Italian Fashion Legend Valentino Garavani Dies At 93, Leaving Timeless Legacy

Italian fashion legend Valentino Garavani, famed for his elegant gowns and signature “Valentino red,” has died at 93. The Valentino Foundation confirmed on Monday that he passed away peacefully at his Rome home, surrounded by family. A lying-in-state will be held on Wednesday, January 21, and Thursday, January 22, at PM23, Piazza Mignanelli 23, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with the funeral scheduled for Friday, January 23, at 11:00 a.m. at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri, Piazza della Repubblica 8, Rome. Born in 1932 in Voghera, northern Italy, Valentino honed his craft in Parisian haute couture before founding his Rome-based fashion house in 1959. Early in his career, he became renowned for his rich scarlet evening gowns, which came to be known as “Valentino red.” In 1960, he met Giancarlo Giammetti, his long-time business and romantic partner, who helped transform Valentino SpA into a global luxury brand. His early clients included Elizabeth Taylor, Jacqueline Kennedy, Audrey Hepburn, Joan Collins, and Queen Paola of Belgium, cementing his reputation among the world’s elite. Valentino’s creations became red-carpet staples, gracing stars like Jane Fonda, Julia Roberts, Jennifer Lopez, Cate Blanchett, and Anne Hathaway at the Academy Awards. His influence continued through the decades, with modern icons such as Zendaya, Carey Mulligan, and Gemma Chan wearing his designs, highlighting the brand’s enduring global appeal. Valentino’s legacy remains as one of the most influential figures in fashion, celebrated for his timeless elegance, meticulous craftsmanship, and ability to define glamour across generations.

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Super Eagles Jump 12 Places To 26th In FIFA Rankings After AFCON Bronze Finish

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have soared to 26th in the latest FIFA World Rankings, marking a stunning 12-place leap from their previous 38th position. The rise comes after Nigeria’s strong performance at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, where they secured third place. In Africa, the Super Eagles now sit as the continent’s third-best team, trailing only AFCON champions Senegal, ranked 12th globally, and Morocco, placed eighth. Algeria and Egypt hold the fourth and fifth spots in the African standings. At the global level, the top 10 teams feature Spain, Argentina, France, England, Brazil, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Croatia.

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Davido’s Influence Surpasses Music, Burna Boy Dominates Stage – Seyi Sodimu

Seyi Sodimu has drawn a clear line between the kind of power Davido and Burna Boy command, saying their influence operates on very different levels. During an appearance on the What I Know podcast, the veteran musician praised Burna Boy for his musical authority, noting that his strength lies in performance and stage control. According to Sodimu, Burna Boy’s impact is firmly rooted in music and artistry. “Burna Boy has conquered the stage. And he is good.” He contrasted this with Davido, whom he described as a figure whose influence extends well beyond entertainment. Sodimu argued that Davido’s reach cuts across society and could easily translate into political success. “Davido surpasses music.” To drive home his point, he claimed that Davido would have no trouble winning an election if he decided to run for office. “What do I mean by that? If Davido ran for governor today, he would win. But I don’t think Burna Boy could win as a governor.” Sodimu’s remarks echo an earlier prediction by Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, who once suggested that Davido could eventually become governor of Osun State. That idea appears less far-fetched given Davido’s political connections, as his uncle, Ademola Adeleke, currently serves as the governor of Osun State.

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Ogun Police Arrest Suspect Over Death of Singer Destiny Boy

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a suspect in connection with the death of singer Adesina Afeez, popularly known as Destiny Boy. The command said the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Homicide Section, for an in-depth investigation. In a statement on Monday, the police disclosed that investigations had commenced into the death of the 22-year-old artiste, confirming that one suspect is currently in custody while efforts continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. The police assured that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses. Destiny Boy’s passing came to public attention on Sunday after distressing videos showing his body being moved to a mortuary circulated widely on social media, sparking grief and speculation over the cause of his death.

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Manchester City Sign England Defender Marc Guehi From Crystal Palace Until 2031

Manchester City have officially completed the signing of English international defender Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, in a deal that runs until the summer of 2031, the club confirmed on its official website. The 25-year-old is City’s second addition in the ongoing winter transfer window, following the acquisition of winger Antoine Semenyo, as the club looks to reinforce its squad with proven talent. Guehi has emerged as one of the Premier League’s top defenders, making 188 appearances for Crystal Palace across all competitions, scoring 11 goals and providing 8 assists, showcasing his experience and versatility at the highest level. Internationally, Guehi has earned 26 caps for England, establishing himself as a dependable figure in the Three Lions’ defence with his consistent performances and tactical awareness. While Manchester City have not disclosed the financial details of the transfer, reports suggest the deal was initially valued at £20 million, a strategic move to strengthen the club’s defence amid recent injury concerns.

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VeryDarkMan Appreciates Blord After Cease-and-Desist Over Ratel Brand Is Withdrawn

VeryDarkMan has publicly thanked Blord after the tech entrepreneur withdrew his cease-and-desist order over the use of the Ratel label, ending a tense back-and-forth between the two figures. The controversy began when Blord declared his intention to become the sole owner of the Ratel name — a brand widely associated with VeryDarkMan and his fanbase — and threatened legal action to enforce his claim. In response, VeryDarkMan insisted that Ratel goes beyond trademarks, saying, “There can only be one Ratel. True ownership is about authenticity, not paperwork.” Hours later, Blord revealed that he had been contacted by “top men across the country,” influential figures who asked him to show mercy and allow VeryDarkMan to continue using the brand. Following this, Blord announced he was withdrawing the cease-and-desist order and instructed that fans now recognize VeryDarkMan as their CEO, signing off as Linus Williams — CEO/Founder, Ratel Groups. In a video response, VeryDarkMan expressed gratitude, visibly emotional and with tears in his eyes, thanking Blord for rescinding the legal action. Some observers have questioned whether his appreciation was entirely sincere, given his earlier pointed remarks. The episode underscores the ongoing debate over branding, authenticity, and influence in Nigeria’s digital space, with Ratel remaining a central symbol of VeryDarkMan’s identity and online presence.   View this post on Instagram  

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Super Eagles Earn N3.56 Billion For Third-Place Finish At 2025 AFCON

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have pocketed N3.56 billion for securing third place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, following a 4–2 penalty shootout win over Egypt in the bronze medal match in Casablanca. The game ended 0–0 after regulation time, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerging as the hero, saving two penalties to secure Nigeria’s ninth third-place finish at AFCON. Senegal claimed the championship for the second time in their history, edging hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time in a dramatic final at the Stade Moulay Abdellah in Rabat. Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal just three minutes into extra time with a brilliant left-footed strike from the edge of the box, silencing the packed stadium. CAF president Patrice Motsepe announced record prize money for the 2025 tournament, with the champions earning $10 million (N14.23 billion), up from $7 million (N9.96 billion) in 2023. The runners-up Morocco received $4 million (N5.69 billion), while Nigeria’s third-place finish earned $2.5 million (N3.56 billion). Fourth-placed Egypt took home $1.3 million (N1.85 billion). Quarter-finalists were awarded $800,000 (N1.14 billion) each, teams finishing third in their groups received $700,000 (N996 million), and those finishing fourth in the groups earned $500,000 (N711 million).

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Shaffy Bello Says Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy Have Reached Fela’s Global Status

Actress Shaffy Bello has claimed that Nigerian music stars Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy have achieved the same level of international recognition as the late Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Speaking on the podcast What I Know, co-hosted by Korty EO, Bello pointed to the trio’s global influence, wealth, and fame as evidence that they have reached a status comparable to Fela’s legendary impact. When asked if any contemporary Nigerian artists could match Fela’s iconic legacy, she said, “I feel some of our guys have reached that. The Big 3 have reached it already. International recognition is what we affirm as reaching that level. In terms of recognition, power, and money, I feel like our Big 3—or even Big 4—have reached Fela’s level already. I mean, Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, and even Asake, too.” Her remarks follow earlier comments by Fela’s son, Seun Kuti, who cautioned against comparing current artists to his father and stressed the importance of honoring Fela’s enduring legacy.

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