DYAG News and Views - 23rd November 2023
We bring you the daily roundup of the hottest news from Nigeria and around the world.
Local News
WHO Unveils Global Strategy to Eradicate Cervical Cancer by 2030, Emphasizing Vaccination Targets
In a major initiative, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has launched a comprehensive strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer by 2030. The strategy, introduced on the third anniversary of 194 countries committing to eliminate cervical cancer, includes vaccination targets of 90% of girls, screening for 70% of women, and ensuring 90% of diagnosed women receive treatment. Presentations during the virtual event highlighted the significant impact of cervical cancer in Africa, emphasizing the potential of HPV vaccines in preventing and eliminating the disease.
Japa: Enugu Commissioner Emphasizes Essential Skills for Youths
Enugu State's Commissioner for Labour and Employment, Mr. Chika Ugwuoke, highlighted the need for youth to acquire essential skills during a Job Career and Employability Fair/Business Clinic organized by NECA. He emphasized that the unemployment rate in the state stands at around 40%, signaling the importance of developing skills for better career prospects.
World Bank Predicts Increase in Poverty due to Inflation
World Bank Forecasts 2.8 Million More Nigerians to Fall Into Poverty by Year-End.
The World Bank's report on Nigeria's economic outlook suggests that inflation and low economic growth will result in an additional 2.8 million people falling below the poverty line by the end of 2023. Rising inflation, reaching a 17-year high, coupled with increased fiscal deficit and debt service, poses a significant threat to the country's economic stability.
Cooking Gas Prices Surge 9.6% to N5000; Vary Across Nigeria
Cooking Gas Prices Jump by 9.6%, Reaching N5000; Disparities Noted Across Gas Stations.
The cost of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (cooking gas) rose by 9.6% to N5000 for a 5kg cylinder in November 2023, compared to N4,562.51 in the previous month. However, reports show variations in prices, with some gas stations selling at N6,000 for a 5kg cylinder in Lagos state. The National Bureau of Statistics reported a 9.91% YoY increase, with Kano State recording the highest average retail price, while Ebonyi State had the lowest.
Business
Russia Ends Temporary Ban on Diesel Exports After Successful Restrictions
Russia Lifts Diesel Export Ban, Citing Success in Stabilizing Domestic Fuel Prices.
Russia has officially ended its two-month ban on diesel exports, stating that the restrictions were effective in reducing rising fuel prices domestically. The ban, implemented in September, impacted global markets. The energy ministry reported a 14% growth in domestic reserves, reaching 3.2 million tonnes, prompting the removal of export restrictions. Last month, Russia also lifted restrictions on seaborne diesel exports and gasoline exports.
Okada Books Ceases Operations After a Decade in Nigerian Publishing
Okada Books Shuts Down After 10 Years, Citing Challenging Economic Conditions
Nigeria's digital publishing platform, Okada Books, will cease operations on November 30 due to challenging macroeconomic conditions. CEO Okechukwu Ofili attributes the shutdown to economic hurdles, posing challenges for writers and readers who relied on the platform. The platform aimed to simplify book distribution and self-publishing in Nigeria, providing an accessible avenue for authors and affordable reading options. Okada Books, launched in 2013, was part of Google's Launchpad Accelerator Africa in 2017.
OpenAI Co-Founder Sam Altman to Return as CEO Following Board Dispute
Sam Altman, co-founder of OpenAI, is set to return as CEO just days after his unexpected firing by the board. The agreement, still in principle, involves the appointment of new board members. Altman's removal led to staff threats of mass resignations, but Microsoft's job offer and subsequent negotiations paved the way for his return. The turmoil raises questions about the decision-making power of a small board in a multi-billion dollar tech business with a unique structure and mission.
Bolt Appoints Caroline Wanjihia as Regional Director for Expanding Markets
Bolt, the ride-hailing giant, has chosen Caroline Wanjihia, an experienced Kenyan lawyer and business strategist, as the new regional director for Africa, the Middle East, and LATAM. This decision follows Bolt's recent halt of its food delivery service in Nigeria and South Africa to enhance overall efficiency. Wanjihia, with over 15 years of expertise, will lead Bolt's expansion efforts, tackling operational challenges and introducing strategic initiatives in the face of regulatory scrutiny, particularly in Kenya.
International
Geert Wilders Scores Dramatic Victory in Dutch General Election
Veteran anti-Islam populist Geert Wilders secures a dramatic victory in the Dutch general election, with his Freedom Party (PVV) set to win 37 seats, well ahead of competitors. Wilders harnessed public frustration on migration issues and promises "borders closed." To become the prime minister, he needs to form a coalition with other parties, aiming for 76 seats in the 150-seat parliament. Wilders' win shakes Dutch politics, and his anti-Islam rhetoric has raised concerns and garnered praise from nationalist and far-right leaders across Europe.
South African Parliament Suspends Julius Malema and EFF MPs for a Month
South Africa's opposition leader Julius Malema and five EFF party MPs suspended for one month without pay for contempt of parliament during President Ramaphosa's state of the nation address. The suspension comes as a consequence of them storming the stage, disrupting the proceedings. The six MPs must issue a personal apology in the House to the President, Speaker, and people of South Africa. The suspension coincides with the month of February, preventing them from attending the next state of the nation address.
Liberian President George Weah Concedes, Calls Joseph Boakai to Congratulate Him
Liberian President George Weah calls opposition candidate Joseph Boakai to congratulate him on his unassailable lead in the presidential race. Boakai secures victory with 50.89% of the votes, prompting celebrations and calls for Weah to step down. Weah acknowledges the deep division revealed by the close race and emphasizes the importance of unity for Liberia's progress. This marks the end of Weah's presidency since 2018, influenced by perceptions of failure in addressing corruption, rising prices, and economic challenges.
Entertainment
Apple Music Names Qing Madi as the Latest Up Next Artist for Nigeria
Apple Music announces Afrobeats singer-songwriter Qing Madi as the featured artist in its Up Next artist development program in Nigeria. At 17, Qing Madi expresses excitement about being chosen for the program, aiming to give a voice to teenagers in Nigeria and Africa. Influenced by Kendrick Lamar and her heritage, Qing Madi's blend of Afrobeats, pop, soul, and R&B gained attention with her debut single 'See Finish' and her latest release 'Journey.' As the newest Up Next artist, Qing Madi will be featured on Apple Music's curated playlist, showcasing emerging talents.
Rema Makes History on Billboard's 2023 End-of-the-Year Chart
Nigerian Afrobeats artist Rema achieves a historic feat as the first African artist with his album 'Raves & Roses' appearing on the Billboard 2023 end-of-the-year chart, ranking at NO. 157. Boosted by the success of his hit single 'Calm Down' with Selena Gomez, Rema secures the NO. 41 spot on Billboard's artist chart. 'Calm Down' achieves over 1 billion streams on Spotify, marking a phenomenal achievement for the youngest African artist to sell out the O2. Rema finishes the year as the second-ranking Afrobeats artist, emphasizing his significant impact on advancing African music globally.
The Origin: Madam Koi Koi Maintains Top Spot as Nigeria's Most-Watched Show on Netflix
Horror title "The Origin: Madam Koi Koi" continues to dominate as Nigeria's most-watched show on Netflix, holding the top spot for three consecutive weeks. Director Jay Franklyn Jituboh expresses gratitude to the cast and crew for the project's success. The series, written by Jituboh and Dale Falola, narrates the story of a vengeful dark spirit seeking retribution on a community. With a strong cast, including Ireti Doyle and Chioma Akpotha, "The Origin" joins other successful Nigerian shows on Netflix, such as "The Black Book," "Ijogbon," and "Jagun Jagun."
Opportunities
CyberGirls Fellowship - Empowering Women in Cybersecurity
Join the CyberGirls Fellowship, a free 1-year program for girls and women (18-28 years old) to acquire sought-after cybersecurity skills. Seize global career opportunities in cybersecurity! Apply here before December 11 2023
Borel Global Fellows Program - Transforming Agriculture Leaders
Enroll in the Borel Global Fellows Program, supporting Sub-Saharan African students for graduate studies at Iowa State University. Fight food insecurity and promote wealth and health in Africa. Up to $25,000/year available. Apply before January 15, 2024.
develoPPP Ventures Program Cohort 2 - Boosting Nigerian Entrepreneurs
Calling Nigerian entrepreneurs! Apply for develoPPP Ventures Program Cohort 2 and receive support of up to EUR 100,000. Empower your impactful business models. Appy before December 31, 2023.
Next Generation Social Sciences in Africa - Doctoral Dissertation Research Fellowship 2024
Seeking funding for your doctoral research in peace, security, and development? Apply for the Next Generation Social Sciences in Africa fellowship (up to $15,000). Deadline: February 11, 2024. Apply here before February 11 2024
Commonwealth Africa Cyber Fellowship Programme 2024
Commonwealth Africa Cyber Fellowship offers a year-long opportunity for experts to enhance cybersecurity policies across Africa. Exclusive access to research, networking events, and conferences. Apply by December 10.
Mastercard Foundations Scholars Program 2023/2024 at Carnegie Mellon University Africa
Apply for the Mastercard Foundations Scholars Program 2023/2024 at Carnegie Mellon University Africa. Access financial, social, and academic support. Apply before January 15, 2024.