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Silicon Valley-based Founder Institute Launches Newest Chapter in Abuja

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The Founder Institute, the world’s largest pre-seed accelerator, has announced that it is officially launching its newest chapter in Abuja, Nigeria. With plans to run two semesters annually, the Founder Institute aims to launch over 20 meaningful and enduring technology companies per year in Abuja.

Applications to the program are open now, and anyone interested in working with Abuja’s top startup mentors to launch a technology company is welcome to apply to the Abuja Founder Institute.

In order to celebrate the launch, the Abuja Founder Institute will host a series of free startup events for the general public, where attendees can learn how to build a company and learn more about the program.

For aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs up to the challenge, the Founder Institute’s step-by-step program provides the structure, mentor support, and global network of entrepreneurs needed to start an enduring company.

The Founder Institute is the only program of its kind that focuses on people versus ideas, accepts founders with day jobs, and shares equity with all participants.

Founder Institute Graduate companies include fast-rising startups across 6 continents like Udemy, Realty Mogul, Zowasel, Limestart, Rentit, Athlst and many more.

In addition, the Abuja 2020 program will include the Founder Institute’s newest company-building curriculum suitable to address the needs of advanced founders (MVP stage) as well as aspiring new entrepreneurs at the idea-stage – a project just released this year in collaboration with hundreds of startup leaders across the globe.

The Abuja Chapter will once again be led by local startup leaders Abdulrazaq Ahmed (Founder, Work and connect Hub), Christian Ndubisi. (Co-founder, 42 NG), Fisayo Olabisi (CEO, TukioKonsults), Mohammed Ibrahim Jega,(Founder, StartupArewa).

According to Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata Jnr. Regional Director, Founder Institute, “Startups in Abuja now have the unique opportunity of joining other startups in various other cities across the globe to benefit from FI’s hard-core, time tested curriculum and global network.”

Mentors who have expressed interest in helping Abuja Founder Institute participants include:
● Abdul Hakeem Ajijola: Chairman, Consultancy Support Services (CS2) Ltd
● Afolabi Imoukhede: CEO, MCS Consulting Limited
● Aituaz Kola Oladejo: Executive Director, Financial Services Innovators (FSI)
● AkindayoAkindolani: Founder, McAnderson Institute of Technology
● Anna Ekeledo: Executive Director , AfriLabs
● Ayodeji Abitogun: Lead Consultant, Management Edge
● Bankole Oloruntoba: CEO, Nigeria Climate Innovation Center
● Basil Udotai Esq.: Managing Partner , Technology Advisors
● ChiomaAgwuegbo: Founder, TechHer
● Collins Nwosu: Executive Director, P.R.I. global ventures limited
● DoyinAdewola: CEO, Box Office Hub
● Ife Adebayo: Special Assistant on Innovation & Entrepreneurship to the Nigerian Vice President, Vice President Office, Federal Republic of Nigeria
● Ifeoma Malo: CEO, Clean Technology Hub
● Kadir Salami: CEO, Techspecialist Consulting, Procurease
● Kola Aina: Founder, Ventures Platform
● Lanre Philips: CEO, Elpee Consults
● Lawrence Olawale Roberts: CEO , MicroBoss Technologies
● Louisa Ogwuru: Co-founder, Insiteful Solutions, Alfret.Ng
● Mercy Olorunfemi: Program Manager, Work and Connect
● Michael Oluwagbemi, Executive Partner, LoftyInc Allied Partners Limited
● Mohammed B. Hussaini: CEO, Cupious Energy
● Musa Ali Baba: CEO, Teasy Mobile
● Nkechi Oguchi: CEO, Ventures Park
● NkoyoEfretei: CEO, Insiteful Solutions and Talented Space
● Noel Akpata: CEO, Stratex Pro
● OsasenagaEnogieru: National Program Manager, Wennovation Hub
● OyajeIdoko: CEO, Layer3 Tech
● Philip Agbese Jnr.: Founder, CAVIC.
● Raji Mohammed: Co-Founder, MyLearningAcademy
● Saidu Abdullahi: Head of Partnerships, Next Billion Users, Google
● Simiola Olusola: Founder, Aspilos Foundation
● And many more to be announced.

Abuja being the capital city isn’t just a civil servants’ city anymore. The city is characterized by a constant influx of fresh young entrepreneurs looking to launch new businesses and to collaborate with the government and its parastatals.

With the launch of government-funded projects like StartUp Fridays (A platform that enables young entrepreneurs to pitch their startups, receive feedback and network with potential investors), it is obvious that the government is always ready to provide support for tech entrepreneurs and established businesses in Abuja.

Startups need more than just money in Abuja. They need a framework and a community to support their ideas and to help them build a valuable network.

The city’s unique combination of entrepreneurial energy, quality of life and a supportive government makes it a perfect place for entrepreneurs trying to build a more liveable future.

Anybody who is interested can apply to the Abuja Founder Institute. Anyone who applies by the Early Application Deadline (2020-03-29) is eligible for a variety of scholarships – including the Female Founder Fellowship, which is offered to the best overall female applicant.


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Ugo Onwuaso is an ICT enthusiast. He believes technology should be used for general good. He holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from the Lagos state University. Dear Reader, Your support matters. But we believe that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. That is why, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and finance and how they affect lives. Our incisive and analytical view of how technology news affects the daily life help individuals and organizations make up their minds. Quality journalism costs money. Today, we're asking that you support us to do more. Kindly support our effort to deliver technology and finance journalism to everyone in the world. Donate as little as N1,000. Bank transfers can be made to: UBA Plc 1017156876 Communication Week Media Ltd

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CerAwards 2026: CeraVe & Konga Health Reward Top Creators with Paris Trips and N12M in Prizes

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The intersection of dermatological excellence, technological innovation, and creative storytelling reached a fever pitch on April 23rd as the inaugural Cerawards Africa 2026 took centre stage in Lagos. Orchestrated by CeraVe, the world’s #1 dermatologist-recommended skincare brand, in an exclusive strategic partnership with Konga Health, Nigeria’s leading distributor of premium skincare and beauty products, the event celebrated emerging creators with CeraVe-sponsored trips to Paris, N2 Million and other amazing prizes.

CerAwards 2026: CeraVe & Konga Health Reward Top Creators with Paris Trips and N12M in Prizes

CerAwards 2026

Making its debut on the African continent, CerAwards 2026 chose Nigeria as its first destination, a decision made possible through the direct result of the robust infrastructure and market trust built by Konga Health. This partnership between both brands reflects a shared commitment to driving accessibility, authenticity, and innovation within the beauty industry, while placing Nigerian talent firmly on the global stage.

Hosted by renowned media personality Bisola Aiyeola, the event delivered a seamless blend of entertainment and industry relevance. From the outset, it was clear that CerAwards was not just another awards ceremony, but a platform designed to reshape narratives, connecting skincare, storytelling, and commerce in a uniquely Nigerian way. The gala brought together the beauty industry elites, Nollywood stars, top influencers, and a new generation of digital entrepreneurs, all united by a singular vision of excellence.

Delivering his address at the event, Chairman of Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh, emphasised the strategic importance of innovation and excellence in building sustainable industries.

“What we are witnessing today is the convergence of technology, creativity, and commerce,” he stated. “At Konga, and particularly through Konga Health, we are committed to pursuing excellence in everything we do, ensuring that Nigerians have access to genuine products while also creating platforms that drive economic value. Technology remains the backbone of modern economies, and initiatives like CerAwards demonstrate how it can unlock new opportunities for growth, especially among young creators.”

CerAwards 2026 attracted over 800 entries from content creators across the country, reflecting the depth of talent within Nigeria’s digital and creative economy. Following a rigorous screening process by a distinguished jury comprising Funke Akindele (Nollywood actress, producer and director), Uzor Arukwe (award-winning actor), Anais Routhiau (CeraVe Africa), Ijeoma Balogun (CEO, Redrick PR), Subuola Oyeleye (Founder, Beauty Hut Africa), and Yvonne Enwerem (VP, Konga Health), the top 64 entries were shortlisted.

The competition, which recorded over 65,000 public votes, eventually expanded beyond its initial structure to accommodate 28 finalists, underscoring the exceptional quality of submissions.

Participants competed across six categories: Educational, Original, Viral Video, Cleansing, Body Moisturising, and Let’s Get Creative. The award categories spanned the full spectrum of the CeraVe experience, from educational content to viral creativity.

The awards produced six grand prize winners. Three exceptional creators won the ultimate “CeraTicket,” an all-expenses-paid trip to France to experience the heart of global beauty: Perpetua Ugwuegede (Body Moisturising), Boluwatife Lawal (Educational Content), and Iyanuoluwa Sowemimo (Let’s Get Creative). Three winners received N2 Million worth of premium content creation gear: Beryl Inegbenose (Original Content), Precious Ernest (Cleansing), and Joseph Shaka Momodu (Viral Video). The 1st runners-up were each awarded N1 million, while several other participants walked away with N500,000 in consolation prizes and gifts.

The event also featured special Nollywood Recognition Awards presented to Funke Akindele and Uzor Arukwe for their outstanding contributions to the film industry, further cementing the intersection between beauty, storytelling, and entertainment.

Beyond the awards, CerAwards 2026 represents a broader shift in how beauty brands engage with consumers in Africa. Through its partnership with Konga Health, CeraVe has tapped into a robust commerce and distribution ecosystem that prioritises authenticity, accessibility, and customer trust.

For Konga Health, the success of CerAwards reinforces its position as a trusted gateway for premium beauty brands and a champion of Nigerian creativity. As the platform continues to expand its offerings and partnerships, it remains focused on delivering value that resonates with modern consumers.

Under the leadership of Yvonne Enwerem, VP of Konga Health, the platform has become the exclusive custodian of CeraVe’s brand integrity in the region, ensuring that consumers are protected from counterfeits while enjoying seamless access to world-class dermatological solutions.

Ultimately, CerAwards 2026 has not only celebrated excellence, it has redefined what is possible when global brands and local platforms work together.


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Elon Musk Launches XChat with Video Calling to Take on WhatsApp, Messenger

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Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) has launched a new stand-alone messaging app on iOS devices, called XChat.

Elon Musk Launches XChat with Video Calling to Take on WhatsApp, Messenger

Elon Musk

This app will help users connect their existing X contacts for calling, chatting, and sharing files. This move shows how Musk’s previous idea of creating a single ‘everything app’ seems to shift to a different strategy now.

This newly launched app comes with features such as audio and video calling, text messaging, group chats, and file sharing.

Moreover, it features privacy-focused tools like disappearing messages, the option to delete and edit messages for everyone, and a feature that blocks screenshots.

Looking at these features, the XChat seems to take on WhatsApp and Messenger.

However, the tech firm said that the app has no tracking or ads.

In terms of privacy, X claimed that the instant messaging app is end-to-end encrypted and comes with a PIN.

This app is currently available to iOS users only, and more updates are expected in the near future, as teased by Benji Taylor, the X’s lead designer. The launch of this app reflects a shift in Musk’s strategy about turning X into an ‘everything’ app that will include payments, shopping, messaging, and more combined in one place.

However, the focus of xAI seems to be different now as the company seems to be developing several different apps instead of combining everything into one.

This approach may help X to reach users through their various services rather than a single platform.

While XChat focused on messaging currently, the tech firm is also reportedly testing a separate payments system, which is not available to the public so far.

More features and updates to the instant messaging app are likely to be arriving in the coming months as X continues to grow its ecosystem with more apps.

 

 


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Globacom Unveils Two New TVCs Showcasing the Future of Connectivity

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Technology Company, ​Globacom has unveiled two vibrant television commercials, “Road Trip” and “Department of Imagination,” reinforcing the telecommunications giant’s dedication to providing seamless, reliable connectivity for every lifestyle.

​These engaging campaigns illustrate how Glo remains an essential partner in both our daily routines and our boldest future aspirations.

​​“Road Trip” captures a relatable family adventure filled with laughter and authentic moments. The story follows Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi as she experiences the frustration of poor signal—only to find that switching to Glo transforms the experience instantly. Whether it’s navigation, downloading content, or staying entertained, the difference is clear with Glo, which ensures you stay connected no matter where the road takes you.

Starring alongside Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi, the commercial featured Bolaji Ogunmola and others and their combination brought the best out of the TVC.

​Users can easily access data plans by dialling *312#, ensuring smooth, uninterrupted service on the go.

​Department, on the other hand transports viewers to a futuristic landscape where technology bridges the gap between creativity and reality.

Guided by the renowned Richard Mofe-Damijo (The Professor), the story explores how powerful ideas turn into extraordinary experiences. It showcases a smarter, more dynamic world—from real-time gaming to advanced culinary processes demonstrated by Hilda Baci and creative tech integration by Bamike Adenibuyan (Bam-Bam).

​The unique feature of the story is each scene serving as a testament to how Glo is actively shaping a future where technological possibilities are infinite.

​The Glo’s latest commercials carry a unified, powerful message: The future is here, and it is powered by Glo.


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