The Nation Newspaper

Author: Yewande Fasan

  • I’ll go the extra mile to protect my family, Tonto Dikeh declares

    I’ll go the extra mile to protect my family, Tonto Dikeh declares

    Actress and philanthropist, Tonto Dikeh, has reaffirmed her dedication to prioritizing her family’s well-being and safety above all else. 

    In a heartfelt Instagram post, Tonto shared endearing photos featuring herself, her son, and a loved one, emphasizing her steadfast commitment to protecting and ensuring their happiness.

    Read Also: Tonto Dikeh condemns body shaming, calls for empathy toward women

    She wrote, “My family over everything. You see this, my little tiny family. I will di@ protecting them with my life. If they have to prepare for war, I am ready, too. But I’m not stupidly ignorant enough to ignore their foolishness.”

  • Skepta praises Portable as a genuine talent in music industry

    Skepta praises Portable as a genuine talent in music industry

    British rapper Skepta has lauded Nigerian singer Portable, describing him as a refreshing and authentic figure in the music industry. 

    Skepta’s remarks followed their collaboration on the 2023 hit song “Tony Montana.”

    In a recent post on his X page, the rapper shared his admiration for Portable, stating that in an industry filled with insincerity, Portable stood out for his authenticity. 

    Read Also: Portable hails Burna Boy amid feud with Cubana Chief Priest

    He added that he could relate to Portable’s unconventional style and unapologetic attitude, which he found both inspiring and unique.

    Skepta wrote: “I’ve met so many fake guys in this game, and meeting Portable was refreshing. Whatever Portable does, I recognize. I may not do it myself, but I know that energy and respect it.”

  • ‘How I handle female fans around my husband’ – Olayiwola Aminat

    ‘How I handle female fans around my husband’ – Olayiwola Aminat

    Olayiwola Aminat Omowunmi, the wife of actor and producer Ibrahim Yekini, popularly known as Itele, has shared details about their marriage and how she ignored naysayers. 

    In an interview with Bimpe Akintunde on her talk show Iriri Mi, Aminat revealed that she has been with Itele for almost 10 years, having met when he was still struggling as an actor.

    Aminat praised Itele’s strong fear of God, which keeps him grounded and prevents him from engaging in deceitful behavior. 

    She shared that anytime Itele wants to do something wrong, he remembers God’s wrath and stops himself.

    Aminat also spoke about the challenges she faced in their early days, particularly with Itele’s constantly travelling for movie locations. 

    However, she got used to it over time and even wishes he would travel more.

    She also spoke on the attention Itele receives from female fans, saying she overlooks it to give him peace of mind.

     Aminat recalled how her friends would mock her because of Itele’s old car when they started dating, because according to her, she was a ‘Hit’ girl back in University.

    “It’s been almost 10 years since we have been together. It is by the grace of God, I keep my husband from being deceitful. Ibrahim is the kind of person who has a fear of God. So he doesn’t get involved in scamming girls.

    “When I met Itele, things weren’t rosy for him. Even with that, I stood by his side because I love him, and though I always said I wouldn’t marry a celebrity, I saw his attitude and behavior and saw he has a fear of God. If he wants to do something and remembers God would be angry with him for doing such, he would put a stop to it.

    “When we first started dating, it was difficult for me with his constant travelling for movie locations, and we would fight over it, but with time, I got used to it. I just wish he would leave.

    “To give him peace of mind, I overlook his relationship with some of his female fans.

    “I was very pompous in school, and my friends would laugh at me because of the car he was always using to pick me up, but I didn’t bother because I knew where I was going to”.

  • Chioma Akpotha clears air on baby boy rumour

    Chioma Akpotha clears air on baby boy rumour

    Actress Chioma Akpotha has finally addressed the viral rumor suggesting she recently welcomed a baby boy.

    The speculation started after a congratulatory post surfaced on social media, which led her friend and colleague, Omoni Oboli, to share a sarcastic comment. 

    Oboli jokingly claimed they had spent hours discussing baby-related topics, including naming ceremonies and breastfeeding.

    Read Also: USAID appoints actress Chioma Akpotha as nutrition ambassador in Nigeria

    However, Chioma has now set the record straight, revealing that the only “new baby” she’s focused on is her YouTube channel.

    In a humorous response, Chioma said, “Oh, by the way, on YouTube, I have a set of twins.” 

  • Actress Kikelomo Akinyanju addresses alleged hypocrisy among colleagues

    Actress Kikelomo Akinyanju addresses alleged hypocrisy among colleagues

    Movie star Akinyanju Arike Kikelomo has expressed disappointment and frustration with hypocrisy among some of her colleagues.

    She specifically called out someone who privately thanked her for a post but refused to publicly acknowledge it, fearing backlash from their alleged “occult” followers.

    According to her, the behavior is duplicitous and unnecessary.

    The actress emphasised that when she posts about someone, it’s not an attempt to seek closure or friendship but genuine expression of her feelings.

    She advised those who feel uncomfortable with her posts to either ask her to take them down or ignore them, rather than secretly thanking her in direct messages.

    Read Also: Why I doubted I’d make it pass 2024 – Actress Moyo Lawal

    She wrote: “Posting you and writing how i feel about you doesn’t mean i want closure, I am not famzing anybody, i am not looking forward to be your friend (I don’t have friends cause I Suck at being anyone’s friend) or acquaintance, i am me, i learn to express how i feel about people in a positive light without no motives…( i am a lover of all except you start moving mad# ) … if i post you on my timeline and you know because of something bad you have done to me behind me you cant comment under the post so the people in your occult# will see it and bash you, please please and please, you can either tell me to take it down that you don’t want me to post you or ignore (and I will never post you again) don’t freaking come to my dm to thank me when you can do it under the post, se e ya werey ni….

    “some of you will even respond as werey under the post as though you are feeding the person that posted you, when you know you don’t freaking like someone, do not freaking follow , someone like me will follow back when I see a familiar name/picture/handle following, only for you people to be doing like oloriburuku,.,,,,…you people know what you are doing and iwa werey owo yin yen, iwa oshi owo yin yen, o ma koya je yin. this one no be meme or post to delete, you move anyhow, you see anyhow ooo, unah too dey push person”

  • Nathaniel Bassey to minister at Donald Trump’s inaugural prayer breakfast 

    Nathaniel Bassey to minister at Donald Trump’s inaugural prayer breakfast 

    Renowned gospel minister, Pastor Nathaniel Bassey, has received an esteemed invitation to minister at the Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast for US President-elect Donald Trump. 

    The event is scheduled to take place on January 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

    Hosted by Reverend Merrie Turner, this non-political and non-governmental gathering brings together faith leaders and dignitaries from around the world to offer prayers and worship on behalf of the president and the government.

    Pastor Bassey, who was honored with “Pastor Nathaniel Bassey Day” in Albany, New York, in 2024, will join other esteemed guests at this significant event. 

    Read Also: Gunmen from Nigeria kill five Cameroonian soldiers, says MP

    “Let’s raise a sound in America. And let the King of Glory come in. See you. 20th January, 2025

    “The Presidential Prayer Breakfast is a non-official and non-governmental event. It is a faith-based platform where intercessory prayers and worship are offered to God on behalf of the office of the president and the government of the nation. This event is held once in four years preceding the inauguration ceremony as a breakfast prayer meeting ahead of every new administration. Over the years has been attended by leaders and dignitaries from around the world. Hostess Rev. Merrie Turner”, he captioned the post.

    The Presidential Prayer Breakfast occurs every four years, preceding the inauguration ceremony, and serves as a platform for intercessory prayers and worship.

  • Yhemolee, wife welcome first child 

    Yhemolee, wife welcome first child 

    Socialite and actor, Idowu Adeyemi popularly known as Yhemolee, and his wife, Tayo, have announced the arrival of their first child.

    The couple shared the joyful news on Instagram, posting stunning photos from their maternity shoot.

    In a heartfelt caption, Yhemolee and Tayo expressed their gratitude and love for their newborn, quoting Psalm 139:13.

    They described their journey to parenthood as being filled with love, wonder, and gratitude.

    Tayo wrote: “Psalm 139:13 ‘You made all the delicate inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb.’

    Read Also: Gunmen from Nigeria kill five Cameroonian soldiers, says MP

    “This journey has been filled with so much love, wonder, and gratitude. Our heart couldn’t be fuller. You are so loved,from the moment we learnt of you, our hearts have been overflowing with joy and anticipation. Every flutter, every heartbeat reminds us of the incredible miracle you are. We are in awe of the love and grace that has brought us to this moment.

    “Our precious gift, you are everything we’ve prayed for and more. We are so thankful for this beautiful blessing and the incredible journey ahead as we become a family”.

  • Mercy Aigbe’s ‘Thin line’ makes N100m at box office

    Mercy Aigbe’s ‘Thin line’ makes N100m at box office

    Actress and filmmaker Mercy Aigbe has announced her latest movie “Thinline”, has grossed N100 million at the box office.

    Aigbe took to Instagram to express her gratitude to God and supporters, who have contributed to the film’s success. 

    She acknowledged the challenges faced during the production of the movie but is appreciative of the remarkable success.

    The actress encouraged fans who have not yet seen the movie to experience it in cinemas, promising a unique cinematic experience. 

    She wrote: “Elede mi a de Oyo, Ariwo e lo ma po. Against all Odds, Against all the challenges, my amazing movie THINLINE is still thriving and standing Tall.

    “My heart is full of gratitude to God and to everyone who have supported this journey thus far , i am so so grateful.

    “This Win would not have been possible without your love, encouragement and support, for that i say a big THANK YOU.

    “To everyone who have seen this masterpiece in a Cinema i say thank you! To everyone who continue to spread the word i say thank you.

    “Those who haven’t experienced THINLINE in a cinema close to them, stop dulling! Go give yourself a treat! Go enjoy a cinematic experience never before!!!”

  • Nigerian celebrities celebrate Christmas with adorable family photos

    Nigerian celebrities celebrate Christmas with adorable family photos

    As Christmas festivities light up the season, Nigerian celebrities are flooding social media with touching family photos that radiate joy and togetherness.

    Although this year’s celebrations are marked by simpler styles and modest decorations, the warmth and cheer remain unmistakable. 

    Popular stars such as Adeniyi Johnson, Seyi Edun, Nuella Njubigbo, Mercy Johnson, and Tonto Dikeh have charmed their fans with snapshots featuring matching pajamas, vibrant outfits, and beautifully adorned Christmas trees.

    Read Also: Christmas: Women Affairs Minister felicitates Nigerians, seeks support for women, children

    For some, this holiday holds extra significance. Newlywed Queen Atang is celebrating her first Christmas as a wife, while actor Williams Uchemba is basking in the joy of fatherhood after welcoming a baby boy with his wife, Brunella Oscar, just weeks ago.

  • Davido is a gospel artiste, says Pastor Adegboyega

    Davido is a gospel artiste, says Pastor Adegboyega

    Pastor Tobi Adegboyega, founder of SPAC Nation, has sparked controversy by referring to popular musician Davido as a gospel artiste.

    Adegboyega made this statement on the Off The Record podcast, explaining that the term “gospel” means “good news,” and he believes Davido embodies this through his music.

    He said: “Gospel means good news. Everyone there is a gospel artiste. Davido is a gospel artiste. Have you heard: ‘Because I stand strong?

    “What I had then was my friends—friends who are there through thick and thin. Davido told me: ‘I just want to be there and perform for one hour.’ They’re my friends. I didn’t pay any of them. They love me, and I will give my friends platforms”.

    Adegboyega faced criticism for inviting secular musicians, including Davido, to perform at his birthday celebration instead of gospel artistes.

    He defended his decision, stating that his friends, including Davido and Zlatan, will always take center stage at his events.

    “If gospel artists aren’t my friends and are instead joining the bandwagon to criticize me by asking, ‘Is that a church?’ What should I do? Drag them with a rope?

    “It’s my friends that will be there. Everyone in that room was my friend. Zlatan is like a son to me; his kids are my kids, and his parents are in my house. So should I now say, ‘Well, because you are not gospel artists, let me go and look for some gospel artists who are criticizing me and force them to sing?’”, he said.

    Adegboyega emphasised that he values relationships over criticism, saying, “My friends will always sing at my events, and the next one will be bigger because my circle of friends keeps growing.”