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Articles by Yusuf Abubakar
WhatsApp Adds Web Calls, Call Transfers and Waiting Rooms
MENLO PARK, United States: WhatsApp has introduced browser-based audio and video calling, call transfers between devices, waiting rooms, faster high-definition video and noise suppression as part of an update to its calling service. The company said the features are being introduced gradually across supported devices and will become available to all users.
Facebook Launches Sixth “Made by Africa” Campaign, Puts African Cinema in the Spotlight
LAGOS, Nigeria — Facebook has launched the sixth edition of its pan-African campaign, “Made by Africa, Loved by the World: Where Stories Spark Community,” ahead of Africa Day on May 25, with the 2026 edition focused on African cinema. The campaign features a five-part vodcast series profiling actors and filmmakers from Nigeria and South Africa, with episodes hosted by I Said What I Said, a Nigerian podcast, and Because We Said So, a South African podcast.
The Digital Imperative for Women-Led Businesses in Nigeria, by Gloria Onosode
by Gloria Onosode, Director, Enterprise Sales, FairMoney Business Nigeria is targeting an ambitious $1 trillion economy by 2030. To achieve this, women-led businesses must transition from mere passive observers to primary growth drivers at the heart of the economy, and strategic participants in their respective industries. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the increased ownership rate of MSMEs by women represents a significant contribution to economic growth and job creation.
From Lagos Nightlife to Web3 Innovation: The Quiet Rise of “Locomotive” and His Vision for Nigerian Youths
In the ever-moving rhythm of Lagos where the Island’s bright lights meet the Mainland’s relentless hustle, stories are often told at the surface. But every so often, a deeper narrative emerges. This is one of them. Across Victoria Island, Lekki, Yaba, Surulere, Ikeja, and deep into Alimosho, a new kind of builder is quietly shaping the future by bridging culture, technology, and opportunity.
Amb. Farida Musa Jauro (Dawisun Mubi) Remains the Best APC Consensus Option for Mubi North, Mubi South, and Maiha Federal Constituency
In the dynamic political landscape of Adamawa State, the need for credible, capable, and people-oriented leadership has never been more important. For the people of Mubi North, Mubi South, and Maiha Federal Constituency, the choice of a representative must go beyond political calculations—it must reflect competence, compassion, and the ability to deliver real results.
Google, Slum2School Launch Nigerian Folktale Colouring Book for Underserved Children
LAGOS, Nigeria — Google has partnered with Slum2School Africa and a group of Nigerian creatives to unveil “Stories from Our Home,” a culturally themed colouring book designed to support learning among children in underserved communities. Okay News reports that the initiative will see 1,000 copies of the book distributed to primary school pupils, addressing a persistent shortage of basic creative learning materials such as colouring books and crayons in many Nigerian classrooms.
FIFA Declines Action on Israeli Settlement Clubs, Sanctions Israel FA Over Discrimination Breaches
ZURICH, Switzerland — Global football governing body FIFA has ruled that it will take no action against Israeli clubs accused of operating in Palestinian territory, while separately sanctioning the Israel Football Association for breaches of its anti-discrimination and fair-play rules. The decisions followed a recent FIFA Council meeting, which reviewed issues raised by the Palestine Football Association at the 74th FIFA Congress held in Bangkok in May 2024.
Qatar’s Hamad International Airport Withdraws from Global Aviation Events Over Regional Tensions
DOHA, Qatar — Hamad International Airport has announced its withdrawal from all international exhibitions, conferences, and industry awards programmes, citing the ongoing conflict in the region. The decision was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, as the airport adjusts its global engagement strategy in response to heightened security concerns.
FairMoney Microfinance Bank Appoints Gbenga Shobo as Chairman, Debo Aderoju as Executive Director
LAGOS, Nigeria — FairMoney Microfinance Bank has appointed veteran banking executive Gbenga Shobo as Chairman of its Board and Debo Aderoju as Executive Director and Chief Risk Officer, as the institution strengthens its leadership and governance framework amid expansion in Nigeria’s fast-growing digital financial services sector.
Veteran Nigerian Football Coach Festus Onigbinde, Who Led Super Eagles to 2002 World Cup, Dies at 88
IBADAN, Nigeria — Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, the veteran Nigerian football tactician who guided the country’s national team to the 2002 FIFA World Cup, has died at the age of 88. His family confirmed his passing on Monday in a statement signed by Bolade Adesuyi. The statement described Onigbinde as a prominent traditional titleholder from Modakeke in southwestern Nigeria. It also called him one of the country’s most influential football coaches.
Google Expands AI Search Features to Yorùbá, Hausa, 11 other African languages
LAGOS, Nigeria — Google has expanded language support for its artificial intelligence-powered Search features to include Yorùbá and Hausa, enabling millions of Nigerian users to access AI-driven search experiences in their native languages. The update introduces the two Nigerian languages to AI Overviews and AI Mode, tools designed to provide quick summaries and conversational exploration of information directly within Google Search.
Zenith Bank Sets Stage for International Women's Day 2026 with Empowerment Seminar • Okay News
LAGOS, Nigeria — Zenith Bank Plc has announced plans to commemorate the International Women’s Day 2026 with its annual seminar focused on purposeful leadership, empowerment, and inclusive growth. The event is scheduled to take place on Monday, March 9, 2026, at The Civic Centre, located in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital.
African Creators Take Global Spotlight as TikTok Names Five Sub-Saharan Talents on Discover List 2026
African creators are increasingly shaping global digital culture, and that momentum has been underscored with the inclusion of five Sub-Saharan African talents on TikTok’s annual Discover List 2026, a global ranking spotlighting 50 creators influencing culture across five categories: Icons, Innovators, Foodies, Educators, and Originators.
Nigeria’s Bankers’ Institute Backs ACAMB Leadership, Signals Deeper Industry Collaboration
Lagos, Nigeria — The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has pledged full institutional support to the Association of Corporate and Marketing Professionals in Banks (ACAMB) following a high-level strategic engagement between the leadership of both organisations, reinforcing efforts to strengthen confidence and professionalism in Nigeria’s banking sector.
Google Releases Gemini 3.1 Pro: New AI Model Doubles Performance on Logic Tests
Google has officially released Gemini 3.1 Pro, its newest artificial intelligence model, positioning it as a more powerful and versatile tool designed to handle complex, real-world tasks across everyday applications and developer environments. Okay News reports that the launch comes barely a week after Google introduced Gemini 3 Deep Think, a specialised model focused on advanced science and engineering use cases.
Afreximbank Urges Nigeria to Use Bank Recapitalisation to Close Africa’s Trade Finance Gap
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to use the ongoing bank recapitalisation exercise as a strategic lever to narrow Africa’s estimated $80 billion to $120 billion annual trade finance gap, arguing that the move could reposition Nigeria as a central driver of intra-African commerce.
Google Brings Quick Share-AirDrop Integration to Pixel 9 Phones for Cross-Platform Sharing
Google has announced a major update to its file-sharing ecosystem, extending Quick Share compatibility with Apple’s AirDrop to the Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, in a move aimed at breaking long-standing barriers between Android and iOS devices. Okay News reports that the update was confirmed by Google Pixel in a post on X, where the company said the new capability would begin rolling out immediately and reach eligible devices over the coming days.
MTN Moves to Fully Acquire IHS Towers in $8.50-Per-Share Deal
MTN Group, one of Africa’s largest mobile network operators, has announced plans to acquire full ownership of IHS Towers, a major digital infrastructure company with extensive operations across the continent. In a statement released on February 17, 2026, MTN disclosed that the board of IHS Towers has accepted an offer of $8.50 per share, a transaction that would see MTN increase its stake in the company to 100 percent, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals .
Doha Forum Spotlights Gaza Peace Pathways at Munich Security Conference 2026
MUNICH, Germany — At the 2026 edition of the Munich Security Conference, the Doha Forum convened a closed-door policy conversation examining how the current pause in fighting around Gaza could be transformed into a lasting peace framework. The session, titled “Conversation on Sustainable Peace in Gaza,” was held amid a delicate ceasefire, an ongoing humanitarian emergency, and concerns that the conflict could quickly reignite.
Nigeria’s University Entrance Exam Body Warns 2026 UTME Registration Will Close February 26
Abuja, Nigeria – Nigeria’s Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), the government agency responsible for organising university entrance examinations, has warned that registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) will end in 17 days, with no room for an extension. The Board said the registration exercise will officially close on Thursday, February 26, 2026, urging prospective candidates to complete the process without delay.
'My Happiness Comes First'
Stanley Nwabali, goalkeeper of Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, has confirmed that he is currently without a club following the mutual termination of his contract with South African side Chippa United, Okay News reports. The 28-year-old shot-stopper disclosed this in an interview with South Africa’s SABC Metrofm, where he explained that the decision to part ways with Chippa United was reached amicably and without acrimony.
Lookman Scores on Debut as Atletico Madrid Thrash Betis 5-0
Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian international forward, made an instant impact at Atletico Madrid, opening his goalscoring account on debut as the Spanish side cruised to a commanding 5-0 victory over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals on Thursday, Okay News reports. The 28-year-old winger, who completed a €35 million transfer from Atalanta earlier this week, wasted no time announcing himself to the Atletico faithful.
Ademola Lookman Completes Move to Atlético Madrid, Bids Emotional Farewell to Atalanta
Nigerian international Ademola Lookman has officially brought his Atalanta chapter to an end, completing a move to Atlético de Madrid after nearly four memorable seasons in Italy. The Spanish club confirmed the transfer on Monday with a welcome message shared across its official social media platforms, declaring: “Welcome to Atleti, Lookman.” The announcement followed an emotional farewell message posted by the Super Eagles forward to Atalanta supporters, teammates, and staff.
Facebook Takes Centre Stage at 2026 African Creators Summit in Lagos
Facebook will take centre stage at the 2026 African Creators Summit, bringing live, immersive experiences aimed at strengthening Africa’s fast-growing creator economy. The summit is scheduled for Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. Okay News reports that the African Creators Summit (ACS) has emerged as one of the continent’s most influential platforms for creators, storytellers, innovators and digital entrepreneurs.
Apple Unveils Updated AirTag With Longer Range , Louder Alerts
Apple has announced an upgrade to its AirTag item tracker, introducing improved range, louder sound output and broader device compatibility across its ecosystem. Okay News reports that the updated AirTag now features a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, which Apple says allows users to locate tagged items from “up to 50 percent farther away than the previous generation.” The enhancement significantly improves the Precision Finding experience, especially in busy or indoor environments.
Sahara Group Expands Academic Innovation Support With 2025 MAD Grant Awards
Sahara Group, an international energy conglomerate with operations across Africa, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development and human capital growth on the continent through its Making A Difference (MAD) Grant, an initiative designed to support impactful academic research.
Afreximbank Ends Credit Rating Relationship with Fitch
The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has officially ended its credit rating relationship with Fitch Ratings, saying the exercise no longer reflects an accurate understanding of the bank’s legal foundation, mission, and mandate. In a statement issued from Cairo on Friday, January 23, 2026, the pan-African financial institution said the decision followed an internal assessment of its engagement with the ratings agency.
Dollar to Naira Black Market Rate Today, January 21, 2026
The dollar to naira black market exchange rate remained stable on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, extending a calm trend that has held across the parallel foreign exchange market since last week. Market observations by Okay News show that the US dollar continues to trade between ₦1,480 and ₦1,495, a range that has largely remained unchanged over several trading sessions.
Nigeria Emerges as Global Front-Runner in AI Adoption, Google Report Finds
Nigeria is rapidly positioning itself as one of the world’s most enthusiastic adopters of artificial intelligence, with new findings from Google showing that Nigerians are not only embracing AI tools but actively shaping how the technology is used. In its latest report titled “Our Life with AI: Helpfulness in the Hands of More People,” released on Tuesday, Google said Nigerians are deploying AI across education, work, and entrepreneurship at levels that far exceed global averages.
Qatar Appoints Ali Al Thawadi to Gaza Executive Board to Support Peace Efforts
The State of Qatar has appointed Ali Al Thawadi, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office for Strategic Affairs, to represent the country on the Gaza Executive Board, as part of its continued involvement in regional peace and mediation efforts.
Nigeria's Super Eagles Unveil Strong Starting XI for Semi-Final Clash Against Morocco • Okay News
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have released their starting line-up for the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations 2025 semi-final against tournament hosts Morocco, as both teams prepare for a blockbuster showdown for a place in the final. Okay News reports that head coach Eric Chelle has named a balanced and attack-minded squad, led by Victor Osimhen as captain, in a clear signal of intent as Nigeria targets a fourth continental crown.
Fintech Giant Paystack Expands Beyond Payments, Launches Microfinance Bank in Nigeria
Paystack, one of Africa’s leading financial technology companies, has marked its tenth anniversary with the launch of a new financial institution, Paystack Microfinance Bank (MFB), signaling a major expansion beyond its roots as a payments platform.
JAMB Opens Sale of 2026 UTME, Direct Entry Forms, Releases Registration and Exam Timetable
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially commenced the sale of application documents for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) admissions into Nigeria’s tertiary institutions for the 2026/2027 academic session. The announcement was made in a photostatement signed by JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, and released via the Board’s official X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday night.
"Best Football in 26 Years" — Olu of Warri Hails Nigeria's Super Eagles Ahead of Morocco Clash • Okay News
As Nigeria’s Super Eagles prepare to face host nation Morocco in the semi-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations today, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has delivered a powerful assessment of the team’s form, saying the current squad is playing football Nigeria has not seen in more than two decades.
Real Madrid Part Ways with Xabi Alonso After Super Cup Final Defeat
Real Madrid have brought an abrupt end to Xabi Alonso’s spell as head coach, only hours after the Spanish giants fell 3–2 to Barcelona in the final of the King Super Cup on Sunday night in Jeddah. Okay News reports that the club confirmed the decision on Monday through an official statement published on its verified X account, describing the move as one reached by mutual consent.
Lagos Hospital Responds to Chimamanda Adichie’s Claims Over Son’s Death
Euracare Multispecialist Hospital has issued an official response following public allegations by award-winning writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie over the tragic death of her son, Nkanu Nnamdi, as the controversy surrounding the circumstances of the toddler’s passing continues to draw national attention.
Billionaire Abdul Samad Rabiu Pledges $1.5m to Super Eagles After AFCON Quarter-Final Win
Nigerian billionaire and industrialist Abdul Samad Rabiu has announced a massive cash incentive for the Super Eagles following their victory over Algeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, promising millions of dollars in rewards if the team goes on to lift the trophy. Okay News reports that Rabiu, who is the founder of BUA Group, made the pledge on Saturday in a social media post dated January 10, 2026, shortly after Nigeria’s quarter-final triumph.
Nigeria's Super Eagles Sweep Aside Algeria to Book AFCON 2025 Semi-Final With Morocco • Okay News
Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered one of their most convincing performances of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday, overpowering Algeria 2–0 to secure a place in the semi-finals of the continental showpiece. Okay News reports that the quarter-final clash at the Grand Stade de Marrakech was settled by a dominant second-half display from the three-time African champions, who broke down an Algerian side that had conceded just one goal before the encounter.
NCC, CBN Unveil Joint Framework to Fast-Track Refunds for Failed Airtime and Data Transactions
Nigeria’s telecommunications and financial regulators have agreed on a joint framework designed to protect consumers from losses linked to failed airtime and data purchases, particularly during network downtimes, system glitches, or human input errors.
Super Eagles' Match Bonuses Released as FG Resolves Payment Crisis Before Algeria Clash • Okay News
The Federal Government has moved to defuse growing tension around the Super Eagles’ participation at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, announcing that all outstanding match bonuses have successfully passed required regulatory processes and are now being released to players. Okay News reports that the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday, following threats by the Super Eagles to boycott travel ahead of their quarter-final fixture.
FirstBank Meets Nigeria’s ₦500bn Capital Threshold Ahead of Regulatory Deadline
First Bank of Nigeria Limited has confirmed that it has reached the Central Bank of Nigeria’s ₦500 billion minimum capital requirement, achieving the milestone well ahead of the regulator’s deadline for commercial banks. Okay News reports that the disclosure was made on Wednesday by Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank.
AFCON 2025: MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Toriola Praises Super Eagles’ Perfect Group Stage
The Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, has applauded the Super Eagles for their commanding display at the group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, describing the team’s unbeaten run as a reflection of Nigeria’s grit and collective spirit.
Qatar Population Grows 2.3% to 3,214,609 People in December 2025
Qatar’s population rose to 3,214,609 people in December 2025, representing a 2.3 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2024, according to newly released official figures. Okay News reports that the data was published in a special population growth bulletin by the National Planning Council, which tracks demographic trends as part of the country’s national development planning.
African Creators Summit 3.0 Opens Registration Ahead of 2026 Event in Lagos
Registration has officially opened for the African Creators Summit 3.0, a major gathering designed to bring together creators, innovators, and digital talents from across the continent. The event is scheduled to hold on January 29, 2026, at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, one of Nigeria’s foremost conference and hospitality venues.
AFCON 2025: Lookman Dismisses Osimhen Rift, Says Super Eagles Fully Focused
Ademola Lookman has moved to shut down speculation of any rift with fellow Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen, insisting that a brief exchange between both players during Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign was misinterpreted. Okay News reports that Lookman addressed the issue after Nigeria’s latest AFCON outing, where he reflected on both his performance and the team’s growing cohesion.
Nigeria's Power Sector Poised for Growth Amid Reforms, Says Sahara Group MD Adesina • Okay News
Nigeria’s power sector remains central to the country’s economic and industrial future, with emerging reforms, technology adoption and stakeholder collaboration laying the groundwork for renewed growth, according to Kola Adesina, Group Managing Director of Sahara Power Group.
Manchester United Part Ways With Ruben Amorim After 14 Months
Manchester United have dismissed head coach Ruben Amorim, bringing an end to his 14-month spell at the club following a run of underwhelming results in the English top flight. Okay News reports that the decision was taken after Sunday’s 1–1 draw away to Leeds United, a result that left United sitting sixth in the Premier League table. The club confirmed the development in an official statement released on Monday, acknowledging that the choice to change leadership was not taken lightly.
ABU Zaria Announces January 5 Resumption for 2025/2026 Academic Session
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has announced that its 2025/2026 academic session will officially commence on Monday, January 5, 2026, with lectures scheduled to begin a week later on Monday, January 12, 2026. Okay News reports that the university disclosed this in a Special Bulletin dated Friday, January 2, 2026, and issued by the institution’s Public Affairs Directorate, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Main Campus, Samaru, Zaria.
Jubril Arogundade Disputes CIG Motors’ Termination Claim, Says He Resigned Before Public Statement
Former Executive Director of CIG Motors Company Limited and Acting Managing Director of Lagride Nigeria Limited, Jubril Arogundade, has publicly challenged a recent statement by the automobile firm which announced his “immediate termination” and alleged serious governance breaches.
Jubril Arogundade Terminated as CIG Motors Executive Director Over Financial Misappropriation
CIG Motors has confirmed the immediate termination of Jubril Arogundade from his roles as Executive Director of the company and Acting Managing Director of Lagride, following the conclusion of internal investigations that uncovered serious governance breaches.
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