Tiwa Savage Launches Foundation to Nurture Next Generation of African Stars

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February 26, 2026

According to The Punch, Afrobeats icon Tiwa Savage has officially launched the “Tiwa Savage Foundation,” a non-profit organization dedicated to discovering and training young African creatives. In a major move for the continent’s music education, she has partnered with the prestigious Berklee College of Music.

The foundation aims to provide scholarships and professional training to emerging artists who lack the resources to scale their talents. This initiative is part of Tiwa’s broader vision to ensure that the “Afrobeats to the World” movement is supported by a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals.

The partnership with Berklee will involve specialized masterclasses and exchange programs, allowing young Nigerians to learn from some of the best music educators globally. Tiwa described the project as her way of “giving back” to an industry that has given her so much.

The launch has been met with widespread acclaim from fellow celebrities and government officials alike. It highlights a growing trend of Nigerian superstars using their global platforms to build institutional support for the local creative economy.

* Legit.ng reported: “Tiwa Savage is not just making hits; she’s making history by investing in the technical future of African music.”

* Black Enterprise noted: “This partnership with Berklee is a game-changer for aspiring African creatives seeking international standards of training.”

Echotitbits take: This is a strategic power move. By aligning with Berklee, Tiwa Savage is bridging the gap between raw talent and formal industry standards. This foundation will likely become the “Ivy League” of African music mentorship, further shifting the industry’s center of gravity toward Lagos.

Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/tiwa-savage-unveils-music-foundation-partners-berklee-to-train-african-creatives/ February 26, 2026

Photo Credit: The Punch

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Tottenham Hotspur Faces “Unthinkable” Relegation Threat After Slump

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Bob Echols’s

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February 26, 2026

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A matchday preview from Outlook India highlights a growing crisis at Tottenham Hotspur, as the club finds itself just four points above the Premier League relegation zone. Ahead of their crucial trip to Fulham, the “Big Six” mainstays are grappling with the reality that they could genuinely be demoted if their form does not improve.
Spurs are currently the only team in the league without a win in the 2026 calendar year. Despite their success in European competitions, their domestic form has plummeted, leading to the recent appointment of Igor Tudor as manager following the departure of Thomas Frank.

Tudor’s first match resulted in a bruising 4-1 defeat to North London rivals Arsenal, exposing deep-seated tactical and fitness issues within the squad. Fans are increasingly anxious, as the club sits in 16th place with only 11 rounds of matches remaining.

The upcoming fixture against Fulham is seen as a “must-win” to avoid a record-breaking winless streak. With West Ham and Nottingham Forest showing improved form below them, the pressure on the Spurs hierarchy has reached a boiling point.

* The Premier League official site questioned: “Can Igor Tudor iron out the tactical confusion before the unthinkable happens to a ‘Big Six’ giant?”

* Sky Sports noted: “Tottenham’s lack of a clear identity on the pitch has left them vulnerable to teams they would usually dominate.”

Echotitbits take: A Tottenham relegation would be the biggest Premier League shock since Leicester won the league. The financial implications for their billion-pound stadium and star players like Son would be catastrophic. If they don’t take three points at Fulham, the “panic” will turn into a full-blown emergency.

Source: Outlook India — https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/football/english-premier-league-2025-26-matchday-28-preview-key-matchups-players-to-watch-injury-list February 26, 2026

Photo Credit: Outlook India

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Cardi B Shuts Down Critics After Selling Out Tour Following Childbirth

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Bob Echols’s

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February 26, 2026

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According to Foxy99, American rap icon Cardi B has issued a fiery response to critics who doubted her ability to tour shortly after welcoming her fourth child. The “Bongos” rapper confirmed that all 12 shows of her “Little Miss Drama Tour” have officially sold out, despite skepticism regarding her commitment to the road.

Cardi, who gave birth just three months ago, took to social media to highlight that her shows are packed “from top to bottom.” She pushed back against the narrative that motherhood would slow down her career, asserting that she treats her concerts like high-energy parties for her fans.

The tour supports her latest chart-topping album, Am I the Drama?, which debuted at number one. Cardi has been bringing out major guests like Kehlani, Tyla, and GloRilla, further boosting the tour’s profile across North America.

While her professional life is soaring, her personal life remains in the headlines following reports of a split from her partner. However, Cardi appears focused on her “REAL reviews from REAL attendees,” prioritizing her connection with her audience over tabloid gossip.

* People Magazine reported: “Cardi B is proving that she can balance a massive tour and a growing family, praising her tour guests for their ‘genuine love and support.'”

* Billboard noted: “The ‘Little Miss Drama Tour’ is one of the highest-demand rap tours of the season, silencing those who predicted a hiatus.”

Echotitbits take:

Cardi B is successfully navigating the “working mom” narrative while maintaining her “street” credibility. The sell-out status of this tour, so soon after her fourth child, proves her brand is currently bulletproof in the US market. Expect a major documentary or concert film to follow this run.

Source: Foxy99 — https://foxy99.com/2026/02/26/cardi-b-responds-to-critics-after-selling-out-12-shows-on-tour-three-months-after-giving-birth/ February 26, 2026

Photo Credit: Foxy99

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Tems Expands ‘Leading Vibe’ Initiative to Empower Women in South Africa

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Bob Echols’s

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February 26, 2026

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As reported by Africa.com, Grammy-winning artist Tems is taking her “Leading Vibe Initiative” (LVI) to South Africa, with a major event scheduled for March 21, 2026. This marks the first Southern African activation for the program, which originally launched in Lagos to support and amplify emerging female voices in the music industry.

The South African edition follows the massive success of the inaugural Lagos and Nairobi chapters. The initiative provides female artists, songwriters, and producers with access to masterclasses, collaborative studio sessions, and mentorship from industry heavyweights.

Tems founded LVI to address the persistent gender gap and underrepresentation of women in African music. By partnering with global brands like Hennessy and Native Instruments, she is ensuring that participants have access to high-end tools and resources.

The upcoming event in South Africa is expected to draw a diverse group of emerging talent from across the region. Tems is slated to host an intimate fireside chat to share her personal journey from a local producer to a global superstar.

* Premium Times shared: “Tems is building a legacy beyond music, creating a sustainable pipeline for African women to thrive in a male-dominated industry.”

* BellaNaija noted: “The expansion of the Leading Vibe Initiative proves that Tems is committed to pan-African creative development.”

Echotitbits take: This move cements Tems as a cultural leader, not just a performer. By focusing on the technical side—producers and songwriters—she is tackling the root of industry inequality. Watch for a new wave of female-led South African sounds to emerge from this workshop.

Source: Africa.com — https://africa.com/tems-leading-vibe-initiative-announces-south-africa-edition-for-emerging-women-in-music/ February 26, 2026

Photo Credit: Africa.com

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Funke Akindele’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ Shatters Nollywood Box Office Records

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February 26, 2026

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In a report by TVC News, Nollywood powerhouse Funke Akindele has once again rewritten the history books as her latest cinematic release, “Behind The Scenes,” officially became the highest-grossing Nigerian film of 2025. The movie has surpassed the staggering ₦1.77 billion mark in less than a month, solidifying her status as the “Queen of the Box Office.”

The film’s distributor, FilmOne Entertainment, confirmed that the project broke five separate opening-weekend records. These milestones include the highest single-day gross ever recorded in Nigerian cinema history, achieved during the festive Boxing Day period.

Akindele, who both produced and starred in the film, has been vocal about the hard work involved in the production. She credited the success to her loyal fanbase and the evolving quality of Nollywood storytelling, which is increasingly attracting massive domestic audiences.

Industry experts suggest that this achievement sets a new benchmark for the industry, moving the goalposts for what is financially possible in the local market. The film’s success is expected to spur more high-budget investments into Nigerian theatrical releases throughout 2026.

* FilmOne Entertainment stated on Instagram: “Celebrating yet another incredible milestone… Behind The Scenes hits a whopping N1.77 billion.”

* The Punch noted: “Funke Akindele continues to dominate the theatrical space, proving that local stories told with high production value are what the audience craves.”

Echotitbits take:

Funke Akindele has mastered the “blockbuster” formula in Nigeria, blending relatable social themes with aggressive marketing. The implication here is a widening gap between her “A-list” productions and the rest of the industry; soon, ₦2 billion will be the new standard for success.

Source: TVC News — https://www.tvcnews.tv/funke-akindeles-behind-the-scenes-becomes-highest-grossing-nollywood-film-of-2025-2/ February 26, 2026

Photo Credit: TVC News

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Rema Reveals Spiritual Pre-Performance Rituals During Global Tour

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February 26, 2026

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According to a report by The Nation, Afrobeats sensation Rema has shared rare insights into how he prepares for his high-energy stage shows. The “Calm Down” singer disclosed that his routine involves a combination of smoking and prayer, a revelation that has sparked significant conversation regarding the intersection of lifestyle and spirituality in the music industry.

The singer clarified that these actions are part of his personal process to find balance and focus before facing thousands of fans. He emphasized that the prayer aspect is a core part of his foundation, while the smoking helps him manage the intense adrenaline associated with his global “Heis” tour.

This disclosure comes at a time when Rema is enjoying unprecedented success, with his recent album continuing to dominate global charts. Fans have reacted with a mix of curiosity and support, noting his transparency about the pressures of international stardom.

In a follow-up post, the artist noted that his performances are not just musical events but spiritual experiences for him. He maintains that being authentic about his habits is better than projecting a curated, “perfect” image to the public.

* Legit.ng reported: “Rema’s admission about his pre-show habits has left many fans debating the balance between his religious roots and his rockstar persona.”

* Naija News stated: “The singer remains unapologetic, stating that his connection with his craft requires a specific mental state that only his rituals provide.”

Echotitbits take: Rema is leaning further into his “Heis” persona, which is defined by a rebellious yet deeply focused artistic vision. By being vocal about these rituals, he is humanizing the Afrobeats superstar experience, though he risks pushback from more conservative segments of his Nigerian fanbase. Watch for how this “rockstar” branding influences his upcoming visual projects.

Source: The Nation — https://thenationonlineng.net/i-smoke-pray-before-stage-performance-rema/ February 26, 2026

Photo Credit: The Nation

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Rivers State Government Undergoes Major Cabinet Shake-up

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Bob Echols’s

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February 26, 2026

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Reporting by The Punch indicates that Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has appointed Dr. Dagogo Wokoma as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and Barrister Sunny Ewule as his Chief of Staff. The appointments, which take immediate effect, mark a significant restructuring of the governor’s inner circle following months of political friction in the state.

In a report by Daily Post, it was noted that the new appointees replace Benibo Anabraba and Edison Ehie, respectively. The swearing-in ceremony was scheduled for Thursday afternoon at the Government House in Port Harcourt. This move is widely seen as a strategy by Fubara to consolidate his administration’s executive wing and stabilize his government.

Validating the political shift, Channels TV reported that the appointments are a “direct result of recent peace moves” brokered by the Presidency to end the rift between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Vanguard also confirmed the development, quoting a government insider who said, “The Governor is assembling a team that is 100% loyal to his vision for Rivers State.”

Echotitbits take: Fubara is finally moving out of the shadow of his predecessor. By appointing his own SSG and Chief of Staff, he is effectively taking full control of the state’s administrative machinery. Watch for how the Wike-aligned lawmakers in the House of Assembly react to these new appointments.

Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/politics/fresh-twist-as-fubara-sacks-commissioners-dissolves-cabinet/, February 26, 2026

Photo credit: The Guardian

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Amnesty International Demands Investigation into Plateau Road Killings

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February 26, 2026

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According to Premium Times, Amnesty International has called for an urgent probe into the recent killing of four travellers along the Nding axis of Barkin Ladi, Plateau State. The rights group reported that armed youths blocked the road, leading to a fatal encounter that highlights the persistent insecurity and breakdown of law and order in the North-Central region.

Reporting by The Punch suggests that these road blockades are becoming a “recurring pattern” that threatens the fundamental rights to life and freedom of movement. Amnesty’s statement urged the federal government to move beyond verbal condemnations and ensure that the perpetrators are identified, arrested, and prosecuted to deter future ethnic or communal clashes.

Vanguard reported that local community leaders in Barkin Ladi have called for increased military patrols, while the Plateau State Police Command confirmed it has “deployed a tactical team to the area to restore calm.” A spokesperson for the Plateau State government told the press that “no stone will be left unturned in finding the killers,” as reported by Daily Post.

Echotitbits take: Plateau State remains a tinderbox of ethnic tension. These road-blockade killings are often retaliatory in nature, and without a robust local justice system, they risk spiraling into a wider communal conflict.

Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/859776-amnesty-demands-probe-into-plateau-road-killings.html, February 26, 2026

Photo credit: Premium Times

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NAFDAC Issues Emergency Recall of Baby Formula Over Toxin Concerns

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February 26, 2026

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In an update published by Premium Times, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alerted Nigerians to a precautionary recall of specific batches of Aptamil and Cow & Gate infant formula. The recall was triggered by the potential contamination of these products with cereulide, a toxin that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting and nausea.
According to The Guardian, the affected batches were manufactured in Ireland and Hungary and distributed globally. While NAFDAC clarified that products specifically produced for the Nigerian market remain safe, it warned parents to be vigilant about “grey market” imports—products brought into the country through unofficial channels that may belong to the tainted batches.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has monitored the recall globally, noting that Danone Nutricia initiated the move as a “safety-first measure.” Additionally, Channels TV reported that NAFDAC inspectors have been deployed to major supermarkets across Lagos and Abuja, with a spokesperson stating, “We are ensuring that no recalled product remains on the shelves of any retail outlet in Nigeria.”
Echotitbits take: This is a critical health alert for parents. The reliance on imported baby food makes Nigeria vulnerable to global supply chain issues. Expect NAFDAC to tighten regulations on “personal effect” imports of food products in the coming months.
Source: Nafdac.Gov.ng – https://nafdac.gov.ng/public-alert-no-04-2026-nestle-uk-recallsspecific-batches-of-its-smainfant-formula-and-follow-on-formulaover-toxin-contamination-concerns/, February 26, 2026
Photo credit: Banwo & Ighodalo

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Federal Government Extends Export Ban on Raw Shea Nuts to Boost Local Industry

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February 26, 2026

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Figures cited by ThisDay show that President Bola Tinubu has approved a one-year extension of the ban on the export of raw shea nuts, effective from February 26, 2026. This policy is designed to force the domestic processing of shea nuts into high-value products like shea butter, which the government claims can fetch up to twenty times the price of the raw commodity on the global market.

Reporting by The Nation indicates that the ban will now remain in place until February 25, 2027. The administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” seeks to utilize this period to deepen the processing capacity of local factories and improve the livelihoods of women-led cooperatives in the Savanna belt, where shea trees are most prevalent.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the Nigerian Commodity Exchange (NCX) has been mandated to oversee all surplus exports, ensuring that “no raw nuts leave the country without proper value-addition frameworks.” Furthermore, BusinessDay noted that the move has been praised by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), with a spokesperson stating, “This policy provides the necessary protection for local industrialization to thrive.”

Echotitbits take: By restricting raw exports, Nigeria is following the “Indonesia model” of resource nationalism. If successful, this could turn the country into a global hub for cosmetic-grade shea butter, but success depends on providing constant electricity and credit to local processors.

Source: Daily Post – https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/26/tinubu-extends-ban-on-export-of-raw-shea-nut/, February 26, 2026

Photo credit: Daily Post

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