DYAG News and Views - 22nd December 2023
We bring you the daily roundup of the hottest news from Nigeria and around the world.
Local News
Nigerian Reps Call for End to Unwarranted Charges on Calls
The House of Representatives urges the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure that major network providers like MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile deliver quality communication services without unwarranted charges on calls that connect to wrong parties. The resolution stems from concerns about over 222.5 million Nigerians subscribed to telephone services by the end of 2022, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics. The motion, titled "Need to Direct Telecommunication Companies to Restrain from Unwarranted Charges on Services not Rendered and improve Service Delivery," was moved by Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo.
Catholic Bishops Affirm Unchanged Stance on Same-Sex Marriage Amid Pope's Declaration
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria asserts that the recent pronouncement by the Pope on same-sex marriage does not alter the Catholic Church's teaching on marriage. In response to the Fiducia Supplicans released by the Vatican, Bishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji and Bishop Donatus Ogun clarify that the Pope's declaration pertains to forms of blessing in the Catholic Church, including those for persons in irregular unions. The statement aims to address confusion among Christians and the Catholic faithful regarding the Pope's stance.
Lagos Psychiatric Hospital Reports 100% Increase in Admissions Due to Rising Mental Health Cases
The Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Yaba, Lagos, discloses a notable 100% surge in psychiatric patient admissions in 2023, attributing the increase to growing mental health conditions in Nigeria amid economic challenges and other socio-economic factors. Chief Medical Director Dr. Olugbenga Owoeye reveals the statistics during the Annual Score Card presentation, highlighting a 7% rise in new cases and a 3% increase in follow-up patients. Ongoing projects and achievements include infrastructure improvements, but challenges such as inadequate manpower and funding persist.
Business
NAFDAC Destroys ₦16 Billion Worth of Fake Products, Initiates Phased Ban on Pesticides
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) discloses the destruction of 135 truckloads of fake, counterfeit, and damaged products valued at N16 billion. Director General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye announces a phased ban on pesticides, with Paraquat banned from January 1, 2024, followed by Chlorpyrifos in November 2024 and Atrazine in January 2025. NAFDAC also conducts raids, recovering counterfeit Diageo products worth over N38 million and seizing counterfeited products worth over N200 million in Lagos and Abuja.
OPay Faces Criticism for Weak KYC System: Fraud Concerns Rise
Nigerian fintech company OPay is under scrutiny as TechCabal reveals lax registration processes, making its digital platform vulnerable to potential fraud. The company's basic account verification and facial recognition systems are deemed weak, raising security concerns amid rising financial fraud in Nigeria.
Global Outage Hits Social Media Platform X, Affecting Thousands.
Formerly known as Twitter, social media platform X experiences global outages, impacting over 47,000 users in the United States and causing access issues for some users in the UK and Asia. The platform, owned by Elon Musk, has yet to comment on the situation.
Toshiba Delists After 74 Years on Stock Exchange
Toshiba, once a giant in electronics, concludes its 74-year history on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. The delisting follows a series of challenges, including accounting malpractices, the sale of key assets, and internal battles. The company is set to be taken over by a group of Japanese investors led by Japan Investment Corp.
International
Guinea-Bissau President Fires PM One Week After Reappointment
President Umaro Sissoco Embaló dismisses Prime Minister Geraldo Martins just a week after reinstating him following a foiled coup attempt earlier in December. Rui Duarte de Barros, a former transitional prime minister, is appointed as the new Prime Minister.
Leaked Documents Detail Iran's Crackdown on Hijab Violations
Highly confidential documents obtained by BBC Persian reveal Iran's government plans to address women not wearing hijabs. The directives include the possibility of "mobile courts" in public places, actions against schoolgirls by the education ministry, and potential jail terms of up to 10 years for celebrities promoting corruption by not wearing hijabs. The leaked documents underscore the government's efforts to enforce strict dress codes despite growing defiance.
Macron Defends Controversial Immigration Reform as a "Shield"
French President Emmanuel Macron defends a recently passed immigration reform, labeling it a "shield" necessary to curb illegal migration. The legislation, which restricts family reunification and delays welfare benefits for migrants, faced internal dissent within Macron's party, resulting in the resignation of the health minister. Despite criticism from some regions and accusations of enabling the far-right by left-wingers, Macron asserts the need to address France's immigration challenges.
Entertainment
Taraji P. Henson Expresses Frustration Over Underpayment in Hollywood
American actress Taraji P. Henson voices dissatisfaction with her earnings in Hollywood during a SiriusXM interview, highlighting the financial challenges faced by actors. Henson, known for her roles in movies like "The Color Purple," emphasizes the disparity in compensation despite the industry's high demands. Her candid remarks shed light on the financial struggles faced by actors and the need for equitable pay in Hollywood.
Olamide Named "Most Influential Street Pop Artiste" by Spotify
Nigerian rapper Olamide, recognized for his role in popularizing "Street Pop" in Nigeria, is named the most influential artist of his generation by Spotify. The streaming platform acknowledges Olamide's contribution to mainstream recognition of Street Pop, citing his impact since the debut of "Eni Duro." The announcement emphasizes the genre's significant influence on Nigerian music in 2023.
Rihanna Endorses Davido's Song "Unavailable" as Her Best of 2023
Global popstar Rihanna reveals that Nigerian artist Davido's song "Unavailable" is her favorite of 2023, praising its appeal. The track, part of Davido's fourth album "Timeless," receives international acclaim, reaching top positions on streaming platforms. Rihanna's endorsement adds to the song's success, with the artist set to compete for a Grammy award in 2024.
Marvel Severs Ties with Actor Jonathan Majors After Assault Conviction
Marvel Studios cuts ties with actor Jonathan Majors following his guilty verdict for assaulting his ex-girlfriend. The actor, known for roles in "Loki" and "Quantumania," faces potential jail time and a setback in his rising Hollywood career. The decision comes after a trial where Majors maintained his innocence, signaling the impact of legal issues on his professional trajectory.
European Court Rules Against FIFA and UEFA in Super League Case
The European Court of Justice declares that FIFA and UEFA violated EU law in hindering the creation of a rival Super League. The ruling emphasizes that the football governing bodies abused their dominant position, but it doesn't automatically authorize the Super League. A22 Sports, the Super League project's promoter, claims victory in the legal battle against FIFA and UEFA.
Opportunities
Converge 2 Startup Accelerator Program
Converge 2 announces an open call for applications for its startup accelerator program, focusing on advancing applied AI in crucial domains. The program offers funding of up to $1 million and aims to support startups at the forefront of AI innovation. The application deadline is January 26, 2024. Click to Apply
World Bank Youth Innovation Challenge 2024
The World Bank invites applications for the Youth Innovation Challenge 2024, themed "Water Solutions for a New Climate Reality." Geared towards young innovators globally, the challenge seeks to accelerate innovation in water solutions. The deadline for applications is February 23, 2024. Click to Apply.
Georgetown Law Leadership and Advocacy for Women in Africa Fellowship Program
The Georgetown Law Leadership and Advocacy for Women in Africa (LAWA) Fellowship Program is accepting applications for its 2024-2025 session. The fellowship, founded in 1993, focuses on training women’s human rights lawyers in Africa. It is a funded opportunity, and the application deadline is January 19, 2024. Send application to morrisjc@georgetown.edu and click on the link to for more information.
Kellogg-Morgan Stanley Sustainable Investing Challenge 2024
Graduate students worldwide are invited to participate in the Kellogg-Morgan Stanley Sustainable Investing Challenge, an annual competition addressing social and environmental challenges through innovative financial approaches. Teams have the chance to win a $10,000 prize, and the application deadline is January 21, 2024.
Click to Apply.
USADF Off-Grid Energy Challenge Grant 2023/2024
The USADF Off-Grid Energy Challenge Grant is accepting proposals from eligible African off-grid energy companies. With grants of up to $250,000, the challenge aims to support innovative energy solutions. The application deadline is January 31, 2024.
Click to Apply.