Overseas-Born Athletes Return to Represent Nigeria in Record Numbers

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February 28, 2026

Reporting by The Punch indicates a significant “reverse exodus” as high-profile athletes born abroad, including Jessica Oji and Kelly Ufodioma, have completed nationality transfers to represent Nigeria. This month, Oji shattered the Nigerian U-20 Shot Put record in her debut, signaling a new era of dominance for the country in multi-event athletics.

The influx of talent is being viewed as a major win for the Sports Ministry. Vanguard reported on the trend, quoting a coach who said, “These athletes are bringing world-class training and mechanics to the Green-White-Green.” The Guardian Nigeria also highlighted the upcoming Commonwealth Games, with a sports analyst noting, “Nigeria is set to be the ‘Team to Watch’ in Glasgow this July thanks to this global recruitment.”

Echotitbits take:

This “Japa in reverse” for athletes is a direct result of improved sports branding and the lure of representing a powerhouse like Nigeria on the global stage. It boosts national pride and increases the country’s medal prospects significantly.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/overseas-born-athletes-troop-into-nigeria-as-ofili-others-lead-exodus/, February 28, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

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Atiku Blasts Governors Defecting to APC for ‘Personal Survival’

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Bob Echols’s

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February 28, 2026

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According to Vanguard reporting, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the recent wave of opposition governors joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Following Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s exit from the PDP, Atiku described such defections as self-serving moves that have nothing to do with the interests of the electorate.

The political realignment is reshaping the 2027 outlook. The Punch validated the report, quoting Atiku’s media aide who said, “These governors are seeking protection from the center rather than serving their people.” Leadership Newspaper also noted that Atiku remains undeterred, stating, “The 2027 election will be a referendum on the APC’s failed promises, regardless of how many governors they poach.”

Echotitbits take:

The PDP is facing an existential crisis as its governors flee to the APC. This “one-party state” trend could weaken the opposition’s ability to provide a viable alternative in the next general election.

Source: The Cable – https://www.thecable.ng/governors-joining-apc-for-personal-survival-atiku-says-after-fintiris-defection/, February 28, 2026

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Global Leaders Call for End to Deepening Cultural Polarisation

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February 28, 2026

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In an update published by The Guardian Nigeria, stakeholders at the 2026 World Understanding and Peace Day have warned that ethnic and political divides in Nigeria are becoming “culturally embedded.” Speaking at the event, Major General Ike Nwachukwu (Rtd) cautioned that misinformation and economic insecurity are the primary drivers of this national fragmentation.

The call for unity comes at a time of heightened social tension. ThisDay Live reported on the keynote address, quoting Bishop Dapo Asaju who remarked, “The challenge of peace is no longer just about stopping wars, but about rebuilding trust in broken institutions.” Daily Post also featured the event, noting the participants’ plea for “deliberate action” to bridge the gap between the government and the youth.

Echotitbits take:

Polarisation is often a symptom of underlying economic inequality. While calls for “peace” are noble, they are unlikely to resonate unless the government addresses the hunger and unemployment that make the youth susceptible to divisive rhetoric.

Source: UNAOC – https://www.unaoc.org/2025/10/sarajevo-call-for-peace/, February 28, 2026

Photo credit: UNAOC

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Nigeria Targets Global Billions via AfroVision X Cultural Festival

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Bob Echols’s

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February 28, 2026

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Reporting by The Punch indicates that the Nigerian activation of AfroVision X 2026 has officially launched in Lagos, aiming to convert the nation’s cultural soft power into hard economic gains. The festival, which will culminate in Canada this June, is designed as a marketplace for creatives in music, film, and fashion to connect with global investors.

Stakeholders see this as a pivot toward a creative economy. The Guardian Nigeria noted the involvement of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce, quoting an official who said, “We must move from organic cultural export to structured trade.” Vanguard also covered the launch, highlighting a statement from the convener: “Nigeria is the heartbeat of modern creativity; it is time we own the value chain.”

Echotitbits take: AfroVision X represents a strategic move to tap into the “Orange Economy.” If successful, this could provide a significant alternative source of foreign exchange and create thousands of jobs for Nigeria’s tech-savvy youth.

Source: Vanguard – vanguardngr.com/2026/02/nigeria-ignites-afrovision-x-2026-drive-targets-global-creative-market-leadership/, February 28, 2026

Photo credit: Vanguard

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Diaspora Group Alleges Threats to Peter Obi’s Safety

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Bob Echols’s

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February 28, 2026

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According to Vanguard reporting, the diaspora arm of the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) has raised an alarm over alleged patterns of intimidation against 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi. The group is calling for international oversight, claiming that recent security warnings and travel restrictions placed on Obi in certain states are politically motivated.

The allegations have stirred political waters ahead of 2027. Daily Post validated the claims, quoting Dr. Ben Chukwu who asserted, “The shrinking space for opposition figures is a red flag for our democracy.” The Punch also reported on the development, citing a source within Obi’s camp who said, “We have observed unusual surveillance on our principal that goes beyond routine protection.”

Echotitbits take: With the 2027 elections drawing closer, the “political temperature” is rising early. Allegations of harassment against opposition leaders often serve to mobilize the diaspora base, but they also highlight the fragile nature of Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.

Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/copdem-alleges-threats-to-peter-obi-seeks-international-oversight/, February 28, 2026

Photo credit: Vanguard

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Transcorp Hotels Rewards Investors with N13.3 Billion Dividend

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Bob Echols’s

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February 28, 2026

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Reporting by The Nation indicates that shareholders of Transcorp Hotels Plc have approved a total dividend payout of N13.32 billion following a stellar financial performance. The decision was reached during the company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Friday, where the board highlighted the brand’s resilience and expansion into new markets.

The hotel giant continues to lead the hospitality sector’s recovery. ThisDay Live confirmed the approval, with a shareholder leader stating, “The N13.3 billion payout is a testament to disciplined governance in a tough economy.” BusinessDay further noted that the company’s stock remains a “buy” for most analysts, quoting an investment banker who said, “Transcorp has successfully decoupled its growth from the general market lethargy.”

Echotitbits take: Transcorp’s ability to deliver such high returns suggests that the luxury hospitality sector is booming despite broader economic headwinds. This reflects a “K-shaped” recovery where the wealthy continue to spend, driving premium brand profits.

Source: ThisDayLive – https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/02/27/shareholders-of-transcorp-hotels-approve-n13bn-dividend/, February 28, 2026

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Naira Plummets to Record Lows Amid Dollar Scarcity

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February 28, 2026

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Figures cited by Daily Post show that the Nigerian Naira suffered a significant weekly depreciation, closing at N1,363.39 per dollar at the official window and N1,375 in the parallel market this Friday. This decline represents a week-on-week loss of over N17 at the official rate, fueled by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s recent aggressive dollar mop-up operations.

The currency volatility has sparked fresh concerns among manufacturers. BusinessDay validated the report, quoting a currency analyst who noted, “The liquidity squeeze is intentionally designed to curb speculation, but it is strangling small businesses.” The Guardian Nigeria also highlighted the trend, with an economist stating, “Unless there is a massive infusion of foreign exchange, the N1,400 mark is inevitable by mid-March.”

Echotitbits take:

The CBN’s strategy to stabilize the Naira through mopping up liquidity appears to be causing short-term pain for the sake of long-term stability. Expect higher landing costs for imported goods and a likely rise in the inflation rate for the coming month.

Source: BusinessDay – https://businessday.ng/business-economy/article/nigerias-naira-falls-to-record-low-as-traders-track-central-banks-dollar-sale/, February 28, 2026

Photo credit: BusinessDay

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President Tinubu Renews Push for State Police to Tackle Insecurity

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Bob Echols’s

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February 28, 2026

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In an update published by The Nation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has once again advocated for the constitutional establishment of State Police to address the country’s unique security challenges. Speaking at an interfaith breaking of fast with lawmakers in Abuja, the President urged the National Assembly to expedite the necessary legislative framework to decentralize law enforcement.

The proposal has received a mixed but loud reception from the legislature. The Vanguard reported on the meeting, quoting Speaker Tajudeen Abbas who said, “The House is committed to any reform that guarantees the safety of Nigerians in their ancestral homes.” Leadership Newspaper also covered the event, noting the President’s optimism: “We are finally out of the dark tunnel of economic uncertainty; now we must secure the peace.”

Echotitbits take:

State policing is a double-edged sword that could either empower local communities or become a tool for political intimidation by governors. The real test will be the safeguards included in the bill to prevent executive rascality at the state level.

Source: ThisDayLive – https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/02/28/tinubu-pushes-urgent-constitution-amendment-for-state-police/, February 28, 2026

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Massive Joint Military Strikes Target Iranian Facilities

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February 28, 2026

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According to Premium Times reporting on the early hours of Saturday, United States President Donald Trump has officially confirmed a coordinated “massive and ongoing” military offensive against Iran. The strikes, conducted in partnership with Israeli forces, were reportedly authorized to neutralize imminent threats to American lives following a breakdown in indirect nuclear negotiations.

The escalation follows months of regional tension. ThisDay Live confirmed the development, noting that the strikes hit several strategic locations across Iran, with a correspondent stating, “The scale of the explosions suggests a significant shift in Western military posture toward Tehran.” Similarly, BusinessDay reported that the Iranian government has acknowledged the hits, quoting an official who described the act as a “blatant violation of sovereignty that will not go unanswered.”

Echotitbits take:

This direct military intervention by the U.S. and Israel marks a perilous new chapter in Middle Eastern geopolitics. Investors should watch for a sharp spike in global oil prices and potential retaliatory cyber-attacks or maritime disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Source: NBC – https://www.nbcnews.com/world/iran/live-blog/israel-iran-live-updates-rcna261099, February 28, 2026

Photo credit: NBC

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NBA Crossover 2026 Reimagines Fan Experience with ‘Culture-First’ Festival

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February 27, 2026

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According to BizBash, the 2026 NBA All-Star weekend in Los Angeles has officially transformed into a massive lifestyle festival via the “NBA Crossover” event. Taking over the Los Angeles Convention Center, the league has moved beyond simple basketball drills to create a 300,000-square-foot experience blending fashion, tech, and live music.

The event featured a courtside concert by Ludacris and high-profile brand activations, including a custom sneaker lab and a laundromat-themed hat customization booth. These “experiential marketing” moves are designed to bridge the gap between sports and street culture, targeting a younger, lifestyle-oriented demographic.

Celebrity appearances have been a staple of the first 12 hours, with several NBA stars and creators using the “NBA Creator Court” to launch new digital content and product collaborations. The festival has effectively turned the All-Star game into a backdrop for a wider celebration of Black culture and innovation.

As the league continues to expand its global footprint, the LA Crossover serves as a blueprint for future events. The focus is no longer just on what happens on the court, but on the “Bag Lab” and fashion zones that define the NBA’s influence off the court.

NBA Official: “NBA Crossover transformed the Los Angeles Convention Center into a sprawling, culture-forward fan festival.”

BizBash News: “The event offered brands a massive, highly engaged audience… blending live games, music, and pop culture.”

Echotitbits take: The NBA is now a lifestyle brand that happens to play basketball. By turning All-Star weekend into a “mini-Coachella” for sports fans, they are securing a future with Gen Z and Alpha. Watch for the NBA to continue aggressive expansions into the fashion and music spaces, potentially launching their own apparel lines or music labels soon.

Source: BizBash — https://www.bizbash.com/sporting-events/brand-activation-ideas-from-nba-crossover February 27, 2026

Photo Credit: BizBash

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