Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

One bright spot in the sombre and understated celebration of sixty-five years of Nigeria’s Independence was an event that took place at the Shell Hall of the MUSON Centre on Sunday, the 5th of October. It was tagged ‘Àríyá Eko’, and was organised by the EVERGREEN Musical Company, in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism.

Sunday was a gloomy day in Lagos. The sky looked overcast in the morning, and halfway through your Church service, it started to rain quite heavily. You thought about the prospect of your coming journey to the MUSON Centre at the Marina. Your friend Tunde Fagbenle had sent invitation cards and promised that ‘Ariya Eko’ would be something to remember.

‘You had known Femi Esho briefly as a jolly good fellow with a distinctive goatee beard. From his school days his heart was in Music, and after a few jobs, including a stint as Personal Secretary to Mobolaji Johnson, first Military Governor of Lagos State, he founded the Evergreen Music company.’

There was already a sizable crowd when you eventually made your way into the hall. A band on the stage was playing old Highlife tunes. You recognised Tunji Sotimirin with his tall cap among the comperes. The chairs and tables were arranged in banquet fashion, and there were glasses and charger plates, as well as a printed menu. Oh, there was going to be lunch, you reflected.

You sat with Tunde and some mutual friends. The conversation turned to Femi Esho, who had founded Evergreen Music, and who sadly died last year, and to Bimbo, his daughter, who was carrying on his legacy.

From the printed programme, you could see that several people who were household names in the history of Music performance and production, and related fields, were to be honoured in the course of the event.

You had known Femi Esho briefly as a jolly good fellow with a distinctive goatee beard. From his school days his heart was in Music, and after a few jobs, including a stint as Personal Secretary to Mobolaji Johnson, first Military Governor of Lagos State, he founded the Evergreen Music company.

He quickly proceeded to obtain copyrights to the works of Nigerian and other African Music legends, and began to promote, document and distribute their works. Such notable figures included Fela Kuti, Victor Olaiya, ET Mensah and Rex Lawson. He chronicled a century of Nigerian music – 1914-2014 in a widely watched NTA documentary. In 2024 he launched the Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation which was planned to be the largest Music Museum and Gallery in Africa, with support from Mountain of Fire Ministries.

Unfortunately, he died shortly afterwards, on June 17, 2024.

His daughter Bimbo, who had taken on the role of CEO of the company before his death, has continued to expand the vision. ‘Àríyá Eko’ – to celebrate and reward the icons who have enriched the musical culture of Lagos, was a logical next step on the journey.

Stella Monye – veteran actress and songstress who many people would remember for her popular song ‘Oko mi ye’ was the first star to be called up on stage to receive her award. Hers was not just a story of talent but sacrifice resilience. She left her musical career for several years at the peak of fame to look after her sick son.

In between bursts of live nostalgic music, other icons were called up to the podium to receive their awards.

When Dele Abiodun – whose real name was Prince Cyril Bamidele Aideyamba Alele, went up on stage, he cut an unusually sombre figure from his familiar ebullience. The reason emerged from his acceptance speech.

‘I am dedicating this award to my daughter who died recently’.

The crowd applauded his bravery and shared his pain momentarily, even as a burst of his sultry Juju music was played.

The hall was now filled – with people, and with excitement.

Ghariokwu Lemi came up for his award. He was the man who did the ‘busy’ cover of Fela’s ALAGBON CLOSE, which you had bought as a medical student. He would go on to draw 26 iconic covers for Fela’s albums, and over 2000 album covers for Nigerian and international music stars. His work has been exhibited as Album Art in different parts of the world.

Other stars stepped up.

Olaolu Akintobi – aka Laolu Akins – member of the famous rock-fusion Lagos band ‘BLO’, producer, mentor and coach to many Nigerian music stars.

Iconic Tee-Mac, who had entertained Lagos and the world with his famous flute for many years.

Dr Ola Balogun, pioneer of indigenous film industry with such films as Ajani Ogun, Aiye, Orun Mooru, and Ija Ominira.

Salawa Abeni treated the audience to a catchy medley of songs as she received her plaque. She was a child prodigy of ‘Waka’ music who had grown up and lived most of her life in the public eye, taking her music global.

The arrival of the Governor of Lagos State caused a stir. He was probably coming from the International EI Electric Boat Race on the Lagos Lagoon.

The Governor presented an award to the big elephant in the room – Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey, a man whose voice and lyrics were embedded in the minds of every person who grew up in Lagos and environs. Obey composed a song for the Governor there and then, to which he danced.

The Governor did the honours for some other icons. They were all getting on in years. Mrs Fasoyin of the famous CAC ‘Good Women’s Choir’ who gave the nation ‘Odun Nlo Sopin’ when many in the audience were but children.

Evangelist Adelakun of ‘Ayewa’ fame.

The veteran Gospel songstress Funmi Aragbaiye.

Baba Ajobiewe, whose genre was musical Yoruba poetry known as Ésà Oríkì.

The food was horrible, when it came, which it did not for many in the seated audience, as the service was attended by unseemly chaos among the support staff. A minor detail.

It was an edifying experience, you decided, as your table broke up. A tour de force of your collective past. The collaboration of Evergreen Music company and the Lagos State government was the perfect way to celebrate the richness of Lagos culture, and Nigeria, at sixty-five.

Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the director-general of Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has urged African nations to build up their own data sets and computing infrastructure to fully harness Artificial Intelligence (AI), warning that policy fragmentation and dependence on foreign technologies could stall progress.

Abdullahi, who made the call during a panel titled ‘Shaping Africa’s Digital Future: Policy and Regulatory Frameworks for Accelerated Growth’ at Hyperscalers Convergence Africa 2025, in Lagos, said AI could prove more transformative for Africa than the mobile revolution that reshaped its telecommunications and payments sectors two decades ago.

‘The question is how can we harness it? One of the big challenges we are having in Africa is policy fragmentation and uncertainty. That’s why most of the big tech companies are not willing to come and invest and build in Africa. But do we have to wait for them? Can’t we build it ourselves?’ he asked.

He emphasized that Africa’s lack of legacy infrastructure is an advantage, allowing it to leap directly to developing AI-native solutions rooted in local realities, adding that, ‘We need to build-up our own data. The AI we are building should use our datasets – not data from other regions, and we need to have computing power that can help us achieve that.’

Drawing parallels with Africa’s mobile-telephony leapfrog, Abdullahi said local innovators once proved skeptics wrong by building solar-powered networks in regions without electricity. ‘When people doubted that Africans would buy mobile phones, pioneers built networks from the ground up. We can do the same with AI,’ he stated.

The NITDA DG underscored the importance of inclusive policymaking in attracting investment and ensuring sustainability, while emphasizing that ‘Policy-making should not be government officials sitting in their offices using abstract theories. We need to carry everyone along; including industry players, innovators and civil society. Otherwise, the policy will end up on the shelf.’

He said Nigeria’s National AI Strategy was built through this collaborative model, engaging local experts and practitioners to shape practical and globally competitive frameworks.

As the US, China, and Europe race to dominate generative AI, chips, and large-scale computing, Abdullahi stressed that Africa must define its own lane.

‘As Africa, we need to look at our potential. We don’t have to align only with the West or East. We can build our own systems – and bring both sides to work with us in achieving our goals,’ he averred.

The Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) on Friday launched the In-Country YouthADAPT demo day events under the African Adaptation Acceleration Program (AAAP).

Following this development, youth-led enterprises from Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana and Nigeria will over the coming weeks compete in a series of national demo day events.

The top 10 enterprises (two per country) will be awarded $30,000 grants and enrolled in a year-long acceleration and mentorship program, equipping them to attract long-term investment and scale their impact.

This development marks a significant milestone in empowering Africa’s next generation of climate entrepreneurs, providing them with investment, mentorship, and pathways to scale up their innovative adaptation solutions.

The Demo Day events are designed to bridge the financing gap for youth-led adaptation enterprises by linking them directly with domestic and regional private-sector investors.

Participating investors will gain access to a curated pipeline of high-potential enterprises through pitch sessions and private deal rooms, supported by transaction advisory and due diligence facilitation from the Kenya Climate Innovation Centre (KCIC) on behalf of GCA.

From a pool of over 500 applicants, up to 100 enterprises-approximately 20 per country-have been shortlisted to pitch their ideas before panels of distinguished jurists and investors. Their innovations span sectors critical to Africa’s climate resilience, including food security and resilient infrastructure. Each country’s event will showcase the ingenuity of young Africans tackling some of the continent’s most pressing climate challenges in agriculture and infrastructure with locally grounded, commercially viable solutions.

Patrick V. Verkooijen, President and CEO of the Global Centre on Adaptation, said: ‘Africa’s youth are not just victims of the climate crisis-they are architects of the solutions. Through our YouthADAPT challenge, we are turning their ideas into investable, impactful businesses.

‘This is practical climate leadership: aligning innovation with national priorities and NDCs, creating decent jobs and strengthening food systems and infrastructure where it matters most. I call on banks, development finance institutions, impact investors, and corporate partners to join us-so that by COP30 and beyond, we can scale these solutions to scale.’

Joseph Murabula, Chief Executive Officer Kenya Climate Innovation Centre said, ‘We all know that Africa’s greatest resource is its innovative, youthful population. We are moving beyond this rhetoric to action.

‘Through the In-Country YouthADAPT 2025 Challenge, we are providing African youth with the essential tools, including funding, mentorship, and market access, to turn their climate adaptation solutions into viable businesses. This is how we build climate resilience from the ground up, strengthening food security and critical infrastructure,’ he added.

Following the Demo Day series, final selections and investment commitments will be announced during COP30 in Brazil in November 2025, where the top ten youth-led enterprises will be showcased on the

Investors who placed early bets on the Nigerian Exchange’s ICT stocks have seen some of the strongest returns in 2025, outpacing nearly every other sector as digital infrastructure investment and renewed optimism around tech-driven growth lift valuations across the board.

As of October 8, a N1 million investment made at the start of the year in NCR Nigeria would now be worth N3.2 million, while eTranzact would have grown to N2.46 million, CWG Plc to N2.17 million, and MTN Nigeria to N2.13 million, according to NGX trading data. Chams Holding would have risen to N1.8 million, and Omatek Ventures to N1.64 million, reflecting a powerful rebound in Nigeria’s listed technology ecosystem.

Taken together, these ICT firms have posted an average year-to-date gain of about 139 percent, far outperforming the NGX All-Share Index, which has gained around 40.9 percent so far this year. The sector’s sharp rally underscores how investors are shifting toward growth-oriented counters, betting on Nigeria’s accelerating digital transformation and sustained telecoms expansion.

The NGX ICT Index has been buoyed by a combination of earnings recovery, increased adoption of digital payment systems, and ongoing infrastructure spending by telecoms and fintech. MTN Nigeria, already a telecommunications giant, has benefited from robust data revenue and recent tariff adjustments. At the same time, smaller-cap players such as eTranzact, CWG, and Chams Holding have rallied sharply on speculative inflows and expectations of new digital service contracts.

The year’s standout performer has been NCR Nigeria, whose share price ballooned 220 percent, from N5 in January to N16 by October 8, on the back of strong order books and renewed investor confidence in its systems integration and fintech hardware business. eTranzact’s stock jumped 146 percent to N16, and CWG more than doubled to N17.55. Chams Holding gained 132 percent, while Omatek Ventures advanced 82 percent.

The surge in ICT valuations has stirred debate over how long the rally can last. Analysts note that liquidity from domestic institutional investors, coupled with limited foreign participation, has amplified price movements in thinly traded names. Still, sentiment remains broadly positive, with most brokers highlighting the sector’s resilience and earnings visibility.

With the federal government prioritizing broadband expansion, cashless payments, and artificial intelligence integration in public services, technology remains a central pillar of Nigeria’s medium-term economic strategy. As 2025 enters its final quarter, investors are watching whether ICT stocks can sustain their momentum amid profit-taking pressures and a shifting interest-rate environment.

Regardless of short-term corrections, the ICT sector’s 2025 performance has cemented its status as one of the Nigerian Exchange’s biggest success stories and evidence of how digital growth is reshaping Nigeria’s investment landscape.

The Bauchi State Police Command on Friday handed over 387 blocks of dried leaves, suspected to be cannabis sativa, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Bauchi.

Aliyu Sani-Omolori, the State Commissioner of Police, disclosed this during a press briefing at the Yandoka Police Headquarters, explaining that the suspected cannabis was discovered following a motor vehicle accident involving two Toyota Corolla cars in Vom village, Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

Sani-Omolori explained that investigations revealed the first vehicle, a white Toyota Corolla with registration number ABC-459LF, was driven by Ali Muhammad, a 45-year-old resident of Nabardo Village.

He stated that the vehicle was conveying the District Head of Nabardo, Suleiman Bala Suleiman, 65, and his family members on their way from Bauchi metropolis to Nabardo Village.

The second white Toyota Corolla, bearing registration number GWA-155GW, was driven by an unidentified individual travelling from Jos, Plateau State, to Bauchi. Reports indicated that the driver, while attempting to overtake other vehicles recklessly, collided head-on with the first car.

He explained that all occupants of the two vehicles sustained varying degrees of injuries and were immediately taken to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi for medical attention.

According to the police commissioner, the District Head suffered a fracture in his left leg and is currently receiving treatment, while other victims are also being attended to, with some already discharged. During a search of the wrecked Toyota Corolla with registration number Abuja GWA-155GW after the accident, detectives recovered several items from the vehicle.

Items recovered from the wrecked vehicle included 387 blocks of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis sativa, a black travel bag containing personal belongings, two polythene bags with personal items, a black Tecno phone without a SIM card, the damaged Toyota Corolla (Abuja GWA-155GW) without keys, a national driver’s license, and motor vehicle documents.

According to the Commissioner of Police, ‘These items have been forwarded to the State Investigation Department (S.I.D.) of the Bauchi State Command for further discreet investigation and forensic analysis. Upon completion, the case will be handed over to the NDLEA for continuation of the investigation.’ Sani-Omolori urged anyone with useful information that could help identify the driver to come forward and assist the police, assuring that the command remains committed to uncovering the identity of the main suspect.

In his remarks, Hussaini Umaru, the Deputy State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Bauchi State, commended the police for their efforts and pledged that the agency would do everything possible to trace the owner of the recovered items.

The 10th Nigeria Digital PR Summit has unveiled its lineup of keynote speakers and faculty members for this year’s milestone edition.

Themed ‘Digital PR in Action: Owning Your Narrative, Telling Your Story.’, the event, scheduled for mid October at the Conference Centre, Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos, will spotlight the growing importance of intentional, story-driven communication in an age defined by disruption, misinformation, and digital complexity.

Designed for public relations professionals, brand communicators, content creators, academics, and the media, the Summit, according to a statement will equip participants with practical strategies and tools to shape narratives, influence public perception, and strengthen stakeholder trust.

According to the statement, delegates will also gain insights into emerging PR trends, artificial intelligence in communication, crisis and reputation management, and digital storytelling, while networking with the industry’s finest minds.

The faculty features seasoned experts in digital marketing, corporate communication, brand and digital reputation management, public affairs, cybersecurity, and technology; each renowned for leveraging digital platforms to build trusted brands and authentic connections.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani; Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Executive Vice Chairman, Globacom Limited, Bella Disu, are expected to deliver the keynote papers at the Summit, the statement said.

Among the confirmed speakers, the statement said are the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Digital and Media, O’tega Ogra; Vice President, Chain Reactions Africa, Frankline Ozekhome; Head of Marketing, Diageo Africa Partner Markets (SOWECA), Segun Ogunleye; Founder/CEO, Africa Business Radio, Soji Akinlabi; Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, UBA Group, Tolu Alero Ladipo; Group Head, Brand Transformation and Digital Marketing, Bank of Industry, Jide Sipe; and Director, External Affairs and Sustainability, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe.

Also featured on the faculty are the Associate Director, Sustainability, IHS Towers, Asmau Smaila; Founder/CEO, TruCSR Consulting, Ken Egbas; Chief Visionary Officer, Digital Encode, Prof. Adewale Obadare; Secretary General, Confederation of African Audiovisual Professionals (Ghana), Madu C. Chikwendu; Founder/CEO, JSK Consulting, Dr. Janet Adetu; Chief Innovation Officer, BusinessPlus, Ekundayo Ayeni; Manager, Platforms, MTN Nigeria, Joshua Esiebo; Founder, Olori Supergal, Tosin Ajibade; Marketing Director, Marketing Edge, Anietie Udoh; Team Lead, Sponsorship and Branding, Zenith Bank, Ayotunde Adeniyi; Head, Communication and Marketing, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Oge Maduagwu; and Public Relations Manager, Showmax, Jennifer Ukoh.

Special highlights include keynote addresses, masterclasses, and a technology showcase, alongside the unveiling of the fourth edition of the Digital PR Digest; the Summit’s flagship publication featuring case studies, trends, and practical insights on digital communication.

The event will climax with the 2nd Nigeria Digital PR Awards Gala, a premium evening celebrating excellence, innovation, and impact in digital communications. This year’s Gala will feature the Fashion Runway Showcase; a creative fusion of fashion, technology, and storytelling symbolizing the power of owning and amplifying one’s narrative in the digital space.orsed by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Digital and New Media, and supported by major media organisations, the Summit remains the premier gathering for public relations and digital communication professionals in Nigeria, the statement said.

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai claimed to have successfully repelled a coordinated terrorist attack in the Ngamdu general area, following a swift response by forces on ground and reinforcement elements from 29 Task Force Brigade.

BusinessDay reports that the Super Camp Ngamudu, the military base in Kaga Local Government area came under heavy attacks by outlawed ISWAP fighters.

A statement by Sani Uba, Lieutenant Colonel and Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri on Friday, indicated that four soldiers were killed and others sustained serious injuries caused by the terrorists group during a daring attack on the base.

He said, ‘The terrorists employed Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs), armed drones, and command-initiated Improvised Explosive Devices, targeting troops and own platforms. Despite the intensity of the attack, troops held their ground and responded with superior firepower, inflicting significant losses on the terrorists.

‘Unfortunately, own troops recorded 4 x Killed in Action (KIA) and 5 x Wounded in Action (WIA). Additionally, some Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles and Gun Trucks (GTs) sustained varying degrees of damage during the encounter. ‘The terrorists attempted to prevent reinforcements and inflict further casualties by planting multiple IEDs along the Ngamdu-Damaturu Main Supply Route (MSR). This necessitated a temporary closure of the MSR, as engineers swiftly responded to clear 3 IED-laden spots. Following successful clearance, the MSR has now been reopened to both military and civilian movement.

‘In response to the attack, troops were immediately resupplied with critical logistics, including MRAP tyres and ammunition, to sustain operations and restore full mobility. Credible intelligence confirms heavy terrorist casualties, with reports indicating mass burials of about 15 bodies conveyed in pushcarts by the terrorists for burial around Bula Wura, near Wasaram.

‘As part of continued efforts to dominate the area, 29 Task Force Brigade has launched fighting patrols and exploitation operations aimed at denying the terrorists freedom of action and consolidating operational gains.

‘The gallantry and resilience of the troops have been commended and the public assured that normalcy would be sustained with operations ongoing to maintain peace and security in the area.’

Nigerian music fans, rejoice! The most popular African music star right now, Davido, has a new tour planned, one that would span several major concerts around his country of origin. Born and raised in Lagos, there is no better person for a musical tour of Nigeria, as he promotes everything that he stands for. Afrobeats are about to sweep the continent, and the fans of the iconic genre are here for it.

Davido has officially announced that his ‘5ive Alive Tour’ will make a grand homecoming in Nigeria this year, bringing his concert experience to multiple cities across the country. The Nigerian leg is slated to span six dates between October and December 2025, with performances in stadiums and prominent venues. Read on to learn more about it.

5ive Alive Tour Details

What better way to revive the live music scene across Africa than a historic tour by one of Africa’s greatest hitmakers? Fresh from the release of a successful new album and the ongoing Davido partnership with Stake, the singer is poised for an even bigger 2025. The tour opens in Akwa Ibom on October 18, 2025, where Davido will perform at Godswill Akpabio Stadium. From there, he moves to Enugu on October 26, with a show at Michael Okpara Square. On October 29, he will appear in Adamawa at Mahmud Ribadu Square. Three big concerts in less than 3 weeks. Not a bad month for his fans!

But that is hardly it. Continuing the tour, November 1 brings Davido to Ibadan, where he will take the stage at Liberty Stadium. Then, after a brief interval, the tour resumes on December 14 in Abuja, at Eagle Square. Finally, the Nigerian leg concludes with a special show in Lagos on December 25, held at Eko Hotel. This lineup is a major moment for fans in Nigeria, as for many cities, it will mark one of the largest stadium scale performances seen locally. It will also be the first time many local fans will get to see the ultra popular performer sing live.

As part of the broader 5ive Alive Tour, which has already rolled out globally, this Nigerian stretch is being billed as a ‘homecoming’ celebration. It will give fans across the country a chance to experience Davido’s new album and other big hits live. Fans are already anticipating a high production value, grand stage setups, and surprise guest appearances. With cities spanning from the South to the North, the tour is designed to touch a wide geographic spread of Nigeria’s fan base. Tickets are sure to go up in a matter of minutes.

Davido’s Latest Album, 5ive

Davido’s latest album, 5ive, is his fifth studio project, released on April 18, 2025, under Davido Music Worldwide, Columbia, and Sony Music. Recorded over two years from 2023 to 2025, the album stays rooted in Afropop and Afrobeats while also exploring RandB, Amapiano, dancehall, and international crossover sounds. It features 17 tracks, and Davido revealed that he started with about 80 songs, which he narrowed down with input from friends and family who helped rank them. The title 5ive not only marks the milestone of his fifth album but also carries symbolic meaning. Davido associates the number 5 with growth, change, hope, grace, and a new sense of balance in his life. Plus, the fifth album, named after number five, and released in 2025? Great symbolism all around.

The album includes collaborations with a mix of local and global stars. Featured artists include Victoria Monét on ‘Offa Me,’ Chris Brown on ‘Titanium,’ 450 and Shenseea on ‘RandB,’ YG Marley on ‘Awuke,’ Musa Keys and Victony on ‘Holy Water,’ Becky G on ‘Tek,’ Odumodublvck and Chike on ‘Funds,’ Tayc and Dadju on ‘Lover Boy,’ and Omah Lay on the closing track ‘With You.’ Some of the standout singles leading up to the album’s release were ‘Awuke,’ ‘Funds,’ and ‘Be There Still,’ each receiving strong streaming numbers and airplay. Tracks like ‘Offa Me,’ ‘Titanium,’ and ‘With You’ have all charted within the top 10 on the US Afrobeats Songs chart.

Commercially, the album made a strong debut. In the United States, it sold 7,300 equivalent album units in its first week and debuted at number 2 on Billboard’s World Albums chart. It also dominated the USA Afrobeats Songs chart, where 16 out of 17 tracks from the album appeared on the list in one week, 14 of them debuting. In Nigeria, the album peaked at number 1 on the TurnTable Albums Chart and amassed over 33.9 million streams and 22,640 album equivalent units in its first week. On Apple Music Nigeria, nearly all of the album’s tracks entered the Top 40, many easily reaching the Top 10. Globally, the project charted in 40 countries on Apple Music and hit number 1 in six countries, including African nations of Nigeria, Gambia, Uganda, and Cameroon. On its release day alone, the album reached over 12.5 million streams across platforms.

Critically Acclaimed Passion Project

As a passion project and an ode to African heritage and musical beats, the album is deeply personal for Davido. He created it during a transformative time in his life, as it follows the tragic loss of his three year old son in 2022, and the later arrival of his twins. These life events have influenced the emotional tone and reflective nature of the project. Davido has said that 5ive reflects his journey through his truth, growth, and personal evolution. The process of curating the final tracklist was unusually transparent and involved a hands on ranking system with his inner circle helping him pick the most impactful songs. It does not get any more personal than that.

Critics have praised the album for its ambition and diversity. Tracks like ‘Offa Me’ and ‘Titanium’ have been highlighted for their global appeal, though some reviewers felt the album was a bit too long and had a weaker middle section. The introductory spoken word poem, delivered by Alhanislam, received mixed reactions, some calling it overblown. Still, the album’s intent to bridge African sounds with international appeal is clear, and the collaborations with artists like Chris Brown, Victoria Monét, and Becky G show Davido’s mission to cement Afrobeats’ place on the global stage. His fifth studio album is widely seen as a symbol of resilience, reinvention, and Davido’s continued evolution as one of Africa’s most prominent musical exports. It could end up being his most successful.

Details about Davido’s Deal With Stake

Davido signed a historic brand ambassador deal with the online betting and gambling platform Stake in May 2025. Reportedly, it is worth $18 million, equivalent to approximately 25 billion Nigerian Naira. The move made him the first African artist to join the elite team of global ambassadors of Stake, which includes Israel Adesanya, Drake, Sergio Aguero, and many others. The primary objective of the collaboration is to substantially increase the platform’s presence in the African market through innovative marketing campaigns and fan engagement activities on online platforms. When it went through, the service was delighted to welcome their new global ambassador to the ever growing team.

The African phenomenon has so far had a career that has reshaped African music on the world stage. His talents bring unrivaled energy, creativity, and star power that the fans of sports betting, casino games, and novelty gaming on the continent will easily identify with. Growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, he knows exactly what moves the country and the entirety of Africa. With more than 30 major awards to his name, Davido’s influence is huge, and the partnership has already been beneficial for both sides. He is no longer only a popular music star who does great things for his people. Now, Davido is famous for his music, entertainment, and partnership with Stake.com.

Other Notable Stake Partnerships

The recent deal with Davido is hardly Stake’s first big profile move in terms of marketing and ambassadorship. The popular online casino and sportsbook is famous around the world for its incredible sponsorships. Starting with sports, they quickly moved to esports and music, and their portfolio of partners now includes some truly incredible teams, leagues, and individuals.

Stake is Everton’s main shirt sponsor under a multi year deal that began in July 2022, marking the most lucrative front of shirt agreement in the club’s history. The deal includes branding on men’s and women’s kits of the staple Premier League side, as well as training gear, stadium signage, and digital platforms. It has significantly increased the club’s global commercial reach. Everton is playing well, too, further boosting the sportsbook’s image.

The online sports betting and casino gambling platform is also the title and livery partner of the Sauber Formula 1 team, which now races under the official name Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber. The partnership extends beyond naming rights and involves branding integrations, digital innovation, and collaborations with other sponsors. It positions the team at the intersection of motorsport and entertainment. Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto drive black and green cars, the color theme of Stake’s sister platform, the streaming service Kick.

Stake became the official title sponsor of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) in July 2025 through a multi year deal. The partnership includes branding on team apparel and assets, fan engagement campaigns, social media posts, and integrations aimed at leveraging cricket’s broad Caribbean and global fan base to expand Stake’s presence. The deal was an instant success, as the team won the 2025 championship.

One of the biggest deals Stake has is outside of sports, and it is their deal with the Canadian music superstar Drake. His partnership with Stake is centered around high profile live streams, giveaways, and crypto based promotions where he plays games on Stake and streams on Kick. Their collaboration has featured large scale donations and publicity stunts, including a $1 million Bitcoin donation to charity. The star’s influence has benefited Stake’s global betting brand.

Stake is also the official betting partner of the UFC in various international markets. The partnership includes co branded content, fighter promotions, and real time betting integrations during live events. Their logo is also displayed in the octagon during certain events, strengthening Stake’s visibility in combat sports and appealing to a younger, digitally native audience that follows the UFC. This also extends to individual deals with many popular fighters like Merab Fvalishvili and Alex Pereira.

Davido FAQs

1. Who is Davido, and where is he from?

Davido, whose real name is David Adedeji Adeleke, is a Nigerian American singer, songwriter, and record producer. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, but was raised in Lagos, Nigeria.

2. How did Davido become famous?

Davido rose to fame in 2011 with his hit single ‘Dami Duro’. The song quickly became a national anthem in Nigeria and helped establish him as a major figure in the Afrobeats scene.

3. What is Davido’s connection to wealth and royalty?

Davido comes from a wealthy and influential family. His father, Adedeji Adeleke, is a billionaire businessman, and his late mother was a university lecturer. He is also part of the Adeleke political dynasty in Osun State, Nigeria.

4. What are Davido’s biggest songs?

Some of his biggest hits include Fall, If, FIA, Blow My Mind (feat. Chris Brown), and Unavailable (feat. Musa Keys).

5. Has Davido won any major awards?

Yes, Davido has won numerous awards, including BET Awards, MTV Africa Music Awards, and The Headies. He has also been nominated for international awards, including MTV EMAs and Soul Train Awards.

6. Is Davido signed to any international record label?

Yes. In 2016, he signed a record deal with Sony Music and later launched his own imprint, Davido Music Worldwide (DMW).

7. Who are some international artists Davido has collaborated with?

Davido has worked with several global stars from different genres, including Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, Lil Baby, Summer Walker, and Popcaan.

8. What is Davido’s role in popularizing Afrobeats globally?

Davido is considered one of the key figures in taking Afrobeats to the global stage. His music has bridged the gap between Africa and the rest of the world, gaining massive followings in the USA, UK, and beyond.

9. What is Davido’s latest album?

As of 2025, his latest album is ‘5ive’, which received critical acclaim and set streaming records on platforms like Audiomack and Apple Music Africa. It was released on April 18, 2025.

10. Is Davido involved in philanthropy?

Yes, Davido is known for his charitable acts. In 2021, he raised over $600,000 via social media and donated it to orphanages across Nigeria, in celebration of his birthday.

The African Development Bank (AfDB), in collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), has launched a new report calling for innovative and coordinated investments to rebuild northern Nigeria’s food systems and boost agricultural productivity.

Titled ‘Investing in Innovative Food Systems Solutions in Challenging Contexts,’ the report was presented on the sidelines of the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja.

It outlines actionable policies and investment strategies aimed at revitalising agriculture, restoring livelihoods, and fostering long-term resilience in conflict-affected regions.

Speaking during a high-level panel session, Abubakar Kyari, minister of Agriculture and Food Security, highlighted government plans to relocate 80 percent of national silos closer to small farming communities.

‘We are working to ensure that storage facilities serve the real producers, not just distant hubs,’ he said. Muhammadu Sanusi II, Emir of Kano, emphasised the importance of private sector participation and consistency in agricultural policy.

‘The best way to tackle poverty in the North is through long-term investment and fixing the value chains,’ he said.

Abdul Kamara, AfDB’s director general for Nigeria, who moderated the session, stressed that rebuilding the region’s agricultural value chains is crucial to achieving food sovereignty and economic stability. ‘By building resilient value chains, we can create sustainable jobs, empower women and youth, and lay the foundation for shared prosperity,’ he said.

The AfDB currently has nearly $900 million invested in Nigeria’s agriculture sector through initiatives like the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) and the National Agriculture Growth Scheme (NAGS). These programmes aim to enhance productivity, market access, and value addition across key crops including sorghum, millet, maize, wheat, cowpeas, soybeans, groundnuts, and tomatoes.

Steven Were Omamo, executive director of IFPRI, said the report offers a data-driven framework to guide policy and investment decisions in fragile contexts.

‘Grounding decisions in rigorous evidence ensures smarter resilience-building and lasting impact,’ he noted.

David Stevenson, WFP Country Director added that rebuilding northern Nigeria’s ‘breadbasket’ requires shifting from emergency aid to market-led, climate-smart, and partnership-driven solutions. ‘It demands bold investments rooted in peace and resilience,’ he said.

The partners urged government agencies, investors, and development organizations to use the report as a blueprint for channeling financing toward a food-secure and inclusive northern.

The imbroglio between ARISE TV anchor Rufai Oseni and Works Minister Dave Umahi stemmed from a contentious live interview, which revealed a clash of personalities alongside deeper issues concerning a major infrastructure project.

Rufai Oseni challenged the minister on policy and personal titles. He alleged that the minister reported him to President Bola Tinubu. In response, David Umahi deemed the journalist ‘too small’ to report to the President and told him to ‘keep quiet.’

The dispute arose from Oseni’s persistent questioning about the transparency and details of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, including its cost per kilometre and loan aspects. Umahi responded defensively, dismissing Oseni’s claims and accusing him of lacking the technical expertise to discuss the project.

The Coastal Highway Project was under debate. Rufai questioned Umahi about the project’s costs. Umahi defended the transparency of the project and its variable costs, stating that oversubscription for the loan elements served as proof of sound budgeting.

Next, Rufai referenced ongoing court cases related to property demolitions for the project. He cited demolitions at Winhomes, a project by Nigerian diasporans. The minister clarified that some cases were dismissed, questioned Winhomes’ legitimacy, and emphasised the importance of protecting diaspora investments.

Oseni challenged Umahi’s self-proclaimed ‘professor in engineering’ title. However, Umahi clarified it was a professorship earned through practical experience, not academia.

Deeper Issues: The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway

The personal clash during the interview overshadowed the substantive policy issues related to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, which were the intended topic of discussion.

Key points of the conflict

Emotional tensions escalated with dismissive and belittling remarks from Umahi, such as ‘You are too small’ and ‘You don’t understand anything.’

Oseni maintained a call for accountability despite the tension, emphasising the role of a free and courageous press.

Cost and Transparency: Oseni’s line of questioning addressed public concerns regarding the project’s cost. In his defence, Umahi argued that no two sections of a road project cost the same per kilometre and stated that the loan component for the project was oversubscribed by international banks, which he cited as validation of the project’s cost-effectiveness.

Property Demolitions and the Winhomes Dispute: The minister addressed the legal disputes surrounding the Winhomes development, questioning the legality of the land sale and the status of the so-called ‘diaspora investors’. He acknowledged ongoing court cases but stated that no court injunction had halted the project’s progress. Umahi emphasised the government’s commitment to protecting legitimate investments, saying the administration would not let the Winhomes issue ‘damage the Tinubu administration’s relations with diaspora investors’.

A Divided Public Reaction

The incident sparked significant debate on social media, with public opinion divided.

Some viewers criticised Umahi for what they perceived as an undignified and arrogant outburst, revealing the character of public officials.

Others blamed Oseni, claiming his interviewing style was disrespectful and counterproductive, hindering a meaningful discussion on a vital topic.

Another segment of commentators criticised both parties, feeling that the unprofessional exchange diverted attention from critical issues of public accountability.

Opinion: Oseni versus Umahi

The interview session between Oseni, the controversial Arise TV anchor, and the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi has taken place, but the fallout persists. As expected, the interview was poor, as neither Oseni nor Umahi showed enough respect to each other.

Oseni is fiery, passionate, and self-opinionated, which isn’t quite a bad trait for a journalist hosting a morning show. Umahi is arrogant, petty, and delusional, which harms his role as a public officer.Both sides need to adjust. Oseni should realise that a journalist’s role is not to label someone as a fraud or a criminal, but to reveal if the person is untruthful, dishonest, or unqualified. He does this subtly by asking tough, sometimes misleading, questions. Oseni should balance passion with wisdom.

Minister Umahi needs a reminder that he is no longer the Governor of Ebonyi; he should not believe everything is within his control. No, sir. Nothing is under your authority now. You are a public servant. A minister has no inherent importance. A minister is an aide to someone the people elected (setting aside the specifics of the 2023 election for now), and that person is expected to be responsive and accountable. So, when you next appear at a public forum, present your best points, try to smile even when heckled, and trust that your look and body language convey a clear message.

Yes, sir, you are a big man. But you are still a public servant. And you are no longer a Governor, a Governor of a state you bestrode like a colossus.

Readers, you already know I am biased in this piece. I am prejudiced against official pomposity. I rejoice at a bit of deflation, even if it comes through a wave of unprofessionalism.

-Dr Sam Amadi

Spencer Umoren

Rufai is crude, rude, unprofessional and uncouth. Shameful

Guests can be whatever they want; the anchor needs to maintain decorum, professionalism, and emotional intelligence.

Only barely educated and ignorant folks will say anything positive about Rufai’s conduct

Meanwhile, tell the self-obsessed little man, we have Alternative Phrases to his childish, overused ’empirical fact’. Just disgusting

1. Observed fact

2. Measured fact

3. Experimental fact.

4. Data-driven fact.

5. Evidence-based fact

OVERHEARD

Suppose the cost per kilometre is a challenging question. How, then, did they arrive at the total cost of the project, which served as the basis for Federal Executive Council approval?

Northwest Nigeria: Security, Humanitarian, Economic Crisis

The Northwest region of Nigeria is currently facing a complex and severe crisis, dominated by widespread violence from armed groups, a severe humanitarian situation, and significant economic challenges.

Principal actors are bandits and other armed groups. Their primary motivation is criminality and profit, including ransom, cattle rustling, and control of mineral resources. Often, these issues are driven by historical grievances and disputes over resources.

The common tactics and impact include mass kidnappings (e.g., hundreds of schoolchildren), violent raids on villages, and mass killings. An estimated 30,000 bandits operate in the region.

Then there are Jihadist factions. They are primarily motivated by ideological insurgency, aiming to impose Islamic law. They deploy targeted attacks on military, communities, and infrastructure. ISWAP was the most prolific Islamic State affiliate globally by mid-2025.

There is a convergence between bandits and jihadists. They form transactional alliances where jihadists provide training and ideology in exchange for bandits’ safe passage and access to resources. This blurs the line between crime and insurgency, enhances operational capabilities, and broadens extremist influence. The designated terrorist group Lakurawa is an example.

Humanitarian and Social Impact

The relentless violence has had a devastating impact on the population of Northwest Nigeria.

Mass Displacement and Casualties: By April 2024, over 1.3 million people were internally displaced in the North-central and Northwest regions due to violence. In the first half of 2025 alone, insurgent and bandit violence killed at least 2,266 people, a figure that surpassed the total for all of 2024.

Targeted Attacks on Education: Attacks on schools and mass kidnappings of students are frequent. In March 2024, nearly 400 people were reportedly kidnapped in Kaduna State, including 287 schoolchildren.

Crippled Essential Services: The insecurity severely disrupts basic services, such as healthcare. Volunteer vaccinators in Zamfara State risk their lives to reach children, navigating bandit attacks and flooded terrain to administer polio vaccines.

Economic Context and Challenges

The security crisis is set against a backdrop of significant economic hardship.

Deepening Poverty: Nationwide, Nigeria faces its worst cost-of-living crisis in 30 years. Soaring inflation, especially for food, is pushing millions further into poverty.

Resource-Fuelled Conflict: The violence is partly financed by the region’s abundant mineral resources (gold, copper, lithium), which armed groups exploit to fund their operations. While the federal government is implementing macroeconomic reforms, these improvements have yet to result in better living standards for most Nigerians.

The situation in Northwest Nigeria remains fluid and highly dangerous, characterised by a volatile mix of criminality, ideological insurgency, and deep-seated socio-economic problems.