CEVA Logistics And EFL Africa Launch Strategic Joint Venture To Expand Nigeria Logistics Market In 2026

CEVA Logistics and EFL Africa have established a new joint venture in Nigeria, a move aimed at strengthening logistics operations across West Africa and improving access to international trade networks for businesses operating in the country.

The partnership, unveiled on June 10, 2026, brings together CEVA Logistics’ global supply chain infrastructure and EFL Africa’s established operational footprint within Nigeria. The new company, CEVA EFL Limited, is expected to provide integrated logistics services designed to support importers, exporters, manufacturers and businesses seeking more efficient cargo movement within and beyond Nigeria.

Nigeria remains one of Africa’s most important trade and logistics hubs due to its large consumer market, expanding industrial sector and strategic location on the Gulf of Guinea. The latest alliance reflects growing international interest in the country’s logistics sector as operators seek to improve connectivity between West Africa and global markets.

Brandspur Brand News understands that the joint venture will leverage CEVA Logistics’ international presence across more than 170 countries while building on EFL Africa’s existing infrastructure and expertise in freight management, port operations and inland cargo distribution.

A major component of the partnership is the deployment of dedicated barge services designed to move containers from Lagos ports to inland logistics facilities. The initiative is expected to ease pressure on congested road corridors around the nation’s busiest ports while improving cargo evacuation efficiency.

The venture will also operate extensive inland container depot facilities located in Lagos, including sites in Apapa and Ikorodu. These facilities provide significant storage capacity and support export processing activities, helping businesses streamline cargo handling and reduce logistics bottlenecks.

In addition to freight movement services, the company will offer customs clearance solutions through licensed in-house teams. The integrated approach is expected to reduce delays associated with cargo processing and provide customers with a more seamless logistics experience.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/cbn-repositions-enaira-in-2026-digital-payments-strategy-after-slow-adoption/

Industry observers note that logistics efficiency remains a critical factor in Nigeria’s trade competitiveness. Port congestion, transportation challenges and customs-related delays have historically increased operating costs for businesses. Investments in alternative transport infrastructure and integrated supply chain solutions are increasingly viewed as essential to improving trade performance.

The collaboration is also expected to contribute to workforce development through the transfer of international logistics expertise and operational best practices. Such partnerships have become increasingly important as Nigeria seeks to strengthen local capacity while attracting foreign investment into strategic sectors of the economy.

For CEVA Logistics, the venture expands its presence in one of Africa’s fastest-growing logistics markets. For EFL Africa, the agreement provides greater access to global networks and resources that can support long-term growth across Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

The development comes as cargo volumes continue to grow across Nigeria’s maritime sector. Increased demand for efficient freight forwarding, warehousing, inland transportation and export logistics services has encouraged operators to invest in infrastructure capable of supporting expanding regional trade flows.

Analysts believe the new venture could enhance supply chain reliability for businesses engaged in domestic and international commerce while supporting Nigeria’s broader ambitions to strengthen its position as a leading trade gateway for West Africa.

With global supply chains becoming increasingly interconnected, the launch of CEVA EFL Limited signals a renewed push to modernise logistics services, improve cargo mobility and create stronger links between Nigerian businesses and international markets.

CBN Repositions eNaira In 2026 Digital Payments Strategy After Slow Adoption

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has unveiled plans to redefine the role of the eNaira, signalling a major shift in strategy nearly five years after the country’s digital currency was launched with ambitious expectations of transforming electronic payments and financial inclusion.

Under its newly released Payments System Vision (PSV) 2028 framework, the apex bank is moving away from positioning the eNaira as a standalone consumer payment product. Instead, the digital currency is expected to function as part of the broader infrastructure supporting Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital payments ecosystem.

The change reflects growing recognition that the eNaira has struggled to achieve widespread public adoption since its introduction in October 2021. While the digital currency was launched as Africa’s first central bank digital currency (CBDC) for retail use, uptake has remained limited despite efforts to promote its use among individuals and businesses.

Industry analysts have long argued that existing banking applications, fintech platforms and mobile money services already provide many of the payment functions the eNaira was designed to deliver, making it difficult for the digital currency to gain a competitive advantage among users. Brandspur Banking News Desk understands that the CBN’s latest strategy seeks to address this challenge by integrating the eNaira more deeply into the country’s payment architecture rather than competing directly with private-sector providers.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/bitget-launches-anti-scam-month-2026-recovers-32-3-million-for-users/

The revised approach aligns with Nigeria’s broader objective of building a more efficient, interoperable and inclusive digital payments environment. By embedding the eNaira within payment infrastructure, regulators hope to unlock new use cases that could support financial services innovation, improve transaction efficiency and strengthen the resilience of the financial system.

Since its launch, the eNaira has been promoted as a tool capable of lowering remittance costs, expanding access to financial services and accelerating the country’s transition towards a cashless economy. However, adoption levels have remained below initial expectations, prompting calls for a reassessment of its role within the financial ecosystem.

The PSV 2028 roadmap suggests the CBN is now focusing on long-term integration and infrastructure development as it seeks to maximise the value of the eNaira within Nigeria’s digital economy. The move could shape the future of digital payments in Africa’s largest economy as regulators, banks, fintech firms and payment service providers continue to adapt to changing consumer preferences and technological developments.

With Nigeria remaining one of Africa’s most active fintech markets, the success of the CBN’s new strategy will likely depend on how effectively the eNaira can complement existing payment channels while delivering unique value to businesses, consumers and financial institutions.

Bitget Launches Anti-Scam Month 2026, Recovers $32.3 Million For Users

VICTORIA, Seychelles – June, 2026

Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), has launched Anti-Scam Month 2026 under the theme “More Assets, Stronger Shield. Stay Safe in the Multi-Asset Era.” The annual initiative focuses on helping users navigate an increasingly complex threat landscape as digital asset platforms expand beyond crypto into broader multi-asset ecosystems.

The campaign is accompanied by the release of key security and fraud prevention results from 2025. During the year, Bitget intercepted more than 150 million malicious attack requests, identified over 13,000 high-risk malicious IP addresses, and handled 18,135 user protection cases. The platform’s security team also helped users recover approximately $32.3 million linked to security incidents and fraudulent activity.

“The industry is entering a multi-asset era where users can access a wider range of products and markets through a single platform. As that access expands, security responsibilities increase too,” said Hon Ng, Chief Legal Officer at Bitget. “Protecting users requires continuous risk monitoring, rapid response mechanisms, security education, and close cooperation across the industry. Anti-Scam Month reflects the importance of building those protections alongside product innovation.”

Throughout 2025, Bitget continued to strengthen its security framework across account protection, asset custody, fraud prevention, and platform risk management. The platform expanded Passkey authentication capabilities based on FIDO2 and WebAuthn standards, enhanced multi-factor authentication coverage for high-risk account actions, strengthened anti-phishing protections, and improved device management controls that allow users to monitor and manage account access in real time.

Bitget also expanded its real-time threat detection and web security infrastructure in 2025. Security systems recorded more than 2.8 billion interceptions through custom protection rules and mitigated over 1.5 billion DDoS-related attack attempts. The platform’s monitoring capabilities were further enhanced through machine learning-based behavioral analysis designed to identify suspicious activity and emerging threats across multiple layers of the ecosystem.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/stanbic-ibtc-partners-with-national-theatre-to-spark-creativity-in-180-children-at-the-2026-blue-kids-day-the-toontopia-edition/

User education remained a major focus of Bitget’s security strategy. Anti-Scam Month campaigns conducted across 2024 and 2025 reached approximately 1.38 billion users globally through security awareness content, educational resources, and community engagement initiatives. The company also expanded its Anti-Scam Hub, maintained its public bug bounty program, and introduced interactive initiatives such as the Smarter Eyes Challenge, which attracted close to 50,000 participants through simulated phishing and scam detection exercises.

Bitget continued to collaborate with leading blockchain security organizations, including SlowMist and Elliptic, to support threat intelligence sharing, anti-fraud research, and broader industry awareness efforts. Through a combination of platform security, user education, and industry cooperation, the company continues to invest in creating a safer environment for users navigating digital and tokenized financial markets.

Read our CLO’s letter here: https://www.bitget.com/blog/articles/bitget-clo-letter-more-assets-mean-more-responsibility

For more information, visit: https://www.bitget.com/events/antiscamhub

About Bitget

Bitget is the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 125 million users and offering access to over 2M crypto tokens, 100+ tokenized stocks, ETFs, commodities, FX, and precious metals such as gold. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI agent, which co-pilots trade execution. Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships with LALIGA and MotoGP™. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. Bitget currently leads in the tokenized TradFi market, providing the industry’s lowest fees and highest liquidity across 150 regions worldwide.

For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord

Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

Stanbic IBTC Partners With National Theatre To Spark Creativity In 180 Children At The 2026 Blue Kids Day – The ToonTopia Edition

Stanbic IBTC reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing the next generation
of innovators and creative thinkers at its annual Blue Kids Day event.
Held in partnership with the National Theatre, this year’s
ToonTopia-themed edition, spotlighting Nigeria’s second Children’s
Animation Festival, delivered a vibrant and immersive experience
designed to spark creativity, inspire imagination, and promote learning
among young minds. This was not just an event, it was a launchpad for
discovery, expression, and boundless potential.

Launched in 2022, Stanbic IBTC Blue Kids Day has grown into a dynamic
platform dedicated to enriching young minds through impactful and
memorable experiences, demonstrating the organization’s enduring
commitment to shaping a brighter future for children. This year’s
ToonTopia-themed edition brought that vision to life, celebrating
African storytelling, creativity, and imagination. It delivered an
immersive and inspiring learning experience for 180 children aged 8 to
12, going beyond the traditional Children’s Day celebration to spark
curiosity, unlock creativity, and shape future possibilities.

The event was successfully held on May 23, 2026, at the renowned Wole
Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts (National Theatre), Iganmu,
Lagos. It delivered a dynamic and immersive experience, with
participants taking part in animation workshops, art sessions, film
screenings, digital creativity classes, and hands-on educational
activities. Each session was thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity,
ignite creativity, and build future-ready skills. The programme
concluded on a high note, as every child received a certificate of
participation, recognizing their enthusiasm, creativity, and the new
knowledge they gained throughout the experience.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/durban-filmmart-institute-announces-the-selection-of-participants-for-talents-durban-2026/

Speaking on the initiative, Bunmi Dayo-Olagunju, Deputy Chief Executive
of Stanbic IBTC Bank, said:
“Children thrive when given the freedom to explore, imagine, and
create. Through Blue Kids Day, we are deliberate about creating
experiences that spark confidence, fuel creativity, and encourage
lifelong learning. Our collaboration with the National Theatre reflects
our strong belief that exposure to creative and digital skills can
unlock the boundless potential within every child and prepare them for
future opportunities.”

She further reaffirmed Stanbic IBTC’s commitment to supporting
initiatives that nurture the holistic development of children, while
creating lasting value for families and the communities they serve.

Reinforcing this vision, Olu Delano, Executive Director, Personal and
Private Banking at Stanbic IBTC Bank, stated:
_“At Stanbic IBTC, empowering children goes beyond financial literacy,
it is about opening their minds to possibilities and inspiring their
imagination. Blue Kids Day allows us to support families by creating
experiences that build creativity, confidence, and future-ready skills.
Our collaboration with the National Theatre underscores our commitment
to raising well-rounded individuals prepared to thrive in a
fast-changing world.”_

This partnership underscores the rising importance of creative education
and digital literacy in today’s world. By introducing children to
animation, storytelling, and artistic expression in an evolving fun,
hands-on environment, the programme not only made learning exciting but
also nurtured innovation and critical thinking.

As Stanbic IBTC continues to enable Nigerians to live a better life by
going beyond banking to enrich lives, Blue Kids Day stands as a strong
symbol of its commitment to empowering young people, supporting
families, and shaping a generation of confident, imaginative, and
future-ready Nigerians.

Durban FilmMart Institute Announces The Selection Of Participants For Talents Durban 2026

The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) announces the lineup of
participants for the 19th edition of Talents Durban, taking place during
the Durban FilmMart (DFM) in Durban from 9 – 12 October 2026. As the
African satellite programme of Berlinale Talents, Talents Durban
continues to play a vital role in nurturing emerging African filmmakers,
animators, and film critics through mentorship, professional
development, and international networking opportunities.

Berlinale Talents is a networking platform organised by the Berlin
International Film Festival, offering a space for emerging filmmakers to
connect, learn, and collaborate. Talents Durban serves as its African
counterpart, providing a similar platform specifically tailored to the
continent’s unique filmmaking landscape.

DFMI Director, Magdalene Reddy, explains, “The Durban FilmMart
Institute remains committed to advancing African cinema through
strategic collaborations that expand international access to
professional networks, markets, and sustainable industry opportunities.
Talents Durban is central to this vision. Now in its 19th year of
partnership with Berlinale Talents,  this partnership helps to
contribute meaningfully to the long-term growth and sustainability of
the African film ecosystem.”

The 2026 edition reflects the diversity of African storytelling,
bringing together participants from 18 African countries. This year’s
selection process was highly competitive, receiving a record 551
applications. From these submissions, 26 participants and six film
critics were selected across fiction features, documentaries, short
films, episodic content, animation, and film criticism.

Selected participants will engage in an intensive programme of
project-oriented and hands-on professional development initiatives,
including Story Junction pitching sessions, masterclasses, mentorship
engagements, and one-on-one consultations with leading industry experts.

Mentors for the 2026 edition include _Akosua Adoma Owusu, Amine Hattou,
Bongi Ndaba, Comfort Arthur, Jihane Bougrine, Mayye Zayed, Nicole
Schafer, Oris Aigbokhaevbolo, Ramadan Suleman and Razanajaona
Ambinintsoa Luck._

A highlight of this year’s programme is the evolution of the Talent
Press stream through the introduction of a Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Digital
Newsroom model. Moving beyond the traditional workshop format, the
programme will simulate a live festival newsroom environment.

Acclaimed alumni Wilfred Okiche and Domoina Ratsara return as Section
Editors, mentoring and collaborating directly with a new generation of
emerging African critics serving as Festival Film Writers. The
initiative is further strengthened through partnerships with the
Encounters South African International Documentary Festival (04-14 June
2026) and the Durban International Film Festival (23 July – 2 August
2026), providing participants with real-world reporting experience, and
opportunities to publish critical writing from the forefront of African
cinema.

Talent Press is an initiative of Talents Durban in collaboration with
FIPRESCI. A new collaboration between the Cairo International Film
Festival (CIFF), the International Federation of Film Critics
(FIPRESCI), and the Durban FilmMart Institute was announced during
FIPRESCI’s annual reception. The partnership will see FIPRESCI select an
outstanding participant from the Talents Durban Press programme at
Durban FilmMart 2026 to receive an award presented by CIFF. The selected
critic will be invited to attend the Cairo International Film Festival,
cover the festival’s activities, and contribute to its English-language
daily publication. This initiative represents an important step in
strengthening film criticism across the African continent and creating
greater opportunities for emerging critical voices to engage with
international film culture and discourse.

Official 2026 Talents Durban Participants and Projects:

FICTION FEATURES

Kelvin Kagambo – Dogi Dogi (Tanzania)

Lawrencia Aphua Larbi-Amoah – Bare Feet (Ghana)

Meekaaeel Adam – The Violent Type (South Africa)

Mélanie K. ZAWADI – THE BASEMENT (DRC)

Russell Oru – The Things We Leave Behind (Nigeria)

Shandra Apondi – The Words I Do Not Have (Kenya)

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/south-africa-moves-to-extend-ev-incentives-to-battery-minerals-in-major-2026-automotive-policy-shift/

DOCUMENTARIES

Ahmed Shams Nagm Eldin – SABARY (Sudan)

Hussein Eddeb – The birth of Derna (Libya)

Junior Mozese – ABÉTI (DRC)

Michelle Simon – Rivers: Under Threat  (South Africa)

Ramaroson Razafimbelo Anatole – Fitampoha, the return of the king of
Menabe (Madagascar)

Sarra El Abed – Goodbye Party (Tunisia)

FICTION SHORTS

Daisy Masembe – Rukia (Uganda)

Ghazzal Abdullah – Facing the Sun (Egypt)

Moso Sematlane – Nightbirds (Lesotho)

Sarah Abena Adjei – Awake (Ghana)

Tendaiishe Chitima – The Last Tree on Kilimanjaro (Zimbabwe)

Xola Limba – Only We Remain (South Africa)

EPISODIC

Cheyi Okoaye – Cause, Effect & Maybe Consequences? (Nigeria)

Des Dlamini – Slightly Awkward (South Africa)

Rudo Furusa – Borrowed Skin (Botswana)

SOGOBA Hawa – The Eleventh Year (Mali)

ANIMATION

Jack Machiridza – All You Sheep (Zimbabwe)

Kirollos George – Alexandria forever (Egypt)

Pule Mohotsi –  Amandla (South Africa)

TALENT PRESS

Elijah Oluwanisola (Nigeria)

Hlumela Luvuno (South Africa)

NEYA Harouna (Burkina Faso)

Michelle Abuti (Kenya)

Domoina Ratsara (Madagascar) – Alumni

Wilfred Okiche (Nigeria) – Alumni

The Heads of Berlinale Talents, Nikola Joetze and Tobias Pausinger,
highlight their anticipation, stating: “At Berlinale Talents, we
regard Talents Durban as an essential creative partner and a space where
exceptional filmmakers and storytellers from across the African
continent continue to push boundaries, challenge form, and expand the
global cinematic imagination. Year after year, we are inspired by how
Talents Durban nurtures bold artistic voices that embody the spirit of
this year’s Berlinale Talents theme, Creating and Confusion,
transforming uncertainty into innovation and new narrative
possibilities.

Equally vital is the internationally renowned Durban Film Market itself,
which stands as one of the continent’s most significant platforms for
connecting emerging and established talent with industry opportunity. It
plays a decisive role in strengthening the creative ecosystem, while
underscoring South Africa’s position as a dynamic and indispensable
hub for the international film industry.”

As the premier film market in Africa, the 17th edition of the Durban
FilmMart, under the theme “Shifting Worlds: Turning Towards
Ourselves”. Inspired by the words of Ousmane Sembène, often referred
to as the “father of African cinema” who said, “Why be a sunflower
and turn toward the sun? I, myself, am the sun,” the 17th edition of
the Durban FilmMart will be the space for discussions that advance
alternative film funding pathways, revise models for distribution,
consider equitable co-production frameworks and create authentic
partnerships. DFM 2026 will encourage looking within to forge
relationships and design new strategies that will brace a world in flux
and endure the economic and social structures that are changing and
destabilising the film industry.

More information on this year’s theme can be found on the Durban
FilmMart Institute’s website, https://durbanfilmmart.co.za/ [1]

Delegate registration and programme details will be announced in due
course.

The 17th edition Durban FilmMart is funded by the Durban Film Office,
eThekwini Municipality, Ford Foundation, the National Film and Video
Foundation and IEFTF.

South Africa Moves To Extend EV Incentives To Battery Minerals In Major 2026 Automotive Policy Shift

South Africa has proposed expanding its automotive incentive programme to include key minerals used in electric vehicle (EV) battery production, a move aimed at strengthening local manufacturing, supporting regional supply chains and accelerating the country’s transition to electric mobility.

The proposed policy changes would allow producers of strategic battery materials such as lithium, graphite, cobalt, copper, iron and rare earth minerals to benefit from incentives currently available to the automotive industry. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to position South Africa as a leading participant in the global EV value chain as demand for cleaner transportation continues to grow.

The reforms come as governments and manufacturers worldwide adjust to tightening emissions standards, increasing adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, and intensifying competition from lower-cost vehicle imports. South African authorities are seeking to ensure that the country’s automotive sector remains competitive amid these global shifts.

Brandspur Brand News reports that the proposed amendments were published by the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) as part of an ongoing review of South Africa’s automotive industrial policy framework.

Under the proposal, qualifying battery materials sourced from member countries of the Southern African Customs Union and the Southern African Development Community would receive special recognition within the incentive programme. Half of the value of those materials would be treated as locally generated content, helping manufacturers qualify for production-linked benefits.

The policy review aligns with South Africa’s Automotive Master Plan 2035, which seeks to significantly increase annual vehicle production, strengthen local component manufacturing and deepen industrial participation across the automotive sector.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/airtime-lending-court-battle-seeks-to-protect-millions-of-nigerian-consumers-says-waspan/

South Africa’s automotive incentive framework currently supports manufacturers through a combination of production incentives, customs duty rebates, investment support measures and programmes designed to encourage large-scale vehicle assembly within the country.

Industry observers view the latest proposal as an effort to leverage Southern Africa’s vast mineral resources while capturing greater value from the fast-growing electric vehicle industry. The region is home to several minerals considered essential for battery manufacturing, creating opportunities for increased processing, refining and industrial development.

The move could also attract additional investment into mining, battery materials processing and vehicle manufacturing, helping to build stronger connections between the extractive sector and advanced industrial production.

Stakeholders and members of the public have been invited to submit comments on the proposed amendments over the next four weeks before any final policy decisions are taken.

If approved, the changes could strengthen South Africa’s position as a regional hub for electric vehicle production and battery-related manufacturing while supporting broader ambitions to modernise the automotive industry and expand participation in the global clean energy economy.

Airtime Lending Court Battle Seeks To Protect Millions Of Nigerian Consumers, Says WASPAN

0

The ongoing legal dispute over Nigeria’s digital lending regulations has taken a new turn, with the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN) insisting that its court action against aspects of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s (FCCPC) Digital Economy and Online Consumer Lending (DEON) Regulations is aimed at safeguarding consumers and licensed local operators.

The association said the lawsuit was filed to defend the interests of Nigerian value-added service providers and the millions of subscribers who depend on airtime and data borrowing services for daily communication and business activities. The clarification follows increasing public debate over the regulatory framework, which has been linked to disruptions in airtime and data advance services offered by telecommunications operators.

WASPAN maintained that the litigation was not initiated by any foreign company seeking to obstruct reforms in Nigeria’s digital lending sector. Instead, the association stated that the case was brought by Nigerian-registered firms operating under licences issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

Brandspur Brand News reports that the matter is currently before the Federal High Court in Lagos, where WASPAN is challenging specific provisions of the DEON Regulations introduced by the FCCPC to oversee digital lending activities and consumer protection standards.

According to the association, the court granted interim reliefs in April 2026, restraining the FCCPC from enforcing the disputed provisions against its members pending the determination of the substantive suit. The order also reportedly prevents regulatory actions that could affect the operations of affected service providers while legal proceedings continue.

The association further expressed concern over reports that additional operators were approved under the DEON framework despite an earlier announcement suspending enforcement activities. It argued that granting new commercial approvals while regulatory issues remain before the court raises questions about regulatory consistency and compliance with ongoing judicial proceedings.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/cooking-gas-prices-surge-67-as-nigerian-households-return-to-charcoal-amid-supply-crisis-in-2026/

The controversy has drawn widespread attention because of the importance of airtime and data borrowing services within Nigeria’s telecommunications ecosystem. Millions of subscribers rely on the services as a convenient source of short-term credit, particularly during emergencies or periods of limited cash flow.

Industry stakeholders have repeatedly described airtime advances as an essential financial support mechanism for small business owners, traders, artisans and low-income earners who may lack access to conventional credit facilities. Estimates from telecom operators place the value of the airtime credit market at hundreds of billions of naira annually.

The FCCPC has since distanced itself from reports suggesting it made certain claims regarding the litigation, while reiterating its commitment to obeying court directives and pursuing all lawful avenues available within the judicial process.

As the case progresses, industry observers say the outcome could have significant implications for consumer protection, digital lending regulation and the future operation of airtime and data credit services in Nigeria. The final decision is expected to influence how regulators balance market oversight with the need to preserve services relied upon by millions of consumers across the country.

Cooking Gas Prices Surge 67% As Nigerian Households Return To Charcoal Amid Supply Crisis In 2026

A sharp increase in the cost of cooking gas has forced many Nigerian households and small businesses to cut consumption, ration usage, or switch to charcoal and firewood, raising concerns about the country’s clean energy transition goals.

Across major cities including Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Ilorin, the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas, has climbed significantly in recent weeks. Market checks indicate that gas which sold for less than N1,500 per kilogram a month ago is now retailing for as much as N2,500 per kilogram in parts of Lagos, representing a rise of about 67 per cent.

The development has increased the financial burden on consumers and businesses that depend on LPG for daily cooking and operations. Industry estimates suggest that the nation’s monthly cooking gas expenditure has risen substantially as households contend with broader inflationary pressures and rising living costs.

Brandspur Brand News understands that the latest increase is being linked to a combination of international supply disruptions, higher freight costs, reduced imports and persistent challenges within Nigeria’s domestic LPG supply chain.

Residents interviewed across several states reported adjusting their cooking habits to manage rising energy costs. Some families now reserve LPG for quick meals while relying on charcoal for foods that require longer cooking periods. Others have delayed cylinder refills or reduced the frequency of home cooking altogether.

Food vendors and other small-scale operators are also feeling the impact, with many reporting increased production costs that threaten profit margins. Several operators said they have begun combining LPG with alternative fuels in an effort to remain in business without passing the full cost burden to customers.

Industry stakeholders have raised concerns that inconsistent supply and pricing uncertainties are discouraging import activity. Marketers argue that fluctuating market conditions and supply bottlenecks have made it increasingly difficult to secure adequate volumes of LPG for distribution across the country.

Energy experts warn that the shift back to charcoal and firewood could reverse years of progress toward cleaner household energy use. Nigeria has spent more than a decade encouraging wider adoption of LPG as a safer and more environmentally sustainable cooking fuel.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/sim-shagaya-launches-myka-in-2026-to-expand-insurance-access-across-nigeria/

Despite growth in LPG consumption over the last decade, industry data indicate that per capita usage in Nigeria remains significantly below global averages, highlighting the country’s continuing clean cooking challenge.

Market analysts attribute the current pressure partly to global geopolitical developments that have altered international trade flows and increased competition for available LPG cargoes. These factors have pushed up import costs for countries that rely on overseas supplies to supplement domestic production.

Experts maintain that while local production has improved, Nigeria still requires additional investment and supply stability to meet growing demand. They argue that expanding domestic output, improving distribution networks and maintaining a competitive market environment will be critical to preventing future shortages.

Industry operators remain cautiously optimistic that incoming supplies could ease pressure on the market in the coming weeks. However, analysts expect cooking gas prices to remain elevated in the near term, leaving millions of households searching for affordable alternatives as energy costs continue to climb.

Sim Shagaya Launches Myka In 2026 To Expand Insurance Access Across Nigeria

0

Nigerian entrepreneur Sim Shagaya has unveiled Myka, a digital insurance brokerage platform designed to widen access to insurance products for individuals and businesses across Nigeria, as the industry seeks to improve adoption among millions of uninsured citizens.

The new venture enters the market with support from prominent technology investors and founders, including Ventures Platform, TLcom Capital, Paystack co-founder Shola Akinlade, LemFi founder Ridwan Olalere, and Voltron Capital founder Olumide Soyombo. Although the size of the pre-seed investment was not disclosed, the backing signals growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s insurance technology sector.

Myka enables users to compare and purchase insurance products from multiple providers through a single platform. Available offerings include motor, health, travel, property, gadget and life insurance products sourced from several licensed underwriters operating in the country.

Brandspur Brand News reports that the launch comes at a time when Nigeria’s insurance industry is pushing for wider retail participation following recent reforms aimed at strengthening consumer protection, encouraging digitisation and improving market penetration.

Despite managing assets worth trillions of naira, Nigeria’s insurance sector continues to record relatively low consumer uptake compared to the size of the country’s population. Industry stakeholders have repeatedly identified trust concerns, limited distribution networks and low public awareness as major barriers to adoption.

To address these challenges, Myka combines digital onboarding with identity verification tools, automated policy management and claims support services. The platform also works with insurance providers through technology integrations that allow customers to access policy information and documentation more efficiently.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/opay-and-google-launch-%e2%82%a618-million-national-innovation-challenge-for-nigerian-students-in-2026/

A key element of the company’s growth strategy is a referral-based distribution model inspired by the success of agency banking in Nigeria. Under the approach, professionals, community groups and small businesses can help introduce insurance products to people within their existing networks.

The initiative has already gained admission into the regulatory sandbox operated by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), allowing the company to test innovative insurance distribution methods under regulatory supervision.

Investors backing the startup believe the model could help unlock significant growth in a sector that remains largely underserved. By combining technology with community-based distribution channels, Myka aims to make insurance more accessible to millions of Nigerians who have traditionally remained outside the formal insurance market.

The company will generate revenue through commissions earned on policies sold through its platform and partner network, joining a growing list of insurance technology firms working to modernise insurance distribution and customer experience in Nigeria.

OPay And Google Launch ₦18 Million National Innovation Challenge For Nigerian Students In 2026

0

OPay has joined forces with Google to introduce a nationwide innovation competition aimed at empowering tertiary institution students in Nigeria to develop technology-driven solutions to pressing societal challenges.

The initiative, known as the National Innovation Challenge, will provide a total prize pool of ₦18 million to student teams that demonstrate outstanding creativity, problem-solving ability, and technological innovation. The competition is open to students from universities, polytechnics, and other higher institutions across the country.

Participating teams will be required to identify real-world problems and build practical solutions capable of creating measurable impact in areas such as education, financial inclusion, healthcare, agriculture, sustainability, and digital transformation.

According to information released about the programme, teams must consist of five students drawn from the same institution. Entries will be assessed based on innovation, feasibility, scalability, and the potential social or economic value of the proposed solutions.

Brandspur Brand News reports that the competition forms part of broader efforts by OPay and Google to support Nigeria’s growing technology ecosystem and encourage young innovators to transform ideas into viable products and businesses.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/apple-unveils-siri-ai-next-generation-apple-intelligence-and-expanded-parental-controls-at-wwdc26-2026/

The organisers have announced that the winning team will receive a grand prize of ₦10 million, while the second-placed team will earn ₦5 million. The third-place team will receive ₦3 million, bringing the total prize value to ₦18 million.

Industry stakeholders have increasingly highlighted the importance of innovation-focused programmes as Nigeria continues to witness rapid growth in its digital economy. Competitions of this nature are seen as valuable platforms for identifying emerging talent and providing students with opportunities to gain exposure, mentorship, and funding support.

Eligible students are encouraged to assemble their teams and complete the registration process before the application deadline of June 14, 2026. Successful participants will have the opportunity to showcase their ideas on a national stage and compete for funding that could accelerate the development of their projects before graduation.

The National Innovation Challenge adds to ongoing efforts by technology companies and ecosystem partners to nurture the next generation of Nigerian innovators and entrepreneurs, reinforcing the country’s position as one of Africa’s leading hubs for digital innovation.