Artificial Intelligence is reshaping industries worldwide, and its potential economic impact is staggering. According to a PwC study, AI could add over $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with Africa poised to be one of the key beneficiaries of this boom.
The continent’s AI market alone is projected to hit $2.5 billion this year, growing at an impressive compound annual rate of 35.8%. These numbers highlight how AI is no longer just a futuristic concept, it’s an active driver of business transformation, innovation, and competitiveness.
Across Africa, companies and startups are increasingly leveraging AI to tackle unique regional challenges while creating new opportunities for growth. From agriculture and healthcare to fintech and logistics, AI-powered solutions are helping businesses optimize processes and deliver better services.
As industries continue to evolve, Africa has a rare opportunity to position itself as a hub for innovative, inclusive, and sustainable AI applications that can redefine the continent’s economic landscape.
TICAD 9 is the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development, which began on Thursday, 22nd August in Yokohama, Japan.
The conference holds substantial value as a diplomatic platform aimed at reinforcing Japan–Africa relations through multilateral cooperation, strategic investments, and inclusive development.
It serves as a critical co-creation mechanism bringing together governments, multilateral institutions (like the UN, World Bank, and African Union), private sectors, and civil society to advance sustainable development through innovation, industrial partnerships, and technology transfer. The Ninth conference had 49 countries in attendance.
African Leaders At TICAD 9
Japan hosted African leaders at that three-day development conference, offering itself as an alternative to China as the continent reels from a debt crisis exacerbated by Western aid cuts, conflict, and climate change.
Attendees at the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) included Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa, William Ruto of Kenya, and UN head Antonio Guterres.
“The debt and liquidity crisis on the African continent is worsening the challenging socio-economic environment and constraining the fiscal space for governments to cast a safety net over its citizens,” Ramaphosa’s office said in a statement.
China has invested heavily in Africa over the past decade, with its companies there signing deals worth hundreds of billions of dollars to finance shipping ports, railways, roads, and other projects under Beijing’s Belt and Road global infrastructure initiative.
The Outcome of the Conference in Japan
Nigeria’s booth was notably unmanned on the first day, leading to several criticisms.
In response to backlash, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the booth had not been “opened” by design on Day 1, as it was scheduled for inauguration on the following day. Officials emphasized that Nigeria’s delegation was prioritizing substantive bilateral and multilateral engagements, including investment forums and high-level negotiations, rather than focusing on the exhibition.
Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga added that Nigeria’s participation is being channeled through strategic discussions in power, industry, agriculture, and other sectors, not to “attend any Trade Expo” per se.
At the moment, Nigeria is yet to close significant deals from attending the conference.
What It Would Mean for Nigeria’s Economy
Nigeria would have gained significantly from active participation in TICAD 9, but its weak presence meant lost opportunities.
The summit focused on boosting Japanese investment in Africa through infrastructure, technology, and renewable energy projects, areas that align with Nigeria’s push to diversify its economy beyond oil.
It also emphasized trade integration between Africa and the Indo-Pacific, which could have positioned Nigeria as a regional hub for Japanese businesses and a key player in the African Continental Free Trade Area.
In past editions of TICAD, countries secured billions in aid, soft loans, and development financing. Nigeria could have tapped into similar concessions for infrastructure, healthcare, education, and climate resilience projects.
The summit also spotlighted collaboration with African startups, creating potential openings for Nigerian SMEs and fintech innovators to attract Japanese venture capital and expertise.
Beyond economics, engaging fully would have strengthened Nigeria’s geopolitical standing by building stronger ties with Japan and balancing its relationships with China and the West.
Public And Social Media Reaction
Social media exploded with criticism. Idris Bello’s post on X triggered widespread disapproval, with users lamenting that a country sending a presidential delegation could not staff its booth.
His tweet read: “I hate to show negative things about Nigeria, but it is sad that Nigeria is the only unmanned booth at TICAD9 in Japan. Upon all the folks who probably got estacode for coming to Japan
Only God knows how many Japanese folks have asked me about the unmanned booth seeing my dressing.
So ashamed I have now designated myself as Honorary Consul and taken over the booth to engage visitors.”
I hate to show negative things about Nigeria but it is sad that Nigeria is the only unmanned booth at TICAD9 in Japan. Upon all the folks who probably got estacode for coming to Japan
Only God knows how many Japanese folks have asked me about the unmanned booth seeing my… pic.twitter.com/C58IDVyzFr
His remarks amplified frustrations, and voices like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar called the incident an “ongoing show of shame,” characterizing it as emblematic of poor governance.
Just like ongoing show of shame at the empty Nigerian booth in far away Japan, two years into this administration, we are probably waiting for an official inauguration or preferably an “unveiling” of Renewed Hope before Nigerians can experience good governance. -AA pic.twitter.com/732uNSIeko
ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi also criticized the lack of follow-up and preparation.
Government Response
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that the booth was intended to be inaugurated on Day 2, not Day 1, and the delay was procedural, not negligent.
Nigeria’s Presidency rebuffed claims that the unmanned booth signified poor representation, emphasizing that the delegation was focused on substantial outcomes across sectors, with coordinated engagements spearheaded by key officials and institutions.
While Nigeria’s physical presence at TICAD 9 initially appeared lacking, official explanations pointed to a strategic, high-level engagement approach rather than an exhibition-focused one. Whether this pragmatic focus will salvage Nigeria’s image depends on how effectively these engagements translate into investment, partnerships, and tangible outcomes post-conference.
The Fulani, also known as the Fula or Fulɓe, are one of Africa’s most widespread ethnic groups, with communities across West and Central Africa. Their identity is shaped by a rich history of pastoralism, trade, and migration, which has influenced their language, traditions, and way of life.
Often associated with cattle herding, the Fulani have long valued mobility, family ties, and a deep connection to their environment, which has allowed their culture to thrive across diverse regions and borders.
Beyond their pastoral heritage, the Fulani are also known for their contributions to Islamic scholarship, art, music, and cuisine. Cultural expressions like their traditional attire, intricate hairstyles, and oral storytelling highlight a deep pride in their heritage.
While modern challenges such as urbanization and security issues have sometimes affected perceptions of the Fulani, their identity remains rooted in resilience and adaptability, reflecting a culture that continues to evolve while honoring its centuries-old traditions.
Former Super Eagles defender, Taribo West, has strongly criticized the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Lagos State Government over their alleged neglect of the late goalkeeper Peter Rufai’s family.
Speaking at Rufai’s burial on Friday, Taribo West expressed anger at what he described as the repeated failure of Nigerian authorities to properly honor football icons after their passing.
In a video shared by News Central on Friday, the ex-Inter Milan star lamented:
“It’s disheartening that you have Lagos State, you have the Nigerian Football Association. They drop the bulk on the family. I felt in my spirit that there is nothing to put your life for. That’s why I say I have to shift back so that I will not implode. It’s grieving.
My mother died. I never shed tears. My father died in my hands. I never shed tears. When Rufai passed on, I had goose pimples on my body. And every individual I’m speaking to, there were tears rolling down my cheeks. What kind of nation is this?”
Continuing his outburst, West referenced other late football legends: “With this kind of example they have shown in (Yisa) Sofoule, Stephen Keshi, Thompson Oliya and Rashidi Yekini (of blessed memory), I will never advise even my son to put his feet for this country.
Send me out! Do we have a Football Federation or do we have a Football Association in this Lagos State? That this hero, this soldier, this football evangelist, has to be treated this way in his family.
Could you imagine that the family would be crying just to solicit in within our groups to ask for money? That is madness. Look, please let me go. I don’t want to pour my heart,” he stated.
From unruly passengers to questionable crew conduct, airlines are constantly navigating a delicate balance between exceptional customer service and the safety and authority of their flight crews.
Beyond the viral headlines, there’s an important business perspective to consider: how can airlines maintain a customer-first approach without compromising the well-being and control of their staff? This raises questions about where the line should be drawn should passenger comfort always come first, or must airlines prioritize the safety and authority of their crews to ensure smooth operations?
Finding this balance requires a multi-layered approach. Crew training plays a vital role in conflict management, equipping staff to handle challenging situations professionally while maintaining order.
Kenyan investigators have exhumed five bodies from fresh graves near Shakahola Forest, reigniting fears of ongoing cult activity. The discovery was made in Kwa Binzaro village, Kilifi County, about two kilometres from the original Shakahola site.
The latest graves were uncovered in August 2025 after a Malindi court authorised new exhumations. Detectives also found scattered human body parts near the graves, suggesting the possibility of more victims.
Fresh Graves Revive Fears of Cult Activity
The discovery recalls the 2023 Shakahola Forest massacre, where more than 400 people died after allegedly starving themselves under the influence of self-proclaimed pastor Paul Mackenzie.
Authorities believe some of the newly discovered bodies may have been buried as recently as a few weeks ago. Others appeared decomposed, pointing to burials done months earlier.
Government pathologist Dr Richard Njoroge confirmed the bodies are being examined, and DNA samples are being collected at Malindi District Hospital to help families trace missing relatives.
Police have now identified 27 suspected gravesites in the Kwa Binzaro area. Human rights activist Hussein Khalid, who witnessed the operation, said one site appeared disturbed, with children’s and women’s clothing left behind but no bodies inside.
This has raised suspicions that some remains may have been secretly removed before the exhumations.
So far, 11 individuals linked to Mackenzie’s followers are under investigation. None has been charged, but prosecutors suspect they were involved in concealing deaths or assisting burials.
The operation shows that cult-related deaths may still be happening despite Pastor Mackenzie’s arrest in 2023. At that time, he denied manslaughter charges and remains in custody, though activists claim he still communicates with followers.
Detectives expect to find more graves as the search widens. Authorities have urged families with missing relatives to report to the Red Cross desk in Malindi for DNA registration.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that 41 people were rescued while four others lost their lives in the recent boat accident at Goronyo, Sokoto State.
In a statement issued on Friday by the agency’s Head of Press Unit, Manzo Ezekiel, NEMA said the number of fatalities rose after another body was recovered earlier in the day. The deceased was buried immediately after funeral prayers conducted in line with Islamic rites.
“As part of the Thursday 21st August, 2025 rescue operations, the response team visited four villages: Takuske, Kwakwazu, Bari and Gamiha, where many of the passengers of the ill-fated boat were said to have resided. The visits provided an opportunity to verify the number of persons still missing and to commiserate with families who lost their loved ones. During the visits, it was also confirmed that 16 persons had survived the mishap.
“Following these developments, the multi-agency search and rescue operation has been officially concluded. The operation was jointly conducted by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Goronyo Local Government Authority, and community divers,” the statement read.
NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, praised the rescue team for their commitment and acknowledged the cooperation of all stakeholders in bringing the operation to a close.
The incident occurred on Sunday, 17th August 2025, at Kojiyo village in the Goronyo Dam area of Sokoto State.
A World Food Programme convoy was hit by a drone strike in Sudan’s Darfur region on Wednesday. The attack took place in Mellit, a town under the control of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Three trucks in the 16-vehicle convoy caught fire and were destroyed. Fortunately, all humanitarian staff survived without injuries, the UN agency confirmed in a statement shortly after the incident.
The convoy was carrying food to a famine-hit village, located about 90 kilometers northwest of el-Fasher. The area has been struggling with hunger and ongoing violence for months.
Army Denies Responsibility as RSF Points Finger
Sudan’s army quickly denied any involvement in the drone strike. However, the RSF directly accused the military of targeting the convoy in its territory.
The RSF does not operate an air force, but both sides in Sudan’s civil war have used drones in combat. The exact origin of the drone used in the strike remains unclear.
WFP said, “Humanitarian staff and assets must never be a target.” The agency called on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and allow aid to reach those in need.
Aid Operations Under Fire as Conflict Worsens
This is the latest in a series of attacks on aid workers and convoys in Sudan. In June, five aid workers were killed during a similar incident in el-Fasher.
El-Fasher is the last major city in Darfur still held by the Sudanese army. It has been under siege by the RSF for more than a year, and fighting there has recently intensified.
Sudan plunged into civil war in April 2023, triggered by a bitter power struggle between the army and RSF. The war has turned into one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
Tens of thousands of people have been killed since the conflict began. Over 12 million Sudanese have been displaced inside the country, and 4.5 million have fled across borders.
Most of the refugees are women and children, many of whom are living in dire conditions. Food shortages, violence, and disease continue to spread in many parts of the country.
Both the army and RSF have been accused of using starvation as a weapon. Aid groups say food is being looted and deliveries are being blocked to punish civilians.
The WFP says access to famine-affected regions must be protected at all costs. The agency continues to call for safe humanitarian corridors across Sudan.
The Ebonyi State Government has launched an investigation into the collapse of a mining pit in Ihietutu village, Ishiagu community, in Ivo Local Government Area.
The Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Chidi Onyia, disclosed this on Friday during a fact-finding visit to the site alongside federal mining officials and security agencies.
According to reports, two people died and three others sustained injuries when part of the pit caved in two weeks ago.
Initial blame was placed on the pit operator, Greenfield Metals Ltd, for alleged negligence. However, Onyia said early findings indicated the incident may have been caused by natural factors.
He stated, “Mining, like many industries worldwide, comes with hazards. From our preliminary findings, this was a natural occurrence and not a result of negligence.
“Investigation is ongoing by all regulatory bodies, including the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals, police, Department of State Services, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, to ensure transparency.
“If we find recklessness, we will act accordingly. But if it is a natural disaster, we must accept it as such.”
The commissioner expressed condolences to the families of the victims, while dismissing claims that the site was being used by illegal miners.
He added, “Here, we fully respect licenses issued by the Federal Government.”
Prince Fabian Chukwu, Chairman of the Ihetutu Development Union Board of Trustees, also defended the company, noting its contributions to the community.
“They built the road to this site and never delayed in giving the community its due entitlements. That is why we stand by them in this unfortunate incident,” he said.
Greenfield Metals Ltd has since suspended mining activities at the site pending the conclusion of investigations.
In a significant legal development, Pakistan’s Supreme Court on Thursday granted bail to former Prime Minister Imran Khan in eight separate cases connected to violent protests and attacks on military installations that broke out on May 9, 2023.
A three-member bench, headed by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, set aside the Lahore High Court’s earlier decision, which had rejected bail in these matters. The court ruled that Khan should be released, provided he is not wanted in any other case.
Despite the ruling, Khan will remain in prison as he is serving a sentence in the high-profile Al-Qadir Trust corruption case, which involves the alleged misappropriation of large sums linked to a property settlement.
During the hearing, Khan’s legal team argued that no formal indictments had been filed in the eight riot-related cases, and that his name only appeared in a few of the police reports. The Supreme Court accepted these arguments, with the Chief Justice stating that bail could be granted since a detailed examination of evidence belongs at the trial stage.
Supporters of Khan’s party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), welcomed the decision and described it as a political and moral victory. Party representatives stressed that with this ruling, only the Al-Qadir Trust case currently stands in the way of Khan’s potential release from custody.
The May 9 cases arose after Khan’s dramatic arrest last year, which triggered nationwide demonstrations and mob attacks on government and military facilities, including the army’s General Headquarters in Rawalpindi. The unrest led to hundreds of arrests and numerous legal battles involving PTI members and leaders.
Although the Supreme Court’s decision marks an important shift in Khan’s ongoing legal struggles, multiple convictions and pending trials mean that the former premier’s path to freedom remains far from clear.
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