Following the successful subscription of its Series 1 corporate bond, Dimension Data Limited has completed the signing ceremony for the issuance of N4.05 billion (approximately US$2.9 million), marking the first tranche of its N20 billion (US$14.7 million) bond programme. The proceeds will support the expansion of the company’s fibre infrastructure to meet Nigeria’s growing demand for digital connectivity.

Speaking at the ceremony, Managing Director of Dimension Data Limited, Olugbenga Olabiyi, said the investment reflects the company’s long-term commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy.

“Beyond delivering technology solutions, we work every day to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy. This milestone reflects the confidence of our partners and investors in our vision, and we look forward to translating these investments into infrastructure that supports businesses, innovation and national digital transformation.”

Olabiyi also thanked the company’s customers, partners, Board members and advisers, including Pathway Advisors Limited, Deloitte, STL, Fidelity Bank, FCMB and FSDH Capital, for their continued support.

Managing Partner of Mbavaa Partners Limited and Director of Dimension Data SPV Limited, Shatse Kakwagh, described the transaction as the culmination of a two-year journey built on collaboration and market confidence.

“Today’s achievement validates the quality of work being done by the Dimension Data team and the market’s confidence in the company’s growth strategy. This funding is not the destination – it is the beginning of an even bigger journey.”

He also acknowledged the contributions of the Board, advisers, transaction partners, FSDH Capital, Pathway Advisors and other stakeholders who supported the successful execution of the transaction.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pathway Advisors Limited, the Lead Issuing House and Book Runner, Adekunle Alade, thanked Dimension Data for its confidence in the firm and expressed appreciation to the high-net-worth investors who participated in the issuance, noting that their support demonstrated strong confidence in the company’s long-term growth prospects despite prevailing preferences for shorter-term investments.

The planned investments will fund the continued expansion of Dimension Data’s fibre network, supporting increasing demand from financial institutions, fintechs, enterprise customers and other technology-driven sectors.
As cloud adoption, digital financial services and data-intensive applications continue to grow, the company believes resilient fibre infrastructure will remain a critical enabler of Nigeria’s digital economy.

Ugo Aliogo

Loudinsight, a recruitment technology platform, says it is developing tools aimed at connecting African professionals with employment opportunities across international markets.

The platform, which began development in 2023, is designed to improve the recruitment process for both job seekers and employers through technology that matches candidates with available roles based on skills and job requirements.

According to the company’s founders, the platform was developed in response to challenges experienced by employers and job applicants, including lengthy recruitment processes and limited feedback after job applications.

They said the platform seeks to improve candidate matching by analysing job requirements and applicant profiles rather than relying solely on keyword-based searches.

The founders noted that the company initially focused on refining the platform before expanding its operations and leadership team.

Loudinsight said it has recorded more than 30,000 registered users and approximately 3,000 daily active users since its launch.

The company believes growing acceptance of remote work and cross-border recruitment is creating new opportunities for African professionals to access international employment without relocating.

It also disclosed plans to expand its commercial operations as it seeks to grow its user base and strengthen relationships with employers.

According to the founders, the long-term objective is to improve transparency in the recruitment process by providing employers with more efficient screening tools while giving candidates greater visibility into how they are assessed for available roles.

By Ugo Aliogo

As businesses contend with economic uncertainty and increasing competitive pressure, corporate governance experts are placing renewed emphasis on execution as a critical factor in organisational performance.

While boards often respond to declining performance by demanding faster decision-making, increased reporting and tighter oversight, governance analysts argue that execution challenges frequently stem from structural issues rather than a lack of urgency.

According to analysts, organisations may struggle to achieve strategic objectives when priorities are unclear, decision-making processes are inconsistent and accountability mechanisms are weak. In such situations, improved reporting alone may not translate into better performance.

Execution specialist Akin Monehin, who has participated in corporate governance and executive leadership discussions on organisational transformation, said effective execution depends on systems that support consistent decision-making and accountability.

He observed that organisations often experience execution gaps when governance structures fail to reinforce strategic priorities across different levels of management.

“Boards do not necessarily lack information,” Monehin said. “The challenge is ensuring that organisational structures allow that information to accurately reflect operational realities and that decisions are consistently implemented.”

Industry observers note that organisations operating under pressure can become overly focused on speed, sometimes at the expense of coordination and alignment. While timely decision-making remains important, they argue that sustainable execution requires clearly defined priorities, structured review processes and effective accountability systems.

Governance experts also distinguish between communicating strategic priorities and embedding them within organisational processes. They argue that strategy documents, performance reviews and internal communications are most effective when supported by operational systems that reinforce agreed objectives.

Similarly, accountability is considered most effective when responsibilities are clearly defined and organisational processes consistently reinforce expected outcomes.

As companies continue to navigate evolving economic conditions, analysts say boards are increasingly expected to look beyond strategy formulation and ensure that governance structures support effective execution.

They argue that sustained organisational performance depends not only on strategic direction but also on the systems, processes and leadership practices that translate corporate objectives into measurable results.

By Ugo Aliogo

An Abuja-based entrepreneur marked his birthday by hosting a business networking seminar, bringing together entrepreneurs and professionals to discuss enterprise development, collaboration and knowledge sharing.

The event, organised in place of a traditional birthday celebration, provided participants with an opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss business challenges and explore opportunities for professional growth.

Speaking at the gathering, the founder of Adifua Real Estate and Construction said the initiative was driven by his belief that personal development extends beyond formal learning and includes building relationships with people who share similar goals and aspirations.

He encouraged participants to leverage networking as a tool for learning and business growth, noting that exchanging experiences and practical knowledge could contribute to individual and collective progress.

Participants engaged in discussions on entrepreneurship, business sustainability and the value of collaboration in addressing challenges within the business environment.

The seminar reflects a growing preference among some professionals for commemorating personal milestones through initiatives that encourage learning, networking and community engagement.

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Calgary’s social and business community came together for a remarkable celebration as entrepreneur and community leader Jekwu Onwughalu marked his 50th birthday alongside the 10th Anniversary of Jenik Freight.
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The milestone event attracted business executives, entrepreneurs, community leaders, industry stakeholders, and distinguished guests from across Canada and beyond.

Hosted in an elegant setting, the evening featured live entertainment, cultural performances, and memorable moments that reflected both personal achievement and corporate success.

Guests were entertained by performances from celebrated artists including Charles Okocha (Mr. Phenomenal), Ugoccie, and Nanya Spark, creating an atmosphere of celebration, culture, and community.
 
Speaking at the event, Jekwu expressed appreciation to God, family, friends, partners, and supporters who have contributed to his personal and professional journey.
 
“Turning 50 is an opportunity to reflect on the relationships and experiences that have shaped my life. Celebrating this milestone alongside Jenik Freight’s 10-year journey makes it even more meaningful. We are grateful to everyone who has been part of this incredible story.”
 
The celebration served as both a reflection on a life and business journey marked by growth and achievement, and a tribute to the relationships and partnerships that have contributed to a decade of success.

Orange Group has expanded its consumer healthcare portfolio with the nationwide launch of Cannon PM, a dual-action night-time medication designed to provide relief from cold and flu symptoms while promoting restful sleep.

The company said the new product was developed in response to the increasing number of Nigerians affected by cold, flu and fever-related illnesses each year.

According to Orange Group, many consumers are seeking healthcare solutions that not only ease symptoms but also help them sleep comfortably, allowing the body to recover more effectively.

Cannon PM is formulated to relieve common cold and flu symptoms, including fever, headaches, body aches and general physical discomfort.

In addition to symptom relief, the medication is designed to support uninterrupted sleep, helping users wake up feeling refreshed after a night’s rest.

Speaking during the product launch, the Director of People and Communications at Orange Group, Uchenna Ezenna, said the company remains committed to providing healthcare products that address the everyday needs of Nigerians.

She explained that Cannon PM was specifically created to offer effective relief at night, when cold and flu symptoms often become more disruptive and interfere with quality sleep.

“At Orange Group, we are committed to delivering healthcare solutions that address the everyday needs of consumers. Cannon PM was developed to provide effective relief from common cold and flu symptoms, including fever, headaches, body aches and physical discomfort, while supporting a refreshing night’s sleep. By helping consumers rest more comfortably through the night, Cannon PM enables them to wake up feeling better and ready for the day ahead,” Ezenna said.

Orange Group noted that the product contains clinically recognised ingredients that provide effective night-time relief from symptoms commonly associated with colds and flu.

The company added that adequate rest plays a critical role in recovery, making Cannon PM a convenient option for consumers looking to manage illness without sacrificing quality sleep.

The company further described Cannon PM as a premium wellness product designed to meet the needs of today’s active consumers.

Its dual-action formulation combines trusted flu and pain relief with sleep-supporting properties, offering a comprehensive recovery solution in a single product.

Orange Group said the launch reflects its continued investment in innovative over-the-counter healthcare products aimed at improving the well-being of Nigerians.

The company expressed confidence that Cannon PM would provide consumers with a reliable option for managing cold and flu symptoms while supporting restful sleep and faster recovery, further strengthening its growing portfolio of healthcare and wellness brands across the country.

All On has launched the 2026 edition of its Off-Grid Energy Challenge, a competition aimed at supporting Nigerian companies developing renewable energy and off-grid electricity solutions.

Applications opened on July 2 and will close on July 31, 2026.

According to the organisation, the initiative is designed to identify and support businesses developing commercially viable solutions in renewable energy, productive-use technologies, energy efficiency, cold-chain systems and other off-grid energy applications.

Successful applicants will receive funding ranging from $200,000 to $1 million through a combination of grant and commercial financing, alongside technical assistance and investment-readiness support.

The organisation said this year’s edition will prioritise projects focused on productive use of energy, mini-grids, solar home systems and other technologies aimed at improving electricity access in underserved communities.

Speaking at the launch, Innovation Hub Manager at All On, Sele Inegbedion, said the programme was intended to support entrepreneurs developing solutions to Nigeria’s energy challenges.

“The Off-Grid Energy Challenge exists because we believe the solutions to Nigeria’s energy challenges can be developed by local entrepreneurs. Our role is to identify and support those innovations as they grow,” he said.

Chief Executive Officer of All On, Caroline Eboumbou, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to supporting enterprises working to expand access to off-grid energy.

According to All On, the challenge has, since 2018, supported 36 Nigerian-owned companies through funding for projects aimed at improving access to clean energy.

The organisation said eligible applicants must be majority Nigerian-owned and managed, legally registered for-profit companies operating in Nigeria, with proposals demonstrating innovation, commercial viability and the potential to serve unserved or underserved communities.

…Launches ‘Content Revolution’ to Drive Dev’t

The Global Clusters has marked its second anniversary with the unveiling of a new strategic agenda tagged “Content Revolution,” aimed at promoting development-centred digital content and technology platforms to accelerate practical life skills acquisition, enterprise development and socio-economic transformation.

The initiative also seeks to counter the growing spread of illicit, unverified, irresponsible and non-development-oriented digital content.

Speaking at the anniversary celebration in Ikeja, Lagos, on Monday, the Global President of the organisation, Amb. Dr. Adekunle Badmus, said the initiative would focus on producing purposeful content capable of inspiring positive social change, empowering citizens and promoting national prosperity.

“Real change happens when content meets purpose. Content is more than just information; it is a catalyst for transformation. Nations are changed by content, competence and character,” Badmus said.

He said the organisation would deepen the use of digital platforms, including SparkHubs and The Global Clusters platform, to equip young people and professionals with practical skills, strengthen enterprise networking, promote innovation and create economic opportunities.

According to him, The Global Clusters has, within two years, evolved into a global platform promoting leadership, collaboration, entrepreneurship, digital empowerment and community development through strategic partnerships and technology-driven initiatives across Nigeria and Africa.

Reflecting on the organisation’s journey, Badmus said: “Two years ago, we made a covenant that we would not chase opportunities but create them. Today, we celebrate two years of impact—from one idea to a global movement, from conversations to content for change, and from online engagements to real-life impact.”

He added that the organisation would expand its global footprint, advance security innovation through smarter systems, strengthen leadership development and scale initiatives that empower communities.

“The work has only just begun. The best of The Global Clusters is still ahead. We remain committed to connecting nations, empowering people and driving sustainable development through education, technology and purposeful content,” he added.

Speaking virtually from the United States, President of Globally Pioneers, Dr. Cary Goulston, said digital platforms present the greatest opportunity in history to advance education, literacy, positive values and the mindset required for sustainable growth and development.

The Global Clusters Co-founder, Dr. Mrs. Michelle Ukoh, stressed the need to build minds with appropriate content in an era flooded with dangerous and misleading digital information.

Ukoh, an African-American counselling expert based in Lagos, urged young Nigerians to embrace their originality and leverage technology to maximise their potential.

The event also featured a panel discussion on digital literacy and content, moderated by communications professional, publisher of The Conscience NG News, businessman and activist, Comrade Israel Bolaji.

The Global Clusters is a non-governmental organisation focused on nation building, enterprise networking, leadership development and digital empowerment through technology, innovation and strategic collaboration.

The Lagos State Government has signed four major concession agreements across healthcare, transportation, digital governance and outdoor advertising sectors, paving the way for private sector participation into areas central to the State’s infrastructure and service delivery agenda.

The agreements were signed on Friday, July 10, 2026, at the Black Diamond Hotel, Victoria Island, at a ceremony coordinated by the Office of Public-Private Partnerships, in collaboration with the Ministries of Health, Transportation, Justice, Environment and Water Resources, as well as the Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA), Lagos State Blood Transfusion Committee (LSBTC) and the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA).

One of the key projects is the development of MyLagosApp, a unified digital platform designed to make government services more accessible to residents and visitors.

Under a 10-year concession agreement, LA Crème Nigeria Limited, with technical support from MTN Nigeria, will design, finance, build, operate, maintain and transfer the platform.

Once operational, it will provide users with seamless access to a wide range of government services, including payments, traffic updates, emergency support, business information and tourism resources through a mobile application.
 
The State also signed a 20-year concession agreement with Anchor Advisory Partners for the full automation of the Lagos State Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA).

The project will digitise vehicle registration, licensing and other related services through an integrated platform designed to improve public access, strengthen regulatory oversight and enhance revenue administration.

This initiative is expected to provide residents with faster, more efficient access to vehicle administration services while improving operational efficiency across the agency.
 
In the health sector, concession agreements were executed with five private partners for the establishment of a Blood Screening and Certification System, which will introduce a standardised blood screening framework across Ikorodu General Hospital, Alimosho General Hospital, LSBTC/Gbagada General Hospital, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital and Lagos Island General Hospital.

The project will deploy fully automated chemiluminescence technology, meeting WHO standards.

Roche, a Swiss multinational healthcare company and global leader in diagnostics, has been approved as the common Original Equipment Manufacturer to support the technology, maintenance and quality control process of blood screening and donation.
 
Further expanding private sector participation, Lagos State government also formalised concession agreements for the management of outdoor advertising infrastructure across four major corridors.

Under the arrangement, Weatherhead will oversee the assets on Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Vista Media on Ikorodu Road, Defsolute Media on LASU-Isheri Road, and TCS Media along the Funsho Williams Avenue-Marina axis.

The arrangement is expected to bring greater coordination to the management of outdoor advertising assets while encouraging investment in modern advertising infrastructure.  
 
Reflecting on the significance of the agreements, the Special Adviser on Public-Private Partnerships, Mrs. Bukola Odoe, said the projects demonstrate how strategic partnerships can translate government policy into tangible improvements in the lives of Lagosians.

“Government is at its best when it is practical – when policy leaves the boardroom and shows up in the hospital ward, at the licensing office, on the commuter’s phone and along the streets of our city. That is what today is about.”
 
She also  expressed how the agreements are consistent with the current administration’s approach to infrastructure delivery, which combines private sector participation with strong public oversight.
 
Closing the ceremony, the Honorable Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, commended all stakeholders who contributed to the successful execution of the agreements.

He also noted that the signing reflects the State’s determination to continually improve public service delivery, adding that residents would begin to experience the benefits as implementation progresses across the various sectors.

Positions for Growth in Asset and Investment Management Services

Treegar Capital Management Limited has received approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission, Nigeria, to operate as a licensed Fund/Portfolio Manager.

The approval positions Treegar Capital to provide regulated asset and investment management services to individuals, corporates, institutions, family offices, and high-net-worth clients.

The firm will offer solutions across fixed income, money market instruments, treasury management, discretionary portfolio management, and portfolio advisory services, with a focus on capital preservation, responsible yield generation, transparent reporting, and strong risk management.

Treegar Capital is led by Olugbenga Sonaike as Managing Director, working closely with Ayo Ogunlowo and Mojibade Sosanya as part of the firm’s senior leadership.

Together, they bring strategic direction, institutional leadership, governance discipline, and business growth oversight to the firm.

Mr. Sonaike is a seasoned financial markets professional, former Head of Fixed Income at Access Bank, and an alumnus of Lagos ĚÇĐÄĘÓƵ School.

With two decades of experience across banking, treasury, fixed income, liquidity management, institutional markets, and client investment solutions, he brings deep market knowledge and execution discipline to Treegar Capital’s operations.

Commenting on the development, Olugbenga Sonaike, Managing Director of Treegar Capital Management Limited, said: “Treegar Capital was established to provide clients with professionally managed investment solutions built on trust, governance, regulatory compliance, and disciplined execution. With SEC approval now in place, our focus is to help clients preserve capital, access quality investment opportunities, and achieve sustainable portfolio growth.”

Over the short-to-medium term, Treegar Capital is targeting ₦100 billion in assets under management, subject to market conditions and client onboarding.

Treegar Capital Management Limited is a Securities and Exchange Commission-approved Fund/Portfolio Manager focused on asset management, investment management, fixed income, money market, treasury management, and portfolio advisory solutions.

The firm is committed to governance, investor protection, disciplined portfolio management, and transparent client reporting.

…Selects Iwuagwu for Capitol Hill Advocacy

A Nigerian professional based in the United States, Kelechi “PRagmatic” Iwuagwu, has added another milestone to his growing record of international advocacy after being selected to participate in the 2026 United Nations Association of the United States of America (UNA-USA) Advocacy Summit.

Iwuagwu was among only 133 advocates selected from across the United States through a highly competitive process to campaign for sustained American support for the United Nations and its humanitarian and development programmes.

The New York-based professional, who works as a Data Analyst and Life Safety Director at Warner Bros. Discovery’s corporate headquarters, joined fellow advocates in Washington, D.C., where they met with members of the U.S. Congress and Senate to push for continued bipartisan funding for key UN agencies.
The advocacy effort comes at a time when funding cuts are threatening several United Nations programmes that provide critical support to millions of vulnerable people around the world.

During the summit, participants received policy and advocacy training before heading to Capitol Hill to engage lawmakers on the importance of continued U.S. support for agencies such as UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO and UN Peacekeeping operations.
For Iwuagwu, the opportunity was more than a personal achievement. It also reflected the growing contribution of Nigerians in the diaspora to global policy conversations and international development.

A strong advocate of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), he has continued to support initiatives that promote quality education, youth empowerment, gender equality, community development and global partnerships.

Speaking on the experience, Iwuagwu described his selection as both a privilege and a call to greater service.

“Being selected among just 133 advocates from across the United States was a privilege I do not take lightly,” he said.

“Standing on Capitol Hill and engaging with congressional offices on issues that affect millions of lives across the world reminded me that advocacy is not reserved for diplomats alone. Every informed citizen has the power—and the responsibility—to help shape a better future.”

His participation at the summit underscores the increasing role of Nigerian professionals abroad in influencing global conversations on peace, sustainable development and international cooperation.

Ugo Aliogo

Resource Intermediaries Limited (RIL), a Nigerian human resources outsourcing and management consulting firm, has marked its 20th anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to delivering innovative workforce solutions and supporting business growth through strategic human capital development.

The company said the milestone reflects two decades of providing human resources outsourcing, talent acquisition, personnel management, business process outsourcing and HR advisory services to organisations across multiple sectors of the economy.

Speaking on the anniversary, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Resource Intermediaries Limited Nigeria, Ademolasoye Awonaike, described the occasion as an opportunity to reflect on the company’s journey while reaffirming its focus on the future.

According to him, the company’s growth over the past two decades has been driven by its commitment to helping organisations improve operational efficiency through innovative human resource solutions and long-term partnerships.

“As we mark this milestone, we remain focused on the future. Our objective is to continue supporting businesses by easing operational challenges, unlocking the potential of people and creating sustainable value through innovative HR solutions and outsourcing services,” he said.

Awonaike expressed appreciation to the company’s clients, business partners and employees for their contributions to its growth, noting that their commitment and professionalism had played a significant role in the organisation’s development.

He added that the company’s workforce remained its greatest asset, describing its employees as central to building the culture, reputation and service standards that have sustained the business over the years.

Looking ahead, Awonaike said Resource Intermediaries would continue to strengthen its service offerings while responding to the evolving needs of organisations operating in an increasingly dynamic business environment.

He noted that the company intends to expand its focus on talent management, business process outsourcing, personnel management and human resources advisory services as organisations continue to seek more efficient and flexible workforce solutions.

The Chairman of the Board, Dr. Alex Okoh, joined other members of the board and management in commemorating the anniversary, describing the milestone as a reflection of the company’s resilience, adaptability and commitment to professional excellence.

Founded in 2006, Resource Intermediaries Limited has grown into one of Nigeria’s indigenous providers of human resources outsourcing and consulting services, serving clients across diverse sectors of the economy.

The company said it remains committed to maintaining high standards of professionalism, integrity and service delivery while positioning itself to support the changing workforce needs of businesses in Nigeria and across Africa.

Hazibian International Limited has awarded a ₦1 million business grant to Nutraboom, winner of the Nexus 2.0 Startup Pitch Competition, as part of its efforts to support entrepreneurship and innovation in Nigeria.

The cheque was presented by the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Hazibian International Limited, Mrs. Terah Melford, at the grand finale of the competition, which featured startups pitching innovative business ideas aimed at addressing socio-economic challenges.

Nutraboom emerged winner after impressing the panel of judges with its business model, growth prospects and potential for economic impact. According to the organisers, the grant is expected to support the startup’s expansion plans and strengthen its market presence.

Speaking at the event, Melford said supporting entrepreneurship had become increasingly important in driving economic growth and job creation.

She noted that young entrepreneurs remain critical to Nigeria’s economic future and stressed the need for greater private sector investment in innovative businesses.

According to her, the grant reflects the company’s commitment to supporting promising startups by providing early-stage funding capable of helping them transform ideas into sustainable enterprises.

“Our vision extends beyond real estate. We are committed to supporting wealth creation, enterprise development and sustainable economic growth by creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow and succeed,” she said.

She added that initiatives such as the Nexus 2.0 Startup Pitch Competition provide a platform for innovators to showcase their ideas, attract investment and contribute to national development.

Hazibian International said its support for the competition aligns with its corporate social responsibility agenda, which focuses on youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, innovation, agriculture, investment promotion and sustainable wealth creation.

The company expressed optimism that continued collaboration between the private sector and the entrepreneurial ecosystem would contribute to business growth, employment generation and broader economic development in Nigeria.

Airtel Africa Plc said it saved 9.1 million litres of diesel during its 2025/2026 financial year as part of its commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its operations while pursuing sustainable business growth.

The telecommunications company said the achievement resulted from measures aimed at reducing dependence on diesel-powered infrastructure and increasing the use of lower-carbon energy sources. During the period, it converted 390 network sites to on-grid power, a move it said improved operational efficiency and reduced carbon emissions.

Group Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Africa, Sunil Taldar, disclosed this during a media roundtable in Lusaka, where he presented the company’s Sustainability Scorecard and outlined progress towards advancing environmental sustainability, digital inclusion and socio-economic development across its markets.

According to Taldar, responsible growth remains central to Airtel Africa’s corporate strategy, enabling the company to expand access to telecommunications and financial services while reducing its environmental footprint.

As part of its environmental initiatives, the company said it recycled 94 per cent of the waste generated across its operations during the financial year, in line with its commitment to promoting a circular economy and improving resource efficiency.

The company also reported continued expansion of its network, which now covers 81.9 per cent of the population across its 14 African markets, increasing access to connectivity, digital services and economic opportunities.

In the area of financial inclusion, Airtel Africa said its mobile money platform, Airtel Money, now serves 54.1 million customers through a network of 2.4 million agents, making it one of the continent’s largest digital financial services platforms.

The company added that women account for 44.1 per cent of Airtel Money customers, reflecting efforts to expand access to secure and affordable financial services for underserved populations.

Through the Airtel Africa Foundation, the company said it invested $6.2 million during the year in programmes focused on financial inclusion, education, environmental sustainability and digital inclusion.

It also highlighted its partnership with UNICEF, through which 3,296 schools were connected to free internet services, benefiting more than two million learners and 38,868 teachers. In addition, 64 zero-rated digital learning platforms provided free educational content to over 11 million learners.

According to the company, more than 30,000 young people received digital skills training during the year, while over 250 undergraduate scholarships in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) were awarded through the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship programme to support the development of future technology professionals.

ONEHEALTH by AXA has expanded its specialist healthcare services with the introduction of Geriatric and Optometry clinics at its Victoria Island Medical Centre in Lagos,

In a statemen made available to ĚÇĐÄĘÓƵ, it was noted that this is a move aimed at improving access to specialised healthcare for Nigeria’s growing ageing population and strengthening preventive eye care.

The expansion comes as demand for specialist healthcare services continues to rise amid increasing cases of chronic diseases and age-related health conditions, underscoring the need for integrated medical services that cater to patients across different stages of life.

Chief ĚÇĐÄĘÓƵ Officer of OneHealth by AXA, Wahen Egbe, said the new clinics reflect the organisation’s commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centred healthcare while responding to the evolving health needs of individuals and families.

According to her, the hospital is broadening its specialist offerings to enable patients access expert consultations within a modern and integrated healthcare environment.

Egbe noted that Nigeria’s ageing population and the increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses have heightened the need for specialised care for older adults.

She explained that the newly established Geriatric Clinic is designed to provide comprehensive assessment, prevention, diagnosis and long-term management of age-related conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, cognitive decline and mobility disorders.

Beyond clinical treatment, she said the facility would focus on promoting healthy ageing through personalised care plans aimed at helping senior citizens maintain independence and improve their quality of life.

“The addition of these clinics reflects the growing demand for specialised medical services that address the evolving health needs of people at different stages of life,” she said.

The Geriatric Clinic operates every Tuesday between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., offering specialist consultations for elderly patients and their families.

Also speaking on the development, Country Manager of OneHealth by AXA, Dr. Jadesola Idowu, said the introduction of the Optometry Clinic is intended to improve access to comprehensive eye care services and encourage early detection of vision-related conditions.

According to her, routine eye examinations remain critical because many eye diseases develop gradually and often become noticeable only after significant vision loss has occurred.

She explained that the clinic provides comprehensive eye examinations, vision screening, refraction services, prescription of corrective lenses, eye health assessments and early detection of common eye diseases affecting children, adults and older persons.

Patients, she added, will also receive counselling on preventive eye care, healthy lifestyle practices and referrals for advanced ophthalmic treatment where necessary.

“Our Optometry Clinic offers comprehensive eye examinations, vision screening, refraction services, prescription of corrective lenses, eye health assessments and early detection of common eye diseases affecting children, adults and older persons,” Idowu said.

The Optometry Clinic operates from Monday to Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., providing access to routine eye examinations, occupational vision assessments, prescription updates and ongoing eye health management.

The company described the launch of both specialist clinics as another milestone in its strategy to deliver comprehensive healthcare services under one roof through its Victoria Island Medical Centre.

OneHealth by AXA, a subsidiary of the AXA Group, provides a broad range of specialist healthcare services across its network of medical centres, including cardiology, endocrinology, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, orthopaedics, physiotherapy, urology and endoscopy.

The facilities also operate 24-hour ambulance and radiology services to strengthen emergency response and continuity of care.

Authors and creative collaborators, Yewande Akinse and Mema Daisy, have unveiled The Rise and Fall of Rhymes and Rhythms, a children’s book that combines poetry and illustration to introduce young readers to life’s journey through thoughtful storytelling and visual artistry.

The project, which reportedly took three years to write and an additional year to illustrate, reflects a deliberate creative process that prioritised depth, patience and craftsmanship over speed.

At the heart of the book is an exploration of life’s cycles—birth, growth, love, learning, loss and hope—presented in a manner designed

Ugo Aliogo

As Nigeria’s real estate sector continues to expand, industry stakeholders are placing increasing emphasis on transparency, documentation and regulatory compliance as critical factors in strengthening investor confidence.

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Festrut Group, Professor Festus Uwakhemen Asikhia, has identified documentation integrity and professional administration as key elements of the company’s operations, positioning them at the centre of its real estate development model.

Through Festrut Global Shelter Nigeria Limited, the company has adopted processes aimed at ensuring title verification, documentation, deed certification and compliance with applicable regulatory requirements in its property transactions.

According to Asikhia, confidence in the real estate market depends not only on the quality of physical infrastructure but also on the credibility of the legal and administrative processes that support property ownership.

He noted that concerns over land ownership disputes, title verification and documentation have remained major challenges for many property investors, making transparency an important consideration in the sector.

Before establishing Festrut Group, Asikhia served in the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), where he gained experience in risk management, operational accountability and regulatory compliance.

He said the experience influenced his approach to real estate development by placing equal emphasis on legal documentation and physical infrastructure.

According to him, the company has developed internal systems to strengthen documentation procedures, administrative processes and compliance frameworks, with the aim of ensuring consistency across its projects.

He explained that the approach is intended to provide investors with greater confidence in property transactions and support long-term business sustainability.

Industry analysts have noted that as urbanisation accelerates and demand for housing increases, developers are expected to pay greater attention to governance, documentation and compliance in order to improve investor confidence and reduce disputes associated with property ownership.

They believe that stronger institutional processes could contribute to improved standards within the real estate industry and encourage greater participation by both local and international investors.

Asikhia said the company’s long-term focus remains on strengthening professional standards and promoting accountability in real estate development.

According to him, sustainable growth in the sector will increasingly depend on transparent business practices, sound governance and effective documentation systems that protect the interests of investors and other stakeholders.

Africa Live Play 360 (ALP360) said its latest campaign for seasoning brand Onga reflects a deliberate shift away from familiar advertising formulas, opting instead for a more grounded portrayal of Nigerian family life.

Rather than relying on the polished imagery often associated with fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) advertising, the campaign centers on the realities of a busy household, overlapping conversations, shared meals, and the natural energy of family gatherings taking precedence over carefully staged moments.

According to the agency, the creative process began with Onga’s campaign idea, “A taste that brings everyone home.” Instead of treating the line as a visual theme alone, ALP360 worked closely with the brand to explore what “home” truly looks and feels like in everyday Nigerian settings.

The resulting film focuses on movement, conversation, and the lived experience of families gathered around food. This approach, the agency says, emerged through extensive collaboration with the client during the development process.

ALP360 noted that the project was conceived and produced entirely in-house, allowing strategy, creative development, and production to remain under one roof. This integrated approach helped preserve the original creative direction from concept through to final execution.

The production brought together directors, cinematographers, production designers, casting professionals, and editors whose collective work helped translate the concept into the finished campaign.

Speaking on the project, ALP360 Chief Executive Officer, Nelson Ononiwu said authenticity was central to the campaign’s creative direction.

“If a Nigerian family doesn’t recognise themselves in the first three seconds, we have failed before the product even shows up on screen. That is the standard we hold ourselves to, and it’s the standard Onga held us to as well,” he said.

The campaign also reflects what the agency describes as a broader philosophy of questioning creative briefs rather than simply executing them. ALP360 says it increasingly works with clients willing to revisit conventional approaches in pursuit of ideas that better reflect local realities.

Industry observers have long noted the influence of global advertising templates on African marketing campaigns.

Through its collaboration with Onga, ALP360 argues that campaigns rooted in local experiences and cultural specificity can resonate more strongly with Nigerian audiences, offering a compelling alternative to more generic creative approaches.

Cyprus-based Sierra Leonean Afrobeats artiste, Yankee, has continued his European performances with appearances in Switzerland and Cyprus as he seeks to broaden his international audience.

The singer recently performed as one of the opening acts at the Zurich stop of Davido’s 5ive Alive Tour, where he entertained concertgoers ahead of the Nigerian music star’s performance.

The appearance marked another outing for the artiste, who has been performing across Europe while promoting his recent releases and expanding his presence within the Afrobeats scene.

In addition to the Zurich performance, Yankee headlined a show at Club Teez, where he performed a selection of his songs alongside unreleased material.

He also participated in a listening session hosted by Urban Vibe Residency at Kaliva on the Beach in Cyprus, where he engaged with music enthusiasts and previewed some of his latest work.

The performances form part of a series of engagements that have taken the Sierra Leonean artiste across Europe following a homecoming concert in Sierra Leone earlier this year. He has also released a number of singles, including Hotter Than Eternity, Do Me, and C’est La Vie.

According to his management, Yankee is expected to continue his international engagements in the coming months as he works on new music and collaborations while seeking to grow his audience across Africa and Europe.

The Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Transworld Security, Dr. Victoria Ekhomu, has urged the Federal Government to adopt a more intelligence-driven and risk-based approach to the deployment of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, saying the safety of young graduates must remain paramount as the country grapples with persistent security challenges.

Ekhomu made the call while reacting to the Federal Government’s directive that corps members be deployed to states facing security challenges.

She acknowledged that the NYSC scheme has remained one of Nigeria’s most enduring nation-building programmes, fostering national integration, cultural exchange and unity among young Nigerians from different ethnic and religious backgrounds.

While describing the objectives of the scheme as laudable, she stressed that no policy aimed at promoting national unity should expose corps members to avoidable danger.

According to her, every deployment decision should be guided by comprehensive security risk assessments carried out by professional security and intelligence agencies.

She explained that the security situation across Nigeria is far from uniform, noting that while some states experience isolated security concerns that can be managed through effective security arrangements, others continue to battle terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, communal conflicts and violent criminal activities.

Ekhomu maintained that deployment decisions should not rely on broad geographical classifications but rather on current intelligence, continuous threat assessments and the government’s demonstrated capacity to provide adequate protection for corps members.

She noted that security remains dynamic and that deployment policies should be flexible enough to reflect changing realities across different parts of the country.

The security expert warned that implementing the policy without adequate safeguards could expose corps members to kidnapping, terrorist attacks, armed robbery, communal violence and psychological trauma.

She revealed that such incidents could discourage graduates from participating in the NYSC scheme while increasing anxiety among parents and guardians concerned about the safety of their children.

She also expressed concern that any major security breach involving corps members could weaken public confidence in the NYSC programme and intensify calls for far-reaching reforms or even restructuring of the scheme.

According to Ekhomu, host communities also have much to lose if corps members are unable to serve in their areas.

She noted that corps members make valuable contributions to education, healthcare, agriculture and community development across the country.

At the same time, she cautioned that security incidents involving corps members could place additional pressure on already stretched security resources within host communities.

To address these concerns, Ekhomu recommended stronger intelligence gathering, improved collaboration among security agencies, rapid emergency response mechanisms, secure accommodation for corps members and regular security awareness briefings throughout their service year.

She also advocated the integration of technology into the NYSC security framework through GPS-enabled emergency reporting systems and dedicated communication channels that would enable faster responses during emergencies.

She further called for a review of the existing deployment policy, proposing a dynamic, risk-based framework that assesses individual local government areas instead of categorising entire states as either safe or unsafe.

She argued, would enable authorities to suspend deployments immediately whenever security deteriorates and resume postings once conditions improve.

Ekhomu concluded that every Nigerian youth deserves to serve the nation in an environment where reasonable measures have been taken to safeguard lives and property.

She noted protecting corps members is not only a moral obligation but also essential to sustaining public confidence in one of Nigeria’s most enduring national institutions.

Determined to strengthen advocacy against domestic and sexual violence in Nigeria, AXA Mansard Insurance Plc has launched a Safeguard Booklet for teenagers in collaboration with the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA).

The initiative, unveiled in Lagos as part of the 2026 AXA Week for Good, seeks to equip children, parents, teachers and communities with practical knowledge to prevent abuse, identify warning signs and access support services.

The launch forms part of AXA Mansard’s flagship global volunteering programme, AXA Hearts in Action, through which employees across different markets dedicate time and resources to social causes aimed at strengthening communities and improving lives.

Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer of AXA Mansard Health, Tope Adeniyi, said the booklet represents another step in the company’s broader advocacy to promote awareness, early intervention and stronger community responsibility around safeguarding children and young people.

According to him, the company believes protection extends beyond insurance services to addressing social challenges that threaten the well-being of vulnerable groups.

“At AXA Mansard, we believe protection goes beyond insurance. It is also about helping to create safer communities where children and young people can grow with dignity, confidence and hope. The Safeguard Booklet is an important part of that commitment,” he said.

Adeniyi noted that domestic and sexual violence remain troubling realities in society, stressing that awareness remains one of the strongest tools in combating the menace.

“This is why we are continuing to invest our voice, our people and our platforms in initiatives like this. We want to contribute meaningfully to a culture where safeguarding is taken seriously and where more children are protected from harm,” he added.

The initiative is anchored on the theme, “Being a Child Should Never Be a Risk,” reflecting the company’s position that childhood should be characterised by safety, learning and growth rather than violence, neglect or exploitation.

Also speaking, Executive Secretary of Lagos DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, described the booklet as a valuable contribution to the state’s child protection efforts.

She said: “This Safeguard Booklet is an important step in ensuring that accurate, practical and accessible information is available to the public. Prevention begins with awareness, and when children, parents and educators are properly informed, they are better equipped to identify risks early and take appropriate action.”

Vivour-Adeniyi commended AXA Mansard for supporting efforts to strengthen child protection systems and expand community awareness on domestic and sexual violence.

Chief Marketing Officer of AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, Adebola Surakat, disclosed that the booklet would be distributed across schools, partner institutions and community platforms to deepen awareness and support the prevention of domestic and sexual violence.

She added that the campaign reflects the company’s commitment to leveraging its people, influence and partnerships to drive conversations and actions that make communities safer for children.

“By partnering with Lagos DSVA on the Safeguard Booklet, we hope to contribute not only to awareness but also to a stronger culture of prevention, reporting and collective responsibility in the fight against domestic and sexual violence in Nigeria,” she said.

Stakeholders at the event, including students, educators, child protection advocates and representatives of Lagos DSVA, reaffirmed their commitment to creating safer environments where children and teenagers can live, learn and thrive without fear of abuse, exploitation or violence.

JT Agency’s remarkable award-winning run has continued on the global stage. Weeks after making history at the 2026 Pitchers Festival with an extraordinary debut that delivered 35 recognitions, the Abuja-based visual storytelling agency has now added another prestigious international honour as its International Women’s Day campaign, Let Her Finish, secured second place in the Human Rights category at the ACT Responsible Exhibition in Cannes.

The latest recognition reinforces what the Pitchers Festival had already signalled: JT Agency is emerging as one of Nigeria’s most exciting creative agencies, producing work that resonates far beyond the country’s borders.

At the 2026 Pitchers Festival, JT Agency announced itself in spectacular fashion, winning 18 awards, comprising one Silver and 17 Bronze medals, while earning 18 Shortlists across multiple categories.

The agency’s debut performance ranked it among the festival’s most recognised agencies and marked one of the strongest first-time outings by a Nigerian agency.

Among the standout projects at Pitchers was Let Her Finish, which earned three Bronze awards in Design Craft alongside two Shortlists.

The campaign stood out for confronting a reality that remains commonplace in professional spaces, particularly within the creative industry: women are still too often unseen, unheard, underrepresented and interrupted.

Rather than presenting the issue as an abstract conversation, JT Agency transformed it into a powerful visual statement.

Through compelling film, photography and print executions, Let Her Finish portrayed interruption not as a metaphor but as a familiar experience shared by countless women, making an uncomfortable truth impossible to ignore.

That authenticity has continued to resonate internationally. Following its success at Pitchers, the campaign was selected for the ACT Responsible Exhibition in Cannes, where it attracted public support before ultimately finishing second in the Human Rights category.

The recognition places JT Agency alongside global agencies using creativity to tackle pressing social issues and demonstrates that purpose-driven storytelling can compete on the world’s biggest stages.

The journey of Let Her Finish from Africa’s leading creative festival to Cannes illustrates the growing international relevance of Nigerian creative work when it combines cultural insight, emotional honesty and strong execution.

For JT Agency, the Cannes recognition is more than another award. It validates the agency’s creative philosophy of using visual storytelling to spark conversations that matter.

Coming immediately after its historic Pitchers debut, it also confirms that the agency’s success was no one-off achievement but part of a growing body of work attracting recognition across continents.

From a record-breaking first appearance at Pitchers to international acclaim in Cannes, JT Agency is proving that bold ideas rooted in authentic human experiences can travel—and that Nigerian creativity continues to earn its place on the global stage.

•Initiative To Strengthen Cyber resilience Begins In Nigeria, South Africa

Mastercard has unveiled its Africa Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence, a pan-African initiative aimed at strengthening cyber resilience, fostering collaboration and safeguarding Africa’s rapidly expanding digital economy against evolving cyber threats.

The initiative, announced during a visit to Nigeria and South Africa by Mastercard Chief Executive Officer, Michael Miebach, underscores the company’s long-term commitment to supporting Africa’s digital transformation through stronger cybersecurity frameworks.

According to Mastercard, the Centre of Excellence will serve as a hub for governments, financial institutions, businesses and other stakeholders to collaborate, share intelligence, improve preparedness and enhance coordinated responses to cyber threats across the continent.

The launch also fulfils commitments made by Mastercard during recent engagements with the Nigerian Government in Abuja and the South African Government at the G20 meetings held in Johannesburg last year to strengthen Africa’s cybersecurity ecosystem.

Speaking at the launch, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described the initiative as a significant step towards building a secure and trusted digital environment.

Ramaphosa said: “We recognise that for digitisation to be inclusive, it must be trusted and secure. Mastercard has long been a trusted partner to South Africa, and its Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence is a welcome step to build on that foundation, drawing on the country’s best and brightest to meet a challenge no government or company can solve alone.”

Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, also welcomed the initiative, noting that cybersecurity would play a critical role in the country’s digital transformation agenda.

“As Nigeria deepens its digital transformation, secure and trusted systems will be critical to inclusion and growth. We welcome collaborations that strengthen our digital economy and build resilience for the future,” Tinubu said.

Mastercard said the Centre of Excellence would leverage its global cybersecurity expertise and intelligence capabilities to support one of the world’s fastest-growing digital economies.

With digital adoption accelerating across Africa, the company noted that cybersecurity has become increasingly vital to economic growth, stressing that no single organisation can effectively combat today’s sophisticated cyber threats alone.

To address this challenge, the Centre will promote collective defence by bringing together financial institutions, public sector organisations and businesses to exchange threat intelligence, improve preparedness, identify emerging risks earlier and strengthen resilience over time.

Miebach said trust remains the foundation of Africa’s digital future.

“Africa is dynamic, fast-growing and ready to scale its digital future. That won’t happen without trust. People don’t use what they don’t trust. That makes cybersecurity foundational to driving economic resilience and growth across the continent. By doing more to connect public and private sector efforts and share best practices, we can strengthen collective defence and secure a more confident and inclusive digital economy,” he said.

Mastercard noted that Africa’s digital economy is projected to reach “$1.5 trillion by 2030”, making stronger cybersecurity collaboration increasingly urgent.

The company also highlighted the growing threat posed by cybercrime across the continent, which continues to result in substantial economic losses each year.

It added that only an estimated “35 per cent” of cyber incidents are officially reported due to limited cyber maturity, inadequate detection capabilities and concerns over reputational damage.

According to Mastercard, South Africa remains the continent’s most targeted market, accounting for about “29 per cent” of ransomware attacks and “40 per cent” of phishing incidents recorded in Africa.

Nigeria, meanwhile, ranks among the countries most affected by ransomware attacks and dark web-related cyber threats.

The multi-year initiative will commence with a phased rollout in 2026, beginning in South Africa and Nigeria before expanding across the continent.

Operating as a pan-African hub supported by connected digital platforms, the Centre will provide participating organisations with improved visibility into emerging cyber threats.

During its first year, Mastercard plans to conduct ecosystem-wide cyber risk analyses involving up to 50 organisations while providing access to an Africa-focused threat intelligence feed developed by Recorded Future, a Mastercard company.

The initiative will also encourage collaboration among Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), business executives and cybersecurity professionals through secure information sharing, joint exercises and coordinated incident response.

Mastercard said the Centre has been designed to evolve in line with the continent’s cybersecurity needs and will focus on three strategic pillars.

The first pillar, “Threat Intelligence and Strategic Insights”, will provide participating organisations with Africa-focused threat intelligence, cybersecurity assessments and a shared understanding of emerging risks.

The second pillar, “Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing”, will facilitate closer cooperation among CISOs, senior business leaders and security teams to strengthen collective response capabilities and promote cybersecurity best practices across industries.

The third pillar, “Readiness and Resilience”, will support organisations through continuous risk monitoring, resilience assessments and scenario-based exercises aimed at improving response and recovery capabilities.

Mastercard described the launch as another milestone in its broader mission to strengthen trust in the digital economy.

Since 2018, the company said it has invested more than $12.6 billion in cybersecurity innovation and supported the launch of over “20 cybersecurity-focused startups” worldwide.

The company added that the initiative reflects its evolution from a payments network into a trusted technology and cyber intelligence partner committed to supporting secure, inclusive and sustainable digital growth across Africa.

By working closely with governments, financial institutions, businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Mastercard said it aims to strengthen the digital foundations necessary for inclusive economic growth while helping build a safer and more resilient digital future for the continent.

More than 10,000 young people gathered at the University of Lagos Sports Centre for the fifth edition of the Gen Z Involvement in a New Nigeria, popularly known as GiNN 5.0, in what organisers described as the largest gathering of Gen Z in Africa.

The event, convened by Agomeze Saint Chukwuemeka, popularly known as Saint of Africa, brought together young Nigerians from different parts of the country for a historic convergence focused on leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, creativity, civic participation and nation-building.

Speaking during the event, Saint of Africa said GiNN had grown beyond an annual programme into a continental youth movement.

“GiNN has grown from an idea into a movement. What we witnessed today proves that young Nigerians are no longer waiting to be handed the future. They are stepping forward to build it, lead it and redefine the narrative of this country,” he said.

The event featured leading voices across business, media, politics and enterprise, including Kola Adesina, Ayo Animashaun, Bunmi Davies, Gbenga Obadina and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour.

A major highlight was the presentation of the GiNN Young Excellence Awards, recognising outstanding young Nigerians across entertainment, entrepreneurship, innovation, social impact and professional excellence.

Organisers also announced over ₦30 million in seed funding committed by speakers to support promising young entrepreneurs through the GiNN Innovation Hub.

As conversations around artificial intelligence continue to dominate the global advertising industry, X3M Ideas CEO, Steve Babaeko, has urged agencies to shift their focus away from technology itself and toward the human skills that truly create competitive advantage.
Speaking at the inaugural IAA Slam during the 2026 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, Babaeko delivered a thought-provoking perspective on AI’s impact on the creative industry, arguing that the widespread availability of AI tools has not diminished the value of creativity but has instead exposed the difference between average execution and genuine mastery.

Using a motorsport analogy, Babaeko compared AI tools to cars, noting that while almost anyone can learn to drive, very few can perform at the level of seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton.
“Everyone can learn to drive a car. But everyone who can drive a car cannot drive like Lewis Hamilton. That is the AI conversation our industry is not having properly,” he said

According to Babaeko, the rapid democratization of AI means that creative agencies no longer enjoy exclusive access to the technologies that generate campaign ideas, presentations, scripts, and strategic frameworks.
With clients, marketers, and even junior professionals now able to access the same tools, the cost and speed of content production have changed dramatically.

However, he argued that this should not be a source of anxiety for agencies.
“Access to a car has never been the same thing as mastery of a car,” he noted, adding that the growing availability of AI only makes the distinction between ordinary and exceptional talent more visible.

For Babaeko, the real value lies not in the technology itself but in the judgment, experience, and cultural intelligence required to use it effectively. Drawing parallels with elite racing, he explained that exceptional performance comes from knowing when to accelerate, when to brake, and how to navigate conditions that others fail to recognize.

Applying this to the creative industry, he said the difference between average output and breakthrough work lies in human judgment rather than machine capability.

“The AI is the car. Fast, powerful, and capable of going wherever you point it. But knowing where to point it, understanding culture, emotion, and human nuance, that remains the responsibility of the creative professional,” he said.

Babaeko also challenged agencies to rethink how they position themselves in an AI-driven era. Rather than marketing their access to emerging technologies, he argued that agencies should invest more heavily in developing talent, creative judgment, and strategic thinking.

“If your pitch deck still says ‘we use AI,’ that’s like a driving school advertising that it owns a car,” he remarked.

“Everyone owns the car now.”
He urged agency leaders to prioritize the development of skills that machines cannot easily replicate, including taste, intuition, cultural sensitivity, and contextual understanding.

Referencing everyday realities and cultural experiences, Babaeko argued that AI remains limited in its ability to fully understand the subtleties that shape human connection and effective communication.
“It cannot read a room in Lagos traffic. It cannot feel the impact of an Afrobeats chorus landing at exactly the right moment. It cannot fully grasp history, irony, or the weight of a proverb,” he said.
These uniquely human capabilities, he argued, represent a significant competitive advantage for African creatives and agencies operating in culturally diverse markets.
As AI continues to transform the advertising landscape, Babaeko’s message offered a reassuring counterpoint to fears of technological disruption. Rather than replacing creativity, he suggested, AI is forcing the industry to confront a more fundamental question: who truly possesses the craft required to create exceptional work?
“AI did not lower the value of creative work,” he concluded. “It exposed who actually had craft in the first place.”
His remarks resonated strongly with industry professionals attending Cannes Lions, reinforcing the view that while technology may continue to evolve, human judgment, cultural insight, and creative excellence remain the defining factors of success in modern advertising.