Author: Ifetayo Adeniyi

Manny Ita  – Nigeria has been designated as the “International Focus” for the 2026 edition of the RMB Latitudes Art Fair, organisers announced. A curated launch exhibition showcasing Nigerian artists is scheduled to open at the Yenwa Gallery in Lagos on Thursday, March 26. Speaking on the selection, the fair’s director stated, “Nigeria’s dynamic art scene, rich cultural heritage, and innovative artists make it an ideal focus for this year’s fair. We aim to highlight the country’s creativity to an international audience and foster global engagement with Nigerian art.” Representatives from Yenwa Gallery expressed excitement over hosting the exhibition, noting…

Manny Ita  – Entrepreneur Dabota Lawson has finalized a significant financing agreement with Woodhall Capital International to expand her beauty brand, Dabota Cosmetics, into international markets. The partnership is supported by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and is aimed at scaling production, distribution, and brand visibility globally. Speaking on the deal, Lawson stated, “This partnership represents a major milestone for Dabota Cosmetics. Our goal has always been to share African beauty and innovation with the world, and this financing allows us to take that vision to a global audience.” Representatives from Woodhall Capital International emphasized their commitment to supporting African…

Manny Ita  – High-street fashion retailer MISKAY has launched a 15-look signature collection in collaboration with culinary influencer Hilda Baci, drawing significant attention in the style and fashion sectors. The collection, described as embodying “effortless femininity,” is now available at MISKAY’s Lekki flagship store. Speaking on the collaboration, Hilda Baci said, “This collection reflects a part of me—my love for elegance and simplicity. Each piece was designed to make women feel confident, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish.” MISKAY’s creative team emphasized that the collection blends contemporary trends with wearable designs, targeting women who seek versatility and sophistication in everyday fashion. “Our…

Manny Ita  – The inaugural Miss Nigeria Beauty & Fashion Fair 2026 officially opened on March 22 at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos. The event commenced with a high-profile Patrons and Board Dinner, drawing industry leaders, fashion enthusiasts, and stakeholders in the beauty and fashion sectors. Dr. Aisha Achimugu delivered the keynote address at the dinner, emphasizing the importance of promoting Nigerian culture and talent through events of this scale. She said, “This fair provides a platform to celebrate the richness of Nigerian beauty, creativity, and fashion innovation. It is an opportunity for emerging designers, models, and entrepreneurs…

Manny Ita – The 2026 World Happiness Report has found that heavy social media use is associated with lower life satisfaction, particularly among people under 25. Released annually in conjunction with the International Day of Happiness on March 20, the report ranks countries based on residents’ assessments of their well-being. The findings reveal a sharp decline in life satisfaction among young people in English-speaking and Western European nations, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, over the past decade. According to the study, social media platforms have eroded personal well-being among young users, with many feeling pressure to…

Manny Ita   – Actor Paapa Essiedu has revealed that he has received multiple racist death threats following his casting as Professor Severus Snape in the upcoming Harry Potter series adaptation. In an interview with The Times UK, Essiedu described being targeted with vitriolic messages. “I’ve been told, ‘Quit or I’ll murder you,’” he shared. Essiedu, known for his role in I May Destroy You, will take over the role from the late Alan Rickman. Warner Bros Television plans for the actor to portray Snape for a decade. “Yes, this is a big commitment,” he said. “I’ll be 45 by the…

Manny Ita  – Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has visited victims of the recent attacks in Ngoshe, a community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, assuring residents of intensified security measures as authorities work to track down suspected suicide bombers reportedly still at large. During the visit, the governor expressed concern over the security situation and the impact of the attacks on affected communities, reaffirming the government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability. “We are deeply saddened by the incident and the suffering it has caused our people. Security agencies have been placed on high alert to prevent further…

Manny Ita  – Nollywood actor Aremu Afolayan has publicly withdrawn his earlier support for the 2027 reelection bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following a wave of criticism and backlash from members of the public over his initial stance. The actor, who had previously expressed support for the President’s potential second-term ambition, announced his decision in a statement shared via his social media platforms, acknowledging the intensity of the reactions that trailed his earlier comments. “I have listened to the voices of many Nigerians and I understand the concerns being raised,” he said, adding that his position was not intended…

Manny Ita  – The Nigerian Shippers’ Council has directed an immediate reversal of recently introduced shipping tariff increases, in a move aimed at protecting Nigerian businesses from escalating operational costs and preserving stability within the maritime sector. In a statement issued over the weekend, the Council said the decision followed a surge of complaints from importers, exporters, and other industry stakeholders who warned that the new charges would significantly raise the cost of doing business and disrupt supply chains. The regulator emphasized that the tariff hike was not properly aligned with existing guidelines and lacked sufficient consultation with relevant parties.…

Manny Ita  – Nigerian Afropop star Ayra Starr has offered fresh insight into her evolving artistry, revealing that her recent studio sessions mark a deliberate shift toward what she describes as “sonic growth,” a phase she says will redefine her sound and deepen her musical identity. Speaking during a recent interaction with fans, the singer disclosed that she has been exploring new layers of creativity, experimenting with different sounds and influences while refining her vocal delivery and songwriting approach. “I’ve been experimenting a lot more with my sound. This phase is about growth for me — not just lyrically, but…