When you reach for a cold drink without thinking twice, it’s usually because it’s been part of your life for as long as you can remember. That kind of muscle memory doesn’t happen by chance. It’s built over time over 75 years of showing up as the answer to every “What are you drinking?” moment.

From your family’s Christmas table, to the bukka down the road, to the party that gave you memories you wouldn’t trade for the world… and even those quiet days when an ice-cold Coca-Cola just hits differently.

For 75 years, Coca-Cola has been refreshing Nigeria. And the brand still knows exactly what Nigerians want: more of the good stuff, and more value when it matters most.

To celebrate this milestone, Coca-Cola introduces a specially designed 60cl PET anniversary pack, giving you an extra 10cl on your regular 50cl drink 20% more value, simply because it’s our birthday, and we’re sharing the love.

The limited-edition Coca-Cola Less Sugar PET bottles wear Nigeria proudly, wrapped in our flag colours around the refreshing taste we all love. This extra value is also available exclusively across Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Fanta, and Sprite in the 60cl anniversary packs.

As a toast to the Nigerian spirit and a journey built together Coca-Cola invites Nigerians everywhere to raise a bottle and celebrate. E Don Tey, but We Still Dey.

Whether you, Want a Fanta, need a Sprite for the heat, or you’ve gone all in on Coca-Cola Less Sugar or Zero Sugar, everyone gets more for the celebration. Even your faves:@soft_ajebota and @alliyah_mm

 

 

 

 

 

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Make every moment count with the new 60cl anniversary packs, available now at major retailers nationwide.  

For more information, visit www.coca-cola.com/ng/en or follow on Instagram or X for more Coca-Cola offers and experiences.

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The post More Value, Same Great Taste: Coca-Cola Introduces New Designs on 60cl PET Bottles to Celebrate 75 Years with Nigerians appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Sometimes, you ask yourself, how did Aliko Dangote and Tony Elumelu become so rich? How did they build businesses and scale to reach millions of people? To answer these questions, James Dumoulin, the founder of the financial literacy company School of Hard Knocks, came to Nigeria to interview them. James has interviewed some of the richest people on the planet and has travelled to several countries in the world to interview millionaires and billionaires. He was in Nigeria a while back to interview Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu and other billionaires in the country.

Here are some of the interviews below:

Aliko Dangote

 

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Tony Elumelu

 

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Kola Karim

 

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Adesuwa Okunbo-Rhode

 

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What do you think is the secret to becoming a billionaire from Nigeria? What have you learned from watching these videos, if you learned anything?

The post How Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu and Others Become Billionaires appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

As digital payments become part of everyday life, keeping money safe has never been more important. To help customers stay protected, OPay introduced two new security features: Emergency Lock and Safety PIN. These features are designed to help users take immediate action when they sense danger, thereby preventing fraud, theft, and unauthorized transactions before they occur.

Here are six reasons why these new features matter.

1. They Help Stop Fraud Before It Happens
Many security solutions focus on recovering funds after fraud has occurred. Emergency Lock and Safety PIN take a different approach by helping customers act before money leaves their account. This proactive protection gives users a better chance of preventing financial losses.

2. Instant Account Protection During Emergencies
With Emergency Lock, customers can freeze their OPay account with just one tap whenever they feel their account may be at risk. Whether it’s a lost phone, suspicious activity, or an unexpected security concern, the account is immediately protected, stopping all outgoing transactions within the freeze period.

3. Extra Protection in High-Risk Situations
The Safety PIN is designed for situations where a customer may be under pressure or forced to complete a transaction. Instead of raising suspicion or arguing with the attacker, the customer should enter their Safety PIN. This provides an additional layer of personal and financial protection during difficult situations.

4. Greater Confidence When Using Digital Payments
Knowing that tools are available to respond instantly during security emergencies gives customers greater confidence to conduct everyday transactions. Whether sending money, paying bills, or shopping online, users can enjoy digital payments with added peace of mind.

5. Security Designed Around Real-Life Challenges
Phone theft, robbery, account compromise, and forced transfers remain real concerns for many Nigerians. Emergency Lock and Safety PIN were developed to address these everyday risks, providing practical solutions that reflect how customers live, work, and transact.

6. A Stronger Commitment to Customer Safety
The introduction of Emergency Lock and Safety PIN reflects OPay’s continued investment in security innovation and customer protection. By combining convenience with advanced security, OPay is helping build a safer digital financial ecosystem where customers have greater control over their money whenever they need it most.

Protecting More Than Money

Security is about more than preventing fraud; it is about giving people confidence, control, and peace of mind. With Emergency Lock and Safety PIN, OPay is empowering tens of millions of Nigerians with practical tools that help them stay protected in unexpected situations. As digital payments continue to grow, innovations like these demonstrate OPay’s commitment to making financial services not only faster and more convenient but also safer for everyone.

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The post 6 Things to Know About OPay’s New Security Features appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Drivers’ Championship leader Ugo Ugochukwu holding his first-place board after securing his second win of the 2026 FIA Formula 3 season. Photo Credit: Ugo Ugochukwu/Instagram

Ugo Ugochukwu is making this FIA Formula 3 season look very straightforward, and the numbers back that up. The Nigerian-American Campos Racing driver won the Silverstone Sprint Race on Saturday 4 July by 17.023 seconds, the largest winning margin in the current iteration of FIA Formula 3, exceeding the previous record by 3.552 seconds. It was his second victory of the 2026 season, making him the first driver to win twice this year.

Starting from pole, Ugochukwu led every single lap of the 18-lap race at the 5.891-kilometre Silverstone circuit, also claiming the additional point for fastest lap. Early on, AIX Racing’s Yevan David applied pressure from directly behind, remaining within DRS range in the opening laps. But as Ugochukwu managed his tyres carefully in the early stages, the gap steadily grew, and by the halfway point the race up front was effectively over. Behind Ugochukwu, there was plenty of drama. David held on to claim second, becoming the first Sri Lankan driver to stand on the Formula 3 podium, while Campos teammate Théophile Nael grabbed third with a last-corner overtake on TRIDENT’s Matteo De Palo.

Campos Racing driver Ugo Ugochukwu celebrates his historic, record-breaking sprint race victory at the 2026 Silverstone circuit. Photo Credit: Ugo Ugochukwu/Instagram

Speaking after the race, Ugochukwu was clearly pleased with how his afternoon had gone. “I’m super happy, second win of the season, but most of all the pace was amazing. Really good second and last part of the race, we managed to pull a big gap, so that fills us with confidence for tomorrow, so I am sure we can come through the field and score some more good points tomorrow,” he said. He also detailed how he managed the race from the front. “At the beginning of the race, Yevan was quite a bit closer. He was just about in my DRS, so I was trying to manage that as best as possible. The gap increased and obviously made my race a lot easier, but I still had to focus, make sure I wasn’t using too much of my tyres, just in case someone came strong at the end. After a certain point, I knew I just had to bring it home.”

Nigerian-American racing driver Ugo Ugochukwu in his official FIA Formula 3 championship racing gear. Photo Credit: Ugo Ugochukwu/Instagram

Ugochukwu now leads the 2026 FIA Formula 3 Drivers’ Championship on 89 points, with Freddie Slater second on 66. Born in New York City to Nigerian supermodel Oluchi Onweagba and Italian fashion designer Luca Orlandi, Ugochukwu has been one of motorsport’s most watched young talents for several years. He was part of the McLaren Driver Development Programme from 2021 to 2025, became the first American winner of the Macau Grand Prix in 43 years in 2024, and tested a Formula One car for the first time in June 2026, driving the Alpine A524 during a private session in Monza.

Watch highlights of the race below

The post Ugo Ugochukwu Makes FIA Formula 3 History With Record-Breaking Silverstone Victory appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Keeping to my promise of addressing the elephant in the room in my former treatise, I have a few thoughts to share in this auspicious age of freedom, especially concerning Jehu. One of the best allies of truth is time, so I have learnt that instead of engaging in needless arguments by people who are committed and, in most cases, incentivised to misunderstand a message – I just play the long game and let things happen. This is not my first rodeo; I have become very comfortable saying things that don’t make sense at the time or aren’t politically correct but ultimately turned out to be true. It doesn’t mean I know everything, or I get everything right, but I do my best to call balls and strikes. Also, for those who are not familiar with the use of archetypes in storytelling, you might want to read my previous essays. Unfortunately, this is not the time to elucidate because I want to keep this short and sweet. So let me quarterback this thing.

The Madman

The etymology of this reference to Jehu came from an unnamed watchman in Jezreel who did his best to provide real-time actionable intelligence. At this time, Jehu had just been anointed as an insurgent to upend the status quo and end the reign of Ahab. So he got on his horse and headed straight to the state house with his crew. This watchman, to his credit, could identify Jehu simply by his signature style of riding a horse: “It must be Jehu son of Nimshi, for he’s driving like a madman”. Just in a few verses before, Jehu’s colleagues also referred to the young prophet as a madman for delivering Elisha’s errand and anointing Jehu to replace the incumbent.

That gives us a very important context: we can then safely extrapolate that the term madman was a colloquial expression in that time which alluded to someone who dared to challenge a powerful establishment. In the case of the young prophet, anointing a new king in an era where Jezebel was hunting down prophets for fun was seen as madness. In the case of Jehu, challenging the existing political power structure was seen as madness. So we see that being called a madman had less to do with cognitive lapses but more about being unconventional, unbridled and unpredictable. Jehu as a madman is not a slur but a description consistent with his archetype of not fitting into the politburo’s playbook – just like Ahab being a puppet is also not a slur but a description consistent with his archetype of not being the person actually calling the shots.

The Greatest Hits

I like to play a little game called catch-up, where we revisit the veracity of previous submissions:

• Long before the pundits started with their partisan talking points, I wrote this in closing, alluding to the rise of Jehu, “I see someone approaching the horizon and from the way he rides his chariot, I reckon this must be the son of Nimshi.”
• Again, before-the-fact, I gave the game away that captured the prevailing sentiments of a large swath of the time concerning Jehu: “people are willing to choose policy over personality, prosperity over propaganda and a patriot over a puppet.”
• It sounded far-fetched when I wrote Ben-Hadid would “most certainly buy the farm”. Those with military or intelligence backgrounds know exactly what this means. I won’t be explaining any further.
• I mentioned that we would witness “the renewed supremacy of the eagle over the bear and the dragon because Jehu will unleash a new era of shock and awe”. Let’s just say that checked out big time.
• Finally, in one fell swoop, I laid out all the spoilers of the Jehu era, especially that he will reverse roles and move from being hunted to being the hunter; also, that he would clean house and go after those carrying water for Ahab. Sounds familiar, right?

The Mission

I will address this directly to Jehu. I wrote all that just for the record because what I’m going to share might rock the boat – I sincerely hope I’m wrong because I have been through this song and dance many times before. By the way, some say you’re a Cyrus, but from my little knowledge of storytelling, I think Jehu is a more apposite archetype. Nonetheless, you are a man favoured by God like you have no idea – a literal example of using the foolish things of this world to confound the wise. Of course this doesn’t excuse every bad decision you have made or things you have said; at the end of the day you’re a free moral agent. Contrary to the media narrative, the cult of personality applies only to a sliver of people – for the vast majority, it’s really about the mission than it is about the man.

This is why people who would otherwise not have supported you put aside their personal sentiments and did what had to be done to combat what was perceived as an existential threat at the time. It’s well-documented that I wasn’t exactly the biggest fan, but I knew better than to bet against you because you’re a winner. It’s not happenstance that you’re in this position at such a time as this. However, remember what brought you to the dance, but more importantly, remember who brought you to the dance. As I was saying, the wolves that hunted you didn’t miss because they were rookies; they have handled many before you – a greater force was always at play. So this is not about you; it has never been about you, really. There are many things you have to straighten out, but you have little time to do them.

Speaking of existential threats, those before you chose the way of appeasement – some went as far as providing aid and comfort to those who have sworn to ensure your homeland burns to the ground. To their credit, they figured they won’t be able to realise their wet dream as long as you’re calling the shots, so the long game is to string you along until another puppet shows up. Anyone in your ear who claims deterrence can be gotten from a piece of paper is spewing baloney; you’re dealing with very shrewd characters on the other side – si vis pacem, para bellum. All options must be brought back to the table, and at a more favourable time, business should ultimately be conducted on continent grounds.

Then there is a small matter that touches a neck of the woods I may or may not be familiar with. I have it on good authority that certain plans on your end are already locked and loaded. Then there are sons of Belial who want to scuttle those plans by bearing false witness, manipulating your lieutenants and sending godless men as emissaries to you. They believe you are very “transactional” and they know how to speak with you in a language you can understand. All I will say is to reference a wise man’s words: if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise from another place but not without consequences for you – you are there for such a time as this. You talk a big game about having a force for good; well, it’s time to back it up.

Exactly one year ago, I tried to warn the folks on the other side of the aisle with some shock therapy because they were “stuck on stupid, doubling down on dumb and pandering to a vocal minority over a silent majority – this combination is a recipe for disaster”. They refused to learn anything or course-correct; these days, I hear rumours of a civil war brewing, and here I am, pretending to be shocked. To say legacy is at stake would be a gross understatement; your next line of action could shape the destiny of civilisations. As usual, thank you for your attention to this matter.

The post Mfonobong Inyang: The Man In The Arena – Notes For Jehu appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Ayra Starr styles a black open-back bodysuit with a wide leather corset belt and stacked gold bangles.

If “Tornado” has been sitting comfortably in your playlist, Ayra Starr has now given you another reason to stop scrolling. The singer has shared a fresh set of photos, and much like her latest single, the look arrives with plenty of attitude. There isn’t a bright colour in sight, yet she proves once again that black never has to compete for attention.

Built around a sleek head-to-toe black palette, the outfit plays with shape and texture rather than colour. Ayra wears a fitted sleeveless bodysuit with a plunging halter neckline and striking side cut-outs that reveal an open-back detail. Matching second-skin leggings extend the clean silhouette from top to toe, while a wide black leather corset belt defines the waist with bold, sculptural panelling that gives the entire look a strong, fashion-forward finish.

yra Starr’s monochrome black silhouette featuring a panelled leather corset waist belt and gold chain collar.

Rather than piling on colour, the styling lets gold do all the talking. A chunky chain-link collar necklace sits prominently at the neckline, joined by ornate gold drop earrings, stacked gold cuffs, and bangles that bring warmth and contrast against the all-black outfit. A simple silver ring finishes the jewellery story without taking attention away from the statement accessories.

Ayra keeps her hair full and voluminous with long cascading curls that soften the structured outfit. Her makeup leans into warm neutral tones, pairing a smoky winged eye with bright inner-corner highlights, softly defined cheeks, and a glossy ombré lip. Moody studio lighting washes the portraits with cool metallic blue-green tones, giving the photographs a cinematic feel that complements the monochrome styling.

Close-up photo of Ayra Starr wearing statement gold jewellery and a glossy ombré lip for her monochrome style feature.

The photos arrive just as “Tornado,” Ayra Starr’s latest release, continues to gather attention, making this another reminder that she enjoys telling stories beyond the music. Whether she’s stepping into the studio, onto a stage, or in front of a camera, she has a way of making every appearance feel considered without losing the relaxed confidence that has become part of her appeal.

One thing is certain: if your style mood board has room for monochrome dressing with a bold edge, Ayra Starr has just handed you fresh inspiration.

Ayra Starr showcasing her neutral-toned glam, smoky eyeliner, and voluminous wavy hair following the release of her single Tornado.

Photo Credit: Ayra Starrr/Instagram

The post Ayra Starr Pairs a Sculptural Corset With Bold Gold Jewellery in New Look appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Following the recent introduction of its new logo and its expansion into cans, Reaktor is reinforcing its commitment to spotlighting the quiet determination of Nigerians through the launch of its Push Your Limits campaign.

Inspired by the brand’s tagline, Push Your Limits, the campaign shines a light on the resilience, ambition and work ethic of ordinary people whose stories often go unnoticed. Reaktor took to the streets to engage real people, among them a tailor, mechanic, trader, hairdresser, keke driver and carpenter, capturing honest conversations about their daily routines, motivations and the drive that keeps them moving forward.

Now live on Reaktor’s Instagram and Facebook pages, the campaign reflects the brand’s belief that everyday heroes deserve to be seen and celebrated.
Speaking on the launch, Franklyn Eluagu, Communications Manager at Planet Bottling Company, said:

“This campaign speaks to ambitious Nigerians who work hard, chase opportunities and strive for more, regardless of any obstacle. Everyday heroes deserve to be seen, and Reaktor exists to celebrate them.”

With the Push Your Limits campaign, Reaktor invites Nigerians to look beyond job titles and recognize the passion, discipline and perseverance behind every craft.
Reaktor encourages everyone to join the conversation by sharing their own craft, profession or hustle, and showing the world what it means to Push Your Limits.

About Reaktor

Reaktor is an energy drink brand produced in Nigeria by Planet Bottling Company. Built around the belief that progress comes from pushing beyond limits, Reaktor champions the grit, ambition and drive of everyday Nigerians. Planet Bottling Company also produces American Cola, Planet and Bubble Up.

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The post Reaktor Celebrates Everyday Heroes with ‘Push Your Limits’ Campaign appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

KikiFoodies’ homemade, creamy one-pot butter chicken rice simmered in chicken stock and heavy cream.

If your weekly meal plan has been feeling a little predictable, KikiFoodies has just arrived with something that deserves a spot on it. Meet Butter Chicken Rice, a recipe that asks one very fun question: what happens when India’s iconic butter chicken meets the one-pot rice dishes we can never say no to? The answer is rich, creamy, deeply spiced comfort that feels familiar while bringing something entirely new to the table.

Inspired by the much-loved Indian classic Murgh Makhani, this recipe borrows everything people love about butter chicken, from the yoghurt-marinated chicken to the buttery tomato sauce scented with garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garlic, and ginger. But instead of serving the sauce over rice, the rice cooks right inside it, soaking up every spoonful of flavour until each grain is coated in the creamy, spiced sauce.

An Indian-inspired one-pot recipe combining classic butter chicken sauce elements with seasoned, fluffy long-grain rice.

KikiFoodies uses a combination of boneless chicken thighs and chicken breast for a balance of tenderness and texture, along with tomato paste, passata, butter, chicken stock, and a splash of heavy cream. Long-grain Sella basmati rice is the preferred choice, though regular basmati or long-grain rice works just as well with a few cooking adjustments.

A few simple techniques make all the difference. Marinating the chicken gives it time to absorb the spices, cooking the tomato paste first deepens the sauce, and washing the rice until the water runs clear helps keep every grain fluffy. Once everything comes together in the pot, all that’s left is to let the rice gently simmer until it has absorbed every bit of that buttery, fragrant sauce before folding the chicken back in.

KikiFoodies’ creamy, spiced one-pot butter chicken rice dish cooked with basmati grains.

And if you somehow have leftovers, you’re in luck. Like many one-pot rice dishes, Butter Chicken Rice tastes even better the next day, making lunch something to look forward to.

Watch KikiFoodies show you exactly how to make this comforting one-pot Butter Chicken Rice below.

Watch below

Photo Credit: Kikifoodies

The post KikiFoodies Combines Butter Chicken and Jollof-Style Rice in This Comforting One-Pot Recipe appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Dr Dorcas Akanbi holds her medical degree diploma and a flower bouquet at her graduation in Russia.

Nigerian students are consistently making their mark globally, and the latest professional to join the ranks is Dr Dorcas Akanbi. The newly inducted medical doctor has completed her studies at Rostov State Medical University in Russia, graduating with an outstanding cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.90 out of 5.00 to emerge as one of the institution’s best graduating students.

Alongside her high marks, she delivered the valedictory speech to an audience of faculty members, university officials, peers, and families—speaking entirely in fluent Russian.

Taking to social media to celebrate the milestone, Dr Akanbi shared her academic journey from Nigeria to Europe, writing, “I have FINALLY been inducted into the medical profession!!! One of the BGS with a CGPA of 4.90/5.00 From Unilag to Russia, God did it! Dr. AKANBI D.E. It’s Dr Elereke to you now!!.”

Top graduating student Dr Dorcas Akanbi delivers her valedictory address fluently in Russian at Rostov State Medical Universit

Her achievement has been widely celebrated online, with the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri–Erewa, acknowledging the feat as a direct reflection of the global competitiveness, brilliance, and determination of Nigerian youths.

For her big day, Dr Akanbi opted for sharp, contemporary tailoring, wearing a structured, deep plum-coloured pantsuit featuring clean lines and a contemporary silhouette. The wrap-style blazer was designed with unique, architectural shoulder paneling that creates a subtle cape-like draping effect, secured at the waist by a thin matching tie and a single gold statement button, with a gold brooch pinned to the broad lapel.

She layered the jacket over a classic white collared button-down shirt and paired it with high-waisted, wide-leg matching trousers featuring a sharp centre crease that elongated her frame. Embracing her identity, she styled her hair in a voluminous, textured natural afro blowout with a deep side part and accessorised with gold drop earrings, later adding on social media that she was “extra proud to have rocked my natural hair for my big day.”

Dr Dorcas Akanbi holds her medical degree diploma and a flower bouquet at her graduation in Russia.

Dr Dorcas Akanbi wears her natural afro blowout with a custom plum wrap-style pantsuit for her medical school graduation.

Dr Dorcas Akanbi holds her medical degree diploma and a flower bouquet at her graduation in Russia.

Photo Credit: Dorcas Akanbi/Instagram 

The post Nigerian Doctor Dr Dorcas Akanbi Graduates With a 4.90 CGPA & Delivers Valedictory Speech in Russian appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Naomi Osaka reacts on Centre Court at the All England Club after defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka 6-2, 7-6(2) to advance to her first Wimbledon quarterfinal. Photo Credit: WTA/Instagram

Naomi Osaka has reached her first ever Wimbledon quarterfinal after beating world number one Aryna Sabalenka 6-2, 7-6(2) on Centre Court on Sunday 5 July. The 28-year-old Japanese star, seeded 14th at this year’s Championships, completed the win in one hour and 28 minutes, ending Sabalenka’s streak of 14 consecutive Grand Slam quarterfinals in the process.

The result carried several notable records. It was Osaka’s first win over Sabalenka in eight years, since the 2018 US Open, the tournament Osaka went on to win for her maiden Grand Slam title. Sabalenka had beaten her in all three of their meetings in 2026 before Sunday. The win also ended Sabalenka’s run of 21 consecutive Grand Slam tiebreaks won, the longest such streak in the Open Era including the men’s game, with Osaka taking the second-set tiebreak 7-2. Osaka is now yet to drop a set across her four matches at Wimbledon, and her grass-court record stands at 8-1 this season, the most grass-court wins she has ever recorded in a single calendar year.

Osaka established early dominance, breaking Sabalenka’s serve with a backhand winner to lead 2-1 in the opening set before wrapping it up 6-2. In a highly competitive second set, Osaka assumed control of the tiebreak with deep, steady baseline hitting, capitalising on a string of unforced errors from Sabalenka. Osaka converted her second match point with a forehand return winner.

Naomi Osaka arrives for her Wimbledon match in a draped, layered ceremonial-style kimono walk-on gown with bell sleeves, designed by Hana Yagi. Photo Credit: Naomi Osaka/Instagram

Speaking on court after the match, Osaka credited her team and her coach Tomasz Wiktorowski:

The big Polish man, shout out Tomasz, shout out my team. My team is the best team ever. I have so much fun with them, I’ve learned so much and I’m so grateful that they’re on this journey with me.

She also credited her mother’s cooking for fueling her performance. “She cooks a lot. I feel like her cooking is powering me. I would like another meal tonight.”

Away from the tennis court, Osaka has turned the traditional Wimbledon walk-on into a major style event. Her tournament wardrobe is custom-designed by Tokyo-based designer Hana Yagi.

For the Sabalenka match, she arrived on Centre Court wearing a draped, layered Japanese ceremonial-style kimono. Her previous tournament looks included a gown with three-dimensional embroidery of cranes and cherry blossoms, bell sleeves, and an obi belt, alongside a custom bomber jacket featuring a long train.

When asked about her upcoming outfit for the quarterfinals, Osaka noted, “I don’t know. I might dial it back a little bit.”

Naomi Osaka holding out the wide sleeve of her embroidered white gown during an outdoor fashion shoot. Photo Credit: Naomi Osaka/Instagram 

Osaka will face Czech 10th seed Karolina Muchova in the quarterfinals on Tuesday on No. 1 Court. The matchup is a direct rematch of the Bad Homburg final nine days ago, where Osaka was forced to retire due to a foot issue. Their career head-to-head record is currently tied at 3-3.

Watch highlights of their match

The post Naomi Osaka Defeats World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka to Reach First Wimbledon Quarterfinal appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Nigerian scholar Nnabuike Chisom delivering the international student commencement address entirely in Chinese.

“Naija no dey carry last” sometimes sounds like an unnecessary catchphrase, but Nigerians across the world have been proving that Nigerians don’t carry last in their endeavours. For years, Nigerians have broken world records, set new records, entered rooms through unexpected doors, succeeding and excelling, flying the Nigerian flag with pride. From academic excellence to entrepreneurship, we shared the news of a few Nigerians excelling and exceeding expectations abroad in the past week.

Let’s recap some of them:

Nnabuike Chisom

Nigerian graduate Nnabuike Chisom went viral after delivering a flawless graduation keynote speech in fluent Mandarin at the master’s graduation ceremony at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law.

 

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Dorcas Akanbi

Nigerian student Dr Dorcas Akanbi has graduated from medical school in Russia with an impressive 4.90/5.00 CGPA.
She also delivered her valedictory speech in Russian at her induction into the medical profession. Congratulations to Dr. Dorcas Akanbi remarkable achievement.

 

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Kehinde Idowu

Meet Dr Kehinde Opeoluwa Idowu, the Nigerian doctor whose quick thinking and life-saving intervention helped save a stranger’s life after he suffered a heart attack behind the wheel in Roswell, Georgia.

When John Nimmo’s car swerved off Holcomb Bridge Road after he went into cardiac arrest, Dr. Idowu followed the vehicle, rushed to his aid, and performed CPR for about 10 minutes until emergency responders arrived—an act that proved lifesaving.

Dr Idowu is a family physician and hospice and palliative medicine specialist at Northside Hospital. He earned his medical degree from Meharry Medical College, completed his Family Medicine residency at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, and recently completed a fellowship in Hospice and Palliative Care at Wellstar Kennestone.

 

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Rachel Ikemeh

Nigerian conservationist Rachel Ikemeh has been named a 2026 Rolex Awards Laureate in recognition of her community-led efforts to protect the Niger Delta’s rich biodiversity, conserve threatened species, and improve local livelihoods.

When Nigerian conservationist Rachel Ikemeh first visited the Niger Delta in 2013, she encountered forests heavily polluted by crude oil. Determined to protect the region, she launched the community-led South-West/Niger Delta Forest Project (SWNDFP), working alongside local communities to restore forests and conserve endangered wildlife.

One of the project’s biggest successes has been the recovery of the critically endangered Niger Delta red colobus monkey. With only about 200 individuals remaining by 2021, Ikemeh helped establish a 1,000-hectare community-protected conservation area, where the monkey population has since doubled. Today, the SWNDFP manages four conservation areas, protecting at least 13 threatened species, improving more than 2,500 livelihoods, and reaching over 18,000 people through conservation education.

With support from Rolex, Ikemeh is expanding her impact by creating four additional community conservation areas, launching a conservation training hub, and introducing a mobile education programme. She is also leading the establishment of the Niger Delta’s first locally managed marine protected area, while inspiring a new generation of conservationists to safeguard Nigeria’s natural heritage.

 

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Ozoz Sokoh

Culinary anthropologist Ozoz Sokoh has made history as the first Nigerian cookbook author to win a James Beard Foundation Award. Her debut book, Chop Chop: Cooking the Food of Nigeria, secured the 2026 Emerging Voice in Books honour at the prestigious media ceremony in Chicago.

 

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Tobi Amusan

Nigerian world star, Tobi Amusan, won the women’s 100m hurdles at the 2026 Paris Diamond League, matching her season-best time of 12.28 seconds. Amusan finished ahead of Americans Grace Stark and Alaysha Johnson.

 

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When Lagos’ leading business executives, entrepreneurs, diplomats, and government officials gather under one roof, conversations that shape the future are bound to happen. At the centre of those conversations was Konga103.7FM, Nigeria’s Commerce & Hit Music Station, which proudly served as the official media partner for the Lagos Network Hub 4th Edition—an exclusive evening of strategic networking, collaboration, and business excellence held at La Cour, Ikoyi.

The fourth edition of the Lagos Network Hub brought together an impressive mix of business leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and international diplomats, all united by a common goal of building meaningful relationships and unlocking new opportunities across industries.

Delivering the keynote address, the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Philip Wahab, challenged attendees to embrace intentional networking, stating that

“as a people, we must keep interacting and networking with one another to build businesses and careers that will stand the test of time.” His remarks reinforced the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable economic growth.

Adding an international perspective to the evening was Ambassador Isaac Keen Parashina, High Commissioner of Kenya to Nigeria, whose presence further highlighted the Lagos Network Hub’s growing reputation as a platform connecting business leaders beyond Nigeria’s borders.

Also sharing valuable insights were Dr. Alex Nwuba, President of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Nigeria (AOPA Nigeria), and Oladele Fasan, Managing Director and Publicity & Communications Director of the Lagos Network Hub. Speaking on the value of meaningful relationships, Fasan reminded participants that

“Your network is your net worth. Your value is in the people you know, and how you translate those relationships into wealth and opportunities.”

One of the evening’s defining moments came when Ifeoma Ajumobi, Head of Konga Communications, was presented with a one-year complimentary membership of the Lagos Network Hub in recognition of Konga103.7FM’s unwavering support for the platform. Reflecting on her professional journey, she shared, “Whatever has brought me this far is networking,” a statement that perfectly captured the spirit of the gathering.

Other Konga103.7FM Team present at the event were Teddy Esosa Don-Momoh, Head of Marketing; Ayodele Ogunjimi, Head of KongaTV; Lilian Duru-Valentine, Head of Radio; and Fredrick Otueze, Lead host of JuiceBox. 

The importance of intentional networking was echoed by other participants throughout the evening. Renowned guitarist Kunle Ayo described the Lagos Network Hub as more than just an event, saying,

“This is beyond an event. It is a gathering people need to be part of every month because every month presents an opportunity to meet new people and build meaningful connections.”

Similarly, Barrister Boluwatife Bamigboye attributed her professional success to the relationships she has built over the years, noting that “the level I am today is a result of the network I have built and the people I have connected with.” The evening concluded on a high note with captivating live performances by Kunle Ayo and Mofe Boyo, while the charismatic Jide Obi kept guests engaged as host, delivering an experience that was both insightful and entertaining.

As the official media partner, Konga103.7FM once again demonstrated its commitment to amplifying conversations that shape industries, inspire innovation, and connect people with opportunities. For organizations, brands, and institutions seeking meaningful media visibility, Konga103.7FM remains the preferred platform for impactful storytelling, strategic partnerships, and premium event coverage.

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Ghana players celebrating after at the 2026 World Cup after qualifying for the Round of 16. Photo credit: Black Stars of Ghana/Instagram

Ghana’s journey at the World Cup tournaments remains one of African football’s most inspiring stories. Since its historic debut in 2006, the Black Stars’ journey has been filled with unforgettable moments, near misses, brilliant performances and heartbreaking setbacks. Ultimately, their journey offers some valuable lessons.

From my perspective, here are a few lessons everyone can learn from Ghana’s participation at the World Cups.

Every Great Achievement Begins with Believing It Is Possible 

When Ghana made its debut at the World Cup in 2006, many doubted how well the Black Stars would perform. Eventually, Ghana made it to the Round of 16 as the only African team to progress from the group stage that year. Sometimes being new simply means bringing fresh energy, courage and determination, just as Cape Verde performed at the 2026 World Cup, despite being their debut year.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Teamwork

There is an Akan proverb that says, “Praye, sɛ wo yi baako a na ebu; wokabomu a emmu,“ meaning, It is easy to break a single broomstick but not a bunch. This proverb underscores the power of unity and strength in numbers. Over the years, we have seen various teams, including the Black Stars, perform at their best when they play as a team rather than relying solely on individual strengths. It is a reminder that we cannot do it alone. Collaboration and teamwork are key drivers of success. Whether in sports, business, or our personal lives, we need people. 

Resilience Is Part of the Journey

One of the greatest lessons from Ghana’s story is resilience. The Black Stars have experienced unforgettable highs as well as lows. Despite the setbacks, they always regroup and compete again. Their journey reminds us that setbacks are not the end of the story. Rather, they are opportunities to grow stronger, learn valuable lessons and return with renewed determination. 

There is Strength in Unity

Perhaps one of the most powerful lessons from the World Cup experience is the passion, euphoria, and excitement displayed by millions of Ghanaians across the world. Seeing people rally behind the Black Stars in the hope of making history is a reminder that there is strength in unity. The unwavering support the Black Stars have received serves as a powerful reminder that when people rally behind a shared purpose, it produces remarkable results. 

Leadership Shapes Outcomes 

The success of every team depends greatly on its leadership. Great leaders provide direction, inspire confidence, and bring out the very best in their team. The Black Stars have experienced periods of stability and periods of frequent coaching changes, which have affected the team’s performance over the years. Strong leadership provides direction, confidence and consistency during challenging moments.

Failure Is Not the End 

The 2010 World Cup remains one of Ghana’s most iconic performances. Ghana reached the quarterfinals, the furthest any African team had reached since 1990. The Black Stars were on their way to becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals, but things took an unexpected turn in the final moments. Despite this, the Black Stars have gone on to play in 3 World Cup tournaments.

 Every Experience Is an Opportunity to Learn 

Ghana’s participation reminds us that progress comes from learning, adapting, and continuously striving for excellence. Learning from setbacks is an essential part of growth. As noted by the coach after Ghana’s defeat to Croatia, the mindset should always be to “win or learn,” embracing every experience as an opportunity to improve. Whether the outcome is victory or defeat, every experience offers valuable lessons that can shape future success. 

Small Details Can Define Big Moments 

In football, the smallest moments often have the biggest consequences. One mistake, one missed opportunity, or one lapse in concentration can define a team’s fate. Ghana’s defeat to Croatia at the 2026 World Cup can remind us that the biggest outcome is often determined by the seemingly small details. 

The Black Stars’ time at the 2026 World Cup may have come to an end, but their journey shows that success, whether in sports, business, or our personal lives, does not happen by chance or overnight. It is a culmination of preparation, discipline, resilience and an unwavering can-do spirit despite the odds.

The post Nana Akua Amofa: Lessons from Ghana’s Participation at the World Cup appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Don Anele Munachimso Marvelous, Egejurum Onyedikachi Ethan, and Chimdiebube Onwubiko at the Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma for the Grand Finale.

Three young Nigerians are in Rome this week representing their country at the 2026 International STEM Olympiad, going up against students from 154 other countries in the mathematics and science categories. Their names are Chimdiebube Onwubiko, Don Anele Munachimso Marvelous, and Egejurum Onyedikachi Ethan, and before you even get to what they are doing in Italy, what they have already achieved at home tells you everything about why they are there.

Chimdiebube Onwubiko, a student at Evergreen Schools in Enugu, is described as the best mathematician in Nigeria at the junior secondary level. He has completed K.A. Stroud’s Engineering Mathematics, a university-level textbook, cover to cover, more than once. Don Anele Munachimso Marvelous, from Diamond Special College in Owerri, is one of the most decorated young students in Nigeria right now. He was the best Chemistry student in the country in the IGCSE, won the ₦5 million star prize as the overall best at the 2026 South East Maths Olympiad, took first position nationally at the National Mathematics Competition in Abuja, and has been awarded a $100,000 scholarship to study in Canada. His teammate Egejurum Onyedikachi Ethan is currently in Primary 6 and holds the title of the best primary school mathematician in Nigeria, having won the primary category of the 2026 South East Maths Olympiad.

Team Nigeria arrives at the airport in Rome, Italy, ahead of the 2026 International STEM Olympiad

The three students arrived in Rome on Thursday, 2 July, alongside their teachers, Chisom Unachukwu and Anthony Iwegbu, with all expenses covered by Alex Onyia, CEO of Educare and a passionate advocate for children’s education in Nigeria. According to Onyia, students trained by Chisom Unachukwu swept the first, second, and third positions at the 2026 South East Maths Olympiad—and there is barely a mathematics competition in Nigeria where his pupils do not finish in the top three.

The students have already sat their competition papers, and the results will be announced at the award ceremony on Tuesday, 7 July. Onyia, who personally funded the entire trip, is not hiding his expectations. “I will continue to push our bright minds to global stages,” he said. “In 10 years, I pray you will be alive to see the outcome of our investments in our children today.”

Educare CEO Alex Onyia standing with Nigerian student representatives Don Anele Munachimso, Egejurum Onyedikachi Ethan, and Chimdiebube Onwubiko at Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma.

The three young Nigerian mathematicians at the official venue check-in for the global mathematics and science tournament.

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Photo Credit: Alex Onyia/X

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Three national flag-inspired concepts worn by Nana Akua Addo to back the Black Stars.

We’ve always known that the national colours of Ghana are very beautiful, but Nana Akua Addo made a very loud show-off of the colours when she rolled out three distinct fashion statements to back the Black Stars during their 2026 World Cup run.

From the group stage battles through to the elimination match, she systematically converted the tournament schedule into a high-fashion exhibition. Here is a breakdown of the specific concepts she wore for each match day:

June 23: England 0, Ghana 0

For Ghana’s opening fixture against England, she stepped out in a bold, structured streetwear uniform constructed from heavy leather textures. The look featured a cropped red leather moto jacket paired with a black crop top underneath. The lower half consisted of dramatic, extra-wide cargo pants boasting a conceptual, triple-layered waistband system that stacked the green, yellow, and red colors of the national flag sequentially. She completed the look with futuristic black shield sunglasses, a heavy metallic cross necklace, and a matching spherical red leather handbag.

The structured red leather streetwear look debuted by Nana Akua Addo for the June 23 fixture against England. Photo Credit: Nana Akua Addo/Instagram

June 27: Croatia 2, Ghana 1

To mark the match against Croatia, the concept pivoted toward a sportier silhouette that integrated official tournament merchandise elements. She wore a white custom graphic tee featuring the word “GHANA” across the chest, national flag bands on the sleeves, and the historic independence year “57” stamped on the front. This was paired with voluminous, wide-leg trousers covered entirely in large silver metallic discs that created constant movement, punctuated by vibrant red, yellow, and green yarn tassels distributed across the piece to mirror the national identity.

Nana Akua Addo sporting her custom independence tee and metallic disc trousers for the June 27 match against Croatia. Photo Credit: Nana Akua Addo/Instagram

July 4: Colombia 1, Ghana 0 (Round of 16)

For the final match where Ghana exited the tournament in the Round of 16, she went for an avant-garde approach that combined international silhouettes with regal styling. The base of the outfit was a highly structured satin wrap jacket featuring ballooning puff sleeves in striking flag red and thick gold satin lapels. Underneath, she wore fluid, high-waisted gold satin wide-leg trousers beneath a deep green contrast panel, securing the waist with an elongated tri-color braided sash. She finished the appearance with elbow-length marigold yellow gloves and a high top knot styled with traditional hair sticks.

The regal satin kimono gown worn by Nana Akua Addo for the July 4 Round of 16 match against Colombia. Photo Credit: Nana Akua Addo/Instagram

The post Every Look Nana Akua Addo Wore to Celebrate Ghana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Team Nigeria celebrates their historic four-medal haul at the 2026 Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad, cementing their best performance in 20 years.

Team Nigeria has returned from the 2026 Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, with three silver medals and one bronze, their best performance at the competition in 20 years. The achievement places Nigeria among the top-performing nations at this year’s edition of Africa’s most prestigious secondary school mathematics competition, which drew top students from over 25 countries across the continent between 26 June and 4 July.

The Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad is organised annually by the African Mathematical Union and is widely regarded as the African equivalent of the International Mathematical Olympiad. Competing students, all under 20 years old, sit two four-and-a-half-hour exam papers across two days, tackling three proof-based problems per paper worth seven points each, for a maximum total of 42 points. It is one of the most demanding academic competitions on the continent, and Nigeria’s four-medal haul at this year’s edition is a result the country has not matched in two decades.

The student delegation representing Team Nigeria in traditional attire at the 2026 Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad.

Six students represented Nigeria at PAMO 2026, five of whom are from Special Maths Academy, an institution that organises intensive Olympiad training camps across the country. Together, they brought home three silver medals and one bronze, but it is the story behind the medals that makes this result historic.

In the entire history of Nigeria’s participation in PAMO, no Nigerian girl had ever reached the silver podium. At PAMO 2026, that changed. Chimfumnanya Aghaduno became the first Nigerian female to win a silver medal at the competition, and she did not do it alone, another Nigerian girl stood on the silver podium alongside her at the very same time, a double first that has never happened before in the competition’s history for Nigeria.

Chimfumnanya Aghaduno makes history as she receives her silver medal at the 2026 Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad.

Special Maths Academy, confirming the achievement, said: “This has never happened before. In the entire history of Nigeria’s participation in this competition, no Nigerian girl had ever reached the Silver podium. Today, two of them did it at the exact same time. This isn’t just a win for the trophy cabinet; it completely changes the game for every young girl across Nigeria who loves maths but wonders if she belongs at the top. It turns out she does.”

A Nigerian female student proudly displays her silver medal, marking a historic double-silver achievement for Nigerian girls at the competition.

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Photo Credit: Special Maths Academy Limited/Instagram

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Long before the official 9:00 a.m. start time, it was already evident that The Undaunted Conference 2026 would become one of Abuja’s most remarkable youth gatherings of the weekend. Hours before the programme began, the venue was already buzzing with excitement as hundreds of young Nigerians queued at the registration stands, eager to secure their seats for a day that would inspire purpose, spark meaningful conversations and open doors to new possibilities

Convened by Tolulope Tunde-Ajiboye, The Undaunted Conference welcomed young professionals, entrepreneurs, students, creatives, business leaders and aspiring changemakers for an immersive experience centered on purpose, leadership, personal growth, entrepreneurship and impact.

“This Is More Than a Conference”

Speaking with members of the media, Tolulope Tunde-Ajiboye described The Undaunted Conference as far more than an annual gathering. According to her, it is a divine assignment to remind young Nigerians that regardless of their background or circumstances, they can build meaningful lives through purpose, excellence, integrity and faith. Her vision echoed throughout the day as every session challenged attendees to dream bigger, embrace intentional living and pursue success without compromising their values.

Conversations That Inspired Action

The conference featured a lineup of respected voices across leadership, finance, business, relationships and personal development. Delivering the keynote address was Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, Nigeria’s first female Accountant General of the Federation. She challenged participants to pursue excellence, uphold integrity and prepare themselves for positions of influence while remaining committed to service and nation building.

Award winning Nollywood actor Stan Nze captivated the audience as he shared his personal journey from studying Computer Science to discovering his true calling in acting. He encouraged attendees to embrace purpose fearlessly, noting that when passion aligns with purpose, work becomes deeply fulfilling. He also spoke about the values that continue to shape his life, including faith, family, excellence and pride in his roots.

Financial educator Financial Jennifer delivered one of the day’s most practical sessions, drawing lessons from the biblical Parable of the Talents to teach principles of financial literacy, wealth creation and wise stewardship. Her session challenged attendees to maximize opportunities and make intentional financial decisions.

Media entrepreneur George Omoraro, Founder of Rage Media Group, also shared lessons from building his business, encouraging young people to think beyond limitations, create lasting value and build businesses that solve real problems. Other panel sessions explored leadership, relationships, finance and entrepreneurship, providing attendees with practical insights attendees could immediately apply to their personal and professional lives.

Moments That Made the Day Memorable

Beyond the insightful conversations, the conference created moments that resonated deeply with attendees. One of the most moving highlights came during a spontaneous worship session led by the convener, creating an atmosphere of gratitude, reflection and renewed hope.
The energy later shifted into celebration as participants enjoyed dance sessions, networking opportunities and engaging activities throughout the day.

Keeping the atmosphere vibrant from start to finish was DJ Spunky, while hosts Benjamin Chizuruoke and Casandra (The Media Chic) brought warmth, humour and effortless chemistry that kept the audience engaged throughout the program.

Investing in Young Entrepreneurs

One of the defining moments of the conference was the Business Pitch Competition, where emerging entrepreneurs presented their ideas before a panel of judges.

In a powerful demonstration of its commitment to youth empowerment, the conference awarded a ₦500,000 business grant to the winner and ₦250,000 to the first runner up, providing practical support to help transform promising ideas into thriving businesses.

The initiative reinforced The Undaunted Conference’s mission of moving beyond inspiration by creating tangible opportunities for young entrepreneurs.

Sponsors Made the Experience Possible

The success of The Undaunted Conference 2026 was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors and partners, whose contributions helped create a memorable and impactful experience for every attendee.

Partners including Wema Bank, Milo, Nescafé and Redtech played important roles in enriching the conference through engaging activations, valuable giveaways, entrepreneurial support and meaningful experiences that added value throughout the day. Their collective commitment reflected a shared belief in empowering young Nigerians with opportunities, resources and experiences that inspire growth, innovation and excellence.

More Than an Event

From transformational conversations and practical financial education to worship, networking, entrepreneurship and exciting giveaways, The Undaunted Conference 2026 delivered an experience that extended far beyond the walls of the venue. It became a place where purpose met opportunity, faith inspired action and hundreds of young Nigerians were reminded that success remains possible through excellence, integrity, intentional growth and unwavering resilience.

For everyone who arrived hours before the programme officially began, The Undaunted Conference offered more than inspiration. It provided practical knowledge, meaningful connections, business opportunities and renewed confidence that regardless of where they begin, the future they desire is within reach.

With a powerful lineup of speakers, impactful conversations, entrepreneurial support, strong corporate partnerships and a clear commitment to raising purpose driven leaders, The Undaunted Conference 2026 continues to establish itself as one of Nigeria’s leading platforms for empowering a generation that is truly undaunted.

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Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah celebrates his national team’s historic 2026 World Cup run wearing a black and gold Egyptian pharaoh headdress. Photo Credit: CAF/Instagram

Ten African nations qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the largest ever African contingent at a World Cup. Nine of them made it out of the group stage. And now, after a breathless Round of 32, two remain: Egypt and Morocco. If the group stage was Africa’s statement of arrival, the knockout rounds are where the real story begins.

Every team that has gone home left something behind worth remembering. Tunisia gave it everything in a tough group. Algeria pushed Switzerland all the way. South Africa made their knockout stage debut and showed the world exactly why they belonged there. Ghana were competitive until Colombia edged them out at Kansas City. Ivory Coast took Norway to the wire before Erling Haaland‘s late winner ended their campaign. DR Congo led England and had the Leopards dreaming of one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, before Harry Kane turned the game on its head. Senegal led Belgium 2-0 with four minutes of normal time remaining and still somehow ended up on the wrong side of a 3-2 scoreline in extra time. And Cabo Verde, in their very first World Cup, pushed defending champions Argentina all the way to extra time before going out 3-2, leaving the tournament as its most beloved story. Each exit stung, but each team made Africa proud in the process.

Sidny Lopes Cabral celebrates with supporters during Cabo Verde’s historic knockout stage run. Photo Credit: Fabrizio Romano/Instagram

Now, the baton passes to Egypt and Morocco.

Egypt’s story at this World Cup has been nothing short of historic. Arriving with Mohamed Salah leading the line at what many believe is his last World Cup, the Pharaohs were hunting for the one thing that had always eluded them: a World Cup knockout victory. They came through a competitive Group G that included Belgium and Iran, with Salah contributing throughout, and set up a Round of 32 clash against Australia in Dallas.

Mohamed Salah reacts with tears of relief and joy following the penalty shootout victory over Australia that sealed Egypt’s historic qualification for the World Cup Round of 16. Photo Credit: CAF/Instagram

The match finished 1-1 after extra time, Emam Ashour giving Egypt the lead before Mohamed Hany‘s unfortunate own goal levelled things in the 55th minute. When it went to penalties, Egypt did not blink, winning the shootout 4-2 to seal their first ever knockout stage victory at a FIFA World Cup. An entire country erupted. Next up, they face defending champions Argentina at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Tuesday, 7 July.

Egypt midfielder Emam Ashour celebrates his knockout stage goal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup match in Dallas. Photo Credit: Egypt National Team/Instagram

Morocco, meanwhile, have been making a very loud case for themselves as one of the tournament’s most complete teams. Under new coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who replaced Walid Regragui just months before the tournament, the Atlas Lions arrived ranked sixth in the world and have played like it from the first whistle. In Group C, they drew 1-1 with Brazil in a match Morocco largely controlled, with Ismael Saibari producing a brilliant lob over Alisson to give them the lead before Vinícius Júnior equalised. Back-to-back wins over Scotland and Haiti, the latter a commanding 4-2 victory, saw them finish second in the group on seven points.

Issa Diop holds his Man of the Match award after Morocco’s victory against the Netherlands. Photo Credit: 433/Instagram

Then came the Netherlands in the Round of 32, and Morocco won on penalties 3-2 after a 1-1 draw, keeping their composure when it mattered most. Ismael Saibari, who has since signed for Bayern Munich, has been Morocco’s most dangerous player, scoring in all three group games and then slotting in the winning penalty against the Dutch. Achraf Hakimi and goalkeeper Yassine Bounou have been commanding throughout, with Bilal El Khannouss adding creative drive in midfield that has caused opponents real problems all tournament. The Atlas Lions now face Canada at NRG Stadium in Houston tomorrow, Sunday, 5 July, and they go into that game with an unbeaten run of 34 matches in normal time that nobody seems to want to be the one to end.

Morocco’s Neil El Aynaoui and goalkeeper Yassine Bounou celebrate their successful progression at the World Cup. Photo Credit: AS Roma/Instagram

The post The Final Two! Egypt & Morocco Keep Africa’s Historic World Cup Journey Alive appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Vozinha raises the Cape Verdean flag after a match. Photo credit: Vozinha/Instagram

Since the establishment of the FIFA World Cup, no African country has lifted the football’s most coveted trophy. While the continent has produced some of the most gifted footballers in the world—JayJay Okocha, George Weah, Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto’o, Yaya Touré, Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, Victor Osimhen and countless others—the World Cup has remained beyond its reach.

Although a few African countries have strived to bring the trophy home, the dream is yet to come true. Cameroon reached the quarter-finals in 1990 to become the first African team to reach the quarter-finals. Then came Morocco’s historic run in 2022 to become the first African country to reach the World Cup semi-finals. These strides are important to highlight because the more an African country progresses in the tournament, the more African countries are included. When Cameroon reached the quarter-finals in 1990, more spaces were created for Africa; likewise, when Morocco reached the semi-finals, which is why we have more African countries at the World Cup in 2026.

Now, as African teams continue to challenge some of football’s traditional heavyweights at the 2026 World Cup, it is right to ask whether African countries finally have a chance to lift the World Cup. So far, at the time of writing, two African countries, Morocco and Egypt, have reached the Round of 16, defeating and drawing some of the tournament’s giants. All these indicate that African teams are striving to rewrite history and lift the trophy for the continent.

But before we ask whether an African country has a chance of lifting the World Cup, we should start instead by asking if Africa is ready to build the institutions to enable the dream to come true.

It is tempting to explain Africa’s record at the World Cup by pointing to the quality of opposition. After all, every World Cup winner has come from Europe or South America. But that explanation ignores the fact that a lack of talent has rarely defeated Africa. The continent has produced some of the best footballers in the world; a Ballon d’Or winner, even.

African football rather has been undermined by its own football structures. Too many African football federations have spent decades wrestling with administrative crises instead of preparing for tournaments. You hear stories of unpaid bonuses, player strikes, chaotic travel arrangements and political interference, and that’s the difference when compared with football federations of other countries that build football administrations for a long-term project.

Winning the World Cup demands much more than producing exceptional footballers. It requires stable institutions that make players proud to represent their countries. It requires elite academies, modern coaching, data analysis, medical support and a strong football philosophy. Those are the foundations upon which France, Germany, Spain and others have built sustained success.

Africa has often arrived at the World Cup with extraordinary players but ordinary institutions. That reality helps explain why so many gifted generations failed to fulfil the World Cup promise, because, of course, every country leaves home to win. For instance, Nigeria’s immensely talented squads never quite translated potential into consistency.

However, the 2026 World Cup is showing that something is beginning to change. Many African countries are adopting strategies to actualise the dream.

Take, for example, Morocco’s journey to the semi-finals in Qatar, which can be considered a culmination of years of deliberate investment, and not simply a product of an inspired coach or an exceptional group of players. The country’s football federation modernised its structures, invested heavily in youth development, improved coaching standards and, importantly, began integrating players from its vast diaspora into a cohesive national identity.

Other African nations have begun following similar paths.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has reconnected with players born and developed in Europe but eligible through family heritage. Algeria and Senegal are benefiting from similar strategies, persuading dual-nationality players that representing their ancestral homes is no longer merely a second decision or choice. At the current World Cup, France has 99 French-born players playing at the tournament, but not all play for France. 13 play for Algeria, 11 for DR Congo, 10 for Senegal, 8 for Ivory Coast, and others. African countries are integrating Europe-born players into their squads because, one, they are developed in a proper football institution and two, they are simply so good.

They make many players who once viewed African national teams as a second option as ambitious football projects capable of competing with the world’s best. The results are beginning to show. Africa’s record representation at the 2026 World Cup has been matched by an unprecedented collective performance, with nine of the continent’s ten representatives progressing to the knockout rounds.

This does not guarantee that an African country will win the World Cup anytime soon, but it can happen in the near future if continuous effort is put into the football institutions. This means thinking beyond the next Africa Cup of Nations or the next World Cup qualification campaign, and adopting the mentality that they can simply defeat any country, no matter its intimidating history. As Morocco defeated Portugal in Qatar in 2022, other African countries should also believe they can defeat Germany o, Brazil o, Argentina o, any country.

May we all be alive when an African country eventually lifts the trophy.

The post What Will It Take for an African Country to Win the World Cup? appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Idia Aisien models a custom floral-embellished gown styled by Henry Emeka for her birthday gallery.

Could Idia Aisien be in her blooming era? Looking at her latest birthday portraits, we wouldn’t blame you for saying yes.

To celebrate her special day, the media personality and actress stepped into a serene garden courtyard in a bespoke gown that feels like a love letter to growth, renewal, and new beginnings. At first glance, it almost looks as though the flowers are blooming directly from her skin.

The floor-length piece is built on a sheer, skin-toned mesh base that mirrors her complexion, allowing the vibrant pink, bright blue, and white roses across the bodice to take centre stage. As the eye travels down the gown, the dense floral arrangement gives way to cascading vines, ivy leaves, and scattered blossoms that spill gracefully onto the stone pathway.

Portrait of media personality Idia Aisien showcasing her beauty look for her birthday editorial shoot.

The look was created by fashion designer Pesigha Elizabeth Selekere and styled by creative director Henry Emeka, who wisely kept the focus on the dress itself. Idia paired the gown with soft-glam makeup featuring sculpted neutral brown lips and long, voluminous water-wave curls flowing down her back.

If blooming season had a dress code, this might just be it.

Media personality Idia Aisien debuting her birthday look in a bespoke botanical dress by Pesigha Elizabeth Selekere.

Photo Credit: Idia Aisien/Instagram

The post Roses, Vines & a Gorgeous Gown: Idia Aisien’s Birthday Look Is One to See appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Mercy Chinwo raising her hand in worship next to Nathaniel Bassey playing the trumpet in the official Promise Keeper music video.

If you’ve been looking for a new gospel song to carry you through the month of July, Mercy Chinwo and Nathaniel Bassey may have just given you one. The two gospel ministers have come together for a new single titled “Promise Keeper,” and it arrives with a simple but reassuring message: God never fails, and every promise He makes is backed by His faithfulness.

Built as a declaration of trust in God’s unfailing word, “Promise Keeper” is the kind of song that invites you to pause, reflect, and hold on a little tighter to the promises you are waiting to see fulfilled. With worshipful lyrics and moments that feel like a live service, the song serves as a reminder that God’s mercy, favour, and goodness remain constant, even in uncertain seasons.

Sharing the song with listeners, Mercy Chinwo said she was “deeply honoured” to release it alongside Nathaniel Bassey. “My prayer is that this song strengthens your faith and reminds you that our God is forever faithful to every promise He has made,” she said.

Nathaniel Bassey echoed the sentiment, describing the record as “a declaration of God’s covenant loving kindness and steadfastness.” He added, “It’s like a whole service! It will speak to your heart.”

Accompanied by an official video, “Promise Keeper” is more than a song to sing along to. It is an invitation to believe again, to remember God’s faithfulness, and to declare His promises over every area of your life. As Mercy and Nathaniel remind listeners throughout the song, don’t just sing the words, believe them. Watch the video below.

The post Mercy Chinwo & Nathaniel Bassey Are Singing About God’s Faithfulness in New Song “Promise Keeper” appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Sidny Lopes Cabral celebrates with supporters during Cabo Verde’s historic knockout stage run. Photo Credit: Fabrizio Romano/Instagram

They came, they astonished, and they left with the respect of an entire planet. Cabo Verde, a small island nation of just 530,000 people making their first ever FIFA World Cup appearance, were eliminated on Friday 3 July after a breathless 3-2 extra time defeat to defending world champions Argentina at Miami Stadium. But by the time the final whistle blew, the result almost felt secondary. What the Blue Sharks produced across 120 minutes against the most decorated team in world football was the kind of football that reminds you why the sport matters.

It had been a tournament run that nobody saw coming and nobody wanted to end. Cabo Verde opened their campaign with a stunning 0-0 draw against Spain, held Uruguay to a 2-2 draw, and then shut out Saudi Arabia to finish second in Group H, becoming the first World Cup debutant to reach the knockout stage since 2010. And doing it all as the smallest country ever to escape the group stage at a men’s World Cup.

At the heart of everything was Vozinha, the 40-year-old goalkeeper born Josimar Dias in Mindelo, a town of 70,000 people, who entered the tournament with just 50,000 Instagram followers and virtually no global profile. Against Spain, he made seven crucial saves, keeping a clean sheet against one of the tournament’s favourites and walking off the pitch in tears.

Cabo Verde shot-stopper Vozinha clears the ball from his half during the 2026 World Cup tournament. Photo Credit: FIFA World Cup 2026 Atlanta/Instagram

“I cried because I grew up with my grandparents and unfortunately they were not here; they died a few years ago,” he said. “They were everything for me, for my life. I also cried because my mum didn’t manage to be here because of the visa.” By the next morning, he had 5.8 million Instagram followers. By the time the tournament ended, that number had kept climbing.

Then came Argentina. Lionel Messi broke the deadlock in the 29th minute, lifting the ball over an onrushing Vozinha to score his 20th career World Cup goal. Cabo Verde answered. Deroy Duarte levelled in the 59th minute after Ryan Mendes‘ nutmeg found him in the penalty area. Argentina went ahead again through Lisandro Martínez in extra time. Cabo Verde answered again. Sidny Lopes Cabral fired a shot from outside the box toward the far post that curled in for 2-2 in the 103rd minute, a goal that Fox Sports called “insane” and that many are already calling the best of the entire tournament. It took an own goal from Diney Borges, deflected in off a Messi corner in the 111th minute, to finally end Cabo Verde’s dream.

Deroy Duarte tracks back during Cabo Verde’s intense Round of 32 fixture against Argentina. Photo Credit: Fabrizio Romano/Instagram

Speaking after the match, Vozinha said: “We played against the current world champion, and today we played on equal terms and had the opportunity to win the game. For us, we have to be very, very satisfied and proud.”

The football world agreed. Here is what people have been saying:

Now I want Cabo Verde to win the next Africans Cup of Nations. What a team!

— Edgar Allen Poe (@allenakinkunle) July 4, 2026

I’ve seen countries kill themselves for Africa before, but not like this. Cabo Verde, I’m on my feet

— OLI (@Oli_Ekun) July 4, 2026

Hard-fought victory. Cape Verde, take a bow.

— Ewgi (@Ssaasquatch) July 4, 2026

Cabo Verde, forgive me. I wasn’t familiar with your game!

— Giga (@IloriGiga) July 4, 2026

No one has killed themselves for Africa like Cabo Verde

— pepper (@CasaDupre) July 3, 2026

The way Cape Verde played, you will hardly believe that this was their first time at the World Cup. Debutants drew 0–0 with Spain.

They went further & drew 2–2 with Uruguay.

The Blue Sharks finished second in Group H & qualified for the knockout. They leveled in the match… pic.twitter.com/5i6RZp7yFb

— NEFERTITI (@firstladyship) July 4, 2026

Argentina vs Cape Verde is the best game of this World Cup so far. What a game!

Every time you thought Argentina had won it, Cape Verde found a way back. If only the rest of the African teams had shown that same mentality pic.twitter.com/DGrVgEZRt8

— 𝔭𝔞𝔭𝔦𝔠𝔥𝔲𝔩𝔬! (@UtdChulo) July 4, 2026

Cape Verde

— Davido (@davido) July 4, 2026

Lionel Messi shares the pitch with Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha during the extra-time thriller in Miami. Photo Credit: Fabrizio Romano/Instagram

Forward Sidny Lopes Cabral drives forward during the World Cup knockout stage match. Photo Credit: CAF/Instagram

Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha shows emotion following a historic match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Photo Credit: Fabrizio Romano /Instagram

Number 13 Sidny Lopes Cabral celebrates his spectacular equalising goal against Argentina at Miami Stadium. Photo Credit: Fabrizio Romano/Instagram

The post “You Made History”: The Best Reactions to Cabo Verde’s Unforgettable World Cup Run appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

If you have ever wondered why Nigerian creativity travels so far but the systems supporting it often feel like they are running to catch up, there is now a report that puts hard numbers and honest language to exactly that question. NECLive, in partnership with Frontyard Group, has released The State of Nigeria’s Creative Economy 2026, a comprehensive, data-led report that shifts the national conversation around Nigeria’s creative sector from celebration to evidence, and from general sentiment to specific, structural diagnosis.

The report draws on an extensive survey of 377 creative professionals across eight sectors, gathered in the weeks following NECLive 2025, and what it finds is both clarifying and urgent. The central finding is this: a shortage of talent is not what is holding Nigeria’s creative economy back. It never was. What is restricting the sector’s growth is the ecosystem and machinery surrounding that talent. The infrastructure, the administrative systems, the payment rails, the financing, the training. The talent has already done its part. The systems have not kept up.

Survey participants identified a clear set of structural barriers limiting their ability to scale, ranging from basic infrastructure deficits and administrative burden to friction in payment systems and deficient financing and training. These are not abstract concerns. They are the daily realities of 377 working creative professionals who showed up and told the truth about what their working lives actually look like. Tomiwo Ojo, Head of Content at ID Africa, put it plainly: “We have never lacked influence. What we have lacked is evidence about the machinery beneath that influence and the honest conversation that evidence makes possible. A sector that can name its own constraints is a sector ready to be built. The talent has already done its part. It is time for the systems to catch up”

That is precisely what this report does. Beyond diagnosis, it moves to a set of clear, actionable recommendations directed at government, investors, and the private sector, making it a document built not just to be read but to be used. It is available now for free download to the public, policymakers, and industry stakeholders at nec.ng

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Official cover artwork for the collaborative contemporary Afropop single Treat Me Right by Fola and Ayra Starr. Photo Credit: Fola/Instagram

The weekend is finally here, and it is the perfect time to update your music rotation with some of the biggest releases currently making waves across the charts. From heavyweight collaborations to fresh solo tracks from your favourite Afrobeats giants, the industry has delivered a variety of sounds to set the mood for your days off. Grab your headphones, set your streaming queues, and prepare to update your library.

See the five songs below.

Na Je – Falz featuring Oiza X Meyi and FirstKlaz

Falz returns with a notable track from his new Break Time EP, partnering with the vocal duo Oiza X Meyi alongside FirstKlaz. The record leans heavily into classic Afro-beat instrumentation, combining a driving horn section with witty lyricism. It is a structured, rhythm-focused track that provides a steady tempo for a relaxed Friday evening.

I Know Who I Be – Davido

Serving as the primary preview for his upcoming sixth studio album, Oriadé, Davido joins forces with South African producers Jazzwrld and GL Ceejay for this latest release. The song incorporates smooth Amapiano log drums beneath a direct message about identity, lineage, and personal destiny. It offers an optimistic, steady groove that positions itself well for weekend daytime driving.

Alive – Jorja Smith featuring Wizkid

British singer-songwriter Jorja Smith reunites with Wizkid on this sleek, transatlantic single from her newly announced project, What Are The Odds. Produced by P2J, the record leans away from slow ballads toward a faster UK Garage and Afro House tempo. The vocal chemistry between the two artists feels entirely natural, making it an excellent addition for late-night gatherings.

Treat Me Right – Fola featuring Ayra Starr

Fola links up with Ayra Starr to deliver a well-paced contemporary Afropop record built around mutual boundaries and romance. The track relies on a mid-tempo drum arrangement that gives both artists room to deliver distinct vocal verses without crowding the production. It acts as a calm, easy-listening option for a slow Saturday morning.

Coca Body – Frenna featuring Wizkid and Odeal

Dutch-Ghanaian artist Frenna brings a global perspective to the playlist by recruiting Wizkid and British-Nigerian singer Odeal for this rhythmic cross-cultural track. The production merges European Afro-wave elements with traditional Lagos percussion to create a club-ready record. It is a syncopated, vocal-forward track designed specifically for dancing.

The post Weekend Playlist: 5 New Songs From Davido, Fola, Ayra Starr, Falz & More appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

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Official portrait of Nigerian conservationist Rachel Ikemeh, recognised as one of five global winners of the 2026 Rolex Awards.

Nigerian biologist and conservationist Rachel Ikemeh has been named a 2026 Rolex Awards Laureate, recognised for her community-led efforts to protect the Niger Delta’s biodiversity, conserve threatened species, and improve the livelihoods of local communities. She is one of only five people in the world to receive the honour this year, and the only Nigerian among them. All five 2026 Laureates are women, hailing from Indonesia, Nigeria, Peru, China, and the United States, as Rolex marks the 50th anniversary of its Awards programme.

Ikemeh’s conservation journey began in 2013 during her first visit to the Niger Delta. The Niger Delta, despite being one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, home to the world’s third-largest mangrove forest and Africa’s second-largest swamp forest ecosystem, had been subjected to an estimated 7,000 oil spills as the epicentre of Nigeria’s oil industry. The pollution had forced fishing communities to take up logging, causing further degradation of the very habitats they depended on. Ikemeh’s response was to set up a community-led conservation programme, the South-West/Niger Delta Forest Project (SWNDFP), to protect this ecosystem before it was lost entirely.

Rachel Ikemeh conducts field research across the 5,839 hectares of protected forest to secure threatened species habitats from habitat degradation.

At the center of her mission is the critically endangered Niger Delta red colobus monkey. In the 1990s, researchers estimated their numbers at 10,000. By 2021, following decades of ecosystem degradation, roughly 200 remained. That same year, however, marked a turning point. After years of advocacy and negotiation in a region defined by a tense socio-political landscape, Ikemeh succeeded in establishing a conservation area covering more than 1,000 hectares, protected by the local Apoi community. In the five years since, the monkey’s numbers have doubled.

The endemic Niger Delta red colobus monkey species whose population successfully doubled due to the South-West/Niger Delta Forest Project.

The SWNDFP now operates four conservation areas, protecting at least 13 threatened species across 5,839 hectares of forest. More than 2,500 local livelihoods have been improved, and over 18,000 people have engaged in conservation education. The Apoi community has also seen wider socio-economic benefits through employment, education, structural developments, and alternative livelihood programmes.

With the support of the Rolex Award, Ikemeh will now create four new community conservation areas and establish a training hub and mobile education programme to build conservation skills among communities. Among the new protected areas is a particularly historic addition. “We are establishing a locally managed marine area. It’s in a place called Foropa, it’s quite a distance from Apoi, but it will be the region’s first-ever marine protected area,” she said.

2026 Rolex Awards Laureate Rachel Ikemeh partners with local Apoi community leaders to implement community-led biodiversity protection strategies.

Beyond the numbers and the protected areas, Ikemeh speaks about something that means just as much to her: the shift in how communities see conservation, and who gets to lead it. “When I started out 21 years ago, girls were not doing what I was doing. In fact, Nigerians weren’t doing what I was doing. But something has changed. One of my team members asked a young boy from the community what he wanted to be when he grew up. He pointed at me. That still brings me to tears.”

SWNDFP founder Rachel Ikemeh leads an environmental education and alternative livelihood training hub for local community development.

Photo Credit: Rolex

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(L-R) Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, Mr. Keith Heffern; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; with U.S. Consul General, Mr. Rick Swart, giving a toast during a reception commemorating the 250th U.S. Independence Anniversary in Lagos on Wednesday.

“Good evening, everyone.  I am Keith Heffern, Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, and it is a great honor to welcome you to the Consul General’s Residence to celebrate a truly historic milestone: the 250th Independence Day of the United States of America.

Please allow me to stand on existing protocol, welcoming all our distinguished guests and friends who have joined us this evening. 

This year, our commemoration is called Freedom 250 in recognition of the past 250 years of American excellence and in anticipation of the next 250 years of U.S. leadership, innovation, and global engagement. 

For more than six decades, our diplomatic relationship with Nigeria has grown to become one of the United States’s most important partnerships on the African continent.  

As the United States places trade and investment at the heart of our engagement across Africa, dynamic cities like Lagos with its energy, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit play a critical role in driving economic growth and expanding commercial ties between our two nations.  Nigeria is now the United States’ second-largest trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa.  In 2025, two-way trade between our countries reached nearly $15 billion, a 14 percent increase over 2024! These aren’t just numbers.  With more than 100 U.S. companies operating in Nigeria, they represent jobs, opportunities, and economic transformation for Americans and Nigerians. 

One of our key priorities at the U.S. Mission in Nigeria is helping U.S. companies succeed in this market.  We have partnered with Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment to deliver and execute a five-year memorandum of understanding called the U.S – Nigerian Commercial and Investment Partnership. 

Now in year two, this partnership is a leading example of our bilateral commercial relationship in action.  As a private sector-led initiative, we have nearly 50 U.S. and Nigerian companies uniting business leaders and policymakers to remove barriers to trade and investment.  In January, Lagos hosted the first ministerial-level meeting under the partnership.  Through this partnership, we have advanced cooperation in three strategic sectors: agriculture, the digital economy, and infrastructure, to drive long-term growth and shared prosperity.

To complement this growing economic relationship, our security cooperation plays an equally vital role in advancing stability, protecting shared interests, and creating the conditions for sustained prosperity.  

Earlier this year, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, working alongside the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, helped dismantle a major transnational criminal organization involved in drug trafficking and money laundering.  Efforts like these disrupt the illicit networks that undermine security, finance criminal activity, and threaten the safety and prosperity of our two nations.

We are also working together to strengthen maritime security.  Last month, the U.S. Naval Forces Africa Vice Commander joined the Nigerian Navy’s 70th Anniversary celebrations, reaffirming our commitment to strengthening regional security through African-led, U.S.-supported partnerships.

Beyond trade and investment, another powerful force that brings our countries together is culture. 

Tonight’s theme of Motown is a powerful reminder of the global influence of American music and its enduring connections with Nigeria’s own vibrant creative community.  Motown’s legacy—born in Detroit and celebrated worldwide for its artistry, innovation, and storytelling—continues to inspire artists across borders. And just as Motown shaped global music, Afrobeats has become a worldwide phenomenon, with artists from Nigeria now topping charts in the United States and around the world.  I especially enjoyed watching Rema [reh-MAH] and Burna Boy perform during the FIFA World Cup opening ceremonies.  Rema’s “Goals” will be our anthem as we root for Team USA in tonight’s round of 32 match.

As the United States enters what many call the American “Decade of Sports”—hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 2028 Summer Olympic Games, and other major athletic events—we are eager to explore ways to deepen U.S.-Nigeria cultural and commercial ties through sports.  Just last month, our commercial and public diplomacy teams supported the Professional Fighters League’s MMA debut in Nigeria under the Freedom250 banner, demonstrating excellence in American sports management and organizational capabilities to a global audience.

As we mark this 250th milestone, we also recognize the people who bring our relationship to life—especially the more than 14,000 Nigerians — many of whom are here tonight — who have participated in U.S. government exchange programs and now form a dynamic network of leaders.  Their engagement with the United States continues to expand economic opportunity, strengthen strategic collaboration, and advance our shared interests.

The progress we celebrate tonight is not accidental.  It is the result of decades of partnership, investment, and diplomacy.  And it is why the United States is making one of its most significant investments anywhere in the world right here in Lagos. 

In Eko Atlantic, construction continues on the new U.S. Consulate General compound. When completed, our new home will stand as a lasting symbol of the United States’ commitment to Nigeria and the enduring partnership between our two nations.

In closing, I wish to thank our many donors whose names are proudly displayed on the screens behind me.  It’s their generosity that made this event possible. 

Also, allow me to thank the amazing U.S. Consulate team who organized this event! 

To all our guests and friends, thank you again for celebrating with us. 

Here’s to the next 250 years of friendship and shared prosperity.”

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The Itsekiri Global Homecoming Organising Committee has officially launched its highly anticipated visual campaign, ‘I Am Part of the Iwere Story,‘ featuring a prestigious lineup of global Itsekiri personalities, including renowned business leader Tara Fela-Durotoye, culinary artist Chef Fregz, distinguished legal titan Ayuli Jemide, and actor & comedienne Tomama (DatWarriGirl). The landmark 7-day cultural and economic convergence is scheduled to take place from August 16th to 22nd, 2026, in the Warri Kingdom, Delta State. Global delegates, diaspora families, and friends of Itsekiris are urged to secure their places immediately at the official registration portal: HERE

The core mandate of the Itsekiri Global Homecoming is rooted in a vision of sustainable, continuous connection. A call made by His Royal Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, on the 21st of August 2021 during his very first speech as King. The initiative calls on the global diaspora to establish a consistent rhythm of returning home to reconnect, preserve ancestral heritage, and strategically invest in the socio-economic fabric of the Warri Kingdom. This year’s inaugural gathering carries profound weight, as it directly coincides with the 5th Coronation Anniversary of the Olu of Warri. It marks the very first unified global homecoming under his visionary reign, signalling a new dawn of collective progress and global integration for the Iwere Nation.

Speaking on the grand vision behind the initiative, the Board of Trustees Chair of the Itsekiri Global Homecoming Initiative, Tara Fela-Durotoye, an esteemed member of the Royal Order of Iwere (RoI) and a trailblazing African business leader who pioneered Nigeria’s first indigenous beauty conglomerate, emphasised the transformative power of a unified diaspora.

“Our culture is not just a reminder of where we come from; it is the blueprint for where we are going,” stated Fela-Durotoye. “We are calling on our sons and daughters from the United Kingdom, the United States, Europe, Australia, Asia, the Middle East, and across Nigeria to return to the source. This is a strategic gathering of minds, capital, and cultural pride designed to ignite lasting growth across our communities.”

The carefully curated 7-day itinerary offers an unprecedented blend of royal splendor, heritage tourism, and economic development, featuring voices such as Ade Mabo, a prominent member of the Royal Order of Iwere (RoI), a global entrepreneur, and founder of the Roli Mabo Foundation. The program kicks off on August 16th with a grand Arrival & Welcome Dinner.

Highlights of the week include the high-level Itsekiri Development Forum addressing youth empowerment, immersive tours of sacred historical landmarks such as the Ijala Royal Cemetery and the Mangrove Conservation Centre, and the spectacular, world-renowned Royal Regatta water pageantry on the Warri River. Delegates will also experience an evening of exclusive theatre with the Royal Family, pay formal homage during the full Coronation Anniversary ceremonies for His Majesty, and participate in the prestigious Queen’s Business Conference hosted by Olori Atuwatse III.

With global interest surging and premium hospitality logistics being finalised, the Organising Committee has introduced optimised registration frameworks, including exclusive 20% and 30% discount multipliers for family and group bookings. 

To review the full itinerary, secure group packages, and access complimentary on-ground concierge and hotel reservation services, please visit the official platform at www.itsekiriglobalhomecoming.com and follow the page on social media at @itsekiriglobalhomecoming. 

Media Contact: The Communications Team
Itsekiri Global Homecoming Organising Committee 2026
8 Olu Palace Road, Warri, Delta State, Nigeria
Email: info@itsekiriglobalhomecoming.com
Website: www.itsekiriglobalhomecoming.com

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Lionnel Mpasi celebrates on the pitch with fans after an international match for the Leopards.

If you watched the DR Congo versus England match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and found yourself perching on the edge of your seat, heart in your throat, wondering if you were witnessing one of the greatest upsets in football history, there is one man you need to know about. His name is Lionnel Mpasi, and by the time that game in Atlanta was over, the entire football world knew it too.

So who exactly is Lionnel Mpasi? Born on 1 August 1994 in Meaux, in the eastern suburbs of Paris, to Congolese parents, the 31-year-old is a professional goalkeeper who plays his club football for Ligue 1 side Le Havre in France. He is a former French youth international who made the deeply personal decision to represent the country of his parents’ birth instead. He made his senior debut for DR Congo in a friendly against Bahrain on 1 February 2022, and from that moment, he has grown into the Leopards’ most trusted last line of defence.

He played a key role during DR Congo’s impressive run to the knockout stage of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, producing several strong performances as the Leopards emerged as one of the tournament’s surprise teams, and those displays confirmed what his coaches already knew: that Mpasi was the man for big occasions.

Lionnel Mpasi defends his line next to Cristiano Ronaldo during the DR Congo versus Portugal World Cup match.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has been his biggest stage yet, and he has not looked out of place on it for a single minute. It was reminiscent of Mpasi’s performance in a group game against Colombia, when he blocked eight shots in a 1-0 setback to the South

American powerhouse. Congo defender Axel Tuanzebe summed it up perfectly: “He’s been phenomenal for us all tournament, especially the game against Colombia. He really kept us in the game.” That performance alone would have been enough to put Mpasi on the map. But then came England.

On 1 July 2026, at Atlanta Stadium in the Round of 32, Mpasi produced what many are already calling one of the defining goalkeeping performances of this entire tournament. He delivered a series of impressive saves during the first half against England, keeping the Leopards within striking distance despite facing constant pressure from one of the tournament favourites. His positioning, composure, and quick reactions frustrated England’s attack on multiple occasions, as he confidently handled dangerous crosses and denied several quality scoring opportunities.

Lionnel Mpasi commands his penalty area during DR Congo’s international friendly match against Uzbekistan.

He blocked shots with his right hand, his left hand, and even took one a bit below the belt. At one point, England midfielder Jude Bellingham gave him a hug of respect with Mpasi sprawled on the World Cup turf, the ball safely in his grasp. That image alone tells you everything about the kind of night it was.

He finished with five saves, the most painful of them coming near the end of the first half when he flung his body in front of a shot by Kane off a cross at the right post. Even Harry Kane, who would go on to break Congolese hearts with two late goals, could not help but acknowledge what he was up against. “He made some incredible saves,” Kane said. “It looked like it was going to be one of those days.”

In the end, Kane scored two late goals, the winner in the 86th minute, to prevent the upstart team from Africa from pulling off one of the greatest shockers in World Cup history, with England winning 2-1.

Goalkeeper Lionnel Mpasi looks down at the ball during DR Congo’s Group F match against Portugal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

After the final whistle, Mpasi spoke with the quiet dignity of someone who knows exactly what he gave. “I offered my body to science,” he said through a translator, managing a wry smile. “I’m just proud, proud of my country, proud of my team. We fight until the end of the game.” He also added: “I am filled with pride in how we represented Congo. We fought with all we had, but unfortunately it didn’t work out. Now, we will rest and then work hard to make sure we can do things like this again.”

DR Congo may be out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but Lionnel Mpasi leaves Atlanta as one of its true stars. This was only the country’s second ever World Cup appearance, their first coming in 1974 when the nation was known as Zaire, and the distance between those two campaigns tells a story of growth, ambition, and possibility.

Goalkeeper Lionnel Mpasi in the DR Congo national team’s custom JMAKxPARIS arrival suit ahead of their matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Photo Credit: Lionnel Mpasi/Instagram

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Culinary anthropologist Ozoz Sokoh, also known as Kitchen Butterfly, pictured with her cookbook. Photo Credit: Ozoz Sokoh/Instagram

Nigerian food writer and culinary anthropologist Ozoz Sokoh, widely known as Kitchen Butterfly, has made history by winning the James Beard Foundation Award for Emerging Voice in Books 2026 for her debut cookbook, “Chop Chop: Cooking the Food of Nigeria.” This landmark achievement marks the first time a Nigerian cookbook has ever won a prestigious James Beard Award. Sokoh accepted the honour in person during the James Beard Media Awards ceremony held at the Art Institute of Chicago.

Widely regarded as the “Oscars of the food world,” the James Beard Foundation Awards celebrate excellence in culinary arts and media. According to the foundation, the Emerging Voice Award specifically recognises “work of immediate impact and lasting significance by a first-time published author whose unique perspective expands the reach of the subject matter.”

Ozoz Sokoh accepts the Emerging Voice in Books honour on stage at the Art Institute of Chicago. Photo Credit: Ozoz Sokoh/LinkedIn

That description fits Sokoh and her work precisely. Celebrating the historic win, she shared: “I’m thrilled to have been in Chicago this weekend to receive the James Beard Award for Emerging Voice in Book, in celebration of my debut cookbook, Chop Chop: Cooking the Food of Nigeria.”

The official 2026 James Beard Foundation Emerging Voice in Books medal and ceremony placard awarded to Ozoz Sokoh for her cookbook. Photo Credit: Ozoz Sokoh/Instagram

Published by Artisan Books, Chop Chop features 100 classic Nigerian recipes spanning all six geopolitical regions of the country. The book covers staple dishes like egusi soup, pepper soup, jollof rice, suya, and puff puff, while providing deep cultural and historical context that traces how Nigerian cuisine has shaped and been shaped by global foodways. Prior to this historic win, Chop Chop was named a New York Times Best Cookbook of 2025 and won the gold Nautilus Book Award in the Food, Cooking, and Healthy Eating category.

Culinary anthropologist Ozoz Sokoh, also known as Kitchen Butterfly, pictured with her debut cookbook, hop Chop: Cooking the Food of Nigeria. Photo Credit: Ozoz Sokoh/Instagram

Sokoh began documenting her culinary research on her blog, Kitchen Butterfly, in 2009. Over the last two decades, she has become one of the most respected authorities on Nigerian and West African food culture. Her extensive research and documentation of African food history have been featured on global platforms including Smithsonian Magazine, CNN African Voices, and Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown.

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Best dressed fashion highlights featuring Chloe Bailey, Doechii, and Kelly Rowland at the 2026 BET Awards.

The women put beauty in black on Sunday, 28 June 2026, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, and the 2026 BET Awards red carpet was the better for it. Between the bold silhouettes, the glamour, and a few looks that are going to live in the fashion conversation for a while, it was one of those nights where the carpet itself felt like an event.

It was Olandria Carthen who set the tone early, arriving in a custom canary yellow Theophilio halter gown with a plunging neckline, a sky-high slit, and a sparkling golden sun embellishment at the hip. Yellow at an awards show is a major commitment, and she wore it with complete conviction.

Olandria Carthen in a sunshine yellow Theophilio halter gown featuring a plunging neckline, high leg slit, and a gold floral hip embellishment. Photo Credit: Olandria Carthen/Instagram

Kelly Rowland picked up the momentum, showing up in liquid gold—a halter gown with a plunging draped neckline paired with voluminous curls and crystal-accented Alexis Bittar jewellery. She was there to present the Ultimate Icon Award to recording executive Sylvia Rhone, and she dressed for the occasion accordingly.Kelly Rowland on a red carpet is always a reliable reminder that some people simply know how to get dressed.

Kelly Rowland wearing a metallic gold draped halter gown with a deep plunging neckline and shimmering fabric. Photo Credit: Kelly Rowland/Instagram

Chloe Bailey leaned into Old Hollywood glamour, arriving in a curve-hugging black-and-silver strapless Valdrin Sahiti gown covered in crystals, a vintage-inspired platinum blonde bob, and Twiggy-esque lashes. She described the look herself on Instagram as “feeling like a Black Marilyn Monroe,” and the comparison holds.

Chloe Bailey channels a vintage look in custom Valdrin Sahiti couture at the 2026 BET Awards. Photo Credit: Chloe Bailey/Instagram

Marsai Martin followed with a sleek two-toned Salih Balta dress featuring a leather corset, a sheer ruched skirt, and a lace-trimmed train, finished with a metal cross pendant necklace and a wash of pink blush. It is the exact kind of outfit that makes you do a double take.

Marsai Martin wears a custom two-toned Salih Balta leather corset gown to the 2026 BET Awards. Photo Credit: Marsai Martin/Instagram

Then came Doechii, who arrived in a hand-crocheted chocolate brown Dsquared2 gown from the brand’s archival spring 2006 collection, complete with major side cutout details and an elongated trailing hem. She kept accessories minimal, letting the raw craftsmanship of the dress carry the moment. Doechii is one of those rare people who dresses like she is not trying to impress anyone, which, of course, is exactly why everyone pays attention.

Doechii wearing a vintage spring 2006 Dsquared2 brown crochet dress on the 2026 BET Awards red carpet. Photo Credit: Doechii/Instagram

Closing out the carpet conversation in the way only she could, Teyana Taylor arrived in a sculptural crimson Stéphane Rolland couture gown with a coordinating embellished headpiece and matching pointed-toe pumps. She was picking up the non-competitive Icon of the Year Award that night, and she dressed like she already knew. By the time the evening was over, she had left with four trophies, including Best Actress, Video Director, and Fashion Vanguard, making her the most decorated person of the night. The gown already knew.

Icon of the Year winner Teyana Taylor wears a red Stéphane Rolland gown to the 2026 BET Awards. Photo Credit: Teyana Taylor/Instagram

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Book cover supplied by the author, Biodun Abudu.

Growing up in Aguda, Surulere made me believe almost everything could be traced back to a family curse. If a marriage failed, it was a family curse. If someone struggled financially, it was a family curse. If a woman could not conceive, if a child fell sick repeatedly, if a student failed an examination, somewhere in the conversation, a family curse would eventually appear. The idea was so common that it became part of how many people understood life. Long before I understood concepts such as generational trauma, conditioning, emotional inheritance, or learned behaviour, I understood curses. 

Looking back, I understand why the idea was so powerful. Families pass down many things. Some pass down land, names, recipes, stories, and traditions. Others pass down something far less visible. They pass down patterns, fears and wounds that were never properly addressed. 

I grew up watching people talk about inheritance in ways that went beyond money or property. Across Nigeria and throughout the African diaspora, it is often an unspoken belief that families carry more than DNA. They carry unfinished prayers, unspoken betrayals, unpaid debts, violence that was buried instead of healed, and decisions made in desperation. Many people believe those things continue to affect future generations. When those patterns repeat often enough, people stop calling it coincidence; it becomes a familial adoption, a curse: A family where marriages rarely survive. A family where financial stability never seems to last. A family where addiction, abandonment, conflict, or estrangement appears generation after generation. When people see the same outcomes repeating themselves over decades, it becomes natural to search for explanations beyond one individual. 

Church played a major role in shaping how many of us understood those explanations. 

Some of my earliest memories involve hearing prayers against bloodline curses, ancestral attacks, and generational bondage. Entire services sometimes seemed devoted to breaking spiritual chains supposedly passed down through families. People prayed against battles they believed began long before they were born. They fasted, attended deliverance services, and searched for answers to problems that felt bigger than themselves.

Even when I was in boarding school, similar messages appeared. Students were often taught that recurring setbacks could have spiritual roots. Poor grades, repeated illness, delays, disappointments, and family struggles were sometimes discussed through the lens of inherited spiritual problems. The solution was usually presented in familiar terms: more prayer, more fasting, more deliverance. 

As a child, I accepted these ideas because everyone around me seemed to. 

As an adult, I began asking different questions. What if some of the struggles we inherit are not necessarily supernatural punishments but learned behaviours that continue because nobody ever challenges them? What if some of the problems we spend years praying against are also problems that require honest self-examination? 

One of the biggest observations I have made over the years is that people are often quicker to investigate spiritual explanations than behavioural ones. If every woman in a family experiences relationship problems, the first explanation is often a generational curse. Very few people stop to ask whether unhealthy communication patterns, family interference, unresolved trauma, or harmful beliefs about relationships might also be contributing factors. 

The same thing happens with other recurring issues. Families sometimes blame curses for financial instability without examining spending habits. They blame spiritual attacks for conflict without examining how anger, silence, control, or emotional neglect have been passed from one generation to the next. In some cases, the behaviour itself becomes invisible because it has existed for so long that it feels normal. 

That realisation changed how I viewed the conversation around family curses. It did not make me dismiss spiritual beliefs, nor did it make me believe every explanation can be reduced to psychology. Instead, it forced me to recognise that inheritance is more complicated than most of us are taught. 

A father who chooses violence teaches fear as a native language. A mother who survives through bitterness may unintentionally pass that bitterness forward as a survival strategy. A household built on silence teaches children to swallow their emotions. Families pass down beliefs about love, conflict, discipline, success, and self-worth just as surely as they pass down physical characteristics. 

The older I get, the more I realise that inheritance extends far beyond bloodlines. Sometimes what we inherit is a way of seeing the world. Sometimes it is a wound that nobody acknowledged. Sometimes it is a coping mechanism that once helped someone survive but now prevents someone else from healing.

What surpised me me was how much time and energy people invested in fighting problems they believed had spiritual origins. In many churches, the prayer line was often longer than the line for practical solutions. People arrived carrying hospital reports, family problems, financial struggles and relationship issues. They were looking for explanations, and in many cases, the explanation offered was a family curse. 

I remember watching people spend years trying to break patterns they could not fully understand. Some believed their struggles were connected to decisions made by parents, grandparents, or relatives they had never met. Others believed they were paying the price for spiritual agreements they never made themselves. The details varied, but the underlying fear was often the same: the belief that something had gone wrong long before they arrived and that forces outside their control were shaping their lives. 

What I have realised is how the discussion around generational curses became so dominant that it overshadowed discussions about accountability, healing, education, emotional intelligence, and personal responsibility. People became experts at identifying spiritual attacks but struggled to identify destructive behaviours. They could recognise a curse but not always a pattern. 

This does not mean spiritual explanations are automatically wrong. Many people hold sincere religious beliefs, and faith remains an important source of comfort, strength and meaning. But what if some of the things we called curses were actually consequences of wounds that had never been addressed? 

Addiction can repeat itself across generations. Abuse can repeat itself. Absence can repeat itself.  Silence can repeat itself. Poverty can repeat itself. Children who grow up learning survival instead of safety often carry those lessons into adulthood. Girls may learn endurance before they learn choice. Boys may learn anger before they learn emotional language. Over time, these patterns become so familiar that they feel normal, even when they are causing harm. 

Whether we describe these experiences as generational trauma, family conditioning, inherited behaviour, or family curses, the pattern itself remains difficult to ignore. The mind carries lessons learned in childhood. Families often repeat behaviours not because they consciously choose to, but because those behaviours were modelled repeatedly and rarely challenged. 

Perhaps this is why every family eventually produces someone who asks uncomfortable questions. Every lineage eventually produces someone who becomes unwilling to accept the story exactly as it was handed to them. They are not necessarily rebellious people. More often, they are simply awake. They are the people who refuse silence. They are the people who choose therapy when previous generations chose secrecy. They are the people who name abuse instead of protecting reputation. They are the people who decide that survival alone is not enough and that healing matters too. 

Unfortunately, these individuals are not always celebrated. Challenging a family pattern can come at a cost. It may create tension with relatives who view questioning as disrespect. It may lead to accusations of being ungrateful or disloyal. It may require establishing boundaries that others do not understand. In some cases, it creates distance between people who genuinely love one another but fundamentally disagree about what healing requires. 

Sometimes breaking a pattern does not look like dramatic confrontation. Sometimes it looks like choosing not to repeat what was done to you. Sometimes it looks like refusing to normalise behaviour that caused pain. Sometimes it looks like protecting your peace when previous generations were taught to sacrifice theirs. 

___

This excerpt was published as BellaNaija’s commitment to supporting creatives. BellaNaija is not responsible for the content of external sites, news culled therefrom and content supplied by a third party.

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Toke Makinwa posing in a yellow Emagine By Bukola high-low gown, a red Weiz Dhurm Franklyn tweed mini dress, and a yellow Fiolakemi Atelier lace corset dress.

You love colours, don’t you? What about some red and yellow for your colour inspiration for your next owambe, dinner, or even a high-fashion portrait session?

When it comes to serving pure style inspiration, Toke Makinwa stays in a lane entirely her own. This time, she is giving a masterclass in colour theory with three spectacular looks that lean heavily into bold red and sunshine yellow, providing all the mood board material needed for the upcoming event season.

Red Tweed Statement at the Next Gen Creator House

For her appearance as a panelist at the BellaNaija x Google Gemini Next Gen Creator House, Toke opted for a structure-forward mini dress designed by Weiz Dhurm Franklyn, cut from a striking red-and-white grid-patterned tweed. It features an oversized collar and a deep, plunging neckline that keeps things sharp yet incredibly glamorous. The real talking point is the asymmetrical drape crossing the front, which cascades past the hip into a long panel of thick red fringe pooling right at her ankles. To finish, she slipped into transparent pointed-toe heels with white heart accents, carried a structured white heart-shaped clutch, and stacked on classic gold bangles.

Toke Makinwa wears a custom Weiz Dhurm Franklyn red tweed dress with long side fringe to the BellaNaija x Google Gemini Next Gen Creator House. Photo Credit: Toke Makinwa/Instagram

Canary Yellow Sculpted Glamour by Emagine By Bukola

In another jaw-dropping moment, she went completely architectural in a custom canary yellow high-low gown crafted by Emagine By Bukola that is all about texture. The bodice uses tightly coiled fabric rosettes across the cups, paired with a structured torso featuring scattered rhinestone embellishments. The skirt is a technical marvel made of continuous, looped fabric tubing that creates a beautiful, multi-layered bubble silhouette, extending into a sweeping train. Styled with minimalist ankle-strap stiletto sandals and stacked metallic gold bracelets, this look is tailor-made for a red carpet or a milestone celebratory shoot.

Toke Makinwa wearing a structured canary yellow architectural gown designed by Emagine By Bukola. Photo Credit: Toke Makinwa/Instagram

The Modern Traditionalist by Fiolakemi Atelier

Saving a spectacular moment for festive luxury, she also reimagined traditional Nigerian party wear in a look designed by Fiolakemi Atelier. Toke paired an elongated, figure-hugging column skirt with a highly structured boned corset bodice. The sheer, pale yellow top incorporates supportive vertical boning over an opaque central panel, while the floor-length skirt features premium lace woven with silver and pastel floral sequins. Complemented by a meticulously wrapped, matching pale yellow traditional Gele, a simple pendant necklace, and gold statement bracelets, this is ultimate inspiration for a luxury wedding guest or an elegant host.

Toke Makinwa posing in a pale yellow sequined lace column skirt, matching structured corset bodice, yellow traditional Gele headtie, and Ipele by Fiolakemi Atelier. Photo Credit: Toke Makinwa/Instagram

Whether you are partial to the fiery confidence of crimson or the bright optimism of canary yellow, these curated looks offer the perfect blueprint for making a memorable entrance this season.

Which of these styles are you sending to your designer first?

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Nnabuike Chisom wearing traditional academic regalia during his viral 2026 master’s graduation speech in Wuhan, China.

Ten years ago, Nnabuike Chisom did not know a single word of Mandarin. In July 2026, he stood at a wooden lectern in front of nearly 4,000 students at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law (ZUEL) in Wuhan, China, and delivered his master’s graduation speech entirely in Chinese. Chosen to represent the international student community at the graduation ceremony, Chisom’s presentation has circulated widely across social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, drawing widespread attention online.

Watching the video clip, the natural fluency of his delivery makes it easy to forget that Mandarin is his second language. The rhythm, the precise tones, and the overall ease of his speech stand out immediately. On social media, one commenter noted, “Bro, are you AI? Because you’re speaking like a typical Chinese.” Another suggested he be appointed as Nigeria’s Ambassador to China on the spot, while others expressed simple delight, a sentiment that is incredibly easy to share.

Nigerian student Nnabuike Chisom giving his viral Mandarin graduation speech at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law.

Reflecting on the milestone, Chisom expressed immense gratitude for the academic opportunity. “Representing international students to give a graduation speech at the graduation ceremony has been an absolute honour,” he shared. “I am so grateful for this trust and opportunity to share our journey.” For readers wondering what comes next for the Nigerian scholar, he clarified that this is only the beginning: “The journey just started, still have a lot of skills to unlock.” He is currently transitioning into a PhD programme to continue his research.

Nnabuike Chisom receives recognition during the 2026 graduation ceremony at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law in Wuhan, China.

For the event, he wore Zhongnan University’s traditional academic regalia. The look featured a royal blue graduation gown with wide, relaxed sleeves lined in light blue at the cuffs, layered with a deep navy shoulder drape featuring purple, green, and white floral embroidery along the lapel. Beneath the robe, he paired a white collared shirt with a dark, diagonally striped burgundy and navy tie, holding a traditional red tassel and cap while addressing the hall. The entire presentation suited the milestone perfectly.

The 2026 master’s graduation ceremony venue in Wuhan, China, featuring international student representative Nnabuike Chisom on the main screens.

We dare you to watch this and not be impressed

 

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Photo Credit: Nnabuike Chisom/Instagram 

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Principal cast members Mercy Aigbe, Odunlade Adekola, and Iyabo Ojo for EbonyLife Films’ 2026 adaptation of The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives.

If you spent years recommending Lola Shoneyin’s 2010 book “The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives” to everyone you know, it is time to check back in with the story. The novel is making its way to global cinemas this December, and EbonyLife Films has unveiled the full cast list.

Director Daniel Oriahi has assembled a wide, generational mix of Nollywood talent to inhabit the secretive world of Ibadan’s most infamous compound. The entire story hinges on the delicate, often hilarious balance of power between a wealthy, unlettered patriarch and the women managing his home.

Let’s look at exactly who is playing who so you can map out how these casting choices match the characters you pictured on the page.

 Here is the inner circle:

• Odunlade Adekola as Baba Segi: The ultimate patriarch. He is proud, loud, and entirely convinced he controls his household—though he is deeply vulnerable underneath it all.
• Iyabo Ojo as Iya Segi: The first wife and the undisputed strategist. She is sharp, she commands authority, and she protects her space fiercely while hiding her own old wounds.
• Mercy Aigbe as Iya Tope: The peacemaker of the compound. Quiet, gentle, and highly observant, she sees a lot more than she lets on.
• Bimbo Ademoye as Iya Femi: The ambitious third wife. She is cunning, desperate to secure her position, and definitely not one to cross.
• Omowunmi Dada as Bolanle: The university-educated outsider. Her entry into the family as the fourth wife is the exact domino that starts to unspool the entire family legacy.

A dramatic compound needs an equally lively neighbourhood to keep things moving. The supporting lineup is a treasure trove of familiar faces:

• Bimbo Manuel as Teacher: The trusted confidant who hears Baba Segi’s actual truths.
• Nkechi Blessing as Mrs Bakare: The community’s fiercely protective mother figure.
• Bisola Aiyeola as Yemisi: The local matchmaker who always has an ear to the ground.
• Olarotimi Fakunle as Taju: The silent observer who knows the home’s real mechanics.
• Constance Olatunde as Segi and Maleek of Ikorodu Bois as Akin: Stepping in as the family’s eldest daughter and dutiful son.
• Tina Mba and Blessing Nze: Playing the ruthless nurse and the messenger of truth respectively—two people you definitely want to watch closely.
• Daniel Etim Effiong as Dr Idibia and Uzor Arukwe as Dr Ade: The medical professionals who act as the ultimate catalysts for the family’s big secrets.
• Kunle Remi as Tunde: The man behind a forbidden romance.
• Mike Azu as The Butcher: A passionate lover nestled deep within the town’s gossip loops.
• Nancy Isime as Bisi: The local temptress.
• Bolaji Ogunmola as Aunty Clara: The local madam.
• Binta Ayo Mogaji as Grandma: The cruel matriarch who sets a lot of the traditional tone.

Between the brilliant source material and a cast list that spans every corner of the industry, our December cinema plans are completely sorted.

The post From Odunlade Adekola to Mercy Aigbe: Here’s Who’s Playing Who in The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Speakers at the SheCan Conference 7.0 urged women to define success on their own terms, embrace resilience, and pursue opportunities with clarity and courage. Across every session, the message was clear: women can achieve more when they recognise their value and act intentionally.

On June 19, thousands of women gathered at The Balmoral Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, for the seventh edition of the SheCan Conference, one of Nigeria’s leading platforms for women’s empowerment, leadership development, and economic advancement.

With over 13,832 registrations recorded ahead of the event, attendees filled the main hall and overflow hall two, with many standing throughout the programme despite the heavy morning rain. The turnout reflected the determination of Nigerian women to learn, grow, and succeed.

Under the theme “She Can Do More,” speakers from business, public service, faith, and entrepreneurship shared lessons on leadership, wealth creation, personal growth, and resilience.

General Manager, Enterprise Sales at MTN, Febisola Oyeniyi, opened the conference by redefining excellence as “not perfection, but the attitude of doing things well and not keeping quiet about the things you have done well.“

Convener Dr. Ezinne Ezeani reaffirmed SheCan Nigeria’s commitment to empowering women through year-round initiatives including mentorship, career and business development, networking opportunities, charity projects, and skills acquisition programmes. She described SheCan as a movement dedicated to helping women achieve sustainable growth and greater impact.

Chairman of Loft & Keys Advisory, Austin Albert, shared his journey from humble beginnings and encouraged women to pursue financial independence through intentional planning, disciplined investing, and informed risk-taking. He also highlighted opportunities within the Dubai real estate market.

Founder of House of Tara, Tara Durotoye, challenged women to define success for themselves rather than compare their journeys with others. “Everyone needs to find what works for them and hold on to it,” she said.

Business consultant Fela Durotoye stressed that a woman’s success should never be measured by her husband’s achievements or financial status, but by her own growth, purpose, and contribution.

Entrepreneur Chantelle Abdul encouraged women to see opportunities hidden within challenges, noting that many people focus so much on problems that they miss the possibilities attached to them.

Politician and public servant Yewande Zaccheaus spoke on the importance of direction and discernment, reminding attendees that “not every opportunity deserves a yes.”

Pastor Toyin Bakare encouraged women to remain steadfast during difficult seasons, urging them to “keep building, even when progress feels slow.“

A panel discussion featuring Sari El-Khalil, Managing Director of 7UP Bottling Company, alongside Abdul and Bakare, explored leadership, value creation, and personal growth. El-Khalil noted that people perform better when they feel valued, while Abdul challenged women not to limit their vision for their lives.

Joining virtually, Dr. Fatoumatta Gaye, President of the Africa CEO Club, reflected on her journey from modest beginnings to global leadership, reminding participants that their starting point does not determine their destination.

Actor and filmmaker Ruth Kadiri urged women to pursue their ambitions boldly, even when others fail to understand their vision. She also encouraged attendees to set goals that stretch their potential.

Closing the conference, motivational speaker Olushola Olaleye reminded participants that success requires continuous effort, declaring that “success is not owned; it is rented, and the payment is made daily.”

Beyond the keynote sessions, attendees witnessed grants, cash rewards, giveaways, and support initiatives that benefited women from diverse backgrounds, including members of the deaf community. The atmosphere reflected the conference’s spirit of women empowering women.

By the end of the day, participants left with practical lessons on leadership, wealth creation, resilience, and self-belief, as well as the reassurance that they belong to a community committed to helping women become more, achieve more, and do more.

As one attendee summed it up: “I know I can be more.”

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Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka wearing the “Evolving Ceremony” walk-on gown designed by Hana Yagi.

Do you love white? Do you love when white can be stylish, sharp, and rich with cultural storytelling? Then Naomi Osaka’s opening week at Wimbledon 2026 is precisely what you should be looking at.

The All England Club in London is famous for its strict all-white dress code, leaving tennis players with minimal space to experiment. However, the four-time Grand Slam champion completely rewrote the playbook this year. Instead of arriving in standard sportswear, she stepped onto Court 3 for her first-round match against Elsa Jacquemot wearing a custom, floor-length, upcycled kimono-inspired gown titled “Evolving Ceremony”.

The ceremonial outerwear was created by Tokyo-based independent designer Hana Yagi, alongside curatorial director Marty Harper. Yagi specialises in reworking traditional bridalwear, and for this project, she constructed the garment from seven different textiles. The materials were upcycled from vintage Japanese kimonos and a traditional shiromuku (white Japanese bridal dress).

Full-length portrait of Naomi Osaka in a forest wearing a structured white obi belt and embroidered robe from Hana Yagi’s Evolving Ceremony collection.

The structural silhouette featured elongated, square furisode-style sleeves, a classic high neckline, a thick matching obi belt cinched at the waist with a decorative cord and a floor-grazing, semi-sheer layered tulle skirt.

The surface of the robe was hand-embroidered with pearl-white thread depicting cranes and cherry blossoms. To complete the styling, Osaka wore diamond and pearl jewellery from the Japanese luxury brand Mikimoto, alongside a traditional kanzashi floral hair ornament pinned into her sleek bun.

The creative concept behind the look drew directly from global pop culture. Osaka revealed that her unexpected visual reference was Lucy Liu’s character, O-Ren Ishii, from Quentin Tarantino’s martial arts film “Kill Bill.”

I remembered absolutely falling in love with Lucy Liu’s character. She has an all-white kimono, and I remember thinking that was really cool and amazing. It was like my interpretation of that while also paying a lot of respect and love to Japan.

Profile portrait of professional tennis player Naomi Osaka highlighting the traditional silhouette of her custom collaborative wardrobe.

Because Grand Slam rules require players to transition from their walk-on outfits to match play in under sixty seconds, the entire garment was engineered with nine detachable layers.

Before starting play, Osaka unclasped the ceremonial layers to reveal a custom white Nike performance tennis dress underneath. The performance dress mirrored the Japanese design theme, using kirigami (the traditional art of paper cutting) to shape 3D cream floral motifs along the neckline, hip, and pleated hem.

The narrative continued into the second round on Wednesday. Following her initial win, Osaka secured a 6-3, 6-2 victory over Anastasia Gasanova. For this match arrival, she modified the look, styling the traditional obi belt over a structured white Nike bomber jacket.

See more photos

Naomi Osaka arrives for her first-round match at Wimbledon 2026 in London showcasing the detachable layered gown.

Naomi Osaka holding a tennis racket on court at Wimbledon while wearing a custom white upcycled kimono gown.

Naomi Osaka holding out the wide sleeve of her embroidered white gown during an outdoor fashion shoot.

Detailed view of Naomi Osaka’s traditional Japanese hair styling and luxury jewelry for her 2026 London tournament appearance.

An editorial portrait of Naomi Osaka showcasing the intricate Japanese design details of her custom Wimbledon attire.

Photo Credit: Naomi Osaka and WTA

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Strength. Purpose. Resilience. Courage.

These were the defining conversations at the 2026 edition of The Undaunted Conference (TUC), where thousands of young Nigerians gathered in Abuja for a transformative day of conversations designed to inspire a generation to thrive beyond life’s setbacks.

Convened by Tolulope Tunde Ajiboye, this year’s conference, themed “The Unapologetic Edition,” brought together respected leaders, industry experts, entrepreneurs, creatives and changemakers who challenged attendees to embrace purpose, build resilience and pursue excellence in every area of life.

Setting the tone for the day, Tolulope Tunde Ajiboye delivered a deeply personal welcome address that resonated with the audience as she spoke candidly about navigating grief, disappointment, uncertainty and life’s unexpected seasons.

She reminded participants that true strength is not found in a life without challenges, but in the decision to keep showing up despite them.

“Today, I do not stand before you as someone who has figured everything out, but as a woman who has experienced loss, disappointment, uncertainty and grief. Giving up would have been easier than pressing on, yet we are here.”

Encouraging attendees not to delay their dreams while waiting for perfect conditions, she added,

“There will never be a perfect time. There will always be reasons to postpone your vision, but purpose does not wait for convenience. It responds to courage. If God has placed a dream in your heart, begin where you are, with what you have. Keep showing up, keep building and keep believing.”

The conference continued with an inspiring keynote delivered by former Accountant General of the Federation and Nigeria’s first female Accountant General, Dr. Oluwatoyin Shakirat Madein, who challenged young Nigerians to remain resilient despite economic and personal challenges.

“Greatness is not born in comfort alone. It is often formed in the midst of adversity by men and women who refuse to give up,” she said, encouraging participants to stay committed to their vision even when circumstances seem uncertain.

A fireside conversation featuring Nollywood actor Stan Nze further inspired attendees to remain optimistic about the future while staying disciplined and consistent in pursuing their goals.

“You need to find positivity in your future one way or another. You need to know that your dreams are valid and that they are possible. You must dream and work consistently so that you can reap the rewards in the future,” he said.

Throughout the day, speakers including Jennifer Ariwigwe, Bukola Akerele, Olusola Dada, Vivian Savia, George Omoraro, Pamela Momoh, Dr. Megor Ikuenobe and Ife Aderibigbe shared practical lessons on leadership, entrepreneurship, finance and relationships, equipping participants with tools to build lives of purpose and impact.

One of the standout moments of the conference was the live business pitch competition, where members of the audience determined the winner through a transparent voting process. The overall winner received a ₦500,000 business grant. The first runner up received ₦250,000, courtesy of a conference partner, while the overall winner also received an additional ₦100,000 cash prize, courtesy of another partner, further reinforcing the conference’s commitment to supporting young entrepreneurs with tangible resources to grow their businesses.

Selected entrepreneurs also received free Point of Sale terminals through Redtech, reinforcing the conference’s commitment to empowering small businesses with practical support beyond inspiration.

More than a conference, The Undaunted Conference 2026 became a powerful reminder that strength is built through resilience, purpose is worth pursuing and courage has the power to transform lives.

With thousands of participants, meaningful conversations, mentorship opportunities and life changing connections, the conference reaffirmed Tolulope Tunde Ajiboye’s vision of raising a generation of undaunted leaders who refuse to be defined by their circumstances but are determined to thrive and make meaningful impact.

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High-fashion portrait of Nigerian digital creator Korty EO captured by The Lagos Paparazzi inside a beautifully lit Lagos restaurant. Photo Credit: Korty EO/Instagram

If you’ve spent any time watching the conventional celebrity interview, you’ll know how it usually goes: rehearsed answers, careful PR, and a conversation that stays firmly within the lines. Korty EO does something completely different. Eniola Olanrewaju, better known as Korty EO, is a 27-year-old Nigerian filmmaker, storyteller, and YouTuber whose series Flow with Korty trades the rigid studio format for something far more human. There are no hard-hitting gotcha questions and no pressure to perform. Instead, Korty creates the kind of warm, unhurried atmosphere that makes even the most guarded people forget they’re being filmed, and what comes out of those conversations is the kind of honesty you rarely get anywhere else.

Entrepreneur Tony Elumelu chats with filmmaker Korty EO ahead of the Tony Elumelu Foundation 2026 cohort announcement in Abuja. Photo Credit: Korty EO/Instagram

She is part of a new generation of Nigerian creators changing what storytelling looks like, and with over 390,000 YouTube subscribers and several videos crossing the one million views mark, more people are discovering her work every day. Here are five Flow with Korty episodes worth catching up on.

Tony Elumelu: “I Got Rich by Luck”

Nobody expected Africa’s most celebrated business titan to sit down with a YouTuber and say the quiet part out loud. But that’s precisely what happened when Elumelu joined Korty in Abuja ahead of the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s 2026 cohort announcement. “I am here because of luck. At times, you don’t get successful because you are the best in class or because you are the fittest or most energetic. Sometimes, you need luck and I am a product of luck,” he said. He also reacted to hearing what Korty reportedly charges for interviews: “I am in the wrong profession.” The episode sparked one of the biggest business conversations on Nigerian social media this year and sent thousands straight to her channel.

Asake: The Homecoming

This one wasn’t just an interview, it was a document. When Asake returned to Nigeria after his time in California working on Lungu Boy, Korty filmed all of it, his reunion with his mother, the Eyo festival welcome, a visit to his alma mater the University of Ile-Ife, and a meeting with the Ooni of Ife.

A scene from Flow with Korty featuring Asake sharing his perspective on Nigerian higher education, comparing UI and OAU. Photo Credit: Korty EO/Instagram

Then they sat down and talked properly. Asake opened up about leaving home at 15 against his father’s wishes, his deep loyalty to Olamide (“even if I become the President of America, Baddo will always remain Baddo to me”), and his love for money because, as he put it, “it solves 80% of my problems.” Conducted largely in Yoruba, the episode is warm, funny, and surprisingly moving.

Tems: The Girl Who Was Always Angry

Before Tems was a Grammy winner and an Oscar nominee, she was, by her own account, a girl who spent most of her young years being angry at the world. The episode pulled back the curtain on a side of Tems her music hints at but rarely confirms, and when Korty asked about love, Tems said something that stopped viewers cold: she had never been in love. It was the kind of line that only comes out when someone feels safe enough to actually speak. Korty gave her that space, and Tems delivered.

Asa: Words of Wisdom in a Backyard

The episode opens with Asa saying “I don’t know what it feels like to be heartbroken,” and from that line alone, you know this one is going to be different. Asa talked about hunger being the thing that drove her before success arrived, about love with refreshing openness, and about not changing a single thing about her career if she could go back.

An intimate interview session between filmmaker Korty EO and legendary musician Asa at her Lagos home for the Flow with Korty series. Photo Credit: Korty EO/Instagram

Wise throughout, the whole conversation feels like receiving advice from someone who has genuinely figured some things out.

Olamide: The Most Private Man in the Room

Getting Olamide to really talk is not something that happens often. So when he sat down with Korty and opened up about still getting nervous before going on stage, losing his parents, and finding that being too business-minded can limit creativity, it felt like a genuine event. He described himself in one word as “peaceful,” which surprised many.

Creative filmmaker Korty EO sits down with YBNL boss Olamide for a rare, candid interview episode of Flow with Korty in Nigeria. Photo Credit: Korty EO/Instagram

Then came the food conversation, where it emerged that one of Nigeria’s most street-rooted artists now prefers broccoli, sea bass, and caviar over amala. The internet had thoughts. Korty, as ever, just let him talk.

The post Tems, Asake, Olamide & More: 5 Flow with Korty Episodes You Need to Catch Up On appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

There’s something special about an NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert. The performances, free from elaborate stage productions and complemented by live instrumentation, have set a global standard for musical artistry. Over the years, several Nigerian artists have taken the stage at the iconic Tiny Desk, showcasing the richness of Afrobeats and delivering unforgettable performances that resonate with audiences around the world.

Let’s look at some of the Nigerian artists to have performed at the Tiny Desk Concert.

Burna Boy

For his 2019 Tiny Desk concert, Burna Boy performed his hit songs, Gbona, Wetin Man Go Do, Dangote and Ye. Watch the performance below.

Tems

Tems, as known, has one of the best vocals in Afrobeats. For her 2024 Tiny Desk concert, she performed Me & U, Ice T, Unfortunate, Forever, and her Grammy-winning song, Love Me JeJe.

Asake

Asake brought Fuji to Tiny Desk. For his 2025 Tiny Desk concert, Asake performed Why Love, Amapiano, Awodi,  Remember, Lonely at the Top, Ototo, MMS, Organise and Fuji Vibe.

Davido

Davido’s set list for his 2021 Tiny Desk concert includes Gobe, Aye, Risky and Jowo.

Omah Lay

For Omah Lay’s 2023 Tiny Desk concert, he performed Bad Influence, i’m a mess, soso, never forget with a medley of Infinity, bend you and understand.

Fireboy DML

Fireboy DML performed Like I Do, Tattoo and Peru for his 2022 Tiny Desk concert.

Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr’s Tiny Desk concert is one of the latest concerts for a Nigerian artist. For her 2026 performance, she performed Birds Sing of Money, Gimme Dat, Who’s Dat Girl, Tornado, Rush, Commas, Amin and Orun.

Adekunle Gold

Adekunle Gold, like Fireboy DML and Tiwa Savage, had their Tiny Desk concerts at home. For his 2022 concert, he performed Sinner, Something Different, One Woman and Okay.

Tiwa Savage

The African Queen had her Tiny Desk concert in 2020, where she performed Dangerous Love, Attention, Like and Koroba.

What’s your favourite Tiny Desk performance by a Nigerian artist?

The post Our Favourite Tiny Desk Concert Performances by Nigerian Artists appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Music video still of Davido smiling while leaning against a vibrant blue studio wall, wearing a bright orange zip-up pullover jacket, brown trousers, sunglasses, and a gold tie from the I Know Who I Be visuals.

Fifteen years in, and Davido is still finding fresh ways to anchor our playlists and make us groove to the music.

The Afrobeats superstar has announced his sixth studio album, Oriadé, arriving on 31 July 2026, and from the title to the cinematic teaser he dropped on social media, everything about this announcement feels intentional. In the trailer, he shows up in an embroidered burgundy-and-black traditional outfit, throne behind him, crown nearby, captioning the whole thing: “The kingdom expands. Chosen long before the throne.” No further explanation needed, really.

The title carries real weight. Derived from the Yoruba words “ori” (destiny) and “adé” (crown), Oriadé translates to “the crowned head,” and for anyone who knows Davido’s background, it goes deeper than a creative choice. He is from the Adeleke family, a royal house in Ede, Osun State, and Oriade is among his own names. This album, then, is as much about lineage and identity as it is about music. “Over fifteen years ago, I decided to trust something I couldn’t fully explain. I just knew music was my destiny,” he told Billboard. “The biggest blessings often come from betting on yourself, even when the destination isn’t in sight yet.”

The official album cover artwork for Davido’s sixth studio project, titled Oriade.

The lead single “I Know Who I Be,” featuring South African producers Jazzwrld and GL Ceejay, is already out and gives the first real taste of where this album is headed. Oriadé follows his 2025 album 5ive, which peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard World Albums chart and gave us the Omah Lay collaboration “With You,” one of the most-loved Afrobeats records of that year, alongside features from Chris Brown, Victoria Monét, Becky G, Shenseea, and YG Marley. This year alone, Davido has already made his Coachella debut, surprised the crowd with Adekunle Gold, and landed on the official FIFA World Cup 2026 soundtrack alongside Major Lazer and Nelly Furtado. Oriadé is the next chapter, and 31 July is the date to mark.

Official music video still from I Know Who I Be featuring Davido alongside South African producers JAZZWRLD and GL Ceejay standing against a vibrant blue studio backdrop.

Watch the announcement video below

Photo Credit: Davido/Instagram 

The post The Kingdom Expands! Davido Announces New Album Oriadé appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Left to right: The Macallan Brand Ambassador & Educator, Daniel Atteh; Michelin starred Chef, Sauro Bison; Chioma Alonge; and The Macallan Brand Specialist, Rasak Makanjuola, at The Macallan x The Delborough Michelin Star Dining Experience, Lagos, on Saturday June 27, 2026.

The Macallan, the renowned single malt Scotch whisky, partnered with The Delborough Lagos to host an exclusive dining experience that brought together some of Nigeria’s most influential business leaders, entrepreneurs and cultural tastemakers, marking a significant moment in the evolution of experiential luxury in the country.

Held at Dani Restaurant within The Delborough Lagos, the intimate evening celebrated the shared values of craftsmanship, heritage and excellence that define both brands. Guests experienced a thoughtfully curated menu by Chef Sauro Bison, the Italian Michelin starred chef recently brought on board by The Delborough as part of its ambition to build what could become Africa’s first Michelin starred restaurant, paired with a selection of The Macallan’s finest single malt expressions.

The collaboration reflects the growing demand for meaningful luxury experiences in Lagos, where affluent consumers are increasingly seeking curated moments that combine exceptional hospitality, fine dining and premium spirits. By bringing together world class whisky and culinary artistry, The Macallan and The Delborough showcased a new expression of luxury rooted in quality, storytelling and attention to detail.

Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed a guided tasting of three expressions from The Macallan portfolio, the 15-Year-Old Double Cask, the 18-Year-Old Double Cask and the 25-Year-Old Sherry Oak, with each whisky intentionally paired to complement the flavours of Chef Bison’s tasting menu. In a unique interpretation of whisky beyond the glass, The Macallan 12-Year-Old was also incorporated into the chef’s signature dishes, creating an immersive food and whisky pairing experience.

Speaking on the collaboration, Daniel Atteh, The Macallan Brand Ambassador & Educator, said:

“The Macallan has always been synonymous with craftsmanship and exceptional quality. Our partnership with The Delborough reflects our shared commitment to creating memorable experiences that celebrate excellence, bringing together extraordinary whisky, exceptional cuisine and meaningful conversations in a setting that embodies modern luxury.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Jimmy Antonios, General Manager of The Delborough Lagos, said:

“At The Delborough, we are committed to delivering world-class hospitality experiences that place Lagos alongside the world’s leading luxury destinations. Partnering with The Macallan allowed us to create an evening where culinary excellence, refined hospitality and exceptional whisky came together in a truly memorable way.“

The evening concluded with guests raising a final toast to craftsmanship, innovation and the growing influence of Nigeria’s luxury hospitality industry, reinforcing Lagos’ position as a destination for globally inspired, culturally relevant luxury experiences.

For The Macallan, the collaboration reinforces its commitment to creating immersive experiences that extend beyond the glass, while for The Delborough Lagos, it further strengthens its reputation as a destination where global culinary excellence meets African luxury.

Please savour The Macallan responsibly.

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The AWIEF Awards was established since 2017 to recognise and celebrate the remarkable achievements of female founders and business leaders across Africa.

The Awards have showcased and honoured exceptional women leaders who are building successful businesses, driving innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to Africa’s economic growth, while inspiring future generations and highlighting the vital role of women in Africa’s development.

To remain relevant and responsive to Africa’s evolving entrepreneurial ecosystem, this year the Awards categories have been refined to better reflect emerging trends, innovation, and impact.

In addition to updating the existing categories, AWIEF has introduced the Male Ally Award to recognise male leaders whose actions and influence have contributed meaningfully to advancing women’s economic empowerment and leadership.

The winners of the AWIEF Awards 2026 will be announced at a high-profile awards ceremony and gala dinner on 11 November 2026, as the grand finale of the AWIEF 2026 Conference, taking place on 10 and 11 November 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Cape Town, South Africa.

Awards Categories

Woman to Watch Award

The Woman to Watch Award recognises a female leader under 35, or founder/leader of a venture under three years old, based in or primarily operating in Africa, who is already demonstrating strong early traction through revenue, pilots, partnerships, users, or beneficiaries.

Tech Pioneer Award

This award spotlights a female founder or senior leader with at least five years’ experience in technology or innovation, who is using tech, digital tools, data, or deep-tech solutions at the core of the business or initiative to tackle a clearly defined African challenge such as access, inclusion, efficiency, or scalability.

Agri Award

Honouring outstanding women in agriculture, this Award celebrates female founders and leaders with 5+ years in agriculture, agri-processing, agri-tech, food systems, or value chains, who are transforming Africa’s food systems and value chains while advancing productivity, sustainability, food security, or farmer livelihoods.

Creative Visionary Award

The Creative Visionary Award recognises a female entrepreneur, creator, or leader with at least five years’ experience in the creative industries (such as fashion, design, media, film, music, art, architecture, digital content, or cultural industries) who is significantly shaping African narratives, culture, or creative economies.

Impact for Good Award

The Impact for Good Award honours a female founder or leader whose initiative has been active for at least three years in sustainability, climate, energy, social innovation, community development, health, or education, and can demonstrate measurable social and/or environmental impact well beyond intent or pilot stage.

Male Ally Award

The Male Ally Award honours a male leader, founder, executive, policymaker, or senior decision-maker with 10+ years of leadership who goes beyond words to actively break barriers for women in Africa, driving sustained, systemic change for women’s economic empowerment.

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award honours a visionary, female leader with at least 25 years of leadership, entrepreneurship, or public service whose lifelong contribution has helped shape Africa’s economic, social, or institutional development and paved the way for future generations of women trailblazers.

No nominations are required for this category. Each year AWIEF identifies and selects from across African regions the recipient for this special award.

How to Nominate

You can nominate yourself or someone else. To submit nominations, please go to: https://awief.untap.us/awief-awards-2026
Nominations close on 3 August 2026, at 11:59 PM CAT.

Important Dates

• Nominations Open: 30 June 2026
• Nominations Close: 3 August 2026
• Finalists Announced: September 2026
• AWIEF 2026 Conference and Awards Gala Dinner: 10 – 11 November 2026

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for AWIEF

The post Nominations Open for AWIEF Awards 2026 Honouring and Celebrating Africa’s Women Entrepreneurs appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Leaf-shaped bowl with traditional Nigerian soup featuring meat and vegetables. Tochukwu Ekeh/Pexels.

As I watched a young Englishman, Cal, attempt to make amala and abula, the trifecta, I clutched my hands over my chest in horror at what I thought was about to unfold. As I watched him turn the flour in the pot with the deliberate rhythm of someone who understood the assignment, my scepticism began to melt away. Then came the Abula assembly. He didn’t just throw the elements together. He layered them with precision: the yellow gbegiri acting as a base, the slick, green ewedu cutting through it, and the rich, red Buka stew crowning the plate. When he dropped in the assorted meat, perfectly glistening with palm oil, I knew this wasn’t just a casual experiment. It was a love letter to Yoruba cuisine, executed flawlessly thousands of miles away from home.

The mere thought of cooking three different soups for one meal pushes people to seek this dish at local buka spots or restaurants. To truly appreciate Cal’s triumph, you have to understand the mechanics of a perfect amala: It cannot be lumpy; it must be stretchy, smooth, and served piping hot. Hence, my worry for Cal, who was about to cook amala and abula in London. But alas, I was pleasantly surprised.

The Shift in the Landscape

There was a time when foreigners would not attempt to cook a Nigerian dish. Our cuisine requires flavorful depth, diverse local ingredients, and significantly longer cooking times than most Western meals. Any attempt to skip the effort, time or spice usually ended in a terribly bland dish. But Cal’s delivery of this deeply traditional Yoruba meal tore a veil from my eyes. I’ve realised the landscape has shifted, and foreigners can now actually cook Nigerian food.

How did this happen?

Growing up, Nigerian food used to be just food, a necessity for survival, served without any senrenren (finesse). Eating out at restaurants usually meant consuming seemingly foreign dishes or snacks, while fine dining was strictly reserved for French or European meals.

By the 2010s, the landscape shifted. The explosion of social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram allowed creators to niche down into industry-specific content. We saw the rise of Nigerian food vloggers. Early creators like Sisi Yemmie and Sisi Jemimah, and others, began bringing Nigerian dishes to a global audience. As more chefs entered the digital food space, they sought to showcase their culinary skills with modern techniques, presenting traditional dishes in ways that felt entirely new and fresh.

Then came the food critics and restaurant reviewers. They hopped from high-end restaurants to local bukaspots, displaying the incredible diversity of Nigerian food. Nigerians in the diaspora were watching, and global tourists were observing, waiting for an opportunity to try these dishes for themselves.

Also, the great Jollof War between Nigeria and Ghana. Social media was completely abuzz. Netizens from both countries aggressively picked sides on who made the best jollof rice. Intrigued by the drama, foreigners wanted a taste so they could judge for themselves. It became a win-win for both nations; whichever way the pendulum swung, both Nigerian and Ghanaian jollof profited massively from the popularity of the fight.

Close-up of Jollof rice with fried plantains and sauce on a plate, perfect for food enthusiasts. Studio Saiz/Pexels.

Music and Other Export Machines

Then Afrobeats happened. Our music became a worldwide sensation, and the global gaze shifted to Nigeria for entertainment. Lagos capitalised on this, branding itself as the ultimate “enjoyment destination” in December. Tourists and international celebrities trooped in for a feel of the Nigerian people, the Lagos lifestyle, and a taste of its food.

Imagine visiting a fine-dining restaurant in London, where you are served a dish from the menu that catches your eye. You recognise the name—it’s akara—because it’s a Nigerian dish, and you are Nigerian. However, what appears on your plate looks entirely exotic, with textures and layers that challenge everything you thought you knew about the dish. You take a bite, and the food dances between your teeth, caressing your palate. It tastes both familiar and foreign at the same time. It reminds you of home, but in a more refined and sophisticated presentation.

This is precisely what a select few Michelin-starred restaurants in London, owned by Nigerian chefs, have accomplished. They have elevated traditional Nigerian dishes, successfully positioning Nigerian cuisine on the global culinary map. Fine-dining restaurants in Lagos have quickly embraced the Afro-fusion trend, crafting multi-course menus centred around local staples and ingredients while employing modern cooking methods and exquisite plating techniques.

Another major milestone in the exportation of Nigerian cuisine was MasterChef coming to Nigeria. An international competition spanning over 71 countries with a TV runtime of over 36 years finally focused its cameras on Nigerian cooks, local ingredients and traditional delicacies. These are what make Nigerian cuisine appealing to the world.

If this post were a video, this is the exact moment I would look into the camera and serenade you with that classic Shania Twain line: “Looks like we made it, look how far we’ve come…”

This is, without a doubt, one of the most noteworthy cultural glow-ups of the century.

***

Featured Image by Tochukwu Ekeh for Pexels.

The post Juliet Tontoye: How Food Creators Changed the Way the World Sees Nigerian Food appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

As Head of KongaTV and host of TechFront, Ayodele Olujimi sits at the exciting intersection of technology and media. TechFront is the programme where Nigeria’s most important conversations around innovation, digital transformation, and the future of technology come alive, and Ayodele‘s authoritative yet accessible style ensures that every episode is as informative as it is engaging. For brands and businesses operating in the tech space, TechFront is the platform to be on.

With over a decade of broadcasting experience spanning Abeokuta, Ibadan, and Lagos, Teddy Esosa Don-Momoh brings a wealth of knowledge, credibility, and personality to everything he touches. As host of The Big Plug, Teddy creates a space where brands, businesses, and opportunities get the spotlight they deserve. His deep understanding of media, marketing, and the Nigerian market makes The Big Plug one of the most valuable platforms for any brand looking to connect with a discerning audience.

JuiceBox with Freddy JJ is where the energy never dips. Known for his vibrant personality, quick wit, and genuine connection with guests, Freddy JJ has built JuiceBox into one of KongaFM‘s most entertaining and eagerly anticipated programmes. From candid celebrity conversations to music and lifestyle features, JuiceBox is the show that keeps Lagos tuned in, and Freddy JJ is the reason why. His ability to make every guest feel at home while keeping the audience fully entertained is a rare gift, and it shows in every episode.

For those who love their radio experience served with a generous helping of fun, energy, and great music, Cruise Control with Vicksolute is the destination. Vicksolute brings an infectious enthusiasm to the airwaves that is impossible to ignore, creating a listening experience that is equal parts entertaining and uplifting. Cruise Control is the kind of show that turns a regular day into a great one, and Vicksolute is the engine driving it all.

As the Head of Konga Communications overseeing both KongaTV and Radio, Ifeoma Ajumobi brings a strategic, big-picture perspective to everything the Konga media brand represents. On The Scoop, she takes listeners deep into the stories of outstanding Enterpreneurs, Innovators, creatives and solution providers, delivering content with the kind of clarity, authority, and insight that only comes from years of experience at the highest levels of media and communications.

The Scoop is where Lagos comes to understand how entrepreneurs build their businesses and thrive against all odds. Ifeoma is the trusted voice leading that conversation.

KongaFM is not just a radio station; it is a media ecosystem built for impact, with other great shows such as Young Stars Corner & Beyond The Headlines, Health Check, The Book Show, Creators Corner, Shop on Radio, Morning Inspiration, Funky Faaji Friday, Diva’s Diary, Sports Update, The Mix with DJ Faze, Movie Review and Beyond The Headlines.

Whether you are a brand looking for the most effective platform to reach a highly engaged Lagos audience, a business seeking to amplify your products and promotions, or simply a listener who wants the best in news, music, entertainment, and commerce, KongaFM is the station for you.

With a team of highly talented, passionate and committed on-air personalities, deeply connected to their audience, there has never been a better time to be part of the KongaFM family; on air, on screen, and online. Stream live on www.kongafm.com

Konga103.7FM — Africa’s Number One Commerce and Hit Music Station.

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Yemi Alade and Kenyan singer Bien in their official music video collaboration for “Don’t Be Shy.”

If you’ve been searching for the perfect song to soundtrack your next birthday, Yemi Alade and Kenyan singer-songwriter Bien have just handed it to you. “Don’t Be Shy,” the lead single from Yemi Alade’s forthcoming album, “It’s Yemi Alade,” is a warm, generous love letter to a woman who lights up every room she walks into. Built on Afro-R&B rhythms with touches of Kompa, and produced by Nigerian producer De Yaso and Kenyan producer Kobby Worldwide, the song celebrates the kind of person whose smile and dance stop a room cold. Lines like “Baby you know I adore you” sit comfortably alongside Nigerian Pidgin and Swahili, giving the record a pan-African tenderness that feels completely natural given who’s on it.

Now the official video is here, and it delivers. Shot across three atmospheric spaces, a minimalist studio lounge with a vintage leather sofa and a large oriental rug hung on the wall like a tapestry, a lush tropical green room framed by deep draped curtains and potted indoor palms, and a narrow red neon corridor with golden pillars that turns the whole thing into a late-night celebration, the visual world the video builds is as considered as the music itself. And then there are the dance sequences. Yemi Alade moves through each setting with the kind of loose, confident ease that makes the choreography feel less like performance and more like she simply cannot help herself, which, given what the song is about, is entirely the point.

Yemi Alade in a monochromatic black lace outfit styled with gold statement jewellery for her “Don’t Be Shy” campaign. Photo Credit: Yemi Alade/Instagram

The styling is worth its own conversation. Yemi Alade arrives in three looks: an off-the-shoulder black lace gown with a sweeping floor-length skirt, a red sequinned mini skirt paired with a sheer asymmetrical chiffon cape top, and close-up beauty shots that put her dramatic winged eyeliner, glossy red lips, and tiered gold coil earrings front and centre throughout, all anchored by a high braided top knot wrapped in thick gold rings. Bien, who has collaborated with Alade several times before, including on a Swahili version of her hit “Nagode” and a remix of his own “All My Enemies Are Suffering,” matches the moment in a burnt-orange zip-up jacket and gold-buckled ochre trousers across two sharp, tailored looks.

“I have always loved the soulfulness of Bien’s music and working with him on this record was so easy,” Alade said. “And I feel like in ‘Don’t Be Shy’ we are both being playful, confident and honest, in expressing feelings when you’re into someone.” Bien added: “We want you to just feel good and loosen up when this song comes on.” Consider that brief taken care of. Watch the official video below.

Watch below

The post Yemi Alade & Bien Deliver a Cross-Continental Love Anthem with “Don’t Be Shy” | Watch the Official Video appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Twenty years. Two decades. It feels almost surreal to say it out loud, but BellaNaija is officially celebrating its 20th anniversary this year!

To really understand what this milestone means, we have to take a nostalgic trip back to 2006. This was a time before smartphones took over our daily lives, long before Instagram existed, and well before African culture became the dominant global conversation it is today. Back then, digital spaces dedicated to showcasing the true depth of the continent were incredibly rare. We wanted to build a space where we could see ourselves reflected beautifully, authentically, and completely on our own terms.

What started as a simple blog has evolved over the last twenty years into a trusted cultural institution and one of Africa’s most influential media-tech platforms. We have had the front-row seat—and the absolute honour—of documenting the moments, movements, and extraordinary people shaping contemporary African life. From the spectacular global explosion of Afrobeats and the historic growth of Nollywood, to the innovations in fashion, entrepreneurship, technology, and social change, we have been both a proud witness and an active participant.

Through the growth of our broader ecosystem, including BellaNaija Weddings and BellaNaija Style, we’ve spent two decades chronicling generational shifts in how we live, create, connect, and celebrate. Long before international runways and global awards stages took notice, our mission was always to provide the ultimate platform for emerging African talent, designers, filmmakers, and cultural changemakers.

But beyond the glamour and the glitz, our journey has always been deeply rooted in purpose. We’ve always believed that storytelling should do more than just inform and entertain, it should impact lives. Over the years, we’ve used our voice to inspire critical discussions and champion causes that matter to our communities, driving advocacy through meaningful partnerships and impact-led campaigns like StopHPVforHer, HerMoneyHerPower, PVCitizen, and BNDoGood.

Reflecting on this incredible journey, our Founder and CEO, Uche Pedro, shares a sentiment that sits at the very heart of why we do what we do:

Before African stories became a global conversation, BellaNaija was creating space for Africans to tell our own stories, in our own voices, and on our own terms. For twenty years, we have had the privilege of documenting the culture, creativity, resilience, ambition, and innovation that continue to define Africa. This milestone is ultimately a celebration of the people and communities whose stories have shaped our journey.

In an era where digital spaces change in the blink of an eye, the trust our community places in us is something we never take for granted. BellaNaija has become a safe, familiar home for discovery, inspiration, and connection for millions of readers across Africa and the global diaspora.

As we step boldly into our third decade, our eyes are fixed firmly on the future. We remain fiercely committed to championing the next generation of African creators, innovators, and leaders who are rewriting the continent’s narrative.

To celebrate this milestone, we are rolling out a series of special projects, community initiatives, and cultural conversations throughout the year, all leading up to a spectacular, landmark anniversary gala on October 2, 2026.

Twenty years ago, we set out with a simple vision to tell African stories through African voices. Today, those exact voices are shaping global culture, and we are just getting started.

The post BellaNaija Turns 20! Celebrating Two Decades of Telling African Stories Through African Voices appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

In developed countries, many people living with sickle cell disease routinely celebrate their 50th, 60th birthdays and beyond, enjoying a good quality of life thanks to comprehensive care. In Nigeria, the story is painfully different. Too many Warriors face a devastating “survival wall” in early adulthood, with dreams of career success and family life cut short not solely by the disease but by systemic failures, chronic shortages, and our collective silence.

A major culprit is the persistent national blood crisis. Nigeria meets only a fraction of its blood transfusion needs, often estimated at 25-30% of demand. For sickle cell patients requiring urgent transfusions during severe anaemia, aplastic crises, or other complications, families face desperate midnight hunts for compatible donors. Many pay exorbitant black-market prices or watch helplessly as delays worsen outcomes.

Alarmingly, only about 10% of the national blood supply comes from voluntary, altruistic donors. The majority still depends on family replacement donors (often anxious relatives) or paid donors a fragile, less safe system that leaves everyone vulnerable.

Without timely blood, complications multiply. It is estimated that without proper intervention, a high percentage of children with sickle cell in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa risk not reaching their fifth birthday. This contributes heavily to the country’s under-five mortality rates. Those who survive childhood often face reduced life expectancy due to cumulative organ damage, infections, strokes, and repeated crises.

But this grim reality is not inevitable.

Inspiring Warriors like Obi Light Ogbonnia, founder of the Obi Ogbonnia Sickle Cell Foundation, have defied the odds, living vibrantly for the past 51 years. Their stories light the path forward. Through resilience, access to better management, advocacy, and community support, they prove that long, fulfilling lives are possible even in Nigeria.

We hold the power to close this survival gap. It starts with simple but powerful actions:

● Donate blood regularly — one pint can save multiple lives during crises.

● Know your genotype and encourage family and friends to do the same.

● Support newborn screening, specialist clinics, consistent drug supply (especially hydroxyurea), and strong advocacy groups.

● Demand better government policies, increased funding, and nationwide blood collection centres.

The fire of pain is real. Stigma carries a significant burden. But the silence surrounding blood donation and community support? That is one we can shatter together today.

Nigeria’s sickle cell warriors are not asking for pity. They seek belief in their pain, acceptance without stigma, and urgent collective action. When we respond with compassion, science, and solidarity, we do more than extend lives – we unlock the immense potential within every warrior. They are teachers, entrepreneurs, artists, leaders, and parents waiting.

The survival gap is not destiny. It is a loud call to action. Will you answer it? Donate blood. Spread accurate information. Support a Warrior today. Together, we can turn the hidden survival gap into a story of hope, resilience, and triumph.

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I’ll be honest; when someone told me people had been standing in the rain just to buy perfume, I assumed they were exaggerating. Then I started hearing what actually happened in Maitama.

Before the event even officially opened, there was already a queue outside Sarius Palmetum. By the time the doors opened, the shopping had started, and from then until evening, the crowd barely slowed down. Now here’s where it gets interesting.

One person even arrived a full day early after mixing up the dates. Imagine getting dressed, showing up excited, and discovering the event wasn’t until tomorrow. Most people would have gone home embarrassed. This one simply came back the next day.
Another attendee reportedly flew into Abuja just for the event.

This was Summer Has a Scent, the first Abuja pop-up from a Luxury fragrance brand called Beguile.

At some point in the afternoon, the rain started. The kind of rain that normally sends people running to their cars, instead, the queue stayed. People kept shopping.

“I’ve waited too long to smell these perfumes in person. Rain isn’t sending me home,” one attendee joked while waiting for her turn. If anything, the rain just became part of the day’s memories.

Nearly 300 people turned up, and judging by the bags leaving the venue, plenty had no intention of going home with just one bottle.

One shopper laughed while holding several fragrances and admitted the plan she walked in with had changed.

“My plan was to buy one. I don’t know how I ended up with six,” she said.

By late afternoon, Mystique,  Goddess had all sold out, leaving more than a few shoppers asking if there was anything left in stock.

One of the sweetest moments came after mystique disappeared from the shelves. A customer noticed the team holding an unboxed bottle and politely asked if she could buy that one instead. She just didn’t want to leave without it.


That moment said something about the crowd. Most of them had only ever known Beguile online, and perfume is the one thing you can’t really judge from a screen. You have to smell it yourself. For a lot of them, this was the first chance.

People weren’t rushing from shelf to shelf. They were spraying tester strips. Comparing favourites with friends. Handing bottles to strangers and asking, “Which one would you pick?” You could hear it everywhere.
“Try this one first.”
“No, smell this before you decide.”
“Wait…this is the one everybody has been talking about?”

Between the games, the free mocktails, the popsicles and a claw machine stuffed with fragrance samples and perfume oils, the event started looking less like a perfume sale and more like a Saturday hangout.

Some people weren’t even shopping anymore. They were helping complete strangers choose fragrances. And nobody in the queue seemed surprised by the crowd. People who’d been buying Beguile for months were already recommending bottles to people who had never tried it before. Customers were quietly making more customers.

Some men picked out gifts for their partners. Couples argued over whose favourite smelled better. Friends who came “just to support” somehow left carrying bags of their own.

And if you’ve been scrolling Instagram or TikTok this week and suddenly noticed everyone spraying perfumes, laughing around a claw machine or holding black-and-white shopping bags, there’s a good chance you’ve already seen videos from the day without realizing where they came from. Maybe that’s what made the queues so interesting.

The pop-up is over. But if there’s one thing Abuja proved that Saturday, it’s that Beguile is no longer just another perfume brand people scroll past online. It’s the kind of brand people make plans for.

The good news is you don’t have to wait for the next pop-up to discover why. The same fragrances that had people queuing before the doors opened, buying more bottles than they planned and asking for sold-out favourites are still available on Beguile’s website.

As for the next pop-up? If the Abuja crowd taught us anything, it’s this: You might want to get there early.

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Nigerian world record holder Tobi Amusan sitting on a hurdle at a running track during a practice session. Photo Credit: Tobi Amusan/Instagram

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the track this season, you’ll know that betting against Tobi Amusan is a fool’s errand. On Sunday, 28 June 2026, the Nigerian world record holder won the women’s 100m hurdles at the Paris leg of the Wanda Diamond League, clocking an incredible season-best time of 12.28 seconds at the Stade Sébastien Charléty. She finished well ahead of an elite field, with American runner Grace Stark taking second place in 12.38 seconds, and Alaysha Johnson securing third in 12.39 seconds.

Run in sweltering 32-degree heat, Amusan sat fourth at the halfway mark before shifting through the gears from the seventh hurdle to put clear daylight between herself and the chasing pack. Remarkably, this marks the third time this season Amusan has clocked exactly 12.28 seconds, having run the identical time at both the Xiamen and Rabat Diamond League meetings earlier in the year—a testament to her staggering consistency.

Nigerian athlete Tobi Amusan clearing a hurdle to win the women’s 100m hurdles at the 2026 Paris Diamond League in 12.28 seconds. Photo Credit: Weltklasse Zürich/Instagram

Paris marks Amusan’s second Diamond League victory of the 2026 season, following her triumph in Rabat, alongside a gold medal at the African Championships in Accra. Speaking after her victory, Amusan noted that while she dislikes warm weather, she was determined to execute her race. This latest result pushes the 2022 world record holder (12.12s) further into contention heading into the Diamond League Final. Next up for the Ogun State-born star is the Prefontaine Classic, ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where she enters as one of the clear favourites to defend her gold medal.

Tobi Amusan celebrates her second Diamond League victory of the 2026 season following an elite performance in Paris. Photo Credit: Wanda Diamond League/Instagram

Watch highlights of the race below

The post The Tobi Express Is Flying Again! Tobi Amusan Wins Paris Diamond League in 12.28 Seconds appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.