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Champz’s Mother Explains Why She Turned Down Show Invitations Following Debut EP Release

Wale busari02 mins

Shola Ogudu, mother of Wizkid’s 14-year-old son Boluwatife, popularly known as Champz, has explained why she declined the numerous show invitations her son has received since releasing his debut EP, “Champion’s Arrival.” Speaking on X, Ogudu said: “We are truly grateful for all the show invitations and for everyone considering Champz. It means so much to us. However, because of his age, we’ve decided to prioritise his development over live performances for now. That’s why we’ve had to turn down these opportunities. We sincerely appreciate everyone’s understanding and support.” She stressed that while Champz is excited about the positive reception of his EP, his growth, well-being, and long-term development remain the family’s priority. Released in November, “Champion’s Arrival” has already made waves, topping charts and drawing attention from music fans worldwide. Reflecting on the EP’s first month, Champz shared: “It’s officially one month of ‘Champion’s Arrival,’ and the journey so far has been incredible. Charting across countries, surpassing 1M Spotify listeners, accumulating millions of streams, and hitting top album status in under five hours — I’m truly grateful for every moment and for everyone supporting me. Humbled, motivated, and ready for what comes next. This is only the beginning. So help me God.” Ogudu explained that her decision to decline live shows is meant to ensure Champz can continue developing his talent while enjoying his youth and building a sustainable music career.

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Annie Macaulay, 2Baba Seen Together With Nasboi, Fans Speculate On Possible Reunion

Wale busari01 mins

Nollywood actress Annie Macaulay and music icon 2Baba were recently spotted enjoying a fun outing with singer Nasboi, sparking curiosity among fans about what might be in the works. The trio, all prominent figures in the entertainment industry, appeared relaxed and cheerful, sharing laughs and positive energy. This is Annie and 2Baba’s first public sighting together since their divorce earlier this year. Fans are buzzing with speculation about possible collaborations or even a friendly reunion, as the former couple posed warmly alongside Nasboi. Social media erupted with reactions and photos from the outing, highlighting the ex-couple’s surprisingly cordial interaction. Meanwhile, 2Baba has publicly reassured fans about his marriage to Hon. Natasha Osawaru, confirming that their relationship remains strong despite circulating rumours.

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Troost-Ekong Thanks President Tinubu After Receiving MFR Honour

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Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government after receiving his national honour certificate, describing the recognition as one of the most significant milestones of his life. Troost-Ekong captained Nigeria to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where the Super Eagles earned a silver medal following a tight 2–1 defeat to host nation Côte d’Ivoire. In honour of the team’s dedication and performance, President Tinubu awarded national honours to players and officials, with Troost-Ekong being conferred the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). The defender revealed that he received his official certificate a day after the announcement in Fez, Morocco, where the Super Eagles are preparing for the 2025 AFCON. Taking to social media, Troost-Ekong described the moment as deeply emotional and a source of immense pride for both him and his family. “I am truly honoured and grateful to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for conferring on me the MFR national honour,” he wrote. “I received the official certificate today, following last night’s announcement. It is a moment of immense pride for me and my family.” Reflecting on his journey with the national team, he credited Nigeria for shaping his identity, values, and football career. “Nigeria gave me my identity, my purpose, and the opportunity to live my dream through football,” Troost-Ekong said. “Wearing the green and white has always been a privilege and a responsibility — a promise to give everything for the badge and for our people.” He also offered encouragement to the current Super Eagles squad as they begin their AFCON campaign, pledging his continued support. “As our Super Eagles start their AFCON journey today, I wish them the very best. As promised, I will be supporting them all the way,” he added. “I believe in this team, in our country, and in what we can achieve together.” Troost-Ekong concluded with a strong message of patriotism: “I am, and will always remain, proud to be Nigerian.”

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FG To Delete Terrorist Accounts On Social Media, Tracks Online Financing Networks

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The Federal Government has confirmed that Nigerian security agencies are partnering with major social media companies to track and remove accounts used by terrorist and criminal groups to promote their activities and raise funds. Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, Director-General of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, made the disclosure on Tuesday during an end-of-year briefing in Abuja. He said platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and X have been exploited by terrorists to publicize operations, display looted items, and communicate with supporters. Security agencies have held multiple engagements with these companies to address posts and accounts deemed threats to national security. “Social media platforms have been used by terrorist groups—if you knew how many accounts we have taken down. We meet with platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, and X. While they are businesses focused on growth, we explain the security risks and ensure harmful accounts are removed,” Laka said. The DG recalled that at one point, bandits were posting videos of stolen goods on TikTok, livestreaming, and holding online conversations, but these activities have since been curtailed. He added that terrorist groups continually change tactics, including operating under aliases and unverified accounts, and security agencies are constantly updating their strategies to counter these shifts. Ransom payments remain a major source of terror financing, with kidnappers increasingly using point-of-sale (POS) operators to transfer funds, making it harder to trace. “You see a transfer made by terrorists, and when you investigate, the account belongs to a POS operator. The kidnappers provide the POS operator’s number, the money is transferred, and they collect it,” he explained. Laka said authorities have intensified efforts to trace ransom payments, arrest suspects, and dismantle terror financing networks, though operational details are withheld for security reasons. Several arrests, prosecutions, and asset recoveries have helped Nigeria comply with international anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing standards. He also highlighted coordinated investigations by security agencies, financial intelligence units, and the judiciary as key to Nigeria’s recent progress in meeting Financial Action Task Force requirements. Acknowledging challenges posed by evolving terrorist tactics and porous borders in the Sahel, Laka reassured Nigerians that both physical and digital counter-terrorism measures are being strengthened. “Towards the end of 2023, the security situation in Nigeria was improving. But after coups in some Sahel countries, the situation worsened due to cross-border terrorist connections. Nigeria must play a leadership role in West Africa and the Sahel to address these threats. We are doing our best, and in 2026, we will intensify our efforts,” he said.

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Davido Visits Sierra Leone President Ahead Of 5ive Alive World Tour Show

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Davido has paid a courtesy visit to President Julius Maada Bio in Freetown, Sierra Leone, ahead of his 5ive Alive World Tour performance. The singer thanked the president for the warm reception, praising the country’s hospitality and security. He described Sierra Leone as his “second home” and promised to return for future visits and shows, including one after the completion of the National Stadium. Reflecting on his 2017 concert, which attracted over 50,000 fans, Davido assured attendees of an extraordinary performance. His show, originally scheduled for December 21, was moved to December 22 to avoid clashing with the African Nations Cup opening ceremony. President Bio welcomed Davido, noting the excitement his visit has generated among Sierra Leoneans and commending the organizers of the event.

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FG Confirms Only One Official Version Of Newly Enacted Tax Reform Laws

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The Federal Government has confirmed that there is only one official version of the recently enacted tax reform laws. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the announcement on Monday in Abuja during an end-of-year news briefing. Idris rejected claims that the laws had been altered after passage by the National Assembly, emphasizing that the version assented to by President Bola Tinubu remains unchanged. He noted that the legislation went through full legislative procedures, including consultations and debates in the National Assembly, before receiving presidential approval. “The Federal Government is moving forward with the commencement of implementation, noting as changed,” Idris said. Addressing concerns about alleged discrepancies between the version passed by lawmakers and the one officially gazetted, the minister said these issues had been raised in the National Assembly, and the executive would defer to the legislature’s review. “I think it is important for us to wait for the National Assembly to look at this again to tell us whether there were discrepancies or not. This is, at this point, an affair of the National Assembly to which I have no jurisdiction, and I have no authority to speak about. As far as the government of Nigeria is concerned, there’s only one version of that tax document,” he added. The controversy began after Abdussamad Dasuki, a lawmaker representing Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency in Sokoto State, raised concerns in the House of Representatives that the version passed by the National Assembly differed from the one later gazetted and circulated by the Ministry of Information. According to PUNCH Online, the tax reform laws, set to take effect on January 1, 2026, were recently signed into law by President Tinubu. The bills faced strong opposition during legislative debates, particularly from some northern lawmakers concerned about their economic and regional impact. The controversy deepened after Dasuki claimed that certain provisions in the gazetted laws had not been debated or approved by the National Assembly. The laws have also attracted criticism from prominent figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, both of whom called for a suspension of implementation pending clarification of the disputed sections. Meanwhile, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, dismissed claims of secret amendments and warned of consequences for Nigerians if the new tax laws are not implemented from January 1.

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Anthony Joshua To Take Home $74m After $66m Taxes From $140m Jake Paul Fight Payday

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Anthony Joshua’s blockbuster payday from his exhibition fight against Jake Paul has been significantly reduced by taxes, highlighting the impact of international taxation on global sports earnings. Joshua reportedly earned $92 million from the Miami bout, part of a $184 million purse split equally between the two fighters—his largest single fight payout to date. However, U.S. federal taxes are expected to claim about 37 percent of his earnings, roughly $52 million. On top of that, he faces around $11.3 million in U.K. taxes and $2.8 million in National Insurance contributions, bringing his total tax bill to an estimated $66 million. With Florida imposing no state income tax, Joshua’s take-home pay is projected at approximately $74 million from a total gross of about $140 million tied to the fight and related revenue. In the ring, Joshua dominated the contest, knocking out Paul in the sixth round after a sustained assault. Jake Paul, a U.S. resident, faces a simpler tax situation, paying only in the U.S., allowing him to retain a larger portion of his earnings. The contrast underscores how residency and fight location can heavily influence a fighter’s net income. The fight comes at a pivotal moment in Joshua’s career. Earlier this year, he fell off Forbes’ 2025 list of the world’s top 50 highest-paid athletes. In 2024, he ranked 16th with pre-tax earnings of around $83 million, boosted by four wins in the ring and endorsement deals with brands such as Under Armour, Beats by Dre, and Lucozade.

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Makinde Rules Out Supporting Tinubu In 2027, Tells Wike To Allow Free Political Choices

Wale busari05 mins

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has stated that he will not back President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, while calling on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to respect the right of others to make their own political decisions. Makinde made the remarks on Tuesday during a media interaction in Ibadan, where he expressed shock over reports that Wike had promised to deliver the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to Tinubu ahead of 2027. “I was in a meeting with President Tinubu, Nyesom Wike, and others when Wike volunteered to hold the PDP for Tinubu against 2027, and I was in shock. Wike can support the president in 2027, but I will not,” Makinde said. The PDP governor recalled making it clear to Tinubu that he could not assist in building the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State. “I said, no, sir, I can never help you organise the APC in Oyo State because I am of the PDP,” he said. Makinde stressed that while Wike is entitled to support Tinubu, other party members should also be free to take independent political positions. “The real issue is that Wike would like to support the President for 2027. That’s fine; it is within his rights. But some of us want to ensure that democracy survives in Nigeria and that the PDP survives as well. He should allow us to make our own choices,” he said. He explained that attempts to resolve the matter quietly were unsuccessful, leading to a direct confrontation. “I tried to engage him through a mutual friend, but when he did not back off, I confronted him directly. From that day, I made it clear I would never be part of this. Wike can support him, but it is also within my right to decide who I will support or what I will do in 2027. This explains the current conflict within the PDP.” Makinde added that his immediate focus is preserving the PDP and preventing Nigeria from drifting into a one-party system. “Some of us want to ensure that democracy survives in Nigeria. We don’t want to drift into a one-party state, and we want to ensure that the PDP survives,” he said. Turning to governance, Makinde said his administration is prioritising opportunity creation over direct handouts in tackling poverty. “We will not give people handouts in Oyo State. Instead, we will create a conducive environment for people to thrive,” he said. He cited the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SEFA) programme as an example, explaining that subsidies are targeted at boosting productivity. “For the 20,000 people using our state transport system, including vulnerable persons, students, the elderly, and the physically challenged, they pay half the price. That money is subsidising productivity. You don’t get on the bus just because it’s cheaper; you get on it because you’re going somewhere important, likely to result in something productive,” Makinde explained. Makinde and Wike were among PDP figures who supported Tinubu in the 2023 elections, but his comments reflect deepening divisions within the party as preparations for 2027 intensify.

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