The partnership brings together one of Africa’s fastest-rising music stars and one of the world’s most youth-driven smartphone brands, united by a shared belief that young people should have the freedom to express who they are, push boundaries and shine unapologetically.​

Over the past two years, Qing Madi has become one of the defining voices of a new generation of African music. With hit records, millions of streams across digital platforms, international recognition and a rapidly growing fanbase, she has carved out a reputation for authenticity, originality and effortless confidence. Rather than following trends, Qing Madi has consistently created her own lane, qualities that perfectly mirror the philosophy behind the HOT 70 Pro.​

For Infinix, whose products are built around the lifestyle and ambitions of Gen Z consumers, the collaboration is more than a celebrity endorsement. It is a celebration of a generation that refuses to blend in.​

The HOT 70 Pro was designed for young creators, students, trendsetters and digital natives who see their smartphone as more than a communication device. It is a tool for creativity, productivity and personal expression.​

Leading the experience is the Active Matrix Cube, the evolution of Infinix’s signature Active Matrix Display. Built into the phone’s distinctive “Sugar Cube” camera design, the interactive display allows users to customise animated pixel art, create unique lighting effects, receive intelligent notifications and even share custom creations instantly with compatible devices using NFC. The feature transforms the smartphone into a dynamic extension of its owner’s personality, making every interaction feel uniquely personal.​

Designed under Infinix’s Dynamic Shine Design philosophy, the HOT 70 Pro introduces finishes that evolve with light and movement, alongside an ultra-slim profile that feels as premium as it looks. Every colourway has been crafted to help users stand out while expressing their individuality, an approach that aligns naturally with Qing Madi’s bold artistic identity.​

Beyond its striking design, the HOT 70 Pro delivers meaningful innovation for everyday life. Its IP68-rated dust and water resistance gives users the confidence to create wherever inspiration strikes; rom rainy commutes and poolside moments to spontaneous adventures, without worrying about accidental splashes or water exposure.​

The device also combines a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 7100 5G processor with a smooth 144Hz display, a long-lasting 6000mAh battery, AI-powered productivity tools and a 50MP Sony IMX882 imaging system capable of capturing stunning Live Photos and content that keeps pace with today’s always-on generation.

Speaking on the partnership, Oluwayemisi Ode, PR Manager, Infinix Nigeria, described Qing Madi as the perfect embodiment of the HOT series’ youthful spirit.​

“The HOT Series has always represented confidence, creativity and individuality. Qing Madi embodies those values in every sense. She is talented, fearless, authentic and deeply connected with today’s generation of young Nigerians. Her journey reflects exactly what the HOT 70 Pro stands for—standing out, embracing originality and expressing yourself without limits. We couldn’t think of a better person to lead this campaign.”​

Sharing her excitement about joining the Infinix family, Qing Madi said:​

“I’ve always believed that the best version of yourself is the one that’s unapologetically authentic. That’s why this partnership feels so natural to me. The HOT 70 Pro is bold, creative and different, and I love how it encourages people to express themselves in their own way. I’m excited to begin this journey with Infinix and connect with fans through this campaign.”​

Fans won’t have to wait long to experience the collaboration firsthand.​

Qing Madi will make her first official appearance as the face of the Infinix HOT 70 Pro at the HOT 70 Pro “Be Seen Be Hot” Campus Storm, taking place on Thursday, July 10, at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).​

Expected to attract thousands of students from UNILAG, Yaba College of Technology and the Federal College of Education, the Campus Storm promises to be one of the biggest youth experiences of the season. Attendees can expect immersive product experiences, games, creator interactions, exclusive giveaways, live entertainment and a special meet-and-greet with Qing Madi before she headlines the event with a live performance.​

More than just a campus activation, the event marks the official beginning of the HOT 70 Pro movement; a celebration of confidence, creativity and individuality, where technology meets music, fashion and youth culture.​

For fans of Qing Madi, lovers of innovative technology and anyone looking to experience the next chapter of the HOT Series firsthand, the HOT 70 Pro Be Seen Be Hot Campus Storm at UNILAG is shaping up to be one of the must-attend events of the year.​

With Qing Madi leading the campaign, Infinix is once again reaffirming its commitment to empowering the next generation with technology that does more than perform, it inspires, connects and gives every young person the confidence to be seen, be heard and be unforgettable.​

Be Seen. Be Hot.

Every thriving entrepreneur relies on the right tools to get the job done, and today, for millions of business owners across Nigeria, the smartphone has earned its place on that same list.

It is no longer just a communication device. It has become the control centre of modern enterprise, where payments are received, customers are managed, logistics are coordinated, and businesses are run in real time.

Recognising this shift, itel introduces the itel Power 80, a purpose-built smartphone for people whose daily survival and success depend on staying connected, productive, and always available.

A Massive 7000mAh Battery Built for Long Workdays

One of the biggest challenges facing entrepreneurs and professionals is battery anxiety.

From responding to customer inquiries and coordinating deliveries to making calls and managing social media accounts, business activities can quickly drain smartphone batteries.

The Power 80 addresses this challenge with its massive 7000mAh battery, delivering the endurance users need to remain productive throughout the day.

Instead of carrying power banks everywhere or searching constantly for charging points, users can focus on growing their businesses.

Tough Enough with IP68 & IP69 Waterproof and Dustproof

Unlike smartphones designed primarily for appearance, the Power 80 prioritises durability and resilience.

With IP68 and IP69 water resistance, 2-meter military-grade drop protection, and a rugged design philosophy, the device is engineered for real-life working conditions.

Whether it is navigating crowded markets, operating in dusty workshops, riding through unpredictable weather, or working on construction sites, the Power 80 is built to endure.

Durability is not just a feature for entrepreneurs who depend heavily on their devices; it is a necessity.

Exceptional Value for Money

At ₦186,900, the Power 80 delivers a compelling combination of battery life, durability, performance, and reliability.

It is designed not only to meet today’s needs but also to provide long-term value through extended battery health and dependable everyday performance.

This makes it more than a smartphone purchase; it becomes an investment in productivity.

₦120,000 Worth of Exclusive Launch Benefits

The Power 80 launch offer further strengthens its appeal to entrepreneurs looking to maximise value.

The first 6,000 customers will receive an exclusive package worth ₦120,000, including a free O11 Smartwatch, three years of warranty protection, free screen replacement, 1GB monthly data plus a 50% data bonus for six months on MTN, Boomplay Premium access, and a one-month MovieBox VIP subscription.

These benefits are carefully designed to support users beyond the initial purchase. The smartwatch enhances convenience and productivity, the MTN data package helps users stay connected, while the extended warranty and screen replacement offer valuable protection for their investment.

The Power 80 is more than a device; it is a work companion designed to keep pace with ambition or Nigeria’s builders, sellers, creators, and everyday hustlers, especially with their demanding schedules and unpredictable environments.

With its powerful battery, rugged durability, and unmatched value package, the itel Power 80 stands out as a smartphone built specifically for the realities of modern Nigerian life.

Buy the itel Power 80 

When you reach for a cold drink without thinking twice, it’s usually because it’s been part of your life for as long as you can remember. That kind of muscle memory doesn’t happen by chance. It’s built over time over 75 years of showing up as the answer to every “What are you drinking?” moment.

From your family’s Christmas table to the bukka down the road, to the party that gave you memories you wouldn’t trade for the world… and even those quiet days when an ice-cold Coca-Cola just hits differently.

For 75 years, Coca-Cola has been refreshing Nigeria. And the brand still knows exactly what Nigerians want: more of the good stuff, and more value when it matters most.

To celebrate this milestone, Coca-Cola introduces a specially designed 60cl PET anniversary pack, giving you an extra 10cl on your regular 50cl drink 20% more value, simply because it’s our birthday, and we’re sharing the love.

The limited-edition Coca-Cola Less Sugar PET bottles wear Nigeria proudly, wrapped in our flag colours around the refreshing taste we all love. This extra value is also available exclusively across Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Fanta, and Sprite in the 60cl anniversary packs.

As a toast to the Nigerian spirit and a journey built together Coca-Cola invites Nigerians everywhere to raise a bottle and celebrate. E Don Tey, but We Still Dey.

Whether you, Wanta Fanta, need a Sprite for the heat, or you’ve gone all in on Coca-Cola Less Sugar or Zero Sugar, everyone gets more for the celebration. Even your faves. 

Make every moment count with the new 60cl anniversary packs, available now at major retailers nationwide.  

Home is where every celebration begins. From childhood memories to the moments we share today, some traditions never fade. As Coca-Cola celebrates 75 years in Nigeria, I’m honoured to celebrate this milestone with the people who mean the most to me, my family. And the celebration gets even sweeter with 20% extra free in 60cl packs of Coke, Fanta, and Sprite. More to share. More memories to make. E don tey. But Coke still dey. @Fresh Buzees visuals

For more information, visit or follow @CocaCola_NG on Instagram or X for more Coca-Cola offers and experiences.

Seven newly admitted students have received ₦5 million each under the maiden Rite Foods National Academic Excellence Awards, a partnership between Rite Foods and JAMB that rewarded exceptional academic performance with a total of ₦35 million.

The winners weren’t chosen based on UTME scores alone. JAMB also considered their WAEC results, post-UTME performance and admission records, making the Rite Foods award a recognition of students who consistently performed well throughout the admission process.

The recipients represent all six geopolitical zones, with an additional award going to a student from JAMB’s Equal Opportunity Group for Persons with Disabilities. Most of the winners are studying Medicine or Software Engineering, while others are pursuing Mechanical Engineering and Mass Communication.

Professor Is-haq Oloyede, the outgoing registrar of JAMB, warmly congratulated Rite Foods for the initiative. Speaking on the collaboration, he noted: “There are many people with high scores who are not admitted, and this offers an opportunity to celebrate them.”

According to Rite Foods, the awards are meant to celebrate academic excellence and encourage more students to strive for outstanding results. The company also says the initiative will become an annual programme, with reports indicating that the winners will receive internship opportunities alongside the cash prize.

“A�� Rite Foods, we firmly believe Nigeria’s future will be shaped by young people. The initiative goes beyond recognizing academic achievements, it is about recognizing greatness,” the company’s Managing Director said.

He went on to acknowledge that education remains one of the most powerful drivers of national development across the globe. “No nation can rise above the quality of its human capital.”, he noted.

It’s not every day you hear of Nigerian students getting millions just for doing well in school. Thanks to the Rite Foods National Academic Excellence Awards, these seven freshers are beginning university with a pretty impressive head start.

The best part? It takes less than 15 minutes and a few kitchen utensils you already have. So grab your Golden Penny Choco spread and get ready to take your popcorn from ordinary to a snack you would always want a refill of!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Corn kernels
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Golden Penny Choco Spread

Step-by-Step Guide

Add vegetable oil to a pot or pan over medium heat, then stir in one tablespoon of sugar.

Pour in your corn kernels and stir until they are fully coated.

Once they start popping, cover the pot and shake it so it doesn’t begin to burn.

When it’s perfectly popped, set it aside.

Wait until the popping stops completely, then take the pot off the heat.

Scoop about 3 tablespoons of your rich Golden Penny Choco Spread into a small bowl and then place the small bowl inside a larger bowl of hot water.

Stir until it turns silky, glossy, and perfectly smooth.

Once that is done, pour your popcorn into a large bowl, drizzle the rich Golden Penny Choco spread all over it, and mix until every piece is beautifully coated in chocolatey goodness.

Serve immediately and enjoy your sweet, crunchy, and chocolatey snack!

Conclusion

Once you try this, you won’t look at plain popcorn the same way ever again. It is quick, easy to make, and guaranteed to keep you coming back for more.

So, next time you are looking for a snack that fits that movie mood, head to the supermarket and grab a jar of Golden Penny Choco Spread in advance. For more recipes, follow us, check our and trust Golden Penny Choco Spread to deliver back-to-back deliciousness!

Then you start negotiating with yourself: “or should I just make rice again?, ‘should i try sleeping instead?’. This is exactly the moment where saves your life because imagine one pot that gives you smoky sausage, juicy chicken, firm pasta, and serious restaurant vibes without stress!

It is perfect for the “I don’t want to eat out” but “I want something that tastes like it came right out of a restaurant” moments.

Somewhere along the line, someone decided that pasta deserved a proper Nigerian makeover, and native pasta became the answer. If you’re reading this article, we’re hoping you’re part of the second kind looking to make something different because we’re about to give you a guide with the result being A+ in enjoyment.

You’ll Need

• Golden Penny Pasta
• Vegetable oil
• Chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Sausage
• Shrimp
• Onion (chopped)
• Yellow, green and red bell peppers
• Tomato paste or blended tomatoes
• Chicken stock
• Black pepper
• Salt and seasoning cubes
• Parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1:

Start by seasoning your bite sized chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken until golden. Also do the same for your sausages and shrimps. Fry your shrimp last so it doesn’t overcook. Then set everything aside.

Step 2:

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed to saute your onions and bell peppers until soft and fragrant. Add your tomato paste (or blended tomatoes) and stir well. Let it fry for a few minutes so it loses that raw taste and becomes rich then add in your chicken stock, seasoning cubes and salt to simmer. At this point, you should have your neighbors thinking, ‘what are you cooking?’

Step 3: Add Your Proteins

Bring a pot of water to a boil and add your Golden Penny Pasta. Cook according to the instructions on the pack until the pasta is al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Coat Properly

Pour the pasta into your thickened sauce and mix gently. Add in your chicken, sausage, and shrimp, stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes so all the strands are coated with flavour.

Step 5: Introduce the star of the day

If you want to feel like a food content creator, sprinkle some parsley on top for extra richness and just like that, your jambalaya pasta is ready to serve!

Conclusion

If you’ve made it this far, congratulations. You are one step away from becoming that person who continually says, ‘I don’t know what to cook’ because sometimes, all you need is a good recipe idea and we have that for you. 

When next you are standing in your kitchen trying to figure out what to cook, reach for that pack of Golden Penny Pasta in your cupboard and prepare this that’s not just delicious but gives you more reasons to love it!.

So don’t wait! Check out and shop for Golden Penny Pasta now!!!

So the next time you’re tempted to make your same old pasta recipe, try giving it a native twist using this with Golden Penny Pasta, check for more and chop life like never before.

If you live in Lagos—or visit the city often—this is worth your attention.

According to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s State of the Health of the Nation Report 2025, Lagos recorded the highest number of HIV diagnoses in Nigeria in 2025, with 10,430 cases documented through testing.

As Nigeria’s commercial hub, Lagos sees millions of people living, working, and connecting every day. But another factor is also driving these numbers: many people still delay HIV and STI screening because of inconvenience, privacy concerns, or fear of stigma.

That’s why more people are choosing private STI screening.

is a 4-in-1 rapid STI screening kit designed to help you privately screen for HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis from the comfort of your home. It offers a convenient first step toward knowing your status.

When should you consider screening?

• Before a new relationship becomes intimate.
• Before you and your partner stop using protection.
• After a sexual encounter if you’re concerned about possible exposure, while following recommended testing timelines.
• As part of your routine sexual health check-up.
• Whenever you want a more private screening experience.

The latest HIV figures are not a reason to panic—they’re a reminder that early screening and knowing your status matter.

Know your status. Protect the people you love.

Learn more about or visit or chat with us on to order privately. FREE DELIVERY AVAILABLE

Source: , State of the Health of the Nation Report 2025.

The secret is not always your baking equipment or the expensive cake toppings. Sometimes, it’s simply using the right ingredient that adds richness, flavour, and that irresistible homemade goodness everyone loves because when you make it with Golden Penny Spread, you are not simply baking but making a dessert that is good for your family and loved ones.

Why Use Golden Penny Spread?

Yes, anyone can bake cakes but not everyone knows the one ingredient that can instantly elevate your cake game, is Golden Penny Spread.

It is smooth, creamy and blends easily into your cake batter, helps you get that soft and fluffy cake texture and rounds it up with the perfect balance of an amazing taste. Before you bake your next cake to satisfy your sweet cravings on a Saturday afternoon, here’s how to make a yummy cake with Golden Penny Spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need 

Here’s a no-stress shopping list for a simple vanilla naked cake to make things easier:

• 250g all-purpose flour
• 200g sugar
• Golden Penny Spread
• 4 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1⁄2 cup milk

Now let’s get baking:

In a large mixing bowl, combine your sugar and Golden Penny Spread. Slowly beat until the mixture becomes light, smooth, and fluffy.

Crack in your eggs one at a time and mix thoroughly after each addition. Then add in the vanilla extract and stir.

In a separate bowl, mix your flour, baking powder and whisk together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk and mix gently until everything is combined.

Preheat your oven to 180°C then grease your cake pan lightly with Golden Penny Spread and a little flour to prevent your cake from sticking once baked.

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and bake for 30–40 minutes or like the Nigerian way, until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool. Serve and enjoy with your drink of choice.

CONCLUSION

One of the best things about making cakes at home is not just eating it. It is watching everyone gather around when they smell it baking while asking ‘ah ahn, who made this?” and then you give that smile with a side eye knowing Golden Penny Spread played a huge role in making that happen!

For when you ever have an ‘I deserve cakes’ moment, head to the nearest store around you or check our , buy packs of Golden Penny Spread, preheat your oven and get ready to bake and enjoy a snack that’s good for the family.

June 30, 2026 – Visa today outlined a series of AI, stablecoin, and token capabilities designed to help clients across the Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa (CEMEA) region participate in the next generation of commerce. Ahead of the Visa Payments Forum, taking place in Paris on July 1, Visa shared how two foundational shifts — artificial intelligence and stablecoins — are transforming the front-end and back-end of commerce and money movement, and how Visa is enabling clients to adapt, scale and build trusted new experiences.

“Commerce is entering a new phase that is increasingly intelligent, programmable, and embedded into everyday experiences,” said Tareq Muhmood, Regional President, CEMEA, Visa. He added, “For companies serving the digital economy, the opportunity is significant, but so is the need for trust and interoperability. Visa is focused on providing the infrastructure and intelligence to innovate confidently across the front- and back-end of payments and deliver better experiences for the consumers and businesses they serve.”

Powering the Front End of Commerce with AI

Visa detailed how AI is reshaping how transactions are initiated, authorised, and trusted, while also accelerating how new commerce experiences are designed, developed and delivered. As AI agents increasingly act on behalf of consumers and businesses, Visa Intelligent Commerce, the company’s platform for agentic commerce, provides the trust and controls needed for AI agents to securely discover, initiate, and complete transactions.

To support this shift, Visa is working across the ecosystem to help ensure agent-initiated transactions are transparent and trusted. This includes merchant enablement through the newly launched Agent Score, created with New Generation, which allows merchants to evaluate their websites for agentic commerce readiness — specifically, whether AI agents can navigate, understand and complete tasks on a merchant’s website.  Merchants also need to know which agents can be trusted to transact on their sites, and agents need confidence that they are interacting with legitimate merchants. With the launch of Agentic Directory, Visa is providing a directory that includes agents and merchants that have been verified as legitimate participants in agentic commerce.

Enhancing Tokens for AI-Driven Commerce

One of the key drivers of eCommerce growth in the CEMEA region has been the growth of tokenisation, bringing more secure, convenient and seamless payments to the region across eCommerce and mobile channels. In CEMEA, Visa has seen a rapid increase in tokenised transactions, growing from 26% in 2023 to 70% in 2026. 

Today, tokens already carry a highly secure data set purpose-built for digital payments. As commerce extends to new channels and agents, Visa is enriching the data to provide more details on the transaction type, where the token is being used and who is making the payment. A second key advancement is a token assurance signal. Token use is evaluated throughout its lifecycle — based on provisioning and behavioural history — to generate a signal of trust behind each transaction

Together, these advancements help strengthen the role of tokens as a foundation for trusted digital and AI-driven commerce, giving clients richer context and stronger assurance as transactions become more automated, embedded and intelligent.

Modernising the Back End of Money Movement with Stablecoins

Visa shared progress in modernising settlement and value transfer through stablecoins and blockchain-based infrastructure. With Tokenised Deposits, the company will build the technology layer that can allow banks to turn traditional deposits into programmable, always-on digital money. This gives banks a way to match the speed and flexibility of stablecoins while keeping funds on the balance sheet.

Visa is also expanding stablecoin settlement pilots across multiple regions, blockchains and currencies. Building on its first stablecoin settlement pilots in early 2025, Visa has moved billions of dollars in stablecoins across VisaNet, with an annualised run rate of approximately $7 billion as of March 2026. With issuing banks already settling seven days a week on-chain with Visa, Visa is working to extend seven-day settlement to include acquirers, increasing flexibility and frequency across the entire ecosystem. Since the launch of stablecoins’ settlement capabilities a year ago in CEMEA, settlement volumes have increased nearly 60 times.

To enable consumers and businesses to spend stablecoin balances anywhere Visa is accepted, Visa continues to expand stablecoin-linked card programs. With more than 160 programs live or in development globally, adoption is expected to accelerate.

Leveraging AI to Turn Insights into Intelligence 

To help clients respond to rising customer expectations, Visa is combining modern infrastructure with data-led capabilities that can support better decision-making across the payment journey. The company is introducing an AI-powered travel intelligence capability that helps banks anticipate customer travel needs before a transaction occurs. Launching today in CEMEA, Visa Trip Intelligence combines VisaNet intelligence with third-party data and can infer travel intent, generate personalised trip itineraries and provide activation-ready insights, enabling banks to deliver timely pre-travel support, reduce payment friction and offer more relevant benefits, services and experiences to customers while they travel.

Every successful content creator has one thing in common. They all started at zero. Zero followers. Zero brand deals. Zero comments. Zero views.

Yet, while many people see the polished videos, viral moments and brand collaborations, very few understand what it actually takes to build a personal brand from the ground up.

On the latest episode of the Youth Empowered Podcast by the Nigerian Bottling Company, digital creators Mercy the Influencer and DarkSkinned Ella pulled back the curtain on what it really means to create content online. From overcoming self-doubt and social anxiety to developing a content strategy that drives growth, the conversation offered practical lessons for anyone looking to build a presence in today’s digital economy.

Everyone starts at zero

For both creators, the journey wasn’t as glamorous as social media often makes it seem.

Before the followers came, there were moments of uncertainty, inconsistency and questioning whether content creation was even worth pursuing.

“I kept trying. I kept learning. I kept believing in myself,” DarkSkinned Ella shared while reflecting on her early days as a creator.

Mercy admitted that her own breakthrough didn’t come from chasing followers but from solving a problem she personally experienced.

After struggling with severe skin issues and feeling misled by skincare recommendations online, she decided to create honest content documenting her own experiences.

“I wasn’t thinking about followers,” she explained. “I just wanted to tell the truth.”

Ironically, that authenticity became the turning point for her brand.

Consistency isn’t just posting every day

One of the biggest myths the guests challenged was the idea that consistency simply means posting more.

According to Mercy, consistency is about creating a schedule you can realistically maintain.

“The starter pack to grow your page is six pieces of content every week,” she explained.

Whether that’s one post every day or two posts a day across three days, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s building a rhythm your audience can rely on.

Every creator needs a strategy

Perhaps one of the most practical moments of the episode came when Mercy introduced a simple framework aspiring creators can use to structure their content.

She explained that every content strategy should include three types of content:

• Growth content to attract new audiences through educational posts, tutorials, tips, and insights
• Community-building content that helps audiences connect with the person behind the brand
• Conversion content that encourages audiences to take action, whether that’s making a purchase, joining a community or engaging more deeply

Rather than posting randomly, she encouraged creators to intentionally balance these content types to build both visibility and long-term engagement.

Authenticity beats imitation

The conversation also challenged one of social media’s biggest traps: comparison.

While many creators try to replicate someone else’s style, both guests agreed that audiences respond best to authenticity.

“If I vlog like somebody else,” Mercy explained, “people won’t see me—they’ll see the other person.”

Instead of chasing trends that don’t fit, they encouraged aspiring creators to identify the kind of content they genuinely enjoy making and build from there.

Because when content feels forced, audiences can usually tell.

Stop waiting to be perfect

One of the most memorable moments of the conversation came when the discussion turned to fear.

Fear of looking awkward. Fear of being judged. Fear of creating something that nobody watches.

For Mercy, embracing that discomfort became part of the journey.

“I celebrated 1,000 posts,” she said. “That was 1,000 times of sounding cringe.”

She recalled setting up photo shoots outdoors because she couldn’t afford proper lighting, with passersby staring at what looked like an unusual setup. The content later generated paid opportunities that made every uncomfortable moment worthwhile.

Darkskinned Ella shared a similar perspective.

“If you want to be a good content creator, forget shame,” she said. “Do it shamelessly.”

More than content creation

Beyond algorithms, followers, and brand deals, the episode explored something much bigger: believing in yourself before anyone else does.

Both creators agreed that growth doesn’t happen overnight, and comparing your journey to someone else’s only distracts you from your own progress.

Instead, they encouraged young Nigerians to start where they are, keep learning, and remain consistent—even when the results aren’t immediate.

As host Moses Dickson reminded listeners at the end of the episode, “The challenge isn’t to have everything figured out. It’s simply to take the first visible step.”

Whether that’s posting your first video, pitching your first client, launching your first idea or making your first sale.

Because every success story begins in the same place.

Zero.

Watch the full episode of the Youth Empowered Podcast on or listen on and Podcasts.