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Meet 21 Nigerian politicians who own multi-billion naira properties in Dubai

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Here is a summary of Nigerian politicians and their multi-billion naira properties in Dubai, as reported:

1. **Atiku Abubakar**: Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his daughter Hadiza own properties including a three-bedroom flat at Palm Tower and a one-bedroom flat at Trade Centre Second.

2. **Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi**: Nigeria’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation owns a property at Al Hebiah Third.

3. **Nasir El-Rufai**: The immediate past Governor of Kaduna State owns a four-bedroom apartment at Al Hebiah Third.

4. **Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed**: Vice Presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, linked to eight properties in locations like Burj Khalifa and Al Barsha South Fourth.

5. **Patrick Ifeanyi Uba**: Senator representing Anambra South, with nine properties linked to him and his wife in Dubai.

6. **Attahiru Bafarawa**: Former Governor of Sokoto State, linked to seven properties including one at Palm Jumeirah.

7. **Ahmed Markafi**: Former Governor of Kaduna State, linked to a property at Burj Khalifa.

8. **Amadu Adah Ali**: Former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and his daughter are linked to three properties.

9. **Maina Ma’aji Lawan**: Former Governor of Borno State, linked to 11 properties in Dubai.

10. **Christabel Bentu**: Former special assistant to Joshua Dariye, with one property in Dubai.

11. **Nenadi Esther Usman**: Former finance minister, linked to one property.

12. **Ibrahim Folorunsho Jimoh**: Senator representing Ondo South, linked to seven properties.

13. **Ike Ekweremadu**: Former Deputy Senate President, with five properties.

14. **Orji Uzor Kalu**: Former Abia State governor, with one property.

15. **Jeremiah Useni**: Former military governor of old Bendel State, linked to one property.

16. **Osita Ben Chidoka**: Former Aviation Minister, linked to a property at Jabal Ali First.

17. **Olisa Metuh**: Former spokesperson of the Peoples Democratic Party, linked to a property.

18. **Abdulsalami Abubakar**: Nigeria’s former head of state, linked to a property at Marsa Dubai.

19. **Hassan Ardo Tukur**: Former principal secretary to former President Goodluck Jonathan, with a property valued at $1.025 million.

20. **Adeyemi Ikuforiji**: Former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, linked to a property at Marsa Dubai.

21. **Dan Etete**: Former petroleum minister, linked to a property in Dubai.

These politicians collectively own significant real estate assets in prestigious areas of Dubai, reflecting substantial investments in the Dubai property market over the past two decades.

113 countries have never had a woman Head of State, only 26 are led by women

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UN Women has highlighted significant disparities in women’s leadership globally, noting that 113 countries have never had a woman Head of State, while only 26 countries currently have women in such roles. This data underscores ongoing challenges in achieving gender equality in political leadership worldwide.

The organization emphasized the importance of placing women in top leadership positions, particularly as many countries prepare for elections in 2024. UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous stressed that appointing women to leadership roles demonstrates strong political will for gender equality and reflects a collective commitment to addressing global challenges effectively.

As of January 1, 2024, women constitute less than a third of Cabinet ministers in 141 countries, and seven countries have no women represented in their Cabinets at all. Moreover, women hold only 23% of Ministerial positions globally. The representation of women as Permanent Representatives of the UN is also disproportionately low.

Looking ahead, Bahous highlighted the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a milestone in advancing women’s rights globally. The declaration aimed to remove barriers hindering women’s active participation in all spheres of life, emphasizing their equal role in economic, social, cultural, and political decision-making.

UN Women continues to advocate for women’s leadership and equal participation in governance, believing that when women lead, societies benefit as a whole. Their efforts focus on ensuring that women not only occupy senior positions of power but also drive positive change and foster inclusive decision-making globally.

Sokoto govt replies Shettima over alleged plot to dethrone Sultan

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The Sokoto State government has issued a statement in response to Vice President Kashim Shettima’s comments at the Northwest Security summit regarding rumors of a plan to remove Sultan Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III. The government emphasized the importance of verifying facts before making public statements on sensitive national issues. Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s spokesperson, Abubakar Bawa, expressed disappointment that the Vice President did not consult with the Governor to confirm the accuracy of the rumors before addressing them publicly.

The statement clarified that there was never any attempt to remove or threaten Sultan Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III. It affirmed the Sultan’s full entitlement to his powers, freedoms, and rights, asserting that the Sokoto State government takes seriously its responsibility to protect and uphold the dignity of the sultanate council. The government reassured Nigerians of its commitment to safeguarding the sultanate council and maintaining its esteemed status within the state.

Nigerian hunters tackle 19 crime cases in Kano forests in 1 month

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The Commander of the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS) in Kano State, Abdullahi Al-ameen, reported on the service’s activities in tackling crime within Kano forests. In May alone, they handled 19 cases ranging from animal theft to more serious offenses like child abuse, tricycle theft, kidnapping, and phone snatching.

Out of these cases, 16 have been resolved, while three are still under investigation. Al-ameen emphasized the service’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate of preventing and detecting crimes in forested areas. He also highlighted their collaborative efforts with community policing stakeholders to enhance security measures.

Al-ameen called for public cooperation to achieve a crime-free environment in Kano State, aiming to make it a safer place for all residents. This initiative underscores the role of local security services and community engagement in addressing various criminal activities effectively.

Minister compares child marriage in North to ‘taking small girls to hotels’ in South

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The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, highlighted several initiatives and challenges during her appearance on Arise TV’s ‘The Morning Show’. She addressed cultural barriers affecting women in Nigeria, drawing attention to her efforts to partner with traditional rulers to advance women’s rights.

One significant accomplishment she mentioned was abolishing the practice of breast ironing in a remote community in Abuja. This practice, deemed barbaric, involves the flattening of young girls’ breasts with heated objects, aiming to prevent their sexual development. The Minister’s ministry intervened through sensitization, empowerment programs, and legal agreements to enforce compliance and prosecute offenders under statutory provisions.

Additionally, Kennedy-Ohanenye compared challenges faced in northern Nigeria, such as child marriage, to similar issues in the south where young girls are taken to hotels, emphasizing that both practices exploit young girls and violate their rights. She underscored the importance of cultural dialogue and collaboration with local leaders to address these issues effectively across the country.

Her approach reflects a blend of advocacy, legal enforcement, and cultural engagement aimed at promoting gender equality and protecting vulnerable populations from harmful traditional practices.

3 Nigerian governors fly to Pakistan to study crisis, disaster management

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Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe, along with Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno and Governor Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa, embarked on a tour to Pakistan organized by the Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP) of the World Bank. This initiative aims to enhance their understanding of international best practices in crisis management, disaster resilience, and urban development, particularly relevant to their roles in post-insurgency recovery efforts.

According to Mamman Mohammed, Director-General of Press and Media Affairs for Governor Buni, the tour seeks to achieve several objectives:

1. Understand best practices and solutions pertinent to the mandates of MCRP AF (Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project for the North East) and NEDC/BAY (North-East Development Commission/Borno, Adamawa, Yobe).
2. Strengthen institutional capacity for planning, recovery, and stabilization.
3. Enhance the implementation of infrastructure, services, and social cohesion initiatives.
4. Improve planning for post-NEDC phases.
5. Build the capacity of government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to design and execute sustainable projects.

During their visit, the governors have already visited key institutions such as the Punjab Municipal Development Fund Corporation (PMDFC), Punjab Planning and Development Board (PnD Board), and are slated to visit the Punjab Disaster Management Authority, among others. They are also scheduled to engage with Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority and various UN agencies.

Governor Buni specifically intends to hold bilateral discussions with heads of donor organizations and private sectors to explore opportunities for resource mobilization to support recovery efforts in their respective states. This tour underscores a proactive approach towards leveraging global expertise and partnerships to address the complex challenges of post-conflict recovery and resilience building in northeastern Nigeria.

DAPPMAN denies importing inferior fuel, claims to have complied with regulations

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The Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) has issued a statement denying allegations that its members or private fuel depots have imported fuel outside the approved regulatory specifications set by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

In their statement released on Monday night in Lagos, DAPPMAN clarified that none of their depots had imported fuel that did not meet regulatory standards. They emphasized that all fuel imports adhere strictly to the specifications approved by NMDPRA.

The association also addressed recent regulatory changes regarding the sulphur content in automotive gas oil (AGO). They mentioned that initially, there were objections to certain off-takes via ship-to-ship operations offshore Lome, which had been protested by downstream operators and subsequently rescinded.

Furthermore, DAPPMAN noted that while NMDPRA had initially allowed AGO imports with a maximum sulphur content of 200 parts per million (ppm) between February and May 2024, there was a subsequent regulatory move to accelerate the implementation of stricter sulphur limitations (50 ppm) for both Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and AGO imports, effective from June 1, 2024, instead of the previous deadline of December 31, 2024.

In conclusion, DAPPMAN affirmed its commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure the supply of safe and competitively priced fuels that meet regulatory standards, thereby providing Nigerians with reliable fuel options for their daily needs.

Cubana Chief Priest is officially free as court ends his naira abuse case

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In a recent development at the Federal High Court in Lagos, the charge against Pascal Okechukwu, also known as Cubana Chief Priest, has been struck out following the adoption of settlement terms between the parties involved. Here are the key details:

– **Background**: Pascal Okechukwu was initially charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly abusing the naira notes during a social event at Eko Hotel in Lagos. The charges included spraying and tampering with naira notes, which contravened the provisions of section 21(1) of the CBN Act of 2007.

– **Legal Proceedings**: Okechukwu pleaded not guilty to the charges and was granted bail in the amount of ₦10 million. The case proceeded with discussions of settlement terms under section 14(2) of the EFCC Act, aiming for a resolution outside of a full trial.

– **Settlement Terms**: On June 25, 2024, the court struck out the charges after both the defence and prosecution adopted terms of settlement. These terms included:
– Okechukwu entering into a bond with the EFCC to uphold good behavior and avoid economic and financial crimes.
– Engagement in sensitization campaigns against the abuse of naira and other related offenses, including regular posts on social media.
– Payment of a sum not less than ₦10 million to the consolidated revenue fund of the Federation.

– **Court’s Decision**: Justice Kehinde Ogundare dismissed the case upon agreement between the prosecution and defence, acknowledging the terms of settlement presented to the court.

This resolution marks the conclusion of the legal proceedings against Cubana Chief Priest, highlighting the effectiveness of settlement negotiations in resolving legal disputes.

Gombe Govt distributes chlorine to 11 local government areas to prevent cholera

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In Gombe State, proactive measures are being implemented to prevent the spread of cholera through chlorination. Here are the key points from the initiative:

– **Distribution of Chlorine**: The Gombe State Government has started distributing chlorine to 11 local government areas. This initiative aims to treat wells, stagnant ponds, reservoirs, and areas fetching water from rivers with aqua tabs, as running rivers cannot be chlorinated directly.

– **Purpose of Chlorination**: Chlorine is being used to destroy pathogens in water, particularly Vibrio cholerae, which causes cholera and other waterborne diseases like gastroenteritis. This proactive approach is crucial in preventing outbreaks.

– **Implementation and Training**: About 110 trained personnel are involved in the distribution of chlorine and aqua tabs. They also educate communities on the proper application of these substances to ensure safe drinking water.

– **Past Success and Current Expansion**: The use of chlorine in 2023 resulted in no recorded cases of cholera. This year, the distribution has expanded beyond hotspots to cover more areas, with an increased quantity of chlorine drums from six to ten.

– **Health Commissioner’s Statement**: Dr. Habu Dahiru emphasized the importance of preventive measures, especially after recent travel during Sallah celebrations, which could increase the risk of cholera transmission. He highlighted the critical role of safe water, sanitation, and hygiene practices in disease prevention.

Overall, the chlorination program in Gombe State illustrates a proactive stance towards public health, aiming to safeguard communities against cholera and other waterborne diseases through effective water treatment measures.

Obasanjo and other Nigerian politicians spotted at Davido’s wedding

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The wedding of Nigerian music star Davido and Chioma Rowland was indeed a star-studded affair, capturing the attention of the nation and beyond. Here are the highlights and significance of the event:

– **Celebrity and Political Attendance:** The wedding attracted a mix of celebrities, dignitaries, and political figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Governor Emmanuel Udom of Akwa Ibom State. Their presence added significant prestige and highlighted the intersection between Nigeria’s entertainment industry and its political sphere.

– **Governor Ademola Adeleke’s Presence:** Davido’s uncle and Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, was also present, engaging with the couple and participating in the festivities.

– **Political Significance:** The attendance of prominent political figures underscored the event’s importance beyond entertainment, reflecting Davido’s own familial ties to Nigerian politics and society.

– **Public Interest:** Davido and Chioma’s wedding garnered immense public interest, fueled by their high-profile status, long-term relationship, and the anticipation built over the years among their fans and followers.

Overall, the wedding of Davido and Chioma not only celebrated their union but also served as a cultural and social moment in Nigeria, blending music, celebrity, and political influence in a memorable event. If you have more questions or want further details, feel free to ask!

IPMAN Adamawa/Taraba vows to continue strike as petrol hits ₦2,000 per litre

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The ongoing strike by the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) Adamawa/Taraba chapter has caused significant disruptions, particularly due to the soaring price of petrol, which has reached ₦2,000 per litre in some places. Here are the key points:

– **Reason for Strike:** IPMAN Adamawa/Taraba is protesting against the harassment and illegal seizures of their tankers by officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). They accuse the NCS of abandoning border operations to target legitimate businesses within cities and local government areas, leading to financial losses and fuel scarcity.

– **Impact on Commuters:** The strike has led to a sharp rise in transport fares, with commuters now paying ₦700 instead of ₦300 for a single trip. This has made it difficult for workers and other commuters to access transportation to their offices and destinations.

– **Fuel Availability:** Most fuel stations in Yola are reported closed, forcing motorists to rely on the black market in certain areas to obtain petrol.

– **Customs’ Position:** The Comptroller-General of the NCS, Adewale Adeniyi, previously highlighted the smuggling of petroleum products across borders as detrimental to Nigeria’s economy. He called for cooperation from all stakeholders to combat this issue.

The situation underscores the challenges faced by both consumers and businesses in the face of disruptions to the fuel supply chain and regulatory issues affecting the petroleum sector in Nigeria.

If you have any more questions or need further information on this topic, feel free to ask!

Tragedy strikes National Assembly as top customs official dies at plenaryTragedy strikes National Assembly as top customs official dies at plenary

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The passing of the Nigeria Customs Service official during a House of Representatives committee meeting is a tragic event. Here are the key points from the statement by Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr.:

– The official experienced sudden health complications during the committee session on June 25, 2024, around 1:00 pm.
– Despite immediate efforts by first responders and medical personnel at the National Assembly Clinic, the official unfortunately passed away.
– Out of respect for the family, the official’s name has not been disclosed at this time.
– The House of Representatives extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, acknowledging his significant contributions to the Nigeria Customs Service and the nation.
– The House stands ready to support efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and is cooperating fully with relevant authorities to ensure all necessary protocols are followed.
– Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, expressed deep sadness and conveyed sympathies to the family.

 

 

FG rolls out update of student loan application for state-owned institutions

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The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced a delay in the application process for student loans from state-owned tertiary institutions. Here are the key details:

1. **Reason for Delay**: The delay is attributed to insufficient data submissions from state-owned institutions. As of the report, only a fraction of these institutions have completed the required data upload to the NELFUND Student Verification System (SVS). Specifically, 20 out of 48 state universities, 12 out of 54 state colleges, and 2 out of 49 state polytechnics have submitted their data.

2. **New Application Window**: Originally scheduled to open on June 25, 2024, the application window will now commence on July 10, 2024. This two-week extension aims to provide state institutions additional time to comply with data submission requirements.

3. **Data Requirements**: Institutions are required to submit comprehensive student information including JAMB numbers, matriculation numbers, admission details, full names, academic levels, faculties, departments, program durations, fees, and gender of eligible students. Incomplete or inaccurate data submissions may lead to delays or disqualification of student loan applications.

4. **Importance of Accuracy**: NELFUND emphasizes the importance of accurate data to facilitate a seamless verification process and ensure that students receive timely financial support.

5. **Call for Compliance**: The Fund urges remaining state institutions to expedite their data submission processes to avoid disadvantaging students who rely on these loans for their education.

This delay underscores the logistical challenges in coordinating financial aid programs across Nigeria’s diverse tertiary education landscape, highlighting the need for streamlined data management and institutional cooperation.

Biodun Stephen’s ‘Muri and Ko’ with Kunle Remi leads Nollywood films at the box office

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Here’s a summary of the latest box office standings in Nigeria based on data from the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) for the period June 14-20, 2024:

1. **Bad Boys: Ride or Die** (Hollywood): Maintained the number one spot for three consecutive weeks, grossing ₦100.8 million during this reporting period. Its total gross now stands at ₦216.5 million.

2. **Muri and Ko** (Nollywood): Climbed from sixth to second place with a gross of ₦50.1 million during the week. The film follows the story of Muri, a thief who inadvertently kidnaps a child, and has been steadily gaining traction at the box office.

3. **Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti** (Nollywood): Slipped to the fourth position after grossing ₦15 million in the week, bringing its total gross to ₦156.5 million. The biopic had previously held the top spot among Nollywood films for three weeks.

4. **Criminal** (International): Dropped to the sixth spot with a weekly gross of ₦8.2 million. Its total earnings now stand at ₦45.7 million.

These figures reflect the dynamic box office landscape in Nigeria, showcasing the popularity of both local and international films among audiences.

5 beautiful Nigerian celebrity weddings that are simply unforgettable

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Here are summaries of some of the most extravagant and memorable Nigerian celebrity weddings:

1. **Adesua Etomi and Banky Wellington**: Held in November 2017, this wedding was highly anticipated and featured four stunning outfits for Adesua during the traditional ceremony, blending Yoruba and Edo bridal traditions. Their white wedding in Cape Town, South Africa, was a picturesque affair that captured their joyous union.

2. **Kemi Adetiba and Oscar Herman Ackah**: In April 2022, Kemi Adetiba and Oscar Herman Ackah celebrated their love with a series of grand ceremonies. This included an elegant civil affair and a lavish traditional wedding themed “Celebrating Culture: Flamboyantly Nigerian/Ghanaian,” attended by top celebrities like Banky W and Adesua Etomi.

3. **Rita Dominic and Fidelis Anosike**: Rita Dominic and Fidelis Anosike had a spectacular 2022, starting with their traditional wedding in Aboh Mbaise, Imo State, followed by a fairytale white wedding in a 900-year-old abbey in Yorkshire, England. The wedding featured vintage cars and three designer dresses for the bride, attended by renowned Nollywood celebrities.

4. **Ini Dima-Okojie and Abasi Ene-Obong**: Ini Dima-Okojie’s wedding to Abasi Ene-Obong in 2022 was a star-studded affair. The couple, who met on Instagram, had a luxurious traditional wedding at Harbour Point in Lagos and an equally exquisite white wedding. The event showcased their happiness and commitment surrounded by friends, family, and celebrities.

5. **Mercy Chinwo and Blessed Uzochikwa**: Mercy Chinwo and Pastor Blessed Uzochikwa’s wedding in August 2022 was a beautiful event that captured attention with its gorgeous ceremony. Their traditional wedding in Port Harcourt combined Rivers and Delta cultural elements, while their white wedding ceremony was attended by top Nigerian celebrities, celebrating their union with the hashtag #mercyisblessed.

These weddings not only exemplify extravagance and romance but also highlight the cultural richness and celebrity allure of Nigerian weddings.

Davido hops on the remix of hit single ‘Ogechi’ in honour of wife Chioma

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Davido has joined Brown Joel, Boypee, and Hyce on the remix of their hit single ‘Ogechi’, a move timed to coincide with his wedding day to Chioma. Known for his consistent hit-making abilities in Afrobeats, Davido announced the remix on social media, expressing it as a tribute to his wife. The original ‘Ogechi’ has gained popularity on TikTok and various streaming platforms, reaching high positions on charts. Davido’s participation in remixes often elevates songs to hit status, following his recent features with artists like Kizz Daniel and South African group TxC. Fans anticipate his verse on ‘Ogechi’ to continue his streak of delivering impactful contributions to songs influenced by Indigenous Igbo music, reminiscent of his past successes on tracks like ‘Ogaranya’, ‘Osinachi’, and ‘Doubting Thomas’.

Social media reacts as Rema teases new single ‘Hehehe’

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Rema gives listeners a peek into his upcoming single, “Hehehe,” stirring excitement and diverse reactions on social media.

### Highlights:

– **Tease and Reaction**:
– On June 24, 2024, Rema teased “Hehehe” on his X account. The snippet showcases Rema blending singing and rapping about his status and wealth, with the song punctuated by laughter.
– Social media reactions have been mixed. Some fans praise the creative display, while others find the record’s sound unusual.
– One fan expressed frustration over the long wait, stating Rema can’t drop this single after keeping fans waiting for eight months.
– An observer linked the teaser to another dark art display by Rema, who has faced accusations of satanism.
– Another fan described the teaser as a symbol of Rema’s continuous growth.

– **Recent Activities**:
– Rema has recently been in the news for his new cigarette smoking habit and for “Benin Boys,” his collaboration with Shallipopi, celebrating their status as illustrious sons of the Benin Empire in Afrobeats.
– After a quiet start to 2024, Rema is now kicking off the year with new singles, following a successful 2023 where he made history with his hit single “Calm Down” and released his EP “Ravage” in December.

– **Artistic Style**:
– Known for his elaborate artistry that includes colorful imagery and genre-fusing songs, Rema continues to push creative boundaries. “Hehehe” is another display of his avant-garde imagery and chest-thumping lyrics, solidifying his status as one of Afrobeats’ leading artists.

Kids Say the Darndest Things’ returns with Paramount Global & What Media Group

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The family favorite “Kids Say the Darndest Things” is back for its third season, promising more laughs, surprises, and heartwarming moments. This season marks a groundbreaking partnership between the iconic show and two entertainment powerhouses: Paramount Global Content Distribution and What Media Group. With the broadcast platform being The What Network and the production partner being Mansa Studios, the show aims to deliver its unique blend of humor and authenticity to audiences.

### Key Highlights:

– **Partnerships**: Paramount Global Content Distribution and What Media Group are collaborating to enhance the viewer experience. This format licensing deal celebrates African children and their unique voices and perspectives.

– **Statements**:
– **Lauren Marriott**, SVP, Content Partnerships and Brand Strategy at Paramount Global Content Distribution, expressed excitement about working with What Media Group to bring the show to audiences across Africa. She emphasized the show’s family-friendly appeal and its reimagined format.
– **Chichi Nwoko**, CEO of What Media Group, highlighted the show’s commitment to celebrating the diversity and originality of African kids. Nwoko noted that this season would feature children from across the African continent, ensuring fresh, engaging, and authentic content.

– **Production**: The new season promises a diverse cast of children from across Africa, sharing their spontaneous and often hilarious insights on life. True to the show’s tradition, the young stars are not professional actors and their responses remain genuine and unpredictable.

– **Casting and Premiere**: Casting calls will be announced shortly, inviting children aged 4 to 11 from all over Africa to participate. The production team is working hard to set the groundwork for a captivating, entertaining, and inspiring season.

The U.S. version of “Kids Say the Darndest Things” is produced by CBS Studios in association with Anvil 1893 Entertainment and She Ready Productions. Paramount Global Content Distribution licenses the format rights.

Stay tuned for more information on auditions, premiere dates, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content as “Kids Say the Darndest Things Africa” returns to bring the unfiltered brilliance and humor of Africa’s children to the forefront.

Diezani Alison-Madueke documentary film ‘Is it Your Money?’ premieres this year

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A new documentary titled *Is it Your Money? The Story of Diezani Alison-Madueke* is set to premiere later this year, directed by Nigerian TV host Chude Jideonwo. The documentary explores the life and controversies surrounding Diezani Alison-Madueke, the former Minister of Petroleum Resources in Nigeria, who has faced numerous corruption allegations.

### Key Points About the Documentary:

– **Title**: *Is it Your Money? The Story of Diezani Alison-Madueke*
– **Director**: Chude Jideonwo
– **Premiere**: Later this year
– **Scale**: Jideonwo described it as the “biggest-budget docu-series from our dear country,” involving over 100 team members and filmed across three countries and eight cities. The project has exclusive access to investigators from the FBI, the MET Police, and the EFCC.

### Background on Diezani Alison-Madueke:

– **First Female Minister of Petroleum Resources**: Appointed by former President Goodluck Jonathan in April 2010.
– **Historic Roles**: She was also the first woman to head a delegation at the OPEC conference and served as the first female Minister of Transportation. Additionally, she was the first woman appointed to the Shell Petroleum Development Company Nigeria board and was elected the first female president of OPEC in November 2014.

### Allegations and Legal Issues:

– **Corruption Allegations**: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accused her of living a luxurious lifestyle funded by corrupt activities.
– **UK Investigations**: The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) charged her with multiple counts of corruption. Andy Kelly, head of the NCA’s International Corruption Unit, stated that Alison-Madueke allegedly abused her power to accept financial rewards for awarding multi-million-pound contracts. She has been accused of benefiting from significant sums of money, luxury vehicles, private jet flights, luxury holidays, and the use of multiple London properties.
– **Court Appearances**: In October 2023, she appeared before the Westminster Magistrates Court in the UK on bribery charges and was granted £70,000 bail.

### Production Team:

– **Co-Producers**: Judith Audu, Eromo Egbejule, Chude Jideonwo
– **Executive Producers**: Chude Jideonwo, Mfon Ekpo, ‘Yemi Adamolekun, Mojolaoluwa Aderemi-Makinde, Capital Film Productions

This documentary aims to shed light on the controversial tenure of Diezani Alison-Madueke, delving into the corruption allegations and their implications on Nigeria and beyond.

Young Jonn announces the North American ‘Jiggy Forever’ tour

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Nigerian Afropop star Young Jonn has announced his headline North American “Jiggy Forever” Tour. Since breaking into the Afrobeats scene as an artist, Young Jonn has become a fan favorite with numerous hit songs.

In support of his debut LP “Jiggy Forever,” Young Jonn is set to tour North America, thrilling fans with a collection of his hit singles. The tour is organized in partnership with Duke Concept, a renowned event promoter and production company that has previously managed North American tours for Nigerian superstars like Davido, Burna Boy, Asake, Tiwa Savage, and Olamide.

Young Jonn expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m excited to be headlining my first North American tour. I love how my music is reaching people in the States and I can’t wait to see everyone there getting jiggy.”

The 10-date tour kicks off on September 6, 2024, and will see Young Jonn performing in various cities across the U.S. and Canada, including New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles. The tour precedes Young Jonn’s debut performance at Duke Concept’s Tribeville music festival in Houston on July 5.

### Jiggy Forever Tour Dates:

– **September 6** – Le Studio TD – Montreal, QC
– **September 7** – The Strand – Providence, RI
– **September 8** – Warsaw – New York, NY
– **September 10** – TLA – Philadelphia, PA
– **September 12** – The Fillmore – Silver Spring, MD
– **September 13** – Promontory – Chicago, IL
– **September 14** – The Masquerade Hell – Atlanta, GA
– **September 15** – Deep Ellum Art Co. – Dallas, TX
– **September 21** – The New Parish – Oakland, CA
– **September 22** – Echoplex – Los Angeles, CA

Fans across North America are eagerly anticipating Young Jonn’s performances and the vibrant energy he brings to the stage.