Pope Leo XIV Expresses Concern Over Persistent Attacks in Central Nigeria

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February 9, 2026

Pope Leo XIV has issued a heartfelt plea for peace and security in Nigeria following a recent surge in killings in Kwara, Katsina, and Benue states. According to The Guardian, the Pontiff described the reports of violence as “deeply troubling” and urged the Nigerian government to do more to protect the lives and property of its citizens. The message, delivered via his official social media channels, emphasized his closeness to the victims and their families during this period of grief.

Reporting by Vanguard indicates that the Pope’s intervention comes at a time of heightened anxiety in rural communities where abductions and communal clashes have escalated. The Pontiff expressed hope that “the competent authorities will continue to work with determination to ensure the safety of every citizen.” Daily Post validated the report, quoting a local bishop who said: “The Holy Father’s words are a balm to our people, but we need the government’s actions to match his prayers.”

In an update published by The Punch, several civil society organizations have echoed the Pope’s call, demanding a more proactive approach from the security agencies. A representative from a human rights group noted, “The Pope’s global call for attention should be a wake-up call to our leadership that the world is watching the deteriorating situation in the North-Central zone.” This development puts added international pressure on the Tinubu administration to deliver on its security promises.

Echotitbits take:

The Pope’s involvement elevates the security situation in Nigeria’s Middle Belt to a global humanitarian level. It increases the pressure on the Nigerian government to show tangible results in these specific regions, which are critical for food security. Watch for a potential redeployment of specialized military units to the Benue and Kwara axes in response to this international spotlight.

Source: AfricaNews – https://www.africanews.com/2026/02/08/catholic-pope-leo-xiv-calls-for-an-end-to-violence-in-nigeria/, February 9, 2026

Photo credit: Los Angeles Times

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Nigeria and China Strengthen Ties via Cultural Exchange

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Bob Echols’s

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February 9, 2026

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Nigeria and China have reaffirmed their commitment to bilateral cooperation through the 2026 Wushu Cultural Exchange and Chinese New Year celebration in Abuja. According to The Punch, the event served as a platform to deepen “people-to-people” relations, using martial arts as a bridge for cultural understanding. The Nigeria Wushu Kungfu Association emphasized that such exchanges are vital for fostering mutual respect and shared values between the two nations.

Reporting by Leadership indicates that the exchange is part of a wider diplomatic strategy to enhance cooperation beyond economics and infrastructure into the realm of soft power and sports. The event featured demonstrations by school children and professional athletes, showcasing the discipline and philosophy of Wushu. Daily Trust validated the event, quoting a Chinese embassy official: “Our friendship is rooted not just in trade, but in the shared heartbeat of our cultures and traditions.”

In an update published by The Nation, the Nigerian government expressed interest in incorporating Wushu into school sports curriculums to promote physical fitness and discipline. A representative from the Ministry of Youth and Sports stated, “This cultural bridge provides our youth with new perspectives and opportunities for global engagement.” The celebration also coincided with the Lunar New Year, highlighting the growing Chinese community and influence in Nigeria.

Echotitbits take:

While China is often seen through the lens of infrastructure loans, this move toward “soft power” indicates a desire for more sustainable, long-term social integration. It is a strategic move to soften the image of Chinese involvement in Africa. Watch for more educational and cultural exchange programs being rolled out in Nigerian universities later this year.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/nigeria-china-deepen-cultural-ties-through-martial-arts/, February 9, 2026

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Manufacturing Sector Accesses N68.7 Trillion in Bank Loans

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February 9, 2026

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New data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reveals that manufacturers have accessed a staggering N68.7 trillion in credit facilities over the last nine months. According to The Guardian, this surge in lending is part of a broader effort to stimulate industrial growth and reduce the country’s dependence on imports. The loans are reportedly being utilized for facility upgrades, raw material acquisition, and expansion of production lines across various sub-sectors.

In an update published by ThisDay, the CBN noted that while credit access has improved, the manufacturing sector still faces significant hurdles, including high interest rates and energy costs. The report highlights that the apex bank is working on further interventions to ensure that the credit results in tangible GDP growth. BusinessDay validated the report, quoting a manufacturer: “While the volume of credit is high, the cost of servicing these loans remains a heavy burden on our margins.”

Reporting by Tribune indicates that the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called for more specialized windows for long-term, low-interest funding. A MAN representative stated, “Access to credit is only one half of the equation; we need a stable power supply and better infrastructure to make this capital truly productive.” This highlights the ongoing tension between financial liquidity and the ease of doing business in Nigeria.

Echotitbits take:

The massive credit injection into manufacturing is a gamble on the sector’s ability to drive Nigeria’s economic recovery. However, with inflation still a concern, the “high borrowing costs” mentioned by MAN could lead to a cycle of debt if production doesn’t scale rapidly. Watch for the next GDP report to see if this N68.7 trillion translates into a manufacturing-led growth spike.

Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/news/manufacturers-access-n68-7tr-bank-loans-in-nine-months-says-cbn/, February 9, 2026

Photo credit: The Guardian

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Customs Intercepts N3.3 Billion Contraband in South-West Operations

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Bob Echols’s

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February 9, 2026

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The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a significant breakthrough in its anti-smuggling campaign, seizing contraband valued at N3.32 billion within the last five weeks. According to Vanguard, the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’ in Ikeja, intercepted 144 smuggling attempts across the South-West corridor. The seized items include prohibited pharmaceutical products, foreign parboiled rice, and environmentally hazardous waste such as used refrigerator compressors.

Reporting by Daily Post indicates that the operations also yielded the rescue of four live pangolins, highlighting the Service’s role in wildlife protection. The Customs Area Controller noted that the seizures were made possible through intelligence-led operations and increased surveillance at border points. Leadership validated these claims, quoting the Controller who said: “Our officers remain vigilant against those who seek to undermine our economy and the health of our citizens through illicit trade.”

In an update published by The Nation, the NCS confirmed that several suspects were apprehended during the raids and are currently assisting with investigations. The report cited a spokesperson from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), who praised the synergy between the agencies: “The collaboration between Customs and NDLEA is crucial in choking the supply chains of narcotics and dangerous substances entering the country.”

Echotitbits take:

The sheer volume of these seizures reflects both the persistence of smugglers and the increasing effectiveness of the Customs Service’s tactical units. The inclusion of wildlife and hazardous waste shows a broadening of the NCS mandate beyond just revenue collection. Watch for a possible hike in the price of certain black-market goods as these supply routes remain under heavy pressure.

Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/customs-intercepts-144-smuggling-attempts-seizes-n3-3bn-contraband/, February 9, 2026

Photo credit: Vanguard

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President Tinubu and US AFRICOM Chief Hold Critical Security Talks

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February 9, 2026

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President Bola Tinubu met with the Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja to discuss deepening military cooperation. According to The Punch, the high-level meeting focused on regional stability and the expanding role of technology in counter-terrorism operations following recent strikes on insurgent camps. The discussions highlighted the strategic partnership between Nigeria and the U.S. in addressing the evolving threats in the Sahel and West Africa.

Figures cited by Premium Times show that the visit comes on the heels of reports indicating that insurgent groups like ISWAP have begun deploying more sophisticated technology, including armed drones, against Nigerian troops. General Anderson’s visit is seen as a commitment to intelligence sharing and tactical support. Channels TV validated the meeting, quoting a State House source who noted: “The partnership aims to leverage U.S. technical expertise to bolster Nigeria’s homegrown security architecture.”

Validation from The Guardian also highlighted the presence of top Nigerian security chiefs, including the National Security Adviser and the Chief of Defence Staff. The report cited General Anderson saying, “The United States remains committed to a secure and prosperous Nigeria, which is central to the stability of the entire continent.” This diplomatic engagement underscores the administration’s intent to professionalize the military and integrate global best practices into local operations.

Echotitbits take:

This meeting signifies a deepening of military ties at a time when Nigeria faces new-age threats like drone warfare from ISWAP. The involvement of AFRICOM suggests that Nigeria might soon receive more advanced surveillance and counter-drone technology. Watch for a possible announcement regarding new hardware acquisitions or training programs for the Nigerian Air Force.

Source: Arise – https://www.arise.tv/tinubu-meets-africom-commander-us-envoy-to-discuss-security-cooperation/, February 9, 2026

Photo credit: Arise

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Nnamdi Kanu Permanently Ends South-East Sit-At-Home Directive

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Bob Echols’s

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February 9, 2026

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The outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced the definitive termination of the controversial Monday sit-at-home order across Nigeria’s South-east region. According to Premium Times, the group’s leader, Nnamdi Kanu, issued the directive from detention, declaring the cessation of the weekly exercise effective Monday, February 9, 2026. The move is intended to allow for the full restoration of economic activities, educational pursuits, and freedom of movement for residents of the zone.

Reporting by The Nation indicates that IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, clarified that anyone attempting to enforce a sit-at-home hereafter is acting against Kanu’s direct wishes and will be treated as an enemy of the people. The statement emphasized that there is no longer any justification for the paralyzing weekly lockdowns, which have severely hampered the region’s productivity over the past few years.

In an update published by The Punch, security agencies have been urged to provide maximum protection for citizens as they resume their normal Monday routines. The publication notes that “the total cancellation is a necessary step to stop the intimidation of our people and ensure that schools and markets can operate without fear.” Validation from Vanguard further confirms this shift, quoting a regional security analyst who stated, “This move, if respected by all factions, could be the turning point for the South-east’s struggling economy.”

Echotitbits take:

The cessation of the sit-at-home is a significant relief for the South-east’s fragile economy, which has lost billions of Naira to these weekly closures. However, the real test lies in the enforcement; security forces must ensure that splinter groups or “enforcers” do not continue to terrorize citizens who choose to come out. Watch for whether the Monday morning bustling returns to major markets in Aba, Onitsha, and Enugu today.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/ipob-orders-total-cancellation-of-sit-at-home-in-south-east/, February 9, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

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2Baba Crowns Burna Boy Global King of Afrobeats Above Wizkid and Davido

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February 8, 2026

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According to a report by The Nation, legendary Nigerian musician 2Baba (Innocent Idibia) has declared that Burna Boy is currently operating on a superior level compared to his counterparts, Wizkid and Davido. Speaking on the Mic On Podcast, the veteran artist emphasized that while he appreciates the talent of the entire “Big 3,” Burna Boy’s recent global influence and consistency have placed him at the pinnacle of the genre.

The “African Queen” crooner explained that evaluating these artists is similar to comparing different painters, noting that each has a unique style. However, he admitted that if he had to choose who is “top of the game” right now, the “Last Last” singer takes the crown. He further clarified that his assessment is based on current musical impact rather than personal bias or bank balances.

The statement has since sparked a massive debate across social media platforms like TikTok and X, where fans of the three heavyweights have been clashing over 2Baba’s verdict. This comes at a time when Afrobeats is facing a critical lens following the 2026 Grammy results, where Tyla took home the Best African Music Performance award over the Nigerian nominees.

2Baba’s comments serve as a rare public ranking from a veteran whose opinion carries significant weight in the industry. As the “Big 3” continue to dominate, this endorsement suggests a shift in the internal hierarchy of the scene, potentially influencing how these stars are perceived by international collaborators and award bodies in the coming year.

* Punch Newspaper (Official Website): “Burna Boy is currently on a different level right now… in terms of music influence and global reach.”

* Daily Post Nigeria (Entertainment): “I think Burna is on a different level right now… Everyone is doing fantastically well, but Burna is at the top.”

Echotitbits take:

2Baba’s endorsement of Burna Boy is a massive cultural marker because it signals a “changing of the guard” in the eyes of the industry’s elder statesmen. While Wizkid and Davido have long held the joint crown, Burna Boy’s relentless global touring and genre-bending “Afro-fusion” have clearly won over the veterans. Watch for how Wizkid and Davido respond through their upcoming releases, as this “Top 1” debate usually fuels a competitive streak in their music.

Source: The Cable — https://lifestyle.thecable.ng/2baba-gives-verdict-on-afrobeats-big-three-says-burna-boy-is-the-biggest/ February 8, 2026

Photo Credit: The Cable

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Tiwa Savage Declares Continued Love for Wizkid in Viral Video

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February 8, 2026

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In a post shared by Legit.ng, Afrobeats superstar Tiwa Savage has once again set the internet ablaze with a viral video where she candidly discusses her relationship with Wizkid. During a recent interview, the “Water and Garri” actress admitted that she is “still in love” with her long-time collaborator, though the context suggested a deep, platonic, and professional bond rather than a romantic one.

The duo, famously dubbed “TiwaZkid” by fans during their “Fever” video era, have been a source of speculation for years. This latest clip has reignited “ship” rumors on TikTok, where fans are editing nostalgic videos of the two performing together. Tiwa’s comments come at a time when both artists are focusing on their international careers and individual growth.

Wizkid, who has been relatively quiet on social media recently, has not yet responded to the clip. However, the chemistry between the two has always been a major talking point in Nigerian pop culture, with their collaboration “Ma Lo” still considered a modern classic in the Afrobeats genre.

The video has led to a wider discussion about the “Big 3” and their female counterparts, highlighting how Tiwa Savage remains a central figure in the narrative of Nigerian music royalty. Whether this leads to a new musical collaboration remains to be seen, but the “TiwaZkid” brand is clearly still as strong as ever.

* Legit.ng (Entertainment): ““I am still in love with Wizkid”: Tiwa Savage opens up about colleague in viral video.”

* Nigerian Entertainment Today (NET): “Tiwa Savage reflects on her bond with Wizkid, calling it a love that transcends music.”

Echotitbits take:

Tiwa Savage knows exactly how to keep her name in the headlines. Whether the “love” is romantic or professional, mentioning Wizkid is a guaranteed viral moment. This “revelation” serves to remind the public of their era of dominance, and it could be a strategic move to build hype for a potential reunion track in 2026.

Source: Facebook — https://web.facebook.com/groups/235978139062728/posts/890331816960687/?_rdc=1&_rdr# February 8, 2026

Photo Credit: Facebook

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NBA Stars Shut Down for Season as Wizards Face Anthony Davis Crisis

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February 8, 2026

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According to CBS Sports, the Washington Wizards have made the shocking decision to shut down superstar Anthony Davis for the remainder of the 2026 season. Davis, who was a marquee trade acquisition from the Dallas Mavericks, has been battling persistent hand and groin issues. This move effectively ends the Wizards’ hopes for a deep playoff run this year.

The trade, which was originally graded as a “puzzling move” for both the Mavs and the Wizards, has now turned into a nightmare scenario for Washington fans. Davis shared his thoughts in a brief statement, expressing frustration with his health but vowing to return stronger for the next campaign. The news has sent shockwaves through NBA culture, with analysts questioning the Wizards’ long-term strategy.

In other NBA lifestyle news, Giannis Antetokounmpo has doubled down on his loyalty to the Milwaukee Bucks following the trade deadline. Reacting to the rumors that he might be on the move, the “Greek Freak” stated, “Legends don’t chase,” a phrase that has already been turned into a trending slogan and merchandise by fans.

The NBA “tunnel walk” fashion scene is also buzzing, with players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (who is also out through the All-Star break) continuing to set trends despite being on the injury list. The intersection of NBA culture and high fashion remains a dominant theme even as several big names face physical setbacks.

* CBS Sports: “Wizards reportedly shutting big man down for season… Davis shared his first thoughts about his new team since being traded.”

* Hoops Habit: “Giannis delivers crushing news to Bucks fans… ‘Legends don’t chase’ as he reacts to staying with Bucks.”

Echotitbits take:

The Wizards’ “AD Experiment” looks like a failure for 2026, which will likely lead to a massive front-office shakeup. In the broader NBA culture, Giannis’ “loyalty” branding is a direct counter-narrative to the “super-team” era, making him even more of a fan favorite. Watch for how this affects the All-Star weekend’s “vibe” without stars like Davis and SGA in active competition.

Source: CBS Sports — https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/anthony-davis-wizards-mavericks-big-man-nba-trade/ February 8, 2026

Photo Credit: CBS Sports

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North West Makes Musical Debut with Viral Single ‘Piercing On My Hand’

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Bob Echols’s

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February 8, 2026

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According to TMZ, 12-year-old North West, the daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, has officially entered the music industry with her debut track titled “Piercing On My Hand.” The song, which leans into a mix of experimental pop and rap, has quickly climbed the charts and become a major trending topic on TikTok, with creators already launching new dance challenges.

The lyrics of the song are being analyzed by fans for potential references to her famous parents and her upbringing in the spotlight. North, who has frequently appeared on stage during her father’s “Vultures” era, seems to be carving out her own lane, blending the avant-garde style of Kanye with the polished aesthetic of the Kardashian brand.

The release has reignited the conversation about “nepo babies” in the music industry, but many critics are surprised by the professional quality and unique sound of the track. This move follows a year of North being increasingly vocal about her creative interests, including fashion design and filmmaking.

The song’s release coincided with her father’s recent public appearances, leading some to speculate that a joint project or a North-focused album under the YZY label might be in the works. For now, the track is dominating “Hip-Hop” and “Pop” categories on streaming platforms.

* Just Jared: “‘Piercing On My Hand’ lyrics: North West drops debut song – Listen now.”

* NewsNow US: “North West drops debut song… 8 of the Top 10 on Apple Music are now associated with this era.”

Echotitbits take:

North West isn’t just a celebrity kid; she’s a brand unto herself. This debut feels less like a hobby and more like the start of a serious career. Given her access to the best producers in the world (including her dad), she has a massive head start. It will be interesting to see if she leans more into the Hip-Hop/Soul culture of her father’s roots or stays in the Gen Alpha pop lane.

Source: Complex — https://www.complex.com/music/a/markelibert/north-west-kanye-west-song-piercing-on-my-hand-streaming February 8, 2026

Photo Credit: Complex

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