(Brands & Consumers)
The Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed proceedings in the tax evasion case involving cryptocurrency company Binance Holdings Limited to allow both parties continue settlement discussions. Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the matter until July 9 after lawyers representing Binance and the Federal Government informed the court that negotiations aimed at resolving the dispute out…
Microsoft and Playground Games are reportedly taking action against players who accessed leaked copies of Forza Horizon 6 before the game’s official launch date. The highly anticipated racing game is scheduled for general release on May 19, while buyers of the premium edition are expected to gain early access from May 15. However, reports suggest…
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has launched a legal challenge against UK media regulator Ofcom over fees and possible penalties introduced under the country’s Online Safety Act. The case, currently before the High Court in London, centres on how Ofcom calculates regulatory fees and fines for major technology companies operating online platforms…
TikTok has announced plans to introduce a paid subscription service in the United Kingdom that will allow users to enjoy the platform without advertisements. The new feature, known as TikTok Ad-Free, will cost £3.99 per month and will be available to users aged 18 and above. According to the company, users will begin receiving notifications…
Heathrow Airport has reported a decline in passenger traffic for April, attributing the drop largely to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. According to the airport, approximately 6.7 million passengers travelled through Heathrow in April, representing a 5.3 per cent decrease compared to the 7.1 million passengers recorded during the same period last year….
OpenAI Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman has revealed that younger generations are increasingly relying on ChatGPT not just for online searches, but also for personal guidance and everyday decision-making. Altman made the remarks during Sequoia Capital’s AI Ascent event held in May, where he discussed how different age groups interact with artificial intelligence tools. According…
Google has unveiled a series of artificial intelligence-powered health features aimed at strengthening its position in the growing digital health market, including plans to support devices made by rival companies such as Apple, Garmin, and Oura. The tech company announced that its Fitbit app will be rebranded as Google Health from May 19, introducing a…
At a busy tram stop in Amsterdam, commuters are beginning to notice a dramatic change. The giant advertisements that once promoted burgers, cheap flights and fuel-powered SUVs have quietly disappeared. In their place are posters for museums, concerts and cultural events. The Dutch capital has officially become the first capital city in the world to…
Major technology companies including Microsoft, Google, and xAI have agreed to provide the US government with access to unreleased artificial intelligence models for security testing before they are launched publicly. The move was announced by the National Institute of Standards and Technology as part of efforts to address growing concerns about the cybersecurity risks linked…
A large-scale cyber attack has disrupted operations at thousands of universities and schools across the United States, Canada, and Australia after hackers targeted Canvas, a widely used academic software platform. The attack, which has been claimed by hacking group ShinyHunters, caused major outages and interruptions during a crucial end-of-semester period when many institutions were conducting…
Air Peace has temporarily halted its Lagos to London Gatwick service after a technical issue was discovered on the aircraft during routine safety checks. The airline disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday, explaining that the fault was identified shortly after passengers had boarded the plane. According to the carrier, the aircraft was…
TikTok has reduced the use of its AI-generated video summary feature after users flagged several inaccurate and unusual descriptions appearing beneath videos on the platform. The feature, known as “AI overviews,” was introduced experimentally for selected users in the United States and the Philippines. It was designed to provide brief explanations or additional context about…
Millions of football fans in China and India may be unable to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup as negotiations over broadcast rights remain unresolved just weeks before the tournament begins. The delay is considered unusual for an event of such global significance, as television rights agreements for the World Cup are typically finalised several…
African fintech company Flutterwave has announced that two of its marketing executives, Yewande “Wendy” Akomolafe-Kalu and Noel Ozoemena, have been recognised in the inaugural edition of the Top 100 Content Leaders in UK Banking Technology. The global ranking, compiled by Influential Index and supported by FirstWord Media, honours marketing professionals known for creating impactful B2B…
China has halted Meta’s planned $2 billion acquisition of Chinese-founded AI startup Manus, signalling growing concerns over the transfer of sensitive technology amid escalating tensions with the United States. In a brief statement issued Monday, Chinese authorities ordered both parties to unwind the deal following an earlier probe into the transaction. The move underscores Beijing’s…
Shares of German sportswear giant Adidas climbed after record-breaking performances at the London Marathon highlighted the brand’s latest running technology. Kenyan athlete Sabastian Sawe made history by becoming the first man to complete an official marathon in under two hours, finishing with a time of 1:59:30. Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha followed closely with 1:59:41, while compatriot…
French gaming company Ubisoft has reassigned about 50 developers from the upcoming title Assassin’s Creed Hexe, as part of broader changes within the franchise’s development structure. The move comes shortly after the reported cancellation of an unannounced project codenamed Alterra. Sources indicate that the affected developers have been transferred to Ubisoft’s internal “Interproject” pool –…
A high-stakes legal battle between Elon Musk and Sam Altman has begun in California, with both sides presenting sharply different accounts of the origins and direction of OpenAI. Taking the stand, Musk framed the case as a fundamental issue of trust and accountability in charitable organisations. “It’s actually very simple,” he told the court. “It’s…
The decision by the United Arab Emirates to leave OPEC marks a significant turning point for global energy markets, raising fresh questions about the group’s influence and the future of oil production. The UAE had been a member of OPEC since before its formal establishment as a nation in 1971. Over the decades, the organisation…
Global tech company Xiaomi has launched the REDMI A7 Pro in Nigeria, introducing upgraded features aimed at delivering improved performance and everyday usability in the entry-level segment. The new device features a 6.9-inch display designed to offer a more immersive viewing experience for activities such as streaming, browsing, and social media use. With a refresh…
In the late 1980s, as China cautiously opened its economy to market forces, a teenage entrepreneur arrived in Beijing with little more than ambition – and 600 pairs of shoes. That teenager, Ding Shizhong, had dropped out of high school and taken a risk that would define his future. The shoes, produced in a relative’s…
Japanese gaming giant Sega has unveiled a new initiative, Sega Universe, aimed at revitalising some of its most iconic titles across multiple forms of entertainment. Announced on April 24, the project is built around the theme “No Old, Stay Gold,” and will focus on reimagining classic franchises such as OutRun, Streets of Rage, NiGHTS into…
A high-stakes legal battle between a logistics firm and a commercial bank has ended in a decisive courtroom setback – one that is already sending ripples through Nigeria’s financial and legal circles. In a ruling delivered on April 20, 2026, the Federal Capital Territory High Court dismissed in full a ₦7.1 billion suit brought by…
Microsoft is offering voluntary early retirement to a portion of its U.S. workforce for the first time, as the tech giant continues to restructure amid growing investments in artificial intelligence (AI). The programme will be available to employees whose combined age and years of service total 70 or more, with eligibility extending to staff at…
The White House has accused foreign entities, primarily based in China, of conducting large-scale efforts to replicate advanced American artificial intelligence models. In a memo, Michael Kratsios said the campaigns involve the use of thousands of proxy accounts and sophisticated tools to extract sensitive capabilities from leading AI systems developed by U.S. firms. He described…
Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD has said it can continue to grow without access to the United States market, as rising fuel prices drive increased global demand for electric vehicles (EVs). Speaking at the Beijing Auto Show, BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li stated that the company is already performing strongly in markets outside the…
Online fashion retailer ASOS has begun efforts to recover £7 million in tariffs paid to the United States, following a court ruling that cleared the way for large-scale refunds to businesses. The move comes after the US Supreme Court struck down the so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs introduced by Donald Trump, ruling that the measures exceeded…
Infinix has introduced its latest flagship smartphone, the Infinix NOTE 60 Ultra, marking a significant move into the premium device category. The device was unveiled at the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona and represents the company’s most ambitious attempt yet to compete in the high-end smartphone market. Developed in collaboration with Italian design house…
Google has revealed that artificial intelligence now produces approximately 75% of its new code, marking a significant leap from 25% in 2024 and 50% in 2025. The company said the AI-generated code is still reviewed by human engineers, but the latest figures highlight how AI has evolved from a supporting tool into a primary driver…
The White House has warned of what it describes as large-scale efforts by foreign actors to extract and replicate American artificial intelligence (AI) technology, pledging closer collaboration with U.S. tech companies to counter the threat. In an internal memo, Michael Kratsios, Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, said new intelligence suggests that…
Ginger has partnered with FCMB SheVentures to introduce Built to Last, a year-long programme designed to support women-led beauty businesses across Nigeria. The initiative aims to equip entrepreneurs in the beauty and personal care sector with the tools needed to scale operations, formalise their businesses, and access funding opportunities. Organisers say the programme will focus…
Tech giant Meta has announced plans to reduce its workforce by about 10%, affecting roughly 8,000 employees, as it ramps up spending on artificial intelligence (AI). According to an internal memo shared with staff, the company will also pause hiring for thousands of open roles it had previously planned to fill. A spokesperson confirmed the…
Shareholders of Warner Bros Discovery have approved a $111 billion takeover by Paramount, a major development that could reshape the global entertainment industry. The proposed deal would give Paramount control over Warner Bros’ extensive portfolio, including major franchises like Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, and the news network CNN. Warner Bros chairman Samuel DiPiazza said…
Founders Rant X, the flagship experience of UnwindFest powered by YellowLyfe, is set to hold its latest edition on May 13, 2026, in Lagos. The event, scheduled to take place at Alliance Française Lagos, will bring together more than 150 founders, CEOs, and business leaders to discuss the realities of building and sustaining businesses in…
German carrier Lufthansa has announced plans to cancel around 20,000 short-haul European flights this summer, citing a sharp rise in jet fuel prices that has made many routes financially unsustainable. The airline said fuel costs have surged significantly following the escalation of tensions in the Middle East, particularly the US–Israel–Iran conflict, which has disrupted production…
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has raised concerns over an increase in fraudulent emails, messages, and online links designed to compromise bank accounts and steal sensitive financial information. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the bank’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi-Ali, said the deceptive communications are crafted to mislead individuals into revealing…
Multi-asset brokerage firm TenTrade has announced a new partnership with football legend Luis Figo, who will serve as its Global Ambassador as part of a broader initiative to inspire emerging talent. Figo, widely regarded as one of the finest wingers of his generation, enjoyed a decorated career playing for top European clubs including Real Madrid,…
For more than a decade, Tim Cook has been the steady hand guiding Apple through one of the most transformative periods in its history. Now, after 15 years at the helm, he is preparing to step aside – passing the torch to a man who helped build many of the products that define the company…
Elon Musk has failed to appear for a voluntary interview requested by French prosecutors investigating activity on his social media platform, X, according to officials in Paris. The interview, scheduled for April 20, is part of an ongoing inquiry led by the Paris prosecutor’s cybercrime unit. Authorities confirmed that those summoned did not attend, but…
QVC Group, the parent company of long-running home shopping channel QVC, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy as part of a plan to significantly reduce its debt. The company announced on Thursday that it had voluntarily entered bankruptcy proceedings with the goal of cutting its liabilities from $6.6 billion to $1.3 billion while restructuring its…
Goldberg Lager Beer has launched a new consumer campaign titled Back to Bar, giving football fans the opportunity to win all-expense-paid trips to watch the Super Eagles live in the United Kingdom or Lisbon. The campaign was officially introduced during a press briefing at the Lagos Brewery Bar on April 17, drawing media representatives, football…
FIFA has raised concerns over steep transportation costs for fans attending matches at the 2026 World Cup, warning that the pricing could negatively affect both turnout and the overall tournament experience. The issue centres on train fares for journeys between New York and MetLife Stadium, where tickets have reportedly climbed to $150 (£111) for a…
Kirsty thought she had found love. It started the way many modern relationships do – on a dating site. He said he was British, a businessman working in Turkey. His photos were polished, his messages attentive, his lifestyle convincing. Within days, he had shared what looked like proof of his wealth: a sleek online banking…
Periwinkle Empire has entered into a joint venture with Bozac Continental Limited and Legacy Automobile Limited to develop a luxury high-rise condominium in Banana Island. The tripartite agreement, formalised at a signing ceremony attended by top executives from the three firms, will see the construction of a premium residential tower on a 3,000-square-metre waterfront-adjacent site…
Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Seres has secured a patent for an unusual feature – an integrated toilet system designed for use inside a car. According to patent documents filed in China on April 10, the concept involves a compact toilet that can slide out from beneath a passenger seat, either at the push of a…
Doug Ford is facing criticism after his administration approved the purchase of a C$28.9 million ($21 million) private jet, a move opponents say is poorly timed given current economic pressures on residents. The aircraft – a Bombardier Challenger 650 manufactured in 2016 – will be used for official government travel. According to Ford’s office, it…
Nigeria’s Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has announced a temporary shutdown of its company registration portal following a cybersecurity incident that affected a significant volume of data. In a statement shared via its official X account, the commission disclosed that the disruption is part of a scheduled maintenance window aimed at addressing the issue and strengthening…
PepsiCo has bounced back strongly after slashing prices on popular snacks like Doritos and Lay’s, helping to win over customers frustrated by earlier price hikes. The company reported an 8.5% rise in sales to $19.4 billion in the first quarter, alongside a 25% jump in operating profit to $3.2 billion. The turnaround followed targeted price…
Top financial leaders around the world are raising red flags over a new artificial intelligence system developed by Anthropic, warning it could expose serious weaknesses in global financial infrastructure. The model, known as Claude Mythos, has reportedly demonstrated the ability to uncover vulnerabilities across major operating systems and web browsers – triggering urgent discussions among…
Snap Inc. has announced a major round of layoffs, cutting about 1,000 jobs – roughly 16% of its workforce – as it leans more heavily on artificial intelligence to streamline operations. The company also scrapped hundreds of open roles, according to a recent financial disclosure. CEO Evan Spiegel described the moment as a critical turning…
