Tiwa Savage & Pasuma Speak on their Love Song – “Ife”

Fuji star Pasuma and R&B music star Tiwa Savage have cooked up a love song. The pair have collaborated on a track titled “Ife” (Love). It is produced by Spellz. In a chat with Goldmyne TV, both stars gave us the scoop on the track. Pasuma “Everyone is talking about it and the response has been very good. Ife is a love song and having Tiwa on it is like Fuji making love to R&B (according to Tee Billz). It’s a song everyone will like not only because of the rhythm and the lyrics but also because I did the unexpected”. Tiwa Savage “Pasuma Wonder is one person I have always respected. He has been in the game for a very long time and remains one of the biggest artistes in Nigeria. As a matter of fact, my husband is a fan of Pasuma. I am not going to say much about the song but I can tell you that, it will blow your mind. It’s wonderful working with Pasuma”. Here’s a video of the song playing and the music acts grooving to it.

Jada Pinkett Smith talks being a “Super Woman” & her Ups & Downs for Net-A-Porter’s The Edit

Hollywood actress Jada Pinkett Smith looks good beyond her years in the new issue of Net-A-Porter‘s The Edit magazine. The 42 year-old mother of two shows off her fit bod, fab fashion and killer poses as she dishes on being a “Super Woman”, femininity and Will Smith being her Super Hero. In the edit titled “Super Style“, Jada is showing how to rock fashion the ‘new’ way – from the new little black dress to the evening cape. She was photographed by Chris Coll and styled by Kate Young rocking pieces from Victoria Beckham, Christian Louboutin, Chloe, Giambattista Valli, Saint Laurent, Narciso Rodriguez and more.

I see Africa as world’s next major economic success story – Obama

President Barack Obama, whose election in 2008 as the first black American president sparked huge expectations in Africa, will at last hold a summit next week for the continent’s leaders. Invitations were sent to 50 heads of state and government for talks that seem designed as a counterweight to China’s decade-long surge in investment and trade with Africa. American officials said all the countries invited to send delegations will do so, most of them headed by presidents but some by vice presidents, prime ministers or foreign ministers. Notable absentees will include Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Morocco’s King Mohammed VI — who will send envoys — but sub-Saharan Africa will be well represented. Only four presidents were excluded: Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe, Sudan’s Omar al-Bashir, Eritrea’s Issaias Afeworki and the Central African Republic’s transitional leader Catherine Samba Panza. But, even if Obama’s gathering marks the greatest ever concentration of African leadership in Washington, it is not clear what kinds of results can be expected from the three-day summit. Obama’s foreign policy was first marked by a pivot to Asia and a failed attempt to “reset” relations with Russia, and he did not make Africa a priority in his first term. The agenda will certainly include discussion on current threats facing the continent — kidnappings and killings by Islamist group Boko Haram in Nigeria, civil war in South Sudan and deadly attacks by the Somalia militant group Shebab in Kenya. And the outbreak of the Ebola virus in West Africa could find itself at the center of talks. The leaders of Sierra Leone and Liberia have canceled their summit trips to Washington over the epidemic, which was first declared at the beginning of the year in Guinea and has so far claimed more than 725 lives. The hemorrhagic fever, often fatal, could spread “like a forest fire,” US health authorities warned this week. The US-Africa summit will also have a strong economic aspect, with a program focused on opportunities for the continent where 60 percent of the population is under 35 and where growth rates are higher than anywhere else in the world. Currently, the United States is third among Africa’s major trading partners, far behind longtime number one the European Union, and raw material-hungry China. “I see Africa as the world’s next major economic success story, and the United States wants to be a partner in that success,” Obama said last year during his first presidential trip to the continent, with stops in Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania. But his national security advisor, Susan Rice, acknowledged Wednesday that Americans need to change their “outdated mindset” of the continent. “Too many Americans still only see conflict, disease and poverty, and not the extraordinarily diverse Africa, brimming with innovation,” Rice said, adding “the United States can do more to compete to be a full partner in Africa’s success.” - Packed agenda - Some analysts see the Washington summit as a response to Beijing’s campaign of African investment and trade over the last decade. “It can’t help but be seen that way, because we have never done this before, and the Chinese have,” said Deborah Brautigam, who directs the China Africa Research Initiative at Johns Hopkins University. Brautigam wondered, however, whether the United States had done enough to prepare ahead of the summit. “When the Chinese organized a similar event” in 2006, “they had been working for about six years,” she noted. Among economic issues to be discussed will be the possible extension beyond 2015 of the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, which provides preferential market access for some products from African countries deemed to be democratic and following good economic governance. Likewise, Obama’s “Power Africa” initiative, leverages loan guarantees and private sector finance and aims to double access to electricity in sub- Saharan Africa. After a first day, Monday, dedicated to health challenges and climate change, a business forum on Tuesday will gather leaders from both the public and private sector — including former US president Bill Clinton. The third and final day will be for political discussions on peace and regional stability. There are no bilateral meetings planned between Obama and any of his African counterparts but a huge White House gala dinner is on the agenda for Tuesday evening. Peter Pham, director of the Africa Center at the Atlantic Council, said this summit will be important for relations between Obama and the continent where his father was born. But he cautioned that African expectations for Obama’s presidency started out “unreasonably high.” “The fact is nothing in President Obama’s history other than the identity of his father, nothing in his personal history or his political history, would point to the expectations that were put on his shoulders,” he said. “Others read into it what they wanted to read into it.”

Special Olympics: Unilag hosts 2014 Nigeria National Games

140 special athleteswill storm the University of Lagos for the 2014 Special Olympics Nigeria national Games billed to hold between 10th and 13th of August. The games will feature athletes from the South West, South East, North Central and South-South geopolitical zones of the country. According to a member of the board of the Special Olympics Nigeria, Udeme Ufot who addressed the media in Lagos yesterday, “the athletes will compet in 7 Olympics type sports such as Athletics, Acquatics, Badminton, Basketball, Cycling (demonstrative), Table Tennis and Unified Football.” Outstanding performers will be selected to represent Nigeria at the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles, United States. He said, “Special Olympics brings together equal number of athletes with intellectual disabilities and their peers without intellectual disabilities on the same team for training and competition.” The games are being supported by numerous sponsors including Coca Cola, MTN, GTBank, Union Bank among others. Although Ufot said Special Olympics Nigeria would have loved to host the global fiesta sometime, that can only be possible when government shows seriousness in developing the necessary infrastructure. “That would have been a fantastic idea, but I must say that we are not ready yet.” The Lagos state government pledged its support.

Nigeria weightlifter fails B sample, faces hearing

GLASGOW (AFP) – Nigerian teenage weightlifter Chika Amalaha faces a hearing before the Commonwealth Games Federation on Friday over her failed drugs test. Amalaha, whose A sample failed a control after claiming gold in the women’s 53kg category on July 25, also produced a positive B sample. The tests revealed traces of diuretics and masking agents. CGF chief executive Mike Hooper said the follow-up examination backed up the initial finding of the doping control that Amalaha went through after her victory in the 52kg class at the Clyde Auditorium seven days ago. Hooper said on Friday: “I can report that the analysis on the Nigerian weightlifting Chika Amalaha’s B sample has been completed, and this has confirmed the analysis and finding of the A result.” Amalaha snatched a best of 85kg before managing 111kg in the clean and jerk for a total of 196kg, to become the youngest Commonwealth weightlifter gold medallist.

Chelsea complete —Mourinho

Jose Mourinho is ‘so happy’ with the squad at his disposal, with Chelsea having acted quickly to get bodies on board. Changes were inevitable at Stamford Bridge this summer, with Mourinho’s first season back at the helm having failed to deliver major silverware. That issue has been addressed, with a number of players moved in and out, reports Sky Sports. Romelu Lukaku became the latest to depart on Wednesday, as he completed a £28m move to Everton, but that sale was sanctioned on the back of deals for Diego Costa and the returning Didier Drogba. It is not just up front that changes have been made, though, with Filipe Luis drafted in to cover the loss of Ashley Cole at left-back and World Cup winner Cesc Fabregas adding creativity and experience to the midfield unit. Mourinho is delighted to have completed his business early and believes that a group which blends seasoned professionals with exciting youngsters will be extremely competitive in 2014/15. He said, “We are so happy with the squad we have. “We feel that the correct squad is exactly this type of squad we have, with people like Didier and John Terry, but at the same time people like (Andreas) Christensen and (Nathan) Ake. “We have the squad we want and, I repeat, the club was fantastic in the way they worked so hard and so fast to get Diego, Filipe and Fabregas.”

Sudan ‘apostasy’ woman arrives US

A Sudanese woman who fled to Italy after being spared a death sentence for renouncing Islam has arrived in the US. Meriam Yahia Ibrahim Ishag arrived in New Hampshire on Thursday evening with her American husband and her children. Welcoming her on a brief stopover in Philadelphia, the city’s mayor, Michael Nutter, described her as a “world freedom fighter”. There was global condemnation when she was sentenced to hang for apostasy by a Sudanese court earlier this year. Ibrahim’s father is Muslim so according to Sudan’s version of Islamic law she is also Muslim and cannot convert. She maintains she was never Muslim having been raised by her Christian mother. Ibrahim flew from Rome to Philadelphia with her husband and two children, en route to Manchester, New Hampshire, where her husband has relatives and the family hope to settle. While in Philadelphia, Nutter said people would remember her just like “others who stood up so we could be free”. He compared her to Rosa Parks, who became a symbol of the civil rights movement in the US when she refused to give up her seat to a white man on a bus in Alabama. And he presented Ibrahim with a small replica of the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence.

Ebola: Abuja residents embrace safety measures

Abuja residents have begun to adjust their lifestyles to avoid contracting the Ebola virus, a News Agency of Nigeria survey has shown. The virus has claimed over 700 lives in West African, including Patrick Sawyer, a Liberian who died in Nigeria after contracting the virus in his country. A civil servant, Mrs Janet Obinna, told NAN that she had embraced the habit of regularly washing her hands and other sanitary measures as experts had advised. Obinna said that contrary to her husband’s preference for bush meat in the meal, the family had resorted to eating goat meet and beef. She said, “Before, my husband would not do without bush meat but now we have agreed not to buy or even eat it outside the home. “We used to wash our hands before but not as often as we do now with this Ebola virus around.” A businessman, Mr Paul Nzekwu, said after he watched news about the virus he realised it was more dangerous than HIV. Nzekwu said although he did not eat bush meat he had taken it upon himself to educate his friends on the dangers of consuming such meat. He said, “I was so scared that I could not even visit a friend that was suffering from fever. I think we need more awareness on this Ebola.” Nzekwu said unhygienic persons would now be compelled to embrace hygiene because “the fear of Ebola is the beginning of wisdom.” A Taxi driver, Mr Joe Osayi, told NAN that he had learnt that Ebola virus could be contacted from the consumption of bush meat and handshakes and as such had restrained from eating bush meat. Osayi said, “Governments need to create more awareness on this virus because we now hear different stories about it everyday.” Another respondent, Mr Frank Yahaya, said he would not enter any vehicle that carried a sick person to avoid close contact with such person. Yahaya said he was aware that good hygiene practice could help in the prevention of the virus. He said, “From what we have heard on television, though Ebola is a very deadly disease, when you maintain high personal hygiene you can prevent it. “Hygiene such as washing of hands at all times prevents the spread of diseases. “I learnt it could be transmitted by fluids, blood, semen and sweat from an infected person and to prevent it we should ensure regular hand washing.” World Health Organisation says Ebola virus, formerly known as Ebola haemorrhagic fever, is a severe illness, with fatality rate of up to 90 per cent. WHO describes Ebola as one of the world’s most virulent diseases. It said, “The infection is transmitted by direct contact with the blood, body fluids and tissues of infected animals or people. “Severely ill patients require intensive supportive care. During an outbreak, those at higher risk of infection are health workers, family members and others in close contact with sick people and deceased patients.”

Uganda court annuls anti-homosexuality law

Uganda’s Constitutional Court has annulled tough anti-gay legislation signed into law in February. It ruled that the bill was passed by MPs in December without the requisite quorum and was therefore illegal. Homosexual acts were already illegal, but the new law allowed for life imprisonment for “aggravated homosexuality” and banned the “promotion of homosexuality”. Several donors have cut aid to Uganda since the law was adopted. Uganda is a deeply conservative society where many people oppose gay rights and the sentence for homosexual acts has always been life imprisonment. Earlier drafts of the anti-homosexuality act made it a crime not to report gay people – which would have made it impossible to live as openly gay – but this clause was removed. However the legislation that was passed in parliament was “null and void”, the presiding judge at the Constitutional Court said, as not enough lawmakers had been present to vote on the bill, the AFP news agency reports.

Zac Efron opens up about addiction struggle

Zac Efron is ready to talk. The 26-year-old actor best known for "High School Musical" went to rehab in 2013 but was elusive about what he sought treatment for. Now, in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Efron is coming clean about his battle with alcohol and drug use. "It's a never-ending struggle," the actor said of his issues with addiction. "I was drinking a lot, way too much." There were drugs as well, he added. The problem erupted for Efron as he tried to work his way from being the teen star of "High School Musical" and "Hairspray" to more adult roles with movies such as "The Lucky One" and "The Paperboy." "I had done films back-to-back-to-back. I was burnt out," he said. "There was something lacking, some sort of hole that I couldn't really fill up. I was just so deep into my work, it was really the only thing I had." That period of his life left him feeling isolated, he said, but in hindsight he can see how it helped him grow. "I mean, you're in your 20s, single, going through life in Hollywood, you know?" he told The Hollywood Reporter. "Everything is thrown at you. I wouldn't take anything back; I needed to learn everything I did." Part of that learning experience has been aided by therapy, and joining Alcoholics Anonymous. "I just started going, and I think it's changed my life," Efron said. "I'm much more comfortable in my own skin. Things are so much easier now." This year, Efron is hoping that a buttoned- up lifestyle -- complete with daily workouts and a 9 p.m. bedtime, or so he says -- paired with his newfound wisdom will help him steer his career in the direction he wants it to go. Earlier this year he starred in and produced the comedy "That Awkward Moment," and on May 9 his comedy with Seth Rogen, "Neighbors," will arrive in theaters. "It's impossible to lead an honest and fulfilling life as a man and not make mistakes and 'fess up to them when you need to," Efron said. "I'm a human being, and I've made a lot of mistakes. I've learned from each one."

Drake Bell Mocks Justin Bieber For Orlando Bloom Fight, Tells Fans They Should Look Up To “A Good Person” (PHOTOS)

Drake Bell is mocking Justin Bieber for his fight with Orlando Bloom. As mitchiie blog reported, Bieber and Bloom had a scuffle in Spain, before being separated by their respective entourages. Late Wednesday, Bell took to Twitter to call out Bieber for having a bodyguard allegedly protect him during the confrontation. He included two images featuring a tiny dog — meant to be Bieber — being guarded by a much larger one. Not surprisingly, the disses didn’t sit well with Bieber fans, prompting Bell to write to one angry tweeter, “you can’t take a joke?! geez.” Interestingly, Bell then deleted his posts (but you can see screengrabs below). The actor, however, then tweeted one final jab. “Can you kids start looking up to a good person?!” wrote the former “Drake & Josh” star. Of course, many stars have been taking to Twitter to comment on the incident, but Bell and Bieber have history, having feuded many times before. We’ll update if The Biebs responds.

Taylor Swift Talks Writing Songs for Her "Jilted and Sad and Bitter" Fans

As you know, Taylor Swift is all about the feels when it comes to her music. So, when it comes to playing the emotionless Rosemary in The Giver, the singer-turned-actress has been totally taken out of her comfort zone for her scenes in the upcoming movie adaption. "To me emotion is such an important part of my life, and now I guess my job," she tells mitchiieblog. "People wouldn't listen to my songs if they weren't heart broken or deeply affected and hurt and jilted and sad and bitter and all those wonderful things that I write songs about." Swift, who stars alongside Jeff Bridges and Brenton Thwaites in the flick, also says she brought a little of her musical side during the filming of the movie. "Playing Jeff Bridges' daughter is sort of outlandish and something out of a day dream," she gushes. "He could not be more kind and friendly." "Brenton and I would just go to Jeff's room to play guitar with him," she adds ."It really felt like there is that kind of father figure role." The Giver hits theaters Aug. 15.

Is it ever okay for a woman to propose to a man?

It was a taboo many decades back but things have since changed...but has it changed to the extent that it's now okay for a woman to propose to her man? Would you do it? If not, why not?

Usain Bolt denies calling Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games ‘a bit shit’

Usain Bolt has denied calling the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games “a bit shit”. Bolt’s apparent comments have created a storm of controversy after allegedly making the remarks while waiting in the rain for his car to arrive after briefly leaving the athletes’ village in Glasgow. Asked if he was having fun in Scotland he is reported by the Times to have responded, “not really”. However the Jamaican sprinter responded on Twitter, saying: “I’m waking up to this nonsense.. journalist please don’t create lies to make headlines”. Bolt’s manager, Ricky Simms, also said the reports were “utter rubbish” and added: “The atmosphere in and around the stadiums has been absolutely fantastic and I have absolutely no idea where these quotes have come from.” The six-time Olympic champion arrived in Glasgow last Saturday morning and, at a press conference in the main press centre, confirmed he would be running the 4x100 metres relay heats on Friday as well as in the sprint relay final on Saturday, the final day of athletics competition. Bolt confirmed he would be staying in the athletes’ village but added that he would be spending most of his time in his room. Bolt has yet to race this year after taking time to recover from a foot injury but said he was in “pretty good shape” and looking forward to getting races under his belt. He also said he was eager to make his Commonwealth Games debut having missed the Melbourne Games through injury in 2006 and not appearing at the Delhi Games in 2010. Bolt’s decision to compete in Glasgow gave the Games a huge boost with other stars like Mo Farah, Jessica Ennis- Hill and Mark Cavendish not appearing in Glasgow. But it remains to be seen what kind of reception he receives from the Hampden Park crowd when he competes in the 4x100m relay heats on Friday night in the light of his reported remarks. The sprint relay final will be held at 9.15pm on Saturday night, wrapping up the athletics programme.

Jessie J, Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj Team Up For 'Bang Bang'

After weeks of social media teasing, the collaboration of the summer is finally getting released, and it's been leaked online a day before it's available to purchase. UK singer Jessie J has teamed up with Ariana Grande and rap diva Nicki Minaj to create the super-catchy new single "Bang Bang." The song is off Jessie J's forthcoming untitled album and will be released as a bonus track on the deluxe editions of Ariana's upcoming album My Everything.The track combines the vocal forces of pop music's hottest singers with an insanely energetic beat, an unshakable hook and a killer verse by all three powerhouse performers. RELATED PICS: MOST MEMORABLE STAGE STYLES On Sunday, Grande posted a teaser to Instagram, which only featured vocals by Jessie J, while Minaj posted an adorable hand-drawn caricature of the three singers as sci-fi space warriors (maybe?). The hot new single is available for purchase and download on iTunes. What do you think of "Bang Bang"? Is it the new song of summer? Play music critic in the comments.

Find Out 10 Things No One Knows About Omotola Jalade Ekeinde

One of Nollywood’s most famous actresses and reality TV star — Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has paid her dues in full and is one of the most recognized black women in the world. The mother and wife recently had a chat session with some of her Twitter fans where she provided answers to some of their questions. She shared some facts about herself with her over 450, 000 followers on Twitter. Read below: - Here are about 10 truths you possibly never knew about the actress. 1. She speaks her Ondo dialect well and some measure of Igbo 2. She will be forever into music and her goal is not to be commercial 3. Sound Sultan is her favourite Nigerian music act. 4. Her deepest fear is the wrath of God. 5. She has no scandals (or so she claims) 6. She thinks Jim Iyke is the best dressed man in Nollywood and Regina Askia was her greatest competition as a young actress. 7. Her favourite sport is wrestling and Hulk Hogan and Sean Micheal are her favourite wrestlers. 8. She was born in Lagos and grew up in Ikoyi, Ketu and Iyana-Ipaja. 9. Her favourite food is plantain and vegetable and she loves the colour red. 10. Her surname, Ekeinde is not a Yoruba name as her husband, Matthew Ekeinde is from Sabongida Ora in Edo State.

Facebook: Get Messenger app or else

For mobile users who text with friends via Facebook, it's almost time to download the social-media giant's dedicated app for doing so, or lose the ability. Facebook says that, for the next few days, it will be notifying people that if they want to continue sending mobile message, they'll need to download the Messenger app. "As we've said, our goal is to focus development efforts on making Messenger the best mobile messaging experience possible and avoid the confusion of having separate Facebook mobile messaging experiences," a Facebook spokeswoman said Tuesday in a written statement. "Messenger is used by more than 200 million people every month, and we'll keep working to make it an even more engaging way to connect with people." In April, Facebook announced the change was coming. It has been rolled out to Android and iOS users in parts of Europe and elsewhere since then, and is now coming to the United States. In November, after Facebook launched Messenger 3.0, the company discontinued messaging in the core Facebook app for people who already had Messenger. The good news for people still using just the Facebook app is that they'll be able to message friends in much the same way they do now. Once both apps are installed, tapping the "message" icon on the Facebook app will simply send the user to Messenger. They'll be able to return via a "return to Facebook" icon. The popularity of apps like Messenger and WhatsApp, which Facebook purchased in February, are helping change the rules for texting. Wireless plans that charge for texting are becoming a thing of the past in the United States, though they remain the norm in places like India, South America and Africa, where WhatsApp has become a popular, nearly free alternative. What to know about Facebook Opinion: Did Facebook's experiment violate ethics?

Ariana Grande Covers Seventeen, Reveals She's Estranged From Her Father

Selfie time! Ariana Grande graces the September 2014 issue of Seventeen magazine and, inside the issue, opens up about some of the hardships she's faced. While Ariana's career has skyrocketed, she's had a difficult personal family issue to deal with, as she explained that "falling out of touch with my dad" was a huge thing to move on from. That topic and more highlights from the interview are below. Ariana Grande on putting herself out there and being totally exposed : "It’s tough to spend some of the most important years of your life in front of so many strangers who want to pick you apart. Insecurity has been the hardest thing I’ve had to overcome. I think everyone my age struggles with that because everyone strives for approval and wants to feel loved." How she gets over her insecurities: "I focus on what’s important. My grandpa is sick, so I focus on him every day. I’m having the biggest song of my career so far, and all I can think about is my grandpa, because that’s what’s important to me." The biggest lesson she’s learned in the past few years : "Being okay with not having the answers to everything. I feel like for the first time in my life, I’m really okay. I used to freak out about everything all the time. I used to be like, 'Oh my God, somebody said this!' Everything used to be such a big deal! But now, I feel I can handle everything that comes my way with a calm energy." The toughest thing she has ever had to deal with : "Falling out of touch with my dad. It’s private, but it happened last year. It took me so long to be okay with it. The thing that got me there was embracing the fact that that I am made up of half my dad, and a lot of my traits come from him. So much of me comes from my father, and for so long, I didn’t like that about myself. I had to accept that it’s okay not to get along with somebody and still love them." One thing that Ariana wanted her fans to know about her interview with Seventeen (on newsstands on August 5th), "This interview took place before I lost my grandfather. Reading it back now is, of course, very hard but I'm so grateful that I spoke briefly about some of the wisdom he shared with me in this interview. I hope the Seventeen readers find it helpful and can relate.

Chelsea Manager Mourinho Hints Mikel Obi May Exit the Club

We may see this Nigerian midfielder wearing another football jersey colour instead of blue. Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho hinted that John Obi Mikel could be on his way out of the English football club. There have been reports for months that Mikel will be exiting the club, but with the arrival of Didier Drogba, the heat is on. The team currently has too many foreign players under the Premier League and Champions League rules relating to the home-grown quota. Clubs can only name 17 foreign players over the age of 21 in their official 25-man squads. Chelsea currently has 18 foreign players. The UK’s Telegraph reports that Mourinho has decided that either Fernando Torres, Peter Cech or Mikel will be asked to leave the club this summer. “From the group you are expecting us to have as a squad, I have to send one away because we have one extra foreign player. So from all these players, if you think all of them have to stay, you are wrong. One of them has to go.” Mourinho said. The exit reports comes after African Football says Mikel is desperate to become a UK citizen. He will be awarded his British passport by October, and one of the many considerations is to be at Chelsea FC for the time being.

Pastor Tunde Bakare In Latest Sermon Says If Buhari Dies, Nigeria Will Breakup

Pastor Tunde Bakare In Latest Sermon Says Buhari’s Death Will Break Nigeria Apart Excerpts from Pastor Tunde Bakare’s sermon on Sunday the 27th of July 2014. “But for what could only have been an act of God, this past week might have marked the beginning of the end for our nation. For if the attack targeted at Buhari and his entourage on Wednesday had succeeded, the hatchers of the Nigerian disintegration agenda would have been smiling home to the bank by now. “The enormous goodwill and massive following enjoyed by the General among the tens of millions of disadvantaged northern youths for whom he has become a messianic symbol, would have transmogrified into the unguided and uncontrollable fury of a vengeful army, whose target would not be without political and ethnic colouration. “Invariably, this would have sparked up a corresponding reaction of violence from an equally militant antagonistic young population from across the Niger. One needs not be a political analyst to see that such a scenario might have culminated in the demise of our nation.” “To win this war, we must embark forthwith on accurate diagnosis. There is a fundamental difference between traditional Islam and the radical Islam of our day. To lump them together would be a tragic mistake. It would only produce error, which would lead to attendant terror. “I only hope that this is a wakeup call to our government and we must now rise up so that together we can deploy all our resources to stop the terrorists dead in their tracks,”

Abuja residents should be careful, private jet carrying some Governors will crash soon - bro. Joshua ignila prophesy

After his prophecy on the 2014 world cup where he prophesied that Germany would win the cup, General Overseer of God of Champion Royal Assembly, Brother Joshua Ignila,has dished out more prophecies.According to the Sun, he told his congregation that, Boko haram leader, Shekau would be captured soon and a low ranking officer will shoot him on the leg. Also said Abuja residents should be careful between today, Monday and Wednesday. "I hear the sound of bomb in the city and I call on security agencies to tighten security in Abuja between Monday and Wednesday.” He predicted also that a private jet carrying some governors who are opposed to certain decisions in the country would crash. He said "I have warned them through my broadcast on Champions Television and I have tried to reach out to those I saw in my prediction.It is going to happen soon and nobody should blame anybody for it. It is either they retreat from that meeting they want to attend or they will perish."

Chibok Girls: Jonathan Didn’t Tell Parents Anything New – Chibok Community

Members of Chibok community in Borno State from where the over 200 secondary schoolgirls were abducted over three months ago, have lamented that even though it took the Presidency over 99 days, after the incident to meet with the parents of the girls, nothing new was said at the meeting. “We all waited patiently for the parents to come and tell us something new concerning the girls but the poor parents rather returned home more confused”, said one Malam Musa, a native of Chibok, who resides in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital. Musa said all that they expected to hear from the returned parents was how soon the rescue efforts will be and not what the government would do for them if they eventually got rescued. He argued that similar assurances were given to them by Borno State Governor, Kashim Shettima, when he met with some 25 escaped girls as well as some of their parents in early June this year at Government House, Maiduguri, all to no avail. “Our concern is the rescue of the girls whom we fear that their continued stay in the captivity of the terrorists may cause them a lot of physical and psychological harm, and not what the government would do if they eventually got rescued. “I think there was nothing new which Mr President told the parents and some of the girls at Aso Rock because all those promises made to them had been made about two months ago by Borno State governor who said about N150 million had been set aside by the state government as part of what was to be spent on the girls while the rest would be expended on those in captivity should they eventually get rescued”. “I think the real issue is not what would be done to assist them, but what is being done to free them which is more important because the longer these young girls stay in captivity, the dangerous it might turn out to be should they eventually return home. If it is what would be done after the rescue, it is not a cheering news as far as we are concerned”, Musa said.

Nigeria Gold medallist fails drugs test

Nigerian gold medallist Chika Amalaha has been provisionally suspended from the Commonwealth Games for failing a drugs test. The 16-year-old won weightlifting gold with a combined total of 196kg in the women's 53kg category. Her 'A' sample was found to contain amiloride and hydrochlorothiazide, which are both prohibited as diuretics and masking agents. Amalaha will have a 'B' sample tested on Wednesday. The teenager won gold last Friday, as Dika Toua took silver to secure Papua New Guinea's first medal of Glasgow 2014, with India's Santoshi Matsa winning bronze. Amalaha is the first athlete to fail a test at the Games, but Welsh 400m hurdler Rhys Williams and 800m runner Gareth Warburton both missed the competition after being charged with anti-doping rule violations. Both athletes deny knowingly taking any banned substance.

Omawumi Wants To Attend Law School Too!

I guess when trend starts off among celebrities in Nigeria, it just goes on and on. Lots of Nollywood stars have indicated their intention to go back to school, Law school especially and it seems Omawumi wants that too. The mother-of-one, who has a degree in Law from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma was a guest on Channels TV’s Sunrise, and when asked if she’d ever practice law, said that it is only a matter of time before she hits law school. ‘I do intend to go to law school. I just want to see this through to a certain extent. Where I’m going through with the music right now, I’m tilting towards live music, not a 100 percent mainstream’, she said. Speaking of going back to school, a number of celebrities recently enrolled as University undergraduates. Ini Edo, Doris Simeon, Desmond Elliot and veteran actor Chika ‘Chief Zebrudaya’ Okpala were offered admission into the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) to study first- degree courses.

Nasir El-Rufai loses son in Ghastly Motor Accident

Former FCT minister, Nasir-el-Rufai just lost his son in a ghastly car crash this morning .Hamza graduated from the University of Virginia last year.. "From Allah we came and to Him we shall return. Please join our family in praying for the repose of the soul of my son Hamza El-Rufai who died this morning in a motor accident in Abuja. - Nasir El-Rufai So sad..May he RIP

France offers asylum to Christians of north Iraq

Paris - France is ready to open its door to Christians from northern Iraq who were hounded out of their homes by extremist Islamic militants. France's interior and foreign ministers said in a joint statement on Monday that "we are ready, if they wish, to help [them] gain asylum on our soil". Most Christians left Mosul - Iraq's second-largest city and home to some of the most ancient Christian communities - after the Islamic State and other Sunni militants captured the city on 10 June in a brutal march across swaths of Iraq. The militants gave them a deadline, since passed, to convert to Islam, pay a tax or face death. Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve and Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said, "France is revolted" and has provided "exceptional humanitarian aid" to help.

59 People in Lagos came in contact with Late Liberian Ebola Victim

The Lagos State Government has revealed that 59 persons came in contact with the 40 year old Liberian man, Patrick Sawyer, who died of the Ebola virus recently. As part of measures to avert the spread of the deadly ebola virus disease, the 59 contacts have been placed on close surveillance. The Lagos State commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, who disclosed this at a press briefing held in conjunction with Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) officials at the Staff Clinic in Alausa, said there was no cause for alarm. According to him, “So far, a total of 59 contacts have been registered, consisting 44 hospital contacts, 38 healthcare workers and six laboratory staff and 15 airport contacts comprising three Economic Communities of West African States (ECOWAS) staff driver, liaison and protocol officer, Nigerian ambassador to Monrovia, two nursing staffers and five airport passenger handlers. “As of the time of this report, 20 contacts had been physically screened, of which 50 percent had type one contact and 50 percent had type two contacts.” He emphatically reiterated that, “We can categorically state that as of today, we have only one case of imported Ebola and one death. No Nigerian is infected but all contacts are being actively followed. We call on all Nigerians to be calm and not panic and do hereby assure them that both the state and federal governments are up in arms to ensure that the virus did not escape and that no Nigeria is infected with it.”

Nigerian World Cup fans stay home over Boko Haram fears

KANO (AFP) – Danlami Ma’azu stood among a crowd jostling to secure a satellite TV decoder in the Nigerian city of Kano so he could watch the World Cup in the safety of his home — far from the threat of Boko Haram attacks. The Brazil tournament should normally spell weeks of revelry in football-mad Nigeria as crowds gather in giant, often open-air venues to cheer on their heroes. But in the commercial capital of northern Nigeria, hundreds of residents have thronged the local branch of satellite provider DSTV in the past week either to buy the technology or renew their subscriptions. “I’m not comfortable going to any viewing centre due to the Boko Haram threats,” Ma’azu told AFP Thursday, after spending three hours waiting in line. His fears are well-founded: the heavily armed Islamist militant group has previously targeted football fans in its deadly five-year insurgency across northern Nigeria. Just this week, officials in northeast Adamawa state announced the closure of all football viewing centres because of the threat of attack. The ban came a week after 40 people were killed in an explosion at a football pitch, shortly after a match in the town of Mubi, in Adamawa state, which was blamed on Boko Haram. In volatile Plateau state — where three people died in the state capital Jos in a blast targeting crowds watching the European Champions League final — police also ordered all viewing centres to close “because of prevailing security challenges.” “During the World Cup, the tendency is for more people, especially the youth, to be out at odd hours. The closure is to reduce the risk of attacks,” government spokesman Pam Ayuba told AFP on Friday. In April, suspected Boko Haram gunmen also stormed a packed venue in Potiskum, in northeast Yobe state, shooting dead two people as they watched Champions League quarter-final matches. Kano itself has not been spared from violence, including at popular locations for watching football in the heart of the city. - A boon for TV providers - In several videos Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau has condemned football and music as part of a Western plot to distract Muslims from their religion and called on viewing centres to close. Kano’s police have recently held talks with officials from the viewing centres operators’ union to discuss security measures to prevent future attacks — notably during the World Cup. “We are taking into account the security situation with regard to football viewing centres,” Kano police spokesman Magaji Majia told AFP. “We have also put our patrol teams on high alert and assigned our intelligence operatives to keep eyes on viewing centres during matches.” Despite the reassurances, fans hoping to catch Nigeria’s “Super Eagles” and the world’s other top teams in action were taking no chances, boosting trade for satellite television vendors. “Business has been really good in the past week,” one DSTV agent said outside the office as private security guards and police intelligence operatives looked on. “Our sales have jumped over 400 percent,” said the agent, who declined to give his name as he was not authorised to speak to the media. DSTV declined to comment. - Crowds stay away - Crowds were thin at many Kano viewing centres on Thursday as Brazil beat Croatia 3-1 in the World Cup opener. “We had low patronage last night, with turnout 35 percent lower than usual because many people are afraid coming to watch football due to security fears,” said operator Safiyanu Nasiru. “This is an indication that we are in for a bad business season.” Even those who were brave enough to go to the viewing centres were jittery. “I watched the match in an open-air garden with trepidation because of fear of possible attack,” said one fan, Abdulkadir Ammani. “I chose the open-air garden on purpose so that I could easily escape in the event of attack but I still didn’t enjoy the match.” Back at the shop, Jamilu Ahmad was renewing his subscription after more than a year. In football, it is often said the game is more important than life or death but he said watching on the big screen was not worth the risk. “Life has no duplicate,” the civil servant said. “Once you are dead, you are dead and I can’t risk my life going to a viewing centre to watch the matches. That’s why I’m here.”

We want to be here till the end— Mikel

Nigeria and Chelsea FC midfielder, John Obi Mikel, who is making his debut after missing out on South Africa 2010 due to last minute knee surgery, said that it is a dream come true to play the World Cup in Brazil where the Eagles hope to last the distance. “We want to make sure we stay here till the end of the tournament, we want to play the finals, we want to win the Cup, same as everyone, nothing short of that,” Mikel told journalists. “We want to make sure we go a step ahead of where we normally finish in this tournament. It’s going to be tough but it’s one we’re looking forward to.” His absence four years ago left a huge vacuum in the Nigeria midfield as the Super Eagles lost twice and drew their last match to finish bottom of their group. “It is [a dream come true to play at the World Cup], it is my first World Cup. I missed out on the last one with a knee surgery. This time I’m fit and I’m ready and hopefully we all can have a good tournament,” he said.

Big Brother Africa Season 9 auditions announced

The ninth edition of Africa's biggest reality series Big Brother Africa kicks off in September and fans are already asking who the new housemates be, who will find their names and their faces gracing newspapers, who will become the subject of drive-time radio and just who will find themselves trending on all social media platforms. Unlike previous years, this year's entry process is slightly different as potential housemates are invited to come in their numbers for auditions in their respective country venues. Auditions will take place at venue on date. AfricaMagic has always been associated with unearthing, nurturing and recognising talent from around the continent and Big Brother Africa is one of the shows that have become known for transforming ordinary citizens into stars. "We are very grateful and remain pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming response that the show has been receiving over the years. We look forward to the selection of our potential housemates coming in large numbers to auditions at the specified venues and take that chance at being the next Big Brother star," says M-Net Africa Regional Director (West Africa) Wangi Wa- Uzoukwu . "The fact that the fans truly adore the show is all the motivation we need to keep it fresh and that is always made possible by the enthusiastic and fun-loving young Africans who will answer to Big Brother. We are rearing to go and we know that this will definitely be another exciting season that is full of quality entertainment!" she adds. Her sentiments are echoed by Endemol MD Sivan Pillay who says, "We have been producing this series for M-Net for a number of seasons now and as partners, together we have seen this show grow to the phenomenon that it has become. We hope the season will be even better as we strive to improve on our offering season after season. We will not hold back on the quality and exciting unpredictability that has become synonymous with Big Brother Africa. Audiences and fans can expect yet another high quality production and of course, another group of fun-loving housemates who will keep you guessing on who will be left standing come day 91." MultiChoice Africa CEO Nico Meyer says: "As MultiChoice Africa we are always pleased to welcome each new season of Big Brother Africa onto our platforms and we applaud its amazing success and ability to bring together audiences from all across the continent. The inclusion of Rwanda in this season is even more exciting as this displays that our reach and growth into the various sub-Saharan markets is going from strength to strength. We look forward to seeing further growth as well as the impressive social media presence that the show enjoys." All persons over the age of 21, who are citizens of one of the participating countries and have a valid passport, can enter Big Brother Africa 9. If you are open-minded, bold and adventurous, that's even better! Previous editions of Big Brother Africa have boasted huge cash prizes for winners and this it is no different as the prize money is $300 000. Remember, entries are open to the following 14 countries: Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Big Brother Africa 9 will be screened live 24/7 on DStv channels 197 and 198 while GOtv audiences will see highlights of the show, which begins on Sunday, 7 September and is scheduled to run for 91 days. Big Brother Africa is produced by Endemol SA. Audition Details - Botswana - Gabarone (Cresta President Hotel): 4 and 5 July 2014 - Ethiopia - Addis Ababa (Capital Hotel and Spa): 30 June 2014 - Ghana - Accra (Holiday Inn Hotel Airport): 5 and 6 July 2014 - Kenya - Nairobi, The Hilton Nairobi: 3 and 4 July 2014 - Malawi - Lilongwe (The Crossroads Hotel): 30 June and 1 July 2014 - Namibia - Windhoek (Hilton Hotel): 8 and 9 July 2014 - Nigeria - Lagos (Protea Hotel Leadway, Ikeja): 30 June and 1 July 2014 - Rwanda - Kigali (The Lemigo Hotel) 9 July 2014 - Sierra Leone - Free Town (The Country Lodge Complex): 9 July 2014 - South Africa - Johannesburg (The Pyramid Venue and Conference Center): 30 June and 1 July 2014 - Tanzania - Dar Es Salaam (New Africa Hotel): 11 and 12 July 2014 - Uganda - Kampala (Sheraton Hotel): 7 and 8 July 2014 - Zambia - Lusaka (InterContinental Hotel): 4 and 5 July 2014 - Zimbabwe - Harare (The Meikles Hotel): 12 and 13 July 2014

The ninth edition of Africa's biggest reality series Big Brother Africa kicks off in September and fans are already asking who the new housemates be, who will find their names and their faces gracing newspapers, who will become the subject of drive-time radio and just who will find themselves trending on all social media platforms. Unlike previous years, this year's entry process is slightly different as potential housemates are invited to come in their numbers for auditions in their respective country venues. Auditions will take place at venue on date. AfricaMagic has always been associated with unearthing, nurturing and recognising talent from around the continent and Big Brother Africa is one of the shows that have become known for transforming ordinary citizens into stars. "We are very grateful and remain pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming response that the show has been receiving over the years. We look forward to the selection of our potential housemates coming in large numbers to auditions at the specified venues and take that chance at being the next Big Brother star," says M-Net Africa Regional Director (West Africa) Wangi Wa- Uzoukwu . "The fact that the fans truly adore the show is all the motivation we need to keep it fresh and that is always made possible by the enthusiastic and fun-loving young Africans who will answer to Big Brother. We are rearing to go and we know that this will definitely be another exciting season that is full of quality entertainment!" she adds. Her sentiments are echoed by Endemol MD Sivan Pillay who says, "We have been producing this series for M-Net for a number of seasons now and as partners, together we have seen this show grow to the phenomenon that it has become. We hope the season will be even better as we strive to improve on our offering season after season. We will not hold back on the quality and exciting unpredictability that has become synonymous with Big Brother Africa. Audiences and fans can expect yet another high quality production and of course, another group of fun-loving housemates who will keep you guessing on who will be left standing come day 91." MultiChoice Africa CEO Nico Meyer says: "As MultiChoice Africa we are always pleased to welcome each new season of Big Brother Africa onto our platforms and we applaud its amazing success and ability to bring together audiences from all across the continent. The inclusion of Rwanda in this season is even more exciting as this displays that our reach and growth into the various sub-Saharan markets is going from strength to strength. We look forward to seeing further growth as well as the impressive social media presence that the show enjoys." All persons over the age of 21, who are citizens of one of the participating countries and have a valid passport, can enter Big Brother Africa 9. If you are open-minded, bold and adventurous, that's even better! Previous editions of Big Brother Africa have boasted huge cash prizes for winners and this it is no different as the prize money is $300 000. Remember, entries are open to the following 14 countries: Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Big Brother Africa 9 will be screened live 24/7 on DStv channels 197 and 198 while GOtv audiences will see highlights of the show, which begins on Sunday, 7 September and is scheduled to run for 91 days. Big Brother Africa is produced by Endemol SA. Audition Details - Botswana - Gabarone (Cresta President Hotel): 4 and 5 July 2014 - Ethiopia - Addis Ababa (Capital Hotel and Spa): 30 June 2014 - Ghana - Accra (Holiday Inn Hotel Airport): 5 and 6 July 2014 - Kenya - Nairobi, The Hilton Nairobi: 3 and 4 July 2014 - Malawi - Lilongwe (The Crossroads Hotel): 30 June and 1 July 2014 - Namibia - Windhoek (Hilton Hotel): 8 and 9 July 2014 - Nigeria - Lagos (Protea Hotel Leadway, Ikeja): 30 June and 1 July 2014 - Rwanda - Kigali (The Lemigo Hotel) 9 July 2014 - Sierra Leone - Free Town (The Country Lodge Complex): 9 July 2014 - South Africa - Johannesburg (The Pyramid Venue and Conference Center): 30 June and 1 July 2014 - Tanzania - Dar Es Salaam (New Africa Hotel): 11 and 12 July 2014 - Uganda - Kampala (Sheraton Hotel): 7 and 8 July 2014 - Zambia - Lusaka (InterContinental Hotel): 4 and 5 July 2014 - Zimbabwe - Harare (The Meikles Hotel): 12 and 13 July 2014

P-Square attends May D's birthday party

P-Square attends May D's birthday party P-Square, Phyno, Kayswitch, YQ, and DJ Jimmy Jatt were among the celebs who attended May D's birthday on December 28th at Doll House in Lagos.

Justin Bieber And Selena Gomez Spotted On Segway Date: Has Biebs Won His Ex Back?

Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez were spotted riding segways in Sherman Oaks yesterday near Biebs' home, with rumours immediately suggesting that the pair may have managed to rekindle their romance and new reports now suggest that the on/off lovebird's romance meeting came after Justin spent the holidays trying to get his ex GF back. Justin and Selena were snapped together yesterday in Biebs' gated community in Calabasas and after spending months apart, it seems like Justin has finally gotten his way and reportedly managed to woo Gomez back. Selena and Justin are snapped on segways together (WENN) “During the holidays, Justin played on the emotions they have for each other and worked them to his advantage because who wants to be alone during the holidays?” a source tells HollywoodLife. They added: “Selena accepted his advances and invitations. She should really watch out though, he is definitely interested in Selena but not for all the right and gentleman type reasons.” Are Justin and Selena back together? (WENN) Justin may be riding ahead of the Come & Get It babe in the photo, but it seems like despite seemingly playing hard to get yesterday, the Baby superstar didn't waste any time in inviting the brunette over to his house when he knew that she was in town. “Justin started to invite her over when he knew she would be in town, now that she is taking time for herself,” the source reveals. “This isn’t the first time they have hung out recently at his place.”

So much for those "retirement" tweets: Justin Bieber reportedly has been spending his holiday working on new music in Toronto with producer Douglas Romanow. On New Year's Day, the producer tweeteda picture of himself and Bieber working in Romanow's Noble Street Studios. "Justin Bieber's retirement rumors are greatly exaggerated," he wrote, using the hashtag # bieberintoronto. "I've been recording him in Toronto." Justin Bieber and the Top Teen Idol Breakout Moments This, of course, proves that Bieber's recent promises about quitting the music industry were tongue-in-cheek. "My beloved beliebers I'm officially retiring," he tweeted on Christmas Eve, echoing a similar statement made during an interview with Power 106 radio. Only 45 minutes later, he followed with another tweetthat attacked the media's deception, while also telling his followers, "I'm never leaving you, being a belieber is a lifestyle." He then concluded with a Christmas-related tweet, adding "IM HERE FOREVER," and eventually transitioned back into promoting his latest movie,Believe, which opened on Christmas Day. Bieber's confusing Twitter spectacle was a fitting end to a year filled with bizarre PR disasters and awkward encounters. Earlier in 2013, he dealt with a backlash after appearing in a pot-smoking photo, passing outduring a London performance (while also threatening a photographer), making a highly inappropriate commentafter touring the Anne Frank house and defacing a photo of former president Bill Clinton. He also reserved a string of fiascos for his South American tour, during which he was charged for graffitiin Brazil, appeared in a bizarre videoof him sleeping next to a woman and defiled the Argentine flagduring a live performance. At least he has his musical mentor, Usher, on his side. "The beautiful part about it is that those that are invested in a long-term story, you understand that there are peaks and valleys in every person's life some," the R&B star recently told the Associated Press. "Unfortunately, the reality is he has to live with a camera in front of him, but what he chooses to do on or off camera is analyzed or scrutinized in some off way."

Kardashian and boyfriend, named 2013 worst celebrity neighbours

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West have been named as the worst neighbours of 2013 in a new survey. The TV personality, Kardashian, and her rapper boyfriend, West, topped the list of celebrities Americans would rather not have as neighbours, according to a survey by real estate blog, Zillow. On the site’s annual Celebrity Neighbour Survey, one quarter of respondents claimed the couple, which is engaged to be married, made for the Worst Neighbours of 2013, bumping them up from second place last year. A mere two per cent of the Americans surveyed said they would enjoy living next to West and Kardashian in 2014. “No one wants to live next door to a family who has cameras following them everywhere and seems to seek out as much attention as possible,” Zillow Chief Marketing Officer Amy Bohutinsky said. “However, with more than one-third of surveyed Americans preferring a non-celebrity neighbour, what remains clear is that many people don’t want to live next to any celebrity, regardless of why they are famous.”According to the blog, though, those averse to West and Kardashian likely won’t have them for a neighbour unless they live next to the Bel-Air home the couple bought earlier this year. But outside of Bel-Air, prospective home owners are apparently also steering clear of homes next to music celebrities: Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus, and Lady Gaga. The most desirable celebrity to live next to in 2013 was comedian, Jimmy Fallon, according to the survey. Eleven per cent of respondents said the Late Night host would make for an acceptable neighbour. Other popular prospective neighbours include Country music couple, Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton and Basketball star, Lebron James. Zillow, however, did not disclose how many people responded to its survey. In another development, Kardashian on Sunday posted a picture of a miniature black Lamborghini West bought for their six-month-old daughter, North West, for Christmas. The mini black sports car is an exact replica of West’s $750,000 car, and has the same paint finish. Kim posted the snap under the caption: “Like father, like daughter.” Kim Kardashian: A controversial beauty Kimberly Noel ‘Kim” Kardashian, better known as Kim Kardashian is a name that has garnered a lot of fame, albeit, controversially. Born October 21, 1980, the gorgeous American TV personality, actress and entrepreneur came into prominence through her then-friendship with Paris Hilton, the great-granddaughter of Conrad Hilton, the founder of Hilton Hotels and later, through a leaked scandalous sex tape showcasing her sexual exploits with her then-boyfriend, Ray J. Kardashian is also known for her successful workout videos and lavish lifestyle. The sexy celebrity was born in Los Angeles, California to parents, Kris (née Houghton) and Robert Kardashian. Her parents divorced in 1991 and her mother remarried to the 1976 Summer Olympics decathlon winner, Bruce Jenner, the same year. As a teenager, she attended Marymount High School, a Roman Catholic all-girls school in Los Angeles. In 1994, her father garnered public attention as the primary defence lawyer for football player, O.J. Simpson, during his murder trial. Robert died of esophageal cancer in September 2003. Kardashian married music producer, Damon Thomas, at age 20. Thomas filed for divorce in 2003, though Kardashian later credited their separation to physical and emotional abuse on his part. Prior to the finalisation of her divorce, Kardashian began dating singer, Ray J. In February 2007, the controversial sex tape made by Kardashian and Ray J in 2003 was leaked. Kardashian filed a lawsuit against Vivid Entertainment, which distributed the film as Kim K Superstar, and later dropped the suit and settled for $5m. In the same year her sex tape leaked to the public, Kardashian and her family were commissioned to star in the reality television series, Keeping Up with the Kardashians. Its success has led to the creation of spin-offs including Kourtney and Kim Take New York and Kourtney and Kim Take Miami. In 2010, Kardashian was named the highest-paid reality television personality, with estimated earnings of $6m.Celebri tynetworth.comput Kardashian’s networth at $40m as at 2013. The celebrity also co-owns a garments boutique named “D-A-S-H” with her sisters, and has released a range of clothing lines and fragrances, which prove her entrepreneurial abilities. In May 2011, she became engaged to NBA player, Kris Humphries, then of the New Jersey Nets, whom she had been dating since October 2010. They were married in an extravagant wedding ceremony on August 20, 2013 in California. At the wedding, Kardashian donned a $2.5m 65 carat sparkling diamond headpiece by Lorraine Schwartz, a $2m 20.5 carat diamond engagement ring, and 28 carat diamond earrings worth $5m. In all, she was wearing well over $10m worth of jewellery on her big day. Not to mention the $150,000 she spent on hair and makeup. After 72 days of marriage, Kardashian filed for divorce from Humphries, citing irreconcilable differences. Several news outlets surmised that Kardashian’s marriage to Humphries was merely a publicity stunt, to promote the Kardashian family’s brand and their subsequent television ventures. It was even said that Kardashian would do anything to stay in the news. It was later revealed that she had been dating American rapper, Kanye West, while she was legally married to Humphries. Kardashian is still dating West, with whom she has a daughter, North. The couple are engaged and planning to soon get married. A few days after Christmas, the couple were sighted along with some of Kardashian’s family members, catching a private jet to an exclusive ski resort in Aspen for vacation. Kardashian and West are often seen by the media and the public as two of a kind, with their extravagant lifestyles. Apart from being a rapper, West is also a famous producer as he rose in fame as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records. Recently, West bought two armoured vehicles said to have cost $1.2m each to protect Kardashian and their baby daughter. The public had wondered if the couple had received kidnapping threats due to their high profile status. Kardashian and West also purchased a house reportedly worth $11m earlier last year. As part of the renovation process, the interior of the entire mansion has been torn down and plans are afoot to increase the total living space from 10,000 square feet to 14,000 square feet. The mansion is currently undergoing renovations which include ripping out wrought iron staircases, chandeliers and fittings – to make way for a more modern feel to their home. West’s tastes meant additional costs for gold-plated bogs worth $487,000 and luxury beds worth $75,000.The couple plan to add top of the line luxury amenities like a basketball court, bowling alley, hair and makeup salon, movie theatre, fitness centre, baby nursery and indoor swimming pool in the future. The couple were recently singled out by President Obama for their opulent lifestyle warping the American dream. The pretty actress seems to be quite fond of expensive cars, as, she owns a bunch of them. Kardashian bought a white Ferrari 458 Italia in 2011 for a hefty $325,000, adding up another classy ride to her existing pricey collection. She also owns a 2010 Maserati GranTurismo, a Convertible Bentley GTC Continental, a 4.8-litre twin-turbo V8 Porsche Panamera Turbo, a 2010 Range Rover. She once owned a white Rolls Royce Ghost which was subsequently traded for a newer model and black coloured Rolls Royce Phantom Series II car in December 2012 for $405,000. Kardashian bought her 2013 Mercedes G63, worth $150,000, when the posh vehicle was yet to be released or even reached showrooms. The beauty wasted no time in bragging about her new purchase to her fans on the social media, tweeting ‘Got the first one!’ along with pictures of the vehicle. Kardashian also enjoys vacationing as she has been sighted in tourist destinations like La Romana in Dominican Republic, charming Paradise Island in the Bahamas, Punta Mita in Mexico and Anguilla, a Caribbean Island. She has often been spotted on several occasions carrying Hermes Birkin bag, which is her favourite bag brand. An avid bag collector, Kardashian owns a collection of bags, with estimated price in millions of dollars. She once went shopping with her mother, while she was in Paris, where they spent more than $100,000 purchasing seven Hermes bags including an infrequent “crocodile skin version”, at one of the brand’s boutique

Tonto Dikeh Voted MostBeautiful & Social Actress of2013

Poko Winning! Give it up for the most beautiful actress in 2013 – Tonto Dikeh. It has been an amazing year for the Nollywood superstar; dusting herself from depression, she got everyone buzzing with her songs, movies and relationship status. Today the actress took to Twitter to thank everyone who voted for her. We are not sure where the voting took place but Poko was happy for the honour. She also got the title of the social actress of 2013.

The Headies extravaganza!

The Headies 2013 has come and gone but the memories still linger, perhaps till the next edition. Expectedly, it was an evening of glamour, tension, joy and of course music and more music. Saturday Beats brings you the details of the awards held in Lagos last week. As usual, late start Those who had expected that the event would start at the scheduled time, at least for once in its eight years of existence, were disappointed. It was totally absurd that an event scheduled to start by 6pm after an hour red carpet, didn’t kick off until about 11pm. Not a few were upset about that given the fact that the following day wasn’t a work free day. The event lasted till 2.15am the next day. Against all odds, the occasion turned out to be splendid with most of the guests beaming with smiles while leaving the hall. Technical hitches here and there There were embarrassing technical hitches that could have been easily avoided. The teleprompter wasn’t so cooperative, thereby putting presenters in a fix. On several occasions, there were technical difficulties with the sound and more often, visuals had problems as well. Burna Boy burns During the show, the host, Dr. Sid made a joke about Burna Boy and a camera man quickly caught the dark-skinned singer laughing. However, his countenance changed when he was not announced the winner of the Next Rated Award. The young man looked as if he was ‘burning’ with anger. It was alleged that he stormed out of the awards angrily. Sean Tizzle wins big, forms ‘political party’ Rave of the moment, Sean Tizzle was simply ecstatic. Anyway, who would blame him, winning the Next Rated category automatically made him a proud owner of a brand newHyundai Tucson SUV. Receiving his award, the excited young man prostrated as a sign of thanking his fans. He jokingly said that he was forming his own political party, STPP ‘Sean Tizzle Political party’. The energetic KSB Looking lovely in her flowing white attire, Kenny Saint Best’s smile only complemented her looks. She looked really bubbly and energetic that night as she accompanied Jaywon to pick his award. That was not all. When Mode9 was announced winner of a category, KSB got more excited than even the winner would have been. She jumped up as she heard his name and continued clapping hoping to stop when the rapper showed up. He never did. Efe Omoreigbe picked the award on his behalf. Olamide and Phyno, two musketeers Both known to be good friends, the two rappers won at the award night with Olamide taking three awards home. Their Ghost Mode fetched them an award at the Headies. And when they performed the song at the event, so many people appreciated them more and felt it was a well deserved award. Davido and his 10-man team Who doesn’t know Davido? The young man has become a household name in just a few years he joined the industry. Now, Davido has grown so ‘big’ that he has chosen to surround himself with numerous bodyguards. He had not less than 10 guys surrounding him that night. He also won an award at the event and the stage had to be cleared because he was expected to come with his large entourage. He did not disappoint as he came on stage with about nine other people to get his award. Blackmagic makes speedy recovery Dark-skinned singer Blackmagic was not present when he was called upon to receive his award. However, towards the end of the event, he showed up. He told the audience that he was ill and came to receive the award from his sick bed. He also said that was his first award and he dedicated it to his mother and fans. Nikki Laoye goes emotional She went off the music scene for about two years due to her father’s death. While receiving her award, Nikki Laoye said she went into depression when her father died and dedicated the award to her late father. She sang a song to God and also dedicated her awards to her husband and producer brother. Once again, KSB was present to support her. The distinctive Clarence Peters From his works, you would deduce that the video director is one that strives to be unique. He won in the Video Director of the Year category where he had two entries. He was the only one that had two entries in one category. Winners’ list Best Recording of the Year This Year – Jaywon Producer of the Year DTunes – Sho Lee Best Music Video Alingo – Jude Okoye/Clarence Peters Best R&B/Pop Album O.B.O. – Davido Best R&B Single Good Good Loving – Banky W Best Pop Single Ihe Ne Me – 2Face Idibia Best Reggae/Dancehall Single I Wish – Waje Best Rap Album YBNL – Olamide Best Collabo Ghost Mode – Phyno feat. Olamide Best Rap Single Man of the Year – Phyno Best Vocal Performance (Male) Rich & Famous – Praiz Best Vocal Performance (Female) Only You – Nikki Laoye Next Rated Sean Tizzle - Hip Hop World Revelation Omo Baba Olowo – Davido Lyricist on the Roll Mode 9 – Let It Go Best Street-Hop Artiste Durosoke – Olamide Best Alternative Song Repete – Black Magic Album of the Year YBNL – Olamide Artiste of the Year Iyanya Song of the Year Limpopo – Kcee Most Downloaded Callertune Harrysong – Mandela

Terry G is ANGRY: “I Wasn’tStoned On Stage” | Find OutWhy!

Terry G is shutting down rumours that he was injured when he recently took to the stage to perform. The Nigerian music star was billed to perform alongside Ice Prince and J Martins at the IBB Square, Malkurdi, Benue for a show. After Ice Prince wowed the crowd, it was time for the always energized performer to rock the stage. According to his publicist, after he performed his songs – Free Madness and Akpako Bombom, the anxious fans at the event were already crossing the barricade erected by the security officials. But by the time he delivered a fan favourite – Halleluyah, his overzealous fans who clearly love him as an indigene of the state, trooped to the stage and efforts by the security personnel to push them back resulted in a very physical protest. While the security continued to hit the protesting crowd, they responded by throwing objects back at them. This immediately prompted organizers of the event, to move Terry G, his crew and the other artistes from the scene. Due to this, J Martins couldn’t perform. “It is simply impossible for my fans, not even in my state where I’m being treated like a King to throw stones at me or chase me out of the stage, it’s not realistic. The problem was purely between the security guys and the audience, but for security reasons, I and the other artistes have to be taken out of the scene. Whoever is spreading the rumour that I was stoned is simply ignorant of what happened.”

FG Will Not Generate PoliciesThat Will Cause Hardship ForNigerians- Jonathan

The Federal Government will not bring about policies that will cause hardship of Nigerians, President Goodluck Jonathan said on Friday. The President who was speaking in reference to the proposed automobile policy which will see the ban of second hand cars also known as tokunbo cars, also noted that the policy was not meant to cause hardship for Nigerians but to create jobs through local assembling of cars. Mr. Jonathan who was speaking to a 40 man delegation of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEA) led by their President Musa Isiwele, commended them on the acceptance of the new auto policy of government stating that "you are the most important body. I'm pleased with your position, we cannot come up with policy that will punish Nigerians else I will abort it immediately". He noted that Nigerian currently losses $4 billion to importation of cars but by the time that is spent on assembling and manufacturing it will create jobs . The President also noted that greatness of the country was not in the abundance of its oil, but in its diversity and this must be exploited to the maximum to develop the country. Thanking them for the role they played during the 2011 elections he noted that according to the RTEAN President's speech Attempting to be an enemy to RTEAN is suicidal because "you can stop people from going to vote". The association presented a centenary card to the President and decorated him with the title of Great Grand Patron of the RTEAN . In his speech the chairman said, in a resolve to partner with the FG ,the RTEAN Plans to create 1.5mil jobs nationwide for young people in the next one year. He said already the association had flagged off a special mass transit scheme of 4,000 units of exotic brands of taxis and commercial buses/ vehicles as part of efforts to support the efforts of govt to achieve safe, comfortable and effective road transport service delivery. The RTEAN, he said has also embarked on construction of world class transit parks and drivers academy to further give capacity to the transport operators. With over 16million members nationwide, the chairman said the association has already embarked on 1000 units of mass housing projects for members as well discussions with banks and other partners for the provision of suitable vehicle funding schemes, to enable members access funds to purchase brand new vehicles. The association announced its intention to advance the automotive industry and to allow the development of local manufacturing capacities for assembling of Nigerian Vehicles thereby halting further depletion of the nation's foreign reserves of about $4.2billion (N670 billion) spent annually by Nigerians to import cars. "Our association is in full support of this policy". They demanded for the FG's Concessionary Sovereign Guarantee for loans and Tarriff waivers on all vehicles imported by RTEAN. The association also demanded Land Allocation for the establishment of world class ultra- modern transit motor parks in each geopolitical zones of the federation with 3 to be established in Abuja to further add value to the FCT. The RTEAN also demanded an Immediate release of land allocation for construction of corporate headquarters in Abuja and operators licences by the FCT minister to be able to operate all modes of transport services in the FCT as demanded by the FCTA transport policy. They further demanded for the establishment of Transport Development Bank (TDB) by the FG to address critical transport infrastructures development challenges and create unhindered access to financing at relatively friendly concessionary rates . The association also requested for the inclusion of members of RTEAN in the relevant boards of MDAS. In response the President promised to talk to the state governors involved in the economic management team because to work with the RTEAN to ensure that the country has world class parks across. The President also directed the SGF to incorporate the union in all programmes in the centenary celebration. He encouraged them to be part of the upcoming national dialogue.

Top Nigerian Celebrities WhoWalked Down the Aisle In 2013

More than other years gone by, 2013 has been a splendid year for our celebrities. The entertainment industry which has been known to house too many singles who were scared of marriage, suddenly took a new turn, as quite a number of them did say “yes I do” in the year. Annie Macurlay and Tuface Idibia To mention just a few, we will start with Nollywood Annie Macurlay and pop icon, Tuface Idibia. Theirs was of course, a marriage meant to happen as both have known each other way back in the days. Their love tango started when Tuface was still hustling which resulted into Annie having a daughter for him. Years down the line, even after Tuface had had other relationships which also resulted into several others children out of wedlock, he decided to make Annie his wife. So, they both said I Do to each other in what could be termed a fairy tale wedding. Peter Okoye and Lola Omotayo Although Lola is older than Peter, he didn’t mind. Their relationship had also spanned into years which produced a boy and a girl, after which the duo decided to legalise it this year. Their traditional marriage took place at the Ark in Lekki, Lagos. Tunji Balogun and Tiwa Savage Tunji was first her manager until the story turned around into what we are seeing today. They made their relationship known when Tunji gave her a kiss on a red carpet during an event. This sent tongues wagging, especially when news filtered in that Tunji was already married with two kids. Despite the controversy, they had their traditional marriage just last month, November, the white wedding comes up next year, 2013. OAP Matse Uwatse and Ekemelu Nnoli After years of waiting patiently, ex Wazobia FM On Air Personality, Matse finally hooked her hubby, Ekemelu Nnoli in July. Afterwards, Matse has gone public with how thankful she is being married to her boo at a time when most people thought was impossible for her to get married. Toyin Aimakhu and Niyi Johnson Toyin is a popular Yoruba actress while Niyi has his base in soap operas. The couple tied the knot on July 8 at a registry in Lagos as Toyin was already pregnant. The wedding was a quiet one as her fans and colleague.

Celebrities Marriages thatCrashed in 2013

It is no longer news how celebrities break up their much talked about marriage after a few months of walking down the aisles but what is disturbing is how it is becoming the norm of the day among celebrities in Nigeria. Princess Oluwadamilola Adekoya: Aka Princess was born on May 8 in Lagos to Late Architect and Pastor Mrs Adekoya. She is the first of two children. She is a seasoned compere, producer of the movie - 'The Unsaid' in 2009, has an annual show since 2005 is tagged 'Shades of Comedy' and other shows like 'Incest Must Stop!' and 'Dance with Princess'. She got married on her birthday this year, May 8 to Adeshola Jeremiah. Unfortunately, the wedding well attended by colleagues like AY, Basketmouth, Koffi, Elenu has crashed after 7 months. According to the chubby comedienne, the seperation was due to “irreconcilable differences”. Funke Akindele: Akindele Olufunke Ayotunde popularly known as Funke Akindele, born August 24, 1976 in Ikorodu, Lagos State is an award winning celebrated actress. Though the Jenifa star actress is back to doing what she loves most, her glamorous marriage to a polygamist, Kehinde (Kenny) Oloyede Almaroof on May 26, 2012 also crashed 14 months after. On Monday July 15 2013, Kenny announced to his facebook friends that his marriage to Funke is over. He claimed she is the greatest mistake he’s made in recent times. After an initial denial on Wednesday July 17 2013, Funke confirmed the split on Friday July 19, 2013 through a message from her publicist. However, other celebrities who has had their shares of failed marriages are Laide Bakare, Joseph Benjamin, Chika Ike, Foluke Daramola, Kate Henshaw, Eucharia Anunobi, Saheed and Fathia Balogun, Shan George, Hilda Dokuba. Though, there are some remarkable marriages that have stood the times of test and weathered the storm over the years like Olu and Joke Sylva, Omotola and Kehinde Ekeinde, Tunde and Wunmi Obe, Zach Orji, Ramsey Noah and Emike Phillips Noah, Emeka and Emma Ike, Patrick and Ireti Doyle.

Celebrities Marriages thatCrashed in 2013

It is no longer news how celebrities break up their much talked about marriage after a few months of walking down the aisles but what is disturbing is how it is becoming the norm of the day among celebrities in Nigeria. Princess Oluwadamilola Adekoya: Aka Princess was born on May 8 in Lagos to Late Architect and Pastor Mrs Adekoya. She is the first of two children. She is a seasoned compere, producer of the movie - 'The Unsaid' in 2009, has an annual show since 2005 is tagged 'Shades of Comedy' and other shows like 'Incest Must Stop!' and 'Dance with Princess'. She got married on her birthday this year, May 8 to Adeshola Jeremiah. Unfortunately, the wedding well attended by colleagues like AY, Basketmouth, Koffi, Elenu has crashed after 7 months. According to the chubby comedienne, the seperation was due to “irreconcilable differences”. Funke Akindele: Akindele Olufunke Ayotunde popularly known as Funke Akindele, born August 24, 1976 in Ikorodu, Lagos State is an award winning celebrated actress. Though the Jenifa star actress is back to doing what she loves most, her glamorous marriage to a polygamist, Kehinde (Kenny) Oloyede Almaroof on May 26, 2012 also crashed 14 months after. On Monday July 15 2013, Kenny announced to his facebook friends that his marriage to Funke is over. He claimed she is the greatest mistake he’s made in recent times. After an initial denial on Wednesday July 17 2013, Funke confirmed the split on Friday July 19, 2013 through a message from her publicist. However, other celebrities who has had their shares of failed marriages are Laide Bakare, Joseph Benjamin, Chika Ike, Foluke Daramola, Kate Henshaw, Eucharia Anunobi, Saheed and Fathia Balogun, Shan George, Hilda Dokuba. Though, there are some remarkable marriages that have stood the times of test and weathered the storm over the years like Olu and Joke Sylva, Omotola and Kehinde Ekeinde, Tunde and Wunmi Obe, Zach Orji, Ramsey Noah and Emike Phillips Noah, Emeka and Emma Ike, Patrick and Ireti Doyle.

Swift most charitable celebrity

Country-pop singer, Taylor Swift has been announced as the most charitable celebrity of 2013 by dosomething.org in their annual list. This is Swift's second year with the title. Some of her charitable deeds include a $100, 000 donation to the Nashville Symphony and headlining a benefit as well as a number of hospital visits. The runners-up for the title are the boys of One Direction (don't miss One Direction: Up All Night Live on MTV at 13:45 CAT on Wednesday, 1 January 2014) in second and then Beyonce. In other news, it seems fans of popstar, Justin Bieber are confused about if he is retiring from music or not. After being quoted in an interview about quitting music and then saying he was just kidding, Bieber has taken to Twitter. He tweeted on Christmas Eve, "Officially retiring.". Shortly afterward, however, he tweeted that he was "never leaving", adding "I'm here forever". So, do you think Bieber is just joking or really thinking of calling it quits? We have one final question, are Demi Lovato and Wilmer Valderrama engaged? Valderrama purchased a ring from Tiffany in November and rumors were that he would propose over Christmas. No words of an engagement announcement yet, but we're waiting to see what happens.