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Napoli earned their first points in this season’s Champions League with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Sporting Lisbon in Naples, thanks to a brace from Rasmus Hojlund and two assists from Kevin De Bruyne.

The Denmark striker struck in each half to give the Serie A champions a vital win in front of a relieved Stadio Diego Armando Maradona crowd.

Both goals came from De Bruyne’s precision passes, denying Sporting, who had drawn level in the 62nd minute through a Luis Suarez penalty.

‘It was a tough start to this campaign in the Champions League. we showed our character today and played really well against the Portuguese champions,’ said Hojlund after the match.

‘Kevin is a legend of football. He has so much quality that every time he has the ball all I have to do is find space, and I know he’ll find me.’

De Bruyne’s performance was especially encouraging for Napoli fans after recent tension with coach Antonio Conte.

The Belgian midfielder had reacted angrily to being substituted during Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at AC Milan, but he dismissed any rift with Conte.

‘There was never any problem. I’m a winner, and I want to play and make a difference. Everything has been said,’ De Bruyne told Sky. ‘There isn’t any problem, neither with the team nor the boss. I want to play football and enjoy it and move on.’

Napoli’s opener came in the 36th minute when De Bruyne slipped a perfect ball to Hojlund, who finished coolly past Rui Silva.

Sporting equalised when Suarez converted from the spot, but De Bruyne again made the difference 11 minutes from time, curling in a teasing cross that Hojlund nodded home for the winner.

I should not have bothered recounting all his Nigeria-centric engagements because Alhaji Aliko Dangote (AAD) has severally said so himself, but I do not want to be accused of plagiarism. Check out his speeches at the Guardian 2015 Man of the Year award, the Nigerian Economic Summit, the Katsina Economic and Investment Summit, the Nigerian-Kenyan business summit, when the VP visited his refinery and at the Corporate Council for Africa event. In all these, he declared his commitment to turning around and diversifying the economy, working hard to take the economy to the next level, building a refinery that is higher than the combined capacity of all refineries, a fertilizer capacity that is ten times more than what is available in Nigeria today, generate 12000MW, more than thrice what Nigeria currently generates and export refined oil rather than importing and creating Jobs elsewhere, list his refinery et al on the NSE and help NSE to outgrow Johannesburg Stock Exchange and how the rate of youth unemployment in Nigeria gives him sleepless Nights(a statement even our PMB has not made), assuring that Nigeria( and Africa) would soon become the world’s food basket. AAD has said and continues to say the right and heartwarming things. Unfortunately, however, these are the kinds of statements that should emanate from Kemi Adeosun, Godwin Emefiele, Udo Udoma, whoever is the chairman of the EMT, and, in sane climes, from the president himself.

‘Furthermore, given the strategic importance of AAD to the fate and fortunes of Nigeria, shouldn’t the government purchase a key-man insurance cover on the man?’

So, like the only rich man in the village, AAD has taken on all the responsibilities. Already other villagers are grumbling: The Ogun State governor complains that Dangote trucks destroy the roads; Ndigbo say the only Dangote investments in Ala-Igbo are deaths and traffic jams caused by his reckless drivers and his trucks; the FCT in 2016 rejected his Salah gifts; some people complain that he cornered an unfair share of our forex, enjoys great tax waivers, is becoming monopolistic and is muscling out other players, citing his spat with Otedola, Ibeto and BUA. Our only luck so far is that Dangote does not overtly throw his weight about.

If he were to behave as some of his drivers..

The Federal Government, on the other hand, is lying low and idling around as AAD undertakes his numerous responsibilities, being his greatest cheerleader and praying that AAD lives long to solve all our socio-economic problems (as PMB did on his 60th BD). Shamefully, rather than do SOMETHING about our pitiable petroleum situation, Ibe Kachikwu publicly begged AAD to finish his refinery ahead of schedule because the government’s promise to end fuel importation in 2019 was based on the refinery! Just imagine that: the government makes a promise to Nigerians and depends on AAD to fulfil the promise! Even Oxfam recently urged AAD and 4 others to use their wealth to end poverty in Nigeria.

The government, representing the Nigerian village, enjoys the positive externalities from the big man without thinking, ‘What if!’ What if AAD wobbles or goes to bed and does not wake up early enough? What if a strategic shift occurs in the organisation or if future Dangotarians are not as cool-headed and Nigeria-centric as AAD? The other day, AAD closed his $20m tomato factory and his Tanzanian $500m cement factory, which cost $4m to power monthly. The health of the Nigerian stock market depends on whether the prices of AAD stocks are rising or falling. What has the government done to create other AADs? Where are the other big men in Nigeria, including those whose kids party across the globe regularly? Why can’t they stand up and be counted? What is the Economic Management Team doing if AAD addresses the challenges of unemployment, diversification, food security, forex conservation, power generation and road construction? Should we not outsource economic governance to him while the presidency manages politics and revenue sharing and makes excuses for the foreign herdsmen? Or more charitably, why not send Osinbajo and the EMT on sabbatical to AAD?. Furthermore, given the strategic importance of AAD to the fate and fortunes of Nigeria, shouldn’t the government purchase a key-man insurance cover on the man?

Meanwhile, I urgently need a Dangote sticker for my rickety car. Travelling from Lagos to the East has suddenly become herculean, and I strongly believe that a Dangote sticker will clear the way for the son of man. As I was concluding this piece, I received the news that a townsman, Law Onyemelukwe of Lafenax Ltd, was named the overall best customer of Dangote Cement for 2017! So, I am vicariously among those enjoying the AAD Effect; at least I can brag: my townsman is AAD’s best customer! That may even get me through the police, customs, FRSC, civil defence and other unclassified checkpoints when next I travel along the Lagos-Onitsha route. But I will also petition the Federal Character Commission to investigate the 2017 AAD awards: the names of the top prize winners (Onyemelukwe, Okika and Ezenyili) did not reflect federal character!

Chukwuma (Chuma) Nwokocha has been appointed the substantive Group Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc with effect from October 2. The Board of Directors of the holding company said that Nwokocha’s appointment follows the receipt of all required regulatory approvals.

Nwokocha’s appointment follows the completion of Adekunle Adedeji’s tenure as acting Chief Executive, during which time the Board undertook a formal appointment process in accordance with regulatory requirements. Adedeji will continue in his role as Executive Director/Chief Finance and Value Management Officer of the Company.

Nwokocha is a seasoned banking executive and chartered accountant with over three decades of leadership experience across Africa.

He has held several Chief Executive and Board-level roles in leading financial institutions, including Chief Executive, Standard Bank, SA; (the Mozambican subsidiary of the Standard Bank Group), driving strategic growth, governance, and operational excellence. His expertise spans retail and corporate banking, as well as mergers and acquisitions.

Sola David-Borha, chairman, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, while commenting on the developmen,t expressed the Board’s delight at Nwokocha’s appointment, highlighting his strong track record in board governance, financial oversight, strategic transformation, as well as regulatory engagement.

The Board is confident that Nwokocha’s leadership would be instrumental in driving the growth strategy of Stanbic IBTC Group into the future.

David-Borha also extended the Board’s deep appreciation to Adedeji for his exemplary leadership and dedication, and for steering the affairs of the Company and Group during the transition period.

‘It is worthy of mention that under Dr Adedeji’s leadership, the Group recorded its best financial performance since inception. The Group also successfully completed its Rights Issue Programme which ensured that its banking subsidiary met the Central Bank of Nigeria’s recapitalisation requirements ahead of the 31 March 2026 deadline,’ she said.

For Nigerians seeking a safe haven for their wealth, Dubai is emerging as a prime destination, offering dollar-denominated returns, zero taxes, and long-term residency opportunities through its Golden Visa scheme.

This was the focus at a cocktail reception in Lagos, where LifeCard Group and Azizi Developments are partnering to offer dollar-denominated offshore investments opportunities for Nigerians looking to diversify their investment portfolios by exploring Dubai’s property market.

‘Dubai has shown consistent economic strength, with its currency remaining stable for over 38 years. It’s an environment where investors can enjoy capital appreciation of over 10 percent, without the burden of tax, while securing long-term value for themselves and their families,’ Grace Ofure Ibhakhomu, CEO, LifeCard Group stated.

Ibhakhomu, who is also an African consultant on global real estate and a Harvard-trained investment strategist, urged wealthy Nigerians to diversify their assets and stressed that beyond strong financial returns, Dubai guarantees safety and investor protection.

‘Dubai is a safe haven for investors. The laws are clear, over 516 nationalities coexist peacefully, and the government ensures that investors are protected. Even countries in conflict still have their citizens living together in Dubai. That stability is why global names like Donald Trump are developing luxury towers there,’ Ibhakhomu stated.

She also revealed that with Azizi’s offerings, Nigerians could access properties at lower service charges, enjoy transparency in documentation, and qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa once their investment threshold hits $550,000.

Explaining the partnership choice, Ibhakhomu stated that Azizi Developments was selected for its credibility and investor-focused structure. ‘Azizi is an investor-driven company. They don’t just build and hand over properties; they manage rentals, resales, and ensure investors get their returns. That kind of structure builds trust.’

Audrey Joe-Ezigbo, co-founder and deputy managing director, Falcon Corporation, in a keynote address stated that real estate has the tool for building generational wealth.

‘When we look at our society, we see families destroyed by disputes over inherited properties. Many fall back into poverty. Globalization gives us a safer route, investing not just in naira, but in dollars, as a safeguard for the future,’ she said.

Saad Khaled, regional director, Azizi Developments, stated that the firm has delivered over 40 projects in Dubai since 2008, and it is keen to tap into Nigeria’s huge market.

‘Partnering with LifeCard helps us bring Nigerians into Dubai’s property market with confidence. Investing here secures their future, as they earn in dollars rather than in currencies that fluctuate.’

Over 150 children and teenagers in Lagos took bold steps toward shaping their futures at the fourth edition of Dream Big and Reach for the Stars, a youth workshop designed to help them set goals and visualise their future.

The one-day programme, organised by Amani Health Inc., a digital health organisation that bridges the gap in emotional and mental health care support for children, teenagers, and adults, was held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Conference and Exhibition Centre, Lagos.

It also drew families who joined virtually from outside the state. Participants, aged 7 to 17, took part in a Dream Board exercise where they created visual plans for their ambitions. The organisers said the activity was intended to build clarity, confidence and a sense of purpose. By the end of the day, children left with colourful boards and a shared conviction that ‘my dreams are valid.’

For parents, the impact was immediate and profound. ‘After last year’s edition, my son turned his wardrobe into a vision wall. This time, he already told me he’s putting his academics right at the top. This programme doesn’t just inspire, it changes lives,’ one mother recalled.

Another parent testified that her once-shy daughter now demonstrates stronger self-esteem and keeps a daily reminder of her aspirations.

Ayodele Fasuyi, the convener, said the initiative was born out of a desire to restore the habit of dreaming among Nigerian children, many of whom struggle with peer pressure, social media comparisons, and anxiety about the future. ‘Our goal is to show them that, no matter the noise around them, their dreams remain valid and their future is bright,’ she said.

A highlight of the workshop was a storytelling session centred on Tunde Onokoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, whose journey from modest beginnings to international acclaim underscored the power of resilience and focus.

Fasuyi noted that Amani Health had previously partnered with his initiative in 2023, reinforcing the theme of collaboration in youth empowerment.

Corporate sponsors, including Indomie, SunTrust Bank, Rosabon Finance, Pasta n Grills, VDL Technologies, Markov Games AI, AYITI, and Cake Allure, provided refreshments, gifts, and resources. Organisers said this support was crucial to creating a memorable, family-friendly atmosphere.

Now in its fourth year, Dream Big and Reach for the Stars has become a trusted platform for families seeking to nurture children’s growth beyond academics. Parents described it as both inspiring and practical, giving their children clarity about the future while teaching confidence and resilience.

Building on the momentum, Amani Health announced the second cohort of Excel Beyond the Classroom, a four-month skill-acquisition and mentorship programme designed to help children turn their vision boards into reality. The curriculum includes emotional intelligence, digital literacy, entrepreneurship, public speaking, and project-based learning. By the end of the programme, each child will produce a tangible product, project, or portfolio that moves them closer to their dream.

For many families, the message resonated deeply in that, in an age of distractions and uncertainty, the ability to dream big and take practical steps forward may be one of the most powerful gifts children can receive.

‘We want children to move from hope to action. It is not just about dreaming but about equipping them with the tools to make those dreams achievable,’ Fasuyi explained.

BrandTell Business Network (BTN), a thriving coalition of over 400 brand owners across various industries in Nigeria, is set to revolutionise the way small business operators connect with potential customers through its BTN Sales Season 4.0

The event, themed ‘The Ultimate Shutdown,’ promises to deliver an electrifying three-day shopping and networking experience from November 21st to 23rd at the Ikorodu Ferry Terminal in Ebute, Ikorodu, Lagos.

Adenike Fagbemi, executive director of BrandTell Nigeria – the umbrella media and public relations of BTN, emphasised the unique opportunities that BTN Sales Yakata Season IV offers brands and SMEs looking to reach a broader audience, increase visibility, and drive sales.

‘We are thrilled to organise this event, providing a valuable platform for brands and SMEs to thrive. Our goal is to empower businesses with the tools and resources they need to succeed in today’s competitive market,’ she stated.

This year’s edition of the legendary sales event will not only serve as a platform for networking and establishing brand loyalty but also as an opportunity for exhibitors to develop innovative marketing strategies for their products.

‘Whether you’re coming for the incredible bargains, to showcase your brand, or to connect with industry leaders, BTN Sales Yakata 4.0 is your golden ticket,’ Adenike added.

In addition to fostering connections and promoting brand growth, BTN Sales Yakata Season IV reflects BrandTell Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to supporting business owners in advancing their entrepreneurial ventures and connecting more effectively with potential clients.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with products firsthand and provide immediate feedback on the diverse range of items on display.

BTN Sales Yakata Season IV promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Nigerian entrepreneurship and innovation.

For more information on participation, sponsorship opportunities, or media inquiries, please contact BrandTell Nigeria via their Instagram and Facebook channels.

Fans know Tekno for dropping bangers. Now, he’s teaming up with the platform, dropping the biggest betting wins in Africa. Whether it’s boosted odds, early cash-outs with 2UP Early Wins, or life-changing payouts on Aviator, JetX, Aero, and Comet, Tekno says it best: ‘betPawa na the real deal.’

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Speaking at the unveiling, Borah Ndanyungu, Head of Local Marketing and CSR at betPawa, said:

‘Tekno represents everything betPawa stands for – energy, creativity, and breaking boundaries.

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betPawa’s commitment to Nigerian sports runs deep. Just this month, the brand announced a landmark sponsorship of the Nigeria National League (NNL) worth over ?494 million, ensuring players earn instant Locker Room Bonuses and helping to grow the local game.

With Tekno now on board, betPawa is betting on culture, creativity, and the spirit of Nigeria itself. His energy, influence, and larger-than-life presence mirror betPawa’s mission: to deliver unforgettable moments and life-changing wins. Together, Tekno and betPawa are setting the stage for a new era in betting – where the music is loud, the odds are boosted, and the payouts are epic.

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EmoSIM, Nigeria’s first ‘out-bound’ travel e-SIM, has demonstrated its capacity to provide affordable and world-class mobile experience that allows Africans to access mobile networks in over 190 countries.

Developed in collaboration with Tata Communications, a world leader in digital infrastructure, EMOSIM Travel e-SIM is tailored for the modern Nigerian traveller-whether for business, study, leisure, or diaspora engagement.

Speaking at the Digital Innovations media briefing held in Lagos recently, Jimmy Eboma, EmoSIM Chairman and Founder, explained, ‘EmoSIM was created for travellers who need seamless connectivity anywhere in the world. Our mission is simple: one eSIM for every trip. Our vision is to make global communication seamless, affordable, and swift.

Eboma underscored the company’s three core pillars: ease, convenience, and affordability, noting that activation takes only minutes directly from a user’s phone, with no paperwork required. ‘The solution is as easy as scanning a QR code before travelling, which instantly activates the eSIM,’ he said.

Beyond ease of use, Eboma highlighted security as a key focus: ‘Virtual SIMs cannot be transferred unless both the device and email are compromised. Activation codes are sent only to the user’s email, and eSIM profiles can be deactivated and restored seamlessly in cases of phone theft. With EmoSIM, your identity remains secure, unlike with plastic SIMs, which anyone can use if stolen.’

EmoSIM is also known for its customer-first approach, with plans to extend its value beyond outbound eSIM services into MVNO operations, digitising connectivity and reshaping how Africans experience mobile communication both at home and abroad.

In just three months of its launch, EmoSIM has established physical presence across the SADC region, including. South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho, Angola, Malawi, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, demonstrating its rapid growth across Africa.

Nigeria is positioning itself as a global leader in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution with a National AI Strategy, targeting $15 billion contribution to the nation’s GDP and equipping 70 percent of its youthful workforce with AI skills by 2030.

The announcement, highlighted by Oluwaseun Dania, managing director of Alpha-Geek Technologies, during the United Nations General Assembly’s Global Dialogue on AI Governance in New York, underscores Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing AI for economic growth and equitable innovation.

The National AI Strategy, spearheaded by president Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration through the minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, is a collaborative effort with the Nigerian Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme (NAIRS) and the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR). The blueprint projects a 27 percent annual market expansion through 2030, positioning AI as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s digital economy. The strategy focuses on leveraging AI to bridge infrastructure gaps, drive fintech innovations, and foster stablecoin initiatives, while prioritizing ethical innovation and skills development.

Speaking at the UN, Dania, a prominent voice in African technology, emphasized that Nigeria’s approach is not just about economic gains but about uplifting lives. ‘The success of the AI revolution should be measured by lives uplifted, not merely GDP spikes,’ he said, highlighting Nigeria’s mobile-first AI adoption and its potential to empower the world’s youngest workforce.

With over 60 percent of Nigeria’s population under 25, the goal of equipping 70 percent of young Nigerians with AI capabilities by 2030 is a transformative step toward building a skilled, future-ready generation.The strategy addresses both opportunities and challenges.

Dania warned of AI’s risks, including deepfakes eroding trust, biased algorithms perpetuating inequality, and data monopolies exacerbating global divides.

To counter these, Nigeria’s plan incorporates African-led ethical standards, drawing on the communal value of ubuntu (humanity toward others), to ensure privacy-by-design and bias audits. It also emphasises resilient infrastructure, such as predictive analytics for pandemics and energy optimisation, while safeguarding against the misuse of AI.

Dania stressed that Nigeria’s vision aligns with broader African priorities for equitable AI access, ethical safeguards, and infrastructure investment, adding that, ‘Africa is ready to co-create, not merely comply,’ he declared, urging global stakeholders to include the continent’s 1.4 billion voices in shaping AI governance.