TechPression

Author: Ibukunoluwa Bankole

  • CBEX breaks silence, says “no need to panic” in new video update

    CBEX breaks silence, says “no need to panic” in new video update

    Digital asset platform CBEX has finally responded to days of intense speculation and user panic, releasing a video statement on Saturday, April 12, aimed at quelling fears and addressing concerns surrounding its operations.

    In the video posted to its official X (formerly Twitter) account with the caption “CBEX is here to stay”,  the crypto trading company acknowledged that recent changes on the platform had sparked confusion and anxiety among users, especially regarding stalled withdrawals and communication gaps.

    “Hello, ST family. We trust all is well. We understand that recent changes to our platform may have caused concern for some of you,” a representative said in the video. “We’d like to take a moment to address these concerns and provide much needed clarity.”

    The company admitted that a lack of clear and accessible updates contributed to the public panic. While they claimed to have consistently posted announcements in Telegram groups—including updates about signal launches, Sunday bonuses, and Asian market expansion—they recognized that not all users read or understood these messages.

    Read also: CBEX crash fears: Nigerians cry foul, rush to company office amid withdrawal freeze

    “The feedback we’ve received shows that many people simply miss the updates. That’s why we’re here to simplify everything and reassure you that we remain fully committed to your success,” the speaker said.

    CBEX also emphasized its long-standing impact on users’ lives, citing testimonials of financial success like home ownership and business launches. “Over the years, many of you have bought cars, built homes, started businesses, and transformed the lives of your loved ones,” they said, adding, “This is just the beginning.”

    Looking ahead, the company promised to roll out communication improvements along with platform upgrades. “Yes, changes are coming. Yes, updates will be made, but there’s no need to panic,” they concluded.

    Meanwhile, CBEX appears to be going about their activities as usual, as the company has been posting its philanthropic works on social media in the past 24 hours.

    Background: Ponzi Fears and Rising Tension

    The update follows a turbulent week marked by allegations that CBEX may be operating as a Ponzi scheme. The controversy gained traction after popular X user @Letter_to_Jack raised alarm over someone who turned a $1,000 investment into $5,000, calling the platform’s model “too good to be true.”

    “People are cashing out steady with no losses. You know what that means? Easter, Ileya or Xmas,” he wrote, implying a collapse was imminent.

    By Friday, April 11, scores of users reportedly stormed the company’s Ikeja office demanding answers after facing withdrawal issues. CBEX’s X handle had denied any collapse, insisting the platform was still functional and that withdrawals would resume by April 15.

    With this latest video statement, CBEX aims to restore calm—but many Nigerians online remain skeptical.

     

  • CBEX crash fears: Nigerians cry foul, rush to company office amid withdrawal freeze

    CBEX crash fears: Nigerians cry foul, rush to company office amid withdrawal freeze

    Scores of aggrieved users stormed the Ikeja office of digital asset trading platform, CBEX, on Friday, demanding answers following fears that the platform may have crashed.

    The growing tension comes amid widespread concerns on X (formerly Twitter) that CBEX might be operating as a Ponzi scheme. While some users are crying foul over frozen funds, others remain hopeful that the situation will soon stabilize.

    The CBEX scare genesis

    On Wednesday, popular user Man of Letters (@Letter_to_Jack) raised eyebrows with a cautionary post detailing the experience of a user who invested $1,000 and reportedly withdrew $5,000 from CBEX.

    Related Post: Zap by Paystack offers fast and reliable bank transfers that land in destination accounts within 10 seconds

    “Having done all my checks, the platform flies all the flags of a Ponzi scheme,” he wrote. “People are cashing out steady with no losses. You know what that means? Easter, Ileya or Xmas.”

    He added, “For those who don’t understand, what I’m telling you is the crash is imminent; it’s better to use your money to play bet than to go into this. It’s at best a zero-sum game. You will cry.”

    The tweet quickly went viral, sparking heated debates on X. While some users interpreted it as a genuine warning, others misread it as an endorsement and rushed to invest.

    Panic as withdrawals stall

    By Friday, CBEX became a trending topic on X, with some users declaring the platform dead. Influencer @poojamedia tweeted:
     “Cbex is gone? RIP to all withdrawals.”

    Fears escalated as multiple users reported being unable to withdraw their funds, leading to growing anxiety and, eventually, physical protests at CBEX’s Ikeja office.

    Related Post: Little’s MySalary app offers employees instant access to wages

    Despite the panic, some users are standing by the platform. @BlessedAjoke tweeted in defence:
     “Cbex is still working perfectly just that you can’t withdraw until 15th of April. You people should stop spreading fake news. Stop giving people heart attack nah.”

    Skeptics and believers war with words

    User aust;n (@0kparam) lashed out at critics celebrating the platform’s perceived collapse.
     “Y’all are acting like cbex crashing makes you financial sages. Nah, it just makes you bitter haters… Ponzi, yen yen yen. Just stfu coward.”

    On the other side, users like Mazi Nathan (@rukky_nate) pointed out the risks of ignoring red flags.
     “MMM was a global Ponzi scheme that later crashed. Rackstelli was a local Ponzi scheme that also later crashed. CBEX had all the hallmarks of a Ponzi scheme but Nigerians are just too greedy with short-term memories,” he warned.

    CBEX denies collapse, offers hope

    Through its official X handle, @cbextrades, the platform continued to assure users that operations were ongoing and stable.

    “Today, the instructors from the Abeokuta office went outside the office, actively going door-to-door to promote the project and encourage people to participate in this great initiative,” one post read.

    “CBEX can never crash at all. We will forever stand strong. Don’t panic at all. Only those who haven’t been with us for long will panic and lose hope.”

    Another post stated:
     “Everyone should remain vigilant, avoid clicking on unfamiliar links, and never share your account password or verification code with others to prevent scammers from taking advantage.”

    And a final assurance added:
     “We aren’t running away with nobody’s money. Everything is in order. Cbex exchange will forever stand.”

    What’s next for CBEX?

    Despite CBEX’s attempts to manage the crisis, the uncertainty has left many users worried. With funds still inaccessible and the platform’s long-term viability in question, Nigerians are waiting for April 15 when the supposed date when withdrawals will resume, to see if their hopes or fears will be confirmed.

  • Morocco sets the stage for Africa’s digital future ahead of GITEX AFRICA

    Morocco sets the stage for Africa’s digital future ahead of GITEX AFRICA

    Morocco has reaffirmed its status as a digital powerhouse following a high-level press conference held on April 9 in Rabat, ahead of the third edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco. The landmark event, set to take place from April 14 to 16, 2025, in Marrakech, will host Africa’s largest technology startups.

    Organised by KAOUN International and hosted under the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the gathering signals Morocco’s strategic role as a gateway to Africa’s digital future. Backed by the Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform and the Digital Development Agency (ADD), the event highlights Morocco’s commitment to becoming a regional innovation hub and a central player in Africa’s transformation through technology.

    Investing in skills and infrastructure for Africa’s digital rise

    For Morocco, hosting GITEX AFRICA reflects the country’s commitment to a sustained national policy. 

    Related Post: Morocco, France boost green energy partnership with power link projects

    “Morocco’s choice to host this major continental event… is the result of rigorous and sustained work aimed at making our country a regional digital hub,” said Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform.

    She added that this is in line with the High Royal Guidelines to train skilled professionals in digital fields, strengthen responsible digital culture, and build infrastructure that meets global standards.

    Mr. Mohammed Drissi Melyani, Director General of the Digital Development Agency, also explained that “GITEX Africa Morocco has become a major annual milestone on the global tech agenda and a defining moment in the continent’s digital transformation. It seamlessly blends innovation, investment, research, and institutional collaboration, making it much more than a simple technology exhibition. It reflects the vision of a continent that no longer settles for consuming technology but is determined to create it—one that doesn’t just keep pace with innovation but plays an active role in steering its course.”

    Startups, funding and partnerships take the spotlight

    As Africa’s startup scene bounces back with over $2 billion in funding, investors are arriving in droves. More than 350 investors from 35 countries — including Techstars, Ventures Platform, and AFRICINVEST — will attend the event, backed by a combined $200 billion in assets under management.

    Related Post: Morocco’s cybersecurity lapses expose businesses and government to phishing, data theft

    The European Innovation Council and the International Finance Corporation are set to highlight African innovators, including 10 standout women-led startups from the IFC’s SheWins Africa programme.

    Adding to the excitement is the Supernova Challenge, Africa’s largest startup pitch competition, and the presence of Awa Gueye from Wave Mobile Money, one of Africa’s top fintech unicorns.

    Global tech giants and new nations join the digital conversation

    The 2025 edition will feature 1,450+ exhibitors, including global tech players like Cisco, Ericsson, Nokia, and Salesforce, alongside new entrants from Gabon, Niger, and Zambia. International delegations from Belgium, Switzerland, and Uzbekistan will also be participating for the first time.

    Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, described the moment as a turning point: “This third edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco shall usher the African economies into the epoch of AI evolution. Great opportunities for businesses and societies ensue, but first with the collective commitment to develop capacity for the transition.”

    Closing the gap: Challenges ahead for the digital agenda

    While the energy around Africa’s digital rise is unmistakable, there are still critical hurdles to address. From inadequate infrastructure in rural areas to digital skill shortages and fragmented regulatory systems, the path to a fully digital Africa isn’t without its obstacles.

    The success of events like GITEX AFRICA depends on sustained collaboration between governments, private investors, and educational institutions, to ensure the momentum benefits every corner of the continent.

  • Tech Breeze 2.0: Ajayi Crowther University gears up for Techpression’s innovation tour

    Tech Breeze 2.0: Ajayi Crowther University gears up for Techpression’s innovation tour

    Ajayi Crowther University is set to host the second edition of Tech Breeze, Techpression Media’s campus innovation tour, a fast-growing platform designed to empower young tech innovators and enthusiasts within Africa’s tertiary institutions ecosystem. 

    The event, scheduled for April 24, 2025, will take place at the Alakija Auditorium, bringing students face-to-face with leading voices in technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. 

    It aims to empower students with digital knowledge, entrepreneurial tools, and future-of-work insight, and is quickly becoming a landmark series for student innovators in Nigerian universities.

    Tech Breeze 1st edition

    This edition follows the highly successful Tech Breeze 1.0, held at Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) on March 20, 2025. The inaugural edition attracted over 1,000 enthusiastic students and featured engaging sessions led by experts across various tech fields, setting the tone for what promises to be an even more impactful outing at Ajayi Crowther University.

    Read also: Techpression brings Tech Breeze to JABU, unveiling opportunities for students in AI and digital innovation

    Line up for Tech Breeze 2.0

    Tech Breeze 2.0 will feature keynote sessions, panel discussions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities, all aimed at helping students access the tools, trends, and mentorship they need to succeed in today’s digital-first world.

    Themed “Empowering the Next Generation of Tech Innovators,” the Ajayi Crowther edition is set to explore core focus areas such as emerging technologies, innovation and entrepreneurship, career development, and mentorship.

    According to Oke Araino the project manager for the tour, the success of the maiden edition has created a blueprint for impact, which will be amplified at Ajayi Crowther.

    “We saw incredible energy and engagement at JABU, and we’re building on that,” Araino said. “Tech Breeze is gradually becoming a movement to help students see themselves as creators and enablers, not just consumers of technology.”

    Past participants of Tech Breeze described the experience as transformational, citing access to industry experts, job readiness tools, and practical sessions as key takeaways.

    With a blend of learning, mentorship, and connection to opportunity, Tech Breeze is poised to become a signature initiative in student-led digital transformation.

    To participate or inquire about sponsorships and partnerships, interested individuals can contact Arain+234 707 481 5182  or email araino.oke@techpression.com and info@techpression.com 

  • China-Africa tech alliance expands with focus on AI, agriculture

    China-Africa tech alliance expands with focus on AI, agriculture

    Africa is set to benefit from increased cooperation with China in science and technology as the 2025–2027 action plan from the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) enters its implementation phase. The collaboration aims to enhance digital infrastructure, agricultural modernisation, and the digital economy across the continent, with a strong emphasis on vocational and STEM education.

    Boosting AI skills through training and exchange

    Dennis Munene, Executive Director of the China-Africa Centre at the Africa Policy Institute, said China is providing technologies that could help Africa tackle climate-related challenges, such as drought-resistant agriculture. He highlighted the role of China-supported Luban Workshops in training African youth to build homegrown artificial intelligence (AI) solutions.

    Read Also: Beyond Limits to host DICE3.0, connecting Africa’s tech and business leaders

    “Through Luban Workshops, a China-assisted vocational training program, the continent will be able to train many young people on how to develop homegrown AI tools that are going to solve some of the challenges that the continent is grappling with,” Munene said.

    He encouraged African youth to leverage scholarship opportunities and visit China to gain firsthand AI experience.

    Learning from China’s low-cost innovation

    China’s AI industry, led by startups like DeepSeek and Moonshot AI, is attracting global attention. Munene noted that these platforms are reshaping narratives around the cost of building AI models.

    “DeepSeek has demystified the narrative that developing AI models is costly,” he said, urging African developers to study China’s model and replicate its success.

    Xn Iraki, associate professor at the University of Nairobi, added that Africa could learn from China’s research and development trajectory and apply those lessons from early education through to the university level.

    Structuring education to drive tech progress

    James Shikwati, Director of the Inter Region Economic Network, said Africa’s youthful population presents a strong advantage—but only if education systems are modernized.

    “Africa should rethink its education system so as to make sure that we give our youth proper education that can align with the unfolding new world order,” Shikwati said.

    He called for stronger public-private partnerships between African and Chinese tech sectors to promote science and technology knowledge exchange. Shikwati added that partnerships focused on co-creating context-driven solutions could help the continent unlock value from its mineral resources and improve competitiveness in the global market.

  • AFDEIC 2025 to spotlight AI, digital infrastructure gaps and inclusive innovation in Africa

    AFDEIC 2025 to spotlight AI, digital infrastructure gaps and inclusive innovation in Africa

    As Africa’s digital economy gains momentum, stakeholders are gearing up for the 2025 African Digital Economy & Inclusivity Conference (AFDEIC), scheduled to hold in Abuja from August 12 to 14. The event, themed “AI and Africa’s Digital Economy: Leaving No One Behind,” will focus on the intersection of artificial intelligence, broadband access, digital financial inclusion, and cybersecurity—areas seen as critical to unlocking the continent’s economic potential.

    Addressing access gaps in Africa’s digital ecosystem

    Despite major strides in fintech, e-commerce, and AI-driven tools across the continent, millions remain excluded due to limited internet access. A 2022 report by the International Telecommunications Union revealed that “73 percent of rural Africans lack internet access,” a barrier that continues to limit participation in digital financial services and online education.

    AFDEIC organisers noted that these gaps represent more than a technological challenge—they threaten the equitable distribution of economic opportunities.

    “AFDEIC, the pan-African digital economy conference, is not just a dialogue but a gathering where stakeholders will develop actionable solutions that address Africa’s digital challenges and unlock the continent’s potential for socio-economic achievement through inclusive policies,” they said in a statement.

    Nigeria’s digital economy outlook and challenges

    Nigeria continues to be a key player in Africa’s tech landscape. With support from government initiatives like the National Digital Economy Policy, the country has seen growth in broadband access and fintech innovations. However, significant gaps remain, especially in rural areas.

    “Though increasing internet penetration strengthens Nigeria’s position as a leading digital hub in Africa, a 2024 study by GSMA also reported that 61 percent of rural Nigerians remain disconnected from mobile internet,” the organisers stated.

    Read Also: How Web3 transcends crypto to solve real-world problems – Vincent Li

    Adedayo Oketola, team lead of the AFDEIC organising committee, described the conference as a pivotal platform for closing those gaps.

    “AFDEIC 2025 would be a defining moment for Africa’s digital economy, offering stakeholders an opportunity to engage with policymakers, explore AI’s role in economic inclusion, and forge strategic partnerships that could drive investments in digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and fintech,” he said.

    Solutions-driven sessions and collaboration opportunities

    This year’s event will feature high-level sessions on AI ethics, blockchain applications, digital identity systems for trade, and inclusive digital workforces. According to Oketola, cybersecurity will also be a key focus.

    “Addressing these threats requires comprehensive strategies that include robust legal frameworks, capacity building for cybersecurity professionals, and fostering a culture of digital security awareness,” he explained.

    Marketing lead Adetoun Tade added that AFDEIC would serve as a hub for exploring how emerging technologies are transforming sectors across the continent.

    “AFDEIC is where to stay ahead of digital trends that will define Africa’s economic future,” she said.

    Startups, investors, and corporate players interested in showcasing innovations or exploring digital investment opportunities are encouraged to participate.

  • How Web3 transcends crypto to solve real-world problems – Vincent Li

    How Web3 transcends crypto to solve real-world problems – Vincent Li

    Web3 is transforming both global systems and local realities, enabling new ways to own, trade, and build trust through decentralised technologies. From tokenized real estate to inclusive digital finance, it is a tool for real-world change. 

    Vincent Li, a Founding Partner at Adaverse, is at the forefront of this shift. An investor, builder, and former NASDAQ-listed media entrepreneur, Li has backed over 60 Web3 startups across 13 countries, including 40 in Africa. In this interview with Techpression, he unpacks how Web3 is reshaping industries and why Africa is poised to lead its next evolution.

    What is Web3, and why does it matter?

    Web3 is fundamentally about creating a more decentralised internet where users have greater ownership and control. Having grown up with Web1 and started my career in Web2 as a product manager, I’ve witnessed the internet’s evolution firsthand. Web3 leverages blockchain technology to build trust and transparency into digital interactions, allowing for direct peer-to-peer transactions without intermediaries. It matters because it addresses many limitations of our current internet infrastructure, particularly in areas requiring trust, transparency, and user ownership.

    One of the most exciting parts of Web3 is how it’s bringing real-world asset tokenization onto the blockchain. What kind of impact is this having on industries globally?

    Real-world asset tokenization is revolutionising how we represent, transfer, and manage value. It’s essentially bringing physical assets onto the blockchain, making them more accessible, divisible, and liquid. In Saudi Arabia, for example, we’re seeing promising applications in sectors like real estate and finance. 

    Read Also: Bridging gaps and driving innovation: Highlights from Tech Unite Africa 2025

    At Adaverse, we’ve invested in companies like House Africa, which is transforming land registration in Nigeria by implementing Web3 technology, moving directly from paper records to digital on-chain verification. This demonstrates how tokenization can solve real problems like property verification and ownership disputes.

    We often hear about blockchain and crypto, but what are some real, tangible use cases of Web3 you’ve seen so far?

    Beyond cryptocurrencies, we’re seeing meaningful applications across multiple sectors. In the Middle East, we recently invested in Takadao, which uses blockchain to provide secure and efficient halal insurance and financial services globally. Another example is Grintafy, a sports tech company we’re supporting in its Web3 transformation to enhance user experiences through blockchain technology. These companies are solving tangible problems rather than simply riding the blockchain hype.

    There’s a lot of noise in the Web3 space. In your view, how can we tell the difference between projects that are truly innovative and those that are hyped? 

    I believe the key is focusing on solutions that address real-world problems. At Adaverse, we prioritise founders who leverage blockchain and Web3 technologies to tackle genuine challenges. It’s important to distinguish between blockchain technology with its problem-solving applications and potential misuses like cryptocurrency speculation. As Chris Dixon explains perfectly, it’s the difference between “the computer and the casino.” The most promising projects are those creating actual utility rather than just speculative value.

    Let’s shift to Africa now. There’s so much potential here. How can Web3 really make a difference for unbanked and underbanked communities across the continent?

    Africa presents unique leapfrogging opportunities, similar to how the continent bypassed laptops for widespread smartphone adoption. Web3 can provide financial services to those excluded from traditional banking through digital wallets, microloans, and peer-to-peer transactions. For example, Mithu App addresses challenges in the loyalty program market, where customers struggle to manage multiple programs, leading to billions in expired points annually. Similarly, UmrahCash simplifies currency exchange and money transfers for migrant workers and religious visitors, providing a secure and transparent platform that bypasses costly informal networks.

    You’ve backed over 40 African Web3 startups. Can you share some success stories of African startups integrating Web3?

    House Africa stands out as a prime example, revolutionising land registration in Nigeria by implementing Web3 technology. They’re moving directly from paper records to digital on-chain verification, solving the persistent problem of land disputes and ownership verification. Through Adaverse, we’ve invested in approximately 40 African Web3 startups across the continent, many of which are creating innovative solutions in sectors like finance, agriculture, and identity verification. These startups are demonstrating how blockchain can address uniquely African challenges.

    But even with all this innovation, digital literacy and internet access remain a challenge. How are you and your team helping address this gap? 

    This remains a significant challenge, but we’re tackling it through education, community building, and strategic investments.

    In the past, we made many efforts as Adaverse – we launched Startup School, a program designed for African entrepreneurs, featuring weekly educational webinars led by industry experts. We also created the BuildUp Africa podcast to spotlight innovative Web3 solutions and bridge the knowledge gap for young entrepreneurs. 

    Read Also: Binance Wallet to host 8th exclusive token generation event with StakeStone

    Eventually we decided it was more strategic to focus our resources on venture building, so we paused the podcasts, for example; however, our commitment to education remains strong. Today, we actively support dozens of startups in growing their communities and are investors in  Nodo a key player driving digital education forward.

    Bridging this gap requires a collective effort, and we’re dedicated to playing our part in shaping a more inclusive digital future.

    Looking ahead, what’s your vision for Africa if it fully embraces Web3 in the next few years?

    I envision Africa becoming a global leader in practical Web3 applications. The continent has already demonstrated its ability to leapfrog outdated technologies, and I believe we’ll see similar patterns with Web3 adoption. In the next three to five years, I anticipate significant progress in mass adoption of Web3 technologies across finance, payments, retail, and entertainment. With the right support and regulatory frameworks, Africa could develop unique blockchain-based solutions that address its specific challenges while creating new economic opportunities.

  • Deaf Animator Adijat wins Miss Humanity at Exquisite Queen Nigeria pageant

    Deaf Animator Adijat wins Miss Humanity at Exquisite Queen Nigeria pageant

    When 26-year-old Adijat Adebayo stepped into the Exquisite Queen Nigeria World 2025 competition, she wasn’t seeking sympathy. She came with a vision to challenge outdated norms in education and beauty. On March 30 at the grand finale, she walked away with the Miss Humanity crown and a renewed commitment to uplift deaf teens across Nigeria.

    A graduate of the Federal College of Education, Oyo, Ms. Adebayo is deaf. She is also an animator, advocate, and founder of DEAFign Animation Academy, a budding initiative that aims to equip deaf teenagers with animation skills while producing instructional materials tailored to their academic needs.

    “This achievement isn’t just my personal triumph,” Ms. Adebayo said after her win. “It’s a victory for representation and a powerful statement that diversity enriches rather than diminishes the pageant experience.”

    Adijat’s journey from quiet classrooms to a national stage

    Her journey began far from the runway—in classrooms where deaf children often struggle due to the absence of accessible learning tools. Frustrated by the lack of resources, Ms. Adebayo envisioned a platform where creativity could meet accessibility. DEAFign Animation Academy, her proposed social venture, was born from that desire.

    The pageant, which spotlights women with a passion for advocacy, offered her a chance to bring the idea to light. Despite being the only deaf contestant, Ms Adebayo actively participated in all activities and challenges. Her project earned the Best Advocacy Award and drew praise from both judges and audience members, many of whom pledged support.

    “Being selected as a contestant was a life-changing privilege,” she recalled. “What made this experience particularly valuable was the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with diverse individuals across the pageant industry – from fellow contestants to mentors and audience members.”

    Campaigning for change for the deaf with a strong team

    Integral to her success was the support of Light Work Media House Ltd. who championed her media publicity. Ms. Rukayat Sulaimon, the media house’s campaign lead and coordinator of the When The Signs Align campaign, highlighted the pivotal role Lightwork Media played in preparing and promoting Ms. Adebayo’s participation.

    “From the moment she arrived at camp, it felt surreal,” Ms Sulaimon said. “Watching her connect with other contestants and later win the Miss Humanity title validated months of work and underscored the importance of inclusion.”

    Read Also: MTN Nigeria calls for applications to 2025 Media Innovation Program for journalists

    Ms. Sulaimon explained further that the “momentous win serves as a powerful validation of our ‘When The Signs Align’ campaign’s mission to promote inclusion.” She emphasised that embracing diverse beauty standards in pageantry goes beyond appearance as it represents empowerment for individuals with disabilities and underrepresented communities, shifting societal views and encouraging inclusivity, which ultimately reshapes the future of beauty and self-representation.

    A platform beyond pageantry

    For Ms. Adebayo, the crown is just the beginning. As she builds out DEAFign Animation Academy, she hopes to amplify awareness about the educational needs of the deaf community and help deaf teens visualize futures in tech and creative media.

    “This crown represents everything I stand for, and that is compassion, inclusivity, and breaking barriers,” she said. “The journey has just begun, and I’m excited to use this platform to inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles.”

    Her story, far from being one of pity, is a testament to what’s possible when purpose meets preparation and when inclusion is not a gesture but a mission.

    About Exquisite Queen Nigeria World Pageant

    The Exquisite Queen Nigeria World competition is an annual beauty pageant that celebrates both the external and internal qualities of women. Contestants are chosen not only for their physical attributes but for their passion, purpose, and the causes they champion.

    This year’s competition was marked by an exceptional display of diversity and inclusion, with Ms. Adebayo making waves not only for her inspiring advocacy but also for her overall performance. The event featured a series of activities that tested the contestants’ intelligence, grace, and social impact. Each contestant shared her personal mission, showcasing the substance behind each woman’s purpose.

    While Adijat Adebayo took home the Miss Humanity title for her work advocating for the deaf community, the evening also crowned a new queen, Ms. Mercy Babajide, representing Ekiti State, as the new Exquisite Queen Nigeria World. With her victory, she now has the honor of representing Nigeria at the upcoming Miss Aura International 2025 pageant in Turkey this May.

  • Beyond Limits to host DICE3.0, connecting Africa’s tech and business leaders

    Beyond Limits to host DICE3.0, connecting Africa’s tech and business leaders

    Beyond Limits is set to host the third edition of Digital Innovation and Creative Excellence (DICE) 3.0, an exclusive networking event aimed at fostering connections between Africa’s business and technology sectors. The event, themed “Scaling Right: From Market Entry to Market Leadership,” is scheduled for April 3, 2025, in Lagos and will bring together founders, investors, corporate executives, and policymakers to drive cross-border partnerships and sustainable business growth.

    A platform for strategic business expansion

    Building on the success of previous editions, DICE 3.0 offers a carefully curated space where industry leaders can explore strategies for scaling their businesses across African markets. Organisers emphasise that this year’s discussions will focus on helping companies transition from new market entrants to dominant players by addressing regulatory challenges, optimizing operations, and leveraging technology for expansion.

    Participants will engage in in-depth conversations on overcoming economic barriers, forging key alliances, and identifying market-specific opportunities that can drive long-term growth. With Africa’s digital economy evolving rapidly, the event seeks to create actionable pathways for businesses looking to navigate the complexities of regional and global expansion.

    Read also: Tanzanian startup Sumet Technologies raises $1.5 million to optimise FMCG distribution across Africa

    Key voices shaping the conversation

    DICE 3.0 will feature influential leaders from both the public and private sectors. Expected speakers include Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole; Acting Consul-General of the US Consulate General in Lagos, JoEllen Gorg; and Switzerland’s Consul-General in Lagos, Frank Eggmann. Other notable names include Barbara Lehninger, Head of Advantage Austria in Nigeria, Tayo Oviosu, CEO of Paga, and Deepankar Rustagi, CEO of OmniRetail.

    A key highlight of the event will be the Diplomatic Leaders Panel, where international representatives will share insights on how businesses and policymakers can navigate trade barriers, foster economic ties, and tap into new global markets. Discussions will showcase success stories, case studies, and policy recommendations that have worked in other regions, offering practical strategies for African businesses seeking international expansion.

    Driving collaboration and sustainable growth

    Speaking ahead of the event, Dr Juliet Ehimuan, founder and CEO of Beyond Limits, emphasised the importance of collaboration in shaping Africa’s economic future.

    “Progress is not built in isolation. The most transformative ideas emerge when leaders, visionaries, and changemakers unite across borders, industries, and perspectives to drive meaningful action. DICE 3.0 is designed to facilitate these essential connections and knowledge sharing, enabling Africa’s innovators to scale across the continent and establish themselves as global market leaders.”

    Despite the rapid growth of Africa’s tech ecosystem, its overall economic impact remains disproportionately low compared to global counterparts. DICE 3.0 seeks to bridge this gap by creating an environment where businesses can form meaningful partnerships, gain access to critical resources, and develop sustainable business models that can thrive both locally and internationally.

    Exclusive access and media partnerships

    DICE 3.0 remains a strictly invitation-only event, ensuring a high-level gathering of decision-makers and industry influencers. However, professionals and entrepreneurs eager to gain insights from the event are encouraged to visit Beyond Limits DICE for updates and key takeaways.

  • Techpression brings Tech Breeze to JABU, unveiling opportunities for students in AI and digital innovation

    Techpression brings Tech Breeze to JABU, unveiling opportunities for students in AI and digital innovation

    Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) was abuzz with innovation as Tech Breeze, the maiden edition of the Techpression Campus Innovation Tour, took centre stage on Thursday. Students, faculty, and industry professionals gathered for an event that underscored the importance of technology in today’s fast-paced world.

    Read also:  Tech Breeze set to debut at JABU, igniting innovation among students

    A call to embrace technology in all fields

    In his keynote speech, JABU’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Olaosebikan Alade Fakolujo, emphasised the rapidly evolving nature of technology and the need for students to stay ahead. He urged attendees to seize the knowledge shared at the event, remain innovative, and adapt to emerging trends.

    Appreciating Techpression for choosing JABU as the launch site for Tech Breeze, Fakolujo stressed the institution’s commitment to preparing students for the future.

    Honourable Akinkunmi Akintayo, National President of the JABU Alumni Association, echoed this sentiment. He highlighted the landmark nature of the event and the association’s decision to partner with Tech Breeze to ensure students and staff are equipped with the latest technological insights.

    Insights on AI, finance, and the future of tech

    Throughout the event, speakers delved into key discussions on integrating technology across industries. They explored how students, regardless of their discipline, can leverage tech to enhance their careers. Conversations covered a range of topics, including the rise of artificial intelligence, the digital transformation of healthcare, particularly in surgeries and data collection and other medical processes. The role of financial intelligence in maximising tech for personal and professional growth were also emphasised.

    The discussions extended beyond students, with speakers emphasising that even university staff must embrace technology to enhance their professionalism. They noted that from administrative work to teaching methodologies, integrating digital tools is essential for efficiency and relevance in today’s world.

    Adewunmi Adeyemi Irekandu, a member of the Osun State House of Assembly, further emphasised the significance of technological literacy. He encouraged students to embrace continuous learning, maintain integrity, and recognize that even governance is becoming increasingly tech-driven.

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    Engaging students through innovation and rewards

    Beyond the insightful discussions, Tech Breeze created an interactive experience for attendees. Thanks to event partners MTN and SIMBA, students had the opportunity to win various gadgets through online participation. This initiative reinforced the event’s core message which is that active engagement with technology is the key to unlocking opportunities.

    The excitement among students was palpable, as many expressed their eagerness to apply the lessons learned. From learning new digital skills to considering careers in tech-related fields, the event left attendees inspired to take actionable steps towards their professional and personal growth.

    With Tech Breeze successfully kicking off at JABU, the conversation around technology adoption, AI, and digital transformation continues to gain momentum. As the Techpression Campus Innovation Tour moves to other institutions, it aims to bridge the gap between students and the ever-evolving tech landscape, ensuring they are well-equipped for the future.