In a significant move, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has once again reduced the retail price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popular as Petroleum, to ₦965 per litre.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is under mounting pressure following the club’s recent struggles.
Their 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa last Saturday marked their ninth loss in 12 outings, starkly contrasting the dominance that defined Guardiola’s reign. Fans are now left to question whether the decorated coach is nearing the end of his journey with City—just as he once did with Barcelona.
The Nigerian music industry continues to evolve, producing a wave of talented young artists who are redefining sound and setting new standards.
Black Maidens Triumph Over Flamingos to Win Maiden WAFU Zone B U17 Girls Championship
Ghana’s U17 girls’ team, the Black Maidens, have been crowned champions of the inaugural WAFU Zone B U17 Girls Championship after a dramatic victory over Nigeria’s Flamingos.
In recent days, Nigeria has witnessed a series of tragic stampedes during charity events, underscoring the severe economic hardships faced by many citizens.
By Sports Afrique Team
Aston Villa delivered a stunning 2-1 victory over reigning Premier League champions Manchester City on Saturday, sending shockwaves through the football world.
Talent manager and entrepreneur Jada Pollock, best known for managing Afrobeat superstar Wizkid, has spoken candidly about the challenges of being unfairly labelled a “baby mama.”
Nollywood icon Patience Ozokwor, fondly known as Mama G, has revealed the gruelling challenges she faced before becoming one of Nigeria’s most celebrated actresses.
Former U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, has raised concerns over billionaire Elon Musk’s influence in the ongoing budget standoff on Capitol Hill, accusing Republicans of bowing to his pressure as the country faces a looming government shutdown.
As the curtains fall on 2024, Morocco continues to set the pace in African football, wrapping up the year as the continent’s highest-ranked nation in the latest FIFA rankings.
A magistrates’ court in Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, has granted prominent lawyer and human rights activist Dele Farotimi bail in the sum of ₦30 million. Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun delivered the ruling during the bail hearing on Friday.
Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello Granted N500m Bail Over Alleged N10.4bn Fraud
The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, on Thursday granted bail to the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, in the sum of N500 million. Bello is being prosecuted for alleged fraud involving N10.4 billion.
Justice MaryAnne Anenih, who presided over the case, ordered the ex-governor to surrender his passport and other travel documents. She ruled that Bello could not leave the country without the court’s explicit permission.
Bello is standing trial alongside two others, Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalam Hudu, on a 16-count charge bordering on conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully acquired property. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned the trio on November 27, with all defendants pleading not guilty.
Bail Conditions for Yahaya Bello
Granting the fresh bail application filed by Bello’s counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), Justice Anenih stipulated stringent conditions:
1. Bello must provide three sureties, each worth N500 million.
2. The sureties must be responsible landowners in high-value areas of Abuja, including Maitama, Guzape, Apo, Wuse 2, Garki, Utako, or Asokoro.
3. The sureties are required to submit the title documents of their properties, two recent passport photographs, and valid means of identification to the court registrar.
4. Bello must also submit two recent passport photographs and remain in the Kuje Correctional Facility until all bail conditions are met.
Previous Bail Denial
Justice Anenih had earlier rejected Bello’s initial bail application on December 10, describing it as premature since it was filed before his arrest or arraignment. However, the court granted bail to his co-defendants at N300 million each.
Prosecution’s Position on Bail
During Thursday’s proceedings, the prosecution, led by Olukayode Enitan (SAN), chose not to oppose the fresh bail application, leaving the decision to the judge’s discretion. Enitan emphasized that the prosecution’s stance was in line with legal tradition, ensuring cooperation where it does not compromise justice.
Adjournment for Trial
After listening to submissions from both the defence and prosecution, Justice Anenih approved the bail application and scheduled the trial to commence on January 29 and 30, 2025.
The case, which has drawn significant public attention, underscores the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to address allegations of corruption in public office.
The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as Nigeria’s Flamingos take on Ghana’s Black Maidens in the final of the inaugural WAFU Zone B U17 Girls Championship.
A tragic stampede at a children’s funfair held at Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday has left many feared dead, with several others injured. Authorities have arrested the organisers as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Nollywood’s queen of charisma, Moyo Lawal, is turning heads once again—this time for stepping out in bold fashion and delivering a performance fans can’t stop talking about!
The banter began after Toyin Abraham, the beloved actress and filmmaker, took to Instagram to share stunning photos of her outfit for A Christmas in Lagos premiere.
The road to success is rarely smooth, and for Oladiti Aminat Olajumoke, her journey in Nollywood is a testament to resilience, passion, and an unyielding drive to succeed despite the odds.
Highlights:‘Some upcoming actors are often forced to choose between their dreams and their dignity”
Nollywood Actress Tonto Dikeh Warns Fans About New Scam Targeting Public Spaces
Nollywood star and humanitarian Tonto Dikeh has again taken to her social media page to share a vital public service announcement.
Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has been crowned the 2024 African Footballer of the Year at the prestigious CAF Awards held in Marrakesh, Morocco.
The 2024 CAF Awards, held in Marrakech, Morocco, was a night of glitz, glamour, and celebration as Africa’s finest football talents were honoured for their outstanding achievements.
Nollywood star Bimbo Ademoye is reminding everyone about the importance of family this festive season with a heartfelt tribute to her father.
In yet another controversial twist, Nollywood actor and self-proclaimed cleric, Yul Edochie, has stirred the waters of faith and tradition by suggesting that many Nigerian pastors are, in fact, destined to be native doctors.
As the football world turns its attention to Marrakesh, Morocco, for the 2024 CAF Awards, Nigeria stands at the forefront, with its football stars and teams vying for top honours.
In a tragic and shocking incident, the Ogun State Police Command has arrested a trainee herbalist, Ifagbenga Taiwo, for allegedly killing his 41-day-old son in Keesi, Adatan, Abeokuta.
Drama unfolded in Ibadan as Kehinde Balogun, a businessman, sought to end his 14-year marriage to his wife, Stella, citing alleged infidelity with their plumber.
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 1 Brigade have captured Bako Wurgi, also known as Baka NaGarba, a notorious bandit leader and arms dealer believed to be behind the murder of the Emir of Gobir, Isa Mohammad Bawa, in Sokoto State.
Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic will cease to be members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) between January 29 and July 29, 2025, according to an announcement by the ECOWAS Commission President, Alieu Touray.
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Mojisola Adebanjo has shared rare insights into her approach to acting, her unshakable love for the craft, and how travelling has shaped her worldview.
Afrobeats superstar Tiwa Savage, also known as the “African Bad Girl,” has again captured the spotlight—not just with her chart-topping music but also with her generosity and candid revelations.
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has called for a reduction in petrol prices, urging the Dangote Refinery to lower its ex-depot price from ₦970 per litre in response to declining landing costs, now estimated at ₦900.28 per litre.
South Korea’s political landscape was rocked on December 14, 2024, as President Yoon Suk-yeol faced an impeachment motion passed by lawmakers.
It was a night of glitz, glamour, and undeniable star power as actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele hosted the highly anticipated premiere of her latest movie, Everybody Loves Jenifa, on Sunday, December 8, 2024.
CAF Awards 2024: Nigeria’s Stars and Teams Shine on Prestigious Final Lists
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled the final nominees for the highly anticipated 2024 CAF Awards, and Nigeria’s footballers and national teams are well-represented in several categories.
Ademola Lookman: A Star Among Giants
Ademola Lookman, the 27-year-old Super Eagles forward, has earned a place in the final shortlist for the coveted Men’s Player of the Year award. This recognition is a testament to his remarkable performances on both the continental and European stages.
Lookman’s stellar display at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) was a key highlight of his year. He netted three goals and provided an assist in seven appearances, driving the Super Eagles to an impressive second-place finish in the tournament. Beyond AFCON, Lookman made history at the club level, scoring a sensational hat-trick for Atalanta in the UEFA Europa League final—a performance that cemented his reputation as one of Africa’s elite players.
He will face stiff competition from other top talents, including:
Simon Adingra (Ivory Coast/Brighton & Hove Albion)
Serhou Guirassy (Guinea/VfB Stuttgart)
Achraf Hakimi (Morocco/Paris Saint-Germain)
Ronwen Williams (South Africa/Mamelodi Sundowns)
A Miss for Nwabali in the Goalkeeper Category
While Lookman basks in the spotlight, compatriot Stanley Nwabali missed out on the final shortlist for the Goalkeeper of the Year category. The nominees for this award include:
Andre Onana (Cameroon/Manchester United), who remains a commanding figure between the posts.
Ronwen Williams (South Africa/Mamelodi Sundowns), whose performances have been pivotal for both club and country.
Yahia Fofana (Ivory Coast/Angers SCO), a rising star who has impressed in Ligue 1.
Nnadozie Leads Super Falcons’ Charge
On the women’s side, Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has been shortlisted for the Women’s Player of the Year award. Her inclusion reflects her growing stature as one of Africa’s finest goalkeepers, with her exceptional performances standing out in Nigeria’s international campaigns.
Nnadozie is up against two formidable competitors:
Barbara Banda (Zambia), a prolific forward whose goal-scoring exploits have made headlines.
Sanna Mssoudy (Morocco), whose creativity and leadership have been instrumental for the Atlas Lionesses.
National Teams in the Spotlight
Both Nigeria’s men’s and women’s national teams have earned nominations for the National Team of the Year categories, showcasing the country’s footballing prowess across genders.
Super Eagles: Their commendable run to the 2023 AFCON final has earned them a spot among Africa’s top teams. They face competition from African champions Ivory Coast and the ever-improving Bafana Bafana of South Africa.
Super Falcons: As perennial powerhouses of African women’s football, they join Banyana Banyana (South Africa) and Atlas Lionesses (Morocco) in the race for the title.
Nigeria’s Rise on the Global Stage
The CAF Awards serve as a celebration of Africa’s best talents, and Nigeria’s strong representation this year underscores the nation’s enduring football legacy. Ademola Lookman’s meteoric rise, Chiamaka Nnadozie’s resilience, and the Super Eagles and Super Falcons’ consistent performances are all evidence of Nigeria’s growing influence in African and global football.
The winners will be revealed in a glittering ceremony, and all eyes will be on these Nigerian stars as they aim to bring glory to their nation.
2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers: Falconets Set to Face Tanzania or Equatorial Guinea in Second Round
Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, will kick off their journey in the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers with a second-round matchup against the winner of the first-round clash between Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea.
The Falconets, a powerhouse in African women’s football, have consistently qualified for every edition of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup since its inception in 2002. Their impressive track record highlights Nigeria’s dominance in the competition, with the team reaching the final twice—in 2010 and 2014—only to finish as runners-up on both occasions.
As the next qualifying phase looms, the Falconets are determined to maintain their legacy and improve on their past performances. With a blend of experience, youthful talent, and a history of resilience, the team is poised to make another strong run on the global stage.
The Tanzanian and Equatorial Guinean teams, though considered underdogs compared to the Falconets, cannot be underestimated, as both sides are capable of springing surprises. Nigeria will need to stay focused and disciplined to secure their spot in the next phase of the qualifiers.
With a long-standing tradition of excellence, the Falconets aim to not only qualify but also make a strong statement when the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup kicks off. Can they rise to the occasion and go all the way this time? Football fans across Nigeria will be watching closely.
Stay tuned for updates on the Falconets’ road to the 2026 World Cup!
Controversial Nigerian musician, Portable, has sparked yet another wave of social media drama as he officially ended his relationship with Queen Dami, the widow of the late Alaafin of Oyo.
Nigeria’s power grid has collapsed again, making it the 12th time in 2024.
Here’s how you can expand the blog post to
10 High-Income Skills to Learn in 2025 (And How to Master Them)
As we gear up for the new year, it’s time to reflect on how our careers can evolve. With 2025 on the horizon, the skills you cultivate now will determine your ability to adapt to an ever-changing professional landscape. Reflecting on the last half-decade—marked by the pandemic, remote work transformations, the rise of artificial intelligence, and economic shifts—it’s evident that staying competitive requires continuous learning.
Here are 10 high-income skills that can help you achieve your career goals in 2025, along with practical tips to develop them.
1. Entrepreneurship
Why It Matters: Entrepreneurial skills, including creative thinking, self-motivation, and problem-solving, are highly valued even in traditional employment. They signal initiative and leadership.
How to Build It:
Start a small side hustle to practice customer interaction and problem-solving.
Take courses in business strategy and innovation on platforms like Coursera or edX.
Network with entrepreneurs to learn from their experiences.
2. Remote Collaboration Tools
Why It Matters: Proficiency in tools like Zoom, Slack, and Microsoft Teams is crucial as hybrid work remains the norm.
How to Build It:
Explore tutorials for advanced features of these platforms.
Practice collaboration on virtual projects through platforms like GitHub or Miro.
Volunteer to manage a remote team project at work or within a community group.
3. Emotional Intelligence (EI)
Why It Matters: EI helps you manage emotions effectively, build relationships, and drive collaboration.
How to Build It:
Reflect daily on emotional triggers and responses. Journaling can help.
Practice active listening during conversations.
Take EI courses on LinkedIn Learning or Udemy.
4. Data Science and Analytics
Why It Matters: Data-backed decisions are critical for avoiding costly mistakes and driving success.
How to Build It:
Begin with Excel and progress to tools like Tableau and Python.
Complete a beginner-friendly data science course on Kaggle.
Use free datasets to practice creating insights and visualizations.
5. Coding and AI Skills
Why It Matters: Coding enables innovation, and AI expertise keeps you relevant in a tech-driven world.
How to Build It:
Start with beginner coding platforms like Codecademy or FreeCodeCamp.
Experiment with AI tools like ChatGPT or Google Bard to understand their applications.
Build a small app or website to apply your coding skills.
6. Digital Marketing
Why It Matters: Digital marketing connects businesses to audiences and remains a lucrative skill in the era of online commerce.
How to Build It:
Master social media tools like Meta Business Suite or Google Ads.
Create a personal blog or YouTube channel to test strategies.
Learn SEO and content marketing from Moz or HubSpot Academy.
7. Project Management
Why It Matters: Effective project managers ensure timely and cost-effective delivery, making them invaluable in any industry.
How to Build It:
Get certified in methodologies like Agile or Scrum through platforms like PMI or Scrum Alliance.
Use tools like Trello or Asana to manage small personal projects.
Shadow a project manager at work to gain insights.
8. Cybersecurity Awareness
Why It Matters: As digital threats rise, understanding cybersecurity is vital for protecting assets and ensuring compliance.
How to Build It:
Take free cybersecurity awareness courses from platforms like Cybrary.
Practice setting up secure systems on personal devices.
Stay updated on emerging threats through cybersecurity blogs.
9. Sales and Negotiation
Why It Matters: These skills are fundamental for career advancement, whether you’re closing deals or securing promotions.
How to Build It:
Role-play negotiations with colleagues or friends.
Learn from negotiation experts through books like Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss.
Attend sales webinars or workshops to refine techniques.
10. Creative Design
Why It Matters: Design skills help communicate ideas visually, which is crucial for marketing, branding, and storytelling.
How to Build It:
Experiment with tools like Canva, Adobe Photoshop, or Figma.
Create mock designs for imaginary products to build a portfolio.
Take courses on graphic design fundamentals through Skillshare.
Final Thoughts
Learning these high-income skills will not only make you more valuable in the workplace but also increase your earning potential. To succeed:
Set aside dedicated time for skill development.
Apply your new skills in real-life scenarios.
Continuously seek feedback to refine your abilities.
Start small, but start now. By committing to upskilling, you’ll be equipped to navigate the challenges of 2025 and beyond with confidence.
Nigerian Police Recover N129bn Counterfeit Currencies, Arrest Gunrunners, Rescue 36 Kidnap Victims
The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has achieved remarkable milestones in its fight against crime. Recent operations have showcased the force’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety, security, and economic stability of Nigeria.
Counterfeit Currency Bust in Kano
In a major crackdown on economic crime, police operatives in Kano recovered counterfeit currencies valued at a staggering N129.5 billion. The bust, conducted on December 8, 2024, in the Gwale area of Kano State, followed actionable intelligence that led to the arrest of Nura Ibrahim. During a search, operatives uncovered N392,000 counterfeit notes, $7,800 in fake U.S. currency, and five ATM cards.
Subsequent investigations led to the apprehension of two accomplices, Muhammed Muntari and Usman Abdullahi. The operation uncovered a broader network of counterfeit currency production and circulation, including 3.37 million fake U.S. dollars, 51,970 counterfeit CFA francs, and 1.44 million fake naira notes.
Gunrunning Ring Disrupted in Kaduna
In another decisive operation, the Nigeria Police intercepted three suspected gunrunners along the Kaduna-Kano expressway on December 9, 2024. The suspects, identified as Buhari Suleiman, Jamil Yakubu, and Aliyu Abdullahi, were arrested after exhibiting suspicious behavior. A search revealed 216 rounds of 9mm live ammunition and a round of AK-47 ammunition.
This operation underscores the force’s intensified efforts to curb the proliferation of arms and ensure public safety, particularly along high-risk corridors.
Kidnap Victims Rescued in Kebbi
Demonstrating their commitment to safeguarding lives, police operatives in Kebbi State rescued 36 kidnapped victims on December 8, 2024. The victims, abducted along the Mairairai/Bena Road in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area while returning from their farms, were freed in a swift operation.
Following the rescue, police officers visited the affected community to debrief the victims and reassure residents of the force’s commitment to their safety. This engagement reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s community-oriented approach to tackling insecurity.
IGP Reaffirms Commitment to Security
Inspector-General Egbetokun has reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s zero-tolerance stance on crime and criminality. In a statement, he emphasized the force’s resolve to protect national security and combat economic sabotage.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains vigilant, steadfast, and unforgiving towards those who threaten our nation’s safety and progress,” the IGP affirmed.
A Call for Continued Support
The recent successes of the Nigeria Police highlight the importance of community cooperation and credible intelligence in fighting crime. As the force continues its relentless efforts, the public is urged to remain vigilant and provide timely information to assist law enforcement agencies.
With these significant breakthroughs, the Nigeria Police Force has demonstrated its readiness to confront emerging security challenges and ensure a safer Nigeria for all.
Ademola Lookman has opened up about the profound impact of representing Nigeria on his football career, calling it a blessing and a turning point.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has refused to grant bail to former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, citing that the application was filed prematurely.
Nollywood star Ayo Adesanya shared some eye-opening advice for young girls seeking quick riches.
Jubilant crowds filled the streets of Damascus yesterday following the collapse of the Assad regime, marking the end of the family’s 50-year reign.
This historic moment, driven by a stunning rebel advance, has raised significant questions about Syria’s future and its impact on the wider region.
President Bashar al-Assad, along with his family and senior officials, left Syria after resigning from office. Russia’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that Assad participated in negotiations with opposition forces, issuing directives for a peaceful transfer of power. The ministry emphasized that Russia did not participate in the talks.
State media later confirmed Assad’s arrival in Moscow, where he and his family were granted political asylum after fleeing Damascus ahead of the rebel onslaught.
From the White House, U.S. President Joe Biden described the regime’s fall as a “historic opportunity” for Syria’s people to rebuild, while cautioning about the risks of instability in the region.
France, Germany, and other Western nations supported Syria’s liberation. The French Foreign Ministry called it an end to Assad’s “violent repression,” while Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the need for accountability for war crimes.
Meanwhile, Iran, a staunch ally of Assad, called for Syria’s future to be determined without “foreign intervention.”
Ahmad al-Sharaa, leader of Syria’s largest insurgent group and formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, made his first public appearance in Damascus. Speaking at the historic Umayyad Mosque, he declared the victory against Assad as a triumph for the Islamic world, accusing the former president of turning Syria into a hub for corruption and illegal drug trade.
Despite their success, the rebels now face formidable challenges in uniting a war-torn country fractured by years of conflict. Armed factions, including Turkey-backed forces, U.S.-allied Kurdish groups, and remnants of the Islamic State, continue to operate across the country.
The fall of Damascus sent shockwaves across the region. Lebanon and Jordan have tightened their borders with Syria, while Qatar hosted an emergency meeting of foreign ministers from eight nations, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Turkey, to address the crisis.
The United Nations’ special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, has called for urgent talks in Geneva to facilitate an orderly political transition.
Syria’s civil war began in 2011 as a pro-democracy uprising against Assad’s rule, escalating into one of the world’s deadliest conflicts. Over 500,000 people have died, and millions have been displaced, with the Assad regime facing accusations of war crimes, including the use of chemical weapons.
As Syrians celebrate the end of a brutal era, the path to peace and stability remains uncertain, demanding unity, accountability, and international cooperation to heal the scars of a decade-long war.
Tips On How To Secure More
You’ve done everything by the book: set clear goals for your freelance business, advertised on popular platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn, and polished your service offerings down to the last detail. You’ve even invested in building a sleek website and maintaining active social media profiles.
And yet, clients seem to trickle in unpredictably, like water from a leaky faucet. You never know when the next one will arrive. When they do, you panic about how long it will be before you see the next payment.
So, what could you possibly be doing wrong?
The Freelancing Struggle
One of the biggest challenges for freelancers is building a steady stream of clients. This uncertainty often overshadows other common freelancing concerns, such as professional isolation and work-life balance.
Here’s the truth: freelancing isn’t just about delivering a service. Whether you’re a writer, designer, marketer, or developer, the service you offer is just one piece of the puzzle. Success comes from a combination of consistency, strategy, proactively seeking opportunities, and a relentless focus on delivering high value.
Let’s break down why many freelancers struggle to find clients and how you can overcome these barriers—with real-world examples to inspire action.
Why You’re Not Getting Clients
1. Your Service Experience Falls Short
It’s not enough to deliver a quality product. The client’s experience working with you matters just as much.
Example:
A freelance graphic designer, James, completed a project for a major startup. The design itself was flawless, but James frequently missed deadlines and left client emails unanswered for days. As a result, the client didn’t feel valued and chose a more responsive freelancer for future work.
Lesson:
Timeliness, clear communication, and going the extra mile can transform one-off projects into long-term partnerships. Consider sending weekly project updates, offering post-delivery support, or creating a simple onboarding process to impress clients.
2. Lack of Professionalism
Your personal brand plays a pivotal role in attracting clients. How you handle contracts, communications, and even social media posts can either strengthen or weaken your reputation.
Case Study:
Sophia, a freelance content writer, shared controversial opinions on her personal Twitter account. One potential client, who followed her online, decided not to work with her because they feared these opinions might reflect poorly on their business.
Action Tip:
Maintain professionalism across all channels. Use tools like Grammarly for polished communication and stick to neutral or industry-related topics on public platforms.
3. Weak Value Proposition
Clients need to understand exactly what you offer and how it solves their problems. A vague or overly broad service offering can confuse or alienate them.
Example:
Amira, a generalist marketing consultant, struggled to secure clients until she rebranded as a “B2B LinkedIn Content Specialist.” By narrowing her niche, she attracted high-paying clients who needed her specific expertise.
Action Tip:
Define your unique selling proposition (USP). What makes you different? How does your work deliver measurable results? For instance, instead of saying, “I write blog posts,” say, “I create SEO-optimized blog posts that boost organic traffic by 25% within three months.”
4. Poor Online Presence
Having a LinkedIn profile or website isn’t enough. Clients need to see evidence of your expertise and engagement.
Example:
Ali, a freelance photographer, didn’t attract clients from his Instagram page until he began sharing behind-the-scenes videos, tips on lighting, and client testimonials. This content showcased his skillset and built trust.
Action Tip:
Post consistently on platforms where your target audience is active. Share case studies, how-to guides, or even failures and lessons learned. Make sure your website is mobile-friendly, easy to navigate, and showcases your best work.
5. No Defined Target Audience
When you try to appeal to everyone, you end up appealing to no one.
Case Study:
Rachel, a freelance life coach, struggled to stand out in a crowded market. After narrowing her focus to “life coaching for mid-career professionals navigating burnout,” she not only attracted clients faster but could also charge higher rates for her specialized services.
Action Tip:
Identify your ideal client. Use tools like surveys, audience analysis on social media, or studying competitors to refine your niche. When your messaging speaks directly to your target audience’s pain points, you’re more likely to secure clients.
How To Get Freelance Clients in 2025
Practical Strategies and Real-Life Wins
1. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
Complete every section and use relevant keywords to boost your visibility. For example, Hannah, a freelance UX designer, added case studies to her LinkedIn portfolio and saw a 40% increase in inquiries within two months.
2. Leverage Niche Marketplaces
Platforms like Toptal (for developers) or 99designs (for graphic designers) cater to specialized audiences. David, a software developer, landed a $15,000 project by targeting clients on a niche platform instead of general marketplaces.
3. Network Effectively
Attend industry events or join online forums where potential clients hang out. Sarah, a virtual assistant, found three retainer clients by attending a local entrepreneurs’ meetup.
4. Create Content That Adds Value
Position yourself as an industry expert by sharing free resources. For instance, Ahmed, a digital marketer, published a guide on increasing email open rates, which landed him five new clients from his newsletter subscribers.
5. Ask for Referrals
Don’t shy away from asking satisfied clients for recommendations. Offer incentives like a discounted service for successful referrals. Jacob, a copywriter, grew his client base by 30% within six months using this strategy.
6. Tailor Proposals to Each Client
Instead of using generic templates, research the client’s business and personalize your pitch. Emily, a PR consultant, won a high-profile client by referencing their brand’s specific pain points in her proposal.
7. Engage on Social Media
Post daily on platforms where your audience is active. Use scheduling tools like Buffer or Hootsuite to stay consistent. Daniel, a personal trainer, doubled his client inquiries by sharing daily workout tips and testimonials on Instagram.
Final Thoughts
Freelancing isn’t just about the work you deliver—it’s about the entire ecosystem you create to attract, retain, and impress clients. By combining professionalism, strategy, and targeted efforts, you can build a sustainable and thriving freelance business in 2025 and beyond.
What steps will you take today to secure your next client? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has expressed her heartfelt gratitude to FilmOne Studios for their invaluable support in producing her upcoming movie ‘Labake Olododo’, set to hit cinemas in 2025.
Nigerian Stars Shine Bright: Chiamaka Nnadozie Leads Nigeria’s Dominance in 2024 CAF Women’s Awards
The stage is set for the 2024 CAF Awards, and Nigeria is making a powerful statement across multiple categories. With the Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiling the top five nominees in each women’s category, Nigerian footballers, clubs, and coaches are poised for glory at the prestigious ceremony scheduled for December 16, 2024, in Marrakech, Morocco.
Chiamaka Nnadozie: A Double Threat
Leading Nigeria’s charge is Chiamaka Nnadozie, the dynamic goalkeeper for Paris FC. Nnadozie has been nominated for two coveted awards: CAF Women’s Player of the Year and CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year. Known for her exceptional reflexes and commanding presence, Nnadozie faces fierce competition from Africa’s elite, including:
Player of the Year Nominees:
Tabitha Chawinga (Malawi / Olympique Lyonnais)
Temwa Chawinga (Malawi / Kansas City Current)
Sanaâ Mssoudy (Morocco / AS FAR)
Barbra Banda (Zambia / Orlando Pride)
Goalkeeper of the Year Nominees:
Fideline Ngoy (DR Congo / TP Mazembe)
Habiba Sabry (Egypt / FC Masar)
Khadija Er-Rmichi (Morocco / AS FAR)
Andile Dlamini (South Africa / Mamelodi Sundowns)
Rising Star: Chiamaka Okwuchukwu
Joining Nnadozie on the shortlist is Chiamaka Okwuchukwu, a rising star from Rivers Angels, who has been nominated for CAF Young Player of the Year. Okwuchukwu’s talent and versatility have positioned her as one of Africa’s most promising young footballers, competing against players like:
Habiba Sabry (Egypt / FC Masar)
Doha El Madani (Morocco / AS FAR)
Lina Mokhtar Jamai (Morocco / PSG)
Nthabiseng Majiya (South Africa / Mamelodi Sundowns)
Nigerian National Team and Edo Queens in the Spotlight
Beyond individual accolades, the Nigerian Women’s National Team has been nominated for CAF Women’s National Team of the Year, reflecting their consistent dominance on the African stage. The team will contend with:
Cameroon U-20
Morocco
South Africa
Zambia
Meanwhile, Edo Queens, Nigeria’s reigning Women’s League champions, have been shortlisted for CAF Women’s Club of the Year, competing against:
TP Mazembe (DR Congo)
FC Masar (Egypt)
AS FAR (Morocco)
Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)
Chris Danjuma: A Coach to Watch
In the coaching category, Chris Danjuma, head coach of Nigeria’s U-20 women’s team, has been recognized with a nomination for CAF Women’s Coach of the Year, standing alongside notable names like:
Lamia Boumehdi (TP Mazembe)
Ahmed Ramadan (FC Masar)
Mohamed Amine Alioua (AS FAR)
Thinasonke Mbuli (University of the Western Cape)
A Night of Glory Awaits
The winners will be decided by votes from the CAF Technical Committee, media professionals, head coaches, and captains of member associations, as well as clubs participating in the group stages of Interclub competitions.
As the countdown to the 2024 CAF Awards begins, all eyes are on Nigeria. Will the nation’s football stars, coaches, and clubs take home the top honors? December 16 in Marrakech will tell the tale, and Nigerian fans are ready to celebrate what promises to be a night of triumph.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has uncovered a shocking case of misconduct involving some of its officers in connection with a ₦74.95 million cash smuggling scandal.
The officers attempted to steal N43.16 million from the total amount, which was being transported on behalf of a client.
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