Nigeria’s startup ecosystem has maintained its position as Africa’s largest technology market by funding volume, startup activity, and digital adoption, despite a tougher global venture capital environment over the last two years.
As of 2026, Nigeria remains home to some of Africa’s biggest technology companies, particularly in fintech, where firms such as Flutterwave, OPay, Moniepoint, and Interswitch have already crossed or maintained billion-dollar valuations.
Here are 5 Nigerian startups closest to unicorn status in 2026.
Visit https://t.co/vm8qEx1LNK to read more.
TROOPS APPREHEND 46 SUSPECTED ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN OGUN STATE
Troops of the Nigerian Army, in conjunction with DSS, NSCDC and Immigration, have apprehended 46 suspected illegal immigrants residing in Ogun State following actionable intelligence.
The operation which commenced on 11 June 2026, led to the arrest of the suspects at various locations within Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese and surrounding communities during a targeted security operation. Preliminary investigations revealed that the individuals had allegedly been residing in the state for approximately six months without valid immigration documentation.
During interrogation, the suspects claimed to be merchants and workers affiliated with QNet, an online marketing platform involved in the sale of various commodities.
The arrested individuals comprise 18 nationals of Burkina Faso, 23 nationals of Côte d'Ivoire, 4 nationals of Togo and 1 national of Senegal. Among them are 36 males and 10 females.
The suspects have since been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Ogun State Command, for further investigation and appropriate administrative action in accordance with extant laws.
Speaking on the operation, the Commander, 35 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Friday Oguche Onu, commended the troops and collaborating security agencies for their professionalism and vigilance. He also urged residents to remain security conscious and promptly report suspicious activities and individuals to relevant security agencies.
The successful operation underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to combating illegal migration, enhancing internal security, and safeguarding national interests.
Idereghi Samuel Akari
Major
Assistant Director Army Public Relations
35 Artillery Brigade
14 June 2026
The past two main events have really highlighted the unpredictable nature of MMA. Ilia Topuria and Khamzat Chimaev were two of 15 undefeated champions in UFC history. Seen as untouchable. Both go down in back-to-back headliners. #UFCWhiteHouse
I have stopped going to South Africa for any international conferences for mainly 3 things.
1. Border police rudeness: Some years ago I was invited for a conference on conflicts in the Horn in South Africa. I showed email invite to the border policeman at the desk. He rudely asked: "but why can't you people hold your peace conferences in your homes. Why always come to South Africa?" - I think he had a point. Why must we?
Second time it was worse - "But why are you Zomallis and Ethiopians always here."
I reminded him I was actually Kenyan, and I was only in the country for 2 days for an international conference
Reply: "Sheh, um, eh. But what is the difference"
2. As soon as locals figure out you are a black person, possibly African from another country, the automatic assumption is that you are an illegal migrant. You see immediate hostile reaction. Honestly, I found SA one of the most miserable places on earth in terms of peoples' attitude to foreigners. The visceral hatred towards fellow Africans is unnerving. Still one of the most beautiful geographies in Africa.
3. The state bureaucracy and departments filled with people who actually know very little about the outside world. Most of the best people who made South Africa an outward-looking African power are gone. All remaining are small-time apparatchiks stealing from the state and fat toads serving as diplomats. I feel sorry for South Africa.
It is profoundly heartbreaking to witness another surge of xenophobic violence in #SouthAfrica this week. Hundreds have marched on Parliament, thousands of families have been displaced, and lives have been tragically cut short.
These include at least five Ethiopians killed earlier in the attacks, and five Mozambicans who died in Mossel Bay. Thousands more are now fleeing for their lives.
To see South Africa turn to xenophobia is a tragic betrayal of the country's struggle for independence and freedom. African nations stood united to dismantle apartheid. Ethiopia proudly supported "Madiba," Nelson Mandela, in 1962 and issued him a passport so he could travel the continent. Other countries helped in many ways, including with political and financial support.
Disagreements and grievances must be addressed by the justice system and the rule of law, never through vigilante violence and collective punishment.
South Africa deserves better. Africa deserves better.
Stop the hate. Protect the vulnerable. Uphold our shared humanity.
@floodssky@casspernyovest If you have law as you claim why are citizens attacking people and asking them of their papers or are they authorized to do so by the government?