Category: Entertainment

By Daniel Edu

Nollywood actress Debbie Shokoya has shared her resolution and vision for 2025, emphasizing peace, positivity, and avoiding unnecessary drama. In a post on her Instagram, Shokoya, who recently became a mother, expressed confidence in her post-birth beauty and made it clear that she is entering the new year with a calm mindset and a focus on what truly matters.

She stated, “Since I gave birth, my beauty is undeniable,” adding that her goal for 2025 is to embrace peace and good vibes. She made it clear that anyone who brings negativity or drama into her life will be kept at a distance. “I didn’t go through all those past challenges to stress myself over what others think or assume about me,” she emphasized. “If you ooze negativity, clear out.”

Shokoya’s vision for the upcoming year is simple yet powerful: “Taking all the blessings that God has prepared for me, without doing too much.”

This year has been a particularly special one for Debbie, as she became a first-time mother. Kemi Filani reported in August that Debbie and her husband welcomed a baby girl, a year after Debbie experienced the heart-wrenching loss of a pregnancy. She has opened up about her journey, sharing how the devil tried to use her trauma against her, but God stood by her side. Debbie revealed that after receiving a diagnosis of high prolactin levels, God miraculously turned the situation into a successful pregnancy.

In 2023, Debbie tearfully recounted the emotional pain of losing her pregnancy at eight months, sharing the deep bond she had formed with her unborn child before the heartbreaking loss.

In other updates, Debbie recently shared plans to collaborate with her colleagues and their families for online content creation. In a playful message to her husband, she jokingly suggested that he start wearing a skirt to be part of the content creation process.

Debbie has often spoken about her strong bond with her husband, calling him her “better half” and “slave driver.” She expressed how blessed she feels to be married to someone who believes in her dreams and always encourages her to pursue her goals.

By Abigail Philip David

Nigerian music sensation Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has reportedly ended his professional relationship with YBNL, the record label owned by Olamide.

The development comes after fans noticed that Asake unfollowed Olamide on Instagram and removed all mentions of YBNL from his bio. Additionally, he deleted all posts from his Instagram page.

According to reports, the split occurred after Asake’s contract with YBNL expired. While Olamide reportedly offered him a new deal, Asake declined to renew the agreement despite the label boss’s efforts to convince him.

Instagram vlogger Cutie Juls revealed that negotiations between both parties recently broke down completely, with Asake opting to go independent. “The final straw happened two weeks ago when Asake walked out of the deal, choosing to be his own boss,” the post read.

Asake joined YBNL in 2022 and quickly rose to fame with his hit single “Sungba.” Since then, he has achieved significant milestones, including selling out London’s O2 Arena twice, cementing his place as one of Nigeria’s top artists.

Neither Asake nor Olamide has issued an official statement regarding the reported split. Fans are now speculating about what this move means for Asake’s career and his relationship with his former label.

By Abigail Philip David

Controversial rapper Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has been granted bail after spending nearly a month in police custody.

The news was confirmed by his lawyer, Stanley Alieke, in a post on Instagram on Monday.

“Apki has been granted bail by the court,” Alieke wrote, without providing additional details.

Arrest and Allegations
Speed Darlington was arrested on November 27 while performing at a show in Owerri, Imo State. His arrest was reportedly linked to his alleged verbal attacks on Afrofusion star Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy.

According to Darlington’s legal team, Burna Boy was implicated in initiating the arrest. The controversy stemmed from Darlington’s remarks about Burna Boy’s association with embattled U.S. rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs, who faces allegations of sexual exploitation and human trafficking.

Despite the arrest, Darlington had vowed not to back down from criticizing Burna Boy over his ties to Diddy.

Legal Action and Bail Process
Another lawyer representing Darlington, Deji Adeyanju, previously announced that a Fundamental Rights Enforcement Procedure (FREP) application had been filed to secure his release.

“Our FREP application for Speed Darlington has been granted by the court. He is to be arraigned within 48 hours or released. Issues around injustice may take time, but justice will always prevail,” Adeyanju wrote at the time.

Details about the terms of Darlington’s bail or the next steps in the legal process are yet to be disclosed.

By Abigail Philip David

The founder of Salvation Proclaimers Anointed Church (SPAC Nation), Pastor Tobi Adegboyega, has described Nigerian music star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, as a gospel artist.

Speaking on the *Off The Record* podcast, which gained traction on Monday, Adegboyega explained that the term “gospel” means “good news,” a message he believes Davido delivers through his music.

The statement came in response to criticism over Adegboyega’s decision to invite secular musicians, including Davido, to perform at his recent birthday celebration instead of traditional gospel artists.

“Gospel means good news. Everyone there is a gospel artist. Davido is a gospel artist. Have you heard his song *‘Stand Strong’?* That’s gospel,” the pastor remarked.

Friendship and Performances
Adegboyega elaborated on his choice of performers, explaining that they were his close friends who had stood by him through thick and thin.

“Davido told me, ‘I just want to be there and perform for one hour.’ These are my friends. I didn’t pay any of them. They love me, and I’ll always give my friends a platform,” he said.

The pastor also highlighted his close bond with Nigerian artist Zlatan, whom he referred to as his “son.”

“Zlatan is like a son to me. His kids are my kids, and his parents are in my house. Why wouldn’t I invite him to my events?” he said.

Criticism of Gospel Artists
Adegboyega addressed criticisms from gospel artists who questioned the inclusion of secular musicians in his events, accusing them of being quick to judge rather than fostering relationships.

“If gospel artists aren’t my friends and instead join the bandwagon to criticize me, what should I do? Should I drag them with a rope to perform at my events?” he asked.

He maintained that his events would always feature those he considers his friends.

“My friends will always perform at my events. The next one will be even bigger because my circle of friends keeps growing,” Adegboyega said.

The pastor’s remarks have since sparked conversations about the intersection of secular and gospel music in faith-based events.

By   Milcah   Tanimu

Fans of Nigerian music witnessed a historic moment on December 19, 2024, as Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid performed together at the Oando End of Year concert in Lagos. The event brought the Big 3 of Afrobeat to one stage, leaving the audience in awe and sparking global excitement.

Burna Boy set the tone with powerful renditions of his biggest hits, including his latest single, Bundle By Bundle. His acapella performance of fan-favorites highlighted his artistry and captivated the crowd.

Wizkid followed, performing Kese, a track from his newly released album Morayo. Returning to Nigeria after a brief hiatus, he delivered a memorable performance that thrilled his fans.

Davido closed the show with his iconic hit Dami Duro and his latest single Funds, featuring OdumoduBlvck and Chike. The song is a preview of his highly anticipated fifth album, Five, scheduled for release in March 2025.

Rare Unity Among Nigeria’s Music Icons

The event gained additional attention due to the longstanding tensions between the three stars. Wizkid and Davido have had a history of feuds, reignited earlier this year on social media. Similarly, Burna Boy and Davido’s public disagreements date back to 2020.

Despite the hostilities, their joint appearance at the Oando concert signals a potential thawing of relations, offering fans a glimpse of harmony among Nigeria’s biggest music icons.

The financial logistics of bringing all three to the stage have also sparked conversations online, with fans praising Oando’s effort to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

By  Milcah   Tanimu

Nigerian actress Adesua Etomi-Wellington posted an uplifting message on Instagram to encourage her followers. On December 18, 2024, she urged people to stay persistent in pursuing their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

She wrote, “If you have something you really want to do— a dream, a business idea, something important to you— if you’re going through an interesting phase,” and continued, “I hope the people you speak to tell you they’ll slap you if you dare give up. I hope they don’t give you permission to quit. I hope they ignite a fire in your heart and tell you to GET UP AND GET GOING.”

Her post quickly resonated with followers, sparking many supportive comments. Fans emphasized the importance of having the right people around who provide encouragement.

One follower commented, “May God bless you with your own people… they don’t necessarily have to be family or friends.” Others agreed, highlighting the need for positive support.

Adesua’s message reminds us that perseverance and a strong support system are key to achieving our goals.

By   Milcah   Tanimu

Kese (Dance) is Wizkid’s latest song, adding a fresh layer to his Afrobeat legacy. Released as part of his global music journey, the song has infectious energy. It’s a track meant to dominate dancefloors worldwide.

The title Kese comes from Nigerian Pidgin, meaning “dance.” This perfectly fits the song’s goal—to make listeners move. With its lively tempo, Kese has captured attention for its catchy beats and fun lyrics. It’s quickly becoming a favorite at parties, clubs, and events in Nigeria and beyond.

Wizkid is known for mixing Afrobeat, reggae, and dancehall. Kese blends these genres with modern sounds. It’s a track that brings joy and energy, inviting people to dance and forget their worries. Its vibrant production makes it an anthem for music lovers everywhere.

The song is gaining traction on social media, with viral dance challenges on TikTok. Fans love the rhythm and the uplifting message. Kese is more than just a song—it’s part of a larger movement of unity and celebration.

For Wizkid, Kese marks a new milestone in his career. He continues to push Afrobeat music onto the global stage. The track’s success further solidifies his position as a leading artist in the genre.

As Kese gains popularity, it will leave a lasting mark on both music and dance culture. Wizkid’s influence continues to grow, and this song is a testament to his global impact. If you love Afrobeat or dancing, Kese is a track you can’t miss.

By  Milcah   Tanimu

CKay has emerged as the top-selling Nigerian artist in the United States, thanks to his viral hit “Love Nwantiti.” The song, which gained massive popularity on TikTok in 2021, has sold over 8 million units. This makes it the highest-selling Nigerian song in the U.S. and positions it as a contender for Afrobeats’ first-ever diamond record.

Wizkid and Rema Follow Closely

Wizkid ranks second on the list with over 4 million units sold. His hit single “Essence,” featuring Tems and Justin Bieber, continues to enjoy immense success. Additionally, Wizkid holds the record as the most certified Nigerian artist in the U.S. with 8 certifications.

Rema, with over 5 million units sold, takes third place. His song “Calm Down” has been certified 6 times platinum by the RIAA and broke multiple records, including becoming the first African song to spend more than 52 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100.

Other RIAA Certified Nigerian Artists

Other top Nigerian artists have also received multiple RIAA certifications. Tems made history as the first Nigerian artist to debut on the Hot 100, while Burna Boy holds the record for the most Hot 100 entries by a Nigerian. Additionally, Davido’s “Fall” became the first Nigerian song to be certified RIAA Gold.

Nigerian pop music continues to thrive globally, and these achievements reflect the growing influence of Afrobeats in the United States and beyond.

By  Milcah   Tanimu

Nigerian artist **Adekunle Gold** has voiced his frustrations with life in Nigeria, sparking conversations across social media. On December 17, 2024, he took to **X** to express how the country’s environment tends to drain individuals’ drive for success, making it difficult to achieve personal excellence.

In his post, Gold stated, “There’s just something about this place that drains your excellence. Striving for it here feels futile, as the environment pulls you down until you become just like everyone else. Whatever you do, guard your passion fiercely, be firm and never settle for less.”

Gold’s message resonated with many Nigerians, prompting numerous responses from citizens who shared their own experiences with the country’s challenges. One user commented, “Nigeria on a daily basis,” reflecting the frustrations that come with living in the country.

Despite the difficulties, some users saw the hardships as a test of strength, with one commenter noting, “Well, it’s the place we tap initial energy and renew strength. Diamond doesn’t get excited in the fire, but it’s excellent on a pretty lady’s ring finger.”

The post has ignited a broader conversation about the state of Nigeria and how even successful individuals like Adekunle Gold struggle with its tough realities.