As of January 21, 2026, reports indicate that VDM has asserted his ownership of the trademark and is challenging Blord's usage of the name for his app.


As of January 21, 2026, social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) has asserted ownership of the Ratel trademark and is challenging tech entrepreneur Blord over his use of the name for an app. VDM claims he legally registered the brand and accused Blord of trademark infringement. The dispute has sparked reactions online, with supporters debating who truly owns the name as both parties trade words publicly.
#fintternews

Is South Africa Blocking Starlink Over Race? Elon Musk Says Ownership Laws Are Stopping His Internet Company From Getting a Licence

Elon Musk has reignited debate over South Africa’s post-apartheid economic policies after claiming that his satellite internet company, Starlink, is unable to operate in the country because he is not Black. Speaking at the Qatar Economic Forum during a session titled “In Conversation With Elon Musk,” the billionaire entrepreneur said regulatory requirements tied to South Africa’s Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) framework have prevented Starlink from obtaining an operating licence.

According to Musk, South Africa has “about 140 laws” that give preference to Black South Africans in ownership and business participation, and he argued that these rules have effectively barred Starlink from entering the market. “Starlink is not allowed to operate in South Africa, because I’m not Black,” he said, framing the situation as an example of racial discrimination embedded in law. His comments quickly spread on social media, triggering intense debate both inside and outside the country.

South Africa’s Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policy was introduced after the end of apartheid to correct deep economic inequalities by increasing Black participation in ownership, management, and control of businesses. In regulated sectors such as telecommunications, licence applicants are generally expected to meet minimum thresholds of local and historically disadvantaged ownership. The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), which oversees telecommunications licensing, has consistently maintained that all operators—local or foreign—must comply with national laws. While partnerships, exemptions, or alternative structures are sometimes possible, transformation requirements remain central to government policy.

Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, already operates in more than 70 countries, delivering internet access through low-Earth orbit satellites, particularly in remote and underserved regions. Despite strong demand from South African consumers and businesses, the company currently lacks approval to offer services commercially in the country. Musk’s remarks have therefore raised fresh questions about whether South Africa’s regulatory framework is limiting competition and access to high-speed connectivity, especially in rural areas.

The reaction to Musk’s comments has been sharply divided. Supporters argue that blocking Starlink deprives citizens of affordable, reliable internet and discourages foreign investment. Critics counter that Musk’s portrayal oversimplifies the law and ignores the historical context that gave rise to empowerment policies designed to redress decades of racial exclusion. They maintain that B-BBEE is a remedial framework rather than a tool for discrimination.

South African authorities have not directly responded to Musk’s latest statements, but government officials have previously rejected claims that empowerment laws are exclusionary, insisting they are necessary to correct structural inequality and ensure broader participation in the economy. As the debate continues, Musk’s comments have once again placed South Africa’s transformation policies under global scrutiny—raising a central question: are empowerment laws protecting economic justice, or are they unintentionally shutting out innovation and competition in critical sectors like technology and telecommunications?

FG Reopens YEIDEP Batch B Portal: How Young Nigerians Can Apply for ₦50,000–₦500,000 Youth Entrepreneurship Grants

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reopened applications for Batch B of the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalisation Programme (YEIDEP), offering grants between ₦50,000 and ₦500,000 to support youth entrepreneurship. The initiative targets Nigerians aged 18–35 with viable business ideas, providing funding, training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to empower young entrepreneurs and tackle unemployment.

Applicants must possess a valid NIN and BVN and be willing to participate in training and mentorship programs. Sectors supported include agriculture, technology, creative industries, renewable energy, sports, entertainment, and small retail services.

The programme aims to foster economic inclusion, strengthen local communities, and encourage productive livelihoods. Early application is advised, and registration is free through the official YEIDEP portal.

Blord Addresses Tax Scam Allegations, Offers N500k Reward After Launching Crypto App for 2026

Entrepreneur and crypto trader Blord, also known as Linus Williams, has responded to scam claims surrounding his new app designed to help Nigerians manage taxes under the 2026 reforms. The app allows crypto payments via email without BVN or NIN, with Blord Group handling taxes on large transactions. To counter allegations, Blord offered N500,000 to anyone who can prove they were scammed, urging claimants to document their visit to his offices. The announcement drew mixed reactions online, with supporters defending him and critics questioning his platform. Blord, 27, is also known for philanthropy, including distributing 3,000 bags of rice to his community in Ebenebe, Anambra State, during Christmas 2025.

#Blord #CryptoNigeria #Tax2026

Lady Pens Emotional Tribute as Popular Personal Shopper Aunty Esther Reportedly Loses Battle to Cancer

An emotional outpouring has flooded social media following reports of the death of popular Nigerian personal shopper and internet personality, Aunty Esther, after a prolonged battle with cancer. A Nigerian lady shared a heartfelt tribute on X, recounting how the late entrepreneur hustled tirelessly under harsh conditions to make ends meet. The news has sparked widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians mourning her resilience, work ethic, and dedication, while also debating the role of faith and medical decisions in her final days.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Declares Annual Thanksgiving Day To Commemorate Igbo Survival Of Nigeria-Biafra Civil War

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has officially designated the last Sunday of every January as an annual thanksgiving day to commemorate the survival of the Igbo people during the Nigeria-Biafra Civil War of 1967–1970. The resolution was unanimously adopted during the group’s Imeobi meeting held at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Enugu.

Announcing the decision, Ohanaeze’s Deputy President General, Prince Okechukwu Nwadinobi, explained that the thanksgiving day is meant to acknowledge what the organisation describes as divine intervention that spared the Igbo from total annihilation during the war. He stated that all Igbo people are encouraged to attend church services on the chosen day to express gratitude to God for preservation and survival amid the horrors of the conflict.

Nwadinobi noted that the leadership of Ohanaeze, under Senator Azuta Mbata, considered it necessary to institutionalise the annual thanksgiving, stressing that without God, the support of a few Nigerians, and intervention from the international community, the Biafran cause and the Igbo people might not have survived. He recalled that the war was marked by deliberate attempts to wipe out Biafra, making survival itself a profound historical milestone worthy of remembrance.

Beyond the thanksgiving initiative, Nwadinobi outlined several interventions undertaken by the current Ohanaeze leadership to safeguard Igbo interests nationwide. These include a high-level delegation to Lagos over the demolition of Igbo-owned businesses in Festac Town and the Trade Fair Complex, engagement with affected traders after the Mandilas Plaza fire incident, and the formation of professional teams to guide Igbo entrepreneurs on best business practices.

He also disclosed a new partnership between Ohanaeze and Otu Oka Iwu, a body of legal experts, aimed at providing free legal services to Ndigbo on issues affecting their welfare and rights.

In a goodwill message, former Archbishop of the Enugu Anglican Communion, Dr. Emmanuel Olisa Chukwu, welcomed the resolution, describing it as spiritually significant. Recounting his near-death experience during the war, including the Asaba genocide, the cleric said the decision resonated deeply with the Igbo people, whom he described as deeply religious and sustained by faith through decades of hardship.

Remi Tinubu Disburses N50 Million to 1,000 Women Entrepreneurs in Ogun State

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi “Remi” Tinubu, distributed N50 million in grants to 1,000 women entrepreneurs in Ogun State under the Renewed Hope Initiative. Each recipient received N50,000 to support their existing small businesses.


Objective: The programme aims to strengthen women’s economic participation, empower small business owners, and improve financial inclusion.

Support and Partnership: The initiative is backed by the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which contributed N1 billion nationwide to support approximately 18,500 women across Nigeria.

Event Details: The grant presentation took place at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, and Mrs. Tinubu was represented by Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, wife of the Ogun State Governor.

Grant Nature: Beneficiaries were informed that the funds are grants, not loans, and are not required to be repaid.

Governor’s Role: Governor Dapo Abiodun increased Ogun State’s allocation to 1,000 beneficiaries, demonstrating commitment to women’s empowerment.

Call to Beneficiaries: Mrs. Tinubu urged recipients to use the grants responsibly to grow their businesses, improve livelihoods, and contribute to national development.

Broader Context: Access to finance remains a significant challenge for Nigerian women, making initiatives like the Renewed Hope Initiative crucial for economic inclusion.


The programme is part of ongoing efforts by the First Lady and the Tony Elumelu Foundation to foster entrepreneurship, reduce financial barriers, and promote sustainable development among women across Nigeria.

Inside Hot Sun”: Isaac Fayose Slams Senate Leaders for Airport Reception of Seyi Tinubu, Questions Sycophancy and Nigeria’s Democratic Values

Isaac Fayose, entrepreneur and political commentator, has criticised Nigerian Senate leaders for lining up under the sun at the airport to welcome Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a viral Instagram video, Fayose questioned why an unelected individual with no constitutional office received such attention from elected officials. While acknowledging Seyi Tinubu’s philanthropy, he described the gesture as sycophantic and inappropriate, stressing that Nigeria practises democracy, not monarchy. His comments sparked mixed reactions online, with netizens divided over whether the senators’ actions were justified or embarrassing.

#IsaacFayose
#SeyiTinubu
#NigerianSenate

Nigerian Lady Goes Viral After Showcasing Cassava Biscuits Made in Nigeria, Earns Massive Praise and Distributor Offers Online

A Nigerian entrepreneur, Nelly Agbogu, has captured widespread attention on social media after showcasing cassava-based biscuits produced locally in Nigeria. The biscuits, known as Tapiokies, are made from cassava using locally sourced ingredients and are sold at affordable prices. Nelly revealed that she and her sister co-founded Come Again Foods, a NAFDAC-certified company focused on producing indigenous food products. Her post, in which she appealed for distributors nationwide, attracted overwhelming support, praise, and business inquiries from netizens who commended her innovation, resilience, and contribution to promoting local food production. Many users also shared personal experiences of buying and enjoying the biscuits, further boosting the brand’s visibility.

NAOWA PRESIDENT TOUCHES LIVES AS OVER 1500 BARRACKS FAMILIES RECEIVES END-OF-YEAR SUPPORT
_Reaffirms NAOWA’s Commitment to the Welfare and Well-Being of the Barracks Community…

The Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja, came alive with warmth and goodwill as the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu, distributed food items to over 1,500 beneficiaries, comprising widows of fallen heroes, members of the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA), and the Military Officers’ Widows Association (MIOWA).

The humanitarian outreach formed part of NAOWA’s End-of-Year activities, which were aimed at providing timely support to vulnerable members of the barracks community, particularly during the festive season.

The initiative was organised in furtherance of NAOWA’s Civil–Military Cooperation drive, which aligned with the Association’s transformative mission of promoting cooperation, empowerment, education, healthcare, and welfare through entrepreneurship, digital skills, charity, and community service—towards building united, resilient, and self-reliant Army families.

Speaking at the event, Mrs Shaibu described the outreach as a practical expression of NAOWA’s compassion, solidarity, and unwavering commitment to the barracks community. She noted that the gathering also provided an opportunity for members to come together in the spirit of Christmas, fostering unity, love, and mutual support.

The NAOWA President commended members of NAOWA and NASWA for their resilience and invaluable contributions on the home front, particularly while their spouses were deployed in the line of duty.

The President NAOWA further urged beneficiaries to prioritise peace and harmony in their homes, stressing that peace remained the foundation for sustainable development and progress. She also encouraged the culture of savings and investment, while reiterating NAOWA’s continued support for the welfare and empowerment of Army families.

Highlights of the event included the distribution of food items to beneficiaries and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.

JEMILA JIMOH
Captain
Liason Officer NAOWA
20 December 2025

Ex-Corps Member Who Saved ₦77,000 NYSC Allowance For 12 Months Launches Foodstuffs Business, Shows Fully Stocked Shop

A former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member has gone viral after revealing that she saved her ₦77,000 monthly allowance for 12 months to start a foodstuffs business. The young entrepreneur shared a TikTok video displaying her newly rented and fully stocked shop, encouraging viewers to calculate how she managed her finances throughout her service year. Her post sparked widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing surprise at how substantial the shop appeared despite being funded solely from her NYSC allowance. While some doubted her claims, others praised her discipline, financial planning, and entrepreneurial spirit, describing her journey as an inspiration to Nigerian youths seeking self-reliance after service.

UAE Opens 10-Year Golden Visa to Nigerians Supporting Humanitarian Work
Published October 22, 2025; Updated December 12, 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a new Golden Visa category offering 10-year renewable residency to Nigerians and international donors who contribute to certified humanitarian projects or Islamic endowment (Waqf) initiatives. The announcement was made at the GITEX Global 2025 event in Dubai.

Eligibility and Requirements:

Minimum donation of AED 2 million (~£450,000) to approved humanitarian or Waqf projects.

Hold a university degree.

Receive nomination from Awqaf Dubai or another authorized humanitarian institution.

Submit application through the GDRFA Smart Services portal or at any Amer center in Dubai.


Benefits of the Golden Visa:

10-year renewable residency without needing a local sponsor.

Freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the UAE.

Ability to sponsor family members (spouse, children, parents).

Visa remains valid even if the holder spends more than six months abroad.


Purpose and Impact:
The initiative aims to:

Encourage global philanthropy and social impact.

Attract charitable capital to the UAE.

Foster international collaboration in community development.


Officials’ Remarks:

Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri (GDRFA-Dubai) called it a “pioneering model” empowering donors in community development.

Ali Mohammed Al Mutawa (Awqaf Dubai) described it as a natural extension of Dubai’s vision to integrate endowment work into sustainable development.


This policy expands Dubai’s Golden Visa framework, which previously targeted investors, scientists, entrepreneurs, and medical professionals, to include philanthropists and humanitarian financiers.

US Visa Ban on Nigerians Could Cost Nigeria $4 Billion, Analysts Warn
December 19, 2025

The U.S. government has suspended several immigrant and non-immigrant visa categories for Nigerians, citing security concerns and issues with overstays. Affected visas include B-1/B-2 (business/tourism), F (academic), M (vocational), and J (exchange programs), which are crucial for business, education, and investment travel.

Economists warn the ban could disrupt remittances, business travel, education, and foreign investment, potentially costing Nigeria $3–$4 billion annually in lost U.S.-sourced remittances. Nigerian entrepreneurs, professionals, and students may face higher costs, restricted access to U.S. markets, and delayed deals.

Senator Shehu Sani criticized the move, noting that the U.S. policy now affects ordinary Nigerians and reflects a broader message that developing countries must address domestic issues before sending migrants abroad. Analysts also warned of long-term impacts on human capital development, as reduced student visas may hinder skills acquisition and innovation.

JUST IN:
Taye Currency Launches Currency 93.1 FM, Expands Into Ibadan Media Scene

Ibadan’s broadcasting space has just grown bigger with the arrival of Currency 93.1 FM, a new radio station owned by renowned Fuji musician, Taye Akande Adebisi, popularly known as Taye Currency.

With this new venture, the Fuji star steps confidently into the league of media owners in the Oyo State capital, marking an important milestone in his career beyond the music stage.

Media insiders believe the launch of Currency 93.1 FM strengthens Ibadan’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s rapidly developing broadcast hubs, where more entertainers and entrepreneurs continue to invest in the media industry.

A big congratulations to Taye Currency and the entire @tayecurrency_official team on this exciting new journey.

World richest man, Elon Musk, Says He Looks Up To “The Creator,” Comments On Belief In God

Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, recently opened up about his views on faith and spirituality during an interview with Katie Miller. When asked “Who do you look up to the most,” Musk answered: “The Creator.”

He was further asked if he believed in God, to which he replied: “Well i believe this universe came from something,” adding that “people have different labels.” His response reflects a philosophical perspective, acknowledging a creative force behind the universe while avoiding alignment with any specific religious doctrine.

Musk has previously described himself as a “cultural Christian,” noting he was baptized and raised Anglican. However, he has often emphasized curiosity over traditional religious beliefs, stating that his guiding principle is exploration and expanding human consciousness. He has also highlighted the importance of moral teachings from religion, such as wisdom in compassion and restraint, without fully committing to organized faith.

In this interview, Musk’s choice of words underscores his view that the origin of the universe is a mystery open to interpretation. By referring to “the Creator” instead of “God,” and noting that “people have different labels,” he signals openness to different philosophical or spiritual understandings rather than strictly religious ones. Musk’s remarks continue to fuel discussions on the intersection of science, technology, and spirituality, highlighting how leading figures grapple with questions about existence, purpose, and belief in the modern era.
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Northern States Governors' Forum Appoints Ezekiel Gomos as Director-General to Strengthen Regional Coordination

The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), under the leadership of its Chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has approved the appointment of Mr. Ezekiel Gomos, OFR, as Director-General of the Forum’s Secretariat.

The appointment is in line with the Forum’s renewed commitment to strengthening its institutional capacity and improving coordination among the 19 northern states in addressing the region’s pressing challenges.

According to the Forum, creating the office of Director-General is a strategic step towards repositioning the Secretariat as a more effective hub for policy coordination, collective action and long-term development planning.

Mr. Gomos, a former Secretary to the Plateau State Government, is an accomplished development economist and policy expert with a distinguished career spanning public service, governance reform, private-sector development and human capital advancement.

His experience includes senior roles in high-impact institutions such as the New Nigeria Development Company (NNDC) and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

In addition, he has been Lead Consultant and Head of Faculty at the Jos Business School (JBS), a centre dedicated to entrepreneurship development, leadership training, and policy dialogue.

For nearly two decades, Mr. Gomos has served as a resource person at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, contributing to the training of senior leaders across Nigeria in policy, strategy and national development.

The new DG's academic credentials include graduate and postgraduate degrees from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and the University of East Anglia, UK. He is also a recipient of several prestigious international fellowships, including the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship (University of Minnesota), the British Chevening Scholarship and the UNDP Fellowship at the ILO Training Centre in Turin.

Gomos has attended senior executive programmes at Harvard Kennedy School, the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and Durham University Business School.

Presenting the appointment letter, Governor Inuwa Yahaya charged Mr. Gomos to apply his extensive expertise in strategic leadership, institutional development and policy management to strengthen the NSGF Secretariat into a robust platform for collective security coordination, regional economic cooperation and sustainable development across the North.

The NSGF Chairman expressed confidence that the appointment will usher in a new era of deeper collaboration, improved coordination and more coherent regional responses to the North’s most critical challenges.

NUC Receives €3m to Kick-start ICT Projects in Universities

A heightened push to upgrade digital infrastructure in Nigerian universities has received a major boost, with an initial three million euro released to kick-start ICT projects in ten selected institutions.

The fund is the first tranche of the $40 million loan secured from the French Development Agency to strengthen teaching, research, and administrative efficiency through technology.

The announcement was made by the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, at the inaugural meeting of the 13th NUC Board in Abuja.

Professor Ribadu says, since assuming office, the Commission has intensified efforts to reposition universities through research driven reforms, entrepreneurship development, digital transformation, and enhanced skills training.

At the meeting, the Board outlines five priority pillars that will shape its mandate: performance evaluation, improving global university rankings, expanding digital literacy, strengthening research output, and driving key institutional reforms across the system.

NUC Receives €3m to Kick-start ICT Projects in Universities

A heightened push to upgrade digital infrastructure in Nigerian universities has received a major boost, with an initial three million euro released to kick-start ICT projects in ten selected institutions.

The fund is the first tranche of the $40 million loan secured from the French Development Agency to strengthen teaching, research, and administrative efficiency through technology.

The announcement was made by the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, at the inaugural meeting of the 13th NUC Board in Abuja.

Professor Ribadu says, since assuming office, the Commission has intensified efforts to reposition universities through research driven reforms, entrepreneurship development, digital transformation, and enhanced skills training.

At the meeting, the Board outlines five priority pillars that will shape its mandate: performance evaluation, improving global university rankings, expanding digital literacy, strengthening research output, and driving key institutional reforms across the system.

“Nigeria is like a scratch card; you only see its true value after scratching it. Some of us who have scratched it are already seeing results,” — Dangote says as he applauds President Tinubu’s policies

Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has praised the Federal Government for what he described as decisive and transformative economic policies, including the new exchange rate framework and the removal of fuel subsidy.

Speaking on Tuesday, Dangote expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, noting that the country’s potential becomes clearer when one looks beyond the surface.

According to him, “Nigeria is like a scratch card; you only see the good of it when you scratch the card. Some of us who have scratched the card are seeing the results.”

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership, stating that “we must thank Mr President for his leadership and policies.”

Dangote added that there is no place like home and applauded the governor’s efforts, saying the administration has introduced “very good policies, bold policies that the government have taken today.”

He, however, offered a piece of advice to the business community: “One advice that I have is that most of our entrepreneurs should please invest at home.”

The industrialist emphasised that sustained local investment is key to unlocking Nigeria’s long-term economic gains.

The Federal Executive Council has rolled out a new wave of financial support aimed at strengthening education, boosting entrepreneurship, and accelerating national development. At Wednesday’s meeting, the Council approved a $50 million Islamic Development Bank facility for UBESTATE, targeted at expanding educational infrastructure and improving learning outcomes across the state.

In addition, FEC endorsed a $1 million African Development Bank investment loan designed to empower young entrepreneurs, stimulate SME growth, and unlock innovation among youth-led businesses. These approvals form part of President Bola Tinubu’s broader economic reform strategy