Nollywood actor Jide Kene Achufusi in a forest green Agbada and black beaded cap seated beside his bride, Ifeoma, who is wearing a lilac structured corset top and floral lace mermaid skirt for their pre-wedding photoshoot. Photo Credit: Jide Kene/Instagram

Wedding bells are ringing, can you hear them? The chime is coming straight from Jide Kene Achufusi’s corner, and it is ringing loud.

The Nollywood star just dropped his pre-wedding portraits, and the internet is still catching its breath. These aren’t just photos; they are a masterclass in traditional elegance. Jide is the picture of easy composure in a forest green Agbada, featuring tonal embroidery. Complemented by a black beaded cap and polished brown Oxfords, he looks like a man who is exactly where he’s meant to be.

Beside him, his bride, Ifeoma, is a vision. She wears a one-shoulder lilac structured corset top with a dramatic ruffled organza sleeve, paired with a floral lace mermaid skirt in a soft blush palette. With a full purple gele and a gold pendant, she strikes the perfect balance between regal and modern. The choice of a sage green studio backdrop gives the portraits a clean, editorial quality—allowing the deep forest green and soft lilac to play off each other without being overly “matchy-matchy.”

There is nothing forced here. The chemistry is in the details: the way she rests her hand on his shoulder and the effortless ease of their poses. The hashtag is #JideIfe26, and you can bet we’ll be refreshing our feeds for every update.

Congratulations to the happy couple. This is a very good day for love!

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On Sunday, April 5, 2026,Life L ager Beer hosted Flavour Live In Concert as part of the Life Fiesta campaign, transforming Enyimba International Stadium, Aba, into the ultimate place to be.

From the moment the gates opened, it was clear this was more than just a concert. The stadium steadily filled with fans ready for a night of music and celebration, as the space came alive with vibrant Life Lager Beer branding and the unmistakable buzz of anticipation. Aba showed up in full force, bringing its signature energy.

The night featured an exciting lineup of performances that kept the energy high from start to finish. DJ Neptune set the tone with an electrifying mix that got the crowd fully warmed up, while Ruffcoin delivered a memorable performance of his popular hit Nwa Aba, a song that deeply resonated with the hometown audience and amplified the city pride that filled the stadium.

When Flavour stepped on stage, the response was instant. The crowd roared to life, singing along word for word as he moved through a setlist packed with hits. Performing hit after hit, he had the audience dancing freely and fully immersed in his electrifying performance.

But the night did not begin there. In the weeks leading up to the concert, Life Lager Beer had already taken over the city, from the streets to the airwaves, building momentum with the Flavour Street Challenge. Fans were invited to sing their favourite Flavour lyrics for a chance to win VIP access to a front row view of the concert action, along with exclusive Life Lager Beer merchandise. By the time Sunday arrived, the excitement had already reached its peak.

The night also featured the announcement of the winner of the Back to Bars Experience, Chinedu Emmanuel, who will travel to London on an all expense paid trip.

The Back to Bars Experience, which took place in select bars across Aba and other major cities, was an in bar raffle campaign where fans could order a bottle of Life Lager Beer to receive a raffle ticket. The ticket was split in two: one half remained with the consumer, while the other was placed in a raffle box at the bar. Each ticket gave the holder a chance to win a trip to London to attend Flavour’s AfroCulture Experience at the iconic O2 Arena in May 2026.

At the concert, that promise became reality. As the raffle box was brought on stage and Temple Barrah, Senior Associate, Client Partnership, Red Media Africa, was invited to draw the winning ticket, the stadium held its breath. When Chinedu was announced as the winner, the reaction was indescribable. The stadium fell silent as he made his way to the stage, before erupting into cheers, applause, and celebration, marking one of the most memorable moments of the night.

Speaking after the announcement, Chinedu Emmanuel expressed his excitement, saying,

“I just won a trip to London with Flavour. I am very, very excited. Thank you to Life Lager Beer for this amazing opportunity.”

Life Fiesta X Flavour Live In Concert is part of the broader Nigerian Breweries Big Fiesta campaign, designed to create moments of celebration and music that unite people. For Life Lager Beer, it represents a continuation of its long standing connection with the East, showing up in moments that matter and amplifying the energy already present in the culture.

Speaking on the experience, Chima Dims, Senior Brand Manager, Life Lager Beer, Nigerian Breweries Plc, said,

“Life Lager Beer has always been part of celebrations in the East, and this partnership with Flavour reflects that connection. He represents the sound, pride, and spirit of the region, and this was an opportunity to bring people together in a way that feels authentic to them. We are also excited for the fans who will be heading to London to see him perform at the AfroCulture Experience at the O2 Arena.”

By the end of the night, what lingered was not just the music, but the feeling. A stadium full of people moving in sync, sharing moments, and leaning into the kind of experience that stays with you long after the lights go out.

With Flavour Live In Concert, Life Fiesta is already proving to be more than a campaign. It is a moving celebration of culture, connection, and the energy that brings people together.

Follow @lifelager_ng to see where the Big Fiesta goes next.

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Fashion lovers have something exciting to look forward to this May as Afthonia returns with another edition of its Sample Sale, following a successful debut in November 2025.

The first edition drew a vibrant crowd of shoppers eager to get quality Nigerian fashion at great prices and this time, it’s set to be even better. Taking place on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, the upcoming sale will feature 10 reputable Nigerian designers, offering carefully selected pieces at discounts of up to 70% off. From standout statement pieces to everyday wardrobe staples, shoppers can expect premium fashion without the usual price tag.

Beyond the deals, Afthonia’s Sample Sale is also about impact. The event creates a platform for designers to showcase their brands while encouraging more conscious shopping habits. By giving fashion pieces extended life and visibility, it quietly supports sustainable fashion and contributes to the growing shift toward circular fashion in Nigeria.

In a city like Lagos, where style is a key part of self-expression, initiatives like this make it easier for people to support local designers while shopping more intentionally.

If the first edition is anything to go by, this is one shopping event you don’t want to miss!

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for Afthonia

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The Lagos sun was out in full force over Lekki this past Monday, but the real warmth wasn’t coming from the weather. It was coming from the thousands of people who gathered at the Rock Cathedral Annex for what turned out to be an unforgettable Resurrection Monday.

If you were anywhere near the grounds, you would know that The Rock Funfest 2026 wasn’t just another holiday event. It felt like a giant, vibrant community fair where the city finally slowed down to breathe and play.

The first thing you noticed when you walked in was the energy. To one side, a colorful skyline of Bouncing Castles and kids slides kept the little ones busy for hours, their laughter competing with the splashes coming from the swimming pool. It was the kind of pure, unfiltered joy that only a holiday Monday can bring.

For those looking for a different kind of vibe, the Singles Hangout was the place to be. It was a relaxed space filled with games and great conversation, making it easy for people to connect and unwind away from the usual Lagos hustle.

The air was thick with the delicious scent of street food drifting from the Vendor Exhibit Stands. From small chops to signature treats, the vendors were a huge hit, giving families a chance to sit together and refuel between activities. Whether it was the intense matches inside the Game Truck or the nostalgic whistle of the Train Rides, there was truly something for every corner of the family.

But beyond the attractions, there was a real sense of togetherness. You could see it in the parents chatting by the pool while their kids played safely, and you definitely felt it during the Raffle Draw. The excitement was through the roof as everyone waited to see who would take home the next big prize. It was also a beautiful reminder of the Hope Initiative, seeing so many sponsored children getting to dive into the fun and make their own memories.

As 5 PM rolled around and things started to wind down, nobody really seemed ready to head home. Pastor Ifeanyi Adefarasin captured the atmosphere perfectly, noting, “So it’s the D-Day, Fun Day 2026, Easter Resurrection, and it’s been fun, unending all day long”. Taking in the lively crowd, she added, “It’s getting to evening, but you can tell everything is still alive and bubbly”.
She was absolutely right. The pool was still shimmering, the last of the snacks were being enjoyed, and families walked back to their cars wearing the kind of smiles that only come after a day well-spent.

The Rock Funfest 2026 reminded us that sometimes the best way to celebrate is to simply gather, grab a plate of food, and watch the kids play. It was a beautiful day, and the memories made at the Annex this year are definitely going to stick around until we do it all again.

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Zendaya closes out her bridal-themed press tour at the New York premiere of The Drama on April 2, 2026, in a Schiaparelli Haute Couture masterpiece. Photo Credit: The Drama/Instagram

You know that moment when someone walks in and the whole room just shifts? That was Zendaya in the Spirit Tunnel on The Jennifer Hudson Show.

She didn’t rush it. A confident walk, a little groove, a finger snap here, a spin there, and suddenly the whole thing feels like a mini performance. She’s clearly enjoying herself, and the crowd is right there with her, clapping, singing, filming, fully locked in. By the time she reaches the end, she gives one last turn and a wave before slipping behind the curtain.

The chant is loud and fun, a remix of “Replay” that keeps looping as she moves through the tunnel. It’s one of those moments where everyone is in sync and it just works.

Her look holds its own. The all-white two-piece, shaped by a sculpted peplum waist with a dark brown fur detail, brings structure while still feeling light. Paired with classic stilettos and minimal jewellery, it all comes together with intention. Her soft, side-parted bob frames her face, and her makeup stays warm and understated.

When she sits down with Jennifer Hudson, the conversation slows down in a good way. She talks about the roles that shaped her, the set where she met her best friend, and what she’s learned along the way. Turning 30 is on her mind, and she’s ready for it.

She also gets into her upcoming film “The Drama” with Robert Pattinson, plus how she manages fame, keeps her circle tight, and stays grounded. Being chosen by Ronnie Spector to tell her story is something she takes seriously.

Black and white candid photo of Zendaya in a vintage Vivienne Westwood bridal gown stepping out of a classic car with co-star Robert Pattinson. Photo Credit: The Drama/Instagram

And then there’s a surprise message from Olandria, which gets a reaction that feels very real and very her.

From start to finish, it’s one of those appearances you end up replaying.

 

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A side-by-side portrait of Nigerian actress Osas Ighodaro in a black halter dress and singer Johnny Drille in a black leather jacket.

Do you know that Osas Ighodaro and Johnny Drille are cousins? You did? Oh no! Why didn’t you tell us? Oh, you didn’t? We didn’t either! Imagine our surprise when we saw the two on a podcast together, finally addressing the million-dollar question that has been lingering around their shared surname for years.

In a new podcast, THE BTML POD, the pair sat down for a chat that felt less like a formal interview and more like a long-overdue family catch-up. The highlight of the sit-down was a comedic attempt to clarify their relationship. After a quick countdown to reveal the truth, they ended up giving completely different answers at the same time—Johnny went with a firm “No” while Osas opted for a “Yes”—leaving everyone in fits of laughter.

Nigerian singer-songwriter Johnny Drille posing in a black leather jacket with his arms crossed against a green textured background. Photo Credit: Johnny Drille/Instagram

To clear up any lingering confusion, they reintroduced themselves using their full legal names. “I go by the name John Ighodaro,” the singer noted, followed quickly by Osas confirming her own identity as Osas Ighodaro. While they might be pulling our legs about the cousin status, the camaraderie between them is undeniable.

The conversation eventually shifted towards the music. It has been five years since Johnny released his debut album, “Before We Fall Asleep,” a timeline that Osas was quick to point out. While Johnny admitted he isn’t quite sure why the gap has been so long, he was firm on one thing: you cannot rush the craft.

Nigerian actress and host Osas Ighodaro posing in a black dress with yellow and red beaded details and a unique structural hairstyle. Photo Credit: Osas Ighodaro/Instagram

The wait, however, is nearly over. Johnny shared that a new album is officially on the way, and he isn’t being modest about it. He claims this upcoming project is the best bit of work anyone is going to hear.

We’re keeping our ears open for that album release date, but for now, we’re just enjoying the fact that the Ighodaro duo finally put those surname rumours to bed, sort of.

Watch the full video below

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For too long, the path to the top for professional women has been paved with unspoken rules and the heavy, invisible weight of expectation. Now, 9to5Chick, a career launchpad for women in the early to mid-stages of their careers is pulling back the curtain with the global premiere of The Reset Show, debuting on April 9.

The numbers tell a story the boardroom rarely admits. Research shows that women hold less than 30% of senior leadership positions globally, yet studies consistently find that companies with gender-diverse leadership outperform their peers. In Nigeria, women make up nearly half the workforce but remain significantly underrepresented at the mid-level and C-suite level. Meanwhile, 75% of women report experiencing imposter syndrome at some point in their careers, and financial pressure tied to professional image costs working women thousands annually. The Reset Show exists to bridge that gap offering women the insight, language, and perspective to move forward with intention, not guesswork.

The Vision: Authenticity Over Assimilation

Dr. Glory Edozien has spent years building 9to5Chick into a trusted platform supporting women as they navigate pivotal career stages helping them gain clarity, build confidence, and make strategic decisions about their professional growth.
The Reset Show is a natural extension of that work meeting women where they already are: online, in transition, and searching for honest conversations that reflect their realities.

​”For decades, professional women have been instructed to ‘lean in’ and play by a corporate rulebook that was never written for us,” states Dr. Glory Edozien, Founder of 9to5Chick. “The Reset Show’ takes us directly into the rooms where women silently battle imposter syndrome, financial pressure, and workplace politics. By bringing together leaders who have survived the boardroom and the corner office, we are finally discarding the old rules and creating the authentic playbook we always needed.

​A Powerhouse Lineup

​The debut season features an extraordinary roster of executives and thought leaders spanning finance, technology, energy, and personal development. Confirmed guests include:

• ​Ngozi Madueke-Dozie – Head of Nigeria and Ghana, Android Platform and Ecosystem, Google.
• ​Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani – Founder, EnergyInc Advisors. Oge Maduagwu – Head of Marketing SEWA, Samsung Electronics. ​
• Abiola Adediran – Partner, GENEA Family Office. ​
• Yetunde Bankole-Bernard (YBB) – Identity Coach and CEO of The YBB Company. ​
• Bodam Taiwo – Customer Marketing Director, West and Central Africa, DIAGEO. ​
• Dr. Uju Rapu – Aesthetic Physician, Bel Fiore Med.
• ​Sola Obagbemi – Communications Leader and Convener, Bloom Conversations.
• ​Ink Eze – Founder, AsoEbiBella. ​Sola Abulu – Principal Consultant, Sola Abulu & Associates Limited.
• ​Toyosi Etim Effiong – Founder-CEO, That Good Media.       

What to Expect

The debut season covers some of the most loaded themes in professional women’s lives today. Episodes like Style as Strategy and Broke But Branded dig into the financial and psychological cost of looking the part. The Confidence Code confronts imposter syndrome head-on. The Mentor, The Gatekeeper & The Gossip maps the politics of female relationships at work. And Is Loud the New Competent? asks the question many have thought but few have said aloud.

Steering these charged discussions are Boluwatife Odutola, a corporate finance professional, and Elizabeth Musa, an award-winning broadcast journalist, who together bring precision and poise to these high-level conversations.

Episode One premieres on April 9. To be part of the digital watch party and join the conversation as it unfolds click on the link.

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for 9to5chicks

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Every film industry in the world has stars who are almost always present in films or who have appeared in more films than other actors. However, what sustains an industry is not having a particular set of actors who dominate the screen or have played legendary roles. What sustains an industry, beyond volume, is its ability to produce new stars consistently. Star-making is a sign of structure. It reflects an industry that is not only active in the present but also prepared for the future. An establishment is measured and quantified by its future sustainability.

Take Hollywood, for instance. There is a long-standing roster of globally recognised actors – Angelina Jolie, Leonardo DiCaprio, Julia Roberts, Brad Pitt, Denzel Washington, and others – whose careers have defined different eras. Yet what is more important is that Hollywood never stops introducing new faces. With almost every major film or breakout series, new actors emerge into mainstream consciousness. Whether through blockbuster franchises, streaming platforms, or indie cinema, there is an almost seamless transition between generations.

Nollywood, by contrast, appears to be caught in a loop.

In recent years, a relatively small pool of actors has dominated screens across cinema releases and streaming platforms. It is not unusual to see the same faces appear in multiple films within a short period, sometimes more than ten projects in a year. On the surface, this reflects demand and star power. Producers lean on familiar names because they are bankable, recognisable, and often guarantee a level of audience engagement.

But at what cost?

The over-reliance on a recurring set of actors limits the industry’s ability to expand its star base. When the same names occupy a significant percentage of available roles, fewer opportunities exist for emerging actors to break through. Talent may exist in abundance, but access becomes restricted. In this sense, Nollywood is productive, but not necessarily generative.

To be fair, the situation is not without context. Nollywood operates within a unique economic reality. Unlike Hollywood, where actors can spend months on a single project with substantial financial backing, many Nollywood actors rely on volume to sustain their careers. The more roles you have, the more money you make. So appearing in multiple films is not just a creative choice; it is often a financial necessity. The industry’s structure, at the moment, encourages frequency over exclusivity.

However, this survival model has unintended consequences. When visibility is concentrated among a few, audience familiarity becomes repetitive. Over time, this can affect how stories are received. Characters begin to feel interchangeable, and casting choices become predictable. More importantly, it reduces the excitement that comes with discovering new talent, which is one of the key drivers of cultural momentum in any film industry.

There is also the question of pipeline. In industries that consistently produce stars, there are clear pathways for entry and growth. Talent agencies, casting systems, acting schools, and film networks all play a role in identifying and nurturing new actors. While Nollywood has made significant strides in formalising parts of its ecosystem, like Kunle Afolayan, Bolanle Austin-Peters, MTV Shugga’s Innovation Lab, MultiChoice Talent Factory and a few others, creating a pipeline for talents to shine through labs and workshops, the transition from “new actor” to “recognised star” still feels limited and, in some cases, inaccessible.

This is not to say Nollywood lacks new talent. On the contrary, emerging actors are constantly entering the space, bringing fresh energy and perspective. The challenge is in visibility and opportunity. Without consistent casting in high-profile projects, many of these actors remain on the margins, unable to achieve the level of recognition required to become stars.

If Nollywood is to sustain its current growth, especially with increasing global attention, it must invest more in star-making. This means taking calculated risks on new faces, diversifying casting choices, and building structures that support long-term career development rather than short-term output. Because ultimately, an industry is not defined only by how many films it produces, but by how many people it allows to rise within it. Nollywood has the stories, as we know; what it needs now is a stage where more actors can step into the light, not just the familiar few.

But do you disagree? Is Nollywood producing enough stars or not?

The post Is Nollywood Producing Enough Stars? appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The four-member Artemis II crew: NASA astronauts Christina Koch, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, and CSA astronaut Jeremy Hansen. The team is pictured in their Orion Crew Survival System suits ahead of the historic 2026 lunar flyby mission. Photo Credit: NASA/Instagram

Since lifting off from the Kennedy Space Centre on April 1, 2026, the four-person crew of Artemis II has transformed the abstract dream of deep-space exploration into a breathtaking daily reality. Over the past six days, Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, and Mission Specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen have invited the world along for the ride, sharing high-resolution selfies with a crescent Earth and sending back stunning footage of our home planet becoming a muted blue marble in the void.

What began as a series of system checks in low-Earth orbit has now culminated in a historic milestone: as of Monday, April 6, these four pioneers have travelled further into the cosmos than any human being in history, officially beginning their journey around the far side of the Moon.

Get to know the four pioneers currently making history 252,756 miles from home:

Commander Reid Wiseman (NASA)

As the mission’s commander, Reid Wiseman is responsible for the overall success of the flight and the safety of the crew.A graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Johns Hopkins University, Wiseman is a seasoned naval aviator who previously served as a flight engineer aboard the International Space Station (ISS) for Expedition 41. During that 165-day mission, he conducted over 300 scientific experiments and logged nearly 13 hours across two spacewalks. Before being assigned to lead Artemis II, he also served as the Chief of the Astronaut Office, overseeing the training and flight rotations for the entire NASA corps.

Official portrait of Artemis II Mission Commander Reid Wiseman wearing the orange flight suit with blue trim, photographed against a dark background ahead of the record-breaking 2026 lunar mission. Photo Credit: NASA/Instagram

Pilot Victor Glover (NASA)

Victor Glover serves as the Artemis II pilot, a role that puts him in charge of executing all spacecraft maneuvers and ensuring the Orion’s flight path remains precise. Glover is a naval aviator with 3,000 flight hours in more than 40 aircraft.He previously served as the pilot for NASA’s SpaceX Crew-1 mission, which launched in 2020. During his 168-day stay on the ISS for Expedition 64, Glover acted as a flight engineer, contributing to scientific investigations and performing four spacewalks to maintain the station’s exterior.

Official portrait of NASA astronaut Victor Glover, pilot of the Orion spacecraft Integrity, wearing the Artemis mission flight suit during the historic 2026 lunar distance record mission. Photo Credit: NASA/Instagram

Mission Specialist Christina Koch (NASA)

Christina Koch is one of the two mission specialists on board, a role that requires her to be cross-trained in every spacecraft system to support any phase of the mission. Koch is an electrical engineer who studied at North Carolina State University and the University of Ghana. She is a highly seasoned astronaut, having served as a flight engineer for Expeditions 59, 60, and 61. During her time on the ISS, she set the record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman—328 days—and conducted six spacewalks, totalling over 42 hours of extravehicular activity.

NASA Mission Specialist Christina Hammock Koch, who holds the record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman, pictured in her official Artemis II flight gear for the 2026 Moon flyby. Photo Credit: NASA/Instagram

Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen (CSA)

Representing the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), Jeremy Hansen is also a mission specialist, trained to assist with all aspects of the Orion’s operation. A Colonel in the Royal Canadian Air Force and a former fighter pilot, Hansen holds a Master’s degree in physics with a focus on satellite tracking systems. While Artemis II is his first spaceflight, Hansen has been a member of the astronaut corps since 2009. He previously made history in 2017 when he became the first Canadian to lead a NASA astronaut training class, overseeing the development of new candidates for both the US and Canada.

Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen of the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), the first Canadian to fly to the Moon, posing for his official Artemis II portrait in 2026. Photo Credit: NASA/Instagram

For Commander Reid Wiseman, the record-breaking distance of 252,756 miles isn’t just a number, it is the literal fulfilment of a dream he shared with the world a decade ago. On December 17, 2016, Wiseman took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a fleeting thought that many aspiring explorers could relate to:

Dreamt I was in lunar orbit last night. Been in that post-vivid-dream-that-wasn’t-real funk all morning.”

Ten years later, on April 6, 2026, as the Orion spacecraft Integrity officially entered the Moon’s sphere of influence and surpassed the Apollo 13 record, Wiseman quoted that very post from deep space. His response was simple, yet profound:

All I feel is gratitude for this experience.

This full circle moment serves as a powerful reminder of the persistence required for the Artemis generation. What was once a “funk” brought on by a dream is now a documented chapter in the history of human achievement.

All I feel is gratitude for this experience. https://t.co/47epB947bF

— Reid Wiseman (@astro_reid) April 6, 2026

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The EMAC Cervical Cancer Foundation, in collaboration with its partners, is proud to announce the successful conclusion of the 2026 #SMEARIT Campaign. Running from 26 January through 4 February, the initiative reached its peak on World Cancer Day, mobilising thousands of women and allies across Nigeria in a powerful visual movement to combat
one of the most preventable yet deadly diseases affecting women today.

The #SMEARIT Campaign, a signature initiative of the EMAC Cervical Cancer Foundation, the social impact arm of ELOY and Exquisite Magazine, utilises a bold and unconventional symbol of advocacy: smearing lipstick across the face. This striking visual serves as a conversation starter, symbolising the “smear” test (Pap smear) and empowering women to take control of their health without fear or stigma.

Driving National Impact

Throughout the campaign period, participants shared photos and videos across social media platforms, transforming personal digital spaces into advocacy hubs. These stories highlighted the critical importance of regular screenings, HPV vaccinations, and the life-saving potential of early detection.

Cervical cancer remains a significant health challenge in Nigeria, yet with timely intervention, it is almost entirely preventable. The #SMEARIT movement seeks to bridge the gap between medical information and community action by making the conversation accessible, visual and urgent.

Strategic Partnerships

The 2026 campaign’s reach was significantly amplified through the support of esteemed media and advocacy partners, including BellaNaija and the Raising Women Initiative. Their collaboration ensured that the
message of prevention reached diverse demographics, from urban centres to grassroots communities, sparking meaningful dialogue around proactive
healthcare.

A Commitment Beyond the Campaign

“Cervical cancer should not be a death sentence in 2026,” says the EMAC Foundation leadership. “Through #SMEARIT, we are not just raising
awareness; we are building a culture of prevention.

When a woman smears her lipstick, she is making a public pledge to herself and her community that health comes first.”

The EMAC Cervical Cancer Foundation remains dedicated to providing year-round education and resources to empower women with the knowledge
needed to stay cancer-free.

About EMAC Cervical Cancer Foundation

The EMAC Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to reducing the incidence of cervical cancer in Nigeria. As a sister company to the ELOY Awards and Exquisite Magazine, EMAC leverages media, advocacy, and community outreach to provide women with the information and tools necessary for early detection and prevention.

For Media Inquiries, Interviews, or More Information, send an Email here or visit the Website.

Social Media: @EMACFoundation | #SMEARIT2026

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for #SMEARIT Campaign 

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This view, taken as Artemis II surpassed the Apollo 13 distance record, captures the transition between the Moon’s hemispheres. The 600-mile-wide Orientale Basin is visible at the boundary where the crew proposed naming a feature “Carroll”—a tribute that will be visible from Earth during the lunar transit. Photo Credit: NASA Artemis/Instagram

It is a historic week for humanity as the Artemis II mission reaches its most significant milestone yet. On Monday, 6 April 2026, the crew of four astronauts officially ventured further into space than any human being in history, surpassing a record that has stood for over half a century. At precisely 1:57 p.m. EDT (1757 UTC), the Orion spacecraft, named Integrity, broke the distance record previously held by the Apollo 13 mission since 1970. While the Apollo crew reached 248,655 miles from Earth, the Artemis II team pushed that boundary to approximately 252,756 miles, watching the Moon grow larger and larger in their windows as they geared up to observe the lunar far side.

This record-breaking feat comes just days after the Artemis II crew captured images of Earth from space during their initial departure, offering a final, breathtaking look at our home planet before they transitioned into deep space. Now, with Earth appearing as a distant, “muted blue” marble, the focus has shifted entirely to the lunar surface.

The view from the spacecraft has been nothing short of spectacular, with the crew making their closest approach of roughly 4,067 miles above the lunar surface around 7:00 p.m. EDT. Looking out through the long lens and with the naked eye, the astronauts observed the Orientale Basin, a massive 600-mile-wide crater that straddles the edge of the Moon’s near and far sides. This unique vantage point allowed them to see ancient lava flows and the hemisphere that remains hidden from Earth, providing a moment of profound reflection for the crew as they witnessed an “Earthset” before emerging back into communication range.

Captured at 6:41 p.m. EDT on 6 April 2026, this “Earthset” mirrors the iconic 1968 Apollo 8 “Earthrise.” It was taken as the Artemis II crew reached a historic 252,756 miles from Earth, officially surpassing the record held by Apollo 13. Photo Credit: NASA Artemis/Instagram

In a deeply moving update sent back to Earth, the crew shared that their science team had helped identify a couple of relatively fresh, unnamed craters for which they wished to propose potential names. For this close-knit astronaut family, the moment was especially meaningful. They proposed naming a feature in a “really neat place” on the Moon—situated right on the boundary of the near side and far side—”Carroll.” The name honours the late wife of mission Commander Reid Wiseman, Carroll Taylor Wiseman, who passed away in 2020. Because of its specific location, the crew noted that at certain times during the Moon’s transit around Earth, the crater will actually be visible to those of us looking up from home.

The weight of this achievement was recognised shortly after the flyby when the crew received a congratulatory call from President Donald Trump. During the live broadcast, the President noted that the crew had made the country incredibly proud and extended an invitation for Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen to visit the Oval Office upon their return. While the International Astronomical Union (IAU) is the official body responsible for naming lunar features, the provisional designation of “Carroll” follows a long tradition of astronaut-named landmarks, like Mount Marilyn, eventually becoming part of our permanent lunar map.

The Moon seen through a small circular porthole from the interior of the Orion spacecraft cabin. Photo Credit: NASA/Instagram

As the Orion spacecraft now exits the lunar sphere of influence, it has begun its four-day “free-return” journey home, using the Moon’s gravity to naturally sling the capsule back towards our atmosphere. The mission is scheduled to conclude with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean this Friday, 10 April 2026.

 

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For the longest time, I assumed that looking “put together” had something to do with makeup. I thought it was an unspoken rule, one that many girls grow up believing. At some point, you start to look forward to the day you can finally wear makeup properly and step into that version of yourself. A fine, put together, babe.

But for me, it didn’t quite happen that way.

There was a season where I struggled a lot with my skin, especially acne. And in my mind at the time, makeup, particularly foundation, felt like part of the problem. I genuinely believed it was making things worse, so I slowly began to pull back. What started as a practical decision gradually became a lifestyle.

Around that same period, I found myself in a school where everything was already simple. There was little emphasis on appearance, no earrings, minimal extras, nothing elaborate. In hindsight, the school did more for me than I realised at the time in terms of how I perceive myself. I was learning to exist without depending on makeup. Of course, like many girls, I had imagined a different experience. I thought I would eventually grow into applying makeup, enjoy it fully, master it, and make it a regular part of my routine. But that phase never quite came.

Instead, I started paying attention to simpler, quieter things like keeping my skin clean and healthy, being intentional about how I presented myself, and gradually understanding what worked for me. I started receiving comments like “You actually look better without makeup.” I heard it often from friends, from people around me, and now, even from my children. I can’t say I always believed it at first. But I can say this: hearing it repeatedly began to shift something in me. It made me question what I had always assumed about beauty and, more importantly, about myself.

Because the truth is, there was a time I didn’t think I was beautiful.Even when I was. That realisation was both sobering and freeing. It showed me how much confidence is not about what we add externally, but what we believe internally.

Today, my relationship with makeup is simple. I use it when I want to. I appreciate it for what it is. But I no longer feel like I need it to feel complete or put together. Because confidence, I’ve learned, doesn’t come from makeup. It comes from knowing deeply and quietly that you are already enough. And whether with makeup or without it, that knowing changes everything.

***

Featured Image by George Milton for Pexels

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Artists Adekunle Gold and Olamide channel 70s fashion, posing against a classic black Mercedes-Benz with a custom ‘YB NL’ plate to announce their joint single, ‘Formation.’ Photo Credit: Adekunle Gold/Instagram

In the world of Afrobeats, few stories are as poignant as the rise of the YBNL dynasty. This week, Adekunle Gold took us down memory lane while looking toward the future, announcing a new single with his mentor and former label boss, Olamide.

Can we talk about the fashion for a second? The pair went full 70s-chic in a garage filled with vintage hubcaps and golden lighting. AG Baby gave us sophisticated “Boss” energy in an oversized brown blazer, while Olamide served a major look in mustard yellow and flared trousers. The car is a classic Mercedes with a custom “YBNL” plate. It’s giving “Rich Uncles,” and we are here for it.

Artists Adekunle Gold and Olamide channel 70s fashion, posing against a classic black Mercedes-Benz with a custom ‘YB NL’ plate to announce their joint single, ‘Formation.’ Photo Credit: Adekunle Gold/Instagram

But it’s not all just about the aesthetic. Adekunle Gold got real with his fans about how much Olamide means to him. He shared that back in 2014, Olamide was the one who gave him his big break, taking him from a dreamer in Lagos to a global star. If you remember singing “Sade” at the top of your lungs back in 2015, you know how huge this is.

The new track is called “Formation” (no, not that one, Beyoncé fans!) and it arrives on 9 April. Gold says it’s all about “legacy and brotherhood.” Honestly we just can’t wait to see what these two have cooked up. Mark your calendars, because the kings of YBNL are back together

 

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Heliconia Park Hotel & Spa Lagos has officially unveiled Oasis Gourmet Restaurant and Pool Bar, its newest fine dining destination in Victoria Island, Lagos, at an exclusive launch event attended by distinguished guests, business leaders, and government representatives. The launch marks a significant step in the brand’s continued growth, extending its philosophy of luxury into a refined, experience-driven culinary offering.

Designed as more than just a restaurant, Oasis Gourmet Restaurant and Pool Bar is a carefully curated dining experience that blends elegance with comfort, offering guests a space where exceptional cuisine meets a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Oasis Gourmet Restaurant and Pool Bar represents the next step in our journey to create spaces that are not only refined but truly welcoming.

“With Oasis Gourmet Restaurant and Pool Bar, we are bringing our philosophy into fine dining, offering an experience where every guest feels extra special, comfortable, and at home,” said Pasquale Fiore, Managing Director of Heliconia Park.

Guests at the launch were treated to a relaxed evening of good music, great entertainment, and the restaurant’s finest curated culinary offerings, highlighting a menu defined by quality ingredients, thoughtful presentation, and a commitment to consistency. The experience reflects Heliconia Park Hotel’s broader mission to create destinations that are secure, stylish, and rooted in a deep understanding of modern hospitality.

The launch gala dinner event brought together some of Lagos’ most prominent figures for an evening of unforgettable experiences.

The introduction of Oasis Gourmet Restaurant and Pool Bar is a welcome addition to the city’s growing hospitality and lifestyle sector. It reflects continued investment in experiences that not only elevate standards but also contribute to tourism, business engagement, and economic development.

As the hospitality division of the company continues to expand, each new offering reflects a consistent focus on exceptional service, outstanding experiences, and a breathtaking environment.

Oasis Gourmet Restaurant and Pool Bar invites guests to enjoy exceptional casual fine dining in a relaxed breathtaking atmosphere, where expertly curated meals and impeccable service come together to create something truly unforgettable.

For reservations and enquiries, please call: +234 707 452 5979

Sponsored Content

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I began my 100-day writing challenge because I needed a space to process feelings I didn’t know how to handle. At the start of 2025, everything in my life seemed settled, giving me hope about adulthood. My career was stable. My spiritual life felt rooted. School was going smoothly. My relationship felt certain. I recall waking most mornings with a peaceful feeling that things were finally falling into place.

Then, sometime in the second quarter of the year, my relationship ended. Afterwards, I experienced weeks of emotional turmoil, feeling unfamiliar feelings that overwhelmed me. I sat alone, plagued by persistent thoughts, and I felt my footing slipping, along with my sense of self-worth.

This period spanned Q2 and Q3, which I now refer to as my pruning phase. It was an intensely uncomfortable experience. I struggled to maintain my grades, faced career rejections that dented my confidence, and had to work harder to stay afloat financially. I prayed frequently. Writing was the only thing that kept me sane.

My relationship with writing began months earlier in the most ordinary way. In December 2024, I vented to my partner about Lagos traffic and how draining Lagos life can be. He listened and then casually said, “You should put this in writing”. I did just that. That rant became my first article on Medium. At the time, I didn’t think much of it; I knew that putting my thoughts in writing made me feel lighter. 

Meanwhile, I have always been an overthinker. Writing provided an outlet for those swirling thoughts. During my pruning phase, journaling became a daily habit. I penned my feelings through frustration and prayer. Some days, tears accompanied my writing. On others, I wrote simply because I didn’t know what else to do. But each time, I gained clarity.

By the time Q4 arrived, I realised how much writing had benefited me. I was determined to take it seriously, to grow in it, and even to earn from it. One afternoon, while working on my vision board, I listed goals for my finances, academics and career. When I got to writing, I wrote “Be known as a writer” and paused.

I had fallen in love with writing. I wanted to be recognised for it. How do I stay consistent with it? I could write when I felt inspired or when my emotions were intense. However, showing up on ordinary days when I was tired or uninspired was difficult. I sat there for a long time, staring at the words, wondering how that could happen when I couldn’t even trust myself to write regularly. So I called my friend Susan.

I shared with her how much writing had helped me and how frustrated I felt about my inconsistency. She listened and then suggested a 100-day writing challenge, like creators like Mofe Ade, Salem King and others who had undertaken similar pursuits. I laughed and responded, “I’m not Salem or Mofe. That’s a lot of work. What would I even write for 100 days?”

After our talk, the idea lingered. It felt intimidating and a bit absurd, but at the same time, like the structure I needed. I thought about it for days, argued with myself, imagined failing, and running out of things to say. Eventually, half afraid and half determined, I declared that I was starting a 100-day writing challenge. I didn’t have a detailed plan or know what I’d write each day. All I had was determination and a somewhat dramatic public declaration. I only knew that writing helped me survive a tough season, and I was curious to see what would happen if I committed to showing up every day.

A few days later, I was talking with Efe Obiomah, a PR consultant. She always offers something new to learn. She has a knack for seeing opportunities where others see hobbies. I mentioned the 100-day writing challenge casually, expecting a simple, “Oh, nice.” Instead, she was excited.

She explained how powerful such a challenge could be for my brand. Consistent presence, she said, positions you in people’s minds, builds familiarity, trust, and authority. When your name keeps appearing alongside certain values, people start to associate you with them, turning visibility into credibility.

I listened closely. Originally, the challenge was a personal, almost therapeutic exercise for me. But her words made me realise it could also influence how the world perceives me. Then she asked, “So what do you intend to write about? What should we be expecting?”

I replied confidently, “Everything.”

She smiled and said, “Everything is nothing.”

She explained that writing about everything without focus would make it hard for people to understand what I truly stood for. Clarity helps others know what to expect from you, remember you, and reduces the difficulty for opportunities to find you because your voice is clear. Personal branding, she noted, isn’t just about visibility; it’s about deliberate positioning.

That evening, I reflected deeply on that conversation.

Until then, I wrote impulsively, driven by emotion. I wrote what I felt, what came to mind, and to survive. Now, I had to write with purpose. I sat on my bed with my notebook, listing everything I genuinely enjoyed writing about: self-discovery, friendships, healing, growth, adulthood, ambition, identity and love. I wrote without filtering.

When I first started on the 3rd of November, I was bubbling with excitement. The initial days felt absolutely electric. I’d wake up early, eager to write, edit, and post between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., every single day. There was a genuine satisfaction in knowing that before the world woke up with its noise, I had already kept a promise to myself.

The response was truly heartwarming. Friends, family, colleagues, and even strangers online sent encouraging messages. “I’m proud of you.” “You can do it.” “This is such a bold move.” Some even sent small gifts. Others shared my work and cheered me on openly. I remember reading messages from people I scarcely knew and feeling profoundly seen. For the first ten days, it felt like an entire stadium was rooting for me.

In those days, I was really motivated.

Then, somewhere between days 15 and 30, reality settled in.

I hadn’t batch-created my content, and honestly, I didn’t want to. I wanted to experience the journey as it happened, feeling each moment as it unfolded. I wanted each piece to feel alive and connected to that exact day. But that meant waking up every morning asking myself, “What am I writing about today?”

The applause started to fade. The congratulatory messages became fewer. People’s attention shifted elsewhere, and I found myself still here, staring at a blinking cursor. I started to feel anxious: What if I ran out of ideas? What if I had already shared my best thoughts?

During that time, I remembered something I read in Rick Rubin’s The Creative Act: A Way of Being. In a chapter titled “Look for Clues,” he encouraged creatives to stay observant and notice what others overlook, and pay attention to their surroundings. There is always something worth noticing. I began observing everything around me—conversations at work, scenes at the market, lines from movies, a passing comment from a lecturer, an argument I overheard at the bus stop, my own reactions to disappointment, the way someone said “sorry” without really meaning it, and the deep significance behind someone else’s apology. Life itself became material.

Around that time, I started framing my headlines as “What if” questions: What if you are not behind? What if you are becoming? What if you have a bad character? and they opened up space for reflection. They turned my writing into conversations instead of mere conclusions. I never expected it to become a habit, but it did. Before long, people began to look forward to it.

From that point on, I stopped worrying about running out of ideas.

Of course, there were still tough days. I had days when work deadlines and school responsibilities left me exhausted and running on little sleep. On day 43, I posted past 7 p.m., which was unusual for me. Earlier that day, my friend Damilare called to ask why I hadn’t posted yet. I told him I was working on it. After the call, I accidentally dozed off, woke up startled, and rushed to finish my piece.

Some days felt that heavy. But I kept showing up.

By then, I cared less about validation. I had made a public commitment—and more importantly, a private one—to myself. At that point, my goal was simply to write every day and enjoy the process. On day 50, I was tired in a way that sleep could not fix.

I went out for a small celebratory dinner with a friend to mark the halfway point. We dressed up, ordered good food, took pictures and laughed. Yet, somewhere between the appetiser and the main course, I kept asking myself, who really sent me message to do this? I was proud, but I was exhausted. Fifty days of showing up daily is not a cute aesthetic. It is work.

Days 51 to 100 stretched me the most. By then, I had changed. Around the middle of the challenge, I noticed how different my mind felt. I paid attention to everything. Ordinary moments became material. Conversations, frustrations, memories, prayers. Writing made me more present in my own life.

It also made me kinder to myself. On days the writing felt clumsy, I posted it anyway. I stopped waiting for the perfect mood. I wrote when I was tired, when I was busy, when I was distracted, when I was fine, when I was not. I became less talkative and more observant. My discipline improved quietly. I believed in myself more. I stopped writing to impress the algorithm and started writing to express my thoughts in ways that would resonate deeply.

When I went viral on Substack after celebrating 100 subscribers and gaining 62 new subscribers in 24 hours, I was ecstatic. I kept refreshing the page in disbelief. Finally, they see me. One of my most fulfilling moments was someone texting me on Twitter, now X, about how my article on friendships made him feel seen. That stayed with me.

I learned that the world is loud about visibility but quiet about effort. Everyone talks about growth, but few have the patience to watch it happen. Clout may be the currency. Consistency is the cost. Staying when no one is watching. Creating when no one claps. Believing when no one validates you. The absence of noise does not make your work less sacred. And just because people are seeing you now does not mean you are late.

Halfway through the challenge, I landed my first paid technical writing gig from someone who never engaged publicly but noticed I showed up daily. There were cash gifts, spa cards, and brunch invitations. By day 80, I was no longer counting down. Writing had become part of me. I was tired, yet I did not want it to end. My sister, Kike and my friend Damilare reposted my articles every single day from Day 1 to Day 100. It took a village.

On Day 100, the 10th of February, 2026, I looked back and realised the challenge did not just build a platform for me. It rebuilt me.

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Oxford University Press named ragebait as its 2025 word of the year, but I reckon that context will give other words a run for their money this year, despite being barely four months into 2026. Context, a word that has seemingly been exploited by poor communicators recently, is actually such an important qualifier that it gives a more apposite presentation to the content itself.

The bible is not any different; without context, anyone can lift one verse and use it to support a silly agenda. Most of the people we refer to as fake preachers are not necessarily so. They are just lazy, ignorant or disingenuous in their appropriation of scriptures. This was so important that Paul drilled into his protégé the importance of “rightly dividing” or doing justice to the text. Being a skilled craftsman himself, he knew a thing or two about orthotomeo, which is the Greek word for precision in cutting. In fact, he explicitly stated in a letter to Timothy that those who put in the work to arrive at proper exegesis should not only be honoured but also rewarded materially. Paul treated this matter as an existential threat because the biggest weapon of religion is the misrepresentation of God. Even to this day, it’s one of the challenges our civilisation is facing. I wrote in a previous treatise how Paul himself was formerly a terrorist who believed that the killing of infidels was an act of service to God until his operations were intercepted.

The Old Testament was originally written largely in Hebrew and Aramaic, while the New Testament was written in Greek, not the English Language. This is why we study root words: to get the original meanings that may have been lost in translation. So when you see where the bible says that, “the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom”, the etymology of that fear is not being terrified but awe and reverence. Another popular one is when you see the face or hand of God in a sentence, it is an anthropomorphism, the attribution of human traits, emotions, intentions, or behaviours to non-human entities, such as animals, objects, or supernatural beings. God is a spirit and spirits don’t have physical bodies, so the use of face is really a metaphor for an encounter with God, just as the hand is a metaphor for the influence of God. Sometimes the Hebrew word mal’ak, which is often translated as angel, is used as a generic term to describe celestial beings, but depending on specific context, this could mean an evil spirit (as in the case of Saul), a messenger from God (as in the case of Samson) or the pre-incarnate Christ (as in the case of Joshua). I’m going somewhere with this, just dey with me.

The Prototype

From the beginning of recorded history, human beings have always sought to know God better. In a few instances, they have caught glimpses, and where they failed, religious rituals were used as fillers. Joseph saw God through the lens of stewardship and service, and throughout his lifetime, he exemplified those attributes, whether as a prisoner or prime minister. Moses was very consequential; God literally transported or time-travelled him to the beginning (genesis) of human civilisation and gave him a front row seat to document the origins of creation. Being raised in the palace of the hegemony of his day, coupled with his life’s mission to lead slaves into nationhood, shaped his worldview of God. Hence, his archetype is consistent with themes such as government, leadership, constitutional architecture and administrative excellence. Abraham saw God through the prisms of covenant, obedience and faith; this explains why he could believe and submit to God even at the expense of his son, Isaac. Joshua saw God leading his people into the Promised Land, hence his military posture, because those lands were contested territories and he had a mandate to possess them. David modelled the messianic reign; he did everything to protect the sovereignty of his homeland or kingdom, which often included protecting it from external aggression (i.e. the gates of hell will not prevail).

Whilst the bible is not a history book, it contains historically accurate events. A lot of what those guys did or said, especially in the Old Testament, was descriptive, not prescriptive. Translation: documentation doesn’t equal doctrine. If you don’t know this, you will get stuck in arguments such as whether getting a tattoo is a sin or not, without acknowledging the context of that statute. For example, many men are quick to point out that Solomon married 300 women and had 700 concubines as a validation for their randy behaviour. Let’s interrogate that a bit with a little backstory. Judah was Solomon’s great-grandfather, and he introduced sexual debauchery into the bloodline by sleeping with his own daughter-in-law, Tamar. Fast forward down the lineage to Jesse, who gets involved with a woman, not his wife and the relationship produces David. This is why Jesse didn’t present David before Samuel because he was a reminder of his indiscretions. David himself alluded to this in one of the Psalms: “in sin did my father and mother conceive me”. David’s adultery with Bathsheba is well-documented. In fact, his generals knew David was really about to die when he didn’t get a boner in the presence of a young lady. So by the time it gets to Solomon, he had the wealth to fund the signature temptations of his bloodline. So, using Solomon as a yardstick is not the flex some people think it is because “a greater than Solomon is here”.

However great or otherwise as some of these guys were, none of them was the prototokos (the prototype, model or pattern) until Jesus, who was God in the flesh, entered the chat. Many people tried to make Moses the prototype; he was so powerful that even in death, his body was contested. Religious people adopted his pattern of going to the mountains for prayers, but Jesus came and said to the Samaritan woman that after his glorification. There won’t be any need for people to worship at any mountain. When Jesus came with a counter-submission of turning the other cheek, He wasn’t suggesting weakness, but the bigger picture was a direct repudiation of the Mosaic Law, which postulates the concept of “an eye for an eye.” Despite being a physical associate of Jesus for three years, Peter, with his religious mindset, still held on to Moses as his prototype. At the transfiguration, Moses showed up as a representative of the Law, and Elijah showed up as a representative of the prophets, but both of them were quickly dismissed, and when the disciples saw Jesus alone standing, God gave a direct instruction: “Listen to him!” Translation: Jesus is your reference point.

The Declassified Documents

The entire bible is about one person, Jesus. That may not be immediately apparent because a lot of stories, characters and events don’t seem to corroborate that claim. In the old canon, the knowledge of Jesus is classified or hidden in plain sight. There is a term in the intelligence community known as deep cover or deep shadow; it describes a long-term covert operation where an agent, amongst other things, uses aliases to navigate the mission field. Jesus is the logos or intelligence of God, but he couldn’t reveal himself until the time was right. Before Jesus came out to declare himself as the Bread of Life, he had been dropping bread crumbs right from the Garden of Eden. When God replaced the fig leaves that Adam and Eve used to cover themselves with the skin of an animal that had been killed, he cast a shadow on the sacrifice on Calvary that would happen many centuries later. Progressively, many people clocked this animal to be a lamb without blemish. By the time it got to Isaiah, he understood that this lamb was really a man who would willingly sacrifice himself. It was John who officially blew Jesus’ cover when he approached the Jordan River to be baptised by saying, “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”

This is critical because Jesus’ assessment of who the greatest disciple is has nothing to do with who can preach up a storm or perform the most jaw-dropping miracle, but who has the most revelation of him. John had no notable miracle attributed to him, but Jesus rated him above those who divided seas, raised the dead or even called down fire. I refer to the Pauline Epistles as the “declassified documents”; this is why I consider Paul as QB1. In a previous treatise, I shared that it was Paul who let us know that Jesus was the actual promised seed of Abraham, not Isaac. In addressing the covert ops of Jesus in the wilderness as Moses led the people into the Promised Land, Paul declassified a redacted truth to the Corinthians, “They drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them and the Rock was Christ.” He was so obsessed with the revelation of Jesus, hence you would hear him saying stuff like, “For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ”.

Unsurprisingly, “the abundance of revelations” that made him QB1 was also responsible for the most assaults on his life and ministry. So it’s not uncommon to hear some people say that Paul’s teachings are heretical because he supposedly preached a different gospel from that which Jesus taught; nothing could be further from the truth. Not only did Jesus handpick Paul himself, but he also told Ananias that Paul was his personal representative and special envoy – what bigger co-sign could a person get? Even demons that eventually attacked the sons of Sceva affirmed that Jesus and Paul were in sync. The Roman Empire, like others, had its signature tools for statecraft. Crucifixion: public death as punishment for dissidents or persons considered enemies of the state. The Coliseum: an arena for entertainment, social engineering and display of the imperial nature of Caesar’s power. Character assassination: no better example than this line from the epic Gladiator movie, Juba tells Maximus, “You have a great name. He (Commodus) must kill your name before he kills you”. So the propaganda against Paul isn’t a 21st-century phenomenon.

Blood: Liquid, Language, Legislation

One of the most famous bible verses is John 3:16, which reads in part – “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son”. It makes a veiled reference to an equally famous verse, Isaiah 9:6, which reads in part – “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given”. If you deconstruct those two verses, it points to the child arriving in a manger, which is why we celebrate Christmas. It also points to the son being given (sacrificed) on the cross, which is why we celebrate the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Again it was Paul that put us on game that the New Testament was not merely literature but liquid, not just books but blood: “For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator.” He also pointed out Jesus’ blood was currency: “work hard for sin your whole life and your pension is death but God’s gift is real life, eternal life”, legislation: “blotting out the handwriting of ordinances” and language (advocacy): “speaks better things”. Finally, for those who assume that Jesus did not really die because God was too powerful to let such happen, Paul writes that the death of Jesus on the Cross may appear as weakness to some people, but his resurrection was really the highest display of God’s power known yet. So yes, a lot was at stake, hence Jesus chose Golgotha as the hill to die on, literally.

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Actress Sharon Ooja Nwoke celebrates her birthday in a coastal-themed shoot, standing in a rock cave reflecting on her journey from Jos. Photo Credit: Sharon Ooja Nwoke/Instagram

If birthdays had a visual language, Sharon Ooja Nwoke just made a strong case for seaside portraits, much gratitude and a little reflection to go with it. Her birthday photos arrive with that relaxed, just-off-duty feel, as she steps into a new year.

Shot along the shoreline, Sharon leans into a clean, easy look. A sleeveless white dress with coral-red embroidery by Knanfe sits lightly against the coastal setting, with matching beaded bracelets adding a subtle tie-in. The backdrop does not compete, ocean waves, blue sky, and enough space to let the images breathe.

Sharon Ooja Nwoke marks her birthday with a sun-drenched coastal photoshoot, reclining against rugged rocks in a serene holiday chic look. Photo Credit: Sharon Ooja Nwoke/Instagram

Then you read the caption. “This birthday is so special to me… because there’s a certain peace I feel in my heart and I know it can only be God,” she writes. It shifts the whole thing, turning what could have been just a set of photos into something more reflective. She looks back on her journey from Jos with a sense of awareness, noting that she often finds herself thinking about how far she has come.

Her message leans into faith, quoting scripture and grounding her progress in divine timing rather than just her own effort. “I’m thankful for true love, my family, my journey, and everything that God has in store for me,” she adds, hinting at a full year ahead with several new film projects already in motion.

A detailed look at Sharon Ooja Nwoke’s birthday glam, featuring coral-toned accessories and a breezy white dress by Nigerian designer Knanfe. Photo Credit: Sharon Ooja Nwoke/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/p/DWyGQukFUR6/?img_index=4

She rounds it off by declaring this her year of breakthrough and stepping into every opportunity meant for her

 

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Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna posing inside the historic Memorial Hall at Harvard University during her transition to legal studies. Photo Credit: Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna /LinkedIn

If you are looking for a dose of Monday motivation, look no further than Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna. The Harvard Law student body has officially elected Ifeanyi to serve as their Student Government Co-President for the 2026–2027 school year.

This isn’t just a win for the HLS community; it is a proud moment for the global Nigerian diaspora. Responding to the election announcement on LinkedIn, Ifeanyi shared: “I am humbled and honoured to have been elected 2026-2027 Harvard Law School Student Government Co-President, alongside my wonderful co-candidate Tenzin Y.! Thank you to the Student Body for believing in our vision. We are ready to serve.”

Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna and Tenzin Yonten standing together on the steps of a Harvard Law School building after being elected Co-Presidents. Photo Credit: The Harvard Crimson

Ifeanyi’s journey to the presidency is paved with a staggering list of academic and professional accolades. Before heading to Harvard, she was a 2024 Gates Cambridge Scholar, where she completed an MPhil in Criminology at the University of Cambridge. Her research there focused on international criminal justice systems, a passion she developed during her time as a Congressional Aide for U.S. Representative Stephen Lynch.

Gates Cambridge Scholar Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna celebrates earning her MPhil in Criminology at the University of Cambridge with her mother, Harvard Professor Dehlia Umunna, and brother Edozie Umunna. Photo Credit: Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna/LinkedIn

The daughter of Nigerian immigrants, Ifeanyi has always been one to show up where it matters most. During her undergraduate years at American University, where she graduated summa cum laude in Political Science, she founded ZeEntry, a nonprofit dedicated to closing the tech gap for justice-involved individuals. Excellence clearly runs in the family; she is the daughter of the trailblazing Professor Dehlia Umunna, a Clinical Professor of Law at Harvard Law School (HLS) and the Faculty Director of the Law School’s Criminal Justice Institute (CJI). She is also the first Nigerian professor at Harvard Law School.

Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna marks her first day as a Juris Doctor candidate at Harvard Law School following her election as Student Government Co-President. Photo Credit: Ifeanyi Ruth Umunna/LinkedIn

To add to her list of recent wins, Ifeanyi was also awarded the prestigious Chayes Fellowship by Harvard Law. This fellowship will support her during her Summer 2026 internship at the UK’s Public Defender Service, allowing her to bring her expertise to London, where her mother’s own legal journey began. Between her roles as a Juris Doctor candidate, a former Congressional staffer, and now a student body president, Ifeanyi is certainly one to watch.

 

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I recently interviewed a candidate whose behaviour during the interview left me genuinely surprised. A few minutes into our conversation, he mentioned that his internet connection was unstable and asked if he could turn off his camera. We agreed that, as these things happen, virtual interviews often come with technical challenges.

However, from that moment on, I had to repeat every question. It seemed as though he was buying more time, and in the background, there was the faint but consistent sound of a keyboard. Each answer was carefully constructed and well-structured, yet when follow-up questions were asked, the answers became vague and less confident.

What was happening became obvious to me. But I was, however, most surprised by the confidence. It made me wonder if he genuinely thought this would not be noticed. Experiences like this highlight a growing trend in today’s job market. Many candidates are beginning to rely heavily on search engines and AI during interviews instead of preparing properly for the opportunity in front of them, and responding to the questions to the best of the abilty.

See, AI is a powerful tool. It can help candidates prepare for interviews, research companies and practice likely interview questions. However, AI should be a support tool, not a replacement for preparation, and certainly not something to rely on during a live interview because interviews are not just about saying the right thing. They are about demonstrating competence, confidence, communication skills and authenticity. Employers are not just listening for correct answers; they are assessing how well a candidate understands their experience, how clearly they can communicate and how they think in real time.

A lot of professionals today are qualified on paper but struggle to communicate their value when it matters most. That gap between qualification and communication is what often costs candidates the opportunity. So, what should candidates be doing instead?

Do Thorough Research About the Company

Before any interview, candidates should take time to research the company properly. Understand what the company does, the services they offer, the industry they operate in and the kind of clients they serve. When a candidate understands the company, their answers become more relevant and more strategic. They can clearly explain how their skills align with the organisation’s goals and how they can contribute to the company’s growth. This level of preparation shows genuine interest and sets a candidate apart immediately.

Study the Job Description Carefully

Many candidates apply for roles without properly studying the job description. The job description is not just a list of tasks but a clear explanation of what the employer is looking for. Candidates should review the responsibilities and required skills, then prepare real examples from their experience that show they have handled similar tasks. When candidates understand the job description well, they do not need to search for answers during the interview because the answers are already in their own experience.

Prepare for Likely Interview Questions

Preparation before an interview cannot be overemphasised. Candidates should take time to write down common interview questions and practice their answers. They should think about their past roles, their achievements, the challenges they have faced, how they solved problems and the results they delivered.

Simple questions like “Tell me about yourself,” “Why do you want to work here?” or “Tell me about a challenge you faced at work” should not be answered for the first time during the interview. Preparation helps candidates speak naturally and confidently instead of trying to come up with answers on the spot. AI can help candidates practice these questions before the interview, but it should not be used to generate answers during the interview itself.

As AI becomes more accessible, recruiters also need to be more observant, especially during virtual interviews. Certain signs may indicate a candidate is not answering independently. For example, a candidate may suddenly complain about network issues and request that their camera be turned off, but then repeatedly ask for the questions to be repeated. In some cases, you may hear typing sounds in the background before each answer is given. Some candidates may also provide very structured answers but struggle when asked follow-up questions or when asked to provide real-life examples.

This does not mean every candidate experiencing network issues is using AI. However, it highlights the need for recruiters to ask more follow-up questions, request specific examples and sometimes ask candidates to explain their answers in simpler terms. Interviews should assess not just knowledge, but also authenticity and communication skills.

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If you’ve ever found yourself in a conversation about religion, relationships, and identity that just kept going, this episode of Dear Ife will feel very familiar. Ife sits down with DANG’s community members: Titoluwa Olumideko, Blessing Edaogbogun Okwuofu, and Adepeju Edu, and they get into it properly.

They start with stereotypes, especially around Muslim women, and the assumption that being covered somehow limits intelligence. It’s one of those ideas that gets repeated often enough to feel normal, until you actually pause and question it.

As the discussion unfolds, personal experiences take centre stage. A Muslim parent choosing Catholic schooling becomes a reflection on intention, openness, and raising children with a broader worldview. That leads into a deeper look at spirituality and religion, especially the ways fear and guilt can influence how people understand their faith.

There are also moments that feel very real. A teenage daughter trying to find her place. A situation where emotional manipulation is dressed up as care. It opens up conversations around projection, boundaries, and the work it takes to stay grounded in yourself.

When feminism comes up, it’s not a one-sided conversation. The guests talk about how Islam accommodates women’s rights, while also addressing how different expressions of feminism are viewed within religious spaces. It’s layered, and no one tries to simplify it.

And then there’s love. A Christian woman in a relationship with a Muslim man brings everything together — family expectations, compromise, and what it actually looks like to build a life across different beliefs. By the end, you’re left thinking about how all these pieces connect in ways that are not always straightforward, but very real.

Watch below

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Official poster for the 2026 legal drama Mirrors and Reflections, a Bimbo Ademoye TV production featuring an ensemble cast including Osas Ighodaro, Sunshine Rosman, Clinton Joshua and Sonia Uche.

Bimbo Ademoye is, quite frankly, the gift that keeps on giving. While we’ve always loved her for her stellar performances on the big screen, she has spent the last few years showing just how much range she has behind the camera.

If her YouTube channel, Bimbo Ademoye TV, is not already bookmarked on your phone, this is your sign to fix that immediately. She has been on an absolute roll, transitioning from “Nollywood’s favourite sister” into a creator who explores different genres with ease, building a digital slate that feels both intentional and varied.

With over 1.3 million subscribers and a body of work that is shifting conversations around digital-first Nollywood, she has emerged as one of the most exciting producer-creators in the industry right now. Even better, every film is free to watch, making it easy to dip in depending on your mood — whether you want to laugh, cry, argue with your screen, or simply feel something on a slow afternoon. Here are five to start with.

Mirrors and Reflections

What happens when the life you’ve stolen begins to feel more real than the one you lost? In this high-stakes psychological drama, Bimbo Ademoye delivers a career-defining dual performance as identical twins, Ifeoluwa and Ifedayo. One is a high-flying lawyer; the other is a hot-headed free spirit fresh from years abroad. After a tragic accident claims one sister, the survivor makes a chilling decision: to step into her sister’s shoes and entire identity. But as she navigates a life that isn’t hers, including a complex legal battle and the watchful eyes of Osas Ighodaro, the reflection in the mirror starts to crack. Starring alongside Sonia Uche and Clinton Joshua, this is Bimbo at her most ambitious

Miles Away from Home 

A mandatory watch for “Timini and Bimbo” shippers. The film follows Deji, a young man crushed by poverty who leaves everything — including his ailing grandmother — behind in search of a better life abroad. His journey is fraught with hardship, hostile workplaces, unstable housing, and culture shock, softened only by his encounters with Mariam, whose quiet strength masks her own troubled past. Partly filmed in Cotonou, the film carries a specific texture that makes the distance feel real. Bimbo’s real-life father makes his acting debut in the film, and his performance carries an emotional warmth that fans praised as one of the standout elements of the whole thing.

Where Love Lives 

This one hit differently. “Where Love Lives” is a warm, funny, and sometimes emotional story about love, marriage, class, and the everyday pressures Nigerian couples face. It follows Demilade, a bold and street-smart woman from Alaba, and her husband Ekenedilichukwu, as they navigate life inside one of Lagos’ most exclusive estates — where status, secrets, and other people’s opinions are always ready to cause trouble. Bimbo Ademoye stars alongside Uzor Arukwe, Osas Ighodaro, and Chioma Nwosu, and the chemistry between the leads is the kind that makes you forget you are watching a film.

Last Straw 

There is a specific kind of frustration that comes from watching someone you love refuse to stand up for you and “Last Straw” captures that tension with a lot of heart and even more drama. Morenike, the sole heir to her mother Regina’s marketing empire, falls in love with and marries Laolu, a talented man from a humble background. Regina disapproves entirely, and her constant criticism slowly chips away at the peace in their marriage — until Laolu’s patience finally runs out. Bimbo Ademoye and Timini Egbuson have a screen chemistry that fans keep coming back for, and Shaffy Bello as the overbearing mother-in-law is exactly as much as you are imagining.

Fame and Fury 

What happens when love asks you to give up the thing that made you who you are? Fame and Fury follows Daberechi, a celebrated actress at the peak of her career, whose seemingly perfect relationship with Deolu — heir to a vast oil and gas empire — crumbles when he insists she must abandon acting if they are to marry. Heartbroken and newly single, she meets an aspiring actor on set whose charm and passion draw her in, but she cannot quite tell if the connection is real or if she is simply being used as a stepping stone to fame. It stars Bimbo Ademoye alongside Daniel Etim Effiong and Uzor Arukwe, and the ending will have you demanding a sequel. Many already have.

The post From “Mirrors and Reflections” to “Where Love Lives”: 5 Bimbo Ademoye YouTube Films to Watch Now appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Chocolate cake always finds its way in. Sometimes it’s for a celebration, sometimes it’s just because you’re craving something rich and comforting, and this one from Easy Quick Recipes ticks all the right boxes.

Their Chocolate Fudge Cake comes through with a deep chocolate flavour, a soft, moist crumb, and a smooth fudge frosting that brings everything together. It’s made completely from scratch, but the process is simple and easy to follow, so you’re not spending all day in the kitchen trying to get it right.

What stands out straight away is how well the texture holds. Each slice stays soft and moist, even after a few days, which is always a win. The balance between the cake and the frosting works beautifully too, rich without feeling too heavy.

For the cake, you’ll be working with cocoa powder, plain flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. The wet ingredients come together with milk and a bit of vinegar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and boiling water, which helps bring out that deep chocolate flavour.

Then there’s the finishing touch. Dark chocolate melted with vegetable oil gives you that glossy fudge frosting that sits smoothly over the cake.

It all comes together in a 20×20 cm baking pan and goes into a preheated oven at 170°C for 40 to 45 minutes. What you get at the end is a rich, moist chocolate cake that fits right into birthdays, small gatherings, or even something you make for Easter today.

Once it’s out of the oven and cooled, all that’s left is to slice in and enjoy.

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This Easter, from April 3 to 6, 2026, one of Nigeria’s leading seasoning brand, Knorr, will distribute free, nourishing meals in churches across Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Enugu, Imo, Abia, Anambra, Edo states and the federal capital, Abuja, as part of its ongoing Share the Good campaign.

Extending beyond churches, the initiative will also reach people on the move. Passengers on the Kaduna–Abuja and Ibadan-Lagos NRC rail lines, as well as the Lagos Blue Line, will receive complimentary meals and free WiFi. Free WiFi provided in partnership Chorus Technologies will also be available across BRT networks in Lagos and Enugu, and within YabaTech hostel campuses.

Residents and commuters in participating states are invited to stop by and be part of the experience throughout the Easter period.

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Chowdeck, one of Africa’s leading on-demand delivery platform, has announced the signing of Nigerian football icon and Africa Cup of Nations winner, Ogenyi Onazi (MON), as its new brand ambassador.

This landmark partnership brings together one of Nigeria’s most decorated sporting figures and a homegrown tech giant that has revolutionized the way millions of West Africans access food, groceries and everyday essentials. Known for his tireless energy on the pitch and his unwavering commitment to excellence, Onazi embodies the core values of speed, reliability and resilience that define the Chowdeck brand.

With 52 caps for the Super Eagles, Onazi was a cornerstone of a golden era in Nigerian football. His illustrious trophy cabinet includes the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, alongside appearances in the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups. Beyond the national team, his European success includes winning the Coppa Italia (2012/13) with SS Lazio and the Turkish Cup (2019/20) with Trabzonspor. In recognition of his service to the nation, he was honored as a Member of the Order of the Niger (MON).

Commenting on the partnership, Ogenyi Onazi said,

“I’ve always admired brands that prioritize the needs of everyday people through innovation and hard work. Chowdeck isn’t just an app; it’s a lifeline for many, providing jobs for thousands of riders and convenience for millions of customers. I am excited to join this winning team and help deliver happiness across Africa.”

Femi Aluko, Co-founder and CEO of Chowdeck, added

“bringing Ogenyi Onazi on board as a brand ambassador is a reflection of where we are going as a brand. He represents the energy, ambition and authenticity of the modern Nigerian consumer. As we scale our operations and deepen our roots in the community, it is important that our brand remains relatable, trusted and deeply connected to the people we serve. Onazi’s journey from local talent to international stardom mirrors our own aspirations to take African logistics to the world stage.”

Since its inception, Chowdeck has grown into a logistics powerhouse, recently crossing the milestone of 2 million registered users and expanding its footprint across 14 cities in Nigeria and Ghana. Its tech-enabled logistics network enables businesses to deliver orders in an average of 30 minutes, while offering customers a seamless platform for meals, groceries, and everyday essentials.

About Chowdeck

Chowdeck is a technology company transforming how food and hospitality businesses operate across Africa. Founded in October 2021, the company provides a platform that brings together smart logistics, seamless payments, inventory management, and real-time performance tools. Combining reliable infrastructure with strong merchant partnerships, Chowdeck enables thousands of businesses to run more efficiently while delivering excellent experiences to millions of customers every day. For more information, please visit: www.chowdeck.com 

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A stunning representation of 4a-c natural hair in luxury fashion: Coco Gauff for Miu Miu’s latest campaign, emphasizing authentic beauty and athletic style. Photo Credit: Coco Gauff/Instagram

If you have 4a–c hair, you’re probably already smiling. Because seeing Coco Gauff in this new Miu Miu campaign, with her natural hair pulled back in a neat low bun, just hits differently.

On the court, where she currently ranks No. 3 in the WTA, she shows up with focus and discipline. Off the court, she is growing into fashion in a way that feels true to who she is, and this look reflects that just as clearly. A vibrant red short-sleeved polo shirt sits neatly tucked into a deep navy wrap-style mini skirt, creating a clean, confident contrast.

The styling leans into that familiar preppy direction Miu Miu returns to often. Black leather loafers, frilly white ankle socks, and then the oversized tan leather Vivant bag, which adds a more relaxed finish to the look. As Coco put it, “big bag day means my Miu Miu Vivant can carry just about anything I need,” followed by a brown heart.

Tennis star Coco Gauff models the “tenniscore” aesthetic in a full Miu Miu Spring/Summer 2026 look, featuring a vibrant red polo and a tan leather Vivant bag. Photo Credit: Coco Gauff/Instagram

And while the outfit holds its own, it is the response online that really brings everything together. The comments quickly move beyond the clothes and land on something more personal. For young Black women who wear their natural hair, seeing a Black woman on a global stage with her hair styled this way carries weight.

“Seeing a black girl with her natural hair,” one person writes. Another follows with, “Love ur hair sista.”

The reactions keep building from there. “So effortlessly naturally beautiful. Don’t even need makeup.” And then this message, which reads like a full note of affirmation: “You look beautiful and perfect and your makeup and hair are absolutely perfect. PLEASE don’t let anyone else tell you otherwise this is gorgeous and you are making waves queen. Very proud of you.”

Others keep it short and direct. “Fresh on and off the tennis court.” “I love EVERYTHING about this.”

Coco Gauff crouching on a blue tennis court, placing tennis balls into a tan leather Miu Miu Vivant bag from the SS26 collection. Photo Credit: Coco Gauff/Instagram

It is a fashion campaign, yes, but it is also one of those moments where people see themselves in it straight away — and they are not holding back about it.

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On the latest episode of Off Air with Gbemi & Toolz, DJ BigN opens up in a way that feels both honest and deeply reflective, taking listeners through one of the most difficult moments of his life and everything that followed.

He shares what began as a regular time in South Africa, before it turned into a life-altering experience. The day he was shot is one he recounts with clarity, from the shock of the moment to the unexpected calm that carried him through it. It’s a powerful reminder of how the human mind and body respond under pressure.

But what stands out most is what came after. The recovery process wasn’t just physical. There was the emotional weight of it all, the slow return to normalcy, and the reality of dealing with lingering effects like shingles while still processing the trauma.

As the conversation unfolds, he reflects on how the experience reshaped his perspective. From the way he approaches business to how he navigates relationships, there’s a renewed sense of awareness in how he chooses to move forward. It’s about being more intentional, more present, and more mindful of what truly matters.

With Gbemi Olateru–Olagbegi and Toolz Oniru guiding the discussion, the episode balances depth with moments of lightness, allowing space for both reflection and ease.

It’s a conversation about survival, yes, but also about growth, perspective, and the strength it takes to rebuild after everything changes

Watch below

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Heineken is set to take centre stage on April 5th 2026, Easter Sunday, as it brings its signature blend of fashion, music, and premium experiences to two of Nigeria’s most vibrant cities.

As part of the ongoing Heineken City of Cities platform, the brand will host the Heineken Experience in Port Harcourt alongside Young Jonn Live in Abuja, both taking place on April 5, 2026 (Easter Sunday).

Anchored within the broader Nigerian Breweries Big Fiesta campaign, the dual-city takeover reflects Heineken’s commitment to curating unforgettable urban experiences that celebrate the energy and cultural identity of Nigerian cities.

Following its debut at the 2025 Heineken Lagos Fashion Week, City of Cities continues its journey, moving into Port Harcourt with a bold expression of fashion, music, and creative culture unique to the Garden City. Known for its bold creative spirit, thriving social scene, and distinct cultural identity, PH is a natural home for the City of Cities experience — an evening of fashion, music, and premium Heineken moments curated exclusively for the city.

Following its debut at the 2025 Heineken Lagos Fashion Week — where a stunning 46-piece collection curated by Omoyemi Akerele, Founder, Lagos Fashion Week, brought together some of Africa’s finest design talent, including Atafo, ESO by Liman, Nkwo, Onalaja, Dimeji Ilori, LFJ, Cynthia Abila, Eki Kere, and Oshobor among others — City of Cities continues its journey, moving into Port Harcourt with a bold expression of fashion, music, and creative culture unique to the Garden City. Known for its bold creative spirit, thriving social scene, and distinct cultural identity, PH is a natural home for the City of Cities experience — an evening of fashion, music, and premium Heineken moments curated exclusively for the city.

At the same time, Abuja will host a high-energy music experience with hitmaker Young Jonn delivering an electrifying live performance.

Together, both experiences reinforce Heineken’s position as a premium global brand connecting cities through fashion, music, and shared premium experiences.

Mark your calendars. Easter Sunday, 5 April 2026. Two cities. Two unmissable experiences. Heineken.

Follow @heinekenng on Instagram for more updates.

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The four-member Artemis II crew: NASA astronauts Christina Koch, Victor Glover, Reid Wiseman, and CSA astronaut Jeremy Hansen. The team is pictured in their Orion Crew Survival System suits ahead of the historic 2026 lunar flyby mission. Photo Credit: NASA Artemis/Instagram

If you have ever looked up at the sky and wondered what we look like from the other side of it, the Artemis II crew just sent back the answer. NASA has released the first high-resolution images of Earth taken by the four astronauts aboard the Orion spacecraft, and they are already being described as some of the most remarkable photographs ever captured from space.

The mission launched from Kennedy Space Center on 1 April 2026, carrying NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, alongside Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen, making it the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit since Apollo 17 in December 1972. The photographs were taken by mission commander Reid Wiseman on 2 April, from the Orion spacecraft’s window after completing the translunar injection burn, the engine firing that placed the crew on their path toward the Moon.

The most striking of the images, now titled “Hello, World,” shows Earth almost eclipsing the Sun, with auroras visible at the top right and bottom left of the planet, and zodiacal light glowing in a band at the bottom right. A second image, taken minutes apart with a shorter shutter speed, emphasises Earth’s nighttime glow, described by NASA as “a pale blue dot seen through the crew’s eyes.”

Captured from the Orion spacecraft on April 2, 2026, this full disk view of Earth highlights the African landmass and the green glow of an aurora at the 1 o’clock position. The image was taken as the crew traveled toward the Moon during the Artemis II mission. Photo Credit: NASA/Instagram

Speaking at a briefing, NASA official Lakiesha Hawkins called the photographs “amazing,” adding: “It’s great to think that with the exception of our four friends, all of us are represented in this image.”

The astronauts themselves have been vocal about the experience. Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen told NASA’s mission control that the Artemis II crew was “glued to the window” and “taking pictures” of the planet after breaking out of Earth’s orbit. Speaking to reporters during a live conversation on 2 April, Commander Wiseman described one particular moment: “There was a moment, about an hour ago, where mission control Houston reoriented our spacecraft as the sun was setting behind the Earth… but you could see the entire globe from pole to pole, you could see Africa, Europe, and if you looked really close, you could see the Northern Lights. It was the most spectacular moment, and it paused all four of us.”

Mission specialist Christina Koch, speaking to reporters during a downlink event on Day 2 of the flight, shared a similar sentiment. “Having just experienced incredible views of planet Earth, and seeing the entire planet out the window in one pane, knowing that we’re about to have some similar views of the moon in that same way is definitely getting me more excited for it,” she said. “I knew that that is what we would see. But there’s nothing that prepares you for the breathtaking aspect of seeing your home planet both lit up bright as day and also the moon glow on it at night, with the beautiful beam of the sunset.”

A 54-year visual evolution of planet Earth. The left view was captured by the Apollo 17 crew in December 1972, while the right was taken by Artemis II Commander Reid Wiseman on April 2, 2026, from the Orion spacecraft. Photo Credit: NASA/X

As of Friday morning, the crew were approximately 100,000 miles from Earth and closing in on the Moon, with another 160,000 miles still to go. They are expected to fly around the far side of the Moon on Monday 6 April, before using the Moon’s gravity to swing back toward Earth, with splashdown expected in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego on 10 April. The mission is a flight test supporting the Artemis programme’s broader goal of returning humans to the lunar surface in 2028 for the first time since Apollo 17.

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Lagos’ high-performance community got a different kind of Saturday start on 28 March 2026, as adidas Nigeria, BYD Nigeria and BEYOND Fitness Africa hosted an invite-only wellness morning inside the BYD Motors showroom in Victoria Island. The morning was a three-way meeting of minds between brands that share one uncompromising belief: that excellence is a lifestyle, not an occasion.

Built around three pillars, Innovation, Community and Energy, the experience featured two guided sessions, Strength and Mobility and Stretch and Mobility, delivered by the BEYOND team. Guests moved through light, intentional programming in a silent headphone format, then transitioned into recovery moments that included back and shoulder release with on-site massage therapists.

The morning was completed with nourishing bites and refreshments from Flowershop Cafe, creating a seamless flow from movement to restoration.

“This is exactly what BEYOND was built for. Bringing high-performing people into a space where they can move, recover and reset properly,” said Simisola Williams, Founder and Managing Director of BEYOND Fitness.

“When brands come together around a shared commitment to excellence and wellbeing, the experience speaks for itself.”

For BYD, the collaboration connected modern wellness with future-focused living.

“Hosting this activation in our showroom reflects what we stand for. Forward motion and innovation,” said Mehdi Slimani, Managing Director, BYD Nigeria. “It was a powerful way to engage a community that values performance and sustainability.”

BrandCo, the official franchise partner for @adidasNigeria in Nigeria and other African markets, described the morning as part of its commitment to movement-led experiences that build real community.

“We are proud to collaborate on experiences that inspire people to move with intention and connect,”

said Jayakar Nandadeep, Managing Director, BrandCo Nigeria Limited.

Guests departed with beautifully curated goodie bags from Mint Organic Care, a body and home wellness boutique brand whose vision of sustainable luxury made them a seamless fit for the morning’s ethos. It was a detail that said everything: wellness does not end when the class does.

The adidas x BYD x BEYOND wellness morning reflects a growing shift in Lagos. More high performers are prioritising experiences that protect their energy, build consistency and support modern, wellness-led lifestyles.

For updates and upcoming experiences, follow @beyondfitnessng, @byd.nigeria and @adidasNigeria.

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A spotlight on the actors who dominated the 12th AMVCA acting categories. Lateef Adedimeji (in red) earned a historic triple nomination, while Uzor Arukwe (in green) and Femi Branch (in black) achieved rare double nods across the Lead and Supporting Actor categories for the 2026 awards.

The Best Lead Actor race at this year’s AMVCA is, without question, the most competitive the ceremony has seen in recent memory, and the eight nominations assembled for the 12th edition — scheduled for 9 May 2026 in Lagos, with Joke Silva serving as head judge — make a compelling argument for the depth of talent currently working across African film and television.

What is striking about this particular field is not simply the quality of the individual performances, but the range they collectively represent. There is a veteran who traded his usual intensity for something warmer, playing a grieving grandfather whose stubbornness slowly gives way to the chaos and joy two grandchildren drag back into his life. There is a historical epic’s leading man returning to a role he has made entirely his own. There is a crime thriller’s moral centre, a brilliant man whose desperation pulls him into the wrong world, played with a restraint that makes his unravelling feel genuinely devastating. And there is a South African actor, nominated for the first time, whose presence in this category signals exactly the continental ambition the AMVCA has been building toward.

This is not a category you call easily, and that, more than anything, is the point. See the nominees below.

Mike Ezuruonye — Oversabi Aunty

In a film built around Toyin Abraham‘s self-righteous, morality-policing church usher, Mike Ezuruonye plays Chidi — her Igbo husband, the quieter counterweight to her very loud chaos. Chidi’s frustration is conveyed through pauses and expression rather than theatrics, and his comic timing, especially when navigating Yoruba dialogue with an Igbo accent, adds levity without undermining credibility. It is the kind of performance that could easily be overlooked in a film this busy, but Ezuruonye holds the centre of the family story with enough restraint and warmth that you feel his presence even when the camera is not on him. Toyin Abraham herself described working with him as smooth and fulfilling, noting that he delivered beyond what she imagined for the character.  This is Ezuruonye’s first AMVCA Best Lead Actor nomination.

Mike Ezuruonye and Toyin Abraham in a family scene from the comedy film Oversabi Aunty. Photo Credit: Toyin Abraham/Instagram

Lateef Adedimeji — Lisabi: A Legend Is Born

Lateef Adedimeji enters this year’s ceremony as one of the most nominated individuals, achieving a historic triple nod in the acting categories alone. He is nominated for Best Lead Actor for his titular role in ‘Lisabi: A Legend Is Born,” reprising the role of the Egba hero he first brought to life in “Lisabi: The Uprising.” The franchise is one he has poured personal passion into, having served as executive producer on both films alongside his wife, actress Mo Bimpe. His versatility is further on display with two additional Best Supporting Actor nominations for his performances in Gingerrr and Red Circle — a range that very few actors pull off in a single awards cycle.

At the 2025 AMVCA, “Lisabi: The Uprising” won three of its ten nominations — Best Indigenous Language Film (West Africa), Best Art Direction, and Best Makeup. This year he returns with five nominations in total, adding Best Indigenous Film and a Best Makeup nomination.

Lateef Adedimeji as Lisabi leading warriors in the historical epic Lisabi A Legend Is Born. Photo Credit: Adedimeji Lateef/Instagram

Khumbuza Meyiwa — Bet I Love You

The only non-Nigerian in this category, and his nomination signals exactly the kind of pan-African scope the AMVCA has been building toward. “Bet I Love You” follows Rex, a compulsive gambler whose reckless choices lead him to gamble away his sister’s lobola money, diving into themes of family, desperation, and redemption as one man’s addiction spirals into chaos for those closest to him.  Khumbuza Meyiwa, known for The Queen, stars as Rex alongside Nosipho Majola, with the film directed by Nigerian filmmaker Joseph Duke and produced by Urban Brew Studios. The film had its world premiere at the 2025 Joburg Film Festival before streaming on Showmax. This is Meyiwa’s first AMVCA nomination.

William Benson — To Kill A Monkey

The story follows Efemini, a brilliant tech graduate stuck in a dead-end job in Egbeda, Lagos. Bereft of opportunities and suffering personal loss, he is drawn into a cybercrime syndicate by a charismatic old friend, where he becomes the gang’s tech mastermind — while a detective haunted by her own losses closes in on the case. Benson anchors the film’s weighty themes of survival, betrayal, and moral compromise with a deliberate restraint that allows Efemini’s internal struggles to resonate with fierce authenticity. The performance made “To Kill A Monkey” one of the most talked-about Nigerian productions of 2025, holding the number one spot on Netflix upon release. This is Benson’s first AMVCA Best Lead Actor nomination, and it is entirely deserved.

Behind the scenes of the Netflix hit To Kill A Monkey with director Kemi Adetiba and lead actors William Benson and Bucci Franklin. Benson’s portrayal of Efemini secured him his first AMVCA Best Lead Actor nomination. Photo Credit: Kemi Adetiba/Instagram

Kanayo O. Kanayo — Grandpa Must Obey

This nomination marks something of a delightful departure. Kanayo O. Kanayo plays a 70-year-old widower struggling with grief and resentment, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he is forced to babysit his two lively grandchildren. What begins as a stubborn clash of personalities unfolds into a heartwarming story of healing, forgiveness, and rediscovering joy in family bonds. The role marks a departure from Kanayo’s usual roles, giving audiences a chance to see the veteran actor explore warmth, humour, and emotional depth in a family-centred story. For a man whose screen presence has long been associated with intensity and menace, this gentle, comedic turn is a genuine surprise.

Uzor Arukwe — Colours of Fire

When a warrior is sent to hunt a beast believed to be unleashed by his clan’s rivals, he uncovers a darker truth and an unexpected connection. Now he must decide whether to protect his clan’s honour or risk everything for a forbidden love. Uzor Arukwe plays that warrior, and the role demands the full range of what he is capable of — physical presence, emotional vulnerability, and the specific tension of a man caught between loyalty and something that feels more true.

At the 2020 AMVCA, Arukwe received a double nomination for Best Actor in a Comedy for his performances in “Smash” and “Size 12,” and returned in 2025 with a Best Supporting Actor nomination for “Suspicion.” This year he takes his biggest step yet, earning a Best Lead Actor nomination for “Colours of Fire” alongside a Best Supporting Actor nomination for “Behind The Scenes,” making him one of the few performers in this edition to appear in both acting categories at the same time.

Uzor Arukwe stars alongside Osas Ighodaro in the fantasy epic Colours of Fire. Arukwe’s performance as a conflicted warrior earned him a spot in the highly competitive Best Lead Actor category at the 2026 AMVCA. Photo Credit: Anthill Studios/Instagram

Wale Ojo — 3 Cold Dishes

“3 Cold Dishes,” directed by Asurf Oluseyi and written by Tomi Adesina, tells the story of three women who reunite after being trafficked as teenagers and seek justice against those responsible. Wale Ojo plays a role central to that story of reckoning, in a film that received six AMVCA nominations including Best Movie, Best Director, Best Writing, Best Score, and Best Editing alongside his Best Lead Actor nod.

He was nominated at the AMVCA in 2015 and 2018 for Best Actor in a Comedy and Best Supporting Actor respectively, before winning the Best Lead Actor award at the 10th AMVCA in 2024 for his performance in “Breath of Life.” Now back in the same category two years later, the jury has clearly not forgotten what he is capable of.

Femi Branch — Red Circle

Femi Branch delivers a powerful performance as Bashorun Ga’a in “House of Ga’a,” set in the 19th-century Oyo Empire, portraying a ruthless man who rises to power through betrayal and violence, a role that earned him a Best Lead Actor nomination at the 2025 AMVCA. This year he returns with a nomination for “Red Circle,” a crime thriller in which he plays a role rooted in personal struggle and moral conflict, while also earning a Best Supporting Actor nomination for “Owambe Thieves,” a comedy, in the same cycle.

The post Uzor Arukwe, William Benson, Lateef Adedimeji & More: Meet the AMVCA 2026 Best Lead Actor Nominees appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The Leopards of DR Congo celebrate a historic 1-0 victory over Jamaica in the intercontinental play-off to secure the final African slot for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This marks their first appearance in the tournament since 1974. Photo Credit: Fedora Rdc/Instagram

For the first time in the history of the FIFA World Cup, ten African nations will be on the same pitch — well, not literally, but you get the idea

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first 48-team edition of the tournament, staged across three host nations — the United States, Mexico, and Canada — from 11 June to 19 July 2026. The increase in Africa’s representation is a direct result of FIFA’s decision to expand the tournament to 48 teams, raising Africa’s allocation from five to nine automatic spots. Nine of the ten African nations qualified by winning their respective CAF qualifying groups, which ran from November 2023 to October 2025 across nine groups of six teams each. DR Congo secured the tenth and final spot with a 1-0 extra-time win over Jamaica in the intercontinental play-offs, completing Africa’s full lineup for the expanded tournament.

Notable absentees include Nigeria and Cameroon, both of whom fell at the CAF play-off stage and will not be making the trip to North America. For the continent’s fans, that sting is real, but the ten nations who did make it have more than enough to carry African football’s hopes and ambitions into the summer. See the full list of African countries that qualified below.

Morocco

Morocco were the first African nation to seal their place at the 2026 World Cup, with a 5-0 thumping of Niger on 5 September in Rabat, finishing top of CAF Group G. The Atlas Lions arrive as the continent’s standard bearers, having made history at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar where they became the first African and Arab nation to reach a semi-final, defeating Spain and Portugal along the way. Key players include Achraf Hakimi, Hakim Ziyech, and Youssef En–Nesyri. They have been drawn into Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti.

Senegal

The Lions of Teranga won seven and drew three of their ten qualifiers to finish top of CAF Group B, sealing qualification with an emphatic 4-0 win over Mauritania in front of a lively home crowd in Dakar. Sadio Mané scored two of the goals, with Iliman Ndiaye also on the scoresheet. Senegal were knocked out by England in the last 16 in 2022 and will be looking to go further this time, boasting a squad that includes Nicolas Jackson and Pape Matar Sarr alongside Mané. They face France, Norway, and Iraq in Group I.

Sadio Mané and Senegal national team celebrating 2026 World Cup qualification after win over Mauritania. Photo Credit: FIFA World Cup/Instagram

Ghana

After failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, expectations were low for Ghana heading into World Cup qualifying, but they bounced back impressively to reach the finals for the fifth time since their debut in 2006. Mohammed Kudus scored the winner at home to Comoros to secure their qualification in October. Antoine Semenyo and Kudus will be Ghana’s key threats when they face England, Croatia, and Panama in Group L.

Egypt

Mohamed Salah scored twice as Egypt beat Djibouti 3-0 in October to seal qualification from CAF Group A with a game to spare, making up for their absence from the 2022 tournament. The 2026 edition is widely expected to be Salah’s last World Cup, and the Liverpool captain will be desperate to make it count. Egypt face Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand in Group G.

Egypt’s star forward Mohamed Salah leads the Pharaohs to the 2026 World Cup finals after topping Group A with a clinical 2-0 win over Ethiopia. Photo Credit: FIFA World Cup/Instagram

Algeria

Algeria’s qualification secured their place at the World Cup for the first time in 12 years, finishing top of their CAF group with Riyad Mahrez leading the charge. At their last appearance in 2014, they reached the last 16 where they pushed eventual champions Germany to the limit in extra time. They have been drawn into Group J alongside Argentina, Austria, and Jordan — a formidable group that will require everything they have.

Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast have not been to a World Cup since 2014, but they made sure of their return by topping CAF Group F, taking 26 points from a possible 30 to pip Gabon and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang‘s side. Manchester United’s Amad Diallo scored one and set up another as the Elephants beat Kenya 3-0 in their final qualifier in October. They face Germany, Ecuador, and Curaçao in Group E.

Cabo Verde

The Blue Sharks will make their World Cup debut in 2026 after topping CAF Group D with a 3-0 home win over Eswatini in October, leaving Cameroon in second place. Having only taken part in qualifying since 2002, Cape Verde will be the second-smallest nation by population to play at a men’s World Cup finals, after Iceland in 2018. Their story is one of the most remarkable of the entire qualification campaign and they face Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia in Group H.

The Blue Sharks of Cabo Verde celebrate a historic 1-0 win over Mauritius to qualify for their debut FIFA World Cup appearance in North America. Photo Credit: FIFA World Cup/Instagram

Tunisia

Tunisia will be back at the World Cup in 2026 after being eliminated at the group stage in 2022, though they did beat France 1-0 in that tournament. The Carthage Eagles have never progressed beyond the group stage across six World Cup appearances and will be determined to change that record when they face the Netherlands, Japan, and Sweden in Group F.

South Africa

South Africa survived a three-point deduction for fielding an ineligible player — a 2-0 win over Lesotho was turned into a 3-0 forfeit — but still managed to top CAF Group C, beating Rwanda 3-0 at home to seal their place. Bafana Bafana’s return to the World Cup is a significant moment for South African football, and they open the tournament in a fitting way — facing Mexico in the first game of the entire tournament on 11 June in Mexico City, a replay of the 2010 World Cup opener when South Africa were the hosts. They are in Group A alongside Mexico, South Korea, and Czechia.

DR Congo

DR Congo secured their place as the tenth African country at the 2026 World Cup after defeating Jamaica 1-0 in extra time in the intercontinental play-offs, with Axel Tuanzebe scoring the decisive goal. The Leopards will participate in the World Cup finals for the first time in 52 years, since 1974. Their route to qualification was the longest and most dramatic of any African side — surviving the CAF play-offs against Nigeria and Cameroon before winning through the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico. They face Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan in Group K.

The Leopards of DR Congo celebrate a historic 1-0 victory over Jamaica in the intercontinental play-off to secure the final African slot for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This marks their first appearance in the tournament since 1974. Photo Credit: Fedora Rdc/Instagram

 

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This Good Friday, The LOGIC Church invites believers and lovers of gospel music to a worship experience anchored on a simple but powerful truth: the same Gospel we preach is the Gospel we sing.

The second edition of “Jesus + Nothing” Worship will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026, at 4:00 PM at The LOGIC Centre, Plot 115, T.F. Kuboye Street, Lekki, Lagos. More than a concert, this gathering is a proclamation; an evening where music becomes a vessel for the undiluted message of Jesus Christ and His finished work.

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There is a general attitude people have when they don’t understand something or a community. Instead of taking the time to educate ourselves about a subject matter so we can operate from a place of knowledge, we tend to reduce the essence of that subject matter to fit our limited perspectives. Autism is not an exception; it has become one of the most misconstrued subject matters in recent times, and unfortunately, autistic children usually bear the brunt of this because they are more vulnerable to social stigma, peer pressure and easy targets owing to their being in a formative and emotionally immature phase of life.

A while ago, I watched a parent offering material incentives to anyone who would marry his autistic son. I wish I knew more about the context of that marital consummation, but on face value, it does come off the wrong way despite the best intentions. Treating autistic children as an inconvenience, pawns to be traded, or trophies to be collected doesn’t exactly help the negative stereotyping. I also must state categorically that I’m not in any way a certified child psychologist, but I believe in leveraging my unique skillset in communications to create content that can, at the very least, serve as a conversation starter.

What exactly is autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by challenges in social communication and interaction, and by restricted, repetitive behaviours or interests. Whilst there are common traits of autism such as limitations with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and non-verbal communication, the actual exhibitions can be very distinct for individual cases. Some autistic people have intellectual disabilities, others have verbal challenges, while most people have physical limitations that require being chaperoned. One important fact to note is that there is no single scientifically-proven cause of autism; whilst there are generally risk factors, the two closest factors that most researchers posit are genetics and environment, which is neither here nor there.

So it’s very out of pocket when people bully autistic children as originating from a dark place or surmise that their birth is a punishment for the indiscretions of one or both parents. None of us chose the circumstances of our births; it means that our anatomy and physiology, to a great extent, were already pre-determined. Just as you wouldn’t expect to be held responsible for how you look physically or function, it would be very unfair to hold others, especially children, to that standard. Our cultural and religious biases are quick to kick in when interrogating why a child is different from others; everything mustn’t have a spiritual slant – it’s not that deep. There is a simple rule in communication which is particularly true for addressing such a sensitive community: if you can’t say something nice, then shut up!

What autism is not

Autism is not a disease. For something to qualify to be called a disease, it should possess clinical, molecular, epidemiological and pathological characteristics. Translation: since autism cannot be contracted, spread or cured, it cannot be classified as an illness. Hence, isolating autistic children from those unfounded assumptions is simply ignorant.

Autism is not caused by poor parenting. An autistic child is not an indictment on his or her parents. As I referenced earlier, it’s nobody has full control of the circumstances of their birth, and this includes parents. They are often challenged to learn more about autism and do their best to navigate their child through life.

Autism is not a learning disability. This is another popular misconception. What some autistic children have is a challenge with conventional learning approaches. Dyslexia is what challenges a child’s ability to read and write, while autism is more evident in social communication and interaction.

Autism is not a sign of low intelligence. Autistic children have the full complement of their cognitive functions, just as I mentioned in the previous point; what they are challenged with is the expression of that intelligence, which make come off as incoherent. Challenges with social communication don’t equate to a low IQ. Most autistic people are brilliant inventors; it doesn’t take rocket science to know this.

Autism is not a static condition. The characteristics of autism differ from child to child; some are more obvious than others. However, the plethora of signs can be easily deduced as some of the signature traits of autistic people. Different factors play a part in determining how each exhibits those traits.

Some signs of children with autism

Autistic children find safety or comfort in preferred routines. In their social interactions, they are quick to recognise patterns because it means they can build a lifestyle around those ‘structures’. This means they are quite upset with the changes made in their space because, alongside those changes, comes the loss of predictability, which implies they have to recalibrate and relearn what could be considered the new status quo. This may manifest as a tantrum, but the underlying reason is the disruption of their ‘normal’.

Autistic children are often clumsy. You may not get that social savvy and suave from autistic people because they struggle with coordinating their execution. Whether it be something as simple as walking, talking or even singing. Sometimes they make the same gesture or genuflect over and over again, but it may not always be in sync with others. In extreme or rare cases, they can engage in activities that hurt them or have an increased likelihood of physically hurting themselves.

Autistic children can be disproportionately affected, responsive or sensitive to things like light, sound or touch. They can either have a higher or lower threshold to pain; this means that they process pain a little differently from others, which is either hyposensitivity or hypersensitivity.

Autistic children are easily fascinated by exotic or sophisticated images, objects or phenomena, even when they don’t have an idea how such things work. Their brain activity can be very intense when focusing on something or engaging in activities they are immersed in. As much as possible, adults around them should take on the thankless job of explaining or showing them how those things work in great detail.

Autistic children can also be picky with the food they eat. This behaviour is associated with a sense of familiarity or routine, as pointed out in the first point. Food is not just nourishment but a symbol of order and predictability; this becomes more pronounced where they have sensitivities, allergies or gastrointestinal issues.

How to better care for autistic children

The safety of routines. Without trying to make their lives monotonous, it would go a long way to creating a healthy physical and emotional environment for them, whether it’s a visual, acoustic or even sentimental items such as clothes, toys or even their favourite cartoon. To everyone else, it might just be a shoe, but an autistic child might have an emotional connection with that item more than they could ever articulate.

Follow their lead. Especially for parents, there is a huge propensity to control the behaviour of their children because they believe they know better. That is not necessarily a wrong thing, but with autistic children, you’re better off understanding them than commanding them. You can still teach them your values and life lessons, but have it at the back of your mind that autistic children process information differently, so you have to meet them where they are.

Let them know why. If an autistic child is in your care, you will be doing them and yourself a disservice by assuming they understand the reason for your actions. Break things down, brace up to answer questions with obvious answers and let them know that, beyond any reason you give for your actions, you love them. It might be a labour of love, but down the road, you will be glad you dug your heels in. It’s easier to raise a child with whom you share a bond; autistic children are no different.

Stand up for them. In an unforgiving world, you might be the first and sometimes the only person who loves them unconditionally. Especially in school or social circles, whenever they are being bullied or stigmatised, show up and let them know that you are not indifferent to their challenges. Standing up for them also includes allowing them to express themselves in a way that makes them feel heard. Also, use such opportunities as teach moments for those who are not informed about autism.

Invest in therapy where you can afford it. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help autistic children who suffer greatly from bouts of anxiety. It doesn’t mean the child has a problem, but such sessions help the child become more self-aware and expressive. Some of the challenges that come with autism tend to be eased as the child grows up, but you must invest in their ability to live independent lives as much as possible.

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In a powerful celebration of creativity, talent, and possibility, Mikano Motors champions the Mikano Changan Creators Challenge, an initiative created to recognize, support, and invest in Nigeria’s growing community of digital creators. 

Hosted at the Mikano Motors showroom in Victoria Island, Lagos, the grand finale brought together Mikano executives, creators, industry leaders, media professionals, and notable personalities for a moment that went beyond competition. It was a gathering that reflected a shared belief: that creativity deserves recognition, support, and real opportunity. 

The challenge was designed with a clear intention to create a platform where young creatives are seen, heard, and rewarded for their originality, effort, and storytelling. Creators were tasked with showcasing their creativity and ideas around Mikano Changan Cars. Across weeks of participation, they expressed their voices, perspectives, and ideas, turning everyday creativity into meaningful expression. After a series of intense selection of winners, the contestants were shortlisted and the winner was chosen by a panel of notable judges which includes Bovi Ugboma, Doris Ogah, Chioma Ude, Joelle Haykal represented by Syam Abdul Kadir, and Oluseyi Asurf Amuwa, whose experience and perspective helped shape a fair and thoughtful selection process.

Chibundu Victor Chisom emerged as the overall winner and was awarded the grand prize a brand new Mikano Changan CS35 car marking not just a win, but a recognition of his creative journey. The vehicle also comes with a 6-year warranty and nationwide after-sales support, reflecting long-term value and reliability. One thing stood clear: creativity was at its peak.

In Mikano’s commitment to the creative economy, the first runner-up, Princess Tony Jessica Omusuku, received a cash reward of ₦3million, while the second runner-up, Oluwamayowa Philip, received a cash reward of ₦1.5million.

 In addition, the remaining top finalists were each awarded ₦500,000 in recognition of their dedication, consistency, and creative excellence throughout the challenge. The event also featured a panel session with respected voices in the creative and media space, who shared insights on the importance of nurturing creativity, the evolving landscape of digital expression, and the role of platforms that create real opportunities for emerging talent. 

The conversation reinforced a shared understanding that creativity thrives when it is supported, encouraged, and given room to grow. The occasion was further enriched by the presence of notable personalities from the entertainment and film industry, including Jemima Osunde, KieKie, Rita Dominic, and Patrick the Bassist, a former winner of a previous challenge, alongside the 19 shortlisted creators. Their presence reflected a community that continues to grow through collaboration, shared experiences, and mutual support. 

Speaking at the event, Syam Abdul Kadir, National Head of Operations at Mikano motors, reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to empowering the creative ecosystem, emphasizing its belief in the value of creativity as a driving force for growth, expression, and opportunity. He noted that the main aim of the initiative is to support creators in their creative journey and enable them to grow exponentially.

The Mikano Changan Creators Challenge stands as one of the ways Mikano continues to contribute meaningfully to society by investing in people, supporting talent, and creating opportunities where creativity can thrive. More than a competition, the Mikano Changan Creators Challenge represents a commitment to giving back, building pathways, opening doors, and recognizing the individuals who are shaping the future through their creativity. 

Speaking on the recognition, the winner, Chibundu Victor Chisom, expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity, describing the moment as a meaningful recognition of their creativity and a reminder that when given the right platform, creativity can truly open doors. He further expressed that Mikano’s support for content creators played a significant role in creating opportunities like this and encouraged other creators to stay consistent and continue pursuing their creative journey. 

As the winners celebrate this moment, the broader message remains clear: when creativity is supported, it grows, and when it grows, it transforms lives, communities, and possibilities. For Mikano Motors, this initiative is not an endpoint, but a continuing journey of supporting creativity and the creative industry.

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for Mikano

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Omah Lay on Instagram

After the success of his debut album, “Boy Alone“, Omah Lay took a long break before releasing another project. It’s been four years since Omah Lay released his debut album, and now he’s back with his second, “Clarity of Mind,” a 12-track album.

“Clarity of Mind” arrives as a bold, deeply personal body of work which captures Omah Lay in a state of awareness. From previous releases, Omah Lay’s songs have always sounded deeply personal and spiritual, reaching into the deepest of his heart to make music. This new album feels like a confession of an artist who has found clarity of mind.

Stream the album below:

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We’re not talking about the kind of rest where you just scroll on social media till your eyes hurt. This is about actual rest and embracing the soft life. It is a slow morning with no alarm clock, and a long shower followed by your favorite playlist. You can light a scented candle to officially signal that the work week is over. The BIC EZ Reach Lighter makes it easy to set that mood because its extended wand reaches into deep jar candles without you having to struggle with the flame. You can just light it and let the fragrance take over your space.

Whip Up A Sunday Resurrection Feast

All those cooking videos you have been saving on your phone won’t cook themselves. Now that you finally have the time, you can try that complex jollof recipe, the goat meat pepper soup that needs to simmer just right, or even bake something sweet to share. Whether you’re in the kitchen alone, moving at your own pace and enjoying the quiet, or bonding with family as everyone plays a role, cooking becomes part of the celebration itself.

When you need to light up your gas stove for the multiple pots you’ll need, the BIC EZ Reach Lighter gives you a safe, easy way to get things going without hurting your fingers. And when it’s time to bake your sweet treats or take things outside to the grill, the BIC Mega Lighter  steps in with its strong, steady flame and long reach handling everything from the gas oven to charcoal with ease.

Have an Easter Picnic

Everyone has seen the aesthetic picnic pictures on their timeline and thought about doing it with their own crew. Easter Monday is the perfect chance to actually follow through. You can pack a basket with snacks, your favorite meals, and drinks and find a spot at the park or the beach with your friends. Whether you need to light a small portable stove, a candle, or even a bonfire as the evening sets in, the BIC Pocket Lighter makes it effortless. It sparks on the first flick every time, so the only thing you’re fumbling with is the food.

Join A Congregation To Celebrate

Nothing beats celebrating with a group of people. This long weekend, you can immerse yourself in the deeper meaning of the season by attending a Good Friday service, joining an Easter conference, experiencing the power of an Easter Sunday cantata, or reconnecting with your church community at a laid back Easter Monday picnic. Sometimes, a perfect weekend is one that makes you reflect on the ultimate sacrifice as you pray the Stations of The Cross with candles lit by your BIC Pocket Lighter flickering in the darkness.

Have One Evening With No Screens

As a 9-5er or entrepreneur, your phone can be the bane of your existence. This long weekend is the perfect time for a digital detox. Put your phone face down, turn off the television and enjoy a screenless evening. Deciding to do it alone? Set up mood lighting with a warm candle lit by your BIC EZ Reach Lighter, grab a book you love or your Bible, and disappear into a whole new world. Who knows? You may learn something new about the significance of Easter.

If you’re surrounded by friends or family, you could bring out the Ludo board or a deck of cards or even have a conversation with a neighbor that goes beyond just saying hello.

Whichever way you spend your long weekend—dressed up for Sunday service, chilling with your people, finally taking that trip, or simply doing nothing at all, make it a weekend that feels fully yours. From lighting candles to firing up the grill, the BIC Flame for Life range is there to keep every moment glowing, literally and effortlessly.

Happy Easter from BIC Nigeria. Cheers to making every spark count.

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Most couples planning to relocate talk about visas, job prospects, and which city offers the best opportunities. Very few sit down to have the conversation that actually determines whether their marriage survives the move, which is the roles conversation because somewhere between packing up a Lagos apartment and signing an abroad lease, two people who built a life together inside one set of cultural expectations are about to land inside an entirely different one, and neither of them has been fully briefed on what that means for their marriage.

The husband has heard the stories of women who changed abroad, who started “quoting their rights”, who became someone unrecognisable from the woman he married in Nigeria. Those stories quietly unsettle him, but he does not say it out loud. The wife has also watched the exhaustion of women who work full days and still come home to full kitchens, who carry the double shift (paid work outside the home, all the domestic labour inside it) until their bodies start to protest in ways that cannot be ignored. Those stories quietly terrify her, even if she does not say so out loud.

Both fears are valid about a marriage about to be tested by conditions it was never designed to withstand.

The New Economic Reality When Nigerian Couples Emigrate

According to the UK Office for National Statistics, the number of Nigerian nationals immigrating to the UK rose from 14,000 in 2019 to 141,000 in 2023. Canada saw a comparable surge: Nigerian permanent residents grew from 5,445 in 2015 to 17,460 in 2023, while study permits issued to Nigerian students hit record levels, with nearly 18,000 issued in the first six months of 2023 alone, more than any country except India.

Because a lot of couples emigrate via different routes, including the study routes, those statistics are also marriage statistics. Behind each visa is a relationship that will be tested by conditions it was never built to withstand. Data consistently shows that economic opportunity is a leading driver of Nigerian migration. For many families, the decision to relocate together makes sense because companionship, opportunity, and better futures for children are shared. But these are not prepared for the Western economic reality.

In Nigeria, a modest income can support a household. The extended family provides childcare. Domestic help is sought. A wife can focus on homemaking while a husband provides financially, or vice versa. Abroad, that model collapses almost immediately. Rent alone consumes 30 to 50 per cent of a single income, depending on the city, and that is before utilities, transportation, food, and childcare. So the couple must both work, not to supplement income, but because the family cannot survive without it.

With both partners now working outside the home, a question that never needed answering in Nigeria becomes urgent: who handles everything inside the home?

Abroad, the support structures that made the Nigerian domestic arrangement work simply do not exist in the same form. There is no aunty down the road. There is no affordable house help. There is no extended family to absorb the overflow. Two people who built a life inside one set of conditions are now operating inside an entirely different one, and the gap between what the marriage was designed for and what it now requires becomes the source of genuine conflict.

Research on Nigerian immigrant couples in North America consistently shows that the domestic and financial pressures of the transition period create significant marital strain, with both partners overwhelmed by work demands while household responsibilities remain unevenly distributed. Both partners are navigating career re-establishment, financial pressure, cultural adjustment, and social isolation simultaneously. The domestic load does not pause for any of it. It simply accumulates.

The couples who navigate this well are not necessarily those with better marriages going in. They are the ones who recognised early that the old arrangement needed to be renegotiated, not because anyone was wrong before, but because the context had changed and the relationship needed to change with it.

Meanwhile, as we see a significant number of Nigerian families fracturing abroad, many adapt and grow even deeper. What do they do, and how?

A Zikoko story on how relocation reshapes Nigerian love found that couples who navigated the transition successfully had explicit conversations about how their roles would need to shift before they moved. They discussed money, domestic labour, and decision-making not as romantic abstractions but as practical realities. Without emotions. The couples who struggled were those who assumed Western life would simply accommodate Nigerian gender arrangements. Who expected the context to change without the relationship having to?

So before the move abroad, couples should ask: Can both partners cook a full meal? Can either of them manage the school run, the bedtime routines, and the household independently for a weekend if the other is unavailable? Does the domestic weight of the home rest on one person’s shoulders by default, or is it genuinely shared?

In Nigeria, these questions may never have needed asking.

The post Modupe Ayobami: Why Do Nigerian Marriages Struggle Abroad? appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Google has partnered with Slum2School Africa and a team of celebrated Nigerian creators to unveil “Stories from Our Home,” a first of its kind Nigerian folktale and cultural colouring book for children. The collaborative initiative aims to bridge the shortage of educational materials in Nigeria by placing 1,000 books directly into the hands of primary school pupils in underserved communities. This project serves as a direct response to the gap in nursery classrooms where children often learn without basic creative tools such as colouring books and crayons.

The creation of the book utilized Google Gemini as a creative enabler to reimagining African folklore as print-ready line art. A group of creative contributors led by Broda Shaggi, alongside Falz, Layi Wasabi and others, gathered at an Imagination Workshop to share memories and cultural stories. These storytellers used the generative AI tool to translate their cultural ideas and heritage narratives into high-quality art that children can now take pride in and colour. The finished work was designed and published by Inked Memory, ensuring the final pages met appropriate educational and child-centered standards.

“At Slum2School Africa, we have always believed that education is the most powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty,” stated Otto Orondaam, Founder of Slum2School Africa. He noted that education begins long before a child enters a classroom, starting with the stories they hear and the materials they hold. “Stories from Our Home is an extension of everything we stand for, ensuring that every child, no matter where they are born, has access to the resources and the identity that will shape their future.“

The formal unveiling at the Slum2School Innovation Hub in Lekki featured special reading sessions with the children. Google West Africa Director Olumide Balogun delivered opening remarks and read the story of the Great Rivers of Nigeria. He was joined by guest readers Nancy Isime and Bisola Aiyeola, who shared stories of Nigerian heroes including the Walls of Benin and Queen Moremi Ajasoro. These sessions were designed to show children that their culture is a treasure and that their stories belong in books.

“I know what it feels like to grow up without these things,” said Samuel Animashaun Perry, popularly known as Broda Shaggi. “I know what it means when a child does not have the basic tools that others take for granted. That experience never leaves you, and it is why I am committed to doing whatever I can to make sure young people today do not have to go through what I went through. Being part of this project, and seeing 1,000 packs go into the hands of these children, means everything to me.”

Each child at the launch received a Dream Pack containing the printed book along with crayons, notebooks, pencils and educational games. This initiative highlights the importance of creative play, which supports foundational capacities such as fine motor skills, focus and imagination. By combining technology with traditional storytelling, the project ensures that children in underserved areas have access to the resources and identity that will shape their future.

About Google

Google’s mission is to organise the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful. Google is a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc.

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for Gemini

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As part of its mandate to promote enterprise and innovation in Nigeria, Konga Communications, was on ground to document a first-of-its-kind breakfast session of alumni of the London School of Economics (LSE), held here in Lagos, Nigeria. Facilitated by the MD of Task Systems, Gozy Ijogun, the event brought together top business and academic leaders for a Women Business Leaders Breakfast, a powerful conversation centered on inclusivity and the impact of women in leadership.

Held in March to mark International Women’s Month, the gathering was intimate yet electric, creating a platform for meaningful dialogue, mentorship, and collaboration among women shaping the future of business across Africa. At the heart of the event was Gozy Ijogun, CEO of Task Systems, whose passion for building community among women in business was the driving force behind the gathering.

“It was important to build a strong network of support for women in business,” she shared and the room she assembled was proof of that conviction.

A major highlight of the morning was a fireside chat between Gozy Ijogun, and global leader Dr. Musimbi Kanyoro, a conversation that was candid, warm, and deeply relatable. From navigating the realities of leadership as a woman, to the quiet power of consistency and the non-negotiable role of self-belief, the exchange left the room both moved and motivated.

Dr. Paroma Bhattacharya, spoke to LSE’s vision and intention behind bringing this event to life, a commitment to building communities where women’s leadership is not just celebrated, but deliberately nurtured. Dr. Musimbi Kanyoro, addressed the persistent gender gap in business head-on, calling for deliberate, intentional action to create more opportunities for women, not someday, but now.

Larry Kramer, President and Vice Chancellor of LSE, delivered a message that resonated deeply across the room, that no society can truly thrive without empowering its women, and that LSE remains firmly committed to promoting inclusivity through its academic programs. Ema Clark, Leadership and Career Coach, rounded things off with a grounded, practical perspective, acknowledging the real challenges women face in leadership while affirming that with the right support systems, women don’t just survive, they excel.

Adding further depth to the conversation were two distinguished industry leaders whose presence elevated the room and reinforced the event’s central theme of intentional leadership and sustainable growth. Leo Stan Ekeh, Founder and Chairman of Zinox Technologies, brought a seasoned entrepreneur’s lens to the discussion, sharing valuable insights on what it truly takes to build sustainable businesses in today’s 21st-century, tech-driven world. Innovation, adaptability, and long-term vision, he stressed, are not optional extras they are critical pillars for any business serious about success in the modern economy.

Equally compelling was the contribution of Chioma Ekeh, CEO of TD Africa, who spoke powerfully on the intersection of personal and organizational leadership. Her message was direct and deeply resonant, women must take full ownership of their growth journeys while simultaneously driving meaningful impact within the organizations they lead. Accountability, resilience, and intentional self-positioning, she emphasized, are the hallmarks of women who don’t just occupy leadership roles, but truly define them. Together, the Ekeh duo brought a rare blend of entrepreneurial authority and purposeful leadership to a room already brimming with inspiration.

Attendees also took part in a standout interactive session: “One Ask, One Offer” a format where each participant came with something they needed and something they could give. Simple, intentional, and powerful, it turned the room into a living mentorship network.

At Konga Communications, the belief is that every landmark moment deserves to be documented and amplified. The LSE Alumni Lagos Women Business Leaders Breakfast reflects the kind of initiative the organisation aims to spotlight, events that drive enterprise, inclusion, and innovation in Nigeria and across Africa.

As conversations deepen and connections formed at the event continue to grow, Konga Communications remains committed to telling stories that inspire, inform, and drive meaningful change.

For media coverage, PR partnerships, and brand storytelling, connect with Konga Communications today at info@kongafm.com

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for Konga Communications

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Alex Iwobi smiling at the camera in a Fulham FC jersey after a game. Photo credit: Fulham FC on X.

Alexander Iwobi (or simply Alex or Iwobi) has been in the Premier League since 2015. He started his career at Arsenal and won the FA Cup with the club. However, there were a lot of uncertainties about his stay at Arsenal, and despite signing a long-term contract with the club till 2023, he left the club in 2019 and signed for Everton Football Club. Although he was eligible to play for England, Alex pledged his allegiance to Nigeria early in his career. A move which, at the time, could be considered unthoughtful. But Alex has been a straight-up footballer who considers criticism as fuel. When it was announced by Arsene Wenger that he’d be leaving the club in 2018, without his knowledge, he considered it an inspiration to become better.

But much of his stay and performances at Arsenal and Everton were clouded because he had not picked up a consistent form that would make him a Premier League darling. But Everton’s manager at the time, Marco Silver, who currently coaches Fulham Football Club, saw something special in him. So in 2023, he signed for Fulham.

At Fulham now, Alex Iwobi is enjoying his best football as a Premier League player, not only for sealing his place in the first team squad and engineering the team’s midfield, but he is also bagging goals. He has already scored over 18 goals, more than any club he has played for. As it is known, most players across the world aim to play and stay in the Premier League because it is considered the most competitive league in the world. For Alex Iwobi to have remained in the league for the past decade and played at the top level shows how incredible he is as a player.

100 up for Alex! pic.twitter.com/TKB0Nqec7j

— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) February 15, 2026

1⃣ 3⃣0⃣0⃣

Congratulations on reaching an incredible @premierleague milestone, Alex. pic.twitter.com/b3ByJw6xcw

— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) October 27, 2025

To highlight Alex’s goals and assists at the club, here is a compilation by the club for you.

The post Alex Iwobi is Finding Form and Making Waves at Fulham appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Wofai Fada and Taiwo Cole in traditional Nigerian attire. Wofai wears a gold-striped Aso-Oke with feathered fringe sleeves and a matching gele, while Taiwo wears a deep green Agbada with black embroidery, beads, and a matching fila. Photo Credit: Wofai Fada/Instagram

It is raining babies and the Nigerian internet has never been more grateful. Simi and Adekunle Gold have just welcomed a new addition, and now the Cole family has announced that theirs is growing too, because apparently the universe decided to bless us all in the same breath.

Wofai Fada and her husband Taiwo Cole dropped a pregnancy reveal video and it is genuinely one of the loveliest things on the internet right now. We are talking golden park lighting, a yellow clothesline hung with the tiniest onesies you have ever seen, a toddler in a pink dress holding a sunflower, and Wofai herself in a cream tiered maxi skirt and puff-sleeved crop top with a crocheted floral headpiece that should not work as well as it does but absolutely does. Taiwo shows up in a cream tunic and burgundy trousers and the two of them are so obviously happy that watching it feels slightly intrusive, in that way that only the best family videos do.

She appears in a cream two-piece outfit — a puff-sleeved crop top with large button details and a matching tiered maxi skirt that frames her bump beautifully, finished with a white crocheted floral headpiece and chunky gold bangles. Taiwo coordinates beside her in a cream tunic and deep burgundy trousers, and together they move through the video sharing quiet, joyful moments that feel genuinely unposed. A yellow clothesline strung with baby onesies — one reading “Hugs are all I need,” another “Voted Most Handsome” — anchors the whole thing in something warm and specific. And then there is their daughter, Ifedayo, in a light pink floral dress, holding a large sunflower, being lifted into the air by her parents, and pressing her small hand gently against her mother’s bump.

Wofai Fada and Taiwo Cole sitting in front of a decorated Christmas tree in matching red and green plaid pajamas. Taiwo is cradling their newborn daughter, Ifedayo Konaghai Cole, who is wearing a white headband. Photo Credit: Wofai Fada/Instagram

The onesies say “Hugs are all I need” and “Voted Most Handsome.” Their daughter Ifedayo, who clearly has no idea how adorable she is, presses her hand against her mum’s bump at one point and that is genuinely it. That is the whole video in one image.

Wofai captioned it “New chapter, same love story. Love makes the belly go round,” and also squeezed in a birthday message to Taiwo, because apparently one major announcement was not enough for one day. We respect it.

The couple married traditionally in May 2024 and legally in October of the same year. Their first daughter, Ifedayo Konaghai Cole, arrived in November 2024 and was announced with the caption “Our princess is here. My joy is complete.” That princess is now about to have a whole sibling, and based on how she handled that sunflower, she is going to be an excellent big sister.

 

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Eyebrows can be that one beauty step that either pulls everything together or completely throws you off. And if you’ve ever struggled with shaping, filling, or just figuring out where to start, you’re definitely not alone. Dimma Umeh is stepping in with a tutorial that makes the whole process feel way more doable.

In her latest video, she shares a beginner-friendly eyebrow routine using just a few essentials: brow glue, a dark brown brow pencil, a brow pen, and concealer.

She kicks things off by brushing the brows upwards with a spoolie. This step might seem simple, but it actually helps you see how your brow hairs naturally grow, making it easier to work with your real shape.

Next up is brow glue. She works it into the brows in circular motions, then brushes the hairs upward into place. This helps keep everything set and gives that lifted, structured finish.

Then comes the brow pencil. She starts by outlining the brows first, creating a clear shape, before filling them in with light, careful strokes. The goal here is definition without going overboard.

After that, she switches to a brow pen to draw tiny, hair-like strokes, especially in sparse areas. This helps fill in gaps and gives the brows a fuller appearance without making them look heavy.

To wrap things up, she applies concealer under the brows to define and clean up the edges. She recommends using a shade that’s one or two tones lighter than your skin tone, then blends it out with a brush for a smooth finish.

And just like that, you’ve got brows that are shaped, filled, and defined—without the stress.

Watch below

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Following the “My Love Is The Same” video reveal, Simi and Adekunle Gold celebrate their family of four with a modern, urban-chic denim photoshoot, officially welcoming their newest addition. Photo Credit: Simi/Instagram

Talk about a full circle moment! Our favourite music power couple, Simi and Adekunle Gold, have officially expanded their beautiful tribe, and the internet is currently a puddle of joy. Simi took to Instagram today to share the news we’ve all been waiting for with a simple yet punchy caption: “+1. 3.10.26. God bless my little family #mommyof2.”

This lovely news comes exactly as the world was still reeling from that stunning announcement video they dropped earlier this year. Remember when Adekunle Gold used the visuals for “My Love Is The Same” from his latest album, “Fuji,” to reveal they were expecting? It was such a cool, understated way to share their journey, letting the music and the imagery do the talking. Since then, we’ve been on bump watch, and the wait is finally over.

A black-and-white profile silhouette of singer Simi standing against a circular backlit glow. She is wearing a form-fitting bodysuit that highlights her pregnancy bump, with her hair styled in a high curly updo. Photo Credit: Simi/Instagram

To announce the arrival, Simi shared a set of photos that perfectly capture this new chapter. One image is a striking, minimalist silhouette where she stands in profile against a circular backlit glow, her form-fitting bodysuit highlighting the journey of motherhood in the most timeless way. Then there’s the coordinated denim look that is pure goals—Simi in a lace-up denim crop top and wide-leg trousers, leaning into Adekunle who looks sharp in a matching short-sleeved denim shirt and seamed jeans.

This new addition arrives nearly six years after the couple welcomed their first child, the ever-so-sweet Adejare, back in May 2020. Watching Deja grow up has been a joy for fans, and now she’s officially a big sister! The comment section is already a sea of love and virtual champagne toasts. Temi Otedola popped in to say, “Beautiful. Congratulations!!” while the man of the hour, Adekunle Gold, couldn’t hide his excitement, commenting, “Daddy of 2, and My Baby Omo Nla .”

Simi and her husband Adekunle Gold posing in matching mid-wash denim outfits. Simi is seated, wearing a lace-up denim crop top and wide-leg jeans, showing her baby bump. Adekunle stands beside her in a short-sleeved denim button-down and straight-leg jeans. Photo Credit: Simi/Instagram

The industry big names are out in full force too; Ebuka Obi–Uchendu sent his best with a “Big congratulations fam ,” and Bambam added, “Awwwwh congratulations beautiful people .” Of course, Broda Shaggi had to bring the humour, referencing Simi’s iconic pregnancy anthem with his comment: “DuduKEKE leleyi o.”

It’s a beautiful day for the Kosokos, and we are absolutely here for all this new baby joy!

 

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Two bold new looks from Ruth Kadiri, styled and designed by Josiphiah Michael. The left look, a burgundy speed couture two-piece set, ushers in the new month of April. The right look, a deconstructed set made entirely from upcycled denim, was her chosen ensemble to celebrate her birthday on March 24th. 

If there’s one thing Ruth Kadiri is proving right now, it’s that she understands the assignment when it comes to fashion. The actress and filmmaker is clearly in her style era, and her latest looks are giving bold, experimental, and just the right amount of extra.

Styled and designed by Josiphiah Michael, the two looks offer a study in contrast, each revealing a different side of Kadiri while maintaining a clear, intentional point of view.

First up: her birthday look on March 24, and it’s a denim dream with a twist. Think upcycled denim, but elevated. The outfit features a structured corset with visible boning, layered under a cropped, oversized patchwork jacket. The vibe is raw, edgy, and fashion-forward. Frayed edges, lace-up details, and an uneven mini skirt add texture and attitude, while thigh-high denim boots and a matching duffle bag pull everything together in the coolest way.

Ruth Kadiri celebrates her March 24th birthday in a bold sustainable statement. This upcycled denim outfit, styled by Josiphiah Michael, features complex patchwork, frayed edges, and white cord lacing. Photo Credit: Ruth Kadiri/Instagram

And just when you think that was the moment, she switches it up for April with a whole new vibe.

Enter: a deep burgundy two-piece that blends structure with sporty chic. The corset top cinches the waist, while the off-shoulder neckline—framed with a voluminous, textured trim—adds a dramatic touch. The skirt fits snug through the hips before flowing into soft ruffles, with bold white racing stripes giving it that athletic edge.

But the real scene-stealer is the glossy red racing helmet casually held at her waist. It’s giving concept, it’s giving fashion girl, it’s giving “I didn’t come to play.”

Reimagining sportswear as high-fashion, Ruth Kadiri ushers in the month of April in this custom Josiphiah Michael two-piece set. The look features the filmmaker wearing a sleek red racing helmet to complement the matching corset and ruffled skirt silhouette. Photo Credit: Ruth Kadiri/Instagram

 

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Shirley Ewang is an Advocacy Lead at Gatefield

If you asked people around the world which countries are most likely to recognise that women are equally capable of leadership as men, many would point to G7 nations like Germany or Canada. Nigeria, however, might not come to mind. This assumption is changing, though. Today, 90% of Nigerians believe that a woman can lead a company, and 77% believe a woman can be president. According to the 2025–2026 Reykjavík Index for Leadership, which measures societal perceptions of gender equality across 23 sectors, Nigeria has achieved a score of 59. Germany, a founding member of the G7, scores 60. This one-point difference is a statement of national readiness. Nigeria is no longer just an emerging market in terms of gender progressive attitudes; it is performing on par with one of the most developed economies.

Nigeria’s private and public sectors must now move from readiness to representation and action.

Nigeria’s Index score rise this year was driven largely by a positive shift in the attitudes of men, which narrowed the gender perception gap from 8 points in 2024 to 5 points in 2025. It identifies family and upbringing as the main factors influencing these views (30%), surpassing formal education (18%).

The cultural readiness for female leadership is taking shape, yet our institutions are falling behind. 64% of Nigerians advocate for gender equality in leadership roles in government and politics, but the reality is stark: women occupy only 4.2% of seats in Nigeria’s House of Parliament, compared to a Sub-Saharan African average of 27%. We have the attitudinal infrastructure of a G7 nation, but the institutional representation of a laggard.

Banking Shows Bias Can Be Broken

Nigeria’s national average of 59 score in the Reykjavík Index is largely in the Banking and Finance sector. With a score of 73, it is the national leader in gender-balance perception, a lead over the national average by 14 points. This is a result of intentional policies that advance women in leadership. The sector currently has nine female bank CEOs and boards, where female representation has grown from 21% in 2020 to 31.1% in 2024, showing how visible women leaders can shift perceptions and reduce bias. Where women are seen, leadership is normalised. In contrast, bias strongholds like Engineering (46) and Childcare (33) lag because they remain segregated. The childcare sector falls behind the banking sector by 40 points, reflecting a society that views nurturing the next generation as an informal, gendered domestic work rather than a professional, high-value economic driver. To close this gap, other private sectors must stop viewing gender balance as a social favour and start treating it as a high-performance business strategy.

Lessons from the G7

While Nigeria is on par with Germany in perception, it can do better in implementation by adopting models used across the G7.

Canada and France (both scoring 71) have utilised private-sector targets and transparency reporting to ensure perception translates into senior roles. The G7 countries have recognised that the care economy is an important economic engine, leading to their investment in the sector. In Nigeria, the childcare sector’s score is 33, and that suggests how gendered roles are viewed, instead of a professional industry.

Nigeria is neglecting an estimated $111 billion annual GDP because of a lack of formalised childcare and investment in the childcare sector. By investing in childcare infrastructure and corporate crèches—as seen in higher-scoring G7 nations—Nigeria can unlock an estimated 17 million additional jobs by 2030.

So, while Nigeria’s public perception of women leaders is shifting, the next step is for leaders to match that readiness with bold action. For the federal government, this means codifying proven models like the banking sector’s approach across regulated industries, ensuring meaningful female representation on boards and executive teams. Private sector leaders shouldn’t wait for mandates, but rather replicate what works, internal targets, inclusive hiring, and supportive workplace infrastructure, such as employer-sponsored childcare. It’s time for action in Nigeria.

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This Easter, Amstel Malta, Nigeria’s premium malt drink, is bringing families together across Eastern Nigeria with the Amstel Malta Easter Village, a multi-city festive celebration set to take place in Aba, Awka, and Enugu from 4–6 April 2026. Designed to celebrate the season through moments of joy, togetherness, and wholesome entertainment, the initiative reinforces the brand’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences that strengthen family bonds and community connection.

Easter remains one of the most significant festive periods for families across Eastern Nigeria, marked by homecomings, reconnections and shared celebrations. In recognition of this, the Amstel Malta Easter Village will provide a vibrant and memorable space where families can relax, enjoy cultural experiences, and celebrate the holiday together.

Speaking on the initiative, Francis Obiajulu, Senior Brand Manager, Amstel Malta & Hi-Malt, said:

“The Easter season is deeply rooted in tradition, togetherness, and family connection, particularly across the East. With the Amstel Malta Easter Village, our goal is to create an experience that reflects the values our consumers hold dear—shared joy and meaningful connection. We are excited to offer families a safe, enjoyable, and culturally rich atmosphere to celebrate Easter in a way that feels authentic and memorable.”

Each city will host a tailored version of the village, ensuring local relevance while maintaining a consistent festive identity. This approach underscores Amstel Malta’s focus on deepening community engagement in regions where tradition, family values, and shared experiences remain central to everyday life.

For updates and upcoming engagements, follow @amstelmalta across all official social media platforms.

Sponsored Content

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The official digital poster announcing Alex Iwobi’s entry into the music industry. The artwork confirms that the Fulham and Super Eagles star’s debut EP, titled ‘More To Life,’ will be released on 9th April. Photo Credit: Alexandar Iwobi/Instagram

There’s a new era loading for Alexandar Iwobi, and it’s not happening on the pitch.

On April 9th, the football star is stepping into a whole new space with the release of his debut EP, “More To Life.”

The project gives us a glimpse into a different side of him—creative, expressive, and clearly open to exploring something new. Across nine tracks, Iwobi brings together a mix of collaborators, including Teniola Time, Giddi, P17, SPKS, and Fido, creating a project that feels full, layered, and very intentional.

There’s “Bussdown,” featuring Teniola Time, Giddi, and 4AM—already sounding like one of those tracks you’ll want on repeat—and “Joanna,” featuring Fido, which is bound to catch listeners’ attention. Add in multiple appearances from P17 and SPKS across the project, and you get a cohesive but varied listening experience.

See the tracklist:

• Mine (ft. 24AM)
• Bussdown (ft. Teniola Time, 4AM & Giddi)
• Joanna (ft. Fido)
• Proper (Freestyle) (ft. P17 & SPKS)
• Double Double (ft. P17 & SPKS)
• By My Side (ft. P17 & SPKS)
• Joga Bonito (ft. P17 & SPKS)
• Letter

The back cover and official tracklist for Alex Iwobi’s debut musical project, ‘More To Life.’ The nine-track EP features collaborations with Nigerian artists Teniola Time and Giddi, alongside UK-based talents Fido, P17, and SPKS. Photo Credit: Alexandar Iwobi/Instagram

And then there’s “Joga Bonito”—a phrase that instantly brings football to mind. It’s a subtle reminder that even as he steps into music, his roots are still very much part of the story.

 

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In celebration of International Women’s Day, Descasio hosted an intimate executive brunch bringing together distinguished women leaders from its customer community for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, partnership, and shared growth.

Centered around the 2026 International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” the gathering created space for accomplished women in enterprise leadership to reflect on mentorship, collaboration, and investing in people as key drivers of sustainable growth.

Held in Lagos, the event convened leaders from organizations including Honeywell Group Limited, Finchglow Travels, NGCOM, and Eroton Exploration & Production Company.

Guests were personally welcomed at the start of the gathering by Mr. Dele Nedd, CEO of Descasio; who greeted each of the women leaders and expressed his appreciation for their presence before leaving the session to allow the women lead the conversation among themselves.

The gesture reflected Descasio’s leadership culture; one where women are not only recognized, but actively supported and empowered. It also underscored the company’s belief that meaningful progress in leadership requires partnership and allyship across the organization.

Rather than a traditional panel discussion, the brunch was designed as a candid and reflective exchange among peers navigating leadership in complex industries. Throughout the conversation, participants shared perspectives shaped by experience, responsibility, and the realities of leading teams and organizations.

A recurring theme in the discussion was the role of execution and accountability in leadership. For many organizations, strategy alone is not enough; consistent delivery is what ultimately builds credibility and trust.

Reflecting on this, Josephine Adebola, Data Compliance & Process Automation Manager at Finchglow Travels, emphasized the importance of reliability in leadership and the discipline required to translate vision into results.

“Get it done on time and in full.”

The conversation also explored the role of curiosity and continuous learning in shaping effective leaders. In rapidly evolving industries, the ability to ask questions, remain open to new perspectives, and keep learning is often what enables leaders to grow alongside their organizations.

Sharing her perspective, Tomi Otudeko, Chief Operating Officer at Honeywell Group Limited, reflected on how curiosity has shaped her leadership journey.

“Asking questions and continuously learning have always stood me in good stead as a leader.”

She also spoke about the importance of leading with empathy and understanding the people behind the roles within organizations.

“Everyone has multiple dimensions to who they are. Leadership has taught me to see people in their totality. That awareness doesn’t make a leader weak; it makes them more effective.”

Another important theme that emerged from the conversation was authenticity in leadership. In an environment where leaders often face pressure to conform to traditional expectations, remaining true to one’s identity while continuing to evolve is essential.

For Helen James-Eziashi, General Manager at NGCOM, authenticity and curiosity remain key guiding principles.

“Be yourself, keep learning, and stay curious.”

The discussion also highlighted the role of self-awareness in sustaining leadership journeys, particularly in complex and high-responsibility environments. Understanding one’s values, motivations, and support systems often becomes the anchor that allows leaders to navigate uncertainty with confidence.

Reflecting on this, Ifeanyi Onyejekwe, IT Manager at Eroton, emphasized the importance of knowing what grounds a leader.

“Know who you are and understand what supports and sustains your leadership journey.”

According to Descasio, the event reflects its broader commitment to building strong partnerships and fostering meaningful leadership conversations across its enterprise customer community.

“For us, this was about more than marking International Women’s Day,” said Umama David-Ogebe, The HR Manager at Descasio. “It was about creating a space where leaders could learn from one another and reflect on the kind of leadership that builds strong organizations. The most meaningful partnerships grow from conversations like these.”

To extend the impact of the discussion, Descasio has published “The Give to Gain Leadership Report: Insights from Women Leading Enterprise Organizations,” a curated publication capturing key reflections and leadership lessons shared during the session.

The report highlights themes including:

• The role of curiosity and continuous learning in leadership.  
• Building stronger teams through empathy and accountability.
• The importance of authenticity and self-awareness in navigating leadership journeys.
• How investing in people drives stronger partnerships and resilient organizations

The Give to Gain Leadership Report is now available for download Here.

About Descasio

Descasio is a leading technology solutions provider helping enterprises modernize operations, optimize infrastructure, and build intelligent systems that enable organizations to scale efficiently and securely.

Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Descasio partners with enterprises, governments, and institutions to design, implement, and manage secure, scalable digital systems that improve operational efficiency and business performance.

Over the years, Descasio has helped organizations across industries harness the power of cloud computing, cybersecurity, automation, data, and artificial intelligence to build resilient, future-ready enterprises.

Through its technology platforms, advisory services, and strategic partnerships, Descasio supports organizations across Nigeria & Africa in transforming how they operate, secure data, and deliver value in an increasingly digital world.

Sponsored Content

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The Bloom Conversations with Sola, an initiative curated as a safe space for professional women—recently hosted its third exclusive gathering in Lekki, Lagos. The invitation-only event brought together 40 professional women from across diverse corporate sectors for a high-impact day dedicated to personal and career development.

Founded in 2023 by Oluwasola Obagbemi, the initiative was launched to provide support for women navigating the complexities of modern work-life integration. By fostering a community rooted in shared experience, the platform provides actionable insights to help participants thrive in a demanding professional ecosystem.

This year’s edition featured a powerhouse lineup of female executives who shared strategies for success. Mojisola Hunponu-Wosu, Founder and President of Woodhall Capital, delivered a compelling session on wealth creation as a corporate woman. She highlighted the necessity of women shifting their perspective from “income thinking” to “ownership thinking.”

“For too long, the corporate narrative for women has been centered on climbing the ladder for a better paycheck. To build a lasting legacy, women must move beyond the safety of a salary and embrace the mindset of an owner,” said Hunponu-Wosu. “It is about transitioning from being a participant in the economy to becoming a stakeholder. That is why gatherings like Bloom Conversations are key to learning about holistic stability, true wealth, and long-term independence.”

Moroti Adedoyin-Adeyinka, Executive Director of Financial Strategy at Sahara Group, commended the initiative and provided a tactical roadmap for navigating complex corporate environments. Her session emphasized the intersection of hard work and character building.

“Conversations like these are of the utmost importance for young corporate women because success in a complex world isn’t just about navigating the room; it’s about the substance you bring into it,” Adedoyin-Adeyinka noted. “Hard and smart work is crucial, but character is the compass. For corporate women to break through barriers, there must be as much intentionality about our integrity as there is about our technical delivery.”

The Convener, Oluwasola Obagbemi, opened the event by outlining the initiative’s long-term vision.

“The Bloom Conversations is creating a pipeline of women who are not only technically proficient but also emotionally and socially equipped to handle the pressures of the corporate world without losing their sense of self. Women are not made to be just one thing; women are made for more.”

This year’s session built on the success of past editions, which featured esteemed speakers such as Folake Soetan (CEO, Ikeja Electric) and Adenike Macaulay (CEO, Wakanow) for the 2.0 edition, as well as Audrey Joe-Ezigbo, Folake Sanu, and Nkiru Olumide-Ojo for the inaugural event.

The success of the event was supported by partners dedicated to female advancement, including BellaNaija, Providus Bank, Ego Foundation, Ify’s Kitchen, Dang, Johnvents Foods, Viva, Hair Harmony, Cakes by Debbie, Shea Tribe, Nvrbsc, Dios Dlite, and Hair Harmony. These partnerships reflect a growing corporate consensus: investing in female talent is not just a social good, but a necessity for national economic growth.
As International Women’s Month 2026 concludes, The Bloom Conversations remains committed to fostering a community where women can thrive, share experiences, and lead with confidence.

About The Bloom Conversations with Sola

The Bloom Conversations with Sola is a platform dedicated to inspiring and supporting corporate women as they navigate life’s complexities. Through heartfelt discussions and practical guidance, the initiative fosters a community of like-minded women committed to flourishing in all areas of their lives.

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for The Bloom Conversations with Sola

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Performance-focused promotional imagery for Celine Dion’s ten-show run in Paris. Photographed by Robin Galiegue, this poster highlights the scale of her 2026 comeback at the Paris La Défense Arena, scheduled to begin this September. Photo Credit: Céline Dion/Instagram

There are certain songs you don’t just listen to, you grow up with. For a lot of people, that includes a Céline Dion ballad. Whether it’s “The Power of Love” or “My Heart Will Go On,” her voice has been part of the soundtrack for decades, all the way back to her Eurovision debut in 1988.

Which is why the past few years have felt noticeably quiet.

In 2022, Céline revealed she had been diagnosed with Stiff-Person Syndrome, a rare autoimmune condition that causes muscle stiffness. She later cancelled her Courage world tour, stepping away from the stage to focus on her health—and leaving fans around the world wondering when they might see her again.

Now, she’s finally sharing an update, and it’s a good one.

Marking her 58th birthday, Céline posted a video message looking relaxed in olive-green trousers and a sheer black blouse, with news that feels like a full-circle moment: she’s returning to the stage.

“Wow, it’s been kind of hard keeping it a secret from myself,” she said, laughing, before giving a health update that felt both honest and hopeful. “I want to let you know that I’m doing great, managing my health, feeling good, I’m singing again, even doing a bit of dancing obviously you know I love it so much.”

Official promotional artwork for Celine Dion’s return to the stage. Photographed by Robin Galiegue, the poster confirms her upcoming residency at the Paris La Défense Arena, marking her first series of live performances since her health-related hiatus. Photo Credit: Céline Dion/Instagram

She also took a moment to thank fans who have stayed with her through everything. “Over these last few years, every day that’s gone by, I’ve felt your prayers and support, your kindness and love,” she said. “Even in my most difficult times you were there for me. You’ve helped me in ways that I can’t even describe and I’m truly so fortunate to have your support.”

So where is she heading first? Paris.

Starting 12 September, Céline will perform ten shows over five weeks at the Paris La Défense Arena—a major return in a city that has always shown her love right back.

“This year I’m getting the best gift of my life. I’m getting the chance to see you, to perform for you once again in Paris beginning in September this year,” she shared.

There’s still no cure for Stiff-Person Syndrome, but treatments have clearly made enough of a difference for her to step back into performing, and she’s being open about how that feels. “I’m feeling good, I’m strong, I’m feeling excited, obviously of course a little nervous, but most of all I am grateful to all of you. I can’t wait to see you again.”

She signed off with, “Well, happy birthday to me,” and it really does feel like one.

Will you be making the trip to Paris to witness Céline’s return this September?

 

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