Pulse Mix

In a bold move that resets the rules of engagement in the Nigerian banking sector, Sterling Bank has removed transfer fees on its digital banking platform, OneBank. This decisive move makes Sterling the first major Nigerian bank to forgo earning a cut from customer transactions on its own app.

The initiative marks a turning point in the industry and reflects the bank’s deep-rooted commitment to building a future where banking is affordable, accessible, and in tune with Nigerians' everyday needs.

Executive Officer of Sterling Bank, during a press briefing in Lagos. “For years, Nigerians have paid fees just to move their own money. We’re saying no more.”

Suleiman explained that the decision stems from years of digital transformation. The bank built a custom callback system capable of handling over five million customers and already processing more than 180 million transactions. It also migrated entirely from a legacy European core to a homegrown platform built for scale and deployed a private cloud environment with capacity well beyond current and future demand.

“We’ve engineered a platform that can support 50 times our current customer base without breaking a sweat,” Suleiman added. “It’s time to pass the benefits of that transformation back to the people.”

The zero-transfer-fee policy applies exclusively to users of OneBank, Sterling’s flagship digital app. New customers who sign up before April 30 will also receive a complimentary AfriGo debit card and lifetime access to fee-free transfers.

"This is more than a product update. It’s an economic statement,” Suleiman said. “We are taking sides with the customer, with the small business owner, with every Nigerian tired of being nickel-and-dimed by the system.”

Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive leading the Consumer and Business Banking Directorate, said the policy rewards loyal customers and invites new ones.

“We owe this to the customers who stuck with us through our transformation journey,” Ukachukwu said. “We are also opening the door to anyone ready to bank differently. If you join us in April, you’re family, so you get the same lifetime benefits.”

He added that Sterling’s next steps would involve layering on even more value in the months ahead, targeting both individuals and businesses with tools that improve financial wellbeing and fuel economic growth.

“We still bear a portion of the transaction costs, including fees payable to other banks. But we’re doing this because we believe it’s right. And if others in the industry follow suit, we all win,” Ukachukwu concluded.

Sterling Bank is a forward-thinking financial institution committed to transforming lives through innovative solutions, exceptional service, unwavering integrity and a steadfast focus on it’s HEART strategy.

As pioneers in digital banking and financial inclusion, Sterling continues to lead by example, proving that purpose-driven leadership can unlock transformative outcomes for individuals, businesses, and society at large.

#FeatureBySterlingBank

Sterling Bank takes sides with Nigerians… eliminates transfer fees

#FeatureBySterlingBank

In 2025, growing an authentic social media presence in Nigeria has never been more competitive. Whether you're an influencer, entrepreneur, or small business owner, visibility matters. With more Nigerians consuming digital content daily, standing out online is essential.

While organic growth is ideal, it can be slow and unpredictable. If you're looking to boost your online presence quickly, buying real and active Nigerian followers can help you gain traction, improve your credibility, and even attract brand deals. But not all follower services are created equal.

To help you make the right choice, we’ve curated a trusted 2025 list of the best sites to buy real Instagram followers in Nigeria, with a focus on authenticity, fast delivery, and safety.

<h2 style="text-align: start">Why Buy Nigerian Followers in 2025?</h2>

Best sites to buy real & active Nigerian followers (Trusted 2025 List)

The social media game has changed. Algorithms now favor accounts with high engagement and consistent growth. Buying followers, when done the right way, can give your page a much-needed push into trending territory.

However, the goal isn’t just numbers, it’s real people, real engagement, and real value. That’s why the sites listed below prioritize quality over bots and offer Nigerian-targeted followers that align with your brand.

Top 5 Trusted Platforms to Buy Real &amp; Active Nigerian Followers

<h3 style="text-align: start">1. The Owlet ⭐ Top Pick</h3>

If you're looking for the #1 platform for Nigerian creators, look no further. The Owlet is built specifically for African influencers and creatives.

<ul><li>100% real Nigerian users</li><li>Nigeria’s first-ever SMM platform since 2020</li><li>Fast delivery (often within minutes)</li><li>24/7 customer support</li><li>Money-back guarantee</li><li>Over 60 million orders completed</li><li>Add-on engagement options (likes, comments, shares)</li></ul>

Link up with The Owlet to kickstart your journey today!

🔗<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://the-owlet.com/"> the-owlet.com</a>

<h3 style="text-align: start">2. NaijaBoostsPlug</h3>

Known for its affordable tiered pricing and volume discounts, NaijaBoosts is great for those starting small or scaling big.

<ul><li>Packages range from 500 to 100,000+ followers</li><li>Nigerian-targeted audience</li><li>Optional auto-renewal for consistent growth</li></ul>

<h3 style="text-align: start">3. TheFastestBoost</h3>

This platform is all about speed and transparency. Once you place an order, you get real-time tracking of your follower delivery.

<ul><li>Multiple payment systems</li><li>Drip-feed feature</li><li>Delivery within 5–15 minutes</li></ul>

<h3 style="text-align: start">4. Cresthub</h3>

<ul><li>Boosts visibility on the For You Page</li><li>Transparent tracking dashboard</li><li>Refill guarantee on any drops</li></ul>

<h3 style="text-align: start">5. Validnumbers</h3>

Validnumbers takes a hybrid approach, blending Nigerian and international audiences for influencers seeking a global reach.

<ul><li>Combines local + global followers</li><li>Offers comment/like bundles for better engagement</li><li>Manual review for authenticity before delivery</li></ul>

<h2 style="text-align: start">What to Look for When Boosting Followers</h2>

Not all platforms are safe or effective. Here are a few must-haves when choosing where to buy:

<ul><li>Real Users Only: Avoid bots or fake accounts that could get you flagged.</li><li>Targeted Demographics: Local followers perform better for engagement and brand alignment in Nigeria.</li><li>Fast but Safe Delivery: Instant drops are cool, but steady growth looks more natural.</li><li>Customer Support: Reliable help if anything goes wrong.</li><li>Refund or Refill Policies: Safety nets matter in case of drops or delays.</li></ul>

<h2 style="text-align: start">What People Are Saying</h2>

“I used The Owlet to grow my fashion page, and I got over 5,000 Nigerian followers in less than a week. My engagement also improved. Highly recommend it!” – @stylebyoma

“NaijaBoostPlug helped me cross the 10k follower mark right before a brand collab. The process was seamless and real followers kept coming in after.” – @chefdayo

“Been stuck at 30k followers for over 2 years on Twitter till i discovered owlet online, i'm almost at 40k now and still growing. Tap into this grace asap<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://t.co/P5cFKKBgQc"> </a><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="http://the-owlet.com/">http://the-owlet.com</a>” – @AWholeSalmanPR

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Been stuck at 30k followers for over 2 years on Twitter till i discovered owlet online, i&#39;m almost at 40k now and still growing. Tap into this grace asap <a href="https://t.co/P5cFKKBgQc">https://t.co/P5cFKKBgQc</a> <a href="https://t.co/FHMx8DqN7U">pic.twitter.com/FHMx8DqN7U</a>&mdash; SALMAN👑 (@AWholeSalmanPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/AWholeSalmanPR/status/1895413951837642935?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Buying Nigerian followers in 2025 can be a game-changer, if done the right way. Whether you're just getting started or trying to level up, these trusted platforms offer safe, fast, and effective ways to grow your social proof.

That said, don’t just rely on numbers. Combine this strategy with quality content and genuine engagement to build a powerful online presence that lasts.

Ready to grow? Join thousands of Nigerian creators using The Owlet to grow their audience today. Link up with <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://the-owlet.com/">The Owlet</a> to kickstart your journey today!

#FeatureByTheOwlet

#FeatureByTheOwlet

Chocolate City Music today announced that Izere Imosemi Yeye-Agba, founder of ThrivemamaCare, has been named the recipient of its 2025 Built By Her Grant.

At the ceremony, which took place recently at Chocolate City headquarters in Lagos, Yeye-Agba was presented with N1 million to develop her innovative childcare platform further.

ThrivemamaCare emerged as the standout winner from a competitive field of over 200 applications submitted by female entrepreneurs across Nigeria. The platform provides a vital service by connecting mothers with thoroughly vetted, professionally trained nannies and domestic care providers, addressing a significant challenge for working parents.

"We are incredibly proud to support Izere's vision through our Built By Her initiative. ThrivemamaCare solves a critical need for working mothers and creates meaningful employment opportunities for caregivers. This dual impact made her application particularly compelling," said Ifeyinwa Anyadiegwu, Legal and Business Head at Chocolate City.

During her visit to Chocolate City headquarters, Imosemi received a comprehensive tour of the facility and engaged in detailed discussions with the company’s leadership. She shared her journey to founding ThrivemamaCare and outlined ambitious plans to scale the platform across more Nigerian cities.

Chocolate City awards N1 million "Built By Her" grant to Thrivemamacare

Explaining the impact of the grant, Yeye-Agba said, "This grant will help us improve our vetting processes and expand our training programs for caregivers. Our goal is to make quality childcare accessible to more families while empowering women on both sides of our platform."

The Built By Her Grant initiative, launched in January 2025, was created to identify and support female entrepreneurs demonstrating exceptional vision in music, media, fashion, tech, and adjacent industries. The program, which will continue to expand, reflects Chocolate City Music's commitment to fostering diversity and women's leadership in the creative economy.

Applications were evaluated based on innovation, scalability, social impact, and the founder's demonstrated leadership. The selection committee, composed of industry leaders and Chocolate City executives, conducted a rigorous review process before unanimously selecting ThrivemamaCare.

#FeatureByChocolateCity

#FeatureByChocolateCity

Chocolate City awards N1 million 'Built By Her' grant to Thrivemamacare

When Afrobeats meets Artificial Intelligence, magic happens, and Infinix leads that revolution. With the launch of its bold new NOTE 50 Series, the forward-thinking brand isn’t just raising the bar for smartphone performance.

It’s creating an entirely new way to interact with your device, powered by One-Tap AI and voiced by none other than global music icon Davido.

One Tap, One OBO: Where Tech Meets Culture

The NOTE 50 Series introduces Folax, Infinix’s intelligent AI assistant. But this isn’t your average robotic voice. In a world-first blend of pop culture and mobile tech, Folax speaks in the unmistakable voice of Davido, bringing his charm, charisma, and energy directly to your fingertips.

With a simple long-press of the power button, Folax activates instantly, ready to help you schedule meetings, send texts, search the web, or translate a conversation in real-time. But now, these everyday tasks are infused with personality. It’s functional, it’s familiar, and it’s proudly African.

Redefining the AI Experience with One-Tap Simplicity

The NOTE 50 Series was designed for more than just high performance, it’s about smart, seamless living. Here are some One-Tap AI features transforming how users experience their phones:

AI Noise Cancellation

Say goodbye to background noise during voice and video calls. Infinix’s AI Noise Cancellation filters out ambient sounds in real-time — whether you’re in a busy café or a noisy family gathering.

The system uses smart audio algorithms to isolate your voice and suppress everything else. One tap, and your conversations become clearer, smoother, and more professional - no headset needed.

Google Circle to Search

Ever seen something on your screen and wanted to know more about it without switching apps? Now you can simply draw a circle around any item on your screen, and let AI identify it instantly.

From products and landmarks to celebrities and objects, Google Circle to Search gives you results in real-time, powered by visual recognition and contextual search. It’s intuitive, fun, and incredibly efficient.

This powerful visual tool allows you to search the internet using any photo on your phone. Found a dress you love or a gadget you want? Just hold the power button to trigger Folax, and Infinix’s AI Image Search will find similar items, prices, and online stores.

Instantly identify, translate, or explore anything on the screen of your Note 50 Series device, from photos and text to real-time camera views. It’s great for shopping, travel, or curiosity-driven deep dives.

Real-Time Voice Translation

Need to talk to someone who speaks another language? Just tap and talk. Infinix One-Tap AI includes a real-time Voice Translation feature for seamless multilingual communication.

Whether you're traveling or chatting with someone who speaks a different language, Folax listens, translates, and speaks for you, in real-time, turning international conversations into smooth, stress-free interactions. Great for travel, international Zoom calls, or just impressing people at parties.

AI Call Summary &amp; Auto-Answering

This is one of those “why doesn’t every phone have this?” features. After a call, Infinix AI gives you a quick summary of what was discussed —key points, decisions, anything worth remembering. No more scrambling to write things down mid-call or ask, “What did we talk about again?”.

On a run, in the gym, or mid-meeting? Let Folax auto-answer calls and provide intelligent summaries afterward — so you never miss a detail, even when life gets busy.

AI Tools for Creatives

Writers, content creators, and voice artists will love the built-in AI suite, from text generation and image editing to voice-commanded content creation. With Davido as the voice behind it all, even your workflow gets a touch of star power.

Big Performance, Sleek Style

It’s not just about smart features, the NOTE 50 Series delivers serious hardware muscle too:

<ul><li>50MP OIS Night Master Camera: Shoot stunning night photos with AI RAW processing.</li><li>144Hz AMOLED Display: Ultra-smooth visuals with 1300 nits peak brightness.</li><li>Dual JBL Speakers: Studio-quality audio to match Davido’s sound.</li><li>XBOOST Gaming Mode: High-speed performance for immersive gameplay.</li><li>ArmorAlloy™ Build: The first full-metal frame phone under $500, with premium Damascus steel + aerospace-grade aluminum.</li></ul>

And yes, it looks as good as it performs. Choose from an array of fresh colors, including Titanium Grey, Enchanted Purple, and Mountain Shade.

How Infinix’s One-Tap AI & Davido’s voice are redefining digital lifestyle

Davido x Infinix: A Cultural Tech Moment

More than just a celebrity voice-over, this partnership represents something deeper — the fusion of innovation, music, and Nigerian excellence. With Davido as the voice of Folax, the NOTE 50 Series doesn’t just speak to you, it speaks for you.

The Infinix NOTE 50 Series is now available across all authorized retail outlets nationwide. It’s stylish. It’s smart. It’s accessible. And with Davido onboard, it’s in a league of its own.

Follow @infinixnigeria on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) for exciting updates and announcements.

#FeatureByInfinix

#FeatureByInfinix

The authenticity that comes with branded products in the endorsement of regulatory agencies is what stands them out from competing brands, even counterfeits. In Nigeria, the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, continues to take measures against counterfeit products for the well-being of Nigerians. The particular case of combating the sale and distribution of sub-standard, unbranded, and rewrapped monosodium glutamate (MSG) products comes to mind.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monosodium glutamate (MSG), also known as sodium glutamate, is a flavor enhancer that is widely used to promote/intensify and enhance savoury taste and flavors in sauces, meats, broths, soups, and many more foods. MSG is made by fermenting starch, sugar beets, sugar cane, or molasses. The fermentation process uses microbes that consume glucose, releasing glutamic acid. The glutamic acid is then neutralized and crystallized to produce MSG.

NAFDAC and the World Health Organization have classified MSG as a food ingredient that is safe and healthy for consumption. This has helped to bar many myths such as MSG causing severe headaches and other health challenges; also, that it's only found in Asian food, Conversely, most scientific evidence indicates MSG is safe for consumption in typical amounts and glutamate is a naturally occurring amino acid found in many foods we eat, including tomatoes, meat, fish, eggs, cheese, corns and nuts.&nbsp;

<h3>NAFDAC&rsquo;s Measures Against Unbranded MSG</h3>

In recent years, there has been a huge infiltration of some markets in the parts of Northern Nigeria with substandard, unbranded, and rewrapped MSG products which has led NAFDAC to implement painstaking measures.

Some of the measures include strict product registration requirements, rigorous market surveillance, consumer education campaigns, handheld technology for on-site testing (like TruScan), and the Mobile Authentication Service (MAS)&nbsp;which allows consumers to verify product authenticity through a unique scratch-off code and SMS verification.

All these measures are essentially to ensure all products are properly labelled and meet quality standards before reaching the market. Also to empower consumers to easily identify potentially fake products at the point of purchase.

Despite all of these thorough measures, unbranded and substandard MSG continues to flood the Northern market with health experts raising alarm over the impending health implications.&nbsp;

<h3>The Dangers of Unbranded MSG&nbsp;</h3>

Just as counterfeit products can be very dangerous to the health and safety of the customer, ingesting substandard, unbranded, and rewrapped MSG is unsafe, too.

It poses potential health risks in the use of second-rate materials or contaminated harmful substances that can cause serious health issues like liver and kidney damage to cardiovascular problems. Beyond the substandard quality is the unhygienic environment they are produced, stored and packaged; all of these points to serious health challenges.&nbsp;

The challenges of counterfeit products are not new in Nigeria, only that its rise has been alarming lately, with the overwhelming counterfeiting of medicines, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages- a very unfortunate situation that has raised serious concerns among health experts.

In 2024, it was reported that over N500m worth of fake drinks were seized in Lagos State, one can only imagine what must have happened in other parts of the country. The same goes for counterfeit medicines which had resulted in the deaths of many and closure of pharmaceutical stores nationwide.&nbsp;

The health risks of substandard and unbranded MSG begin with the fact that they are adulterated which can cause allergic reactions, organ damage in heart, kidney, and liver. It can also cause cancer due to the carcinogenic properties of some of the substandard materials used in their production. In all of these, the unsuspecting buyers are shortchanged because they are not getting real value and will also suffer severe health challenges causing harmful, and sometimes fatal, consequences.

<h3>The North and Unbranded MSG: Way Forward&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>

The huge infiltration in the Northern market needs to be seriously attended to, bringing all-hands-on-deck to save unsuspecting buyers. The objective will be to ensure the safety of customers and ensuring they get their money’s worth in the purchase of MSG. To achieve this, NAFDAC needs to double-down on these merchants of death who are selling unbranded and substandard MSG in the markets.

The war against these unbranded and substandard MSG should involve the Nigeria Customs because some of them are illegally imported and criminally distributed in the market. The sad part is that the merchants know these but greedily prefer to make profit at the expense of their fellow men’s well-being.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In as much as we can’t leave out the economic challenges which fuelled the purchase of these products, the health implications are grave enough to continually sensitise the public. From their uninviting sights in the marketplace to the unhygienic displays in uncovered sacks and tin cans for measurements or on trays in transparent nylons are pointers to the fact that they are unhealthy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Awareness should be created on the essence of quality above quantity with a message informing/educating on the purchase of branded MSG which comes in sachets and have NAFDAC approval- two factors that authenticate these brands.&nbsp; The various leading brands in the MSG segments too should pull their weight in this sensitisation campaign to save the industry because not only will it affect their revenues but also damage the image of their brands.&nbsp;

#FeaturedPost

#FeaturedPost

The unhealthy side of unbranded MSG

Over the last few years, Trendupp Africa has steadily built an undeniable reputation as the go-to platform and home for Influencers and Content Creators in Africa. The platform has been set as the stage for the movers and shakers of the digital space.

Trendupp Africa has done more than just observe the creator economy; it has consistently shaped it, and is now taking things a step further with the launch of Trendupp Africa Magazine—the first-ever print and digital magazine dedicated solely to Influencers and Content Creators on the continent.

The debut edition of the Trendupp Africa Magazine is everything the creator community has been waiting for; as the magazine dives deep into the world of African creators—unpacking trends, telling powerful origin stories, highlighting breakout stars, and featuring core insights from industry leaders and stakeholders.&nbsp;In this first edition, readers have explored the inspiring profiles of some of Africa’s most impactful digital voices.

It’s a showcase that reflects the spirit of a new generation of creatives who are redefining storytelling, influencing culture, and building community across the continent through content. The inaugural issue also offers brand and tech insights relevant to creators, monetization opportunities, and strategies for staying ahead in an ever-evolving digital landscape.&nbsp;

<blockquote>At Trendupp Africa, with audacious initiatives like the Trendupp Awards, TrenduppX and now Trendupp Africa Magazine, We are proud to continually invest in the creators economy while championing the culture of African creatives" says Tiwalola Olanubi, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Trendupp Africa Magazine.</blockquote>

One of the standout cover features of the inaugural edition is “Record Breakers,” a bold celebration of trendsetters who redefined limits in the year 2024. Beyond the headline-makers, the magazine also spotlights emerging voices across the continent; for their originality and promise among other elements. For brands looking to understand how to own the digital space organically, Trendupp Africa Magazine breaks down real collaborations and what makes the Creator Economy grow bigger.&nbsp;

This isn’t just a collector’s item though. Trendupp Africa Magazine is already crossing borders with a distribution footprint reaching up to 5,000 key touchpoints across Africa, including business hubs, airports, hotels, media lounges, and co-working spaces. Given the wide spread of distribution, brands are beginning to pay close attention; with more and more companies jostling for placement in the next editions—securing advertising slots, native placements, and features.

This is also a testament to the prolific effectiveness of Influencer Marketing in Africa. Corporate businesses now understand where attention is going, and they want to be in the same room as the creators who are shaping tomorrow’s audience.&nbsp;

<blockquote>“Influencers and content creators are shaping how brands connect with consumers, and how global audiences perceive Africa. They deserve to be documented, celebrated, and studied. This magazine does all of that—and more.” - Says Chisom Winifred (Editor of the Trendupp Africa Magazine)</blockquote>

Another exciting asset of Trendupp Africa is Trendupp Awards—Africa’s pioneer award for influencers and content creators. Now four editions strong, Trendupp Awards has become one of the most respected events in Africa’s digital community, recognizing and rewarding creators across multiple categories—from niche storytellers to mega influencers.

The awards have spotlighted talents who’ve gone on to achieve even greater heights and have cemented Trendupp Africa’s reputation as a platform that truly understands the creator ecosystem. Through the Trendupp Awards, thousands of nominations and votes have poured in from across the continent, showing just how powerful the creator community has become.

The awards have built bridges across industries—connecting creators with brands, platforms, and each other—and fostering a culture of excellence, impact, and collaboration.&nbsp;With the launch of Trendupp Africa Magazine, it’s clear that the mission has not changed.

Trendupp Africa is doubling down on its commitment to build, amplify, and celebrate the people who power the digital space.&nbsp;

Visit <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://trendupp.com/magazine/">www.trendupp.com/magazine</a> to get access to the digital copy of the magazine.&nbsp;

For media inquiries, interviews, or partnership opportunities, please contact: info@trendupp.com | 08163613526

Trendupp Africa Launches the First-Ever Magazine for Influencers and Content Creators in Africa

When Monkey Shoulder&rsquo;s Press Play rolls into a city, there are signs. The music is electrifying, the vibes are high, the glitz, the games, and the glam: the city lights up! This April, for the first time ever, the party hits Enugu, and the city is about to feel a difference

On Monday, April 14, Monkey Shoulder, one of the world&rsquo;s leading blended malt Scotch whisky brands, teamed up with In The Yard, the biggest monthly party series in the South East, to throw down a night that promises to be nothing short of iconic.

Set to take place at Base Landmark, Independence Layout, this edition marks the official Enugu launch of the Monkey Shoulder Press Play Concert: a live, interactive escape from the grind, built to deliver unforgettable moments of play, electrifying music, high-spirited games, twists and mixes of great whisky.&nbsp;

When Monkey Shoulder throws down, expect a lineup of DJ masterminds designed to keep the crowd moving. On deck for the night are DJ powerhouses like; DJ Consequence, Mazexmxtreme, Commissioner DJ Wysei, DJ Casper Sandra, (DJ Delrhita, and Big Swagz) with hype-man Slym Shady, Skye and Fresh and King Swagz on the mic, firing up the crowd from start to finish. And that's not all - the party will also feature show-stopping performances by Magixx and MJ the chart-topping "Manzi Nte" sensation from South Africa!

And, of course, it wouldn&rsquo;t be a Monkey Shoulder event without serious heat on the ground. It&rsquo;s not just about the music, we are talking games—competitive, heart-racing, type of games. Enugu, get ready to bring your A-game to the FIFA tournament for the Giant Tic Tac Toe, Basket Ball, snooker, and Jenga games, not just for the fun but also for the irresistible cash rewards. To celebrate this launch, the brand hints at providing a whopping 1 million reward for the FIFA Tournament.&nbsp;

Because fun is fun—but fun that pays? That&rsquo;s the catch!

Nothing bonds a group like shared first-time experiences. True to the Press Play vibe, the night will be packed with immersive experiences: delectable cuisine, engaging conversation, and, even more importantly, the monkey shoulder-infused cocktails. Whether you are a whisky pro or a curious first-timer, there will be plenty of Monkey Shoulder mixes to explore, sip and enjoy your way.&nbsp;

Enugu has never seen a party like the Monkey Shoulder&rsquo;s Press Play Concert, and you won&rsquo;t want to just hear about it later. The City is about to Press Play: Loud, bold, and unforgettable on a whisky-fuelled playground for those who know how to have fun.

Spaces are limited. The memories won&rsquo;t be.

Hurry now and secure your spot at <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://shopurban.co/events/3">https://shopurban.co/events/3&nbsp;</a>

Enugu, Ready to Press Play? Monkey Shoulder brings the Party South-East Style

What do you get when you mix cutting-edge AI, a trio of beloved Nigerian celebrities, and the universal love for mothers? A heart-melting Mother’s Day campaign that left thousands in joyful tears.

Driven by the insight that Nigerians deeply value emotional connections with their favourite celebrities, especially the joy of receiving a personalised message, Indomie intentionally created a meaningful experience this Mother’s Day using AI technology.

This further reinforces the brand’s commitment to fostering genuine emotional engagement with its audience and celebrating the powerful bond between mother and child.

Celebrities Say Your Name and Mum’s - Powered by AI

As a family-oriented brand that cares about the mother-child bond, Indomie lit up social media with AI-generated lip-sync videos of popular celebrities like Shaffy Bello, Bimbo Ademoye, and Asherkine.

These weren’t just generic greetings, they were dynamic, AI-enhanced messages that appeared as though each star was speaking directly to individual mums. The novel concept was designed to ensure every participant regardless of class, location, and ethnicity benefits.

The technology synched the celebrities' lips and voices perfectly with custom messages, making each clip feel authentic, emotional, and uniquely tailored.

Mothers’ Favourite Celebrities Meticulously Selected

After a rigorous selection, Shaffy Bello, the eldest of the charming trio, qualified to honour mothers with a heartwarming greeting on Mother’s Day. Without a doubt, the veteran actor who appeals to older mums embodies the essence of a premium, nurturing mother figure, aligning with Indomie’s brand and message.​

Similarly, Bimbo Ademoye, one of the most sought-after thespians in Nigeria today, commands an unarguable appeal to mothers who are avid followers of Nollywood films and she made it to the list by popular demand.

Interestingly, the only man on the list, Akinyemi Oluwaseun Omotayo, otherwise known by his showbiz moniker, Asherkine, was engaged for the role owing to the recognition of his philanthropic endeavors, resonating with audiences who value benevolent figures.​ Ultimately, the selection is aimed at ensuring everyone gets a sense of belonging throughout the entire experience.

Seamless Activation

Without much ado, participants simply entered their names and their mums’, and this was followed by the option to choose their favourite celebrities. In return, they received a video message where their favourite celebrity addressed their mother by name, praised her lovingly, and shared a heartfelt Mother’s Day greeting.

The result? A deeply moving and memorable experience that felt as personal as a handwritten letter, but powered by AI.

Fans Flood Social Media with Joy

The response was immediate and emotional. Across Instagram and Twitter, users couldn’t contain their excitement.

@i_amstillprecious shared, “I’ve done mine already and gotten my video. Thank you so much, ma. My mum would love this!”

@viv_carings_ng added, “It really works! I just made one for my Mum and Mum-in-law. Thank you.”

And perhaps most touching was @babyluv_23amazing, who said, “Thanks for making my mum feel special. She was so happy listening to you.”

These posts were more than just testimonials, they were proof that technology when used with empathy and cultural understanding, can spark real human connection.

Culture Meets Innovation

What set this campaign apart wasn’t just the novelty of AI, but how deeply it resonated with Nigerian cultural values, especially the importance placed on honouring mothers.

By using voices that mums already loved and recognised, the campaign fused local celebrity appeal with global tech innovation to create moments that felt intimate and real.

Whether it was Shaffy Bello’s regal tone, Bimbo Ademoye’s youthful warmth, or Asherkine’s cheerful energy, the AI-enabled messages allowed each mum to feel seen, heard, and celebrated, right from the heart.

A New Era of Personalised Celebration

Indomie’s AI-powered celebrity video messages didn’t just kick off Mother’s Day, they redefined what brand-led celebrations can feel like.

This campaign proved that personalisation, especially when enhanced by AI and culture, isn’t just a trend, it’s the future of emotional storytelling.

And if anything is clear, it’s that technology can do more than innovate, it can touch hearts.

#FeatureByIndomie

Indomie made Mother's Day unforgettable with Nigeria’s first AI-personalised celebrity video campaign

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Lagos, Nigeria – April 7, 2025 — Pulse, Africa’s leading innovative media company, has won the Best in Audience Engagement category at the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://wan-ifra.org/events/digital-media-awards-africa-2025/?pagetype=location">2025 WAN-IFRA Digital Media Awards Africa</a> for its leading audience-first content strategy, the User Needs Impact Project 360. The project was awarded for transforming Pulse’s approach to delivering more relevant, helpful, and engaging stories that truly serve the needs of young audiences across Africa.

Organised by the World Association of News Publishers (WAN-IFRA), the Digital Media Awards Africa spotlight the most innovative and impactful digital initiatives from newsrooms across the continent. The awards celebrate projects that push the boundaries of storytelling, deepen audience engagement, and advance the future of digital journalism.

After observing signs of content fatigue and declining engagement, Pulse Africa launched the User Needs Impact Project 360 — a bold, data-informed strategy rooted in the User Needs Model developed by Dmitry Shishkin, Ringier Media International CEO, overseeing all Ringier media brands in the CEE countries. By centering content around what the audience truly values and using intelligent tools to track performance across key metrics, Pulse achieved a significant boost in engagement across its digital platforms.

In the words of the WAN-IFRA judging panel:“The User Needs Impact Project 360 is a highly innovative approach to content creation, focusing on audience needs.”

The project has already delivered measurable results:<ul><li>A 66.49% increase in traffic to the lifestyle section</li><li>A 151.3% increase in engagement across social media platforms</li><li>Strong performance from tailored “Educate Me” and “Help Me” content formats</li><li>A newsroom-wide shift toward producing fewer but more valuable stories</li></ul>

Kanyinsola Aroyewun, Director of Marketing and Content Growth at Pulse Africa:“This award is a powerful validation of the work our teams across markets are doing to reimagine how we tell stories that matter. With the User Needs framework, we’ve moved beyond chasing trends to truly serving our audience. It’s about making every piece of content purposeful, relevant, and responsive to what people need from media today. I’m incredibly proud of the entire Pulse content team for their creativity, focus and dedication to this vision.”

The strategy has been fully integrated across Pulse’s operations in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire. It brings together editorial, social and video teams in a collaborative, insight-driven workflow that puts audience value at the core of content decisions. Pulse User Needs Impact Project 360 was featured on <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.journalism.co.uk/news/lessons-in-getting-started-with-user-needs-from-ringer-media-international/s2/a1213691/">Journalism.co.uk</a> as a case study in audience-first content innovation. The project continues to evolve through real-time data, audience insight, and ongoing team development.

In addition to this win, Business Insider Africa and Pulse Sports were named finalists in their respective categories. Business Insider Africa was recognised in the Best Use of Video category for its smart video strategy on TikTok, while Pulse Sports was a finalist for Best Relaunch of Digital Platforms for its fan engagement YouTube series, CrossFire. These recognitions further reinforce Pulse Africa’s commitment to innovation and excellence across all its brands.

For more information:<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://wan-ifra.org/events/digital-media-awards-africa-2025/?pagetype=participants">WAN-IFRA Finalists List</a><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://wan-ifra.org/events/digital-media-awards-africa-2025/?pagetype=participants">WAN-IFRA Winners List</a><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://pulse.africa/pulse-africa-wins-2025-wan-ifra-digital-media-awards-for-leading-audience-first-content-strategy-in-africa/">Read on Pulse Africa website</a><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/pulseafrica_wearepulse-activity-7315393200095944705-bdDd?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop&amp;rcm=ACoAABK7QkoBcqTSFpLdMvc6MoYfrvqBcGoFHa8">Read on Pulse Africa LinkedIn</a><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DIMPLO2M-5S/?igsh=MWE1MmQ5c3B0bjR1Zg==">Read on Pulse Africa Instagram</a><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UzNjqG_p3rN6oJXadhigfu0jQ_X12H1L/view?usp=sharing">View Award certificate from WAN-IFRA</a>

Pulse Africa wins 2025 WAN-IFRA Digital Media Awards for leading audience-first content strategy in Africa

Looking for your next binge? Showmax has you covered this April with an epic lineup of new and returning favourites. Whether you love action, drama, comedy, or family-friendly fun, there’s something for every mood.&nbsp;

Here’s what you need to add to your watchlist this month:

<h3>The Handmaid’s Tale S6 | First On Showmax | Wednesdays from 16 April</h3>

Set in a dystopian future, The Handmaid’s Tale follows June Osborne, a woman forced into servitude in the oppressive regime of Gilead, where women are stripped of their rights and treated as property. But June refuses to be broken. As the resistance against Gilead grows, Season 6 marks the final chapter in her fight for freedom, justice, and revenge.

Led by Elisabeth Moss, the Emmy-winning drama also stars Ann Dowd, Yvonne Strahovski, and Samira Wiley. With 15 Emmys under its belt and an 83% Rotten Tomatoes rating, this critically acclaimed series remains one of the most powerful and gripping shows on TV. And if you haven’t started the journey yet, Seasons 1-5 drop on Showmax from April 1.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyVDq2bQlnU&amp;embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fstories.showmax.com%2F">Watch the trailer</a>

<h3>THE WILD ROBOT | Stream from Sunday, 13 April</h3>

Imagine getting stranded on an island with no idea how to survive; now, imagine you’re a robot. That’s the story of The Wild Robot, based on the bestselling book by Peter Brown. Roz, a shipwrecked robot, must learn how to adapt to the wild, build friendships with animals, and even raise a lost gosling like her own child.

With a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and voice talents like Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, and Mark Hamill, this movie is a must-watch for both kids and adults.&nbsp;

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://tracking.us.nylas.com/l/702b85e085414c618b0bbd10aa30d421/3/3123dd1083370215f331772fc872e0799c4290e9947c673f714ac6ffb95d45cb?cache_buster=1742904525">Watch the trailer</a>

<h3>The Last of Us S2 | Mondays from 14 April</h3>

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