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Day Of the African Child 2025: Every African Child Deserve The Gift Of History

International Day of the African ChildHistory is not just about the past. It’s the compass for Africa’s future,” BrytaAfrica
As Africa marks this year’s Day of the African Child, BrytaAfrica, the fast-growing platform reshaping how young people engage with African history, is calling on leaders, parents, and educators to take bold steps in making history education anational priority across the continent.
“With each passing year, we lose more of our stories. Stories that can fuel identity, drive
innovation, and build future leaders,” says Rita Abiodun, Founder of BrytaAfrica.
 “Empowering African children with their own historical narratives isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. This is how we raise changemakers.”
Founded on the belief that historical literacy is essential to shaping proud, resilient, and
visionary youth, BrytaAfrica uses bite-sized storytelling, gamified learning, and audio journeys to
make African history fun, relevant, and accessible for today’s generation.
 On a day dedicated to
the voices and rights of African children, BrytaAfrica is urging a continent-wide commitment to
teaching Africa’s past. From ancient kingdoms and liberation struggles to modern movements
and innovation, every story matters.
Why African History Education Matters Now More Than Ever:
● Critical Thinking for a Complex World
History trains young minds to evaluate evidence, challenge assumptions, and analyze
cause and consequence. These are skills essential in today’s fast-changing world.
● Rooted Identity in a Global Age
Learning about Africa’s civilizations, cultures, and contributions builds confidence, pride,
and a sense of belonging. This is especially important in an age of shifting narratives.
● Pan-African Unity and Empathy
Through shared stories of resistance, triumph, and legacy, history helps foster a
generation that sees beyond borders and embraces collective progress
● Active Citizenship Starts with Understanding
A child who knows about pre-colonial governance, independence heroes, and
post-liberation challenges is more likely to step into leadership with clarity and conviction.
● Learning from the Past to Build the Future
From colonial disruptions to current climate justice battles, history offers a mirror and a
map. It helps youth avoid old pitfalls while crafting bold new paths.
BrytaAfrica
BrytaAfrica is more than a platform. It’s a movement to put Africa’s stories back into African
hands. Through short, engaging stories, immersive audio, and playful quizzes, BrytaAfrica helps
children, parents, and educators across the continent rediscover the heartbeat of Africa, anytime and anywhere.
With themed reading journeys, downloadable tales, offline access, and global trivia  leaderboards, BrytaAfrica is making history fun, cool, and deeply relevant, because people who do not know where they are coming from will stumble through where they are going.
Samer Chedid Succeeds Mauricio Alarcón As CEO Of Nestlé Central And West Africa

By Winifred Bosa
 Samer Chedid, CEO of Nestlé Indonesia has been appointed CEO of Nestlé Central and West Africa (CWAR) replacing Mauricio Alarcón who has taken on a new role within the Nestlé group.
A business leader with diverse experiences across Nestlé including Middle East, Asia, and Africa, Mr. Chedid is no stranger to CWAR as he previously served as Country Manager for Nestlé Ghana.
In his new role, he will steer affairs of the business across 25 countries in CWAR.
“I am delighted to return to a region that has been a part of my career within the Nestlé group. Together with our resilient team of over 5,000 employees, I will continue to advance our purpose through innovation, high-quality product offerings, and meaningful partnerships. Our goal is to enhance livelihoods, promote community development, and maintain our commitment to environmental stewardship”, Mr. Chedid commenting on his appointment said.
Mr. Chedid joined Nestlé in 1998 as a Sales Development Manager. He was later appointed Head of Channel Category Sales Development for Nestlé Middle East Region before his assignment as General Business Manager in Bahrain, Qatar and Dubai. He then moved to CWAR as Country Manager, Ghana then returned to the Middle East as Nestlé Middle East Region Sales Director. He was later appointed Country Manager, Saudi Arabia and eventually promoted to become CEO, Nestlé Pakistan.
Mr. Chedid is recognized for his strong leadership and strategic mindset, his passion for people and for building strong and effective teams.
GOCOP President Maureen Chigbo Delivers Welcome Address At Book Launch And Fundraiser For Media Centre

Welcome Address by GOCOP President Maureen Chigbo At GOCOP Book Launch/Fundraiser for Media Centre at  Abuja Continental Hotel, Lagos on 17th  June 2025

Protocols.

Your Excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, and members of my constituency, the Media, permit me to warmly welcome you all on behalf of the leadership and entire members of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) to this historic Book Launch/Fundraiser for GOCOP Media Centre.

We are grateful to God and those who made this event possible. We also appreciate your sacrifice and support by finding time from your busy schedules to honour us with your presence. These, we cannot take for granted.

Our sincere gratitude also goes to the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the chairman of this epoch event, for his support and for keeping his word to be here with us.

We are also thrilled that Dr. Ikeh Neliaku, President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), graciously accepted to review our book. Thank you and welcome.

We equally acknowledge the presence of other dignitaries, prominent scholars, academics, chieftains of industry, and policy and decision makers in both public and private sectors, as well as public relations experts, spokespersons, and students.

We are all here to witness the unveiling of Nigeria Media Renaissance: GOCOP Perspectives on Online Publishing, the maiden publication by the Guild.

It is a unique opportunity to reintroduce the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) to the world and its efforts to drive the business of the online media landscape in Nigeria. It is also an opportunity to explain who we are amidst the misunderstanding of categorizing us as bloggers, and to solicit support towards building our businesses and fighting Fake News.

Who we are:

GOCOP is a 120-member group of mediapreneurs made up of professional journalists who have worked in the traditional media, both broadcast and print, before transitioning to business owners in the online media community. You can call us the small and medium enterprises, a peer review body determined to entrench professionalism in the online media industry.

GOCOP was formed and registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in 2013 to promote professionalism and fight fake news. It was rebranded in 2014 following the first attack by the very charlatans we were up against, who did not want us to exist.

Details of that assault on GOCOP are captured in the book we are here to unveil, and we would like everyone to please grab copies for self and your friends. We also welcome generous donations to strengthen GOCOP and the building of the Guild’s Media Centre to empower members to run their businesses profitably.

It is a truism that small and profitable businesses are the engine of growth of any economy. We therefore appeal to all public relations practitioners, advertisers, governments at all levels, and civil society to support our businesses to grow.

When you support us to run profitable businesses, you also strengthen us to serve you better as thoroughbred professionals with a critical stake in building a society where justice, peace, and the rights of individuals are respected against Fake News and similar threats.

GOCOP seeks to sanitize the online media space  To succeed in this task, we require the collaboration of stakeholders, many of whom a represented here today. This collaboration draws from Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended, which gave the media a critical role under Sections 22 and 39. Because the Constitution did not specify the funding mechanism for this important role, the online publishers have to innovate. This is challenging, but with determination, structured stakeholder collaboration, and support, the objective is achievable.

Online publication is the future of the media industry, which the government and lawmakers have to support through enabling laws, tax exemptions, and grants, among others. To weed out quacks, GOCOP has introduced a self-regulatory mechanism with zero tolerance for Fake News and similar threats.

Its members subscribe to the Ethics of the Journalism profession, which holds facts, truth, fairness, and balanced reporting as sacred.

GOCOP, as a body of professionals, has also put in place structures for effective peer review and regulation of its members. It has several Committees, including on Constitution Review Committee, the Welfare Committee, the Finance Committee, and the Membership Screening. There is also the Disciplinary Committee/Ombudsman, charged with checking excesses of the Guild’s members, with an avenue to the public to seek redress in case of unprofessional conduct. I must emphasize that GOCOP takes its self-regulation responsibility very seriously.

This informed the publication of Nigeria Media Renaissance – GOCOP Perspectives on Online Publishing. The book was made possible mainly by Godly inspiration and the exemplary teamwork spirit of Guild members.

Describing teamwork, Henry Ford, American industrialist and business magnate, said: “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”

My dear colleagues, may God reward you abundantly for your sacrifices and priceless work

We are grateful to Mr. Dapo Olorunyomi, publisher of PREMIUM TIMES, who wrote the foreword – a rich perspective on the history of online publishing and the pioneers in Nigeria. We congratulate Mr. Olorunyomi on the National honour recently bestowed on him by President Bola Tinubu. The Guild is proud of your contributions to the journalism profession.

Permit me to also acknowledge other contributors to the book. (Please stand up for recognition as I mention your names). Danlami Nmodu, deputy President of GOCOP; Oladipo Dotun, former president, GOCOP; Ken Ugbechie, vice president of GOCOP, South; Tom Chiahemen, vice president of GOCOP, North; Akeem Oyetunji, GOCOP Coordinator, South West; Max Amuchie, GOCOP Coordinator, North; Olumide Iyanda, GOCOP General Secretary; Remmy Nweke, GOCOP Publicity Secretary; Gabriel Akindewo, publisher of Freedom Online; Segun Adeleye, publisher of WorldStage; and Hassan Gimba, publisher of  Neptune Online.

Special thanks also go to members of the editorial team comprising my humble self, Ugbechie,  Azuh Arinze, Financial Secretary GOCOP and publisher, Yes International,  Ray Echebiri, publisher Next Money, and Akindewo.  Yemisi Izuora, GOCOP Treasurer, and Jessica Uwadaze, GOCOP Administration Secretary, also deserve special mention for manning the Secretariat for the production of this book.

On behalf of GOCOP, allow me to express our deep gratitude to all our keynote speakers over the years, whose presentations were also featured in the book. They are Professor Onigbide, Bishop Hassan Kukah, Professor Chidi Odinkalu, Mr. Boss Mustapha, Professor  Uchenna Uwaleke, and Dr. Liyel Imoke.

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, GOCOP is most grateful to the Federal Government of Nigeria, State governments, institutions, and organizations in both the private and public sectors, for their support over the years. These include Lagos, Delta, Kwara, Yobe, and  Osun States, the Federal Ministry of Information, Central Bank of Nigeria, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Nigerian Development Content Development and Monitoring Board, the Nigerian Communications Commission, Federal Inland Revenue Service, and the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas, among others. We appreciate your support over the years.

GOCOP also appreciates other professional media bodies for their collaboration over the years, including the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria, Nigerian Guild of Editors, Nigerian Union of Journalists, Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria, Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, International Press Institute, International Press Centre, and Media Rights Agenda. Thank you all.

GOCOP is equally indebted to spokespersons of various State governments, corporate bodies, including banks, institutions, security agencies, such as the Federal Road Safety Corps, the military, and the police, for their collaboration and support since its inauguration in 2014.

Finally, we solemnly remember two of our founding members who have transitioned to glory.  May the souls of Late Chijama Ogbu, publisher of Rainbow Online, and Ben Bright Mkpuma, publisher of Watchdogreporters, rest in peace. Amen.

I cannot end this address without thanking government institutions and corporate organisations that have been supporting GOCOP activities over the years, particularly with adverts in the brochure of the  Book Launch/Fundraiser. These are the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board, Nigerian Ports Authority,  Nigerian Natural and Liquefied Gas, NLNG, Fidelity Bank, Shell Nigeria/SNEPCO, TotalEnergies, and Zenith Bank Plc, for their initial support during the production of the book. We are most grateful to you all.

God bless GOCOP! God bless Nigeria.

Thank you all for your attention, and welcome!

Smartcash PSB Launches Access To Instant Motor Insurance Via Leadway Assurance

By Winifred Bosa
 In continuation of its mission to make financial services simpler, faster, and more accessible, SmartCash Payment Service Bank, a subsidiary of Airtel Nigeria, has announced a strategic partnership with Leadway Assurance to offer Smartcash users an effortless access to Leadway’s mobile-friendly motor insurance service.
Starting from ₦15,000, this new offering provides a convenient and affordable way for motorists to stay protected and compliant with national insurance requirements.
 With this collaboration, new and existing Smartcash customers can now acquire or renew two types of Leadway Assurance motor insurance: the Third-Party Insurance and AutoBase Comprehensive Insurance, directly on the Smartcash app or by dialling *939#.
While the third-party motor insurance plan offers the legally required minimum cover, protecting motorists from liability for damages or injuries caused to others, the AutoBase Comprehensive Insurance plan extends that protection to cover the user’s own vehicle in the event of accidents.
Commenting on this partnership, Chief Executive Officer, Smartcash PSB, Tunde Kuponiyi highlighted the importance of the collaboration in driving convenient and inclusive insurance access for Nigerians.
“At Smartcash, our goal has always been to bring inclusive financial solutions closer to everyday Nigerians. By partnering with Leadway Assurance, we’re making it easier for motorists to insure their vehicles without stress or delays. It’s insurance that moves at your speed,” he said.
He also noted that Smartcash users can complete the entire purchase process in under three minutes, from plan selection to payment with no physical paperwork or documentation required. Customers receive instant confirmation and their digital policy documents via email, making insurance more accessible than ever.
Also speaking on the partnership, Kike Fischer, Director, Sales, Retail and Partnership, Leadway Assurance, added: “At Leadway, innovation and exceptional service are at the core of our mission to deepen insurance penetration and inclusion.
This collaboration with SmartCash enables us to deliver real-time protection to more Nigerians via a trusted, everyday platform. It marks a bold step in transforming how insurance is accessed and experienced across the country.”
The insurance integrated service is also fully inclusive, as it works across all types of mobile phones. Users without smartphones or internet access can access the same features via USSD, ensuring nationwide reach, especially in rural and underserved areas.
This partnership reinforces Smartcash’s commitment to delivering digital-first financial services that meet the real-world needs of Nigerians. By simplifying access to essential products like motor insurance, Smartcash continues to empower users with tools that protect, support, and uplift their daily lives.
Airtel Concludes Nationwide Environment Week With Market Clean-Up By Employees

By Winifred Bosa

Leading telecommunications provider, Airtel Nigeria, has wrapped up its 2025 World Environment Week campaign, themed ‘Ending Plastic Pollution’, with an employee-driven market clean-up exercise at Elegushi Model Market, Jakande, Lekki, Lagos.

The activity was supported by the Ecobarter Company, a social enterprise focused on the promotion of a circular economy.
Branded #UnPlasticAfrica, the events spanned six states and mobilised Airtel employees, community leaders, government partners, and market communities in a united effort to combat plastic pollution.
With the Lagos Market Cleanup, Airtel staff and community members joined forces to remove plastic waste and sensitize the locals on individual contributions towards a plastic-free environment.
 To support sustainability and align with Lagos State’s ban on single-use plastic, large bins for refuse sorting as well as parasols, and reusable tote with #UnPlasticAfrica messaging were distributed to traders and their customers in the market to encourage behavioural change.
Speaking on behalf of Airtel Nigeria CEO Dinesh Balsingh at the clean-up exercise, Director, Corporate Communications & CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Femi Adeniran, highlighted the critical importance of community participation in safeguarding the environment and commended the market leadership for their openness and commitment to such impactful initiatives.
“True environmental care starts with action: keeping our gutters and surroundings clean and ensuring that plastic waste never finds its way into our canals and waterways. The Elegushi market community has shown remarkable leadership by welcoming this initiative, and we are proud to have partnered with them to make a tangible difference as we commemorate World Environment Day 2025.
We believe that this effort will spark a ripple effect, inspiring communities across the nation to take bold steps towards a cleaner, healthier Nigeria,” he said.
In her response on behalf of the President of the Elegushi Model Market traders’ association Iyaloja Simbiat Ronke Lawal, the Secretary of the trade association Elizabeth Afolabi, conveyed the group’s appreciation to the volunteers and Airtel Nigeria as an organisation. She commended the company for the clean-up initiative which she noted would leave a positive impact on the market.
“We want to thank Airtel Nigeria and all the volunteers for coming to our market to help clean and support us. This has really helped us and made our market a better place. We are incredibly happy and promise to sustain what you have started here today,” she said.
Recall that the Airtel Nigeria World Environment Week campaign began on June 4 with an employee seminar led by Mr Balsingh, followed by market clean-up exercises at Bodija Market, Oyo State; Oba Market, Benin City, Edo State; Wuse Market, Abuja; Artisan Market, Enugu State; Yankaba Market, Kano State; and finally, Elegushi Model Market, Jakande, Lagos.
Airtel Africa Publishes Sustainability Report 2025 Reinforcing Commitment To ESG Impact

By Winifred Bosa
Airtel Africa, a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services across 14 African countries, today publishes its Sustainability Report 2025, reaffirming its corporate purpose of transforming lives by expanding access to essential digital services, supporting inclusive economic growth, and advancing environmental stewardship throughout its operations.
In 2024/25, Airtel Africa made significant progress in bridging the digital divide, advancing financial inclusion and supporting underserved communities through strategic investment in connectivity, people, and sustainable practices.
Airtel Africa’s chief executive officer Sunil Taldar said: “This year’s achievements, from connecting 2,176 schools through the UNICEF partnership to reaching 44.6 million Airtel Money customers with near-gender parity, prove that the power of technology is a catalyst for gender balance. At Airtel Africa, we believe to not only expanding networks but we’re also building bridges to education, financial security and sustainable growth for Africa’s next generation.”
Key ESG highlights:
Providing underserved communities with access to reliable network and connectivity:
81.2% population coverage across 14 markets (up from 80.4% in 2023/24)
36,159 4G infrastructure sites, including more than 15,300 in rural areas.
Continued investment of $670m in network expansion and modernisation to boost speed, coverage and capacity.
Airtel Africa is connecting the unconnected, giving millions access to voice, data and mobile money services – driving economic opportunity and enhancing access to essential services.
 Bridging the digital divide, driving financial inclusion and addressing gender inequality
73.4 million data customers (+14.1% vs 2023/24)
44.6 million Airtel Money customers (+17.3%), with 44.2% Airtel Money customers who are women (+6.2% vs 2023/24)
1.7 million Airtel Money agents in our distribution network (+23.4% vs 2023/24)
29.2% women in the workforce across the Group (up from 28.3% vs 2023/24)
Through inclusive digital services and affordable financial products, Airtel Africa is empowering individuals and communities, particularly women, to fully participate in the digital economy.
Unlocking potential through education and employment opportunities
2,176 schools connected to the internet free of charge (up from 1,201 in 2023/24)
By providing free connectivity and online resources to schools, Airtel Africa is helping young people reach their full potential.
A growing agent network also supports employment and entrepreneurship opportunities across its footprint.
Minimising the impact of our operations on the environment
500 off-grid sites converted to on-grid power, reducing reliance on diesel generators.
93% of total waste recycled (+3% vs 2023/24)
Airtel Africa is committed to reducing the impact of its operations on the environment through investment in renewable energy solutions and responsible waste management.
The Sustainability Report 2025 adheres to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and GSMA telecommunications industry standards.
To view Airtel Africa’s Sustainability Report 2025, visit Sustainability Report 2025.