Author: Tech & Tools Desk

The Ondo State Government announced on Wednesday that it has entered into a $50 billion investment partnership with a consortium of international companies under the Sunshine Infrastructure Joint Venture to establish a large-scale refinery and free trade zone in the state. According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the consortium comprises Backbone Infrastructure, MJ Care Investment Finance, China Harbour, and Honeywell OUP. Governor Aiyedatiwa, who received the investors on Tuesday, described the agreement as a major milestone toward achieving sustainable industrialisation and long-term economic growth. “This investment marks a new dawn for Ondo State. It will accelerate industrial development, attract investors, and create employment opportunities for our people,” Aiyedatiwa said. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining a transparent and investor-friendly environment while ensuring the protection of all investments. The Managing Director of Sunshine Infrastructure JV, Henry Owonka, said the initiative had evolved from its initial conception through continuous collaboration with the Ondo State Investment Promotion Agency. He explained that the project’s initial valuation of $30 billion was increased to $50 billion to include expanded infrastructure and community-based development programmes. “The Sunshine JV is not just an investment; it’s a transformative framework that will empower communities, boost industries, and improve livelihoods,” Owonka noted. He added that the refinery would cater to both local and international petroleum demands, while the consortium’s Corporate Social Responsibility efforts would focus on education, employment, and infrastructure development in surrounding communities.

Typhoon Kalmaegi has killed at least 140 people and left 127 others missing after causing massive flooding across the central Philippines, according to official figures released on Thursday, as the storm moves toward Vietnam. Disaster database EM-DAT identified Kalmaegi as the world’s deadliest storm so far in 2025. Last year, Typhoon Trami also struck the Philippines, claiming 191 lives. Unprecedented floodwaters swept through towns and cities in Cebu province this week, destroying homes, vehicles, and even large shipping containers. The national civil defence agency confirmed 114 deaths, while Cebu authorities reported an additional 28 fatalities. In Liloan, a town near Cebu City, residents described scenes of devastation — cars stacked on top of one another, rooftops ripped off, and families digging through mud to recover belongings. One resident, Christine Aton, recounted how floodwaters trapped her sister, Michelle, who had a disability, in her room as the water level rapidly rose. “We tried to break the door open, but it wouldn’t budge. Then everything started to float,” she said tearfully. Another survivor, Chyros Roa, credited his family’s survival to their dog’s barking, which alerted them just in time to escape to the roof. “The current was too strong. We called for help, but rescuers couldn’t reach us — some were swept away,” he said. President Ferdinand Marcos has declared a state of national calamity, allowing emergency funds to be released and price controls imposed on essential goods. Meteorologist Benison Estareja said the rainfall along the typhoon’s path was about 1.5 times the average for a typical November in Cebu — an event that happens “once every 20 years.” He added that the region’s dense urbanisation worsened the disaster’s impact. Residents cleaning up on Wednesday said they had never witnessed flooding of such magnitude. “The water came so fast and strong that you couldn’t step outside,” said shop owner Reynaldo Vergara in Mandaue. “Everything was gone in minutes.” Provincial Governor Pamela Baricuatro described the situation as “unprecedented.” Scientists have long warned that climate change is making tropical storms more powerful, with warmer oceans fueling rapid intensification and heavier rainfall. As Kalmaegi strengthens while moving toward Vietnam, concerns are rising that it could worsen existing flood damage that has already killed 47 people there. Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha described the storm as “urgent and dangerous,” ordering mass evacuations from coastal areas. Forecasts show Kalmaegi could bring waves up to eight meters high and dangerous storm surges upon landfall. Authorities in Quy Nhon City were seen going door-to-door, urging residents to flee to safety. Kalmaegi is the 13th tropical storm to hit Vietnam in 2025, exceeding the country’s annual average. The Philippines has also reached its typical total of 20 storms this year, with meteorologists warning that up to five more could still develop before the year ends. Another system, Tropical Storm Fung-wong, is already forming east of Luzon and could reach super typhoon status before landfall on Monday.  

The South-East Business and Investment Summit (SEBIS) has urged collaboration among key stakeholders and investors to address the socio-economic challenges facing the South-East and restore the region to its former economic strength. Speaking at a road show and town hall meeting held at the All Saints Cathedral, Onitsha, on Monday, the Executive Secretary and CEO of SEBIS, Dr. Ifedi Okwenna, noted that the South-East, once a thriving economic force, lost its momentum due to the absence of structured and coordinated leadership. Okwenna recalled that before 1978, the South-East recorded a 9.2 percent annual development growth rate and could have become an economic powerhouse if effective leadership had sustained the progress. Speaking on the event’s theme, “Remaking South-East as an Economic Powerhouse,” he stressed the need for stakeholders in the region to take decisive action to rebuild, re-energize, and reposition the South-East for sustainable growth. He explained that the summit aims to tackle the region’s pressing socio-economic and infrastructural issues through a collaborative dialogue between the public and private sectors. According to him, similar engagements will take place across the five states in the region, serving as a platform for knowledge sharing, strategic partnerships, and agenda-setting to redefine the South-East business and investment landscape. Okwenna also called for stronger collaboration between the region and the Federal Government, while advocating for the reopening of the Ikom-Cameroon border to boost cross-border trade. He emphasized the importance of partnerships between businesses, the middle class, and investors to drive regional development, noting that the focus is no longer solely on government intervention but on joint efforts for progress. He highlighted agriculture, information technology, energy, the creative industry, MSMEs, and sports as key sectors through which the South-East can rebuild its economy. In his keynote address titled “Unlocking South-East Potential: The Critical Role of Infrastructure in Rebuilding the Economy,” former Minister of Power and current Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Niger, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, underscored the vital role of the private sector in driving regional growth. Nebo emphasized that energy remains central to sustainable development and must be effectively harnessed for the South-East to realize its economic goals. He added that the summit would focus on practical strategies to promote stability, economic growth, and inclusivity across the region.

United States lawmaker Riley Moore has criticized China for cautioning Washington against a proposed military intervention in Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians, asserting that Beijing cannot dictate America’s foreign policy decisions. In a post on his X handle on Tuesday, Moore expressed his support for former US President Donald Trump’s stance on protecting Christians in Nigeria, saying the United States has a moral duty to defend religious freedom. “President Trump is absolutely right to stand up for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are enduring severe persecution and even martyrdom for their faith,” Moore wrote. He also accused China of hypocrisy, citing its record on human rights. “China will not dictate our foreign policy, and we will not be lectured by a communist regime that recently arrested 30 Christian pastors and continues to detain ethnic minorities in concentration camps,” he added. Moore’s comments came after reports that Beijing had warned Washington against what it described as interference in Nigeria’s domestic affairs. The caution followed Trump’s threat of direct intervention to protect Christian communities reportedly targeted by violent attacks. China has expressed its support for the Nigerian government, stating that it backs the country’s right to pursue development paths aligned with its national interests. During a press briefing on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, “As a comprehensive strategic partner of Nigeria, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people on a development path suited to its national realities. We oppose any interference in other countries’ internal affairs under the pretext of religion or human rights, as well as the threat or use of force.” In response to Trump’s remarks, Nigeria’s Federal Government urged Washington to respect the nation’s sovereignty and refrain from deploying troops to its territory.

Bowen University in Iwo, Osun State, has celebrated Lotechukwu Isioma Ikpo for achieving a historic milestone as its first-ever graduate to earn a perfect 5.0/5.0 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA). The institution announced the achievement on its official Facebook page on Monday, praising Ikpo’s journey as one defined by determination, discipline, and inspiration. During the university’s 25th Convocation Ceremony, Ikpo was named the Best Graduating Student, marking a proud moment for the institution. According to the university, her academic success was even more remarkable given the personal trials she faced, including the loss of her father during her second year. Despite the setback, she persevered and turned her pain into motivation. Her remarkable feat earned her several awards, including a fully funded Master’s scholarship. “With tears of joy, she walked the stage multiple times, receiving numerous awards,” the university shared, adding that her story exemplifies the power of passion and perseverance. Bowen University encouraged other students to draw inspiration from her success, reminding them that “there are no limits to what can be achieved when one stays focused.” Ikpo’s achievement was officially recognized during the 25th Convocation Ceremony of the university, owned by the Nigerian Baptist Convention, on Saturday, November 1, 2025.

Nigeria’s financial markets opened November 2025 on a negative note as both the naira and equities weakened sharply following remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened possible military action against Nigeria over alleged cases of religious persecution. According to data from the Central Bank of Nigeria, the naira, which had earlier reached a 2025 high of ₦1,421.73/$, fell to ₦1,436.34/$ on Monday — a 1.03% decline representing a ₦14.61 loss in one day. At the parallel market, the exchange rate further slipped to ₦1,455/$ amid heightened investor anxiety and increased forex demand. The drop followed a tense weekend after Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform, described Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” and directed the U.S. Department of War to prepare for “possible action” if alleged attacks on Christians persisted. His comments, which referred to what he called a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria, stirred global debate and raised fears over potential diplomatic and economic fallout for Africa’s largest economy. The statement quickly reverberated across Nigeria’s financial sector. At the Nigerian Exchange Limited, bearish sentiment returned as the All-Share Index fell by 0.25% to close at 153,739.11 points, cutting year-to-date gains to 49.37%. Market capitalisation dropped by ₦245.88 billion to ₦97.58 trillion. The decline was driven mainly by losses in Aradel Holdings (-9.21%) and Access Corporation (-3.07%). Overall investor mood remained subdued, with 38 stocks declining against 19 gainers. Union Dicon topped the gainers’ list (+9.93%), while Honeywell Flour Mills led the losers (-10.00%). Trading activity slowed significantly, with total volume and value traded falling by 87.94% and 44.64%, respectively, to 627.5 million units valued at ₦25 billion. United Bank for Africa led the trading session with 136.8 million units (21.8% of total volume) worth ₦5.5 billion (22.2% of total value). Sector performance was mixed — Oil & Gas (-3.94%), Commodities (-1.85%), Insurance (-1.48%), and Banking (-0.22%) all recorded losses, while Consumer Goods gained 0.49%. The Industrial sector closed unchanged. In the bond market, Cowry Assets Management reported a dip in investor appetite for Nigeria’s Eurobonds, with average yields rising by five basis points to 7.70%. The firm attributed this to global risk aversion, macroeconomic uncertainty, and geopolitical tension. Bloomberg data also showed Nigeria’s dollar-denominated bonds as the worst performers among emerging markets, with the 2047 maturity dropping 0.6 cents to 88.26 cents on the dollar before trimming some losses later in the day. Despite the sharp downturn, some analysts believe the effect may be temporary. Tilewa Adebajo, CEO of CFG Advisory, noted that “the market’s reaction appears to be a short-term shock,” adding that recent improvements, such as Nigeria’s removal from the FATF Grey List, still point to long-term economic strength. However, Dr. Musa Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, warned that Trump’s remarks could severely damage investor confidence. “The U.S. President’s threat of military intervention is unnecessary and economically harmful,” he said. “Such statements raise risk perception, unsettle investors, and undermine confidence in Nigeria’s economy.” Yusuf stressed that Nigeria should continue to strengthen internal security and governance, while ensuring that engagement with foreign powers remains “collaborative, not coercive.” He cautioned that unilateral military action “would destabilise the economy, threaten regional peace, and worsen humanitarian challenges,” urging diplomacy and mutual respect for sovereignty instead. Analysts say that sustained market stability will depend on Nigeria’s diplomatic response, clarity on U.S. policy, and consistent macroeconomic management from the Federal Government and the Central Bank.

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso returns to Anfield on Tuesday to face his former club Liverpool in the Champions League, following a near-perfect start to his tenure in Spain. While Liverpool have struggled with only two wins in their last eight matches, Alonso’s Madrid side are in superb form, steadily improving each week under his leadership. The 15-time European champions defeated Barcelona in El Clasico last weekend and are eager to showcase their dominance once again against Arne Slot’s Liverpool. Their only loss this season came in a 5-2 derby defeat to Atletico Madrid — a setback they have since grown stronger from. Many Liverpool supporters had hoped Alonso would succeed Jurgen Klopp when the German announced his departure at the end of the 2023/24 season. Known for his elegance and intelligence on the ball, Alonso orchestrated Liverpool’s midfield from 2004 to 2009, helping the Reds win the 2005 Champions League and FA Cup before moving to Real Madrid. After extending his stay at Bayer Leverkusen for another season, Alonso eventually took over from Carlo Ancelotti at Madrid following a trophyless campaign. His impact has been immediate — Madrid have won 13 of their 14 games this season. Under Alonso, Madrid press higher and defend with far greater discipline. “To win trophies, you must defend well and keep clean sheets,” he said after Madrid secured their seventh shutout in a 4-0 victory over Valencia. Spanish media have described his Madrid as a side that now “dominates and suffocates opponents,” marking a clear shift from the sluggish displays of the previous season. Alonso has also displayed tactical flexibility, adjusting formations and game plans frequently — a contrast to Ancelotti’s predictable style. Opting to train in Madrid before traveling to England, Alonso explained, “We prefer to work at home, in our own space, without 200 cameras on us.” He has revitalised key players, though not without challenges. Vinicius Junior’s frustration after being substituted during El Clasico led to a brief controversy, but the Brazilian later apologised. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe has been in stunning form, scoring 18 goals this season and adding defensive intensity to his play. Jude Bellingham has also flourished, scoring crucial goals against Barcelona, Juventus, and Valencia. After managing his recovery from shoulder surgery carefully, Alonso has positioned the Englishman as a driving force in midfield. Turkish youngster Arda Guler is likewise being moulded into a future replacement for Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. As Alonso steps back into Anfield, he aims to prove his Real Madrid side are not just rebuilding — they are ready to compete for Europe’s biggest prizes once again.

The North-East Development Commission, in partnership with the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Gombe State Chapter, has expressed concern over the rising cases of cancer, particularly cervical and breast cancer, among women in the region. During an awareness event held at the Chapel of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, on Sunday, Dr. Fatima Bakari, Registrar in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, said the initiative was part of activities marking the 2025 Cancer Awareness Month, themed “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters.” She announced that the association would organise a road walk and free cancer screening exercise for Gombe residents on Wednesday. “We are here to create awareness about breast and cervical cancer. These diseases remain leading causes of death among women of reproductive age, and our aim is to help women understand the importance of early detection. The earlier a cancer is discovered, the higher the chances of successful treatment,” Bakari said. She explained that the outreach at the hospital chapel was part of a broader strategy to reach women and young girls in different community spaces. “We take our campaign to chapels, mosques, markets, and schools to reach as many people as possible. Every woman who is sexually active should get screened every three years,” she advised. According to her, awareness programs are key to ensuring women become more conscious of their health and know that screening services are accessible. “We want women to understand that there is hope—cancer can be cured if detected early,” she added. Bakari also encouraged safe sexual practices and timely screening, explaining that cervical cancer can be prevented through vaccination. “The vaccine is free for children between the ages of 9 and 14 in public health facilities. For those older than 14, it can still be obtained privately,” she noted. Highlighting the symptoms, she said, “For breast cancer, any swelling, no matter how small, should not be ignored. Self-examination should be done monthly, and any suspicious change should be reported immediately.” Another speaker, Dr. Aishatu Musa from the same department, urged parents to ensure their children benefit from the free vaccination campaign. “Our children should be vaccinated. It’s free, and Wednesday’s screening is also free. Everyone should take advantage of it,” she said. A participant, Barrister Martha Daniel, commended MWAN for the initiative, describing it as enlightening. “We’re grateful for this awareness campaign. Many people mix spirituality with myths when it comes to health, but today, we’ve been able to understand that both science and faith have their place when properly applied,” she said. The World Health Organisation reports that breast and cervical cancers are among the most common cancers affecting women globally, with sub-Saharan Africa recording some of the highest incidence and mortality rates.

President Donald Trump has warned that the United States could take “strong” measures against Nigeria if attacks on Christians continue. In a post on his social media account, Trump said the U.S. could stop all aid and “may very well go into that now disgraced country, ‘guns-a-blazing,’ to completely wipe out the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities.” He added that he was “instructing our Department of War to prepare for possible action,” and warned that any U.S. strike would be “fast, vicious, and sweet.” The post concluded with an urgent call for the Nigerian government to act quickly. The message came a day after the United States added Nigeria to a watch list of countries of particular concern for religious freedom.

The United Nations has reaffirmed that achieving gender equality is essential to building and sustaining global peace, as it marks 25 years of the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Agenda, established under Security Council Resolution 1325. “The resolution was a real game-changer,” said Laura Flores, Americas Division Director at the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA), in an interview with UN News. “People finally began to recognize that women are not just victims of conflict they are key to resolving it.” A statement published on the UN website on October 31, 2025, highlighted the ongoing importance of the agenda, which seeks to ensure that women’s voices are included in peace negotiations and post-conflict recovery efforts. “It’s about making sure women have a seat at the table when peace is being negotiated, and that their voices shape the future of security and stability,” Flores added. According to the latest UN Secretary-General’s Report on Women, Peace and Security, nearly 700 million women lived within 50 kilometres of deadly conflict zones in the past year. The report also noted an 87 per cent increase in sexual violence over the last two years, while nine out of ten peace processes excluded women as negotiators. Despite these challenges, Flores said there are signs of progress, particularly in the Americas. “The region recorded the highest average of women in parliament globally, with Caribbean countries averaging 41 per cent, South America 31.9 per cent, and Central America 30.8 per cent,” she said. She cited Mexico, Chile, and Colombia as examples of nations adopting foreign policies that prioritize gender equality in diplomacy, peacebuilding, and development. “These policies are still new and require strong coordination and political support to fully take root, but they are promising steps forward,” she noted. The UN continues to support countries in implementing the WPS Agenda through a range of initiatives. In Chile, it assisted a presidential commission tackling the root causes of conflict affecting Indigenous communities, focusing on challenges faced by Mapuche women. In Colombia, the DPPA helped draft the country’s first national action plan aligned with Resolution 1325, while in Haiti, the department collaborates with UN Women to support survivors of gender-based violence. However, Flores described the rates of gender-based violence across the region as “alarmingly high,” noting that at least 11 women are killed daily in Latin America. She also warned of rising political violence and online harassment targeting women leaders. “The region has momentum, but it needs protection, investment, and political will to keep moving forward,” she stressed. Flores also underscored the resilience and leadership of Indigenous women in promoting peace and democracy. Among them is Otilia Lux de Cotí, an Indigenous leader and the only Maya K’iche’ woman to have served as a minister in Guatemala’s government. “I am the daughter of Guatemala’s war,” Lux said, recalling the country’s 36-year civil conflict that claimed more than 200,000 lives. Since the 1996 peace accord, she has worked to document violence against women and Indigenous Peoples. Flores noted that Indigenous women played a crucial role during Guatemala’s 2023 elections, when the peaceful transfer of power was under threat. “Indigenous communities took to the streets, raising varas traditional staffs symbolising ancestral authority in defence of their votes,” she said. Lux described the movement as a product of deep community dialogue. “The decision to act was not spontaneous; it followed long discussions and consultations within our communities,” she explained. “We call this process Yacataj in K’iche’ a collective awakening of consciousness. Raising our ancestral symbols was not just protest; it was an act of democratic participation.” As the UN commemorates 25 years of the WPS Agenda, Flores said the courage and leadership of women like Lux exemplify the spirit of Resolution 1325. “The women of the region are proving that achieving peace means refusing to stay silent,” she said.