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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has mandated deposit money banks (DMBs) to cease deducting unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) charges directly from customers’ bank accounts, with the fees now to be deducted from users’ mobile airtime.
The new directive, which took effect on June 3, 2025, was communicated to customers by the United Bank for Africa (UBA) in an email on Tuesday, June 3. The change aligns with the NCC’s End-User Billing (EUB) model, which shifts responsibility for USSD transaction charges from banks to mobile network operators (MNOs).
“In line with the directive of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), please be informed that effective June 3, 2025, charges for USSD banking services will no longer be deducted from your bank account,” the statement from UBA read.
“Going forward, these charges will be deducted directly from your mobile airtime balance in accordance with the NCC’s End-User Billing (EUB) model.”
Under this structure, each USSD session will attract a fee of ₦6.98 per 120 seconds, billed by the mobile network operator. Customers will receive a prompt at the beginning of each session requesting their consent, and charges will only apply if they confirm and if the bank is able to process the request.
The bank noted that customers who do not wish to continue using the USSD platform under the new model may opt to discontinue its use, while other digital and internet banking options remain available.
This move by the NCC appears to be part of ongoing efforts to resolve the long-standing USSD debt crisis between mobile operators and commercial banks. In December 2024, the NCC and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had jointly urged both parties to settle a ₦250 billion debt related to USSD services.
Tensions had escalated in early 2025, with telecom companies threatening to suspend USSD services due to non-payment. The NCC responded in January by ordering the disconnection of USSD codes assigned to nine banks over unpaid debts. Subsequently, MTN Nigeria confirmed in February that it received ₦32 billion out of the ₦72 billion owed by banks.
The latest directive signals the regulator’s commitment to ensuring a sustainable framework for USSD service delivery, while promoting transparency and reducing disputes between financial institutions and telecom providers
Senator Shehu Sani has strongly criticised the ex-governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, over their recent comments blaming President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the country’s worsening poverty and hunger.
Speaking to journalists in Kaduna, Sani accused both men of hypocrisy, calling them key contributors to the very problems they now condemn. He described them as architects of banditry and hunger, who failed to address the same issues during their years in government.
“Both El-Rufai and Amaechi have no moral ground to criticise the current administration, as they failed to address the same challenges during their time in power,” he said.
“El-Rufai and Amaechi should bow their heads in shame. They are the architects of the banditry, poverty, and hunger they now pretend to lament. During their tenure, they did nothing to solve these issues, and now they cry foul simply because they have been left out of the current government.”
His comments followed El-Rufai’s remarks at Amaechi’s 60th birthday lecture in Abuja, where the former governor described Nigeria as being controlled by “urban bandits” and warned that the country is facing one of its worst crises since 1914. El-Rufai also urged Nigerians to elect competent and visionary leaders in future elections.
Sani, however, dismissed the criticism as politically motivated and rooted in bitterness over exclusion from Tinubu’s cabinet.
He maintained that there was nothing wrong with criticising the government, “but when such criticism stems from personal disappointment over missed appointments rather than genuine concern for the people, it becomes dangerous.”
The former Kaduna Central Senator accused several key figures from the Muhammadu Buhari administration, including El-Rufai and Amaechi, of trying to undermine the current government after losing influence.
“These individuals controlled the affairs of the country for eight years. They had the power, the resources, and the influence to transform the North into a socio-economic model for the rest of the country. Instead, they left it in a worse condition,” he said.
Sani acknowledged ongoing security challenges in parts of the north, such as Katsina and Zamfara, but credited the current administration with making some progress.
“Today, people can travel the Birnin Gwari road, which was once a death trap due to incessant bandit attacks. The southern part of Kaduna, once abandoned, is now relatively peaceful thanks to the efforts of the current Chief of Defence (Staff),” he noted.
While urging President Tinubu to do more to address the region’s challenges, he also called for openness to constructive criticism but warned against politically motivated attacks disguised as concern for the people.
The Federal Government has began payment of N44,000 minimum wage arrears.
The arrears will be paid to former members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, according to a report by NAN.
The commencement of the payment fulfills an earlier promise tied to the recent upward review of corps members’ monthly allowance from N33, 000 to N77, 000.
The payment applies to those who completed their service before the new allowance took effect earlier this year.
Former corps members have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to confirm receipt of the payment, expressing their gratitude and relief.
One user, @Kingpin_black1, posted: ”Thank you NYSC. Thank you President Tinubu. Nigeria will be great again.”
Another user @pharmacist_shezzy shared: ”44k don land. NYSC no carry last. God bless Nigeria ”
Similarly, @ifeoluwa_X wrote: ”Just got my alert. I almost deleted my NYSC account. Thank you FG.”
The payment, widely seen as a fulfillment of the government’s earlier pledge, has sparked excitement online, with many praising the move as a sign of renewed trust and accountability.
In a major operation against smugglers, the Federal Operations Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted smuggled ballistic helmets, bulletproof vests, and other prohibited goods valued at over N1.5 billion within the last two weeks just as seven suspects were arrested in connection with the trade infraction.
Speaking to newsmen yesterday in Lagos, the Comptroller of the Unit, Mr. Mohammed Shuaibu, attributed the success to the collaboration between the Customs Service and other sister agencies who shared vital intelligence.
Shuaibu also disclosed that On the 23rd and 24th of May 2025, at about 0300hrs and 0230hrs, it’s Unit patrol teams within Lagos metropolis acting on intelligence intercepted and seized 2X40FT containers with containers numbers (MSCU 5295718 and MRSU 5856090) respectively along Ijora-Olopa, and mile 2 axis.
Upon examination reports of these containers, it was revealed that. Seven Mitsubishi Canters, Five Toyota Hiace Buses, and Three Mini Shuttle Buses all cut up with their parts complete with clear intention of evading Customs duties.
Other items include used bicycles, 312, Bales of printed wax, 23 Bales of used clothing, 42 used gas cylinders, and 30 used flat screens televisions, 65 table top cookers, and 31 units of used split air conditioning and among others.
He stated that the renewed vigor to fight smuggling and criminalities through intelligence-driven operations has continued to payoff as the resilience and dedication of our operatives has inflicted substantial losses on some economic saboteurs who are bent on bringing our country to its knees through their nefarious activities.
He explained that the importation of these items contravenes schedule 4 of the common external tariff.
He said: “Similarly, on the19th of May 2025 at about 0300hrs hours another patrol team intercepted a Volvo truck and investigation revealed 1263 pieces of used tyres and other goods. One suspect was also arrested.
“In the same vein, on the 19th of May 2025 at about 2300hrs, our officers on a routine patrol along Shagamu/Ijebu-Ode express way in Ogun State, intercepted one truck with registration number T24623LA suspected to be conveying uncustoms goods including Bullet Proof vests. Again, an investigation report revealed the content to include some packages of Tramadol.
“Furthermore, on the 26th of May 2025, at about 0600hrs, through intelligence-driven operations, our men on the Ijebu-Ode patrol team arrested one empty Mercedes Benz truck. Thorough rummaging of the truck and careful observation by our officers which led to uncover concealment of Cannabis Sativa (India Hemp) in the compartments of the truck. One suspect was arrested in connection with the seizure.
“Additionally, our patrol teams around the borders areas across the six (6) states of the Southwest have intensified surveillance of our borders against unscrupulous elements among Nigerians, resulting in several seizures of rice, Cannabis Sativa, used cars and other goods in a flash points of Imeko, Ilaro, Owode, Idiroko , Ilara, Ihumbo,Abeokuta, Badagry, Agbara, Gbaji, shaki and Iseyin in Oyo state.
“In all, Forty- Six (46) interceptions were recorded during this two (2) weeks of operations and the seizures include
Rice 2,051 of 50kg of foreign parboiled rice equivalent to three (4) trailer loads.
Eleven (11) used vehicles, popularly known as tokumbo vehicles, 1, 665kg of Cannabis Sativa, 4, 000 litres of premium motor spirit. (PMS)
Others are One white and Black J5 commercial Bus loaded with expired goods, one Volvo Truck containing 180 sacks of new towel.
“Seven (7) suspects were arrested in connection with the various seizures, which have a duty paid value (DPV) of one billion, two hundred and eighty-five million, six hundred thousand, three hundred and eighty-three naira (N1,285, 600,383.00) only.
“These seizures come on the heels of successes recorded in our anti-smuggling activities just three (3) weeks after I resume the leadership of the unit on the 23rd of April 2025, which saw seizures of over 7 trailer loads of foreign parboiled rice, premium motor spirit, vehicles, drugs and narcotics among others with a duty paid value of over 1.5 billion naira.
“The Nigeria Customs Service as a lead agency in border security and facilitators of trade, we are not unaware of the need to balance both responsibilities through risk management tools at our disposal. We are also aware that those whose illicit businesses have been significantly hindered by our operations will spare no efforts in devising different methods to counter us.
“As criminals get more desperate and daring, we at the Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ will ensure the sustainability of a more formidable defense against any antics devised by these non-state actors. The Nigeria Customs Service will continue to design and implement sustainable programs that will grow our economy, increase revenue for the government, and encourage legitimate trade.
“The seized 1665kg of Indian hemp and will be handed over to the relevant agencies for further investigation and prosecution.
The unit continued to block all revenue components under the unit to recover loss revenue from the evaders. Within these two (2) weeks of operations, the unit recovered a total of N48,3millio through issuance of demand notices (DN) from the improper declaration of consignments.”
Fuji icon Wasiu Ayinde aka KWAM 1 or K1 De Ultimate has made a revelation about his mother.
The singer revealed that his late mother, Halima Anifowoshe wanted to be a musician, but ended up playing a significant role in his musical career.
According to him, his mother taught him the rudiments of music and served as his composer during her lifetime.
Speaking during the podcast show for his latest project, Ganusi The Album Fuji Classical, K1 De Ultimate explained that his mother’s contributions to his career success made him dedicate the song “Mama” from the album to her.
He stated that his mother wanted to be a musician as a young maiden but was prevented because of her royal background and for being a woman.
He said, “The song ‘Mama’ is to the memory of my mother who also taught me about the rudiments of music and singing. My mother as a young maiden lady was a singer, a princess by birth that was denied the opportunity of showing dexterity in music because of what she was; a princess of a sitting king and so also a woman whom they want her to settle in marriage.
“But everything [my mother’s talent] was transported on me by God. She transferred it to me and oftentimes she served as my composer, very many times during her lifetime. She made her own contribution into my musical development. So, I think it’s honourable for me to remember her and have a blessed track for her.”
K1 De Ultimate lost his mother, Princess Halima Anifowoshe, in January 2025.
Lagos-based clergyman, Paul Adefarasin has celebrated 30th wedding anniversary with his wife, Ifeanyi.
Recall that the couple are celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary today, June 3.
The couple got married in 1995 and have three children. In a post shared on social media today, Pastor Paul celebrated Ifeanyi for being his ‘’companion in marriage, the wife of my youth and my partner at life''.
He went on to thank her for being his ‘’helpmeet through the turns and the transitions''
He wrote
‘’Dear Ifeanyi,
To the world, success is often measured by prominence, ease, and tangible outcomes—the visible fruits of ambition, relentless effort, and societal recognition.
Yet in the counsel of God, success takes on an altogether different form. It is the quiet becoming of all He designed you to be, the faithful execution of a divine mandate stewarded with integrity, humility, and a heart yielded to His will. It is not so much about what is outwardly accomplished, but who one is inwardly is becoming in alignment with His eternal purpose.
Within that sacred context, success as God defines it is a rare and priceless gift to walk life’s journey intimately with a few true hearts who are deeply committed to you, who stand with you and lend strength to the God-ordained causes entrusted to your care. They are real disciples of Christ. These are the ones who labour with you in your service to the God you honour, the people you shepherd, and the generational destiny divinely assigned to you and your house.
‘*..Through many dangers, toils and snares, we have already come. Twas grace that brought us safe thus far…”* And so, to the faithful warriors who have shared the trenches with us, who have stood shoulder to shoulder through the battles of life and the crucible of calling, I extend my heartfelt gratitude.
Of notable mention is my fellow soldier and long standing co-parent, companion in marriage, the wife of my youth and my partner at life; dear Ifeanyi, thank you for being helpmeet through the turns and the transitions. Thank you for walking this long road with steadiness and faith, for standing through the 30 years and for remaining present through each unfolding season.
Happy 30th anniversary to you Still Waters.
With love,
‘Deolu"
The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) on Tuesday suspended its strike, which started on Monday.
JUSUN announced the suspension in a communiqué issued after it met with the representatives of the Chief Judge of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
The communique signed by all shareholders present, said this was after long deliberations on issues that led to the declaration of the industrial action by the union.
According to the communique, the following agreement was reached; that the JUSUN oblige the intervention of CJN, Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, NLC and other Stakeholders one month for negotiations.
”Engage the Federal Government to release funds to the Judiciary within one month, and that upon the release of the funds, the demands by the JUSUN be implemented immediately.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that JUSUN’s demands include the implementation of the N70, 000 new minimum wage and its arrears, 25’35 per cent salary increase and five months wage award and their arrears.
The communique added that consequently upon the commitment of the CJN, JUSUN and organs after due consideration agreed to suspend the ongoing industrial strike action.
The union therefore, directed its members to resume work on Wednesday.
Popular Nigerian musician Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, widely known as Skales, has opened up about why most artists miss their blessings.
He made this statement via his X handle on Monday, stating that determination is key.
He claimed that many artists lack patience and often quit just before their blessings arrive.
He encouraged artists to remain persistent.
“Your music will take you places all over the globe. You just need to be consistent enough to see it happen.
“Most artists quit before the blessings show up. Keep going,” he wrote.
DAILY POST recalls that the artist stated his life has been restarted after his hit song Shake Body trended again, 10 years after its release, following Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal’s viral dance.
[DailyPost]
The Vice President, Kashim Shettima; the immediate past President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina and other key figures will gather in Abuja on June 4 to examine issues around leadership in the nation’s civil service.
The event, to be chaired by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Oba Olu Falae, will also feature the unveiling of a book on the subject.
In a statement, a former Federal Permanent Secretary, Japh Nwosu said the book, titled: “Leadership in the Nigerian Civil Service,” is authored by Dr. Goke Adegoroye, a retired Permanent Secretary and pioneer Director-General of the Bureau for Public Service Reforms.
Nwosu said the book, to be launched on June 4 at the Rotunda Hall of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “chronicles Dr. Adegoroye’s experiential knowledge, encounters, challenges, and triumphs in the public service, offering valuable insights and reflections on leadership in Nigeria’s civil service over the past five decades.
“As a renowned expert in public administration and governance, Dr. Adegoroye has authored several authoritative books on good governance and leadership in Nigeria’s public service.
“The book launch promises to be a significant forum for public administration practitioners, public servants, and scholars to engage with the complexities of leadership in Nigeria’s civil service.
“Its release has been strategically timed for the mid-term of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration with a view to offering useful tips on how to strengthen governance effectiveness.
“The event will also feature keynote addresses by H.E. Kasshim Shettima, and Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, who is the special guest of Honour, while the book reviewer is Professor Victor Ayeni, a renowned international Public Administration expert.
“Public presentation of the book will be done by distinguished guests, among other related activities at the event,” he said.
Nwosu, who is the Chairman, Public Presentation Planning Committee, added that the book, covering the past five decades, is a timely and thought-provoking publication that draws on Dr. Adegoroye’s vast experience and expertise in public service.
“The book offers practical insights and recommendations for improving leadership capacity in Nigeria’s civil service, ultimately contributing to the country’s growth and prosperity.
“Dr. Goke Adegoroye is a retired Permanent Secretary and pioneer Director-General of the Bureau for Public Service Reforms.
“He is an academic and scientist turned civil servant, a governance and institutional reforms expert and advocate of excellence and integrity in public service.
“He has a long history of authoring authoritative books on good governance and leadership in Nigeria’s public service.”
[The nation]
The Deputy Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Mr Abayomi Akinruntan, and the Majority Leader, Mr Ogunmolasuyi, have resigned from their respective positions.
Akinruntan represents Ilaje Constituency 1, while Ogunmolasuyi represents Owo Constituency 1; both are members of the ruling All Progressives Congress.
The pair announced their resignations on the floor of the House during Tuesday’s plenary session, which was presided over by the Speaker, Mr Olamide Oladiji.
Akinruntan cited political power-sharing arrangements within the state as the reason for his resignation.
In the wake of these developments, Mr Ololade Gbegudu, representing Okitipupa Constituency 2, has been selected as the new Deputy Speaker, while Mr Olatunji Oshati, from Ose State Constituency, has assumed the role of Majority Leader.
Details later…
[Punch]
More...
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has relocated to Makurdi, the Benue State capital, over the incessant killings of innocent villagers by herders and militia groups.
The killing, which is becoming almost a daily occurrence, has left many dead, several others injured and maimed, and several houses burnt, leaving many homeless.
Vanguard gathered that Lt Gen Oluyede departed Abuja, Tuesday morning, accompanied by his Principal Stafftaff Officers (PSOs) and other top officers at the Army Headquarters, to the state to have an on-the-spot assessment of the situation on the ground.
Sources further said the army chief has ordered the deployment of more troops to the state to give the militia and other armed groups terrorising the people of the state the battle of their lives.
In Benue State, the source said, the COAS will hold strategic meetings with all operational and unit commanders to brainstorm on the way forward as well as review the ongoing operations with a view to end the killings.
The COAS will also visit troops’ locations and operational bases in the state to interact with troops and boost their morale and fighting spirit.
The COAS is also expected to visit villages that have been attacked and reassure residents of their safety and the resolve of the Nigerian army to protect the lives and property of law-abiding citizens.
The COAS is said to be unhappy with reports of daily killings in Benue that have ravaged the state in the past few weeks and may order some strategic changes, including the redeployment of some commanders to head some of the operational units on ground.
General Oluyede, while in the state, will personally lead troops in the operation on the battlefront. He is expected to spend some days in the state before relocating back to Abuja.
Recall that the attacks in Benue have been described as ethnic cleansing by many, as gunmen suspected to be herdsmen have embarked on a killing spree, attacking villagers in their villages using sophisticated guns and machetes.
Last weekend gunmen killed 43 persons in renewed attacks carried out on several communities of Gwer West and Apa Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Benue State.
The attacks occurred barely one week after herdsmen militia shot a priest, Rev. Fr Solomon Atongo, along the Makurdi-Naka road and attacked four communities in Gwer West LGA, including the village of Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, killing 42 persons, including a mobile police officer.
[Vanguard]
Nigerian songstress Simi has expressed disapproval over fans and members of the public calling her daughter, Adejare, ‘Duduke’.
Simi, while pregnant in 2020, released the hit single ‘Duduke’ in anticipation of the birth of her child with fellow artist Adekunle Gold.
As a result of the above, fans started calling their daughter ‘Duduke’ after the song when the celebrity couple welcomed her in June 2020.’
In a recent chat with VJ Adams, Simi was unequivocal about her dislike of the name her daughter was being called, saying it has no meaning.
She disclosed that ‘Duduke’ was just an onomatopoeia she used in the song to express how her baby makes her heart beat.
“People call my daughter Duduke, which I don’t like. That’s not her name. It doesn’t even mean anything.
“Had it meant something good, I would have allowed it. But it’s just a beat, duduke, duduke. That was what I meant. My heart beats like a drum.
“Stop calling my child Duduke [laughs]. But you know what? I get it, it’s coming from a good place, so I try not to react,” Simi said.
[The Sun]
Suwaiba Ahmad, the minister of state for education, says no student, whether in the urban or rural communities, will be left behind in Nigeria’s computer-based test transition.
The federal government plans to fully transition to CBT exams for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and other exam bodies by 2026.
Ahmad spoke during the monitoring of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in some selected schools in Abuja on Tuesday.
Highlighting the significant improvements the CBT transition promises, the minister acknowledged the technical and infrastructural challenges that must be addressed before full implementation.
“We will not roll out CBT in a way that excludes any student. Every child will have the opportunity to write their examination, regardless of location or infrastructure,” she said.
“Nigerians should bear with us. We are taking all concerns seriously, and by the time CBT is fully rolled out, no child will be put at a disadvantage.”
Comparing the outcomes from traditional paper-based exams with the CBT, she said the visit showed a clear student preference for CBT.
“At a CBT centre, everything was orderly and timely, but at a paper-based exam centre, not only was the exam delayed due to rain, but the script was not even on the ground,” the minister said.
“These are the kinds of issues CBT is designed to eliminate. CBT will ensure students are given their full allotted exam time since the system begins counting only when the student accesses the questions.
“This helps to address problems like delays caused by weather, transportation issues, and administrative lapses.”
Beyond timing, Ahmad said that CBT was also seen as a solution to eliminating rampant examination malpractices.
She said that with the individualised sets of questions for each candidate, impersonation, question leaks, and systemic answer sharing would be drastically reduced.
“We know how students and schools manipulate the system, but CBT will shut those doors,” Ahmad said.
She, however, acknowledged that the transition may face major logistical hurdles, especially in rural areas where electricity and internet infrastructure remain weak.
The minister said WAEC and NECO were working closely with JAMB and other education stakeholders to address these gaps.
She added that the plan was to leverage JAMB’s well-equipped CBT centres for future exams, while also engaging with state governments to map out rural and urban challenges to design workable solutions.
“When we roll out the CBT examination, we are going to make use of existing JAMB centres. We are not going to make use of school centres, since, as you rightly mentioned, there are schools in the rural locations that don’t have light,” she said.
“This school we are currently inspecting has no power in the exam hall. If CBT were being conducted here today, that would pose a serious challenge.
“So all these are being considered and we are carefully planning to ensure that really when we embark on this CBT, no student is at a disadvantage.”
[TheCable]
For an economy serving over 200 million people and valued at N78.37 trillion, government policies, laws, and regulations play a powerful role in shaping outcomes.
Yet, Nigeria is proof that some of the most dynamic shifts in its economy are happening outside formal policy direction.
In recent years, the private sector has powered more than half of Nigeria’s growth, even as the state struggles to keep pace with industries being rapidly transformed by technology, youth-driven innovation, and informal enterprise.
The country’s economy has moved beyond oil. Agriculture still employs the most people and contributes about 25% to GDP.
Services, particularly telecoms, finance, and trade, now account for over 55%, while industry, including oil and gas, makes up just 20%.
Nigeria’s 3.4% GDP growth in 2024 was largely driven by these non-oil sectors, and that momentum is expected to continue in 2025.
But behind the official stats lies an untold story. A new generation of industry creators, digital entrepreneurs, crypto traders, and wellness startups is booming, yet remains undercounted and underserved. Most operate informally, without government incentives or tailored policies, yet they are creating jobs, building wealth, and reshaping the economy.
This list highlights 10 of those sectors: fast-growing industries that are thriving in spite of, not because of, government support. Together, they reveal the hidden drivers and missed opportunities of Nigeria’s economic future.
10. Online Content Creators (Influencers)
Nigeria’s online content creation industry has grown into a multi-million-dollar ecosystem powered by youth, smartphones, and the internet with little to no government intervention.
From skit makers and YouTubers to Instagram influencers and TikTok stars, creators are shaping pop culture, marketing trends, and brand engagement across Africa and the diaspora.
- This boom took off in the late 2010s as mobile internet became more accessible and social media usage exploded. Creators like Taaooma, Mr Macaroni, and Kiekie built massive followings with relatable comedy, commentary, and lifestyle content.
- Today, Nigerian digital creators earn from brand deals, YouTube monetization, affiliate marketing, and direct fan contributions through platforms like TikTok and Patreon.
- Already, Africa’s digital creator economy is valued at approximately $3.08 billion in 2023, it is projected to grow to $17.84 billion by 2030, with a projected annual growth rate of 28.5%.
This self-made industry is not only generating employment but also shaping the country’s global image. With rising demand for African stories and personalities online, Nigeria’s content creators continue to thrive, proving that innovation, creativity, and audience connection can fuel sustainable success without formal government involvement.
Nollywood’s modern journey began in 1992 with Living in Bondage, a low-budget thriller by Kenneth Nnebue that became a massive hit and proved local films could be commercially successful. Its success sparked a wave of direct-to-video films, sold on VHS and later DVDs, outside formal cinema channels. Creators like Amaka Igwe shaped the industry’s early identity, blending storytelling with Nigerian music, language, and culture.
By the 2000s, the industry exploded in volume, becoming the world’s second-largest film producer after only Bollywood. However, it operated informally for years, battling piracy and lacking infrastructure.
Between 2010 to 2019, there was a turning point. With better tech and digital platforms like iROKOtv and Netflix, Nollywood entered a new era of quality, reach, and professionalism. Blockbusters like The Wedding Party, Sugar Rush and King of Boys demonstrated demand for the industry’s creative storytelling.
Today, Nollywood produces over 2,500 films annually and contributes approximately 1.4% to Nigeria’s GDP. PwC’s 2024 Media Outlook estimates the industry generates $9.1 billion annually, supporting over a million jobs.
Its growing influence is also boosting Nigeria’s cinema sector, with revenue expected to rise from $8 million in 2023 to $10 million by 2028, driven by a 4.8% annual growth rate, cinema chain expansions, and rising local interest in theatrical releases.
Despite streaming competition, Nollywood’s cultural and economic footprint keeps expanding across Africa on platforms like YouTube and the global diaspora.
With its foundation rooted in local stories, Nollywood is scaling globally without heavy government backing.
Afrobeats, a modern evolution of the Afrobeat genre pioneered by Fela Kuti, has grown into one of Nigeria’s most influential cultural exports. Fela used Afrobeat in the 1970s and 80s as a tool for political resistance, boldly criticizing corruption, dictatorship, and social injustice through his music. His legacy of using rhythm for resistance laid the groundwork for what would become a global musical force.
The 2000s saw artists like D’banj, 2Baba, and Banky W blending traditional rhythms with hip-hop, dancehall, and R&B to birth the Afrobeats wave. Powered by social media, YouTube, and music streaming platforms, Nigerian artists like Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid and Tems have gone on to win globally recognized awards, headline international festivals, and collaborate with global superstars.
By 2023, streaming platforms responded to rising global demand, paying Nigerian musicians N25 billion. In 2024, Spotify alone paid over N58 billion in royalties to Nigerian artists, up from N11 billion in 2022. Today, Afrobeats contributes over $2 billion to the global music industry.
The genre, once rooted in rebellion, now moves global pop culture while spotlighting Africa’s creative economy. Its rise has occurred with minimal government intervention, driven by grassroots talent, diaspora demand, and digital innovation.
Nigeria’s startup ecosystem has emerged as one of Africa’s most vibrant, raising $3.77 billion between 2021 and 2025, according to data checks by Nairametrics. Driven by youth innovation, digital adoption, and foreign rising investor confidence, Nigeria now leads Africa in startup investment, especially in fintech, healthtech, edtech, and logistics.
This explosion began in earnest around the mid-2010s, following the success of mobile money platforms and payment processors like Interswitch and Paystack. Landmark acquisitions, such as Stripe’s $200 million purchase of Paystack in 2020, established Nigeria’s place on the global venture capital map. Lagos, dubbed “Africa’s Silicon Valley,” is home to most of the country’s top-performing startups, including Flutterwave, Moove, and PiggyVest.
Despite infrastructure challenges, high inflation, and limited public sector involvement, Nigerian founders have built resilient tech businesses by solving everyday problems with scalable solutions from payment access to last-mile delivery. This private sector-led growth has created thousands of jobs, improved service delivery, and broadened financial inclusion.
Backed by a young, tech-savvy population and increasing diaspora involvement, Nigeria’s startup ecosystem continues to expand, proving that innovation and capital can thrive even in the absence of major government intervention.
The ride-hailing industry in Nigeria has become a billion-dollar lifeline for thousands of drivers and passengers, but not without its hiccups. As of 2024, the market generated $1.3 billion and is expected to hit $2.1 billion by 2028, according to the Nigerian Customer Service Index (NCSI). But this growth has been driven more by hustle than policy.
It all started in 2014 when Uber came to Lagos, a city that had long been defined by its yellow taxis and the infamous danfo buses. Uber’s clean interface and card payment options caught the attention of the middle class and youth population. Soon after, others like Bolt (formerly Taxify), EasyTaxi, OgaTaxi and later InDriver joined the party, offering lower fares, local language support and cash payment options to Nigerian commuters.
- Despite the influx of foreign players, local companies tried to get a piece of the action. Homegrown platforms like Oga Taxi launched in the same year as Uber and were celebrated as Nigeria’s answer to Silicon Valley’s ride-hailing boom.
- But the party soon ended. OgaTaxi, like many others, after struggling with limited funding, poor infrastructure and an uneven regulatory playing field, were consumed by macroeconomic shocks.
- According to the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), over 2,500 ride-hailing apps, mostly Nigerian-built, have tried to enter the market since 2014.
But in an industry dominated by global players with deep pockets and advanced tech, local startups found it almost impossible to survive the ride. And yet, the industry persists.
Operating in an informal economy, ride-hailing has become a convenience for passengers and a means of livelihood for thousands of Nigerians. But it hasn’t been easy. The 2023 fuel subsidy removal sent petrol prices up by over 400%, reducing drivers’ take-home pay and sparking protests. Inconsistent regulations across states, arbitrary taxes and city-specific licenses have made it tough.
But drivers and platforms have shown resilience and flexibility. Uber and Bolt have gone into delivery services to make up for reduced passenger numbers. Bolt launched Bolt Food in Lagos.
Drivers have also adapted by working on multiple platforms. Some prefer Bolt for higher fares, others InDrive for fare negotiations, though this sometimes means lower payouts. Others go for offline bookings to avoid app commissions altogether.
This is an industry that holds promise, yet the size of the industry remains hard to quantify due to its discreet nature. It is estimated that acquiring citizenship through these programs typically costs around $100,000. Industry insiders suggest some firms facilitate as many as 10 successful applications per month.
Beyond outright citizenship, the sector also includes a growing market for permanent residency options abroad. Nigeria can further tap into the booming $25 billion global industry, allowing individuals to acquire citizenship or residency through significant financial investments.
Significant legislative progress has been made toward establishing one. In March 2025, Nigeria’s House of Representatives passed a constitutional amendment bill for citizenship by investment on its second reading, marking a pivotal step toward creating such a program.
Over half of the world’s countries now offer such pathways, with costs ranging from $230,000 in Antigua and Barbuda to multimillion-dollar investments in the UK and the US.
If successfully implemented, Nigeria’s CBI program could attract substantial foreign direct investment (FDI), boost infrastructure development, and create employment opportunities.
Mauritius and Seychelles currently dominate Africa’s citizenship by investment landscape, but Nigeria’s proposed program introduces unique advantages. Mauritius requires a $500,000 minimum investment in real estate or a $100,000 donation to its sovereign fund, while Seychelles mandates a $1 million investment in approved projects.
Nigeria offers access to Africa’s largest economy and membership in the ECOWAS bloc, which provides visa-free travel to 15 West African countries.
Economically, holders can tap into Nigeria’s N78.37 trillion GDP economy, invest in sectors like agriculture and tech, and benefit from double taxation avoidance agreements with 13 countries.
Nigeria’s e-commerce industry underwent a makeover, evolving from a niche concept to a major economic driver.
The early 2000s saw the very first sparks of online commerce in Nigeria with pioneering websites like ShopNigeria.com and DeNiger. However, these were largely ahead of their time, limited by low internet penetration and a lack of digital payment infrastructure.
The true take-off of e-commerce in Nigeria is widely attributed to 2012, with the launch of major players like Jumia and Konga. These platforms, backed by significant international investment, began to shape the market, introducing Nigerians to the convenience of online shopping
The Nigerian e-commerce market is a force to be reckoned with today. According to a report by Nairametrics, Nigeria’s e-commerce market is projected to reach $8.53 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $14.92 billion by 2029, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.82% over the forecast period
This growth is driven by increasing internet penetration, widespread smartphone usage, and a rising middle class with disposable income.
The eLearning space in Nigeria, though still in its infancy, has been quietly evolving. As far back as 2010, platforms like PrepClass and Tuteria began challenging traditional education by connecting students with tutors and offering digital exam prep.
But COVID-19 sealed the deal for the industry’s scalability. The 2020 pandemic shut down schools nationwide, turning smartphones, radios, TVs, and even basic SMS into learning tools. Parents, teachers, and students were forced into digital learning overnight. That crisis unlocked massive adoptionand serious investment.
Popular platforms like Gopius, Coursera, uLesson, edX, 9IJA KIDS, Sololearn, classNotes, Lingokids, LinkedIn Learning, Unicaf, Alison, Elevate, and the National Open University (NOUN) have flourished through market demand and increasing internet penetration.
Among these, uLesson stands out, with over 2 million live lesson attendances, 5 million downloads, and 14 million lessons watched in just four years. Its MIVA Open University subsidiary secured an Open Distance eLearning License from the National Universities Commission (NUC) and launched accredited online bachelor’s degree programs in 2023, offering courses in Accounting, Business Management, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, and more.
Yet, despite the lack of comprehensive government frameworks driving this sector, EdTech CEOs have attracted over $50 million in funding cumulatively, according to Nairametrics as of 2024. This reflects strong private sector confidence and a growing market eager to embrace digital learning solutions.
Nigeria’s makeup, beauty, and wellness industry has grown into a vibrant, self-sustaining sector driven by young entrepreneurs, influencers, and a deep cultural appreciation for style and self-expression, all without significant government intervention.
Nairametrics also reported that Nigeria holds a commanding share of $7.8 billion as of August 2023.
The rise began in the mid-2000s with makeup artists like Tara Fela-Durotoye (House of Tara) and Banke Meshida-Lawal (BMPro), who pioneered professional beauty services and training. As Instagram and YouTube took off in the 2010s, a new generation of beauty influencers emerged from Dimma Umeh to Jackie Aina, helping democratize beauty knowledge and product discovery.
The industry now spans skincare brands, organic wellness products, male grooming, spa businesses, and makeup studios. Entrepreneurs like Olamide Olowe (Topicals) and Joycee Awosika (Oríkì) are gaining global recognition for African-made beauty and wellness innovations.
According to Euromonitor, Nigeria’s beauty and personal care market was valued at $1.2 billion in 2023, with projections hitting $2.5 billion by 2027, driven by rising disposable income, youth population, and digital marketing.
The Nigerian crypto industry has faced a lot of resistance from the government through policies and regulatory warnings. But like the proverbial forbidden fruit, millions of Nigerians still latch on to this growing opportunity.
It is no wonder the country sits atop the industry as the biggest driver of adoption on the continent. In fact, Nairametrics reported that between July 2023 and June 2024, Nigeria’s crypto transactions hit a whopping $59 billion. This is deep rooted demand for alternative financial tools in a country with inflation, naira devaluation, among other things.
Yet to get a grasp of Nigeria’s crypto obsession, let’s flash back to the early 2010s when Bitcoin entered the local tech and online payment space.
Initially adopted by freelancers and digital entrepreneurs for cross border payments, it spread to the youth, early adopters and those excluded from mainstream finance. Peer-to-peer platforms like Paxful and LocalBitcoins became popular, especially during periods when banks restricted forex or capital controls tightened.
By the mid-2010s, crypto had become a full-blown movement. Nigerian developers started building platforms like BuyCoins, Quidax and Bundle, while influencers and online communities fueled public education and adoption.
- Even government crackdowns like the 2021 Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) directive stopping banks from dealing in crypto only pushed the demand further underground, making Nigeria the number one in peer to peer trading volumes worldwide.
- Moreover, Nigeria leads the world in crypto ownership, with 73% of Nigerians owning crypto assets, according to ConsenSys’ second annual Global Survey the highest percentage globally, surpassing South Africa’s 68% and the Philippines’ 54%.
- This widespread adoption is partly driven by Nigerians living abroad who use cryptocurrencies to send money home, bypassing the high fees and delays associated with traditional remittance channels.
Although efforts to create clearer, balanced regulations are underway. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) noted that Nigeria’s cryptocurrency market will hit $52.5 million in 2028. The country’s crypto market in late 2024 was estimated to be worth over $400 million, with about 33% of Nigerians reported to own or use cryptocurrencies.
Now that these industries have proven their worth in building audiences, revenues, and reputations without much state support, the government is finally beginning to pay attention.
Nollywood, long operating in the shadows of informality and piracy, now has access to a N5 billion Creative Industry Financing Initiative from the Bank of Industry and CBN. In the tech ecosystem, the Nigerian Startup Act, signed into law in 2022, signaled a strategic pivot acknowledging startups as essential to Nigeria’s economic future. The 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative further shows that shift, aiming to build a digitally skilled workforce ready to support Nigeria’s next generation of unicorns.
If these sectors could rise with little to no support, imagine how far they could go with sustained investment, policy protection, and smart infrastructure.
[Nairametrics]