Author: Ifetayo Adeniyi

Manny Ita  – The upcoming biographical film based on the life of Michael Jackson is reportedly on track to surpass $600 million at the global box office this weekend, according to early industry projections and international market estimates. The film, titled Michael, has quickly become one of the most anticipated music biopics in recent years, drawing massive attention from fans, cinema operators, and entertainment analysts worldwide. Industry insiders say advance ticket sales and strong audience interest across North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa have contributed to the movie’s impressive momentum even before its wider rollout is completed. Directed…

Manny Ita  – The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed several officers accused of involvement in kidnapping, armed robbery, extortion, and other criminal activities in Rivers State as part of what authorities described as an ongoing internal reform and disciplinary crackdown. In a statement issued by police spokesperson Anthony Placid, the force said the affected officers betrayed the ethics, standards, and professional values expected of members of the police institution. According to the statement, investigations uncovered a criminal syndicate involving officers attached to Zone 16 Headquarters in Yenagoa. The officers identified were Inspectors Ayanniyi Jelili, Durojaye Francis, and Olayemi Titus. Police…

Manny Ita  – Stakeholders in Nigeria’s investment and development sectors have warned that the country is facing a widening $6.75 billion gender financing gap that continues to limit access to funding for women, youths, and persons living with disabilities. The concern was raised during the 4th Gender Impact Investment Summit held in Lagos, where policymakers, investors, development finance institutions, and private sector leaders gathered to discuss strategies for inclusive economic growth. The summit, themed “From Commitments to Action: Strengthening Inclusive Gender-Lensed Investment for Nigeria’s Growth,” also featured the unveiling of the Inclusive Capital Scorecard and Gender Equality and Social Inclusion…

Manny Ita – A fresh outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus has been confirmed in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, with health authorities reporting 246 suspected infections and at least 65 deaths in the remote Ituri province. According to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, the majority of the cases have been identified in the Mongwalu and Rwampara health zones. Four of the deaths were among laboratory-confirmed Ebola patients, while additional suspected cases are currently being investigated in Bunia, the provincial capital located near the Ugandan border. Ebola is a highly infectious disease spread through direct contact…

Manny Ita  – Renault has officially opened UK orders for the new Renault 4 E-Tech electric Plein Sud, a special version of its retro-inspired electric vehicle featuring an electrically operated canvas roof. The new variant starts at £27,445 on-the-road after the UK’s £3,750 Electric Car Grant, with deliveries expected to begin in the third quarter of 2026. The “Plein Sud” roof takes inspiration from the classic fabric roof design seen on the original Renault 4, combining nostalgic styling with modern electric mobility. Renault says the vehicle is currently the only electric car in its segment to offer a fully opening…

There is palpable excitement in Zamfara State as the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal officially commenced the 2026 Hajj airlift for pilgrims from the Gusau Airport (GIA). In a historic move aimed at easing the pilgrimage process, the state government announced that the first batch of pilgrims who departed for the Holy Land today, Friday, 15th May 2026. This milestone marks the fulfillment of Governor Lawal’s promise to make direct departures from Zamfara a reality, eliminating the need for pilgrims to travel to other states for airlift. However, the state government has issued a strict advisory to the public regarding…

British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN) has announced the appointment of Ruth Owojaiye as Director, Corporate & Regulatory Affairs, reinforcing the company’s continued commitment to strong governance, regulatory excellence, and responsible business practices. Prior to her appointment, she served as Head, Regulatory Engagements for BAT West & Central Africa. In her new role, Ruth will lead BAT Nigeria’s corporate and regulatory affairs function, providing strategic direction across government relations, public policy, corporate communications, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement. She will play a critical role in safeguarding the company’s licence to operate, strengthening corporate reputation, and advancing its environmental, social and governance priorities.…

Filmmaker Lateef Adedimeji has spoken about his admiration for music star Davido following a meeting in Abuja.   The actor shared photos of the gathering on Instagram, which also included celebrity designer Seyi Vodi. He said he had long admired Davido despite their different industries and backgrounds, noting that they shared a passion for greatness, creativity, and entertaining fans worldwide. As an actor, Adedimeji stated that he respected figures who influenced culture through their craft, describing Davido as a musical genius and one of those figures. “Link up with the serial hitmaker himself, Davido, @davido, a musical genius I’ve always admired.…

The Central Bank of Nigeria on Friday unveiled the fourth edition of its Foreign Exchange Manual, introducing revised guidelines aimed at strengthening transparency, compliance, and confidence in Nigeria’s foreign exchange market. Speaking at the launch of the manual in Abuja, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, said the revised document reflects the apex bank’s commitment to reinforcing confidence in the country’s foreign exchange framework amid evolving global economic realities. He described foreign exchange as a critical enabler of economic activities, stressing that regulatory systems must continuously adapt to changing global developments. “Our regulatory system must continue to…

Global superstar Shakira has released “Dai Dai,” the official anthem for the FIFA World Cup 2026, in an exciting collaboration with Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy. The Colombian singer made the announcement herself on social media on Friday, posting: “Dai Dai is here. The @FIFAWorldCup 2026 starts now!” The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) followed suit, confirming the track’s release via Sony Music Latin and its immediate availability on all major streaming platforms. Featuring motivational lyrics centered on resilience, ambition, and unity, “Dai Dai” pays homage to football legends including Pelé, Diego Maradona, Paolo Maldini, Romário, Cristiano Ronaldo, Andrés…