Afrobeat singer Skales, whose real name is Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, has expressed gratitude to Banky W, his former record label boss, for sponsoring his university education.

Skales took to social media to share the news, posting a copy of his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration certificate, which he dedicated to his late mother.

He thanked Banky W on X, writing: “Aye my BSc showed up after many years of graduation! This is for my mother and thank you to @BankyW for sponsoring the boy through school.”

Skales was signed to Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E), founded by Banky W, in 2009 with other notable artists like Wizkid.

Skales received his certificate, many years after graduating.

Nollywood actors Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), Toyin Abraham and popular Nigerian record producer Michael Ajereh, known as Don Jazzy, were among those who received the 2025 Silverbird Awards for their contributions to the entertainment industry.

They were honoured alongside other Nigerians at the annual award held on Sunday night at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos.

Don Jazzy bagged the Extraordinary Achievement Award, and RMD clinched the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Other recipients include popular Tiktoker Habeeb Hazmat, aka Peller, who received the Influencer of the Year Award, while Toyin Abraham and Chidi Mokeme bagged the Trailblazer Awards.

The awards, which cut across different fields of endeavours, also honoured Governor Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State with the prestigious Silverbird Man of the Year Award.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and his Enugu State counterpart, Peter Mbah, received the distinguished Governors of the Year Award, while the Minister of Works, David Umahi, was recognised as Minister of the Year.

The Silverbird Man of the Year Award, which started in 2006, celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to various sectors, including business, politics and entertainment.

The annual event presents a political discourse where government policies are censored; speeches are made amidst various awards that will be given to individuals who have excelled in their various fields.

Some prominent awardees of past editions include P-Square, Olu Jacobs, Aliko Dangote, Akinwumi Adesina, and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

Nigerian music superstar Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, has made history as the first African artiste to feature on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine.

Rolling Stone is an American monthly magazine focusing on music, politics, and popular culture.

The Afrobeats sensation is the cover star for the April edition of Rolling Stone.

Mavin Records lauded the uncommon feat with a post on its official Instagram page: “Rave Lordé Rema, the Afrobeats Visionary, makes history as @Rollingstone U.S.A.’s First African Cover Star!”

Following the recognition, the “Heis” crooner thrilled audiences with an electrifying performance at the Rolling Stone concert, performing some of his hit songs, including “Dumebi,” “Woman,” and “Calm Down.”

This milestone has further cemented Rema’s place as a trailblazer for African music, as this feat is coming shortly after he was highlighted on the cover of Dazed Magazine, another major international platform.

Rema, born in 2000 in Benin City, came to the limelight in 2019 after signing with Mavin Records.

His rising profile has continued to highlight Afrobeats on the global stage, as his hit song “Calm Down,” featuring Selena Gomez, became the most streamed Afrobeats track in history, earning him multiple platinum certifications.

The song also broke records as the first African-led track to surpass a billion on Spotify streams, dominating international charts.

“Calm Down” became the number-one hit on the world’s first regional streaming chart and the first-ever official chart in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), earning Rema a Guinness World Record.

Rema also made history as the first African artiste to perform at the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony when he thrilled the audience at the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, France.

Actress Dayo Amusa has weighed in on the controversy surrounding popular musician Asake’s childhood.

The conversation online about parental rejection and its lasting impact has netizens sharing their thoughts.

Amusa, on Instagram, reflected on Asake’s decision to cover his face in tattoos, suggesting that it may be a sign of rebranding or an attempt to mask a deeper pain.

However, she chose not to judge, instead emphasising that Asake deserves love and support rather than public scrutiny.

The actress highlighted the profound impact of parental rejection on a child’s life, noting that fame and wealth cannot heal the wounds of a loveless childhood.

She emphasised the importance of parental presence and love in shaping a child’s sense of self-worth.

As someone who has experienced similar circumstances, Amusa expressed empathy and understanding for Asake’s situation.

She wrote: “When Asake covered his face in tattoos, I once remarked that he was either rebranding or masking a pain he wasn’t ready to confront.

“His childhood remains a mystery-some say his father was absent, others claim his mother was harsh. But I won’t judge a father who left or a mother who did what she could. What matters is that Asake deserves love, not a public spectacle.

“Fame doesn’t heal the wounds of parental rejection. A child raised on “I love you” moves through life differently than one who hears, “I want nothing to do with you.” Some wounds money cannot fix-only deep, intentional healing can.

Rather than judge, I choose to send love to this remarkable artist.

“To parents: Be present. Be the voice your child hears before the world tries to define them. A child who feels truly seen and loved at home has less to prove to the world. As a victim of such circumstances, I can relate. I wish him well”.

Grammy Awards-nominated artiste, Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has finally reconciled with his father, Mr Fatai Odunsi, pledging to cover his medical bills and purchase a new house for him.

This comes after a video surfaced online where Mr Odunsi appealed for help from the public.

Odunsi, who said he has been paralysed following a stroke, alleged that he had been abandoned by the artiste and had not seen him since March 2022.

He further claimed that his calls to Asake have gone unanswered and called on Nigerians to assist him with funds for his treatment.

However, in a recent development on Sunday, Mr Odunsi confirmed that Asake has now reached out to him.

Speaking in Yoruba, he expressed pride in his son and offered prayers, stating that he spoke out because it had been a long time since they last saw each other.

“His mother ought to ask him when last he saw me. That was what got me angry, but we have sorted all the problems. We are no longer fighting.”

He further disclosed that Asake has already initiated plans to buy him a house through real estate agents, saying, “Asake said he will do everything that I want. We have settled, no more problems. They are now looking for a new house that he will buy for me. He has settled everything.”

Odunsi also revealed that the singer has committed to taking full responsibility for his 11-year-old daughter, Zeenat.

“He has never denied his child, but he has now promised to take full responsibility for the child.”

Crossdresser James Brown has revealed that he has temporarily abandoned his female identity due to financial difficulties.

In an Instagram post, Brown solicited help from followers, revealing that he needs assistance with advertisements and promotions to support himself.

He also shared the aspiration to further his education, disclosing that he requires approximately N30 million for tuition fees alone.

“Many people have been asking James, is it true you need help? I actually do. I need all the ads and promotions. In fact, I have turned to a boy right now. I have reached out to some friends. If you want to support, nothing is too small.

“Don’t come laugh at someone who’s trying to put everything together to go back to school,” he wrote.

Brown’s announcement sparked a mixed reaction from netizens, with some questioning his decision to study abroad and others offering words of encouragement.

Instagram user, Lorlah, wrote: “You can school here in Nigeria, we have good schools honestly, why spend over 50 million just to school in the UK?”

Kween Mimi, echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Cut your coat according to your size. Must you go to school in the UK? What happened to Unilag or Uniben?”

Teacher Grins also weighed in, advising, “Get a job, start a business. That’s what we regular people are doing.”

Treasure Daniel wrote: “You’ve turned into a boy? What were you before?”

Abaya Gold added a dose of sarcasm, saying, “Now you see being a girl child is not easy, go and work.”

Fleaky Susan gave a blunt piece of advice, stating, “Go and hustle like the man you are.”

A video has surfaced online, showing Fatai Odunsi, a man claiming to be father of popular singer, Asake, appealing for financial help after suffering a partial stroke.

In the trending video, Odunsi alleged that Asake has neglected him, stating that the last time they met was in March 2022 when his sickness began.

Odunsi pleaded with Nigerians to come to his aid, saying “Good day everyone, I’m the one that gave birth to Ahmed Asake the singer.

“The last time I set my eyes on him was March 2022 when my sickness started. If I called Asake, he wouldn’t pick. Please help me, it is your help that I need”.

The video has sparked controversy, with many criticising Asake for allegedly abandoning his father despite his success in the music industry.

Asake is yet to respond to his father’s public plea for help.

Actress Destiny Etiko has filed a petition against colleague, Queeneth Hilbert, over allegations of “snatching” wealthy boyfriends.

According to a series of videos, Queeneth Hilbert had accused Destiny Etiko of taking her colleagues’ “Odogwu” including one of her ex-partners from Benin who drove a Mercedes-Benz.

In response, Destiny Etiko’s legal team has petitioned Queeneth Hilbert, demanding a retraction of the alleged defamatory statements on all social media platforms.

Etiko claims the allegations are false and aimed at tarnishing her reputation.

The petition seeks to halt further publication of defamatory statements and demands a formal retraction of the derogatory publication.

Radio personality and TV host, Toke Makinwa is set to co-host alongside media personality and host Ebuka Obi- Uchendu a special International Women’s Day edition of Rubbin’ Minds on Sunday.

The special episode will air on Channels TV at 3 pm, discussing conversations on Building a Career in Nigeria –The Power Woman Experience, tackling patriarchy, empowerment and equality, and the evolving narrative of femininity.

According to the Rubbin’ Minds Senior, Seun Oluyemi, the special edition will highlight the power of women and how women are pioneering progress and breaking barriers.

He said, “International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the milestones women have attained in social, economic, cultural, and political achievements and Rubbin’ Minds continues to celebrate their tenacity.’’

Toke and Ebuka had previously shared hosting duties on the Big Brother Naija franchise with Ebuka as the main host and Toke as the host of The Buzz.

Rubbin’ Minds is a live talk show known for discussing youth culture, political and societal issues and sometimes includes interviews with media personalities.

American model Amber Rose recently shared her thoughts on her past romantic relationships with younger men during an appearance on the Club Shay Shay podcast.

Amber Rose explained that her involvement with younger men was purely for entertainment purposes, emphasising that she never intended to pursue serious relationships with them.

She noted that her younger ex-partners often went on to date other women who were considered “bad b!tches” after being with her.

According to Amber Rose, this phenomenon occurs because the other women are drawn to younger men who have been in relationships with her in the past.

Rose attributed this trend to the fact that younger men have grown up admiring women of her caliber and are now eager to pursue them.

However, Rose made it clear that she would never commit to a serious relationship with someone significantly younger than her, instead opting to “have her fun” and move on.

She said: “With girls my age, these young boys watched us for a long time and now that they’re old enough to pursue us and date us, and that’s why they’re on us like that.

“I wouldn’t date them and be serious with them, but I’d have my little fun and then I’d keep it moving. … All my exes dated bad btches after me. I was their initial bad btch and then bad b*tches want to date them because I dated them. That’s just how the game goes.”

A Federal High Court in Lagos on Thursday, declined the arraignment of Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, a former manager of gospel singer, Mercy Chinwo.

Justice Alexander Owoeye held that the court would not proceed with the case until an ongoing administrative process was concluded.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged Onyedikachukwu and his company, Eezee Tee, with money laundering and dishonest conversion of $340,000.

During Thursday’s proceedings, prosecutor Mrs Bilikisu Buhari appeared for the EFCC, while Mr Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), and Dr Monday Ubani represented the defence.

Buhari informed the court that the matter was set for arraignment, and the defence confirmed their readiness to proceed. However, Justice Owoeye clarified that he could not take the arraignment due to ongoing administrative procedures.

Defence counsel Ojukwu then sought confirmation on whether parties should maintain the status quo. The court, howerver, reiterated that no pronouncement would be made until the administrative process was completed.

Ubani reminded the court that he had previously undertaken to present the defendant, which he had now fulfilled. The court acknowledged this but maintained its position.

Following mutual agreement, the court adjourned the case until May 14.

The charges allege that Onyedikachukwu withheld funds from Chinwo’s digital platforms and events.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the EFCC secured an arrest warrant for Onyedikachukwu on Jan. 16 but withdrew it on Jan. 24. On Feb. 17, the court ordered his appearance for arraignment.

Meanwhile, the defence has filed a preliminary objection, arguing that the matter was a contractual dispute rather than a criminal case.

Actress Tonto Dikeh has condemned a popular Instagram blog for misrepresenting her recent post about DNA tests.

Tonto had questioned why men often avoid taking DNA tests but did not mention names.

However some blogs speculated that her post was directed at Cubana Chief Priest, who is involved in a DNA test controversy.

Tonto took to her Instagram page to address the blog, accusing them of reckless and misleading reporting.

She claimed that the blog deliberately omitted her clarification that the post was related to a foundation matter and attempted to fabricate a conflict.

Tonto wrote: “Your misrepresentation is both reckless and misleading. You deliberately omitted the part where I clarified that this was a foundation-related matter and instead attempted to fabricate a conflict. Such blatant manipulation is unacceptable.

“You’re actively spreading falsehoods and distorting people’s words. Either way, your credibility remains in question.

“I am in my lane, leave me there. I don’t have no gaddammn opinion about No Bodies personal life”.

Actress Dayo Amusa has spoken out against people who pressure nursing mothers about their breastfeeding choices.

The new mother, who welcomed her first child three months ago, expressed frustration over strangers and acquaintances constantly asking if she’s breastfeeding.

Amusa emphasised that many mothers face challenges with breastfeeding and should not be judged or pressured.

She shared her experience, revealing that she was formula-fed as a baby and turned out fine.

The actress urged mothers to prioritise their own well-being and make choices that work best for them and their babies, without feeling guilty or judged by others.

She advocated for support and solidarity among women, rather than criticism and comparison.

She wrote on Instagram: ‘“Are you breastfeeding” That’s the face of a well-fed baby. Does it matter whether I nursed my son, pumped, or gave him formula? NO. But for some reason, that’s what so many people want to know…..

‘As people smile at my baby at the grocery store check-out, even strangers ask the same question “Are you breastfeeding your baby” Since when is this OK to ask.

‘Here’s the thing-my baby has had it all. He’s been fed by the breast and he’s been fed by the bottle. All that matters is that he is healthy. 3months old I mean.

‘There’s a debate surrounding formula fed versus breast fed. Well guess what? That’s none of your business. Maybe she can’t produce enough milk to feed her child. Maybe the baby won’t latch on. Maybe she doesn’t feel the connection that other mothers feel nursing. Maybe it’s too time consuming. It all doesn’t matter.

‘As a mother of a baby, it takes so much strength and patience in those early days. Between the lack of sleep and the newborn cries and all, the last thing we need is the added stress of trying to please everyone.

‘We don’t need to feel guilty if we can’t produce enough milk or simply choose not to.

‘Moms, you do you. Choose whatever you feel best for yourself and your baby. Don’t listen to others. And as women, we need to show support for each other. Let’s stop with the “Breast is best”. We need to remember that.

‘And for the record, I was formula fed as a baby…and I turned out just fine. @babyolufire #babyolufire.”

Singer Paul Okoye has alleged that his twin brother, Peter Okoye, is responsible for their elder brother Jude’s arrest.

In a brief interview, Paul claimed that Peter played a role in Jude’s legal troubles, insisting that Jude is being held because of his actions.

“The truth is, Peter is the one putting Jude through these things. He is putting him in prison, and I’m here to bring him out. Because the same crime they accused him of, then Peter is guilty, and Paul is also guilty,” Paul stated.

His remarks follow Jude’s recent arraignment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged N1.3 billion fraud.

Jude, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, recently hosted two of Nigeria’s biggest music stars, Wizkid and Burna Boy, at his Lagos residence.

Sharing the moment on social media, Otedola expressed his privilege in welcoming the Afrobeats icons, describing it as an inspiring opportunity to exchange ideas and celebrate the global success of the genre.

In a post on his social media page, Otedola wrote: “A true privilege to host some of our biggest music icons @wizkidayo @burnaboy at my Lagos home. Always inspiring to share ideas and celebrate the global movement that is Afrobeats …F.Ote”.

Popular actress, Halima Abubakar, has said that she solicited the help of Nigerians because she did not want to die, and was tired of asking for help from the same people over and again.

In an exclusive interview with Saturday Beats, she said, “I knew I was getting serious. And when I was in the village, I just thought within me, is this how it’s going to end? What I am going through has not been easy. It is something that takes one’s happiness away and makes one so angry. But, one has to look at the positive side of life and just keep struggling. I know that this won’t last forever.

“I had to find the strength to go public. I don’t know how, but I just had to do it. A closed mouth is a closed destiny, and I’m not ready to die. And I don’t want to ask the same people again. How would people know that I need help (if I don’t speak out)? God has given me strength to battle a lot of things that people don’t know about.”

Speaking on how she has been able to fund her medications and tests, she stated, “A lot of people have been wonderful, and two of my friends have been particularly helpful. Aside from that, it has just been God, myself and the help I have been getting recently.

“The people saying that I am lying are a few Nollywood people; don’t mind them. They are all people from my industry. I don’t care about that.”

She further advised people who are in similar situations to trust themselves, and take care of their families because those are the only people “who wish you good.”

Controversial singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has turned himself in at the Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Yaba.

Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the development on Wednesday.

“Portable just turned himself in at the SCID Yaba. We have contacted Ogun State Police Command to come pick him up,” he said.

This came after Portable, in a video posted on Tuesday, described himself as a “madman” undergoing treatment at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta.

He made the statement while pleading with Nigerians and the Ogun State Government following the police declaration that he was wanted.

Despite his plea, Omolola Odutola, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, insisted that Portable surrender himself for investigation.

Actor and comedian Charles Okocha has opened up on how he was shot six times and miraculously survived.

In a recent episode of ‘Curiosity Made Me Ask,’ Okocha shared details of the incident, revealing that one of the bullets passed through his stomach.

Okocha expressed gratitude for surviving the ordeal, describing himself as a “survivor” and reflecting on the challenges he has faced in his life.

The host, Bae U Barbie asked, “Is it true that you were shot six times?”

Stripping himself to show off scars of the bullet wounds, Okocha said: “I want the whole wide world to see my scars. Six shots. One of the bullets got in through my stomach and popped out on the other side.

“If only you knew I was shot you won’t be asking me. I’m a survivor. Look at my life. Look at what I have been through. I’m the last real n*gga alive and that’s official.”

Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo, fondly known as Queen Mother, has returned to Nigeria after attending the first phase of her daughter Priscilla’s wedding in Tanzania.

The actress, who has been actively sharing her excitement about her daughter’s wedding on social media, expressed her gratitude for a surprise welcome home reception organised by her close friends and sisters.

In a video posted on Instagram on Sunday, she wrote, “I’m speechless! I thought I was the only ‘extra’ one, but my friends and sisters just took it to a whole new level! This surprise welcome back home party was everything and more! I’m still reeling from the shock – I never saw it coming!

“Thank you, each and every one of you, for this heartfelt, warming, and wonderful surprise! I’m truly grateful. God bless you all! I love you all!”

Nigerian comedian and skit maker Isaac Aloma, better known as Zicasloma, has opened up about the reasons behind his recent decision to undergo rhinoplasty surgery, offering his fans insight into the process and his recovery journey.

“I’ve always had a very flat nose and right from childhood I’ve felt that if I could do my nose, I would reconstruct it. I’ve been constantly ridiculed because of my nose. My siblings would always insult me saying, ‘Your nose is too ugly. Your nose is too big.’ I carried my papa’s nose in excess. Some of you think rhinoplasty is a death sentence. People do rhinoplasty for different reasons… Some ladies can’t wear some kind of dress because they have big stomachs or “K-leg”.

“You wear some kind of dress because of your insecurities. For some people, it’s because they are short. If we have a choice, that insecurity will be corrected. They’ll say you don’t like how God created you, but ladies wear make-up. Is that how God created them? Why do you do braces to correct your teeth? Leave it the way God gave you your teeth. You’re thinking of how people will perceive you; you know we live in a very judgemental country, Nigeria. The fact that you don’t have the mind or money to correct your insecurities doesn’t mean you should judge another person.”