Entertainment
Okonjo-Iweala Showcases Dance Skills As Igbo Masquerades Perform At WTO Open Day Ceremony
WTO Open Day was observed on Sunday 5 July 2026, to mark the 100th anniversary of the WTO’s headquarters (Centre William Rappard).
The World Trade Organisation’s annual Open Day ceremony was fun as cultures collided, but one performance stole the entire afternoon.
WTO Open Day 2026 was observed on Sunday 5 July 2026, to mark the 100th anniversary of the WTO’s headquarters (Centre William Rappard).
The crowd of international delegates, ambassadors, witnessed the rhythmic and unmistakable sound of the Ogene- a metal gong paired with the deep rattle of the Ichaka.
In a viral video, an Adamma masquerade, adorned in elaborate woven raffia and a beautifully carved maiden mask, strode into the centre of the square and moved with intricate footwork, stamping its feet to the escalating tempo of the drums, bringing the raw spirit of southeastern Nigeria straight into the heart of global governance.
Standing near the front of the pavilion was the WTO Director-General herself, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
True to her signature style, she wore a striking, impeccably tied gele paired with a silky gown.
As the masquerade swirled, its handlers gestured respectfully toward the Director-General, inviting her into the sacred circle. In Igbo tradition, a masquerade interacting with a leader is a sign of immense honour and spiritual blessing.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala didn’t hesitate as she stepped forward into the open square. The crowd erupted in cheers as the DG immediately caught the rhythm. She matched the masquerade’s energy, rolling her shoulders and executing graceful, rhythmic steps that perfectly mirrored the cadence of the Ogene.
For a few beautiful minutes, the weight of global trade policies vanished, replaced by the universal language of dance.
The masquerade bowed low, spinning one last time in a flurry of colour before Dr Okonjo-Iweala waved gracefully back, her face lit with a broad smile. It was the perfect embodiment of the Open Day’s true purpose: breaking down institutional walls and proving that even in the world’s most serious rooms, cultural pride and joy have a vital seat at the table.
(Credit: Leadership)
Entertainment
Face of Unijos student, Mbaya, killed over alleged phone theft
A video of the incident, which has gone viral, showed how the suspects beat him with planks and canes and subsequently subjected him to different forms of punishment that led to his death.
A 25-year-old University of Jos graduate, Ibrahim Mbaya, popularly known as “Ibee,” has been killed by students over alleged phone theft.
Ohibaba learned that the incident occurred on Sunday at an off-campus apartment behind the City of David area, along Ring Road in Jos.
A video of the incident, which has gone viral, showed how the suspects beat him with planks and canes and subsequently subjected him to different forms of punishment that led to his death.
It was further learned that Mbaya, who was still processing an outstanding academic issue, had attended a social event on campus before deciding to spend the night at a friend’s residence in Ring Road because it was too late to return to his home in Rayfield.
It was reported that the following morning, his friends claimed an iPhone had gone missing and insisted that since they were the only occupants of the room, he was the prime suspect. Thereafter, they beat him to death.
Entertainment
BBNaija Season 11 Opens with 24 Housemates
The contestants introduced during the premiere are Tram, Temi Nkem, Martins, Abi, Chimsom Chuka, Keivo, Mercedes, Kamsy, Sultex, Aikou, Flora, Bells, Gerard, Oyin, Sheba, Araga, Ricky, Nomy, Barry, Neche, Yusuf, Goddessa, Bluethophia and Cassi.
•BBNaija Season 11 housemates
Big Brother Naija Season 11 officially began on Sunday July 26, with the introduction of 24 housemates
They comprise 12 men and 12 women, who will compete over the next 10 weeks for a record ₦160 million grand prize.
The premiere, hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, opened with a performance by rapper Falz before the contestants were introduced into Biggie’s house. Rapper Ycee later performed after the unveiling of all 24 housemates, bringing the launch show to a close.
The contestants introduced during the premiere are Tram, Temi Nkem, Martins, Abi, Chimsom Chuka, Keivo, Mercedes, Kamsy, Sultex, Aikou, Flora, Bells, Gerard, Oyin, Sheba, Araga, Ricky, Nomy, Barry, Neche, Yusuf, Goddessa, Bluethophia and Cassi.
The housemates come from different parts of Nigeria and represent a range of professions, including entertainment, fashion, healthcare, technology, business and the creative industry, setting the stage for what is expected to be another competitive season.
Entertainment
Burna Boy Sets Record As African Artiste To Top Billboard Global 200 Chart
The song is currently number one on both the Billboard Global 200 and Billboard Global 200 Exclusive U.S
Popular Nigerian Afrobeats singer, Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, has made history as the first African artiste to top the Billboard Global 200 Songs chart.
The Grammy-multiple-award-winning singer achieved the feat after his collaborative World Cup song with Shakira, ‘Dai Dai’, peaked at number one on this chart this week.
The song is currently number one on both the Billboard Global 200 and Billboard Global 200 Exclusive U.S.
The song also moved up twelve places this week to reach a new peak of 55 on the Billboard U.S.Hot 100 chart .
(New Telegraph)
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