BrandArena

Oando posts ₦204.8bn profit as oil, gas production and trading volumes surge in FY2025

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:33:00 +0000

Oando Plc has reported a Profit After Tax of ₦204.8 billion for the financial year ended 31 December 2025, driven by stronger oil and gas production, higher trading volumes and the first full-year contribution from the Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) Joint Venture assets.

The indigenous energy company, listed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), recorded a 32 per cent increase in average daily production to 32,482 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd), marking what it described as a transition from acquisition-led expansion to operational execution and balance sheet optimisation.

The company generated ₦258.3 billion in cash from operations during the year and ended 2025 with ₦422.9 billion in cash and cash equivalents, representing a 172 per cent increase over the previous year. It also strengthened its financial position through the expansion of its US$375 million Reserve-Based Lending (RBL2) facility.

Operational performance improved significantly across the business, with crude trading volumes rising by 24 per cent to 25.7 million barrels. Crude oil production increased by 36 per cent, gas production grew by 24 per cent, while Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) production surged by 715 per cent following upgrades to gas processing infrastructure.

The company also completed and brought on stream the Obiafu-44 gas-condensate well, its first operated development well since assuming operatorship. During the period, Oando maintained zero fatalities, zero Lost-Time Injuries (LTIs) and recorded a Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) of 0.05.

Commenting on the results, Group Chief Executive of Oando Plc, Wale Tinubu, CON, said "FY 2025 marked our first full year of operational execution following the acquisition of the NAOC Joint Venture assets and represents an important milestone in Oando's evolution. Having successfully completed the integration phase, our focus shifted to operatorship, operational excellence, and value realisation across the enlarged portfolio.

"During the year, we strengthened asset integrity, enhanced security across our operating areas, and improved uptime, resulting in a 32% year-on-year increase in production to 32,482 boepd net to Oando. This performance was driven by stronger output across crude oil, gas, and NGLs, improved operational reliability, and the successful stabilisation of our expanded asset base."

According to the company, its upstream performance was underpinned by improved facility uptime, enhanced flow assurance, the restoration of previously shut-in wells and targeted infrastructure upgrades across operated assets.

The successful refurbishment of its NGL processing plant boosted recovery efficiency, contributing to the sharp increase in NGL production, while the completion of the Obiafu-44 well highlighted its capacity to execute complex development projects safely following the transition to operatorship.

Oando's trading division also expanded crude trading volumes by 24 per cent to 25.7 million barrels, despite evolving domestic market conditions. The company said it continued to reduce exposure to premium motor spirit (PMS) imports while increasing participation in higher-margin crude oil and gas trading opportunities to strengthen commercial resilience and integration with its upstream operations.

The company's performance comes amid growing momentum among indigenous Nigerian energy firms acquiring and optimising assets divested by international oil companies.

In the same period, Seplat Energy reported revenue of US$2.726 billion (₦4.135 trillion) and average production of 131,506 boepd, supported by the first full-year contribution from its Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU) acquisition. Aradel Holdings also recorded a 20 per cent increase in revenue to ₦699.4 billion, following its expanded interest in ND Western and Renaissance Africa Energy Company.

Oando said these developments highlight the increasing capacity of indigenous operators to unlock value from major upstream assets and strengthen Nigeria's energy sector.

Looking ahead, Tinubu said "With operational control firmly embedded, a strong reserves base, and improving financial flexibility, we are well-positioned to build on the momentum achieved in 2025 and enter 2026 from a position of strength. Our focus remains on executing our development programme, growing production, strengthening cash generation, prudent capital allocation, and delivering sustainable long-term value for our shareholders."

For 2026, Oando expects production to rise to between 40,000 and 50,000 boepd, supported by development activities across OMLs 60–63, continued production optimisation and planned capital expenditure of between US$90 million and US$100 million.

The company also projects crude trading volumes to increase to between 30 million and 35 million barrels, while advancing clean energy initiatives, including expanding its electric bus fleet and scaling up its recycling and gas-to-power projects.

Oando said its outlook aligns with broader global industry trends, with continued investment expected in natural gas and upstream infrastructure as countries prioritise energy security and diversify energy supplies. Backed by an expanded asset portfolio, improved financial flexibility and a disciplined execution strategy, the company said it remains focused on accelerating growth and creating long-term value across its integrated energy business.

Sky confirms £1.6bn ITV acquisition in major shake-up for UK broadcasting and sports media

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:22:29 +0000

Sky has confirmed its £1.6 billion ($2.1 billion) acquisition of commercial free-to-air broadcaster ITV, marking one of the biggest deals in British media in recent years and one that could significantly reshape the UK's sports broadcasting landscape.

The agreement follows Sky's announcement last November that it had entered preliminary talks to acquire ITV's media and entertainment business. After months of negotiations, the deal has now been finalised, with both companies describing the combined business as a "commercial streaming champion" for the UK.

Under the agreement, Sky will acquire ITV's linear television and streaming operations, including ITV1, ITV2, ITV3, ITV4 and ITVX. The channels and streaming service will continue to operate as free-to-air platforms, while ITV's public service broadcasting obligations will remain unchanged.

The acquisition also includes ITV subsidiary UTV but excludes Scotland-based broadcaster STV, which operates independently, as well as ITV Studios, the company's production business. Sky will also become an indirect 20 per cent shareholder in news production company ITN.

ITV currently reaches around 40 million viewers each week across its platforms and attracts more than 16.5 million digital users every month.

The combined Sky and ITV business is expected to account for around 20 per cent of all UK in-home television viewing, second only to the BBC and ahead of YouTube. Sky chief executive Dana Strong said the integrated streaming platform is expected to attract more than 16 million monthly viewers.

Both companies also expect the transaction to generate annual cost savings of around £200 million through efficiencies in marketing, technology and non-UK content acquisition.

The acquisition is expected to complete during the second half of 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

The deal is likely to face close scrutiny from regulators amid concerns over potential job losses and questions surrounding the future relationship between ITV News and Sky News. However, Sky said the acquisition is essential to strengthen its position against global streaming platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

The transaction could also have significant implications for sports broadcasting in the UK.

Sky and ITV said the combined business intends to offer more free-to-air sport on ITV than ever before. ITV's current sports portfolio includes the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, UEFA Euro 2028, England international football matches, the Six Nations Championship, English Football League fixtures, Professional Darts Corporation events and UK horse racing. The broadcaster has also reportedly secured the rights to the 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup.

Sky, owned by Comcast, remains the UK's leading sports broadcaster, holding rights to the Premier League, Formula One, international cricket, the PGA Tour and the National Football League.

Although the companies have yet to outline detailed plans for expanded sports coverage, the acquisition could enable Sky Sports to simulcast selected events on ITV's free-to-air channels, extending audience reach while creating new opportunities to drive subscriptions. The enlarged business could also offer more integrated advertising packages across television and streaming platforms, potentially strengthening its ability to compete for premium live sports rights.

In a statement, Sky chief executive Dana Strong described the acquisition as a "defining moment" for British media.

"Bringing Sky and ITV Media & Entertainment together combines the very best of free-to-air television, pay TV and streaming, ensuring viewers across the UK continue to enjoy outstanding British programming in a rapidly changing world," she added.

"ITV will remain a public service broadcaster at the heart of British life, and we're excited about the future we can build together."

The announcement comes just days after Comcast unveiled plans to separate its content and broadcasting operations from its cable and broadcast business, with Sky set to become part of a newly created NBCUniversal division.

Global oil supply jumps 4.1 million bpd in June as Hormuz shipments recover, says IEA

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:16:18 +0000

Global oil supply recorded its strongest monthly increase in several months, rising by 4.1 million barrels per day (bpd) in June as the recovery of crude shipments through the Strait of Hormuz boosted Gulf production, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said on Friday.

Despite the sharp rebound, the agency noted that global oil output remained well below levels seen before the US-Israel-Iran conflict because of lingering security disruptions across the region.

In its latest Oil Market Report, the IEA said global oil production was still about 9.4 million bpd below pre-war levels, although improving conditions in the Gulf supported a stronger-than-expected recovery during June.

The agency also upgraded its oil supply and demand forecasts, citing improving market conditions following the US-Iran framework agreement. However, it cautioned that continued geopolitical tensions in the Gulf remain a key source of uncertainty for global energy markets.

According to the report, oil production from Gulf producers increased by about 3.5 million bpd in June as output partially recovered after the agreement between Washington and Tehran.

However, intermittent disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz continued because of security concerns and the ongoing reliance on US naval escorts. As a result, regional oil production remained approximately 11.4 million bpd below pre-war levels.

Production from the OPEC+ alliance, which includes the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its partners, rose by around 2.45 million bpd to 38.39 million bpd during the month.

Saudi Arabia contributed about 900,000 bpd to the increase, while Kuwait added approximately 630,000 bpd.

Oil output from non-OPEC+ producers also climbed by about 1.63 million bpd to 60.37 million bpd. The United Arab Emirates accounted for more than half of that increase, contributing roughly 940,000 bpd.

The IEA said global oil supply is now expected to average 102.6 million bpd this year, assuming transit through the Strait of Hormuz continues to improve.

Although the projection still represents a year-on-year decline of about 3.7 million bpd, it is 210,000 bpd higher than the agency's previous forecast.

The agency, however, warned that substantial risks remain as negotiations over the future administration of the Strait of Hormuz continue and regional hostilities have yet to end completely.

Looking ahead, the IEA projected global oil production to rebound by around 7.5 million bpd to 110.1 million bpd in 2027.

On the demand side, the agency revised its 2026 global oil demand forecast upwards by 70,000 bpd, reflecting stronger-than-expected oil deliveries during the second quarter.

Under the revised outlook, global oil demand is forecast to decline by around 1 million bpd year-on-year to 103.46 million bpd in 2026. If realised, it would mark the first annual decline in oil demand since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted global energy markets.

The report showed that global oil demand fell by 5.3 million bpd year-on-year to 97.9 million bpd in May, the lowest level recorded so far this year.

Demand has since begun to recover following the mid-June agreement between the US and Iran, which helped restore oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz and unlock pent-up demand across Asia. Lower oil prices and an improving global economic outlook also supported consumption, according to the IEA.

The agency maintained its forecast for global oil demand to increase by around 2 million bpd in 2027, lifting total consumption to 105.47 million bpd.

However, it projected average annual demand growth of about 480,000 bpd between 2025 and 2027, significantly below historical averages, signalling a more moderate pace of expansion in global oil consumption.

Nigeria ends OIS partnership for visa applications in United States

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:13:19 +0000

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has terminated its partnership with OIS Services, ending the company's role as Nigeria's visa application service provider in the United States.

The decision takes immediate effect, requiring visa applicants in the US to submit their applications directly to Nigerian diplomatic missions instead of using OIS-operated Visa Application and Submission Centres.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Thursday, 9 July 2026, and signed by the Service Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi.

For several years, OIS Services served as an intermediary between visa applicants and the Nigerian government, receiving application documents, biometric data and processing fees before forwarding them to the Nigerian Embassy and Consulates for visa processing and approval.

With the termination of the arrangement, all visa applications must now be submitted directly to the Embassy of Nigeria in Washington, D.C., or the Nigerian Consulates in New York and Atlanta.

The Nigeria Immigration Service did not state the reason for ending the contract or indicate whether another visa application service provider would be appointed.

The change is expected to have the greatest impact on applicants living outside Washington, D.C., New York and Atlanta, where Nigeria maintains its diplomatic missions.

Previously, OIS-operated centres made the application process more accessible by reducing the need for long-distance travel. Under the new arrangement, applicants in other parts of the United States may have to travel to one of the Nigerian missions to complete their visa applications.

The development is likely to affect more than 400,000 Nigerians resident in the United States, as well as foreign nationals seeking Nigerian visas, with applicants expected to face some inconvenience during the transition.

Despite the operational changes, the NIS said the Nigerian Embassy and Consulates have put measures in place to ensure that visa application services continue without disruption. However, the Service did not provide details of the revised application process or whether additional appointment systems or online procedures would be introduced.

Applicants have been advised to monitor official communications from the Nigeria Immigration Service and Nigeria's diplomatic missions in the United States for updated guidance on visa application procedures.

The Immigration Service also urged individuals who had already commenced visa applications through OIS Services to contact the Nigerian Embassy or the appropriate Consulate directly for instructions on completing their applications.

As OIS Services is no longer authorised to receive visa submissions, applicants have been advised not to visit its centres expecting their applications to be processed.

The move follows a pattern seen in several countries that have reviewed, replaced or discontinued agreements with third-party visa service providers for operational, contractual or service delivery reasons.

Until any new outsourcing arrangement is announced, all Nigerian visa applications in the United States will be processed directly through the country's Embassy and Consulates.

NNPC signs six gas agreements to strengthen energy security and drive industrial growth

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:17:56 +0000

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has signed six strategic agreements with key industry partners aimed at expanding domestic gas utilisation, enhancing energy security and accelerating Nigeria’s gas-driven industrialisation agenda.

The agreements, signed on the sidelines of the 25th Nigeria Oil and Gas (NOG) Energy Week in Abuja, include a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and a Gas Sale and Aggregation Agreement (GSAA) with Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited (ASCL).

Also signed were a Gas Sale Agreement (GSA) with UTM Floating LNG (FLNG), alongside three Network Entry Agreements (NEnAs) with Chevron Nigeria Limited, AGPC and NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL).

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Bashir Ojulari, described the agreements as a significant milestone in advancing the Federal Government’s gas-based industrialisation strategy.

Ojulari said the agreements would unlock additional domestic gas supply, reinforce the Nigerian Gas Transportation Network Code and position natural gas as a key driver of economic growth.

“What we are witnessing today is not just about signing agreements. It is about igniting the engine of Nigeria’s industrialisation.

“Gas is not only a source of revenue and profit, but also the hydrocarbon with the greatest potential to transform Nigeria’s economy,” he said.

He added that the agreements demonstrated NNPC Ltd.’s commitment to transparency, operational efficiency and strategic partnerships that would promote local content, strengthen energy security and attract investment across the country's gas value chain.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the partnership with ASCL, under which both organisations agreed to work together to revive the Ajaokuta Steel Complex and expand domestic gas utilisation.

The MoU also provides a framework for supporting local production of steel pipes required for major infrastructure projects, including the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (AAGP) and Phase Three of the Escravos-Lagos Pipeline System (ELPS).

The accompanying 20-year GSAA, signed by NEPL, the Gas Aggregation Company of Nigeria (GACN) and ASCL, provides for the supply of three million standard cubic feet of gas per day (MMscf/d), in addition to 47 MMscf/d of interruptible gas, to power the Ajaokuta Steel Complex.

NNPC Ltd. and its Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited (SEPNU) Joint Venture also signed a 15-year Wet Gas Sale and Purchase Agreement with UTM FLNG Ltd.

Under the agreement, the joint venture will supply 200 MMscf/d of gas to the UTM FLNG project, providing the feedstock required to support project financing and pave the way for a Final Investment Decision (FID), which is expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.

In addition, NNPC Ltd. signed Network Entry Agreements with Chevron Nigeria Limited, AGPC and NEPL to migrate existing interconnection arrangements to the Nigerian Gas Transportation Network Code.

The agreements are expected to inject up to 800 MMscf/d of natural gas into the domestic gas transportation network, improving supply to power plants, gas-based industries and industrial clusters, while enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the national gas network.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo; the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; and the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Olu Verheijen.

Also present were the Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, and the Authority Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Rabiu Umar.

FG offers two FGN Savings Bonds for July with interest rates of up to 15.716%

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:05:53 +0000

The Federal Government, through the Debt Management Office (DMO), has announced the opening of subscriptions for two Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) Savings Bonds for July.

According to a statement issued by the DMO, the first offer is a two-year FGN Savings Bond due on 15 July 2028, with an interest rate of 14.716 per cent per annum.

The second offer is a three-year FGN Savings Bond due on 15 July 2029, offering an interest rate of 15.716 per cent per annum.

The DMO stated “Closing date is July 10, settlement date is July 15, and coupon payment dates are October 15, January 15, April 15 and July 15.

“They are offered at N1,000 per unit subject to a minimum subscription of N5,000 and in multiples of N1,000 thereafter, subject to a maximum subscription of N50 million.

“Interest is payable quarterly, and bullet repayment is on the maturity date.”

The agency explained that FGN Savings Bonds, like other Federal Government securities, are backed by the full faith and credit of the Federal Government and are charged upon the general assets of Nigeria.

According to the DMO, the bonds also qualify as eligible investment instruments under the Trustee Investment Act.

“They qualify as government securities within the meaning of the Company Income Tax Act and Personal Income Tax Act for exemption for pension funds, amongst other investors.

“They are listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange and qualify as liquid assets for liquidity ratio calculation for banks,” the statement added.

The FGN Savings Bond is a retail debt instrument introduced by the DMO on behalf of the Federal Government to encourage wider participation in the domestic bond market.

Designed primarily for retail investors, the instrument enables low- and middle-income earners to invest in government securities with relatively small amounts, while promoting a stronger savings culture across the country.

Unlike conventional FGN bonds, which generally require significantly higher minimum investments and are predominantly purchased by institutional investors, the FGN Savings Bond offers individuals an accessible opportunity to invest in government-backed securities.

New NIMC Act strengthens digital identity protection for Nigerians, says DG

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 16:43:29 +0000

The Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Mrs Abisoye Coker-Odusote, has said the newly enacted NIMC Act 2026 will significantly strengthen Nigeria's digital identity ecosystem by enhancing data security and equipping the commission to tackle identity-related crimes.

Coker-Odusote stated this during a courtesy visit to the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation as part of the Federal Government's campaign to sensitise public institutions on the provisions and benefits of the new legislation.

She explained that the repealed NIMC Act did not provide adequate powers for data protection, a gap that contributed to the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act in 2023 and the establishment of the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

“It may interest you to know that the new Data Protection Act that Mr President assented to, is sorted through support with NIMC in 2021, leading to the establishment of the Data Protection Commission,” she said.

According to the NIMC chief, the new Act empowers the commission to work with security agencies to arrest and prosecute identity thieves.

“In line with this new mandate, we have recently revamped our internal enforcement structure through the Inspectorate, Compliance and Enforcement (ICE) Unit to ensure effective implementation of the Act.”

Coker-Odusote also disclosed that the commission had commenced a ward enrolment programme to expand National Identification Number (NIN) registration to all 8,809 wards across the country.

“It may interest you to know that the president has given us marching orders last year to go and kickstart the ward enrolment exercise, which we embarked upon on Feb. 16,” she said.

She noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and is aimed at ensuring every Nigerian has access to a legal identity.

“We are rotating round all the 8809 wards, and this is why our partnership with NOA, which is also represented at the ward level, is very crucial in helping us disseminate information,” she said.

Responding, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, commended the NIMC Director-General for her leadership and the successful passage of the new legislation.

“We’ve all seen your enthusiasm to transform identity management in this country since you came on board as the DG of NIMC, and we have also seen that on the part of the NIMC team,” he said.

Idris emphasised the need for sustained public awareness of the provisions of the Act, particularly at the grassroots, and called for stronger collaboration among government agencies to maximise its impact.

He also urged NIMC to leverage the communication platforms under the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation to deepen public sensitisation.

“We have all the public information platforms in this country under this ministry, including the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), and I want to assure you that these platforms will be available to support your sensitisation objectives,” he said.

The minister added that transparency in public service delivery depends largely on effective dissemination of information through credible communication channels.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, highlighted the existing partnership between the agency and NIMC and pledged continued support for the commission's nationwide enrolment drive.

“I hope you can come forward to see how we can achieve tha,t as we are present in those areas you want to go and do your sensitisation and enlightenment,” he said.

Issa-Onilu observed that many people in rural communities still have a limited understanding of the provisions of the new NIMC Act and stressed the need for sustained grassroots awareness campaigns to ensure Nigerians fully understand the benefits of the legislation.

AAAN partners Red & Yellow Creative School to strengthen talent development in Nigeria’s advertising industry

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 16:23:12 +0000

The Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) has entered into a strategic training partnership with the Red & Yellow Creative School of Business, a Council on Higher Education (CHE)-accredited institution based in Cape Town, South Africa, to help bridge the talent gap in Nigeria’s marketing communications industry.

The collaboration is aimed at strengthening skills development across the sector by equipping advertising professionals with the expertise required to meet evolving industry demands.

Speaking at the signing of the agreement, AAAN President, Lanre Adisa, said the partnership was a direct response to the growing challenges confronting Nigerian advertising agencies, including a shrinking pool of experienced professionals, increased poaching of skilled talent, the rise of artificial intelligence, and changing client expectations.

According to Adisa, the initiative is designed as a long-term investment to expand the industry's talent pipeline, with a strong emphasis on leadership development, future-of-work readiness, and the enhancement of core creative and strategic skills.

He disclosed that the training programme will commence in August and is intended to address the widening gap between the industry's demand for skilled professionals and the availability of qualified talent.

“For our industry to be future-ready, we need to tackle our talent challenge head-on. This is the reason we have sought out a partner with the experience and pedigree. Red & Yellow School is currently ranked as the top ad school in Africa and the Middle East, according to the latest Loeries ranking. Our intention is long-term. We believe this will, over time, help Nigeria pull its weight on the continent as we all expect,” he said.

Adisa also announced that the association would host a webinar later this month as a precursor to the training programme. The session will bring together industry professionals and clients to discuss talent development, leadership, and the changing dynamics of the marketing communications industry.

He noted that the webinar would formally introduce the partnership to stakeholders while providing insights into the training programme ahead of its launch.

Also speaking, Managing Director of the Red & Yellow Creative School of Business, Verusha Maharaj, described the partnership as an important opportunity for marketing communications professionals in Nigeria to build the capabilities required to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.

“Across Africa, agencies and marketing teams are dealing with similar pressures around talent, technology, leadership, and competitiveness. This partnership allows us to support a practical industry conversation about what creative businesses need now, and how education can respond more directly to those needs,” Maharaj said.

Meta launches Muse Image AI tool for advanced image generation across its apps

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 16:06:10 +0000

Meta has unveiled Muse Image, its first image generation model developed by Meta Superintelligence Labs, introducing a new artificial intelligence-powered creative tool designed to help users generate, edit and share high-quality images across the company's platforms.

Now available through Meta AI, Muse Image enables users to create visuals from simple text prompts or existing photos using advanced reasoning capabilities. The tool can also blend multiple images, generate readable text within graphics and support complex editing tasks, making it easier for users to produce personalised content for social media, messaging and other digital platforms.

The launch builds on Muse Spark, which enhanced Meta AI's conversational capabilities. Meta said Muse Image serves as a creative companion that understands users' preferences and ideas, allowing them to produce images that can be downloaded or shared directly to chats, stories and feeds.

Muse Image is also powering new creative experiences across Meta's platforms. Users can access more than 30 AI-powered effects for Instagram Stories, while image generation through Meta AI in WhatsApp direct chats is initially being introduced in selected countries, with wider availability planned.

AI-powered image creation with simple prompts

Meta said users can create images from scratch or transform existing photos using natural language prompts.

Examples include placing themselves in front of famous landmarks, removing unwanted objects or people from photographs, generating functional QR codes and creating detailed infographics with clear, well-formatted text embedded within the images.

Presets designed to inspire creativity

To help users get started, Meta AI now includes a library of preset prompts that offer creative ideas with a single tap.

These presets can restore old family photographs, apply trending hairstyles, transform portraits into clay animation or recreate users as characters from classic 16-bit video games. Users can also share these creations across Meta's platforms, allowing others to use the same preset with their own photos.

AI-assisted home redesigns

Muse Image also introduces a room redesign feature. Users can upload a photograph of a room and ask Meta AI to redesign the space using real products sourced from the web or Facebook Marketplace.

The tool can suggest different interior design styles or incorporate current design trends to create visual mock-ups of renovated spaces.

Advanced reasoning powers more realistic creations

According to Meta, Muse Image uses advanced reasoning before generating an image.

Working alongside Muse Spark, the model analyses prompts, plans image layouts, references real-time web information and combines multiple visual inputs to create more accurate results. This enables users to merge different photographs or place subjects into entirely new environments while maintaining visual consistency.

Personalised image generation

Meta is also introducing the ability to mention Instagram accounts within the Meta AI app to incorporate public Instagram photos into image generation.

The feature is intended for creating personalised invitations, collaborative concepts and customised graphics. Users will have control over whether their public content can be used in this way through an opt-out setting.

Built-in editing tools

Muse Image allows users to edit generated images directly by circling, sketching or annotating areas they want to change.

Because Meta AI retains the context of previous conversations, users can continue refining images by adjusting styles, adding new elements or modifying details without starting the creative process again.

Wider rollout planned

Meta said Muse Image will gradually become available in more countries and across additional products, including Facebook and Messenger. The company also plans to integrate the technology into Instagram, WhatsApp and its Advantage+ creative tools for advertisers and agencies in the coming weeks.

Using Meta AI with Muse Image will be free for everyday use, while users who require higher usage limits will be able to access additional features through Meta's subscription plans.

Meta also revealed that Muse Video is currently under development as the company continues expanding its AI-powered creative tools.

"Images are just the beginning. With Muse Video already in development, Meta is building entirely new ways for you to bring your ideas to life, getting one step closer to personal superintelligence."

Sky to acquire ITV broadcasting business in £1.6bn deal amid streaming battle

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:11:19 +0000

Comcast-owned Sky has agreed to acquire ITV's broadcasting and streaming business in a deal worth up to £1.6 billion, marking one of the most significant restructurings in British broadcasting as traditional television companies seek greater scale to compete with global streaming platforms.

Announced on Monday, the agreement will see Sky take ownership of ITV's portfolio of television channels and streaming platform, ITVX. ITV Studios, the company's production arm behind several internationally acclaimed programmes, is excluded from the acquisition and will be spun off as a separately listed public company.

Deal structure

Under the terms of the agreement, Sky will pay £1.2 billion upfront, followed by an additional £200 million in the first half of 2028, subject to ITV achieving £1.7 billion in advertising revenue during the preceding year.

As part of the restructuring, ITV Studios will acquire Love Productions, the company behind The Great British Bake Off. Industry analysts value the transaction at tens of millions of pounds.

To safeguard the availability of ITV's flagship programmes on free-to-air television, Sky and ITV Studios have also entered into a long-term content supply agreement valued at a minimum of £2.1 billion. The deal, which runs from 2028 to 2032, covers popular programmes including Coronation Street, Emmerdale, Love Island and I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!

Nearly a year of negotiations

The transaction concludes discussions that began late last year. ITV informed the London Stock Exchange in November that it had received an acquisition proposal for its Media & Entertainment division, with negotiations continuing for almost nine months before the parties reached an agreement.

Sky Chief Executive Dana Strong described the acquisition as a defining moment for the company and one of the most significant transactions in British broadcasting, while emphasising that ITV would continue to fulfil its role as a public service broadcaster under its new ownership.

Strengthening competition against streaming giants

The acquisition is designed to strengthen Sky's position as competition intensifies from global streaming platforms.

ITV generated around £2 billion in revenue during 2025 and accounts for approximately 32 per cent of the UK's commercial television audience. Meanwhile, ITVX has expanded its monthly active user base by nearly 60 per cent over the past four years to reach 16.5 million users.

Combined with Sky's pay television, broadband and streaming operations, the enlarged business is expected to have greater scale to compete with streaming services including Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and YouTube, all of which have attracted growing audiences, particularly younger viewers aged between 16 and 24.

The transaction also reflects the wider trend of consolidation across the global media industry as broadcasters seek greater scale to remain competitive. Major acquisitions such as Disney's purchase of 21st Century Fox and Amazon's acquisition of MGM have demonstrated how established media companies are expanding to strengthen their market position.

For Comcast, the acquisition builds on a long-term European strategy that began with its $39 billion purchase of Sky in 2018 following a lengthy bidding battle with Rupert Murdoch's Fox. Acquiring ITV further strengthens Comcast's television and streaming footprint across Europe.

Regulatory scrutiny expected

The proposed acquisition is expected to face close examination from UK competition regulators.

If approved without changes, the combined business would control more than 70 per cent of Britain's television advertising market, raising concerns over market concentration.

To address potential regulatory issues, Sky may be required to divest some third-party advertising sales agreements, including those involving Paramount-owned Channel 5. Industry analysts also expect regulators to consider additional remedies as they assess the deal's impact on advertisers, broadcasters and consumers.

ITV Studios to remain independent

Although separated from ITV's broadcasting operations, ITV Studios will continue as an independent production company supplying content to broadcasters and streaming platforms globally.

Its portfolio includes Love Island, Coronation Street, Rivals for Disney+, and The Reluctant Traveller for Apple TV+, highlighting the company's growing reliance on producing content for multiple international platforms rather than a single broadcaster.

Executives across the television production sector are closely monitoring the transaction. Speaking during an earnings call this week, Banijay Group Chief Executive François Riahi said consolidation had become the defining trend shaping the global television industry, arguing that scale is increasingly essential to compete in international content production.

The proposed Sky-ITV deal reflects the profound transformation of the television industry. While British broadcasters once competed primarily with one another, they now face competition from global technology companies investing billions of dollars annually in original programming and operating across hundreds of markets.

The implications extend beyond the UK. Broadcasters across Africa, including MultiChoice, Canal+ and StarTimes, are expected to monitor the transaction closely as they face similar competitive pressures from Netflix, YouTube and Prime Video. A larger Sky-ITV business could also reshape international content partnerships and licensing opportunities, particularly if it increases investment in globally distributed programming.

Whether regulators ultimately approve the acquisition in its current form remains uncertain. However, the agreement reinforces a growing consensus across the media industry that, in the streaming era, achieving scale has become increasingly important for long-term competitiveness.

7-Eleven sues Nike over ‘7-11’ themed Air Max 95 sneaker design

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:56:27 +0000

7-Eleven has filed a lawsuit against Nike, alleging trademark infringement over the sportswear brand’s upcoming Air Max 95 “Big Bubble” sneaker, which the retailer claims uses colourways closely associated with its iconic branding.

According to the complaint, the shoe’s bright orange, green and red design mirrors the convenience store chain’s signature colour scheme, which 7-Eleven says it has used commercially since 1987 and protects under multiple federal trademark registrations. The retailer argues that Nike’s design amounts to “a deliberate and intentional attempt to associate its shoes with 7-Eleven.”

7-Eleven further claims that online retailers have already begun referring to the sneaker as the “7-Eleven” shoe. It also cites media coverage which, according to the filing, describes the brand’s colour identity as “immediately recognizable,” “unmistakable,” “distinctive,” and “iconic.”

The timing of the sneaker’s planned release has also been raised as a key issue. The shoe is expected to launch on 11 July, known as 7-Eleven Day or Free Slurpee Day, an annual promotional event for the retailer. 7-Eleven is seeking a jury trial and a permanent injunction to block the release of the sneaker, alleging that Nike has already begun pre-sales.

The company says it made repeated attempts to resolve the matter privately before initiating legal action, but claims Nike indicated it would proceed with both the marketing campaign and the scheduled release.

In total, 7-Eleven has brought seven claims, including trademark infringement and unfair competition. Alongside a request to halt sales, the retailer is also seeking the recall and destruction of existing stock, the handover of profits, treble damages, additional compensation for alleged wilful misconduct, and reimbursement of legal costs.

BMW confirms V8 engine future as new X5 range expands beyond launch lineup

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:53:25 +0000

BMW has confirmed that its V8 engine will remain part of its long-term line-up, even as the new X5 ushers in a wide range of electrified and alternative powertrains.

The latest generation of the BMW X5 is set to make history as the brand’s first production SUV offered with five different powertrain options: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, fully electric and hydrogen. However, at launch, buyers expecting a V8 will be disappointed, as the initial line-up will be limited to inline-six engines on the internal combustion side.

Despite that, BMW has confirmed that a V8-powered variant is in development. The confirmation is subtly included within the press material for the new Spartanburg-built SUV, indicating that the larger engine is set to return in an M Performance model rather than a full X5 M.

While the model has not been officially named, it is widely expected to be called the X5 M60. BMW is also dropping the “i” designation from petrol models, reserving it exclusively for electric vehicles, meaning future combustion-powered variants will follow this revised naming structure.

The V8 model will not be available at launch alongside the X5’s initial line-up. Instead, BMW plans to introduce the V8 variant in 2027. Enthusiasts will be pleased to learn that the model is expected to retain a traditional V8 configuration rather than adopting a plug-in hybrid system, although a mild-hybrid setup remains likely.

Alongside the future V8 model, BMW will also offer other M Performance versions of the X5 at launch. One of these is expected to be the X5 M60e plug-in hybrid, although it will not be sold in the United States. The company is also developing a higher-performance electric variant based on the iX5.

BMW has not yet confirmed whether a full X5 M will arrive in either internal combustion or electric form, though industry expectations suggest a flagship performance version could follow in 2028 or later.

The wider BMW Group strategy suggests that V8 engines will continue well into the next decade, supported by upcoming models such as the next-generation X7, expected in 2027, which is also likely to feature the brand’s largest engines. The recently updated 7 Series is also expected to gain a V8-powered M Performance variant in the same period. Alpina is additionally understood to be developing V8 versions of future BMW Group flagship models.

While BMW still produces a larger engine, the twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre V12 built at the Hams Hall plant in the United Kingdom is reserved exclusively for Rolls-Royce models. Although Rolls-Royce had previously aimed to transition fully to electric vehicles by 2030, that plan has shifted, allowing the V12 to remain in production into the next decade. A return of the V12 to BMW or Alpina models, however, remains highly unlikely.

BMW V12 continues, but not in BMW models

As a result, the twelve-cylinder engine will continue in production, but only within the Rolls-Royce range. A revival in BMW or Alpina vehicles is not expected.

Motor1's Take: While Mercedes-AMG is making a big deal about recommitting to V8 engines, the eight-cylinder X5 is little more than a footnote in a press release. The reason is simple: BMW never said it would move away from large-displacement engines or combustion engines in general. Even with stricter Euro 7 emissions regulations on the horizon, there's still life left in the V8.

The only concern surrounds output. BMW had to detune its largest engine in the M5 and XM to comply with tougher emissions rules in markets that follow the Euro 7 standard. We'll have to wait and see whether the X5 M60, or whatever it ends up being called, will also lose some of its Bavarian-bred horses in Europe.

CBN revokes licences of 46 microfinance banks over regulatory breaches

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:48:47 +0000

The Central Bank of Nigeria has revoked the operating licences of 46 microfinance banks across the country with immediate effect, in a sweeping regulatory action effective July 1, 2026.

The decision, announced in an official statement by the apex bank, was taken under the powers conferred by the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act 2020. The CBN said the action became necessary due to persistent regulatory violations and the failure of the affected institutions to meet required financial and operational standards designed to protect depositors’ funds.

The central bank outlined five key grounds for the revocation, stating that the affected institutions fell short under one or more of the following conditions:

i. Insufficient assets to meet liabilities,
ii. Closure of operations without the CBN approval
iii. Inactivity and cessation of financial intermediation
iv. Failure to commence operations within 12 months of licence approval
v. Failure to maintain minimum capital funds unimpaired by losses

The CBN said the move forms part of its broader efforts to strengthen financial stability, protect depositors, and enforce compliance across the banking sector. It added that it remains committed to maintaining a safe and resilient financial system while continuing supervisory and regulatory interventions where necessary.

Affected microfinance banks

The revoked licences cover 46 institutions, including Minji-Se Churchill MFB, Merchant MFB, Janmaa MFB, Busu MFB, Gold MFB, Zain MFB (formerly Dawakin Tofa MFB), Bompai MFB, Ajwa MFB (formerly Gezawa), Now Now Digital MFB, Crystabel Microfinance Bank, Chanelle Microfinance Bank, Abia SME Microfinance Bank, Kamba MFB, Iwade MFB, Winview MFB, Zuru MFB, Minjibir MFB, Shanono MFB, Sumaila MFB, Rimin Gado MFB, Mwaghavul MFB, Sycamore MFB, Tofa MFB, Safegate MFB, Creekline MFB, Bestar MFB, Livingspring MFB, Apple MFB, Stanford MFB, Frontline MFB, Zafec MFB, Supreme MFB, Bejin-Doko MFB, Kanopoly MFB, Bellbank MFB, Yeneng MFB, Creditville MFB, MBAG MFB, Straight Sahara MFB, Ourpass MFB, Verdant MFB, Basawa MFB, Casha MFB, Esteem MFB, Entrepreneur MFB and Avantus MFB.

With the revocation, the institutions are no longer permitted to carry out banking operations or accept deposits in Nigeria.

The CBN said the action followed several supervisory interventions, technical warnings and regulatory forbearance measures, which the affected banks failed to address with the required structural and financial reforms.

NDIC takes over liquidation process

To safeguard depositor interests and maintain confidence in the financial system, the CBN has appointed the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) as liquidator of the affected institutions.

The NDIC has taken over the assets of the banks and commenced immediate steps including asset recovery, verification of depositor claims, and coordination of insured deposit payouts within statutory limits.

Customers of the affected microfinance banks have been advised to remain calm and present valid account records, national identification and alternative banking details to support verification and reimbursement processes.

CBN signals tighter oversight

Analysts say the move underscores the regulator’s tougher stance on compliance within the microfinance banking sector, which has faced long-standing concerns over weak governance, risk management failures and insider abuses.

The CBN reiterated its commitment to enforcing strict capital adequacy, improved credit standards and stronger corporate governance across all financial institutions, including microfinance banks, mortgage institutions and development finance bodies.

AS Roma agrees strategic partnership with gold trading firm Orodei

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:44:12 +0000

AS Roma has confirmed a new strategic partnership with Orodei, a company specialising in the trading and management of precious metals.

Under the agreement, Orodei becomes a Gold Partner of the Italian club, with its logo set to appear on the back of the Men’s First Team training kit.

The partnership will see close collaboration between AS Roma and Orodei through its digital platform, Orodei24. The initiative aims to give Giallorossi supporters access to information and services related to safe-haven assets, offering solutions for asset management provided by a gold dealer authorised by the Bank of Italy.

“We are pleased to welcome Orodei to our family of partners, with the aim of providing our fanbase with alternative financial services and digitally-driven solutions,” said Michael Gandler, Chief Business Officer of AS Roma. “This agreement is part of our ongoing strategy to diversify our commercial partnerships, focusing on a consolidated sector such as safe-haven assets, and offering our supporters certified, premium tools for managing their savings.”

“We are proud to partner with AS Roma, a club with a rich history and tradition, whose profound connection to its community is recognized worldwide,” declared Antonio Maesano, President of Orodei. “Our goal is to work alongside the club to make this bond even stronger. We want to support the fans by combining their passion with a tangible investment focused on safe-haven assets, security, and the economic stability of families through gold assets.”

How Streaming Is Transforming Sports Advertising in the Digital Age

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:37:21 +0000

For decades, sports advertising followed a predictable formula. Brands invested millions in television commercials, broadcasters controlled audience access, and success was measured by ratings and reach. If you wanted to connect with football fans during a major tournament such as the FIFA World Cup, buying television airtime was the obvious strategy. That playbook is rapidly becoming obsolete.

The rise of streaming platforms, connected TV (CTV), social media and artificial intelligence (AI) has fundamentally transformed how fans consume sport and, consequently, how advertisers reach them. Today, a football fan is just as likely to watch highlights on TikTok, debate controversial decisions on X, stream a live match on a connected television or follow behind-the-scenes content from creators on YouTube as they are to watch a full match on conventional television.

For marketers, this evolution presents enormous opportunities but also unprecedented complexity.

The decline of television's monopoly

The days when broadcasters exclusively dictated the sports viewing experience are fading.

Ten years ago, television dominated virtually every media consumption metric. Traditional broadcasters such as Sky, DStv and BT Sport commanded millions of subscribers, while live sporting events consistently attracted the largest television audiences. That dominance has weakened significantly.

According to global research by Statista, Nielsen and Deloitte, digital media consumption has steadily overtaken traditional television, particularly among younger audiences. Consumers now spend substantially more time on mobile devices, streaming platforms and social media than watching scheduled television programming.

The shift is especially pronounced among Generation Z and Millennials. Rather than sitting through a 90-minute football match, many younger fans consume football through short-form highlights, tactical analysis, player interviews, reaction videos and creator-led discussions spread across multiple platforms. This changing behaviour has forced rights holders, advertisers and broadcasters to rethink their strategies.

The expanded digital distribution surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026 reflects this new reality. Instead of relying solely on traditional broadcasters, tournament content is increasingly available across streaming services, connected TV platforms and social media, allowing fans to engage with matches wherever and whenever they choose.

Sports fans now live across multiple platforms

Modern sports consumption no longer revolves around a single screen. A typical football supporter might watch a live match on a smart TV, check live statistics on a mobile phone, join a WhatsApp discussion with friends, react to controversial moments on X and later watch expert analysis on YouTube.

For advertisers, this means campaigns can no longer depend on a single media channel. Instead, brands must understand the complete fan journey.

Traditional television still plays an important role during major tournaments, particularly for live broadcasts, but it is increasingly complemented by streaming apps, social media, connected TV and creator-led content.

Rather than asking which platform is best, marketers must determine how each platform contributes to awareness, engagement and conversion.

The creator economy has become football's new commentary box

Perhaps the biggest shift in sports marketing has been the rise of creators and influencers. Football fans no longer rely exclusively on television pundits for analysis.

Former players, independent journalists, football YouTubers and podcast hosts now command audiences that rival or even exceed some traditional sports programmes.

Shows such as The Overlap have demonstrated that authentic conversations often resonate more strongly than highly produced television studio discussions.

Fans increasingly value unscripted opinions, behind-the-scenes access and genuine personalities over conventional broadcast formats.

This has fundamentally altered advertising. Brands are no longer simply buying media space. They are buying trust.

Instead of pursuing the largest possible audience, successful campaigns increasingly focus on partnering with creators who have highly engaged communities and strong credibility within specific sporting niches. Authenticity has become as valuable as reach.

Connected TV is changing premium advertising

Connected television is emerging as one of the fastest-growing advertising channels globally.

Unlike traditional television, CTV combines the immersive viewing experience of large-screen television with the precision targeting capabilities of digital advertising.

Industry forecasts from eMarketer estimate that global connected TV advertising expenditure will exceed $40 billion annually within the next few years, driven by growing smart TV adoption and increased streaming consumption.

The television itself has also evolved.

Today's viewers often begin their viewing journey from the smart TV home screen rather than launching a broadcaster's dedicated application.

That home screen has become premium advertising space, giving brands new opportunities to influence viewing decisions before audiences even select their content.

Measuring attention instead of impressions

One of the biggest challenges facing sports marketers is measurement. Traditional television has long relied on audience ratings. Digital advertising, meanwhile, focuses heavily on impressions and clicks. Neither metric fully reflects genuine engagement. Meaningful engagement is increasingly defined by attention and time spent. It is not enough for consumers to see an advert.

Brands must understand whether audiences actively choose to engage with content, watch longer, interact through comments, share clips or continue conversations beyond the live event.

The growing fragmentation of viewing across platforms makes this significantly more difficult. A single fan may engage with tournament content across five or six different digital environments before making a purchase. Understanding how each interaction contributes to eventual conversion has become one of marketing's greatest challenges.

AI is reshaping sports advertising

Artificial intelligence is becoming central to modern sports marketing. Rather than replacing creativity, AI enables marketers to make faster, more informed decisions.

Machine learning can analyse audience behaviour in real time, identify changing viewing patterns and optimise media placements across multiple platforms simultaneously. AI also enables greater personalisation.

Supporters following different clubs, players or competitions can receive tailored advertising based on their interests, viewing history and online behaviour. During major tournaments, this allows brands to deliver increasingly relevant messaging at precisely the right moment.

However, AI cannot replace the emotional connection that defines sport. Football remains driven by passion, rivalry, shared experiences and community. Technology enhances delivery, but authentic storytelling remains the foundation of successful sports marketing.

The future belongs to integrated campaigns

Perhaps the biggest lesson from today's evolving media landscape is that there is no longer a single winning platform.

Successful sports marketing now combines multiple touchpoints: television builds mass awareness, streaming expands accessibility, connected TV delivers precision targeting, and social media fuels conversation. Creators provide authenticity, and AI ties everything together through intelligent optimisation and personalisation. Brands that continue to rely solely on traditional broadcast risk missing increasingly fragmented audiences.

Conversely, those that understand how fans move seamlessly across screens, devices and platforms will be better positioned to maximise return on investment.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 demonstrates, the future of sports advertising is no longer about owning the biggest television audience. It is about understanding where attention lives, how communities engage and how technology can help brands become part of the conversation rather than simply interrupt it.

Nigeria's SEC admits seven fintech firms into regulatory sandbox under ARIP

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:25:44 +0000

Nigeria's Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has granted Approval-in-Principle (AIP) to seven fintech and digital asset companies for admission into its Accelerated Regulatory Incubation Programme (ARIP), as the regulator steps up efforts to encourage financial innovation while strengthening investor protection.

In a public notice issued on Thursday, the SEC said the approvals underscore its commitment to promoting responsible innovation that supports the growth of Nigeria's capital market without undermining market integrity.

The seven companies admitted into the programme are Bitbarter Technologies Limited, Luno Fintech Nigeria Limited, GetEquity Limited, Koinkoin Global Network Limited, Wrapped CBDC Ltd, Trovotech Ltd and Blockvault Custodian Ltd.

According to the Commission, the Approval-in-Principle allows the firms to operate within the defined scope of the regulatory sandbox, subject to conditions set by the regulator.

The SEC stressed that the approval does not amount to a full operating licence but confirms that each company has met the admission requirements for participation in ARIP.

“An Approval-in-Principle confirms that an entity has satisfied the Commission’s admission requirements for the Programme. It is not a final licence and remains conditional on the entity’s continued compliance with all applicable regulatory, operational, and supervisory obligations,” the Commission stated.

The Accelerated Regulatory Incubation Programme provides a controlled regulatory environment designed to fast-track the onboarding of digital asset firms and other investment service providers, including Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) and operators of tokenised investment platforms.

The initiative enables the SEC to assess emerging business models and financial technologies under regulatory supervision before they are introduced to the investing public.

According to the Commission, the programme is intended to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect investors while preserving the integrity of Nigeria's capital market.

The SEC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting innovation that improves efficiency, transparency, financial inclusion and sustainable growth within the country's capital market through initiatives such as ARIP.

It also advised members of the public to verify the regulatory status of individuals and organisations promoting investment products and services through its official channels before investing their money.

Luno Nigeria becomes first global crypto exchange admitted into SEC’s Accelerated Regulatory Incubation Programme

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:20:20 +0000

Luno Nigeria has become the first cryptocurrency exchange with a global footprint to receive Approval in Principle from Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) through admission into the Commission’s Accelerated Regulatory Incubation Programme (ARIP).

The approval marks a significant milestone in the company’s regulatory journey following extensive engagement with the SEC and underscores its commitment to operating within Nigeria’s evolving digital asset regulatory framework.

Admission into ARIP means Luno Nigeria has met the SEC’s requirements to participate in the programme and is authorised to operate within its defined scope, subject to the Commission’s ongoing compliance obligations and regulatory conditions.

Founded in Africa in 2013, Luno entered the Nigerian market in 2015 and was among the first cryptocurrency exchanges to offer services in the country. The company says it has since established a strong local presence by combining global expertise with in-depth knowledge of the Nigerian market, which it considers one of its most important globally.

Commenting on the approval, Luno Nigeria Chief Executive Officer, Ayotunde Alabi, said: “This is an important milestone for Luno Nigeria and a strong validation of our commitment to building responsibly in one of Africa's most important cryptocurrency markets. Admission into ARIP gives us a clearer regulatory pathway, strengthens trust with customers and partners, and provides a stronger foundation for the next phase of our growth, particularly as we expand our focus on institutional and B2B opportunities. We are grateful to the SEC for its continued engagement and to everyone across Luno whose hard work, resilience, and commitment helped us get to this point.”

The regulatory approval comes as Luno expands its business-to-business operations, working with banks, fintech companies, payment providers, asset managers and corporate organisations exploring digital asset solutions.

The company said regulatory certainty is becoming increasingly important as institutional demand grows for compliant digital asset infrastructure, including stablecoin applications, treasury management solutions, crypto-as-a-service offerings and secure access to digital assets. Admission into ARIP is expected to strengthen Luno’s ability to support these organisations within an approved regulatory framework.

ARIP is a regulatory sandbox established by the SEC to accelerate the onboarding of digital asset and other investment service providers, including Virtual Asset Service Providers and tokenised product platforms. The programme enables the Commission to evaluate emerging business models and technologies in a controlled environment while ensuring appropriate safeguards are in place to protect investors and maintain market integrity.

Following the initial licensing rollout in 2024, Luno’s admission into the second batch of the programme highlights Nigeria’s continued efforts to develop a structured and transparent regulatory framework for the digital assets industry. The development is also expected to strengthen confidence among customers, institutional partners, regulators and the broader financial ecosystem.

Emirates becomes first cargo airline to deploy converted Boeing 777-300ERSF

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:08:31 +0000

Emirates has become the first cargo airline to deploy the Boeing 777-300ERSF passenger-to-freighter converted aircraft, marking another milestone in the expansion of its global cargo operations.

The aircraft, registered as A6-EBK, has entered commercial service with its inaugural flight from Hong Kong to Dubai, carrying more than 100 tonnes of cargo.

The converted Boeing 777-300ERSF offers a payload capacity of 100 tonnes and 811 cubic metres of cargo volume, representing a 25 per cent increase in cargo space compared with the Boeing 777-F production freighter. With 47 pallet positions, the aircraft can accommodate 10 more pallet positions than the standard Boeing 777-F, making it particularly well suited to transporting high-volume shipments such as e-commerce goods, which account for around 20 per cent of global air cargo tonnage. That segment is also expected to continue growing over the coming years.

According to Badr Abbas, Emirates SkyCargo’s Divisional Senior Vice President, "The induction of the first converted Emirates Boeing 777-300ERSF into operational service represents the next step in the expansion of our fleet and operational agility. We are optimising our fleet assets by converting older Boeing 777-300ER passenger aircraft to meet the growing demand for air cargo capacity to transport goods rapidly across the world.

“Combined with our growing fleet of Boeing 777-F production freighters, we have already been able to scale our global freighter network from just over 40 destinations in February this year to 62 destinations currently and growing. We are providing our global customers with scalable cargo capacity and ultimate flexibility and connectivity when moving cargo to and through our hub in Dubai.”

The converted Boeing 777-300ERSF is the sixth new freighter to join Emirates SkyCargo’s fleet since March 2026, following the addition of five Boeing 777-F production freighters.

Under its fleet expansion strategy, Emirates SkyCargo expects to take delivery of five more Boeing 777-F aircraft and one additional converted Boeing 777-300ERSF by December 2026. A further three converted Boeing 777-300ERSF aircraft are scheduled to join the fleet during 2027.

The continued expansion of Emirates SkyCargo’s fleet and route network underscores the airline's strategy to strengthen its role in global trade by increasing cargo capacity, expanding connectivity and linking more businesses to key production and distribution hubs across its network, which spans six continents.

GEN Nigeria selects top startups for GEC+ Africa pitch competition in Cape Town

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:29:11 +0000

The Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) Nigeria, in partnership with Tripoint Travel Limited and the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Pan-Atlantic University, has concluded the Nigerian leg of the GEC+ Africa Regional Pitch Competition, with three outstanding startups earning the opportunity to represent the country in Cape Town, South Africa, later this year.

The competition, held at the Radisson Blu Hotel on Ozumba Mbadiwe in Lagos, featured 10 entrepreneurs pitching innovative business ideas before a panel of judges and ecosystem stakeholders. The three winning startups will compete at GEC+ Africa under the theme "Connecting Africa", where they will engage with investors, policymakers, Entrepreneur Support Organisations (ESOs), and fellow entrepreneurs from across the continent.

The regional pitch competition forms part of GEN Nigeria's preparations for GEC+ Africa, which will take place in September 2026 in Cape Town. The initiative is designed to connect Nigerian entrepreneurs with investment opportunities, strategic partnerships and new markets across Africa.

Speaking at the event, Mr Kizito Okechukwu, Executive Head of 22 On Sloane and Co-Chair of GEN Africa, described GEC+ Africa as a Pan-African platform dedicated to strengthening entrepreneurship ecosystems across the continent.

"GEC+ Africa brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and support organisations from across the continent. The objective is to create stronger connections that enable businesses t

o scale, investors to discover new opportunities, and policymakers to learn from successful initiatives across Africa."

He added that the broader goal is to deepen collaboration among African countries and create more opportunities for startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to expand beyond their domestic markets.

Also speaking at the event, Mr Oluwatoyin Ahmed Edu, Executive Director, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at the Bank of Industry (BOI), said the initiative aligns with the bank's commitment to supporting enterprise development and economic growth.

"MSMEs are the backbone of every economy. At the Bank of Industry, our core focus is supporting entrepreneurs through financing, advisory services, ecosystem development, and capacity building. Wherever MSMEs are being empowered, BOI will always be a willing partner."

He also stressed the importance of stronger intra-African collaboration, noting that greater economic integration would enable businesses to access larger markets, retain more value within the continent and accelerate economic development.

Dr Olawale Anifowose, Managing Director of GEN Nigeria, said the competition reflects the organisation's broader commitment to creating international growth opportunities for Nigerian entrepreneurs.

"GEN Nigeria, working closely with the Enterprise Development Centre, Bank of Industry, Tripoint Travel, and other ecosystem partners, remains committed to helping Nigerian entrepreneurs access global markets, strategic partnerships, and investment opportunities."

He recalled that previous editions of the Global Entrepreneurship Congress had enabled Nigerian SMEs to participate in international exhibitions and forge new business relationships, adding that this year's GEC+ Africa would offer similar opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to expand across Africa.

According to the organisers, the selection process assessed participants based on innovation, scalability, market traction and their potential to create jobs while boosting intra-African trade.

With the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) continuing to unlock opportunities across the continent, stakeholders said stronger regional collaboration is increasingly important for businesses seeking cross-border growth. They noted that GEC+ Africa is expected to provide a platform for entrepreneurs, investors, ESOs and policymakers to collaborate while showcasing Africa's growing innovation ecosystem to global audiences.

SUNU Health reaffirms support for NHIA one-hour approval policy at Lagos-Ogun providers’ forum

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 13:53:35 +0000

SUNU Health Nigeria Limited, a leading Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO), has reaffirmed its support for the National Health Insurance Authority’s (NHIA) one-hour authorisation response directive as part of efforts to improve healthcare delivery across Nigeria.

The commitment was made during the company’s second-quarter Providers’ Forum for the Lagos-Ogun region, held at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) in Yaba, Lagos State. The forum, themed “Improving Quality and Access to Care Through Stronger Provider Network”, brought together hundreds of healthcare providers for discussions aimed at strengthening service delivery for enrollees.

In her opening remarks, the Chief Operating Officer of SUNU Health, Dr Faith Nwachi, who represented the MD/CEO, Dr Moyosore Olomola, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to regulatory compliance and quality care delivery, describing provider engagement as central to achieving improved healthcare outcomes.

“Access to care and quality of care remain key priorities in our healthcare systems. We know quite well that deliberate collaboration, strategic partnerships, and a shared commitment to excellence are required to achieve these priorities. A strong provider network is doubtless the backbone of any effective healthcare system. It ensures that our mutual enrollees receive the right care, at the right time, in the right place, and at the right price,” Dr Nwachi stated.

She added that SUNU Health would fully comply with the NHIA’s one-hour authorisation approval timeframe, noting that it aligns with the organisation’s core value of promptness and its slogan, “Humanity is the centre of our initiatives.” She also highlighted the introduction of SUNU Legacy, a new operational software and mobile application designed to enhance access and service efficiency.

Speaking at the forum, the NHIA Lagos State Coordinator (Ikeja), Dr Bethuel-Kasimu Abraham, said the one-hour authorisation policy was introduced to reduce delays in accessing medical care, improve patient outcomes and strengthen accountability among HMOs.

Dr Abraham explained that providers who do not receive a response from an HMO within the stipulated timeframe are expected to report to the NHIA via email, copy the HMO, attach a timestamped request, and proceed to treat the enrollee.

He also addressed concerns raised by healthcare facilities, including drug stockouts and reported discrimination against enrollees, noting that the authority is working to resolve these challenges while ensuring all insured patients receive appropriate care.

In his remarks, NHIA Ogun State Coordinator, Mr Dare Adefeso, acknowledged ongoing complaints from enrollees and stressed that healthcare providers must ensure proper treatment for all patients with valid health insurance coverage, regardless of status.

Adding a historical perspective, the Ogun State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mrs Aishat Tiamiyu, praised SUNU Health’s long-standing service, noting that the agency has been enrolled with the HMO for over 25 years. She also called for the enrolment of new NOA staff into the scheme.

The Providers’ Forum is one of SUNU Health’s key engagement platforms, designed to strengthen collaboration with healthcare providers, address operational challenges, introduce system improvements, and enhance overall healthcare service delivery in Nigeria.

CBN mops up N947bn as OMO bills auction attracts strong investor demand

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:45:58 +0000

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has withdrawn N947.0 billion from the financial system through its Open Market Operations (OMO) bills auction, in a fresh move to rein in excess liquidity.

The apex bank offered OMO bills worth N600 billion for subscription on Monday, targeting liquidity management in the banking system. The issuance comprised 22-day and 134-day maturities.

Market response was robust, with total subscriptions reaching N1.1 trillion, underscoring continued strong investor appetite for CBN risk-free instruments. The auction comes just a week after the regulator mopped up N4.8 trillion from the financial system.

Following the auction, the CBN allotted N947.0 billion to investors. Stop rates settled at 21.71% for the 22-day tenor and 20.06% for the 134-day tenor.

Despite aggressive liquidity management efforts, system liquidity rose to ₦4.03 trillion from ₦3.48 trillion, according to an update by Futureview Financial Limited.

The report noted that liquidity had also increased the previous week to about ₦4.1 trillion from ₦4.0 trillion, driven by a higher opening balance for discount houses and significant banks’ net placements at the Standing Deposit Facility, alongside liquidity absorption from net OMO bill sales.

In the broader fixed income market, trading in Federal Government of Nigeria bonds remained bearish. Investors reduced holdings across the curve as pricing adjustments followed the Debt Management Office’s monthly auction.

Creative leaders urge strategic investment in women to unlock Nigeria’s creative economy growth

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:40:02 +0000

Creative industry leaders have called for increased and targeted investment in women to unlock the full economic potential of Nigeria’s creative sector, warning that persistent gaps in funding, leadership, infrastructure and visibility continue to limit growth in one of the country’s most dynamic industries.

The call was made at the Women in the Arts: Power, Voice and Economic Impact convening, organised by the National Delphic Council Nigeria in partnership with Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR). The event brought together stakeholders from film, theatre, visual arts, cultural enterprise, public policy and development to examine the role of women in shaping Nigeria’s creative economy and the structural barriers affecting their participation and advancement.

The discussion comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to position its creative and tourism sectors as key drivers of economic diversification. The Federal Government has outlined a roadmap targeting a $100 billion contribution to GDP by 2030, alongside the creation of over three million jobs across the creative economy and tourism value chain.

Nigeria’s creative sector already plays a significant role globally, with Nollywood recognised as the second-largest film industry in the world by output, producing more than 2,500 films annually. The National Bureau of Statistics also identifies motion picture, music production, broadcasting, arts, entertainment and recreation as measurable contributors to national output.

Speaking at the convening, Mrs Amina Oyagbola, President of the National Delphic Council Nigeria and Founder of WISCAR, said Nigeria cannot build a globally competitive creative economy while women continue to face barriers to funding, leadership and market access.

“Nigeria’s creative economy will not reach its full potential if the women driving culture, storytelling, enterprise and innovation remain under-supported. This is no longer just a gender conversation. It is an economic imperative. When we invest in women in the arts, we are investing in livelihoods, stronger industries, cultural preservation and the future competitiveness of Nigeria’s creative economy.”

She added that women continue to play a central role across film, music, fashion, visual arts, literature, theatre and cultural enterprise, but stressed the need for deliberate support systems including financing, mentorship, infrastructure, policy inclusion and improved access to markets. She also framed the arts as tools for identity, connection, peacebuilding and economic development, calling for practical steps to expand women’s participation and leadership.

Representing the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Mr Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, delivered a goodwill message reaffirming the importance of elevating female voices within Nigeria’s arts and culture ecosystem.

The convening featured contributions from leading figures in the creative sector, including Veteran Actress and Director, Joke Silva; Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Terra Kulture, Bolanle Austen-Peters; Executive Producer and Media Entrepreneur, Temidayo Makanjuola; Founder of the Christopher Okigbo Foundation and Member of the National Delphic Council Nigeria, Obi Okigbo; and Managing Director of Quintessence Nigeria Limited, Jude Oni-Okpako. Speakers shared perspectives on leadership, visibility, resilience, creative entrepreneurship and the support required to build a more inclusive sector.

It also brought together senior representatives of the global Delphic movement, including President of the International Delphic Council, Davina Bautista; Secretary General of the International Delphic Council, Ramesh Prasana; Vice President of the International Delphic Council, Roberta Williams; President of Delphics Rajasthan, Sreya Guha; and Founder of Mbarikola and Vice President of the National Delphic Council Nigeria, Ugoma Ebilah.

Discussions highlighted global concerns around gender inequality in the cultural and creative industries. UNESCO has noted that while women make up almost half of the workforce in culture and entertainment, they remain underrepresented in leadership roles and are more likely to occupy precarious employment.

Participants called for stronger collaboration between government, private sector organisations, cultural institutions, development partners and creative entrepreneurs to ensure women are not only visible in Nigeria’s creative economy, but also empowered to lead, own, scale and benefit from its growth.

The convening concluded with a call for a shift from symbolic recognition to sustained investment in women as creators, business leaders, employers, cultural ambassadors and drivers of national development.

Fads shines in Afro-Italian challenge as MasterChef Nigeria turns up the heat

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:14:43 +0000

The MasterChef Nigeria kitchen was filled with fire, flavour and fierce competition as contestants took on a creative Afro-Italian challenge during White Apron Day, where although no one faced elimination, there was still plenty at stake.

With the pressure of elimination temporarily lifted, the home cooks were challenged to prepare two Afro-Italian dishes, reimagining Italian classics with distinctly Nigerian flavours. They had 90 minutes to create a pizza and a pasta dish that demonstrated creativity, technique and balance while staying true to both culinary traditions.

The coveted Dish of the Day title and an Ooni pizza oven awaited the contestant who delivered the strongest overall performance.

Pizza became the focal point of the challenge, sparking a lively debate among the judges over the ideal base. Chef Stone declared his preference for a thick, hearty crust, while Chef Eros championed a thin and crispy base. Despite their differing views, both agreed that the foundation of any great pizza lies in the quality of its dough.

Contestants were reminded that bold toppings and inventive Nigerian flavours would count for little if the pizza base failed to meet expectations.

The pasta challenge demanded equal precision, with judges expecting dishes that combined authentic Italian techniques with Nigerian ingredients in a refined and restaurant-quality presentation.

The episode also featured dramatic moments in the kitchen. Isabella experienced a fiery incident with the pizza oven, while Favy encountered a separate fire-related mishap at her workstation. Chef Stone stepped in to assist, helping to keep both contestants' dishes on track.

Another tense moment came when Chef Eros removed his glasses while tasting some of the dishes — a gesture that has become synonymous with his disappointment. David and Isabella were on the receiving end of the judge's disapproval after their dishes failed to impress.

Favy also suffered a setback after serving undercooked mussels with her pasta, a mistake that could have proved costly had it been an elimination challenge. Nevertheless, the judges commended the overall flavour profile of her dish despite the error.

The standout performer of the day was Fads, whose pizza and pasta earned widespread praise from the judging panel. Her dishes were described as restaurant-ready, delicious, classy, elegant and beautifully presented, showcasing confidence, creativity and technical excellence.

"Fabulous Fads," as she was christened by Chef Eros, claimed the Dish of the Day title, took home the Ooni pizza oven and secured valuable bragging rights after receiving a rare round of applause from the judge.

Although no contestant was eliminated, the Afro-Italian challenge demonstrated that the competition is becoming increasingly intense as the race for the title enters its final stages.

The competition will take another significant turn next week as the remaining contestants swap their white aprons for black aprons, signalling the return of elimination. With only three places left in the Top Three, every challenge will carry higher stakes as contestants battle for the ₦73 million grand prize and the MasterChef Nigeria title.

MasterChef Nigeria airs every Sunday at 7 pm on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family, with repeat broadcasts on Wednesdays at 6 pm on Africa Magic Showcase and Thursdays at 12 pm on Africa Magic Family.

Produced by Primedia Group, the programme is supported by headline sponsor Power Oil, alongside Indomie, Dano Milk, Malta Guinness, Sonia Tomato, Kiara Rice, Golden Penny Flour, Golden Penny Sugar, Golden Penny Garri, Golden Penny Semolina, Golden Penny Chocolate Spread and Golden Penny Wheat.

Airtel Kenya appoints Djibril Tobe as Managing Director to drive next phase of growth

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:10:31 +0000

Airtel Kenya has appointed Senegalese telecommunications executive Djibril Tobe as its new Managing Director, signalling a new chapter for the country's second-largest mobile network operator as it seeks to strengthen its market position and accelerate growth.

Tobe succeeds Ashish Malhotra, who is leaving the company after four years to become Chief Executive of Indus Towers Africa. During his tenure, Malhotra oversaw a period of significant expansion that saw Airtel Kenya double its revenue and increase its customer base from 16 million to more than 24 million subscribers.

Before taking up his new role in Kenya, Tobe served as Managing Director of Airtel Congo B from May 2023. He has also held senior leadership positions within the Airtel Africa Group, including Managing Director of Airtel Chad and Commercial Director of Airtel Burkina Faso. His career spans roles at Expresso Guinea, Ernst & Young and Coca-Cola, bringing extensive experience in telecommunications and corporate leadership.

The company's board said in a statement:

"We welcome Djibril Tobe to his role and are confident that his expertise will steer Airtel Kenya to the next level as we continue delivering innovative and relevant solutions."

Malhotra leaves legacy of expansion and innovation

Under Malhotra's leadership, Airtel Kenya embarked on its largest network expansion programme, deploying more than 2,000 new network sites across the country. The operator also introduced 5G services, eSIM technology, fibre connectivity products, and its Home and Office Smart Connect broadband platform.

The company's mobile financial services business, Airtel Money, also recorded strong growth during the period, increasing its market share from 2 per cent to 11 per cent over four years. The performance reflects Airtel's strategy of expanding beyond traditional voice and data services into digital financial solutions.

Airtel Kenya strengthens position in competitive telecoms market

According to the Communications Authority of Kenya, Airtel held a 27.6 per cent share of mobile subscriptions in the quarter ending March 2026, while market leader Safaricom accounted for 68.9 per cent.

In the mobile broadband segment, Airtel controlled 31.8 per cent of subscriptions, compared with Safaricom's 64.5 per cent.

The biggest gap remains in mobile money services, where Airtel Money commands a 10.9 per cent market share, significantly behind M-PESA's 89.1 per cent. Despite the disparity, Airtel has continued to make steady gains in Kenya's highly competitive digital payments market.

With Tobe now leading the business, Airtel Kenya is expected to build on the momentum created under Malhotra by expanding its digital financial services, strengthening its broadband and home connectivity offerings, and leveraging 5G and next-generation technologies to attract new customers.

The leadership transition underscores Airtel Kenya's ambition to sustain its growth trajectory and sharpen its competitive edge in one of Africa's fastest-growing telecommunications markets.

STEM Africa Fest 2026 to expand beyond Lagos as sixth edition promotes innovation and STEM education

noreply@blogger.com (BrandArena) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 10:51:34 +0000

STEM Africa Fest, West Africa's largest experiential science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) festival for children and young people, will return for its sixth edition with an expanded footprint across Nigeria.

The flagship event is scheduled for Saturday, 18 July 2026, at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos, while this year's edition will also include a multi-city rollout, with Ilorin joining the programme as the organisers seek to broaden access to practical STEM education for children and teenagers.

The 2026 festival is themed "Building Future Innovators", reflecting its mission to create immersive, hands-on learning experiences that enable young people to explore, experiment and apply science and technology concepts in real-world settings. Organisers say the initiative is designed to foster curiosity, creativity and problem-solving skills while exposing participants to emerging technologies from an early age.

Speaking on the significance of this year's edition, Co-organiser of STEM Africa Fest, Mrs Jadesola Adedeji, said the festival was established to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical STEM education.

She said, "STEM Africa Fest was created to respond to the growing need to make STEM education more accessible, practical, and engaging for children across Nigeria. For too long, STEM learning has been perceived as abstract, overly technical, and disconnected from everyday experiences, which limits how early learners engage with it and see themselves in it. This informed our decision to design a platform that introduces children to STEM through immersive, hands-on experiences that reflect real-world applications. Over time, what began as a learning-focused initiative has evolved into a broader ecosystem-building platform that brings together educators, innovators, and partners committed to shaping the future of STEM education on the continent."

She added: "We see ourselves as ecosystem builders. This festival is not just an event; it is an advocacy platform aimed at making STEM education mainstream across Africa. Through it, we are also spotlighting the work of other stakeholders and partners within the ecosystem. Over the years, the value of this initiative has been reflected in the number of activities, collaborations, and projects that continue to emerge from the festival each year."

According to UNESCO, Sub-Saharan Africa continues to face a shortage of skilled STEM professionals, largely due to limited access to practical science and technology education during the early years of learning. Despite having one of the world's fastest-growing youth populations, the region remains underrepresented in the global STEM talent pipeline. In Nigeria, the challenge is compounded by an education system that places greater emphasis on theoretical instruction than on applied learning, limiting early exposure to coding, robotics, engineering and innovation.

The organisers said the 2026 edition will feature interactive STEM laboratories, robotics demonstrations, coding and game development challenges, artificial intelligence and machine learning workshops, engineering and innovation labs, drone technology sessions, and science experiments. Career-focused sessions will also introduce participants to opportunities within global technology and innovation industries.

Parents, teachers and school leaders will participate in dedicated sessions exploring how experiential STEM education can be integrated into classrooms to improve student engagement and learning outcomes.

Also speaking, Co-founder and Co-organiser of STEM Africa Fest and Co-founder of 9ijakids, Titi Adewusi, said inclusion remains central to the festival's vision.

She noted, "From inception, our goal has been to make participation as accessible as possible, with targeted interventions to widen access for underserved communities. Importantly, at least 20% of attendees participate at no cost, with transportation and feeding fully covered through our partners, enabling us to reach public schools, NGOs, and SOS villages. Inclusion remains central to our mission, as we believe access to quality education is a fundamental right for every child, including deliberate efforts toward gender inclusion."

Since its launch in 2021, STEM Africa Fest has grown into one of Africa's leading experiential learning platforms, reaching more than 25,000 children, students, parents and educators across Nigeria and several African countries, including Ghana, Zambia, Rwanda, The Gambia, Kenya and Sierra Leone.

The organisers say the festival continues to play an important role in helping to bridge the STEM skills gap by providing young people with practical learning experiences that prepare them for future careers in science, technology and innovation.

The event is open to students, schools, educators and families, with registration and participation details available through the festival's official communication channels.