It is a freezing night in Paris, but inside the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées on the Avenue Montaigne, the atmosphere is warm with expectation, because Omo Bello, Nigeria’s new opera star, is standing in for an ill colleague. Alecia McKenzie was there to hear her sing.

The Nigerian economist, banker, investor and philanthropist, Tony Elumelu, speaks about the need for Africans to chart and lead their own destinies, noting that “Africa is capitalism’s next frontier”. He tells John P. O’Malley how his private Foundation helps to train, encourage, and mentor talented young entrepreneurs and business minds from across the continent.

Leaving home unsung, Nigeria’s Super Eagles surprise their supporters and earn their third Nations Cup trophy. But the overall organisation of the tournament in South Africa leaves a lot to be desired, reports our editor, Osasu Obayiuwana, who covered the tournament. 

A former Nigerian midwife who defied personal adversity to fight for sufferers of sickle cell anaemia has been celebrated at her installation as mayor of London’s Borough of Enfield. Mercy Eze reports.

Nduka Obaigbena, founder and owner of Nigeria’s This Day newspaper group and the lifestyle magazine Arise, is arguably one of Africa’s most influential media men. But just when many would have thought he had his hands full, the media mogul has taken on one more media venture – launching his own TV channel. We caught up with him to find out why.

Although there is increasing internet use and online activism in Africa, it has not measurably improved the quality of governance or citizen participation in government. This is because the people online are not a homogenous group of activists whose only interest is in selflessly holding government accountable, writes Matthew Adeiza.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is arguably one of Africa’s most influential women. Her role as Nigeria’s minister of finance and head of the Economic Team that coordinates the country’s development strategy is, to say the least, challenging. But with down-to-earth practicality and pragmatism, she has earned considerable admiration, serving under two administrations. Stephen Williams profiles “the lady who turned an economy”.

Nigeria never ceases to amaze. While the country struggles to supply four hours of constant electricity a day, the rich are gorging themselves on private jets. "My jet is bigger than your jet" appears to be the new craze, while the extravagance of those in government knows no bounds. Femi Akomolafe reports.

I love Lagos – truly! If you are a determined enough guy, you can enjoy life in the city. But you must know the ropes – and the best way to do that is by finding a good friend.

On 8 February, the former Nigerian president, Olusegun Obasanjo, will launch his Foundation in London, with a vision of advancing human security for the most disadvantaged in Africa. In this opinion piece, he tells why he is adding one more Foundation to the many we already have in Africa.