Popular relationship expert Blessing CEO has taken to social media to call for a complete ban on all betting platforms in Nigeria.
The social media personality, whose real name is Blessing Okoro, took to Instagram to voice her strong opinions on the matter, asserting that betting has had profoundly negative effects on individuals across the country.
In a video shared on her Instagram page, Blessing CEO expressed her firm belief that the Nigerian government should intervene to prohibit betting platforms.
Despite acknowledging that betting is a source of income for many, she emphasized that its detrimental impacts far outweigh any economic benefits.
Blessing CEO went on to disclose that she has turned down lucrative endorsement deals from betting companies, claiming that she views their operations as tantamount to fraud.
She criticized celebrities who endorse betting platforms, stating that she has lost respect for any celebrity who promotes such activities.
She went on to further argue that betting has led to the ruin of countless young and older Nigerians, rendering them “useless” in society.
“Make government ban betting platforms… It has rendered a lot of our young youth and old people us€less. Make government ban am. I don’t regard any celebrity that influences for them,” Blessing CEO said in part.
The video quickly gained traction on social media, prompting a flurry of responses from both supporters and critics.
Famous Afrobeat singer, Divine Ikubor popularly known as Rema has sparked a buzz online by declaring himself a ‘god‘ and announcing that his new girlfriend will soon be the mother of his first child.
The “Calm Down” coroner took to his Instagram page to share the news with his followers.
Posting a photo where the woman’s face was not visible, Rema praised her physical attributes, particularly highlighting her figure and revealing that she had gotten a tattoo dedicated to him.
Emphasizing her devotion, he stated that she would do anything for him, including bearing his child.
In his Instagram broadcast on Ravers, which boasts over 54,000 members, Rema boldly proclaimed;
“My new girlfriend got a big ass. She got a tattoo for me, she do anything for me. She will have my child – a child for a god. I’m a god.”
This declaration comes in the wake of Rema’s recent appearance at Paris Fashion Week alongside other prominent Afrobeat artists.
His statements have sparked various reactions among fans and critics alike, with many expressing surprise at his bold assertion.
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has reported a significant increase in Premium Motor Spirit’s (PMS) national average retail price, commonly known as petrol. In May 2024, the price rose by 223.21% year-on-year, reaching N769.62 per litre, compared to N238.11 per litre in 2023. The price increased by 9.75% month-on-month, up from N701.24 per litre in April 2024.
The NBS report, titled “Premium Motor Spirit (Petrol) Price Watch for May 2024,” highlighted that Jigawa State had the highest price at N937.50 per litre. This was followed by Ondo and Benue States, where prices were N882.67 and N882.22 per litre, respectively. Conversely, Lagos, Niger, and Kwara States recorded the lowest average retail prices at N636.80, N642.16, and N645.15 per litre, respectively.
Analyzing the data by region, the North-West Zone had the highest average retail price of N845.26, while the North Central Zone had the lowest average price of N695.04.
Additionally, the average retail price of Automotive Gas Oil (Diesel) paid by consumers increased by 66.29% to N1403.96 per litre in May 2024, up from N844.28 per litre in May 2023. However, on a month-on-month basis, there was a slight decrease of 0.78% from N1415.06 per litre in April 2024.
The report detailed the state-by-state variations in diesel prices. Adamawa State recorded the highest average price at N1709.00 per litre, followed by Sokoto State at N1675.00 per litre and Bauchi at N1657.92 per litre. The lowest prices were observed in Niger State (N1140.20), Kano State (N1153.33), and Oyo State (N1236.92).
The zonal representation of diesel prices showed that the North-East Zone had the highest average price at N1605.91, while the South West Zone had the lowest price at N1303.60.
Furthermore, the average retail price per litre of Household Kerosene (HHK) increased by 0.74% to N1,450.35 in May 2024, up from N1,439.64 in April 2024.
Manchester United are considering signing Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee, who currently plays for Bologna in Italy.
The 23-year-old, whose mother is Nigerian, had an impressive debut season with Bologna, helping them secure qualification for the Champions League for the first time in their history.
Manchester United is in the market for a new forward following Anthony Martial’s departure. They face competition from the Italian club AC Milan, which is prepared to meet Zirkzee’s release clause of €40 million (£33.7m) and has reportedly agreed on personal terms with the player.
Zirkzee had to cut short his holiday in Florida recently after being called up last-minute by the Netherlands for their Euro 2024 campaign. He was on the bench for the Netherlands’ 2-1 victory over Poland in their Group D opener.
In a recent interview with Corriere Di Bologna, Zirkzee commented on his future: “At the moment, my focus is solely on Bologna. I will decide based on what is best for the club. I will only make decisions that feel right to me.”
During the previous Serie A season, Zirkzee scored 11 goals in 34 appearances for Bologna.
Crystal Palace have offered a new deal to Michael Olise, amid interest from Chelsea.
This is according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The Italian journalist revealed that the new deal comes with higher salary and new release clause for 2025.
He stated that despite this, Chelsea are still confident as they push to agree on personal terms; it’s up to the player.
Aside Chelsea, Bundesliga heavyweight Bayern Munich and Newcastle are also allowed to talk to Olise.
The 22-year-old scored 10 goals and made six assists in 19 league appearances for Palace last season.
He is currently with the French U-23 squad for the Paris Olympic games.
Former Nigerian international, Julius Aghahowa has alleged that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) doesn’t have the financial capacity to pay a foreign coach if appointed to manage the Super Eagles.
Recall that a few days ago, the NFF opted to bring in an expatriate technical adviser for the Super Eagles, marking a significant shift from Finidi George’s tenure as head coach.
The decision, announced following a draw with South Africa in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and a defeat to Benin Republic, worsened the situation, prompting calls for change from both fans and government officials.
However, with plans to appoint a foreign coach on the card, Aghahowa stated in a chat with Brila FM that the NFF is cash strapped and won’t be able to pay an expatriate.
He also advised the NFF to look inward and appoint a local coach that will help in the development of the homegrown players in the Super Eagles.
“I think it’s what they want. So they will usually go for what they want, irrespective of what people will see or what people’s opinions will be, but I feel we have gone past that.
“Right now, we should be looking inward. First of all, we don’t have money to pay foreign coaches right now. I remember how they struggled in the past,” the former Bendel Insurance striker told Brila.
“We should look inward and allow our homegrown coaches to coach the national team, but in the long term, if you look at the national team in the past couple of years, we don’t have the homegrown players included in the call-up.
“So, I feel that if we have our homegrown coaches, that should be an opportunity for the homegrown players to be invited to the national team, so we can make our league stronger,” the 42-year-old concluded.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has denied reports that the football-governing body has slammed a ban on Napoli and Super Eagles’ forward, Victor Osimhen from the team, for his social media outburst few days ago.
Naija News recalls that Osimhen had last week knocked Super Eagles former head coach, Finidi George, after reports claimed that the coach had singled him out for condemnation during a meeting with the NFF and Nigeria’s Minister of Sport, John Enoh.
In a statement on Wednesday, NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, described reports of Osimhen’s ban as outright falsehood.
According to him, the Federation has neither instructed a process nor has a process been concluded to ban the player from the National Team.
He said: “The NFF hereby implores the media to join hands with the body to positively resolve issues and then focus on the big picture all the time, rather than needlessly escalate certain matters. There was no official communication from the NFF, yet some persons have gone to town to talk about a ban on Osimhen from the National Team. This is not good at all.
“Our focus presently is to resolve all matters around the Super Eagles and be able to look ahead with confidence to the 2025 AFCON qualifiers and the remaining six matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification series.
“This is not the time to spread falsehood and foul the public space the more.”
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar on Wednesday, visited Ibrahim Babangida and Abdulsalami Abubakar, former military rulers, in Minna, the Niger state capital.
In a post on X, Abubakar said he visited the former military heads of state at their residences to pay them a “Salah homage”.
See photos below
[TheCable]
I thought I would be handed ₦300 million once I resumed at National Assembly – Lawmaker, Adefiranye
AFOLABI
A lawmaker representing Oke-Igbo/Ile-Oluji/Odigbo Federal Constituency of Ondo state in the House of Representatives, Festus Adefiranye has said that he did not receive the ₦300 million he was expecting when he resumed at the lower chamber.
The lawmaker lamented that the housing allowance he received for four years could not cover his one-year rent in the federal capital territory.
Adefiranye stated this during an interview with Premium Times.
He explained that his earlier impression was that after resuming in the National Assembly, one would receive ₦300 million.
However, he stated that the information was totally wrong.
According to him, “And here, the impression they have is that immediately you resume at the National Assembly, you are going to collect N300 million. When I came, I was expecting N300 million.
“I was expecting my N300 million, I’m still expecting it till today.”
Adefiranye said the impression that lawmakers have collected a lot of money is incorrect.
“If I tell you the housing allowance they gave us for the four years you will not believe it. The house that I rented, the money they gave me is not enough to pay for that house.
“You know I am saying it on camera now. The money they gave us for four years, because they gave us once, is not enough for the one year of the house I rented, but the impression is that they have collected a lot of money; they have collected this, they have collected that,” he added.
The first-time lawmaker in the lower chamber said he receives many requests about people in the hospital, people who want to pay school fees, house rents, marriages, etc.
He explained that the requests are based on the impression that lawmakers will collect ₦300 million immediately after they resume at the national assembly.
Governor Seyi Makinde has given his approval for the appointment of Owolabi Olakuleyin as the 43rd Olubadan of lbadanland.
This was made known in a statement by the Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Olusegun Olayiwola.
The statement noted that the approval is a culmination of a series of processes stipulated by the extant laws of the state regarding ascension to royal thrones.
The governor gave the approval in a memo signed on June 14, 2024, in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Section 19 (Cap 28) Law of Oyo State 2000 as amended.
Governor Makinde congratulated the new Olubadan and prayed that his tenure would birth greater developments in Ibadanland and Oyo State as a whole.
Meanwhile, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, on Sunday, condemned the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over his comments on the health status of the Olubadan-Designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
According to Ladoja, Makinde was wrong to have said Olakulehin would be enthroned when he is fit, adding that only the town (Ibadan people) can enthrone the Olubadan not the Governor.
Recall that the Oyo State Governor at the state burial ceremony for the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, said Olakulehin will be enthroned when he is fit for the throne.
Ladoja, however, while speaking with newsmen at his Bodija, Ibadan residence, said Makinde could only present staff of office and instrument of office to the Olubadan-designate, not enthrone him.
He maintained that the role of government was just to give the staff of office and instrument of office to the Olubadan-Designate.
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While Nigerian Afrobeats powerhouse, Rema, was dazzling at the Louis Vuitton’s Men’s Spring-Summer Show during Fashion Week in Paris on Tuesday, his global hit ‘Calm Down’ was plucking trophies at the 2024 ASCAP London Music Awards.
‘Calm Down’ snagged the coveted Song of the Year and Top Streaming Song awards.
The song’s co-writers and co-producers, Michael Hunter aka London, and Andre Vibez were also credited as winners.
While Nigerian Afrobeats powerhouse, Rema, was dazzling at the Louis Vuitton’s Men’s Spring-Summer Show during Fashion Week in Paris on Tuesday, his global hit ‘Calm Down’ was plucking trophies at the 2024 ASCAP London Music Awards.
‘Calm Down’ snagged the coveted Song of the Year and Top Streaming Song awards.
The song’s co-writers and co-producers, Michael Hunter aka London, and Andre Vibez were also credited as winners.
The wins bring Rema’s American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, ASCAP’s awards tally to three; the most by a Nigerian/African artiste.
Rema is the most awarded African artist in 2024, with six awards won so far.
He has won 1 Trends Awards in Brazil, 1 iHeartRadio Music award, 1 ASCAP Pop Music award and 2 ASCAP London Music awards.
DAILY POST reports that ‘Calm Down’ recently became “the first Afrobeats song in history to earn over 1 billion on-demand streams in the US,” according
[DailyPost]
In the competition of smartphone photography, there is no doubt that iphones have long been considered a benchmark for camera quality.
However, recent advancements in technologies has seen several contenders rise to challenge iPhone’s dominance.
Some smartphones now offer camera systems that surpass the iPhone in various ways with incredible features.
In this article, we explore three smartphones that has proven to have also set standard in mobile photography delivering better qualities than some iPhone models.
Google pixel 7 pro
The google pixel 7 pro is a standout device, renowned for it exceptional photography capabilities. Google’s advanced AI-driven image processing results in superior low-light performance, excellent dynamic range, and highly detailed photos.
Additionally, the pixel 7 pro’s Night sight mode, portrait, and HDR+ are often praised for their quality.
A key feature that sets the pixel 7 pro apart from some iPhone models is its software processing, which optimizes images to look vibrant and detailed.
Overall, the Google pixel 7 Pro’s camera quality and innovative features make it a strong competitor to iPhones in the smartphone photography realm.
Phones with better cameras than some iPhones
Samsung Galaxy S23 ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S23 ultra features a versatile camera setup with high-resolution 200 MP main sensor and powerful zoom capabilities. Its dual telephoto lenses with 3x and 10x optical zoom offer impressive details and long distances clarity. The S23 excels in high-resolution photography and 8K video recording, which can provide more detailed and sharper image compared to some iPhone models.
Many users appreciates the zoom capabilities and overall performance of the S23 Ultra’s camera, making it a compelling choice to those who prioritize photography and videography on their smartphones.
The Samsung Galaxy S23 ultra is sure a worthy competitor to iPhone cameras.
Huawei P50 Pro
The Huawei P50 pro is known for its cutting-edge camera technology, featuring a 50 MP main sensor and a 64 MP telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom.
Huawei’s image processing technology delivers excellent vibrant color accuracy, dynamic range and low light performance. When comparing the camera quality of the Huawei P50 Pro with iPhones, the P50 Pro stands out for its innovative camera features and impressive low-light capabilities.
While the iPhone excels in smartphone photography, these alternatives offer unique strengths and advanced features that cater to diverse photography needs, making them excellent choices for capturing stunning images.
The Euro 2024 tournament has lit up the sporting world with giant slaying clash, mouthwatering goals and record-breaking performances all in the first round of games that have recorded 34 goals so far with FIFA top-ranked Belgium suffering an early defeat to low-ranked Slovakia.
Real Madrid youngster, Arda Guler broke Cristiano Ronaldo’s record to become the youngest player to score on their Euros debut against Georgia. The ‘Turkish Messi’ did it in style by netting a worldie that has been nominated for goal of the round.
Amidst the series of entertaining games at the EURO 2024, Nigeria has found a way to squeeze itself into the tournament and for some Nigerians, it is a distraction from the recent poor performance of the Super Eagles in the World Cup qualifiers.
Among the standout players are some players with Nigerian roots, who, while representing their respective European nations, carry the heritage and legacy of Nigeria.
Footballers of Nigerian descent who have openly embraced their Nigerian roots have pivotal roles to play for teams like Germany, Netherlands, England, and Italy.
The tournament is not just a celebration of Europe’s finest football talent but also a testament to the global diaspora that has shaped modern football, and that includes Nigeria.
See the Nigerian-born players at EURO 2024 below:
Jamal Musiala- Germany
Jamal Musiala has emerged as one of the standout players in Germany’s squad. The Bayern Munich prodigy, renowned for his agility, vision, and technical prowess, might have played in the Africa Cup of Nations had he chosen to represent his father’s country, Nigeria. Musiala’s father hails from Nigeria’s Yoruba tribe, while his mother is German with Polish roots. His diverse background is mirrored in his versatile playing style.
Musiala’s football journey began at Chelsea’s academy, where he honed his skills before joining Bayern Munich. Despite playing for both England and Germany at the youth levels, he committed to Germany in 2021, a decision that has proven fruitful for Die Mannschaft. His Nigerian heritage adds a rich cultural layer to his already impressive profile.
Bukayo Saka- England
Bukayo Saka’s impact on the England national team has been profound. With Nigerian roots, Saka brings a unique blend of speed, creativity, and tactical intelligence to the squad. At just 22, the Arsenal winger has rapidly become one of football’s most exciting young talents. His journey from the youth ranks at Arsenal to becoming a key player for both club and country is a testament to his dedication and skill.
Saka’s versatility allows him to excel in multiple positions, whether as a winger, wing-back, or even a central midfielder. This adaptability, combined with his Nigerian heritage, provides a rich narrative of talent and cultural pride, making him a fan favourite and a vital asset to Gareth Southgate’s team.
David Alaba- Austria
David Alaba, another player of Nigerian descent, anchors Austria’s defence with his experience and leadership. Born to a Nigerian father and a Filipino mother, Alaba’s multicultural background is reflected in his versatile playing style. Whether playing as a centre-back, left-back, or even in midfield, Alaba’s presence is a cornerstone of Austria’s strategy at Euro 2024. Although he would not be playing at the Euro 2024 due to injury, however, he would be on the bench as a “non-playing captain”.
Manuel Akanji- Switzerland
Manuel Akanji, a key player for Switzerland, boasts Nigerian roots through his father. Known for his strength, composure, and tactical awareness, Akanji has been instrumental in Switzerland’s solid defensive performances. His journey from the youth ranks in Switzerland to becoming a mainstay in the national team highlights the influence of Nigerian heritage in shaping top-tier European talent.
He made a winning start to Euro 2024 as Switzerland beat Hungary in their Group A opener in Cologne. The City defender played a full 90 minutes as the Swiss took a significant step towards qualification for the knockout stages with a 3-1 victory
Eberechi Eze- England
Eberechi Eze, the talented midfielder from Crystal Palace, has cemented his place in England’s Euro 2024 squad, impressing manager Gareth Southgate with his exceptional skills. Born to Nigerian parents in England, Eze’s journey to the top is a testament to his perseverance and dedication, reflecting the resilience and passion of his Nigerian heritage.
Despite being released by four English clubs, Eze never gave up on his dream, and his determination paid off with his success at Crystal Palace. His impressive performances, scoring 11 goals and providing six assists, caught Southgate’s attention, leading to his selection for the national team. Eze’s inclusion came at the expense of Marcus Rashford, a notable omission from the squad.
With a point to prove, Eze is determined to secure his spot in the team and make a lasting impact at the Euros, proudly representing both England and his Nigerian roots. His unique street-style football, influenced by his Nigerian heritage, has captured the attention of fans and pundits alike, earning him a reputation as one of the most exciting players in the Premier League.
Noah Okafor- Switzerland
Noah Okafor, the talented attacker of Nigerian descent, is making waves in Europe with his impressive performances for AC Milan. Born to Nigerian parents in Switzerland, Okafor’s speed and skill on the wings have earned him a spot in the Swiss National team, alongside fellow Nigerian-Swiss player, Manuel Akanji.
With six goals and three assists for the Rossoneri in all competitions, Okafor’s contributions have been invaluable. His Nigerian heritage has undoubtedly influenced his playing style, bringing a unique flair to the pitch. Despite representing Switzerland internationally, Okafor’s roots remain strong, making him a source of pride for Nigerian fans worldwide.
With 22 appearances for the Swiss National team, Okafor is ready to take the international stage by storm, proudly representing both Switzerland and his Nigerian heritage. His success serves as an inspiration to young players of Nigerian descent, showcasing the potential for greatness that lies within. As Okafor continues to soar, his Nigerian roots will remain an integral part of his journey to the top.
Michael Folorunsho- Italy
Michael Folorunsho, the talented defender of Nigerian descent, has made a significant impact in the world of football. Born to Nigerian parents in Italy, Folorunsho’s impressive skills have earned him a spot in the Italian National team, making his debut in June.
Following a stellar loan season with Hellas Verona from Napoli, Folorunsho’s performances caught the attention of coach Luciano Spalletti, securing his place in the squad as they aim to defend their title in Germany. Folorunsho’s Nigerian heritage has undoubtedly influenced his playing style, bringing a unique perspective and flair to the pitch.
Joshua Zirkzee – Netherlands
Joshua Zirkzee, another talented footballer of Nigerian descent, is part of the Netherlands national team at Euro 2024. Born to a Nigerian mother and a Dutch father, his full name is Joshua Orobosa Zirkzee. Zirkzee graduated through Bayern Munich’s system and had spells with Parma and Anderlecht before joining Bologna in the summer of 2022.
The forward, who is strongly linked to Manchester United, received limited game time in his first campaign in Serie A, scoring only two league goals from 808 minutes. However, in the just-concluded season, he scored 11 league goals.
The presence of players of Nigerian descent at Euro 2024 highlights the global nature of modern football and the profound impact of African heritage on the sport. Jamal Musiala, Bukayo Saka, David Alaba, Manuel Akanji, and others exemplify the blend of talent, culture, and heritage that defines contemporary football. As the tournament progresses, their contributions will continue to showcase the enduring legacy of Nigerian influence on the world’s most beloved sport.
'I cannot let her leave with all my money' - Man Demands Refund Of N223M He Allegedly Spent On His Ex-Wife During Their Six-year Marriage
AFOLABI
A Gambian national based in Sweden, Bai Malick Ceesay, has asked his ex-wife to return the sum of D10 million, which he reportedly spent on her in the course of their six-year marriage.
In an audio message sent to local media, Bai Malick also accused his wife of extramarital affairs.
“I am the CEO of BMC Transportation and BMC Apartments. My wife of six years began an affair with a man she met for business some months ago,” he said.
According to him, during their marriage, he spent D10 million on her including a D1.2 million plot of land in Sanyang, a luxury vehicle worth over D700,000, and a Louis Vuitton bag valued at more than €218,000.
Bai Malick also claimed to have financed her estranged wife's business venues.
"I intend to hire a lawyer to take her to court and recover all the money I spent on her," he declared.
"The total amount exceeds D10 million, covering loans and bills I paid on her behalf. I will calculate everything."
Bai Malick emphasised his determination to reclaim his funds.
"I will contact top lawyers. I cannot let her leave with all my money. I have all the evidence."
