Africa
Understanding the Tinubu versus Dangote Fight – Financial Times

Last year, Nigeria’s most successful businessman and richest person alive in the country, Aliko Dangote, had a meeting with his selected strategists.
The purpose of the meeting was simple.
To decide among the three presidential candidates, Aliko Danogte would support
The three candidates were, Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar and Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The candidate’s profile, merit, and demerit were analysed by the gentlemen seated in that room.
At the end of the meeting, the consensus was that Atiku Abubakar was a better option to back, and the reasons were not far-fetched.
Aside from the special chummy relationship between the businessman and Atiku, Atiku, who ironically clocked 77 today, is pro-business, is the right person for corporate business, and has the right skill set to reposition and revive the dead economy.
Also, the fact that the cabal around Tinubu was openly supporting Atiku made Dangote’s decision very easy.
The calculation was that Atiku would win, and based on that, Dangote chose to pitch his tent with Atiku Abubakar by supporting his aspiration to become our president, which did not materialise on February 25.
It was said that Dangote donated money as well to Tinubu’s camapign, which was his normal traditional custom to do, but his body language showed he preferred Atiku, whom he believed would have been a better president for businesses and the economy in Nigeria than Tinubu.
His arch rival and brother, Abdul Samad Rabiu of BUA Cement, chose to pitch his tent with Bola Ahmed Tinubu and did not donate money to Atiku Abubakar.
His first choice was Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
His second choice was Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Rabiu’s support was so personal that he donated his private jets for temporary use by TInubu’s people during the campaign.
Tinubu’s wife, Remi, and his aides were flying Rabiu’s private jets during the campaign.
The same is true of Tony Elumelu. It was said that Tony’s UBA provided the much-needed cash for Tinubu’s camp during the ill-fated cash crunch and scarcity before the election.
No wonder Tony was the first person Tinubu visited in Lagos as a president-elect.
Since Lagos is a very small place, news started flying around in a twinkle of an eye.
News got into the ears of Asiwaju that Nigeria’s gift to the world, Dangote, is not supporting his aspiration; rather, he has pitched his tent with Atiku.
He was disappointed with the betrayal by Dangote.
Dangote built his wealth in Lagos, the Lagos he owns, and he has been supportive of Dangote’s aspirations before now.
Dangote fully backing him would have been a way of paying back his generosity to him; not doing so is a big stab in the back.
That Dangote did not support him, but rather Atiku, was one of the reasons why Asiwaju stayed away when Dangote refinery was later commissioned by Buhari in the Lagos he owns.
The election is over.
Asiwaju is the president, and the chicken has come home to roost.
For the first time since the return of democracy in 1999, Dangote is not the favourite of a sitting government.
Abdul Samad Rabiu and Tony Elumelu have taken his position because they fully backed Asiwaju during the campaign.
“This is the first time the elected government is not particularly aligned with Aliko,” said one senior banker who spoke on condition of anonymity to the Financial Times. “So it has opened a window of opportunity for people to peddle their own influence.”
“Dangote is not as influential as he used to be,” said Ricardo Soares de Oliveira, an Oxford professor of the politics of Africa, who described the billionaire as a Nigerian oligarch. At a time when he had bet his fortune on the success of the refinery, that was not a comfortable position to be in, several close observers of Nigeria said.
Matthew Page, a former CIA expert on Nigeria, told the Financial Times that Rabiu donated heavily to the Tinubu election campaign and had been emboldened by his close relationship with the new president. The cement market was smaller after eight years of economic stagnation, he said. “The tide pool has shrunk, and the two biggest lobsters in the tank are snapping at each other.”
The biggest casualty from the politics of Dangote is his 650,000 per day Dangote refinery, which has been starved of crude oil by NNPC.
Before Asiwaju came in, Dangote had a binding agreement with NNPC.
The agreement was this:
That NNPC would invest $2 billion in Dangote refinery, or if they cannot invest in cash,they will provide crude oil worth that amount for Dangote refinery to process.
This investment will give NNPC a 20% stake in the Dangote refinery, while Dangote will keep the remaining 80%.
NNPC is too broke to drop $2 billion, so they choose to provide $2 billion worth of crude oil in lieu of the cash they were expected to drop so as to own a 20% stake in Dangote refinery.
But there is a problem.
Buhari, who was the president when the deal was sealed, is no longer in power.
The new Whiz kid is not a fan of Dangote any more, so the guys at NNPC saw the body language, which is the fact that Aliko has not visited Aso Rock since Tinubu relocated to Aso Rock, and they were influenced by that to start playing politics by fuffiling their own side of the bargain.
NNPC, which was at the mercy of Dangote when Buhari was in charge, turned to hard nuts to crack under Tinubu.
As of today, the reason why Dangote refinery has yet to refine any drop of crude oil is because NNPC has not supplied the facility with crude oil as they promised to do under the last government.
Frustrated by what NNPC is doing and the politics they are playing, Dangote’s Indian manager was forced to say that the refinery would start importing crude oil from trading oil companies abroad since NNPC is not forthcoming.
The outburst was forced to move the hands of NNPC, and it worked as NNPC invited Dangote’s guys to the negotiating table.
In a recent interview, Dangote admitted that the issue with NNPC has been solved and refined crude oil will flow soon from his refinery. He also remidned the sharks, circling and baying for his blood, saying that Dangote Refinry is bigger than him, in case they had forgotten.
Rabiu of BUA Cement has visited Aso Rock more than four times since Tinubu relocated to Aso Rock Villa.
The same is true of Tony Elemelu.
Dangote, the poster boy and darling of the previous Nigerian government, has not been invited once to come, and this speaks to how low he has fallen on the ladder.
He only went to inform Mr. President that Bill Gates was coming to town the next day for polio eradication.
Stories allegedly floated by BUA Group have accused Dangote of profiting from illegal foreign exchange trades worth billions of dollars.
This government is investigating forex allocations made to Aliko Dangote when Godwin Emefiele, the former central bank governor, was in charge of distributing dollars at the official rate to chosen industries at far below market prices, the Financial Times reported.
Dangote bet on the wrong horse during the last national election, and now the sharks are circling and are baying for his blood and his multibillion-dollar business empire as well.
Africa
JUST IN: Burkina Faso Bans Bill Gates-Backed GMO Malaria Project

Burkina Faso’s military government has halted a malaria eradication project backed by billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates and his foundation.
The project, run by the research consortium Target Malaria, focused on releasing genetically modified mosquitoes into the environment to help eradicate malaria.
On Friday, authorities ordered Target Malaria to immediately suspend all operations in the West African nation.
The move marks yet another clash between the government and international non-governmental organizations, many of which have faced intense restrictions under military rule.
The decision sparked heated reactions from civil society groups. Opponents of the project argue that Burkina Faso should focus on safer and more traditional solutions rather than experimenting with controversial genetic technologies.
A spokesperson for a coalition campaigning against the project stated that citizens “deserve protection through proven health measures, not risky experiments.”
Target Malaria, however, defended its work.
The group insisted that since 2012, it has complied with Burkina Faso’s national laws and worked closely with local authorities.
It expressed readiness to cooperate further with the government despite the sudden suspension.
The project has faced criticism not only within Burkina Faso but also internationally.
It became the target of online disinformation campaigns that claimed the genetically modified mosquitoes posed unforeseen dangers to the ecosystem.
While the first release of such mosquitoes took place in 2019, the long-term effects remain under global scientific debate.
Burkina Faso, one of the ten countries most affected by malaria, recorded more than eight million cases in 2024 alone.
The disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the country, particularly among children under five.
Supporters of the Target Malaria initiative argue that innovation is crucial to ending this deadly cycle, but critics fear it could introduce new risks.
This ban comes amid wider tensions between the military rulers and international organizations.
Since seizing power nearly three years ago, Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s administration has increasingly tightened control over foreign-funded NGOs.
In recent months, the government revoked the licenses of at least 21 groups, accusing some of pushing foreign agendas and destabilizing national sovereignty.
Analysts see the latest crackdown as part of a broader trend. Burkina Faso’s rulers are distancing the country from Western-backed projects while strengthening ties with alternative global partners.
However, the sudden halt to malaria research may come at a cost, as the country continues to battle one of the world’s deadliest diseases.
For now, the future of genetically modified mosquito projects in Burkina Faso remains uncertain.
The debate highlights the sharp divide between innovation and caution, science and politics, as the country balances urgent health needs with national sovereignty concerns
Africa
Why Every Nigerian Should Learn Combat Skills — CDS

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has urged all Nigerians to acquire combat skills such as Karate, Taekwondo, and Judo to protect themselves in the face of increasing danger.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on Thursday, August 21, General Musa likened learning martial arts to other essential survival skills, including driving and swimming.
“That one should be taken as learning driving, learning how to swim.
Whether we have war or not, it is a survival instinct,” he said.
He added that in Europe, swimming and basic security education are compulsory because citizens must understand and practice personal safety.
The defence chief emphasised that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) should incorporate unarmed combat training into its programme to prepare graduates for real-world threats.
He explained, “That’s what the NYSC is supposed to do, but the NYSC has been watered down to three weeks. Self-defence is very important.
Unarmed combat, swimming, driving these are critical aspects of human survival. We should never take them for granted because they prepare us for the future.”
General Musa further encouraged Nigerians to remain situationally aware of their environment, alerting authorities to any suspicious activities or individuals.
He said, “The world we are in now is dangerous. We have individuals who don’t mean people well. They kill for whatever reason.”
Highlighting evolving threats, General Musa disclosed that terrorists increasingly use gold to finance their operations.
He noted that complex international networks make it difficult to immediately expose or prosecute these financiers. “Gold is the main source.
They circulate it through various channels, including foreign links, which complicates intervention,” he explained.
General Musa acknowledged that bad roads and challenging terrains hinder rapid military response to attacks.
He said, “Many Nigerians expect immediate intervention from the Armed Forces without understanding the logistical challenges. By the time information reaches us, terrorists have already struck and vanished because they move more quickly in these regions.”
He added that improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the North-East further slow troop movement.
Regarding the Southeast, General Musa noted that the arrest of pro-Biafran agitator Simon Ekpa in Finland in November 2024 has improved security in the region.
He said, “Troops are actively pursuing Ekpa’s lieutenants in Imo, Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Abia states. We will continue operations until all threats are neutralised.”
The CDS also praised the synergy among the Nigerian Army, Air Force, and Navy, which led to the arrest of Ansaru terrorist leaders, describing it as a major success in the fight against terrorism.
General Musa concluded by announcing an African Chiefs of Defence Staff conference to foster continental collaboration and enhance regional security efforts.
Africa
‘Misplaced Priority’: Peter Obi Blasts FG’s ₦142bn Bus Terminal Project

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has slammed the Federal Government’s approval of ₦142 billion for the construction of bus terminals across Nigeria, describing it as a reckless misplacement of priorities.
Obi issued a statement on Friday, August 22, via his Official X formerly Twitter platform, warning that the project reflects poor leadership and lack of focus in managing Nigeria’s limited resources. He titled his statement, “₦142 Billion for Bus Terminals.”
According to him, the true test of leadership is how scarce resources are prioritized.
He stressed that investing such a huge amount in bus terminals while critical sectors like healthcare suffer shows a government that is out of touch with citizens’ realities.
Obi said: “The difference between success and failure in any nation is how leaders prioritise resources.
The decision to spend ₦142 billion on six bus terminals exposes a lack of competence and vision. It is a clear sign of poor leadership.”
The Federal Executive Council had recently approved the funds for the construction of one modern bus terminal in each of the six geopolitical zones.
The government described it as part of efforts to modernise transport infrastructure and improve mobility nationwide.
But Obi strongly disagreed. He compared the allocation to healthcare funding, pointing out that the combined budget for all teaching hospitals and federal psychiatric centres in Nigeria is less than ₦100 billion in the 2024 budget.
“This is disturbing,” Obi continued, “because health remains one of the most critical sectors of development. Yet it is underfunded and deteriorating rapidly.
The World Health Organization has reported that over 20 million Nigerians live with mental health conditions.
This is a tragic irony. How can the government ignore this crisis and focus on bus terminals?”
He argued that the health sector, alongside education and poverty reduction programs, deserves priority attention.
Obi insisted that until government spending reflects the real needs of Nigerians, the country will remain trapped in poor governance.
Many Nigerians have also taken to social media to express anger, echoing Obi’s concerns. Critics argue that the decision proves the Federal Government is disconnected from the economic struggles of ordinary citizens.
For Obi, the ₦142 billion project is not just a case of wrong timing.
He sees it as a clear example of governance failure and misplaced priorities.
Africa
Canada Announces Permanent Residence Lottery Results for Foreign Workers

Canada has carried out a new Express Entry lottery, inviting thousands of skilled workers to apply for permanent residency.
Financial Express report that the Announcement which came on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, marks one of the most significant rounds this year.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 4,200 candidates in the latest Express Entry draw.
The invitations were sent under the no-program-specified category, which means candidates from all economic immigration programs were considered.
To qualify, candidates needed a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of at least 507 points.
This cut-off is higher than several recent rounds, showing rising competition in Canada’s immigration pool.
Breakdown of Recent Express Entry Draws
The August 20 general draw came just a week after Canada held two smaller, targeted draws.
On August 14, 2025, IRCC issued 1,500 invitations in a Healthcare category-based draw, with a minimum CRS of 430.
On August 13, 2025, another STEM occupation draw invited 1,000 candidates, with a CRS cut-off of 481.
This means Canada has invited more than 6,700 candidates in August alone, highlighting its steady demand for skilled workers.
Why Express Entry Remains Key
The Express Entry system is Canada’s main pathway for skilled migration. It manages applications for three major programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Through this system, candidates are ranked by CRS points based on age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability. Higher scores improve the chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Impact of the Rising CRS
The 507-point cut-off has sparked concern among applicants.
Many worry that higher thresholds make it harder to qualify unless they boost their profiles with stronger English or French test results, higher education, or Canadian job offers.
Immigration experts note that Canada is prioritizing candidates who are more likely to integrate quickly into the economy.
With rising competition, applicants may need to explore provincial nomination programs (PNPs), which can add up to 600 extra CRS points.
Canada’s Immigration Targets
Despite higher CRS cut-offs, Canada’s immigration outlook remains ambitious.
The government has pledged to welcome 485,000 new permanent residents in 2024 and 500,000 in 2025.
Skilled workers make up a large share of this intake.
With labor shortages in sectors like healthcare, technology, and construction, Canada continues to use Express Entry to attract foreign talent.
What Applicants Should Do
Experts recommend that prospective migrants keep their profiles updated and monitor both general and category-based draws.
Targeted draws for healthcare, STEM, and trades occupations often have lower CRS cut-offs, giving candidates more opportunities.
For those struggling to meet the high CRS threshold, exploring study routes in Canada, provincial nominations, or job offers may increase chances.
The August 20 Express Entry draw shows Canada’s ongoing commitment to skilled immigration.
With over 4,200 invitations issued and CRS cut-offs climbing, the competition is intense.
However, the system continues to provide multiple entry points for determined applicants worldwide.
Africa
Japan Designates City as Hometown for Nigerians

The Japanese government has officially designated the city of Kisarazu as the hometown for Nigerians, marking a major step in strengthening cultural diplomacy and workforce collaboration between both nations.
The announcement was made during the ninth Tokyo International Conference for African Development (TICAD9) and confirmed by the Director of Information at Nigeria’s State House, Abiodun Oladunjoye.
According to the agreement, the Japanese government will introduce a special visa category for highly skilled and innovative young Nigerians who are willing to relocate to Kisarazu to live and work.
This initiative also extends to artisans and blue-collar workers from Nigeria who are ready to upskill and contribute to Japan’s economy.
At the same event, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) designated three other cities as hometowns for African nations:
Nagai in Yamagata Prefecture for Tanzania,
Sanjo in Niigata Prefecture for Ghana, and Imabari in Ehime Prefecture for Mozambique.
These hometown designations aim to foster manpower development, cultural exchanges, and economic partnerships that will benefit both Japan and the participating African countries.
Nigeria-Japan Partnership
Nigeria’s Charge d’Affaires and Acting Ambassador to Japan, Mrs. Florence Akinyemi Adeseke, received the certificate on behalf of Nigeria alongside Yoshikuni Watanabe, the Mayor of Kisarazu.
The ceremony highlighted the city’s longstanding relationship with Nigeria, as Kisarazu was the official host town for the Nigerian contingent during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where athletes trained and acclimatised before moving to the Olympic village.
Local Japanese authorities hope that designating Kisarazu as Nigerians’ hometown will boost the city’s population, enhance regional revitalisation, and strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Japan’s Vision for Africa
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, in his address at TICAD9, announced $5.5 billion in new investments across Africa.
He stressed the importance of mutual understanding, local solutions, and collaborative development, focusing on three key areas:
Private sector-led sustainable growth,
Youth and women empowerment.
Prime Minister Ishiba also acknowledged Japan’s challenges with an ageing population and shrinking agricultural land, calling on African nations to support Japan while benefiting from expanded cultural and economic opportunities.
What This Means for Nigerians
For Nigerians, the recognition of Kisarazu as their official hometown in Japan provides more than symbolic value.
It creates new employment opportunities, encourages skills transfer, and opens a pathway for closer cultural integration between both nations.
This strategic move underscores Japan’s commitment to forging deeper ties with Africa, while offering Nigerians a platform to thrive abroad
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