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Tinubu Commends Rema, Burna Boy, Shallipopi, Other Nigerian Stars as Nigeria Dominates 9th AFRIMA

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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.

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Nollywood Actress Aunty Ajara dies after illness

We also use this opportunity to appeal to those sending money not to send it anymore. The one we are contributing for her sake is no more. Thank you so much. We do not want you to send money into that account again.”

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Nollywood actress Ajara Lasisi, popularly known as Aunty Ajara, is dead.

Her death was announced this morning by Nollywood director, Tobi Oladele Teemony, also known as Tee Mony.

In a statement shared on Instagram, he said: “With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved actress, Aunty Ajara.

Aunty Ajara died overnight after a long and courageous battle with illness.

Teemony said that the dead actress received “immense love, prayers, and financial support from kind-hearted people across the world during her illness.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who stood by her with prayers, contributions, encouragement, and compassion,” he added.

He also urged members of the public to stop sending donations to the account previously shared for her treatment, stating that financial contributions were “no longer required”.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, loved ones, and everyone grieving this painful loss,” the statement added.

Following her death, her elder brother, Ridwan Lasisi, said that the families appreciate the efforts of the Hollywood president and all industry members.

“We also use this opportunity to appeal to those sending money not to send it anymore. The one we are contributing for her sake is no more. Thank you so much. We do not want you to send money into that account again.”

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Beggar found to possess three houses, cars, other businesses acquired from proceeds of begging

In addition, he owned two auto-rickshaws that he had rented out to others, and a car for which he had hired a driver on a salary of 12,000 Rupees (about $130).

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•Mangilal

A leprosy-stricken beggar on the streets of Indore in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, turned out to be a true slumdog millionaire, with several houses, vehicles and businesses to his name, the media in India reported.

As part of concentrated efforts to make Indore a beggar-free city, local authorities recently rescued a physically-challenged man who had been begging for years in the bustling Sarafa Bazaar.

Unable to walk, the 50-year-old man, known only as Mangilal, spent his days cross-legged on a small wooden platform fitted with wheels, slowly pushing himself around. He had lost his fingers to leprosy, so he was a sorry sight that made many reach into their pockets for a few notes.

Mangilal always stood on his platform with his gaze fixed on the ground, which only made him more pitiful.

But it turns out this was a carefully planned strategy that made him richer than most able-bodied people in the world.

After he was taken off the street, brought in, given a shower, and provided with clean clothes, Mangilal was questioned by civil servants about his situation, and it turned out that he wasn’t as helpless as he appeared.

He reportedly earned thousands of rupees per day begging and was lending money to shopkeepers in the Sarafa Bazaar at interest.

Subsequent checks revealed that he was not homeless but actually owned three houses: a three-storey house, a second house, and a flat that was given to him by a government welfare programme.

In addition, he owned two auto-rickshaws that he had rented out to others, and a car for which he had hired a driver on a salary of 12,000 Rupees (about $130).

Mangilal himself admitted that the money he earned in Safara wasn’t required for survival, but rather a source of funds for various investments.

Officials are currently checking if the 50-year-old beggar has any bank accounts to his name as well.

During the investigation, it was revealed that Mangilal’s family members were also involved in begging.

“I certainly go there, but don’t beg, it’s the people who put the money in my pocket or throw coins or notes on the wooden board,” Mangilal explained.

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Seyi Tinubu Appoints Obi Cubana as South-East Regional Director of City Boy Movement

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Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and patron of the City Boy Movement (CBM), has officially appointed prominent Nigerian businessman and socialite Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, as the South-East Regional Director of the youth-focused pro-government group.

The appointment was formalized during a visit by Seyi Tinubu to Obi Cubana’s residence in Abuja on Monday night, February 2, 2026, where he personally presented the letter of recognition and appointment. The ceremony, captured in videos circulating on social media, featured supporters singing President Tinubu’s campaign anthem, “On Your Mandate We Shall Stand,” amid cheers and expressions of loyalty to the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The City Boy Movement is a youth-oriented platform aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, aimed at mobilizing support, promoting youth empowerment, innovation, and regional cooperation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a post on his Instagram page on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, Obi Cubana shared details of the event and addressed mixed public reactions to his new role. He reaffirmed his commitment to integrity, community development, and inclusive growth, stating, “I am a City Boy through and through, inside and out,” while emphasizing that meaningful change requires active engagement rather than withdrawal.

The appointment has sparked widespread discussions online, with some praising it as a strategic move to strengthen ties in the South-East region, while others have expressed criticism or skepticism. Obi Cubana urged detractors to respect differing perspectives and focus on shared national progress.

This development comes as part of broader efforts by the City Boy Movement to expand its influence and grassroots support across Nigeria in preparation for future political engagements.

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