Temilade Openiyi, the Grammy Award-winning Nigerian singer widely recognized as Tems, is poised to make history as she takes the stage for the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup Final halftime performance. The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) officially named Tems among the headliners of the Global Citizen-curated halftime show, alongside celebrated American rapper Doja Cat and Colombian music icon J Balvin. The announcement was made on Monday, June 9, 2025. This landmark Club World Cup Final is scheduled to be held at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, United States, on July 13, 2025. The halftime show is being creatively directed by Coldplay’s frontman Chris Martin and will stream free of charge on DAZN.com, offering fans worldwide access to the grand performance. “We’re going to unite the world in a magical moment — celebrating the sport of football, the power of music, and transforming children’s lives through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. I’m excited — see you all at the Club World Cup Final!” Tems stated with enthusiasm. This upcoming FIFA Club World Cup tournament will host 32 elite football clubs from across the globe, competing in one of the largest club-level football competitions ever organized. Matches are slated to unfold in 12 premier stadiums across 11 cities within the United States. The tournament officially kicks off on June 14, 2025.
A newly surfaced video of Napoli forward Victor Osimhen talking about his future club move is quickly gaining traction across social media platforms. In the video, Osimhen is seen casually enjoying a meal while chatting with friends over a group video call. Among the participants in the clip is Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Jerry Smart Gift, popularly known as Rakon. During the conversation, Rakon praises Osimhen, saying: “VO9, the greatest of all time.A whole Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand, said Osimhen performed impressively in Turkey, Lille, and Italy.I told them, ‘No, Osimhen isn’t going to Manchester United because they’re not in the Champions League.’At least Chelsea is playing in the Champions League next season. I don’t understand why they’re reluctant to pay the required fee.I don’t know what Mikel Obi and Drogba are doing — legends who can’t convince Osimhen to join Chelsea.” Earlier this weekend, Osimhen reportedly rejected a massive €30 million per year offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. The Nigerian striker, who had a highly productive loan stint with Galatasaray, was among Al-Hilal’s top targets ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup set to begin on June 14.
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Galatasaray Football Club’s president, Dursun Ozbek, has officially announced that Victor Osimhen will stay with the team for the upcoming season. Osimhen, the Nigerian forward, was on loan with the Turkish Super Lig titleholders during the previous campaign. Despite receiving a highly attractive offer from Al-Hilal, a top club in the Saudi Pro League, Osimhen turned down the proposal on Sunday. Al-Hilal were reportedly prepared to activate the €75 million release clause in his agreement. However, the 26-year-old Nigerian striker is determined to continue his professional journey in Europe, showing a clear preference for remaining in the continent. Ozbek disclosed that discussions are in progress with Osimhen regarding the terms of a long-term contract extension. “Victor Osimhen is staying at Galatasaray, his affection will be the most important factor. Negotiations are ongoing,” Ozbek told Turkish newspaper Hurriyet. “We hope to give you good news next week.”
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U.K.-based Nigerian reality star Natasha “Tacha” Akide has sharply criticized the behavior of certain Nigerian Christian pastors, asserting that 90 percent of them wouldn’t be tolerated abroad for the same conduct they display at home. Her comment came in response to the controversy between Paul Adefarasin, senior pastor at House on the Rock Church, and a parked-car videographer. In the viral footage, Adefarasin appears to brandish what looks like a handgun at a young man filming his vehicle. The pastor has denied it was a firearm or that it was aimed at anyone, claiming the man acted aggressively. But Tacha, speaking via a video shared on her X (formerly Twitter) account, disputed that version. She insisted the clip clearly shows Adefarasin holding a pistol-like item, and contested any claim that the videographer was aggressive. She accused the pastor of “gaslighting” the public: “Everybody saw the video. We all saw the video. And from the video, we can tell who the aggressor was.” Tacha added the man was prophetizing praise in the clip and saw no reason for panic or aggression. She was also critical of congregants who applauded Adefarasin’s actions, questioning their awareness of what truly transpired. She issued a direct warning: “90 per cent of our Nigerian pastors will not get away with what they do in Nigeria outside Nigeria… their churches would shut down within a year.” She contrasted how society would react if politicians like Seyi Tinubu or Nyesom Wike “brandished a weapon” — implying a far more severe backlash than pastors currently receive. She further brought up another incident involving Adefarasin, where he allegedly smashed a bus’s windshield during a traffic dispute: “This is the same pastor who allegedly stepped out of his car last year to smash the windscreen of a bus… So anybody holding a phone now is aggressive?” Tacha concluded by condemning the hypocrisy she sees in permitting pastors to act with impunity and urged Nigerians to stop making excuses for them
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Nigerian music star Divine Ikubor, known professionally as Rema, has paid heartfelt tribute to Afrobeats legend D’banj for his foundational impact on the genre’s international rise—especially in the United Kingdom. He commended D’banj’s groundbreaking 2012 single “Oliver Twist,” which became the first Nigerian song to break into the top 10 of the UK Official Singles Chart, a feat that set the tone for other Afrobeats tracks to achieve similar success. During his sold-out performance at the O2 Arena in London on Sunday, Rema invited D’banj on stage and emphasized how vital the veteran artist’s success was to the current global visibility of Nigerian music. He expressed that D’banj’s UK crossover milestone paved the path for artists like himself to thrive in the international music scene. “First of all, I want to appreciate you for opening the doors. We [the new generational artists] do not do it alone,” Rema stated emotionally.“You were one of the first ones to bring Afrobeats to the UK. You and Don Jazzy held it down. Y’all opened that door.I appreciate you for life. I love you from the bottom of my heart. If you never existed, I would have never existed.” Rema’s gesture has been widely praised as a powerful acknowledgment of Afrobeats history and the importance of honoring pioneers who laid the groundwork for today’s global recognition.
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Renowned Nigerian music artist Simisola Kosoko, popularly known as Simi, has openly criticized a growing trend in the entertainment industry where successful musicians create record labels merely to sign new talents as a status symbol. In a candid conversation during her recent interview with VJ Adams, Simi revealed that although she’s open to mentoring emerging artists, she views it as unjust when well-known artists sign others purely to mark a career achievement. “I can sign an artist,” she stated, “but I think it’s not fair when an artist signs another artist just as a milestone. Because for that artist, it’s just a passion project for them and not necessarily to accomplish a goal. But then, that’s their life.” Simi emphasized that running a record label should be a task reserved for individuals with genuine interest and dedication to the music business. According to her, only those who are truly committed to the success of others should take on such responsibility. “I think the only people that should sign artists are people who really have passion for music business,” she added. “So that whether or not the artist is thriving at the moment, they will still believe in the artist. Whether or not the song that you thought would blow did not blow, are you willing to keep going?” Highlighting the emotional and career impact on young talents, Simi stressed the importance of long-term dedication and belief in an artist’s potential. “Are you willing to last on it? Because that’s actually somebody’s life. That’s their dream. And that was the way that I saw myself when I was getting signed like, ‘How do you see me? Am I just a box you are ticketing or is it as important to you as it is to me?’” While acknowledging that she might consider signing someone in the future, Simi admitted uncertainty about having the persistent passion and energy it takes to fully support another artist’s journey. “That’s why I said I could [sign another artist] but I don’t know if I have that passion, if I have that drive to see someone through, if I have the constant energy. Because it takes a lot.”
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A Nigerian national, Kingsley Utulu, has been sentenced to five years and three months in prison for orchestrating a major cybercrime operation involving identity theft and financial fraud that cost the U.S. government and private citizens over $2.5 million. The announcement came from Jay Clayton, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, alongside Christopher Raia, Assistant Director of the FBI’s New York Field Office, over the weekend. Authorities found the 38-year-old Nigerian guilty of charges that included aggravated identity theft and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Clayton emphasized, “Kingsley Uchelue Utulu participated in a calculated operation to breach U.S. tax preparation services, illegally traffic in personally identifiable information (PII), and exploit that data to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and other federal agencies.” He added, “Scammers operating from abroad, like Utulu and his associates, might assume they can exploit American taxpayers and evade legal consequences. The FBI remains committed to ensuring that justice is served, regardless of where the perpetrators are based.” Utulu was originally apprehended in the United Kingdom and was later extradited to the United States to face criminal charges. In addition to the prison sentence, Utulu has been ordered to pay restitution totaling $3,683,029.39 and forfeit $290,250 as part of the court ruling. This verdict comes shortly after the conviction of two other Nigerian nationals, Abel Daramola and Olutayo Ogunlaja, who were found guilty of operating an international romance scam that siphoned over $560,000. Both individuals are now awaiting sentencing, with potential penalties reaching up to 20 years in federal prison.
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A devastating blaze broke out in the early hours yesterday at a mechanic’s workshop in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, completely destroying a Mazda bus. The fire erupted on Monday morning at a repair facility situated directly opposite Alarere Central Mosque in the Sawmill Area of Ibadan. It consumed the Mazda bus bearing registration number KWL 943 ZA (Abuja), but fortunately spared all other vehicles and assets within the premises. According to Maroof Akinwande, Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, the agency received an emergency call at 08:27 hrs on Monday, 9 June 2025. Firefighters led by ACFS Adesina Olusoji were promptly dispatched to the scene. On arrival, they found the Mazda bus completely engulfed in flames. They acted swiftly to contain the fire and prevented it from spreading to the 48 other buses at the workshop. The fire was successfully extinguished, and no other vehicles were harmed. Valuable assets worth millions of naira were saved. The fire service also advised the workshop’s owner on preventive measures to avert similar incidents in the future.
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Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential contender, has asserted that Nigeria is devoid of genuine democracy under President Bola Tinubu. Obi pointed to the recent Edo State governorship election and the state of emergency in Rivers State as evidence of the country’s democratic decline. Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing escalating political tensions between Governor Sim Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, which threatened a security crisis. He suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly for six months, appointing a Sole Administrator to oversee the state. Obi condemned this move, arguing it undermined democratic values since the Sole Administrator was not elected by the people. In his interview with Arise Television, Obi stated: “There is no democracy in Nigeria today.” On his aspiration for the 2027 presidency, he said: “We will continue to agitate for true democracy.” He emphasized: “Does the Edo election reflect democracy in Nigeria? Absolutely not. And Rivers State topped it all—the coffin was nailed there.” Obi continued: “In a democratic setting, you can’t resolve a challenge by flouting rules. You must operate within the framework.” Speaking about his qualifications for the presidency, he said: “I’m committed to a better Nigeria. Of all those seeking the presidency today, none has my background—I’ve worked in the corporate world and have experience as a governor.”
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The Benue Good Governance Network (BGGN) has called on the federal government to reinforce its visible presence in Benue State. The group is advocating for an increase in military deployment, intensified intelligence-gathering missions, and ongoing community-based engagement efforts. These measures, it believes, are critical for eliminating criminal enclaves and rebuilding trust between local residents and military forces. The BGGN also applauded the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his recent trip to Benue. During this visit, the army chief personally coordinated security operations focused on stabilizing conflict-prone communities in the state. According to the group, the army chief’s intervention came at a crucial time and served as a significant morale booster for the people of Benue. Many have endured prolonged periods of violence, displacement, and what seemed like federal neglect. In a statement released and signed by its Convener, Dr. Amase Paul, the BGGN commended General Oluyede’s direct involvement in assessing the crisis on ground, engaging frontline soldiers, and interacting with local stakeholders. This, they stated, sends a strong signal that the federal government is taking renewed action against terrorism and working to safeguard innocent lives. According to LMSINT MEDIA, numerous rural communities in Benue have come under frequent assault by armed groups and insurgents. These attacks have resulted in massive casualties, loss of properties, and the displacement of countless families who now live in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps. In recent times, the wave of violence has escalated, leaving residents in a state of fear and abandonment. However, the BGGN expressed optimism that the army chief’s strategic visit and oversight of troop operations could represent a major shift in the battle to reclaim these troubled areas. “His decision to personally visit and coordinate actions at the flashpoints reflects not only bravery but a genuine commitment to peace. It restored a sense of hope to our people — something many have lacked for years. Our women now sleep without dread, and our youth feel acknowledged by the leadership,” Dr. Paul remarked. He further explained that before the recent developments, the prevailing sentiment in Benue was one of despair, with many believing the state had been forsaken by federal authorities. But the presence and actions of General Oluyede, coupled with explicit presidential support, have shifted that outlook. Dr. Paul urged the army chief not to treat the visit as a symbolic act, but rather as the foundation of an enduring and well-orchestrated strategy to eliminate terrorism in the region. The BGGN also assured the military of unwavering support from Benue’s youth population. They emphasized that local intelligence, generational collaboration, and active civilian involvement will be crucial to achieving long-term stability. “Our youths are prepared to play their part. We will educate, organise, and rally our people to align with the army’s efforts. This is our home, and we have a duty to protect it — not through violence, but through unity, lawful cooperation, and transparent partnership,” the group declared. The network also noted that it had initiated grassroots mobilization across various affected local government areas to improve communication between youth leaders and military operatives. “We believe that peace is not built by arms alone. It requires the goodwill of the people. While the army secures us, we must cultivate an environment where peace can flourish,” Dr. Paul added. Finally, the group urged both the Army and the federal government to focus on the post-conflict phase. This includes rebuilding schools, healthcare centers, roads, and homes damaged by years of violence. “Peace is not just the absence of war — it also involves healing and restoring the dignity of families who have suffered. We appeal to the Chief of Army Staff to collaborate with relevant development agencies so that military victories can be followed by relief, recovery, and comprehensive rebuilding,” the group concluded.
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The Kano State Government has officially requested financial compensation from the Federal Government of Nigeria for the repeated cancellation of the Durbar celebrations held annually in the state. Alhaji Tajo Uthman, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, made this appeal on Sunday during the traditional Sallah homage paid by Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at the Government House in Kano. Uthman emphasized that the state has experienced substantial financial setbacks following the two-year suspension of the iconic cultural festival. The Durbar celebration, a historic and culturally rich event, is known to draw both local and international tourists, thereby significantly boosting the state’s economy during the festive period. Highlighting the global relevance of the Durbar, Uthman noted that it is officially acknowledged by UNESCO as a heritage festival. According to him, Kano typically generates a considerable amount of revenue from the influx of domestic and foreign visitors during the Durbar season. The commissioner further revealed that the economic losses caused by the cancellation have deeply impacted the state’s financial planning, even affecting allocations in its annual budget. He insisted that the Federal Government must acknowledge its role in the decision and be held accountable by compensating the state for the resultant economic implications. Uthman concluded by asserting that the time had come for Kano State to seek financial redress and emphasized the need for the immediate reinstatement of the Durbar festivities, which he described as a deeply unfortunate and avoidable cultural disruption.
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As Nigeria commemorates two years of President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, affirms that the nation’s economic trajectory is now on the right course. Meanwhile, Mallam Aminu Suleiman, a representative of the newly established North West Development Commission (NWDC), has encouraged Nigerians to show patience with President Tinubu. He emphasized that the impact made in the last two years outweighs that of the prior administration’s eight-year rule. In a statement made on Saturday evening following a visit to President Tinubu at his Lagos residence, Bagudu applauded the government’s economic strategy, pointing out that the country is beginning to experience the outcomes of long-overdue structural reforms. Bagudu acknowledged, “We’re not where we want to be,” but maintained that recent initiatives have redirected the economy toward sustainable growth. He further noted that the Tinubu-led government’s bold move to eliminate costly subsidies on petroleum, electricity, and foreign exchange was essential. “Years of underinvestment led Nigeria to a situation where even covering salary obligations became difficult,” Bagudu explained. “Removing those subsidies has freed up financial resources. At present, subnational entities — states and local councils — are operating with nearly three times the funding they previously had. That is transformative.” Bagudu said the funds are being effectively invested in key areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, digital innovation, consumer lending, and human capital. “These are not mere verbal commitments. We are witnessing actual funding being directed to defense, education, and economic empowerment,” he emphasized. The minister expressed optimism that these reforms are already restoring investor trust. “The gap between developed and developing countries is largely driven by investment levels — both public and private. We are now addressing years of neglect. That process is monumental and lies at the core of our reforms,” Bagudu remarked. He observed that there is now a visible inflow of private capital — both from domestic and international investors — reflecting renewed confidence in Nigeria’s leadership. “Investors are beginning to recognize Nigeria as a serious partner, with a government making tough but necessary decisions.” Drawing a metaphor, Bagudu likened the government’s reform strategy to foundational construction work. “If someone starts by filling a foundation pit, you may think no progress has been made because the walls are not yet visible. But President Tinubu has been candid from the beginning: we are in a hole, not to assign blame, but because decisive action was delayed for too long.” On the defection of political figures, including governors from Delta and Akwa Ibom, to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bagudu suggested this signifies trust in Tinubu’s vision. “They’ve publicly expressed their reasons for joining — citing the clarity and authenticity of this leadership. This transcends politics. It reflects belief in a courageous and visionary future,” he added. Bagudu highlighted that, as Nigerians mark both the Eid celebrations and the government’s second year, “reforms are delivering, and investments are climbing, even amid existing national challenges.” After visiting President Tinubu at his Ikoyi home during the Sallah celebrations, Suleiman echoed Bagudu’s sentiments and commended the President’s leadership. He maintained that Tinubu is laying the foundation for enduring national transformation. “Tinubu’s accomplishments in two years surpass what the previous government achieved in eight,” Suleiman asserted. “Given the opportunity to complete a four-year term, I am confident he will reshape Nigeria.” He also praised the inclusion of the North West in national development plans, particularly through the NWDC initiative. “With nearly 19 million people, we are the most populous zone in the North,” Suleiman pointed out. “The inclusion of the North West is a strategic advancement, and with God’s help, it will be successful.” He stressed that given President Tinubu’s proven record in Lagos — in governance, infrastructure, and institutional development — a similar transformation can be expected nationwide. “He accomplished it in Lagos. God willing, he will replicate it across Nigeria.” Suleiman concluded by calling on Nigerians to place their trust in Tinubu’s leadership and long-term goals. “Let us be patient. A firm foundation is being laid. In time, we will all witness the results.”
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The Kano State Government has voiced deep concern over the continued suspension of the annual Sallah Durbar celebrations, noting that the cancellations have led to substantial economic setbacks, particularly affecting tourism and small businesses that rely on the cultural event. This concern was expressed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Abduljabbar Garko, during the modified Hawan Nassarawa visit paid by the Emir of Kano to the state government house on Sunday. Garko disclosed that the state is considering appealing to the Federal Government for financial support to mitigate the economic impact triggered by the cancellation. He emphasized that the Durbar festival has historically contributed to the state’s revenue and is typically factored into Kano’s fiscal planning. He highlighted that the Durbar usually attracts visitors both from across Nigeria and internationally. These tourists lodge in hotels, enjoy indigenous cuisine, participate in cultural experiences, and even pay for services like shoe cleaning. Many also purchase local snacks such as gurasa. According to Garko, these microeconomic exchanges—though seemingly insignificant—have a substantial ripple effect on local business activities and overall state revenue. However, all of these income streams have vanished due to the ongoing cancellations of the festival. “These losses are significant for both the state government and the residents of Kano,” he stated. He reiterated that these expected earnings had already been included in the state’s budget. With the deficit now confirmed, Kano will require intervention from the Federal Government to cushion the financial blow. Garko also extended his condolences to small-scale traders, particularly phone accessory vendors at the popular Farm Center market, who suffered massive financial losses due to a fire outbreak on Saturday.
