Africa’s billionaire rankings are witnessing a fierce battle as Nigerian industrialist Abdulsamad Rabiu and South African luxury magnate Johann Rupert race toward the historic $20 billion net worth mark.

Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group, currently holds the advantage with an estimated fortune of $19.1 billion, placing him about $100 million ahead of Rupert in the latest billionaire rankings.

The Nigerian billionaire has emerged as Africa’s best-performing billionaire in 2026 after adding an estimated $8.96 billion to his fortune this year alone. His rapid rise has intensified conversations across the continent about who will become Africa’s second billionaire to officially cross the $20 billion threshold.

On the other hand, Rupert, the South African chairman of Richemont, has seen his wealth decline by roughly $506 million this year, largely due to fluctuations tied to the luxury company’s market performance.

Despite the recent decline, Rupert had earlier moved close to the $20 billion milestone before Rabiu widened the gap with his strong surge in wealth.

The rivalry between the two business titans is now being closely watched across Africa’s financial and investment circles, as both men remain among the continent’s most influential billionaires.

There is growing concern over the whereabouts and well-being of popular herb vendor and influencer Eniola Sisialagbo after her sudden disappearance from Facebook.

A check on her page on Friday, May 1, showed that the account, which doubles as her business platform, has been locked and is no longer accessible to the public. The development has left many followers uneasy, especially coming on the heels of a troubling message shared by her husband, Akeem Adesola

Just a day before her page went private, Akeem had taken to Facebook with a short but alarming message:

“Oh Allah, save my wife.” The post immediately drew attention, with many questioning what might have gone wrong behind the scenes. At the time, the couple was already under intense public scrutiny following the circulation of their controversial private video online.

Before then, Akeem had issued a detailed public apology, accepting full responsibility for the viral incident. In his statement, he admitted that his actions had caused embarrassment and pain not only to his wife but also to family members, business associates, and supporters.

“I take full responsibility for my actions,” he wrote, describing the situation as a turning point in his life. He also appealed for forgiveness, promising to learn from the experience and rebuild trust moving forward.

Similarly, Sisialagbo had earlier addressed the issue in an emotional message, expressing regret and asking for understanding. “I own my mistakes and I apologize with all sincerity,” she wrote, adding that the situation had taken a heavy emotional toll on her.

The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II has congratulated Prince Sunday Adekanmbi Olayode Asinloye II on his emergence as the Oniko-Elect of Ikolaje Idiriko Kingdom in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State.

Prince Adekanmbi was elected and formally appointed as the Oniko-Elect on 10th February, 2026, by the Ikolaje Idiriko Council of Kingmakers, following due traditional processes and consultations in line with the customs of the ancient kingdom.

In a press statement issued on Monday and signed by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni described the emergence of Prince Adekanmbi as a testament to divine favour and the collective will of his people.

According to the statement, the Ooni commended the kingmakers for conducting a peaceful and credible selection process, noting that the stability of traditional institutions remains vital to cultural preservation and grassroots development across Yorubaland.

The Ooni urged the Oniko-Elect to embrace humility, wisdom and inclusiveness in the discharge of his royal duties, stressing that the throne is a sacred trust that demands selfless service, integrity and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.

He further prayed for divine guidance, long life and a peaceful reign for Prince Adekanmbi, expressing confidence that his ascension would usher in a new era of unity, growth and prosperity for Ikolaje Idiriko Kingdom.

The Ooni also reaffirmed the importance of synergy among traditional rulers in Ogun State and beyond, emphasising the need for collaboration in promoting peace, security and socio-economic advancement within their respective domains.

Signed,
Otunba Moses Olafare,
Director, Media & Public Affairs,
Ooni’s Palace,
Ile-Ife.