Microbiome Nutrition Startup Zoe Raises $15M for U.S. Growth
Zoe Secures $15M for U.S. Expansion in Microbiome Nutrition.
Zoe, a London-based microbiome-focused nutrition company, has raised $15 million in a Series B extension to expand in the U.S., bringing its total funding to $118 million. Zoe provides at-home testing kits for blood and gut microbiome health, offering personalized food scores and dietary advice to users. The company recently published a randomized controlled trial in Nature Medicine, demonstrating that its program significantly improves biological markers and overall well-being. CEO Jonathan Wolf emphasized that Zoe focuses on nutrition rather than weight loss, and highlighted the company’s growth to over 100,000 paid subscribers. The new funding will support increased marketing efforts and further expansion in the U.S., where Zoe’s products are currently available everywhere except New York..
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Randy to Tweak Lineup: Super Falcons' Possible XI Against Japan
Super Falcons’ Lineup: New Changes Expected Against Japan.
As the Paris 2024 Olympics progress, the Super Falcons of Nigeria face a critical showdown against Japan in their third group stage match on Wednesday, July 30th. With both teams vying for a spot in the quarterfinals, the clash promises to be a tense and crucial encounter.
Japan’s Position and Strategy
Japan currently occupies second place in Group C, having secured a dramatic comeback victory over Brazil in their previous match. The team is riding high on confidence and will be eager to solidify their position with another win. A victory over Nigeria would almost certainly guarantee Japan’s place in the knockout stages. The Japanese squad, known for their technical prowess and quick, incisive play, will aim to dominate possession and exploit any defensive lapses from the Super Falcons.
Nigeria’s Situation and Tactical Approach
Nigeria, in contrast, finds themselves in a do-or-die situation. Following consecutive defeats, the Super Falcons need a win to have any chance of advancing to the quarterfinals. The team has shown glimpses of their potential but has struggled to convert chances into goals. The pressure is on for the Nigerian side to find their scoring rhythm and demonstrate the resilience that has characterized their past performances on the international stage.
Randy Waldrum’s Tactical Setup
Coach Randy Waldrum is expected to field a familiar lineup, focusing on a balance between defensive solidity and attacking intent. Given the high stakes, his tactical setup will likely emphasize maintaining a solid defensive line while also pushing forward to create scoring opportunities.
Forwards: Toni Payne, Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade
Striker: Esther Okoronkwo
The inclusion of Esther Okoronkwo as the lone striker will be crucial for Nigeria. Okoronkwo is expected to play a key role in holding up the ball and linking up with midfielders and wingers to create scoring chances. Asisat Oshoala, a seasoned striker with experience in top European leagues, will also be vital for Nigeria’s offensive efforts. Alongside Oshoala, the pace and creativity of Rasheedat Ajibade and Toni Payne will be essential in breaking down Japan’s defense.
In midfield, Christy Ucheibe and Deborah Abiodun will need to provide both defensive cover and support for the attack. Ucheibe, known for her tenacity and ball-winning abilities, could be a key player in disrupting Japan’s midfield play and protecting the backline.
Defensive Strategy
Defensively, the Super Falcons will rely on the experience of Osinachi Ohale and the youthful energy of Oluwatosin Demehin. Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal has been a reliable presence, and her shot-stopping abilities will be crucial against a Japanese team known for their accurate finishing.
Adjustments and Substitutions
Coach Waldrum has the option to make tactical adjustments as the match progresses. Bringing in a defensive midfielder like Christy Ucheibe could provide extra protection if Nigeria needs to hold onto a lead. Alternatively, introducing players like Blessing Ayakoroma or Uchenna Kanu could add pace and fresh legs, particularly if the team needs to chase a goal or exploit Japan’s defensive weaknesses.
The Stakes
For Nigeria, this match is not just about progressing in the tournament; it’s about demonstrating their growth and resilience on the international stage. The Super Falcons have a proud history of overcoming adversity, and they will be eager to show that they can compete with the best. A victory against Japan would not only keep their Olympic dreams alive but also serve as a statement of intent for Nigerian women’s football.
As the Super Falcons prepare for this crucial encounter, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if they can rise to the occasion and secure a memorable victory.
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Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel is settling in well under the guidance of renowned manager Jose Mourinho at Fenerbahce. Having joined the Turkish club from QPR in the winter of 2021, Osayi-Samuel quickly became a fan favorite, notably for his on-field performances and a memorable incident where he defended himself against a rival fan who invaded the pitch.
Now under the leadership of Mourinho, Osayi-Samuel is excited about the new chapter in his career. In a recent interview, he expressed both respect and admiration for the Portuguese coach. He described Mourinho as “scary but also very nice,” highlighting the duality of the manager’s demanding yet supportive nature. Osayi-Samuel is eager to learn from Mourinho, acknowledging the confidence the coach instills in his players and the rich history of the players he’s worked with.
Fenerbahce appointed Mourinho after parting ways with former manager Ismail Kartal, who was let go despite a strong season where the team finished second in the league with 99 points. The pressure is high for Mourinho to succeed, especially considering the high expectations at the club. Former Chelsea star and Mourinho’s former player, Mikel Obi, warned him about the passionate nature of Turkish fans, who can quickly turn on a coach if results are not favorable.
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Opeyori Leads Team Nigeria with Determination for Paris 2024
Opeyori Leads Team Nigeria with Determination for Paris 2024.
eam Nigeria’s Anuoluwapo Opeyaori is eager and energized as he embarks on his Olympic journey at the Paris 2024 Games. The 27-year-old badminton player is set to face Switzerland’s Tobias Kuenzi in his opening match on Tuesday, July 30th, at 6:30 pm CAT. Opeyori expressed his excitement on social media, sharing, “First matchday at the 2024 Paris Olympics tomorrow (Tuesday) by 6:30 pm CAT. I’m very sure you guys can tell how excited I am. I will give it nothing but my absolute best.”
In a heartfelt video message, Opeyori emphasized the honor he feels representing Nigeria, saying, “I am excited for my first game in the Olympics Paris 2024. It is an honor to represent Nigeria. I have put my heart and soul into training every day and night, and I am happy to represent.”
Opeyori’s qualification for two consecutive Olympic Games marks a significant milestone in Nigerian sports history, making him the first Nigerian badminton player to achieve this feat. The Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) has been instrumental in his journey, supporting him with a three-week training camp in Italy to prepare for the Olympics.
BFN President Francis Orbih expressed pride in Opeyori’s accomplishments, noting, “History was made in badminton after Anuoluwapo Opeyori secured a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. I am full of joy because Anu is the first Nigerian badminton player to feature in the men’s singles at the Olympic Games and also the first Nigerian to attend two Olympics back-to-back.”
After his match against Kuenzi, Opeyori will face another challenge as he takes on China’s Li Shi Feng on Wednesday. His journey at the Paris Olympics continues, as he aims to make Nigeria proud with his performances on the global stage.
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Chido Obi Departs Arsenal, Expected to Join Manchester United.
Chido Obi-Martin, a highly promising 16-year-old footballer of Nigerian heritage, has officially departed Arsenal, sparking speculation about a move to Manchester United. Obi-Martin, who recently represented Denmark at the Euro U-17, scored an impressive 32 goals in 19 games for Arsenal’s under-18 team last season, including a remarkable ten goals in a single match for the under-16 team.
Despite Arsenal’s attempts to retain him, it became clear that they were losing the battle to keep the talented forward. Obi-Martin’s visit to Manchester United’s training ground, Carrington, hinted at a potential move. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Obi-Martin thanked Arsenal for his four-year journey, expressing gratitude to coaches, staff, and teammates at Hale End.
Now, Obi-Martin is set to make a decision on his future, with Manchester United leading the race to secure his signature. United’s technical director, Jason Wilcox, is reportedly playing a significant role in the negotiations. Obi-Martin, who has cited Manchester United’s new signing Rasmus Hojlund as an inspiration, could potentially join the club’s ranks soon, bringing his considerable talent to Old Trafford.
Obi-Martin’s dual heritage—Danish and Nigerian—has seen him represent both Denmark and England at the international youth level. His departure from Arsenal and potential move to Manchester United mark a significant step in his burgeoning football career.
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The Federal Government has initiated the distribution of 10 trucks of 50kg rice to each state, aiming to sell the rice at N40,000 per bag to address rising food costs and poverty. This action comes ahead of planned national protests on August 1, with the government asserting that many of the protesters’ demands are already being addressed.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated that the rice distribution is part of the government’s broader effort to alleviate living costs. He emphasized that the government has responded to many concerns raised by protesters, including efforts to improve food availability, provide student loans, and create employment opportunities through various programs.
Idris also highlighted the government’s investments in agriculture and infrastructure to reduce food prices in the long term. He appealed to protesters to reconsider their plans, stressing that the government is actively working on solutions and that the protests could be hijacked and potentially turn violent.
The government asserts its commitment to addressing grievances and encourages citizens to allow time for these measures to take effect.
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On Monday, the Naira experienced an appreciation in the parallel market, improving to N1,580 per dollar from N1,610 per dollar the previous Friday.
Naira Dips to N1,580/$ in Forex Black Market.
On Monday, the Naira experienced an appreciation in the parallel market, improving to N1,580 per dollar from N1,610 per dollar the previous Friday. However, this positive movement in the parallel market was offset by a depreciation in the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM), where the Naira fell to N1,611.4 per dollar from N1,609.29 per dollar, reflecting a depreciation of N2.11 per dollar.
Data from the Financial Markets Dealers Quote (FMDQ) highlighted this shift, noting an increase in the volume of dollars traded by 6.3%, rising from $168.63 million to $179.34 million. As a result, the gap between the parallel market rate and the NAFEM rate widened significantly to N31.4 per dollar from just 71 kobo the previous week. This widening margin indicates growing disparity between the two exchange rate markets
IGP Orders Nationwide Protection for EndBadGovernance Protesters
IGP Directs Police to Safeguard EndBadGovernance Demonstrations.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has instructed key police officials across Nigeria to ensure the safety of protesters participating in the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations. This directive came in response to a request from human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN), who sought police protection for the protesters.
The IGP’s order, issued in a letter dated July 29, 2024, was communicated through CP Johnson Adenola, his Principal Staff Officer. The letter outlined that the Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (Operations and Intelligence), the Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) at the Zonal Police Headquarters, and Commissioners of Police (CPs) in each state are to provide necessary protection during the protests.
Additionally, the letter revealed that the IGP is also interested in meeting with Adegboruwa to discuss further details and ensure the effective protection of the protesters.
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INEC Holds Talks with Party Heads on Edo, Ondo Poll.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recovered from recent flood damage at its Benin office, with repairs and replacements completed. INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu reported this during a quarterly consultative meeting with party leaders. With 53 days to the Edo State governorship election, INEC is advancing preparations, including delivering additional Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines.
Yakubu highlighted the urgency for political parties to upload their agents’ details before the July 30 deadline. The commission also addressed the need for compliance with electoral regulations and expressed concern over recent violence, including the death of a security personnel.
The final voter register for Edo and Ondo governorship elections will be published soon, and upcoming bye-elections in Oyo, Kaduna, and other states will be scheduled. The IPAC Chairman, Alhaji Yusuf Dantalle, emphasized the importance of credible elections and advocated for an Electoral Offences Commission and amendments to empower INEC for all local government elections.
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Over the weekend, many Nigerians, like Nike Benson, faced unexpected disruptions when their phone lines were blocked, leaving them unable to make or receive calls. Nike, who has used her line for over 20 years, discovered that her SIM registration did not match her National Identification Number (NIN) details. She is one of many subscribers affected by the telecommunication firms’ actions to bar lines not linked with NINs, following a directive from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) that set a final deadline for July 31, 2024.
The mass disconnection aimed to enforce the NIN-SIM linkage mandate, which had seen multiple extensions since it began in December 2020. However, many subscribers, like Nike, found their lines blocked prematurely, leading to widespread frustration. This disconnect affected at least 50 million lines, with many subscribers complaining at telco stores across the country.
The NCC has since intervened, directing all telecom operators to reactivate the barred lines. The commission’s statement emphasized the importance of consumer rights and acknowledged the inconvenience caused. Reuben Muoka, NCC’s director of public affairs, noted that the reactivation would be temporary, allowing affected subscribers time to correctly link their NINs to their SIM cards. The regulatory body highlighted that the suspension of services was due to a mismatch between SIM registration records and NIN data.
Despite the lifting of the disconnection, the situation created confusion and anger among subscribers, with long queues reported at various telecom stores. In some locations, there were even reports of near-violence and vandalism as frustrated customers sought to resolve their issues. The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) clarified that the blockages were unrelated to any planned national protests and were strictly about compliance with the NIN-SIM registration policy.
Telcos, including MTN, have issued guidelines to help subscribers rectify their registration details. While the reactivation provides temporary relief, the NCC has not confirmed if this grace period will extend beyond the original deadline. Subscribers are encouraged to complete their NIN-SIM verification promptly to avoid future disruptions. Musa Aliu, an Abuja-based subscriber, expressed relief at the NCC’s intervention and plans to ensure his line is properly linked by the given deadline.
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FG directs NNPC to sell crude to Dangote Refinery, others in naira
FG Instructs NNPC to Use Naira for Crude Sales to Local Refineries.
The Federal Government has announced a significant policy shift, directing the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) to sell crude oil to the Dangote Refinery and other local refineries exclusively in naira. This move aims to bolster the local currency and stimulate domestic economic activities.
Bayo Onanuga, the special adviser to President Bola Tinubu on information and publicity, stated that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) adopted this proposal as part of a broader strategy to reduce the nation’s reliance on foreign exchange for essential imports. Onanuga highlighted that the Dangote Refinery currently needs 15 cargoes of crude oil, costing approximately $13.5 billion annually, with NNPC committing to supply four of these cargoes.
“The FEC has approved that the 450,000 barrels meant for domestic consumption be offered in naira to Nigerian refineries, using the Dangote Refinery as a pilot. The exchange rate will be fixed for the duration of this transaction,” Onanuga said on his X account.
This innovative approach will involve Afreximbank and other settlement banks in Nigeria, facilitating the trade between Dangote and NNPC Limited without the need for international letters of credit. This measure is expected to save Nigeria billions of dollars that would otherwise be spent on importing refined fuel, thereby reducing the strain on the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
Zacch Adedeji, chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), also confirmed the initiative, explaining that the arrangement was facilitated by Afreximbank to promote trade of crude oil in local currency. He noted that about $660 million or N7.92 billion is typically spent on procuring crude, a significant pressure point on the nation’s foreign exchange.
Adedeji elaborated on the expected economic benefits, including a reduction in foreign exchange pressures by approximately 94% and a potential savings in finance costs of around $79 million. He emphasized that the sale of crude oil in naira would make economic predictability a reality and contribute to stabilizing the local economy.
This policy marks a departure from the traditional practice of transacting in foreign currencies and is expected to have a significant impact on Nigeria’s economic landscape, particularly in terms of foreign exchange management and fiscal sustainability.
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President Bola Tinubu signed the National Minimum Wage Bill into law on Monday, in the presence of National Assembly leaders during a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting. This marks the first time that the legislature’s leadership has joined the FEC meeting. Senate President Godswill Akpabio led the group, including Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and other key members. The gathering was reportedly convened urgently, possibly in response to proposed protests.
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NAMA suspends planned 800% increase in flight charges
NAMA Halts 800% Hike in Flight Charges
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has suspended its planned 800% increase in navigational charges following a directive from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo. The suspension comes in response to the current economic challenges facing Nigerians and the need for further consultation before implementing such a significant increase.
This decision was announced in a statement by Abdullahi Musa, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NAMA. The agency’s Managing Director, Farouk Ahmed Umar, had earlier highlighted the financial pressures on the aviation industry during a conference, citing factors such as global economic volatility, fuel price hikes, and currency instability.
The proposed fee hikes included raising the en-route charge to 18,000 Naira from 2,000 Naira and the terminal navigation charge (domestic) to 54,000 Naira from 6,000 Naira, effective September 1. The suspension underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of citizens and stakeholders in the aviation sector. NAMA plans to continue engaging with airlines and other stakeholders to find a balanced approach.
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As Nigeria braces for a potential nationwide protest against the rising cost of living, the country faces a worsening petrol scarcity that is heightening public frustration. Long queues at fuel stations, soaring prices, and widespread discontent characterize the lead-up to the planned demonstrations. The shortage has led to panic buying, particularly in states like Lagos, Ogun, and parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where dry pumps and long wait times are now common.
Many Nigerians, including public transportation users, are struggling with the impact of the fuel crisis. With petrol prices at the pump ranging from N568 to N800 per litre, the situation has worsened as black market rates have surged to between N1,300 and N1,600 per litre. Some fuel attendants are reportedly exploiting the crisis by demanding bribes to fill up vehicles, with prices reaching as high as N2,000 for service.
Adewale Bakare, an Uber driver, shared his plight, stating, “I’ve been here since 10 a.m., and it’s now 3 p.m. No fuel means no work, no money to feed my family.” This sentiment is echoed by others who are facing the same struggle, such as Chinedu Eze, a private driver, who had to pay extra just to secure 20 litres of fuel for his employer.
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) attributes the scarcity to supply challenges, with Deputy National President Zarma Mustapha confirming a lack of product availability for IPMAN members. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has also cited issues with the discharge operations of several vessels as a contributing factor to the distribution challenges.
Despite reassurances from the NNPC that efforts are underway to resolve the crisis, the situation remains dire. In Abuja, for example, long queues at petrol stations have clogged entire roads, and black market prices have soared to as high as N12,000 per litre. Residents and commuters, like taxi driver Tobi and lab scientist Blessing Okafor, express their anxiety over the escalating situation and hope for a swift resolution.
As the country grapples with these fuel shortages, there is an increased sense of urgency for the government to address the root causes and restore normalcy, especially with the looming nationwide protest adding to the tension. The protest is seen as a response to not only the current fuel scarcity but also broader issues like inflation, food scarcity, and the general economic hardship faced by many Nigerians.
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Prof. Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr., the Convener of the Country First Movement, has strongly supported the upcoming hunger protest, declaring it as “long overdue.” He believes that the severe issues of hunger, inflation, food scarcity, and economic mismanagement have deeply affected the nation, despite its vast resources.
In his statement, Nwaokobia criticized the government for allegedly failing to address these problems and accused certain individuals and groups of pretending to offer solutions while actually doing nothing to prevent the protest. He urged the government to prioritize fundamental reforms instead of focusing on these so-called problem-solvers.
He also pointed out that the military and police should facilitate a peaceful and orderly protest, respecting the constitutional right to demonstrate. He reminded them that such a right is fundamental and that their role should be to ensure the safety and peace of the protests.
Nwaokobia linked the current situation to historical precedents, recalling the January 2012 protests against President Goodluck Jonathan’s fuel subsidy removal. He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, then an opposition leader, supported the 2012 protests. He argued that the current administration, which once supported such protests, should now allow them without interference.
He criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for worsening economic conditions, citing examples of excessive spending on luxury items and infrastructure, while the common citizen suffers from economic hardships. He believes these issues have led to widespread dissatisfaction and that the protest is a necessary response to the government’s failures.
Nwaokobia concluded by emphasizing that the protest is a justified reaction to the current government’s failures and that attempts to suppress it through threats or divisive tactics will not succeed. He expressed confidence that the protest, driven by genuine public concern, is inevitable and necessary for the country’s redemption.
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