Miriam Imoh is the President and Chief Executive Officer of HOMI Group, a United States based conglomerate with interests in technology, agriculture, construction, sports and entertainment. She is also the founder of Glide, Africa’s youth opportunity hub, created to connect young Africans with jobs, skills, funding and entrepreneurship opportunities at no cost. Born in the United Kingdom, educated in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and now based in the United States, Imoh speaks in this interview on the vision behind Glide and how its technology driven ecosystem is helping to tackle unemployment, poverty and insecurity by expanding access to economic opportunities across the continent.

Question: Across Africa, many experts argue that relying on one source of income is becoming increasingly risky. Do you share that view?

Answer: Absolutely. The economic realities across Africa make it increasingly difficult for many households to depend solely on a single salary.

According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), a large proportion of employment in sub-Saharan Africa remains informal, while the African Development Bank estimates that the continent creates far fewer formal jobs each year than the number of young people entering the labour market.

For millions of Africans, combining a regular job with freelance work, farming, trading or other income generating activities has become an economic necessity rather than a lifestyle choice. Glide was designed with this reality in mind by bringing together opportunities across different sectors within one digital ecosystem.

Whether it is a nurse seeking additional care coordination opportunities through CareConnect Hub, an artisan looking for more customers through Workman Jobs Connect, or a farmer connecting directly with buyers through Agri Connect, the idea is to enable people to earn from their skills rather than depend entirely on a single employer.

The philosophy is simple. Sustainable wealth is often built on multiple streams of income rather than a single monthly salary.

Question: Youth unemployment remains a major concern in Nigeria and across Africa. Beyond discussing the problem, what practical role can digital platforms play?

Answer: Access is one of the biggest challenges facing young Africans. Many possess talent and ambition but lack access to affordable training, current industry knowledge, practical mentorship and direct links to employment.

Nigeria’s unemployment and underemployment challenges continue to affect millions of young people, while many others remain outside the formal labour market altogether.

Across Africa, governments and development partners continue searching for sustainable solutions.

Digital platforms can help bridge some of these gaps by reducing the distance between learning and earning.

Glide’s Virtual Training Hub was developed with that objective. Rather than offering static courses, it focuses on practical skills that reflect current market needs. More importantly, users who complete training can immediately explore opportunities within the same ecosystem instead of beginning another lengthy search elsewhere.

Question: Many Nigerians are moving into freelancing and small businesses. How does technology support that transition?

Answer: The internet has significantly lowered the barriers to starting a business. Someone with a valuable skill can now reach customers far beyond their immediate community.

However, visibility remains a major obstacle.

An artisan in Ibadan, a software developer in Nairobi or a farmer in Ogun State may all possess valuable products or services but still struggle to reach paying customers.

Glide attempts to address this through specialised platforms.

The Artisan Marketplace provides a digital space for craftspeople to showcase their products, while Startup Launch offers entrepreneurs tools to improve visibility and connect with potential collaborators.

Rather than competing for attention on platforms built primarily for larger global markets, users can focus on opportunities designed around African realities and local economic needs.

Question: One criticism often levelled against digital platforms is that users have little control over their data and opportunities. How does Glide approach this concern?

Answer: Trust has become one of the defining issues in today’s digital economy.

Many online platforms generate revenue primarily from user data, targeted advertising or algorithm driven recommendations that users cannot fully understand or control.

Glide adopts a different approach by allowing users to determine how they engage with the available platforms.

Individuals decide which services to use, how they present themselves, what opportunities they pursue and which skills they develop.

Instead of relying solely on automated matching systems, users retain greater control over their career paths and business decisions.

This approach is particularly relevant in Africa, where the informal economy supports millions of households yet often receives limited institutional support despite its enormous contribution to employment and livelihoods.

Question: Some observers say Africa’s biggest challenge is not talent but opportunity. Does Glide share that perspective?

Answer: To a large extent, yes.

Across Nigeria and the wider African continent, there is little shortage of creativity, innovation or entrepreneurial ambition.

The greater challenge has often been access to the infrastructure that allows those ideas to become sustainable businesses.

Each year, policy makers, economists and development organisations release reports highlighting youth unemployment and proposing long term reforms.

While those policy discussions remain important, many young people require immediate opportunities to earn, build businesses and develop practical skills.

Glide positions itself as digital infrastructure rather than a policy intervention.

Its nine integrated platforms cover employment, agriculture, productivity, property, events, healthcare support services, entrepreneurship, vocational learning and artisan commerce.

These are sectors where millions of Africans are already working, often without adequate digital support.

The objective is to provide practical tools that enable users to expand their opportunities, strengthen existing businesses and improve their earning potential in an increasingly digital economy.

Ultimately, the platform reflects a broader belief that Africa’s young population does not lack ideas or determination. What has often been missing is accessible infrastructure capable of connecting those ideas with real economic opportunities.

As tributes marked the birthday of architect and businessman Arc. Chief Christian Asaga Nwali, former National Publicity Secretary of the nPDP, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has described him as a visionary entrepreneur whose work in business, philanthropy and community development has had a lasting impact in Ebonyi State and beyond.

In a statement released on Sunday, Eze praised Nwali’s leadership of the C-SAGAS Group and his charitable activities, saying they have benefited communities through infrastructure projects, youth empowerment and support for religious organisations.

Why it matters

Business leaders increasingly play significant roles in community development across Nigeria, particularly in areas where private investments complement government efforts in education, infrastructure and employment.

Supporters of Nwali argue that his investments and philanthropic initiatives demonstrate how private enterprise can contribute to economic growth while addressing social needs.

Birthday tribute highlights business achievements

According to Eze, Nwali has built C-SAGAS Group into a diversified indigenous company with interests in construction, hospitality and real estate.

The statement says the group employs more than 2,000 Nigerians and operates businesses including Exclusive Serene Hotels in Abuja and Enugu, Cirenes Hotel in Abakaliki, C-SAGAS Projects Nigeria Limited and C-SAGAS Luxury Homes Limited.

Eze described the businessman as “an unsung icon, an accomplished professional, an exceptional philanthropist, a visionary leader, and the very embodiment of humility.”

He added that Nwali’s life reflects “selfless service, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to humanity.”

Community projects and philanthropy

The statement credits Nwali with supporting several community development projects in Ebonyi State.

These include donations of electricity transformers, construction of community halls, church buildings and market structures, scholarships for students, vocational training for young people, and annual food and financial support for vulnerable families.

Eze also said the businessman had donated vehicles to employees and charitable organisations and helped facilitate employment opportunities for many young Nigerians.

Academic and professional background

According to the statement, Nwali is from Ameka in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

He reportedly earned both a Master’s degree and a PhD in Architecture from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, alongside an honorary doctorate in entrepreneurship and strategic international business management.

Calls for leadership

Beyond business, Eze said Nwali has consistently promoted transparency, accountability and inclusive leadership.

He argued that many people view the entrepreneur as one of the emerging figures capable of contributing to Ebonyi State’s future socio-economic development.

Recognition for service

The statement also noted that Nwali has received recognition from the Redeemer’s Men Fellowship of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Faith Tabernacle Parish, Abakaliki.

According to Eze, the honour recognised his contributions to humanitarian work, community development and Christian service.

What experts say

Development economists have long argued that sustained private investment in infrastructure, education and job creation can complement government efforts to reduce poverty and stimulate local economies.

Corporate governance experts also note that philanthropy often has its greatest impact when it is supported by transparent institutions and measurable long-term development outcomes.

Public perspective

Residents and beneficiaries of private charitable initiatives often say such interventions provide immediate relief, particularly in communities facing infrastructure and employment challenges.

However, development specialists generally stress that long-term progress depends on continued collaboration between businesses, governments and civil society.

What happens next?

As Nwali marks another birthday, attention is likely to remain on the future expansion of the C-SAGAS Group and the continuation of its reported investments in hospitality, construction and community development.

Eze concluded his tribute by wishing the businessman continued good health and many more years of service to humanity.

Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze said:

“Happy Birthday, Arc. Chief Christian Asaga Nwali. May your enduring legacy of excellence, humility, visionary leadership, and selfless service continue to inspire generations to come.”

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it has intercepted narcotic drugs, expired pharmaceutical products and fake medicines worth more than ₦53.39 billion at the Apapa Port in Lagos, describing the operation as one of its most significant anti-smuggling successes in recent months. The seizures were formally handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for further investigation and regulatory action.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, announced the seizures during a press briefing at the Apapa Area Command on Wednesday, saying the operation reflected growing cooperation among Nigeria’s security and regulatory agencies in tackling illicit trade.

Dr Adeniyi said the interceptions came shortly after the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, adding that the Customs Service remained committed to protecting public health, securing Nigeria’s borders and preventing criminal groups from exploiting legitimate trade routes.

“This event comes just days after the commemoration of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, reaffirming the Nigeria Customs Service’s unwavering commitment to protecting our borders, preserving the health of our citizens, safeguarding the future of our youth and strengthening national security through intelligence-driven border management.”

Nine major seizures uncovered

According to Customs, officers uncovered nine separate consignments after intelligence gathering, cargo scanning and physical examinations carried out in collaboration with the NDLEA.

Among the largest discoveries was a container carrying 3,639 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, weighing about 1,819.5 kilograms, hidden alongside imported vehicles and automobile spare parts.

Another container concealed 9,918 sachets of Cannabis Sativa, weighing approximately 4.95 metric tonnes, behind household goods and imported vehicles.

Customs officers also intercepted two containers loaded with 339,800 bottles of Codeine syrup, concealed inside cartons of casserole dishes in what officials described as deliberate attempts to evade detection.

Three additional containers contained expired medicines, including Tramadol, Oxytocin injections, Carbamazepine tablets, eye drops, antibiotics and vitamin injections, all intended for regulatory action because they posed risks to public health.

Investigators also discovered a shipment of pharmaceutical capsules carrying what Customs described as a fake NAFDAC registration number, despite appearing legitimate during initial inspection. Officials said detailed verification revealed the registration documents were fraudulent.

Customs placed the combined Duty Paid Value of all nine seizures at ₦53,391,140,029.

Why it matters

Beyond their financial value, Customs says the seizures could help prevent dangerous narcotics and unsafe medicines from reaching Nigerian consumers.

Dr Adeniyi said the operation represented more than a successful enforcement exercise.

“These seizures represent far more than monetary value. They represent lives protected, families preserved, communities secured and countless young Nigerians shielded from the devastating consequences of drug abuse and unsafe medicines.”

The Customs chief warned that organised criminal networks continue to develop sophisticated methods of concealing illegal cargo inside legitimate imports, making intelligence sharing and modern inspection technology increasingly important in protecting Nigeria’s ports.

Industry reaction

The latest seizures have reinforced concerns among public health professionals and supply chain experts about the growing sophistication of criminal syndicates using Nigeria’s seaports to smuggle narcotics and counterfeit medicines.

Health experts have repeatedly warned that fake and expired pharmaceuticals can lead to treatment failure, drug resistance, poisoning and preventable deaths, while the illegal circulation of codeine-based products continues to fuel substance abuse, particularly among young people.

Security analysts also say the interceptions demonstrate the importance of intelligence-led cargo profiling and closer cooperation among Customs, the NDLEA, NAFDAC and other law enforcement agencies in disrupting organised crime.

For legitimate importers, the operation is seen as a positive development that could help improve confidence in Nigeria’s ports by making it more difficult for illegal operators to hide contraband among genuine cargo.

Customs vows tougher enforcement

The Comptroller-General said the successful operation showed that the Nigeria Customs Service now possesses stronger intelligence capabilities and better technology to identify suspicious shipments before they enter the domestic market.

“The importation of expired pharmaceuticals and controlled substances poses a direct threat to public health, while the sophisticated concealment methods adopted by these criminal networks demonstrate their determination to exploit legitimate trade channels for illicit purposes.”

He added that the interceptions proved the agency’s operational readiness to dismantle criminal networks attempting to use Nigeria’s ports.

“These interceptions equally demonstrate that the Nigeria Customs Service possesses the intelligence capability, technological capacity and operational readiness to detect, intercept and dismantle these criminal enterprises.”

Drugs handed to NDLEA, medicines to NAFDAC

The Customs Service said all narcotic drugs intercepted during the operation would be formally transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation and prosecution.

Expired and unregistered pharmaceutical products will meanwhile be handed over to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control for regulatory action, laboratory examination and safe disposal. Other imported goods concealed alongside the illegal items will remain under Customs custody pending forfeiture and other enforcement procedures.

Praise for officers and partner agencies

Dr Adeniyi commended officers of the Apapa Area Command for what he described as professionalism, vigilance and dedication throughout the operation.

He also praised the sustained collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service, the NDLEA, NAFDAC and other security agencies, saying stronger partnerships remain essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and trade routes.

Warning to smugglers

The Customs chief issued a strong warning to criminal organisations involved in drug trafficking and the importation of prohibited goods.

“To those who seek to use our ports to traffic illicit drugs, expired pharmaceuticals or other prohibited goods, let today’s operation send a clear and unmistakable message that Nigeria’s ports are no longer safe havens for smugglers or organised criminal networks.”

He said Customs would continue to strengthen the use of technology, intelligence gathering and coordinated border management to close loopholes previously exploited by smugglers.

“We shall continue to intercept, expose and prosecute all those who threaten our economy, compromise public health or undermine the security of our nation.”

Why this matters to Nigerians

The seizure goes beyond preventing financial losses to government revenue.

Had the shipments entered the Nigerian market, thousands of kilograms of cannabis, hundreds of thousands of bottles of codeine syrup and large quantities of expired or counterfeit medicines could have reached consumers, exposing families to dangerous health risks and strengthening criminal supply chains.

The operation also highlights the increasing role of intelligence-led border management in protecting public health, supporting legitimate businesses and strengthening confidence in Nigeria’s import control system.

What’s next?

The NDLEA is expected to investigate those behind the narcotics shipments and prosecute anyone found culpable under Nigeria’s drug laws.

NAFDAC will conduct regulatory investigations into the expired and fake pharmaceutical products, while Customs continues efforts to identify the importers, freight agents and criminal networks connected to the consignments.

Authorities say further investigations are ongoing, and additional arrests or prosecutions could follow as intelligence from the seized containers is analysed.