Eighteen aspiring Nigerian musicians received full undergraduate scholarships to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in the United States. The awards culminated an elite music training program in Lagos, organized in collaboration with Afrobeats star Tiwa Savage and Berklee College.
Thursday, May 7, 2026
Nigerian talents secure Berklee College scholarships
Eighteen aspiring Nigerian musicians received full undergraduate scholarships to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in the United States. The awards culminated an elite music training program in Lagos, organized in collaboration with Afrobeats star Tiwa Savage and Berklee College.
Nigeria firm unveils Africa's largest EV charging hub
Nigeria is making an ambitious push into the future of transportation with the unveiling of what is being described as Africa’s largest electric vehicle charging hub — a bold signal that the continent’s biggest economy wants a serious seat at the global EV table.
The project, launched in Abuja, is more than just another charging station. It represents a growing movement toward cleaner mobility, local EV assembly, and reduced dependence on petrol in a country long defined by oil production. Officials say the initiative supports Nigeria’s broader automotive transformation plans, which include increasing the share of electric vehicles produced locally.
At the center of the rollout is a massive charging infrastructure designed to tackle one of Africa’s biggest EV problems: range anxiety and the lack of reliable charging networks. Industry stakeholders have repeatedly warned that infrastructure — not vehicle availability — could determine whether electric mobility succeeds in Nigeria.
The move comes as Nigerian companies rapidly expand into the EV space. Firms are introducing locally assembled electric buses, delivery vans, and passenger vehicles while also experimenting with fast-charging hubs and renewable-powered systems. Some new charging sites in Lagos can reportedly serve multiple vehicles simultaneously using dual-gun DC fast chargers capable of reaching 20–80% charge in under an hour.
But the excitement is being met with skepticism as well.
Across online discussions and industry forums, many Nigerians point to the country’s unstable electricity grid as the elephant in the room. Several commenters argue that EV adoption cannot scale without major improvements in power generation and distribution. Others believe solar-powered charging networks and decentralized mini-grids could become the workaround Nigeria needs.
Despite the challenges, momentum is clearly building. Rising fuel prices, government pressure for cleaner transportation, and growing investment in local manufacturing are pushing electric mobility from concept to reality. Companies entering the market say they are not simply selling vehicles — they are trying to build an entire ecosystem around charging, battery support, and renewable energy integration.
Whether Nigeria can truly become a continental EV leader will likely depend on one critical question: can the country build the infrastructure fast enough to support the vision?
Related stories: Video - Nigeria’s push for electric motorcycles faces major hurdles
Video - Nigeria, China partner to build EV plantsWhy condoms, safe sex may soon cost more in Nigeria
Karex BhD, the Malaysian company described as the world’s largest condom maker, announced plans to raise condom prices. The company’s chief executive officer, Goh Miah Kiat, stated that the hike, between 20% and 30%, is in response to rising production and logistics costs caused by the Iran conflict.
The war between the United States (US), Israel and Iran, which came to a head in February 2026, has affected the global supply and transport of basic goods for the manufacturing sector, among other impacts.
The geopolitical instability in the Persian Gulf has gone beyond dominating international news, with several basic essentials in the manufacturing sector becoming luxury items.
Nigerian retailers and buyers, unaware of the war’s impact on the global economy, will largely blame local inflation, which stood at 15.38% as of March 2026, up from 15.06% the previous month.
Advocates of safe sex and healthcare should brace for a slight hit in their mission as condoms, one of the most common contraceptives, are about to experience a price hike. The expected development threatens a drop in usage rates, likely leading to unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
DUBAWA, in this explainer, analysed the direct link between instability in the Middle East and local healthcare costs in Nigeria, showing how a distant conflict threatens Nigerians’ health security.
By Amarachi Onwuzulike and Phillip Anjorin, dubawa
The war between the United States (US), Israel and Iran, which came to a head in February 2026, has affected the global supply and transport of basic goods for the manufacturing sector, among other impacts.
The geopolitical instability in the Persian Gulf has gone beyond dominating international news, with several basic essentials in the manufacturing sector becoming luxury items.
Nigerian retailers and buyers, unaware of the war’s impact on the global economy, will largely blame local inflation, which stood at 15.38% as of March 2026, up from 15.06% the previous month.
Advocates of safe sex and healthcare should brace for a slight hit in their mission as condoms, one of the most common contraceptives, are about to experience a price hike. The expected development threatens a drop in usage rates, likely leading to unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
DUBAWA, in this explainer, analysed the direct link between instability in the Middle East and local healthcare costs in Nigeria, showing how a distant conflict threatens Nigerians’ health security.
The Nigerian dilemma
Structural dependence on the outside world had already weakened the nation’s sexual healthcare efforts even before the Iran war.
The foreign exchange market’s volatility and the donor support system, which had started to fade as early as 2025, made the looming condom price increase hit harder. The January 2025 executive order signed by Donald Trump, America’s current president, was intended to reevaluate US foreign aid.
However, it led to a massive pause and eventual cut of over $40 billion in support for the global healthcare landscape. The US Agency for International Development (USAID), which used to be a primary supplier of contraceptives in Nigeria, had ceased to exist as an active funding entity. The Global Fund, which also provides grants and support for national responses to HIV, malaria and tuberculosis (TB) in low- and middle-income countries, reduced its 2024-2026 grant cycle by $1.4 billion. The drop forced many non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the affected countries, including Nigeria, to pause the distribution of contraceptives.
Condoms, in the production process, require petroleum derivatives like dimethicone, BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), and naphthalene, among others, to lubricate and preserve the product’s lifespan. The ongoing Iran war, which led to the disruption of the Strait of Hormuz, disrupted the steady flow of crude oil and liquified natural gas (LNG) globally. The logistical hurdles of these petrochemical products complicated the manufacturing dilemma faced by condom-making companies.
As a non-manufacturing country, Nigerians bear the brunt of the landing costs and other related expenses associated with imported products. Any factory price increase from manufacturing countries affects costs in the Nigerian market. Considering the unstable exchange rates and the healthcare inflation, which jumped to 30.35% in January 2026, safe sex may end up becoming a luxury too high for a youth population facing a high unemployment rate.
Structural dependence on the outside world had already weakened the nation’s sexual healthcare efforts even before the Iran war.
The foreign exchange market’s volatility and the donor support system, which had started to fade as early as 2025, made the looming condom price increase hit harder. The January 2025 executive order signed by Donald Trump, America’s current president, was intended to reevaluate US foreign aid.
However, it led to a massive pause and eventual cut of over $40 billion in support for the global healthcare landscape. The US Agency for International Development (USAID), which used to be a primary supplier of contraceptives in Nigeria, had ceased to exist as an active funding entity. The Global Fund, which also provides grants and support for national responses to HIV, malaria and tuberculosis (TB) in low- and middle-income countries, reduced its 2024-2026 grant cycle by $1.4 billion. The drop forced many non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the affected countries, including Nigeria, to pause the distribution of contraceptives.
Condoms, in the production process, require petroleum derivatives like dimethicone, BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), and naphthalene, among others, to lubricate and preserve the product’s lifespan. The ongoing Iran war, which led to the disruption of the Strait of Hormuz, disrupted the steady flow of crude oil and liquified natural gas (LNG) globally. The logistical hurdles of these petrochemical products complicated the manufacturing dilemma faced by condom-making companies.
As a non-manufacturing country, Nigerians bear the brunt of the landing costs and other related expenses associated with imported products. Any factory price increase from manufacturing countries affects costs in the Nigerian market. Considering the unstable exchange rates and the healthcare inflation, which jumped to 30.35% in January 2026, safe sex may end up becoming a luxury too high for a youth population facing a high unemployment rate.
Risk to public health
To further assess the potential risks to public health, DUBAWA sought the opinions of medical experts on how rising condom prices and reduced access could affect disease prevention, sexual health behaviours, and the capacity of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
We spoke to Okolo Patrick, a clinical microbiologist at Edo State University Iyamho Teaching Hospital, on the potential impact of rising condom prices and reduced access. He explained that, from a clinical and public health perspective, such changes would likely lead to a measurable increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, as well as unintended pregnancies in Nigeria.
According to him, condoms remain a primary and affordable prevention tool. When they become less accessible due to higher costs or limited supply, individuals are more likely to engage in unprotected sex, increasing the risk of transmitting infections such as HIV, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia. He added that even a slight decline in condom use across a population can significantly raise transmission rates over time, particularly in communities where infection rates are already high.
He noted that young people and low-income populations are especially vulnerable, as they often depend on free or subsidised condoms and may struggle to afford alternatives. This, combined with limited access to sexual health information and services, can worsen outcomes and lead to delayed treatment.
On how cost barriers affect behaviour, Okolo stated that rising prices influence not just access but also usage patterns. He explained that higher costs can reduce demand and even affect supply, while also pushing individuals toward risky practices such as reusing condoms or abandoning protection altogether.
DUBAWA also spoke with Andrew Edo, a Professor of Medicine and Consultant Endocrinologist at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, on the broader health system implications.
Responding to concerns about Nigeria’s healthcare capacity, he noted that a decline in condom use could place significant strain on the system. According to him, condoms remain one of the most affordable and widely accessible forms of protection, and any reduction in their availability or use would likely lead to an increase in cases of STIs and unplanned pregnancies.
He explained that such a rise would not only increase the burden on already stretched health facilities but could also undermine the effectiveness of ongoing public health interventions. More patients would require testing, treatment, and long-term care, particularly in the case of HIV, which demands sustained medical support.
Edo added that this trend could reverse the progress made over the years in HIV prevention, STI control, and reproductive health, especially if preventive measures become less accessible to vulnerable populations.
To further assess the potential risks to public health, DUBAWA sought the opinions of medical experts on how rising condom prices and reduced access could affect disease prevention, sexual health behaviours, and the capacity of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
We spoke to Okolo Patrick, a clinical microbiologist at Edo State University Iyamho Teaching Hospital, on the potential impact of rising condom prices and reduced access. He explained that, from a clinical and public health perspective, such changes would likely lead to a measurable increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, as well as unintended pregnancies in Nigeria.
According to him, condoms remain a primary and affordable prevention tool. When they become less accessible due to higher costs or limited supply, individuals are more likely to engage in unprotected sex, increasing the risk of transmitting infections such as HIV, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia. He added that even a slight decline in condom use across a population can significantly raise transmission rates over time, particularly in communities where infection rates are already high.
He noted that young people and low-income populations are especially vulnerable, as they often depend on free or subsidised condoms and may struggle to afford alternatives. This, combined with limited access to sexual health information and services, can worsen outcomes and lead to delayed treatment.
On how cost barriers affect behaviour, Okolo stated that rising prices influence not just access but also usage patterns. He explained that higher costs can reduce demand and even affect supply, while also pushing individuals toward risky practices such as reusing condoms or abandoning protection altogether.
DUBAWA also spoke with Andrew Edo, a Professor of Medicine and Consultant Endocrinologist at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, on the broader health system implications.
Responding to concerns about Nigeria’s healthcare capacity, he noted that a decline in condom use could place significant strain on the system. According to him, condoms remain one of the most affordable and widely accessible forms of protection, and any reduction in their availability or use would likely lead to an increase in cases of STIs and unplanned pregnancies.
He explained that such a rise would not only increase the burden on already stretched health facilities but could also undermine the effectiveness of ongoing public health interventions. More patients would require testing, treatment, and long-term care, particularly in the case of HIV, which demands sustained medical support.
Edo added that this trend could reverse the progress made over the years in HIV prevention, STI control, and reproductive health, especially if preventive measures become less accessible to vulnerable populations.
Nigeria signs Airbus agreement to boost aerospace industry
The Nigerian government has signed a partnership agreement with European aircraft manufacturer Airbus aimed at strengthening the country’s aviation and aerospace sector.
The memorandum of understanding was signed during a visit by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to Airbus headquarters in Toulouse.
Officials said the agreement is intended to support the long-term development of Nigeria’s civil aviation industry through investment in infrastructure, technical expertise and workforce training.
Under the partnership, Airbus will work with the Nigerian government on areas including aviation market analysis, pilot and engineer training, maintenance and repair operations, and broader aerospace development initiatives.
Mr Keyamo described the deal as a major step in the country’s efforts to build a stronger aviation ecosystem.
“We are deeply honoured to engage in a long-term partnership with Airbus,” he said. “This agreement aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to accelerating the development of Nigeria’s aeronautical ecosystem in all its dimensions.”
Gabriel Semelas, president of Airbus for Africa and the Middle East, said Nigeria was central to the future growth of aviation on the continent due to its large population and expanding economy.
He added that the partnership would focus on developing local talent and strengthening infrastructure to support long-term growth in the sector.
The agreement will also explore Nigeria’s potential role in the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), as the global aviation industry seeks to reduce carbon emissions.
According to Airbus forecasts, Africa is expected to require around 1,490 new passenger and cargo aircraft by 2044.
The continent is also projected to need more than 20,000 pilots and maintenance engineers, alongside thousands of additional cabin crew, to support future growth in air travel.
Nigerian officials say the partnership forms part of wider ambitions to position the country as a leading aviation hub in Africa, while creating jobs and expanding technical expertise in the aerospace sector.
The minister was accompanied on the visit by senior representatives from Nigeria’s aviation agencies, including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency.
By Eddie Saunders, ARGS
The memorandum of understanding was signed during a visit by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to Airbus headquarters in Toulouse.
Officials said the agreement is intended to support the long-term development of Nigeria’s civil aviation industry through investment in infrastructure, technical expertise and workforce training.
Under the partnership, Airbus will work with the Nigerian government on areas including aviation market analysis, pilot and engineer training, maintenance and repair operations, and broader aerospace development initiatives.
Mr Keyamo described the deal as a major step in the country’s efforts to build a stronger aviation ecosystem.
“We are deeply honoured to engage in a long-term partnership with Airbus,” he said. “This agreement aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to accelerating the development of Nigeria’s aeronautical ecosystem in all its dimensions.”
Gabriel Semelas, president of Airbus for Africa and the Middle East, said Nigeria was central to the future growth of aviation on the continent due to its large population and expanding economy.
He added that the partnership would focus on developing local talent and strengthening infrastructure to support long-term growth in the sector.
The agreement will also explore Nigeria’s potential role in the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), as the global aviation industry seeks to reduce carbon emissions.
According to Airbus forecasts, Africa is expected to require around 1,490 new passenger and cargo aircraft by 2044.
The continent is also projected to need more than 20,000 pilots and maintenance engineers, alongside thousands of additional cabin crew, to support future growth in air travel.
Nigerian officials say the partnership forms part of wider ambitions to position the country as a leading aviation hub in Africa, while creating jobs and expanding technical expertise in the aerospace sector.
The minister was accompanied on the visit by senior representatives from Nigeria’s aviation agencies, including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency.
Related story: Nigeria cuts airline debts to ease jet fuel crisis
Nigerian army says it rescued some children abducted from an orphanage last month
Seven children and two women abducted by gunmen at an orphanage last month in the north-central region of Nigeria have been rescued by troops, the country’s army said on Wednesday.
Authorities in Kogi state said gunmen attacked an Islamic orphanage that was operating illegally and abducted 23 pupils in an “isolated area” of Lokoja, capital of Kogi State, on April 26. Fifteen of those abducted were immediately rescued.
The troops intercepted and recovered the victims within a forest area in the state, army spokesman Hassan Abdullahi said in a statement.
“The rescued victims comprised five boys, two girls, and two adult females, believed to be the wives of the proprietor of the orphanage,” Abdullahi said.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. Armed groups attack schools and abduct students because they are seen as strategic in drawing attention and exacting huge ransoms, according to analysts. Several hundred students have been kidnapped across Nigeria.
Authorities in Kogi state said gunmen attacked an Islamic orphanage that was operating illegally and abducted 23 pupils in an “isolated area” of Lokoja, capital of Kogi State, on April 26. Fifteen of those abducted were immediately rescued.
The troops intercepted and recovered the victims within a forest area in the state, army spokesman Hassan Abdullahi said in a statement.
“The rescued victims comprised five boys, two girls, and two adult females, believed to be the wives of the proprietor of the orphanage,” Abdullahi said.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. Armed groups attack schools and abduct students because they are seen as strategic in drawing attention and exacting huge ransoms, according to analysts. Several hundred students have been kidnapped across Nigeria.
By Dyepkazah Shibayan, AP
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