•Valentino Garavani / Getty image

Valentino Garavani, Italy’s fashion king has died at his home in Rome. He was 93.

Valentino launched his label in 1960 and found worldwide fame dressing European royals, American first ladies, and stars of the day.

“Valentino Garavani passed away today at his Roman residence, surrounded by his loved ones,” wrote his Rome-based foundation on social media.

A funeral is planned for Friday in the Italian capital, with a lying in state on Wednesday and Thursday.

Best known as just Valentino, the designer’s creations — many of them in “Valentino red” — were worn by the who’s who of the international elite, from Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn and Nancy Reagan to Sharon Stone, Julia Roberts and Gwyneth Paltrow in recent years.

When the empress of Iran, Farah Pahlavi, escaped the country during the 1979 revolution, she was wearing a coat made by Valentino.

Dubbed “the Sheik of Chic” by Women’s Wear Daily in the 1980s, Valentino was celebrated by the New York Times in 1997 for his “single-minded dedication to glamour.”

The Nigerian music industry is in mourning following the sudden death of rising Afrofuji and Afrobeats singer Afeez Adeshina, popularly known as Destiny Boy, at the age of 22.

The heartbreaking news broke earlier today when popular Instagram investigative journalist Temilola Sobola announced the singer’s passing on social media, writing: “Singer Destiny Boy has passed away.

May his soul Rest In Peace 🕊️.

”Destiny Boy, born in 2004, first gained widespread recognition in 2019 with his energetic Fuji-infused cover of Davido’s hit song “If.

“His unique blend of traditional Fuji rhythms with modern Afrobeats earned him a dedicated fanbase and established him as one of Nigeria’s most promising young talents in the genre often referred to as Afrofuji.

The young artist’s death comes just months after significant personal milestones. In November 2024, he joyfully welcomed his first child at the age of 20, and earlier that year in March 2024, he made headlines by proposing to his partner with a reportedly multi-million-naira diamond ring.

As of now, no official cause of death has been confirmed by the family, management, or credible authorities. While unverified reports and speculation including claims of a prolonged illness, vomiting blood, or other circumstances have circulated online, these remain unsubstantiated.

A viral video allegedly showing the singer’s remains has further fueled discussions and grief on social media.

Destiny Boy’s young wife was seen in a widely shared clip breaking down in tears, pleading “Afeez wake up” as she mourned the devastating loss, highlighting the profound personal impact on his family.

Fans and colleagues have flooded social media with tributes, shock, and reflections on life’s fragility. One emotional post read: “So tomorrow is not sure for anybody.

”The sudden passing marks a tragic end to a career that showed immense promise. Destiny Boy’s high-energy performances and distinctive sound had already taken him on tours across Africa and the UK.

Further details, including funeral arrangements, are expected as the family processes this immense loss. The music community and fans continue to send condolences to his loved ones, including his young child and wife, during this difficult time.

May his soul rest in peace. 🕊️

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artistes who shone brightly at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), hailing their outstanding achievements as a testament to the growing global influence, creativity, and resilience of Nigeria’s vibrant music industry and youth.

The President described the successes as a proud moment for the nation, showcasing the depth of talent and hard work that continue to elevate Nigerian music across Africa and the world. He noted that the victories reflect years of dedication and consistency, positioning Nigerian sounds as a powerful cultural voice on the continental and international stage.

The 9th AFRIMA, held from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos — the official host city designated by the African Union Commission on April 9, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — delivered a stellar outing for Nigerian talents.

The event attracted over 1,200 artistes, delegates, and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries, underscoring its pan-African significance.

Key Nigerian winners included:

– Rema, who dominated with three major awards: Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African RnB & Soul.

– Burna Boy, who claimed Album of the Year for his project No Sign of Weakness, and shared Best African Collaboration with Shallipopi for their hit track “Laho” (or its remix).

– Shallipopi, who secured Song of the Year for his viral hit “Laho”, alongside the collaboration award.

– Other notable Nigerian honorees: Phyno (Best African Hip-Hop), Qing Madi (Most Promising Artiste), Yemi Alade (Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series or Documentary for “You Are” from the animated series Iyanu), and Chella (African Fans’ Favourite).

– Veterans Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye (D1) received the prestigious AFRIMA Legendary Award.

President Tinubu extended special commendation to Lagos State for its exceptional hosting of the event, which featured a Welcome Soiree, the Africa Music Business Summit, a vibrant Music Village concert at Ikeja City Mall with over 25 top artistes performing for thousands of fans, and a sold-out grand finale at the Eko Convention Centre.

“I commend Lagos State for once again proving its capacity as Africa’s creative and entertainment capital. I congratulate the Lagos State Government and His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for delivering a successful, world-class, safe, and welcoming environment for delegates, artistes, and guests from across the continent,” the President stated.

Reflecting on his own recognition in 2015 with the Pillar of Art and Culture in Africa Award by the African Union Commission and AFRIMA, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritizing youth empowerment and the creative economy.

“Culture is the soul of a people, and music remains one of Africa’s strongest voices. I remain deeply committed to supporting initiatives that promote our culture and empower our creative talents.

Our government is fully committed to empowering young Nigerians and strengthening the creative economy through music, film, fashion, and other sectors that drive jobs, tourism, and national development,” he added.

The President urged the award-winning artistes to continue using their platforms to inspire hope, unity, and pride while contributing to Nigeria’s growth.

The 9th AFRIMA, founded in 2014 by the International Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission, culminated in the presentation of the iconic 23.9-carat gold-plated trophies to outstanding creatives.