Africa Records Surge in Global Tourism as Nigerian Destinations Lead Interest

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February 21, 2026

In an update published by Leadership, international tourism figures for early 2026 show a sustained and significant demand for African travel destinations, with Nigeria’s waterfalls, wildlife reserves, and coastal regions seeing a double-digit increase in foreign visitors. This “tourism revival” is being driven by improved regional stability and a series of global marketing campaigns highlighting the continent’s untapped ecological wonders.

Nigeria has specifically benefited from a new visa-on-arrival policy for African Union citizens and a simplified e-visa process for European and North American travelers. Areas like the Obudu Mountain Resort and the Yankari Game Reserve have undergone significant renovations, making them more attractive to high-end eco-tourists.

The influx of foreign exchange from tourism is expected to provide a crucial buffer for the country’s external reserves.

Industry experts believe that if the current growth rate persists, tourism could become one of Nigeria’s top three non-oil revenue earners by the end of the decade.

However, they warn that the government must maintain its investment in transport infrastructure, particularly the rail links between major cities and tourist sites, to ensure a seamless experience for visitors.

Corroborating this report, Daily Post noted that “African travel destinations record strong global interest in 2026.”

Additionally, The Guardian highlighted the economic impact, stating that “International tourism figures show sustained demand for Africa’s leading travel destinations, boosting local economies.”

Echotitbits take:

Nigeria is finally getting serious about its “non-oil” revenue, and tourism is the sleeping giant.

The visa reforms were long overdue. The challenge now is “brand perception”—the government needs to consistently manage security narratives to ensure that the interest from 2026 translates into a permanent boom rather than a temporary trend.

Source: BusinessDay – https://businessday.ng/markets/article/africa-overtakes-asia-as-fastest-growing-tourism-market-arrivals-rise-by-8/, February 21, 2026

Photo credit: BusinessDay

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Nigerian Film Industry Shatters Records as ‘Love and New Notes’ Dominates Box Office

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Bob Echols’s

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February 21, 2026

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Reporting by BusinessDay indicates that the Nigerian film industry, popularly known as Nollywood, has reached a new milestone with the release of the romantic drama ‘Love and New Notes’. The film, starring Timini Egbuson, has set a benchmark for domestic cinema revenue, contributing significantly to a record-breaking N14.52 billion total industry haul for the current season. This performance highlights the growing commercial viability of high-production-value Nigerian content.

The surge in cinema attendance is attributed to the expansion of theater chains into suburban areas and a shift in consumer preference toward localized storytelling that rivals international blockbusters.

Analysts point out that the success of ‘Love and New Notes’ is not just in ticket sales but also in its massive soundtrack downloads and social media engagement, which have created a multi-stream revenue model for the producers.

Investors are now looking at the entertainment sector with renewed interest, citing the industry’s ability to thrive despite broader economic fluctuations.

The government has also pledged to enhance the “Creative Industry Fund” to support young filmmakers in utilizing advanced technology like AI for post-production, further positioning Nollywood as a global cultural powerhouse.

Validating this entertainment boom, The Punch noted that “Lagos continues to dominate as Nigeria’s cinema revenue hits historic highs.”

Furthermore, Vanguard featured an interview with the cast, stating that “the romantic drama has set a new benchmark for the Nigerian film industry, achieving unprecedented reach.”

Echotitbits take:

Nollywood is officially Nigeria’s “soft power” weapon. The transition from straight-to-DVD to N14 billion box office runs shows that the middle class is willing to spend on quality local entertainment.

Watch for more Nigerian films to land massive global streaming deals as Hollywood studios look to tap into the African market through partnerships.

Source: The Nation – https://thenationonlineng.net/timini-egbusons-love-and-new-notes-earns-n106-million-in-opening-weekend/, February 21, 2026

Photo credit: The Nation

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Security Forces Foil Major Conspiracy Against Federal Administration

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Bob Echols’s

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February 21, 2026

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An exclusive report by Premium Times reveals that Nigerian intelligence agencies have successfully thwarted a high-level conspiracy aimed at destabilizing the administration of President Bola Tinubu. The plot, which reportedly involved a mix of rogue elements and foreign collaborators, was uncovered following months of surveillance by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA).
The investigation has led to the arrest of several key suspects, including former military officers and high-ranking political figures.

Documents recovered during the operation suggest that the conspirators intended to leverage ongoing regional tensions to trigger a security crisis that would justify a forceful change in leadership.

The government has since increased security around the Presidential Villa and other strategic locations in Abuja.

While the details of the plot remain partially classified, officials have reassured the public that the situation is under control and that the constitutional order remains secure. The revelation has sparked a wave of condemnations from various civil society groups and international partners, who have reaffirmed their support for Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

This story was also tracked by The Nation, which reported that “security has been beefed up in the National Assembly and other key areas following the uncovering of the plot.”

Additionally, Daily Post quoted a security source stating, “The coup attempt was foiled through proactive intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation.”

Echotitbits take:

While “coup plot” headlines are often sensationalized in West African politics, the specific mention of arrests within the military and political class suggests a serious internal friction.

The administration will likely use this as a justification for a broader “security sweep,” which could have implications for political freedoms as the 2027 election cycle begins to heat up.

Source: Facebook – https://web.facebook.com/straightfromnaija/posts/nigerias-democracy-secured-intelligence-operations-foil-major-coup-plotnigerias-/1552402260228824/?_rdc=1&_rdr#, February 21, 2026

Photo credit: Facebook

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Massive Investments Pledged as Nigeria Tackles Internal Displacement Crisis

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Bob Echols’s

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February 21, 2026

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According to ThisDay, the Nigerian government and private sector stakeholders have entered a landmark agreement to invest billions in a new initiative aimed at ending the country’s displacement crisis. The “National Resettlement Fund” is designed to provide permanent housing and vocational training for millions of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) across the North-East and North-Central regions, moving away from the “temporary camp” model that has persisted for over a decade.

The private sector’s involvement is seen as a major shift, with several leading banks and industrial conglomerates pledging a percentage of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) budgets to fund the construction of modern resettlement communities.

These communities are planned to be self-sustaining, featuring schools, primary healthcare centers, and agricultural hubs where IDPs can regain their livelihoods.

International aid agencies have welcomed the development, noting that the focus on long-term integration is the only viable solution to the humanitarian challenge.

The government has also promised to improve security in the reclaimed areas to ensure that those who return can do so without fear of renewed attacks from insurgent groups.

Validation of this report comes from Vanguard, which stated that “Private sector leaders have pledged bold investments to tackle Nigeria’s displacement crisis.”

Meanwhile, Daily Post added that “the federal government is flagging off the distribution of 15 million learners’ support kits nationwide” as part of the broader educational push for displaced children.

Echotitbits take:

Moving from “aid” to “investment” is the right move for the IDP situation. For years, the camp system has been a drain on resources and a site of human rights concerns.

If the private sector follows through on these pledges, the economic reintegration of millions could provide a surprise boost to Nigeria’s GDP, particularly in the agricultural sector.

Source: ThisDay – https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/02/21/private-sector-pledges-bold-investments-to-tackle-nigerias-displacement-crisis/, February 21, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

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Inflationary Pressures Ease Further as Nigeria Records 10th Consecutive Monthly Drop

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Bob Echols’s

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February 21, 2026

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Figures cited by The Guardian show that Nigeria’s headline inflation rate has continued its downward trajectory, easing to 15.10% in the latest data released this February. This decline marks the tenth consecutive month of moderation, driven largely by a significant cooling in food prices and a more stable exchange rate. Analysts suggest that the Central Bank’s aggressive monetary tightening and improved agricultural output are finally yielding tangible results for consumers.

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) highlighted that food inflation, which was once the primary driver of the cost-of-living crisis, has seen a sharp reduction compared to the same period last year.

Staple items such as grains and vegetables have benefitted from better harvest conditions and reduced transportation bottlenecks. Despite this progress, core inflation remains somewhat sticky, reflecting persistent costs in energy and services.

While the drop is a welcome relief, the federal government faces pressure to ensure that these macroeconomic gains translate into lower prices at the retail level.

Many households still struggle with the cumulative impact of previous price hikes, making the sustainability of this downward trend critical for social stability and consumer confidence.

Validating this trend, Vanguard reported that the latest figures represent “a sharp decline from the 27.61 per cent recorded in January 2025.”

Additionally, ThisDay published an analysis stating that “Tinubu’s Renewed Hope policies are driving a drop in inflation through strategic fiscal discipline.”

Echotitbits take:

Hitting a 15% inflation ceiling after the 30%+ peaks of 2024 is a major win for the current administration’s economic team. However, the real test will be maintaining this stability as “election-cycle liquidity” begins to hit the system. If the government can keep the naira stable and fuel prices under N1,000, we might see single-digit inflation targets becoming a reality by 2027.

Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/news/relief-for-nigerians-as-food-inflation-eases-to-single-digit-after-10-years/, February 21, 2026

Photo credit: The Guardian

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FCT Decides: Heightened Security and Movement Curbs as Residents Head to Polls

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Bob Echols’s

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February 21, 2026

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Reporting by Premium Times indicates that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has entered a state of high alert as residents prepare to elect new chairmen and councillors across the six area councils today, February 21, 2026. Security agencies have implemented a near-total restriction on vehicular movement to prevent any disruption of the democratic process, deploying thousands of personnel to polling units and critical infrastructure.

The exercise is being closely monitored as a litmus test for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its updated electronic transmission systems. In preparation for the vote, the Nigerian government authorized a joint security task force comprising the military and police to enforce order.

Authorities have warned that only vehicles on essential duties or with official permits will be allowed on the streets during the designated voting hours.

This election is particularly significant as it represents the first major electoral test following recent legal reforms. Voter turnout is expected to be high despite the stringent security measures, as residents seek local leadership capable of addressing infrastructure and safety concerns within the capital territory.

This development is further corroborated by The Punch, which noted that “over 1.6 million voters are expected to participate across the six area councils.”

Similarly, Channels TV reported on the readiness of the commission, stating that “INEC has completed a successful mock accreditation exercise and is confident about being ready for the polls.”

Echotitbits take:

The FCT area council elections are a crucial bellwether for Nigeria’s electoral integrity heading toward the 2027 general elections.

The heavy security presence aims to deter the violence that has marred previous local polls, but the restriction of movement may inadvertently impact voter turnout if logistics aren’t handled smoothly.

Watch for the performance of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and how quickly results are uploaded to the IReV portal.

Source: Facebook – https://web.facebook.com/inecnigeria/posts/fctdecides20266-area-councils62-wards-2822-polling-units-pus-1680315-registered-/1328161162670273/?_rdc=1&_rdr#, February 21, 2026

Photo credit: Facebook

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Rapper JID Partners with Frosted Flakes to Revive Iconic ’90s Jingle

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Bob Echols’s

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February 21, 2026

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According to Foxy 99, Grammy-nominated rapper JID has officially partnered with Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes to put a modern, Hip-Hop spin on the classic “Hey Tony!” jingle. The collaboration aims to bridge the gap between ’90s nostalgia and the current generation of music fans.

JID, known for his intricate lyricism and rapid-fire delivery, stated that the jingle reminded him of childhood mornings and family routines. The updated version features a signature JID flow while maintaining the motivational spirit of the original brand mascot, Tony the Tiger.

The partnership is being rolled out with a series of high-energy commercials and social media snippets. It represents a growing trend of major food brands tapping into Hip-Hop culture to maintain relevance with Gen Z and Millennial consumers who value authentic artist collaborations.

Fans on TikTok have already begun using the new jingle in “breakfast aesthetic” videos, praising JID for maintaining his “cool factor” while taking on a commercial project. This move further cements JID’s status as a crossover star who can balance underground credibility with mainstream brand appeal.

* Hip-Hop Wired: “JID has partnered with Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes to put a modern spin on the brand’s popular ’90s jingle.”

* Beasley Media Group: “The updated version blends nostalgia with a message meant to inspire today’s generation.”

Echotitbits Take

JID is one of the few “rappers’ rappers” who can do a cereal commercial without losing his “street cred.” It’s a smart business move that puts his voice in millions of households, similar to how Travis Scott or Megan Thee Stallion have leveraged food partnerships. It proves that lyricism and commercial success aren’t mutually exclusive in 2026.

Source: Foxy 99 — https://foxy99.com/2026/02/20/jid-partners-with-frosted-flakes-to-revive-classic-hey-tony-jingle/ February 20, 2026

Photo Credit: Foxy 99

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NBA Blockbuster: Darius Garland Breaks Silence on Trade to Clippers for James Harden

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Bob Echols’s

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February 21, 2026

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Los Angeles Clippers v Houston Rockets — HOUSTON, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 11: Darius Garland #10 of the Los Angeles Clippers looks on during the first half of the game against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on February 11, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jack Gorman/Getty Images)

In an interview shared by Andscape, star guard Darius Garland opened up about the shocking trade that sent him from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Los Angeles Clippers. The deal, which saw James Harden move to Cleveland, was one of the most significant moves of the 2026 trade deadline.

Garland admitted that his recent toe injury likely played a factor in the Cavaliers’ decision to move him. Despite the surprise, he expressed excitement about pairing up with Kawhi Leonard in Los Angeles, noting that the trade offers him a fresh start in a championship-contending environment.

Meanwhile, in Cleveland, the arrival of James Harden has created a high-stakes duo with Donovan Mitchell. The trade marks the end of an era for the “Garland-Mitchell” backcourt, which many fans believed was the future of the franchise.

The NBA community has been buzzing about the implications of this swap. While Garland brings youth and playmaking to the Clippers, Harden provides the Cavaliers with veteran experience and elite scoring as they push for a deep playoff run in the Eastern Conference.

* Dallas Hoops Journal: “Darius Garland opens up about Cavaliers trading him to Clippers: ‘The toe definitely had a factor in it.’”

* CBS Sports: “The 2026 trade deadline saw James Harden moving from the Clippers to the Cavaliers for Darius Garland in a blockbuster swap.”

Echotitbits Take

This is a high-risk, high-reward move for both teams. Cleveland is going “all-in” on Harden’s remaining elite years to win now, while the Clippers are betting that Garland’s health will hold up alongside Kawhi. It’s a fascinating cultural shift for both locker rooms—watch to see if Harden and Mitchell can actually share the ball effectively.

Source: Dallas Hoops Journal — https://dallashoopsjournal.com/p/darius-garland-cavaliers-clippers-trade-nba-rumors-news/ February 20, 2026

Photo Credit: Dallas Hoops Journal

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Mikel Arteta Pleads for Calm as Arsenal’s Title Charge Hits Midweek Roadblock

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Bob Echols’s

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February 21, 2026

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According to PA Media, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has urged his squad and the fanbase to remain composed after a frustrating 2-2 draw against bottom-of-the-table Wolves. The result has narrowed the Gunners’ lead at the top of the Premier League, handing the momentum back to rivals Manchester City.

Speaking ahead of the crucial North London Derby against Tottenham this Sunday, Arteta dismissed claims that his team is “bottling” the league again. He emphasized that the “present is beautiful” and that the club is exactly where they want to be at this stage of the competition.

The draw at Molineux, where Arsenal surrendered a two-goal lead, has revived painful memories of the past three seasons where the Gunners finished as runners-up. With Manchester City breathing down their necks and holding a game in hand, the pressure on the young Arsenal squad is reaching a boiling point.

Arteta’s defiant stance is intended to shield his players from the intense media scrutiny. He noted that while the outside reaction is “tough,” his focus remains on keeping his ears and eyes open to the needs of the dressing room to ensure they finish the season strong.

* Fox Sports: “Arsenal somehow drop points to Wolves… leaving the door open for Manchester City to reclaim the top spot.”

* Associated Press: “Mikel Arteta urges Arsenal to ‘keep calm’ in the face of fresh bottling accusations following midweek slip-up.”

Echotitbits Take

Arteta is playing the role of the “cool head,” but the cracks are showing. Drawing against a relegation-threatened Wolves side at this stage of the season is a massive psychological blow. The upcoming derby against Spurs isn’t just about three points; it’s about proving that this team has finally developed the “killer instinct” needed to actually lift the trophy.

Source: PA Media — https://pa.media/blogs/pa-editors-picks/mikel-arteta-urges-arsenal-to-keep-calm-in-battle-for-premier-league-title/ February 20, 2026

Photo Credit: PA Media

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Mercy Johnson-Okojie Lands Major Political Appointment Under Governor Okpebholo

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Bob Echols’s

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February 21, 2026

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A TikTok video by @NaijaCelebNews highlights the widespread celebration following the appointment of Nollywood icon Mercy Johnson-Okojie as a Special Adviser to Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo. The actress will serve as the Special Adviser on Public Engagement and Advocacy, bridging the gap between the government and the citizenry.

The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has already issued a statement congratulating their colleague, describing the appointment as a “well-deserved recognition” of her influence and commitment to social causes. Mercy Johnson, known for her versatile acting and massive grassroots following, is expected to use her platform to drive state initiatives.

This move follows a growing trend of Nollywood stars transitioning into the political sphere, following the footsteps of figures like Funke Akindele and Tonto Dikeh. Fans have taken to social media to praise the Governor’s choice, noting that her relatability makes her an ideal candidate for public advocacy.

Mercy Johnson-Okojie has expressed her readiness to serve, promising to bring the same passion she shows on screen to her new role in governance. Her husband, Prince Odi Okojie, who is also active in politics, was among the first to publicly celebrate the milestone.

* The Nation Nigeria: “AGN hails Okpebholo for appointing Mercy Johnson-Okojie as special adviser, noting her exemplary character.”

* Independent Nigeria: “Governor Okpebholo appoints Mercy Johnson-Okojie… to lead public engagement and advocacy efforts.”

Echotitbits Take

Mercy Johnson’s appointment is a strategic masterstroke for the Edo government. Her “street credibility” and massive social media presence give her a unique ability to communicate government policies in a way that resonates with everyday Nigerians. It’s a win for Nollywood’s “soft power” in the political arena.

Source: The Nation Nigeria — https://thenationonlineng.net/okpebholo-appoints-mercy-johnson-as-special-adviser-2/ February 20, 2026

Photo Credit: Vanguard

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