Author: Motolani AbdulGafar

The United Nations (UN) has reported that powerful criminal networks in Southeast Asia are exploiting the messaging app Telegram to commit fraud amongst other atrocities. The report, released on Monday highlights alarming allegations against Telegram following France’s recent charges against its founder, Pavel Durov, for permitting criminal activities on the platform. The report reads that Telegram enables crime such as hacked data, including credit card details, passwords, and browser history, which is traded openly across the App’s sprawling channels. The UN Office for Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report further added that tools for cybercrime, such as deepfake software designed for…

The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Asue Ighodalo, has raised serious concerns regarding the credibility of the electoral results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He contended that the election was neither free nor fair, citing discrepancies where the total number of valid voters exceeded the total number of valid votes. “We saw yesterday certain moves that suggest blatant attempts to manipulate the results of the elections. You see results being declared where the total votes are much higher than the number of accredited voters,” he stated. A notable example, he pointed out, was Inipogbaha…

President Bola Tinubu has expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic future following the increase of trade surplus in the Nigeria. The report which was made earlier by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that there is a ₦6.95 trillion trade surplus for the second quarter of 2024. The latest surplus marks a 6.60% increase from the ₦6.52 trillion surplus recorded in the first quarter, showcasing the nation’s strong export performance. In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu emphasized that the ongoing reforms by his administration are laying the foundation for a prosperous…

Satellite internet connectivity provider, Starlink, has announced a significant increase in price in Nigeria. The company has raised the cost of its router from N440,000 to N590,000 which is a 74% increase. This hike comes in the wake of the naira’s continuous depreciation against dollar, further straining the pockets of many Nigerians. Additionally, the monthly subscription for the Standard (Residential) package, which previously cost N38,000, has been increased to N75,000. This marks an almost 100% rise in the cost of accessing the satellite service. In a message to its subscribers, Starlink attributed the surge to “excessive levels of inflation.” Note…

A maritime fintech startup, Shipfinex has secured $1.5 million in seed funding to advance its blockchain-based platform. The funding is aimed at transforming maritime finance as the platform will introduce Maritime Asset Tokens (MATs) to its investors. The innovation is designed to enable fractional ownership of maritime assets, democratize investments, and enhance transparency. The Chairman of Best Oasis Limited and leader of the funding round, Gaurav Mehta, remarked that the transformative journey will redefine how the world invests in maritime assets. He said the maritime sector, traditionally dominated by large-scale investors, often presents significant barriers to entry, however, Shipfinex’s platform…

Egypt-based venture capital firm, Sawari Ventures, has announced plans to launch its second fund, valued at USD 200 million, by early 2025. This initiative aims to support startups across Africa, particularly in Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Kenya, and West Africa. The initiative will focus on high-growth sectors such as fintech, digital education, health tech, and agritech. A representative from Sawari noted that the new fund will target Series A and Series B startups, following the success of the firm’s first fund, which invested in 30 Egyptian startups and saw remarkable returns. “The African startup ecosystem is expanding rapidly, and there’s a…

The Israeli military has confirmed a series of rocket launches from Lebanon, with multiple projectiles entering the Upper Galilee region. Report has it that some rockets were successfully intercepted by Israel’s defense systems while others landed in open areas, causing no casualties. In response, Israel was reported to have released aerial footage showcasing airstrikes on Hezbollah installations in southern Lebanon’s Hula. As at the time of gathering this report, the Lebanese Health Ministry, through state media, reported that the Israeli air raids resulted in one death and two injuries. Hezbollah, in retaliation, claimed responsibility for two attacks on Israeli positions,…

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has vowed to prioritize building safety across the state. His pledge was made following the submission of a report on the tragic collapse of a school building in Jos on July 12, 2024. Report has it that the incident occurred at Saint Academy in the Busa Buji community, and claimed 22 lives with 154 individuals trapped. The governor, while receiving the report from the committee led by Prof. Danladi Matawal at the Twins Theatre, New Government House, Jos, described the document as a critical guide for government action. He commended the committee for its thorough…

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has unveiled its timetable for the 2025 zonal congresses. The zonal congresses are organised for the election of new Zonal Working Committees (ZWC) and National Ex-officio members. The timetable was approved during the party’s 592nd NWC meeting and with the aim to usher in new leadership in the South-South, South-East, South-West, North-Central, and North-East zones respectively. According to a statement released today by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the congresses will mark the expiration of the current zonal executives’ tenures. The sale of forms for ZWC positions…

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin Ige, has assured his commitment and support towards promoting UNICEF’s mission in Oyo State. During a courtesy visit from the UNICEF team on Wednesday, the Olubadan, represented by Maye Olubadan Chief Olalekan Alabi, expressed his readiness to support the organization’s efforts to protect children’s rights. Emphasizing Ibadan’s historical significance in Nigeria, including being home to the country’s first teaching hospital, university, and television station, the monarch highlighted the importance of UNICEF’s objectives. He expressed confidence that UNICEF’s goals, such as reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, would be furthered through this collaboration. “Ibadan…

The National Union of Pensioners (NUP) has appealed to the Federal and State Governments to increase the remuneration of pensioners in the country. The appeal was made following the increase in the minimum wage of public service commission workers in the country. NUP National President; Godwin Abumisi, and General Secretary Actor Zal, in a statement noted that the new minimum wage of N70,000 should be used as a basic or template to re-compute pension emoluments for its members. “…In line with the current economic situations we find ourselves, we wish to humbly suggest that the Federal and state governments should…

The Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Abdullahi Baba-Arab, has assured residents in the Agaie Local Government Area of Niger State that his agency is working tirelessly to rescue victims from a wreckage after a petrol tanker exploded on Sunday. Over 30 people have been confirmed dead in the tragic incident. The Director General disclosed, in a statement issued on Sunday, that the incident occurred around 12:30 am on Sunday when a petrol tanker collided head-on with a trailer truck transporting travellers and cattle from Wudil, Kano State. He noted that the explosion also resulted in…

The Legal Adviser to NLC, Mr Femi Falana has said that the police had failed to provide a substantial reason for the arrest of NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero. “The invitation to Comrade Joe Ajaero by the police was rescheduled last week. I have contacted the police authorities. The arrest is not related to the police invitation. “Comrade Ajaero was on his way to London to attend the ongoing TUC conference when he was arrested at the airport this morning (yesterday) by the DSS. No reason has been provided for the arrest,” Falana said. Ajaero Released Meanwhile, sources familiar with…

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has begun the first phase of its Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) initiative, deploying National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to 12 states as trainers. The initiative, which aims to achieve 70% digital literacy for Nigerians by 2027, was announced by the agency in a statement released on Saturday. According to NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, the partnership with the NYSC will be instrumental in spreading digital skills across the country as corps members will serve as digital literacy trainers, leveraging their nationwide presence to reach underserved areas. The 12 states involved in the…

The retiring CEO of an American athletic footwear and apparel corporation, Nike, Inc. (stylized as NIKE), John Donahoe’s has announced his retirement. Historically, his retirement marks the end of a remarkable tenure with one of the world’s leading sportswear brands. Report has it that Donahoe will step down on October 13, 2024, after nearly five years of serving as CEO. Following his departure, Donahoe will continue to serve in an advisory capacity until early next year to ensure a smooth transition of leadership. He has since 2014 joined Nike’s board of directors before later taking on the role of CEO…

TLP Advisory has revealed that 49% of Nigerian startups, founded in the last decade, generate less than ₦10 million ($6,000) in annual revenue. This degeneration signals significant financial struggles for the country’s emerging businesses. In contrast, only 15% of these startups report annual earnings exceeding ₦250 million ($149,000). The report highlights several challenges that these startups face, including limited capital, inadequate marketing, and regulatory barriers. Many founders attributed their struggles to the difficulty of raising funds, poor market reach, and the need to revise their revenue models. Alarmingly, 16% of startups surveyed reports no growth over the past ten years,…

Starlink’s recent decision to suspend its 97% price hike for Nigerian subscribers is evidence to the power of regulatory pushback in protecting consumer interests. Starlink owned by Elon Musk, has suspended its previously announced increase in monthly internet subscription fees for Nigerian users. This reversal comes just weeks after the company’s decision sparked reactions from the masses over the incessant increase in price by a staggering 97%, while citing excessive inflation. Recall that Techparley reported on the 12th of October that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced its plan to take enforcement actions against Starlink. However, in response to…

Nigeria Police Cracks Down on Unauthorized Use of Uniforms, Warns Content Creator The Nigeria Police Command has condemned the unauthorized use of its official uniforms by content creators. The warning was made in a release on the official page of the Nigerian Police Command on X. This warning came following the circulation of a recent video by Mr. Martins Otse, popularly known online as “Very Dark Man (VDM).” Techparley correspondent gathered that the video, shared on VDM’s social media, has drawn numerous criticism from law enforcement officials, leading to the launch of an investigation to uncover the origins of the Police…

In a bid to strengthen the nation’s economy and improve infrastructure, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the Economic Stabilization Bills and major road contracts. The endorsed bill is a reflection of the recommendations of the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reforms established by President Tinubu last year. The bills aim to amend income tax laws, stimulate exports, reform the exchange rate regime, and unlock foreign exchange liquidity. Following the Council’s approval, the bills will be further transferred to the National Assembly for passage, paving the way for potential economic recovery. Notably, the bills include provisions for…

Nigeria and China have signed a $3.3 billion agreement to develop the Brass Industrial Park and Methanol Complex in Bayelsa State. The deal was finalized during the Africa-China Conference in Beijing, as announced by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Finance; Mr. Mohammed Manga. Manga described the project as transformative, with the potential to significantly enhance Nigeria’s industrial output and create numerous employment opportunities. He further noted that the agreement underscores the two nations’ dedication to strengthening economic cooperation, deepening bilateral ties, and fostering sustainable development. The signing took place alongside the inaugural China-Nigeria…

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported no death occurrence from Mpox in 2024. The milestone is viewed as a positive turn compared to the two and seven deaths recorded in 2022 and 2023, respectively. But, infection rates remain as record shows that it is mostly men disproportionately affected by the disease. Data from the NCDC shows that 67% of Mpox cases recorded in 2024 have been among males. Since the first confirmed cases in 2017, men have accounted for nearly 70% of the 6,001 suspected and confirmed Mpox cases nationwide. So far in 2024, 1,031…

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commended its operatives for the successful completion of its mission to attack terrorists in Niger State. The mission was assigned following a fierce gun battle between the terrorists and operatives from other security agencies which led to the request for air support and as such their intervention. In a statement made by the Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, the “successful air interdiction mission on 11 September 2024, indicates the Force’s commitment to assisting other security agencies in fight against crime across the country.” He added…

Mr President’s 1-Year Renewed Hope Milestones in the Ministry of Interior under the leadership of Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo 1. Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) Expedition of promotion exercise to avoid career stagnation of officers under the ministry, and the approval of welfare packages including peculiar allowance and life insurance for officers. Promotion of over 32,000 personnel across agencies under the Ministry in 2023, setting a new record for the board as its all time high. Introduction of a streamlined recruitment workflow for transparency. 2. Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) Decongestion of correctional facilities by raising over…

Africa’s fastest-growing fintech, Moniepoint, has raised an impressive $110 million in equity financing, to ensure expanded digital payment and banking services that will benefit millions of businesses across Africa and the diaspora. Since inception in 2015, the company has established a significant footprint, processing over 800 million transactions per month with a total monthly transaction value of over $17 billion. Moniepoint’s exceptional profitability and rapid growth underscore its commitment to financial inclusion and innovation. A premier fund focused on Africa, Series C funding round was led by Development Partners International’s African Development Partners (ADP) III fund, which was joined by…

Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Threads, has suspended accounts dedicated to monitoring the private jet travels of prominent figures such as Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg and Kim Kardashian. These accounts were managed by a college student from Florida, Jack Sweeney, who gained widespread attention for using public flight data to track the whereabouts of celebrities. The tech giant said the suspension was due to privacy violations, pointing to the potential risk of physical harm these accounts posed to the individuals being tracked. A Meta spokesperson speaking on the issue remarked, “Our privacy policies are designed to protect users,…

The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde has stated that the drive to upgrade Ibadan Airport is based on logic, science, and data. He said the upgrade will help enhance the airport’s capacity to handle more flights and passengers, attracting more airlines and boosting both domestic and international travel. The airport which is now renamed as Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, can thus, stimulate economic growth in the region by facilitating trade, tourism, and investment opportunities, while also creating jobs. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Makinde noted that the government’s previous upgrades to the airport facilities had already attracted more airlines…

A digital lending software platform in Nigeria fintech, Lendsqr, has revealed that it is injecting $600,000 (NGN1 billion) into the Nigerian lending ecosystem. The donation is aimed to empower local digital lenders with direct access to vital capital for growth. The initiative is set to strengthen small medium scale lenders, allowing them to meet surging credit demands and expand their reach within communities across Nigeria. Founded in 2018, Lendsqr, has long been a leading provider of loan management software, supporting banks, microfinance institutions, and digital lenders with tools to streamline loan applications, credit scoring, and collections. The CEO of Lendsqr,…

A Diocesan of Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Bishop Matthew Kukah, has raised concern over the negligence of some Presidential candidates in carrying out religious electoral rituals. To mention a few, he revealed that President Bola Tinubu did not sign the peace accord during his 2023 presidential campaign. Kukah made this statement while speaking at the Edo Election Security Townhall in Benin City. Kukah, a key member of the National Peace Committee led by former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar, highlighted the issue as although not obligatory but necessary. He emphasized that the committee, which promotes electoral harmony, does not…

The military chief of Iran, Major General Mohammad Bagheri, today have escalated tensions in the Middle East by issuing a stark warning to Israel. This warning was made following the attack launched on Tuesday, October 1st, 2024, where Iran approximately launched 200 missiles at Israel in response to the reported assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas’ political leader Ismail Haniyeh. Meanwhile, Bagheri stated that Iran would not hesitate to strike all of Israel’s infrastructure if its territory is attacked. “The barrage will be repeated with bigger intensity and all infrastructure of the regime will be targeted,” Bagheri said…

A thorough investigation has begun over the alleged illegal detention of a Naval rating, Seaman Abbas Haruna. The probe follows an accusation by Haruna’s wife, who claimed that the Nigerian military authorities have unjustly kept her husband in custody for nearly six years. Speaking on a radio station in Abuja, she disclosed that her husband, a seaman in the Nigerian Navy, has been held without due process, leading to widespread concern. Time for investigation Reacting to the development, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, said he has ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding Haruna’s prolonged detention.…

A prominent figure associated with the popular Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Simon Ekpa, has been arrested in Finland. Ekpa was arrested for allegedly involved in terror-related activities. The Finnish police detained Ekpa along with four others, citing suspicions of inciting crimes with terrorist intent via separatist propaganda on social media. Authorities in Finland disclosed that Ekpa, who holds Finnish citizenship and serves as a local politician, had been using his online platforms to promote violence in southeastern Nigeria. “The investigation into these activities spans back to August 2021 and involves potential financial links to terrorism,” Recall that Ekpa has…

48-year-old Nollywood actress, Adunni Ade has credited Ramsey Nouah for influencing her relocation to Nigeria. According to the popular Nigerian-American actress and model, her relocation into the country followed a timely advice from the senior thespian, who she described as a “phenomenal human being.” Adunni disclosed this while featuring in a recent episode of Hip TV programme Trending, hosted by reality star KimOprah sequel to her participation on set with Ramsey Nouah. She stated that Ramsey was her primary motivator that encouraged her to pursue her acting career in Nigeria. “I have told this story a few times but in…

The All Progressives Congress (APC), Gubernatorial candidate, Monday Okpebholo, secured a decisive victory in the 2024 Edo State governorship election, marking a return to power for his party in the state. Okpebholo’s triumph came after a though competitive race that has been trending on major news platforms, particularly against his closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Okpebholo garnered 291,667 votes, emerging victorious in 11 out of the 18 local government areas in Edo State. His campaign focused on reviving the state’s economy and improving social services, resonating with…

Loyalists of popular Islamic music singers are in mourning as news of the passing of their beloved Nigerian singer, Rukayat Gawat Oyefeso, floods social media platforms. Gawat, known for her soul-stirring voice and deeply spiritual compositions, her sudden death was announced this morning by an Ilorin-based cleric, Alfa Aribidesi At-Tawdeeh Islamic Da’awah, on Facebook. Fans had since flooded social media with tributes, echoing their sorrow and disbelief over the loss of such an influential figure. Jubril A. Gawat, her brother and Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also confirmed the tragic news by…

Google had announced the addition of a stylish new facelift on the web platform of Google Calendar. The facelift aligning with Material Design 3 principles that prioritize both modernity and accessibility is an update that not only brings fresh visual elements but introduces the long-anticipated dark mode, allowing users to select from three options: Light mode, Dark mode, or Device Default. According to Google, the design overhaul enhances controls such as buttons, dialogs, and sidebars, making them more modern and accessible. The development includes rounded edges on buttons and dialogs, with color schemes receiving a noticeable touch-up to complement the…

Many fuel stations in Aba, Abia State’s, have been shut down due to hike in the cost of the purchase of fuel. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) points fingers at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) for failing to supply products directly to them. The situation has led to significant price hikes, with some fuel stations selling petrol at as much as N1300 to N1350 per litre, which is above the expected prices. Report has it that these stations, hassle to get fuel from third-party suppliers at exorbitant rates due to the unavailability of direct supplies from…

Nigeria faces yet another potential flood crisis as the Federal Government issues an alert concerning possible overflow along the Niger and Benue rivers. This follows the aftermath of destructive flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State, which has impacted several other regions in the country. In a press briefing in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, highlighted the urgent need for proactive measures, particularly in southern Nigeria, as a large volume of water moves downstream toward the Niger Delta. Utsev attributed the Maiduguri flood disaster to the overflow of the Alau Dam, which was overwhelmed by massive…

A public relations (PR) and communications training programme, The Future is Female Mentorship Programme, has announced 20 remarkable finalists for its fifth cohort. The selected companies can be categorised as some of the brightest female-led startups across Africa. With the aim to provide public relations and communications training exclusively to female founders, the programme selected finalists from hundreds of applicants. The applicants according to report, were said to have showcased groundbreaking solutions in healthtech, AI, cleantech, agritech, and logistics. To ensure global reach of the essence of the programme, the managing director at Allison and founder of C.Moore Media, Claudine…

The Federal Government has finalized an Executive Order to implement zero Value-Added Tax (VAT) and excise duties on pharmaceutical products and medical devices in Nigeria. The step was taken with the aim to improve the masses access to essential health supplies. In a statement by the spokesman for the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Alaba Balogun, revealed that the harmonized implementation framework of the Executive Order has been cleared for publication. “This critical step ensures that the Federal Inland Revenue Service and the Nigeria Customs Service can proceed with the implementation of zero VAT and excise duties on…

A human trafficking victim and landmine explosion survivor, Bose Pelumi Olumide, has called for help over the deteriorating state of her health. The single mother survived a major landmine explosion that claimed the life of her sister and 25 others on a road trip in Niger Republic to connect Libya. Techparley gathered that Bose is a single mother and is scheduled for the corrective surgeries at Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Illishan, Ogun State. According to a medical report, signed by the Unit Consultant, Dr Akindipe, the surgeries were required to heal the major burns on her face, hands and legs.…

In a bid to improve the efficiency and professionalism of the Nigeria Civil Service, the Federal Government has conceived the idea of establishing “War Rooms” to ensure checks and balances within in the Nigerian polity and system. The development was disclosed by the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, at the recently concluded retreat with Federal Permanent Secretaries in Zuba, Niger State. According to Didi, the establishment will serve as an important medium for monitoring and managing the execution of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP) 2021-2025. Speaking on its management and operation, she…

The winner at Wema Bank’s just concluded Hackaholics 5.0 has appreciated the commitment of Wema Bank’s crew in holding such brain-driven event. The event which was held in Lagos was established to examine the impressive Nigeria tech community and to foster transformative ideas. The event has so far been known for unearthing Nigeria’s brightest tech talent with this year’s mind-blowing 3,500 applications across the country. However, 10 finalists emerged the final stage in which Feegor emerged winner after being tested in different sectors like education, agriculture and healthcare. Feegor’s win was anchored in its innovative B2B wholesale marketplace and SaaS…

Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Evelyn Maha, has issued a ruling that prohibits the Directorate of Road Traffic Services, commonly known as the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO), from impounding or confiscating vehicles and levying fines on motorists. This ruling was made following a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by human rights lawyer, Abubakar Marshal. Report has it that the applicant, in a suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023, sued the Directorate of Road Traffic Services, the Director, Directorate of Road Traffic Services, Mr. Leo, the Area Commander, Directorate of Road Traffic Services (as of December 12, 2023), Onoja Solomon,…

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has taken a step further over the reported devastating flood case across Nigeria. The Council convened to deliberate on critical measures aimed at disaster management and infrastructure safety. According to a communiqué highlighting the decisions made by FEC, a disaster relief fund has been approved to aid affected areas in Nigeria. The relief project will be financed through a portion of the revenue accruing to the Federation account. The communiqué reads that the government plans to solicit additional funds from the private sector to support recovery efforts in affected communities. Additionally, the Council approved the…

In a world where the Israeli-Hezbollah conflict has captivated global headlines, it is easy to overlook the myriad of other pivotal conflicts reshaping the international landscape. And, because the Israeli-Hezbollah war is merely one piece of a complex geopolitical puzzle, our correspondent, Nabilah Abdulgafar, has compiled a comprehensive overview of the critical disputes unfolding across the globe. To offer a more nuanced understanding, her report provides readers with a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of modern conflict, revealing the intricate web of tensions and interests that define our world today. Below is a list of other major global unrest…

In an effort to ensure online safety, a short-form video hosting service, TikTok, owned by Chinese internet company, ByteDance, has removed a staggering 11,887,516 videos from nine African countries during the second quarter of 2024. These countries include Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa, Algeria, Somalia, Libya, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Morocco with Egypt and Nigeria spearheaded at the crackdown targeted content violating TikTok’s community guidelines on integrity, advertising, privacy, and security. This initiative marks a growing commitment by the platform to create a safer digital environment, as TikTok confirmed that their goal is to uphold a safe, positive space for users while…

Leaders and loyalists of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State took to the streets of Benin on Wednesday to protest against the results of the September 21 governorship election. Recall that the governorship election had been reported to have been won by the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced that Okpebholo secured 291,667 votes, defeating PDP’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, who polled 247,274 votes. However, the PDP has rejected the results, claiming the election was marred by manipulation. Brandishing banners with messages such as “INEC sack Edo REC” and “INEC give us…

A data and AI company, Databricks is raising $5 billion in its latest fundraising session. The amount will eventually value the company at a $55 billion valuation compared to OpenAI which holds the record of $6.6 billion in October at a $157 billion valuation. The company’s decision to shift focus to fundraising is said to have been ascribed to its interest to grow as employees are allowed to sell shares while reducing the need for an Initial Public Offering (IPO). CEO of Databricks, Ali Ghodsi remarked at a conference that although the company has no plans for IPO however it…

AI-powered messaging app, Daze, has garnered positive response as masses of the zoomer generation showed support towards its development. The app which is designed for Gen Z, created waves even before its official launch with a viral presence on TikTok, where its most popular video has garnered over 8 million views. Report has it that the app has reached a total of 48 million combined views across TikTok and Instagram. The app’s prelaunch success is evident as its waitlist boasts about 156,000 eager sign-ups. Rather than relying on influencers or paid advertising, Daze’s buzz is driven by product demo videos…

At around 11am on Sunday, September 15, 2024, ex-presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore was reportedly detained at the Lagos airport by men of the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS. Follow the timeline below for other details, and how he got released from detention. BEWARE: This is a developing story, and is being updated as events unfold. Keep refreshing this page for the latest developments. Loyalists appraise Sowore over courage to return to Nigeria Reactions have trailed the news of his detention and subsequent release, with a section of young Nigerians appraising his courage to return to the country despite all adversity. Sowore’s…

The Chairman of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals Company Limited, Aliko Dangote, has boasted that Nigeria has the potential to enhance its crude oil production capacity and effectively manage its crude supply to transition from being a net importer to a net exporter of petroleum products. This assertion was made during his keynote address at a summit organized by the Crude Oil Refinery Owners Association of Nigeria (CORAN) in Lagos, where he was represented by the Group Executive Director of Dangote Industries Limited, Engr. Mansur Ahmed. Despite the appraisal, he raised concerns about Africa’s reliance on imported petroleum products, saying: “Despite…

Capital One Unveils Subscription Management Tools with Minna TechnologiesIn a bid to enhance digital experiences for customers, an online banking company, Capital One, has partnered with Minna Technologies to offer subscription management tools directly within its mobile banking app. This development makes Capital One the first major U.S. credit card issuer to provide such features to users. This marks a significant step in improving customer control over their financial subscriptions. The collaboration enables Capital One credit card users to view, manage, and control their subscriptions to various merchants, including major publishing and retail brands, without additional fees. These tools are…

The US Food and Drug Administration has granted Elon Musk’s Neuralink a “breakthrough device” designation for its experimental implant, Blindsight. The device aims to restore vision for people with complete or partial blindness, including those with non-functional optic nerves. Reacting to the development, Neuralink expressed excitement on its X page, stating: “We have received Breakthrough Device Designation from the FDA for Blindsight. Join us in our quest to bring back sight to those who have lost it.” What it means The FDA reserves this designation for medical devices targeting life-threatening conditions. With the nature of blindness, and what the Elon…

Venture capital (VC) investments in crypto and blockchain startups has experienced a significant decline in the third quarter of 2024 (Q3). The decline is with a 20% drop in the total value of deals. The decline has been attributed to the growing popularity of bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which are offering investors a more straightforward and liquid way to gain exposure to the crypto sector. According to the latest report from Galaxy Research, approximately $2.4 billion was invested in 478 crypto and blockchain deals during Q3. While both the U.S. dollar value of funds and the number of financed startups…

Apple has denied allegations of spying over the personal devices of workers and also silencing them from sharing their work experiences online. In a statement provided by a spokesperson, the company described the lawsuit accusations to lack credibility as Apple workers were trained annually on their rights to discuss their working conditions. “At Apple, we’re focused on creating the best products and services in the world and we work to protect the inventions our teams create for customers,” the statement read. The statement was made following the complaint filed in California state court by Amar Bhakta who works in digital…

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ordered Apple to pay €13bn (£11bn; $14bn) in unpaid taxes to Ireland. This order was made after the European Commission accused Ireland of providing Apple with illegal tax advantages in 2016. However, Ireland has since opposed the tax repayment while ECJ ruled that “Ireland granted Apple unlawful aid,” which must now be recovered. Apple expressed disappointment with the ruling, arguing that it has always complied with tax laws and that the case is not about how much tax is owed, but rather where the taxes should be paid as it claimed that it…

An internationally recognised expert in governance and institutional reforms, political economy analysis and change management, Dr. Joe Abah, OON, has shed light on an intriguing phenomenon; the transformation of private sector critics who step into public service. In a brief but inspiring write-up, he reasoned why the sharp critiques of these individuals often mellow into humility once they assume government roles. The statement reads: “What do you think happens when a critic from the private sector gets into government and suddenly becomes humble? Some say it’s because you can’t speak with your mouth full. Not necessarily true. Often, you are…

On July 30, 2019 at the Tony Elumelu Forum, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo remarked that: No matter how young or old we might be, our lives are essentially stories that are being written and revised every day and on the occasion of the visit of the NFF President, Ibrahim Gasau to Lanreleke Sports Academy in July 2024, he described Engr. Olanrewaju Adeleke as a builder of youths- a metaphor of service. Indeed the stories of life range from what we are born into, to what our reality is and to what our life can become, and to Engr Olanrewaju…

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has announced that Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed prime minister of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will be extradited to Nigeria to face charges. Recall that Techparley reported that he was arrested in Finland for alleged public incitement and terrorist-related activities. The Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, disclosed the development in a statement shared with newsmen. He noted that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Musa, is optimistic about Ekpa’s trial. “CDS is happy with his arrest in Finland, with the hope this will be a step towards his extradition to Nigeria…

The Chief Executive Officer of the giant tech company; Meta Platforms, Mark Zuckerberg has disclosed the expansion of Meta AI in some other countries. He revealed this development in a post shared on his social media timeline, X (formerly Twitter), where he rejoiced over the new initiative. “Meta AI is live in more languages and countries starting today. Happy to bring the leading AI to Brazil, UK, Philippines, and more soon.” Who is Mark Zuckerberg Mark Elliot Zuckerberg is a popular businessman and programmer who co-founded the social media service; Facebook and its parent company Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook, Inc.).…

The tenure of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has been marked by increasing controversy. Reports from Abuja suggest that his leadership has taken a dramatic turn as operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) arrested him at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Monday. This correspondent gathered that Ajaero, who was on his way to the United Kingdom for an official assignment, was taken into custody just before boarding his flight. As at the time of filing this report, official details about his arrest remain sparse. But sources familiar with the development…

Reactions have followed the resignation of Ajuri Ngelale, the spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu. Ngelale, in a memo Friday, cited the need to address medical issues as a reason for stepping down from his position. However, sources reveal that Ngelale’s resignation was driven by concerns over potential humiliation. This reporter gathered that recent directives from the presidency assigned Ngelale to focus on his climate action role, while another individual would be appointed as media adviser and spokesperson. While Ngelale’s request to remain as a media adviser was denied, the Presidency allowed him to stay on the media team under a…