Category: Business Day

Public health experts have raised the alarm over the growing number of Nigerians battling persistent coughs and other respiratory symptoms, warning citizens not to dismiss the condition as a common cold or seasonal flu.

Speaking in an interview with BusinessDay, Prof. Wellington Oyibo, tropical disease specialist, advised Nigerians to take respiratory symptoms seriously and seek medical attention early rather than resorting to self-medication. He noted that while most coughs appear harmless, a lingering or recurrent cough could be a sign of more serious underlying infections that require prompt diagnosis.

‘People should not ignore a cough that lasts more than two or three weeks. Persistent coughs could point to infections like tuberculosis, pneumonia, or other respiratory viruses. It is important that Nigerians visit a doctor, get a chest X-ray if necessary, and avoid self-medicating. Early diagnosis can save lives,’ he said.

Oyibo stressed that respiratory infections tend to rise during the dry season and periods of poor air quality, urging Nigerians to adopt preventive measures to reduce transmission. ‘As people move through crowded areas and public spaces, especially airports and markets, they must wear masks and maintain good hygiene. Simple practices like washing hands with soap and covering the mouth and nose when coughing can significantly limit infection spread,’ he added.

He further warned that a combination of factors such as dust, poor ventilation, and air pollution could aggravate existing respiratory illnesses. ‘The dry season brings a lot of irritants into the air, from dust to pollutants. People with asthma or weak immune systems should avoid exposure to smoke and dusty environments,’ he said.

While recent reports have pointed to an increase in respiratory infections in some countries, Oyibo clarified that Nigeria’s current concern may not be about any new or imported virus but about the rising trend of persistent coughs and respiratory distress within communities. ‘We may not be facing a single outbreak, but we are seeing more people with prolonged coughs and breathing difficulties. These symptoms should not be ignored,’ he advised.

He also called attention to Nigeria’s weak public health surveillance, noting that poor awareness and slow response mechanisms make it difficult to track or contain seasonal spikes in respiratory illnesses. ‘Our public health system needs consistent vigilance. The moment symptoms start appearing in clusters, we should have systems that respond quickly,’ he said.

Echoing his view, Prof. Oyewale Tomori, a renowned virologist, who spoke separately, lamented Nigeria’s repeated failure to sustain disease monitoring and diagnostic preparedness. According to him, the neglect of laboratories and health facilities developed during the COVID-19 pandemic has left the country vulnerable to recurring respiratory outbreaks.

‘We lack sustained preparedness. Each time a health crisis arises, it is as if we are starting all over again. The laboratories that were built and equipped during COVID-19 are now mostly idle or abandoned. Instead of maintaining these facilities, we let them go to waste. When the next outbreak comes, we will start scrambling again,’ Tomori said

He warned that Nigeria’s cycle of reactive rather than preventive response undermines public confidence and puts citizens at risk. ‘We must invest in maintaining our health infrastructure and surveillance systems. That is how countries stay ready for whatever new infections may arise,’ Tomori added.

Both experts emphasized that beyond government responsibility, personal hygiene and awareness remain crucial in breaking the chain of respiratory infections.

Oyibo advised Nigerians to be more cautious during the current flu season and avoid complacency now that COVID-19 cases have dropped. ‘COVID-19 never really disappeared. It simply became one of the many respiratory viruses circulating in the population. That is why coughing and breathing issues must be taken seriously. The public should not assume it is ‘just catarrh’ or harmattan. Get checked early,’ he said. He also advised Nigerians to eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and prioritize rest as part of maintaining strong immunity. ‘A healthy body fights infections better. When you eat well, rest adequately, and keep your environment clean, you reduce your risk,’ he said.

In Lagos, several residents have reported a spike in cases of prolonged coughing and cold-like symptoms in recent weeks. While no official data has confirmed an outbreak, the trend has stirred anxiety, particularly among families with children and elderly members.

Oyibo said public health authorities, should use this period to reinforce community health education and reintroduce awareness campaigns on hygiene and respiratory care. Such campaigns, he noted, would help citizens distinguish between minor seasonal infections and potentially dangerous conditions.

‘The message is simple. Don’t ignore that cough. Don’t wait until you’re struggling to breathe or coughing blood. Seek medical help early. Prevention is always better than cure,’ Oyibo said.

As the dry season sets in, the experts’ warnings serve as a timely reminder for Nigerians to take personal responsibility for their health, through vigilance, hygiene, and prompt medical consultation, while urging authorities to sustain public health monitoring and maintain diagnostic infrastructure across the country.

Key preventive tips from experts include:

* Wash hands regularly with soap and water.

* Wear masks in crowded or poorly ventilated places.

* Avoid exposure to smoke, dust, and air pollutants.

* Eat balanced meals to boost immunity.

* Seek medical attention for coughs lasting longer than two weeks.

Trinity Usman, a prosecution witness, on Friday told the Federal High Court in Abuja that he received and transferred $3 million into the account of Oceangate Engineering Oil and Gas Ltd, a company owned by Aisha Achimugu.

Usman, who testified as the second prosecution witness (PW-2), was led in evidence by Ekele Iheanacho, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) counsel, before Emeka Nwite (Justice).

He testified in the ongoing trial of Halima Buba, managing director of SunTrust Bank, and Innocent Mbagwu, the bank’s Executive Director and Chief Compliance Officer, both of whom are facing charges of money laundering to the tune of $12 million.

The duo were arraigned by the EFCC on June 13 on a six-count charge bordering on alleged facilitation of high-value cash transactions without routing them through a financial institution, contrary to the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

They pleaded not guilty and were granted bail in the sum of ?100 million each, with one surety in like sum.

At the resumed hearing, Usman, a Bureau De Change operator and businessman, told the court that he was contacted in April 2025 by one Suleiman Ciroma, who requested a $3 million transfer to Achimugu’s company, Oceangate Engineering Oil and Gas Ltd.

‘Ciroma contacted me that he had a transaction requiring three million US dollars to be transferred to Oceangate Engineering Oil and Gas Ltd.

‘I had the money in my company account, Triple A and Tee Oil and Gas Nigeria Ltd, and after we agreed, he gave me the dollar payment in cash. I then transferred the equivalent amount into Oceangate’s account,’ Usman said.

The witness said the payment was made in four tranches in April 2025 but could not recall the specific dates.

He further testified that he did not know or have any prior dealings with the defendants, Buba and Mbagwu.

When asked by the EFCC counsel whether his Bureau De Change firm, Triple A and Tee BDC Ltd, was used in the transaction, Johnson Usman, defence counsel representing the first defendant, objected, arguing that the prosecution was attempting to lead the witness.

Justice Nwite sustained the objection and directed the prosecutor to rephrase the question.

Usman admitted that at the time of the transaction, the licence of Triple A and Tee BDC Ltd had been suspended, hence he used his oil and gas company account for the transfer because that was where he had the available dollars.

‘The cash transaction from Ciroma was made through my staff, Abdulkadir Mohammed and Kabir Haruna. The naira equivalent was transferred into the account of Triple A and Tee Service Venture Ltd and then converted to dollars before being sent to Oceangate’s account,’ he added.

Under cross-examination, the witness confirmed that although his BDC licence was suspended, his firm continued operations and had since received approval-in-principle from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

He also confirmed making a profit from the transaction but said he did not inform the defendants that his BDC licence was inactive. When asked by defence counsel if the decision to use his oil and gas company’s account was his personal choice, Usman replied, ‘Yes.’

M.S. Ibrahim, second defence counsel, asked whether he informed the defendants that the inflow would come from an oil company account, and the witness admitted he did not.

After his testimony, the court discharged the witness, and Justice Nwite adjourned the case to December 10 and 11 for continuation of trial.

Earlier in the trial, Suleiman Ciroma, owner of Funnacle BDC Ltd and the first prosecution witness (PW-1), told the court that Mrs. Achimugu requested the $3 million transfer because depositing such cash directly into a bank would have triggered restrictions under money laundering regulations.

Ciroma, who is also a member of the BDC Traders Association in Abuja’s Wuse Zone 4, said: ‘If she had deposited the money in cash, she would not be able to transfer it. So, after receiving the cash from her representatives, I and my partners transferred the dollar equivalent, less our commission to the account she designated.’

He confirmed that the funds were intended for the purchase of two oil blocks and that all transfers were made from accounts that had corresponding inflows, not cash deposits.

During cross-examination, Ciroma admitted that he had never met the defendants personally and had no phone or chat records showing communication with them.

He also acknowledged that his BDC licence had expired at the time of the transactions but said he never disclosed that to the bank officials.

The EFCC alleges that Buba and Mbagwu, as senior executives of SunTrust Bank, knowingly facilitated suspicious transactions in breach of Nigeria’s anti-money laundering laws.

For ten years, Businessfront, the parent company of Techpoint Africa, Finance in Africa, Energy in Africa, and Intelpoint, has chronicled the rise, challenges, and breakthroughs of innovation-driven enterprises across Nigeria and beyond.

We’ve seen how hard it is to last ten years in business.

Most startups don’t make it past five. The odds are tougher in an unpredictable market like Nigeria, where infrastructure, policy shifts, and economic cycles constantly test resilience.

Yet, across industries like banking, manufacturing, construction, energy, publishing, and education here are companies that have not only survived but thrived for five decades or more.

They have become institutions, employers of generations, and quiet builders of the Nigerian economy.

‘At Businessfront, we understand the weight of time. Reaching ten years has taught us what endurance requires: reinvention, vision, and leadership that looks beyond quarterly results. That’s why we’re celebrating those who have stood the test of half a century,’ a statement by the company reads.

Introducing Businessfront Over 50

Businessfront Over 50 is a landmark initiative that recognises and celebrates companies that have operated in Nigeria for 50 years and beyond – those whose resilience, innovation, and commitment have shaped the country’s economic story.

Through this platform, the firm is documenting not just longevity, but legacy – the values, leadership, and decisions that have kept these organisations relevant through changing decades.

The celebration spans three tiers of distinction:

Gold (50-70 years) – Honouring the golden milestones of sustained growth.

Diamond (71-99 years) – Recognising rare brilliance and continuity.

Ruby (100 years and above) – Celebrating timeless excellence and enduring legacy.

More Than an Honour – A Historical Record

Businessfront Over 50 is more than a one-time celebration. It’s a comprehensive, multi-platform project featuring:

A permanent online directory profiling Nigeria’s long-standing companies.

A commemorative magazine featuring executive portraits, legacy stories, and CEO interviews.

A trends report offering data-driven insights on the strategies and resilience patterns behind corporate longevity in Nigeria.

These components come together to build a living archive – a reference point for future generations of entrepreneurs, policymakers, and business leaders.

A Night of Legacy and Leadership

The initiative will culminate in an exclusive Businessfront Over 50 Celebratory Dinner – a black-tie event gathering CEOs, industry captains, government dignitaries, and thought leaders on 7th December 2025 and Venue will be announced soon.

This night will be dedicated to honouring the companies that have stood firm through decades of change – those who laid the foundations for the industries we now take for granted.

Why This Matters

This isn’t just an event. It’s a movement to reframe how we talk about success in business – beyond funding rounds and startup valuations, towards stewardship, stability, and legacy.

By spotlighting Nigeria’s most enduring companies, Businessfront aims to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs to build with time in mind,

strengthen ties with legacy institutions that define the nation’s industrial backbone and provide valuable intelligence through research and storytelling that help preserve our shared economic history.

Because lasting 50 years in business isn’t just about survival – it’s about impact that outlives its founders.

There are men whose lives read like open books of divine encounters, whose journeys remind us that faith is not a theory but a lived experience. Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai was one of such men. His life, from its humble beginnings to its global impact, stood as a testament to what God can do through a heart wholly yielded to Him. Though words may never fully capture the depth and lasting impact of his life and ministry, his legacy remains a story of faith, resilience, and miracles that still move hearts today.

Early life

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s story begins in Asaga, Ohafia, a quiet community in Abia State, Nigeria. An Igbo man by origin, he came into the world on 7 January 1945, into a life that would test and ultimately refine him. His childhood was steeped in adversity. At the tender age of ten, he lost his father-an event that forced him to shoulder responsibilities far beyond his years. His grief was compounded by another cruel blow: his mother was poisoned. Reflecting on those early years, he once said, ‘I know what it means to lose a father and be a father from that age. I know what it is to save money to pay school fees. So, I have feelings for the poor. I learnt early enough to know that the stone Satan throws at you can become a stepping stone.’

Though his parents were not Christians, God’s hand was evident upon his life from the beginning. An old man once told his mother that her son was not an ordinary child and warned her never to allow him to serve as a houseboy or cook for anyone. Having already lost several children, she clung to that prophecy and protected him with fierce devotion, often saying she would do anything to keep him alive.

In 1958, at just thirteen, young Rev. Dr. Uma made the most important decision of his life-he gave his heart to Christ. That singular act marked the beginning of a journey that would touch nations and transform countless lives.

Education

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s pursuit of knowledge reflected his deep hunger for growth and purpose. He began his formal education at Uma Ukpai Memorial Primary School, Asaga, before continuing at Khana County Council School, Ogoni. His secondary education took him to All Saints Secondary School, Aba, and later to Niger Delta Technical School, now known as Boys Technical College, Aba. Driven by determination, he furthered his education abroad. He attended the School of Journalism and Television, Frisham, Hermitage, in the United Kingdom, before proceeding to the South Florida Christian College, Miami, USA; Carolina Christian University; and Burke Bible College, Kentucky, USA. Through his studies, he obtained a Certificate in Electrical Engineering Practice, a Diploma in Journalism, and both Bachelor’s and Doctorate degrees in Divinity.

Ministry

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s ministry began not in grandeur but in quiet obedience. What started as small prayer gatherings in his living room eventually grew into a worldwide movement. In the early 1970s, he founded the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA) – a ministry that would become a powerhouse of evangelism, healing, deliverance, education, and humanitarian service. Through the UUEA, Dr. Ukpai traversed continents proclaiming the Gospel in power. His crusades were not mere events; they were divine visitations that drew multitudes hungry for God. Among his most historic crusades were the Greater Ibadan for Christ Crusade (1982), the Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade (1985), the Greater Ohafia for Christ Crusade, Nsukka 2012, and the Anioma One-Million Man Crusade (2016).

The Greater Lagos Crusade remains legendary. Held at the National Stadium, Surulere, it gathered over 23,000 prayer volunteers, 5,000 choir members, and thousands of counsellors ministering to new converts. The atmosphere turned Lagos into what he described as ‘a prayer parlour.’ That single crusade led to the birth of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) – a nationwide coalition of Pentecostal leaders. ‘There was no PFN before then,’ he recalled. ‘We gave birth to it. Every part of Nigeria cooperated and supported the programme. It is still being sustained till now.’ For Dr. Ukpai, ministry was never about fame but faithfulness. ‘It is not about me,’ he often said. ‘It’s about God making a promise and fulfilling it in the lives of His people.’ Even after enduring immense personal loss – including the tragic drowning of two of his children and two cousins – he continued preaching the very next day. His strength baffled many, but to him, it was simply obedience. ‘I was deeply grieved,’ he said, ‘but God is faithful and doing His bidding.’

The UUEA grew to include several outreach arms, including the Uma Ukpai College of Business, the Uma Ukpai Foundation, and the Uma Ukpai School of Theology. His wife, Dr. Philomena Uma Ukpai, was a steadfast partner, working alongside him to empower believers through initiatives such as the Uma Ukpai Sustainable Wealth Creation Scheme and the Uma Ukpai Fashion Week, which trained and empowered hundreds of youths, particularly women.

Every crusade, every sermon, every project carried one unshakable message: ‘All things are possible to them that believe.’

Humanitarian and educational impact

Beyond the pulpit, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai embodied the Gospel of practical love. He believed that faith should heal not only the soul but also the body and the land. His compassion birthed several humanitarian and educational institutions that have touched thousands of lives across Nigeria and beyond.

In 2000, he established the King of Kings Specialist Hospital in Ohafor, Ohafia Local Government Area – a 24-hour medical facility providing affordable healthcare to underserved communities. In 2016, he founded the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre in Asaga Ohafia, which has since performed over 500 successful cataract surgeries and provided eye care services to more than 100 rural communities across Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River States.

His vision for holistic ministry extended to education. The Uma Ukpai School of Theology and Biblical Studies (UUST), founded in 2008 and affiliated with the University of Uyo, offers degrees in Theology, Ministry, and Christian Leadership, shaping the next generation of ministers. In 2017, he established the Uma Ukpai Polytechnic in Asaga-Ohafia, accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), to train young Nigerians in Computer Science, Engineering, and Business Administration.

He also founded the Joseph Business School, an affiliate of the prestigious Chicago-based institution, to equip believers with leadership and entrepreneurship skills rooted in biblical principles. Through the Uma Ukpai Scholarship Foundation, countless students have received financial support to pursue their dreams.

In 2022, he laid the foundation for the Uma Ukpai Prayer City in Isiugwu-Ohafia, envisioned to seat 120,000 people, making it one of the largest auditoriums in the world. For Rev. Ukpai, it was not just an architectural vision but a spiritual landmark – a ‘place where humanity will meet divinity.’

Miracles and divine encounters

Every Abia crusade, every gathering under the ministry of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, was marked by extraordinary manifestations of God’s power. Wherever he went, the atmosphere seemed charged with faith, expectation, and the undeniable presence of the Holy Spirit. People came burdened with pain, sickness, and despair – and left with testimonies that defied human explanation.

The first miracle in his life came a day after he gave his heart to Christ and received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. While at Khana County Council Secondary School in Rivers State, a madman known as Deco stormed the school, sending teachers and students fleeing in fear. In that moment, young Rev. Dr. Uma heard God’s voice within him: ‘You too can sack the madman.’ Acting in faith, he commanded the man to roll out of the school. To everyone’s astonishment, Deco obeyed – and as he rolled away, he cried, ‘Do you know that I am naked?’ The once-violent man was instantly restored to sanity.

By 1971, his passion for souls had led him to become the first missionary at Ahmadu Bello University. A year later, he pioneered the same move at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. During one of his teaching sessions there, something extraordinary happened – Jesus appeared to him twice. The divine encounter left a lasting imprint on his spirit. Not long after, a man from America who attended one of his teachings was so moved that he adopted him as a son and provided funds for his journey to the United States. That trip would open yet another chapter of ministry that touched nations.

There were times when God’s power showed up not just in meetings, but in moments of danger. One night, armed robbers came to his home. But as they tried to break in, the gate began to move up and down on its own, as if an unseen hand was guarding the entrance. Stunned and powerless, the men surrendered and begged Rev. Dr. Uma to pray for them.

In another unforgettable experience, while going for a ministration in an Arab country, he suddenly found himself speaking their language – a tongue he had never learned. God had changed his speech in that moment, enabling him to communicate effectively.

Even in moments of danger, his confidence in God never wavered. During a trip to Aba for a supposed ministration, he and his wife were kidnapped. The captors demanded his car and money, but he refused, declaring that he would only give them up if God told him to. Frustrated, they handed him a cup filled with poison. Holding it up, he said calmly, ‘I drink you as tea; you must function as tea. If you go beyond the boundaries of tea, whatever God will do to you, don’t call my name.’ Then he drank it. Hours later, he walked out of captivity alive and untouched.

His life was a stream of supernatural stories. In 1985, while smuggling Bibles into China with a friend – risking a twenty-year jail term if caught – they began to pray in tongues at the Kenton border. Just as the officers were about to inspect their bags, the scanning machine broke down. Without hesitation, the officials waved them through.

The same presence that saved him in danger also healed many through his ministry. A woman once received a brand-new womb after being diagnosed with cancer of the uterus. His own first son, born crippled, was healed during a worship session after a divine prompting from the Holy Spirit.

Each miracle whispered the same truth: that with unshakable faith, nothing is impossible.

Nigeria’s vibrant dance community took a historic leap forward as the Dancers Award 2025, themed ‘Legacy in Motion,’ set a new benchmark for artistic recognition and industry growth.

The event, held in Abuja, celebrated the creativity, discipline, and cultural power of Nigerian dancers, officially ushering in a new era for the nation’s performing arts scene.

The vibrant celebration of rhythm, dedication, and cultural expression officially elevated the status of Nigerian dancers to a new level of national and international recognition.

The atmosphere was electric as the best in the industry, from the streets to the stage were honored across a diverse array of categories, reflecting the industry’s rich diversity and creative complexity.

According to Henshaw Victory, the convener, the Dancers Award goes beyond a single event. It is conceived as a movement aimed at spotlighting Nigeria’s energetic young talents while advocating for institutional backing, funding, workshops, and functional theatre spaces necessary for local and international growth.

‘It is a powerful movement with the goal to shine compelling spotlight on Nigeria’s energetic young talents, advocating for the INSTITUTIONAL BACKING, FUNDING, WORKSHOPS AND FUNCTIONAL THEATER SPACE crucial for our local and international flourish.

‘We believe that with this step in the right direction, the government should endeavour to invest in performing art to fuel creativity and employment. This platform aims to transform dance from a passionate hobby into a viable, sustainable, and respected career path that contributes notably to the nation’s economic and cultural wealth,’

Shaw in a statement added that the award categories were meticulously designed to recognize the entire dance ecosystem, moving beyond popular performers to include choreographers, producers, creative directors, and institutions supporting dance.

For countless dancers across Nigeria, the Legacy in Motion edition represents a turning point, an affirmation of their dedication, skills, and artistry. Beyond recognition, he explained that it offers visibility and validation for years of relentless practice and creative exploration.

With the successful execution of the September 27th event, The structured celebration of excellence is expected to: Professionalize the dance industry, boost Nigeria’s cultural export, and spur both government and private sector investment.

Glenfiddich, a single malt Scotch whisky, officially unveiled its global partnership with the Aston Martin Formula One Team in Nigeria during an exclusive press junket in Lagos.

To celebrate the milestone, the brand hosted a launch at Atrium by Sora, where it introduced the Glenfiddich 16-Year-Old Single Malt to the Nigerian market. The evening also featured the debut of a capsule fashion collection designed by I.N. Official × TT Dalk.

The event brought together media, influencers, lifestyle leaders, and luxury enthusiasts to experience the fusion of heritage whisky craftsmanship and cutting-edge motorsport engineering.

These are two worlds united by a shared ethos of innovation, precision, and excellence. Guests were invited into an immersive environment where the artistry of single malt Scotch met the adrenaline of Formula OneS, celebrating a partnership rooted in legacy and driven by ambition.

The Glenfiddich × Aston Martin Formula OneS alliance unites two legacies built on excellence, innovation, and precision. Glenfiddich, family-owned since 1887, has led the single malt category with a reputation for pushing boundaries in maturation and flavour. Aston Martin, founded in 1913, stands as a global symbol of British performance and design, with its Formula OneS Team embodying engineering mastery and competitive spirit. Together, they represent a singular ethos: *Timeless Apart. Iconic Together.* This collaboration portrays a commitment to creating extraordinary experiences that blend whisky, motorsport, and lifestyle into something entirely new.

‘At Glenfiddich, we believe true progress is achieved when heritage and innovation move together,’ said Claudia Falcone, Global Brand Director, Glenfiddich. ‘Our partnership with the Aston Martin Formula OneS Team reflects this philosophy, uniting two icons of craftsmanship. We are proud to launch the Glenfiddich 16-Year-Old in Nigeria, a country whose creativity and cultural energy make it one of the most exciting luxury markets in the world.’

Central to the Lagos announcement was the Nigerian debut of the Glenfiddich 16-Year-Old, bottled at 43% ABV. This rare expression is the first limited edition crafted to honour the partnership with Aston Martin. It is matured in an innovative combination of new American oak, second-fill bourbon barrels, and American oak wine casks, resulting in a whisky of exceptional depth and complexity.

Nigeria was chosen as a strategic launch market to reflect the country’s growing appetite for luxury and premium experiences. Nigeria’s influence on Africa’s cultural and economic landscape makes it a natural stage for Glenfiddich’s forward-looking vision. The Lagos press junket served as a platform to announce upcoming activations, including watch parties, luxury viewing experiences, and a responsible drinking campaign themed ‘The Spirit of Control.’ This deliberate focus on Nigeria underscores the market’s role as a driver of taste, culture, and consumer innovation across the continent.

Further anchoring the moment in cultural relevance, Glenfiddich also announced the unveiling of a limited-edition fashion capsule created in partnership with Nigerian designers I.N Official and TT Dalk. Inspired by Aston Martin’s motorsport heritage and Glenfiddich’s modern elegance, the collection blends precision tailoring with bold Nigerian creativity.

Speaking on the partnership at the press junket in Lagos, Samuel Odesanmi, Regional Marketing Manager, William Grant and Sons, said: ‘Aston Martin has always stood for precision, performance, and timeless design. In Glenfiddich, we see a partner who shares these ideals, uniting two worlds of excellence. Celebrating this partnership in Nigeria reflects the energy and ambition of a market that is shaping the future of luxury.’

The press junket marks the beginning of a series of Nigerian activations designed to bring the Glenfiddich × Aston Martin F1 story to life, from immersive watch parties to digital content campaigns. As the partnership unfolds across the country, audiences will be invited to engage with both brands through curated experiences that celebrate craftsmanship, performance, and the pursuit of excellence. This is only the beginning of what promises to be a defining chapter in Nigeria’s luxury landscape.

Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi has informed the club he will not sign a new contract and plans to leave next summer, manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed.

Glasner revealed that Palace made efforts to keep the 25-year-old England international, whose current deal expires at the end of the season, but Guehi has decided to seek a new challenge. ‘They offered Marc a new contract, but he said, ‘No, I want to make something different,’ and that’s normal,’ Glasner said.

‘Now it’s about how we can deal with this situation and find the best way forward.’ Palace now face a crucial decision: sell Guehi in the January transfer window or risk losing him for free next summer.

The centre-back, who joined from Chelsea in 2021 and has made 167 appearances for Palace, came close to leaving during the last transfer window. He reportedly passed a medical ahead of a £35 million move to Liverpool, but the deal collapsed after Palace failed to secure Brighton defender Igor Julio as a replacement.

Guehi has featured in all 12 games for Palace this season, helping them to sixth place in the Premier League. Reports suggest the club could sanction a January sale, with Liverpool, Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich all monitoring his situation.

The defender, who recently earned his 26th England cap in the 3-0 friendly win over Wales, remains focused on maintaining his form ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

‘There’s definitely an opportunity to make the World Cup squad,’ Guehi said earlier this month.

‘The focus is just to keep performing, wherever I am.’

In the food industry today, chicken, goat meat, and beef dominate the table. One Nigerian brand is boldly rewriting the rules. Meet AwóBoy, a food movement led by entrepreneur Mayowa Bello, who is placing guinea fowl, a richly flavored, culturally revered bird, at the center of a delicious revolution.

Guinea fowl, known locally as apáàró, is making a comeback. Once reserved for festive occasions and family gatherings, this under-celebrated protein is being revived and reimagined by AwóBoy as a premium, accessible, and modern delicacy.

‘What started as a casual weekend cookout turned out to be the spark of something great,’ says Bello, reflecting on the brand’s origin.

Mayowa’s journey began at WhiteLake Farms, where he initially reared chickens. But it was a weekend grill session with a colleague, who happened to raise guinea fowl, that changed everything.

‘That day completely changed my perspective,’ he says. ‘The guinea fowl, when slowly smoked on low heat, came out juicy, tender, and richly flavored; very different from the dry, tough texture I had previously experienced and disliked. It was a revelation.’

From that moment, Bello committed to exploring and perfecting guinea fowl preparation. The result? A signature slow-cooking method with curated spice blends that delivers an elevated, unforgettable taste experience.

Why Guinea Fowl?

‘Guinea fowl offers a distinct, naturally rich flavor that sets it apart from chicken or beef. It’s leaner, healthier, and requires less seasoning for its taste to shine. Think of it as a premium protein; flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying without being heavy.’

AwóBoy’s menu isn’t just about serving food. It’s about elevating guinea fowl to hero status in Nigerian cuisine.

‘Guinea fowl is deeply woven into Nigeria’s cultural fabric,’ Bello explains. ‘Across many communities, it was considered a delicacy reserved for festivals, family gatherings, and important celebrations. In many ways, it was a bird of honor.’

AwóBoy is reconnecting Nigerians with this heritage, but with a fresh, contemporary presentation; merging tradition with innovation.

Quality is non-negotiable for AwóBoy. The brand partners with trusted local farmers and handles processing in a controlled facility to guarantee freshness, hygiene, and consistency.

‘We don’t just cook guinea fowl; we elevate it into an experience.’

This commitment to excellence has already earned AwóBoy high praise; including a notable nod from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who remarked:

‘Wow, you guys must be doing something different. This doesn’t taste like the usual ‘aparo’.’

Like any pioneering venture, AwóBoy has faced its share of challenges, from staffing and operational costs to rising inflation and power instability.

‘Business is not for the faint-hearted,’ says Bello. ‘We’re addressing these challenges by improving planning, reducing waste, refining recruitment, and staying resilient. Every challenge has forced us to innovate and strengthen our foundation.’

Beyond flavor, AwóBoy aims to offer something deeper a reconnection with culture, memory, and identity.

‘We want people to walk away with more than a meal. Every visit is a journey back to the roots, but with a modern twist.’

‘With AwóBoy, we’re building a movement, not just a restaurant. Our mission is to celebrate Nigeria’s past while feeding its future. In the next five years, we see AwóBoy in strategic locations across Nigeria and beyond; introducing the unique taste of guinea fowl to the world in diverse, exciting forms.’

Six persons have been confirmed dead while 14 others sustained varying degrees of injuries in a fatal motor accident that occurred at the weekend along the Nkalagu axis of the Abakaliki-Enugu Expressway.

The accident, which happened close to the Nkalagu overhead bridge, involved a commercial Toyota bus and a truck.

Henry Igwe, Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ebonyi State, confirmed the incident. He said 22 people were involved in the crash, attributing it to dangerous overtaking.

Igwe disclosed that the victims were immediately evacuated to nearby hospitals for treatment.

According to him, ‘Some of the injured victims were taken to Annunciation and Orthopaedic Hospitals in Enugu by our officers and the Red Cross, while others were taken to the General Hospital, Ezzamgbo, in Ebonyi State.’ A resident of Nkalagu, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the Enugu-Nkalagu Expressway as ‘the most dangerous road to ply,’ blaming its design and poor construction for the recurring accidents.

He said, ‘The road is very dangerous because of its one-way nature and the hard concrete central demarcation, which doesn’t allow vehicles to manoeuvre or dodge reckless drivers. Since 2019 when former Governor David Umahi began the dualisation of the Enugu-Abakaliki Expressway with a flyover at Nkalagu junction, the 1km stretch from the Enugu-Nkalagu boundary to the junction has remained incomplete and blocked.

‘The central demarcation worsens the situation, leaving vehicles with no option during emergencies. Hardly a month passes without an accident on this road. Residents living across the expressway struggle to access their homes due to the blockade.’

He lamented the repeated loss of lives on the axis, calling on the federal and state governments to expedite action on the completion of the project to prevent further tragedies.

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has voiced support for La Liga players protesting the league’s controversial decision to stage a match in Miami, USA.

La Liga confirmed last week that Barcelona’s away fixture against Villarreal, scheduled for December 20, will take place in Miami, marking the first-ever European league match to be played abroad. In response, the Spanish Footballers’ Association (AFE) announced a ‘symbolic protest’ to be staged before every La Liga match this week.

Players from Oviedo and Espanyol demonstrated by standing still for the first 15 seconds of their game on Friday, although the gesture was not shown on broadcast coverage. ‘We are against the match; we believe it distorts the competition,’ Alonso said during his pre-match press conference.

‘There hasn’t been unanimity or proper consultation for it to be played on neutral ground. The protests are positive, and that sentiment is positive.’

The Real Madrid boss added that while such international ventures could be considered in the future, they should only happen with full agreement among clubs and players.

‘We believe it could happen if there were unanimity, but that’s not the case right now,’ Alonso stated.

Alonso’s comments come ahead of Real Madrid’s clash with Getafe on Sunday, where he confirmed that Kylian Mbappé is expected to return from an ankle issue that ruled him out of France’s recent World Cup qualifier against Iceland.

‘Everyone who went with their national teams, except Dean (Huijsen), has returned in good condition,’ Alonso said.