Opinion: Lessons from Rwanda and the Lingering Divide in Nigeria

Opinion: Lessons from Rwanda and the Lingering Divide in Nigeria

 

By Dr. Joseph Ogundu

Rwanda’s journey from the ashes of civil war to a thriving, unified nation is nothing short of remarkable. When the brutal conflict ended, the country’s leaders made a conscious decision to abandon ethnic identities and embrace national consciousness. They prioritized unity and cohesion, ensuring that ethnic differences took a back seat to the greater goal of building a progressive, harmonious nation.

The United States offers a similar lesson in the aftermath of its civil war. American leaders worked tirelessly to reconcile their divisions, fostering a collective national identity. Over time, this effort helped to create one of the most dynamic and tolerant societies in the world, where diversity is celebrated as a strength.

In stark contrast, Nigeria stands as an unfortunate example of what happens when national unity is neglected. After the civil war, instead of fostering reconciliation and unity, Nigerian leaders opted for sloganism over genuine nation-building. They promoted ethnic and religious jingoism, anchored in systemic discrimination, injustice, and inequity. Policies like the infamous abandoned property program and the indigenization agenda were weaponized to marginalize certain groups and favor others along ethnic lines. These policies entrenched resentment and deepened divisions, setting the stage for a fractured nation.

The post-war leaders’ divisive policies created a society where ethnic and religious identities overshadow national loyalty. Instead of fostering inclusivity, they nurtured a “winner-takes-all” mentality, where survival and supremacy of ethnic groups became the primary focus. Over five decades later, Nigeria remains mired in ethnic distrust, regional hostilities, and religious animosities. The Nigeria-Biafran war ended 54 years ago, yet the country is more divided today than it was in 1967.

In contrast, Rwanda shines as a beacon of hope for the continent. Under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, the country has emerged as an example of what is possible when leaders prioritize unity and fairness. Rwanda’s commitment to inclusivity and collective progress has made it a model for post-conflict recovery and nation-building in Africa.

Nigeria’s leaders could learn a great deal from Rwanda’s example. Building a unified and prosperous nation requires intentional effort, visionary leadership, and policies that prioritize the common good over sectional interests. As we watch Rwanda’s progress with admiration, it is imperative for Nigerians to reflect on our missed opportunities and chart a new course toward genuine national unity.

I salute President Kagame and the resilient people of Rwanda for their commitment to creating a nation that works for all. May they continue to inspire others across Africa in the quest for peace, inclusivity, and progress.

 

“Access Denial to Telecom Facilities Is Stalling Nigeria’s Digital Growth” – Dr. Aminu Maida

“Access Denial to Telecom Facilities Is Stalling Nigeria’s Digital Growth” – Dr. Aminu Maida

 

Nigeria’s journey towards a digitally connected future is facing a serious, yet often overlooked, obstacle: access denial to critical telecom facilities. At the Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Protection and Resilience Workshop Series held on October 28, 2024, Dr. Aminu Maida painted a vivid picture of how this issue is stifling progress.

Organized by the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCCC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser, the workshop brought together policymakers and regulators to discuss challenges and strategies for securing the country’s digital backbone. Dr. Maida’s speech, however, turned the spotlight on an issue that goes beyond infrastructure damage or theft—one rooted in human actions and decisions.

“In 2023 alone, we faced over 20,000 cases of site access denial,” Dr. Maida disclosed. He explained that these cases arise when property owners, communities, or even government entities block telecom operators from accessing critical sites to install, repair, or upgrade equipment. “Every single denial is more than just a statistic—it’s a barrier preventing millions of Nigerians from experiencing improved connectivity, stalling our progress towards a robust digital economy.”

The Human Cost of Access Denial

The consequences of these actions ripple far and wide. For urban residents, it might mean dropped calls or slower internet speeds. But in rural areas, where connectivity often hangs by a thread, access denial can mean isolation from crucial services like online education, telemedicine, or emergency communications.

Consider the story of a remote community in northern Nigeria where students rely on internet connectivity to participate in e-learning programs. When the telecom operator’s engineers were denied access to repair damaged equipment, the network remained down for weeks, cutting students off from their lessons. “These denials don’t just hinder infrastructure; they rob communities of opportunities,” Dr. Maida stressed.

A Shared Responsibility

Dr. Maida urged Nigerians to rethink their approach to telecom facilities. While some cases of access denial stem from legitimate concerns—such as fears about radiation or disputes over compensation—he argued that these challenges can be addressed through dialogue and collaboration. “We need a collective mindset shift. The digital economy doesn’t belong to telecom operators alone; it belongs to all of us.”

He also called on the government at all levels to play a more active role in mediating disputes and ensuring that telecom operators have the necessary support to expand and maintain their networks. “If we are to achieve the ambitious targets for Nigeria’s digital economy, protecting and granting access to telecom facilities must become a priority.”

A Call to Action

The CNII Protection and Resilience Workshop concluded with a renewed commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s critical digital infrastructure. Attendees agreed that while cybersecurity remains a top concern, addressing access denial is equally vital to ensuring the country’s digital future.

Dr. Maida’s message was clear: “Every Nigerian deserves to be connected. But for that to happen, we must break down the barriers—literal and figurative—that are holding us back.” His passionate appeal struck a chord with participants, highlighting the human impact of decisions made at every level of society.

As Nigeria races toward becoming a digital leader in Africa, the challenge of access denial reminds us that progress isn’t just about technology; it’s about the people and communities who depend on it.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

Securing the Future: How Babcock Business School and ThinkCyber Nigeria are Shaping Cybersecurity Education and Industry Standards”

Securing the Future: How Babcock Business School and ThinkCyber Nigeria are Shaping Cybersecurity Education and Industry Standards”

 

 

Professor AKINTOYE Ishola Rufus, Head of Babcock University Business School, shares with Anthony Nwosu the importance of industry-aligned cybersecurity training and Babcock’s commitment to cultivating skilled experts through its partnership with ThinkCyber Nigeria. This collaboration, he explains, aims to strengthen the cybersecurity talent pipeline, bringing experiential learning tools like ThinkCyber’s CYBERIUM ARENA to the forefront. By offering students and corporate professionals hands-on experience in a realistic cyber simulation environment, Babcock University equips them to address current cyber threats effectively. Professor Rufus also explores the heightened vulnerabilities within Nigeria’s financial sector, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and proactive strategies to safeguard assets and data.

 

 

Can you tell us more about the partnership between Babcock Business School and ThinkCyber Nigeria?

Certainly. I lead Babcock Business School, which opened in September 2022 in Ilishan, Ogun State, as an extension of Babcock University. Our goal from the outset was to create a space for immersive learning, and to that end, we have collaborated with prominent organizations like ICAN, CIBN, and ThinkCyber Nigeria. ThinkCyber’s role in training our students in cybersecurity has been transformative; the results are evident in the positive feedback we’re receiving from the industries where our students now work. We employ a 30/70 training model here—meaning 70% of our teaching is practical and hands-on, while 30% focuses on theory. This model applies across disciplines, from accounting to tech-related courses, as we believe deeply in the power of experiential learning to prepare students for today’s complex job market.

ThinkCyber’s involvement has had a lasting impact. Our graduates have secured roles with multinationals like PwC, and they’re thriving. In addition to their in-class training, students have the unique opportunity to complete a one-year training stint in Poland. This blend of international and local exposure sets them apart, enabling them to engage with global challenges while remaining deeply rooted in Nigerian realities.

Cyber threats today are more sophisticated than ever, and our partnership with ThinkCyber ensures that we are equipping students to navigate these complexities head-on. Not only are we training traditional students, but we also offer executive education programs that attract CEOs, managing directors, and senior business leaders. Our goal is clear: to foster world-class cybersecurity experts who can make an impact wherever they go.

What are your thoughts on the talent gap in cybersecurity in Nigeria and Africa?

The talent gap in cybersecurity is a global challenge, but it’s especially critical here in Nigeria and across Africa. Skills are in short supply, yet businesses are increasingly moving online, and as they do, the risks to their operations grow. Maintaining effective audit trails of digital transactions, for instance, has become increasingly difficult as hackers and cyber threats become more sophisticated. Recent high-profile security breaches, such as those involving major financial institutions like First Bank, underline how urgent it is to have well-trained professionals in this space.

We’re committed to addressing this gap. One of our recent graduates, for instance, was placed in a specialized cybersecurity department within a major organization, where he is already working on threat mitigation and helping to train other staff. The demand for these skills is enormous—we estimate the market need to be in the billions. At Babcock, our mission is to not only fill this demand but to nurture top-tier cybersecurity talent that can step into any situation and respond with excellence.

What advice would you give to banks to improve their cybersecurity resilience?

As someone who teaches Risk Management, I would strongly recommend that banks strengthen their cybersecurity frameworks and continuously invest in both training and retraining for their teams. Cyber threats evolve rapidly, so a static approach simply isn’t enough. Proactive investment in cybersecurity training is essential if they want to stay ahead of the curve. This urgency is why we are collaborating with ThinkCyber Nigeria—it’s about creating a training program that is deeply aligned with the real-world needs of our industries.

 

The difference in our approach is that we don’t just train and let students fend for themselves in the job market. We prepare our students to be job-ready from the moment they graduate, ensuring that they don’t just earn degrees but actually contribute value immediately. I’ve taught at various institutions, but Babcock’s approach stands out because of its commitment to feedback-driven training and purpose-led education. We don’t train students to leave them hanging; we train them to create an impact.

 

How is your training different from other cybersecurity programs in Nigeria?

Babcock University is one of Africa’s top universities, and our programs hold multiple accreditations, including endorsements from the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other prestigious bodies like the Academic Advising Association (AAA). This allows us to deliver a program that is international in scope and yet grounded in Nigerian realities.

The difference in our approach is that we don’t just train and let students fend for themselves in the job market. We prepare our students to be job-ready from the moment they graduate, ensuring that they don’t just earn degrees but actually contribute value immediately. I’ve taught at various institutions, but Babcock’s approach stands out because of its commitment to feedback-driven training and purpose-led education. We don’t train students to leave them hanging; we train them to create an impact.

What advice would you give to the government regarding cybersecurity and education?

The education model, particularly when it comes to cybersecurity, needs to evolve. The government must prioritize investment in training and capacity building within educational institutions across the country. We have resources in Nigeria, but sustainability remains a challenge. Our curriculum must adapt to the demands of a digital-first world, and we must shift away from purely academic achievements towards practical skill-building. That’s why, at Babcock, we’re partnering with professional bodies to ensure our students are equipped with real-world skills. The government should take a similar approach across all levels of education, as this is the only way to foster growth.

What are the main challenges you face in running a program like this?

We face a few challenges, beginning with people’s perceptions. Many Nigerians view cybersecurity training as just another tech course, but we’re operating at a level that goes far beyond that. For example, we’ve trained financial officers from several universities, including university bursars, to show them the professional depth of our programs. Yet, we still find ourselves educating people about the true value of our approach.

The other major challenge is financial. High-quality training is expensive, and people often compare our program to less costly options, not fully understanding the difference in quality and depth. There are plenty of quick, inexpensive programs out there, but cybersecurity training—especially at the level we’re offering—requires significant resources. It’s about helping people understand that investing in this training is investing in their future security and success.

Through it all, our commitment is to continue building a skilled and resilient talent pool ready to secure Nigeria’s digital future. We’re here to make an impact, and we’re incredibly grateful for partners like ThinkCyber Nigeria who share our vision.

 

We’re committed to addressing this gap. One of our recent graduates, for instance, was placed in a specialized cybersecurity department within a major organization, where he is already working on threat mitigation and helping to train other staff. The demand for these skills is enormous—we estimate the market need to be in the billions. At Babcock, our mission is to not only fill this demand but to nurture top-tier cybersecurity talent that can step into any situation and respond with excellence.

 

24-Year-Old Nigerian with Rare and Life-Threatening Brain Tumor Successfully Treated at Aster Hospital Mankhool in Dubai

24-Year-Old Nigerian with Rare and Life-Threatening Brain Tumor Successfully Treated at Aster Hospital Mankhool in Dubai

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, October 14, 2024/APO Group/ —

  • Brain tumors present a significant global health challenge, with over 300,000 new cases reported annually worldwide [1].
  • In 2020, Nigeria reported 1,798 new brain tumor cases, accounting for over 50% of the average five-year prevalence, indicating a troubling rise in incidence [2].
  • The annual incidence rate of brain tumors in Nigeria is about 6.2 per 100,000 people [3].
  • Malignant tumor in the brain’s ventricles is more commonly found in older adults [4].
  • In the past 12 months, Aster Hospitals UAE treated over 650 international patients, including more than 275 from Africa.

 

Doctors from Aster Hospital Mankhool, ranked No. 5 on Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals in the UAE list, recently saved a patient suffering from rare and life-threatening malignant tumor in his brain’s ventricular system (fluid-filled spaces). The patient, 24-year-old Nigerian national Emmanuel Nzeribe Okegbue, experienced frequent seizures (up to five times a week) and had a history of persistent headaches and dizziness. After advanced diagnostic procedures, he was diagnosed with an intraventricular subarachnoid cyst (a fluid-filled sac), an exceedingly rare condition, along with a malignant tumor in the left lateral ventricle of his brain.

When Emmanuel first visited Aster Hospital Mankhool, he was still experiencing seizures and brief losses of consciousness. Medical management successfully reduced his seizures over a two-week period, making surgical intervention viable. The comprehensive explanation of the procedure, potential side effects, and complications, along with testimonials from other patients who had undergone similar surgeries, helped solidify his decision. The hospital’s advanced facilities also played a role in his choice.

This complex condition was successfully treated through a challenging six-hour surgery performed by a dedicated surgical team, including Dr. Chelladurai Pandian Hariharan, Specialist Neurosurgeon at Aster Hospital Mankhool, Dr. Prakash Nair, Consultant Neurosurgeon at Aster Hospital Mankhool, and Dr. Gopalakrishnan C V, Consultant in Neurosurgery & Spine Surgery at Medcare Orthopaedics & Spine Hospital & Medcare Women & Children Hospital, Dubai.

Dr. Chelladurai Pandian Hariharan, Specialist Neurosurgeon, Aster Hospital Mankhool, who led the surgical team, said, “This was a challenging case, not only because of the tumor’s location but also due to the rarity of the condition. The ventricular system is a delicate part of the brain, and surgeries involving this region are complex. Emmanuel’s surgery was a success, and we are thrilled with his recovery.”

Emmanuel’s condition was particularly unique given the nature of the brain tumor and its location within the ventricles of the brain. Intraventricular subarachnoid cysts account for less than 1% of all brain tumors, making them exceptionally rare, especially in younger adults like Emmanuel [5]. MRI scans revealed a well-defined lesion in the left lateral ventricle, which caused a slight shift in the brain’s structure. The cyst was suspected to be a fluid-filled brain sac, possibly an arachnoid or ependymal cyst, both of which are very rare.

On August 10, 2024, Emmanuel underwent a complex craniotomy surgery at Aster Hospital Mankhool. This procedure involved removing part of the skull to access the brain and taking out the malignant ventricular tumor. Given the tumor’s rare location, the surgery required an exceptional level of precision and expertise.  The surgical team also performed skull reconstruction after the excision of the tumor and placed a temporary drain to manage any excess fluid in the brain. Emmanuel also required post-surgical management for hypertension and was briefly placed on a ventilator to aid in his recovery.

Emmanuel recovered well after the surgery, with no signs of infection or complications such as fever, headaches, or vomiting. He was alert and oriented shortly after the procedure. A follow-up CT scan on August 19, 2024, was satisfactory, revealing a reduction in fluid and air pockets in the brain.

Expressing his gratitude, Emmanuel Nzeribe Okegbue shared “I can’t thank Dr. Chelladurai and the medical team at Aster Hospital Mankhool enough for giving me a new lease on life. The seizures and headaches had taken a toll on me over the past two years, and I was living in constant fear. After the surgery, I feel like I have a future again. The care I received was exceptional, and I am forever grateful to the doctors and staff for their dedication and support during this challenging time.”

Emmanuel’s case highlights the complexity of treating rare and life-threatening conditions like intraventricular tumors (fluid-filled tumors), which represent only 1.3-3% of all intracranial tumors [6]. His successful surgery emphasizes the importance of specialized neurosurgical expertise and advanced technology in addressing such challenging cases.

Medical tourism in Dubai continues to thrive, with 691,478 medical tourists welcomed in 2023, surpassing the previous year’s figure of 674,000, according to a report by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) [7]. This growth reflects the increasing global recognition of Dubai as a premier destination for world-class healthcare services.

Matawalle Returns to Sokoto, Intensifies Fight Against Banditry and Kidnapping

Matawalle Returns to Sokoto, Intensifies Fight Against Banditry and Kidnapping

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, has returned to Sokoto for the second time in two months, intensifying efforts to combat the rising threats of banditry and kidnapping in the region. The visit, mandated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, highlights the federal government’s determination to restore peace and security to Nigeria’s troubled Northwest.

Matawalle’s visit comes as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen military operations and enhance the fight against criminal elements destabilizing the region. Speaking to the press, the Minister expressed the government’s unwavering commitment to tackling insecurity.

“I am here on the directive of Mr. President to assure the people of Sokoto and the entire Northwest that we will not rest until this menace is eradicated. We are fully committed to winning this war against bandits and their collaborators,” Matawalle stated.

During his address, the Minister praised the military’s success in Operation “Fansan Yamma,” the latest in a series of offensives aimed at dismantling criminal networks in the region. Matawalle expressed confidence that the continued efforts of Nigeria’s security forces would yield further success in the coming weeks.

He also emphasized the importance of political unity in the fight against insecurity, calling on leaders across all political divides to support President Tinubu’s efforts. “We must come together as one. This is not just a federal government fight; it requires the cooperation of everyone. We will continue to boost the morale of our soldiers and security agencies to ensure lasting peace in this region,” Matawalle urged.

The Minister issued a stern warning to bandits and their supporters, vowing that the government would not back down. “We will not allow these criminals to terrorize our people any longer. We will keep the pressure on them until they have no place to hide. No amount of blackmail will shake our resolve,” he said.

Dr. Matawalle’s return to Sokoto marks a critical step in the government’s broader strategy to rid the region of criminal activities. His visit reinforces the administration’s resolve to confront the security challenges head-on, ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians in affected areas.

 

 

By Tech and Biz News Staff Reporter

 

Bandit Leader Turji Denies Links to Matawalle, Claims Divine Backing for Group’s Activities

Bandit Leader Turji Denies Links to Matawalle, Claims Divine Backing for Group’s Activities

 

Notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, has denied allegations that the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, is sponsoring his group’s violent activities in Zamfara State. Turji, in a video statement, claimed that his operations are solely sanctioned by divine will and not backed by any political figure.

This declaration comes amidst ongoing tensions between Matawalle, the former governor of Zamfara State, and his successor, Governor Dauda Lawal. Both politicians have been engaged in a war of words, accusing each other of links to the state’s banditry crisis. Recently, Matawalle challenged Lawal to swear on the Quran that he had no connections to the bandits destabilizing the region.

In response, Turji categorically dismissed claims that his group has received political support from any past or current officials. “Governor Dauda Lawal accusing Bello Matawalle of being a terrorist sponsor won’t solve anything. When Matawalle was governor, who was sponsoring us? Likewise, when Abdulaziz Yari was governor, who was sponsoring us? No one is supporting us except God,” Turji said in his video message.

Observers say that with this statement, Matawalle may be exonerated from the ongoing allegations that have marred his political standing. However, the public discourse over the root causes of Zamfara’s banditry crisis continues to evolve as both politicians remain locked in blame games.

The issue has drawn national attention as security challenges persist in Zamfara, a state that has been plagued by years of violence and insecurity fueled by banditry and kidnapping rings.

 

Rivers State Governor Simi Fubara Swears in Newly Elected Local Government Chairmen

Rivers State Governor Simi Fubara Swears in Newly Elected Local Government Chairmen

 

The recently concluded Rivers State Local Government elections have come to a close, with the dust now settled. In a significant ceremony, Governor Simi Fubara officially swore in the newly elected local government chairmen, marking the beginning of their tenure.

Taking to his official Facebook page, Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of their role in serving the people of Rivers State. “Today marked a new dawn for Rivers State as we swore in the newly elected local government chairmen. This is a call to serve with the requisite responsibility of uniting and uplifting our people,” he said.

The Governor further urged the new chairmen to approach their duties with a spirit of service, reminding them of the critical role they play in maintaining peace and fostering progress in the state. “I urge every chairman to embrace the spirit of service, work for the people, and maintain the peace and progress of our beloved state,” Fubara stated.

He concluded his remarks by calling for collective efforts to achieve the administration’s goals, stressing that the success of the chairmen will contribute to the greater good of the state. “Together, we will build a greater Rivers State as we ensure that this administration’s goals are met for the benefit of all,” the Governor added.

The swearing-in ceremony represents a key milestone in the governance of Rivers State, as the new leadership embarks on their mandate to drive local development and uphold the aspirations of the people.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Women in Nigerian Tech Ecosystem Celebrate Milestones at the 4th Annual Summit

Women in Nigerian Tech Ecosystem Celebrate Milestones at the 4th Annual Summit

 

The evolving role of women in Nigeria’s technological landscape took center stage at the recently concluded “Women Entrepreneurs and Executives in Tech Summit.” The 4th edition of the summit, held in Lagos, was not just another industry event but a bold statement on the progress, empowerment, and leadership of women in the tech ecosystem. The gathering brought together some of the brightest minds, trailblazers, and innovators, shining a light on the immense contributions women are making in Nigeria’s tech space.

Amidst a backdrop where women are often objectified, underrepresented, and marginalized in the tech industry, the summit was seen as a significant turning point. It challenged deep-seated cultural norms and stereotypes, providing a platform to reframe how women are perceived, engaged with, and valued within the tech sector. The summit has become a vital tool in addressing gender bias and amplifying the need for inclusion and diversity in one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing sectors.

Success Ugochi Jumbo, CEO of “Techlife with Ugo” and the driving force behind the summit, spoke passionately about the event’s importance. “The 4th edition of the Women Entrepreneurs and Executives in Tech Summit and Awards was not only rewarding but educational for all who attended. It provided a unique platform where attendees gained valuable insights, networked with industry leaders, and, most importantly, celebrated the remarkable achievements of women in tech. It was an opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by the incredible women who are shaping the future of technology in Nigeria and beyond.”

Jumbo emphasized that the event was designed to push boundaries and challenge societal narratives that often limit women to traditional roles, especially in male-dominated industries like technology. “If you didn’t attend, you missed out on a fantastic opportunity to learn and grow from these groundbreaking women who are not just participating in tech, but leading innovations and driving the industry forward,” she added.

The summit featured a rich lineup of panel discussions, keynote addresses, and workshops. Topics ranged from leadership and innovation to addressing systemic barriers that women face in the workplace. Participants also had the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking discussions on the future of technology and the critical role women must play in shaping it.

The summit concluded with an awards ceremony, recognizing female entrepreneurs and executives who have made significant strides in the tech sector. These awards highlighted the exceptional talent and leadership of women who are driving change in various industries, from fintech and cybersecurity to digital marketing and software development.

With each edition, the summit has continued to grow, becoming an influential forum for fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and celebrating the accomplishments of women in tech. Beyond the recognition, the event serves as a clarion call for greater gender parity and the inclusion of women in all areas of tech, positioning them as key drivers of national development.

As the summit concluded, the overarching message was clear: the role of women in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem is no longer a narrative of exclusion but one of empowerment and leadership. The event successfully underscored the importance of nurturing and supporting women in tech, proving that they are integral to the country’s technological advancement and economic growth.

The Women Entrepreneurs and Executives in Tech Summit continues to be a beacon of change, pushing for a future where women are not only seen as equal contributors but as leaders at the forefront of technological innovation in Nigeria.

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Flavour Nabania Strikes Landmark Deal with 50 Cent, Nigerian Music and Fashion Shine in Hollywood

Flavour Nabania Strikes Landmark Deal with 50 Cent, Nigerian Music and Fashion Shine in Hollywood

 

In a monumental development for the Nigerian music industry, the Enugu born musician of Anambra desecnt, Flavour Nabania, the celebrated highlife singer, has secured a groundbreaking deal with American rapper and business mogul, 50 Cent. The agreement, reportedly worth over ₦1 billion, will see Flavour’s hit track, *”Game Changer”*, featured prominently in *PowerBook Ghost* Season 4, Episode 9. The song is set to play during a wedding scene, marking a historic collaboration between a Nigerian artist and one of Hollywood’s most successful television franchises.

The staggering payout of over ₦1 billion makes this one of the most lucrative deals ever signed by a Nigerian musician for a Hollywood production, further cementing Flavour’s status as an international powerhouse. This achievement not only shines a spotlight on Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage but also underscores the growing influence of Afrobeat and highlife-inspired music in the global entertainment scene.

In addition to the musical feature, a Nigerian designer has been tapped to create custom outfits for the wedding scene, offering an exceptional opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s fashion prowess on a global stage. This marks a significant moment for both the Nigerian music and fashion industries, as the country’s talent continues to make waves beyond its borders.

Flavour, known for his deep connection to his Igbo cultural roots, has remained true to his highlife-inspired sound, even as global trends sway other artists toward Western musical influences. This dedication to his heritage has paid off, as it not only translates into international recognition but also guarantees him lifelong performance royalties. The deal underscores his ability to balance his identity with mainstream success, further expanding his global influence.

This collaboration with 50 Cent and *PowerBook Ghost* sets a new benchmark for Nigerian artists seeking to make their mark in international productions. While many musicians experiment with foreign sounds in pursuit of global appeal, Flavour’s commitment to authenticity continues to propel him to new heights, inspiring a generation of artists to stay grounded in their roots while achieving worldwide acclaim.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Anambra’s Chigozie Rosemary Nwankwo Crowned Nigeria’s Fastest Girl at National Youth Games

Anambra’s Chigozie Rosemary Nwankwo Crowned Nigeria’s Fastest Girl at National Youth Games

 

Chigozie Rosemary Nwankwo of Anambra State has been crowned Nigeria’s fastest girl following a breathtaking performance at the National Youth Games in Asaba. Competing in the 100m sprint, the talented athlete stormed to victory, finishing in an impressive 12.24 seconds to secure the gold medal.

Nwankwo’s dominance in the race left her competitors trailing, reaffirming her as one of Nigeria’s rising stars in athletics. Her triumph has not only filled her home state with pride but has also ignited excitement across the country, with many touting her as a promising contender in future national and international sporting events.

With this achievement, Chigozie Nwankwo joins the ranks of young athletes driving the future of Nigerian athletics, becoming a symbol of hope and excellence for the sport.