The study investigates the role of microRNA-21 (miR-21) in the development of fibrosis in endometriotic lesions, focusing on its regulation by interleukin-6 (IL-6) and the subsequent activation of the STAT3 signaling pathway. Using mouse and baboon models, as well as human samples, the research demonstrates that miR-21 is upregulated in endometriotic lesions and is associated with increased fibrosis. The study highlights the potential of miR-21 as a diagnostic and therapeutic target for endometriosis-related fibrosis, emphasizing the need for further research to fully understand the mechanisms involved.

Fraudsters are exploiting a loophole in OPay and PalmPay's account creation processes, allowing them to open accounts using stolen identities without proper verification. This has led to significant financial losses for individuals, including high-profile victims. The Central Bank of Nigeria and NIBSS are scrutinizing fintech operations, but the effectiveness of current regulatory measures remains uncertain. The rise of digital payments has increased the potential for fraud, highlighting the need for more robust security measures.

Jumia is closing its food delivery service, Jumia Food, in several countries including Nigeria by the end of December 2023 to focus on its core physical goods business and Jumia Pay platform. Despite significant GMV, Jumia Food struggled with profitability. The African food delivery market faces challenges, with Bolt Food also exiting Nigeria and South Africa, while Glovo and Chowdeck continue to expand. The market is expected to grow, but profitability remains a complex issue.

Nigerian fintech giant Paystack received a switching and processing license from the Central Bank of Nigeria in April 2022, allowing it to directly route financial transactions between institutions. This development enhances transaction speed, security, and payment experience for African businesses. Paystack, co-founded by Shola Akinlade and Ezra Olubi, has expanded its operations to several African countries and recently launched new products like the Paystack Virtual Terminal and a direct debit digital solution in partnership with the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System.

Africa faces severe climate challenges, with agriculture heavily impacted by increasing droughts, storms, and floods. Innovative companies like Etherisc, Itiki, Releaf, and ReelFruit are developing solutions to support farmers and reduce post-harvest losses. Google, under the leadership of Yossi Matias, is leveraging AI for climate crisis mitigation and adaptation, including flood prediction technology accessible to 80 countries. Collaborations with organizations like the World Meteorological Organization and the Red Cross enhance these efforts. Google's initiatives, including the Flood Hub platform, aim to provide actionable insights and support sustainable development in Africa.

Uterine fibroids, benign tumors in the uterus, affect up to 80% of women during reproductive years, often causing severe symptoms. Current treatments like hormonal therapies and hysterectomy have significant drawbacks, including infertility. The study identifies Cysteine-rich intestinal protein 1 (CRIP1) as a novel marker for myometrial stem/progenitor cells (MyoSPCs), which are hypothesized to be the origin of fibroids. Using next-generation sequencing techniques, the research demonstrates that CRIP1+ cells exhibit stem cell properties and are located near vascular endothelial cells, a common stem cell niche. This discovery could lead to better understanding and treatment of fibroids, preserving fertility and avoiding invasive surgeries.

Moniepoint is expanding its focus from agency and business banking to personal banking in Nigeria, aiming to enhance financial inclusion through a gamified approach. With a strategy that includes both smartphone users and those without digital access, Moniepoint plans to onboard millions of retail customers. The company rewards users with coins for transactions, which can be used in games, and is leveraging its extensive offline network to reach unbanked populations. Moniepoint's ambitions extend beyond Nigeria, as evidenced by its acquisition of Kenyan company Kopo Kopo, signaling a broader continental strategy.

Bosun Tijani, co-founder of CcHub, has been appointed as Nigeria's Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, bringing significant industry experience to President Tinubu’s cabinet. Tijani faces challenges including navigating Nigeria's bureaucratic system, managing expectations across the tech ecosystem, and overseeing key parastatals like the Nigerian Communication Commission and National Information Technology Development Agency. His ability to balance technological innovation with regulatory stability will be crucial for the success of Nigeria's digital economy.

President Bola Tinubu has nominated Bosun Tijani, co-founder and CEO of Co-Creation Hub, for a ministerial position, marking a shift towards tech industry leaders in Nigerian politics. Tijani's extensive background in technology and economics positions him as a strong candidate for the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy role, though he faces competition from Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. The nomination highlights the growing importance of technology and innovation in Nigeria's development.

MoMo PSB, led by Eli Hini, aims to leverage MTN's extensive distribution network to provide financial solutions to underserved Nigerians. Since its launch in April 2022, MoMo PSB has seen significant growth, with 3.5 million active wallets as of Q1 2023. The company focuses on integrating with the Nigerian Interbank Settlement System to facilitate transactions between traditional bank accounts and mobile money wallets. Despite challenges like a financial fraud incident, MoMo PSB has maintained customer trust and aims to drive financial inclusion and digital payments in Nigeria. Hini emphasizes the importance of collaboration with banks, regulators, and other stakeholders to achieve a cashless society and enhance economic activity.