Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN), in partnership with Johnson and Johnson, has officially kicked off the 2025 edition of its Winning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Manufacturing, and Design (WiSTEM2D) program, designed to inspire secondary school students to explore careers in STEM and equip them with the skills to thrive in the 21st-century workforce.

This year’s program adopts a blended learning approach, combining digital tools with in-person engagements to strengthen problem-solving skills, boost confidence, and bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.

? The 2025 program commenced with the National WiSTEM2D Innovation Camp, which brought together 66 top-performing students for a full-day immersive learning experience. Students engaged in career conversations with STEM professionals, explored creativity and problem-solving through design thinking workshops, and showcased their ideas in an ideathon and pitch contest before industry experts-gaining exposure, skills, and confidence for future opportunities.

The innovation and pitch contest produced three outstanding winning teams:

? 1st Place: Festac Senior College, Festac Town, represented by Betiku Adedolapo, Okorocha Mmesoma, Davidson Chioma, and Igwe Mmaduabuchi, for their solution on decentralized waste and recycling stations, bringing disposal points closer to communities.

? 1st Runner-Up: Bola Ige Millennium Senior Secondary School, represented by Giwa Faridat Oluwafunmilayo, Anozie Ngozi Maryolivia, Nnodim Goodness, Enukoha Mary, Omonigho Joy, for their innovative Automated BinBot, designed to separate dry and wet waste, reducing pollution and improving community sanitation. ? 2nd Runner-Up: Lagos State Senior Model College represented by Ezeanya Chisom, Johnchukwu Confidence, Chukwuka Favour, Nnedu Chukwuemeka, for their solution combining health awareness campaigns with practical waste management strategies, encouraging the replacement of single-use plastics with reusable alternatives and turning organic waste into fertilizer.

Speaking at the event, Mr Olaolu Akogun, Assistant Director of Programs, Junior Achievement Nigeria, said:

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

Representing Johnson and Johnson Nigeria, Ms. Jaiyesimi Oyefunke, Country Lead, said:

Quote from Johnson and Johnson

While the Innovation Camp has directly impacted 66 students through its immersive, hands-on learning experience, this is just the beginning. The next phase of the WiSTEM2D program, the online STEM Challenge, will commence in the coming week, engaging over 750 additional students across Nigeria.

Through this interactive digital learning platform, students will explore STEM concepts in fun, competitive, and accessible ways, ensuring that the program’s impact goes beyond the Camp. This next stage will broaden participation, spark fresh ideas, and nurture even more young innovators ready to take on real-world challenges.

With this momentum, the program is set to inspire not just a handful of winners, but a nationwide movement of young innovators ready to lead Nigeria into the future.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its fight against oil theft in the Niger Delta, destroying several clusters of illegal crude oil refining sites hidden deep within the creeks of Etche Local Government Area, Rivers State.

According to a statement released on Friday, by Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, the operation took place on 7 October 2025 as part of ongoing counter-oil theft missions under the Air Component of the joint security efforts in the region.

NAF said that the precision airstrikes were conducted following credible intelligence that identified active illegal refining activities concealed in a densely forested area near Owaza.

‘Surveillance confirmed the location was isolated, with no visible human presence, before the aircraft engaged the targets and successfully neutralised the illegal sites.

‘These strikes form part of the sustained efforts of the Nigerian Air Force to combat economic sabotage and environmental degradation caused by crude oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta,’ the statement read.

However, following the operation, a local group alleged that the airstrikes may have affected a gin distillery in Umuebele community, though no casualties were reported.

In response, NAF activated its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP) to verify the situation.

It emphasised that the service remains committed to transparency, accountability, and adherence to international best practices in all its operations.

‘The Nigerian Air Force operates with precision and utmost care to avoid civilian harm. In keeping with our commitment to protecting the lives and property of all Nigerians, we will thoroughly investigate the allegations and take appropriate actions,’ NAF added.

The NAF reaffirmed its determination to continue supporting other security agencies in combating criminal activities across the country while maintaining its constitutional role of defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

The naira appreciated by N10.50 over the course of one week in the official foreign exchange market, supported by sustained liquidity conditions.

At the close of trading on Friday, the naira stood at N1,455.17 per US dollar, representing a 0.7 percent gain from the N1,465.67 recorded the previous Friday, according to data published by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Over the five trading days, the local currency gained N15.09 or 1.04 percent from Monday’s rate of N1,470.26 to close the week at N1,455.17 per dollar at the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM). On a daily basis, the naira appreciated by N11.48 or 0.78 percent, strengthening from N1,466.65 on Thursday to N1,455.17 on Friday.

In contrast, the naira weakened slightly in the parallel market, also known as the black market. It depreciated by 0.5 percent to close at N1,492 per dollar on Friday, compared to N1,485 per dollar the previous day.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s external reserves have continued to show positive momentum. According to the latest figures from the CBN, the reserves rose to $42.57 billion as of October 9, 2025. A report by FBNQuest corroborated this upward trend, noting that Nigeria’s gross official reserves increased by nearly $1.1 billion to $42.4 billion at the end of September 2025. Apart from a brief decline in June, when reserves dropped by about $1.2 billion due to debt service obligations, gross reserves have been on a steady rise since May 2025.

On a quarterly basis, the reserves have grown by $5.1 billion, supported by several key drivers. These include a stronger trade balance, which has benefited from an increase in non-oil exports, and robust capital inflows spurred by elevated interest rates. The report also highlighted that, as of the end of September 2025, Nigeria’s reserves covered 13.2 months of merchandise imports based on balance of payments data for the twelve months to January 2025, and 12.0 months when services are included.

While the CBN does not disclose net reserve figures, commonly viewed as a more conservative and internationally accepted metric for evaluating reserve adequacy, the continued buildup in gross reserves and improved foreign exchange liquidity suggest that net reserves may now exceed the $23.1 billion reported in December 2024. This indicates a strengthening of Nigeria’s foreign exchange buffers.

Elsewhere, other markets also recorded notable movements in their external positions. South Africa’s international liquidity position rose by nearly $2.0 billion month-on-month to $67.9 billion. The increase was primarily driven by mark-to-market gains of $1.6 billion in its gold reserves, benefiting from an 11 percent month-on-month surge in the price of gold to $3,873.2 per ounce.

Egypt also recorded an improvement in its external position, with net foreign exchange reserves rising by $283 million month-on-month to $49.5 billion in September 2025. This was mainly attributed to a $175 million increase in the value of its gold holdings.

Back in Nigeria, the combination of rising reserves and enhanced FX market liquidity contributed to the naira’s performance, which included a 3.6 percent month-on-month appreciation to N1,478/$1 in September.

Analysts at FBNQuest noted that Nigeria’s external reserves could see further improvement in the near term, particularly if global monetary conditions become more accommodative. They pointed out that any signs of softness in the US labor market could prompt the Federal Reserve to maintain or accelerate its policy easing, which would likely benefit emerging market economies like Nigeria.

The story of Kehinde Kamson begins in Lagos where she was born on August 14, 1961, as a twin and the youngest of six children. Her father, Adeleke Beniah Adelaja, was principal of CMS Grammar School, while her mother, Omoba Adebayo Evangelin Adelaja, ran Eva Adelaja Secondary School. Her parents were educators and so Kehinde and her siblings learnt the values of hard work, education and entrepreneurship from the start.Kehinde attended the International Women’s Society Nursery School in Lagos, and then University of Lagos Staff School. For secondary school she went to St Anne’s School, Ibadan. She completed her A-Levels at Queens College in Lagos, and then earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Lagos and furthered her business education at Lagos Business School.

After graduating from the University of Lagos, Kehinde Kamson worked as a chartered accountant and held a role as Chief Accountant in an oil service company called Lummus Crest. During this time, she was already married to a man named Sir Yinka Olusoga Kamson, and so, decided to start a side business where she sourced fish amongst fish mongers in Lagos. Her little business was called ‘Fish Mongers’, and she ran it for 5 years before she eventually shut it down because it was bringing in little to no profits, and was entirely unsustainable.

After the unfortunate collapse of her first business, Fish Mongers, Kehinde Kamson refused to give up. Drawing on her childhood passion for baking, she launched another venture, a pastries and cakes business called Citycate – The City Caterers. Citycate quickly gained traction.

The demand was so high that Kehinde would rise as early as 3 a.m. every day to bake and deliver pastries to her clients before heading to work. As the workload intensified, she eventually left her job to devote herself fully to the growing business.Her pastries soon became a hit, particularly at the University of Lagos, where the medical school, Medilag, became her biggest market.

From there, her supply network expanded to include UTC, Leventis, and eventually, Mr Biggs. In one interview, Kehinde shared,’Mr. Biggs inspired me beyond imagination. It was not just the boost in my sales, but the impressions I had as I watched on a daily basis their sales staff counting away loads of cash. I must confess I found that cash counting sight very inspiring! The cash counting at Mr. Biggs went on the whole day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. My prayer point became, ‘Lord, make our money counting session be as long as Mr. Biggs!’Her partnership with Mr Biggs lasted for about four years before she decided to start her own fast-food restaurant, which she named Sweet Sensation Confectioneries Limited.

In 1994 she launched Sweet Sensation Confectionery Limited from a backyard shed, which used to be the gateman’s house, in Ilupeju, Lagos. Sweet Sensation started with modest beginnings selling simple meals and snacks including pastries, chicken, rice and ice cream, over time it grew into one of Nigeria’s foremost Quick Service Restaurant brands.

31 years later, the business has since grown to become one of the most successful chain of Quick Service Restaurant businesses in Nigeria with over 25 outlets across the country, over 2,000 employees and over 60 array of meals that are served daily.

Kamson has also championed innovation within her business. She has explained that innovation, quality service and keeping menus fresh have been central to staying competitive in Nigeria’s fast food sector.She is president of Restaurant and Food Services Proprietors Association of Nigeria (REFSPAN), the umbrella body for Quick Service Restaurants, and runs initiatives like the Sweet Sensation Education Support Scheme, which helps students from low income families and those with special needs, and a food security intervention to provide meals to underserved populations.

Kamson often recounts that her path has not been easy. She has also reflected on early challenges involving limited capital, balancing family responsibilities, logistics, and the constant pressure to deliver quality while remaining affordable,Through fluctuations in the market, shifts in consumer preference, and competition, her business has held on by leaning into customer experience, menu diversity, ambience, operations and adapting to changing times. The plan to launch a skill acquisition centre for undergraduates with interest in culinary skill and entrepreneurship is one of her recent moves to extend impact beyond just food business.

The Rule of Seven in marketing is a principle suggesting that brands engaging with a customer at least seven times are more likely to earn their trust and ultimately their business. It emphasises the importance of repeated interactions with potential customers to build familiarity, trust, and credibility over time. This principle underscores the idea that consistent communication and exposure increase the likelihood of converting leads into loyal customers.

So, how does the Rule of Seven actually work? It’s not about bombarding your prospects with repetitive messages until they cave in. Instead, it’s a strategic approach to nurturing relationships and building familiarity over time. Think of it as laying the groundwork for a meaningful connection.

Mastering the Rule of Seven: strategies to reach and convert your audience

i. Blog posts: establishing expertise and visibility

Start your journey towards the magic number by crafting blog posts that not only educate but also entertain your audience. Consistent and valuable content showcases your expertise while keeping your brand at the forefront of their minds.

ii. Social posts: engaging across platforms

Engage your audience on various social media platforms with informative content, intriguing insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your brand’s personality. Interacting with your audience in their preferred spaces helps build rapport and increases brand recognition.

iii. E-mails: personalised communication for nurturing leads

Craft personalised and relevant emails that deliver value to your subscribers. Whether it’s sharing exclusive offers, industry updates, or helpful tips, e-mails provide a direct line of communication to nurture leads and foster deeper connections.

iv. Videos: captivating audiences with dynamic content

Leverage the power of video content to convey your message in a dynamic and engaging way. From captivating product demos to heartfelt customer testimonials, videos capture attention and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Why is the Rule of Seven important in marketing?

The rule of seven holds a significant place in marketing strategies for several compelling reasons:

i. Building trust with customers

Regular interactions through various channels help establish trust with potential customers. By consistently demonstrating value and expertise, brands position themselves as reliable partners, fostering long-term relationships and brand recognition. This trust can also help overcome common objections to purchasing.

ii. Addressing diverse customer concerns

Engaging with customers multiple times provides ample opportunities to address different concerns they may have. Brands can tailor their messages to resonate with specific demographics or address varying needs, showcasing their understanding of customer challenges and solutions.

iii. Enhancing brand memorability

Multiple touchpoints ensure that the brand remains top-of-mind for customers throughout their buying journey. By repeatedly exposing customers to their message, brands increase the likelihood of being considered when it’s time to make a purchase, ultimately enhancing brand recall and recognition.

iv. Facilitating customer insights

With each interaction, brands gain valuable insights into customer behaviour and preferences. By analysing these interactions, brands can refine their marketing strategies, personalise communications, and tailor offerings to better meet customer needs.

v. Guiding customers through marketing funnels The Rule of Seven aligns with the stages of the marketing funnel, allowing brands to guide customers from awareness to conversion. By strategically targeting customers at different stages of the buying cycle, brands can nurture leads, build engagement, and drive conversions effectively.

vi. Providing feedback for continuous improvement

Regular customer interactions serve as a source of valuable feedback for brands. By actively listening to customer feedback and observing their behaviour, brands can identify areas for improvement, refine their offerings, and enhance overall customer satisfaction.

In essence, the Rule of Seven serves as a guiding principle for brands seeking to establish meaningful connections with their audience, drive engagement, and ultimately achieve marketing success.

Mastering customer interactions: tips for leveraging the Rule of Seven

Here are some practical tips to help you maximise your customer interactions and leverage the Rule of Seven in your marketing strategy:

a. Embrace diversity in communication

Expand your outreach efforts by diversifying your communication methods. Engage with your audience through various channels such as social media, email, or direct mailers. By reaching customers through different platforms, you can deepen connections and foster more personalised relationships.

b. Prioritise quality over quantity

Remember, it’s not just about bombarding customers with messages but delivering impactful content. Focus on crafting quality messages that resonate with your audience, rather than simply aiming to meet a specific quota. Quality engagement is key to building trust and loyalty.

c. Know your audience

Take the time to truly understand your customers before planning your marketing approach. By gaining insights into their preferences, behaviours, and pain points, you can tailor your interactions to better meet their needs and interests.

d. Stay informed about your competitors

Keep an eye on your competitors’ marketing strategies to stay ahead of the curve. Understanding the landscape can help you identify gaps in the market and determine which channels are most effective for reaching your target audience.

e. Utilise analytics

Leverage analytics tools to gain valuable insights into customer behaviour and engagement. Monitor metrics such as conversion rates and engagement levels to refine your approach and optimise your marketing efforts.

f. Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy

Create a well-rounded marketing strategy that covers all stages of the sales funnel. Ensure that your messaging resonates with customers at each stage, from awareness to conversion, to maximise effectiveness.

g. Foster genuine connections

The ultimate goal of the rule of seven is to build trust and connection with your audience. Add value to your interactions by providing relevant and meaningful content that resonates with your customers’ needs and interests.

Last line

Consistency is key to building and maintaining trust with your audience. Regardless of the channels you use, ensure that your messaging remains consistent and aligned with your brand identity. This helps reinforce your brand image and fosters familiarity with your audience.

Having participated in some of the sideline events at the recent UN general assembly, it is clear that Africa stands at a crossroads. Geopolitical and macroeconomic conditions are such that the need for higher intra-Africa trade has never been more important.

From a technology point of view, we are experiencing the dawn of artificial intelligence (AI) as a new foundational technology that has the potential to deliver significant productivity improvements and use cases that we have not fully imagined.

Demographically, the Global North dominates in wealth accumulated but is ageing, while the youthful Global South is positioned to provide the workforce of the future. Africa is home to the world’s youngest population and a potential burgeoning demographic dividend. By 2050 our youth population is projected to reach nearly 830-million. This vibrant, energetic generation is not just a future workforce, it’s a powerful engine for social and economic transformation.

However, to unlock this potential, we must act now. We need a decisive, collective call to action from governments, the private sector and civil society to accelerate the development of Africa’s digital economy. Without it, this demographic advantage could become a socioeconomic headwind and missed opportunity to deliver on the youth dividend.

While we’ve made progress towards a digital Africa, the internet usage gap remains wide. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), in 2024 only 38% of Africa’s population was online; the global average was 68%. The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) says a billion Africans remain stuck in the voice era. This usage gap holds back development and is an obstacle to economic participation and human-centred development.

For guidance on ways to overcome this it is instructive to look at India’s example. With a population of a similar size to the whole of Africa, India built its digital economy through a well co-ordinated partnership between government and the private sector to drive digital and financial inclusion.

Among the key features of ‘Digital India’ are providing robust digital infrastructure as a fundamental utility for all; making all government services available electronically on demand; and empowering citizens with a unique digital identity and access to digital financial services through a unified payments interface.

To bridge Africa’s digital divide, several key actions are required. Modernisation of regulatory and fiscal frameworks; significant investments in power and digital infrastructure; and digital and AI skilling, of the youth, in particular, need to be prioritised with the utmost urgency.

For universal, meaningful connectivity the ITU says in its ‘Connecting Humanity Action Blueprint’ the following key gap costs have to be met:

digital infrastructure;

affordability;

digital skills; and

policy and regulatory.

It estimates the total costs to 2030 at $2.7-trillion.

Of this, the ITU estimates that the global digital infrastructure financing gap is $1.6-trillion, with about $660bn of this constituting capital expenditure. The biggest single capex category is last-mile infrastructure, and it estimates that Africa needs $96bn until 2030 to plug this gap.

This is not a task for governments or mobile operators alone. To build a more inclusive digital Africa the GSMA highlights the need for lower excise duties and operator taxes, and the simplification of the tax collection system. It also lists stable and reliable electricity access and clear policy strategy and transparent regulation as being essential, and has specifically called for the removal of taxes on entry-level smart devices – tools for education and portals to financial and other digital services.

Of MTN’s 298-million customers, by the first half of this year, only 55% were accessing the internet. The cost of devices remains a significant barrier. For many people the price of a smartphone can be the equivalent of 95% of monthly income, according to the GSMA. The ITU estimates that in the next five years Africa needs $8.4bn to ensure universal access to a low-cost smartphone.

We must work together to accelerate smartphone diffusion, by lowering import taxes on devices and fostering their local manufacture and assembly.

We believe ubiquitous access and use of the internet will happen across Africa when customers have smartphones starting at $20-$25. The development of cloud-based phones and the reduction and removal of duties and taxes on low-cost 4G smartphones will be a major enabler in internet adoption and the development of a vibrant digital economy for Africa.

We also need to see further modernisation of regulatory frameworks, ensuring sufficient access to spectrum at reasonable cost to operators, while holding the same operators to high quality-of-service and coverage obligations. And we need competition frameworks that balance customer choice and investments in digital infrastructure.

Globally, there is a clear shift towards more in-market consolidation. Counterintuitively, this in-market consolidation is attracting more investment and driving higher digital inclusion, particularly of customers in peri-urban and rural areas. Embracing technologies such as fixed wireless access and low-earth orbit satellites will be important to ensure African citizens have high-quality connectivity.

Digital skilling and job creation for our youth

Another key component of digital transformation is digital skilling and job creation for our youth. The World Bank’s ‘Africa’s Pulse’ report highlights that while digitalisation presents immense opportunities for job creation and poverty reduction, learning alone isn’t enough if there’s weak demand for skilled workers.

The GSMA’s ‘Sub-Saharan Africa 2024 Year in Review’ says that closing the usage gap could add about $700bn in additional GDP in 2024-30. This is the prize. But to claim it, we must equip our youth with the right skills.

A recent report from the International Certificate of Digital Literacy finds that only 50% of African countries include ‘computer skills’ in their school curriculum, and an alarming 90% of children leave school without basic digital skills. We need to treat digital literacy – including coding, data analytics and cybersecurity – as a fundamental requirement for survival in the 21st century.

Finally, we must prepare for AI. It is one of the most transformative technologies of our time, with the potential to add billions to our continent’s economy. McKinsey estimates that at-scale deployment of generative AI could unlock $61bn-$103bn of additional economic value across Africa. However, our continent accounts for less than 1% of global AI research and development.

Challenges that are holding us back include limited digital infrastructure, skills shortages and a scarcity of data in African languages. We must not be passive consumers of AI developed elsewhere. We need to invest in our own AI ecosystems, support local start-ups, and develop policies that foster responsible AI development. The World Bank’s data shows that we are lagging behind other regions, and unless we act quickly, we risk being left behind in this new technological revolution.

There is much work to do, and it is a shared responsibility. The private sector must continue to invest, innovate and create jobs. Governments must create a stable, predictable and enabling regulatory environment that encourages investment and innovation.

We in Africa need to partner with global technology companies, but do so mindful that our challenges and opportunities are unique. Our partnership models must be on the basis that we develop local skills and capability, and that Africans are not just consumers but creators too. Our young people must embrace this digital future with an insatiable appetite for learning and self-improvement.

The opportunity is ours to seize. Let’s work together to ensure that Africa’s digital destiny is one of prosperity, inclusivity and socioeconomic progress.

Africa’s leading homegrown payment card, Verve, is giving millions of Verve card holders even more reasons to enjoy seamless transactions as it announces the extension of its popular Goodlife Promo. With millions of Naira in cash prizes and exciting discounts still up for grabs, cardholders can look forward to a rewarding experience every time they swipe, tap, or pay with their Verve card.

From now until November 30th, 2025, customers who use their Verve cards across ATMs, POS terminals, and online platforms automatically qualify for a chance to win up to ?1,000,000. In addition, Verve users will continue to enjoy a 10% discount at select merchant locations nationwide, ensuring that every transaction goes beyond payment and delivers real value.

The Goodlife Promo has already rewarded thousands of Verve users across Nigeria with discounts and cashbacks. By extending the campaign, Verve reaffirms its commitment to rewarding loyalty while promoting financial inclusion and cashless transactions across Africa. The Goodlife Promo is open to both new and existing Verve cardholders and will run until November 30th, 2025. Customers who do not yet have a Verve card can easily request one from their banks to participate.

To participate, all you need to do is use your Verve card for everyday transactions. So, whether you’re buying groceries, paying for transportation, or settling bills, remember that each transaction with Verve is not just a payment, it’s a chance to step closer to the good life, and the more you transact, the higher your chances of winning.

Don’t miss out, swipe, tap, and pay with Verve today and live the good life!

STEVE (2025)

Steve was the director of a school from the 90’s, this school was created to help troubled boys, boys who had been abandoned by the society as nothing good to write home about or being destroyed by drugs, Steve strongly believe in these boys and would do anything to help and reform these boys even with a lean budget. Steve got really frustrated and worked up, when the government decided to withdraw funds from the school and came up with plans to shut down the school. Steve loved these boys and was willing to fight tooth and nails for them. Do check out the movie to find out how he managed the school, the boys and if the school was finally shutdown. The 99m British, drama, Independent, Film based on books, social issues movie was directed by Tim Mielants, Sinbiatu Ajikawo, Douggie Mcmeekin, Youssef Kerkour, Roger Allan, Emily Watson and many more.

THE WAITER (2024)

For some weird reasons, I really do struggle with AY’s movies, as I really do not find them funny and sometimes don’t find them relatable and realistic in terms of the action scenes, well do well to check out the movie for yourself so you can judge better. In this new Nollywood movie, AY plays the role as a waiter in a 5-star hotel. This faithful day as he resumes work to manage and coordinate a big conference that will house the honorable minister and some special dignitaries, just few minutes into the conference, they discover that the event had being hijacked by a group of activities, who felt they could get the funds from the minister and share the funds to the real poor Nigerians at the bottom of the pyramid. Well, you will need to go check out the movie to see how they executed the plan, how they shared the funds, and the real motives behind their actions. The 104m Nollywood, crime, comedies, action, African movie was directed by Toka McBarror, they featured actors like Ayo Makun, Deyemi Okanlawon, Regina Daniels, Shaffy Bello, Bucci Franklin, Uchemba Williams, Sunshine Rosman, Uzee Usman, etc.

FRENCH GIRL (2025)

Sophie and Gordon had been dating for a while, and Gordon had the intention of proposing to her, he felt that she was the one for him and was willing to spend the rest of his life with her, but his father had some reservations and wanted him to give the relationship more time. While contemplating the right time to propose Sophie gets an exciting job offer in Quebec with her old friend, this was going to be the opportunity of a lifetime, Gordon was worried that if Sophie took on the job, relocated and went home that could affect their relationship. Well, you will need to go check out this brand-new movie to find out if she got the job, if she relocated and if she accepted his proposal Afterall. The 106m Comedy, Canadian, romantic, movie was directed by James A. Woods, Nicolas Wright, they featured actors like Zach Braff, Evelyne Brochu, Luc Picard, Vanessa Hudges, Antoine Olivier Pilion, Isabella Vincent, Charlotte Arbin etc.

A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) working on democracy and electoral reform has called on the Nigerian Senate to ensure a transparent and participatory confirmation process for Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN), nominated by President Bola Tinubu as the next chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a joint statement released in Abuja, on Friday, the groups – including Yiaga Africa, WRAPA, the International Press Center, The Kukah Centre, and the Nigeria Women Trust Fund – acknowledged Amupitan’s professional achievements and expressed no objection in principle to his nomination.

However, they stressed that Nigeria’s democracy demands an ‘independent INEC immune to political manipulation’ and urged the nominee to demonstrate moral courage and resistance to political pressure if confirmed.

The organisations reminded the public that the approval of the National Council of State does not replace the Senate’s constitutional duty to conduct rigorous and transparent screening that inspires public confidence.

They also emphasised the need for citizen and civil society engagement in the confirmation process. They called on the Senate to conduct televised and inclusive hearings allowing public input through memoranda and petitions, examine Amupitan’s competence, public record, and vision for reforming INEC and question his strategies for addressing systemic challenges, including voter registration, result transmission, and enforcement of electoral guidelines. The statement noted that Nigerians expect the confirmation process to align with the framework for citizens’ engagement in the INEC appointment process, previously submitted to the Senate.

The statement was jointly signed by Yiaga Africa, WRAPA, International Press Center, The Kukah Centre, Centre LSD, TAF Africa, Nigeria Women Trust Fund, Accountability Lab Nigeria, and YERP Naija Campaign.

Nigeria’s U17 girls, the Flamingos, saw their impressive 10-game unbeaten streak ended on Saturday night in Casablanca with a 4-3 defeat to New Zealand in a thrilling friendly encounter ahead of the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Despite the defeat, their first in 11 tune-up games, the Flamingos produced a spirited performance, showing attacking flair and resilience that will serve them well when the tournament begins later this month.

Nigeria made a bright start, earning an early corner and dominating possession. Captain Shakirat Moshood was lively in attack, while goalkeeper Elizabeth Boniface made a crucial early save to deny New Zealand a free kick.

Their early pressure paid off in the 13th minute when Queen Joseph opened the scoring with a composed finish after a well-timed through ball.

New Zealand responded in the 25th minute through Laura Bennett, who became the first player to score against Nigeria in their preparatory matches.

Though the Kiwis briefly thought they had taken the lead, their second strike was ruled offside. Moshood then restored Nigeria’s advantage with a brilliant long-range goal in the 42nd minute, sending the team into halftime 2-1 ahead.

The second half was end-to-end. Joseph almost made it 3-1 but struck the post before Bennett equalised again in the 55th minute.

She completed her hat-trick in the 74th minute to put New Zealand 3-2 in front, but Nigeria quickly levelled through Ayo’s powerful effort from distance.

However, just as the Flamingos looked to be back in control, Candy Sienna scored a stunning winner in the 80th minute to give the Kiwis victory. Nigeria created several late chances but couldn’t find the equaliser.

The Nigerian side will next face Paraguay in another warm-up game before heading to Rabat for the World Cup.