(Brands & Consumers)
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…
Reed Hastings, the co-founder and executive chairman of Netflix, will step down from the company’s board of directors when his current term ends in June. The announcement was made as part of Netflix’s first-quarter earnings report, marking another major transition for the longtime leader. Hastings had already stepped away from day-to-day operations in 2023, when…
MTN Nigeria has explained that its recent suspension of airtime and data borrowing services is linked to new regulatory directives introduced by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). The clarification was provided by the company’s secretary, Uto Ukpanah, during a briefing at the Nigerian Exchange. According to MTN, the pause is necessary to…
British luxury automaker Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has revealed a new all-electric two-seater convertible, known as Project Nightingale, marking another bold step into the future of high-end motoring. The ultra-exclusive model will be limited to just 100 units, each hand-built at the company’s headquarters in Goodwood, with deliveries expected to begin in 2028. Powered entirely by…
Amazon is ramping up its ambitions in space-based connectivity with a planned $11.57 billion acquisition of Globalstar, as it positions itself to compete more aggressively with Starlink. The deal will strengthen Amazon’s long-running low-earth orbit initiative, known as Project Leo, aimed at delivering internet and mobile services globally through a network of satellites. The company…
The 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards is officially underway, with MultiChoice confirming May 9, 2026, as the date for this year’s ceremony and naming veteran actress Joke Silva as Head Judge. This year’s awards, sponsored by Don Julio Tequila, will feature a lineup of pre-event activities including Icons Night and Cultural…
A powerful coalition of more than 1,400 film and television professionals has come out against a proposed mega-merger between Paramount and Warner Bros Discovery, warning it could reshape the entertainment industry for the worse. Big names like Emma Thompson, Ben Stiller, Javier Bardem, and Rose Byrne are among those who signed an open letter urging…
Hui Ka Yan, the founder of troubled property giant Evergrande Group, has pleaded guilty to multiple offences including embezzlement and corporate bribery, according to a court statement. The plea was entered during hearings held on April 13 and 14 in Shenzhen, where Hui reportedly expressed remorse over his actions. Authorities say a verdict will be…
Cross-border payments platform Juicyway has received regulatory approval from the Financial Conduct Authority, paving the way for its expansion into the United Kingdom’s financial market. The company has been granted an Authorised Payment Institution (API) licence, allowing it to offer payment services to individuals and businesses in the UK. With this approval, Juicyway plans to…
Reports suggest that Microsoft could host a new Xbox Games Showcase as early as next week, with speculation mounting that a new instalment in the Metro franchise may be unveiled. Gaming insider NateTheHate claimed on social media that the event is likely to take place on Thursday, April 16. According to him, the showcase could…
The European Union has begun full implementation of its new digital border control system, requiring travellers to provide fingerprints and facial images alongside passport checks. The system, known as the Entry/Exit System (EES), is being deployed across the Schengen Area to track the movement of non-EU visitors. It replaces traditional passport stamping with biometric registration,…
The Federal Aviation Administration has launched a new recruitment drive urging skilled gamers to consider careers in air traffic control, as authorities grapple with a growing workforce shortage. In a fresh advertising campaign, the agency draws a direct link between gaming skills and the demands of air traffic control, encouraging young people to apply when…
Rockstar Games has confirmed it was affected by a recent data breach but insists the incident has not impacted its operations or players. The breach reportedly involved a third party, with a hacking group known as ShinyHunters claiming responsibility and demanding a ransom. The group alleged it had accessed sensitive information, including financial data and…
IBM has agreed to pay approximately $17 million to settle allegations by the U.S. government over its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. The settlement, announced by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, resolves claims that the tech giant made misleading representations about its hiring and employment practices in federal contracts. According to the U.S. Department…
Italian luxury fashion house Dolce & Gabbana has announced that co-founder Stefano Gabbana is stepping down as chairman, marking a significant leadership shift as the company navigates financial challenges. Gabbana, who established the brand alongside Domenico Dolce in 1985, will remain actively involved in the creative direction of the business. The long-standing design partnership between…
Meta has taken down advertisements from law firms seeking clients for potential lawsuits related to social media addiction across its platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. The move follows recent legal setbacks for the tech giant, including high-profile cases in the United States involving claims of harm caused by excessive social media use, particularly among young…
A 20-year-old man has been arrested after a Molotov cocktail was thrown at the residence of Sam Altman in San Francisco, briefly setting part of the property on fire. Police responded to the incident in the North Beach area during the early hours of Friday. Although authorities did not initially identify the property owner, a…
Three Crowns Milk has announced the launch of the 2026 edition of its “Mum of the Year” (MOTY) campaign, an initiative aimed at celebrating and rewarding mothers across Nigeria. Now in its eighth year, the campaign has grown into a recognised platform that honours the sacrifices, resilience, and everyday contributions of mothers in shaping families…
Amazon has announced it will discontinue support for older Kindle models, a decision that has drawn criticism from longtime users. In notifications sent to customers, the company said devices released in or before 2012 will stop receiving updates from May 20, 2026. As a result, affected users will no longer be able to purchase, borrow,…
Renowned British perfumer Jo Malone has expressed hope that “sense will prevail” amid an ongoing legal dispute involving Estée Lauder and fashion retailer Zara over the commercial use of her name. The case stems from a collaboration between Malone’s newer brand, Jo Loves, and Zara, which featured her name on product packaging. Estée Lauder, which…
Fidelity Bank Plc has named Amaka Onwughalu as Chairman of its Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2026, marking a significant step in its leadership evolution and commitment to gender inclusion. Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for the bank, following a series of major milestones including Eurobond repayment, a successful and oversubscribed public…
British крипто entrepreneur Adam Back has rejected claims that he is the elusive founder of Bitcoin, following a report by The New York Times suggesting he could be the person behind the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Back dismissed the theory, describing it as a case of “confirmation bias.” In a post on X, he stated clearly…
Greece has announced plans to block children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms beginning in January next year, as part of efforts to address growing concerns around youth mental health. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the decision is driven by increasing reports of anxiety, poor sleep, and the effects of what…
