Category Archives: News

Huawei smartwatch sales set to rise above 60% in Taiwan by 2025

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Huawei Technologies has projected a significant rise in its smartwatch sales in Taiwan, expecting up to a 60% increase by the end of 2025, driven by strong consumer demand for its innovative wearable products.

According to Yong Hai, General Manager of Taiwan Huawei Technologies, the company’s smartwatch and audio wearable segments have performed exceptionally well in the Taiwanese market this year. He revealed that Huawei led the global wearable market in the first half of 2025, and current trends suggest even stronger results in the second half.

“Huawei smartwatch sales may hit the 60% mark in Taiwan by the end of this year,” Yong said, noting that the company’s technological advancements and product diversity continue to attract a broad range of consumers.

Huawei’s performance in H1 2025 showed a 40% increase in smartwatch sales, and forecasts indicate that the company could achieve an overall 60% combined growth in smartwatches and audio wearables by year-end.

The recent release of the Watch GT 6 series, Watch D2 Blue, and Watch Ultimate 2 has further strengthened Huawei’s position in the wearable tech space. These devices boast standout features such as 21-day battery life, sonar-based underwater communication, and 150-meter diving capability, giving them an edge over rivals like Apple and Samsung.

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Interestingly, over half of Huawei smartwatch users are iPhone owners, reflecting the brand’s success in ensuring cross-platform compatibility between iOS and Android systems.

Yong attributed Huawei’s success to its heavy investments in research and development (R&D), alongside the company’s commitment to its “all-scenario smart life” strategy, which focuses on delivering comprehensive and seamless connectivity experiences.

He also acknowledged that Huawei’s limited smartphone presence has, in some ways, been advantageous for its wearable division.

“Lack of mobile phone support may seem like a challenge, but it feels like a blessing in disguise,” Yong stated. “Huawei is actively improving the cross-platform compatibility of its products to maintain a better connection experience with other brands’ devices.”

With its strong innovation drive and growing ecosystem of interconnected products, Huawei appears well-positioned to sustain its dominance in the global wearables market through 2025 and beyond.

UK reduces post-study work visa for International Students to 18 months

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The United Kingdom has announced a major change to its immigration policy, reducing the post-study work visa period for international graduates from two years to 18 months, effective 2027.

The new policy, revealed by the UK Home Office in a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), is aimed at encouraging international students to secure graduate-level employment more quickly after completing their studies.

“Many students who come to the UK do not transition into graduate-level employment. The UK needs students to contribute meaningfully to the UK economy,” the Home Office stated. “That’s why, from 2027, eligible students will have 18 months after course completion to secure graduate-level employment.”

Read Also: Easiest countries for Nigerians to get Visa

Prior to this change, international students were allowed to remain in the UK for two years after graduation under the Graduate Route visa. The visa allows graduates to stay and work — or look for work — without needing a specific job offer. PhD holders, however, continue to be eligible for a three-year post-study work period.

The decision is part of broader immigration reforms designed to ensure that the UK attracts and retains skilled talent that contributes directly to its economy.

The UK remains one of the most popular destinations for international students seeking academic excellence and post-study employment opportunities.

Troops rescue 23 kidnap victims, nab key terrorists’ collaborators – Army

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Troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria have in the last 24 hours, rescued no fewer than 23 kidnap victims, apprehended key terror collaborators and destroyed illegal oil refineries in different parts of the country.

A credible source at Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that troops had sustained momentum in ongoing counter-terrorism and internal security operations nationwide.

In the North East, he said the troops of Operation HADIN KAI apprehended three Chadian nationals at Gamboru Motor Park in Ngala, Borno, with 12 Starlink internet devices and a solar battery suspected to be logistics meant for Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists.

Also in Yobe, the source said the troops of 233 Battalion intercepted a tricycle conveying fuel and other supplies for insurgents.

According to him, troops of 222 Battalion under 21 Special Armoured Brigade repelled an ambush in Konduga, killing one terrorist and recovering a dane gun.

Read Also: Troops neutralise six terrorists, recover weapons

In the North Central, he said the troops under Operations Mesa and Whirl Stroke recorded major breakthroughs with the arrest of four suspected kidnappers at Akuna village in Kogi.

According to him, a combined team of troops and security agencies rescued 23 kidnap victims, including four Chinese nationals, from terrorists’ enclaves in Chigogo Hills, Kwara.

“Troops also foiled a kidnap attempt along the Chikara–Abaji road, rescuing one victim and evacuating two others with injuries, while two suspected terrorist leaders were arrested in Shendam, Plateau.

“In the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA raided a hotel in Ngor Okpala, Imo State, believed to be a kidnappers’ den.

“Two men claiming to be police officers were caught with two AK-47 rifles, 58 rounds of ammunition, and other items.

“Four hotel staff were also taken into custody,” he said.

In the Niger Delta, the sources said the troops of Operation Delta Safe destroyed illegal refining sites in Delta and Rivers States.

“At Ughoton in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta, troops seized 775 litres of illegally refined diesel hidden in a hotel and arrested the manager.

“Another 150 litres of kerosene was intercepted from suspected bunkerers in Rivers State, who have been handed to the NSCDC,” he added.

(NAN) 

Sporty TV rolls out free-to-air sports packages for Nigerian audience

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 Sporty TV, a fast-growing free-to-air sports network, has announced the rollout of new sports content packages aimed at the Nigerian market.

Oluchi Enuha, Executive Representative of the network in Nigeria, disclosed this in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

Enuha said the packages were unveiled on Oct. 17.

He said the initiative would revolutionise sports broadcasting in Nigeria and beyond, noting that the packages were designed to provide premium sports content to viewers at no cost.

Enuha also announced a partnership between Sporty TV and the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), as well as other international media organisations, to enhance content delivery.

Read Also: Chelsea crushes Nottingham Forest 3–0 as Postecoglou sacked minutes after defeat

“This is an unprecedented delivery of value and premium content at no cost to the Nigerian viewer.

“We are delivering more than 600 live events including the English Premier League, Spanish La Liga, German Bundesliga and South American football.

“We will also deliver some Super Eagles 2026 World Cup qualifying matches (play-offs), the FIFA Club World Cup, the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals and even the just-concluded 2025 World Athletics Championships in Japan,” he said.

According to him, the partnership will set new standards for free-to-air television and offer both viewers and advertisers access to top-tier content.

He said Sporty TV leveraged cutting-edge technology, world-class production and strategic alliances to ensure broad accessibility through its YouTube channel and mobile applications.

Enuha said the goal was to ensure that every Nigerian household had access to premium sports content, with convenience and wide reach.

(NAN)

U.S. Embassy issues security alert ahead of #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest in Abuja

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The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert to its citizens ahead of the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest scheduled to hold on Monday, October 20, 2025, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

In a statement released on its official website on Friday, the Embassy warned that the demonstration could lead to traffic disruptions, roadblocks, and potential violence in parts of the city.

“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that the Free Nnamdi Kanu Now protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20th, 2025, in Abuja,” the statement read.

“There may be roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations between police and protestors that could turn violent around Eagle Square and the Central Business District. The Embassy advises all U.S. citizens to avoid this area and to severely limit all movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20th,” it added.

Read Also: IPOB Jewish community demands immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, slams FG over ‘unjust detention’

The Embassy further advised that children remain at home and that domestic staff commuting from outside Abuja should also stay away from work on the protest day.

“The Embassy recommends children in Abuja stay home from school and domestic staff who travel from outside of Abuja to stay home as well,” the statement emphasized.

It also urged all American citizens in Nigeria to exercise heightened security precautions and remain vigilant.

The planned protest was announced earlier by activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, who revealed on his X (formerly Twitter) account that the demonstration would take place on October 20 and be directed toward the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.

Sowore described the protest as a “historic and peaceful” action aimed at demanding the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Kanu, who is currently facing terrorism-related charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja, has been in detention since June 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya.

Police warn against protest in Aso Rock, environs

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 The Nigeria Police Force has warned intending protesters, agitating for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kalu against any form of protest around the Aso Rock and its environs.

A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin in Abuja said the warning followed an order of a Federal High Court, Abuja.

He said the court, in a suit between  the Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, on Oct. 17, restrained any form of protest around the Aso Rock and its environs.

“The order restrains the respondents and any other persons or groups acting under their instruction from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa and its environs.

“Other area are the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way.

“Accordingly, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and to refrain from any act, capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order,” he said.

The police spokesman said the force would ensure the free flow of traffic, protection of lives and property, and security of all law-abiding citizens.

Read Also: Police recover 75 stolen phones, others in Lagos

According to him, any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence, carry or use offensive weapons, vandalise public or private property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life or serious injury will be dealt with decisively.

He said offenders would be arrested, subjected to full investigation, and prosecuted under relevant criminal laws, including laws relating to public order, violent conduct and terrorism where applicable.

Hundeyin said those who incite others via social media or other platforms would be investigated and prosecuted, using digital evidence.

He said the Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, had directed the Commissioner of Police (CP) in charge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and relevant operational commands to ensure strict enforcement of the court’s order.

Hundeyin said the I-G had directed the CP to maintain visible and strategic deployments across vulnerable locations, and ensure the safety of residents and lawful activities in the FCT.

He urged organisers of the protest and participants to avoid the restricted areas specified by the court and refrain from carrying weapons, engaging in provocative conduct, or encouraging others to breach the law.

Hundeyin also urged the protesters to channel their grievances through the courts and other lawful avenues rather than the streets.

The police spokesman said adequate security arrangements had been made to protect lives and property of law-abiding Nigerians.

He enjoined those, not engaging in the protest to go about their lawful businesses without fear as anyone found to be in breach of the court’s order or in contempt of the law and be arrested and prosecuted.

(NAN)

Chelsea lead race for Morgan Rogers as Real Madrid targets Guehi, Upamecano

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Chelsea are reportedly leading the race to sign Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers as transfer speculations intensify ahead of the January window.

According to Caught Offside, the 23-year-old England international has attracted strong interest from several Premier League clubs, but Chelsea are currently seen as frontrunners for his signature.

Meanwhile, TalkSport reports that Real Madrid have identified three defensive targets for potential free transfers next year — Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano, and Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté. The trio are all highly rated and could strengthen Madrid’s defensive line-up as the club looks to plan for the future.

In South America, several English clubs — including Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal — are monitoring 18-year-old Argentine winger Ian Subiabre from River Plate. TBR Football notes that the teenager could make a move to the Premier League in 2026.

Read Also: Chelsea crushes Nottingham Forest 3–0 as Postecoglou sacked minutes after defeat

Elsewhere, The Guardian reports that Nottingham Forest are considering Fulham manager Marco Silva as a potential replacement for the recently dismissed Ange Postecoglou. However, the club is cautious about the £8 million buyout clause attached to Silva’s contract. Sean Dyche and Roberto Mancini are also being considered for the role.

Real Madrid’s 19-year-old Brazilian forward Endrick is said to be open to a loan move to Marseille due to limited game time at the Bernabéu, according to L’Équipe via Get Football.

In another development, Football Insider reports that Tottenham Hotspur are leading Chelsea and Manchester United in the race to sign Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, 25, as the Serbian forward remains a top target for Premier League clubs.

Additionally, Chelsea may activate a buyback clause to re-sign Belgian midfielder Diego Moreira, 21, from their sister club Strasbourg (TBR Football).

Finally, TalkSport adds that Real Madrid are keeping tabs on 17-year-old Mexican prodigy Gilberto Mora, who currently plays for Tijuana, as part of their long-term scouting strategy.

Top 15 most spoken languages in Africa

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Africa is home to over 2,000 languages, reflecting its vast cultural and ethnic diversity. From the bustling markets of Kenya and Lagos to the shores of Madagascar, language remains a key part of the continent’s identity.

These languages showcase Africa’s extraordinary linguistic wealth — a continent where diversity in speech mirrors its cultural richness.

Below are the 15 most spoken African languages based on the number of speakers:

1. Kiswahili (Swahili) – 230 million speakers

Widely spoken across East and Central Africa, Kiswahili serves as a lingua franca in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

2. Nigerian Pidgin – 121 million speakers

A blend of English and local Nigerian languages, it’s the everyday communication language for millions across Nigeria and West Africa.

3. Hausa – 120 million speakers

Predominantly spoken in northern Nigeria and parts of Niger, Hausa is one of Africa’s most influential trade and media languages.

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4. Egyptian Arabic – 119 million speakers

The most widely understood form of Arabic in Africa, used primarily in Egypt and across parts of North Africa.

5. Amharic – 57 million speakers

Ethiopia’s official language, Amharic is one of the few African tongues with its own unique script.

6. Yoruba – 50 million speakers

Spoken mainly in southwestern Nigeria and neighboring countries, Yoruba has a rich cultural and religious heritage.

7. Sudanese Arabic – 48 million speakers

A variant of Arabic used across Sudan and South Sudan, blending classical Arabic with local influences.

8. Igbo – 45 million speakers

One of Nigeria’s major languages, Igbo is known for its tonal nature and deep literary traditions.

9. Fulani (Fula/Fulfulde) – 41.6 million speakers

Spoken by the nomadic Fulani people across West and Central Africa.

10. Oromo – 37.4 million speakers

The most widely spoken language in Ethiopia after Amharic, also used in parts of Kenya and Somalia.

11. Algerian Arabic – 31 million speakers

A North African dialect combining Arabic, Berber, and French linguistic elements.

12. Berber (Amazigh languages) – 32 million speakers

Spoken by indigenous North African communities across Morocco, Algeria, Libya, and Mali.

13. IsiZulu (Zulu) – 28 million speakers

The most spoken home language in South Africa and one of the country’s 11 official languages.

14. Moroccan Arabic (Darija) – 21 million speakers

A distinctive dialect of Arabic spoken in Morocco, incorporating Berber, French, and Spanish influences.

15. Malagasy – 20 million speakers

The national language of Madagascar, with roots in both African and Austronesian linguistic families.

Peter Obi is the ‘biggest threat’ to growth of Naira – Reno Omokri

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Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has described Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as the “biggest threat” to the growth of the Naira, accusing him of undermining local production through large-scale importation.

Omokri made the claim in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, alleging that Obi’s business activities contradict Nigeria’s economic agenda of promoting local manufacturing.

“As the single biggest individual importer, Peter Obi is the biggest threat to #GrowNairaBuyNaija,” Omokri wrote. “We cannot move from consumption to production and become a prosumer nation if people like Peter Obi, through his Next stores, do not stop their massive importation of goods that can be easily manufactured locally.”

Read Also: Peter Obi reaffirms 4-Year single-term pledge

He further claimed that Obi’s continued importation of consumables such as tomato paste, evaporated milk, cereals, toiletries, and other household products was harmful to Nigerian industries.

“As long as people like Peter Obi keep dumping cheap imported goods on the Nigerian market, domestic manufacturers will strive and not thrive,” he added.

Omokri also suggested that such practices could undermine the 4.3% GDP growth recorded under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, noting that excessive imports hinder the nation’s goal of self-reliance.

“Some of these guys even import toothpicks and toilet paper!” Omokri wrote. “I challenge Peter Obi to move from importing to manufacturing to show that he is fully committed to the economic growth of Nigeria.”

I’m open to being second wife, says Tiwa Savage

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Award-winning Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage has revealed that she is open to becoming a second wife, saying her dating pool has become limited as she gets older.

Speaking on the American podcast Air Service, the 44-year-old mother of one said most of the men who show interest in her are either married or in their 50s.

“If I meet somebody who can really marry me, they are either in their 50s or already married. So, I don’t know. Maybe I can be a second wife. I think so. I could be a second wife,” Tiwa said.

Read Also: How I overcame my leaked s3x tape scandal – Tiwa Savage

The Somebody’s Son crooner added that if she ever becomes a second wife, she would not cause any trouble for her co-wife, explaining that she’s respectful and would mostly be focused on her career.

“I think I can get along with the first wife and she’s going to love me because I’m not going to be troublesome. I’ll be going on tours, I’m not really going to stress you. I’m very respectful, I know you are the first wife and I’ll accord you that respect,” she added.

Tiwa Savage was previously married to music executive Tunji Balogun, popularly known as TBillz, from 2013 to 2018. The marriage ended following mutual allegations of infidelity. The pair share a son together.