West Ham United are cracking down on Adama Traoré’s weightlifting habits, banning him from pumping iron at the club’s gym due to his already impressive muscular frame. Nuno Espírito Santo said, ‘His genetics are already doing the hard work, so he should steer clear of the gym. I’ve told him to stop lifting weights and focus on prevention work instead.’ 22 Views
Take it or leave it. The Grammys is an American award institution that has built its global reputation on decades of consistency, structure, and clear cultural ownership. In its 67 year history, the Grammys has never been an African award, and it doesn’t need to be. The organizers reserve the right to expand their scope and recognize whoever they consider deserving. While awards bring prestige and validation, losing out does not equate to failure or artistic inadequacy. In fact, a nomination alone is a significant win. That said, the creation of ‘African categories’ often feels less like inclusion and more like Africans being encouraged to compete only among themselves. How many Africa-based or Africa-originated artistes have been nominated in major categories such as Rap, R&B, or Jazz? Very few, if any. Not by accident. These genres are culturally owned by Americans, and there is a strong belief within that system that no one executes them better. Meanwhile, the African music industry, particularly Nigeria’s is grappling with an identity crisis. Distinct genres such as Afropop, Fuji, Juju, and Highlife are routinely lumped together under the vague umbrella of ‘Afrobeats’, while Afrobeat, the original, politically charged sound pioneered by Fela Anikulapo Kuti struggles for preservation and recognition. It is worth remembering that despite decades of global influence and multiple nominations, it took the Grammys nearly 29 years to posthumously honour Fela with a Lifetime Achievement Award. This is not a call for resentment but for realism. Enough of the entitlement mentality. Africa must learn to celebrate, strengthen, and respect its own award platforms because true cultural validation begins at home- #trendingpost by Omogbolahan Akinwumi 43 Views
……Communication students, undergraduates and online creators to compete in newly introduced categories The organizers of the Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards (NBMA) have announced the commencement of nominations for the 7th edition of the awards, scheduled to be held in May 2026. The Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards is an annual platform dedicated to recognizing and celebrating excellence, professionalism, innovation, and societal impact in Nigeria’s broadcasting and media industry. The awards honour outstanding individuals, programs, stations, and organizations across radio, television, and digital media platforms. Speaking on the call for nominations, (Dr) Ahmed Tijjani Ramalan, the Chairman of the Joint IBAN/NBMA Organising Committee said the awards is a credible benchmark for excellence in the industry. “The Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards was established to celebrate professionalism, creativity, and integrity in broadcasting. As the industry continues to evolve, NBMA remains committed to recognizing those who consistently raise the bar and positively influence society through their work,” Ramalan said. According to the organizers, the 2026 edition will feature over 85 award categories spanning on-air presentation, programming, technical production, digital innovation, community impact, and special recognition awards. In a major development, the 7th NBMA introduces new categories designed to support youth development and reflect the realities of modern media practice. These include Best Communication Student of the Year, created to recognize outstanding students of Mass Communication, Media Studies, Broadcasting, and related disciplines; an Undergraduate Broadcaster Category for students actively involved in campus radio, television, and media production; as well as Online Content Creators Categories to honor podcasters, streamers, and digital storytellers shaping Nigeria’s online media space. Dr Ramalan noted that the new categories were intentionally introduced to bridge the gap between traditional broadcasting and emerging digital platforms. “We believe the future of broadcasting lies in nurturing young talents and embracing digital innovation. By introducing student and online content creator categories, NBMA is deliberately investing in the next generation of media professionals and acknowledging the growing influence of digital storytelling,” Ramalan added. Members of the public, broadcast professionals, tertiary institutions, and industry stakeholders are invited to submit nominations for deserving individuals, programs, stations, students, and digital creators whose work has demonstrated excellence, consistency, creativity, and positive societal impact within the eligibility period. Nominations are open from Sunday, February 1st, until Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026, and can be submitted online via https://nbmawards.com/merit-awards-categories/ or sent to nbmawards@gmail.com. The Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards continues to provide a unifying platform that brings together broadcasters, regulators, policymakers, students, and digital innovators in celebration of excellence within Nigeria’s media industry. The 7th NBMA is set to take place in Lagos, Nigeria, in May 2026, with more details to be revealed in the upcoming months. 57 Views
It is not news that the stool of the Awujale, the revered monarch of Ijebu land, is currently vacant, and the competition to occupy this esteemed position is intensifying. Prince Abimbola Onabanjo’s name has been gaining traction online, with some quarters projecting him as a strong contender for the crown. However, in a surprising turn of events, Prince Abimbola has distanced himself from the speculation by releasing a statement to debunk the rumors. The statement reads, “I, Omooba Abimbola Onabanjo of the Fusengbuwa Royal House, sincerely appreciate the outpouring of goodwill, prayers, and expressions of support received from friends, associates, and well-wishers across various platforms in recent days. I feel the love overwhelmingly and remain deeply grateful for it all. I am truly honoured by the love and confidence shown by you all and feel profoundly humbled. However, I respectfully emphasise that the process for the selection of the Awujale of Ijebuland is a sacred and time-honoured tradition, governed strictly by established customs. As the saying goes, ‘ilufẹ́mil’óyè’ it is the town that bestows the crown and I feel the love from my people, which is why, in the interest of preserving the sanctity, dignity, and integrity of Ijebu tradition, I, Omooba Abimbola Onabanjo, humbly appeal to supporters, well-wishers, and members of the public to kindly refrain from referring to me as the Awujale or circulating materials that suggest a conclusion has already been reached. I remain committed to upholding the values, unity, and heritage of Ijebuland and respectfully urge all concerned to allow the rightful processes to take their course. I am sincerely grateful for the continued goodwill and assure everyone of my utmost respect for tradition, peace, and harmony within Ijebuland. 56 Views
The Federal Government has authorized the introduction of mandatory pre-employment drug testing as a prerequisite for prospective applicants to the Public Service. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to combat the escalating issue of illicit drug use and its attendant consequences on national development and security. In a statement from the SGF’s office, Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments/Parastatals are hereby instructed to incorporate mandatory drug testing as a core requirement in the recruitment of new personnel. Furthermore, MDAs are to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in conducting the tests, in accordance with established standards and procedures. This directive to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), including extra-Ministerial Departments, aligns with the present Administration’s determination to decisively tackle the menace of drug and substance abuse and insulate the national workforce from unwholesome practices. The introduction of mandatory pre-employment drug testing is premised on the concern raised by the Federal Government about the alarming rate of drug and substance abuse, particularly among the teeming youth in the country, with disturbing trends and far-reaching implications for public health, socio-economic development, workplace productivity, and national security. 90 Views
A Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Isah Abdullahi, attached to the armoury of the 12 Police Mobile Force in Minna, Niger State, has allegedly died by suicide amid investigations into the illegal sale of arms and ammunition. The Niger State Police Command spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident in a press statement, noting that DSP Abdullahi was arrested on December 15, 2025, following allegations that he was involved in the unlawful sale of arms and ammunition to bandits. According to the police, an arms audit was conducted on December 16, 2025, to determine the number of missing rifles and ammunition. During the audit and ongoing investigation, DSP Abdullahi reportedly shot himself in the head with a pistol and died instantly. SP Abiodun further disclosed that the officers assigned to conduct the audit and investigation have been arrested for negligence, for allegedly allowing the suspect access to a firearm. He added that other suspects connected to the incident are currently under investigation. 81 Views
Following Diplomatic Intervention, a Nigerian delegation, headed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, engaged in diplomatic talks with Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, concerning a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft carrying 11 personnel that had been detained in the country. The talks resulted in the immediate release of the 11 personnel and the aircraft. Minister Tuggar subsequently met with the freed Air Force members to confirm their well-being. The delegation and personnel are now en route back to Nigeria. Nigeria underscored its commitment to international aviation protocols, expressed respect for Burkina Faso’s sovereignty, and distanced itself from any unsubstantiated claims of maltreatment. Both sides highlighted shared security challenges and the importance of fraternal relations. This resolution underscores successful diplomacy in de-escalating a potential regional dispute. The military aircraft made an emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on December 8, 2025, due to a technical issue. Burkina Faso authorities detained the personnel and seized the aircraft, citing alleged unauthorized entry into their airspace. 90 Views
Operatives of the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have discovered a large sum of counterfeit foreign currency notes, totaling $3,430,000 and €280,000, in the possession of a five-member syndicate that was arrested for allegedly defrauding one Halima Sanni of the sum of N26,550,000. The arrested herbalists, Akingbola Omotayo, Adeola Funsho Ogunrinde, Yahaya Amodu, Kubratu Babalola Olaitan (female), and Familola Sunday Olaitan, were arrested on December 7 and 8, 2025, at their shrines in Osun and Lagos States, respectively, following a thorough surveillance and intelligence gathering on their fraudulent activities. Investigations revealed that the suspects were allegedly defrauding unsuspecting individuals of their legitimate earnings under the guise of providing spiritual cleansing and solutions to various ailments. They also allegedly assured their victims of their powers to conjure up large sums of money, which would need to be cleansed by a genie through spiritual sacrifice before being spent. The suspects achieved this by hypnotizing their victims into providing money for the sacrifice. Other items recovered from the suspects include two exotic cars and a mobile phone. 91 Views
In two separate letters to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, President Tinubu requested the Senate to expeditiously consider and confirm 15 career ambassadors and 17 non-career ambassadors. The career ambassadors’ list includes four women, while the non-career ambassadors’ list includes six women. The non-career ambassador designates include Barrister Ogbonnaya Kalu from Abia, a former presidential aide; Reno Omokri from Delta; former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Mahmud Yakubu; former Ekiti first lady, Erelu Angela Adebayo; and former Enugu governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Others are Tasiu Musa Maigari, former speaker of the Katsina House of Assembly; Yakubu N. Gambo, a former Commissioner in Plateau State and former deputy executive secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission; Professor Nora Ladi Daduut, a former senator from Plateau; Otunba Femi Pedro, a former deputy governor of Lagos State; Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, a former aviation minister from Osun State; and Barrister Nkechi Linda Ufochukwu from Anambra State. Also on the list are former First Lady of Oyo, Fatima Florence Ajimobi; former Lagos Commissioner, Lola Akande; former Adamawa Senator, Grace Bent; former governor of Abia, Victor Okezie Ikpeazu; Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, businessman, lawyer, and Senator from Ondo State; and the former ambassador of Nigeria to the Holy See, Ambassador Paul Oga Adikwu from Benue State. The nominees for career ambassador and high commissioner-designates include Enebechi Monica Okwuchukwu from Abia, Yakubu Nyaku Danladi from Taraba, Miamuna Ibrahim Besto from Adamawa, Musa Musa Abubakar from Kebbi, Syndoph Paebi Endoni from Bayelsa, Chima Geoffrey Lioma David from Ebonyi, and Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim from Ogun. The other nominees are Abimbola Samuel Reuben from Ondo, Yvonne Ehinosen Odumah from Edo, Hamza Mohammed Salau from Niger, Ambassador Shehu Barde from Katsina, Ambassador Ahmed Mohammed Monguno from Borno, Ambassador Muhammad Saidu Dahiru from Kaduna, Ambassador Olatunji Ahmed Sulu Gambari from Kawara, and Ambassador Wahab Adekola Akande from Osun. The new nominees are expected to be posted to countries with which Nigeria maintains excellent and strategic bilateral relations, such as China, India, South Korea, Canada, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, South Africa, Kenya, and to Permanent Missions such as the United Nations, UNESCO, and the African Union. All the nominees will know their diplomatic assignments after their confirmation by the Senate. Last week, President Tinubu sent three ambassadorial nominees for screening and confirmation. The nominees were Ambassador Ayodele Oke from Oyo, Ambassador Amin Mohammed Dalhatu from Jigawa, and Retired Colonel Lateef Kayode Are from Ogun. All three are potential candidates for posting to the UK, USA, or France after their confirmation. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated that more nominees for ambassadorial positions will be announced soon. 116 Views
Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s influence will forever tower over Afrobeat, with Femi and Seun Kuti alongside a handful of dedicated torchbearers keeping the genre’s originality alive. Yet, Bisade Ologunde, better known as Lagbaja, stands in a league of his own and arguably comes closest to wearing the crown after Fela himself. Beyond the distinct spice in his sound, pure, undiluted Afrobeat, not the pop-leaning “Afrobeats’, Lagbaja built a cultural identity that was as powerful as his music. With the persona of the ‘Omo Baba Mukomuko’, he crafted an iconic masked character that endured for years until curious journalists eventually revealed the face behind the mystique. Hit after hit, high-grossing albums, and sold-out shows across Nigeria and Africa cemented Lagbaja as perhaps the most commercially successful Afrobeat artiste after Fela. His ambitious triple-album release, ‘Me, We & Abami’, remains one of the most notable tributes ever paid to Fela Kuti. Though the long-rumoured rivalry between Lagbaja and Femi Kuti remains unresolved, one thing is certain: listening to Lagbaja is the only true way to understand his mastery. His seamless fusion of Juju, Fuji, and hip-hop, while never losing the core Afrobeat identity, is the kind of innovation that deserves academic study. Like a sacred masquerade that appears only when it truly matters, Lagbaja has never compromised his art, his style, or his disciplined mystique. In every sense, he remains a classic who continues to break his own records. (Written by Omogbolahan Akinwumi) 122 Views
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has declared a former Minister of Petroleum Resources and former Governor of Bayelsa State, Timipre Sylva wanted. Sylva is wanted in connection with an alleged case of conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257( Fourteen Million, Eight Hundred and Fifty Nine Thousand, Two Hundred and Fifty Seven United States Dollars), being part of funds injected by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board( NCDMB) into Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited for the construction of a Refinery. The Commission, on November 6, 2025 secured a warrant for the arrest of the former Minister at a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos. The Order, granted by Justice D.I. Dipeolu stated that, “an order is made issuing a warrant to the Applicant or any Officer of the Commission, Police or any law enforcement officer for the arrest of the Respondent for the purpose of bringing him before the Commission to answer to the criminal offence he is alleged to have committed.” The Commission also enjoins anyone with useful information on his whereabouts to contact any of its Zonal Directorates across the country or the nearest Police Station and other security agencies. 146 Views
Although AFRIMA is striving to position itself as Africa’s version of the Grammys, history reminds us that the continent once had a stronger contender, the Kora Awards. For years, Kora held its ground as Africa’s biggest celebration of music, drawing continental attention and even competing in relevance with the Grammys. But contractual disputes and funding shortfalls soon became its undoing. The last edition was held in 2012, a sad marker of another promising African idea lost to mismanagement and neglect. That story captures a recurring theme across Africa’s creative landscape: a tendency to undervalue our own initiatives and let them fade. Many African music and film awards start with lofty ambitions but rarely stand the test of time. Internal politics, greed, and an enduring inferiority complex often cloud the vision. Everyone wants a piece of the presumed largesse that comes with organizing an award, and soon enough, the focus shifts from excellence to entitlement. Of course, the problem isn’t peculiar to Africa. Around the world, some awards have been accused of bias or influence-peddling. But in many African contexts, the issue runs deeper. Recognition too often depends on who you know or how much you can offer, rather than on genuine merit. Still, awards play an important role. They reflect a spectrum of human motivation, from those who simply value acknowledgment, to those who crave the spotlight, to those who appreciate recognition most when it comes unexpectedly. This dynamic also fuels corporate sponsorship, as brands align themselves with the celebration of excellence and visibility. But it’s worth remembering: the Grammys, often seen as the global gold standard, didn’t earn its prestige overnight. Like ancient Rome, it was built over time, surviving storms known only to its organizers. Its endurance lies in a clear mission, consistency, adaptability, and, most importantly, an institutional system that believes in and supports it. African and Nigerian music awards, on the other hand, often fail not for lack of talent or creativity, but because of poor management and shortsightedness. Ironically, this decline comes at a time when African music, especially Nigerian sounds, is dominating the global stage. Now more than ever, Africa’s creative community must rally together to build a credible, all-inclusive award system that transcends regional and national divides. One that represents every genre, upholds integrity, and earns at least 85 percent credibility in the eyes of the people. And perhaps most crucially, African artistes themselves must learn to value and support what is theirs, through their presence, their platforms, and their voices. Because without their buy-in, even the brightest ideas will keep fading before they find their light. (#VoicesInMyHead By Omogbolahan Akinwumi, renowned journalist formerly known as Kazeem Popoola) 144 Views