Eedris Abdulkareem Raises Alarm Over N200M Bribe

Nigerian musician Eedris Abdukareem has raised the alarm over an attempt to set him up with a N200,000million bribe following the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) ban on his single; ‘Tell Your Papa.’ Eedris, who spoke in vernacular, made this revelation in a video posted on his Instagram field on Friday. His words; “Okay, my people, how una dey? Make I give una very very quick updates. “So, I got a call from one criminal. Honourable Chisom Jabale. Him no wan make I hear the name sef and after the call, I said what’s your name again. He said Senator…I said Ole leleyi (This one is a thief). “So, the idiot was now telling me that he was in a meeting with Seyi (Tinubu) and this government, that they are trying to bribe you. Don’t listen to them. “We are going to be sponsoring you underground and I said who told you that I need anything. (sic). Immediately, I heard his voice, I said this one nah them send am. I said I’m not interested. He said we would give you 200million and I said the video wey I shoot, nah you sponsor me underground? “I say make una go sidon somewhere. I’m not inetersted. Wetin dey worry una nah? “So, I knew he was sent. Awon Ole buruku (Thieves). Nah me una wan record take do caricature. I don prepare for una tey tey.”

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Nigeria’s U-18, U-20 Women’s Handball Teams Hit Camp For IHF Tourney

Nigeria’s Under 18 and 20 Women Handball teams have opened training camp in Lagos ahead of the IHF Trophy’s Women Zonal Phase slated between 20th and 24th of April in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. The National Under 18 women’s team led by Coach John Uzor and the Under 20 women’s team led by Coach Adewunmi Agbola Shittu are at the Rowe Park Sports Centre, Yaba, Lagos wherein they are undergoing intensive training for the competition which is the first hurdle in the IHF Women’s Trophy calendar for the year. The Under 20 team is made up of the Under 18 team that made Nigeria proud by qualifying for the World Cup for the first time ever in the history of the country. Some of the players are; Kehinde Babatunde of ASPAC HBC of Benin Republic and her twin sister Taiwo Babatunde who plays for Seasider Babes of Lagos, Esther Mathew of ADDIDJA HBC of Benin Republic and Rahima Bello who plays for KIRYATONO HBC of ISRAEL. Others are; the Samuel Sisters (Prudence and Precious), Chidera Ogbusimba, Amina Mohammed and Joy Peters all from RIMA Queens of Sokoto as well as Damilola Akinlade of Rivers Queens, Omole Joy of Rivers Queens, Taiwo Islamiat of Seasiders babes and Oluwalade Phoebe of Ekiti. For Coach Shittu, it is not a new experience as his present Under 20 Women’s team were the successful Under 18 team that he led to finish second in the IHF Women’s Trophy Intercontinental Phase in Tashkent, Uzbekistan last year, representing Africa following their success in the zonal and continental phase. Coach Shittu, however believed it is a different situation, saying this is the first Nigeria would be participating in the Junior category (Under 20) of the competition as it will be a new experience for the players. For Coach John Uzor, the Under 18 team wants to surpass the record set by their predessesors, stressing that the country would have the best players to do so. “We are entering into a big shoe worn by our elder sisters who are now in the Under 20 category and we must maintain and even surpass their standards. We have the best crops of players to overcome in Cote’d’Voire,” Coach John assured. The two teams must win the zonal phase in Abidjan to qualify for the continental phase later this year.

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MRA Condemns NBC’s Ban on Eedris Abdulkareem’s Song ‘Tell Your Papa’

Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has condemned the directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to radio and television stations across the country not to broadcast the song “Tell Your Papa” by Nigerian rapper Eedris Abdulkareem, describing it a blatant abuse of regulatory power, a violation of constitutional rights, and a dangerous affront to freedom of expression. The NBC issued a directive dated April 9, 2025 through its Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, Ms Susan Obi, titled “Restriction on broadcasting ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem” and addressed to all broadcast stations, asking them to refrain from airing the song as its content is deemed inappropriate for broadcast due to its alleged objectionable nature. The Commission claimed that the song “is, therefore, classified as Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB), as it violates Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.” However, in a statement issued in Lagos by its Programme Officer, Ms Ayomide Eweje, MRA described Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code” as nebulous, observing that the provision merely states that “A programme or musical content classified as ‘Not To Be Broadcast’ (NTBB) shall not be broadcast” without stating any basis for such classification, what kind of content qualifies for not to be broadcast status or under what circumstances a programme or musical content can be classified as NTBB. She described this provision of the Code as a recipe for arbitrariness and the directive as a misuse of regulatory authority and powers, saying that the NBC has completely confused its role as a supposedly independent media regulatory body with that of a propaganda agency charged with shielding the government from criticism or embarrassment. Ms Eweje said: “The NBC’s decision to ban the airing of a socially and politically conscious song without a clear legal basis or due process amounts to censorship. It is a clear attempt to stifle artistic expression and silence dissenting voices, both of which are fundamental elements of a democratic society. Such actions violate Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees the right to freedom of expression, and undermine Nigeria’s obligations under international human rights instruments, including Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, both of which are binding on Nigeria.” She argued that artists have the right and freedom to use their platforms to critique governance and criticize governments, raise awareness, and reflect public sentiment and that the NBC, as a regulatory body, must act within the bounds of the law and not serve as a tool for suppressing uncomfortable truths or politically charged content that challenges the status quo. Ms Eweje called on the Commission to immediately rescind the ban on “Tell Your Papa” and refrain from arbitrary actions that erode public trust in it; infringe on the constitutional rights of Nigerians “to receive and impart ideas and information without interference”; and shrink the civic space, adding “We also urge all stakeholders in the media and creative sectors, as well as civil society, to resist any attempt to muzzle freedom of expression under the guise of regulation.” She stressed that MRA remained committed to defending the rights of all Nigerians, including, journalists, artists, academics and other citizens, to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, without fear of censorship, repression or reprisals.

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Burna Boy: Topping Charts in Nigeria Is Not Something to Celebrate

Burna Boy: Topping Charts in Nigeria Is Not Something to Celebrate

Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy has sparked conversation after stating that topping music charts in Nigeria is not necessarily an achievement worth celebrating. In a recent comment, the Grammy-winning artist urged his fellow musicians to set their sights beyond local recognition and aim for global impact. According to Burna Boy, while it’s great to receive love and support from home, artists should focus on elevating their craft to a level that resonates worldwide. He emphasized that true success in music goes beyond local popularity and involves reaching a diverse and global audience. The singer’s statement has stirred mixed reactions across social media, with some supporting his perspective on raising the bar for African music, while others feel his comment downplays the value of national recognition and the support of Nigerian fans. Regardless of the debates, Burna Boy’s remarks reflect his long-standing push for international recognition of African music. As one of the continent’s most globally recognized artists, he’s challenging his peers to think bigger and redefine what success means in the Nigerian music industry.

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Azeez vs. Oyakojo: Power Meets Resilience at GOtv Boxing Night 33

The stage is set for an electrifying national super featherweight contest as Lateef “Captain” Azeez squares off against Sodiq “Golden Boy” Oyakojo in what promises to be a defining battle at GOtv Boxing Night 33. The fight, scheduled for eight rounds, will be a crucial test for both boxers, each seeking to assert dominance in the division. Azeez, a hard-hitting fighter with an impressive 80% knockout rate, has made a strong statement since turning professional in 2023. With 8 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, he has built a reputation for ending fights early, thanks to his explosive power. His opponent, Oyakojo, brings a wealth of experience, having fought 13 times since 2022 with 8 wins, 3 losses, and 2 draws. Known for his resilience and tactical approach, Oyakojo has the tools to frustrate Azeez and turn the contest into a drawn-out battle. This bout represents more than just another fight. It is a collision of styles and ambitions. For Azeez, victory would further cement his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most promising super featherweights. Meanwhile, Oyakojo sees this fight as an opportunity to remind fans and analysts why he belongs among the country’s elite fighters. Beyond this anticipated showdown, GOtv Boxing Night 33 will also feature several other exciting matchups, including a 10-round international lightweight challenge between Ghana’s Emmanuel Otoo and Nigeria’s Tosin “Sojar Boy” Osaigbovo. Other national bouts include Segun Gbobaniyi vs. Sikiru “Omo Iya Eleja” Shogbesan and William “Kaki” Amosu vs. Emmanuel “Ability Famous” Abimbola, among others. Fans eager to witness the action live can purchase tickets at the venue. Regular tickets are priced at N300, while VIP access is available for N1,300. GOtv Boxing Night 33 will take place at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, on April 26, promising a night of intense, high-quality boxing action.

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Egypt-bound Flying Eagles Return to Abuja to Intensify U20 AFCON Preparations

Seven-time champions Nigeria have relocated back to the Federal Capital, Abuja as they intensify preparations for the 24th Africa U20 Cup of Nations starting later this month in Egypt. The contingent returned to Abuja after a three-week training programme in Katsina, where they had gone to camp in order to feel the weather which was found to be the same with that of Cote d’Ivoire – the country originally designated to host the tournament. With Cote d’Ivoire pulling out as host nation in the last hour, to the consternation of the Confederation of African Football and the participating teams, Egypt (host of the last edition in 2023) stepped in as hosts. “We are grateful to His Excellency, Governor Umaru Dikko Radda for hosting the team for three weeks in Katsina and making sure players and officials trained and camped in a conducive environment. The coaches have had some useful time to work on the team and it is now down to the final stages of preparation where the ascent will be on tactical and technical formations. “At the moment, due to the change of host nation, and the difference in weather conditions between Cote d’Ivoire and Egypt, we are looking at the team leaving Nigeria early to spend about 10 days in Egypt before the commencement of the tournament,” NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said on Wednesday. The team will make use of the FIFA Goal Project training field for training sessions before departing for Egypt in the next one week. For the purpose of the camping in Abuja, Head Coach Aliyu Zubairu – who led the team to successfully defend its WAFU B U20 Championship gong in Togo in October last year – has invited a total of 35 players, including three goalkeepers, eight defenders, 10 midfielders and 14 forwards. All four semi-finalists in Egypt will qualify to represent Africa at this year’s FIFA U20 World Cup finals scheduled for Chile, 27th September – 18th October. 35 FLYING EAGLES FOR CAMPING IN ABUJA: Goalkeepers: Ifeanyi Ebenezer Harcourt (Sporting Lagos); Rufai Abubakar (Mavlon FC); Soliu Ajia (FK Novi Pazar, Serbia) Defenders: Adewale Quadri (Nath Boys Academy); Adamu Maigari (El-Kanemi Warriors); Odinaka Okoro Emmanuel (Sporting Lagos); Kenneth Igboke (Enugu Rangers); Daniel Bameyi (Bayelsa United); Haruna Aliyu (Wikki Tourists); Chukwu Emmanuel (TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Germany); Chigozie Michael Ihejiofor (Katsina United) Midfielders: Caleb Ochedikwu (NK Ujanik, Croatia); Michael Tunde (Simon Ben FC); Sabiu Mohammed (Niger Tornadoes); Akinniran Oluwashile (Water FC); Ibrahim Alani (Real Valladolid, Spain); Ayuma Isaac Israel (NK Istra, Croatia); Cletus Simon (Mavlon FC); Sulaiman Alabi Jojo (El-Kanemi Warriors); Auwal Ibrahim (Akwa United); Shafiu Adamu Duguri (Wikki Tourists) Forwards: Umar Abubakar (KAA Gent, Belgium); Anthony Ezekiel (Inspire FC); Otu Joseph (Mavlon FC); Nasiru Salihu (El-Kanemi Warriors); Divine Oliseh (Forster Academy); Adeleke Abdulmuiz (Adoration FC); Clinton Jephta (Enyimba FC); Bidemi Amole (Real Sapphire FC); Tahir Maigana (Wireless FC); Rickson Mendos (Niger Tornadoes); Mustapha Umar (Kano Pillars); Kingsley Matthew (Kings FC); Armiyau Yusha’u (Katsina United); Benjamin Precious (TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Germany)

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2,505 Athletes Set For MTN Champs Lagos Continental Relays

The third season of MTN Champs continues with the Continental Relays scheduled to take place in Lagos from April 9 to April 12. Events will be held at the Yabatech and UNILAG sports complexes. This follows the successful Benin Classics held from March 13 to 15. A total of 2,505 athletes have registered for the Lagos Continental Relays, with 6,298 event entries from 155 secondary schools, with 1,598 male athletes and 907 female athletes. The senior category will also include international athletes from the Republic of Benin, Togo, and Côte d’Ivoire. Athletes will compete in a range of track and field events, including the 100m, 200m, 400m, relays, high jump, and long jump, in four age categories: Cadet (U-14), Youth (U-17), Junior (U-20), and Senior. Speaking at a press briefing on April 8, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Marketing Officer, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, said. “MTN Champs is a platform that continues to grow, transform and inspire the future of athletes and athletics in Nigeria. At MTN, we remain committed to supporting the dreams and aspirations of Nigeria, not only through innovative products, but involvement in socially impactful initiatives especially in football and athletics,” she said. MTN Champs was launched in 2023 to discover and develop young athletic talent across Nigeria. Twenty athletes identified as Most Valuable Players (MVPs) through the program are currently enrolled in a Lagos-based academy on a one-year scholarship. Deji Ogeyinbo, Country Manager at Making of Champions (MoC), MTN’s technical partner, highlighted the initiative’s impact. “MTN Champs was born out of a need to create structured training camps for athletes. We have been able to go to the remote villages in Nigeria, to discover exceptional athletes that otherwise would not have had the opportunity to showcase their talents,” he said. The Lagos Continental Relays are supported by the Lagos State Government, the Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF), and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN). Lekan Fatodu, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, reiterated the state government’s support for the MTN Champs initiative. “There is no better way to describe this event than saying that it is exceptional and inspirational. This is a motivation for us as the government,” he said. Fatodu also outlined plans to reform sports infrastructure in the state, including upgrades to the Teslim Balogun Stadium, to support broader sports development in Nigeria. The grand finale of MTN Champs Season 3 will be held in Uyo from April 30 to May 3 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium. MTN Champs aims to invest in the future of Nigerian youth through mentorship, development programs, and scholarships, identifying talent at the grassroots and supporting the emergence of Nigeria’s next generation of sporting champions. XXXXXXXXX Gov. Seyi Makinde Hits 335Km Roads In Six Years The Oyo State Government, under the able leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, proudly announces the completion of 335 kilometers of roads across the state within six years of his administration, with more projects still in progress. This milestone was highlighted by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, as a testament to Governor Makinde’s unwavering commitment to transforming Oyo State’s infrastructure and driving economic growth. Since assuming office in May 2019, Governor Makinde has prioritized road infrastructure as a cornerstone of his administration’s agenda to connect all zones of Oyo State, enhance urban mobility, and boost economic activities. Prince Oyelade emphasized that this achievement surpasses the combined efforts of all administrations between 1999 and 2019, underscoring the governor’s strategic vision to address the state’s infrastructure deficit. Among the notable projects completed are the 65km Moniya-Iseyin Road, the 34.85km Oyo-Iseyin Road, the Adebayo Alao Akala road, and the recently commissioned 38.48km of feeder roads in Ibadan, alongside numerous other inter-zone and township roads totaling 335.77km as of mid-2024, with figures now updated to reflect ongoing progress. Additionally, 273.31km of roads remain under construction, signaling that the administration’s work is far from over. Prince Oyelade noted, “Governor Makinde’s approach has been deliberate and data-driven, focusing on roads that link production zones to consumption centers, thereby opening up opportunities for agribusiness and reducing rural-urban migration. “This is not just about building roads; it’s about building a modern Oyo State where every citizen benefits.” These accomplishments align with Governor Makinde’s promise to engineer a state where infrastructure serves as a catalyst for prosperity. As Oyo State continues to witness unprecedented development, the government reaffirms its dedication to sustaining this momentum, with plans for further road rehabilitations and expansions in the coming years. Governor Makinde remains committed to leaving a legacy of progress and institutional strength by May 2027, when his tenure concludes.

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SWAN Congratulates Kida On Appointment As NNPCL Board Chairman

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has congratulated Engr. Ahmadu Musa Kida on his recent appointment as the Board Chairman of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). President of SWAN, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, in a letter to Engr. Kida, dated April 3, 2025 and signed by the Association’s Secretary-General Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, described his appointment as well deserved. Kida, an oil and gas mogul is the incumbent President of Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF). The SWAN President said Engr. Kida’s track record in the Nigeria’s oil and gas sector has been prominent in the past and recent times. “Before becoming the new NNPCL board chairman, you have made notable achievements in the industry, while occupying various positions as his career gradually blossomed. “One thing that stands you out is your passion for development and your commitment in making great impacts at all times. You deserves all the accolades. More importantly, we believe you will use your new position to touch more lives especially in sports. “Yes, your appointment is about the oil and gas sector, but that can attract a lot for Nigerian sports. Recently, not much has been heard about NNPCL channeling it’s Corporate Social Responsibility programmes to the sporting industry which has the capacity and direct effect on numerous young people that constitute greater part of the country’s population. “So we believe your presence as a known figure within the sporting fraternity will turn things around,” part of the letter said. Meanwhile, SWAN has commiserated with the Board of Nigeria Taekwondo Federation (NTF) over the loss its President, Alhaji Abdullahi Saidu. In a letter of condolence to NTF, SWAN President Mr. Benjamin through the Association’s Secretary-General Amb. Okonkwo expressed sadness for the demise of Alhaji Saidu. He then prayed Allah to give his family, Taekwondo community and the entire sporting arena the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

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