With the Christmas and New Year season approaching, we have listed out travel safety tips for prospective travelers.
Here are seven travel safety tips this Christmas:
1. Choose Reputable Transportation:
You should Opt for a well-known and reliable transportation company if you will be traveling by road and also ensure you travel by air with a reliable flight company.
2. Record Your Details:
Make sure your information is recorded on the travel manifest of the transport company you are travelling with and share details of the vehicle you’re traveling in with a loved one.
3. Avoid Night Journeys:
You should try to avoid traveling at Night during this festive period unless it is absolutely necessary.
4. Prepare your home for optimum safety:
If you have a security system (alarms, motion detectors, cameras, and other monitoring equipment) installed in your home, ensure that it’s working properly,
Have a friend or neighbour check on your home while you’re away, especially if you’ll be gone for a long time.
If you are traveling in your private vehicle, ensure it is well-serviced and in good condition.
Car trouble is a common issue for travelers during the holidays.
You don’t want to end up stuck on the side of the road in cold weather instead of tucked in around the table with a piece of Grandma’s homemade pie.
Be proactive to avoid hazards like a blown tire. Take your car in for an inspection and any necessary maintenance, particularly on your tires— make sure they’re winter-ready and properly inflated for the long drive.
6. Travel through familiar routes:
Choose familiar routes whenever possible. If venturing into new territory, obtain a security travel advisory for the path and your destination.
7. Stay Vigilant:
Maintain situational awareness and remain vigilant throughout your journey, and monitor vehicles that stay behind you for too long.
The Nigerian Dance Industry has been thriving over the years, overcoming obstacles and challenges that society threw at it.
In the past years, dance and dancers were not so cherished and appreciated in Nigeria and even some dancers end up being called all sorts of names because of their choice of profession.
Thanks to the resilience, consistency, and sheer grit of certain pioneers like Kafayat Oluwatoyin Shafau, popularly known as ‘Kaffy‘.
Nigerian dancers are more respected now, as the value of their craft is no longer deniable. Although the journey to total relevance is still a long climb, Nigerian dancers are gracefully taking the needful strides.
The majority of these dancers, particularly those from the US and UK, began their journeys abroad.
Nevertheless, some people have made the decision to return home and help others in the nations that share their views. While some have strictly stuck to the source that made them.
Here are popular Nigerian dancers who stand out for their unique styles, creativity, and contributions to the art both loccally and internationally:
1. Kaffy:
Kaffy with the full name Kafayat Oluwatoyin Shafau is a Nigerian dancer, choreographer, dance instructor, and fitness coach. She is the founder and owner of the Imagneto Dance Company.
Kaffy became popular when she broke the Guinness World Record for “Longest Dance Party” at the Nokia Silverbird Danceathon in 2006. After this, she worked with various music stars such as P Square, Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, D’Banj, and so on. She is also known for playing a huge role in bringing dance into the 21st century by helping with the start of some first reality dance shows in Nigeria.
Furthermore, it isn’t possible to mention the best dancers in Nigeria and not have Kaffy’s name on the top list. She is one of the great backbones of the Nigerian dance industry. Even some of the dancers who have made it to the list of the best dancers in Nigeria, she was either their mentor or their teacher.
Kaffy is one person that fought and is still fighting for the place for dancers in Nigeria’s entertainment. She uses her voice, innovations, connections, and everything to ensure that dance continually thrives in Nigeria. And all her efforts over the years have yielded great success.
Her Dance Company won’t stop producing great and energetic dancers and we are so proud of her. Kaffy with no doubt is a living dance legend!
2. Poco Lee:
Every time Poco Lee dances, you might find yourself wondering how in the world he manages to time his leg movements to produce the most entertaining footwork dance imaginable. even is one even supposed to be dubbed the creator of legwork.
Lee is a well-known dancer in Nigeria. From performing on the streets, he developed into one of Nigeria’s most well-known dancers. He rose to fame after a video of him at an event executing the well-known contemporary dances Zanku and Legwork went viral. Dance pioneer Zlatan Ibile was drawn to the one-minute film when it went popular online and started showing up on celebrity profiles. He instantly linked up with him and solicited his assistance in the music video for the song Zanku.
3. Don Flexx
Don Flexx is known for his incredible flexibility and unique dance moves. His captivating performances have earned him recognition both in Nigeria and internationally. Don Flexx’s ability to seamlessly blend contemporary and traditional dance styles makes him stand out among his peers.
Stephen Ojo, better Known as Papi Ojo is a talented dancer, athlete, and model. He is one of the few African dancers to have led a choreography routine with music royalty, Beyonce. Papi Ojo has been dancing since he was only just a boy, and his passions have led him to great heights including performing with Rihanna at the Grammys and being the lead dancer for Beyonce during the Lion King soundtrack visual rollout.
5. Sayrachips:
Sayrachips, whose real name is Sarah Olaniran, is a Nigerian dancer who currently resides in the US. Before leaving Nigeria, Kaffy taught her how to choreograph and become a fitness teacher. She enrolled in Columbia College’s 4-year Dance Degree Program in Chicago, America.
She then began to make waves with her talent and enthusiasm. She has made dancing her career and is presently touring the world to mentor and inspire new dancers. She has also visited Nigeria to greet her home supporters and experience the affection of that nation once more.
Along with travelling the globe with celebrities like Chris Brown, Tiwa Savage, Mr.Eazi, Wizkid, and others, also teaches dance.
6. Meka Oku:
Meka Oku, sometimes referred to as the Afro’House King, is a dance instructor and choreographer of Nigerian descent. He claimed that seeing Michael Jackson, whom he referred to as his idol, gave him the idea to start dancing when he was a small child.
He then started to self-learn as a result. He is one of the top dancers in Nigeria right now, and he has choreographed for many celebrities over the years, including Psquare and Selebobo.
In New York City, he founded AfroHouse, where he teaches Afro-dance. Additionally, he provides online tutorials and events throughout the whole US.
7. Pinki Debbie:
Dancer, choreographer, exhibitionist, and social media influencer Pinki Debbie is from Nigeria and goes by the full name Odumewu Sunmisola Debbie. She is currently one of Nigeria’s top dancers.
Pinkie Debbie rose to fame in 2017 by shattering the record for the “longest dance marathon by an individual” set by the Guinness Book of World Records. Since then, she has always astounded her followers with her inventiveness and substance. She established Pinkidebbie Choreography.
8. Izzy Odigie:
Izzy Odigie is a Nigerian Afrobeats choreographer who was born in New York. But she was raised in Nigeria’s Edo State. She then went back to the country to finish her schooling at St. John’s University in Queens, New York, where she was studying dance. She was one of the original members of the then-famous Trybe dancers before she departed Nigeria.
Izzy Odigie first gained attention in 2015 while dancing with Ugandan artist and music mogul Eddy Kenzo. Since then, she has collaborated with a number of celebrities, including Tiwa Savage, Mr. Eazi, Yemi Alade, and others. She was included on OkayAfrica’s “100 women list” for 2019. Additionally, she choreographed and acted in one episode of the Fox US drama Empire’s fifth season in 2020.
9. Delacyn:
Delacyn who goes by the full name Nneka Irobunda is a Nigerian professional dancer, choreographer, and influencer based in the United States of America. She holds a degree in Psychology and dance. Decalyn’s curriculum vitae is rich- she has choreographed for artists like Sean Paul, Rema, Cardi B, and Missy Elliot. She is one of the most decorated Nigerian dancers.
The establishment of Islamic universities in Nigeria aims to provide higher education based on Islamic principles.
These universities offer a blend of quality education and Islamic teachings to students.
The objective is to create an environment where students can learn a variety of subjects while also gaining a deep understanding of Islamic traditions and values.
These universities play a vital role in Nigeria’s education system and provide a great opportunity for those who wish to learn in a way that incorporates Islamic values.
Here are five (5) Islamic universities you should know about in Nigeria
1. Fountain University
The university is owned and operated by the Nasrul-Lahi-Il-Fatih Society (NASFAT), located in Oke Osun State.
It was granted a license to operate as a Private University on May 17, 2007, by the Federal Government, based on the recommendations of the National Universities Commission.
2. Al-Qalam University
Al-Qalam University, formerly known as Katsina University, is located in Dutsinma Road, Katsina State, Nigeria. Established in 2005, it holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s first private Islamic institution.
3. Crescent University
Crescent University, Abeokuta was founded in 2005 by a renowned legal expert and former judge of the International Court of Justice in The Hague, His Excellency Justice Bola Ajibola.
The university aims to be a center of academic excellence and uphold moral values. It is one of the leading Islamic universities in Nigeria and was established under the umbrella of the Islamic Mission for Africa (IMA).
Crescent was licensed and established in 2005 after approval by the Federal Government through the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Al-Hikmah University, located in Ilorin, Nigeria, was founded in 2005 by the Abdur-Raheem Oladimeji Islamic Foundation (AROIF).
The university was granted a license to operate as a private university by the Federal Government of Nigeria on January 7th, 2005 (License No. 010).
5. Summit University
Summit University, founded by the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria (ADSN) in Offa, provides quality tertiary education to all Nigerians, regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender, or creed, with an Islamic faith-based approach.
The University obtained its Provisional Licence (No. 59th private University) issued by the National Universities Commission (NUC) on March 5, 2015, and its Permanent Operational Licence on April 1, 2019.
As the Christmas season approaches, families eager to celebrate might be contemplating ideal places and resorts where children can have access to premium fun and enjoyment.
These are some fun and thrilling places in Nigeria:
1. Ibadan Recreation Club
Ibadan Recreation club has many fascinating things, such as tar and sand tennis courts, a large swimming pool furnished with pool beds, an indoor squash court and a billiards table. Ibadan Recreation Club offers quality and healthy food.
2. Erin-Ijesha/Olumirin Waterfall, Osun
Erin-Ijesa, or Olumirin waterfall, is one of the most visited waterfalls in Nigeria. It is located right in the heart of Osun state in the southwest, just two kilometres from Erin-Ijesa town. Indigenes believe the waterfall possesses healing qualities. Erin-Ijesa, in its entirety, consists of three waterfalls linked by several trails with various stop-off points at certain levels.
3. The Calabar Museum
If you have been longing to learn about the history of Nigeria from the pre-colonial eras, you should visit the Calabar Museum. It was the administrative office of the British colonial government in Calabar. The museum is full of documents and records of most of the activities of the British while Nigeria was colonised.
4. Thought Pyramid Art Centre, Abuja
This is a must-see for anyone who enjoys art, design, and culture. It is a stone-like building with vivid, bold metallic structures and sculptures adorning the lush greenery in the gallery.
5. Millennium Park, Abuja
This is the largest park in Abuja. There are many fun things: the Italian-style garden, beautiful walkways, extraordinary lights, and many more. It should be on your list if you’re planning a picnic.
6. Cinemas (Nationwide)
Cinemas are one of the best to visit for the latest movies in Nigeria (Hollywood, Bollywood, adventures, comedy, etc. When visiting, one should plan to get popcorn and a drink to nibble on during the movie. Movie ticket price varies depending on the film; you can decide to book from their website.
7. Abraka Turf and Country Club, Delta
The pride of Abraka city is Abraka turf and country club. It has rich vegetation, marine surroundings, and rich, steamy rainforest that is soothing to the body. The beautiful view of sunrise and sunset, the peaceful rise of the early morning sun, and the pleasant music of the birds makes this place perfect for trips, family get together, corporate Christmas party, or a romantic time with your lover.
8. Owu Waterfall, Kwara
Owu waterfall is called the “wonder in the wilderness,” because of its therapeutic effect on visitors. It is suitable for nature lovers and a perfect choice for a picnic.
A beautiful mountain resort is also a good place for a vacation or picnic. Obudu mountain resort is located in Cross River State, formerly regarded as Obudu cattle ranch. Fun things to do: swimming, horse riding, golf, and many more outdoor games. A presidential lodge also serves sumptuous delicacies if you want to spend a few days.
10. Beaches in Lagos
Beaches are also exciting places for a family picnic. There are private beaches and general beaches within Lagos state, at You Beach you will find beach bars, restaurants, and other exciting places on Beach. It is an environment that makes nature nurture you.
11. Olumo Rock, Ogun
Olumo Rock is located in Abeokuta, a city in western Nigeria. From the top, you are treated to a dramatic view of the city of Abeokuta, which is definitely one of Nigeria’s most “Instagrammable” shots. The Olumo rock reaches a height of 137 meters above sea level. It is accessible by an elevator and a series of manufactured steps carved into the face of the rock. For those curious about plants, several rare plants are to be sighted at this monumental place.
Over 52 villagers were killed and 120 injured in an accidental bombing by the Nigerian Air Force fighter jets of Internally Displaced People’s camp in Rann, Borno State
• April 13, 2020
Fighter jet of the Nigerian Air Force bombed Sakotoku village in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, killing 17 civilians, including women and children.
Nigerian Air Force jet killed six children in Kurebe village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. The bombs were targeted at terrorists hibernating in the area.
• July 7, 2022
Nigerian Air Force jet bombed Kunkuna village in the Safana Local Government Area of Katsina killing 13 villagers including women and children.
• January 2023
Bombs by the Nigerian Air Force jets killed 37 persons, including herders at the boundary between Benue and Nasarawa states in Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
• December 3, 2023
Nigerian Army drone killed 85 villagers in Tudun Biri of the Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
As we enter the festive month of December, there are fun places you can visit with your family and loved ones within Nigeria.
Here are six fun places to visit in December
1. Obudu Cattle Ranch
Obudu Mountain Resort also known as Obudu Cattle Ranch is one of Africa’s finest and most interesting and spectacular tourist destinations. Obudu Mountain Resort is located in the highlands and deep tropical forests of Cross River State with a temperate climate at about 45 miles from the border with Cameroon.
If you are a tourist looking for a mix of adventure and idyllic tranquillity, then Obudu Cattle Ranch is the place to be. With rich natural vegetation and a picturesque view, Obudu is increasingly becoming popular amongst tourists from all around Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
The ranch has numerous pleasant and beautiful mountain-area and country-side views, with a well-preserved and calm Serene to suit all our guests.
2. Warm Spring in Enemabia
Enemabia’s warm spring with its lush scenery is an exotic location for people who enjoy swimming, nature, and adventure. It is the only warm natural spring in Benue state, which contributes to the attraction it gets from tourists.
You can take your family or friends to the spring, which is a guaranteed location to enjoy swimming in natural water.
3. La Campagne Tropicana
La Campagne Tropicana is an African-themed Forest, River, and Beach Resort located in the Ibeju Lekki area of Lagos, Nigeria.
It covers over 65 acres of palm-fringed white sand beach, river, and mangrove forest. Tourists can observe at close quarters different species of plants and animals amongst which are palms, mangroves, epiphytes, monkeys, squirrels, mudskippers, and birds such as bats, kingfishers, Seahawks, egrets, and ducks.
Guests can enjoy nature from the comfort of their bed or take a cool dip in their private indoor or outdoor swimming pool.
You can also camp by the beach or forest to camp by the riverbank if you prefer outdoor reservations.
4. Oguta Lake Resort
Oguta Lake Resort, also known as the Lake of Treasure, is located in Oguta, a tranquil community in Owerri.
This park’s most outstanding feature is the meeting point of the murky Ulasi River and the blue Oguta Lake, which both retain their distinctive colours.
The resort’s freshwater lake is not known to have any harmful animals.
The resort also offers a recreational park, cruise boat services for an exciting voyage, a golf course with 18 standard international courses, standard lodging accommodations, and an exceptional dining establishment.
5. Yankari Game Reserve
Yankari Game Reserve is a large wildlife park and former National Park located in the south-central part of Bauchi State, in northeastern Nigeria.
It is the most popular destination for tourists in Nigeria and plays a crucial role in the development and promotion of tourism and ecotourism in Nigeria.
Yankari Game Reserve has over 50 mammal species including African bush elephant, olive baboon, patas monkey, Tantalus monkey, roan antelope, hartebeest, lion, African buffalo, waterbuck, bushbuck, and hippopotamus.
The lion population is on the verge of extinction.
There are also over 350 species of birds found in the park. Of these, 130 are residents, 50 are Palearctic migrants and the rest are intra-African migrants who move locally within Nigeria. These birds include the saddle-billed stork, helmeted guineafowl, African grey hornbill, and the cattle egret.
6. Lekki Conservation Centre
Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC) is a 78-hectare (190-acre) Natural Resource Conservation in Lekki.
Located in the middle of Lagos, this conservation centre is home to abundant plants and wildlife and plays a vital role in preserving the region’s ecosystem.
The park is also home to the longest canopy walkway in Africa, offering 360-degree views from above the treetops
You can visit Lekki Conservation for a guided tour with transportation included, or you can just as easily hail a ride share and make your way there.
When you visit, you can take a stroll through the swamp boardwalk and spot rare birds, monkeys, snakes, and crocodiles.
What are the Best Dog Breeds for families? Like bread and butter, kids and dogs just go together. However, which dog breeds are best for families with kids?
All puppies are cute, of course, but important factors to consider are temperament, size, behavioural issues, and energy level. How much exercise does the dog need? How much attention? You should never leave children unattended with dogs; however, which breed is known for having a gentle disposition around children? Which breed is best suited to your family’s lifestyle and needs?
Looking for a family dog that will be the perfect companion for your children? This article has narrowed the list to the 10 most popular dog breeds for kids.
Check out these good dog breeds for kids to find your family’s match and why experts say they make great choices for families.
1. Beagle
The beagle is a happy dog with a friendly, affectionate nature and a fondness for children. This breed is very pack-oriented and prefers to tag along with family whenever given the opportunity. It enjoys outdoor adventures and activities. The beagle also loves food and is ruled by its nose. While licking up scraps your kids have dropped may seem helpful, beware of toxic or dangerous foods you don’t want your beagle getting its mouth on.
2. Boxer
Known as the “clown,” the boxer is a family-oriented dog breed with a silly, sometimes mischievous nature. Sweet and affectionate, the boxer dog is a loyal companion who takes joy in playing with family members. Leery of strangers, this dog breed displays cautiousness until familiarity is obtained. The boxer dog needs a good deal of exercise and stimulation to prevent boredom and any ensuing destructive behaviour (chewing, digging).
3. Bulldog
The English bulldog dog breed is the wrinkly-faced pup that probably springs to mind when you hear the word “Bulldog” (as opposed to the American or French versions). Hailing from England (it is the country’s national symbol, after all), these stocky pups make great family dogs, these dogs are fairly calm and kid-friendly. Being on the smaller and lazier end of the spectrum, the Bulldog is perfect for a family with kids who aren’t overly high-energy.
Their small size also makes them the perfect dogs for families in smaller homes where space is at a premium.
4. Bull Terrier
Just look at that face. The bull terrier is unmistakable with that twinkle in its eyes and its football-shaped head, exuding cuteness and whimsy all at once. This dog breed is happiest when with family and is a natural protector. A medium-to-large-sized dog, weighing between 45 and 80 pounds, the bull terrier is a good playmate for children, can withstand some roughhousing, and has a healthy amount of energy to burn. Early socialization is recommended to discourage any territorial behaviour, whether it be over food, space, toys, or people.
5. German Shepherd
The German shepherd dog is highly regarded as a loyal protector of its family members. Super intelligent, this dog breed surpasses most at training — you could probably train your German shepherd dog to keep pace alongside your kids while they’re bicycling, help you corral them while playing in the front yard or sleep next to their beds at night. While the German shepherd dog has a healthy dose of playfulness, gentleness, and affection, it excels as a watchdog and takes its job seriously.
6. Golden Retriever
Two words many use to describe a golden retriever: sweet and gentle. One of the quintessential dog breeds for children, the golden retriever is very playful, affectionate, friendly with kids, social and intelligent, responding well to training. Golden retrievers are also very adaptable and will want to tag along during family outings and adventures.
7. Labrador
Labradors want to have fun — especially with children. Lovable, playful, social and intelligent, there’s no surprise this dog breed has been America’s No. 1 dog for the past 25 years. Labrador retrievers are gentle and patient. They also aren’t too large, ranging in weight from 55 to 80 pounds, on average. Always up for an adventure, Labrador retrievers are eager to tag along with any family adventure.
8. Mastiff
The mastiff is a large-breed dog weighing, on average, anywhere from 120 to 230 pounds. Why does the mastiff make a great choice as a companion to your children? The breed is very affectionate, gentle, naturally protective and observant. The mastiff has a natural ability to detect a threat. The mastiff also likes to snuggle with family members and take care of the people in their lives. Known for having a soft mouth — the tendency to carry items very gently in its mouth — the mastiff is an eager playmate for children.
9. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is nicknamed the Gentle Giant for very good reasons: an easygoing temperament, lots of love for children, and at maturity stands around the same height as a bed, making it easy for bedtime snuggles and tuck-ins. The Newfoundland is also smart — this breed is a water dog with life-saving instincts and likes to tag along on hikes and other outdoor adventures. Socialization and training from an early age will help you manage the behaviour of this 100 to 150-pound breed.
10. Poodle Standard
The poodle is thought to be one of the smartest dogs to grace our company. They’re also considered one of the goofiest, creating an ideal personality for a family pet. Super affectionate, playful, and happy, this dog breed likes to socialize and is easily adaptable to its surroundings. The breed is also one of three sizes; surely one would fit your needs: standard, miniature, or toy. If you have a child with allergies or dander sensitivity, the poodle’s low-shed fur can also offer some relief.
English football is one of the biggest leagues with viewers all over the world and Nigeria boasts of the strongest fan bases for Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal etc.
Nigerian celebrities are open about the teams they support with most of them traveling to the UK to watch their team play.
Here are nine Nigerian celebrities who are Manchester United fans:
1. Don Jazzy
The Mavin records boss has been a popular hype man for the club side on his social media pages.
Don Jazzy is known for showing his emotional side when his team either wins or loses a game.
2. Cuppy
The disc jockey unexpectedly switched from being an Arsenal football club fan to a Manchester United supporter.
Cuppy also got an endorsement deal with United in 2020 and was one of the popular faces used to commercially promote the Manchester United third kit for the 2020/2021 season.
3. Reminisce
The indigenous rapper is a vocal supporter of Manchester United.
He is known for showing off the team’s jersey on his Instagram page.
4. Mayorkun
The former DMW musician is one of the most popular Manchester United fans in Nigeria.
On November 24, 2019, Mayorkun posted a video of himself outside Old Trafford following a defeat for his favorite team.
5. Adekunle Gold
The Afro-soul singer is well-known for expressing his love for Manchester United. From Twitter to Instagram,
Adekunle has also been spotted a few times at Old Trafford.
He signed a deal with the team as one of the models for United’s third kit.
6. Simi
Just like her husband, Simi is one of the most active fans of Manchester United.
She regularly tweets about her team during live games and mostly on weekends.
The Grammy-winning afro-fusion singer is a fan of Man Utd and he has also shown his support for his favorite football team by flaunting his customized jersey on his Instagram page.
Burna Boy was part of the commercial campaign to promote Man United’s third kit for the 2020/2021 season.
8. Eldee
He follows Man Utd obsessively and is a devoted fan of the club.
Eldee uses his social media presence to discuss his favorite team and to joke about with supporters of the opposition.
9. DJ Xclusive
The disc jockey is a loyal and devoted supporter of Man United.
DJ Xclusive shows his support for his club side via posts on his social accounts.
Several Nigerian stars have been faced with legal issues for flouting laws and orders.
In spite of their stardom, they all took full responsibility for their misconduct.
Below are artists who have been arrested and detained:
1. Burna Boy:
In 2010 Burna Boy was arrested for a gang-related stabbing in the UK. He pled not guilty, but he went to jail, he was released after 11 months on parole for his good behaviour while in prison.
The self-acclaimed African Giant fled the UK and came back to Nigeria to start his music career before his parole was over in the UK.
2. Naira Marley:
Naira Marley, along with other individuals, was arrested by the EFCC on May 10, 2019, in relation to suspected online scamming and money laundering activities. Although the other detainees were freed five days later, Naira Marley was kept in detention due to suspicious materials discovered on his computer. He faced 11 accusations and was confined to Ikoyi Prison for several days before being granted bail. The bail terms required him to provide two sureties, who each had to guarantee a sum of 2 million naira.
He was also recently arrested on the allegations that he was involved in the death of late former signee, MohBad.
3. Omah Lay:
Omah Lay was also arrested in Uganda In December 2020, when he and Tems went to Uganda to perform at a concert. This was anticipated to be a night of entertainment and music for their fans. Regrettably, the situation turned into a nightmare when the Ugandan authorities arrested both performers for allegedly violating the COVID-19 regulations.
Omah Lay took to social media to express his displeasure with the turn of events. He revealed that he was treated “like an ordinary thief.” The artist stated that the preceding few days had been among the most arduous of his life. The Nigerian administration played a part in securing the release of both Omah Lay and Tems, who were detained for two days in police custody before being freed and returning to Nigeria.
4. Portable:
On Friday, March 31, 2023, Portable was arrested by the operatives of the Ogun Police Command after failing to surrender himself despite being given an ultimatum.
The artist was caught on camera using abusive language at police officers who visited his bar in the Sanga Ota district of Ogun State to detain him. He declined to cooperate with the officers, stating that he was a baboon and could not be apprehended. Portable was arraigned on five charges by the Ogun Police Command, which included assault, disorderly conduct, and theft of musical equipment. He was accused of pilfering musical devices.
On Monday, April 3, 2023, the magistrate presiding in Ifo town, Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State, granted Portable bail after he was held in the Ilaro Correctional Centre to fulfill his bail conditions.
The Zazoo crooner was reported to the police by his former apprentice. The artist claimed that he reprimanded the apprentice for refusing to reform and fired him.
According to Portable, the former worker went to the police station and lodged an assault complaint against him for simply correcting him. He defended his actions by stating that he was the apprentice’s boss and that he disciplined him by beating him.
5. Zlatan Ibile:
He was also arrested alongside Naira Marley and three others by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in May 2019. The arrest was in connection to an alleged case of internet fraud and money laundering.
He had collaborated with Naira Marley on the controversial song, “Am I A Yahoo Boy”, which was one of the reasons for the arrest.
After spending five days in custody, Zlatan and the other three individuals who were arrested with him were released. However, Naira Marley remained in custody as a result of incriminating items found on his laptop.
Following his release, Zlatan dropped a new single titled “4 Nights In Ekohtiebo”, which talked about his ordeal during his time in prison. In the song, he shared his experiences of being in custody and his fears of being locked up for a long time.
6. Tems:
She was arrested in December 2020 in Kampala, Uganda.
The reason for the arrest was reportedly due to flouting COVID-19 guidelines. Tems had performed at a show in Uganda that had been condemned due to the Covid-19 rules that were in place at the time.
The Ugandan police force described the suspects as selfish individuals who were “bent on violating the directives on COVID-19 with the purpose of making money while risking the lives of many Ugandans.”
The show was held during a time when political rallies of more than 200 people and churches in Uganda were restricted to 100 people. Many Ugandan artists and citizens condemned the widely promoted concert, which had more than 1,000 people in attendance.
As a result, Tems and her manager spent two days in police custody before being released and returning to Nigeria on December 17, 2020.
In response to the situation, Tems released a statement expressing her sadness that attendees could have possibly been exposed to COVID-19. She also stated that she would never have participated if she had known that the event would not meet standard operating procedures and put Uganda’s citizens at risk.
She thanked the Nigerian and Ugandan governments and everyone behind the scenes who played a part in resolving the matter. She also expressed her appreciation for her “rebel gang” of fans who continue to show her love and support.
7. Seun Kuti:
In May 2023, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, ordered the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command to arrest Afrobeat singer, Seun Kuti, after he was captured on video assaulting a police officer in uniform.
A Lagos State Magistrate’s Court sitting in Yaba, remanded the Afrobeat singer in police custody for 48 hours to enable the police to conclude its investigation into an allegation of assault brought against him.
Magistrate Adeola Olatunbosun, who presided over the matter, also ordered the police to release the musician after the stipulated period on bail and also send the case file to the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP), so that legal advice can be issued.
The music star was detained after ICPC operatives closed in on him, forcing him to surrender himself at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja, over charges of fraud.
D’Banj was accused of fraudulently diverting hundreds of millions of naira earmarked by the Nigerian government for the N-Power project, an empowerment programme set up by the Nigerian government in 2016 to address youth unemployment and increase social development.
Reports said that D’banj was a Brand Ambassador for the ministry. It was alleged that the singer colluded with some government officials to introduce ghost beneficiaries into the payroll of the scheme. The stipend paid to those beneficiaries was then paid to accounts that have now allegedly been linked to the pop star.
Africa is blessed with so many innovative entrepreneurs. The majority of these entrepreneurs are major players in the global business landscape and their innovative ideas are solving several diverse challenges across different sectors in the continent and beyond.
The COVID-19 pandemic ensured that health and wellness never leave the focus of our collective conscience. To say that the pandemic has forever altered our perception of well-being would be putting it mildly.
As our technological toolkit expands, the healthcare industry is accommodating more of it in the way it delivers care to patients. Be it through apps, wearables or a remote companion – the solutions are developing, and fast.
Here are five entrepreneurs who are changing the African narrative by facilitating innovation in the healthcare industry:
1. Temie Giwa-Tubosun, founder of Lifebank
Temie is on a mission to save lives through innovation, harnessing the power of drone technology to deliver much-needed lifesaving supplies of blood to patients in need.
Donato’s Health eVillages is making easy access to healthcare services across the continent, especially in remote areas of Africa.
3. Lilian Makoi Rabi, founder of Jamii (bimaAFYA)
Lilian’s Jamii offers mobile micro-health insurance for the low-income and informal sector, enabling healthcare services by drastically reducing costs with its completely mobile, paperless solution.
4. Brian Iredale founder of Nurture Africa
An entrepreneur providing access to quality healthcare, education, and sustainable livelihood projects whilst mainstreaming child welfare and gender equality through all our activities.
5. Olufemi Sunmonu founder of PurpleSource Healthcare
a healthcare management and investment company with a vision to create integrated private health systems in Nigeria spanning preventive, curative, diagnostic, rehabilitation, and wellness healthcare enterprises to address the current quality and outcomes shortcomings in the Nigerian healthcare market.
