Veteran Illinois lawmaker, Senator Dick Durbin, has officially declared he will not be seeking another term in the 2026 U.S. Senate elections, marking the end of a distinguished 44-year political career in Congress. Durbin shared the news in a heartfelt video message released on Wednesday, stating it’s time for a new generation to step forward. “In my heart, I know it’s time to pass the torch,” Durbin expressed. “The threats to our democracy and way of life are real, and I can assure you that I will do everything in my power to fight for Illinois and the future of our country every day of my remaining time in the Senate.” Having been elected to the U.S. Senate in 1996 and serving since 1997, Durbin has maintained a strong presence in Washington, winning four successive re-election bids. Prior to the Senate, he served in the House of Representatives, accumulating a total of 44 years in federal legislative service. At 80 years old, Durbin’s departure from the political stage is expected to trigger an intense Democratic primary contest in Illinois, as potential successors line up to claim the influential Senate seat. His retirement marks a pivotal moment not only for Illinois politics but for the future direction of the Democratic Party in the Midwest. Durbin currently serves as the Senate Majority Whip and has been a key figure in several critical legislative initiatives, including immigration reform, health care policy, and criminal justice. For more on Dick Durbin’s career and legacy in Congress, visit the official U.S. Senate biography page – a reputable government resource for legislative history and leadership profiles. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Tesla Inc., led by CEO Elon Musk, has officially launched a pilot phase of its self-driving ride-hailing service for internal use in Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area, setting the stage for a broader public release later this year. In a recent update shared via the company’s X (formerly Twitter) account, Tesla confirmed that the early access rollout of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) ride-hailing system has successfully completed over 1,500 trips and covered more than 15,000 miles. The service is currently being tested exclusively by Tesla employees to refine system components and enhance the autonomous driving network. “This pilot phase allows us to advance and validate our FSD systems, mobile application performance, vehicle dispatching mechanisms, mission control interface, and remote operational support,” the company noted in the announcement. This internal rollout follows closely after Tesla’s Q1 earnings call, where Elon Musk reaffirmed plans to begin public operations of the autonomous ride-hailing platform by June 2025. Initial deployment will begin with 10 to 20 Model Y vehicles operating in Austin. In a related update, Musk revealed his intention to gradually step back from his advisory role with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) starting in May, in order to focus more intensively on Tesla’s technological and strategic growth. Tesla’s FSD initiative continues to spark significant global interest as the company moves toward achieving full autonomy in real-world traffic environments, aiming to disrupt the transportation sector and redefine the future of mobility. Read more about Tesla’s autonomous vehicle vision on The Verge.For more stories on emerging transport tech, visit our article on AI in modern car manufacturing. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Let’s get real—YouTube ads alone won’t make you rich unless you’re pulling in millions of views every month. And if you’re a smaller or mid-level creator, relying on AdSense is like surviving on breadcrumbs. But here’s the truth: ads are just the tip of the iceberg. There are smarter, more sustainable ways to turn your content into cash—and plenty of creators are already doing it. If you’re already putting in the work—filming, editing, posting—then you might as well start monetizing properly. This post breaks it all down, in plain language. 1. Brand Sponsorships: Partnering With Companies That Fit Your Niche Think of this like brand deals on Instagram, but for video. Brands are always looking for creators with an engaged audience—even if you don’t have 1M subs. Example: If you run a fitness channel, brands like Gymshark or MyProtein might pay you to review products, feature them in your workouts, or include affiliate links in your video descriptions. ✅ Pro Tip: Use platforms like Grapevine Village or FameBit (now YouTube BrandConnect) to connect with sponsors if you’re just starting out. ? Internal Link Idea: Want to learn how to pitch brands as a small creator? Read this guide → 2. Sell Your Own Merch: T-Shirts, Mugs, Digital Downloads—Whatever Fits Selling merch isn’t just for huge creators. If your audience loves what you do, they’ll support you. Platforms like Spring (formerly Teespring) or Printful let you design and sell without any upfront cost. They handle the inventory, shipping, and even returns. You focus on content. Best part? You get full creative control. ? Tip: Tie merch drops to specific video themes. If you post a cooking series, drop a custom apron. If you’re a gamer, try slogan tees from your inside jokes. ? Image suggestion: A creator holding their branded merch with “YouTube monetization methods beyond ads” as the ALT text. 3. Channel Memberships: Get Paid Monthly by Your Fans If you’ve got 1,000+ subscribers and meet YouTube’s Partner Program criteria, you can turn on channel memberships. It’s like Patreon but inside YouTube. Members pay a monthly fee (you set the price), and you give them exclusive perks: It’s consistent, predictable income. And yes, even creators with small but loyal audiences do well here. ? Official YouTube Memberships Guide 4. Affiliate Marketing: Earn by Recommending Products You Already Use You don’t need a huge audience to make money this way. Just be genuine. Say you review tech or do beauty tutorials. Drop affiliate links in your descriptions (Amazon Associates, RewardStyle, etc.). If someone clicks and buys? You earn a cut. ? Key: Only promote stuff you genuinely like. Your viewers can smell fake a mile away. Example of how it works: “Hey, I’m using this ring light in today’s video—here’s the link if you want the same setup (affiliate).” 5. Digital Products & Courses: Sell What You Know Are you good at editing videos, drawing, speaking another language, or marketing? Package it. Sell it. This could be: You can host on Gumroad, Ko-fi, or even link out to a site you own. ? Internal link idea: Want to learn how to turn your skills into passive income? Check out our side hustle playbook → Real Talk: You Don’t Need a Million Subscribers Don’t wait until you blow up to start monetizing. Brands care about engagement, not just numbers. A tight-knit, loyal audience is far more valuable than a big one that barely watches your content. And here’s a cool stat: Over 50% of full-time YouTubers earn more from non-AdSense sources than from YouTube ads (source). Let’s Wrap This Up If you’re creating content and not monetizing beyond ads, you’re leaving money on the table. From merch to memberships, affiliate marketing to brand deals, there are multiple revenue streams waiting for you. Start small. Stay consistent. And remember: you don’t need a million subs—just the right 1,000 people who trust you. ✅ Summary (For Quick Skimmers) Want more tips on growing your income as a creator?? Subscribe to the Creator Money Moves newsletter here → (Internal link to lead magnet or mailing list) BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Let’s keep it real — if you’re always the one in your group chat dropping fire memes, trending news, or those “must-see” videos, then you already have a skill that’s in demand: content curation. Brands want attention. You know how to get it. That’s where content curation for social media comes in — and yes, you can get paid for it. What Is Content Curation? Content curation means finding great content you didn’t create (like articles, tweets, videos, etc.), adding your own voice or insight, and sharing it with the right audience at the right time. Think of it like being a digital DJ — you’re mixing tracks (aka posts) that get people nodding along and sticking around. You’re not guessing. You’re selecting content that aligns with a brand’s tone, voice, and audience — and doing it consistently. How to Make Money from It There are two main ways to earn with content curation: Sites like Contently and Skyword connect skilled curators with brands looking for standout content. If you’re good at spotting trends and adding a sharp caption, you’re in the right lane. Pro tip: Build your profile on Contently with a few curated samples. Brands look at your portfolio first, not your resume. Tools That Help You Curate Like a Pro Here’s where it gets practical. These are your content curation weapons: These tools don’t just save time — they make sure you’re sharing what actually works. Who’s Hiring Content Curators? Honestly? Almost every business with a social media presence. Here are some examples: And here’s a helpful internal resource if you’re ready to start freelancing with zero experience. How to Stand Out as a Curator Real Talk: Why This Works People crave good content but don’t always have time to find it. Brands know this. They need someone to consistently deliver relevant, engaging, audience-focused content. That someone can be you — whether you’re working from your laptop at home or running a side hustle while sipping coffee. And no, you don’t need a marketing degree. You just need a sharp eye, good taste, and consistency. Quick Checklist to Get Started According to HubSpot’s Social Media Trends Report, curated content makes up about 40% of most brand’s social posts, proving it’s not just valuable — it’s necessary. Final Thoughts If you’re already great at finding and sharing cool stuff online, don’t just do it for free. Content curation is one of the lowest-barrier, high-reward ways to earn online today. No need to reinvent the wheel. Just be smart about what you share — and who you share it for. So go ahead. Turn your scroll into a side hustle. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Ever downloaded an app that froze, crashed, or just didn’t feel right? Companies hate that—and they’ll pay you to help fix it. That’s where you come in. Becoming a mobile app tester is one of the easiest side gigs you can start from your phone. You don’t need coding skills. You don’t need a fancy setup. If you can follow instructions, use apps, and give feedback, you’re already 90% there. Let’s break it down. What’s a Mobile App Tester, Anyway? A mobile app tester uses apps before they’re released to the public. Your job is to: Think of it like being a secret shopper, but for apps. Why Companies Pay for App Testing Big brands lose serious money over bad user experience. If users can’t navigate an app or if it crashes, they’ll delete it and move on. That’s why companies invest in real people testing their apps before launch. Sites like UserTesting, Testbirds, and BetaTesting act as a bridge between companies and testers. These platforms let you sign up, test apps, and get paid—all from your phone or laptop. How Much Can You Earn? You won’t get rich overnight, but this is solid side-income. Most testers start part-time. But if you join multiple platforms and consistently take tests, it adds up. Pro tip: Join all three. More platforms = more chances to test = more income. What You Need to Get Started You don’t need to be tech-savvy. Here’s what you’ll actually need: Some platforms may ask for a short practice test before they send you paid tasks. That’s normal—just a quality check. Step-by-Step: How to Get Started What Makes a Great Tester? Your feedback is valuable—treat it like it matters, because it does. Want more flexible side hustle ideas? Check out our guide on legit ways to make money online in 2025 (coming soon). Bonus: Real Companies That Use These Platforms Still skeptical? Fair. Here’s a list of well-known companies that work with platforms like UserTesting: (Source: UserTesting Case Studies) So yes—it’s legit. Quick Recap Becoming a mobile app tester is: If you’re someone who uses apps every day (and who isn’t?), you can earn money just by sharing your thoughts. Final Thought: Your Voice Matters You don’t need a degree to get into mobile testing. All you need is your phone and your honest opinion. Companies are literally waiting to hear from you. So if you’re scrolling through your phone anyway… why not get paid for it? BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Osama Nabih, head coach of Egypt’s U-20 national football team, has commended the efforts and performance of his squad despite their narrow 2-1 defeat to Nigeria’s Flying Eagles in a pre-AFCON U-20 friendly clash. The highly anticipated match, held on Tuesday night at the Cairo International Stadium, served as a preparatory test for both nations ahead of the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations. Nigeria’s Flying Eagles made a strong start, taking the lead in the 10th minute through Norway-based forward Kparobo Arierhi. The Egyptians responded with determination, and their efforts were rewarded when Ahmed Kaabaka found the back of the net with a stunning equalizer in the 68th minute, capping off a well-orchestrated team move. Despite mounting pressure and several missed chances to go ahead, Egypt was dealt a final blow in the 84th minute when Precious Benjamin converted a penalty, sealing the win for the Nigerian side. Reacting after the match, Nabih expressed pride in his players’ display and resilience. Speaking via the Egyptian Football Association’s official website, he remarked: “We played against a disciplined and structured side. Our players demonstrated remarkable technical and tactical prowess, and maintained a competitive edge throughout the game. Even after conceding early, they remained composed and managed to equalize in style.” “We had opportunities to win but were unfortunate with our finishing. Nigeria capitalized on one moment, and that made the difference.” Looking ahead, Egypt is set to compete in Group A at the upcoming tournament, where they will face Zambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Tanzania. Their opening game will be against Zambia’s Young Chipolopolo on Sunday, April 27, in Cairo. This encounter has undoubtedly given Egypt valuable insights as they continue preparations for the continental championship BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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As the 2024/2025 Premier League season nears its conclusion, a high-stakes race is underway for the coveted Champions League qualification spots. The Opta SuperComputer has forecasted which five English clubs are most likely to secure their places in next season’s elite European competition. According to Opta’s data-driven projection, five Premier League teams are on track to earn Champions League qualification—a change made possible by UEFA’s revised format. The battle for these spots remains intense, with just four points separating Manchester City in third place from Aston Villa in seventh. Manchester City bolstered their standing following a dramatic 2-1 victory over Aston Villa on Tuesday night, placing them behind table leaders Liverpool and Arsenal. With the win, Villa’s chances of finishing in the top five diminished, and they now face an uphill task, holding only a 17.3% probability of making the cut. The updated predictions show: City and Villa have both played one more match than their closest competitors, which may influence the final standings. Meanwhile, Chelsea, Newcastle, and Forest each have five games remaining to make their case. Liverpool have mathematically secured their Champions League berth, and Arsenal, with a strong nine-point cushion above sixth place, are expected to follow suit shortly. With just a few matches left in the season, the competition between City, Forest, Newcastle, Chelsea, and Villa is heating up, and the coming weeks promise dramatic twists in the battle for Europe’s most prestigious club tournament. Learn more about past Champions League qualification trends from our sports archive. For detailed UEFA competition rules and club coefficients, visit UEFA’s official website. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Liverpool Football Club is on the verge of clinching the Premier League title as the season nears its dramatic conclusion. Following a gritty 1-0 victory over Leicester City, thanks to a sensational strike from Trent Alexander-Arnold at the King Power Stadium, the Reds have preserved a commanding 13-point lead over second-placed Arsenal. Under the guidance of Arne Slot, Liverpool now require just three more points to mathematically secure the 2024/2025 Premier League crown. But there’s a scenario in which they could be crowned champions even sooner—by the end of today. How Liverpool Could Be Confirmed Champions Tonight If Arsenal suffer a defeat against Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium this evening, Liverpool will be declared Premier League champions without having to kick another ball. Should Mikel Arteta’s side manage a win, however, they will trim the gap to 10 points. However, having played an extra game, Arsenal would still face a nearly insurmountable challenge to overtake the Merseyside giants. Even if the match ends in a draw, Liverpool would remain 12 points ahead, and Arsenal’s only hope would lie in an unlikely 10-goal swing in goal difference—a feat rarely seen at this level of the game. The Road Ahead If the Gunners do manage to hold on, then Liverpool’s next chance to wrap up the title would come at Anfield against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. A win on home turf would cement their position at the top of the table, marking yet another historic triumph for the club. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Nigerian hip-hop sensation Ice Prince Zamani has paid a heartfelt tribute to fellow rapper and music mogul MI Abaga, acknowledging him as the person who taught him how to rap and refine his craft. In a recent episode of Curiosity Made Me Ask, hosted by digital creator Isbaeu, Ice Prince opened up about his early journey in the music industry. He credited MI Abaga—popularly known for his lyrical depth and influence on the African hip-hop scene—as his personal mentor and rap coach. “I’ve trained under MI Abaga for years, and that influence shaped my style. Thanks to him, I can jump on any beat, collaborate with any rapper, and still maintain my identity,” Ice Prince shared during the interview. He emphasized that MI Abaga’s mentorship gave him more than just rhyming skills—it taught him discipline, confidence, and how to stay consistent in the ever-evolving world of hip-hop. “Let it be known: I don’t do weak verses. I may not claim to be better than anyone, but I know I was trained by the best,” he added with pride. This revelation adds another layer of depth to the long-standing friendship between the two rap icons, both of whom helped shape Nigeria’s modern rap landscape under the Chocolate City label. Learn more about MI Abaga’s legacy in African music from the BBC. For more on African rap evolution, check out our post on The Rise of Conscious Rap in West Africa. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Popular Nigerian billionaire and nightlife entrepreneur Obinna Iyiegbu, widely known as Obi Cubana, recently addressed a social media controversy involving the status of his next of kin. The situation escalated after Chidi, who is believed to be his adopted son, declared himself as Obi Cubana’s next of kin in a viral TikTok video. In the short clip, Chidi boldly stated: “Nothing do my shoulder, I just realize say I be next of kin,” sparking online debates and mixed reactions from fans and followers alike. In what many perceived as a subtle rebuttal, Obi Cubana took to his verified Instagram account to share a photo with his biological son, Alex Iyiegbu. He captioned the post: “Ancient and modern, eyes on the ball. @dtwalx aka next of kin.” Further affirming the declaration, Alex commented: “Using my headphones right now,” to which Obi Cubana replied: “Correct boy, original next-of-kin.” This public clarification ignited backlash on social media, with many users criticizing the mogul for choosing to settle the matter publicly instead of addressing it in private. One user, @Abazwhyllzz, commented on X (formerly Twitter):“Unnecessary. He should have told the guy to delete the TikTok and settled it privately instead of bringing it online. I be poor man, make I mind my business.” Another commentator, @Soyecatherings, added:“I don’t think he thought of the consequences in the long run. This wasn’t the best way to handle it. Talking about being next of kin now implies Obi has to be out of the picture or too old to manage his empire.” However, not all reactions were harsh. Some users defended Chidi’s action, insisting the video was harmless and misunderstood. A user, @Gladys_Onyetem, said:“The boy was just making a funny video. People are reading too much meaning into it. And for those saying he’s adopted, isn’t he the child of Obi’s brother?” Another voice from the UK, @DemoOfUK, wrote:“They invited you to eat, and you came with a long spoon. Adopted or not, why claim rights like a landlord’s child on another man’s property?” While the billionaire has yet to make an official public statement beyond his Instagram caption, the post alone has clarified his stance, putting biological son Alex in the spotlight as the recognized heir. Learn more about Nigerian celebrities and their families on LMSINT Media. More on Obi Cubana’s business empire from BBC News. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Davido has shared how a life-changing encounter with American R&B superstar Chris Brown significantly influenced his music journey and international growth. The award-winning artist, known for his hit track Blow My Mind, opened up during an episode of the Bagfuel Brigade podcast, where he reflected on the moment his career took a turning point in 2018. “Meeting Chris Brown truly transformed my career path,” Davido revealed. “It all started when one of Chris Brown’s closest Nigerian friends FaceTimed me while my song was playing in the background. I was surprised and asked where he was—he told me he was at Chris Brown’s house. That’s when I saw Chris dancing to my song live on the call.” That unexpected moment sparked the beginning of an organic friendship between both artists. According to Davido, he and Chris connected a few months later during a visit to the United States, and their bond evolved naturally from there. Their relationship eventually led to musical collaborations like “Blow My Mind,” a track that topped charts and amassed millions of streams across platforms, becoming a major cross-cultural success. Davido’s connection with Chris Brown is a testimony to how international networking and authentic relationships can accelerate growth in the music industry. His global recognition soared as he became one of the prominent African artists breaking into the international music scene. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Nigerian comedian Seyi Law has criticized the popular music duo P-Square, accusing them of being inconsistent and hypocritical in their political stance, particularly regarding their opposition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. During a candid conversation on the Teju BabyFace Show, Seyi Law expressed frustration over the backlash he received for publicly supporting Tinubu. He argued that some entertainers, including P-Square, who now oppose the ruling party, had once celebrated and performed at events organized by the All Progressives Congress (APC). “These same people who are criticizing the APC today were the ones who performed during President Buhari’s inauguration. They sang ‘E No Easy’ and danced on stage while the crowd cheered,” Seyi Law recounted. He further explained that had the APC presented former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo as their candidate, the opposition would still have used Buhari’s image as a reason to discredit him, suggesting that many criticisms stem from bias rather than genuine concern. “Whether it was Osinbajo or anyone else from APC, people would still associate them with Buhari’s administration. It’s hypocrisy, and they know it,” he said. P-Square, who openly endorsed Peter Obi and the Labour Party during the 2023 elections, were previously seen at President Buhari’s 2015 inauguration, performing their popular song. This apparent switch in allegiance has raised questions about the authenticity of their political involvement. Seyi Law’s comments highlight the recurring issue of celebrity influence in Nigerian politics and the double standards that can come with it. Watch the full clip here: Click to watch Seyi Law’s interview segment : BBC report on celebrity involvement in Nigerian politicsRead more political updates on LMSINT Media BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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An impostor claiming to be a female Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO) has been arrested in Adamawa State for orchestrating a recruitment scam that defrauded several job seekers. According to the Adamawa State Police Command, the suspect, identified as Face Samuel, was apprehended on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, for allegedly masquerading as a VIO and deceitfully collecting money from individuals with false job promises. Details of the Arrest and Alleged Fraud A press release issued on Wednesday morning by the state’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Nguroje, revealed that the suspect had impersonated a VIO on multiple occasions. She allegedly extorted a total of ₦350,000 from her victims under the guise of offering employment opportunities within the Vehicle Inspection Office under the Adamawa State Ministry of Transportation. The named victims include: Nguroje confirmed that the suspect admitted to her crimes and disclosed that the uniform she used during her illegal operations was handed over to her by an unidentified accomplice. Ongoing Investigation and Police Assurance The Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo Morris, has pledged a thorough investigation to uncover additional victims and possible collaborators linked to the fraudulent activities of Face Samuel. Authorities aim to ensure justice is served and to protect citizens from future impersonation and employment-related scams. Read more on How Nigerian Police Are Tackling Impersonation and Job Scams. For insights into recognizing employment fraud, visit the official guide from the International Labour Organization (ILO). BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
