Tony Elumelu, a prominent Nigerian entrepreneur and Chairman of Heirs Holdings and the United Bank for Africa (UBA), has voiced his concerns about the ongoing issue of crude oil theft in Nigeria. In a recent interview with the Financial Times, Elumelu highlighted how criminal gangs stealing oil from pipelines have significantly impacted the country’s oil production and led to the divestment of international oil companies from onshore assets.

Elumelu recounted his personal experience with the issue, explaining that the theft was so severe that it forced his company to shut down production in 2022. At the height of the crisis, Elumelu expressed his frustration on social media, pointing out that the Bonny Terminal, which should receive over 200,000 barrels of crude oil daily, was receiving less than 3,000 barrels due to theft. He stressed that this issue, rather than low investment, is the primary reason Nigeria struggles to meet its OPEC production quotas.

Despite these challenges, Elumelu remains optimistic about the sector’s future. However, he noted that oil theft still results in the loss of about 18% of production from his fields, with 42,000 barrels of crude pumped out daily. He called on the Nigerian government and security agencies to take more accountability and disclose the identities of those responsible for the theft, emphasizing the scale of the problem by comparing it to a hypothetical situation in the United States.

Elumelu’s remarks highlight the broader impact of oil theft on Nigeria’s economy and the urgent need for government action to address the issue.

Mike Afolarin, a Nollywood actor known for his roles in films like Ajosepo, Soólè, Ajuwaya, Freedom Way, and the Netflix series Far From Home, recently revealed that his experience on the set of House of Ga’a was the most intense in his acting career. In an exclusive interview with Pulse Nigeria, Afolarin shared that this film, directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, creatively challenged him in ways he had never experienced before.

Afolarin explained that the film required him to dive deeper into his character and stretch his creative boundaries. The project was different from anything he had done before, which intrigued him and pushed him to explore new depths as a performer.

He also recounted the challenge of rehearsing in Yoruba, a language he struggled with, especially midway through the production when they were asked to switch from English to Yoruba. Despite the initial difficulty, this challenge allowed him to connect more deeply with his character and the story.

The Youth Wing of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU) has expressed satisfaction with its members for complying with the directive to avoid the recent nationwide protests. The protests, which erupted across various states, were in response to the escalating hunger and hardship in the country.

Jeremiah Maikano, the National Youth Wing Coordinator of SOKAPU, released a statement commending members for their restraint, emphasizing that past protests in Kaduna State had often led to violence, looting, and the loss of innocent lives. The group’s decision to stay away from the protests was driven by a desire to prevent a repeat of such unfortunate events.

SOKAPU also extended its sympathy to those who suffered during the violence and urged security agencies to recover stolen goods and hold those responsible accountable. The union reiterated its call for members to remain law-abiding and avoid politically motivated protests.

Instead of participating in protests, the statement encouraged Nigerians to continue praying for the nation’s leaders, expressing hope that the country’s challenges would eventually be overcome.

Lupita Nyong’o recently celebrated the 3rd birthday of her beloved cat, Yoyo, with a touch of elegance and joy. The U.S.-based Kenyan actress marked the occasion by sharing photos on social media, where she looked radiant in a bright yellow dress and matching flower crown. The celebration featured a festive atmosphere, complete with a large gold ‘Happy Birthday’ banner, stars, and tiny, well-wrapped gifts, adding to the charm of the event.

In her caption, Lupita invited her followers to join in wishing Yoyo a happy birthday, showcasing the strong bond she shares with her feline companion. The post quickly garnered attention, with many fans joining in to wish Yoyo well and commenting on the special relationship between Lupita and her cat.

Lupita adopted Yoyo in October 2023 after a difficult breakup with her then-boyfriend, Selema Masekela. Initially not a pet person and historically afraid of cats, Lupita found comfort and companionship in Yoyo, which has since become an important part of her life. The adoption marked a positive turning point for her, helping her heal and move forward after the breakup.

Since then, Lupita has moved on and is currently dating actor Joshua Jackson. She recently starred in the highly anticipated horror film A Quiet Place: The Origin, which has received positive reviews.

Asake’s latest album, Lungu Boy, has achieved remarkable success, reaching No. 2 on the US Apple Music chart shortly after its release on August 9, 2024. This accomplishment ties Asake with Burna Boy’s I Told Them and Davido’s Timeless for the highest-charting Nigerian albums on the platform.

Lungu Boy, Asake’s third album in three years, features a star-studded lineup of collaborators, including Grammy-winning Nigerian superstar Wizkid, British rappers Central Cee and Stormzy, American icon Travis Scott, and Brazilian singer Ludmila. The album has also claimed the No. 1 spot on the Apple Music UK chart, making it Asake’s third consecutive album to top the UK charts, following Mr. Money With The Vibe and Work of Art.

Asake’s rise to global prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. His debut album, Mr. Money With The Vibe, won Album of the Year at the 2023 Headies Awards, and his sophomore effort, Work of Art, produced the record-breaking single “Lonely At The Top,” which set the record for the longest-charting song on the TurnTable Top 100.

The release of Lungu Boy precedes Asake’s upcoming tour, which will include performances at iconic venues like the O2 Arena and Madison Square Garden, making him only the fourth Nigerian artist to headline at Madison Square Garden. Asake’s breathless run of hits over the past three years has solidified his status as an era-defining superstar in the Afrobeats genre.

Rising Nigerian Hip Hop star Bkay EastGaad has just dropped his latest single, “G.B.A (Good Boys Anthem),” a track that embodies the spirit of staying true to oneself and exuding confidence, despite societal pressures and stereotypes. “G.B.A” serves as an anthem for those who navigate life with integrity while enjoying the thrill of living. Bkay draws from his own experiences and those of the people around him, crafting a song that resonates on a personal and universal level.

Bkay’s music is known for reflecting real-life stories and emotions, and “G.B.A” is a shining example of his ability to turn everyday moments into powerful, relatable music. With its groovy beats and infectious rhythm, this track is bound to be a memorable and repeat-worthy addition to any playlist.

The lyrics of “G.B.A” speak to anyone striving to be their best amidst societal pressures, and Bkay’s storytelling, grounded in real-life conversations and experiences, makes his music deeply resonate with listeners. This song is more than just a track—it’s a movement celebrating authenticity and integrity. It’s a shout-out to all the ‘good guys’ who balance being dependable with living life to the fullest.

Bkay EastGaad, born Anueyiagu Chukwubuikem Emmanuel, hails from Nigeria’s vibrant South-eastern region, where the pulse of life is felt in every corner. Steeped in a rich musical heritage, Bkay channels the soul of Africa into his Afro-fusion and rap creations. With a slogan, “Be Kingly and Yearn,” Bkay embodies regality and aspiration in every lyric and rhythm. Influenced by the diverse sounds of his upbringing, Bkay blends Hip-hop, Highlife, Reggae, and Dancehall to create a unique sonic experience that resonates globally.

Known as “Eastgaad” or “B 2 The Kay,” Bkay brings a fresh perspective to Afro-fusion and rap. His dynamic sound and magnetic stage presence position him as a rising star in the music scene, drawing comparisons to industry heavyweights like Burna Boy, AKA, and Nasty C. Bkay EastGaad invites listeners on a musical journey that transcends borders and connects hearts, establishing himself as a prominent force in Afro-fusion and rap.

“G.B.A” is now available for streaming on all major platforms. Follow Bkay EastGaad’s journey on Instagram, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, and X. For more information, contact Eric Gyimah at Warner Music.

Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has been summoned by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to report to its headquarters in Abuja in connection with an ongoing investigation involving charges of defamation, cyberbullying, forgery, and criminal conversion. The invitation was issued by the Inspector-General of Police Monitoring Unit, as her name reportedly appeared prominently in the investigation.

The letter, signed by A.A. Elleman, Head of the IGP unit, and dated August 5, 2024, requested Dikeh to attend an interview on August 7, 2024, to provide further information related to the allegations. The police stated that her cooperation in the investigation would be appreciated.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the situation on August 9, 2024, explaining that Dikeh was invited following a petition filed against her. After responding to the petition, she was released while the investigation continues.

Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh and her bodyguard, Gbenga, have been summoned to appear before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, on August 24, 2024. This summons is in connection with allegations of assault and criminal trespass, following a dispute with a car dealer, Elvis Abuyere, the Chief Executive of Skyewise Group Limited.

The issue stems from a transaction in January 2024, where Dikeh reportedly agreed to purchase a brand-new Changan Uni-K 2023 model from Mikano Motors through Abuyere’s dealership. Dikeh made an initial deposit by trading in her used Lexus, valued at 37 million naira, and an additional 3.5 million naira payment. However, she failed to complete the remaining balance of the agreed 85 million naira within the specified three-month period, leading Abuyere to repossess the vehicle on May 1, 2024.

Although Dikeh later paid 42 million naira in three instalments, a balance of 2.5 million naira remained unpaid. The situation escalated on July 30, 2024, when Dikeh reportedly forced her way into Abuyere’s business premises in Maitama, accompanied by her bodyguard and two other women. They allegedly assaulted the car dealer and his staff, disrupted business operations, caused property damage, and threatened to tarnish the company’s reputation on social media.

The defendants were subsequently arrested by the police, and the case has now led to a court summons, where Dikeh and her bodyguard must answer to the charges brought against them.