Nigeria’s EdTech Landscape Records Major Boost as CcHUB, Mastercard Foundation Conclude 2025 Fellowship Cohort

Nigeria’s technology and education ecosystem witnessed another significant milestone as Co-creation Hub (CcHUB), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, successfully wrapped up the acceleration programme for the 2025 Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship. The Demo Day, held in Lagos, convened innovators, policymakers, investors and key industry stakeholders to showcase the latest wave of homegrown EdTech solutions targeting underserved learners across the country.

The demo event marked the climax of a rigorous acceleration programme that supported 12 EdTech startups—AI Teacha, BlueSands Academy, Cloudnotte, Tespire, Kryptr, Smart Stewards, hiPrep, Varsityscape, Mavis Computel, FlexiSAF, I-Train Africa and Sproutly. Collectively, the cohort reached over 21,000 new learners, with 90% being children and youth, and an impressive 55% female participation. The startups also engaged 7,000 educators and supported more than 500 schools, particularly in rural and semi-urban locations.

A striking feature of the 2025 cohort was the deep collaboration that emerged among participating ventures. Unlike previous years where teams worked in silos, this cohort demonstrated a strong shift towards shared resources, joint innovation and ecosystem-wide partnership building. This spirit was further reinforced during Founders Connect, a first-of-its-kind gathering that convened all 36 founders from the fellowship’s three cohorts.

The synergy within the cohort also produced tangible partnerships. I-Train Africa adopted Varsityscape’s platform to improve content creation and distribution, while Kryptr partnered FlexiSAF during the 2025 Quizzathon 3.0 to extend scholarships and career readiness opportunities to students nationwide. These alliances, stakeholders noted, reflect a maturing EdTech ecosystem where collaboration rather than competition is driving impact.

Speaking at the event, Nissi Madu, Managing Partner at CcHUB, described the Demo Day as a validation of the power of intentional design and innovation in education.

“This Demo Day is a proud moment for us at CcHUB because it showcases what intentional innovation truly looks like in action,” she said. “It’s not just the culmination of a programme it’s a celebration of the dedication and creativity of the startup teams who have worked tirelessly to refine their solutions, co-design with their users, and ensure their products meet real learning needs at scale.”

She further noted that the progress recorded through the programme “affirms Africa’s growing capability to build inclusive, impactful solutions that address education challenges systemically.”

Among the showcased innovations was the Mavis Talking Book, developed by Mavis Computel, a tool designed to help children in marginalized regions especially those in IDP camps learn in their local languages through a blend of printed storybooks and digital audio pens. Reflecting on the Fellowship journey, Mavis Computel founder, Chiemezie Ucheaga, said:

“Being part of the Mastercard Foundation Edtech Fellowship has been a defining moment for our company, cementing our belief that there are organizations committed to enhancing the provision of quality basic education to children in marginalized communities.”

He added that the programme strengthened their operations significantly, noting, “The stretching the CcHUB team gave us—from improved product design to impactful storytelling—has helped us develop the structure we've desperately needed for growth.”

Cloudnotte’s founder, Mary Matthew, also expressed gratitude for the Fellowship, describing it as a launchpad for deeper continental impact.

“Being part of the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship 2025 has given us clarity, momentum, strengthened Cloudnotte’s capacity and the right support system to scale the impact of Cloudnotte across Africa,” she said.

Now in its third edition, the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship implemented by CcHUB has supported 36 African EdTech startups, many of which are transforming access to digital learning tools and reshaping education delivery across Nigeria. With continued focus on inclusion, AI integration and partnership-driven growth, both CcHUB and the Mastercard Foundation reiterated their commitment to strengthening Africa’s EdTech ecosystem.

Q5 Party: A New Shared Celebration for Forward-Thinking Organisations

   Q5 Party: A New Shared Celebration for Forward-Thinking Organisations

Events Architects announces the Q5 Party, a shared end-of-year corporate celebration taking place on 11 December 2025 at Queens Park, Oniru, Lagos. Designed for forward-thinking organisations, the event offers companies a simple yet premium way to celebrate their teams without the logistics and pressure of planning an independent year-end party.

Created by Funmi Victor-Okigbo, Chief Visionary Officer of Events Architects Ltd, the Q5 Party is a high-quality celebration crafted to help organisations honour their achievements, appreciate their people, and connect with other professionals in a refined, thoughtfully curated environment. This modern approach blends celebration with connection, creating space for meaningful interactions among companies across various industries while ensuring teams enjoy a memorable close to the business year.

Guests will experience a fully curated evening featuring top-tier entertainment, a multi-course dinner with drinks, interactive activities, networking opportunities with other organisations, and a lively afterparty. Companies reserving tables will also have the option to customise their group experience, adding a personalised touch that enhances the celebration for their teams. The atmosphere is designed to encourage cross-industry engagement, spark collaboration, and reinforce a sense of shared achievement.

Events Architects describes Q5 Party as an experience built for organisations that prioritise people and long-term growth. The celebration provides an opportunity for companies to reward outstanding performance, strengthen team morale, mark significant milestones, and deepen client and partner relationships in a relaxed yet elegant setting.

The event is open to organisations of all sizes seeking a premium shared celebration for their teams. The dress code for the evening is Black Glamour, with guests encouraged to attend in elegant all-black evening wear. Attendance is strictly by corporate reservation, ensuring an intimate and well-controlled guest experience befitting the tone of the evening.

For partnership, reservations, or media enquiries, please contact: koraandhive@gmail.com

 

How IBEDC officials made me lose my pregnancy - Adebola Arowona

   How IBEDC officials made me lose my pregnancy - Adebola Arowona

An Ibadan resident, Mrs. Adebola Arowona, has shared her emotional account of events surrounding an altercation with officials of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), during which she claims she was assaulted and subsequently lost her pregnancy. 

Her account comes after IBEDC alleged that she attacked its staff during an operation in her area.

Speaking with journalists, Adebola said she decided to tell her story publicly because of the trauma she has endured. 

According to her, the incident started on November 8, 2025, when IBEDC officials first visited her residence to check her meter.

“They were in my house for almost an hour and said they didn’t find anything,” she recalled. “But one of them later asked for ₦300,000, he asked me to send it to his Opay account, but I refused because I do not know what I was asked to pay for."

She also alleged that one of the officials made inappropriate advances toward her. “Earlier, he asked if I would date him,” she claimed. “I told him no, that he should focus on what he came to my compound to do.”

Adebola said after they left she became worried which made her to visit the IBEDC office at BCJ, where she was told her meter would be relocated. 

She explained that she visited another branch during the week but was informed that officials were not available at the time.

She said: "I made several calls and a visit to Ibedc for the relocating of meter but they insisted that it will be done before the month runs out."

According to her, the situation escalated on November 15, when IBEDC personnel returned.

“They didn’t knock,” she said. “They went straight to my pole and cut my light.”

Adebola said she stepped outside to take a photograph of the ID card of the official who disconnected her power supply. She alleged that as she attempted to do this, the situation turned violent.

"When I came outside and the man had already packed the ladder aside, I just wanted to snap his ID card and he slapped me,” she said. “He punched me and beat me mercilessly. I started bleeding immediately because I was pregnant.”

According to Adebola, she suffered blows to the face that left her unable to open her left eye. She said it was at that moment she realized she had lost the pregnancy.

“I knew something was terribly wrong,” she said quietly. “I felt the bleeding, and I knew I had lost my baby. It was a very painful experience.”

She added that in the struggle, she held onto the shirt of the official who allegedly struck her, insisting he must be held accountable. 

Adebola said she eventually threw a stone in fear when, according to her, it appeared their vehicle was moving toward her.

“I held onto a stone to defend myself. When I saw their vehicle coming toward me, I threw it. It hit the windscreen,” she explained.

Adebola also alleged that some eyewitnesses who filmed the altercation were seriously warned.

“People came out and recorded what happened,” she said. “But the officials warned them not to speak up or the whole area would suffer for it.”

Following the incident, Adebola said she went to the police station in Oluyole before proceeding to another station.

“I was still bleeding when I got there,” she stated. “The female police officer had to check on me in the toilet because the bleeding was serious.”

She also expressed concern over her meter records, alleging that her payment history disappeared from the IBEDC app after the incident.

“My meter is just a year old, and I pay my bills every month,” she said. “I noticed that my payment history had been cleared from the app, but I still have my paper receipts.”

In its reaction, the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company claimed that its officials were assaulted during an operation and maintained that a case had been opened.

The company said it intends to pursue the matter legally, noting: “Efforts are ongoing to ensure the culprit is prosecuted. We intend to pursue this case to its logical conclusion to serve as a deterrent to others.”

IBEDC also alleged that the customer’s meter had been tampered with — a claim Adebola strongly denies.

As both sides present differing accounts, residents and stakeholders await the outcome of investigations by the authorities. 

Meanwhile, Adebola says her greatest pain remains the loss of her pregnancy. “I just want justice,” she said. “I lost my baby. That pain is something I will never forget.”

Crest Africa Announces Power 100: Showcasing Influential African Entrepreneurs Redefining Success Across the UK

 Crest Africa Announces Power 100: Showcasing Influential African Entrepreneurs Redefining Success Across the UK.

 
Crest Africa has announced the Power 100 list for November 2025, celebrating the most influential African entrepreneurs whose work continues to transform industries and redefine success across the United Kingdom. This latest recognition highlights the growing influence of African business leaders within the global marketplace.
Crest Africa is a storytelling platform dedicated to showcasing African innovation, leadership, and excellence. Through its consistent recognition programs, it has become a credible voice amplifying those who are shaping Africa’s present and future. Its Leaders Shaping Africa in 2025 list in May and Top 50 Voices in African Tech 2025 in June both captured the spirit of progress and transformation, and the Power 100 extends that legacy into the vibrant UK entrepreneurial ecosystem.

 
In the context of African influence abroad, the Power 100 serves as a crucial benchmark of representation and impact. It acknowledges entrepreneurs who have built thriving ventures in competitive markets, using creativity, cultural identity, and determination to drive growth. The list not only celebrates success stories but also documents the resilience that defines the African experience across global spaces.
Notable figures on the list include Yinka Ilori, award-winning designer and storyteller; Rene Carayol, leadership expert; Nneka Abulokwe OBE, trailblazer in digital transformation and governance; and Rukayat Alabi-Oyelayo, founder of RKY Group, empowering professionals and entrepreneurs through coaching and business development. Each of them represents a facet of African brilliance shaping the UK’s social and economic landscape.

 
Beyond individual accomplishments, the Power 100 underscores the collective strength of African communities abroad. These entrepreneurs are not just building companies; they are creating ecosystems that empower others to dream, learn, and succeed. Through mentorship, collaboration, and philanthropy, they are paving pathways for future generations while demonstrating that African success stories can thrive anywhere in the world.

 
The Power 100 also reflects the evolution of African enterprise from survival-driven initiatives to innovation-led empires. From sustainable fashion to fintech and media, the honorees represent a new generation of thinkers who merge creativity with commerce to drive sustainable impact. Their work challenges outdated narratives about African potential, proving that global leadership can be rooted in heritage and powered by modern vision.
As Crest Africa continues to spotlight excellence, it reaffirms its commitment to shaping a global understanding of African achievement. The editorial team behind this year’s selection invested time in studying measurable outcomes, brand influence, and community contributions to ensure each honoree represents the highest standard of leadership and authenticity.

 
The Power 100 stands as a reminder that African entrepreneurs are global leaders shaping industries and rewriting narratives. It proves that success is not only about profit but also about influence, community, and purpose. These entrepreneurs remind the world that African talent is limitless and its impact immeasurable.
Readers can visit the Crest Africa website to explore the full Power 100 list, discover the honorees, and learn about the extraordinary journeys defining African excellence in the United Kingdom.

Tech City Real Estate Unveils Virtual Reality Site Tour: Transforming Property Inspection in Nigeria

        Tech City Real Estate Unveils Virtual Reality Site Tour: Transforming Property Inspection in Nigeria

At Tech City Real Estate Ltd, our mantra “Tech-Driven, Real Estate Focused” reflects our commitment to transforming the Nigerian real estate landscape through innovation. This aligns perfectly with our corporate vision: to be Africa’s most trusted real estate brand, building smart communities where technology enhances lives globally.

Guiding this mission is our Founder and CEO, Dr. Decent Oghenetega Akar, a seasoned technology professional whose decade-long experience in tech and passion for real estate have positioned Tech City as a pioneer in Nigeria’s rapidly growing proptech sector. His forward-thinking leadership continues to shape how technology is integrated into property development, customer experience, and digital real estate solutions.

 

Introducing the Tech City Virtual Reality Site Tour

In line with our innovation-driven mandate, Tech City Real Estate has launched the Tech City Virtual Reality (VR) Site Tour, a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind initiative in Nigeria’s real estate industry.

This immersive VR experience allows clients and investors to explore our estates from anywhere in the world, eliminating distance barriers and redefining what convenience means in property inspection. With the VR Site Tour, prospective buyers can walk through estates in real-time, examine features closely, and make confident investment decisions without being physically present.

 

Why the VR Site Tour Is a Game Changer

The introduction of the VR Site Tour marks a new phase in smart, tech-powered real estate services in Nigeria. This innovation:

✔ Enhances Convenience

Clients can inspect properties remotely using a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or VR headset.

✔ Saves Time

Virtual tours reduce the need for multiple site visits, especially for busy professionals or diaspora investors.

✔ Improves Decision-Making

Detailed 360° visuals allow clients to understand estate layouts, infrastructure, and development progress.

✔ Boosts Transparency

Seeing is believing! VR eliminates doubts, instills trust, and provides a clear, honest representation of our estates.

By integrating immersive technology into our operations, Tech City Real Estate continues to lead the way in digital transformation and smart real estate solutions.

 

A Milestone Launch at the Tech City Project Development Forum

The VR Site Tour was officially unveiled during the Tech City Project Development Forum held on July 5, 2025. The event brought together clients, partners, industry stakeholders, and investors who expressed strong excitement and confidence in this innovative stride.

The launch reinforced our commitment to customer satisfaction, operational excellence, and technology-backed property development, further establishing Tech City Real Estate as a market leader in Nigeria’s proptech evolution.

 

Leading the Future of Real Estate in Nigeria

At Tech City Real Estate, innovation is not a buzzword, it is the backbone of our operations. Through initiatives like the Virtual Reality Site Tour, we are:

● Redefining the real estate inspection process

● Enhancing investment confidence

● Raising industry standards

● Delivering smarter and more accessible real estate experiences

This is why we confidently say:

Tech City Real Estate is the Nexus of Technology and Real Estate.

 

🎥 Watch the VR Site Tour Launch

Experience this technology yourself:

👉 https://youtube.com/shorts/hKoUlDAmNlE

 

📞 Contact Tech City Real Estate Ltd

Ready to explore or invest in premium real estate?

Call us today:

09162139345, 09046768832

Or visit us at:

KM 25, Suite 14, DDS Shopping Mall, Airport Road, Rukpokwu, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

🌐 www.techcityrealestatecompany.com

KOSISO ILECHUKWU – THE TENACIOUS SPIRIT BEHIND FRAGRANCE PLANET

   KOSISO ILECHUKWU – THE TENACIOUS SPIRIT BEHIND FRAGRANCE PLANET

Every now and then, you meet someone whose presence is both inspiring and magnetic. Kosiso Ilechukwu is one such individual. Renowned for her unbridled tenacity and business acumen, Kosiso is the Founder and CEO of Fragrance Planet, a Nigerian luxury perfume brand that has been redefining accessible luxury since 2018.

Over the last six years, Fragrance Planet has grown into a billion-naira enterprise, winning the hearts of fragrance lovers across Nigeria with its combination of high-quality perfumes, unmatched customer service, and thoughtful complimentary gifts. Yet, beyond her success in business, Kosiso is a woman of balance; a lover of photography, food, and life’s beautiful moments, and an advocate for the philosophy: work hard, play harder.

In this exclusive Q&A, she opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, lessons learned, and her vision for Fragrance Planet.

Q: Kosiso, you’ve been described as a woman of unbridled tenacity. What drives that determination?

A: I think it comes from purpose. When you know what you want to achieve and why, obstacles become challenges to overcome, not reasons to stop. My journey in business has had its fair share of difficulties, but every challenge reinforced my belief that resilience and persistence are the keys to growth.

Q: Tell us about the early days of Fragrance Planet. How did it all start?

A: It began with a passion for fragrances. I realized that while Nigerians loved luxury perfumes, many couldn’t access them due to cost. I wanted to change that. In 2018, I founded Fragrance Planet with the mission to make affordable luxury accessible without compromising on quality or experience. The early days were challenging; I wore many hats, from sourcing products to serving customers; but that groundwork laid the foundation for what we have today.

Q: What sets Fragrance Planet apart in a competitive market?

A: Our focus on people. Fragrance Planet is not just about selling perfumes; it’s about creating experiences. Every customer leaves our store feeling valued, whether it’s through a personalized recommendation, a complimentary gift, or a warm interaction. Combined with high-quality products, this approach has built a loyal customer base and distinguished our brand in the market.

Q: Running a successful business requires immense dedication. How do you balance work and life?

A: Balance is essential. I work hard, but I also make intentional time for relaxation and joy. Photography, travel, and spending time with family and friends help me recharge and see the world differently. That balance fuels my creativity and keeps me grounded, allowing me to lead effectively while still enjoying life.

Q: What has been the most significant lesson you’ve learned as an entrepreneur?

A: That success is about authenticity, consistency, and relationships. Stay true to your vision, be patient, and treat people; customers, employees, partners; with respect and care. Those are the principles that sustain a business in the long term.

Q: How important is your team to Fragrance Planet’s success?

A: Incredibly important. I’m fortunate to work with a talented team, including our Admin and Operations Manager, Similoluwa Sanni, who ensures everything runs smoothly. Success is never a solo journey; it’s built on collaboration, shared vision, and trust.

Q: Where do you see Fragrance Planet in the next few years?

A: Our vision is to expand beyond Nigeria and become Africa’s leading fragrance destination. We’re exploring digital growth, new product lines, and innovative ways to engage customers. The goal is to make Fragrance Planet synonymous not just with perfume, but with confidence, elegance, and empowerment.

Q: Finally, what advice would you give aspiring entrepreneurs?

A: Start with purpose, and don’t wait for the “perfect” moment. Build value, stay authentic, and be ready to learn from challenges. Success is not just about revenue; it’s about creating something meaningful and lasting. And remember, work hard, play harder. Enjoy the journey.

Datamellon Expands in the Middle East Through Strategic Partnership with Vast Data to Accelerate AI and Data Transformation

      Datamellon Expands in the Middle East Through Strategic Partnership with Vast Data to Accelerate AI and Data Transformation

In a landmark move poised to reshape the AI, big data, and cloud computing landscape in the Middle East and Africa, Datamellon, a global leader in AI, Cloud and Data innovations, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Vast Data Middle East. This strategic partnership underscores both companies’ commitment to advancing the region’s digital transformation and data-driven innovation.

The collaboration focuses on delivering high-performance AI solutions, unified data storage, and advanced analytics platforms, positioning organizations to harness the full potential of their data assets. With governments and enterprises across the Middle East rapidly embracing cloud adoption, AI, and digital infrastructure modernization, the timing of this partnership is particularly significant.

“At Vast Data, we believe that organizations’ ability to manage and leverage their data intelligently is the cornerstone of sustainable growth and innovation,” said Haider Aziz, General Manager, Vast Data Middle East and Africa. “Our partnership with Datamellon represents a pivotal step toward driving enterprise-grade AI and data solutions across the region.”

Strategic Objectives and Initiatives

 

The MoU outlines a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen AI-driven digital ecosystems. Key focus areas include:

● Unified Data Storage Solutions: Enabling scalable, secure, and high-performance data management for enterprises.

● Generative AI and Big Data Analytics: Developing advanced AI platforms to deliver actionable insights and predictive intelligence.

● Smart Data Centers and Training Programs: Equipping regional talent with the skills to leverage emerging technologies and build a sustainable, knowledge-based economy.

“This partnership is not just about technology—it’s about empowering our clients to integrate AI seamlessly into their business strategies,” said Dr. Ahmed Gamal, Regional Sales Director, Vast Data Middle East and Africa. “We are proud to help position the Middle East as a leading hub for AI, big data, and advanced analytics innovation.”

Datamellon’s Commitment to Innovation

 

From Datamellon’s perspective, the collaboration represents a strategic alignment of technological vision and execution. Eng. Mohamed Saieed, Regional Director for the Gulf, noted:

“Our goal is to enable organizations to maximize the value of their data using the latest AI and analytics technologies. Through this partnership, we are combining infrastructure strength with AI automation to deliver integrated solutions across multiple industries.”

The joint initiatives also emphasize enterprise data analytics projects, capacity-building, and digital skills development, critical components in the region’s pursuit of a data-driven economy.

A Milestone for Regional Digital Transformation

As Middle Eastern countries accelerate digital transformation initiatives, including investment in AI, cloud computing, and analytics, this partnership strengthens the region’s global competitiveness. By combining Datamellon’s expertise in cloud-native software, generative AI, and intelligent analytics with Vast Data’s advanced data storage solutions, the collaboration enables organizations to innovate faster, reduce operational complexity, and harness actionable insights from their data.

“Together with Datamellon, we are committed to creating real, measurable value for our clients in the Middle East and beyond,” said James Wharton, Director of Public Relations and International Marketing at Vast Data.

This partnership is more than a strategic agreement; it is a catalyst for AI-driven growth, innovation, and digital excellence across the region.