sitemaps.org/schemas/sitemap/0.9/sitemap.xsd BrandArena : August 2024

Wednesday 28 August 2024

LG Electronics Lights Up Oriba Community with Solar-Powered Solutions


As part of its ongoing commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians, LG Electronics has launched a solar-powered borehole and installed streetlights in Oriba, a community in the Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State. This project highlights LG’s dedication to corporate social responsibility, focusing on sustainable energy solutions and improving access to clean water for residents. The initiative aims to enhance the community's quality of life and contribute to a healthier, more prosperous future.

Loeries Introduces Emerging Talents from Africa and Middle East as 2024 Youth Committee


The Loeries has introduced its 2024 youth committee, composed of 14 rising professionals in the brand communications industry. This diverse group hails from across Africa and the Middle East, showcasing the region's rich talent.

Nvidia Surpasses Q2 Expectations with Record $30 Billion Revenue Driven by AI Chip Demand


Nvidia NVDA has once again exceeded market expectations with its second-quarter earnings for fiscal year 2025, reporting a record-breaking revenue of $30 billion—a 122% increase from the same period last year. This impressive figure also marks a 15% rise from last quarter's $26 billion revenue, which had already surpassed forecasts, and represents a staggering 262% year-over-year growth.

Lagos Launches Partial Operations of Rail Mass Transit Red Line


Lagos, the bustling economic center of West Africa, has embarked on a transformative journey to modernise its transportation network with the partial launch of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Red Line. This highly anticipated event commenced on Wednesday, August 28th, 2024, initiating invitational passenger services following a successful six-week trial period. The Red Line stands as a cornerstone of Lagos State's Strategic Transport Master Plan (STMP), poised to revolutionise daily commutes by offering swift, dependable, and efficient rail transportation for residents.

Strategy Trybe Secures ARCON Accreditation for Strategy and Account Planning Institute


In a landmark achievement for Nigeria’s marketing communications sector, Strategy Trybe, a rapidly growing community of Strategists and Account Planners in Africa, has secured accreditation from the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) for its Institute of Strategy and Account Planning.

Tuesday 27 August 2024

WISCAR Celebrates Fourth Cohort of WIN 3 Mentoring Programme Graduates


Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR) celebrated the graduation of the fourth cohort from its WIN 3 Mentoring Programme on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Ebonylife Place in Victoria Island, Lagos. The ceremony marked the conclusion of a rigorous three-month program designed to empower professional women to excel in their careers. Participants were guided by experienced mentors who equipped them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue senior leadership roles and launch impactful businesses.

Nigeria to Begin Nationwide 90,000-Kilometer Fibre Optic Broadband Expansion in February 2025


The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the launch of a massive 90,000-kilometer fibre optic cable network, set to commence in February 2025. This ambitious project aims to significantly enhance Nigeria’s broadband infrastructure by expanding the existing backbone network from 35,000 kilometers to a total of 125,000 kilometers.

BREAKING: Bruno Labbadia Appointed as 37th Head Coach of Super Eagles


The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially appointed German coach Bruno Labbadia as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s Senior Men’s National Team.

How Fanta's Generative AI Experiential Activation is Inspiring South African Customers to Take Bold Steps


Fanta has taken experiential marketing to new heights in South Africa by integrating generative AI into its latest campaign, creating an immersive, multi-sensory experience that has left customers buzzing. While digital experiences often struggle to captivate audiences, Fanta’s innovative offscreen approach, designed to engage all the senses, has proven that consumers are eager for new technological and creative innovations in marketing.

FBN Holdings Postpones 12th AGM Indefinitely Following Court Order


FBN Holdings Plc, the non-operating financial holding company of one of the largest banking and financial services organisations in Africa, has indefinitely postponed its 12th Annual General Meeting (AGM), which was initially scheduled for a virtual session on August 22, 2024, and later rescheduled to Tuesday, September 3, 2024.

Monday 26 August 2024

Nigeria Immigration Service Justifies Passport Fee Increase


The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has clarified the reasons behind the recent hike in international passport fees, citing improvements in quality, processing speed, and accessibility.

NNPC Ltd Expands LNG Supply to Japan and China, Strengthening Global Market Presence


The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has made a significant move in its strategic vision to become a leading global energy supplier by beginning shipments of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to Japan and China on a Delivered Ex-Ship (DES) basis.

South Africa's Broadcast Research Council Revamps Media Measurement Systems


The Broadcast Research Council of South Africa (BRC) has announced a significant overhaul of its television and radio audience measurement programs, emphasizing its dedication to delivering accurate and dependable data that reflects the dynamic South African media landscape.

African Energy Chamber Endorses Oando's $783M Acquisition of Nigerian Agip Oil Company


The African Energy Chamber (AEC), a leading voice in the continent's energy sector, has endorsed Oando PLC's landmark $783-million acquisition of the Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) from Italian energy giant Eni. This strategic move highlights the increasing influence of local exploration companies in transforming Nigeria and Africa's upstream oil and gas industry.

Saturday 24 August 2024

Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Arrested in France


Pavel Durov, the Russian-French billionaire and CEO of the Telegram messaging app, was reportedly arrested at Bourget Airport near Paris on Saturday evening, August 24. The 39-year-old tech entrepreneur was detained around 8 p.m. local time (6 p.m. GMT) while traveling on his private jet, according to TF1 TV.

Oando PLC Finalises $783 Million Acquisition of Eni’s Nigerian Agip Oil Company


Oando PLC, Nigeria’s premier energy solutions provider with listings on the Nigerian Exchange Limited and Johannesburg Stock Exchange, has announced the successful completion of its acquisition of a 100% stake in Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) from Italian energy giant, Eni. The total consideration for the landmark transaction amounts to $783 million, covering both the asset purchase and reimbursement.

LG Electronics Highlights OLED TV's Gaming Power with Lagos Tournament


LG Electronics, a global leader in consumer electronics, recently hosted the Lagos Gaming Finale to highlight the impressive capabilities of its OLED TVs. The event attracted top gamers and esports enthusiasts, who experienced LG's OLED technology firsthand as the official display screens for the tournament.

Thursday 22 August 2024

TikTok Announces Inaugural Members of Its Safety Advisory Council in Sub-Saharan Africa

...Strengthens Community Safety with Expanded #SaferTogether Campaign


TikTok is intensifying its commitment to user safety across Sub-Saharan Africa with the introduction of its first-ever Safety Advisory Council in the region, alongside the expansion of its #SaferTogether community education initiative. The eight members council, comprising policymakers, academics, NGOs, and community leaders, aims to foster collaboration in creating a secure and positive environment on the platform. This significant step was unveiled during TikTok’s Safety Summit in Nairobi, Kenya.

Nigeria: FG Acknowledges Wasteful Spending at COP 28


The Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, has revealed that an audit of Nigeria's participation in the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP 28) ordered by President Bola Tinubu uncovered significant wasteful expenditures. Among these was nearly $500,000 spent on a showcase pavilion, along with various unnecessary sub-contracts and consultancies.

Wednesday 21 August 2024

Burson Names New Leadership Team for Africa Operations


Burson, the global communications powerhouse formed by the merger of BCW and Hill & Knowlton, has announced key leadership appointments for its Africa operations. Bridget von Holdt and Karl Haechler have been named co-CEOs of Burson Africa, while Lerato Songelwa takes on the role of Managing Director for Burson South Africa.

Ford Revises EV Strategy, Delays Pickup and Cancels SUV to Reduce Costs


Global automobile giant, Ford has announced a shift in its EV plans, halting a three-row SUV project and postponing the release of a new pickup. The company, however, intend to concentrate on its strengths in pickup trucks and commercial vans, aiming to adapt to the changing demand for electric vehicles.

Qatar Airways Expands Its African Market Presence, Acquires 25% Stake in SA's Airline Airlink


Qatar Airways has taken a significant step in expanding its influence in the African aviation sector by acquiring a 25% stake in South African regional airline Airlink. The investment aligns with Qatar Airways' strategic plan to strengthen its foothold across the continent.

Monday 19 August 2024

Federal Government to Introduce Crude Oil Sales in Naira Starting October


The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to commence crude oil sales in Naira to Dangote Refinery and other buyers beginning in October.

MTN Nigeria Secures License for Electricity Generation in Lagos


The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has authorised MTN Communications Nigeria Limited to generate 15.94 megawatts (MW) of power through four captive power plants in Lagos State. This move is part of a broader initiative by NERC, which issued a total of three new trading licenses and nine off-grid generation licenses in the first quarter of 2024, collectively adding 109.69 MW to Nigeria’s electricity capacity.

New Justice of Nigeria’s Supreme Court: All You Need To Know About Kudirat Motonmori Kekere-Ekun


Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun stands as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s judiciary, serving as a Justice of the Supreme Court. Notably, she is the fifth and youngest female to attain this prestigious position. This article delves into her early life, educational background, and remarkable career achievements.

Google Pixel Phones Exposed to Security Flaw, Mobile Security Firm Reveals


A recent report by mobile security firm iVerify has uncovered a significant security vulnerability in Google’s Pixel smartphones. According to iVerify, a third-party application embedded in Pixel devices for several years poses a major risk, potentially allowing hackers to inject malicious code and spyware. 

Nigeria’s Sovereign Eurobond Yields Drop to 10.3% Amid Easing Inflation and Increased Foreign Investment


Nigeria’s sovereign Eurobond yields have decreased to 10.3% as foreign portfolio investors have boosted their positions, reflecting increased confidence in the market following a recent easing of inflation. The decline in yields is attributed to a combination of improved macroeconomic conditions and growing optimism about Nigeria’s economic outlook.

Amosun Rebuts Utomi's Contract Violation Allegation, Labels Him as Entitled


Former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has dismissed claims made by Professor Pat Utomi, who accused him of breaching a contract agreement, labeling Utomi as having an entitlement mentality.

NNPC Ltd. Refutes $6.8 Billion Debt Allegations


The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has denied recent claims that it owes $6.8 billion to international oil traders and has failed to remit revenues to the Federation Account since January.

TotalEnergies Reaches 52-Week High Following Strong Earnings Report


TotalEnergies Plc experienced a significant surge in market value last week as investors increased their positions in oil stocks. The company's shares rose by nearly 20%, defying broader market trends.

Sunday 18 August 2024

X Announces Closure of Business Operations in Brazil Amid Legal Dispute


X, the social networking platform formerly known as Twitter, has announced the shutdown of its business operations in Brazil. Despite this decision, the platform will remain accessible to users in the country.

Recharge Life Centre Announces Whole Women Conference 2024


Recharge Life Centre, a mental health and well-being initiative, has announced the 8th annual Whole Women Conference, set for August 31st, 2024. The much-awaited event will empower women through a comprehensive 360-degree approach to well-being, with a special emphasis on mental health.

Thursday 15 August 2024

Google monopoly ruling: where the tech giant goes from here

A US judge has found that Google is a monopoly and has used this dominance to reinforce its market position.


This ruling, which is subject to appeal, brings the US regulator close to the European Commission in its approach to tech giants such as Google, Meta, and Amazon. Regulators now agree that the nature of these companies’ business means that the market ends up becoming a monopoly dominated by one massive company.

GTBank Refutes Website Cloning Allegations; Assures No Compromise of Customer Data


GTBank, a leading Nigerian commercial bank, has firmly refuted the rumour making the rounds that hackers "seized and cloned" its website, intercepting customer data. In a recent statement, the bank clarified that while there was an isolated attempt to compromise its website domain, no customer data was compromised.

Meet the Finalists for 2024 Ecobank Fintech Challenge Competing for $50,000 Grand Prize


Ecobank, the leading pan-African bank, has unveiled the top finalists for the inaugural 2024 Ecobank Fintech Challenge Hybrid Semi-Final event, held at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Lagos, Nigeria. These finalists emerged from a pool of 40 highly competitive fintechs that reached the semi-final stage, selected from over 1,550 applications across 70 countries in Africa and beyond.

Afreximbank Partners with Veenocks to Develop $117 Million Porcelain Tile Plant in Nigeria


The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has entered into a project preparation facility agreement with Veenocks Limited to finance the development of a state-of-the-art porcelain tile manufacturing plant in Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria. The plant, which will be fully indigenously owned, is projected to have an annual production capacity of 6.6 million square meters of floor and wall tiles, with an estimated investment cost of $117 million.

Mastercard Partners with Fintech Start-up Scale to Boost Digital Payment Solutions in Africa and the Middle East


Mastercard has announced a strategic partnership with Scale, an issuer orchestration partner, to accelerate the growth of digital payment solutions across Africa and the Middle East. This collaboration aims to streamline market deployment for fintech companies, helping them overcome key technical and commercial challenges.

Tuesday 13 August 2024

Apply Now: MultiChoice Talent Factory 2025 Seeks Aspiring African Filmmakers and Storytellers


The MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) is once again inviting passionate filmmakers, scriptwriters, producers, and storytellers to apply for its fully funded 2025 academic year. The prestigious program offers a unique opportunity for aspiring professionals to jumpstart their careers in the TV and film industry.

Bolt Enhances Driver App with Speech-to-Text Chat Translation Feature


Bolt has introduced a new feature in its Driver App that allows speech-to-text translation for chat messages. This upgrade enables drivers to dictate messages instead of typing them, with the app automatically converting spoken words into text. The message is then sent to passengers as a standard chat message, streamlining communication between drivers and riders.

African Youth Support Democracy but Show Greater Dissatisfaction Compared to Elders, Afrobarometer Report Reveals


African youth overwhelmingly support democracy over authoritarian alternatives but are more dissatisfied with how democracy functions in their countries compared to older generations, according to Afrobarometer’s inaugural flagship report.

Duke of Shomolu Foundation Unveils "GOWON" – A New Historical Stage Play


The Duke of Shomolu Foundation is set to premiere its latest theatrical production, "GOWON," a historical stage play penned and directed by the esteemed Prof. Ahmed Yerima. Building on the success of "AWO" at London's Shaw Theatre, "GOWON" will make its debut at the Agip Recital Hall, Muson Centre, on August 24th and 25th, 2024.

Saturday 10 August 2024

Dangote Group Secures $105.33 Million in CBN’s Retail Dutch Auction


Subsidiaries of the Dangote Group have secured a substantial $105.33 million in foreign exchange (FX) from the latest Retail Dutch Auction conducted by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This allocation represents approximately 13% of the $876.26 million disbursed by the CBN among qualified banks.

AfDB Approves $40 Million Trade Finance Guarantee for Ethiopia's Dashen Bank


The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has approved a $40 million transaction guarantee facility to bolster Dashen Bank's trade finance operations in Ethiopia. This facility aims to enhance the import and export trade finance needs of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) and local corporations.

MTN Nigeria Bids Farewell to COO Hassan Jaber After Nearly Three Decades of Service


MTN Nigeria paid tribute to its outgoing Chief Operating Officer (COO), Hassan Jaber, on Friday, marking the end of his remarkable 29-year career with the MTN Group. The farewell event, attended by executives, staff, and partners, celebrated Jaber’s nearly three decades of dedicated service and leadership.

Afreximbank Set to Double Intra-African Trade Financing to $40 Billion by 2026


The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has announced its ambitious plan to double its financing for intra-African trade from $20 billion in 2021 to $40 billion by 2026. This significant expansion was revealed by Mr. Haytham ElMaayergi, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President, Global Trade Bank, during the African Caucus Meeting of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) held in Abuja from August 1–3, 2024.

Federal Government of Nigeria and DiFZIN Launch Committee for Digital Free Zone Development


In a strategic move to enhance the ease of doing business for global digital, finance, knowledge, and services enterprises in Nigeria, the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Initiative for the Promotion of Digital Free Zones in Nigeria (DiFZIN), has inaugurated a steering committee aimed at establishing a Digital Free Zone. This initiative is designed to cater to the specific needs of innovative digital trade and service businesses, positioning Nigeria as a hub for global technology and service operations.

2024 Anzisha Prize: Four Top African Entrepreneurs Awarded $40,000


Four exceptional African entrepreneurs have been awarded $40,000 in prize money at the 2024 Anzisha Prize, the continent’s leading youth entrepreneurship initiative. The winners were announced during the prestigious Entrepreneurship Education in Africa Awards (EEA) gala, held in Johannesburg. This year’s top honorees are Mathias Yabe from Ghana, Nzinga Antonio, Sharon Alyorneku, and Ivo Bonfirm, each recognised for their innovative contributions to business transformation.

Thursday 8 August 2024

FBNQuest Trustees Refutes False Claims of Partnership with Maihomm Trustees


FBNQuest Trustees Limited (FBNQuest Trustees) has officially addressed recent reports implying a business relationship with Maihomm Trustees/Maihomm Management, categorically stating that these claims are entirely unfounded.

Visa Teams Up with Pick n Pay Nigeria to Introduce Contactless Payments


Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has joined forces with Pick n Pay Nigeria, a leading retail chain, to introduce contactless payment options for shoppers in Lagos. This innovative partnership aims to enhance the shopping experience by providing a fast, secure, and hassle-free payment method.

MTN Nigeria’s Market Value Drops Below N4 Trillion Amid N888bn FX Loss


MTN Nigeria Plc, a leading telecommunications company, has seen its market value drop below N4 trillion for the first time in years, following significant sell-offs triggered by disappointing earnings and a weak performance outlook.