Economy
Nigerians laud Osinbajo on promotion of tech opportunities for youths
Nigerians have commended Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on his contributions to the promotion of tech opportunities for the Nigerian youth.
The global technology giants – Google Inc., HUAWEI, and top social networking companies, Facebook, Microsoft Corporation, had disclosed plans to partner with the Federal Government for the benefit of the Nigerian people, especially young people.
Vice President Osinbajo, who embraced the initiative had noted in a virtual meeting with Microsoft Corporation team led by its President, Brad Smith that the company’s interest in supporting the efforts of the Federal Government is a welcome development and could be leveraged to address issues affecting the youths especially in engaging them productively.
Earlier before their latest meeting, VP Osinbajo, had invited Facebook CEO, Mark Zuckerberg to Nigeria, which culminated in Zuckerberg’s first trip to Sub-Saharan Africa when he arrived Lagos, Nigeria on August 2016.
While in Nigeria, Zuckerberg visited Abuja to attend Aso Villa Demo Day (AVDD), organised by the Nigerian federal government, while he also visited Co-Creation Hub (CcHUB) and Andela, where he held a town hall meeting with entrepreneurs and developers in Lagos.
The Zuckerberg’s visit to Nigeria, began to yield good results exactly a year after, when in October 2017, Facebook launched its first African SME Council in Nigeria in order to support small and medium sized businesses throughout Africa.
Then, the company chose 15 Nigerian business owners across various industries and locations in Nigeria, who use the Facebook platform effectively, and provides them with digital tools to drive customer growth.
In November 2017, Facebook announced Nigeria Initiatives to help further drive innovation, skills development and economic impact across Nigeria.
Afterwards, in May 2018, NG_HUB was launched in Yaba, Lagos, as the training aspect of Facebook’s Nigeria Initiatives also promised to train and support 50,000 students, SMEs and entrepreneurs across Nigeria through a series of digital skills training in partnership with hubs across Nigeria.
It was that year 2018, precisely in July, VP Osinbajo, led a government delegation to the US where he visited Silicon Valley, regarded as the headquarters of some leading global technology companies, where he met with Google CEO, Sundar Pichai, and other top executives.
During the visit, Osinbajo met with investors and CEOs and showcased the progress made in the country’s technology, innovation and creative space, as well as the country’s tech sector’s potential, which attracted significant interests from investors in Nigeria’s tech space.
The VP’s visit to Silicon Valley and Facebook Campus in 2018 has helped to boost the Federal Government’s digital drive while leading to significant improvement in the country’s digital space.
It has also facilitated the Google’s launch of free public Wi-Fi service in Abuja, an initiative expected to create more economic opportunities for Nigerians through bridging societal gaps by providing free Internet access, which will improve access to information, tools of education, opportunities and expansion for many Nigerians.
In the last few years Nigerian tech entrepreneurs have also raised millions of dollars investment, and there has been an increased interest in the African continent’s tech space.
Likewise, Microsoft has opened an engineering office in Nigeria, and Google has started an accelerator programme, while IBM has launched the Digital Nation Africa project
The Chinese billionaire Jack Ma too had visited Nigeria and is said to be working on an Africa wide investment project.
As a result of all these achievements, Nigerian, who took to the social media on Tuesday, praised Osinbajo for welcoming the idea to develop Nigeria with digital technology, which ultimately is seen as a golden opportunity for the Nigerian youth to be gainfully engaged.
They also lauded the tech giant for being the digital transformation pillar of the Federal Government’s Economic Sustainability Plan (ESP), which it was said, would also help in the continuation of the technology company’s investment in Nigeria.
Generally, responders, expressing their views on Twitters, said, “Osinbajo had done so much in the aspect of technology, tracing the background for this to the VP’s visit to the Silicon Valley, where it was said the the deal, which is today manifesting had been sealed.
Others, who also lauded the latest move of the tech giants in expanding their investments in Nigeria, pointed to the resilience of VP Osinbajo in promoting a youthful agenda, said to now be yielding results.
“Google Inc. announced plans to establish first Google launchpad outside US in Lagos, Facebook made decision to open office in Lagos, HUAWEI promised to position Nigeria as a technology center for the Africa continent. Me; Osinbajo is bringing fortunes to Nigeria,” one Thomas Blessing, wrote on Twitter.
Another, who twitted from his Twitter handle, @bisuclef, lauding Microsoft on its initiative, said, “#MicrosoftNaija is promising some bug tech investment in #Nigeria thanks to VP Osinbajo’s new feat in ensuring young Nigerians benefit in more ways than one in ICT generally.”
Also, a Nigerian, who tweeted from his handle, @lollylarry1, wrote: “Vice President Yemi Osinbajo posed with tech gurus ready to invest in Nigeria. My Essential Osinbajo is always contributing to the development of d country, unlike one ex-vice president thay posed with a cyber fraud guru and was also ready to use our money to enrich his friends.
Another, commenting via @CityMayo, said: ” It seems to me that its is only Prof Yemi Osinbajo that truly appreciates and understands the many job opportunities that come with developing our digital economy. Guessing that’s why he is at the forefront of attracting most of the world digital marketing executives coming to Nigeria to invest.”
One, who tweeted via @Yakubu_Prince1, said, “Osinbajo has done greatly in the aspect of technology. One of the benefits of his visit to Silicon Valley is the collaboration of Microsoft with the FG. All these are happening and coming to reality because #ESPisWorking #MicrosoftNaija.”
Likewise, another Twitter user tweeting via @abegnovex, said:
“On behalf of my inborn children and grateful Nigerian boys and girls, we want to commend Vice President Yemi Osinbajo for attracting big tech companies like Microsoft, Google, Facebook, Huawei and others to the country. God bless you sir.”
Economy
Fidelity Bank Resumes International Transactions on Naira Debit Cards

Tier-one Lender, Fidelity Bank Plc., has announced the resumption of international transactions on its Naira Debit Cards.
This recommencement gives customers the freedom to make seamless payments abroad, online, and at ATMs outside the country.
The Divisional Head of eBanking, Fidelity Bank, Ifeoma Onibuje, shed light on the development.
Onibuje said: “We are delighted to inform the public that Fidelity Naira Cards are now enabled for global use.
“This means that our travelling customers can now utilize their Naira Debit cards outside the country to shop, spend and withdraw internationally without hassles.”
“Consequently, our customers can now spend up to $1,000 quarterly for international POS and online transactions; and withdraw up to $500 quarterly on international ATMs.”
The announcement offers Fidelity Bank customers another way to complete international transactions, in addition to the Bank’s existing foreign currency debit and credit cards.
The bank stated that it further reinforces its commitment to delivering solutions that fit seamlessly into customers’ lifestyles.
With Fidelity Bank’s VISA and Mastercard Naira Debit Cards, Nigerians can now enjoy effortless global access.
Beyond payments, Fidelity VISA cardholders, one of the variants of the bank’s card offerings, also enjoy premium travel and lifestyle benefits.
The benefits range from airport lounge and spa access via the Visa Airport Companion App, to fast-track immigration lanes and 20% discounts on SIXT car rentals worldwide.
This move, the bank said, also reflects its commitment to provide secure, convenient, and reliable banking services that empower customers in Nigeria and beyond.
The bank noted that it has deliberately made the process of getting a Fidelity Naira card seamless.
It stressed that customers can easily apply for their Fidelity VISA or Mastercard Naira Debit card via the Fidelity Mobile App or simply visit the nearest Fidelity bank branch to request for one and they can start transacting globally with ease.
Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.
The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.
Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.
Celebrity/Entertainment
How Nigerian TikToker Geh Geh Made ₦45 Million in One Night

A Nigerian TikTok sensation known as “Geh Geh” has stunned the internet after pulling in over $30,000 from a single live session that attracted more than 177,000 viewers.
The young entertainer, who calls his platform the “University of Wisdom and Understanding,” has quickly built a cult following with his raw and unfiltered lectures about women, money, and survival in Nigeria.
During the live broadcast on Thursday, August 21, viewers showered him with virtual gifts that he later calculated to be worth over $30,000.
The milestone instantly pushed him into the spotlight as one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising online personalities.
Reacting in disbelief after the stream, Geh Geh said:
“More than 177,000 people watch my lectures today. Jesus! University of wisdom and understanding, the only university where once you graduate, woman go fear to ask you for money.”
Despite not having a formal education, Geh Geh proudly calls himself “the first illiterate to find a university in the history of Nigeria.” In a video after the viral live, he reminded fans of his humble background:
“I no be graduate too, but by the grace of God, I don find school. I be orphan, but now Nigerians don show me love.”
The TikTok star admitted he was overwhelmed by the generosity of his supporters.
“See gift I made over… more gift when they give me today is worth about $30,000. I no go take this love for granted, because I no really do anything for am.”
His rise has been hailed as proof of how social media is transforming lives in Nigeria. With no degree, no rich background, and no industry connection, Geh Geh has managed to build a fanbase that now calls themselves “students” of his unusual university.
Still, his controversial views on women and relationships continue to spark heated debates. While some dismiss his advice as reckless, others insist his boldness speaks directly to Nigeria’s frustrated youth.
Reflecting on his sudden fame, Geh Geh compared himself to great thinkers:
“If Nigeria be country wey value great people, by now them suppose dey compare people like me with Aristotle, Wole Soyinka, Einstein… but I thank God say people dey see my head and my own difference.”
From an orphan with no prospects to a viral star earning in dollars, Geh Geh’s story has become one of digital empowerment.
His journey shows how platforms like TikTok are creating new forms of fame, money, and influence for Nigerians especially those once written off by society.
Africa
UK Dominates Nigeria’s Q1 2025 Capital Inflows With N5.5tn — NBS

The United Kingdom has once again cemented its position as Nigeria’s leading source of foreign capital, accounting for more than N5.5 trillion in inflows during the first quarter of 2025, according to the latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
Figures from the Capital Importation Report show that capital from the UK rose to $3.68bn (N5.52tn) in Q1 2025, representing 65.26% of Nigeria’s total $5.64bn inflows for the quarter.
This marked a 29.2% rise from the $2.85bn recorded in Q4 2024 and more than double the $1.81bn inflows seen in Q1 2024.
This underscores Britain’s dominance in Nigeria’s external financing profile and highlights the strong bilateral financial ties between both nations.
Breakdown of Q1 2025 Capital Inflows by Country
United Kingdom: $3.68bn (65.26%)
South Africa: $501.29m (8.88%)
Mauritius: $394.51m (6.99%)
United States: $368.92m (6.54%)
United Arab Emirates: $301.72m (5.35%)
Together, these top five countries accounted for over 92% of Nigeria’s capital inflows, reflecting both the concentration of Nigeria’s foreign investments and the risks of over-dependence on limited markets.
Other contributors included:
Cayman Islands: $114.76m (up sharply from $0.64m in Q4 2024)
Belgium: $70.54m
France: $47.33m
Netherlands: $42.68m (down significantly from $425.61m in Q4 2024)
Singapore: $36.79m
Overall, capital importation into Nigeria stood at $5.64bn in Q1 2025, up 10.9% from Q4 2024’s $5.09bn, and a remarkable 67.1% higher than the $3.38bn recorded in Q1 2024.
The NBS noted:
“Capital Importation during the reference period originated largely from the United Kingdom with $3,681.96m, showing 65.26 per cent of the total capital imported.”
A separate survey by Strategy Management Partners (UK) reveals that British companies are increasingly targeting Africa as a strategic growth frontier.
50% of UK firms with annual turnover above £20m are already operational in Africa and planning expansions.
Another 28% of executives said they are interested but remain cautious about entry strategies.
Africa’s appeal lies in its resource wealth and demographic potential:
30% of the world’s mineral reserves
8% of natural gas reserves
12% of oil reserves
65% of the world’s arable land
Projected to host 25% of the global workforce by 2035
Seven key sectors remain magnets for foreign capital inflows into Nigeria and Africa at large:
1. Technology
2. Oil & Gas
3. Power and Renewable Energy
4. Agriculture
5. Manufacturing
6. Infrastructure
7. Strategic Minerals
Analysts warn that while Nigeria’s reliance on UK-driven inflows reflects strong global confidence, the concentration of sources exposes the economy to external shocks if investor sentiment shifts in these countries.
Diversification of investment partnerships particularly within Asi
a, the Americas, and intra-African trade will be crucial to ensuring long-term resilience in capital inflows.
Africa
U.S. Govt Reacts to Nigerian Minimum Wage

The United States government has said that Nigeria’s new N70,000 minimum wage has lost real value due to the sharp fall of the naira, leaving millions of workers trapped in poverty.
According to the 2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, released by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labour, the wage translates to just $47.90 per month.
The report noted that currency devaluation and weak enforcement have undermined the wage increase.
The report also revealed that many states are yet to implement the new wage law. Several governors cited financial challenges as the main excuse.
Even where the law exists, compliance remains poor because of limited labor inspectors and weak oversight from authorities.
Wage Devaluation and Exclusion
The report highlighted that firms with fewer than 25 workers are excluded from the minimum wage law, leaving millions of employees without protection.
This also explained that about 70 to 80 percent of Nigeria’s workforce operates in the informal sector, where wage and labor rights are almost never enforced.
This means a majority of Nigerians continue to earn far below the national benchmark, despite the government’s approval of N70,000 as the new minimum wage.
The U.S. report stressed that the naira’s sharp decline, trading above N1,500 to the dollar, had worsened the wage erosion. This has left workers unable to afford basic needs, pushing many deeper into poverty.
Human Rights and Labor Challenges
The document pointed out that weak enforcement of labor laws contributes to worsening poverty levels in the country.
Workers in the informal sector, such as street vendors, artisans, and small traders, rarely benefit from labor protections.
The report also noted that Nigeria’s minimum wage is rarely sufficient to cover basic food, housing, and transport needs.
This has further exposed structural gaps in the government’s approach to economic reforms and poverty reduction.
Governors Push Investment Platform
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has launched a new investment initiative called NGF Investopedia.
The platform seeks to attract capital flows into bankable projects across all 36 states, with the goal of tackling Nigeria’s annual $100 billion infrastructure financing deficit.
The launch event in Abuja gathered governors, international partners, and investors. The forum described the platform as a long-term strategy to unlock growth opportunities across states and strengthen Nigeria’s subnational economies.
NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, said Nigeria must urgently leverage its human and natural resources to address poverty and joblessness.
“Here is Africa’s largest economy, endowed with abundant human and natural resources,” he said, stressing that state governments must play a bigger role in attracting investments and supporting local industries.
A Widening Gap
The contrast between the U.S. report on wage decline and the governors’ push for investment highlights Nigeria’s economic paradox.
While authorities promote foreign capital inflow, millions of workers continue to survive on wages that have lost most of their value.
With inflation rising, food prices soaring, and the naira weakening, the gap between earnings and cost of living keeps widening.
Unless enforcement improves and the informal sector is integrated into wage protections, the N70,000 benchmark may remain symbolic rather than effective.
Economy
Global Card: Fidelity Bank Hits Milestone As Fidelity Naira Card Accepted Globally

Fidelity Bank may have hit another milestone the Fidelity Naira Card is now accepted globally.
This was disclosed in a message sent to Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) via email on Monday.
According to the statement entitled “Your Fidelity Naira Card Now Works Globally; Shop, Pay and Withdraw with Ease!“, customers can buy favourite global brands online using their Fidelity Naira Card.
The band also stated that they can equally pay at POS terminals abroad and make cash withdrawals at ATMs as they travel.
The message reads:
“We’re excited to let you know that your Fidelity Naira Card is now enabled for global use — so you can shop, spend and withdraw internationally with confidence.
“Here’s what you now enjoy every quarter:
Channel |
Transaction Limit |
ATM Withdrawal abroad | $500 |
Online/Web & POS Payments | $ 1,000 |
“What does this mean for you?
- Shop your favourite global brands online
- Pay at POS terminals abroad with ease
- Withdraw cash at ATMs when you travel.”
The statement, however, noted that the $1,000 quarterly limit applies to all international transactions combined, including ATM withdrawals, online purchases, and POS payments.
The bank urged customers who may need assistance with setting card limits or activating their cards for global use, to contact the bank’s customers care “Centre Trueserve”, which is available round the clock, whether in Nigeria, or outside the country.
“Your world, your card — spend smart, spend globally with Fidelity,” the message concludes.
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