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10 African countries that have banned cryptocurrency

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3 mn read

Several governments suspect the digital asset for several reasons.

Cryptocurrency transactions in some African countries have remained banned despite the possibility of introducing comprehensive regulatory frameworks to support its development.

According to Chainalysis, Africa is currently one of the fastest-growing crypto markets in the world, with Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa having the highest number of users in the region.

Several governments suspect the digital asset for several reasons, including its use for money laundering and illicit activities, tax evasion, as cryptocurrency transactions can be difficult to trace, and financial fraud.

In 2021, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) directed all banks to shut down all customer accounts involved in cryptocurrency transactions.

The financial regulator, however, lifted the ban in December 2023.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) increased the restrictions on May 6, 2024, by announcing the delisting of the naira from all peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms.

The Director-General of the Commission, Emomotimi Agama, further hinted that the government was drafting a new set of regulations to govern the crypto sector, following the International Monetary Fund (IMF) ‘s advice on regulating the industry.

Here are countries in Africa that have placed an outright ban on cryptocurrency transactions:

In 2018, the Tunisian central bank criminalised crypto use after issuing a statement warning against using any digital asset not authorised by the state.

Sierra Leone’s apex bank banned two crypto companies in 2019. The bank also denied issuing licenses to businesses or financial institutions to take deposits for crypto investing or trading.

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Congolese government has outright banned crypto. A 2018 study by Ecobank also revealed that the Congolese Government and the country’s Central Bank have yet to articulate a public stance regarding the use of cryptocurrency and its legality.

The Ghanaian government has also placed an outright ban on crypto transactions. While assessing the use of blockchain and how the technology fits into the nation’s payments system, the government, in 2022, reiterated its 2018 ban on the use of crypto in all financial transactions

The Algerian parliament, in 2018, passed the Financial Law, which placed an embargo on the purchase, sale, use, and possession of crypto.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Cryptocurrency transactions in some African countries [Nur Photo]" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Cryptocurrency transactions in some African countries [Nur Photo]” width=”790″ height=”395″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/ixYktkuTURBXy84ZWNmNWRmOS1jM2I1LTQ4MzUtYTlhYS1jZDc2NjEwZDgyZTAuanBlZ5KVAwAAzRM-zQmflQLNAxbNAYvCww” />

The country’s central bank, in 2018, issued a statement prohibiting the promotion and investments in cryptocurrency.

The bank described crypto as unregulated and unlicensed.

Morocco’s Ministry of Economy banned all forms of crypto transactions in 2017 for violating exchange regulations. The country’s central bank, however, announced in 2023 that a new crypto trading regulation was being drafted.

Although Tanzania does not have a written regulatory framework for crypto transactions, its central bank issued a statement cautioning the public against trading and using virtual currencies. The bank noted that the only accepted legal tender is the Tanzanian Shilling.

At the moment, the only central bank for the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC)—the Bank of Central African States (BEAC), to which Cameroon is affiliated—has not enacted any regulation regarding cryptocurrency trading.

The government is currently reviewing new regulatory mechanisms for the industry.

By religious decree, cryptocurrency trading is prohibited under the Islamic Law. The country’s primary Islamic legislator, Dar al-Iftai, issued a religious decree classifying Bitcoin transactions as haram in 2018.

The Central Bank of Egypt followed up in 2019 with a statement saying it would develop a law banning the creation, trading, or promotion of cryptocurrency without a license.

I lost sight of what I love about BMX – Worthington

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4 mn read

Three years ago, British BMX freestyle rider Charlotte Worthington sat on her bike, with her arm around her coach and a smile on her face, as she awaited the score from her final run at the Tokyo Olympics.

She had just made history by becoming the first woman to pull off a 360 backflip in competition and was about to make even more – as her score of 97.50 led to her being crowned the first female BMX freestyle Olympic champion.

What followed that moment of ecstasy was a difficult period during which the 27-year-old struggled to balance her love of the sport with the desire to compete.

Worthington had arrived in Japan to compete in the event, newly introduced for the 2020 Games, as a “complete underdog” and left having achieved the holy grail of women’s freestyle BMX – catapulting her into the limelight.

“There’s so much more about BMX that I love and I lost sight of that in the year after the Games,” she told BBC Sport.

“I lost a big balance of enjoying it and pushing myself and taking risks to [thinking] ‘why am I doing this any more? Is it worth it? What’s actually enjoyable about it?'”

Charlotte Worthington doing 360 backflipIMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES
Image caption,

Worthington’s 360 backflip was the highlight of her gold-medal winning routine

Worthington is not the first athlete to open up about the highs and lows of being an Olympic champion.

Three-time Olympic swimming gold medalist Adam Peaty has previously admitted to periods of depression and alcohol problems.

Worthington said she discussed her own issues with Peaty and other Team GB team-mates after the Tokyo Games.

“He was also going through a bit of a rough stage and we spoke and I asked him ‘how was your game after your first medal?’ and he said ‘down the toilet’,” she said.

“I’m very grateful for speaking to the other athletes because if I hadn’t been able to speak to them I wouldn’t have felt that it’s a lot more normal.

“That’s why I don’t mind talking about it now because I’m sure it will help other people.”

Charlotte Worthington finds out winning score at Tokyo 2020 OlympicsIMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES
Image caption,

Charlotte Worthington celebrates after finding out her winning score at the 2021 Games

‘It wasn’t sustainable’

Worthington had been riding for just five years prior to the Olympics, having previously worked as a chef, and the sudden spotlight brought pressures and challenges.

“I was a scooter kid from Manchester that worked in a kitchen and suddenly I’m on the Olympic stage and I’ve won a gold medal,” she said.

“It was super-motivating at the time to think what more could be possible.

“But I’d start to treat every contest like the Olympics and then you realise just how much prep actually went into that and that’s actually not sustainable.”

In the aftermath of her historic achievement, Worthington received an MBE and people took an increased interest in her career.

Away from the plaudits and recognition, she was battling an internal dilemma.

“It became all about the competition and when I started it wasn’t just for the competition. I started because it was something fun you did after school with your mates,” she said.

“I had a lot of expectation that I put on myself. I suddenly had sponsors and I was just learning how to deal with all that.”

Worthington decided to take a break from competition, go back to basics and rediscover what she loved about the sport.

She withdrew from last year’s World Cup event in Montpellier, France – a competition attended by many hoping to qualify for the 2024 Paris Games.

“I thought ‘I’ll just hone in and focus on the things that actually light me up about the sport and really focus on them for a while’,” she said.

“I had no agenda, no training, just riding a BMX and that’s what helped me rebuild.”

The 2019 European champion had planned to feature at the 2023 European Games but instead pulled out to focus on Olympic qualifying events, including the World Championships in Glasgow in August, where she finished seventh in the 11-strong field.

‘I’m still learning the balance’

Worthington is now preparing for the Olympic Qualifier Series where 48 riders – 24 women and 24 men – will compete for Olympic quota spots on 17-19 May in Shanghai and 20-23 June in Budapest.

There is a clear aim for Worthington – to be in Paris this summer. But, more importantly, she is loving the sport again.

“I feel in a much better place. Still learning, focusing mainly on the enjoyment and I still train alongside that, but I don’t want to push myself over the edge to where it’s not enjoyable any more,” she said.

“I don’t know whether I’ll keep up with my own standards because I set them pretty high.

“I’m still learning how to have that balance and compete, be competitive and push but not forget where I came from and why I really do it. The result is just a by-product.”

The BMX racing world championships also take place on 17 and 18 May with Olympic champion Bethany Shriever part of an 11-strong British team in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

Action from those championships is available to watch on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app on 18 May from 19:00 to 22:30 BST.

If you have been affected by any of the issues in this story, BBC Action Line has links to organisations that can offer help and advice.

2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria

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2 mn read

Founded with a mission to uplift and support women, men, youths, and farmers across the country, the foundation has made significant strides in enhancing livelihoods and fostering community resilience. During a recent press conference, the Board Members of the BATN Foundation proudly announced the forthcoming celebration of its two-decade anniversary, set to take place on Wednesday, May 15, 2024.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”527″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/WtSktkpTURBXy9jZmFiZjg3ZjViYTNmMzFjN2I2Zjc5NjdjNjkzYmZkMi5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAg_Cww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”527″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/pxkktkpTURBXy9jMjQ2NGFmNmQwYmIzZTFlMzI2MDg4NWE4ZGM0ZWVmZS5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAg_Cww” />

Over the years, the foundation’s impact has been profound, touching the lives of countless individuals and communities nationwide. Among the notable achievements highlighted by the Board Members are the empowerment of over 300,000 smallholder farmers, who have benefited from training, resources, and support to improve their agricultural practices and increase productivity. Additionally, the BATN Foundation has implemented over 300 community projects spanning across all 36 states in Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. These projects have addressed various needs and challenges within communities, ranging from infrastructure development to healthcare and education initiatives.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”527″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/M_1ktkpTURBXy82YmExZTRlZTE4MmY1NzNiNDZiYmFiNzc4ZTY0M2EwZi5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAg_Cww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”527″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/IVBktkpTURBXy82YWY3ZTcwMjg5NzFlYTk3Zjc5MzYyNWZjNjM2OTY4OC5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAg_Cww” />

Environmental sustainability has also been a key focus area for the foundation, with the planting of over half a million trees to mitigate deforestation and promote ecosystem conservation. This commitment to environmental stewardship reflects the BATN Foundation’s holistic approach to sustainable development, recognising the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental factors in building resilient communities.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”1086″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/ENcktkpTURBXy9mYjdjZGYwMThlYTNlYmQ0ZWUwZWY2OTc2MjU5ODQ1ZC5qcGeRlQLNAxbNBD7Cww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”533″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/5J-ktkpTURBXy9kOTMxNTViZGQ2YzZlM2MwZTU3ZGFkOGY5NjcyZWQ0My5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAhXCww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria" src="data:;base64,” alt=”2 Decades of BATN Foundation: Empowering rural Nigeria” width=”790″ height=”540″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/MoIktkpTURBXy85ZmNlMTczM2E5NzE1YTYzNTVmMzVlZDgwMDEyZDRkZS5qcGeRlQLNAxbNAhzCww” />

As the BATN Foundation prepares to commemorate its twenty-year journey of service and impact, it stands as a beacon of hope and progress for rural communities across Nigeria. Through its unwavering dedication to empowerment, collaboration, and innovation, the foundation continues to drive positive change and create lasting opportunities for generations to come.

Man City move close to history – thanks to an unlikely hero

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2 mn read

Manchester City saw an unlikely hero emerge from their galaxy of superstars to make a potentially defining contribution in their pursuit of an unprecedented fourth successive Premier League title.

Pep Guardiola rightly acted with caution when he removed keeper Ederson, with City leading 1-0, after he suffered a nasty blow to the head in a heavy collision at the foot of his post with Tottenham defender Cristian Romero.

Ederson, who had a problem with his eye, did not look happy with the decision – taken upon advice from the club doctor – but his manager was perfectly justified, not just acting in the best interests of the Brazilian keeper but also because he has complete trust in his replacement Stefan Ortega.

And in a 21-minute cameo of the highest quality, Ortega – who has performed with distinction every time he has deputised for Ederson this season – may well have rubber-stamped City’s sixth title in seven seasons.

When the final whistle sounded and the club stood one win away from being champions again, Guardiola headed straight for Ortega and greeted the German with a kiss on the cheek for his crucial contribution. It was richly deserved.

Guardiola did not hold back with the praise as he said: “Ortega is a world-class goalkeeper. An exceptional, exceptional goalkeeper. Ederson did not have concussion, he had a problem with his eye. He could not see properly so the doctor said I should change.”

Spurs made a complete mockery of the cynics who suggested they may ease off because any sort of positive result could potentially give rivals Arsenal their first Premier League title in 20 years.

Ange Postecoglou’s fifth-placed side were fully committed in chasing a goal of their own as they went after a place in the Champions League and it was not for any lack of effort as they came so close to upsetting City’s traditional title charge. They were left disappointed in the end as defeat confirmed Aston Villa’s fourth-placed finish and they will now join European football’s top table.

Ortega’s impact was instant, denying Spurs substitute Dejan Kulusevski with a good save and then the same player shortly afterwards as City almost paid the price for a performance that was not one of their best.

The biggest moment came in the closing minutes, with City clinging on to a one-goal lead, when Son Heung-min collected the ball and raced clear with only Ortega to beat. It was the sort of opportunity the South Korean has taken with aplomb so many times in his Spurs career.

Tech Revolution: How Africa’s insurance landscape is set to transform

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2 mn read

Fueled by the combined forces of skyrocketing internet and mobile penetration rates, the advent of digital distribution channels, plummeting technology costs, and the integration of cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI), insurance penetration across the continent’s developing economies is on the brink of a seismic shift.

Africa’s tech surge knows no bounds, with internet and mobile connectivity reaching unprecedented levels. Surpassing the billion-mark milestone in mobile subscriptions, the continent stands as a beacon of the global mobile revolution. This digital connectivity isn’t merely about communication; it’s a gateway to financial inclusion, with insurance poised to take center stage.

Gone are the days when insurance remained shackled by traditional distribution models. Enter the era of digital distribution, where mobile applications and online platforms serve as the conduits for insurers to tap into previously unreachable markets. This digital frontier promises tailored insurance solutions, democratizing access and empowering the masses with financial security.

The once prohibitive cost of technology is now within grasp, heralding a new era of affordability for businesses in Africa’s emerging markets. Cloud computing emerges as a game-changer, offering insurers scalable solutions for data storage and processing. This tech revolution isn’t just about flashy gadgets; it’s about laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and innovation.

Artificial intelligence isn’t a distant dream but a present-day reality reshaping the insurance landscape. From risk assessment to claims processing, AI-powered algorithms are streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. Chatbots and virtual assistants add a personalised touch to customer interactions, revolutionising the insurance experience.

The convergence of these technological marvels isn’t just about flashy gadgets; it’s about empowering millions with financial security. By harnessing digital distribution channels and AI-driven insights, insurers are breaking down barriers and reaching the underserved. Affordable insurance products, accessible via mobile devices, are rewriting the narrative of financial inclusion across Africa.

Amidst the burgeoning tech revolution in insurance, Latin America stands as a testament to the transformative power of innovation. Take, for instance, the case of Comparaencasa, a pioneering platform reshaping the insurance landscape across the region. Serving as a digital intermediary between consumers and insurers.

Compareemcasa has democratised access to insurance products, empowering users to compare policies, prices, and coverage options with ease. By leveraging technology to simplify the often-complex process of insurance shopping, Comparaencasa has not only fostered greater transparency but has also catalysed competition within the industry, driving down costs and expanding choices for consumers. This success story serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how digital disruption can revolutionise insurance penetration and foster financial inclusion in Latin America and beyond.

Yet, amidst the promise lies a landscape dotted with challenges. Regulatory hurdles, infrastructural gaps, and low financial literacy pose formidable obstacles. However, these challenges aren’t insurmountable. They’re opportunities for collaboration and innovation, beckoning stakeholders to join forces in unlocking Africa’s untapped insurance potential.

Africa’s insurance sector stands at a crossroads, poised for transformation. The journey ahead is fraught with challenges, yet ripe with opportunities. With concerted efforts and collaborative initiatives, the continent is on the cusp of a revolution that promises to redefine insurance penetration and pave the way for inclusive growth and prosperity. As Africa embraces the tech revolution, the future of insurance shines brighter than ever before.

Inside Usyk’s heavyweight transformation & biggest weakness

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4 mn read

Oleksandr Usyk’s place as a future hall of fame inductee cannot be disputed.

The 37-year-old Ukrainian is a fighter who will be heralded as a boxing great in years to come.

On Saturday, Usyk will look to further secure his legacy by becoming the first ever four-belt heavyweight champion when he takes on Briton Tyson Fury in Saudi Arabia.

“Oleksandr is a superstar,” former opponent Tony Bellew tells BBC Sport.

Usyk reigned supreme as an amateur, winning European, world and Olympic gold.

In the paid ranks, Usyk won his first cruiserweight world title in just his 10th professional bout, before travelling to fellow champions’ backyards and cleaning up the division within five fights.

“If he beats Tyson, he can go down as one of the greatest fighters ever,” says Bellew.

BBC Sport looks Usyk’s transition from the world’s best cruiserweight to a unified heavyweight champion who dethroned Anthony Joshua in 2022, before winning the rematch just months after defending his country against the Russian invasion.

How Usyk grew into the weight

Tale of the tape which shows Fury's height at 6ft 9in, reach at 85in and previous weight at 19st 8lb. For Usyk, his height is 6ft 3in, reach 78in and weight 15st 10lbIMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES
Image caption,

Briton Fury has won 34 fights with one draw, while Usyk has won all 21 pro fights

After defending his undisputed cruiserweight crown against Bellew in November 2018, Usyk – with nothing left to achieve in the division – jumped to heavyweight.

Quite remarkably, the 6ft 3in Usyk had previously fought as a middleweight in the amateurs.

For all his natural talent and boxing prowess though, there were question marks over whether he had the size to compete with boxing’s big boys. Only Evander Holyfield and Briton David Haye had won world titles in both divisions.

But with a strong focus on strength and conditioning, swimming and full-body workouts, Usyk steadily built into the weight.

He took 10 months out and added just over a stone – weighing 15st 3lb – for his heavyweight debut against Chazz Witherspoon.

Despite still giving up nearly two stone, Usyk eased to a stoppage win.

He gained two more pounds for a harder-than-expected points win over British gatekeeper Derek Chisora in October 2020.

“He wanted to stand there with ‘Del Boy’ and see how the power was and whether he could take the punch – which he did,” Bellew says.

Witherspoon and Chisora were far from elite-level contenders but Usyk felt ready for a huge step up in opponent against champion Joshua.

Dispelling the little guy theory against AJ

Usyk – who missed the birth of his child while training for Fury earlier this year – is dedicated to his craft.

Swimming forms a key part of his training. According to his manager, Egis Klimas, Usyk swam 10km nonstop as preparation and was able to hold his breath for four minutes and 40 seconds.

Juggling and catching coins are Usyk’s staple party tricks, but they too signify the importance he places on shaping his cat-like reflexes.

The training and focus paid dividends against Joshua – Usyk’s resilience and fitness levels were on full show when he outclassed the Briton for most of the 24 rounds they shared.

Usyk came in at 15st 11lb for both fights – which he seemingly feels is his optimal weight having tipped the scales around the same mark against Daniel Dubois in August.

Joshua was 20lb heavier and then 23lb in the rematch.

“I kept saying that Joshua was just too big, but the size was matched by just how good Usyk is,” Bellew says.

Still there are those who still question Usyk’s heavyweight credentials.

Bellew describes Usyk as a “novice heavyweight in some ways” having never been pushed to his “absolute limit”.

For Bellew, however, Usyk’s superiority and ability to find an extra gear is key.

“Usyk ticked all the boxes in the second AJ fight,” Bellew says. “Going into round nine or 10, he is behind or it’s level. Then going into the championship rounds, Usyk just finds another level.”

Is Usyk vulnerable to the body?

Oleksandr Usyk wincing on the canvas after being hit by Daniel DuboisIMAGE SOURCE,GETTY IMAGES
Image caption,

Usyk – who has never been knocked down as a pro – was floored by Daniel Dubois but it was ruled a low blow

When negotiations for the Fury fight in April 2023 stalled, Usyk turned his attention to WBA mandatory challenger Dubois.

Dubois landed a body shot in the fifth round, sending Usyk to the canvas. The punch was declared a low blow.

“In my humble opinion, my guy delivered and landed the perfect blow on the beltline and he should be the one facing Tyson Fury,” Dubois’ trainer Don Charles tells BBC Sport.

Regardless of the legalities of the punch, Charles says it exposed an Usyk vulnerability.

“It was well documented prior to Daniel facing him that Usyk doesn’t like being hit to the body,” Charles says.

“He has an old injury here. There were moments in the second AJ fight where he turned around citing a low blow but it wasn’t.”

Usyk was dropped by body shots twice in the amateurs. On both occasions, Usyk rose to his feet and outpointed his opponent.

Former world champion Hannah Rankin believes Fury might be “too big” for Usyk.

“If he can target the body, it could be Usyk’s undoing,” she says.

Bellew, however, dismisses this supposed weakness as a “myth.”

“I’ve had my ribs broken on numerous occasions. It hurts and it’s not nice, but he’s not weaker than anyone else in the body,” Bellew says.

“Maybe he doesn’t carry as much protection around the midriff than someone like Tyson Fury, but he takes a body shot like everyone else.”

Is Infinix NOTE 40 the mid-range champion?

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4 mn read

Notable among them are the Infinix Note 40, Redmi Note 13, and Realme 11. Each brand brings its unique features to the table, striving to claim the title of mid-range champion by offering a balance of performance, design, and practicality. In this comparison, we will take a closer look at these devices and determine which one reigns supreme in a market where quality and functionality are highly valued.

Both Redmi Note 13 and Realme 11 maintain a standard with 5000mAh batteries and 33W fast charging. While they provide decent charging speeds, they lack the advanced technology and convenience offered by Infinix’s innovative wireless charging capabilities. The Infinix Note 40 isn’t just equipped with a standard 5000mAh battery; it transforms the charging experience with 45W wired fast charging, which powers up the battery to 50% in just 19 minutes. Furthermore, Infinix elevates the charging game with a 20W wireless MagCharge system, supported by innovative magnetic accessories like the MagCase, MagPad, and MagPower, allowing for effortless charging.

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="Is Infinix NOTE 40 the mid-range champion?" src="data:;base64,” alt=”Is Infinix NOTE 40 the mid-range champion?” width=”512″ height=”145″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/4MqktkpTURBXy9jNDMyYjczN2NmNzU0YzEwYWE5NzQ0ZmExNDk5ODE2Mi5wbmeRlQLNAgDMkcLD” />

Both the Redmi Note 13 and Realme 11 do not offer wireless charging, placing them a step behind Infinx Note 40 in technological innovation. The wireless charging of the NOTE 40 isn’t just about power; it’s about convenience and ease, allowing users to charge their devices effortlessly. These features are particularly advantageous in Nigeria, where power fluctuations are common, making fast and reliable charging essential.

At a time when other phone brands like Apple and Samsung are progressively eliminating chargers from their packaging, Infinix’s approach undoubtedly wins consumers’ favour.

With its 6.78-inch FHD+ OLED display, the Infinix Note 40 offers a visually stunning experience, enhanced by a high refresh rate that guarantees smooth scrolling and superior responsiveness. The slim bezels and sophisticated design of the Infinix Note 40 surpasses Redmi Note 13’s 6.67-inch display and the even smaller 6.43-inch screen of the Realme 11, as they fail to maximise the visual impact in the way Infinix Note 40 does.

The Infinix Note 40’s camera setup is another area where it truly outshines the pack. While the Infinix Note 40 and Redmi Note 13 may share a similar 108MP main camera specification, the Infinix takes a definitive lead with its superior front camera—a 32MP sensor that captures wider, clearer, and more detailed selfies compared to the Redmi’s 16MP and Realme’s 8MP front cameras. This difference is not just in numbers; the quality of selfies and front-facing videos significantly enhances user experience, making the Infinix Note 40 the preferred choice for vloggers and selfie lovers. Additionally, the higher aperture and sensor size on the Infinix ensures better low-light performance and depth in photos, which the Redmi and Realme struggle to match.

The Realme 11, with its 64MP main camera, appears almost antiquated in comparison, lacking both the resolution and advanced features that Infinix users enjoy. It’s clear that when it comes to camera capabilities, Infinix isn’t just playing in the same league; it’s defining it.

While the Redmi Note 13 and Realme 11 offer stable experiences with Android 13, they miss out on the significant advancements that Android 14 brings to the Infinix Note 40. The Infinix Note 40 stands out with the latest Android 14 operating system, complemented by the customised XOS 14 interface.

For Nigerian users, the advancements in Android 14 could mean more efficient data management, which is crucial due to the varying internet speeds and costs of data. Additionally, Android 14’s improved power efficiency features, help users to maximize their device’s battery life.

The Infinix NOTE 40, with its newer OS, may offer a slightly longer lifespan in terms of receiving future Android updates. This aspect is crucial for Nigerian users who prefer devices that remain current with the latest software for more extended periods.

In summary, while the Redmi Note 13 Pro has gained attention in the mid-range market, the Infinix NOTE 40 clearly leads the pack. It prioritises essential features that resonate deeply with users—like rapid 45W wired and 20W wireless magnetic charging, alongside a premium design that sets it apart. The Infinix NOTE 40 is designed for efficiency and convenience, surpassing its competitors who still cling to more traditional, slower charging methods. It does not burden users with superfluous features but instead presents a streamlined, premium design that is both functional and stylish, clearly setting it apart from the crowd. With its well-rounded offering, it takes the crown as a midrange killer without any real weaknesses.

Feature Infinix Note 40 Redmi Note 13 Realme 11
Display 6.78″ FHD OLED, 2.5D, 120Hz 6.67″ FHD OLED, Straight Screen 6.43″ FHD OLED, Straight Screen
Processor Helio G99 Snapdragon 4GEN1 D6020
Charging 45W Wired, 15W Wireless, 5W Wireless Reverse 33W Wired 33W Wired
RAM 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB
ROM 256 GB, 128 GB 256 GB, 128 GB 256 GB, 128 GB
Main Camera 108MP + 2 + Q 108MP 64MP
Front Camera 32MP 16MP 8MP
Battery 5000mAh 5000mAh 5000mAh
Fingerprint In-Display Screen In-Display Screen In-Display Screen
Other Features BT 5.3, Type C (Support PD Agreement), Beyblade, Dual speaker, 10W NFC, 10W OTG, IP53, Dual mic + AI Noise Reduction, 15W Magnetic Tempered Glass film Leather Appearance Leather Appearance

 

4 Nigerian-owned banks make list of Africa’s best financial institutions

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2 mn read

 

Four Nigerian-owned banks have been included in the list of World’s Best Banks for the African region in 2024.

According to the report published by Global Finance, the strength and resilience demonstrated by the financial institutions based in Africa have been linked to the shrewdness and prowess exhibited by the banks’ top leadership and management.

This comes amid the huge challenges faced by financial institutions in the region owing to the economic crisis currently rocking the continent.

Among the 32 banks sampled across 36 African countries, four Nigerian-owned banks made the prestigious list, three of them as the top banks in other countries.

Zenith Bank Plc has over 10,000 staff globally spread across 500 branches and business offices in Nigeria. The bank also has its other African subsidiaries in Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and South Africa.

From the report, the bank came tops in Nigeria.

Access Bank, owned by Access Bank Group, is a multinational commercial bank with subsidiaries in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Gambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Zambia, and the United Kingdom.

The bank won the best bank in Ghana and has recently indicated an interest in Kenya, where it is in the process of buying over the National Bank of Kenya (NBK) at an estimated $100 million price tag.

The bank enjoys patronage from over 21 million customers spread across 1,000 branches in 20 African countries. UBA was named as the best bank in Burkina Faso and Sierra Leone.

The bank however, is facing some threat in Burkina Faso as the country has indicated interest in aligning with Mali and Niger to form a separate alliance aimed at exiting the ECOWAS bloc, and the West African Economic and Monetary Union.

Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) founded in 1990 is a global financial institution. It transitioned into a holding company known as GTCO Plc following the corporate reorganisation of GTB in 2021. It currently has subsidiaries in Cote D’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Sierra Leone, and the United Kingdom.

GTB won the best bank prize in Gambia.

TECNO’s highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition

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From the glitz and glamour of the red carpet to the captivating allure of the TECNO booth, attendees were immersed in a world where technology and star power collided.

Against the backdrop of flashing lights and buzzing cameras, familiar faces graced the TECNO booth, adding a layer of sparkle to an already dazzling affair. Beyond the surface, this captures snapshots of the movie industry at its pinnacle, where innovation and creativity intertwine to celebrate the essence of African cinema.

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<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="TECNO's highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition" src="data:;base64,” alt=”TECNO’s highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition” width=”341″ height=”512″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/j68ktkpTURBXy8xMDY0NmRkYWE5NDAwOWQ5MzVlYjI1M2ZiYWEwZGMzZC5qcGeRlQLNAVXNAgDCww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="TECNO's highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition" src="data:;base64,” alt=”TECNO’s highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition” width=”341″ height=”512″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/fn0ktkpTURBXy85Zjg0MTJmZWY3ZDU5ZDEyNmZjMmFjOTRmNzI1Y2E0Zi5qcGeRlQLNAVXNAgDCww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="TECNO's highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition" src="data:;base64,” alt=”TECNO’s highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition” width=”341″ height=”512″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/R4TktkpTURBXy8xZDY3Nzk0ZjI0NjQ0N2Q5OWM0OGRhZDJiNjAwNjg2Yi5qcGeRlQLNAVXNAgDCww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="TECNO's highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition" src="data:;base64,” alt=”TECNO’s highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition” width=”341″ height=”512″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/YJJktkpTURBXy82MzgxMDc1ZGEyNzM1ZmFjMTNiMTM4MThmMDgzYzYwNy5qcGeRlQLNAVXNAgDCww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="TECNO's highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition" src="data:;base64,” alt=”TECNO’s highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition” width=”341″ height=”512″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/vUDktkpTURBXy83NTMzMDAwMTVmNzEyODVmYTM4N2JhZDNjZmNiYzc5Zi5qcGeRlQLNAVXNAgDCww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="TECNO's highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition" src="data:;base64,” alt=”TECNO’s highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition” width=”341″ height=”512″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/SlEktkpTURBXy9hMTNhMDYxYmFkNjdlMDI2Y2JiN2Y1ZWVhNmUzYjIxYi5qcGeRlQLNAVXNAgDCww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="TECNO's highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition" src="data:;base64,” alt=”TECNO’s highlights from the AMVCA 10th edition” width=”356″ height=”512″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/MN1ktkpTURBXy8wZjM0MjRkZGMwNzY0N2NkNmQ2OTViYjU3NjUxMzFkYy5qcGeRlQLNAWTNAgDCww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="TECNO's Highlights from the AMVCA 10th Edition" src="data:;base64,” alt=”TECNO’s Highlights from the AMVCA 10th Edition” width=”405″ height=”563″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/manktkpTURBXy81YTBhOWQyMjc4NTQzY2EwNDdlNzJkNjJmMmVlYTkwNy5wbmeRlQLNAZXNAjPCww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="TECNO's Highlights from the AMVCA 10th Edition" src="data:;base64,” alt=”TECNO’s Highlights from the AMVCA 10th Edition” width=”397″ height=”572″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/XxMktkpTURBXy85NGJkNmQyODJkNjcxNDM1YTg3NWNlYWEzNmExM2NkMC5wbmeRlQLNAY3NAjzCww” />

<img class="image lazyloaded imgWithMetaData" title="TECNO's Highlights from the AMVCA 10th Edition" src="data:;base64,” alt=”TECNO’s Highlights from the AMVCA 10th Edition” width=”400″ height=”576″ data-original=”https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/hexktkpTURBXy8yOWM0MGNiYjFhZTJjODIwNWNkNGUwY2M1OTgxNGIzNi5wbmeRlQLNAZDNAkDCww” />

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Dangote ranks as 6th richest manufacturing billionaire in the world

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Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has ranked 6th on the list of the richest manufacturing billionaires in the world.

  • Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has ranked 6th on the list of the richest manufacturing billionaires in the world.
  • With a net worth of $14.3 billion, Dangote is the founder of Dangote Cement, the largest cement producer in sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Dangote describes manufacturing as one of the potent ways of lifting people out of poverty through the creation of gainful employment.

With a net worth of $14.3 billion, Dangote is the founder of Dangote Cement, the largest cement producer in sub-Saharan Africa, in which he holds an 85 per cent stake, according to Insidermonkey.com. He also founded Dangote Fertilizer and Refinery, the world’s largest single-train refinery.

In a similar report by CEOWorld magazine last year, Dangote held the 9th position on the list of the top 10 wealthiest manufacturing billionaires globally.

With a net worth of $10.5 billion at that time, he was the only African on the list, which was dominated by billionaires from Asia and Europe.

Africa’s richest man still stands as the only African among the top 25 billionaires worldwide.

The richest man in the manufacturing industry is Reinhold Wuerth, boasting a net worth of $35.3 billion. The second richest man in the manufacturing sector is He Xiangjian, with a net worth of $26.1 billion. Michael Hartono holds the third position, with a net worth of $23.1 billion.

In an interview, Dangote describes manufacturing as one of the potent ways of lifting people out of poverty through the creation of gainful employment.

“It is evident that manufacturing is pivotal to industrialisation. No country in the world has ever industrialised or attained ‘developed nation status’ without having a thriving manufacturing sector,” Dangote said.

According to the billionaire, countries smaller than Nigeria, such as Singapore and South Korea, had an average per capita GDP of 65,233 dollars and 31,846 dollars, respectively, due to their level of industrialisation

Quick and easy ways to download TikTok videos to your gallery with Ssstiktok

3 mn read

Whether you’re a seasoned creator or an avid viewer, there might be times when you want to save videos to your phone’s gallery. While TikTok offers an in-app download option, there are often restrictions, such as not being able to download videos from private accounts or videos with certain music. To overcome these limitations and enjoy seamless TikTok video downloads, Ssstiktok emerges as the perfect solution.

Ssstiktok is a free online tool that allows you to download TikTok videos without a watermark. It’s incredibly easy to use, requiring no software installation or complex steps. With Ssstiktok, you can download videos from both public and private TikTok accounts, regardless of the music used.

According to Rico Mora, CEO of Ssstik.cx, the debut marks a quantum leap in digital content accessibility, with a keen focus on engaging users from Indonesia, India, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Brazil. As of April 10, 2024, individuals from these regions and beyond are warmly welcomed to explore https://ssstik.cx and uncover its seamless TikTok video downloading features.

One of the standout features of Ssstiktok is its intuitive and user-friendly interface. The website is designed with simplicity in mind, ensuring that even those with minimal technical knowledge can navigate it effortlessly.

Unlike many other video download tools, Ssstiktok does not require you to install any software or extensions on your device. It’s a web-based service, which means you can access it directly from your browser without any additional downloads or installations.

Ssstiktok’s ability to download videos from private TikTok accounts is a game-changer for those who want to save videos from their friends, family, or exclusive content creators. This feature sets Ssstiktok apart from TikTok’s native download option, which only supports public accounts.

Follow these simple steps to effortlessly download TikTok videos using Ssstiktok:

Open the TikTok app and navigate to the video you want to download. Tap the Share button and then select Copy Link.

Visit the SssTiktok website at https://ssstik.cx/

Back on the Ssstiktok website, paste the copied TikTok video link into the designated text box.

Click on the Download button. Ssstiktok will analyze the link and provide you with two download options: Download Server 1 and Download Server 2. Select either of these options to initiate the download process.

Once the download is complete, the video will be automatically saved to your device’s gallery. On iPhones, the video will be saved to the Camera Roll. On Android devices, the video can usually be found in the Downloads folder.

Ssstiktok’s downloading process is remarkably straightforward, requiring just a few clicks. This simplicity ensures that users of all skill levels can effortlessly save their favorite TikTok videos to their devices.

One of the most significant advantages of using Ssstiktok is that it enables you to download videos without any watermarks. This means you can enjoy the videos in their original, unobstructed form, without any distracting logos or overlays.

Ssstiktok is designed to be compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers running various operating systems. Regardless of your device or platform, you can rely on Ssstiktok to deliver a seamless video downloading experience.

Ssstiktok enables you to download videos without any watermarks, ensuring a clean and unobstructed viewing experience.

Unlike TikTok’s native download feature, Ssstiktok allows you to download videos from both public and private accounts.

There are no restrictions on the number of videos you can download using Ssstiktok. You can download as many videos as you want, whenever you want.

Ssstiktok is free to use and doesn’t require you to create an account or log in. Simply visit the website and start downloading videos.

Ssstiktok allows you to download TikTok videos in high definition (HD) quality, providing a better viewing experience.

Ssstiktok utilizes multiple download servers to ensure fast and seamless downloads.

Ssstiktok is compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers running various operating systems.

Ssstiktok is the go-to tool for quick and easy TikTok video downloads. With its user-friendly interface, support for private accounts, watermark-free downloads, and unlimited usage, Ssstiktok empowers you to save your favorite TikTok videos to your gallery without any hassle. Whether you’re a creator looking to share your content beyond TikTok or a viewer who wants to preserve special videos, Ssstiktok has got you covered. Download TikTok videos effortlessly and enjoy them offline with Ssstiktok.

Olivia Munn says she had a hysterectomy amid her cancer journey: ‘It was the best decision for me’

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Actress Olivia Munn continues to share her journey since being diagnosed with breast cancer last year.

In a new interview with Vogue, published Sunday, the “Newsroom” actress revealed that she recently had a hysterectomy.

“I took out my uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries,” she said.

Munn said that the procedure, which took place last month, was an alternative to taking a cancer treatment medication that was causing her to experience “next-level, debilitating exhaustion.” She said it was “a big decision to make, but it was the best decision for me because I needed to be present for my family.”

The hysterectomy would improve her quality of life, but it also meant that she’d no longer be able to carry any future children. Munn and comedian John Mulaney welcomed their son, Malcom, in 2021.

“John and I talked about it a lot and we don’t feel like we’re done growing our family,” she said.

Munn, who had previously frozen her eggs twice in the past, said she underwent another round of egg retrieval before moving ahead with the hysterectomy, in hopes of making an embryo to use for surrogacy. When her doctor later informed the couple that they had two healthy embryos, she and Mulaney “just started crying.”

“It was just so exciting because not only did we get it in one retrieval, but it also meant that I didn’t have to keep putting myself at risk,” she said.

Munn first revealed that she was diagnosed with a form of breast cancer known as Luminal B cancer in March. The cancer was found in both of her breasts, and Munn’s treatment included a double mastectomy.

“This journey has made me realize how grateful I am to have options for not only fighting cancer,” she said, “but also having more children if we want.”

Toby Keith’s daughter accepts his posthumous honorary degree

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The late country music artist Toby Keith was honored over the weekend during commencement at the University of Oklahoma.

Keith, who died of stomach cancer at the age of 62 in February, had learned prior to his passing that he would be receiving an honorary doctorate, which was accepted by his daughter, Krystal Keith, according a post on his Instagram account.

“Toby learned he would be receiving an honorary degree from @uofoklahoma last fall, and yesterday, @krystalkeith accepted it on his behalf at the commencement ceremony,” a caption on photos showing Keith’s adult daughter at the graduation ceremony reads. “Congratulations to all of the OU graduates!”

It was announced in April that the university would be honoring the “singer, songwriter, entertainer and successful businessman whose illustrious music career included more than 10 billion streams and 44 million albums sold and whose generosity enhanced the university and state of Oklahoma for decades.”

Keith went public with his stomach cancer diagnosis in 2022, which he had been dealing with since October 2021.

In addition to his music career, Keith was also a well known philanthropist who served as president of the Toby Keith Foundation.

He and his wife of almost 40 years, Tricia Lucas, shared three children her daughters, Shelley and Krystal, and son, Stelen.

Reality tv star Saskay sparks dating rumors with new boo after Chef Derin saga

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In a recent development, BBN Saskay has sparked new dating rumors with a new man.

Taking to the Xplatform, she shared a picture of herself and a new guy cooped up together. In the video, her arms are linked to this guy as she rests her head on his shoulders. This is also coming a few months after her relationship with Chef Derin became public.

Screenshot

Recall that back in February 14th, following Valentine’s Day, a picture had emerged of Saskay and Chef Derin enjoying a picnic together, hinting at the fact that they were in a relationship.

They had also held hands as they attended an event together. However, barely a month after they became public, Chef Derin took to his Xplatform to reveal that all the ”baddies” close to him were not talking to him again.

He cried out over the fact that since he got into a relationship, nobody was talking to him. However, he went on to say that he is taken.

Netizens questioned him over his statement as they expressed that there was no need for him to make such a statement, especially because he was already in a relationship.

Also recall that a screenshot had come out, an alleged screenshot had come out, which saw Chef Darin telling a friend of his that his sex life with Saskay is terrible.

However, these screenshotted rumours were never debunked, neither were they addressed. But a day later, Saskay shared a loved up video of her and her man amid all the cheating, rumours and allegations levelled against him.

Chris Pine gets candid about past struggle with acne: ‘I know how depressing it can be’

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Chris Pine had to have a thick skin coming up in Hollywood amid a struggle with acne early on in his career

In a recent episode of the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast, Pine said that he had “awful skin” as a teenager and after college and took issue with the fact that acne can sometimes be regarded as something only teenagers go through. In his case, he said, it was “tremendously debilitating and really seriously emotionally incapacitating.”

“It was one of the most traumatic points of my life but it is my story,” he said.

The discussion was prompted by the podcast’s host Josh Horowitz asking Pine how he felt about comments that “The O.C.” casting director Patrick Rush made last year in Alan Sepinwall’s 2023 book “Welcome to The O.C.: The Oral History.”

In it, Rush revealed that Pine read for the role of Ryan Atwood for the series, but that his “really bad skin” at the time, to Rush, was “insurmountable.” The role of Atwood ultimately went to actor Ben McKenzie, who starred in the series during its run from 2003 to 2007.

Pine candidly said that he felt like Rush “didn’t have to talk about it” in the book.

“I can understand that they wanted to have pretty people doing pretty things and bad acne is not a key,” he said. “I don’t want to say I’m grateful for not having landed that… but I’m alright.”

Pine, of course, is more than alright. He went on to have a successful career in Hollywood starring as Captain Kirk in the rebooted “Star Trek” franchise and appearing in critically-acclaimed films like “Don’t Worry Darling” and “Hell or High Water.”

He said will never forget the struggle he went through to get to this point.

“I know how depressing it can be and the kind of depths of sorrow it can drag you to,” he said. “But there is a brighter day.”

Adorable video of Mercy Johnson, other actors paying respect to veteran Liz Benson on a movie set

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Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson Okojie and some colleagues have blessed the internet with a video of them paying respect to veteran actress Liz Benson.

The veteran, who is one of the cast of Mercy Johnson’s new movie, A Mother’s Son, had stormed the location for a shoot and was well received by other cast.

In the video, Mercy Johnson and Georgina Ibeh kneeled to greet her, as Georgina revealed how much of a fan she has been. Actor Mike Godson, who was also present on location, also paid respect to the veteran.

In her caption, Mercy Johnson expressed gratitude to the veteran for having her again.

The video has since won the hearts of many as they gushed over it.

Mike Godson wrote, “Iconic moment

Warri Pikin wrote, “Awww a living legend, Mama Liz Benson

Mercy Macjoe wrote, “Awwww, she looks so good

Oba K Solo wrote, “Adorable Auntie Liz. Mercy, thanks for bringing her back on our screen

One Queen Doras Hair wrote, “Tell me why people won’t hate. Mercy Johnson is such a focused woman, highly intellectual and very humorous, humble and full of respect. See the calibre of people she still has access to. God will continue to bless you”.

Weeks back, veteran Patience Ozokwo had aroused emotions from netizens with her heartfelt prayer for Mercy Johnson after she gifted her bundles of cash and wrappers.

In the emotional video, the veteran actress couldn’t hold back tears as she appreciated Mercy Johnson for always standing by her against all odds. She recalled how people wanted to break them up, but Mercy had begged for forgiveness, and since then, Mercy hasn’t failed to shower her with gifts and money.

Despite her sweet nature, Mercy Johnson has had her share of scandals with some of her colleagues, who have dragged her online.

Recently, Angela Okorie called her out, stating that it was time up for her, as she accused her mother of being a witch and claimed the actress’ mother was fond of tying people’s destinies.

She went on Instagram Live with Mercy Johnson’s former best friend, who also corroborated Angela’s claims of the actress and her mother being witches. She claimed Mercy was aware of the deaths happening in Nollywood and alleged that she locked the destinies of the famous music group Style Plus and her colleagues.

Queeneth Hilbert also shared her ordeal with Mercy Johnson, recounting how Mercy decasted her on the set of a movie project because she was close to Angela Okorie and had also decasted her on Uche Nancy’s production.

In another post, she claimed that Johnson removed her from posters and Angela always supported whatever she did then. She added that there was a time when Chacha Eke went to beg on her behalf, and she wept that day for her.

Steve Buscemi punched in the face while walking in NYC

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Hollywood actor Steve Buscemi has been treated for injuries after being punched in the face while walking in New York City.

The New York City Police Department (NYPD) told CNN it is investigating the assault, which took place on Wednesday and is the latest in a string of random attacks in the city.

Last month, CNN spoke to half a dozen women who said they were hit in the face out of nowhere while on the streets of New York City.

NYPD appealed for the public's help in identifying this man.

“Buscemi was assaulted in Mid-Town Manhattan, another victim of a random act of violence in the city,” his publicist said in a statement to CNN.

“He is ok and appreciates everyone’s well wishes, though incredibly sad for everyone that this has happened to while also walking the streets of NY,” the statement said.

According to the NYPD, officers were called to the scene at 369 3rd Avenue just before noon on Wednesday, May 8.

“Upon arrival, officers were informed a 66-year-old male was punched in the face by an unidentified individual,” the police statement said.

“EMS responded and transported the victim to NYC Health and Hospitals/ Bellevue in stable condition for treatment regarding bruising, swelling, and bleeding to his left eye,” the NYPD said.

“At this time are no arrests, and the investigation remains ongoing,” police said.

“The individual is described as a male with dark complexion, wearing a dark colored baseball style cap, blue t shirt, black pants, white sneakers, and carrying a bookbag,” according to police.

The police department has asked for the public’s help in identifying the suspect.

Buscemi was born in Brooklyn, New York. He is best known for starring in films such as “Reservoir Dogs” (1992) and “Fargo” (1996), as well as TV series including “Boardwalk Empire” and “30 Rock.”

Yul is still my son and will remain my son” – Rita Edochie blows hot as she lays curses on those accusing her of wrecking Yul Edochie and May’s marriage

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Nollywood actress Rita Edochie has a message for those accusing her of wrecking her nephew, Yul Edochie’s marriage to May Edochie.

It is no longer news that the couple, who have been married for nearly two decades, fell out after he impregnated his colleague and married her without May’s consent. Following this, May had filed for divorce and had denied him access to their former house.

Some reports have been making rounds online, accusing Rita Edochie of being the mastermind behind the crashed marriage. Now, taking to her Instagram page to address it, she noted how such information comes from Judy Austin’s camp.

She stated that before anyone could see her talk on May’s issue, something must have prompted it. She slammed Judy for recruiting her supporters to attack her.

Rita made it known that whether haters like it or not, Yul is her son and will remain her son, just the same way, Yul is the father of May’s kids, and she can never do anything to hurt him. The sister-in-law of Pete Edochie went on to lay curses on Judy and her cohorts.

“PAID DEFENDERS OF CHEATS AND INFIDELS.

BEFORE YOU SEE ME / HEAR ME TALK ON QUEEN MAY YUL EDOCHIE’S MATTER, SOMETHING MUST HAVE PROMPTED IT. KNOW THIS AND HAVE PEACE

QUEEN MAY YUL EDOCHIE IS FINE; IT IS YOU, THE DRAMA DEV!L, WHO IS S!CK WITH BITTERNESS, AND THAT’S WHY SHE KEEPS RECRUITING HER SUPPORTERS TO ATTACK ME BUT UNA GO KPAII FOR THIS MATTER.

IT BEATS MY IMAGINATION HOW SOME PEOPLE SAY I HAVE SUCCEEDED IN DESTROYING MAY YUL EDOCHIE’S HOME, PARTICULARLY PEOPLE ON 0 POST AND PRIVATE ACCOUNTS.
THEIR PROBLEM IS THAT I HATE LIES, I SUPPORT THE TRUTH, AND I AM SUPPORTING QUEEN MAY YUL EDOCHIE, THAT IS BEING HUMILIATED ALL OVER SOCIAL MEDIA BY DRAMA DEV!L AND HER
COHORTS.

WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT, YUL EDOCHIE IS STILL MY SON AND MY SON; HE WILL REMAIN THE SAME WAY MAY YUL EDOCHIE BELIEVE THAT YUL IS STILL THE FATHER OF HER CHILDREN AND CAN NEVER DO ANYTHING TO HURT HIM JUST LIKE YOU ARE DOING BUT SO LONG AS YOU DRAMA DEV!L DECIDED TO LEAVE FIRST AND SECOND MAN YOU HAD TO COME SCATTER MAY EDOCHIE’S HOME,
GOD ALMIGHTY WILL DO THE NEEDFUL IN YOUR LIFE.
IF NOT TODAY, IT WILL BE TOMORROW.

SO KEEP DECEIVING YOURSELVES, SAYING I DESTROYED MAY’S HOME WHILE YOU WERE AND STILL DOING.

THE PEOPLE DOING ALL THESE ARE GHOST MEMBERS FROM THE WHATSAPP GROUP RECRUITED BY HER WHATSAPP TEAM TO ATTACK MAY AND I, BUT TOO BAD YOU CAN’T SHUT ME NOR THE MAY NATION UP.
WE ARE WAY STRONGER THAN YOU EV!L DOERS PUT TOGETHER.
NDI ALA NDI ALA”.

few weeks ago, Rita cleared the air about feigning her love and support for May after reports surfaced that she harbours negative feelings towards her. Dismissing these claims as baseless, Rita asserted that she felt compelled to address them due to concerns about her reputation.

In another post, she offered a little prayer to those constantly criticising her for defending May Edochie publicly.

Anthony Anderson, James Van Der Beek, Taye Diggs and more will strip in a ‘Real Full Monty’ charity special

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Some familiar faces are ready to reveal a lot more of themselves.

Anthony Anderson, Taye Diggs, NFL All-Pro Chris Jones and James Van Der Beek are among the men set to go “The Real Full Monty” with striptease performances in an upcoming TV special.

“The Real Full Monty” is inspired by the 1997 movie “The Full Monty,” about a group of regular guys who form a male striptease act.

The two-hour special is aimed at raising awareness for prostate, testicular and colorectal cancer testing and research and will air this fall on Fox.

“Don’t die of embarrassment. Get checked! That’s the message behind The Real Full Monty special,” Anderson said in a press announcement. “I am honored to lead the charge of rallying these fearless men to bare it all, in order to provoke, inspire and in this case, beg you to get screened for cancer. That’s our goal … so what are you waiting for?”

Anderson also serves as an executive producer on the special.

Fox announced the event with its upcoming 2024-2025 programming slate, describing it as “a daring group of male celebrities” stripping down for cancer research.

Anderson will lead Diggs, Jones, Van Der Beek, “Teen Wolf” alum Tyler Posey and “Dancing with the Stars” judge Bruno Tonioli “as they train and rehearse for the most revealing performance of their careers, culminating with a big striptease dance, choreographed by Emmy Award winner Mandy Moore, where they will bare all in front of a live audience,” the network said of the special.

“Leading up to the final disrobing, the men will push their limits of comfortability, modesty and brotherhood with a series of rehearsals and experiences, both private and public, designed to build confidence and remove them far from their comfort zone and strengthen their bond as a group. Along the way, each of the celebrities will share their personal stories of how cancer has impacted their lives,” the description added.

Taylor Swift’s last Eras Tour show in Paris was full of Travis Kelce nods, and he seemed to love it

2 mn read

Taylor Swift closed out her four-night Eras Tour run in Paris on Sunday with a show that appeared to be Taylor-made for Travis Kelce.

Kelce attended the concert alongside Gigi Hadid and Oscar-nominated actor Bradley Cooper, according to videos posted to social media. Throughout the night, Kelce, a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs football team, was seen in videos captured by concertgoers dancing, singing along and, at one point, making Swift’s signature heart symbol with his hands.

It’s the first time Kelce has been seen at an Eras Tour concert since the “Fortnight” singer debuted her revamped setlist, which now includes a number of “Tortured Poets Department” songs.

One of those new songs that Swift incorporated into her setlist is “So High School.” It’s a track that, among Swifties, is widely considered to be about Kelce.

During her surprise song set, Swift played “The Alchemy,” another “Tortured Poets” track that Swifties suspect may also be about Kelce. The song’s lyrics are filled with football references, with buzzwords like “touch down,” “warm the benches” and “greatest in the league.”

Taylor Swift performing songs from her '1989' album during an 'Eras Tour' concert in Paris on Sunday.

In perhaps another nod to Kelce, Swift wore a two-piece yellow and orange ensemble during the “1989” portion of her show, a probable nod to the colors of the Kansas City Chiefs. She wore different color combinations of this outfit on previous nights in Paris.

Swift also once again changed the lyrics during “Karma” to make reference to Kelce, singing “karma is the guy on the Chiefs coming straight home to me.”

The three-time Super Bowl champ and Swift have been romantically linked since September after she attended her first football game to watch Kelce play. The couple have each been seen attending each other’s games and concerts, respectively, ever since.

Swift heads to Stockholm next, where she’ll play three shows starting on May 17.