Here are today’s most important global headlines to keep you informed and alert:
Global News Highlights — September 3, 2025
Africa & Economy
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South African Business Sentiment Wanes Amid Tariffs
Business confidence in South Africa fell further in Q3, weighed down by a 30% U.S. tariff on exports—the highest in Sub-Saharan Africa. The automotive sector was particularly impacted by production disruptions and order cancellations.
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Modest Business Activity Growth Despite Cost Pressures
In August, South Africa edged into marginal growth territory, with its PMI rising to 50.1. This was buoyed by easing input costs thanks to a stronger rand, though fuel and food inflation continued to pose challenges. Supply chains improved for a fifth straight month.
Perspective & Awareness
- Correcting Misconceptions: Africa’s True Size on the Map
The popular Mercator projection has distorted global perceptions of Africa's size. The African Union is now advocating for the Equal Earth projection, which reveals that Africa is actually 14× larger than Greenland and significantly larger than Russia and Canada.
Quick Snapshot
| Focus Area | Key Insight |
|---|---|
| Africa’s Economy | Mixed picture: external pressures strain business optimism, but resilience shows in new growth indicators. |
| Geographic Awareness | The push for more accurate map visuals speaks to cultural dignity and education. |
Today's Nigeria Headlines –
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Shift Toward a Gas-Powered Economy
Nigeria signed its first gas-only production-sharing contract (PSC) under the Petroleum Industry Act (2021) with TotalEnergies. This milestone, covering 2,000 sq km in the Niger Delta, marks a pivotal move to unlock the nation’s massive 210 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves and reduce flaring. It’s a strategic shift toward cleaner energy and economic diversification. -
Inflation and Exchange Rate Pressures Weigh on Confidence
While economic indicators are mixed, the business climate remains fragile. Previous periods saw the stabilization of inflation and steadying of the naira, contributing to a cautious rebound in business sentiment. -
Manufacturing Goes Local to Weather Currency Turmoil
In response to persistent naira volatility, Nigerian manufacturers are pivoting to local sources. Companies like CAP now source 90% of their materials domestically, cutting costs by up to 60%. This localization trend underscores the resilience and adaptability of the industrial sector.
Summary Table
| Area | Key Insight |
|---|---|
| Energy Transition | New gas PSC signals Nigeria’s commitment to cleaner, sustainable energy. |
| Economic Stability | Reforms are helping but business confidence remains fragile in uncertain terrain. |
| Industrial Adaptation | Manufacturers are reducing import dependence by sourcing locally. |
🌙 The Midnight Call: Resilience in the Face of Change
Beloved, as we stand at the threshold of another midnight, God reminds us once again that the darkest hours of the night often carry the promise of a new dawn. Tonight, the news from Nigeria echoes three powerful themes—transition, endurance, and resilience—which also carry deep spiritual lessons for us as believers.
1. A Shift in Nigeria’s Energy Path
Today, Nigeria signed its first-ever gas-only production agreement, signaling a move toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. This shift reminds us of the spiritual truth that God calls us to lay aside the old and embrace the new. Just as Nigeria turns to gas for renewal, the believer is called to turn to the Spirit for transformation:
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” (Isaiah 43:18–19).
At midnight, we are called to release what is draining us and embrace the fresh breath of God’s Spirit.
2. Inflation and Uncertainty—Yet a Seed of Hope
Rising inflation and fragile business confidence weigh heavily on Nigerians. Many families groan under economic pressures. Yet in this uncertainty, faith whispers hope. Paul said, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed” (2 Corinthians 4:8).
Beloved, the midnight call reminds us that while circumstances may shake us, Christ remains our sure foundation. Just as Nigeria continues to push through hardship, so must we hold firm, knowing that God’s economy never crashes.
3. Local Strength in the Midst of Turmoil
Nigerian manufacturers are adapting by sourcing locally, cutting costs, and becoming more resilient. What a testimony of endurance! Likewise, God calls His children to root themselves not in worldly systems but in His Word, drawing strength from within.
“Blessed is the man… whose delight is in the law of the LORD… He is like a tree planted by streams of water.” (Psalm 1:1–3).
When global currents rage, those who are planted in Christ will still bear fruit.
The Call at Midnight
Beloved, tonight’s news carries a trumpet sound:
- Transition — step into God’s new season for your life.
- Endurance — stand firm when the pressures of life mount.
- Resilience — root yourself in Christ, your unfailing source.
Midnight is not the end; it is the bridge into dawn. And for those who wait on the Lord, dawn will break with joy, peace, and victory.
🙏 Midnight Prayer
Lord, as Nigeria shifts, struggles, and adapts, may we too learn the lessons of transition, endurance, and resilience. Teach us to let go of the old, trust You in uncertainty, and remain rooted in Your Word. May Your light break forth in our darkness, and may we stand ready when the Bridegroom calls. Amen.
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