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  •  Five functional oil refineries in Africa in 2026

     Five functional oil refineries in Africa in 2026

    Africa’s oil refining industry has long struggled to keep pace with the continent’s vast crude oil production. For decades, many African nations exported crude oil while importing refined petroleum products due to aging, underperforming, or non-operational refineries.

    However, fresh investments, upgrades, and new large-scale projects are reshaping the sector. Several countries are now boosting domestic refining capacity to reduce fuel imports, strengthen energy security, and support economic growth.

    Below are five major operational refineries in Africa as of 2026 playing a critical role in meeting regional and domestic fuel demand.

    1. Dangote Petroleum Refinery — Nigeria

    Location: Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lagos, Nigeria

    Capacity: Approximately 650,000 barrels per day

    The Dangote Petroleum Refinery stands as Africa’s largest refinery and one of the biggest single-train refineries in the world. Located in Lagos, the privately owned facility processes a wide range of petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, aviation fuel, and other refined outputs.

    With a refining capacity of about 650,000 barrels per day, the refinery is positioned to significantly reduce Nigeria’s dependence on fuel imports while also supplying export markets across Africa and beyond. Its scale and output make it a transformative project for the continent’s downstream oil sector.

    2. Skikda Refinery — Algeria

    Location: Skikda, Algeria

    Capacity: Approximately 350,000 barrels per day

    The Skikda Refinery is one of North Africa’s largest and most established refining complexes. With a capacity of around 350,000 barrels per day, the facility plays a vital role in Algeria’s energy infrastructure.

    It supplies refined petroleum products for domestic consumption while also supporting exports to international markets, reinforcing Algeria’s position as a key energy player in the Mediterranean region.

    3. SAPREF Refinery — South Africa

    Location: Durban, South Africa

    Capacity: Approximately 180,000 barrels per day

    Located in Durban, the SAPREF Refinery has historically been the largest crude oil refinery in southern Africa. Operated as a joint venture between global energy majors BP and Shell, the facility has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s fuel supply chain.

    With a capacity of roughly 180,000 barrels per day, SAPREF has been instrumental in supplying transport fuels and other refined products to both domestic and regional markets.

    4. Alexandria MIDOR Refinery — Egypt

    Location: Alexandria, Egypt

    Capacity: Approximately 160,000 barrels per day (post-expansion)

    Egypt’s Alexandria MIDOR Refinery is a key component of the country’s refining strategy. Following expansion projects aimed at increasing throughput and efficiency, the refinery now processes about 160,000 barrels per day.

    It produces a range of petroleum products primarily for Egypt’s domestic market, while also supporting regional fuel distribution.

    5. Cairo Mostorod Refinery — Egypt

    Location: Mostorod, Cairo, Egypt

    Capacity: Approximately 140,000 barrels per day

    Operated by the Egyptian Refining Company, the Cairo Mostorod Refinery is one of Egypt’s modern refining facilities. With a processing capacity of about 140,000 barrels per day, the refinery plays a crucial role in meeting the country’s fuel demand.

    The facility supports Egypt’s broader objective of reducing refined product imports and strengthening its downstream petroleum sector.

  • Downstream deregulation, forex reforms save Nigeria N6trn fuel import losses – NMDPRA 

    Downstream deregulation, forex reforms save Nigeria N6trn fuel import losses – NMDPRA 

    The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) says the cumulative impact of full downstream deregulation and forex reforms has saved Nigeria over N6 trillion in fuel import losses.

    Mr Saidu Mohammed, Chief Executive, NMDPRA, who made this known at the ongoing Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) 2026, in Abuja, said this was in first nine months of 2025.

    Delivering a keynote address at the Mid/Downstream Transformation Debate with the theme ”Driving Nigeria’s Downstream Renaissance: Regulation, Investment, and Market Confidence”, Mohammed attributed much of the sector’s progress being witnessed currently to the bold economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu.

    According to him, the bold economic reforms of the President have created the renaissance that the downstream sector is enjoying and will continue to leverage upon for sustained sectoral growth in the future.

    “The cumulative impact of the full deregulation of the downstream sector; harmonisation of the forex market; incentivisation and deepening the gas utilisation and trading of crude and product in Naira have reduced the fiscal economic losses of importing petroleum product by over N6 trillion in the first nine months in 2025.

    “We congratulate and celebrate Mr President and our Ministers for these enduring leadership legacies in the downstream energy sector.”

    He said that for decades, Nigeria’s downstream value chain was characterised by infrastructure deficits, weak market structures, inefficient supply chains, poor regulatory compliance, inadequate investment, and unacceptable safety and environmental standards.

    ”Today, that narrative is rapidly changing; the sector is witnessing early but irreversible signs of transformation driven by bold reforms, enabled by investment, and sustained by effective regulatory oversight,” he said.

    He added that the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 had fundamentally reshaped the nation’s downstream sector into a fully liberalised market, eliminating persistent scarcity and supply uncertainty.

    Read Also: Dangote Refinery denies fuel importation

    He explained that supply stability had ensured consistent availability of petroleum products, while pricing was increasingly driven by market fundamentals, creating the stability required to attract investment.

    Mohammed also highlighted the transformation of the downstream supply chain, which historically depended almost entirely on imported petroleum products.

    He said the sector was benefiting from increased domestic refining capacity, expanded gas-based alternative fuels, improved logistics, and stronger private-sector participation.

    “At the centre of this shift is the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, the world’s largest single-train refinery with an installed capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, which is already meeting a significant portion and in some cases all of Nigeria’s domestic petroleum product requirements.

    ”The optimal operationalisation and future expansion of this facility are critical to Nigeria’s aspiration of becoming a regional and continental energy hub,” Mohammed said.

    He expressed optimism that additional refinery projects with issued Licences to Establish (LTEs), alongside the rehabilitation of NNPC Ltd. refineries, would increase Nigeria’s installed refining capacity to over one million barrels per day in the medium term.

    (NAN)

  • Five common deadly snakes to watch out for in toilets, septic tanks, kitchens, others

    Five common deadly snakes to watch out for in toilets, septic tanks, kitchens, others

    The recurrence of snakes in homes in the past few days has gotten many Nigerians worried and in search of how such dreaded situations could be prevented.

    The death of Ifunanya, also known as Nanyah, and fondly called the “Soprano Queen,” has since sparked intense public debate, with many Nigerians questioning how a preventable death could happen in the nation’s capital due to the unavailability of life-saving anti-venom.

    In 2021, Nigeria’s health ministry disclosed that an average of 20,000 cases of snake bites are recorded in Nigeria every year.

    Also, about 2,000 people die from snakebites annually, and over 1,700 lose their legs or arms as a result of snake bites.

    Snake bite particularly affects the most vulnerable members of society – often those living in remote rural areas, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO)

    Snakebite “poisoning”, known as envenomation, has long been a public health problem in Nigeria, especially in rural areas.

    There are three main types of snake species responsible for envenomation in Nigeria.

    The Cobra or Naja nigricolis, the Puff Adder or Bitis arietans, and the Carpet Viper or Echis ocellatus.

    The Carpet Viper is the one responsible for most, about 90 per cent of bites and 60 per cent of snakebite deaths.

    Snakes can enter a building for one of two reasons. Either for food or for temperature.

    Rats, mice, and even squirrels are frequent prey for snakes, and if there are a lot of them around, they may bring snakes to your home. Snakes will follow these prey into your home and look for a place where they can readily hunt them, such as septic tanks, toilets, and the kitchen.

    On the other hand, snakes, like all reptiles, are cold-blooded (ectothermic). They regulate their body temperature by warming up in the sun and cooling down in the shade.

    When they live in septic tanks, they usually swim upward through the pipes to find a warmer spot to regulate their temperature and then find a cooler place to regulate their temperature if it becomes too hot.

    There are a few things you can do to keep snakes away from your home, the first of which is to remove what attracts them. Mice, rats, and other rodents should be kept out of the house as much as possible.

    Snakes can also be repelled with homemade repellants, such as a garlic-onion mixture.

    These two plants contain sulfonic acid, the chemical that causes one to cry while chopping them.

    Adding oil to the mixture would make it more potent and can be sprayed on snake-prone areas such as basements, behind appliances, toilet corners, chicken coops, and other areas. This mixture, however, has to be applied at least twice a month for effectiveness.

    Read Also: Tell guild leaders about deadly movie locations, Ernest Obi tells actors

    Any reptile living in the toilet bowl or creeping up the pipe will be dislodged by pouring a reasonable amount of vinegar into it. It could also send them out of bodies of water in or around your property (pools).

    It’s also crucial to get rid of any potential hiding spots in your home. Trim grasses on a regular basis, and move heaps of materials (woods, rubbers, grasses, and so on) more frequently.

    Check your home for cracks, damaged screens, and other potential entry points so snakes can’t get inside. Coop and other outbuildings are in the same boat. They can slither into extremely small spaces, so make every effort to seal any gaps they can find.

    Here are the common types of deadly snakes to watch out for:

    1. Black-necked spitting cobra

    2. Spotted night puff adder

    3. Blanding’s catsnake

    4. Roman’s carpet viper

    5. West African carpet viper

  • Six countries that legalise undocumented immigrants in recent years

    Six countries that legalise undocumented immigrants in recent years

    Several countries have recently taken steps to grant legal status to immigrants living and working without authorization, recognising both their contributions to the economy and the need for integration. These initiatives often focus on long-term residents, essential workers, or those with strong family or community ties, reflecting a pragmatic approach to immigration policy.

    1. Spain

    In 2026, Spain announced a programme granting legal status to potentially hundreds of thousands of undocumented immigrants. The initiative continues the country’s longstanding practice of regularisation schemes aimed at formalising the status of workers and promoting social inclusion.

    2. Portugal

    Portugal has recently carried out legalisation programmes targeting undocumented migrants with employment or long-term residence. The goal is to integrate these individuals into the formal economy while ensuring labour rights and social protections.

    READ ALSO: Okpebholo’s weekend surprise for three workers

    3. Ireland

    In 2022, Ireland introduced a scheme offering legal status to long-term undocumented residents, providing a pathway to work permits and formal residency. The programme sought to stabilise the lives of migrants contributing to the country’s workforce.

    4. Italy

    Italy continues to operate sanatoria programmes, particularly for domestic workers and caregivers. These initiatives allow eligible undocumented migrants to obtain temporary or permanent legal status, supporting both humanitarian and economic objectives.

    5. Germany

    Germany has offered limited pathways for long-term undocumented residents, particularly those who have been in the country for many years or have strong family ties. These are smaller-scale than Spain/Portugal but are official programmes.

    6. Canada

     Canada has implemented targeted regularisation programmes for undocumented workers in essential sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and caregiving. These programmes allow workers to formalise their status while addressing labour shortages.

  • FULL LIST: Top 10 African countries with strongest military in 2026

    FULL LIST: Top 10 African countries with strongest military in 2026

    Africa’s military landscape has continued to evolve, with several countries expanding their defence capabilities and strengthening their overall military power.

    According to the Global Firepower Index, they evaluate the military strength of over 140 countries based on manpower and equipment and also highlight how nations are positioning themselves on the global stage.

    The 2026 rankings unveiled the growth, advancement and regional balance, with African powerhouses putting investments in technology and training for a goal of maintaining security and stability.

    Here are the top African military forces by their global rankings:

    1. Egypt (Global rank: 19)

    Egypt has been Africa’s strongest military power and one of the most capable globally. They have built a well-trained army, a solid air force, and an expanding naval zone.

    2. Algeria (Global rank: 27)

    Algeria ranks second in Africa due to its large defence budget and good ties with global military suppliers. The country’s modern air fleet and well-equipped ground forces ensure readiness across its vast territory.

    3. Nigeria (Global rank: 33)

    Nigeria’s military has grown in strength through modernisation efforts and local defence production. The nation’s pumping into the military is for countering terrorism within its states.

    4. South Africa (Global rank: 40)

    South Africa combines advanced technology with a professional army, backed by a strong domestic defence industry. Its air force and naval forces make it a principal security player in Southern Africa.

    5. Ethiopia (Global rank: 47)

    Ethiopia’s large troop numbers and continued investment in equipment give it a solid ranking. Despite internal challenges, the country maintains a strong regional military presence.

    Read Also: Five strongest currencies in Africa as of January 2026

    7. Morocco (Global rank: 56)

    Morocco continues to bolster its armed forces with a mix of Western and homemade equipment. Its strong air and ground forces contribute to regional stability and deterrence.

    6. Angola (Global rank: 59)

    Angola’s steady economic recovery has allowed it to rebuild its military strength. The country has invested in new aircraft and armoured vehicles, making it a reliable force in Central Africa.

    8. Democratic Republic of the Congo (Global rank: 64)

    The DRC’s large manpower and growing focus on modernisation have helped it climb the ranks. Efforts to improve logistics and coordination are strengthening its national defence.

    9. Sudan (Global rank: 66)

    Despite political transitions, Sudan maintains a structured and experienced army. Continued cooperation with allies has kept its defence capabilities active and functional.

    10. Tunisia (Global rank: 76)

    Tunisia remains among Africa’s strongest militaries, relying on professionalism, efficiency, advanced training and technology to compensate for having the smallest manpower base among the continent’s top ten forces.

  • Five strongest currencies in Africa as of January 2026

    Five strongest currencies in Africa as of January 2026

    The strongest currencies in Africa in 2026 are more than just numbers on a chart, they reflect stable economies, sound monetary policies, and growing investor confidence.

    Several African countries have maintained strong currencies against the U.S. dollar, reflecting various degrees of fiscal discipline, monetary policy effectiveness, and economic structure.

    Currency strength remains a vital indicator of a country’s economic stability and overall financial health.

    According to the Forbes currency calculator, the following are the five strongest African currencies as of January 2026 against the US Dollar.

    1. Tunisia – Tunisian Dinar (TND)

    Exchange Rate: 2.86 TND per USD
    Tunisia continues to lead as the African country with the strongest currency. The Tunisian Dinar’s strength is largely supported by strict exchange control measures and inflation management, even amid ongoing political and economic challenges.

    2. Libya – Libyan Dinar (LYD)

    Exchange Rate: 6.31 LYD per USD
    Despite years of political unrest, the Libyan Dinar remains notably strong. This resilience is primarily due to Libya’s abundant oil reserves, which generate substantial foreign exchange revenue.

    3. Morocco – Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

    Exchange Rate: 9.01 MAD per USD
    The Moroccan Dirham benefits from the country’s stable macroeconomic policies, economic diversification, and prudent monetary governance. Morocco’s growing appeal to foreign investors, especially in the renewable energy sector, also bolsters its currency.

    Read Also: FG approves ₦1 trillion metro rail service for Kano

    4. Ghana – Ghanaian Cedi (GHS)

    Exchange Rate: 10.84 GHS per USD
    While the Ghanaian Cedi has experienced volatility, recent economic reforms and support from the IMF have introduced a measure of stability. Government initiatives to rein in inflation and manage public debt are beginning to yield positive outcomes.

    5. Botswana – Botswana Pula (BWP)

    Exchange Rate: 13.05 BWP per USD
    The Botswana Pula stands out as one of the strongest currencies in Sub-Saharan Africa. Sound governance, effective fiscal policies, and a balanced reliance on diamond exports have helped maintain its strength.

  • Six Schengen countries with fastest Blue Card processing times in 2026

    Six Schengen countries with fastest Blue Card processing times in 2026

    As Europe continues to compete for highly skilled foreign professionals, several Schengen countries have streamlined their EU Blue Card processing systems to attract global talent.

    In 2026, a select number of Schengen member states stand out for offering significantly faster approval timelines, making them preferred destinations for professionals seeking legal employment and mobility across the border-free Schengen Area.

    Here are six Schengen countries with the fastest EU Blue Card processing times in 2026, based on official immigration timelines and labour market demand.

    1. Germany – 2 to 4 Months

    Germany remains a top destination for skilled professionals seeking employment in Europe. EU Blue Card applications are typically processed within two to four months. The country continues to recruit heavily in information technology, healthcare, and engineering. Applicants who meet the required salary thresholds and qualification standards benefit from Germany’s structured and transparent immigration system.

    Read Also: Nine Schengen countries that offer Nigerians easy visa

    2. Sweden – 2 to 3 Months

    Sweden processes EU Blue Card applications within two to three months, placing it among the fastest in Europe. There is strong demand for skilled workers in the technology and manufacturing sectors. Professionals with recognised educational qualifications and valid job offers from Swedish employers can expect a straightforward application process.

    3. Austria – 3 to 4 Months

    Austria offers EU Blue Card processing timelines of three to four months. The country actively seeks professionals in STEM fields and healthcare services. Applicants with relevant experience and salaries that meet Austria’s eligibility criteria are likely to experience a smooth and timely approval process.

    4. Lithuania – Around 3 Months

    Lithuania processes EU Blue Card applications in approximately three months. The country’s growing economy has increased demand for professionals in information technology and financial services. Skilled workers who secure employment offers in these sectors can benefit from Lithuania’s relatively fast processing timelines.

    5. Estonia – Around 3 Months

    Estonia also completes EU Blue Card applications in about three months. Known for its digital economy, the country is particularly interested in professionals in IT, fintech, and software development. Applicants with relevant expertise and confirmed job offers can take advantage of Estonia’s efficient immigration procedures.

    5. Netherlands – Up to 30 Days

    The Netherlands currently offers the fastest EU Blue Card processing time, with applications reviewed in as little as 30 days. The country prioritises talent in technology and research and development (R&D). Processing times can be further reduced when employers are registered as recognised sponsors with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

  • FULL LIST: Top 10 countries requiring $10,000+ proof of funds for student visas

    FULL LIST: Top 10 countries requiring $10,000+ proof of funds for student visas

    Studying abroad offers students the chance to access world-class education, build global skills and gain exposure to diverse cultures that can shape long-term careers.

    Beyond tuition fees, however, prospective international students must also weigh the proof-of-funds requirements enforced by many countries as part of the student visa process.

    These financial thresholds are designed to ensure that students can support themselves  and any accompanying dependants without relying on employment, covering tuition, accommodation, living expenses and travel.

    While some destinations maintain relatively modest requirements, others are defined by high living costs and strict financial benchmarks, ranking them among the most expensive study destinations globally.

    In such countries, visa applicants are often required to demonstrate access to $10,000 or more annually, excluding tuition fees, before approval is granted — a condition that significantly shapes financial planning for housing, feeding, healthcare and transportation.

    The blend of premium education standards and tough financial rules often reflects the advanced infrastructure, strong global rankings and elevated lifestyle expectations associated with these destinations.

    In this guide, we spotlight the top 10 study destinations with the highest proof-of-funds requirements, providing prospective students with a clear picture of the financial commitment involved and helping them plan effectively for a successful study-abroad journey.

    Here is the list of top 10 countries requiring $10,000+ proof of funds for student visas:

    1. South Korea

    International students seeking admission into South Korean universities must present proof of funds of at least $10,000 to secure a D-2 student visa. Applicants are required to show admission to a recognised institution, valid bank statements in the student’s or sponsor’s name, proof of relationship where applicable, a passport with at least six months’ validity, medical clearance and, where requested, a police report. Students may work up to 20 hours weekly after six months. Tuition averages ₩4–10 million annually for undergraduate programmes and ₩5–12 million for postgraduate studies, while living costs range between ₩12–18 million per year.

    2. Japan

    Japan requires international students to demonstrate proof of funds ranging between $7,706 and $10,275 for one year of study. Applicants must submit a valid passport, visa application, Certificate of Eligibility, passport photographs and bank statements covering three to six months. Schools often provide sponsor or guarantor details. Students are permitted to work up to 28 hours weekly with approval, though authorities stress that part-time income should not be relied upon as the primary funding source.

    3. New Zealand

    Prospective students must show $11,779 (NZD 20,000) per year to cover living expenses for tertiary and language studies. For shorter programmes, proof is calculated monthly. Primary and secondary pupils require NZD 17,000 annually. Applicants must also show return travel arrangements or funds to purchase a ticket. Funding may come from personal savings, sponsors or third parties, provided it is verifiable and accessible.

    4. Ireland

    For the 2026 academic year, Ireland mandates proof of at least $11,829 (€10,000) per year, excluding tuition. Short-term courses attract a monthly requirement of €833. Applicants must submit six months’ bank statements, evidence of tuition payment and documentation showing the source of funds. For multi-year programmes, proof must be provided for each additional year.

    5. Netherlands

    International students applying to Dutch universities or higher professional institutions must show proof of $16,050 (€13,569.24) for 12 months. The funds must cover accommodation, feeding, transport and personal expenses. Proof may be provided through personal bank statements, scholarships or sponsor guarantees, all of which must be verifiable for residence permit approval.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Africa’s top 10 biggest streamers in 2026

    6. Canada

    Canada requires international students to prove $17,935 (CAD 24,617) for one person to cover living expenses for the first year, excluding tuition and travel. Higher thresholds apply for accompanying family members. Acceptable evidence includes bank statements, Guaranteed Investment Certificates, tuition receipts, scholarships, loans or sponsor letters. Applicants must also demonstrate that funds can be legally transferred to Canada where foreign exchange controls apply.

    7. Australia

    Australia sets its living-cost benchmark at $20,485 (AUD 29,710) annually for a single student, covering basic expenses. Applicants must also prove capacity to pay at least one year’s tuition, which ranges between AUD 20,000 and AUD 55,000 depending on programme and institution. Additional funds are required for dependents and travel, placing the estimated minimum funding for a single undergraduate student above AUD 60,000.

    8. United Kingdom

    UK student visa applicants must show proof covering both tuition and living costs. Living expenses are pegged at $24,862 (£18,348) annually for London-based studies and $19,041 (£14,052) outside London. Tuition requirements are outlined in the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. Students resident in the UK for 12 months or more may be exempt from certain financial proofs.

    9. United States

    Prospective F-1 and M-1 students must demonstrate funding sufficient to cover tuition, books, living expenses and travel, typically between $32,000 and $43,000 annually. Proof is required before issuance of Form I-20 and during visa processing. Acceptable documentation includes bank statements, sponsor letters and other verifiable financial records.

    10. Switzerland

    Switzerland mandates proof of $38,195 (CHF 30,000) annually to cover living expenses. Monthly costs average CHF 1,850, excluding tuition, which ranges from CHF 500 to CHF 4,000 per semester depending on the institution. Applicants must show adequate financial capacity to secure a student residence permit, reflecting the country’s high cost of living and premium education standards.

  • FULL LIST: Africa’s top 10 biggest streamers in 2026

    FULL LIST: Africa’s top 10 biggest streamers in 2026

    Africa’s digital ecosystem has witnessed a dramatic transformation within a matter of days, as live streaming evolved from a fringe pastime into a fast-growing, multi-million-dollar industry. What was once dominated by a small circle of gaming enthusiasts in South Africa has been reshaped by a surge from West Africa, triggered by the arrival and influence of global streaming stars in Lagos and Accra.

    The growing attention of international figures such as Kai Cenat and IShowSpeed sparked intense local engagement, accelerating the rise of African streamers from social media personalities to full-scale broadcasters commanding large, loyal audiences across the continent.

    To reflect the industry’s realities in 2026, the ranking of Africa’s top streamers is anchored on combined followership across Twitch and Kick. This approach captures the continent’s evolving streaming patterns, as creators in West and Southern Africa continue to dominate Twitch, while leading North African streamers increasingly leverage Kick’s creator-friendly incentives.

    By consolidating audiences across both platforms, the metric provides a clearer measure of genuine influence, prioritising committed viewership over fleeting social media visibility and offering a more accurate snapshot of Africa’s elite streaming landscape.

    Here are the Biggest African Streamers in 2026:

    1. Ilyas El Maliki (Morocco) – 847,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: KICK (@ilyaselmaliki)

    Morocco’s Ilyas El Maliki has emerged as Africa’s most dominant streamer, commanding the largest audience on Kick. He drew global attention after peaking at over 500,000 concurrent viewers during his commentary at the King’s World Cup Nations. Known for his unfiltered delivery in Moroccan Darija, El Maliki built his following through reaction-based content and entertainment-driven gameplay, notably GTA V. He covered the King’s World Cup as chairman of Morocco’s national team, which reached the semi-finals, rather than as a neutral commentator. Backed by a massive and unified North African audience, El Maliki is widely regarded as Africa’s biggest streamer in 2026.

    2. Carter Efe (Nigeria) – 560,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@carterefe)

    Nigerian comedian-turned-streamer Carter Efe, born Oderhowho Joseph Efe, has successfully converted his “Machala” music fame into a formidable streaming career. His Twitch channel blends street-pop culture, celebrity interviews, and interactive variety content, earning him the title of the most-followed Africa-based creator on the platform. His profile surged in late 2025 after a record-breaking livestream with Davido delivered 139,000 new followers in one night. Hosting top Nigerian and international stars, Carter has positioned his channel as a bridge between Afrobeats and the global streaming scene, cementing his place among Africa’s elite creators.

    3. Shank Comics (Nigeria) – 258,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@shankcomics)

    Shank Comics, whose real name is Adesokan Adedeji Emmanuel, remains a trailblazer in Nigeria’s streaming space. He was the first Nigerian to surpass 100,000 followers on Twitch, a feat that redefined local possibilities. His rise gained international momentum in May 2025 when he attended Kai Cenat’s “Streamer University” in the United States as its first international participant. A $10,000 prize from MrBeast further boosted his profile, triggering a rapid surge in followers. With a focus on “Just Chatting” and variety content, Shank retains a strong legacy and cultural relevance.

    4. Enzo (Nigeria) – 204,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@rynenzo)

    Enzo, popularly known as Rynenzo, has built his platform on consistency and organic growth. From just 200 followers in 2023, he grew his Twitch community to over 200,000 by 2026 through a focus on pure gaming content. His discipline earned him a place at Kai Cenat’s “Streamer University” in 2025, while a landmark livestream with global music star Rema elevated his profile. Enzo is widely respected for technical excellence and long-term community building.

    5. Peller (Nigeria) – 183,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: KICK (@Peller)

    Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, known as Peller, is one of the standout beneficiaries of Kick’s expansion in West Africa. As Nigeria’s first official Kick brand ambassador, the 20-year-old bypassed traditional platforms to amass a large following on Kick, complemented by a growing Twitch audience. His visibility spiked in early 2026 after a widely discussed snub during IShowSpeed’s Lagos visit, which galvanised his fan base and underscored his growing influence.

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    6. Rachel Kay (South Africa) – 144,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@RachelKay)

    Cape Town-based Rachel Kay is Africa’s most-followed female streamer as of January 2026. Born in Miami to South African parents, she returned home as a teenager and has since become a pillar of the country’s streaming community. Known for high-production gameplay, particularly in RPG and survival titles, Rachel commands a premium global audience and is frequently cited by international brands as a benchmark for African creators.

    7. Ojo (Nigeria) – 66,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@ojo_isAboy)

    Ojo has carved a niche through matchmaking and community-focused content. Although his follower count is modest, his live viewership often rivals that of much larger channels. A regular collaborator within West Africa’s streaming boom, Ojo’s influence lies in engagement and consistency rather than raw numbers.

    8. Salma Hassan (Egypt) – 64,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@The_Salma)

    Alexandria-based Salma Hassan, known online as The_Salma, is a major force in Egypt’s gaming scene and a member of “The 1 Team.” Renowned for her energetic morning streams and relatable style, she has built a loyal MENA audience. Logging over 300 hours of airtime in a single month, Salma stands out for discipline, consistency, and strong local appeal.

    9. Lord Lamba (Nigeria) – 39,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@lordlambaa)

    Promise Kelvin Anagbogu, popularly called Lord Lamba, reflects the challenges of transitioning from viral skit-making to full-time streaming. Now based in the United States, he has sought to migrate his large social media following to Twitch through banter-driven “Just Chatting” sessions. His experience highlights the difficulties creators face when operating outside the local ecosystems that fuelled their initial growth.

    10. AliasV (South Africa) – 34,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@AliasV)

    AliasV, whose real name is Eilidh Lonie, completes the top 10 as Africa’s leading professional shoutcaster. Beginning her journey in Johannesburg, she rose to global recognition after being recruited by Wizards of the Coast to host major Magic: The Gathering tournaments. Today, she combines high-level strategic insight with professional commentary, earning respect across the international esports and streaming community.

  • Seven Asian countries offering Nigerians e-visa

    Seven Asian countries offering Nigerians e-visa

    Several Asian countries have eased travel requirements for Nigerian passport holders by introducing electronic visa (e-visa) systems. These platforms allow travellers to submit applications online, reducing the need for embassy visits and making the process faster and more convenient.

    However, applicants are advised to always confirm current visa requirements, documentation, processing timelines and eligibility conditions via official immigration channels, as policies may change without notice.

    Here are seven Asian destinations where Nigerians can access e-visa options, with specific requirements:

    1. South Korea
    South Korea offers an e-visa option for Nigerians; however, applicants are required to submit physical documents through the Visa Application Centre (VFS). All supporting documents must be provided as part of the application process.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: 75 countries where US suspends visa processing

    2. Singapore
    Singapore operates a referral-based visa system for Nigerian travellers. Applications must be submitted through a Singapore citizen, a licensed visa agent or a permanent resident.

    3. Malaysia
    Nigerians are eligible for Malaysia’s e-visa programme for tourism, business and social visits. The application process is completed entirely online with digital submission of required documents.

    4. Thailand
    Thailand provides an e-visa service for Nigerians, allowing online applications for tourism and other approved travel purposes. Applicants are required to submit a police character certificate and a report from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

    5. Philippines
    The Philippines offers an e-visa option that simplifies short-stay applications for Nigerian travellers visiting for tourism or business purposes.

    6. Hong Kong
    Nigerian travellers can apply online for a Hong Kong e-visa or complete a pre-arrival registration, depending on the purpose and duration of stay. The process often requires extensive documentation, including pictorial proof of previous travel history.

    7. Indonesia
    Indonesia grants Nigerians access to its e-visa platform for tourism, business and other approved categories. The application generally involves limited documentation compared to other destinations.