand invited children, young people, and parents to be nourished and reconnect with their playful, happy side through music, dance, games, and interactive activities.

An ordinary shopping trip became a joyful celebration of play, reminding families that happiness isn’t something left behind in childhood-it can be intentionally rediscovered. Rather than staging a conventional mall activation, Maltina created a meaningful brand experience that brought its promise of nourishment and happiness to life.

‘These engagements recognised a simple truth: people remember experiences they participate in far more than messages they merely consume. They reflect a brand that understands how consumer expectations continue to evolve,’ it said.

As a brand that champions nourishment and brings happiness, Maltina’s commitment is most visible when it transforms everyday interactions into moments that inspire, enrich, and connect people all at once.

‘Such encounters may appear simple on the surface, yet they reveal much about how consumer expectations have evolved. That is the real value of meeting consumers where they are. The connection extends beyond the moment itself, finding its way into conversations on the journey home, videos shared with friends and memories that outlast the experience. Those are the interactions that shape how people remember a brand, long after the music has faded and the shopping bags have been taken home,’ it said.

‘For five decades, Maltina has remained relevant by evolving alongside the people it serves. While the platforms, technologies, and consumer habits have changed dramatically over the years, the brand’s approach has remained remarkably consistent: understand consumers first, then create experiences that genuinely matter to them,’ it said.

‘That is perhaps the defining characteristic of every enduring brand. Longevity is not sustained by history alone; it is earned by continually finding new ways to stay meaningful. At 50, Maltina is not simply keeping pace with the changing rules of consumer engagement. It is helping define them,’ it stated.

At COP26, Nigeria announced its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2060, with a roadmap to reduce emissions and power national development.

Shortly after, Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP) was unveiled to highlight the scale of effort required to achieve the 2060 net-zero target whilst also meeting the nation’s energy needs.

Since that announcement, the ETP has been fully approved by the Federal Government under the Climate Change Act 2021, with the Energy Transition Office supporting the Federal Government in the implementation of the ETP.

However, Nigeria is annually faced with the challenges of desertification in the north, floods in the North-central, pollution and erosion in South-South/South East zones and the associated socio-economic consequences alluding to the reality and grave impacts of climate change.

In response to Nigeria’s energy transition challenges, Greenplinth Africa Limited organised a two-day retreat, which was concluded last Wednesday, themed ‘Clean Cooking Access in Africa: Igniting Socio-Economic Change with 80M Clean Cookstoves in Nigeria.’

Chaired by Ibrahim Usman Jibril, Emir of Nasarawa and President, Nasarawa Emirate Council, the retreat included a strategic action for the phased roll-out of the 80M Clean Cookstoves project in Nigeria, and a special media chat aimed at stirring conversations and actionable plans.

Stakeholders at the engagement agreed that successful implementation of the 80 million clean cookstoves initiative would require strong collaboration among governments, investors, development partners, manufacturers, financial institutions, technology providers, community organisations and the media.

They stressed that accelerating access to clean cooking technologies could play a critical role in reducing energy poverty, protecting forests, improving public health outcomes and supporting Nigeria’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

‘Today is not about announcing just another project. Today is about declaring a national movement. A movement for clean energy, healthier homes, women’s dignity, household empowerment and climate responsibility,’ Babatunde Aina, the Group’s financial officer, Greenplinth Africa Limited, said while describing the project as a national movement aimed at advancing clean energy access, climate responsibility and economic inclusion.

According to Aina, the initiative would transform the way millions of Nigerians cook and live while reducing the environmental and health burdens associated with traditional cooking methods.

He added that the project was designed to deploy clean cookstoves to households free of charge under a structured lease arrangement to ensure accountability and sustained usage by beneficiaries.

According to him, Nigeria cannot afford to remain on the sidelines of the global clean energy transition. He disclosed that Nigeria cannot afford to watch opportunity pass by; adding that the 80 million clean cookstove project offers a different path to a more prosperous country.

‘Nigeria cannot afford to leave millions of women and children exposed to avoidable household smoke, unsafe wells, and energy poverty,’ Aina said.

Aina, who is also the deputy managing director of GreenPlinth, described the meeting as a strategic retreat to let the world know that ‘we are moving to the next phase- to give the definitive date of when we are rolling out and the process of rolling out.’

He disclosed that ‘We are starting with Lagos State on July 21, this year; then the following week, we do the same thing in Benue, then in Niger and last in the series, we do the same thing in Nasarawa State. We are now moving from projection to reality.’

Titilayo Oshodi, special adviser (SA) to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Climate Change and Circular Economy, described the project as one of the most promising climate investment opportunities currently attracting global attention.

Oshodi said in a keynote address delivered virtually during the strategic project implementation management retreat and stakeholders’ engagement of the 80M Clean Cookstoves project in Nigeria, that the initiative was generating significant interest from international investors, development institutions and climate finance organisations. She was participating in the London Climate Action Week that just ended.

According to Oshodi, the project offers a practical solution to some of Africa’s most pressing environmental, health and economic challenges while advancing Nigeria’s climate commitments.

‘Clean cooking must be recognised not simply as an energy conversation, but as a climate solution, a health intervention, a gender empowerment strategy, an economic inclusion mechanism and a pathway towards sustainable development.’

Oshodi also said that the pilot phase of the project, held in Makoko, presents opportunities for climate finance mobilisation, carbon credit generation, green industrialisation, women’s economic empowerment and job creation.

She explained that Lagos State is currently promoting investment opportunities in clean energy, sustainable mobility, climate resilience and carbon markets as part of its State Determined Contributions framework being showcased during London Climate Action Week.

Ibrahim Usman Jibril, Emir of Nasarawa and President, Nasarawa Emirate Council, described the project as a timely intervention that could help Nigeria harness opportunities in the global carbon market while addressing major public health and environmental challenges.

According to him, millions of people continue to rely on firewood, charcoal and kerosene for cooking despite the associated health risks. He noted that indoor air pollution remains a major public health concern and contributes to millions of deaths globally every year.

‘We have a proposed plan, we have a verification system, we have a carbon pathway, and we have a vision that connects household dignity with environmental responsibility. This is the beginning of something very major,’ he said.

Jibril, a former minister of environment, who served as chairman of the retreat, commended the choice of Makoko, a waterside community in Lagos, as a strategic location due to its population density and energy challenges.

He, however, urged Greenplinth Africa to collaborate with universities and research institutions to strengthen scientific research, innovation and long-term sustainability of the programme. ‘For Greenplinth to come up with this initiative, they are not only helping us to get the carbon credits that others are reaping away, but they are helping humanity,’ Jibril said.

Jide Alo, a professor of Chemistry, University of Lagos, in a paper presentation on ‘Reversing the perennial negative impact of firewood and kerosene cookstoves on public health and the environment: The Panda cookstove solution,’ said that about 30 percent of household biomass dependence relies on fossil fuels that are used as a core energy source, resulting in severe pollution.

According to him, women and children are mostly at the receiving end of the energy crisis and are vulnerable to smoke inhalation and heavy fuel pollution. ‘We have an energy crisis. So, it’s a crisis within a crisis,’ Alo said.

He added that the 80 million clean cookstove initiative was the world’s largest clean cooking project, aimed at a transformative national economy. ‘So, what we are saying is that it will prevent up to 1.2 billion tons of CO2 emissions, generate billions in green revenue, foster a new economy, and significantly enhance public health.’

Salisu Dahiru, in a paper titled, ‘Transforming Lives, Restoring Forests and Powering Nigeria’s Sustainable Future,’ said that the entry point for the clean cookstoves initiative was in the area of the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan, which has been designed to address the challenges of energy poverty, as well as deal with the issue of climate change.

According to him, the Energy Transition Plan aims to shift about 80 percent of the population from traditional biomass to clean fuels as the main energy source for cooking by 2060.

Dahiru, a pioneer director general (DG) of the Nigerian Climate Change Council (NCCC), said that without collaborative support with the 80 million clean cookstove initiative, Nigeria’s desire to achieve its targeted energy transition plan cannot and will not be fulfilled.

‘This is for the record. No 80 million cook stoves in Nigeria, no successful completion or implementation of the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan,’ he said.

According to him, the initiative presents a verified climate solution and a sustainable revenue stream that offers a better future for participants.

‘By protecting forests, by reducing these carbon emissions, as well as other non-carbon obnoxious emissions that affect health, delivering verified impact, generating carbon revenue, and empowering communities,’ he said.

Speaking with journalists at the event, he commended GreenPlinth over the project, saying that the strategic session enabled the critical stakeholders to tie all the knots ahead of the rollout in the four states that have already signed an agreement with GreenPlinth.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) have condemned efforts by those who seek to shrink the democratic space and stifle opposition voices and alternatives for Nigerians.

Moses Cleopas Zuwoghe, national chairman, Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), in a statement said Nigerians have a right to a full range of opinions, ideas, and alternatives, and political platforms and candidates should be allowed to participate in the 2027 general election process, which has already gone midway.

This followed Federal High Court ruling in Lokoja Kogi State directing INEC to deregister NDC.

‘Our attention has been drawn to a ruling by the Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja this morning, wherein His Lordship, Honourable Justice Isah Dashen, gave a ruling on an application filed by an unregistered association known as Peace Movement Party.

‘The public knows that by December 2025, the Nigeria Democratic Congress as an association complained of INEC’s refusal to register us as a political party, whereupon we proceeded to the Federal High Court. The Federal High Court upheld our constitutional right to freedom of association under the Constitution and compelled INEC to register us, which INEC did.

‘Since then, we have started political activities, embarked on the registration of members, held congresses from ward to national levels, held conventions, and concluded primaries to all offices following INEC’s timetable. We have been fully participating in all INEC activities without let or hindrance.

‘NDC also fielded candidates, and fully participated, in the just-concluded by-elections in Nasarawa and Enugu states.

‘Candidates for the House of Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate, Governorship, Presidential, and Vice-Presidential positions have been duly nominated, and we are in the process of formally submitting them to INEC in accordance with INEC’s timetable.

‘The association that filed the complaint is unknown to us. The Peace Movement Party (PMP) is not a registered political party in Nigeria. They claimed, in a motion (not even a substantive suit or appeal), that the court should set aside its earlier judegment on the purported ground that, in 2015, they had sought registration as a political party with the victory sign as their symbol and were denied.

‘It is important to note that they are not an association applying for registration now under the exercise that started last year. They are also not a registered political party in Nigeria participating in the political process now, as we are.

‘Furthermore, the court, having delivered a final judgement in our suit against INEC, had become functus officio. The court had also dealt with all related issues concerning associations claiming they wanted to use the same symbol and colours. The court, in its judgment, overruled INEC when those issues were raised, and there is no appeal against that judgment.

‘Therefore, we are surprised that, on an application by an association claiming that it wanted to register as a political party with the victory sign in 2015-an association that is not a registered political party and is not seeking registration now to participate in the current political process-His Lordship came to the conclusion that they have locus standi, and furthermore, that he has jurisdiction to do what he did.

‘Accordingly, we have been informed that His Lordship made an order setting aside the court’s earlier decision of December 2025.

‘There was no order directing our deregistration. However, we are dissatisfied with the decision that has been made, and we have instructed our team of lawyers to immediately proceed to the Court of Appeal to challenge the jurisdiction and propriety of His Lordship’s order.

‘We assure the general public, and particularly our candidates at all levels, that our party is on course. The NDC has not been deregistered, and we are challenging today’s order at the Court of Appeal as soon as possible. We have no doubt that justice will be done.

‘We condemn efforts by those who seek to shrink the democratic space and stifle opposition voices and alternatives. Nigerians have a right to a full range of opinions, ideas, and alternatives, and political platforms and candidates should be allowed to participate in the 2027 general election process, which has already gone midway.

It is too late for anyone to attempt to use the judiciary to derail or narrow Nigeria’s multi-party democratic space. If the said association (Peace Movement Party) were a party affected by the judgment on our initial suit, the only option open to it was to appeal the verdict, an option which it did not take. Even at that, the window open for such appeal has since closed and any such appeal by now has become statute-barred.

To now try to upturn that verdict through the back door, via a motion, is not only unheard-of, but also illegal and an outright abuse of court process.

‘We thank Nigerians for their support, and we thank all our candidates, members and supporters for their confidence and trust in the party. We assure them that all nominations made remain valid, that our platform is strong and legal, and that justice will be served.

Afia Efere is similar to the Igbo soup ‘Ofe Nsala’ except that fewer ingredients are used, and this one does not contain uyayak (a local seasoning).

This Southern Nigerian culinary tradition is a rich, aromatic, and spicy traditional delicacy native to the Efik and Ibibio people of Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.

The unmistakable aroma of the soup usually, would announce itself long before the meal gets to the table.

When preparing the soup across the villages, the aroma would always slip quietly through kitchen windows, drifts across family compounds and settles into ‘foodicious’ conversations.

Joy Ikpe, a 100 level Mass Communication student of the University of Lagos who suggested this African cuisuine was super delighted talking this famous White Soup.

The Ibibio and Annang people of Akwa Ibom State say the soup represents a living expression of history, identity, hospitality and indigenous knowledge that has endured for centuries.

This is a time when the world is increasingly recognising the importance of safeguarding cultural traditions through UNESCO’s representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and Afia Efere deserves to be part of this global conversation.

Across Akwa Ibom State, from Uyo to Ikot Ekpene, Abak, Etinan, Oron and countless rural communities, Afia Efere remains one of the most treasured culinary symbols of the people.

The soup has however travelled from Nigeria to Africa and other continents as the lovers of this delight and foodies settle down through migration.

Little wonder why all the ingredients that make for the preparation of the soup are readily available across the African stores and food equally available across some African restaurants in other climes.

For many Akwa Ibom indigenes living outside their homeland, the first spoonful of Afia Efere evokes memories that no photograph or souvenir can capture. It recalls childhood afternoons spent watching mothers and grandmothers stir large cooking pots over firewood, family celebrations where laughter echoed through crowded compounds, and festive occasions when guests were welcomed with generous servings of the cherished soup.

For many in diaspora, preparing or eating Afia Efere is an emotional journey back home, reconnecting them with their roots regardless of where life has taken them.

The name which literally means ‘White Soup’ in the Ibibio language, is a reflection of its creamy appearance, which is achieved without the use of palm oil.

Instead, the soup derives its distinctive colour and flavour from carefully selected local ingredients, including fresh goat meat, fish, stockfish, smoked fish, crayfish, and other optional seafood as well as onions

It is pertinent to note that indigenous spices and cocoyam or pounded yam are commonly used as a natural thickener.

Unlike many modern recipes that exist in cookbooks or online tutorials, the finest versions of Afia Efere live almost entirely in memory.

Despite the civilisation and modern ways of cooking, the unique ‘Africanness’ as well as the knowledge of preparing the soup has been handed down orally from one generation to the next as most mothers teach daughters, while grandmothers patiently guide granddaughters through careful precision and supervision.

Measurements are rarely written down. Rather, they are learned through observation, practice and intuition.

Young cooks discover when the meat has reached the perfect tenderness, how much cocoyam produces the ideal consistency, and the precise moment when the spices release their rich aroma.

This unique method of transmitting knowledge is one of the defining characteristics of intangible cultural heritage.

Preparing Afia Efere is itself a cultural performance because, in many Akwa Ibom homes, cooking the soup becomes a communal activity that brings generations together.

One person cleans the fish while another prepares the goat meat, someone else pounds the yam, another grinds crayfish, while children run errands and elders supervise every stage of the process.

Somehow, away from these ordinary kitchen activities lies something much deeper, which is the interaction, conversation, relationship, exchange of stories, family ties, family histories and unforgettable moments of unity, community and togetherness.

Through these village culinary activities, impact and influence become the order of the day as children learn the importance of patience, cooperation, respect for elders and the cultural expectation that every visitor deserves warmth and generous hospitality.

The kitchen becomes more than a place for preparing food; it becomes a classroom where identity is quietly passed from one generation to another.

This explains why Afia Efere occupies a prominent place in the family, the communities and especially during weddings, traditional marriage ceremonies, naming ceremonies, festivals, thanksgiving services, family reunions and other significant occasions.

Serving the soup to guests is regarded as a mark of true hospitality, honour and respect.

Within Ibibio and Annang culture, hospitality is not merely a social courtesy but a deeply cherished value.

A steaming bowl of Afia Efere communicates acceptance, appreciation and belonging in ways words often cannot. It assures every guest that they are welcomed into the family and community.

Beyond its cultural significance, Afia Efere is also a remarkable example of indigenous nutritional wisdom. Long before conversations about balanced diets, organic foods and sustainable eating became global priorities, communities in Akwa Ibom had already developed culinary traditions that relied on fresh, locally sourced ingredients rich in essential nutrients.

Fresh fish provides high quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids that support brain and heart health. The goat meat offers lean protein, iron, zinc and vitamin B12, which are essential for healthy muscles, blood formation and immunity.

The crayfish contributes calcium and phosphorus that strengthen bones and teeth, while cocoyam supplies dietary fibre, potassium, vitamin C and easily digestible carbohydrates that provide energy and promote digestive health.

Together, these ingredients create a wholesome meal that nourishes the body while preserving centuries of traditional culinary knowledge.

The health benefits of Afia Efere extend beyond its nutritional composition. Its fresh ingredients contain natural antioxidants that help protect the body against harmful free radicals, while its rich protein content supports growth and tissue repair.

The mineral-rich broth promotes hydration and recovery, making the soup both comforting and nourishing.

Because it relies largely on natural ingredients rather than heavily processed additives, Afia Efere reflects dietary practices that modern nutritionists increasingly recommend for healthier living.

Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of Afia Efere is its simplicity. Although it appears modest in colour, achieving its delicate balance of flavour requires considerable culinary skill.

Traditional cooks know exactly how to combine indigenous spices so that no single ingredient overwhelms another.

They understand how slow cooking allows flavours to develop naturally and how each ingredient contributes not only taste but also texture, aroma and nutritional value.

This mastery of local ingredients represents an invaluable body of indigenous knowledge accumulated over generations.

Food scholars often observe that traditional dishes are among the most enduring expressions of cultural identity because they preserve more than recipes. They preserve language, memory, values and ways of life. Afia Efere exemplifies this truth.

Every ingredient reflects the environment of Akwa Ibom. Every cooking technique embodies generations of practical experience. Every family gathering around a pot of Ibibio White Soup reinforces bonds that extend far beyond the dining table.

These are precisely the qualities UNESCO seeks to protect through its Intangible Cultural Heritage programme, which includes the practices, expressions, knowledge and skills that communities recognise as part of their cultural identity and actively transmit to future generations.

Afia Efere satisfies these principles in remarkable ways. It remains widely practised across communities. It strengthens social cohesion. It embodies indigenous knowledge, culinary craftsmanship and cultural values.

Of great essence is the fact that the culinary tradition continues to be cherished by the people who inherited it.

Around the world, several culinary traditions have already received UNESCO recognition because they represent living cultural practices rather than mere recipes.

Examples abound. These include the Japanese Washoku, the Mediterranean Diet and Mexico’s traditional cuisine among others. They all relish international recognition for preserving unique knowledge systems and community values.

Nigeria possesses culinary traditions of comparable significance, and Afia Efere undoubtedly stands among them.

The argument for recognising Afia Efere is therefore not simply about celebrating a delicious soup but preserving a living archive of indigenous knowledge, protecting a culinary tradition that has shaped generations, and ensuring that future generations inherit not only the recipe but also the values of hospitality, family unity, cultural pride and communal identity that accompany it.

Every day, in homes across Akwa Ibom, this heritage continues quietly. It survives in the careful stirring of a cooking pot, in the laughter of families gathered around the kitchen, in the patient guidance of grandmothers teaching younger hands, and in the joy of guests welcomed with a steaming bowl of White Soup.

Perhaps humanity’s greatest heritage has never resided solely in monuments, museums or historic buildings but in the lives and traditions people preserve in their homes, carry in their memories and share around their tables.

Afia Efere is therefore a tradition, a delicacy, and the taste of history, couple with the aroma of identity and the enduring soul of Akwa Ibom.

It deserves to be celebrated, safeguarded and recognised as part of humanity’s shared cultural heritage.

The Peace and Positive Living Awareness Centre (PEPOLAC) has called for renewed commitment to peace building, ethical leadership and grassroots engagement as rising insecurity, kidnapping and communal conflicts continue to threaten Nigeria’s development.

The call was made on Friday in Abuja during the 2026 World Peace Day Celebration and the 10th anniversary of PEPOLAC, themed: ‘Keeping Peace Alive for Global Peace: Advancing Peace, Unity and Sustainable Development in Communities.’

Representing Ahmad Sanusi, Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) who was the Chairman of the occasion, Lawrence Iwobi, said peace remains the foundation upon which unity, security and sustainable development are built, stressing that no society can make meaningful progress without respect for law and order.

Alobi described the conference as timely, noting that the gathering itself reflected a shared commitment to peaceful coexistence.

He said peace goes beyond the absence of war, explaining that it is anchored on respect for laws, obedience to constituted authority and acceptance of differing opinions.

According to him, while disagreements are inevitable in every society, conflicts can only be managed through adherence to established rules and the effective enforcement of laws.

‘The extent to which we obey laws and regulations is very important if we want to have peace. That is why law enforcement agencies, particularly the police, continue to emphasise obedience and compliance with rules,’ he said.

Iwobi noted that the quest for peace is as old as humanity itself because people from different backgrounds must continually find ways to live together harmoniously.

He urged participants to become ambassadors of peace by taking the message back to their communities, organisations and workplaces.

‘If every one of us preaches peace individually, the message will spread to more people. When differences arise, we should encourage dialogue and understanding,’ he added.

The police representative further warned that insecurity discourages investment and slows development, pointing out that many communities continue to suffer economically because investors remain reluctant to operate in areas plagued by violence.

He urged Nigerians to continue promoting peace in support of government efforts to restore security across the country.

Speaking during an interview, Festus Ozoeomena, International President of PEPOLAC, said the worsening security situation in Nigeria makes the conversation on peace more urgent than ever.

He lamented the increasing incidents of banditry, kidnappings, killings and attacks on schools, describing the situation as one that demands collective national action.

‘There is no better time to talk about peace than now. The level of insecurity has become alarming. We see people abducting schoolchildren, teachers and innocent citizens. We cannot continue like this,’ he said.

Ozoeomena said the annual Peace Alive Conference was designed to confront the country’s growing insecurity by bringing stakeholders together to identify practical solutions.

According to him, the event also marks a significant milestone in PEPOLAC’s decade-long commitment to peace advocacy and community development.

He said the conference featured panel discussions focused on insecurity and peacebuilding with the aim of developing workable recommendations for government and communities.

Ozoeomena said PEPOLAC has carried out peace campaigns across several communities, established peace clubs in schools and trained thousands of young people in mediation, reconciliation and conflict management.

He added that the organisation also provided humanitarian support during the COVID-19 pandemic and responded to flood disasters through the distribution of relief materials and financial assistance to affected communities.

He explained that peace advocacy extends beyond dialogue, noting that addressing people’s welfare is also critical to sustaining peace.

‘In situations where people are suffering, it becomes difficult to talk about peace. That is why our intervention has been holistic,’ he said.

Ozoeomena called for intensified grassroots peace campaigns and greater public awareness, insisting that many perpetrators of violence act without fully appreciating the consequences of their actions.

He also urged governments at all levels to provide purposeful leadership, saying national peace and development depend largely on responsible governance.

‘Everything rises and falls on leadership. Good leadership is essential if Nigeria is to overcome its current security challenges.

‘At the same time, citizens must also take ownership of the peacebuilding process because Nigeria belongs to all of us,’ he said.

Speaking on the conference theme, Ozoeomena said ‘Keeping Peace Alive’ was intended to remind individuals, governments and civil society organisations that peace requires continuous effort and must never be taken for granted.

He warned that achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals would remain difficult without lasting peace.

The peace advocate also urged leaders to embody the values they preach.

‘The biggest challenge is that many people advocating peace are not peaceful themselves.

‘You cannot give what you do not have. Peace must become a personal culture because actions speak louder than words,’ he said.

Also speaking, Ibinabobo Sanipe, National Vice President of the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCOM) and Chairman of the Bille Host Community Trust Fund, Evangelist, highlighted the important role of religious leaders in conflict resolution.

He said faith-based organisations must continue working across religious and ethnic divides to foster peaceful coexistence and national unity.

‘As a man of God, it is necessary to promote peace, although many people mistake peacefulness for weakness. But peace remains the only path to a stable society,’ he said.

Sanipe explained that the objective of the conference was to deepen public understanding of the importance of peace and encourage participants to serve as ambassadors of peaceful coexistence wherever they live and work.

‘We expect this programme to make people realise that there is a need for peace in the world.

‘As peace ambassadors, wherever we go, in our communities, states and organisations, we will continue to preach peace,’ he said.

The Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) says it plans to spend N1,070,302,800 for Bible translation and some impact-driven programmes across Nigeria in 2027.

The BSN, in a statement signed by Benjamin Mordi, Manager Media, BSN, the spending represents a 14 percent increase from the N943,020,600 budgeted in 2026.

According to him, the budget reflects BSB’s commitment to make the Holy Bible available and affordable to Nigerians and to ensure meaningful engagement with the Scriptures for life transformation.

He disclosed that out of the projected expenditure, the sum of N216.6 million will be spent on ongoing Bible translation projects, which are at various stages of completion.

The BSN is a non-profit, interdenominational Christian organisation committed to making the Holy Bible available and affordable to Nigerians in their preferred languages and formats; helping Nigerians interact with the Bible through life transformative programmes.

‘One of these projects is Nigerian Sign Language Bible for the deaf community, for which the sum of N54.2 million has been earmarked. Except for the Sign Language Bible translation, it costs a minimum of N150 million to complete any language Bible translation project if completed within eight years.’

According to him, BSN plans to spend N162.1 million on implementing one of its intervention programmes tagged, the Macedonian Call, which focuses on distributing Bibles and relief materials, including foodstuffs, clothing, bedding, and educational packs, to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and slum areas across the country.

‘Our deep passion for the spiritual and social transformation of the people that we serve drives our commitment to making the Word of God available and affordable, despite the harsh operating environment,’ Samuel Sanusi, General Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, BSN, stated.

So far, in the first quarter of this year, the organisation has spent N102 million in pursuance of its mission to make the Bible available to Nigerians in their preferred languages and formats and organising programmes that engage people with the Scriptures.

‘As a responsible corporate organisation, we invest heavily in these initiatives to contribute to the spiritual growth, development, and holistic welfare of the Nigerian people,’ Sanusi stated.

For years, discussions about small and medium-sized businesses in Nigeria have focused on access to finance. While funding remains important, money alone will not drive the next stage of SME growth. We need to look beyond funding.

Entrepreneurs across Nigeria face high costs, changing customer needs, rapid technology shifts, and more competition. At the same time, digital tools, regional trade, and new technology open new ways to grow. Because of these challenges and opportunities, building a stronger business ecosystem is more important than ever.

The main question is no longer if Nigerian SMEs can survive. Many have shown they can handle tough times and market changes. Now, the real question is whether they can grow sustainably and compete in a more connected world.

The key is to build stronger business ecosystems that support SMEs.

Around the world, the best ways to help SMEs go beyond lending money. They focus on building systems that connect businesses to infrastructure, technology, markets, skills, networks, and funding. Businesses succeed not just because they get money, but because they operate in environments that help them be productive and grow. Nigeria should build on this model.

There are four main priorities for building this kind of ecosystem for Nigerian SMEs.

Infrastructure as a productivity enabler

Infrastructure is still one of the biggest challenges for business growth in Nigeria. Reliable electricity, good transport networks, and strong internet are not just nice to have-they are essential for businesses to compete.

For many SMEs, energy costs take up a large part of expenses, hurting profits and limiting growth. That’s why affordable and reliable energy is now an economic need, not just an environmental issue.

Because more private companies are investing in renewable energy. For example, our partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency helps set up mini-grids, giving businesses and communities better access to power. By using less expensive diesel, businesses can work more efficiently, save money, and become more sustainable long-term infrastructure is more than just energy. Better transport, wider internet access, and strong digital connections will decide which businesses can reach more customers and join the digital economy. All these factors together make businesses more competitive.

New competitive landscape

Technology is changing the way businesses work, compete, and grow. Now, a small business in Aba, Kano, or Lagos can sell products across Nigeria and abroad using digital platforms. Still, many SMEs are held back by manual work, disconnected payment systems, and limited access to digital tools. Not everyone can take advantage of these opportunities.

The most successful SMEs in the future will be those that use technology not just to run their business, but as a key part of their growth plans.

Tools like digital payments, online stores, cloud business systems, data analysis, and artificial intelligence are helping businesses work more efficiently, understand their customers better, and grow faster.

Because of these changes, banks need to do more than just offer services-they should help businesses use technology. For example, FCMB Collect brings together payments, collections, and inventory management to help businesses run more smoothly and track their money better. By partnering with other companies and investing in secure digital systems, we are helping businesses take part in the digital economy.

Building capability for growth

Having the right skills and knowledge can be just as important as having enough money.

Many SMEs have good business ideas and see market opportunities, but often lack the management, financial, and tech skills needed for long-term growth. Today, competitiveness depends increasingly on how well business owners make smart choices, use technology, and adapt quickly. That’s why having the right skills is as important as having enough money.

Business owners need to improve at managing money, leading teams, selling online, making data-driven decisions, preparing for exports, and using new technologies such as artificial intelligence. These skills will set apart businesses that stay small from those that grow successfully.

That’s why training programs are still a key part of helping SMEs grow. Through workshops, masterclasses, and our Business Zone learning platform, FCMB provides entrepreneurs with practical knowledge to build stronger, more resilient businesses. As technology and markets keep changing, ongoing learning will be a big advantage, making these programs even more valuable.

Rethinking access to finance

Finance is still very important, but the way it is provided is changing.

Old ways of lending often leave out businesses that lack formal records or traditional collateral. But new tools such as data analysis, digital platforms, and different ways to check credit are helping more businesses access finance. This is making finance more inclusive.

Also, working with development finance institutions and sharing risks is making it easier for businesses in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, renewable energy, and women-led enterprises to access affordable financing.

The future of SME finance will depend not just on how much money is available, but on how wisely it is used. Financing should fit the needs of different sectors, business stages, and models. This way, finance will have a bigger impact.

The future is ecosystem-led

Nigeria’s SME sector is still one of the country’s biggest economic strengths. Its power to create jobs, encourage new ideas, and support growth for everyone will shape the country’s future.

But the next stage of SME growth won’t be about who gives out the most loans. It will be about who can build the best support system for entrepreneurs. This change is already happening.

Businesses need access to markets, technology, infrastructure, knowledge, networks, and capital all working together as one system. When these things come together, SMEs can not only survive tough times but also grow, innovate, and compete worldwide. In short, the ecosystem needs to work as a whole.

At FCMB, our experience working with businesses across diverse sectors has reinforced the belief that sustainable growth requires more than financing. It requires creating opportunities for businesses to access knowledge, technology, markets, partnerships, and affordable solutions that strengthen their competitiveness.

The future of Nigeria’s economy will depend on how effectively we empower entrepreneurs to succeed. Achieving that goal requires a collective commitment to building an ecosystem where businesses are not only funded but also equipped to grow, innovate, and create lasting value. When SMEs succeed, communities prosper, jobs are created, and economies grow. Building that future must remain a national priority.

Nigerian companies are overlooking a powerful tool for strengthening customer relationships and building brand loyalty, according to Goke Iyiola, founder of Gift Imagination, a marketing collateral and corporate gifting company.

Speaking on the role of promotional products in modern marketing, Iyiola said marketing collateral should no longer be treated as a routine procurement exercise but as a strategic extension of a company’s brand and customer experience efforts.

According to him, branded merchandise, corporate gifts and other promotional materials form an important part of below-the-line marketing and can help organisations remain memorable long after a customer has interacted with their products or services.

Marketing collaterals enables customers to experience a brand beyond advertisement and point of service. It extends the customer experience of the brand beyond the touch point and enhances top of the mind awareness.,’ he said.

The comments come at a time when businesses across industries are seeking new ways to improve customer engagement and differentiate themselves in increasingly competitive markets.

Goke noted that while Nigerian firms invest heavily in advertising, public relations and digital marketing, many still underestimate the value of high-quality promotional products in reinforcing brand identity and creating lasting impressions.

Founded in 2017, Gift Imagination was established to address describes professionalism and quality gap within Nigeria’s promotional products industry.

According to him, the sector remains largely informal, with many suppliers lacking the documentation, quality assurance systems and structured processes required by large corporate organisations.

‘When we started, our objective was to bridge the gap between corporate clients and the fragmented supply chain that produces promotional products. We wanted to create a business that could deliver quality products while meeting the procurement and compliance requirements of large organisations,’ he said.

The company initially built its client base through the banking sector, securing projects with some of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions before expanding into insurance, oil and gas, real estate and public sector organisations.

Goke said maintaining quality standards has remained central to the company’s growth strategy.

He recalled instances where the company declined opportunities to deliver products because some clients were not willing to wait for required period to deliver quality work.

‘Our philosophy has always been that the brand promise comes first. If we cannot deliver a product that meets the required standard, we would rather walk away from the opportunity than compromise quality,’ he said.

That emphasis on quality has influenced sourcing decisions, with the company often weighing whether products should be sourced locally or imported.

According to Goke, the decision is usually based on factors such as quality requirements, production capacity, quantity and overall cost.

While some products can be sourced competitively within Nigeria, others require international suppliers because of specialised manufacturing capabilities or stricter quality controls.

‘In some cases, importing may actually be more economical when large volumes are involved because economies of scale can drastically reduce cost and ensure more return on investment for the client. In other cases, local sourcing is the best option. The key consideration is whether the final product meets the client’s expectations,’ he said.

He also highlighted the growing sophistication of corporate gifting in Nigeria, noting that many organisations now approach promotional products as part of broader marketing and customer engagement strategies.

Large corporations, particularly banks, insurance companies and oil and gas firms, increasingly seek customised merchandise that reflects their brand values and enhances customer interactions.

For such organisations, he said, promotional items are most effective when they are practical, memorable and aligned with the company’s products, services and overall brand message.

Looking ahead, Goke said Gift Imagination plans to expand its market presence while helping more businesses use marketing collateral to strengthen brand visibility and customer loyalty.

‘We want to contribute to helping brands stand out and remain unforgettable. A great promotional item can create a lasting impression and strengthen the connection between a company and its customers,’ he said.