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  • Energy Access Is Essential To Life: JMG Secures Life-Saving Healthcare Operations at Ketu Healthcare Centre with Solar Power Donation

    Energy Access Is Essential To Life: JMG Secures Life-Saving Healthcare Operations at Ketu Healthcare Centre with Solar Power Donation

    JMG Limited, a leading provider of integrated electromechanical solutions, has taken a definitive step to safeguard patient lives and enhance quality healthcare delivery in Lagos State. The company announced the successful commissioning of a state-of-the-art solar-powered energy system at the Ketu Primary Healthcare Centre on Wednesday, 12th November 2025, eliminating the constant threat of power cuts during critical medical procedures.

    This initiative addresses the harrowing reality faced by healthcare facilities in Nigeria, where sudden power outages can jeopardize complex, life-saving procedures, such as a mother undergoing an emergency C-section or a patient on life support. By installing a robust solar solution, JMG ensures the centre operates with continuous, reliable electricity, transforming power from a luxury into the constant, fundamental resource required for human health.

    The commissioning event was well-attended by representatives from the Lagos State Commissioners for Environment and Health, traditional leaders, and the company’s top management team.

    JMG Group General Manager, Rabi Jammal, underscored the moral imperative behind the project, providing the company’s clear vision, “Healthcare reflects our belief that reliable power is a right, not a privilege. And energy access is essential to life, to health care and to human progress, so through this project and what we did last year in Bariga and hopefully following projects, reaffirms JMG commitment to a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future.”

    The newly installed solar power solution, featuring a 10-kilowatt hybrid (KWH) inverter, 18 N-Type solar panels, and a high-capacity 20.48 KWH Lithium battery, guarantees the healthcare centre has access to clean, uninterrupted energy. This constant supply is vital for supporting critical services including emergency operations, immunisation storage, maternity care, and laboratory diagnostics, ensuring doctors and nurses can focus on healing without fear of a sudden blackout.

    This successful project is a testament to the technical prowess of the JMG Solar Division, which delivers tailored solar energy solutions across Nigeria, helping to build a sustainable energy future for businesses and communities. To learn more about JMG’s extensive capabilities and projects in solar power, please visit: https://www.jmglimited.com/solar.

    Otunba Francis Meshioye, OFR, President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and Executive Director of JMG Limited, highlighted that investing in community healthcare forms a core part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy, building upon a similar successful donation to the Primary Healthcare Centre in Bariga, Lagos, in 2024.

    Commending the efforts of JMG, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Health District 2, Dr. Dayo Lajide, called on other organisations to emulate the laudable gesture, recognizing its alignment with the state government’s plan for quality healthcare delivery.

    Similarly, the Director, Sanitation Services, Lagos State Ministry of Environment, Dr. Hassan Sanuth, noted that the reliance on renewable energy also significantly advances the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation.

    Dr. Mariam Oshodi, the Medical Director of Ketu Primary Healthcare Centre, applauded JMG for the donation, noting that the initiative would immediately and significantly improve the reliability of services at the centre. This sentiment was echoed by the Executive Chairman, Agboyi Ketu Local Council Development Area, Hon. Adetola Abubakar.

  • Moni rebrands as Rank, acquires AjoMoney and Zazzau MFB to pioneer a money app for communities

    Moni rebrands as Rank, acquires AjoMoney and Zazzau MFB to pioneer a money app for communities

    Moni, a Y Combinator-backed fintech that leverages community and social trust to provide financial services for Africans, has rebranded as Rank, marking a strategic shift towards delivering a wider range of financial services for communities. The company has also acquired AjoMoney, a leading provider of group savings solutions, and Zazzau MFB, a licensed microfinance bank that provides services such as savings, deposits and small business loans, to support its community-powered finance platform that will leverage cutting-edge technology to transform traditional African models of saving, investing and growing money. As part of the acquisition, Zazzau Microfinance Bank will now be called Rank Microfinance Bank.

    Long before formal institutions like banks were established, human communities relied on shared resources, mutual aid and kinship obligations to manage risk and provide economic support. This included bartering systems, communal storage of harvests and shared responsibility for debts. In recent times, communities exist as alumni networks, professional associations, neighbourhood groups and even digital communities united by shared interests. These networks provide access to investment opportunities, savings, credit and collective financial support. 

    In Africa, communities often exist in the form of traders’ associations, market unions and neighborhood cooperatives, facilitating systems like Ajo, Tontines and ROSCAs (Rotating Savings and Credit Associations) which operate as a mechanism for compulsory saving and interest-free credit access. However, these systems remain largely manual and haven’t seen much innovation in years. For example, traditional Ajo is constrained by the coordinator’s personal trust network, making it difficult to scale beyond small groups and limiting the size of the capital pool. Additionally, funds contributed do not generate returns – they support liquidity and discipline, but not wealth creation.

    Starting in Nigeria, Rank is rolling out its community-powered financial ecosystem to unlock shared prosperity across the continent. This begins with its inaugural product: an enhanced, high-yield group savings solution designed to transform saving, investing and financial progress from a solo struggle into a shared community journey.

    To pilot this product, Rank offered group savings products to 10,000 business owners and individuals already connected through trusted networks such as traders’ associations, market unions and neighbourhood cooperatives. Participants could start with as little as $100 (₦150,000) and their pooled savings were backed by treasury bills and money markets, delivering returns of up to 23% – significantly higher than traditional bank rates. The pilot resulted in ₦16 billion ($11.25 million) in total payouts, demonstrating both demand and the viability of community-powered wealth-building at scale.

    Rank is also providing a team of wealth advisors that will engage with users as needed, ensuring that expert guidance is never far away. This relationship is designed to provide a genuine human touch, offering personalized reassurance and bespoke advice throughout every stage of the user’s wealth-building journey. This blended approach, combining cutting-edge digital tools with dedicated human expertise, ensures that users have both the autonomy to manage their finances and the comfort of knowing a qualified advisor is available, if needed.

    Rank’s solutions are designed to meet Africans where they are, leveraging technology to digitize trust networks and empower individuals and businesses to spend, save, invest and manage money seamlessly, all in one place. The company is building on the success of its initial community-powered lending model to provide a wider range of financial services to individuals and businesses that have been underserved by mainstream financial institutions.

    The integration of AjoMoney and Rank Microfinance Bank provides immediate scale and regulatory depth. AjoMoney brings deep expertise in delivering group savings solutions, which will be integrated into Rank’s core product suite. Rank Microfinance Bank also provides a robust regulatory foundation and licensed access to offer regulated banking services across key Nigerian markets.

    The leadership and key members of both acquired entities will be integrated into Rank, bringing their expertise in grassroot finance, compliance and product innovation to support the delivery of a money app for communities. In the short term, customers can expect smoother onboarding, broader savings options, and improved security and compliance. In the long term, they’ll benefit from a fully integrated ecosystem, where they can save, borrow, invest and grow their money within their trusted communities.

    Femi Iromini, CEO of Rank, said, “Rebranding from Moni to Rank marks a new chapter in our mission to make prosperity common. Rank is about rising together – building a financial system powered by community, trust, and shared progress. The acquisitions of AjoMoney and Zazzau Microfinance Bank are pivotal steps in this journey. AjoMoney strengthens our roots in Africa’s powerful tradition of community savings, while Zazzau Microfinance Bank gives us the regulatory foundation to accept deposits, connect to NIBSS, and offer a full suite of financial services. Together, these milestones accelerate our vision of a money app that empowers individuals and communities to save, spend, and grow – not alone, but together.”

    Mr Ibrahim Adepoju, CEO of AjoMoney said, “AjoMoney was built to make access to finance simple, fair and powered by community. We modernized one of Africa’s oldest financial traditions – rotating savings and credit associations – and brought it into the digital era. Passing this vision to the Rank team is a natural next step. With their deep experience in digital banking and community finance, Rank is well-positioned to scale this mission to millions across Africa, making financial services affordable without burden or barriers.”

    Dr. Mohammed Usman, Director at Zazzau Microfinance Bank, said “the vision of a money app for communities is something that really excites us and we are happy to be part of this vision. The partnership is a natural fit and we are looking forward to this journey and contributing significantly to enabling more financial access for Africans and ultimately delivering enhanced value for individuals and businesses.”

  • NLNG targets Young Nigerians with new The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts

    NLNG targets Young Nigerians with new The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts

    NLNG has stated that the new Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts will target young Nigerians with the aim of inspiring them to tell stories that redefine the nation’s image.

    At a press conference in Lagos, the Company announced that the Prize,  a new category under its sponsored- The Nigeria Prizes will target emerging Nigerian filmmakers aged 18 to 35. The Company also stated further that the Prize will challenge young Nigerians to produce documentary films that celebrate the nation’s identity and reshape global perceptions of Nigeria through information, creativity, and visual excellence.

    The Prize cycle which will commence in February 2026 with a call for entry, alongside the other prizes, The Nigeria Prize for Science and The Nigeria Prize for Literature. The Prize comes with the award money of $20,000.

    Speaking at a press conference, Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, explained that the initiative reflects NLNG’s deep commitment to nurturing creative capital as part of national development.

    “The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts is an invitation for young Nigerians to own their narrative, to show the world our complexity, our brilliance, and our resilience through film. This Prize symbolises NLNG’s belief that storytelling is nation-building that every frame, every voice, and every perspective matters in the shaping of who we are and who we aspire to be, Horsfall said.

    She emphasised that the initiative bridges Nigeria’s dynamic youth population and the broader creative industry, strengthening the nation’s voice globally while promoting unity and understanding through storytelling.

    The Advisory Board for The Nigeria Prize for Literature and The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts, chaired by Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, will administer the new category. She will be supported by Emeritus Professor Olu Obafemi and Professor Ahmed Yerima.

    Professor Adimor-Ezeigbo noted that the Prize marks a significant milestone in NLNG’s over two-decade journey of celebrating excellence across disciplines.

    “The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts is a reaffirmation of our belief that excellence knows no boundary. It can be written, spoken, or filmed. It asks its creators to confront truth, explore memory, and translate experience into meaning,” she said.

    She emphasised that the Prize would align with the overarching strategy of the prizes to reward excellence.

    Joel Benson, an Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker and Technical Advisor to Adivsory Board, stated that the Prize would be benchmarked against international film festival standards, ensuring that winning entries can compete globally. He added that the creative energy of Nigeria’s youth deserves a platform that matches its ambition.

    Benson explained further that only short documentaries of no more than 20 minutes will be accepted in the inaugural edition, adding that entries will be judged on storytelling craft, originality, production quality and creativity, among other metrics.

    He revealed that the judging panel will be chaired by Dr. Sam Dede, a veteran actor, director, and senior lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt. He will be joined by Adeola Aderonke, an award-winning film director, art historian, scriptwriter, and producer and George Ugwuja, a renowned film producer who has delivered high-quality work for international organisations.

    The prize cycle will end in October 2026 with the announcement of the final verdict at the Grand Award Night, sponsored by NLNG.

  • Google Search Trends Unpack Nigeria’s Fashion Renaissance Ahead of Lagos Fashion Week, Revealing a Cultural Blend of Vintage, Heritage, and Bold Expression

    Google Search Trends Unpack Nigeria’s Fashion Renaissance Ahead of Lagos Fashion Week, Revealing a Cultural Blend of Vintage, Heritage, and Bold Expression

    New Google Search trends released today confirm that fashion in Nigeria is a powerful mirror reflecting cultural history, self-expression, and a confident blend of the global and the local. The data, which shows a massive surge in searches for nostalgic silhouettes and traditional attire, arrives just as the city prepares for Lagos Fashion Week, beginning October 29th.

    The trends underscore that Nigerians are actively using fashion as a dialogue with the past. Search interest in vintage clothing increased by +90% in the past two months (August-September 2025 vs. the preceding year), with top related searches including “vintage scarf” and “vintage jacket.” This is mirrored by remarkable growth in searches for specific retro pieces: Zoot suit searches soared by +310%, while Tube top searches increased by +140%, and Bell-bottoms saw a +60% spike, signaling a vibrant, expressive return to bold styles of decades past.

    Celebrating Identity and Modern Fusion

    Beyond nostalgia, the data clearly demonstrates a deep-seated pride in Nigerian heritage, showing how contemporary style is being shaped by local culture. Top searches for “outfit” items included specific queries for “Traditional outfit of igbo” and “Nupe outfit.” This commitment to local identity is merged with modern styling, as seen in the trending “how to style” searches like “Scarf on bubu gown,” “Jacket with a gown,” and “Sweatshirts with skirts,” illustrating a generation seamlessly fusing classic Nigerian garments with global fashion conventions.

    Footwear is also seeing a dramatic shift toward confident, classic accessories, with search interest for the slingback shoe increasing by +110% in the past 30 days. Top queries like “yellow slingback heels” and “rosegold slingback heels” indicate an immediate adoption of statement pieces.

    “Fashion trends today are a powerful digital footprint of culture. The surge in searches for vintage styles, combined with a deep interest in traditional attire, shows a generation that is simultaneously embracing global nostalgia and celebrating local heritage,” said Olumide Balogun, Director, West Africa. “This dynamic mix—from the breakout popularity of the ‘Jort’ to the timeless sophistication of the slingback—is exactly the creative energy Lagos Fashion Week will showcase.”

    END

    ——

    Notes to the Editor: All percentage increases, unless stated otherwise, are based on Google Search data comparing the past 30 days (for slingbacks) or the period of August 1 – September 30, 2025, to the preceding comparable periods. “Breakout” searches are terms that had little to no prior search interest and have since experienced tremendous growth.

    Top Searched apparel items (Past 30 days)

    1. Gown
    2. Dress
    3. Skirt
    4. Suit
    5. Jeans
    6. T-shirt
    7. Jersey
    8. Kit
    9. Blouse
    10. Polo shirt
    11. Hoodie

    Top Searched “how to style…”

    1. Sweatshirts with skirts
    2. Scarf on bubu gown
    3. Button down shirt female
    4. Blue round neck and black trousers
    5. A gel
    6. Beige shirt
    7. Short micro
    8. Jacket with a gown
    9. Jeans skirt with a crop top
    10. Short natural hair corporately
    11. Short bob marley braids

    Top Trending apparel (Aug-Sept 2025 vs Aug-Sept 2024)

    1. Jorts (Breakout)
    2. Zoot suit (+310%)
    3.  Nightshirt (+180%)
    4. Tube top (+140%)
    5. Kilt (+80%)
    6. Negligee (+70%)
    7. Bell-bottoms (+60%)

    Top Searched “outfit” items

    1. Crazy white outfit
    2. Birth outfit for party
    3. Traditional outfit of igbo
    4. Black maxi skirt outfit
    5. Black and gold outfit
    6. Nupe outfit
    7. Date outfit
    8. Etibo outfit
    9. Ankle boot outfit
    10. Suspender old school outfit
    11. Thrift store outfit

    Top Searched “how to wear…”

    1. Jean jacket
    2. Palazzo joggers
    3. Tiara with hair
    4. Suspender
    5. Yoruba fila
    6. Hoodie cap
    7. Single breasted suit
    8. Flare tiny strap dress
    9. Lime green shoes
    10. Spinning belt
    11. Milk blazer

    Top Trending footwear (Aug-Sept 2025 vs Aug-Sept 2024)

    1. Wellington boot (+310%)
    2. Chukka boot (+100%)
    3. Ballet flat (+80%)
    4. Plimsoll (+70%)
    5. Hiking boot (+60%)
    6. Leg warmer (+50%)
    7. Loafer (+40%)
  • Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF), Launches National Initiative to Promote Fermented Foods for Nutrition and Food Security

    Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF), Launches National Initiative to Promote Fermented Foods for Nutrition and Food Security

    The Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF), in partnership with Sight and Life Foundation (SAL), has launched a nationwide initiative titled “Promotion of Production & Consumption of Fermented Foods for Food & Nutrition Security in Nigeria.” The program, unveiled at a workshop in Lagos, aims to combat malnutrition and improve food security by promoting the production and consumption of locally fermented foods.

    The initiative highlights Nigeria’s rich tradition of fermented foods—such as ogi, iru, ugba, and kunu—as a sustainable solution to the triple burden of malnutrition: undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and overnutrition. By integrating indigenous practices with modern science, ADF seeks to enhance the nutritional value, safety, shelf-life, and market potential of these foods.

    Health experts, regulators, and donors gathered to discuss strategies for raising awareness, building capacity, and leveraging technology to promote fermented foods and address micronutrient deficiencies.

    “Fermentation has long been a cornerstone of food preservation in Africa,” said Zouera Youssoufou, Managing Director/CEO of ADF. “Recent research, including studies by Sight and Life, underscores its benefits. We’re exploring how these findings apply to Nigeria’s context and how we can innovate while preserving traditional flavors.”

    Youssoufou emphasized the importance of maintaining the authentic taste of fermented foods, such as the sourness of freshly made pap, while improving their nutritional profile. “We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of fermented products consumed in Nigeria to inspire industry adoption and innovation,” she added.

    Dr. Mairo Mandara, Africa Adviser at SAL, stressed the health benefits of fermented foods, particularly their probiotic content. “These foods support immune function and nutrient absorption. At a time when global undernourishment affects over 735 million people, fermentation offers a practical, local solution.”

    She also noted the high post-harvest losses in Nigeria—estimated at 45%—and how fermentation can help reduce waste by extending shelf life.

    Mrs. Ladidi Bako-Aiyegbusi, Director of Nutrition at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, called for a multi-sectoral approach to tackle malnutrition. “Fermented foods are rich in essential micronutrients like zinc and iron. The revised National Food and Nutrition Policy aims to promote diverse, nutrient-rich diets,” she said.

    Dr. Francis Aminu, Director of Health and Nutrition at ADF, cited the report “Fermentation: The Ancient Solution to Modern Challenges” as a key inspiration. “Our goal is to adapt these insights to Nigeria’s unique challenges. With 40% of children—around 12 million—affected by stunting, we must act urgently.”

    He concluded, “Through strategic partnerships, we aim to improve nutrition, reduce food insecurity, and empower communities across Nigeria.”

  • Carbon Markets Africa Summit to unlock billions in climate finance for the continent

    Carbon Markets Africa Summit to unlock billions in climate finance for the continent

    …The carbon economy is global, but its solutions are local

     Africa’s vast natural resources hold enormous potential to drive climate action and sustainable growth, but turning that potential into investment requires collaboration, integrity and readiness. From 21 to 23 October, the Carbon Markets Africa Summit (CMAS) in Johannesburg will bring together over 280 policymakers, investors and project developers from 40 countries to accelerate the continent’s participation in high-integrity carbon markets.

    Hosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with AUDA-NEPAD as strategic institutional partner and One Carbon World as official climate impact partner, CMAS marks the first continental event dedicated to unlocking Africa’s carbon value through integrity, investment and impact.

    “Carbon markets can unlock billions in finance for the continent,” says Maxwell Gomera, Resident Representative of UNDP South Africa and Director of the Africa Sustainable Finance Hub. “With the right partnerships and governance, Africa can convert its natural wealth into climate-resilient growth and jobs.”

    For Madeleine Garlick, Africa Director at One Carbon World, partnerships are key: “African innovators are leading the market now, but with collaboration, we can achieve the scale needed to ensure it delivers for everybody.”

    Turning ambition into action
    The summit’s theme of collaboration is reflected in its sponsors: TASC, an award-winning developer of high-impact carbon projects, is the diamond sponsor, joined by FSD Africa, SGS, and Trees for the Future as gold sponsors, and GIZ and Carbon Coin as silver sponsors.

    “Our projects are having a monumental impact at a grassroots level—all this enabled through carbon finance,” says Shelley Estcourt, CEO Africa at TASC. Francesca Cerchia, Global Head of Climate Solutions at SGS, adds: “We need to make sure Africa is at the centre of voluntary carbon market development.”

    Meanwhile, Tim McLennan, CEO of Trees for the Future, notes: “Farmers are the most vulnerable to climate change; our mission is to assist them to restore land and unlock prosperity.”

    Scaling Africa’s solutions
    With participation from nine African governments—including Comoros, DRC, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda—and 14 innovative carbon projects, five of which are raising capital, CMAS will showcase how the continent’s solutions are both local and transformative.

    “The carbon economy is global, but its solutions are local,” says Chidalu Onyenso, Founder and CEO of Earthbond (Nigeria). Another expert speaker at the summit, Nicole Dewing, Co-Founder of Africa Carbon & Commodities (Senegal), explains that: “High-integrity plastic credits can underwrite a circular economy where communities earn, oceans recover and investment delivers verifiable impact.”

    Driving a just transition
    CMAS features a full programme of ministerial and investor roundtables, technical workshops, and sector dialogues featuring pan-African projects and pioneers in energy and cookstoves, blue carbon, nature-based solutions and urban circularity.

    According to Gabriel Labbate, Global Team Leader of the UN-REDD Programme (UNEP), “Initiatives like the REDD+ Investments in Africa Roundtable at CMAS are crucial to bridging the gap between supply and demand and turning ambition into implementation.”

    As Daniel Okoth, Head of Carbon at SunCulture (Kenya), puts it: “We’re not just creating carbon credits—we’re creating climate-smart livelihoods.”

    Marc Baker, Director of Carbon Tanzania, adds: “We are at an inflection point in the carbon markets, with growth, increasing integrity and the emergence of Article 6.2 providing opportunities for scale.”

  • Pivot Nigeria 2025: ‘Reframing the Lens’ Inspires A Positive National Narrative

    Pivot Nigeria 2025: ‘Reframing the Lens’ Inspires A Positive National Narrative

    Pivot Nigeria:Reframing the Lens is a national thought leadership platform created to reset Nigeria’s reputation agenda. Powered by HighStakes Public Relations Professionals (HighStakes PR Professionals), Pivot Nigeria catalyses dialogue to inspire pride, amplify authentic narratives, and co-create a stronger, more balanced Nigeria narrative.

    The inaugural Pivot Nigeria Conference, held recently, brought together thought leaders, innovators, journalists, entrepreneurs and youth to emphasise the urgent need for Nigerians to own and shape Nigeria’s narrative. The conference blended high-impact keynotes, panels and hands-on co-creation labs to inspire action.  

    Urging attendees to become ambassadors of truth and optimism for Nigeria, Pivot Nigeria convener, Victoria Uwadoka-Anyianuka set the tone: “We are not here to complain or to lament; we are here to reframe the lens on how we see ourselves as Nigerians. Changing how others see us starts with how we present and represent ourselves. Our mission is to challenge the prevailing narratives, to spotlight authentic stories, and to co-create a narrative that reflects Nigeria’s true story.”

    The conviction that Nigerians must first change how they see themselves before looking for external validation echoed throughout the day, from the keynote and plenary sessions to the co-creation labs. The conference focused on culture as capital, who tells our story and why it matters, reconciling criticism with commitment, and the role of the media in changing the narrative. 

    Mr. Richard Mofe-Damijo, Nigerian actor, lawyer, filmmaker, and cultural icon popularly known as RMD spoke about the paradoxes of Nigeria: “Nigeria is a beautiful country. It is a great country. On the one hand, it can frustrate you to the point where you feel like ‘I’m getting out.’ But on the other hand, it can give you so much that you’ll be wondering why it took you so long to unlock the keys that give you entrance to the bountiful opportunities that you find in Nigeria.”  

    He added that Nigeria, as a country, needs to go back to the drawing board, to see who we are, “It is when you have articulated who you are that your people can see.” 

    On his part, Mr. Emeka Mba, Founder and CEO of AfiaTV said, “Who tells your story and how it is told is often how you are seen. Too often, our stories are told by outsiders. Building inclusive national narratives, consistent cultural diplomacy, and deliberate policies to rebuild trust are essential to shaping how the world perceives us. If you look at emerging news platforms like AfiaTV and News Central, there is a deliberate editorial direction, a recognition of the power the media wields, and the duty it has to project balanced, accurate, and responsible portrayals of Nigeria, particularly to international audiences.”

    Speaking in the same vein, Rosemary Egabor-Afolahan, Director, Commercial and Communications, News Central TV said,  “The story of Nigeria, in all its complexity, courage and brilliance, must no longer be told by others, through filters of fear or foreign bias. It must be told by us: boldly, responsibly, and completely.  For far too long, the image reflected of Nigeria has been distorted, reduced to the cliches of conflict, corruption, disease, and despair.”  

    Emphasising the critical role of the media in changing the narrative, Rosemary added,  “At News Central TV, we took a stand. We chose to change the narrative not by ignoring the challenges, but by contextualising them, by highlighting progress alongside problems, and most importantly, by amplifying voices that are too often silenced and overlooked.” 

    Pivot Nigeria conference participants converted ideas into action in the co-creation labs and proffered solutions: reclaim Nigeria’s story through citizen action; promote balanced, indigenous storytelling; embed civic education and national values in school curricula; leverage creative industries (film, music, fashion, tech) as soft-power engines; push for stronger accountability in governance; and scale Pivot Nigeria through campus ambassadors and community chapters to sustain awareness about the currency of reputation as capital. 

    Nneka Isaac-Moses, Meche Isaac-Moses, Nina Anyianuka, Temitope Aina, and Nneamaka Nwadei highlighted narrative power as a tool of diplomacy, trade, and cohesion, urging collective action by the media and all stakeholders to reclaim the Nigeria story. 

    The “Pivot Nigeria: Reframing the Lens” initiative is a call for citizens, creatives, media houses, government institutions, the private sector and the diaspora to interrogate and reframe their presentation and representation of Nigeria, and to use their everyday platforms (including social media) responsibly to reflect a balanced, authentic Nigeria narrative. 

  • Zedcrest GMD Charges Businesses, Organisations on Stronger Ethical Governance for Sustainable Growth

    Zedcrest GMD Charges Businesses, Organisations on Stronger Ethical Governance for Sustainable Growth

    As Nigeria continues to navigate the novelty and uncertainty of an increasingly disrupted world, businesses, regulators, and other key stakeholders have been charged to adopt and prioritise ethical leadership and governance systems within their organisations to ensure long-term success.

    The Group Managing Director, Zedcrest Group, Adedayo Amzat, CFA, made this call while fielding questions from journalists at the 20th Anniversary Corporate Governance Conference of the Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria (SCGN), held in Lagos.

    At the conference, Amzat moderated a high-level panel session on the theme: “Strengthening Ethical Governance in a Disrupted World: Reflections of Governance Journey for a Sustainable Future,” featuring distinguished speakers including the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele; Director, Nigeria Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC), Yeside Kazeem; Chairperson, Coronation Life Assurance Limited, Susanne Iroche; and CEO, LeadRight Consultant, South Africa, Kim Andersen.

    According to Amzat, to guarantee longevity, profitability, and overall success, ethical governance must serve as the beacon that guides decision-making at all levels of a business or organization. “When it comes to choosing between ethical governance and the immediate profit objectives of companies, the balance should tilt towards the former, because ethical governance is about purpose, and purpose guarantees profit in the long term. When a company focuses solely on profit, it is usually short-term. If you pursue profit without governance, you risk collapse in the long term.”

    The Zedcrest boss further emphasized that boards and businesses must move beyond viewing ethical governance as a mere checklist item and instead, take proactive steps to ensure it is deeply embedded in the conscience of their organizations.

    In her keynote address, former Minister of Communication Technology, Dr. Omobola Johnson, highlighted the sustained impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, the abrupt end of the country’s fuel subsidy regime, foreign exchange fluctuations, and the increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) as some key indicators of a rapidly evolving and disrupted world.

    “The definition of success has now evolved and boards are challenged to find a wider-range of factors that indicate their companies resilience, and ability to thrive which means going beyond traditional financial metrics like profitability and shareholder value, to include sustainability and ESG, employee engagement and retention, ethical deployment of technology and cyber resilience.” She said.

    Dr. Omobola Johnson also stressed that with the growing adoption of Artificial Intelligence, boards must ensure that the company’s pursuit of productivity does not come at the expense of its people. “With the advent of AI, Large Language Models (LLMs) and Agentic AI, which are reducing the need for human involvement in many tasks, the drive for productivity and better financial performance through a reduction of humans in the workforce is very compelling. As AI drives the quest for efficiency, the board’s role shifts from merely monitoring financial performance targets to being the ethical compass of the organization. Clear, ethical and appropriate guardrails must be established for AI deployment.”

    While delivering his welcome address, the President and Board Chairman of the Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria (SCGN), Muhammad K. Ahmad, OON, described the conference as a platform for the Society’s fellows, members, partners, and the general public to reflect on the governance journey so far and to chart a course for the future. He described the theme of the conference as particularly significant as it highlights the ethical dimensions of the roles of directors, members, and chairpersons of various boards in building enduring institutions in an ever-changing, disruptive world.

    Mr. Ahmad further urged decision-makers to uphold the values of transparency, integrity, fairness, and accountability by consistently choosing to do what is right rather than taking the easy way out.

  • Former Lagos Surveyor-General, Chief Olukunle Akinola, Passes On at 94

    Former Lagos Surveyor-General, Chief Olukunle Akinola, Passes On at 94

    Chief (Surveyor) Olukunle Akinola, former Surveyor-General of Lagos State, has died. He passed peacefully on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the age of 94.

    Chief Akinola was a pioneer public servant whose professional excellence and integrity helped shape modern land administration in Lagos State. His life was defined by service, humility, and a deep commitment to community and family values.

    A tribute posted by his grandson, Dr. Oluwaseun Akinola, on forevermissed.com described him as a “patriarch, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend,” celebrating his enduring legacy of love and kindness. “Our grandfather lived! His legacy will never die,” the tribute read in part.

    His eldest son, Professor Oluwarotimi Akinola, an eminent obstetrician and gynaecologist, also reflected on his father’s impactful life, describing him as “ever so unassuming, meticulous, gracious, loving, kind, and accommodating.” He added: “You have lived a good life, run your race, and fought the good fight with all your might… to live in the heart of those you loved is not to die.”

    Born on October 31, 1931, in Ipaja, Lagos, Chief Akinola’s life journey reflected dedication to excellence and public service. Educated at St. Andrew’s Primary School, Ipaja, and CMS Grammar School, Lagos, he earned a government scholarship to study at the Federal Survey School, Oyo, and later advanced his studies at the Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology, Enugu, the South-West Technology College, London, and the Geographical Survey Institute, Tokyo, Japan.

    In 1964, he became one of the first Nigerians to qualify as a Chartered Surveyor through the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), after which he taught at the Federal Survey School, Oyo. Following the creation of Lagos State in 1967, he joined its public service and rose to become the first substantive Surveyor-General of Lagos State (1975–1983). He later served as Supervisory Councillor for Works and Housing, Ikeja Local Government, and retired in 1987 as Coordinating Director, Lands and Survey Services.

    Beyond public service, Chief Akinola was deeply involved in community development. He chaired the Ipaja Community Development Association for six years and served as Director, Ipaja Community Bank Limited (1994–2004).

    He is survived by six children, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other relatives. The family expressed gratitude for his long and impactful life, describing him as “a man who touched countless lives with love, kindness, and wisdom.”

    Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.

  • Customs Urges Collective Commitment to Success of National Single Window Project

    Customs Urges Collective Commitment to Success of National Single Window Project

    The Nigeria Customs Service has called for collective commitment from all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the National Single Window (NSW) initiative National Single Window (NSW) initiative aimed at simplifying Nigeria’s import and export processes through a unified digital platform.

    The call was made by the Zonal Coordinator for Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Mohammed Babandede, during the National Single Window Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum held in Lagos.

    The event was jointly organised by the National Single Window Project Secretariat and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), drawing participants from government agencies, import and export sectors, and trade associations.

    In his opening remarks, ACG Babandede emphasised that the success of the project requires collaboration and adaptability from all players in the trade ecosystem.

    “The success of this project does not rest on the shoulders of the government alone. It requires all of us in this room to play our part. It requires openness to change, willingness to adopt new ways of working, and patience as we navigate the inevitable challenges that come with any major transformation,” he stated.

    He added that improving efficiency at the nation’s ports would enhance competitiveness and predictability for manufacturers and traders. “You will agree with me, the more we make our ports efficient, the more it will be competitive. And so also manufacturers and stakeholders will be able to predict what will be the outcome.”

    The Director of the National Single Window Project and Head of Secretariat, Tola Fakolade, highlighted the importance of the engagement as the project nears its first phase launch.

    “As we are getting close to the launch of the first phase of this project, this is very important to ensure that all our key stakeholders, really understand the scope of what we are doing and how this project is going to impact what they do.”

    In his keynote address, Registrar and CEO of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), Kingsley Igwe, noted that the National Single Window is vital to Nigeria’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    He highlighted that the NSW has become imperative for Nigeria to fully participate in AfCFTA by ensuring trade processes align with continental and global best practices. “These practices include reducing costs and integrating free trade agreements into the National Single Window system through the B’Odogwu platform of the Nigeria Customs Service to enhance effective classification and duty payments.”

    The forum featured a panel discussion on global benchmarking, coordination, and cooperation among trade actors, as well as an interactive question and answer session that allowed participants to engage directly with project leaders.

    The National Single Window platform is designed to allow importers and exporters to submit all required trade documents through a single digital portal, connecting all relevant government agencies and reducing bottlenecks in the clearance process.

    The launch of the first phase is expected to take place in March 2026, while the second and third phases are projected to be completed before the end of 2026.

  • Seplat Energy Ties Africa’s Prosperity to Domestic Gas Development

    Seplat Energy Ties Africa’s Prosperity to Domestic Gas Development

    Seplat Energy Plc, a leading Nigerian independent energy company, says that domestic gas remains the engine of prosperity for Nigeria and Africa in general – from powering homes, to fuelling industry and providing a cleaner alternative for cooking and transportation. This informed the company’s heavy investment in gas processing capacity devoted to the domestic market, including the ANOH gas plant, which is expected to come on stream before the end of the year. 

    The Director, New Energy at Seplat, Mr. Okechukwu Mba, said this at the 2025 Africa Energy Week (AEW) held in Cape Town, South Africa. Mba, who spoke during a panel discussion titled “Beyond Exports: Developing Commercially Viable Domestic Gas Markets”, said stakeholders need to ensure that the challenges in the gas-to-power value chain, from molecules at the wellhead to electrons in homes, are addressed for Nigeria to realise the goal of increased power supply to Nigerians. He also emphasised the importance of a commercially viable power sector, which is critical to achieving growth in the domestic gas market. 

    He said: “Bankable anchor customers are needed to underpin the development of new gas projects, whilst identifying infrastructural challenges in power transmission and distribution, as well as the liquidity crises in the power sector, as two areas that require urgent attention to unlock new gas projects. Mba highlighted that Seplat Energy supplies gas to five (5) power stations in Nigeria, underscoring its commitment to the power sector, noting that gas is well-positioned to provide reliable and affordable base-load energy to drive economic growth.

    According to Mba, Seplat Energy adopts a comprehensive approach to growing the domestic gas market.  “Besides investments in pipeline gas projects, Seplat is also investing in Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) facilities,” he added.

    In addition to the significant volumes of butane now supplied to the domestic market from its NGL plant in Bonny River Terminal, Seplat Energy also intends to commence delivery of LPG from its Sapele and ANOH gas plants before the end of the year. This, Mba said, will make Seplat Energy one of the leading suppliers of LPG, displacing biomass and providing a cleaner cooking fuel that will improve Nigerians’ health and living conditions. He added that Seplat Energy’s investment in CNG was to make gas available to customers who are not currently connected to the domestic gas pipeline network.

    The Seplat New Energy boss stated that the company plans to increase its operated gas production to over 1 Bcf/d by 2030, noting that the recent government incentives granted to the gas sector will aid in achieving this goal. 

    In a related development, the Director External Affairs & Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, who featured in a panel discussed dubbed “Bureaucracy or Bridge? Tailoring Global ESG Approaches for African Realities”, said in all the company’s moves in driving to drive access to reliable and affordable energy for Nigerians, ESG fundamentals are strongly upheld and practicalised.  

    According to her, the peculiarities of the Nigerian people and Africa at large remain very germane in implementing Seplat Energy’s ESG framework and affirming its commitments.

    She said: “For a truly successful and impactful ESG implementation, it is highly imperative to move from a ‘one size fits all’ mindset to a co-created framework and implementation that is focused on value creation and empowers African nations to define their own sustainable growth plan. One that ensures ESG principles become a bridge across industries and countries, driving growth and not a bureaucratic exercise.” 

    “Adapting ESG to local needs is key. Therefore, we should explore customising global ESG frameworks to address the unique socio-economic conditions, developmental challenges, including infrastructure, education and healthcare, and vulnerabilities to climate change and economic empowerment, across the continent.”

     Speaking to the company’s model, she noted that: “At Seplat Energy, our approach has been a regular and systematic process of identifying and analysing the development ‘gaps’ in our areas of operation and partnering with our communities to define project goals, prioritise resources and develop effective strategies to achieve them.”

  • Lateef Adedimeji, Femi Branch, other Nollywood Stars Set for Opera of “The Gods Have Spoken” In Lagos

    Lateef Adedimeji, Femi Branch, other Nollywood Stars Set for Opera of “The Gods Have Spoken” In Lagos

    Popular Nollywood Director, Muyideen Oladapo, (A.K.A Lala) has announced that the stage is set for the opera of “The Gods Have Spoken” at Terra Kulture in Lagos on October 18 and 19.

    The opera, written by Dr. Taiye Adeola, will feature a collection of top Nollywood actors and actresses including Lateef Adedimeji, Femi Branch, Dr. Tunji Sotimirin, Omowunmi Dada and Lizzy Jay.

    Addressing the media in Lagos on Tuesday, Lala, who also directed the stage performance of Ola Rotimi’s play “Kurunmi”, said the collection of stars for the opera was a deviation from the norm, as the audience will be seeing them in another element for the first time ever. He added that the play has a 40-page script and over 140 pages of music, while the performance will feature over 80 actors and crew members.

    “Opera is a play in the form of music and art where the singers and instrumentalists perform in a theatrical way. Every line will be acted out in the form of a song. I chose to perform “The Gods Have Spoken” because the message mirrors society. It’s a story that gives hope to the common man in their pursuit of destiny,” he said.

    Commenting on the play, Dr. Tunji Sotimirin assured the audience of a spectacular experience, citing that “This is a tiny script with a unique, significant message and dialogue being rendered for a spectacle to behold. This is to celebrate the common man’s voice to equip themselves.”

    The Choreography Director, Segun Adefila,explained that the story which is about destiny and character teaches how man can influence the voice of the gods to bring destiny to life.

    Speaking at the performance rehearsal, the Music Director, Adeaga Mofopefoluwa, said “The Gods Have Spoken is a peculiar play with a unique message for the audience. We’ve been working on the music scoresheet written by the writer and the arranger of the play, orchestrating the performance of this play. I assure the audience of a captivating performance different from what they’ve experienced.”

    The producer, Olamide Oladapo, hinting that the performance will also feature something special, urged the audience to be on the lookout, “This is a satire and total theatre: dancing, acting, singing, with actors saying their lines in the form of songs. This will captivate and engage the audience. And I would like to add that we have something special coming on stage. I want everyone to watch out and come see,” Oladapo said.

    The opera of The Gods Have Spoken will be at Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos on 18-19 October between 3pm and 6pm.

  • CANAL+ Unveils New Africa Leadership Team

    CANAL+ Unveils New Africa Leadership Team

    …The new leadership will operate as a single management team covering the entire African continent, structured into three divisions: Operations (TV and Fiber activities), Content, and Corporate Functions

    C+ is proud to unveil its new leadership team for combined businesses in Africa

    Calvo Mawela, outgoing CEO of MultiChoice, is appointed as Chairman of CANAL+ Africa, which now includes MultiChoice Group and the whole of Africa including French speaking territories. David Mignot is appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of this new combined entity. The newly formed top management team is drawn from the two companies’ combined talent pool, with CANAL+ and MultiChoice each contributing an equal number of senior executives.

    Congratulating the new management team, David Mignot, CEO for Africa, said: “We have an incredible Africa leadership team and has an exceptional track record across the continent and within the global group.  Working together, we will deliver growth across the continent by telling unique, high-quality African stories, bringing great international content to our subscribers and leveraging our scale across the global company. With seven nationalities represented, this leadership team has the diversity, knowledge and networks to deliver best in class services and content for our subscribers – all enabled by commercial and technical excellence.”

    New Leadership Appointments

    The new leadership will operate as a single management team covering the entire African continent, structured into three divisions: Operations (TV and Fiber activities), Content, and Corporate Functions.

    The new C+ Africa Leadership team is:

    • David Mignot, CEO, Africa
    • Nicolas Dandoy, CFO, Africa   
    • Aziz Diallo, CEO, PayTV French-speaking Africa
    • Byron du Plessis, CEO, PayTV South Africa
    • Fhulufhelo “Fhulu” Badugela, CEO, PayTV Rest of Africa
    • Jean-François Duboy, CEO, GVA
    • Hennie Visser, Director, Business Operations, Africa
    • Fahmeeda Cassim-Surtee, CEO, Advertising and Media Sales, Africa
    • Fabrice Faux, Director, Content, Sport and General Entertainment French-speaking Africa
    • Nomsa Philiso, Director, Content, General Entertainment, English and Portuguese-speaking Africa
    • Rendani Ramovha, Director, Content, Sport, English and Portuguese-speaking Africa
    • Clément Hellich-Praquin, General Secretary, Africa
    • Jean-Christophe Ramos, Director, Public Affairs French-speaking Africa
    • Keabetswe Modimoeng, Director, Public Affairs English and Portuguese-speaking Africa
    • Michel Sibony, Chief Value Officer, Africa
    • Karim Bouzid, Director, Integration, Africa
    • Hala Saab, Director, Brand and Communication, Africa
    • Sabelo Mawali, Chief Technology Officer, Africa
    • Tshepi Malatjie, Director, Human Resources, Africa

    Steven Budlender and Timothy Jacobs will each hold a senior position in the combined Group. Steven will be managing legal affairs for English-speaking Africa countries and Timothy will be managing synergies in Finance department.

  • With Millions of Children’s Lives on the Line, Bill Gates Says Humanity Is at a Crossroads

    With Millions of Children’s Lives on the Line, Bill Gates Says Humanity Is at a Crossroads

    …At 2025 Goalkeepers event, Gates lays out roadmap for saving millions more children’s lives by 2045 if governments stretch every dollar and scale a pipeline of affordable, lifesaving innovations

    At its 2025 Goalkeepers event, Gates Foundation Chair, Bill Gates stood before an audience of more than 1,000 global government, community, philanthropy, and private-sector leaders and issued a stark but hopeful call to world leaders: save millions of children’s lives and make some of the deadliest diseases history by 2045.

    “Humanity is at a crossroads. With millions of children’s lives on the line, global leaders have a once-in-a-generation chance to do something extraordinary,” said Gates. “The choices they make now—whether to go forward with proposed steep cuts to health aid or to give the world’s children the chance they deserve to live a healthy life—will determine what kind of future we leave the next generation.”

    This year, donor countries dealing with domestic challenges, high debt levels, and aging populations made dramatic funding cuts to global development assistance for health (DAH). According to a recent study by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), global DAH fell by 21% between 2024 and 2025, and is now at a 15-year low. With key global health funding decisions expected before the end of the year, total funding levels could rise. However, if the current cuts hold, they threaten decades of progress that saw child mortality cut in half since 2000—from 10 million children to less than 5 million children a year—one of humanity’s greatest achievements.

    During the annual event, which this year focused on reigniting a shared commitment to saving children’s lives, Gates announced his foundation’s pledge of $912 million over three years to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria’s 2026-2028 replenishment. The Global Fund is one of the most effective lifesaving initiatives of the 21st century. Its fundraising replenishment cycle ends this November, underscoring the urgency for governments to make pivotal decisions in the coming weeks and months for the lives of millions of people.

    “What’s happening to the health of the world’s children is worse than most people realize, but our long-term prospects are better than most people can imagine,” said Gates. “I don’t expect most governments to suddenly restore foreign aid to historic levels, but I am an optimist, and I believe governments can and will do what’s needed to save as many children as possible,” said Gates.

    With shrinking global health budgets as the backdrop, the Goalkeepers event highlighted the people, science and innovations, and policies that are accelerating solutions for how leaders can do more with less.

    A Roadmap to a Healthier Future

    “We have a roadmap for saving millions of children and making some of the deadliest childhood diseases history by 2045,” Gates asserted. “I’m urging world leaders to invest in the health of all people, especially children, to deliver this future.”

    Results from work by the Gates Foundation and the IHME indicate that sustaining global investments in child health and scaling lifesaving innovations could cut child deaths in half again over the next 20 years.

    The roadmap includes:

    • Renewing investments in proven initiatives, such as the Global Fund and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to help countries make smarter, more cost-effective health decisions; gain access to proven vaccines, medicines, and treatments; and focus on sustainability and transitioning to self-reliance
    • Prioritizing primary health care systems—even in the face of challenging budget decisions—to prevent, detect, and treat childhood illnesses early
    • Investing in further R&D and effectively rolling out breakthrough innovations that include:
    • A suite of new approaches to combating malaria, including innovations that prevent mosquitoes from carrying parasites and single-dose treatments to accelerate eradication of the disease
    • Long-acting HIV drugs and prevention options that replace daily pills to drive AIDS deaths down to single digits
    • New maternal vaccines against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and group B streptococcus (GBS) that have the potential to protect babies from deadly respiratory illnesses
    • Artificial intelligence to leverage smarter, faster, and cheaper delivery of safe, cost-effective medicines to dramatically improve lives

    A New Three-Year Commitment to the Global Fund

    Since 2002, the Global Fund has saved more than 70 million lives; reduced deaths from AIDS, TB, and malaria by more than 60%; and strengthened global health security. Each dollar invested in the Global Fund delivers an estimated $19 in health and economic returns.

    The foundation’s new pledge brings its total commitments to the Global Fund to $4.9 billion since 2002, making it one of the foundation’s largest investments. The pledge aims to galvanize governments, philanthropists, and the private sector to come to the table with significant investments for the fund’s Eighth Replenishment, which is co-hosted by South Africa and the United Kingdom. With millions of lives on the line, the level of investment in the Global Fund over the next three years will determine whether the world saves millions of lives; curbs HIV, TB, and malaria; and bolsters economies and global health security.

    “An entire generation is alive today thanks to the world’s generosity, smart investments, and the hard work of governments and Global Fund partners,” Gates said. “Now, we must go further so the next generation grows up in a world where no child dies from preventable causes.”

    Celebrating Goalkeeper Award and Champions

    In recognition of his continued commitment to advance the Global Goals, the foundation announced President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez as the winner of its 2025 Global Goalkeeper Award. Under Prime Minister Sanchez’s leadership, Spain increased contributions to the Global Fund this year by nearly 12% and to Gavi by 30%, expanded official development assistance (ODA), and hosted the landmark International Conference on Financing for Development in June 2025.

    The event also honored Goalkeepers Champions—experts, innovators, and advocates driving progress in child survival worldwide. They include:

    • Dr. Abhay Bang and Dr. Rani Bang (India) – Pioneering community-based health care in India
    • David Beckham (UK) – Advocating for child health and education
    • Krystal Mwesiga Birungi (Uganda) – Championing youth-centered policies and equitable health access across Africa
    • Toni Garrn (Germany) – Mobilizing resources to expand education and health care for girls
    • John Green (USA) – Using storytelling and advocacy to spark vital conversations on tuberculosis and mental health among young people
    • Osas Ighodaro (Nigeria) – Driving awareness and action in the fight against malaria
    • Dr. Donald Kaberuka (Rwanda) – Advancing global health financing for effective health system strengthening and expanding access to health care worldwide
    • Jerop Limo (Kenya) – Advancing HIV awareness and care for children and families across Africa
    • Reem Al-Hashimy (United Arab Emirates) – Championing investments in health and education through initiatives like Dubai Cares
    • Dr. Naveen Thacker (India) – Advancing child health through community-based innovations

    “We Can’t Stop at Almost”

    The Goalkeepers event was co-hosted by singer, songwriter, and composer, Jon Batiste, who returned as musical curator for the second year with the PS22 elementary school choir, and actress and director, Olivia Wilde. Together, they urged the audience to remember that while the world has made progress, “we can’t stop at almost,” which was the event’s theme.

    Community champions, scientists, health workers, faith leaders, and activists from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Madagascar, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Uganda, and the United States shared powerful stories of resilience and innovation. Several showcased breakthrough technologies already saving lives and moving the world closer to eradicating deadly diseases.

    “Every year, Goalkeepers unites changemakers to inspire and push one another forward,” said Dawda Jobarteh, deputy director of the foundation’s Goalkeepers campaign. “Together, we can reimagine a future without preventable child deaths and unlock the next wave of breakthroughs for the world’s children.”

    Event session presenters included Rick Warren, pastor and author; El Hadji Mansour Sy, co- president of World Council of Religions for Peace; Ingrid Silva, ballet dancer and activist; Krista Tippett, journalist and author; Latif Nasser, co-host of “Radiolab”; and Budi Gunadi Sadikin, Indonesia’s minister of health.

    Looking Ahead

    Later this year, Goalkeepers will expand to the Middle East for the first time, convening leaders, innovators, and changemakers from across the region and beyond in Abu Dhabi on December 8.

    Ahead of that, the foundation will release its 2025 Goalkeepers Report, focusing on the impact that leaders’ choices between now and the end of the year will have on saving children’s lives.

    Earlier this year, Gates made a historic announcement that he would give away virtually all of his wealth to the foundation to advance progress on saving and improving lives. He also announced the foundation would spend $200 billion over the next 20 years, working with its partners to make as much progress as possible towards three primary goals: end preventable deaths of moms and babies; ensure the next generation grows up without having to suffer from deadly infectious diseases; and lift millions of people out of poverty, putting them on a path to prosperity. At the end of the 20-year period, the foundation will sunset its operations.

  • National Policy Dialogue: Shaping the Future of Adolescent and Youth Sexual and Reproductive Health in Nigeria

    National Policy Dialogue: Shaping the Future of Adolescent and Youth Sexual and Reproductive Health in Nigeria

    …WHO presented a technical paper outlining its Framework for Multisectoral Collaboration and Accountability, a tool designed to help countries develop and implement effective adolescent health programmes

    Nigeria is prioritizing adolescent health, well-being and development through multisectoral collaboration, in line with the National Health Sector Strategic blueprint and National policy on Health and development of Adolescent and young people. This was the central message of the National Policy Dialogue on the Future of the Adolescent and Youth Sexual Reproductive Health and Development (AYSRH&D), which convened key diverse stakeholders in Abuja to chart a unified path for adolescent health and well-being in the country. The event underscored the power of multisectoral collaboration and meaningful adolescents and youth engagement in shaping sustainable national programmes.

    What Happened and Why It Matters

    The two-day dialogue, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, was convened by the Society for Family Health in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, and the State Ministries of Health from Kano, Kaduna, Kwara, and Nasarawa.

    The event brought together a diverse coalition of stakeholders, including representatives from Ward Development Committees across the four states, members of the National Assembly, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nigeria Governors Forum, Nigeria Health Watch, youth-led organizations, traditional institutions, and private sector partners. 

    The goal was to make adolescent and youth health a central part of Nigeria’s development plans. By working together, ministries and partners aim to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s young population and achieve long-term national growth.

    WHO played a key role by sharing two important tools:

    These tools helped guide discussions and emphasized the importance of involving young people in decision-making and programme implementation—at both national and local levels.

    Purpose and Strategic Importance

    The dialogue aimed to:

    • Build agreement and commitment to prioritize adolescent and youth health and development (AYHD)
    • Identify gaps and share evidence and key sights from the implementation of A360 and discuss opportunities for institutionalizing adolescent and youth-centred design approaches into the national and subnational AYHD Progrommnes 
    • Strengthen coordination between ministries and sectors
    • Encourage partnerships among government, civil society, youth groups, traditional leaders, and private sector organizations

    This initiative is aligned to  WHO’s global guidance, AA-HA! 2.0, and contributes to achieving Universal Health Coverage, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and regional commitments to adolescent health.

    WHO’s Contributions

    During the event, WHO presented a technical paper outlining its Framework for Multisectoral Collaboration and Accountability, a tool designed to help countries develop and implement effective adolescent health programmes. This framework served as a foundation for discussions on strengthening national approaches to adolescent health.

    In addition, drawing from Nigeria’s experience, WHO shared valuable insights gained from applying the AA-HA! (Accelerated Action for the Health of Adolescents) guidance since 2020. These included reviewing national policy and implementation plans, developing monitoring and evaluation tools, and supporting programme rollout in Edo and Katsina States.

    Dr Joy Ufere-Isikima, WHO Technical Officer for Newborn, Child, Adolescent, and Primary Health Care, highlighted the importance of integrated programmes and community-level action. WHO’s support helped revitalise State Adolescent Health and Development Technical Working Groups and develop LGA-level workplans in two states.

    UNICEF supported expanding the approach to 9 more states, demonstrating the growing momentum and commitment to adolescent health across Nigeria.

    Key Outcomes

    • Strong commitment from stakeholders to improve adolescent and youth health and development
    • Agreement to leverage on multisectoral collaboration and accountability frameworks
    • Recognition of the vital role of young people in planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating AYHD programmes
    • Development of commitment statements to guide future policies and actions

    Voices from the Dialogue

    “When young people are meaningfully involved in planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating programmes designed for us, it helps improve our health and well-being.” — Margaret Bolaji, Executive Director, Stand With A Girl (SWAG) Initiative

    “This event comes at a very critical time in our nation’s history… under the strong leadership of the Coordinating Hon. Minister of Health and Social Welfare.” — Dr Binyerem Ukaire, Director, Family Health Department

    “Healthy young people are better positioned to contribute meaningfully to national development.” — Mr Emmanuel Essien, Representative of the Hon. Minister of Youth Development.

    Next Steps

    The dialogue led to an endorsed commitment statement with a shared vision from all stakeholders to accelerate efforts in the implementation of Adolescent and youth Health and development programming focused at the subnational levels.  WHO will continue to provide technical support and help Nigeria strengthen its adolescent health systems. Ensuring that young people’s voices remain central to policy and programme development is a top priority.