General News
Huawei Delivers Exclusive Samples of its Revolutionary Mate XT Smartphone to Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh, Chairman of Zinox Group

Huawei, a global technology leader, has introduced a revolutionary new masterpiece to its smartphone lineup—the HUAWEI Mate XT. This groundbreaking tri-fold phone launched in September earned Best Smart Phone globally.
Before its release, this disruptive gadget had over 8 million preorders. Even though the lowest specification unit’s official pricing was $2800, the price per unit for the privileged few who preordered and chose to sell owing to extreme scarcity and demand reached over $20,000 on the Chinese black market.
While international shipments may take some time, Nigeria is fortunate to have received three units of Huawei’s groundbreaking smartphone. Last week, senior representatives from Huawei presented a sample of this ultra-advanced handset to Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh, Chairman of Zinox Group and Konga Group, at the Zinox Group Corporate Headquarters, Yudala Heights, Victoria Island, Lagos. Mr. Ekeh had the honour of experiencing firsthand a device powered by analytics and AI designed to define the lifestyle of the modern 21st-century individual.
Huawei officials stated that this presentation to Mr. Ekeh was in recognition of his strategic contributions and pioneering role in Nigeria’s tech sector and, by extension, Africa’s digital transformation. Mr. Ekeh’s career includes his tenure as Microsoft’s Global Partner Advisor and his recent acknowledgment as Forbes Best of Africa’s Leading Tech Icon. He has earned numerous accolades for his visionary entrepreneurship and his role in transitioning Nigeria and other African nations from analog to digital democracy. His groundbreaking work encompasses innovations such as digital dispensing pumps, e-commerce platforms, WiMAX, wireless cloud solutions, and advancements in the health and educational sectors.
Expressing gratitude for being the first Nigerian to experience the device, Mr. Ekeh conveyed his appreciation to the Huawei team for this honour. He remarked on his prior interest in securing units of the handset but noted the high global demand and limited availability. Upon unpacking the smartphone in the presence of his guests and staff, Mr. Ekeh described the elegant device as a “testament to God’s definition of a new lifestyle.” He concluded by stating, “With this remarkable innovation, I feel inspired to strive for longevity, embracing the possibilities technology brings. Thank you, Huawei, for your incredible contributions to the industry. Our partnership will remain steadfast.”
Huawei Technologies, a global leader in telecommunications and electronics, has always been at the cutting edge of innovation, breaking boundaries with innovation. Known for its advanced technologies, Huawei aims to extend its dominance and challenge competitors like Apple. The launch of the Mate XT is part of its strategy to maintain leadership in the global smartphone industry.
The HUAWEI Mate XT, unparalleled in power and design, is truly a world-class device with an inverse dual-hinge design that allows it to fold in a unique “Z” shape. This feature enables the phone to transform between a traditional single-screen phone and a 10.2-inch triple-screen foldable device, providing flexibility for various uses. The OLED display measures 6.4 inches when collapsed, delivering exceptional clarity and colour. When unfolded, it offers users a larger, immersive experience perfect for multitasking or entertainment.
Equipped with 16GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB, the Mate XT ensures powerful performance, supported by Huawei’s in-house Kylin chips and an AI assistant for enhanced usability. The 5,600mAh battery powers the device, with fast charging options of 66W wired and 50W wireless, allowing users to stay connected on the go.
The device’s luxurious design and top-tier specifications come at a price starting from $2,800 for the 256GB model. Despite its high cost, the device has already garnered massive demand, with about 8m million pre-orders reported. In some cases, the Mate XT has been resold for up to $20,000 in China’s black market, highlighting its status as a highly coveted product.
Huawei’s partnership with TD Africa will make this groundbreaking device available to the Nigerian market. The collaboration between these two tech giants ensures that cutting-edge devices like the HUAWEI Mate XT are accessible to Nigerian consumers. In addition, shoppers will be able to purchase the Mate XT on Konga, Nigeria’s leading e-commerce platform, when it hits the market.
The exclusive presentation of the very first HUAWEI Mate XT in Africa to Leo Stan Ekeh highlights both his leadership in the tech industry and Huawei’s dedication to Africa. Together, they are paving the way for a future where cutting-edge technology is accessible to all.
General News
Prateek Suri CEO Maser Meets Zambia’s Education Minister to Propel Student Housing and Education Projects

Prateek Suri, CEO of MASER and recognized as the richest Indian entrepreneur in Africa, was welcomed this week by Zambia’s Education Minister, Hon. Douglas Munsaka Syakalima, for a high-level meeting in Lusaka that focused on student housing and broader education infrastructure initiatives.
The meeting, held at the Ministry of Education’s offices, opened with warm greetings and a presentation by Mr Suri detailing Maser’s plans to support Zambia’s rapidly scaling education sector. Suri, who led Maser to become Africa’s seventh unicorn, emphasized the company’s commitment to infrastructure that benefits students, educators, and communities across the continent.
Minister Syakalima underscored the urgency of addressing Zambia’s student accommodation gap, citing the country’s expanding net enrollment and the need for safe, affordable housing for tertiary students. Under his leadership, the Government has embarked on a bold infrastructure agenda: over 82 secondary schools already completed, 46 set to be finished in 2025, and 120 new institutions under construction, alongside 169 ECE hubs and 145 satellite centers to reach underserved areas.
During the meeting, Suri shared Maser’s vision for modern student housing built through public–private partnership models. He outlined a multi‑phase plan utilizing sustainable building design, digital infrastructure, and vocational training facilities integrated into these campuses. “Zambia’s youth deserve world-class learning environments,” Suri remarked. “Maser is prepared to leverage its experience to co-create impactful educational infrastructure.”
Minister Syakalima responded positively, stating, “We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with Maser. The CEO’s entrepreneurial success and the company’s commitment to Africa’s education development are exactly the kind of partnership we need to scale our infrastructure goals.”
Beyond housing, the dialogue extended to opportunities in blended learning, vocational skills, rural outreach, and digital inclusion. With Zambia implementing its forward‑looking 2023 Education Curriculum this year—including early childhood, primary, and Form 1 levels—the minister highlighted the need for supporting infrastructure at all levels to enable effective rollout.
Under Minister Syakalima’s tenure, the education sector has seen notable progress: 4,200 new teachers hired recently, bringing the total teacher workforce to over 40,000 in three years; strengthened focus on foundational learning via teacher training programmes like the “Catch Up Programme”; and ambitious expansion of school infrastructure across Zambia’s provinces.
Maser, co‑founded by Prateek Suri, transformed from an African startup in consumer electeonics and large infrastructure projects into a multi‑sector unicorn operating in real estate, renewable energy, mining and education technology. Its rapid rise and African focus have made Suri a leading figure in bolstering India–Africa economic relations.
As the richest Indian in Africa, Prateek Suri’s influence spans beyond business success—it represents growing bilateral investment aimed at credible, sustainable societal impact. His partnership with Zambia’s Ministry of Education signals a new era of cross-border collaboration in education infrastructure.
With both parties committing to inclusive planning and scalable implementation, the Maser‑Zambia dialogue could mark the beginning of transformative initiatives: from affordable student housing to cutting‑edge learning facilities, vocational training hubs, and digital classrooms.
In closing remarks on the significance of this dialogue, Suri stated, “Education infrastructure is the foundation for future growth. Our partnership with Minister Syakalima and the Government of Zambia is a testament to collective investment in youth, equity, and sustainable development.” Minister Syakalima echoed this optimism, saying that with strategic public–private investment, Zambia’s education sector is poised for a significant elevation.
This meeting lays the groundwork for collaboration that bridges government strategy and corporate innovation—ultimately aiming to empower Zambia’s students and accelerate national development.
General News
FirstBank Celebrates ₦1 Trillion Milestone in Instant Loans via AI-Powered Platforms

FirstBank, a leading financial institution and provider of financial inclusion services in West Africa, announces the achievement of ₦1 trillion in cumulative instant digital loan disbursements.
This accomplishment further consolidates the Bank’s reputation for innovation, leadership in financial inclusion, and commitment to customer empowerment within.
Since its inaugural digital loan in August 2019, FirstBank has developed an unconventional and robust digital lending ecosystem designed with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, to improve access to finance, especially to the high-risk customer segment.
The Bank created a multi- channel loan disbursement service that requires no collaterals, zero documentation and is void of human interactions. Through its FirstAdvance, FirstCredit and AgentCredit products, 1.5 million unique borrowers enjoyed instant and secure access to credit.
This is irrespective of whether they are salary earners, non-salary earners, or micro business owners. They also have the convenient options of accessing these loans through platforms such as *894# (FirstBank’s USSD service), FirstMobile, LitApp and the FirstMonie Agent App.
Regarding this milestone, Chuma Ezirim, Group Executive, e-Business & Retail Products at FirstBank, stated: “This success underscores our ongoing commitment to innovation and a customer-focused approach, which are central to FirstBank’s core values. Beyond achieving substantial figures, we remain dedicated to fostering opportunities for financial independence across Nigeria in particular, and in Africa at large.’’
He added, “We value the trust our customers place in us to support their financial aspirations. Our efforts to advance digital lending will persist, especially to the excluded and underserved customer segments, while effectively managing risks in the process.”
FirstBank currently disburses about N1 Billion daily in digital loans, demonstrating its commitment to fostering an inclusive, technology-driven future for Nigerians. By consistently investing in advanced technologies and developing customised financial solutions, the Bank seeks to improve the financial well-being of individuals and businesses across the nation.
General News
Mayor of London Commits to Deepening UK-Nigeria Ties in Tech, Creatives and Trade

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has successfully concluded his visit to Lagos, Nigeria, aimed at strengthening the UK-Nigeria economic relationship and celebrating the deep cultural ties, shared vibrancy, and global influence of two dynamic cities – London and Lagos.
This visit marked the growing importance of Nigeria as a key partner in the UK’s global trade and investment strategy, particularly in sectors such as fintech, innovation, and the creative economy.
Alongside the visit, the Mayor of London led a trade delegation of 27 London-based companies in fintech, enterprise technology, and sustainability, supported by the Mayor’s growth agency, London & Partners. Under the leadership of Howard Dawber OBE, Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth, the agency facilitated a series of high-level engagements in Nigeria.
The delegation connected with Nigerian policymakers, investors, and creatives through curated events aimed at fostering collaboration and unlocking new business opportunities across Africa.
This visit marked the first official trip by a sitting Mayor of London to sub-Saharan Africa, underscoring London’s commitment to building long-term, cross-sector partnerships that support inclusive growth, digital transformation, and cultural exchange.
Mayor Khan’s engagements in Lagos commenced with participation in a panel discussion at the “Bridging Borders: How London and Lagos Can Shape the Future of Global Tech” tech event where he highlighted how London and Lagos can jointly shape the future of global innovation and encouraged Nigerian tech businesses to invest in London.
The Mayor of London also attended the Lagos Canvas Reception, a celebration of Nigeria’s flourishing creative sector which he co-hosted with Mo Abudu at the Ebony Life place.
The reception celebrated the status of Lagos and London as cultural and creative industry powerhouses and looked to encourage even greater ties between the creative industry ecosystems in both cities.
From the arts to fashion, music and film – central to the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP) – which is expanding trade and unlocking new opportunities in the creative economy.
Wrapping up his visit to Lagos, Nigeria, the Mayor of London will continue his historic trade mission with stops in Accra, Johannesburg and Cape Town to bang the drum for the capital as a place for investment, innovation, and cultural exchange – strengthening ties with countries across the African continent for economic growth.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I am delighted to be visiting Nigeria and Africa this week – the first visit of its kind by a Mayor of London – to bang the drum for the capital and further develop the strong ties between our countries.
“Africa has the world’s fastest growing populations and is seeing major economic growth across many of its economies. Over the next decade there are huge opportunities to deepen partnerships with London. I will be working tirelessly throughout this visit to drive trade and investment across critical sectors including finance, education, health, tech creative and sustainability.
“Londoners of African heritage have played, and continue to play, a huge role in making London the greatest city in the world, and this trip is an opportunity to celebrate our shared heritage, history and culture with the African continent – as we build a better and fairer city for everyone.”
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter, said: “The Mayor of London’s visit underscores the UK Government’s commitment to strengthening economic and cultural ties with Nigeria. From trade to fintech and fashion, our collaboration is driving innovation and growth.
“Through the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, we’re committed to unlocking new opportunities that benefit both our economies, and this visit is a powerful step forward in that journey of inclusive growth.”
UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury, said: “Sir Sadiq’s visit marks an exciting moment for the UK’s relationship with countries across Africa and is a strong demonstration of our commitment to deepening our ties with the continent.
“Strengthening our trade, investment, and cultural ties is not only vital for shared economic growth, but also for fostering long-term partnerships that are rooted in respect and open up opportunities for all.”
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