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Anambra state’s ambition to train one million young people in digital skills has received global validation, with its flagship Solution Innovation District (SID) named among the top three winners at the Inspiring Solutions Awards 2025 during the International Association of Science Parks (IASP) World Conference in Beijing.

The recognition, announced at the conference’s gala dinner, specifically highlighted the Anambra Digital Tribe initiative as a transformational, inspiring, and impactful blueprint for building a sustainable, homegrown innovation economy.

Chinwe Okoli, special adviser to Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, on innovation and business incubation, represented the state at both the Triple Helix Association and CASSSP Innovation Summit and the International Association of Science Parks (IASP) 42nd World Conference held in Beijing, China, this September. Okoli’s presentation, ‘The Anambra Story – From Theory to Transformation,’ detailed how Soludo’s vision is being executed through the Triple Helix model, strategically aligning government, academia, and industry.

She showcased the SID as a practical, homegrown application of global best practices, already delivering impressive outcomes, which include 80,000+ citizens trained in various digital skills, building a future-proof workforce and talent for technology development; dozens of new startups launched, catalysing a new creative and digital economy and over $2 million in ecosystem investment secured, demonstrating early international investment confidence. Building on this momentum at the 42nd IASP World Conference, Okoli delivered a presentation titled ‘Bridging Continents Through Innovation: SID and the Power of International Collaboration.’ She detailed Soludo’s strategy of using the SID as a gateway for global partnerships, emphasising that tackling Africa’s digital growth and youth unemployment requires cross-border cooperation.

The IASP Inspiring Solutions Award, announced during the conference’s gala dinner, specifically recognised the Anambra Digital Tribe and its ambitious goal to train one million youths, celebrating it as a transformational, inspiring, and impactful blueprint for building a sustainable, homegrown innovation economy. ‘This award is a powerful testament to Soludo’s foresight and firm commitment. His strategic investments in technology infrastructure and youth empowerment have proven that emerging economies can not only participate in but excel on the global innovation stage. Our message in Beijing was clear: Anambra is building global bridges for talent, technology, and capital, and this award confirms that the world is taking notice. Anambra is open for business and ripe for strategic investment,’ Okoli stated.

The presentations in Beijing highlighted key investor-friendly attributes of the Anambra ecosystem, driven by the governor’s policies including a clear, government-backed vision, proven partnerships with Meta, Microsoft, Connekt Broadband, Circum Technologies etc signposting opportunity for future partners and the one million Anambra Digital Tribe initiative directly addresses the talent needs of the global digital economy, creating a deep pool of skilled developers, creatives, and tech entrepreneurs.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has introduced its One-Stop-Shop (OSS), a project expected to reduce cargo clearance time to 48 hours.

The unveiling happened in Abuja, where Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of Customs, met with senior officers to discuss the Service’s modernisation agenda.

‘The OSS initiative will not only shorten clearance time from 21 days to 48 hours, but it will also strengthen trader confidence, restore transparency, and make our operations more business-friendly,’ the CGC said.

He said that under the OSS framework, all Customs Units will work jointly on flagged declarations, eliminating multiple checks and reducing delays. Consignments cleared under the OSS will not be subject to re-interception. Adeniyi said the project is in line with global best practices and the federal government’s Ease of Doing Business policy. He stressed that the reform is designed to ‘sanitise operations, reduce duplication of efforts, and ensure predictability in Customs procedures.’

The meeting included discussions about the Service’s accountability framework, including a new central dashboard that tracks clearance times, interventions, and stakeholder satisfaction.

Adeniyi assured the Customs Area Controllers that the reform would be piloted at Apapa, Tin Can Island, and Onne Ports before being rolled out nationwide, adding that the initiative is fully supported by the NCS Act 2023 and aligned with the World Trade Organisation’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).

Medical experts have warned that poor physical activity, climate change, and unhealthy diets are driving the growing heart-related problems in Nigeria.

As Nigeria joined the world to commemorate World Heart Day 2025, themed ‘Don’t Miss a Beat,’ the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) emphasised the need for stronger awareness campaigns, healthier lifestyle choices, and policy reforms to curb the rising tide of cardiovascular diseases.

Akin Osibogun, chairman, World Heart Day 2025, NHF, said that hypertension cases in the country have soared from less than 10 percent in 1990 to between 35 and 40 percent today, making it one of the fastest-growing health challenges nationwide, noting that cardiovascular diseases kill more than 20 million people globally every year, and the numbers are rising in Nigeria.

Osibogun warned that without urgent lifestyle changes and stronger public health policies, the burden of cardiovascular diseases will continue to rise. He added that poor physical activity, unhealthy diets, especially excessive salt and fried foods, obesity, and environmental pollution are driving this surge.

‘The food we eat, the amount of salt in our diet, and our tendency to sit rather than move are fueling hypertension and obesity, which in turn affect the health of our hearts,’ Osibogun said.

Speaking on environmental issues, he added that clean air, green spaces, and safe places to exercise are as critical to heart health as medicine.

‘Beyond lifestyle, environmental pollution and climate change are worsening the risk of heart disease. Clean air and safe spaces for exercise are as important as medical care.

‘Communities without parks, playgrounds, or green spaces deny people the chance to stay active and protect their hearts,’ Osibogun said.

Olugbenga Ogunmoyela, president/CEO, Consumer Advocacy for Food Safety and Nutrition Initiative (CAFSANI), reiterated that unhealthy diets, especially excessive salt intake and fried foods, are major contributors to the rising cases of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

‘We must encourage Nigerians to eat more fruits, vegetables, and healthy meals while cutting down on salt, sugar, and processed foods,’ Ogunmoyela said, adding that hydration is equally important, drinking enough water daily helps the heart work more efficiently. ‘The salt content in many of the foods we consume is far above recommended levels, and this is fueling hypertension and related heart problems.

‘We must go back to natural diets and reduce our dependence on processed foods, fried meals, and unhealthy oils,’ he said.

Ogunmoyela also stated that food manufacturers and vendors have a role to play by reducing salt and unhealthy fats in their products, noting that public education on diet is critical because many people are unaware of how much salt they are consuming daily.

Dolapo Koker, member, Nutrition Committee of NHF, warned against the increasing consumption of energy drinks by artisans and young workers, calling it a dangerous habit.

‘It is not good for their health because it kind of addicts them to it,’ she said, noting that most of those energy drinks have very high levels of caffeine, and it overstimulates the heart and puts it into hyperdrive, making it a risk factor.

Beyond healthcare delivery, experts called for policies that make communities healthier and safer, and urged the government to take decisive action.

‘We must build primary health care systems that integrate hypertension screening and treatment in all local government areas; essential drugs for related conditions must be made both available and affordable at the community level.

‘Policy makers must create safer environments, clean air, green spaces, walkways, and playgrounds, so people can exercise and live healthier lives,’ Osibogun said. To mark the 25th anniversary of World Heart Day, the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) also rolled out a series of awareness and fitness campaigns under the global theme ‘Don’t Miss a Beat,’ such as the 25 minutes for 25 days’ challenge, which encourages employees to take short daily exercise breaks in October.

According to Edirin Metseagharun, founder of Passion for Healthy Kids Initiative (PHKI), explained that students will take part in short physical activities and quizzes to encourage healthy habits.

‘Sitting is now like the new smoking, and we don’t want any child to be affected.

‘Even if it’s 15 minutes, whether they are skipping, dancing, or moving in any form, whatever keeps the heart rate rising is what we are proposing to them,’ Metseagharun said.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board has approved a fare of ?8,244,813.67 for the 2026 Hajj exercise.

A statement by Muhammad Aliyu, Board’s Public Relations Officer issued on Monday in Abuja indicated Kadiri Edah, the Director of the Board, had urged intending pilgrims to complete their payments on or before December 2025 to secure a slot for the pilgrimage.

He added that pilgrims might begin with deposits but must ensure full payment by the deadline, emphasising that all transactions must be made through bank drafts only, as cash payments will not be accepted.

Edah explained that early payments would enable the Board to compile the final list of pilgrims and remit funds to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) on time. The Board also asked individuals who had overpaid to forward their account details for refunds, which will only be processed via direct bank transfers.

‘Additionally, pilgrims who have completed payment are advised to submit their international passports and application forms to their Area Officers to facilitate processing of travel documents’, he said.

Edah reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to providing services to the FCT contingent during the 2026 Hajj exercise.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has donated ?26 million in educational support for children affected by conflict in Plateau State, marking a major intervention in the region’s long-running humanitarian crisis.

Sintiki Tarfa Ugbe, Director of Humanitarian and Social Affairs at ECOWAS, announced the donation on Monday during the launch of the Humanitarian-Development-Peace (HDP) Dialogue at a two-day workshop in Jos.

The workshop, organised through a collaboration between the ECOWAS Commission, GIZ, the European Union’s Support Programme for African Peace and Security, attracted the Child Protection Network, PLACEMA and the Press Research and Development Institute, among others

Ugbe said in addition to the education fund, ECOWAS also committed ?56 million worth of food and essential non-food items to displaced families across affected communities. According to the director, the gesture was more than charity-it was a ‘powerful affirmation’ of solidarity with children, families, and communities who continue to suffer the effects of prolonged conflict.

‘This is not just another talking workshop, as ECOWAS, we are demonstrating solidarity through action:26 million Naira in educational assistance to children affected by conflict in Plateau.

‘This is not charity – it is an affirmation. It says to every child in Plateau State: You are seen. You are valued. You are not alone. ‘This dialogue – as you are aware – is anchored on the Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus. It is an integrated approach that seeks to support women and children in communities affected by conflict. These are the voices too often silenced, the lives most disrupted by violence – yet they are at the very heartbeat of our communities.

‘This collaboration brings together the ECOWAS Commission, GIZ, the European Union’s Support Programme for African Peace and Security, the Plateau State Government, and many of the agencies represented here today. It is a shining example of how the HDP nexus works in practice,’ she said.

Ugbe described the HDP Dialogue as a movement that places women and children at the centre of recovery and peacebuilding. Julie Sandra, the Director, Plateau State Peace Building Agency (PPBA), highlighted the findings from recent assessments, which revealed that over 30,000 people have been displaced in Plateau State, many of them children facing exploitation, trauma, and lack of access to education and healthcare.

According to Sandra, 72% of displaced children have experienced violent attacks, while 55% have endured prolonged school closures.

Samuel Jatau, the Secretary to the Government of Plateau State (SGS), represented by Timothy Gayi, permanent secretary, policies and general services reaffirmed government commitment to aligning relief efforts with the administration’s first policy pillar-Peace and Security.

He emphasised that sustainable peace requires access to livelihoods, social protection, and resilience-building, not just emergency aid.

Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc secured an operational license for CHI Life Assurance Limited on March 10, 2025, further positioning the Group as a one-stop financial services organization in Nigeria. Eddie Efekoha, chairman of CHI Life and group CEO of the holding company, shares insights into the rationale behind the new subsidiary and plans to grow its market share in the life insurance sector. Modestus Anaesoronye reports.

Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc recently achieved a milestone of securing a Life Assurance licence, what does this mean for the Group’s broader vision, and what is your expectation in making this new investment?

Yes, we received with great delight, the operational licence from the industry regulator, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), precisely on 10th March 2025. And we are grateful to them for finding us worthy of the licence. For us all at Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc, and the subsidiaries, it was indeed a dream come true. We aspired to become a one-stop shop for insurance and other financial services and we are now very well on the verge of attaining that. You would recall that we have since had a micro insurance licence with national coverage of operations. This was, however, limited in scope to a sum assured of N2 million maximum per individual. With this new licence, therefore, this limitation has been removed and our market expanded. I would like to let you know that arrangements are now in top gear for a formal launch of CHI Life in the next couple of weeks.

Life insurance holds a big potential for the insurance industry, but the challenge has been the environment as well as strategy of operating companies, what are you going to do differently to make a mark?

Opportunities abound and remain to be fully tapped, for both operators in Life Assurance business and individuals who are yet to take advantage of the benefits inherent in the service offerings of operators. Of course, beyond the provision of the simple death benefit, which a lot of people are aware of, the products offered helps to build savings for individuals while enabling operators create a pool of funds for long term investment and grow value. CHI Life Assurance has a background. It is coming from a family with a formidable reputation built on professionalism and exceptional service delivery. We are poised to fully leverage on these to grow value for all stakeholders. With a formidable team at the helm of our new subsidiary, we aim to launch out shortly with unique product offerings. These products have reached an advanced stage of development. We are optimistic of their acceptance by discerning customers and prospects alike, who truly look forward to deriving value through investment-linked products even while alive. Deepening insurance penetration in Nigeria, in the first instance, ensure we rank amongst the top in Africa, so requires a multi-pronged approach in product innovation, financial literacy, and easier accessibility through improvement of distribution channels.

How does the company plan to differentiate its life insurance offerings in a competitive market, especially in terms of customer value, technology, and accessibility?

The market is quite competitive, no doubt, but it remains largely untapped as we are not anywhere near where we should be. Recent data of the 2024 Insurance Industry premium which you are familiar with for instance indicates that of the N1.56 trillion generated, life business component was only N470 billion while non-life accounted for N1.1 trillion. This can be significantly improved upon especially the life component, which provides an avenue for pooling of premium for long-term investments.

The massive investment in technology, which we regularly embark upon as an organisation is geared towards easing accessibility. All our member companies embrace the tool to enhance sales, from our finance company to the health maintenance organisation to the general insurance company and now the full-fledged life assurance subsidiary. With the development of unique product offerings, which is a departure from the generic, deployment of technology and drive towards digital sales, CHI Life is here to make a difference.

Nigeria Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025 was recently signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, flagging off the new minimum capital requirement for insurance companies. What is your plan for CHI Life Assurance Limited?

The NIIRA 2025 is a good development that has since been awaited in the industry and portends good tidings for all players. The benefits of the Act, if fully explored, are capable of taking the industry to greater heights. The Act raises the minimum capital base of life insurers from N2 billion to N10 billion, while that of general business underwriters was raised from N3 billion to N15 billion. Before the increase, while setting up CHI Life, we have proactively raised well above the prevailing capital at that time with N8 billion fully paid up. At the Group level, our total profit attributable to shareholders was N22.5 billion and we are currently operating with shareholders’ funds of over N34 billion. We can therefore say that we are comfortably on track.

We are however favourably disposed towards further boosting our capacity through measures including but not limited to acquisitions of smaller organisations, details of which shall gradually emerge as the regulator and shareholders approve our plans. Beyond this, the Act also seeks to ensure prompt claims payment, digitization of operations and collaboration at the sub-regional level for underwriting of risks.

We are nearing the last quarter of 2025, as an investor in the Nigerian economy, how would you describe the economy so far, and what is your expectation for the remaining part of the year? The Nigerian economy in 2025 has shown a welcome measure of resilience and relative stability compared to the turbulence of recent years. Key indicators, particularly the exchange rate have steadied, with the naira trading in the N1, 500-N1,600 band against the U.S. dollar for much of the year. While this is still some distance from the sub N1,000 levels that many businesses would consider ideal, it represents a significant improvement in predictability and provides a more reliable basis for planning and investment decisions.

Inflation, though elevated, has moderated from last year’s highs as the government implements tighter monetary policies and structural reforms. Interest rates remain on the high side, but the clarity of the Central Bank’s direction and the steadying currency have given both local and foreign investors greater confidence. We are also witnessing encouraging signs in sectors such as agriculture, financial services, and technology, which continue to attract investment and create employment despite global headwinds.

From a business and investment standpoint, this relative macro-economic stability is crucial. It allows companies to forecast cash flows, manage costs, and deploy capital with a higher degree of certainty. For long-term investors like us at CHI Life Assurance, this environment supports strategic growth, whether in product development, customer outreach, or expansion of our investment portfolio because it reduces the unpredictability that previously hindered medium- to long-term planning.

Looking ahead to the final quarter of the year, we expect this stability to be sustained, provided current fiscal and monetary policies remain consistent. We are cautiously optimistic that continued reforms in the energy sector, infrastructure development, and targeted social programmes will further support consumer confidence and economic activity.

In summary, while challenges such as inflationary pressures and structural bottlenecks remain, 2025 has so far marked a turning point towards a more predictable and investible Nigerian economy. If the current policy trajectory is maintained, the remainder of the year should consolidate these gains and lay a stronger foundation for inclusive growth in 2026 and beyond.

The CHI Group financial performance in 2024, one year after consolidation was bracing, given the challenges in the business environment, what did you do differently and how do you plan to sustain it in the current year?

True. Our financial performance in 2024 was an all-time high as reported during our Annual General Meeting held recently. Significant growth was recorded in both top lines and bottom lines with a profit of up to 404 percent. These results were achieved through a combination of factors especially the implementation of our Group Strategic Initiatives. The pivots of these are anchored on accelerated innovation, enhanced customer engagement and deeper market penetration. We are geared towards sustaining this, part of the reason we have now also ventured into full life assurance business.

Back to the life business, how do you see the current economic climate such as inflation, interest rates, and employment trends impacting the demand for life insurance products in your target market?

The current economic environment in Nigeria, though challenging, presents unique opportunities for forward-thinking individuals and families to secure their financial future. Inflation has moderated slightly over the past five months, and while interest rates remain relatively high, we expect a gradual softening in the medium term as government policies to stabilise prices begin to take effect. Employment trends are also evolving, with more Nigerians seeking multiple streams of income and exploring ways to protect their wealth.

These dynamics underscore the relevance of life assurance as an essential financial planning tool rather than a discretionary purchase. Life insurance provides stability in uncertain times: it allows individuals to set aside a portion of their earnings to protect their loved ones, create intergenerational wealth, and meet long-term goals. Our products, including endowment plans, child education policies, legacy policy and retirement solutions are designed to help customers preserve value and build financial security regardless of short-term economic fluctuations.

In fact, economic pressures often heighten awareness of the need for protection and disciplined savings. When people realise that inflation erodes the value of idle cash, they look for structured, reliable avenues to safeguard and grow their resources. Life assurance is uniquely positioned to meet that need.

At CHI Life Assurance Limited, we see these conditions as an opportunity to deepen public education and financial literacy. We are committed to engaging more Nigerians, especially young professionals and emerging entrepreneurs, on the importance of early planning and the peace of mind that life assurance brings.

Ultimately, no matter the economic climate, the fundamental need to protect one’s family, plan for retirement, and create a legacy remains constant. With the right awareness and tailored solutions, the demand for life assurance will not only endure, but also continue to grow.

The Future of Jobs report 2025 by Lagos state employment trust fund (LSETF) reveals that 65 percent of Nigerian employers cite skill gaps as a major barrier to organisational transformation.

In addition to the skills gap, half of employers report difficulty attracting talent, resistance to organisational change, and regulatory inflexibility. Limited investment capital further compounds the challenge.

As global labour trends accelerate, driven by technological disruption, demographic shifts, and the green transition, experts say that Nigeria must urgently invest in human capital to remain competitive.

Nigeria mirrors many global trends but faces unique challenges. Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning specialists, data analysts, and sustainability experts are the top growth roles, with net increases of 82 percent, 41 percent, and 33 percent respectively.

Digital transformation is also reshaping employer priorities. Network and cybersecurity skills are in highest demand, with 87 percent of Nigerian employers identifying them as critical, well above the global average of 70 percent. Other sought-after competencies include AI and big data proficiency, systems thinking, customer service, and global citizenship.

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs report 2025 also notes that 170 million jobs are expected to be created globally over the next five years, with 92 million jobs displaced, and over a billion will evolve in form and function. These projections, based on a survey of over 1,000 large enterprises across 55 economies, signals a shift in the nature of work. Across international markets, roles such as big data specialists, fintech engineers, AI and machine learning experts, and software developers are surging in demand. The green economy positions autonomous vehicle engineers, environmental scientists, and renewable energy experts are also climbing the ranks.

Conversely, traditional roles like bank tellers, postal clerks, and administrative assistants are experiencing steep declines. Employers globally are prioritising analytical thinking, cybersecurity, and digital literacy, alongside soft skills like creativity, adaptability, and lifelong learning. Nigeria’s labour landscape: Opportunities and challenges

Based on the report, 73 percent of Nigerian employers advocate for increased government funding, while 40 percent stress the need for improved transport infrastructure to support workforce mobility.

Organisations must also play their part by embedding upskilling into corporate culture and strengthening change management strategies. Without such commitment, Nigeria risks falling behind in the global race for talent.

The report notes that public-sector investment in reskilling is vital. Stakeholders across government, industry, and education must collaborate to ensure Nigerian talent is future-ready. While the CV may still hold relevance, the future belongs to those who can adapt, learn, and lead in a world defined by change.

The skills gap is not merely statistics, but a barrier to growth, innovation, and inclusion.As technological disruption, climate imperatives, and economic uncertainty reshape the global labour market, Nigeria must act decisively.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso are among top Nigerian leaders expected to meet for a national dialogue on electoral reforms.

The event will also feature Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 Presidential candidate and Attahiru Jega, former INEC Chairman, who will join other political figures, labour leaders, and civil society members in the discourse.

Scheduled for October 1st, the dialogue is part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary. The meeting is being convened by the National Consultative Front (NCFront), Labour and Civil Society Front (LCSF), the Nigeria Electoral Reforms Coalition (NERCO) and other partners.

Invited participants include NLC President Joe Ajaero, TUC leader Festus Osofo, ex-Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili, former Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi, political economist, Pat Utomi and ex-Senator, Shehu Sani.

Also expected are key government officials such as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum as well as leaders of the National Assembly Committees on electoral reforms.

According to organisers, the session will push for constitutional changes and policy reforms to ensure credible polls in 2027.

The Ogun State Government has debunked alleged complicity over a dead body found in Arakanga River suspected to be a pupil of Ilugun High School located in Elega Area of Abeokuta North Local Government.

A lifeless body of a teenager suspected to be a pupil of Ilugun High School (Junior) was found in Arakanga River at the weekend as rumour was rife that the victim and others were chased away by the School Principal (Junior) with the support of local security agents, prompting their resolve to swim through the river located at the back of the School.

Reports have it that one of them was unlucky as he was swept away by the rising river tides. The dead body of the victim was later found some days later, causing people in the area to concoct different versions of a story that led to the death of the pupil.

But, speaking at a Press Conference held in Abeokuta on Tuesday, Abayomi Arigbabu, Professor and Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, confirmed that the principal engaged in illegal collection of fees against the Government’s directive, but disowned the victim as one of the pupils of the School. He said, ‘Preliminary investigations reveal that the young man who lost his life was not a bonafide student of the school, with evidence pointing to an illegal enrolment.

‘The deceased was found to have been using three different names; Babalola Ayornide, Salako Jimoh and Afolabi Babalola. None of which appeared in the State’s Education Database, OGSERA.

‘In addition, we also discovered that the Principal of Ilugun High School (Junior) had been involved in the collection of illegal fees. In light of these findings, Government has decided to place both the Junior (Alaba Olukoga) and Senior (Temitope Ladipo) Principals of Ilugun High School on suspension while we conduct a thorough investigation into the immediate and remote causes of this unfortunate incident.

‘Let me assure the good people of Ogun State that the Administration of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON remains unshaken in its commitment to provide free education for every school-age child in this State, irrespective of where they live, their gender, economic status, religious belief, or political affiliation’.

Kylian Mbappe scored a hat-trick as Real Madrid thrashed Kairat 5-0 in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League in Kazakhstan on Tuesday.

Xabi Alonso’s side bounced back emphatically from their derby humiliation against Atletico Madrid on Saturday, travelling over 7,000 kilometres to secure a dominant victory on the road.

Mbappe opened the scoring from the penalty spot after 18-year-old goalkeeper Sherkhan Kalmurza fouled Franco Mastantuono in the box.

The Frenchman added two more to complete his treble, while Eduardo Camavinga and Brahim Díaz rounded off the scoring to send Madrid provisionally top of the group. Despite his hat-trick and a tally of 13 goals in nine games this season, Mbappe admitted he wanted even more.

‘My work is helping the team, doing what I can so that the team wins,’ he told Movistar. ‘If I have five chances, I want to score five goals, that’s why Real Madrid bought me. I’ll work to be better and more efficient in front of goal.’

Kairat, competing in the group stage for the first time after eliminating Celtic in qualifying, struggled badly, particularly with their teenage stand-in goalkeeper forced into action because of injuries to three senior shot-stoppers.

Real Madrid, however, looked every bit the European giants, led once again by Mbappe’s brilliance.