According to reports, Bayo Ojulari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited(NNPCL), has been coerced into signing a letter of resignation.
This is in line with a report published by the People’s Gazette on Saturday.
The report claims that Ola Olukoyede, the chairman of the anti-graft EFCC, and Adeola Ajayi, the director-general of the State Security Service, kidnapped Ojulari on Friday and forced him to sign a resignation letter.
Sources who spoke to the news platforms disclosed that the event allegedly happened on Friday.
According to sources, Mr. Ojulari was frequently asked about his knowledge of Olatimbo Ayinde, a British-Nigerian oil magnate who has since become one of the most influential figures in Tinubu’s government.
NNPCL Boss, Bayo Ojulari
“Mr Ojulari told us he didn’t know Olatimbo Ayinde,” the source, who preferred anonymity, told Peoples Gazette.
However, the spokesman of EFCC, Dele Oyewale, has not officially responded to the enquiry on the matter.
In a compelling media briefing held on August 2, 2025, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) offered journalists and influencers from across Africa a detailed blueprint of its strategic role during TICAD 9, the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development, scheduled for August 20–22, 2025 in Yokohama, Japan.
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A Fresh Perspective on Africa–Japan Collaboration
Hosted as a precursor to TICAD 9, the media event illuminated the depth and diversity of JICA’s multi-sectoral partnerships throughout Africa. JICA emphasized its focus on human-capacity development, STI (science, technology & innovation), and education initiatives, showing how these are powering technology-led solutions across the continent.
In keeping with TICAD 9’s broader agenda of “People, Planet & Prosperity in a Changing World,” JICA reaffirmed its guiding principle of co‑creation—an approach rooted in partnership, tailored interventions, and African-led ownership.
Spotlight on Tech‑Education: J‑tec4ed and AJ‑INSPIRE
Among the highlights was JICA’s upcoming flagship initiative “J‑tec4ed”, launched in collaboration with partners like the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) and AFRECO. This program, showcased at the TICAD 9 Partner Project Round Table, aims to modernize African education systems through digital integration, teacher training, and curriculum reform.
Complementing this is the AJ‑INSPIRE network, introduced under “TICAD 9 Thematic Event: Promotion of International Brain Circulation.” Anchored by E‑JUST (Egypt–Japan University of Science & Technology), JKUAT (Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology) in Kenya, and Stellenbosch University in South Africa, AJ‑INSPIRE is positioned as a dynamic academic platform. Its goal: to foster joint research, knowledge-sharing, and student exchanges between Japan and African universities, According to World Bank.
Key moderators and speakers—among them senior representatives from the World Bank’s Africa arm—outlined how AJ‑INSPIRE will actively promote scientific collaboration and capacity building in fields such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and biotechnology.
Illustrative Case Studies: JICA in Action
During the briefing, JICA shared real-world success stories:
ABE Initiative (African Business Education Initiative for Youth): Since its launch in 2013, this program has facilitated master’s‑level education for hundreds of African scholars in Japan, coupled with internships with Japanese companies, strengthening business and technical ties between both regions.
Support for female students and academic exchange, built on partnerships with UNESCO IICBA and the Gates Foundation to address gender gaps in education across Africa. A recent workshop, backed by the Government of Japan and UNESCO, focused specifically on improving girls’ educational access ahead of TICAD 9.
These initiatives showcase a persistent dedication to human-centric development, one where education, opportunity, and gender equity intersect to drive long-term impact.
Financial Innovation and Infrastructure Support
JICA highlighted broader development mechanisms tied to TICAD 9:
Africa-TICAD Bonds: Scheduled for launch in August 2025, these yen-denominated sustainability bonds will finance new and ongoing projects across Africa. Notably, projects associated with coal power will be excluded, reflecting JICA’s environmental commitments.
A recent strategic alignment with the African Development Bank (AfDB) in June 2024 underscored the need for blended finance, concessional loans, and debt‑management capacity building. This partnership is seen as critical to funding education, infrastructure, and technological development ahead of TICAD 9.
These financial channels are integral to reinforcing long-term partnerships and enabling scalable education and technology initiatives.
Aligning with Africa’s Agenda: Inclusive and Sustainable Growth
JICA’s media briefing stressed that technology and education are not isolated domains—they are central to Africa’s broader development vision. Themes such as green innovation, universal health coverage (UHC), and startups for youth and women were highlighted as common priorities shared between Africa and Japan.
The agency emphasised that TICAD 9 will build upon decades of African-led development, with Japan as a facilitative partner. At the heart lies a message of co‑creation, where Japanese expertise meets African innovation and stakeholder engagement ensures local ownership and sustainability.
What Journalists and African Stakeholders Learned
Attendees heard clear, tailored talking points they can relay:
TICAD 9 will provide a substantial platform for showcasing education-centric tech innovation and strengthening academic networks between Japan and Africa.
JICA’s initiatives—from scholarships to bonds and digital learning platforms—are actively shaping Africa’s next wave of development.
Media support in promoting and contextualising these solutions is vital for amplifying their impact across communities and decision-making circles.
Looking Ahead: Education as a Catalyst for Transformation
With TICAD 9 just weeks away, JICA’s briefing positioned tech-enhanced education as a catalyst for long-lasting transformation. From digital tools for teachers to international research networks, these interventions aim to equip African youth with future-ready skills and bridge regional disparities in learning.
As the African continent embraces demographic growth and technological evolution, JICA’s partnerships with institutions, financiers, and multilateral platforms seek to deepen educational quality, research collaboration, and tech integration.
Why This Matters
For Education Stakeholders: This briefing reaffirms JICA’s commitment to building robust educational ecosystems through scholarship, curriculum innovation, and cross-border exchange.
For Policymakers and Development Partners: It highlights scalable funding tools like TICAD Bonds and emphasises joint ownership of development programs.
For African Audiences: It links local realities to global frameworks, showcasing how targeted collaboration can unlock opportunities in STEM, innovation, and sustainable development.
Summary Table
Theme
JICA Initiative
Impacts
Tech-Education Integration
J‑tec4ed, AJ‑INSPIRE
Digital classrooms, joint research, academic mobility
Scholar Empowerment
ABE Initiative, UNESCO programs
Scholarships, internships, female empowerment
Sustainable Financing
Africa‑TICAD Bonds, AfDB partnership
Capital for education, climate‑friendly infrastructure
Co‑creation Approach
Africa-driven partnerships & media
Local ownership, culturally relevant solutions
Conclusion
In this pre‑TICAD 9 media briefing, JICA not only catalogued past initiatives but charted a forward-looking agenda that places tech-led education and capacity building at the core of Africa’s development trajectory. By fostering academic networks, leveraging innovation, and catalysing inclusive financing, JICA aims—and invites media audiences—to help co-create a future where education transforms societies and unlocks potential across the continent.
With TICAD 9 fast approaching, JICA’s message is clear: the future of African development is rooted in education, innovation, and partnership—with Japan poised to walk alongside Africa in this journey.
In an effort to emphasise their long-standing demands, nurses and midwives nationwide had started a seven-day warning strike on Wednesday. These demands include, among other things, a review of shift allowance that is higher, adjustments to uniform allowance, a separate salary structure for nurses, an increase in core duty allowance, mass recruitment of nurses, and the creation of a nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health.
The Assistant Secretary-General of NANNM said the decision was made during a virtual meeting of NANNM’s National Executive Council.
Aligwe said, “The strike has been suspended. Nurses and midwives are to resume duty immediately.”
A circular titled “Suspension of the Ongoing Nationwide’ Strike” and signed by the association’s National President, Haruna Mamman, and General Secretary, T.A. Shettima, also confirmed the development.
The circular partly read, “NEC acknowledges the positive steps taken by the Federal Government in responding to the nine core demands of NANNM, particularly the commitment to clear timelines for implementation.
“In view of the formal agreement reached, and in line with the principle of dialogue and good faith, NEC hereby suspends the ongoing nationwide strike action with immediate effect.
“NEC has directed the national leadership to continue monitoring the implementation of the signed MoU and track the government’s compliance with the agreed timelines.
“State councils are directed to mobilise members for the immediate resumption of duty. NEC resolved that no member of NANNM, including interns and locum nurses, should be victimised for participating in the nationwide strike.
“NEC appreciates the commitment and solidarity of all members throughout this action and reiterates that NANNM remains steadfast in defending the welfare, dignity, and professional rights of all nurses and midwives in Nigeria.”
In a pivotal gathering at The George, Ikoyi, Lagos, Chain Reactions Africa unveiled its third Youth Trends and Culture Report 2025, sending a powerful message: government, the private sector, and consumer brands must evolve to stay relevant—or risk being left behind.
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A Cultural Map of Nigeria’s Youth: More Than Stats
The report is not just another study—it is being described as a cultural map of Nigeria’s emerging generation. With over 70 million young Nigerians reshaping markets, influence, and governance, the document decodes their ambitions, contradictions, and creative energies.
This year’s launch was framed by the theme “Decoding the Next Wave of Culture, Business, and Influence”, signalling an urgent invitation. Chain Reactions Africa challenges institutions to rethink how they engage a cohort defined not just by age, but by a mindset—one fueled by hustle, borderless ambition, cultural fluency, and digital disruption.
Launch Day Highlights
Keynote Address by Israel Jaiye Opayemi, Lead Strategist at Chain Reactions Africa, who set the tone with an assessment of youth disruption across sectors.
Trend Presentation by cultural analysts Franklin Ozekhome and Eyo, who traced emerging patterns of influence shaping youth identity and consumption.
Fireside Panel, moderated by Ayoola Ogunyomi, Group Strategy Director at Chain Reactions Africa, featuring voices like Anita Nwaezeapu, Adaobi Nwabuisi, Vincent Anani, and Oluwadamilola Olujide. Together they painted a layered portrait of Nigeria’s young people—as agents of change rather than passive recipients.
According to Lagos State’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, young people “are no longer just leaders of tomorrow; they are already shaping the present. Any government that fails to listen will be left behind.” His remarks underscored the call for institutional agility and responsiveness.
Five Key Themes Shaping the Youth Ecosystem
Drawing on insights from the report and subsequent discussion, five central themes emerge for stakeholders:
1. Mindset Over Demographic
Youth identity in Nigeria is not monolithic—it’s a mindset. Defined by ambition, multicultural engagement, and digital immersion, young people demand relevance grounded in authenticity.
2. Digital Fluency as Currency
The report showcases digital nativity not merely as academic literacy, but a pathway to commerce, culture creation, and activism. Social media is a battleground for influence and identity.
3. Cultural Hybridity & Borderless Self‑Expression
Nigeria’s youth are remixing tradition and global currents—fusing Afrobeat, streetwear, memes, and viral aesthetics. Brands and institutions must operate within this dynamic creative economy or be sidelined.
4. Social Consciousness Meets Market Influence
Young Nigerians are increasingly value‑driven, expecting brands, government, and media to align with causes such as climate action, equity, and transparency.
5. Institutional Relevance Requires Listening
Failing to respond to youth signals, from economic pain to social demands, risks alienation. The Commissioner’s admonition to government emphasised the urgency of youth-centered policy tools and community platforms.
Why the Report Matters
A Market of Millions: Nigeria’s youth represent one of the fastest-growing consumer and creative segments in Africa.
A Cultural Cohort: Beyond consumption, this generation shapes music, language, activism, and digital narratives.
A Shift in Governance: The report suggests a widening gap between youth expectations and institutional inertia in both public and private sectors.
Chain Reactions Africa positions this report as an indispensable bridge between what brands think they know and what young people actually value and expect.
Communication: Government must shift from top-down messages to authentic, digitally-first engagement that resonates with youth ethos.
For Businesses & Brands
Cultural Relevance: Products and campaigns must reflect young people’s language, values, and digital-first lifestyles.
Social Alignment: Brands that champion justice, equity, and sustainability have a competitive edge—because youth expect it.
Innovation Strategy: Brands that collaborate with youth creators, remix local culture, and lean into co-creation will sustain resonance.
Voices from the Forum
The conversation featured strategic minds articulating youth identity beyond simplistic stereotypes. Panelists emphasised that the Nigerian youth generation is hyperaware, highly mobile, culturally rooted yet globally networked—qualities shaping not just consumer behavior, but civic participation and creative expression.
What Stakeholders Must Do Now
Building on key findings and stakeholder commentary, here are immediate actions urged by the report:
Embed youth intelligence in decision-making Appoint young strategists within marketing teams and government departments to track trends in real time.
Activate youth-led narratives Engage young content creators and thought leaders as ambassadors rather than just end-users.
Invest in digital-first experiences From virtual events to social commerce—design touchpoints around how young Nigerians consume culture and information.
Demonstrate values through action Align brand missions with trusted causes, backed by authentic storytelling, not token gestures.
Create cross-sector collaboration platforms Forge partnerships between young innovators, NGOs, agencies, and policymakers for co-authored initiatives.
Looking Ahead: Building Relevance in a Youth‑Powered Future
Chain Reactions Africa has offered a timely intelligence asset: the Youth Trends Report 2025 is part research document, part strategic admonition. It codifies what many already sense: Nigeria’s youth no longer wait for permission—they shape demand, politics, and culture in real time.
Organisations that listen, learn, and act with immediacy are likely to thrive. Those who cling to outdated hierarchies or ignore these signals risk irrelevance.
Conclusion
This is not a youth-focused for tomorrow. It’s about understanding that today’s youth are already the market, the media, and the movement. As Chain Reactions Africa shows, relevance now means real‑time resonance. Whether in governance, brand-building, or media strategy, stakeholders must evolve—and quickly.
With 70+ million young Nigerians at the frontier of cultural and economic change, the message is clear: adapt or be left behind.
Amid opposition efforts to prepare for the general elections in 2027, some 573 members of Jigawa State’s All Progressives Congress (APC) have switched to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In a ceremony on Friday, PDP senior brass were presented with the 573 defectors from Sabuwar Dan Masara village in Dutse.
Speaking on behalf of the 573 defectors, Mustapha Adamu (Shugaba) stated that their desire for a good change in light of the nation’s sufferings led them to abandon the APC and join the PDP.
Mustapha criticised the ruling party for its lack of inclusivity and disdain for the concerns of the populace, expressing dissatisfaction with the APC’s leadership and policies. He said he was confident that PDP could provide a better platform for them to accomplish their objectives.
The leader of the defectors also praised the PDP’s dedication to advancement and development, saying that the party’s future goals matched their own. He encouraged other APC members who had similar concerns to join the PDP.
“We can no longer continue to be part of a party that has abandoned the principles of fairness and justice.
“We are convinced that the PDP is the party that truly cares about the welfare of Nigerians and will work tirelessly to address the challenges facing our state and country. We invite all like-minded individuals to join us in this journey towards a brighter future for our state and country. Together, we can achieve greatness, ” he said.
Umar Danjani, the PDP’s deputy chairman for Jigawa State, greeted the new defectors and said he was happy with the party’s increasing influence in Jigawa State., “Today is an important turning point in our efforts to create a more powerful and cohesive party.
“We are thrilled to welcome our new members and look forward to working together towards a brighter future for our state, ” he said.
Yoruba Academy Welcomes Professor Dhikru Adewale Yagboyaju as Its New Director General
In a milestone moment for cultural scholarship and linguistic preservation, the Yoruba Academy has formally inaugurated Professor Dhikru Adewale Yagboyaju as its new Director General (DG). The appointment was announced on August 2, 2025, following a pivotal meeting of the Academy’s Board of Trustees (BoT) and its Governing Board held in Ibadan, Oyo State.
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Yoruba Academy Welcomes Professor Dhikru Adewale Yagboyaju as Its New Director General
From Scholar to Steward: A Visionary Leadership
Professor Yagboyaju’s elevation marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Yoruba Academy’s mission to safeguard and celebrate Yoruba civilisation, language, arts, and economic advancement. A seasoned academic and governance influencer, Yagboyaju steps into the DG role with a reputation for excellence in public policy, institutional reform, and culture‑based scholarship.
At the unveiling ceremony, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Professor Lai Olurode—alongside notable board members including Chief (Mrs.) Jumoke Anifowose, Prince Oyewole Oyetunji, and Dr. Moreni Tafita commended the choice, emphasising Yagboyaju’s capacity to drive the Academy’s multidisciplinary agenda forward.
A Personal Commitment to the Academy’s Ethos
In his acceptance address, Professor Yagboyaju pledged to uphold the Yoruba Academy’s founding ideals. He spoke warmly about enriching the academy’s intellectual foundations, while strengthening its reach across civil society, government, and the global Yoruba diaspora. As DG, he underlined plans to reinforce research, deepen cultural exchanges, and expand the Academy’s influence in science, technology, language standardisation, and development discourse.
Who Is Professor Yagboyaju?
A professor of Political Science at the University of Ibadan, Yagboyaju brings decades of experience in governance, policy analysis, and academic research to the forefront. He earned his PhD in Political Science in 2004 from the University of Ibadan, after completing a Master’s at the University of Lagos in 1990. With over 20 years of teaching at premier Nigerian institutions—including UNILAG, OAU, and UI—he has shaped countless careers while contributing richly to public discourse.
Research interests such as development administration, democratic governance, public ethics, and security studies have earned him recognition by bodies like the UNDP, INEC, NISER, and the Nigerian National Defence College.
What This Means for Yoruba Culture and Scholarship
Founded in 2007 in Ibadan, the Yoruba Academy was born out of a collective vision among scholars and professionals dedicated to preserving and promoting Yoruba heritage—across language, arts, governance, and global networking. The Academy has modelled itself on institutions like France’s Académie Française and Germany’s Goethe‑Institut while maintaining independence from government influence.
Throughout its history, it has championed collaborative research, cultural programming, policy advisories, and the creation of standardised lexicons for the Yoruba language and identity. Past leaders such as Professors Wálé Adébánwí, Ìyábọ̀ Basir, Adé Adéagbo, and more recently Kọ́lá Túbọ̀sún, have helped shape its trajectory from cultural advocacy to policy relevance
Professor Yagboyaju now inherits a legacy upon which to build—one that aligns scholarship and governance with grassroots participation and pan‑Yoruba connectivity. His experience in policy implementation and educational transformation positions him well to lead the Academy into a new era.
Early Priorities and Strategic Roadmap
While still early in his tenure, Professor Yagboyaju has already expressed his intention to accelerate several key areas:
Strengthen language standardisation: Building Yoruba dictionaries and educational materials through interdisciplinary scholarship.
Expand outreach globally: Enhancing exchange programmes between Yoruba communities at home and in the diaspora.
Deepen research impact: Commissioning studies on governance, culture, and economic development relevant to Yoruba societies.
Champion technology and innovation: Investing in digital platforms that preserve, propagate and modernise Yoruba language and arts.
These priorities echo the Academy’s broader mandate to forge synergies between the public and private sectors, fuel societal development, and foster respect for Yoruba identity in Nigeria and beyond.
A Leader Rooted in Civic and Ethical Engagement
Beyond academia, Professor Yagboyaju is well‑regarded for his civic-minded leadership. In 2024, Osun State’s Governor Ademola Adeleke felicitated him on his 60th birthday, saluting a life dedicated to mentorship, ethical scholarship, and national development.
His influence extends to shaping young minds, steering educational institutions like Muslim Model College Ibadan for over a decade, and receiving traditional titles such as Asiwaju Are-Ago of Erin Osun and Taiyese of Iyamoye for community service and intellectual contributions.
Osun State’s Governor Ademola Adeleke
Significance of the Appointment
The selection of Professor Yagboyaju is more than a leadership change—it signals a renewed commitment to blending scholarly rigour with cultural patriotism, committed governance, and global awareness. As the Yoruba Academy navigates contemporary challenges—from language attrition to cultural diplomacy—his stewardship promises alignment with both tradition and innovation.
Under his guidance, stakeholders expect strengthened collaboration across academia, policy circles, arts communities, and diaspora networks. By advancing these partnerships, the Academy can help reinforce Yoruba identity in Nigeria’s evolving multilingual, multicultural landscape.
Yoruba Academy Welcomes Professor Dhikru Adewale Yagboyaju as Its New Director General
Looking Ahead
In the coming weeks, Yoruba Academy plans to roll out initiatives under Yagboyaju’s leadership, including policy forums, research grants, language workshops, and international cultural exchanges. These programmes aim to broaden engagement with Yoruba communities globally while reinforcing the Academy’s role as a bridge between scholarship and real‑world societal strengthening.
As Professor Dhikru Adewale Yagboyaju begins his tenure, stakeholders—from scholars to cultural advocates, donors to diaspora groups—are watching attentively. Many expect his leadership will reinforce the Academy’s credibility, energise its mission, and foster a sustainable model for Yoruba cultural renaissance.
Africa is no longer a passive stage in global power plays. As the U.S. recedes, a Multipolar Africa is emerging, reshaping geopolitics through diversified partnerships, expanded agency, and new definitions of development.
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Setting the Scene: U.S. Retreat and a Continent in Flux
In recent years, American foreign policy rhetoric toward Africa has shifted. Elite training exercises such as African Lion now emphasise African capacity-building and burden-sharing, rather than providing top-down development and governance support. These signals arrive as U.S. financial and institutional engagement recedes, leaving space for other global players.
Africa now stands at the crossroads of an unfolding multipolar reality. Once viewed mainly as a recipient of aid or security assistance, the continent is increasingly treated as a strategic arena by China, Russia, Turkey, India, and Gulf states. Just as importantly, African nations themselves are leveraging this competition to assert their own interests.
Africa as Player, Not Prize
Africa is projected to account for over 25% of the world’s population by 2050, with the largest youth labour force on the planet and rapidly urbanising mega-cities teeming with growth potential. The continent’s economic and demographic dynamism transforms it from a “prize” into a strategic actor.
That shift in perception amplifies Africa’s agency: the rules of engagement are changing. Development is no longer charity—it is statecraft. For African states, infrastructure and talent are the currency of relevance; roads, undersea cables, education, and energy matter more than rhetorical allegiance.
New Global Allies, New Models
China remains the dominant economic partner, with trade volumes exceeding $280 billion in 2023. Its development model—high-value infrastructure loans often tied to resource extraction—remains controversial, especially regarding debt sustainability. Still, Xi Jinping pledged $51 billion in new support to Africa over three years, targeting local industrial projects and job creation.
Russia’s strategy is more security-oriented: deploying paramilitary forces, arms deals, and diplomatic positioning with regimes across Mali, Libya, the Central African Republic, Sudan, and more, often appealing to anti-Western sentiment and sovereign equality rhetoric.
Other actors—including Turkey, the UAE, India, and Brazil—are staking their claims. Turkey, for example, actively blends infrastructure investments with military training and soft power diplomacy across East Africa—active in Djibouti, Somalia, Ethiopia and beyond.
African leaders are responsively diversifying their partnerships. With Western aid often conditional and political, many states now “share eggs among several baskets,” gravitating toward emerging powers offering less tied imperialism.
Challenges in the New Space
Multipolarity brings complexity, not stability. As more actors engage, alliances proliferate—and with them, confusion, misaligned incentives, and conflict potential. Middle‑power rivalries—China vs. India, Turkey vs. Gulf states, and differing Russian vs. Western approaches—mean African governments must navigate shifting terrain with agility.
In the Sahel and Horn, Western retreats have coincided with greater Wagner Group or other Russian mercenary influence. Analysts warn that this puts African militaries at risk of illegitimate governance and rising violence.
Internally, Africa’s inability to form unified continental positions limits its leverage. Fragmented policies undercut ambitions like UN Security Council reform or AfCFTA implementation.
5. Africa’s Strategic Response: Agency and Focus
African policymakers increasingly insist that engagement must cater to their developmental goals: human capital, regional integration, industrialisation and economic self-reliance. According to recent strategic thinking, reform of AU institutions and multilateral inclusivity remain priorities—but only if they serve development, not politics.
Regional initiatives matter more now: the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), intra-African investment, and pan-African industrial chains are gaining traction. Success here would further boost Africa’s leverage in global negotiations.
A key African imperative is to demand openness and transparency, not just new investment. In selecting bilateral and multilateral partners, evidence of debt sustainability, local employment generation, and infrastructure resilience are non-negotiables.
6. What the U.S. Stands to Lose—and Could Regain
The U.S. remains influential in health, diplomacy, democracy support, and education, but that legacy is fading. Soft‑power credibility, once built on long-term presence, now risks expiration without investment in physical and strategic infrastructure on the ground.
Washington faces a choice: re-engage in development diplomacy or risk irrelevance. It cannot reclaim influence with speeches or occasional visits. It needs sustained presence, financial backing, and long-term strategic partnerships tailored to African priorities.
7. The Stakes Ahead: Toward a Multipolar Balance
As Africa embraces multipolarity, the global architecture is shifting. BRICS+ expansion reflects that Africa’s alignment is not passive: nations are joining coalitions that challenge Western dominance in global finance and diplomacy.
Institutionally, a more inclusive and balanced global order could emerge—but only if African unions and leaders push consistently for reforms and enforce cohesion across foreign policy lines. Otherwise, external actors may play them off against one another.
Looking Forward
What does “Multipolar Africa: As the U.S. Steps Back, a New World Arrives” really mean? It is about the dawning of a new era in international relations, where African sovereignty isn’t just rhetoric, but a vehicle for real choice.
Africa’s trajectory in this multipolar age will hinge on its ability to harness global competition: using new alliances to invest in education, infrastructure, industrialisation, and regional unity. Effective leadership could translate the demographic dividend into geopolitical power.
At stake is nothing less than the shape of global governance in the 21st century. If Africa successfully stakes a claim as a rule-maker—and not only a rule-taker—the world arriving could look very different.
Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (BSUAST) Vice-Chancellor and Executive Director of the Centre for Food Safety and Agricultural Research (CEFSAR), Professor Qrisstuberg Amua, has issued a compelling critique of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), characterising them as instruments of disguised economic colonisation. In a televised interview on August 2, 2025, he challenged prevailing narratives promoted by regulatory agencies and multinational seed corporations.
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Shaming the Narrative on GMOs
Professor Amua responded emphatically to remarks by Dr. Yemisi Asagbra, Director‑General of Nigeria’s National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), who recently suggested that rural agriculture alone would not sustain Nigeria—a statement Amua labelled as “shameful.” He asserted that the implication that Nigeria cannot manage food production without GMO seeds is misleading and undermines national self-reliance.
Amua, whose roots are in Nigeria’s agricultural heartland of Benue State, emphasised that the region is abundantly capable of feeding the nation. “A lot of fruits—mangoes, oranges, vegetables—are going to waste due to lack of preservation infrastructure, not lack of seeds,” he explained. According to him, the real problem lies in poor post‑harvest technologies, weak economic structures, and minimal value‑addition, not seed genetics.
Food Insecurity: A Matter of Economics, Not Seeds
Drawing attention to systemic issues, Amua argued that Nigeria’s food insecurity is largely rooted in economic poverty and inadequate infrastructure. Even where arable land and labour are plentiful, the absence of storage, processing, and preservation systems leads to massive post‑harvest losses. “So it is not the truth. GMOs are a market strategy, a commercial strategy to erode national sovereignty,” he declared.
He further underscored that our farming traditions and agronomic expertise have been sidelined in favour of quick-fix seed technologies from foreign corporations. Importantly, he warned that blindly importing patented seeds from multinational firms like Monsanto, Bayer, or Syngenta risks surrendering agricultural control to external entities.
Institutional Capture and Geopolitical Interests
Professor Amua voiced deep concern over what he described as institutional capture. He warned that regulatory structures like the NBMA and the Nigerian Seed Council are susceptible to influence by commercial entities pushing patented GMO seeds. “The companies behind this are known for institutional influence,” he said, noting media visibility but lack of local ownership and oversight.
He also questioned the narrative framing that rural agriculture is no longer viable without genetic alteration. “If we continue to push this narrative, we position Nigeria to fail before we even begin,” he cautioned.
Can Nigeria Develop GMO Tech?
When asked whether Nigeria should negotiate for the local production of GMO seeds, Amua did not close the door completely, but raised critical questions. “Under whose patent are these seeds? Who controls the technology?” he asked. He revealed a glaring gap: for more than a decade, even sophisticated biotechnology labs in Port Harcourt remain unused—equipment boxed, personnel untrained, capacity undeveloped. As a result, Nigeria lacks the infrastructure and technical expertise to safely create or regulate GMO seeds.
Amua acknowledged it may not be wrong to pursue indigenous GMO development, but only if Nigeria possesses the capacity and retains full ownership of the patents and technology.
Labelling GMOs: Impractical in the Nigerian Reality
Dr. Asagbra suggested that mandatory labelling of GMO‑derived foods might offer consumers a choice. Professor Amua was dismissive: given Nigeria’s informal food markets, labelling is effectively meaningless. He illustrated how Nigerian street vendors selling bean cakes, akara, pap, and local staples would have no means or motivation to identify GMO ingredients in their goods.
He argued that food labelling regulations are largely unenforceable in Nigeria, especially when the population is food insecure, displaced by conflict, or living in IDP camps. “Hungry people don’t ask questions; they eat what’s available,” he observed.
The Human Cost: Smallholder Farmers and Vulnerable Communities
Beyond the technological and geopolitical dimensions, Professor Amua spoke passionately about the people at stake. He warned that pushing for GMO adoption favours large-scale commercial agriculture at the expense of millions of smallholder farmers. “We risk displacing farmers, deepening inequality, and exposing vulnerable populations to unregulated consumption of proprietary seeds,” he stated.
Amua urged policymakers to prioritise inclusive agrarian models: those that uplift small-scale farmers, use local crop varieties, and harness Nigeria’s vast youth demographic (Nigeria’s median age is 19) in value-added, climate-smart agriculture. This, he says, would strengthen food sovereignty and create sustainable livelihoods.
Charting an Alternative Path Forward
Drawing a roadmap from grassroots to national policy, Professor Amua outlined a three‑pronged vision:
Revive Traditional Agronomy: Invest in agronomic education and best practices to maximise yields from native seeds.
Build Infrastructure: Develop post‑harvest facilities, processing centres, and storage technologies across agricultural regions.
Promote Local Ownership: Foster indigenous research capabilities, train scientists, and prioritise patent control in seed development.
He placed responsibility both on institutions and political leaders to harness Nigeria’s untapped arable land and youthful workforce, transforming them into engines of sustainable productivity.
Conclusion
In a period when corporations and global narratives are reshaping agriculture across the globe, Professor Amua’s message is clear: GMOs are disguised economic colonisation tools, not benign scientific progress. He warns Nigeria risks surrendering sovereignty, disempowering farmers, and undermining food autonomy if it ignores the economic and political dimensions of seed importation.
Rather than accepting the dominant discourse—that only patented biotechnology can feed future generations—Amua advocates for bold investments in local infrastructure, agronomic training, and policy reform tailored to Nigeria’s context.
Summary of Key Points
Theme
Key Message
Shaming the GMO Narrative
Big‑agriculture bias may marginalise millions of local farmers
Agricultural Reality
Food loss stems from weak infrastructure, not seed inadequacies
Economic Sovereignty
Patented seeds threaten local control and autonomy
Institutional Influence
Capture by multinational firms undermines regulation
Local Capacity Deficit
Nigeria currently lacks the ability to develop patented seeds
Labelling Limitations
Informal markets make GMO labelling ineffective
Smallholder Risks
Big‑agriculture bias may marginalize millions of local farmers
Alternative Strategy
Strengthen local skills, seed systems, and agro‑infrastructure
Professor Amua frames Genetically Modified Organisms not as a solution, but as strategic levers employed by economic powers to undermine national agricultural independence. He urges a return to self‑reliance, local capacity-building, and the prioritisation of Nigeria’s own agronomic heritage.
By focusing on the key phrase “GMOs disguised economic colonisation tools”, this article aims to provide standout visibility on this critical debate, centring sovereignty, science, and social justice in Nigeria’s agricultural discourse.
Notorious bandit King, identified as Sani Black, has made a bold and audacious demanded from 4 communities in Zamfara state . He allegedly demanded 150 kilogrammes of pure gold from four communities in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State as a “protection levy.”
The affected communities, Dada, Gidan Shaho, Marmaro, and Rimni, were issued the ultimatum in what marks a shift from the usual demands for cash or livestock.
The demand may be related to the inhabitants’ reported illegal gold mining activities, which have drawn the attention of armed organisations looking for other sources of income, according to local reports.
The demand probably originates from the perception that many residents are involved in mining, according to a youth leader who spoke on condition of anonymity.
According to the insider, “he thinks a number of them have access to gold.”
Gunmen
Another resident added, “The terrorists know we no longer have money or animals to give them, so they’re asking for gold, which they believe we can provide.”
For over a decade, Zamfara and other parts of Nigeria’s northwest have faced persistent insecurity, with armed groups carrying out killings, abductions, and extortion. Some factions have seized control of mining sites to exploit gold directly.
Residents in the affected communities are reportedly discussing how to either gather the gold or negotiate a reduction in the quantity demanded.
Zamfara and other northwest Nigerian regions have had ongoing violence for more than ten years, with armed groups committing extortion, kidnappings, and murders. Some groups have taken over mining locations in order to directly profit from gold.
People in the impacted areas are apparently talking about ways to either collect the gold or work out a lower demand.
Prof. Jerry Gana, a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has stated that while Peter Obi is an excellent candidate, the PDP has a superior candidate.
But he insisted that if the former governor of Anambra State rejoined the main opposition party, he would win the northern state.
In recent weeks, Gana has persisted in calling for Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, to rejoin the PDP, according to reports.
He asserted that as the PDP’s flagbearer, the former governor has a stronger chance of opposing the current administration.
According to Gana, who spoke on Arise News, if Peter Obi ran on the PDP platform, he would easily defeat any opponent in the northern states of Nigeria.
“The PDP is on the ground. I’m a researcher, and I research opinions. In the northern states, Peter Obi under the PDP will defeat any candidate because our people are very fair-minded and just.
“We are reaching out to Peter Obi. Because I’m leading a search team and there are many brilliant people. Peter may be good, but we have somebody better. So, we are searching.
“We made a mistake in 2023. If I were Atiku, I would say, ‘Peter, it is now your turn; I would give you a vice-president,’ but he didn’t,” he said.
Jacob Mark, a former PDP national legal adviser, added his voice to the conversation on Thursday, saying the former governor of Anambra was free to rejoin the party if he so desired.
He maintained that Obi’s best chance of winning the 2027 presidential election was with the PDP.
At a moving graduation ceremony held in Lagos today, education advocate and business leader Olubunmi Aboderin‑Talabi delivered a compelling message to the graduates: “Education still holds the key to the future.”
Drawing from the accomplishments of prominent Nigerians across diverse fields, Aboderin‑Talabi urged the students to appreciate formal schooling not merely as a credential but as a transformative springboard for self‑actualisation and societal contribution.
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A Message Beyond Ceremony
Mrs. Aboderin‑Talabi spoke passionately about education as a journey of identity discovery and intellectual growth. She encouraged graduates to engage critically with the curriculum, to question boundaries, and to continuously invest in their own development.
“Education is not a passive certificate — it’s a catalyst for personal change and social impact,” she emphasised. Her remarks were grounded in real-life stories of Nigerians who leveraged formal education to become leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers in their communities.
Education as a Catalyst for Progress
In her speech, Aboderin‑Talabi highlighted that learning equips students with more than academic knowledge—it builds confidence, sharpens critical thinking, and expands horizons. Using local case studies, she demonstrated how graduates have used education as a launchpad to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic and civic life.
These stories, she noted, serve as proof that access to quality education remains vital for individual and national progress.
Beyond the Diploma: A Lifelong Journey
A core point of her address was that learning doesn’t end at convocation—it evolves. She called on graduates to see themselves as perpetual learners, always curious and ready to adapt. Through mentorship, voluntary service, or pursuing further qualifications, she encouraged them to keep expanding their skills long after graduation.
“Let your diploma be the first chapter, not the final one,” she asserted.
Relevance Amidst National Educational Debate
Her remarks echoed a broader discourse in Nigeria around the state of education. As policymakers debate reforms—from the adoption of a 12‑year uninterrupted basic education model to shifts in the minimum admission age for secondary and tertiary levels—Aboderin‑Talabi’s message underscored the enduring importance of formal education in a rapidly changing world.
While debates range from curriculum modernisation to restructuring of school stages, her speech reaffirmed the foundational principle: education remains the gateway to opportunity and progress.
Challenges Call for Action
Speakers like Aboderin‑Talabi contextualise their optimism within Nigeria’s ongoing education challenges: under‑funding, dilapidated infrastructure, teacher shortages, outdated curricula, exam malpractice, and uneven digital access.
Recent studies highlight acute fractures within the system:
Teacher absenteeism and lack of professional development plague many states.
Surveys note overcrowded classrooms, resource gaps, and obsolete learning materials.
Widespread exam fraud, even at the primary school level, erodes trust in academic integrity.
Despite these systemic cracks, Aboderin‑Talabi’s address offered a message of hope: education—especially when pursued with resilience and purpose—can still deliver profound personal and communal advancement.
What Graduates Can Do: A Roadmap
Aboderin‑Talabi provided practical guidance for graduates to harness their education meaningfully:
Own your learning: Be curious. Seek knowledge beyond textbooks.
Be intentional: Identify your strengths, define your goals, and align your actions.
Give back: Use your skills to uplift others through mentoring, volunteering, or community projects.
Embrace lifelong growth: Pursue continuous education, whether formal or informal, to stay relevant in a changing world.
Context: Policy Reforms and Educational Initiatives
Her address intersects with several national education initiatives and reform efforts:
Policy shifts toward a 12‑year basic education regime, merging secondary schooling with primary years, aimed at aligning with global standards and delaying entry into tertiary levels until age 16.
The Diaspora BRIDGE platform, set to launch in late July 2025, is designed to connect Nigerian academics abroad with local institutions, enhancing research and institutional capacity.
The Renewed Hope Agenda, unveiled by the current administration, emphasises safer schools, inclusion, and emotional well-being, supported by new guidelines and teacher training reforms.
Amid evolving government policies—from age-based admission rules to digital platforms—Aboderin‑Talabi’s message remains clear: regardless of reforms, the value of education endures.
Broader Sector Lessons and Implications
Across Nigeria, education professionals and institutions are calling for bold action:
The National Education Strategic Roadmap Initiative (NESRI) advocates investing in infrastructure, teacher capacity, and digital learning tools.
Educators urge curriculum reform that keeps pace with technology and labour market needs, especially around AI literacy and vocational skills.
The World Bank and Global Partnership for Education backing of the HOPE‑EDU initiative brings over $500 million in funding to boost foundational learning, infrastructure, and teacher training for millions of primary school students.
Such developments, while systemic and institutional, spotlight the importance of individual agency—precisely what Aboderin‑Talabi championed for today’s graduates.
A Personal, Hopeful Conclusion
Aboderin‑Talabi closed her address with a personal reflection: she talked about balancing her responsibilities in business leadership and advocacy with her commitment to education. She emphasised that each graduate possesses the power not only to succeed but to transform the circumstances of others.
“When you commit yourself to learning, integrity, and compassion,” she said, “you begin to unlock doors not just for yourself, but for your community and your nation.”
As she congratulated the graduates, her final words resonated: “Your education is not just your achievement—it’s your opportunity to lead.”
Why This Story Matters
Aboderin‑Talabi’s address is symbolic: it’s a reminder that amidst policy shifts, funding debates, and infrastructure gaps, education remains the single most powerful tool for personal advancement and societal change. Her call for intentional, lifelong learning, coupled with a sense of service and self-discovery, sets a vital benchmark for Nigeria’s emerging leaders.
In what is being called a transformative turning point for African healthcare, a Nairobi-based pharmaceutical manufacturer has become the first in Africa to produce a World Health Organisation (WHO)–pre‑qualified first-line HIV medicine. The product—TLD, a fixed-dose combination of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, lamivudine, and dolutegravir—now meets stringent international quality and safety standards. Its availability through the Global Fund marks a new chapter in Africa’s stride towards health sovereignty and supply independence.
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A Milestone for African Health Infrastructure
Until now, Sub‑Saharan Africa—home to approximately 65% of the global HIV burden—has relied almost entirely on imported lifesaving antiretroviral medicines and testing kits. That dependency is now shifting. The WHO pre‑qualification status awarded to Universal Corporation Limited (UCL) represents the first instance that an African‑manufactured TLD has achieved full compliance with international standards, enabling access to global procurement mechanisms.
Under WHO’s Prequalification Programme, manufacturers must consistently meet rigorous benchmarks in quality, safety, and efficacy. UCL’s successful evaluation signals not only technical capability but also a strategic commitment to regional resilience.
From Pre‑Qualification to Global Procurement
Following the WHO’s endorsement, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria procured UCL’s in-Africa manufactured TLD for distribution in Mozambique, providing treatment capacity for over 72,000 people living with HIV annually. The Global Fund’s report, available at theglobalfund.org, was featured in allAfrica.com and Health Reporters.
“This historic milestone underscores our dedication to strengthening regional manufacturing and supply security,” said Hui Yang, Global Fund’s Head of Supply Operations. WHO’s Dr. Meg Doherty, Director of Global HIV Programmes, echoed the sentiment, highlighting how this step can advance uninterrupted access for those reliant on regular ARV therapy.
Why It Matters: Health Autonomy & Supply Chain Resilience
For decades, African nations have lacked local production of essential medical products. The reliance on imports made the region vulnerable to supply delays, currency fluctuations, and pandemic-related disruptions. Local production changes that dynamic, enabling faster, more affordable, and more reliable access to treatment.
WHO Director for Regulation and Prequalification, Dr. Rogério Gaspar, described the pre‑qualification of UCL’s TLD as a vital step toward “a more self-reliant, resilient and equitable health system”—asserting that local manufacturing is no longer a luxury but an urgent priority for sustainable healthcare access.
More broadly, researchers and public health advocates welcome the move as aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions continent-wide health autonomy through building local manufacturing capacity.
Scaling Beyond One Product: Diagnostics and Expanded Production
The milestone doesn’t stop with medicines. WHO has also backed locally produced HIV rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) through firms like Codix Bio in Nigeria, which received a sublicense to locally manufacture WHO-prequalified test kits developed in partnership with SD Biosensor. This dual approach—focusing on both diagnostics and treatment—strengthens Africa’s capacity to respond swiftly and sustainably to HIV and other health challenges.
But WHO also notes that production alone isn’t enough. Long-term impact requires advanced market commitments, fair procurement policies, and continuous technical support to nurture these emerging manufacturers.
Potential Impacts on Pricing, Access, and Supply Security
Regional production promises to drive down costs and expand access. Analyses suggest that locally manufactured TLD could be priced significantly lower than imported equivalents, enabling governments and NGOs to treat more people within existing budgets. It also eliminates long inbound supply chains, reducing the risk of stockouts and pricing volatility.
Moreover, with WHO and global funders endorsing local producers, African manufacturers are now eligible for inclusion in international tenders, enhancing competition and supply diversity
Implications for Regional Capacity Building and Economic Growth
Experts highlight that such advancements extend beyond immediate health benefits. Strengthening local pharmaceutical capacity fosters job creation, technology transfer, and economic development. Partnerships between WHO, the Global Fund, Unitaid, the African CDC, and investment entities like the IFC (International Finance Corporation) support this trajectory by funding infrastructure, ensuring regulatory alignment, and de‑risking investment in pharmaceutical scale‑up.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While this achievement is cause for celebration, challenges remain:
Scaling production capacity to meet broader continental demand.
Navigating stringent regulatory requirements to maintain WHO compliance.
Securing long‑term procurement contracts to guarantee sustained demand.
Replicating the success across other ARV formulations, diagnostics, and related health infrastructure.
WHO officials stress that continued technical support, market shaping interventions, and procurement commitments are required to ensure that local producers thrive, not just survive.
A New Era in HIV Response
This landmark achievement by a Kenya‑based firm, earning the distinction of first African manufacturer of WHO‑pre‑qualified HIV medicine, signifies more than a regulatory milestone—it embodies a meaningful shift toward African health independence.
Locally produced TLD entering global procurement channels through the Global Fund for Mozambique is evidence that African-produced medicines can meet global standards and be part of the global supply chain. With continued momentum, partnership, and policy alignment, this moment could herald the broader transformation of health systems across Africa.
Key Takeaway
Universal Corporation Limited (Kenya) becomes the first African manufacturer of WHO-prequalified TLD HIV medicine.
The Global Fund procures the treatment for Mozambique, supplying drugs sufficient for 72,000+ patients yearly.
WHO prequalification validates local production meeting international quality standards.
The initiative advances African health self-reliance, reducing dependence on imports.
Diagnostics and treatments produced locally (e.g. HIV RDTs by Nigerian firms) are part of a broader strategy.
To sustain progress, fair procurement policies, market support, and infrastructure investment are essential.
Why This News Catches the Eye of Global and African Stakeholders
This development underscores a growing global health narrative: building resilient, scalable healthcare systems based on local production. It offers hope not only for more affordable and reliable access to HIV treatment but also stronger regional capabilities in tackling future health crises, be it pandemics or endemic diseases.
As African nations step into active roles as producers of lifesaving medical tools, their ability to secure supply, control prices, and improve accessibility could reshape pandemic preparedness and routine healthcare delivery across the continent.
With the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) enforcement window rapidly approaching, AI providers—from global tech giants to agile startups—are sounding the alarm. Scheduled to take effect on August 2, 2025, the Act introduces sweeping obligations for general-purpose AI (GPAI) models, including transparency, training data disclosure, copyright compliance, and risk management. Yet persistent uncertainties around implementation have triggered widespread concern over legal gray areas that threaten innovation and breed compliance risk.
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The AI Act Implementation Timeline
August 1, 2024: AI Act formally entered into force.
February 2, 2025: First wave of rules activated—prohibitions on certain high‑risk AI practices and AI literacy obligations.
May 2, 2025: Initial target date for the EU’s voluntary Code of Practice for GPAI, now widely delayed.
August 2, 2025: GPAI‑related obligations kick in, including documentation, risk assessment, and transparency rules.
August 2, 2026: Enforcement for high‑risk AI systems begins, subject to fines.
August 2, 2027: Final compliance deadline for AI systems already in operation before 2025.
Essential supporting elements—like technical standards and the formal Code—remain unfinished or delayed, creating a murky compliance terrain.
What Is the Code of Practice — and Why It’s Delayed
A voluntary Code of Practice for GPAI models is intended as a practical blueprint for navigating the Act’s rules on transparency, copyright, safety, and security. While not legally binding, its adoption signals a pathway toward regulatory goodwill.
Originally slated for release in May 2025, the Code is now postponed—likely until late 2025 or even August—due to negotiations over content, stakeholder input, and legal alignment. Without the Code, providers must interpret vague legal language under time pressure.
Companies that are uncertain how to apply the rules—particularly surrounding copyrighted datasets and transparency obligations—face exposure to fines up to 7% of global annual revenue, or €35 million, depending on the infraction.
Legal Ambiguities Fuel Provider Frustration
Copyright vs. Transparency
AI firms remain unclear about how to attribute or document copyrighted materials in their training datasets. Explicit expectations regarding metadata disclosure and provenance are yet to be formally codified in technical guidance.
Scope of Obligations
Startups and cloud providers alike are grappling over who qualifies as a “provider” or “deployer” under the Act, and what constitutes a “general‑purpose” vs. a “high‑risk” model. That distinction deeply affects their regulatory responsibilities.
Technical Standards Gap
Essential harmonised standards that underpin compliance mechanisms—risk frameworks, testing procedures, security-by‑design protocols—are not yet available. Early drafts exist, but validation and endorsement remain pending.
Industry Pushback Grows
European Corporates Weigh In
Over 45 major European firms—including Airbus, BNP Paribas, Philips, SAP, and Spotify—have urged the EU to freeze or delay enforcement for up to two years, citing unclear guidance and escalating compliance costs.
Tech Giants’ Split Reactions
Meta has refused to sign the Code of Practice altogether, with Chief Global Affairs Officer Joel Kaplan calling it an “overreach” laden with legal uncertainty.
Google has committed to signing the full Code, though it publicly noted concern about the burdens imposed by copyright and data transparency rules.
OpenAI, Mistral, and Microsoft have indicated support for the Code.
xAI (Elon Musk’s company) plans to sign only the safety & security chapter, rejecting sections on copyright and transparency.
EU’s Official Response: Firm but Flexible
The European Commission has taken a firm stance: “there is no pause, no clock-stop, no grace period.” Prospective enforcement dates are legally binding.
Still, at a digital ministers’ meeting in Luxembourg, Executive Vice President Henna Virkkunen acknowledged the possibility of postponing implementation of select provisions if supporting standards are not finalised in time.
The Commission has promised simplifications—particularly for SMEs—later this year and plans to launch an AI Act Service Desk in summer 2025 to assist organisations with compliance planning.
What Providers Are Doing Now
Compliance Bootcamps
Firms are ramping up internal documentation: logging data sources, annotating models, building explainability layers, and aligning with GDPR. Risk registers and compliance matrices have become central to project management.
Legal Scenario Planning
Legal teams are drafting policies around copyright exceptions (e.g. fair use), preparing to justify missing provenance, and planning for disclosing disproportionate burden cases, particularly for legacy models already trained.
Stakeholder Dialogue
Industry bodies—including CCIA Europe, AI Champions, and VCs—are engaging in ongoing dialogue with Brussels on softening unclear obligations and aligning expectations.
Why EU AI Act Matters
Global Tech Leaders Are Watching: The EU AI Act is the first comprehensive AI regulation globally. Its success—or failure—will influence policymaking in the U.S., UK, China, and beyond.
European Innovation at Risk: Critics warn that poorly defined obligations may stifle EU startups, create regulatory arbitrage, and favour U.S./Chinese AI platforms.
Risk of Scaled Enforcement Gaps: Without finalised standards, providers may over-interpret the law or under-prepare, and could face heavy penalties for non-compliance.
Transparency vs. Trade Secrets: Firms must balance disclosure with intellectual property concerns. The tension between providing accountability and protecting innovation is front and centre—hence the label “legal grey areas.”
What’s Next
Code of Practice Finalisation
Whether the EU publishes the Code in late 2025 or just before the August 2 deadline remains key. Providers should monitor the European AI Office closely.
Industry‑EU Mediation
Expect further engagement between regulators and industry associations to refine implementation guidance and clarify definitions, especially around GPAI vs. high‑risk systems.
Simplification Proposals
By the end of 2025, the Commission intends to propose simplifications to ease the regulatory burden for smaller firms. These could take the form of adjusted reporting thresholds, tiered obligations, or phased reporting timelines.
Support Structures
Formal resources—such as the AI Act Service Desk, FAQs, and guidance documents—will become available. Companies must integrate these with existing compliance frameworks like ISO, GDPR and NIST.
Conclusion
The countdown to August 2, 2025 is more than a calendar reminder—it’s a pressure cooker for tech providers balancing innovation and regulatory compliance. As critical gaps in guidance and legal scope persist, the legal grey areas around training data, transparency, and high-risk classification threaten not only business continuity but Europe’s competitive edge in AI.
Providers must act now—documenting responsibly, engaging proactively, and planning legally robust strategies. Uncertainty may be unavoidable, but preparedness is key. The EU AI Act is unprecedented, and how businesses navigate its ambiguities today may shape the future of AI governance globally.
Important Alert: Nigeria Immigration Warns Citizens About Misusing U.S. Visas
Important Alert: Nigeria Immigration Warns Citizens About Misusing U.S. Visas
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has issued a serious warning to all Nigerians who hold U.S. visas. The message is clear: strictly follow the rules of your visa or face severe consequences.
This advisory follows the U.S. government’s growing concern about repeated violations by some Nigerian travelers.
Important Alert: Nigeria Immigration Warns Citizens About Misusing U.S. Visas
The key issues include:
Overstaying a visa: Staying in the U.S. longer than allowed.
Unauthorized changes: For example, entering on a tourist visa and then trying to work or study without permission.
Birth Tourism: Using a tourist visa with the main goal of giving birth in the U.S. to secure citizenship for the child.
What You Need to Know to Stay Safe
The NIS is urging all citizens to be vigilant and compliant to avoid penalties that could affect not only them but also the entire country. Here are the key points from the advisory:
Stick to Your Application: Whatever purpose you stated on your visa application—whether it’s tourism, business, or education—you must adhere to it. The U.S. government’s security screening doesn’t stop at the airport; it continues throughout your stay.
Severe Penalties Await:
Breaching visa conditions can lead to serious punishments, including visa revocation, deportation, and a permanent ban on future travel to the U.S.
Important Alert: Nigeria Immigration Warns Citizens About Misusing U.S. Visas
Students Must Remain Enrolled: If you’re a student in the U.S., you must remain actively enrolled in your academic program. Withdrawing or changing your program without proper notification can lead to your visa being canceled and you losing future eligibility.
Birth Tourism is a Red Flag: U.S. consular officers have been instructed to deny tourist visas if they suspect the primary reason for travel is to give birth in the U.S.
Why is this warning so critical?
Nigeria has a history of facing stricter scrutiny from the U.S. on immigration matters. In the past, high overstay rates and concerns about security and identity management led to visa restrictions. The Nigeria Immigration Service is now working closely with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria is not included in any expanded visa restrictions.
Important Alert: Nigeria Immigration Warns Citizens About Misusing U.S. Visas
This warning is a direct effort to protect legitimate travel opportunities for all Nigerians. The message is that the collective actions of a few can have major consequences for everyone. By strictly following immigration laws, Nigerians can help maintain the country’s good standing and ensure that future travel to the U.S. remains possible.
Crypto Market Sees Major Turmoil as Bitcoin, Ethereum Prices Plummet
Crypto Market Sees Major Turmoil as Bitcoin, Ethereum Prices Plummet
The crypto world is in a state of high alert after a brutal week that saw major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum suffer significant losses. This downturn has wiped out over $708 million from the market, with more than 160,000 traders getting “liquidated”—a term for when over-leveraged investors are forced to sell their assets due to the sharp price drops.
Bitcoin’s Plunge: After almost reaching an impressive $120,000 just a few days ago, Bitcoin’s value has fallen to around $114,000, a drop of about 5.6%.
Crypto Market Sees Major Turmoil as Bitcoin, Ethereum Prices Plummet
Ethereum’s Big Slide: Ethereum took an even bigger hit, crashing from $4,000 down to $3,500—a painful 10% reduction.
Massive Liquidations: Of the $708 million in liquidations, more than $600 million came from “long positions.” This means most traders were betting on prices to go up, and they lost big when the market turned against them.
A perfect storm of global events and political uncertainty is driving this market chaos:
Global Turmoil: New, sweeping tariffs imposed by the White House on several countries have rattled financial markets worldwide. These trade tensions create a sense of fear, causing investors to pull money out of risky assets like crypto.
U.S. Jobs Report Controversy: A recent U.S. jobs report was so unprecedented that the official who released it was reportedly fired just hours later. This kind of political drama and economic uncertainty adds fuel to the fire, making investors nervous.
Crypto Market Sees Major Turmoil as Bitcoin, Ethereum Prices Plummet
Geopolitical Tensions: Comments from President Trump about deploying nuclear submarines near Russian waters have also increased selling pressure, as geopolitical instability often makes investors cautious.
Experts Predict a Further Drop
According to market analysts, this could be just the beginning of the downturn. They are predicting that Bitcoin’s price could fall further to around $80,000 before it starts to rebound later in the year.
The “Fear & Greed Index” Signals Caution
A key tool used by crypto investors, the Crypto Fear & Greed Index, has dropped to 55. This number is very close to a “neutral” score of 50, which is a major shift from the recent optimism. It means that “fear” is starting to outweigh “greed” in the market, with investors now focusing more on protecting their money than on making big profits.
Crypto Market Sees Major Turmoil as Bitcoin, Ethereum Prices Plummet
In short, the crypto market is in a period of significant adjustment. It’s being influenced not just by its own internal dynamics but also by the complex and unpredictable world of global politics and economics.
