The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Fed Govt reopens Tsamiya border in Kebbi to strengthen regional trade

    Fed Govt reopens Tsamiya border in Kebbi to strengthen regional trade

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has once again reaffirmed its commitment to secure border governance and facilitate transit trade, following the Federal Government’s approval to reopen the Tsamiya border corridor in Kebbi State

    This was made known during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement held at the Government House, Kebbi State.

    The engagement, which brought together security agencies, traditional leaders, economic operators, and international customs representatives, provided a strategic platform to examine practical measures to strengthen Nigeria’s northwest border architecture while ensuring that legitimate trade flows seamlessly under strict compliance protocols.

    The reopening of the corridor underscores the Service’s ongoing drive to balance national security priorities with trade facilitation objectives, particularly along critical land routes and the River Niger corridor that connects Nigeria with neighbouring countries.

    Speaking during the engagement, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, emphasised the importance of structured inter-agency and cross-border collaboration in addressing evolving transit trade and security challenges.

    According to the CGC, “Criminal elements operate through cooperation, shared resources, and organised networks. This makes it imperative for security agencies to work together in a coordinated manner to effectively counter such threats.”

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    He noted that the Service is actively engaging customs authorities from the Niger Republic and the Republic of Benin, supported by the political will of President Bola Tinubu and President Patrice Talon, to resolve longstanding transit trade issues through coordinated Customs-to-Customs cooperation.

    “Diversion of goods in transit is not peculiar to Nigeria; it is a cross-border challenge that requires coordinated enforcement, clear guidelines, and strict compliance to ensure that goods reach their intended destinations,” Adeniyi stated.

    The CGC explained that the Tsamiya Corridor will operate under enhanced monitoring driven by ICT interconnectivity systems, strengthened profiling of licensed customs agents, and close surveillance of goods in transit. He warned that any truck found outside the approved route will be seized, and offenders prosecuted in line with transit regulations, referencing recent prosecutions as evidence of the Service’s firm enforcement approach.

    He commended the Kebbi State Government for fostering a coordinated security environment. He acknowledged the contributions of retired senior customs officers from the state to the development of the Service and national security.

    In his remarks, the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, Nasir Idris, highlighted the state’s commitment to supporting Customs and other security agencies by providing logistics, infrastructure, and community engagement in border areas.

    “The Kebbi State Government remains committed to prioritising security and creating an enabling environment for security agencies to operate effectively, while ensuring that border communities benefit from sustained development,” the Governor said.

    The stakeholders’ engagement attracted immediate past governor of Kebbi State and the Minister of Budget and National Planning Atiku Bagudu, former governor Usman Dakingari, Customs officials from the Republic of Benin, representatives of the Office of the National Security Adviser, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, and key economic operators, all expressing confidence that the renewed collaboration will enhance border security, strengthen regional trade, and position Kebbi State as a strategic hub for lawful economic activities.

  • EPL: Haaland scores late penalty as Man City stun Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield

    EPL: Haaland scores late penalty as Man City stun Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield

    Erling Haaland scored a dramatic 93rd-minute penalty as Manchester City pulled off a stunning comeback against Liverpool to keep the Premier League title race alive.

    A battling win for Pep Guardiola’s second-placed side cut Arsenal’s lead at the top to six points, with 13 games remaining.

    Bernardo Silva’s 84th-minute equaliser had initially cancelled out Dominik Szoboszlai’s superb free-kick 10 minutes earlier.

    Then in added time, Matheus Nunes was bundled over inside the box by Liverpool keeper Alisson and referee Craig Pawson pointed to the spot.

    Haaland made no mistake, as he scored his 21st Premier League of the season to send the visiting fans wild.

    City keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma then made a brilliant save to deny Alexis Mac Allister – a minute before City had the ball in the net again through Rayan Cherki’s finish from inside his own half, with Alisson out of his goal after supporting his side’s attack.

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    But the effort was ruled out after a video assistant referee (VAR) check, with Szoboszlai instead sent off for fouling Haaland before the ball rolled in, and a free-kick awarded to City instead.

    Either way, it didn’t matter as City won at Anfield for the first time since 2021, but in front of fans for a first time since 2003.

    City dominated possession in the first half but failed to make it count by taking their chances, with Alisson making a good block to deny Haaland in the first minute and again later in the half.

    Their front three of Haaland, Antoine Semenyo and Omar Marmoush constantly asked Liverpool’s defence questions but lacked that ruthlessness in front of goal.

    It took 25 minutes for Arne Slot’s side to have an attempt on goal themselves, but they were much better after the break, with Hugo Ekitike twice coming close to the opener.

    First, his right-footed strike went narrowly wide with Donnarumma beaten, and minutes later, Salah found Ekitike with a superb sliced cross but the Frenchman’s header drifted agonisingly wide.

    With a draw no good for City, the game opened up and Ruben Dias came close with a shot, before Florian Wirtz was denied by a terrific block from Marc Guehi at the other end.

    Somehow the game remained goalless until the 74th minute when Szoboszlai stepped up to score his ninth goal of the campaign with an absolute belter from a set-piece – in the same manner that he did against Arsenal here in August.

    But unlike that day when Liverpool held on for victory, City showed tremendous resilience to complete a memorable comeback.

    With speculation about his future, it remains to be seen if Guardiola has managed his last game for City at Anfield.

    But if he has, he will end with a rare win. This was his 11th visit and his only previous win (D4 L6) came here in 2021, when the game was played without fans due to the pandemic.

    This was also only City’s third league win at Liverpool in 23 meetings as they completed a notable first league double over their rivals since the 1936-37 campaign.

    BBC

  • Niger Delta Digital Museum unveiled in Abuja as stakeholders call for history centre

    Niger Delta Digital Museum unveiled in Abuja as stakeholders call for history centre

    Stakeholders from government, the diplomatic corps, the creative sector, and development organisations have called for increased investment in technology and historical preservation in the Niger Delta following the unveiling of the Niger Delta Digital Museum in Abuja.

    The museum, which merges history, technology, and innovation, was presented as a platform to safeguard the region’s cultural heritage while positioning it for economic relevance in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

    Edward Brisibe, founder of Project-Delta and curator of the museum, explained that the initiative aims to reconnect the people of the Niger Delta with their roots and prepare younger generations for opportunities beyond the oil sector.

    Addressing dignitaries, including the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), diplomats, development partners, and media representatives, Brisibe emphasised that the region’s global importance predates petroleum discovery.

    He recalled that the Niger Delta, historically known as the “Oil Rivers,” once dominated palm oil exports, supplying more than the rest of Africa combined. “Our relevance did not begin with crude oil, and it will not end with it,” he said.

    Brisibe also highlighted the region’s abundant gas reserves, extensive coastline, fertile land, and youthful population as key assets for future growth.

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    He advocated for the creation of artificial intelligence laboratories, technology hubs, and a permanent, world-class history museum to further enhance the Niger Delta’s developmental prospects.

    Switzerland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Patrick, described the exhibition as a valuable learning experience, noting that it offers unique insights into the region’s history through art and storytelling.

    Meanwhile, Mrs. Anne Nenadi, Director of Tourism at the Federal Capital Territory Administration, stressed the importance of culture and tourism in preserving local narratives and projecting Nigeria’s heritage on the global stage.

    The launch of the digital museum underscores the potential of combining technology and heritage preservation to create economic opportunities and strengthen cultural identity in the Niger Delta.

  • Music artiste, three crew members found dead in Lagos studio

    Music artiste, three crew members found dead in Lagos studio

    …police arrest one, commence probe

    A popular music artiste, Matthew Ogundele, and three of his crew members have been found dead inside a Lagos studio.

    The crew members were identified as Itunu Ogundele, Joseph Sanya, and blogger Matthew Awosanya, alias JoesTv.

    The deceased were said to have been discovered on February 4, around 11 am, in the studio located at HFP Shopping Complex, Abraham Adesanya in Ajah.

    It was gathered that the artists had gone to Ajah to perform in a three-day birthday party allegedly organized by the owner of the studio, Olanireti Akinbola.

    The deceased, it was learnt, performed on February 3 and decided to sleep in the studio when they finished around midnight.

    According to sources, they were given food by the owner’s husband that night, who is said to be the one who noticed something was amiss around 11 am the next day.

    Sources alleged that a possible suffocation from a generator placed directly opposite the studio door could be responsible for their death.

    They were allegedly found unresponsive with blood coming out of their nostrils, ears, and mouth, but no violent mark seen.

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     “The convener invited some gospel artistes to minister during her three-day birthday praise, which started on Monday.

    “Segun Praise was scheduled to minister on the second day, and he came with his crew. The session started in the evening and ran late, so they decided to stay overnight in the studio.

    “It was the following morning that we heard that their bodies were found in the studio.

    “Her husband was the one who raised the alarm after knocking the studio door several times with no response coming from inside.

    “A generator was on and placed directly opposite their sleeping locations. So, it is suspected that this probably caused their death, but nothing has been concluded yet,” said a police source.

    Contacted, the Lagos Police Spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the incident, saying it was reported on Wednesday, February 4, at Ajah Division, adding that it was later transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba.

    “One suspect identified as the organizer of the event is currently in custody. Investigation is ongoing while we await the autopsy report,” said Adebisi.

  • PAGMI gains momentum as mining marshals flush out thousands of illegal miners in Kebbi

    PAGMI gains momentum as mining marshals flush out thousands of illegal miners in Kebbi

    The Federal Government’s Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (PAGMI) has received renewed momentum following a sweeping crackdown that dislodged thousands of illegal miners from designated mining sites in Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

    In a tightly coordinated, multi-agency operation, operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, and the Nigeria Police Force, reclaimed mining locations that had been illegally occupied for months by unregulated operators.

    Officials said the operation led to the complete displacement of thousands of illegal miners who had taken control of PAGMI sites, running large-scale operations that went far beyond artisanal mining. Heavy-duty excavators, crushers, and, in some instances, explosives were deployed indiscriminately—practices that triggered widespread land degradation, known cases of water pollution, and heightened insecurity in surrounding communities.

    Residents of Yauri described the illegal mining surge as a slow-burning crisis. “Our farmlands were being destroyed, and the river we depend on was turning brown,” said a community leader who requested anonymity for security reasons. “We lived in fear because strange faces came in daily, armed and unaccountable.”

    Environmental experts familiar with the area warn that such unregulated mining practices often leave behind contaminated soil, unstable pits, and polluted waterways, compounding long-term risks to agriculture, public health, and livelihoods. Local sources said abandoned pits had already claimed lives, particularly during the rainy season.

    The scale of the environmental and security threat, officials noted, compelled federal authorities to intervene decisively, deploying the Mining Marshals to protect the integrity of PAGMI and restore lawful order to the mining corridor.

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    Speaking after the operation, the Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps John Onoja Attah, described PAGMI as a deliberate policy intervention designed to formalise artisanal mining, empower host communities, and ensure that mineral resources translate into shared economic benefits rather than chaos.

    “PAGMI is about inclusion, structure, and sustainability,” Mr Attah said. “Those genuinely interested in mining must register and operate within known legal frameworks. Anything outside that endangers lives, destroys the environment, and fuels insecurity.”

    He added that beyond enforcement, the initiative prioritises environmental remediation, community participation, and continuous monitoring—elements often absent in illegal mining operations.

    According to officials, the NSCDC Mining Marshals have been directed to maintain constant surveillance and routine patrols across the reclaimed sites to prevent reoccupation, while working with relevant agencies to assess environmental damage and support recovery efforts.

    The Yauri operation, analysts say, reflects a broader federal push to sanitise Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, curb revenue leakages, and dismantle the informal networks that have long turned artisanal mining zones into hubs of environmental abuse and criminal activity.

    For communities once trapped between poverty and predatory mining interests, residents say the intervention offers cautious hope. “If PAGMI is allowed to work the way it was designed,” one local youth leader said, “then mining can finally benefit our people instead of destroying our land.”

  • University of Cambridge Returns 116 Benin Artefacts to Nigeria

    University of Cambridge Returns 116 Benin Artefacts to Nigeria

    The University of Cambridge has formally transferred ownership of 116 Benin artefacts from its Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA) collections to Nigeria. The artefacts were handed over to the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), which manages them under an agreement with the Benin Royal Palace.

    According to NCMM, the decision follows a formal request made in January 2022 for the return of artefacts looted by British forces during the sacking of Benin City in 1897. The University’s Council approved the claim, and authorisation from the UK Charity Commission was subsequently granted.

    The physical transfer of most of the artefacts will be arranged in due course, while a small number will remain on loan and on display at Cambridge to remain accessible to museum visitors, students, and researchers. The move aligns with similar commitments by museums in the UK, US, and Europe to return cultural heritage items to their countries of origin.

    The 116 objects, primarily brass with some ivory and wooden sculptures, were taken during the British ‘Punitive Expedition’ of February 1897, which followed a violent trade dispute the previous month and resulted in the looting of the Benin Royal Palace.

    Speaking on the development, Olugbile Holloway, Director-General of NCMM, described the transfer as a pivotal moment in the ongoing collaboration between Nigeria and the University of Cambridge, highlighting the importance of restoring cultural heritage to its rightful custodians.

    The return of the artefacts is expected to strengthen historical and cultural ties between Nigeria and the UK while providing opportunities for research, education, and public engagement in both countries.

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    According to him, “This development marks a pivotal point in our dialogue with the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Cambridge, and it is our hope that this will spur other museums to head in a similar direction. The return of cultural items for us is not just the return of the physical object, but also the restoration of the pride and dignity that were lost when these objects were taken in the first place. We would like to thank the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, for all her invaluable support in making this happen, and we applaud Cambridge for taking this step in the right direction. We look forward to welcoming the artefacts back home soon.”

    On his part, Professor Nicholas Thomas, Director of the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, said, “It has been immensely rewarding to engage in dialogue with colleagues from the National Commission of Museums and Monuments, members of the Royal Court, and Nigerian scholars, students, and artists over the last ten years. Over the period, support has mounted, nationally and internationally, for the repatriation of artefacts that were appropriated in the context of colonial violence. This return has been keenly supported across the University community.”

    As one of several UK museums with significant holdings of material taken from Benin in 1897, the MAA has been involved in long-term research and engagement projects in partnership with Nigerian stakeholders and representatives from the Royal Court of the Benin kingdom, as well as artists, academics, and students from Nigeria.

    MAA curators have participated in study and liaison visits to Benin City since 2018, meeting the Oba, members of the Court, state and federal government leaders, and cultural representatives. The University also hosted the Benin Dialogue Group in 2017 and welcomed NCMM and Royal Court representatives to Cambridge in 2021.

  • FULL LIST: Nigeria, Egypt, Algeria, others top African countries with strongest naval fleet in 2026

    FULL LIST: Nigeria, Egypt, Algeria, others top African countries with strongest naval fleet in 2026

    African naval capabilities often receive less scrutiny than land and air forces, yet maritime power across the continent is steadily advancing. With thousands of kilometres of coastline and sea lanes critical to global commerce, coastal states have expanded their fleets to defend territorial waters, protect offshore assets and curb piracy.

    From the Mediterranean corridor to the Gulf of Guinea, naval forces are playing a growing role in strengthening maritime security and underpinning economic stability. Governments have invested in platforms and surveillance systems aimed at securing borders and safeguarding natural resources.

    Modern African navies now extend beyond conventional defence roles. They support trade protection, conduct sea patrols, escort commercial vessels and participate in multinational exercises that foster regional cooperation and peacekeeping.

    Global Firepower’s 2026 naval assessment indicates that several African countries operate increasingly capable fleets, including submarines, offshore patrol vessels and advanced monitoring systems configured for both combat readiness and search-and-rescue operations.

    Here are the top 10 African countries with the strongest naval fleets in 2026:

    1. Nigeria – 152 naval vessels (22nd globally)

    2. Egypt – 149 naval vessels (23rd globally)

    3. Algeria – 111 naval vessels (34th globally)

    4. Morocco – 100 naval vessels (38th globally)

    5. South Africa – 63 naval vessels (52nd globally)

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    6. Tunisia – 37 naval vessels (61st globally)

    7. Mozambique – 36 naval vessels (62nd globally)

    8. Angola – 32 naval vessels (65th globally)

    9. Kenya – 27 naval vessels (72nd globally)

    10. Eritrea – 23 naval vessels (76th globally)

  • Grammys: Afrobeats defeat triggers fans’ anger

    Grammys: Afrobeats defeat triggers fans’ anger

    As the dust settles on the 68th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, many Nigerian music enthusiasts are still expressing disappointment after Afrobeats superstars including Davido, Burna Boy, Wizkid and Ayra Starr, failed to win the gramophone at music’s biggest night. OLAITAN GANIU writes.

    It was South African popstar, Laura ‘Tyla’ Seethal, who took the shine, taking home the Best African Music Performance award for her hit single titled, ‘Push 2 Start’.

    The 24-year-old’s victory marks her second consecutive win in the category since it was introduced in 2024. Tyla is the first artiste in Africa to achieve this distinction.

    “First of all, shout-out to young African creative out there. I’m so excited to see more of us over here,” Tyla said at the backstage after accepting the award.

    She added, “I want to thank God. I want to thank my management team, family and fans. I’m so bless! Winning the Grammys, two out of two.”

    Tyla’s song, which blended amapiano and pop influences, outperformed nominations from some of Afrobeats’ biggest exports in the Academy’s voting.

    “From the movement we recorded ‘Push 2 Start’, we knew it going to be magical. It’s such a special song,” she enthused.

    The win has reignited debate across the street of Nigeria, industry observers and fans expressing a mix of frustration.

    Some claimed the outcome was unfair given Afrobeats’ global reach, shows and streaming dominance. While others call for systemic change in how African music is positioned at global awards.

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    A music lover, Adediwura James, said “Grammy has dimmed Afrobeats stars again. That award show has officially lost its credibility in front of Nigerians.”

    “Nigerians were hyped, praying for that historic sweep or at least one trophy for the big three. Instead, it’s another year of ‘close but no cigar’. Afrobeats is still global, but the Grammy gods said ‘not today’. How are you feeling about it? Disappointed? ” another fan, Precious Eze expressed.

    For Victor Oyi, it time to embrace and support our local awards. “They threw Afrobeats in the mud,” he said,

    “This Tyla song is not worth a Headies, not to talk of a Grammy Award. 

    Some reactions were more daring, with fans suggesting the need for African centred award platforms.

    “Let’s start African Grammys abeg,” upcoming singer, Banjo Adedayo expressed.

    However, not all voices framed the result negatively. Several commentators acknowledged that being nominated alongside global stars is a win.

    Industry experts call for strategic engagement

    Veteran Disc Jockey, DJ Big N urged the Nigerians to channel their anger into action.

    He encouraged them to join the Recording Academy as voting members, arguing that deeper involvement could influence outcomes from within.

    “Yes, Nigerians are disappointed about the Grammy outcome, and I feel that too,” he began.

    “But let’s turn that energy into action. Let’s get involved and make our votes count! Better luck next year.”

    He cited examples of global icons who have used their positions to extend influence beyond the awards nights.

    He added that. “It stings deeply that so many talented Nigerians were nominated but didn’t bring the Grammy home this time. But here’s the truth: legends like Angelique Kidjo and Youssou N’Dour, have shown us the power of being involved beyond just the award night. She’s at those seminars, those events, making her presence felt.”

    Controversial artiste, Speed Darlington mocked perceived politics in award outcomes.

    “No Diddy, No Grammy,” he remarks, alluding to the idea that musical authority could be influenced by entrenched industry networks.

    Also weighed in is socialite, Cubana Chief Priest, as he took to his Instagram page to post a picture of himself with Afrobeats artiste, Davido.

    In his comment, he encouraged the OBO singer to move on and create focus on his craft despite the loss.

    “Oyibo dey do everything possible to break a strong man so he can do their demonic shit with them, but he will never do it. Heads up, brother, open the bag and drop another hot one for us. E no dey finish, Gbedu na water.”

    Way forward

    Beyond the backlash, some music practitioners are reframing how success is defined for Afrobeats globally.

    Music journalist and podcaster, Joey Akan advised Afrobeats’ artistes to be more original and shun foreign approval.

    “Foreigners saw you making music for your home, fell in love with your novel authenticity, essence, and how it moved your people,” Akan said.

    “Once they started giving you money, you decided to ruin your working formula, deny and disparage your people, and cater exclusively to foreigners. They in turn routinely rejected this new and unfamiliar thing you’ve created for them.

    “They’ve stopped giving you money, and now you’re all back to square one, making music for Nigerians, exactly what you were supposed to do.

    According to him, the story of ‘Afrobeats to the world’ is one of self-denial, creative misdirection and a lack of cultural commitment to ourselves.”

    Veteran Music producer and singer, Cobhams Asuquo suggested that while Grammy recognition is desirable, it should not be the sole measure of achievement.

    “I think Grammy is using Nigerians to boost the GDP of Los Angeles. It’s like a carrot dangling in front of us, and it goes away. I think we need to build something that is ours.

    “Let’s grow something that can make other people converge in our space,” he said.

    Similarly, DJ Big N echoed a broader perspective, emphasising that even without a Nigerian win for Best Afrobeat Song of the Year, the impact of Afrobeat on the world map lives on.

  • Strei turns emotion into motion on Catapult

    Strei turns emotion into motion on Catapult

    Breakout talent, Strei, has officially returnsed with his new single “Catapult” featuring Dxtiny.

    The single marks his first release of the year and the beginning of a new creative chapter. In just a short space of time, Strei has proven himself to be an artist who understands the emotional language of music.

    With ‘Catapult,’ he leans further into that instinct, offering a track that feels light on its feet yet grounded in lived experience. The song captures the tension between love, expectation and possibility, wrapped in a groove that invites movement from the very first note.

    ‘Catapult’ builds on Strei’s self-coined Afromood sound, a fusion of Afro rhythms and mood driven expression that has already earned him millions of listeners worldwide. This time, the emotion is still present, but it is carried by a brighter rhythm and a playful energy that marks one of his most dance friendly releases to date.

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    The song explores a moment where affection becomes entangled with material expectations, and instead of confrontation, Strei responds with optimism, curiosity and charm. It is a love song at heart, but one that chooses warmth and joy over heaviness.

    The collaboration with Dxtiny adds a complementary layer to the record, enhancing its conversational feel and widening its emotional reach. Recorded at Kitzo Wrld Studios, the track came together organically during a collaborative session with producer BigSpace and engineer Treasure.

    The process was instinctive and fast paced, with Strei freestyling melodies before shaping them into lyrics that feel effortless and honest. Completed over two days, the song reflects the spontaneity of its creation, never overworked and never forced.

    Since emerging less than a year ago, Strei’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. With over 20 million streams, a viral debut EP that introduced Afromood to a global audience, and a growing presence across digital platforms, he has quickly positioned himself as one of the most compelling new voices in contemporary Afrobeats.

  • Adekunle Gold says getting old not limitation

    Adekunle Gold says getting old not limitation

    Afrobeats singer and songwriter, Adekunle Gold, has opined that getting older is not a setback but an advantage.

    The singer made the remarks while reflecting on 39th birthday celebration recently.

    In a chat with The Nation, Gold revealed that while birthdays once filled him with pressure, it now brings a sense of calm and gratitude.

    “There was a time when birthdays used to scare me, I used to feel like time was tapping me on the shoulder, asking what I had to show for myself,” he began.

    The Lagos State-born performer added that, “I thought progress had a deadline, though there was a point where you either arrived or you didn’t. But this year felt calm.”

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    Following the release of his sixth studio album, ‘Fuji’, which many critics described as his most impactful body of work, Adekunle Gold disputes the notion.

    “I smiled when I heard and saw the tweets, not because they’re wrong, but because I see something else. One thing I know for sure is that I don’t have a peak. I feel like I’ve unlocked something, a new person, a new purpose,” he enthused.

    Gold, who hit the limelight over a decade ago, with his hit single, ‘Sade,’ said he built his current confidence from lessons learned over the years.

    He noted that society often places unnecessary deadlines on personal growth and success.

    “There’s no such thing as being late to becoming who you’re meant to be, to achieving your dreams, to starting again. You’re not late, you’re informed,” he said.