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Guinness “Open For More” Promo Grand Prize Winner Drives Home ₦150m Toyota Prado as 1,075 Consumers Win Big

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L-R: Rotimi Odusola, Legal and Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria; Ayodeji Ajibola, HR Director, Guinness Nigeria; Girish Sharma, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria; Queen Thompson, grand prize winner of the Guinness “Open For More” promotion; and Jonathan Chukwunyere, Head of Division, East 4, Guinness Nigeria Plc, during the official presentation of the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado to Thompson at Guinness Nigeria’s headquarters in Ogba, Lagos.

Guinness Nigeria Plc has concluded its Guinness Open For More national consumer promotion, rewarding 1,075 consumers over 10 weeks, with Queen Thompson emerging as the grand prize winner of a ₦150 million Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUV.

At the grand prize presentation held at the company’s headquarters in Ogba, Lagos, Girish Sharma, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria Plc, presented the vehicle keys to Thompson, whose win capped a campaign celebrating consumer loyalty nationwide.

Speaking amid applause at the presentation, Sharma said: “I’m particularly excited that the winner is a woman. Many didn’t know that Guinness consumers are now 50-50 men and women. The dynamics are changing as we deepen commitment to rewarding consumer loyalty.”

Launched on July 18, 2026, the promotion rewarded 1,000 consumers with ₦100,000 each and another 75 with ₦1 million each, before the grand prize draw delivered the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado to Thompson. The campaign was conducted under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

The commission provided oversight throughout the promotion, including approval of its terms, winner selection and prize delivery, reinforcing transparency and accountability.

Mayor Esiaba, Head of Beer, Guinness Nigeria Plc, said the promotion was designed to recognise consumers who continue to choose the iconic stout.

“Guinness Foreign Extra Stout has always stood for boldness, and Open For More was our way of saying thank you to the consumers who make that boldness possible. We are proud of the trust Nigerians place in the brand and will continue creating experiences that reward their loyalty,” he said.

Ifeoluwapo Odedere, Senior Brand Manager, Guinness, added that the promotion brought the brand’s Open For More promise to life by turning consumer participation into tangible rewards.

“Seeing consumers win from the ₦100,000 prizes to the ₦1 million rewards and now the grand prize Prado has been deeply fulfilling. We are grateful to everyone who participated and look forward to creating more rewarding experiences,” Odedere said.

An elated Thompson described her win as unexpected, recalling that previous experiences with fraud had made her initially sceptical when she received the notification.

“I am still in shock! I never imagined that opening a bottle of Guinness Foreign Extra Stout would lead to me driving home in a brand-new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. Having been swindled twice this year, I initially cut the call because I was yet to recover from those experiences. I am so grateful to Guinness for this life-changing gift. Truly, what God cannot do does not exist,” she said.

The successful completion of Open For More underscores Guinness Nigeria’s commitment to recognising consumer loyalty and creating meaningful brand experiences, supported by regulatory oversight to ensure fairness and transparency.

 

How Nigerians Abroad Can Grow Wealth at Home

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By Tolulope Rojaiye

A Nigerian professional in London closes her laptop after another workday. In Toronto, a family reviews its financial plans for the next few years. In Houston, an entrepreneur considers what to do with money set aside for a future commitment in Nigeria.

Their circumstances may differ, but they face a similar financial decision. If the money will not be needed immediately, should it remain idle, or can it be positioned to earn a return.

This question is becoming more important as the Nigerian diaspora market grows beyond traditional remittances.

World Bank data put personal remittances received by Nigeria at approximately 22.8 billion US dollars in 2025, equivalent to about 7.8 percent of Gross Domestic Product. Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria also show that workers remittances reached 5.24 billion US dollars in the third quarter of 2025.

These figures highlight the scale and resilience of financial inflows from Nigerians living abroad. They also point to a broader opportunity for diaspora wealth management, foreign currency savings and long-term financial planning.

From Diaspora Remittances to Wealth Creation

For many years, conversations about diaspora banking focused primarily on how Nigerians abroad could send money home quickly and securely. That remains important, but the financial needs of diaspora customers are becoming more sophisticated.

Nigerians abroad are saving, acquiring assets, funding businesses, planning education, preparing for retirement and meeting family obligations in Nigeria. Many also maintain balances in different currencies and require banking solutions that can help them preserve value, earn competitive returns and remain financially connected to Nigeria.

A customer earning in US dollars may prefer to retain part of those funds in dollars. Another customer may be building a Naira balance for a property purchase, school fees, business investment or family commitment. Some customers may want to place funds for 30 days, while others may be planning six months or one year ahead.

These changing priorities are shaping demand for diaspora investment opportunities and flexible fixed deposit accounts in Nigeria.

Fidelity Bank Diaspora Fixed Deposit

The refreshed Fidelity Bank Diaspora Fixed Deposit proposition responds to this evolving market.

The proposition is built around a practical financial principle. Money being held for a future purpose can still have an opportunity to grow before it is needed.

Eligible Fidelity Bank diaspora customers can place funds in Naira, US Dollars, British Pounds or Euros. This gives customers the flexibility to select a currency that aligns with their income, financial commitments and future plans.

Naira fixed deposit placements are available for 30, 60, 90, 180 and 365 days. US Dollar, British Pound and Euro placements are available for 30, 60, 90 and 180 days.

The available currency and tenor options allow customers to match their fixed deposit placements with the purpose and timing of their financial goals.

Competitive Fixed Deposit Rates for Nigerians Abroad

The Fidelity Bank Diaspora Fixed Deposit proposition offers up to 12.5 percent per annum on eligible Naira fixed deposits and up to 7 percent per annum on eligible US Dollar fixed deposits. Applicable rates depend on the approved deposit amount and tenor.

Rates for British Pound and Euro fixed deposits are determined according to the applicable amount and tenor. Pricing for qualifying US Dollar placements above 10 million US dollars may also be negotiated, subject to Treasury approval.

The potential return gives Nigerians abroad a compelling reason to review how their savings and foreign currency balances are being managed.

However, the proposition extends beyond interest rates. It combines competitive returns, multiple currency options, flexible tenors and direct support from the Fidelity Diaspora Banking team.

The relevant financial planning question is therefore straightforward. Which deposit option best fits the amount available, the preferred currency and the date the funds will be needed.

This approach turns a conventional fixed deposit decision into a more deliberate diaspora wealth management strategy.

Flexible Multi Currency Banking Across Borders

Managing money in Nigeria from another country can become complicated when customers need support with account opening, documentation, account funding or fixed deposit instructions.

The Fidelity Diaspora Banking team supports eligible customers through the relevant stages, including enquiries, account opening, funding and fixed deposit placement.

This service is valuable for customers whose financial lives span several countries. Income may be earned in London, Toronto, Houston or another international location, while family responsibilities, property investments, education plans, business interests or retirement goals remain in Nigeria.

A diaspora banking relationship that understands these cross-border realities can help customers make more purposeful decisions about funds that might otherwise remain idle. 

Building Wealth Beyond Remittances

In March 2026, the Central Bank of Nigeria introduced additional measures aimed at deepening diaspora remittances and improving transparency in international money transfer operations.

As formal diaspora inflows expand, banks have an opportunity to help Nigerians abroad move beyond transferring money to managing, preserving and growing their wealth.

The refreshed Fidelity Bank Diaspora Fixed Deposit proposition supports this transition by giving eligible customers the opportunity to retain funds in a preferred currency, select a suitable tenor and earn a return on balances reserved for future use.

For Nigerians abroad, the benefits are clear. They can maintain a strong financial connection with Nigeria, retain control over their preferred currency and position eligible balances to earn competitive returns.

Individual financial plans will differ, but the underlying principle remains the same. Money being kept for tomorrow can still be positioned to grow today.

With Fidelity Diaspora Banking, customers can explore opportunities to grow their money across borders.

Rates are per annum and are subject to applicable taxes, Treasury confirmation, market conditions and approval. Terms and conditions apply.

 

Tinubu Commends World Bank Report on Positive Impact of FG Reforms

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the World Bank’s October 2026 Nigeria Development Update, titled Beyond the Federal Purse: How Higher Revenues Reshaped State Priorities. He said its findings confirm that the administration’s economic reforms are delivering results and placing the economy on a firmer footing for sustained growth.

The President noted the World Bank’s finding that the poverty rate has stabilised for the first time since 2019. The Bank expects poverty to decline gradually as GDP grows faster than the population.

The report shows the economy grew 4.2 per cent in the first half of 2026, up from 3.9 per cent in the first half of 2025, despite the impact of the conflict in the Middle East. The World Bank projects growth to average at least 4.4 per cent between 2026 and 2028.

On prices, the report notes that inflation fell from 27.6 per cent in January 2025 to 15.2 per cent in December 2025. Higher global fuel prices linked to the Middle East conflict have since slowed the decline, but the World Bank expects inflation to ease to about 12 per cent by 2028.

Nigeria’s external position also strengthened. The current account surplus rose to US$12.0 billion, or 7.0 per cent of GDP, in the first half of 2026, up from US$8.6 billion a year earlier. Gross external reserves increased from US$45.5 billion at the end of 2025 to US$53.8 billion at the end of August 2026.

The report credits the reforms since 2023 with raising federation revenues by 69 per cent in real terms between 2023 and 2025, with states as the largest beneficiaries. States used the additional resources to increase capital spending by 151 per cent in real terms over the same period. Most of the increase went to roads and other transport, agriculture, energy and housing. Twenty-nine of 33 states shifted their spending towards economic infrastructure, while real social spending per person rose in all but one state.

The World Bank further found that:

* internally generated revenue grew in real terms in 31 of 35 states;

  • 21 states reduced their debt-to-GDP ratio between 2021 and 2025;

* Nigeria’s overall public debt is expected to fall from 40.0 per cent of GDP in 2025 to 38.1 per cent in 2026.

“These findings confirm that the difficult but necessary decisions to remove the petrol subsidy, unify the foreign exchange market and strengthen fiscal discipline have raised revenues, stabilised the economy and created fiscal space for every tier of government to invest in its people.

“The dividends of reform are becoming visible. But more work remains to ensure they fully translate into better living standards for every household, starting with lower food prices and decent jobs for our young people.

“Our administration will stay the course of reform and redouble its focus on inclusive growth under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We will continue to expand targeted cash transfers, which have already reached more than 10 million households. We will accelerate the deployment of CNG, raise agricultural productivity, and improve access to affordable healthcare and quality education, so that the prosperity being created is shared by all.

“I urge state governments to use their higher revenues more prudently and prioritise projects that improve the living standards of Nigerians, and the health and education of our people.

“I commend the Economic Management Team led by the Minister of Finance and Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy, state governors and all stakeholders for their cooperation in implementing these reforms. I assure Nigerians that the best is yet to come under the Renewed Hope Agenda 2.0, which will accelerate the delivery of shared prosperity for all Nigerians.”

 

 

‘INEC Should Translate Electoral Act, Regulations, Voter Guidelines into Major Nigerian Languages to Drive Wider Participation in 2027 Elections’

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COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE END OF THE 10TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE GUILD OF CORPORATE ONLINE PUBLISHERS (GOCOP) held at Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos | 7-8 October, 2026.

 

PREAMBLE

The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) held its 10th Annual Conference on October 7 and 8, 2026 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, with the theme: *”2027 Elections: Trust, Transparency and Shared Responsibilities.”*

The conference was chaired by Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association. The keynote address was delivered by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN.

The panel of discussants comprised:

– CP Abayomi Shogunle, PhD, Commissioner of Police, Election Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Force Headquarters, Abuja;

– Prof. Tayo Popoola, Head, Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos;

– Dr. Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack, Creative Director, Gender Agenda and Founder, WEWE Network Afrique; and

– Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director, International Press Centre (IPC), Nigeria.

Day One was devoted to capacity-building for members on newsroom sustainability, artificial intelligence in online publishing and monetisation of digital media, followed by the Guild’s Annual General Meeting. Day Two was the public conference attended by publishers, media executives, policymakers, academics, security officials, civil society leaders and partners.

In his welcome address, the President of GOCOP, Danlami Nmodu, mni, urged politicians to put the people first and ensure government policies improve citizens’ welfare. He charged journalists to hold government and opposition accountable through accurate, fair, balanced and objective reporting, and called on government to sustain partnership with GOCOP and the Nigerian Press Organisation to safeguard the media and protect the interests of publishers and journalists in the digital age.

After exhaustive deliberations, the conference observed and resolved as follows:

 

OBSERVATIONS

  1. Trust is the decisive issue of the 2027 General Elections. It is neither inherited nor conceded; it is earned through consistent, verifiable and transparent execution.

 

  1. Public confidence in elections remains low. A survey cited at the conference showed only 38 per cent of Nigerians believe in the credibility of elections. Technology cannot substitute for institutional credibility.

 

  1. INEC has outlined substantial preparations, including structural, technological and logistical reforms, upgraded result-integrity systems, AI data-auditing tools and multi-layered cyber defences developed with partners including Google and Microsoft.

 

  1. INEC has expanded voter education to include women and youth, braille ballot guides, tactile posters, sign-language support for persons with disabilities, and local-language broadcasts and town halls for rural and riverine communities.

 

  1. With nationwide collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) commencing on October 9, 2026, the countdown to the general elections has begun.

 

  1. The media can make or mar the elections. Objectivity is therefore a national obligation. The media cannot be gagged and will report what happens, including any malpractice.

 

  1. The law on reporting results remains unsettled. Section 60 of the Electoral Act 2026 governs announcement of results by INEC, while Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees freedom to receive and impart information. How both apply to exit polls, projections and independent tallies is yet to be judicially determined.

 

  1. No right is absolute. Freedom to disseminate information carries a duty to verify first.

 

  1. Information disorder — fake news, unverified leaks, synthetic media and AI-generated deepfakes — is a direct threat to the polls. It inflames division and depresses turnout, and retractions rarely repair the damage.

 

  1. Commercial and ownership pressures distort coverage. Clickbait economics rewards speed over accuracy, while proprietorial interests compromise election reporting.

 

  1. Electoral laws exclude many citizens by language. With about 250 ethnic groups, Nigeria still publishes electoral laws and guidelines only in English.

 

  1. Election security has improved. The Nigeria Police Force reported relatively peaceful polls since February 2026 with no shootings, attributing this to intelligence-led operations.

 

  1. Accountability remains weak. Electoral offenders are seldom prosecuted, emboldening impunity.

 

  1. Inclusion of women remains largely performative. Opaque consensus arrangements in candidate selection systematically exclude women, and current trends suggest fewer women may be elected in 2027.

 

  1. Citizens are shareholders in Nigeria. Yet many abstain on election day and protest afterwards.

 

  1. The cost of living is the leading issue on the ballot, but conflicting narratives on fuel subsidy removal have left voters unclear about candidates’ positions. The conference noted Executive Order 9 on NNPC Limited and the argument that Nigerian crude should cost Nigerians less than external buyers.

 

  1. Elections are national infrastructure. Botswana’s 2024 transition, where the Botswana Democratic Party handed over power after 58 years, shows what trusted institutions make possible in Africa.

 

RESOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

  1. To the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC):
  2. Match assurances with verifiable delivery by publishing clear, timely information on logistics, technology tests and result management at every stage.

 

  1. Immediately activate the proposed Digital Media Fact-Verification Channel to give editors real-time access to confirm field reports, security incidents and technical issues before publication.

 

iii. Translate the Electoral Act, regulations and voter guidelines into major Nigerian languages and sustain accessible formats for persons with disabilities.

 

  1. Work with prosecuting authorities to prosecute electoral offenders and make outcomes public.

 

  1. To GOCOP Members and the Wider Media:
  2. The Guild welcomes the three-point pact proposed by INEC on fact-verification, editorial self-regulation and voter education. The Executive Council will engage INEC on implementation without prejudice to editorial independence.

 

  1. Members shall publish only verified election information. Unverified polling-unit results, altered result sheets and inflammatory speculations have no place on GOCOP platforms. Breaches will be sanctioned under the Guild’s code.

 

iii. Members shall prioritise accuracy over speed, reject clickbait, and insulate election coverage from proprietorial and partisan interests.

 

  1. Where operational delays occur, members shall report them with context and official verification, not as proof of systemic collapse.

 

  1. Members shall actively support voter education, starting with accurate information on PVC collection venues, hours and requirements.

 

  1. The Nigeria Union of Journalists, GOCOP and other media bodies should seek judicial interpretation of Section 60 of the Electoral Act 2026 vis-à-vis Section 39 of the Constitution on what the media may lawfully report regarding exit polls, projections and results.

 

  1. To the National Assembly and Federal Government:
  2. The National Assembly should enact legislation that deliberately increases women’s participation and representation in the electoral process.

 

  1. The Federal Government and relevant agencies should provide a clear, authoritative account of fuel subsidy policy and domestic crude pricing to enable informed voter decisions.

 

  1. To Political Parties and Candidates:
  2. Parties should conduct open and transparent candidate selection and end opaque consensus arrangements that exclude women.

 

  1. Candidates should campaign on issues, particularly the cost of living, and refrain from disinformation and incitement.

 

  1. To Security Agencies:

The Police and sister agencies should sustain lawful, intelligence-led and non-partisan election security through the 2027 polls.

 

  1. To Citizens:
  2. Nigerians should collect their PVCs, vote, and clearly define what they want their representatives to stand for.

 

  1. Citizens should verify information before sharing and hold institutions and officeholders accountable throughout the electoral cycle.

 

CONCLUSION AND APPRECIATION

The conference affirmed that credible elections in 2027 are a shared responsibility of INEC, security agencies, political actors, the media and citizens. GOCOP commits its 127 member publications to verified, fair and responsible coverage before, during and after the polls.

The Guild thanks the keynote speaker, the conference chairman, the Governor of Imo State and panelists for their contributions, as well as partners and sponsors in the public and private sectors for supporting a decade of the GOCOP Annual Conference.

 

Issued in Lagos on 10th October, 2026.

 

Signed:

Danlami Nmodu, mni

President, Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP)

 

Sufuyan Ojeifo

General Secretary, Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP)

 

OPay Plans IPO in US, Listing on NGX to Empower Nigerian Investors

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The prospect of Nigerian investors owning a stake in OPay, one of Africa’s leading fintech companies, has gained fresh momentum following reports of the company’s plans for an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in the United States and a potential listing on Nigerian Exchange (NGX).

The development comes barely two months after the Board and Management of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), led by its Chairman, Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, and Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Temi Popoola, met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where they advocated a deliberate national strategy to encourage leading Nigerian businesses, particularly technology companies, to list domestically or pursue dual listings.

During the August 6 engagement, Popoola specifically identified OPay among the major fintech companies whose participation in the domestic capital market could broaden investment opportunities for Nigerians.

His proposition was anchored on a broader ambition: ensuring that companies generating significant economic value from Nigeria also provide opportunities for domestic investors to participate in their growth and long-term wealth creation.

Popoola has consistently advocated moving Nigerians beyond their roles as consumers, employees and users of services to become shareholders in the businesses driving economic growth. For a company such as OPay, whose growth is supported by a substantial Nigerian customer base, a domestic listing could provide an opportunity for its users to participate in its ownership and share in the value it creates.

Kwairanga has emphasised the capital market’s role as a critical national platform for financing enterprise, supporting industrialisation and driving inclusive prosperity. From this perspective, attracting leading Nigerian businesses to the Exchange is not merely about increasing listings; it is about mobilising long-term capital to support business growth while strengthening the link between corporate success and national economic development.

That proposition has assumed greater significance following OPay’s reported IPO plans. While its proposed US IPO represents an important step towards accessing international capital, a potential secondary listing on NGX could create an additional pathway for Nigerian investors to participate in the company’s growth, subject to regulatory approvals and market conditions.

The potential significance extends beyond OPay. Nigeria has produced several technology-driven businesses with substantial operations, customer bases and economic footprints, yet opportunities for domestic investors to participate in their ownership remain limited. Encouraging these businesses to access the Nigerian capital market could help bridge that gap, deepen market liquidity, broaden the Exchange’s sectoral representation and connect more Nigerians to the wealth generated by the country’s expanding digital economy.

For NGX Group, the development reinforces the relevance of its ongoing engagement with policymakers, regulators and corporate leaders to position the capital market as a central platform for long-term capital formation. The Group’s agenda goes beyond attracting new listings to building a market capable of supporting enterprise growth, mobilising domestic and international capital, and expanding public participation in Nigeria’s economic development.

OPay’s proposed secondary listing remains subject to the necessary approvals and commercial considerations. Nevertheless, the development brings renewed attention to a central message from NGX Group’s engagement with President Tinubu: Nigeria’s ambition to build a globally competitive economy must be matched by opportunities for Nigerians to invest in the businesses driving that growth.

As more Nigerian-focused companies pursue international expansion and access to global capital, the opportunity is to ensure that their success also translates into broader domestic ownership, deeper capital markets and more inclusive wealth creation.

 

Philanthropist Revives Critical Thinking with South-East Campus Debate Oct 17

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Dr. Ikenna Okafor, a philanthropist and businessman says the South-East Campus Debate, Anambra edition, will sharpen youths’ critical thinking, persuasive skills and intellectual capacity to contribute meaningfully to national development.

Okafor said this at a news conference in Awka on Saturday ahead of the competition scheduled for October 17.

He said the initiative would encourage university students to engage in meaningful discussions on issues affecting their future and revive the culture of intellectual debates in tertiary institutions.

“In tandem with my dream that our students, the leaders of tomorrow, should spare a good portion of their time discussing matters that affect our future, we decided to engage their intellect in this direction.

“It is good to love arts and entertainment, but we need to feed the minds of our youths with intellectual discussions to help them determine their future,” he said.

Okafor said all accredited universities in Anambra had been invited to participate in the competition.

The preliminary rounds would hold on October 17 and 18 while the grand finale was scheduled for October 31.

He said the competition would feature various topics, with monetary prizes of up to N1 million for the champions.

The sponsor said the initiative was funded through his companies, Keves Global Leasing Limited and Ideal Agro Allied Produce Limited, makers of Afrirootz Foods, alongside the Idi Ezeani Nzekwuabuo Foundation.

He said the Foundation was established in honour of his late father, Chief Paulinus Okafor, to support pupils, students, persons living with sickle cell disease, blind students and widows.

According to him, the Foundation also contributes to development in schools in Akwaeze and other communities where necessary in the State.

Okafor expressed appreciation to Mac Clem Marketing for introducing the idea, describing the competition as the beginning of a project expected to expand in subsequent editions.

Also speaking, Dr. Esther Okafor, wife of the sponsor, urged university students to participate actively in the competition.

“This is a programme that will help build right-thinking and solution-oriented youths with a can-do spirit to drive the desired change in society,” she said.

BBNaija: ARP Report Examines a Decade of Fame, Controversy, Commercial Value

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New Africa Reputation Pulse report examines a decade of popularity, commercial influence, public controversy and the future of Nigeria’s biggest reality television franchise.

Big Brother Naija has grown from a reality television programme into one of Nigeria’s most recognisable entertainment properties, attracting massive audience participation, major sponsorship interest and public debate that extends well beyond the television screen. But as the franchise looks towards its next season, an important question remains: does sustained attention translate into lasting reputation, public trust and commercial value?

A new report by Africa Reputation Pulse (ARP), titled Beyond the Hype: Big Brother Naija Reputation Intelligence 2026, examines that question through a historical and evidence led assessment of the franchise, tracing its development from its original 2006 edition through the reboot era and the conclusion of Season 11 in October 2026.

The report examines the relationship between BBNaija’s cultural influence, audience participation, sponsor activity, public controversies, talent development and the structural pressures shaping its future. It also evaluates the difference between what the available evidence establishes and what remains unverified in the public domain.

One of its central findings is that audience attention and reputation strength are not the same thing. A programme can command enormous participation and remain commercially influential while facing questions about transparency, conduct, audience fatigue and the long-term value delivered to stakeholders.

The Numbers Tell a Bigger Story

The report traces the scale of BBNaija’s growth through publicly reported milestones. The organiser announced voting figures rose from 170 million in 2018 to 1.53 billion in 2023, while the headline prize package reached a reported ₦160 million in 2026.

Season 11, themed Show Ya Sef, ran from July 26 to October 4, 2026, featuring 24 housemates and ending with Temi Nkem emerging as winner.

Yet the research finds that the franchise’s story is no longer defined by scale alone. Across the decade, the dominant media narratives evolved from morality and regulation disputes to record breaking participation and commercial growth, before questions of fairness, fatigue and platform economics became more prominent in the 2025 and 2026 coverage.

Five Findings That Stand Out

  • Popularity remains a major asset, but transparency is becoming more important.
    BBNaija has demonstrated its ability to mobilise large scale public participation. However, the report notes that season wide voting totals have not been consistently published across recent editions. The absence of publicly available, comparable figures limits independent assessment of audience participation over time.
  • Sponsorship visibility is clear, but return on investment is not.
    The report documents sustained sponsor interest and changes in leading sponsor categories over the years. However, sponsorship fees and independently verifiable return on investment figures were not established in the public evidence reviewed. Brand presence should therefore not automatically be treated as proof of commercial effectiveness.
  • The reputation conversation has shifted.
    While earlier years were shaped by morality debates and regulatory challenges, more recent coverage has increasingly included questions about fairness, contestant conduct, audience fatigue and the economics of content distribution. These narratives create a different set of strategic questions for the franchise and its commercial partners.
  • The franchise’s talent development legacy is an important reputational asset.
    The research identifies documented post show activity among former winners and the wider talent pathway into music, film, fashion, aviation and business. This is an important part of BBNaija’s broader cultural value, although the strength and durability of individual outcomes vary.
  • The next season faces a trust challenge, not simply a scale challenge.
    The report argues that increasing the prize pool or generating another burst of public attention may not, by itself, resolve questions about credibility, contestant welfare, conduct and the evidence available to assess performance.

The Business Question Behind The Entertainment

For broadcasters, sponsors, advertisers, talent managers and the wider entertainment industry, BBNaija offers a useful case study in the difference between visibility and sustainable value.

A large audience can make a programme culturally influential. It does not, on its own, establish audience loyalty, sponsor return, public trust or long-term reputation resilience. These require different forms of evidence and should be assessed separately.

The report also considers the changing distribution environment, including the closure of Showmax in April 2026 and the pressures facing subscription-based entertainment. In a market where audiences have more ways to spend their attention, the ability to retain cultural relevance and demonstrate value to commercial partners becomes increasingly important.

According to Philip Odiakose, Lead Analyst at Africa Reputation Pulse, the report is intended to move the conversation beyond fan reactions and headline moments.

“The question is not whether Big Brother Naija attracts attention. The evidence of its cultural reach is clear. The more important question is what that attention builds over time: trust, commercial value, talent development and a reputation capable of withstanding controversy. Those are different outcomes, and they should not be treated as interchangeable.”

The report distinguishes established facts, claims attributed to published sources, analyst interpretations and matters that could not be publicly verified.

What Does This Mean For Season 12?

The report identifies several priorities for the franchise’s next edition: greater transparency around audited voting totals, a clearly communicated contestant welfare and conduct protocol, and a publicly documented register of sponsor and prize fulfilment.

These recommendations are intended to strengthen the evidence available to viewers, sponsors and other stakeholders to assess the programme’s integrity and longer-term performance.

The findings also raise a wider question for the African entertainment industry: as reality television becomes more competitive and audience attention becomes harder to retain, how should success be measured beyond ratings, votes, social media conversations and prize announcements?

Beyond the Hype: Big Brother Naija Reputation Intelligence 2026 is the latest research release from Africa Reputation Pulse, an Africa focused independent reputation intelligence gathering and strategic audit infrastructure.

The report examines BBNaija’s historical trajectory, Season 11, sponsorship, talent outcomes, public controversies, competitive pressures and reputation risks, using publicly accessible sources and a transparent evidence framework.

Readers, media professionals, researchers, sponsors and entertainment industry stakeholders are invited to review the report and engage with its findings.

About Africa Reputation Pulse

Africa Reputation Pulse (ARP) is an Africa focused independent reputation intelligence gathering and strategic audit infrastructure that examines how organisations, institutions, public figures and sectors are represented, perceived and discussed across public information environments.

Nigeria, Other African Nations Expand Local Defence Production to Save Foreign Currency

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  • Major arms imports to sub-Saharan Africa rose 13% by volume between 2016–2020 and 2021–2025, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), highlighting the region’s continued reliance on foreign military suppliers.
  • Morocco, Nigeria and Burkina Faso are expanding domestic defence manufacturing to attract investment, create jobs, conserve foreign currency and reduce exposure to global supply chain disruptions.
  • South Africa exported 10.1 billion Rand worth of defence products in 2025, including 4.8 billion rand in ammunition, demonstrating the industry’s export potential despite high production costs and technological challenges.

From Morocco to Burkina Faso and Nigeria, African governments are expanding domestic defence manufacturing to retain more military procurement spending within their economies. Local production could create jobs, support suppliers, conserve foreign currency and generate export revenue.

Moroccan Military Industry (MMI) plans to deliver its first turrets to Morocco’s armed forces in March 2027, its chief executive told Reuters on October 8. The company will supply the equipment for armoured vehicles that India’s Tata assembles in Morocco. MMI is also developing an ammunition factory in Sidi Yahya, north of Rabat.

Attracting Investment and Conserving Foreign Currency

Morocco introduced legislation in 2020 to regulate military equipment production by domestic and foreign investors. In June 2024, the Council of Ministers approved the establishment of two industrial zones dedicated to defence equipment, weapons and ammunition.

The strategy focuses on “attracting foreign investment and localising military-related technologies,” Abdeltif Loudyi, Minister Delegate in charge of the National Defence Administration, said on October 7.

Tata inaugurated its Moroccan factory in September 2025, with plans to create 90 direct jobs and 250 indirect jobs. The project aims to increase the share of locally sourced components from 35% at launch to 50% through workforce training and the integration of Moroccan suppliers.

Nigeria is pursuing a similar strategy. The country’s 2023 Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act seeks to attract private investment into defence research and manufacturing. Authorities established DICON in 1964 to produce weapons and ammunition.

“By localising production, we save foreign exchange currently lost to imports, which account for more than 95% of security equipment in Africa, and we also reduce our vulnerability to supply chain disruptions and geopolitical pressures,” lawmaker Babajimi Benson, who sponsored the legislation, said in March 2026.

Established Manufacturers Show Economic Benefits

Benson also highlighted the potential for local manufacturing to reduce supply chain vulnerabilities and expand defence exports across West Africa.

South Africa already demonstrates the sector’s export potential. In September 2026, Trade Minister Parks Tau reported that the country exported 10.1 billion rand in defence products in 2025, including 4.8 billion rand in ammunition.

The industry also supports employment and domestic supply chains. Rheinmetall Denel Munition, a joint venture between Germany’s Rheinmetall and South African state-owned defence group Denel, employed approximately 2,500 people and worked with 1,500 direct suppliers, according to figures released in September 2025.

Egypt, another established defence manufacturer, illustrates how public procurement can support technology transfers and local industrial capabilities.

The country ordered four Gowind corvettes from French naval defence manufacturer Naval Group and built three of them in Alexandria through a technology transfer agreement.

Maintenance contracts can extend these economic benefits beyond the initial manufacturing phase. In December 2025, Naval Group announced a five-year extension of its maintenance contract covering seven Egyptian naval vessels, including the four Gowind corvettes.

The company also outlined plans to recruit additional staff in Egypt and said it was holding discussions with local suppliers about their participation in maintenance operations.

Cutting Production Costs and Adapting to Emerging Threats

In Burkina Faso, President Ibrahim Traoré has emphasised affordability and the need to adapt military equipment to local operating conditions.

In September 2026, Traoré said imported armoured vehicles cost nearly CFA500 million ($855,000) each and claimed that Burkina Faso had produced approximately 300 Nanga vehicles domestically.

Authorities describe the Nanga vehicles as locally modified and armoured pickup trucks, reflecting efforts to develop equipment suited to the country’s operational needs. However, available cost and performance data do not provide enough evidence to quantify the savings from domestic production.

Local assembly also remains dependent on imported engines, electronic systems and other components. Governments must therefore weigh potential economic benefits against factory construction costs, technology acquisition expenses and public subsidies.

Long-term financial sustainability presents another challenge. In November 2025, South Africa’s Denel, which had faced financial and governance difficulties, stressed that its recovery depended on securing sufficient orders and maintaining enough liquidity to fulfil them.

Meanwhile, African defence manufacturers must adapt to changing battlefield requirements, particularly the growing use of drones.

South African company Milkor manufactures the Milkor 380 drone in Cape Town for surveillance and combat missions. In Morocco, MMI is developing an anti-drone version of its turret and plans to manufacture its ammunition locally.

These developments highlight the need for sustained research investment and technological adaptation.

Ultimately, African governments will need to assess more than factory openings to determine whether domestic defence manufacturing delivers lasting economic benefits.

Actual deliveries, production costs, orders placed with local suppliers, and the ability to maintain and upgrade equipment will provide clearer measures of industrial competitiveness and long-term returns. 

Credit: Emiliano Tossou

Fatima Dangote: The Anointed Heiress of Dangote Refinery?

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  • A lawyer by training, Fatima Aliko-Dangote ran businesses of her own before taking commercial roles in the family group.
  • Since February 2026, she has led commercial operations for the group’s oil and gas businesses, including the Lagos refinery.
  • The refinery guides to a gross refining margin of $24.2 a barrel for 2026, below what it earned in the first half. How the refinery performs as Middle East supply normalises will provide a clearer test of her commercial mandate than the profits booked so far.

Fatima Aliko-Dangote oversees the commercial side of her father’s Lagos refinery through her executive role at Dangote Industries, even though she owns no stake in the refinery.

The refinery’s September 7, 2026, IPO prospectus says she leads its commercial activities and that its crude procurement and commercial team reports to her through the group structure. The document records no refinery shares held by her, directly or indirectly. It puts Aliko Dangote’s beneficial interest at about 87.27% before the offering, held through four vehicles.

That split between responsibility and ownership defines her position as the refinery brings in outside investors. The commercial and procurement teams under her group mandate help determine what crude the plant buys and on what terms, and those decisions affect how much value it extracts from each barrel. Yet the prospectus ties that executive responsibility to her group role, not to her seat on the refinery’s board.

Her route to the oil business began in law. She earned a law degree from the University of Surrey in Britain, is a member of the Nigerian Bar, and worked as an associate at the law firm Banwo & Ighodalo. Dangote Group biographies also list executive programs at Columbia, Wharton, and Cambridge, without saying when she attended them or for how long.

A less familiar part of her record appears in a biography published by NASCON, the Group’s salt and food products company. It says she ran her own confectionery business and a real estate company. Neither the names of those businesses nor their results are disclosed. The detail shows experience outside the group, though the public record gives no basis for judging how those ventures performed.

From Salt to Crude Oil

Within Dangote Industries, she worked as a technical specialist in the strategy unit and as executive assistant to the group executive director for business development and portfolio management.

She then became NASCON’s executive director for commercial operations, in charge of sales and marketing strategy, with oversight of logistics, transportation, and branding.

In May 2023, NASCON’s board moved her to a non-executive seat.

Her current portfolio dates from February 2026. According to a staff memo reported at the time, she was named Group Executive Director for commercial operations in oil and gas, covering the refinery, the fertilizer business, and West Africa Exploration & Production, the group’s upstream company.

The same reshuffle gave her sister Mariya the cement and food businesses and put Halima in charge of the family office. She also retains responsibility for strategic procurement, branding and communications, and group administration.

The memo framed the moves as part of a succession plan. Neither it nor the group’s biographies set out why she was chosen for the energy role or which results prompted the appointment.

The three sisters touched on the broader question of how responsibilities were being divided within the group in a joint interview with Bloomberg’s Next Africa, published in August 2026.

Halima, speaking for the Group, said they were still proving themselves to their father and to others, and argued that their results spoke for themselves. The interview conveys the pressure they say comes with the name. It does not explain how commercial responsibility for the refinery was allocated.

For the refinery’s commercial team, the work begins with securing crude. The refinery says about 60% of its feedstock came from Nigerian grades in 2025, with the balance bought internationally.

The refinery’s economics and planning team assesses crude grades against the fuels they are expected to yield, the plant’s operating constraints, and product prices, and those assessments guide negotiations with suppliers.

The procurement and commercial team reports to her through Dangote Industries. The prospectus does not suggest she selects individual cargoes.

What the Half-Year Profit Does and Does Not Show

The refinery made a net profit of $1.82 billion in the first half of 2026, after losing $476 million over the whole of 2025. Higher throughput helped: the plant reached full crude distillation capacity in the second quarter. Prices helped more on the fuels that matter most for exports.

Diesel volumes rose by about 62% and the average realized price by about 78%; for jet fuel, volumes rose by about 47% and prices by about 65%. Those gains came amid disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz that tightened Europe’s diesel and jet fuel market. Dangote became Europe’s largest supplier of imported jet fuel in June.

The accounts also contain an intragroup element. According to research by Chapel Hill Denham, cited by Ecofin, a $410 million hedging loss was offset by a derivative with another group entity, leaving no net result on derivatives for the period. None of this can be credited to one executive. The transaction does show how much of the refinery’s economics runs through arrangements with the rest of the Group.

The margin guidance points the same way. The refinery earned a gross refining margin of $24.50 a barrel in the first half, from $33.70 in the first quarter to an estimated $18 in the second, according to Renaissance Capital. Its guidance of $24.2 for the full year assumes little improvement from there. The commercial test is whether the refinery can keep buying the right crude and selling its products profitably once supply from the Middle East returns to normal.

Her authority also has a formal limit. She sits on the refinery’s board as a non-executive director; chief executive David Bird and his team run day-to-day operations. Her commercial mandate comes from Dangote Industries.

For incoming shareholders, that makes the terms of crude purchases, fuel sales, and transactions between group companies the place to watch. Those terms will provide a clearer indication of how her commercial mandate is working than her surname or a single profitable half-year.

Credit: Idriss Linge

Missing N17tn, $6.23m: SERAP Sues CBN, Alleges Lack of Transparency, Accountability

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The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) over its “failure to account for US$6.23 million in allegedly diverted or unaccounted-for election funds and over ₦1.63 trillion in other public funds.”

The lawsuit followed grim allegations documented in Volume II of the Auditor-General of the Federation’s 2023 Annual Report, published on 7 August 2026. The findings cover various periods between January and December 2023.

The funds include US$6.23 million in payments linked to an allegedly fraudulent election-funding request purportedly made by former President Muhammadu Buhari; over ₦1.25 trillion in unrecovered CBN intervention loans to state governments; ₦116.18 billion in loans to distressed and liquidated banks; and ₦262.86 billion disbursed under the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme.

In the suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/2450/2026 filed last Friday at the Federal High Court in Abuja, SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel the CBN to account for US$6.23 million in allegedly diverted or unaccounted-for election funds and over ₦1.63 trillion in other public funds.”

SERAP is also seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel the CBN to disclose the purposes, beneficiaries, repayment status, recovery measures and findings of the CBN’s internal investigation into the alleged election-funding fraud.”

SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel the CBN to identify the officers and other persons responsible for approving and disbursing the affected public funds, and disclose the disciplinary or administrative action taken.”

SERAP is further seeking “an order of mandamus directing and compelling the CBN to disclose records concerning the seven boxes of currency notes awaiting examination, as well as abandoned and unserviced vehicles at its Lagos branch and bullion vans at its Abeokuta branch.”

In the suit, SERAP is arguing that, “the accountability of public institutions, including the CBN, is a crucial pillar of Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.”

SERAP is also arguing that, “these allegations by the Auditor-General suggest grave violations of the public trust, the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], the CBN Act, national anti-corruption laws and Nigeria’s obligations under the UN Convention against Corruption.”

SERAP said: “The magnitude and nature of these findings raise fundamental questions about the custody, expenditure, accounting, safeguarding and recovery of public resources.”

 

According to SERAP, “the CBN’s institutional independence cannot reasonably be understood as immunity from constitutional audit, statutory accounting requirements, public financial oversight, access to information or investigation of credible allegations of fraud and other financial misconduct.”

The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers, Kolawole Oluwadare, Kehinde Oyewumi, Andrew Nwankwo and Kelechi Anwu, read in part:

“The findings involving public resources on the scale identified by the Auditor-General require credible investigation capable of establishing the facts, identifying responsibility and securing recovery where public funds have been unlawfully lost.”

“The CBN has legal obligations to account for each amount identified by the Auditor-General, explain the basis for each transaction, identify the persons or entities that received or benefited from the funds, and disclose measures taken to investigate, reconcile and recover any amount found to have been improperly paid or lost.”

“The spending of public funds, including by the CBN, must remain subject to effective constitutional oversight, transparency and accountability. The substantial public funds identified by the Auditor-General as unrecovered, unaccounted for or otherwise requiring explanation cannot be insulated from constitutional safeguards.”

“The public interest requires meaningful oversight of withdrawals, expenditure, investment and accountability mechanisms. The ongoing management of public funds by the CBN must remain transparent and subject to appropriate safeguards.”

“According to the Auditor-General, the findings in the report variously covered the period between January and December 2023.”

“The 2023 audited report of the Auditor-General found that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) failed to ‘investigate an alleged fraud at its Abuja Branch Office, amounting to over $6.2 million [$6,230,000.00].’”

“The ‘CBN internal audit disclosed that the money was spent based on a request for election funding purportedly made by the immediate past President of Nigeria [Muhammadu Buhari].’”

“However, ‘the CBN failed to make the investigation report of the alleged fraud available to the audit team for scrutiny and confirmation.’ The Auditor-General fears that the money may have been ‘lost’ and that the payments may have been ‘fraudulent.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.”

“The CBN also failed to recover over ₦1.2 trillion [₦1,252,095,444,724.82] in ‘CBN interventions loan granted to different states in 2023.’”

“The Auditor-General fears that the money may have been ‘diverted to private purposes’ and recommends that the money be recovered and remitted to the treasury.”

“The CBN reportedly failed to ‘recover over ₦116 billion [₦116,179,000,000.00] of loans granted to distressed and liquidated banks.’”

“The CBN also failed to ‘present its 2023 audited or draft Financial Statements and schedule of recoveries and outstanding balance against loans granted to distressed and liquidated banks to the audit team for scrutiny.’ The Auditor-General fears that the money may have been ‘diverted’.”

“The CBN reportedly ‘spent over ₦262 billion [₦262,859,473,249.81] on Anchor Borrowers’ Programme meant to support farmers to ensure food production in the country.’ However, ‘the money remains in the hands of some ‘Anchors,’ which ‘could hamper the intended food-security objectives of the programme.’”

“The CBN also ‘failed to provide the list and number of beneficiaries of the programme and the impact of the programme for audit assessment.’ The CBN had ‘failed to recover the money, which is quite a significant amount.’ The Auditor-General feared that the money may have been ‘diverted to private purposes.’”

“The CBN also reportedly failed to ‘account for the long overdue seven (7) boxes of Awaiting Examination (A/E) Currency Notes.’ The Auditor-General fears that this ‘may lead to increase in awaiting examination currency notes’ and ‘mismanagement of funds’ and recommends that ‘sanctions [be] imposed for gross misconduct.’”

 

“The CBN reportedly ‘abandoned some unserviceable vehicles at its Lagos Branch.’ The Auditor-General noted that the condition of the vehicles had negatively affected the smooth operations of the branch, given the strategic roles they play for the Bank.”

“The Auditor-General fears that this ‘may lead to inefficiency in the Branch Operations and Delay in meeting critical currency operations’ and wants the CBN to ‘provide evidence of disposal [and] replacements of the vehicles.’”

“The CBN also reportedly ‘abandoned the unserviceable bullion van at its Abeokuta Branch Office.’ The unserviceable bullion van remains on the records of the branch. The Auditor-General similarly fears that this ‘may lead to inefficiency in the Branch Operations and Delay in meeting critical currency operations’ and wants the CBN to ‘provide evidence of disposal [and] replacements of the vehicles.’”

“The findings raise broader concerns about the CBN’s compliance with principles of transparency, accountability and responsible management of public resources. Nigerians have the right to know the whereabouts and status of public funds.”

“Section 15(5) of the Nigerian Constitution requires the State to ‘abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.’ Section 13 of the Constitution also imposes a responsibility on all organs of government to conform to, observe and apply the provisions of Chapter II of the Constitution.”

“The CBN Act 2007 establishes specific statutory responsibilities concerning the Bank’s accounts, assets, financial reporting and management. Section 7(2) of the Act places responsibility on the Governor and Deputy Governors, including responsibility for ensuring that true accounts are kept of transactions entered into by the Bank and of its assets and liabilities and valuables entrusted to it.”

“Sections 27 to 32 of the CBN Act also define the Bank’s principal powers and functions. Section 49 provides for the audit of the Bank’s accounts, while section 50 establishes requirements concerning the Bank’s annual accounts and reporting. These provisions reinforce the principle that the CBN’s financial affairs are subject to a statutory framework of accounting, audit and public accountability.”

“Nigeria has made legally binding commitments under the UN Convention against Corruption to ensure accountability in the management of public resources. Articles 5 and 9 of the Convention impose obligations on States Parties concerning the development of effective anti-corruption policies and the proper management of public affairs and public funds.”

“Identifying those responsible, ensuring that any perpetrators are brought to justice, and securing the full recovery of any missing or unaccounted-for public funds would serve the public interest and help to address impunity for the mismanagement of public resources.”

No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.

INEC Chair, Joash Amupitan, Vows: Only Voters Will Determine Winners of 2027 Election

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Professor Joash Amupitan, Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has vowed that winners of the 2027 general elections would be determined by the votes of the electorate only.

Amupitan also tasked members of the Guild of Online Publishers (GOCOP) and the media in general to support the efforts by INEC to deepen democracy in Nigeria through a thorough democratic process ahead of the upcoming elections.

He made the declaration while delivering the keynote address at the 10th annual conference of GOCOP held in Lagos.

Speaking on the theme of the conference, “2027 Elections: Trust, Transparency and Shared Responsibilities”, he declared that INEC does not have a preferred candidate, party and that the electoral umpire is not protecting any kind of institutional interest.

He said: “Let me tell you, on behalf of the commission, that in the 2027 election, by the grace of God, what will determine the winner would be the votes of Nigerians, and the will of Nigerians will prevail.”

The INEC Chairman who was represented by Professor Ayobami Salami, Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC, in Lagos, asserted that the ultimate success of the 2027 general election would not be measured merely by the deployment of men and equipment, but also by the transparency of the process and the credibility of the outcomes and the sheer commitment of all stakeholders to safeguard the sanctity of the ballot box.

“Under my leadership, the Independent National Electoral Commission stands firm on an unshakeable promise; our sole allegiance is to the Constitution and the law and our absolute obligation is to the Nigerian people. INEC has no preferred candidate, no favoured political party and no institutional interest, other than protecting the sacred and uncoerced will of Nigerian voters,” he stated further.

Charging online publishers to be part of the process of making the 2027 elections a success, the Chairman said so much depended on the information infrastructure maintained by the media, particularly online publishers with regard to the election.”

Amupitan pointed out the importance of the information infrastructure, warning that election windows were increasingly targeted by co-ordinated information warfare, political violence narratives, synthetic media and AI-generated deepfakes designed to inflame passion and undermine institutional legitimacy.

He therefore charged the media to confront information disorder, reject clickbait economics and remain the frontline stewards of truth.

He stated that fake news, unverified leaks and sensationalised reports directly destroys public trust, incite civil unrest and induce voter apathy.

“When an unverified claim regarding electoral fraud is published, the damage to public confidence is immediate and enduring; subsequent retractions or fact-checks rarely repair the injury,” he reasoned.

Speaking on the clickbait economics, he warned against the temptation of allowing speed to supersede accuracy.

“Being first with a false story is a costly failure; being accurate with a verified fact is a public service,” he argued.

He added: “As corporate publishers with structured editorial boards, GOCOP members act as the primary filter between raw internet noise and public understanding. When operational delays occur in the field, responsible reporting provides context and seeks official verification rather than weaponising logistical hiccups to declare systemic collapse.”

Addressing editors and media leaders in general, Amupitan said as PVC collection opens across the country, “let us write a definitive chapter of operational excellence, journalistic integrity, civic maturity, and unassailable institutional trust together.”

Amupitan used the opportunity of the occasion to explain the level of preparedness of his Commission ahead of the 2027 general elections, stating that it had over the past 14 months, undertaken multi-dimensional structural, technological and logistical overhauls to build a strong foundation for the election.

Some of the steps taken, he said, included the issuance of the Revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Elections on February 26, 2026.

He disclosed that the Commission had been executing grassroots deployment across over 176,000 polling units nationwide. He added that in compliance with Section 10 of the Electoral Act 2026, the Commission conducted a three-phase Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.

He said following the conclusion of field capture, the commission completed the public display of the Preliminary Register of Voters across all Registration Areas for claims and objections.

He said: “Currently, our Information Communication Technology Department is completing the generation of the official PDF Register of Voters for nationwide display, alongside the final synchronisation of CVR data through our Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) to eliminate duplicate registrations. Nigeria’s National Register of Voters is now at the historic milestone of 103 million registered citizens.

“Having completed the processing and printing of new voter cards using our newly introduced Printable PVC technology, the nationwide collection of Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) will officially commence tomorrow, Friday, 9th October 2026—the day immediately following this conference. We appeal to GOCOP and the online publisher community to leverage your expansive platforms to educate, mobilise, and direct registered citizens across the 36 states and the FCT to collect their cards at designated Local Government offices and Registration Area Centers seamlessly.”

He explained that technology remained INEC’s primary bulwark against manual manipulation and administrative fraud, stressing that building on hard lessons from previous election cycles, the commission has instituted major structural and firmware upgrades to it technological suite as follows:

“Upgraded Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS): The BVAS devices have undergone rigorous hardware optimisation, extended battery calibration, and software hardening to ensure instant facial and fingerprint accreditation, eliminating voter impersonation and bypass attempts. The Commission has launched a nationwide BVAS audit to ensure the devices are operational and deployment-ready. We have also procured additional BVAS based on the Commission’s needs.

“Building on successful field deployments in recent off-cycle elections in the FCT, Ekiti, and Osun, our enhanced eEC8A protocol digitises polling unit result sheets (Form EC8A) directly at the polling unit immediately after counting. The scanned form is cryptographically signed and transmitted simultaneously to the public view portal, ensuring complete, end-to-end result visibility that eliminates opportunities for manual alteration at intermediate collation points.

“In strategic partnership with global technological leaders, including Google and Microsoft, we have embedded automated AI data-auditing tools and multi-layered firewalls to shield our databases against cyber intrusions, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, and unauthorised data injection”, he explained.

Pointing out that logistical failure is the quickest destroyer of public confidence on Election Day, he said measures had been put in place to prevent this.

According to Amupitan, some of the measures put in place included the commencement of the procurement and physical delivery of non-sensitive electoral materials to all 36 state offices and the FCT; the institution of a central operation activity schedule that tracks material movement, storage security, and vehicle tracking in real time across every state command center.

He said to remove financial vulnerability and reward dedication, the commission had operationalised the Consolidated Election Management Body Salary Structure, CEMBSS and the launch of an intensified public enlightenment campaign across traditional, digital, and grassroots communication channels.

“Our voter education strategy focuses on demystifying voting procedures, accreditation requirements, BVAS mechanics, PVC collection workflows, and Election Day regulations. Crucially, this strategy incorporates customised outreach networks to ensure full inclusion,” he declared.

 

 

2027 Elections: Police Chief Explains Strategy to Secure 176,846 Polling Units Nationwide

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L-R: Panel Moderator Ken Ugbechue, Mr. Lanre Arogundade (Executive Director, International Press Institute, IPI), Dr. Abayomi Shogunle, Commissioner of Police, Election Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Force Headquarters, Abuja, Dr. Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack (Creative Director, Gender Agenda, Founder of WEWE Network Afrique), and  Prof. Tayo Popoola (Head of Department, Mass Communication, University of Lagos) during the panel discussion at the 2026 annual conference of the Guild of Corporate Publishers (GOCOP) held in Lagos on Thursday, October 8, 2026. 

The leadership of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has revealed how they will secure the 176,846 polling units across the country where voting is scheduled for the 2027 general elections.

The Force stated that they would use a predictive and risk-analysis strategy to identify where trouble could erupt, which would guide their deployment of personnel.

Dr. Abayomi Shogunle, Commissioner of Police, Election Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Force Headquarters, Abuja, disclosed this during a panel session at the 2026 annual conference of the Guild of Corporate Publishers (GOCOP) held in Lagos.

The conference had as its theme, “2027 Elections: Trust, Transparency and Shared Responsibilities.”

Shogunle was part of a four-person panel including Prof. Tayo Popoola (Head of Department, Mass Communication, University of Lagos), Dr. Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack (Creative Director, Gender Agenda, Founder of WEWE Network Afrique), and Mr. Lanre Arogundade (Executive Director, International Press Institute, IPI). The panel was moderated by Ken Ugbechue, Publisher, Political Economist.

The panel analysed the keynote presentation of the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Joash Amupitan, represented by the Lagos State INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof Ayobami Salami.

Shogunle revealed that the Police have already started deployment for the 2027 elections, even as he assured of an adequate number of personnel to effectively police the general elections.

He said: “We found out that we needed to do different things. We brought in the academic angle as it is done in other countries. The Anambra State election was our first test. For once, election was conducted in one day. There was no shooting, no killing. There rather was an increase in voter turnout.”

“Next were Abuja and Ekiti, and there were no issues too. In Anambra, our academic approach was the use of the problem analysis triangle. For crime to happen, there are three factors that must come together: Perpetrator, lack of guardianship and the victim. We removed all those that were against election”, he added.

He also spoke about activating ‘Deterrence theory’ to stop people who were having plans. “In Ekiti, we knew about their closeness to Kogi, Kwara, etc. We used multi-layered approach.”

He said election security management has changed, noting that an election in only one State attracts many outsiders who could create problems. He said the Police would follow only what the law stipulated about elections, especially on who should announce results.

Pan-Atlantic Varsity Museum Makes History, Hosts First Artist Residency of Nigerian-Italian Collaboration

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Representatives of YSMA and the Italian Embassy at the Unveiling and Official Presentation of Kairos The Third Body to YSMA on September 26, 2026.

The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA), Pan-Atlantic University, has concluded its first artist residency since the Museum’s establishment, bringing together Nigerian contemporary artist, Anthony Nsofor and Italian artist, Lara Ilaria Braconi for a week-long collaborative art project from September 21–25, 2026.

The residency was commissioned and supported by the Embassy of Italy in Lagos as a cultural diplomacy initiative and culminated in the creation of Kairos: The Third Body, a large-scale painting produced collaboratively by the two artists.

The completed work has now been installed on the high walls at the entrance of YSMA, where it forms a prominent first encounter for visitors entering the Museum. Its position allows the work to remain visible and accessible to audiences, entrenching in the mind of visitors the possibilities of meetings and shared spaces.

The project takes its title from Kairos, an ancient Greek concept referring to an opportune moment – an encounter in which something unexpected becomes possible. For Braconi and Nsofor, the concept provided a framework for exploring what could emerge when two distinct artistic practices, cultural backgrounds and ways of seeing are brought into sustained dialogue.

Rather than producing separate works, the artists worked collectively to develop what they described as a “Third Body” – a new and evolving presence generated through dialogue, exchange, observation, experimentation and shared experience.

For YSMA Director, Dr. Jess Castellote, the residency represents an important new dimension of the Museum’s role as a space for artistic exchange and cultural encounter.

“We are delighted to have hosted Lara and Anthony for YSMA’s first artist residency. What makes this project particularly meaningful is that it has not only brought two artists together; it has created a space for genuine exchange between two artistic practices and two cultural perspectives. The artwork they have created will remain here at YSMA, so the encounter does not end with the residency. Every visitor who walks through our doors will now encounter a part of that story.”

The residency also incorporated a series of public and educational engagements designed to extend the artists’ encounter beyond the studio. Children from the Italian School in Lekki visited the artists’ temporary studio at YSMA for a special studio visit and excursion, providing an opportunity for the young students to encounter the artists and observe the collaborative work in progress.

A separate Studio Visit and In-Conversation with the Resident Artists was organised for students of Pan-Atlantic University and students from the Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech Epe Annex). During the session, Braconi and Nsofor spoke about their individual practices, explored the ideas and processes behind Kairos: The Third Body, and engaged students in conversations about artistic practice, collaboration and the possibilities available to the next generation of creatives.

For Braconi, the residency offered an opportunity to explore how a collaborative encounter could reshape her own artistic process.

“The experience of working with Anthony has reminded me that collaboration can be a space of discovery rather than simply a meeting of two practices. You arrive with your own way of seeing, but you also have to remain open to what the other person brings. Lagos, YSMA and the people we encountered throughout the residency became part of that process, and the work grew from those encounters.”

Nsofor similarly described the experience as an opportunity to approach his practice from a new perspective.

“Working with Lara made me think about what happens when you allow another person into the space where your ideas are formed. We did not come together simply to combine two styles; we came together to see what could emerge from the conversation between them. For me, that is what makes Kairos meaningful. It is a record of an encounter, but it is also something neither of us could have produced alone.”

The residency concluded on September 26 with a presentation and closing ceremony hosted by the Italian Embassy in Lagos. The event featured remarks by the Italian Consul General and the Director of YSMA, a presentation of the artists and their work, a video documenting their residency experience, a conversation with the artists and an audience Q&A, followed by a reception.

Speaking at the closing event, the Italian Consul General, Ivo Michele Polacco expressed his joy and pride in the initiative, describing the collaboration with YSMA as a significant cultural diplomacy project and noting that it was the first initiative of its kind undertaken by the Italian Embassy in Lagos.

The collaboration marks another step in YSMA’s growing engagement with international artistic and cultural exchange. For the Museum, the residency extends its role beyond exhibiting art to creating opportunities for artists to work, experiment, exchange knowledge and engage directly with audiences.

As Kairos: The Third Body now takes its place at the entrance of YSMA, the legacy of the residency remains embedded in the Museum itself – a visible reminder of what can emerge when artistic practices and cultures are brought together in a spirit of openness, curiosity and exchange.

 

About Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art

Voted Museum Opening of the Year by Apollo Magazine in 2020, the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA) at Pan-Atlantic University is Nigeria’s leading university art museum, committed to service and impact through the preservation and showcase of the rich artistic heritage of Nigeria.

With an extensive collection of artworks spanning centuries, YSMA offers a diverse range of exhibitions, educational programs, and activities designed to create immersive experiences for visitors and to enrich the cultural landscape of the nation.

NLNG: Ogaga Ifowodo Wins The Nigeria Prize for Literature with “Why Does God Need a Gun?”

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Adeleye Falade (left), NLNG’s MD/CEO, presents the award to Feranmi Abiola (right), joint winner of The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts 2026.

Ogaga Ifowodo’s Why Does God Need a Gun? has won The Nigeria Prize for Literature 2026, securing one of Africa’s most prestigious literary honours and its $100,000 cash award. Meanwhile, Beyond Tarkwa Bay by Peter Oghenetega Oke and Mara Mania by Feranmi Abiola have been named joint winners of the inaugural edition of The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts, which carries a $20,000 cash award.

The winners were announced at NLNG’s Grand Award Night in Lagos on Friday, 9 October 2026. The winning poetry collection was selected from 223 entries, while the two winning documentaries emerged from 98 submissions to the creative arts prize.

Announcing the literature winner, Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Chairman of the Advisory Board for The Nigeria Prize for Literature, described Why Does God Need a Gun? as a sensitive portrayal of religious and political violence in Nigeria, told through the voice of an imagined victim.

Her praise extended to all three shortlisted collections, which she said stood out for the poets’ technical skill, confidence and mature use of language. Beyond their individual strengths, she highlighted the shared themes connecting the works:

“Equally compelling is the conversation that unfolds across the three books. Though distinct in voice and style, they engage with related concerns: questions of identity and belonging; the promises and disappointments of nationhood; the consequences of extremism and displacement; and the enduring impact of conflict on individuals and communities. These are works deeply rooted in the Nigerian experience, yet they reach far beyond our borders.”

Speaking on the five shortlisted documentaries, Joel Kachi Benson, Technical Adviser to the Advisory Board for The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts, praised the films for going beyond capturing reality to challenge perceptions and foster deeper human connections. He highlighted their ability to bring overlooked communities and experiences into focus:

“These documentaries transported us into communities often unseen. They amplified voices too often unheard. They celebrate resilience, document culture, preserve memory, and reveal perspectives that enrich our understanding of who we are.”

The literature and creative arts results followed the September 2026 announcement of Mary-Brenda Akoda as the winner of The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation. Her winning innovation, GenScan AI (GenMRI/C-MORE), is an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered solution that accelerates magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The award made Akoda the prize’s first Gen Z recipient and the first woman to win as an individual awardee.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NLNG, Adeleye Falade, in his opening remarks, said the Nigeria Prizes were established to acknowledge outstanding achievement and encourage scientific innovation and literary excellence that enrich society and improve lives.

He noted that the science and innovation prize had recognised groundbreaking contributions across critical fields, including health, agriculture, engineering, energy, technology, climate resilience and sustainable development.

“It has celebrated the ingenuity, dedication and brilliance of scientists whose work extends far beyond laboratories and research papers to deliver practical solutions that improve lives,” he said, adding that this year’s winning work, focused on AI and information technology, had the potential to transform lives in Nigeria and around the world.

Speaking on the Nigeria Prize for Literature, he said it had grown to become one of Africa’s most prestigious literary honours, attracting widespread interest and providing a platform for some of the continent’s finest literary voices.

“Through this prize, Nigerian writers have demonstrated that our stories are far more than accounts of where we come from. They contribute meaningfully to global conversations about identity, resilience and our shared humanity,” he stated.

He described the Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts as another platform to recognise and celebrate originality, authenticity and creative excellence. He explained that the prize honours artists who preserve Nigeria’s heritage while reimagining it for a new generation.

“Together, the Nigeria Prizes have become enduring national institutions and powerful reminders of what is possible when excellence is recognised, rewarded and encouraged,” he said.

He commended the finalists and winners for embodying these ideals, noting that their achievements demonstrated that excellence is never accidental. Every finalist, he said, represented discipline and dedication, while every winner represented the triumph of perseverance. “As we honour this year’s laureates, we also hope to inspire the next generation of scientists, writers and creatives whose ideas will solve tomorrow’s challenges, tell tomorrow’s stories and shape tomorrow’s future,” he added.

In his remarks, Professor Wole Soyinka highlighted imagination as a vital link between literature, the creative arts and science. He noted that imagination is not confined to the humanities, as disciplines such as mathematics and physics also depend on vision and the ability to conceive new possibilities.

Connecting the fields celebrated by the prizes, he called for closer collaboration between the humanities and the sciences in service of humanity. He urged both to expand the boundaries of imagination and combine their strengths to build a better world, with human wellbeing at the heart of creative expression and scientific advancement.

Through the Nigeria Prizes, NLNG reaffirms its commitment to recognising excellence and inspiring a sustainable future.

Insurance, Pension Stakeholders:  Operators Must Deploy Tech, Innovation to Deliver Customer Value

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Business Journal
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L-R: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, SanlamAllianz General Insurance, Mrs. Jacqueline Uche Agweh; Chairman, Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Rex Insurance Limited, Mrs. Ebelechukwu Nwachukwu; Founder and Managing Partner, HRISP Partners, Mr. Oguche Aguda and Head of Safekeeping and Corporate Action at Zenith Pensions Custodian Limited, Mr. Alfred Nkuma at the 2026 NAIPE annual conference in Lagos on Thursday, October 8, 2026.

Stakeholders in the insurance and pension sectors have urged operators to deploy funds raised through recapitalisation to improve services, develop innovative products and strengthen customer confidence.

They made the call in Lagos during a panel discussion at the 11th Annual Conference of the Nigerian Association of Insurance and Pension Editors (NAIPE).

The conference, themed “Post-Recapitalisation Market Dynamics in Insurance and Pension Sectors“, also saw the panelists stressed that the success of recapitalisation should be measured by its impact on policyholders, contributors and the wider economy, rather than by the amount of capital raised.

Speaking on the insurance sector, Mrs. Jacqueline Agweh, Managing Director, SanlamAllianz General Insurance, said the post-recapitalisation era had given insurers an opportunity to develop products that addressed customers’ specific needs.

She said insurers must work closely with customers to understand those needs and provide tailor-made products and services.

According to her, innovation, digital transformation, user-friendly technology and self-service platforms will be critical to improving customer experience.

Agweh advised insurers to simplify onboarding processes and use technology to improve risk assessment, claims investigation and other operations.

She also called for greater focus on retail insurance and micro-insurance, stressing that affordability and simplicity were key to deepening insurance penetration.

“Bulky policy documents and complicated terms often discourage people from taking insurance products. Insurers must make their systems seamless and develop digital platforms that would enable customers to access insurance services conveniently,” she said.

Agweh further advocated embedding insurance into everyday economic activities, so that it becomes an integral part of consumers’ daily transactions.

“Why can’t my phone be insured from the point of purchase? Why can’t you bring it in? Sometimes, it is so subtle, you don’t even see that they pay for insurance,” she said.

She added that the post-recapitalisation industry should focus on making insurance a culture by creating products that are accessible, affordable and relevant to the people.

Also speaking, Mr. Babalola Rufus, Executive Director, NLPC Pensions, urged operators to ensure that policyholders and Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders had their funds secured, properly invested and paid when due.

Rufus noted that shareholders and contributors had committed funds to the insurance and pension sectors, expecting value from their investment and contributions. He said the success of recapitalisation in both sectors should ultimately be judged by the benefits delivered to customers.

According to him, recapitalisation should result in stronger institutions, better investment decisions, improved services, wider participation and greater accountability.

On his part, Mr. Peters Elendu, Managing Director, Zenith Pensions Custodian Limited, advised pension operators to invest in technology, artificial intelligence, data analytics and innovation to make pension services easier and more accessible.

Elendu, who was represented by Mr Alfred Nkuma, Head, Safekeeping and Corporate Action at the firm, also called for investment in human capital to ensure that employees had the skills required to drive technological transformation in the sector.

He said recapitalisation should not be viewed merely as a regulatory compliance exercise but as a strategic opportunity to build resilient institutions. He added that the focus should now shift from the amount of capital raised to how effectively the additional funds were deployed to solve problems and create long-term value.

Nkuma said pension fund custodians had a responsibility to safeguard pension assets, diversify investments and ensure liquidity to meet beneficiaries’ obligations.

He noted that trust and confidence were critical to sustaining contributions to the pension system.

Nkuma assured that custodians would continue to prioritise the safety, availability and growth of pension assets belonging to Nigerian workers.

 

 

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