Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Author: Bob Echols’s

  • Federal Government Unveils Farmer Moni Scheme to Boost National Food Security

    Federal Government Unveils Farmer Moni Scheme to Boost National Food Security

    Figures cited by The Nation show that the Federal Government has officially launched the “Farmer Moni” Dry/Wet Season Programme, alongside the Renewed Hope Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (RH-GEEP 3.0). The initiative is a cornerstone of the administration’s social investment strategy, aimed at providing direct financial support to 300,000 farmers across the country.

    Reporting by the same outlet highlights that the program is designed to bridge the funding gap for smallholder farmers, particularly in the face of rising input costs and climate-related challenges. The funds are expected to be utilized for the procurement of high-yield seeds, fertilizers, and modern farming equipment to enhance agricultural productivity.

    The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, which oversees the project, emphasized that the selection process was digitized to ensure transparency and eliminate middle-men. This move is seen as a vital step in mitigating the current food inflation crisis and ensuring a steady supply of staples in the domestic market.

    Tribune Online and Daily Post validated the launch, emphasizing the regional distribution of the funds. Tribune Online mentioned that “the program leads a global push for youth and women investment,” while Daily Post reported a government spokesperson saying, “our goal is to make farming a profitable business for the grassroots.”

    Echotitbits take: While the Farmer Moni scheme is a welcome relief, its success hinges on efficient disbursement and the security of the farmlands. Insecurity remains the biggest threat to agricultural output in Nigeria; without addressing the “mining marshals” and banditry issues, financial aid alone may not lower food prices.

    Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/fg-launches-n300000-interest-free-loans-for-22000-farmers-opens-portal-across-774-lgas/, February 13, 2026

    Photo credit: Vanguard

  • Controversy Erupts Over Attempted Airport Detention of Former Governor El-Rufai

    Controversy Erupts Over Attempted Airport Detention of Former Governor El-Rufai

    According to Premium Times, security agents attempted to intercept and arrest Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The incident occurred as the former governor was preparing to board a flight, leading to a tense standoff between his aides and the security personnel on site.

    In an update published by his media team, it was alleged that the agents attempted to seize El-Rufai’s passport without a valid warrant. The former governor has since spoken out, describing the incident as an example of “executive overreach” and a threat to the democratic rights of citizens who hold opposing views to the current administration.

    The situation has sparked widespread debate across the political spectrum, with allies of the former governor claiming the move was politically motivated. Conversely, security sources have remained tight-lipped about the specific reasons for the attempted detention, though rumors of investigations into past administrative actions continue to circulate.

    Vanguard and The Sun also covered the confrontation at the airport. Vanguard noted that “the heavy security presence caused a temporary stir at the terminal,” while The Sun featured a quote from an aide saying, “we will not allow the rule of law to be trampled upon by faceless agents.”

    Echotitbits take: This incident highlights the deepening friction between the federal government and influential political figures ahead of the 2027 election cycle. It raises concerns about the use of state apparatus for political intimidation. Keep an eye on the Department of State Services (DSS) for an official statement, as this could lead to a protracted legal battle.

    Source: BBC – https://www.bbc.com/pidgin/articles/cn87g9n875jo, February 13, 2026

    Photo credit: BBC

  • Central Bank Targets Exchange Rate Stability With New BDC Dollar Supply

    Central Bank Targets Exchange Rate Stability With New BDC Dollar Supply

    Reporting by BusinessDay indicates that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reopened its foreign exchange window for Bureau De Change (BDC) operators. This strategic move is designed to narrow the widening gap between the official and parallel market rates, providing much-needed liquidity to the retail segment of the currency market.

    In an update published by the same outlet, the apex bank’s decision follows a period of heightened volatility that saw the Naira under significant pressure. By channeling funds directly through licensed BDCs, the CBN aims to decentralize access to foreign currency for small-scale users and travelers, thereby curbing speculative activities that have historically fueled inflation.

    Market analysts suggest that this intervention, coupled with the ongoing “clean-up” of the BDC sector, reflects a more aggressive stance by the regulator to maintain macroeconomic stability. The reopening of the “dollar tap” is expected to provide immediate relief to businesses that rely on the informal market for their foreign exchange needs.

    The Punch and The Nation have confirmed this development, noting the positive reception from financial stakeholders. The Punch reported that “operators expect the move to significantly reduce the premium between markets,” while The Nation quoted a source stating, “this is a vital step toward achieving a realistic exchange rate for the 2026 fiscal year.”

    Echotitbits take: This intervention is a reactive measure to the recent currency slide. While it offers short-term liquidity, the long-term stability of the Naira depends on Nigeria’s ability to boost non-oil exports and attract foreign direct investment. Watch for the CBN’s next Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting to see if interest rates will be adjusted to complement this liquidity injection.

    Source: BusinessDay – https://businessday.ng/news/article/cbn-approves-150000-weekly-fx-sales-to-bdcs/, February 13, 2026

    Photo credit: BusinessDay

  • Thomas Tuchel Extends England Stay Through Euro 2028

    Thomas Tuchel Extends England Stay Through Euro 2028

    In a statement shared by Sky Sports, Thomas Tuchel has officially signed a contract extension to remain as the head coach of the England national team. The deal will keep the German tactician at the helm of the Three Lions through the end of the Euro 2028 tournament, ending months of speculation about his future following the recent World Cup cycle.

    Tuchel, who took over the role with high expectations, has reportedly won over the FA hierarchy with his tactical flexibility and his ability to integrate the next generation of English talent. The extension comes as a boost to the squad as they prepare for the upcoming UEFA Nations League and qualifying rounds for the next major tournaments.

    The decision has been met with a mix of approval and scrutiny from the English media. While his record has been solid, some “traditionalist” voices still argue for an English manager, though Tuchel’s results on the pitch have largely silenced his critics for now.

    The extension also means Tuchel will oversee the transition of several veteran players as the team builds toward 2028. With England possessing one of the most talented rosters in world soccer, the pressure will be on Tuchel to deliver a major trophy within this new contract window.

    * The Mirror (Sport): “Tuchel signs England contract extension… FA confirms he will lead the team through to Euro 2028.”

    * BBC Sport: “Thomas Tuchel to stay on as England manager… new deal finalized this Thursday morning.”

    Echotitbits take:

    The FA is clearly opting for stability over another “reset.” By locking Tuchel down until 2028, they are giving him a full four-year cycle to implement his philosophy. For Nigerian fans of the Premier League and English soccer, this means a continued focus on the high-pressing, tactical game that Tuchel mastered at Chelsea. The big question remains: can a non-Englishman finally bring football “home”?

    Source: Sky Sports — https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/13506620/thomas-tuchel-england-boss-signs-contract-extension-until-2028 February 12, 2026

    Photo Credit: Sky Sports

  • Floetry Reunites for First National U.S. Tour in a Decade

    Floetry Reunites for First National U.S. Tour in a Decade

    According to PR Newswire, the iconic neo-soul duo Floetry—comprising Marsha Ambrosius and Natalie “The Floacist” Stewart—is officially returning to the stage together. The “Say Yes” Tour marks their first national run in the United States since 2016, a moment fans of early 2000s R&B have been waiting for for years.
    The 16-city tour, produced by the Black Promoters Collective, is set to kick off in April 2026 in Newark and will feature supporting acts Raheem DeVaughn and Teedra Moses. The announcement has sent waves through the soul and hip-hop community, as the duo is credited with pioneering the blend of spoken word and melodic R&B.
    For years, rumors of a rift between the two artists kept them apart, with both pursuing successful solo careers. However, this reunion signifies a “celebration and a revival,” aimed at bringing their platinum-selling sound back to an audience that has remained loyal through their decade-long hiatus.
    Presale tickets went live on Thursday morning, with general sales scheduled for Friday. The tour is expected to be an intimate, “soul-forward” experience, focusing on the lyrical depth and vocal harmony that made them a staple of the neo-soul movement.
    * 1070 WDIA (Entertainment News): “Iconic Duo Returns to the Stage for the First Time Since 2016… joined by Raheem DeVaughn and Teedra Moses.”
    * Black Promoters Collective (Official): “Floetry’s work helped normalize poetry as a lead voice in R&B… we are proud to produce this revival.”
    Echotitbits take:
    The “reunion tour” trend is hitting its peak in 2026, but Floetry’s return feels particularly significant for the R&B community. Their influence on the “poetic soul” sub-genre is massive, and with the current resurgence of 90s and 2000s aesthetics, this tour is timed perfectly. It’s a chance for them to reclaim their throne before a new generation of soul artists who grew up on their “Floetic” album.

    Source: PR Newswire — https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/floetry-announces-2026-the-say-yes-tour–first-national-run-together-in-a-decade-302686599.html February 12, 2026

    Photo Credit: PR Newswire

  • Nkubi’s Wife Shares Emotional Story of Dwarfism and Family Pressure

    Nkubi’s Wife Shares Emotional Story of Dwarfism and Family Pressure

    A TikTok video by @nkubi_wife has gone viral after she shared the heart-wrenching advice she allegedly received regarding her marriage to popular Nollywood actor and OAP, Nkubi. In the emotional clip, she revealed that she was once advised by a medical professional to seek a pregnancy outside of her marriage due to her husband’s dwarfism.
    She explained that the pressure wasn’t just external; some voices suggested she should even consider his brother-in-law to ensure her children wouldn’t inherit her husband’s physical condition. The revelation has sparked a massive wave of support for the couple, who have been vocal about their love despite societal prejudice.
    Nkubi, known for his roles in various Nollywood productions and his work at Wazobia FM, has often spoken about the challenges of living with dwarfism. However, this is the first time his wife has shared such specific details about the medical and social hurdles they faced while trying to build their family.
    Fans have flooded the comments section of her posts, praising her loyalty and slamming the “insensitive” advice of the unnamed doctor. The couple continues to be a symbol of resilience in the Nigerian entertainment space, frequently sharing moments of their happy domestic life to counter the negativity.
    * Naija News (Entertainment): “Doctor advised me to get pregnant outside… Nkubi’s wife opens up about the struggles of dwarfism in marriage.”
    * Leadership Nigeria (Lifestyle): “Doctor Wanted Me To Get Pregnant Outside… Nkubi’s Wife Opens Up… couple continues to thrive.”
    Echotitbits take:
    This story sheds light on the deep-seated stigma surrounding physical disabilities in Nigeria, even within professional medical circles. By speaking out, Nkubi’s wife is challenging the narrative that people with dwarfism cannot have healthy, “normal” families. It’s a powerful viral moment that shifts the focus from celebrity gossip to a much-needed conversation about disability rights and marital loyalty.
    Source: Naija News — https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/12/doctor-advised-me-to-get-pregnant-outside-or-go-to-my-brother-in-law-nkubis-wife-opens-up/ February 12, 2026
    Photo Credit: Naija News

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo Launches “FR34K Gummies” Candy Line

    Giannis Antetokounmpo Launches “FR34K Gummies” Candy Line

    In a post shared by @giannis_an34 on Instagram, NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has officially transitioned from being a candy enthusiast to a “candy man.” The Milwaukee Bucks forward announced the launch of “Giannis FR34K Gummies,” a premium candy line created in partnership with Candy Funhouse, a company he became an owner of in 2023.

    The “Greek Freak” shared that this business move is deeply personal, rooted in his well-documented love for sweets and his desire to create something his children can enjoy. The gummies even feature shapes modeled after his own face, adding a signature touch to the product line that launched this Thursday.

    Giannis revealed that he has been involved in the creative process for a long time, ensuring the flavors and packaging reflected his personality. The product is being released under the “Candy Fun Street” platform, targeting fans who want a piece of the superstar’s lifestyle off the court.

    While Giannis is currently dealing with a minor injury that has kept him out of some recent games, his business portfolio continues to expand. The launch of the gummies marks his latest venture in the consumer goods space, further solidifying his brand as a global entrepreneur.

    * Fox Sports (NBA): “Giannis Antetokounmpo goes from candy fan to candy man… says it means something to him and his family.”

    * AP News (Sports/Business): “Milwaukee Bucks All-Star unveiled the Giannis FR34K Gummies… realization of a long-term dream.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Giannis is following the classic “superstar-to-mogul” blueprint, but with a uniquely playful twist that fits his public persona perfectly. Unlike the more serious tech or real estate investments of his peers, a candy line is approachable and highly marketable to the NBA’s younger demographic. Watch for this to become a staple in stadium concessions and a case study in authentic athlete branding.

    Source: Fox Sports — https://www.foxsports.com/articles/nba/giannis-antetokounmpo-goes-from-candy-fan-to-candy-man-with-his-own-line-of-gummies February 12, 2026

    Photo Credit: MassLive

  • Untitled post 34716

    Nkubi’s Wife Shares Emotional Story of Dwarfism and Family Pressure

    A TikTok video by @nkubi_wife has gone viral after she shared the heart-wrenching advice she allegedly received regarding her marriage to popular Nollywood actor and OAP, Nkubi. In the emotional clip, she revealed that she was once advised by a medical professional to seek a pregnancy outside of her marriage due to her husband’s dwarfism.

    She explained that the pressure wasn’t just external; some voices suggested she should even consider his brother-in-law to ensure her children wouldn’t inherit her husband’s physical condition. The revelation has sparked a massive wave of support for the couple, who have been vocal about their love despite societal prejudice.

    Nkubi, known for his roles in various Nollywood productions and his work at Wazobia FM, has often spoken about the challenges of living with dwarfism. However, this is the first time his wife has shared such specific details about the medical and social hurdles they faced while trying to build their family.

    Fans have flooded the comments section of her posts, praising her loyalty and slamming the “insensitive” advice of the unnamed doctor. The couple continues to be a symbol of resilience in the Nigerian entertainment space, frequently sharing moments of their happy domestic life to counter the negativity.

    * Naija News (Entertainment): “Doctor advised me to get pregnant outside… Nkubi’s wife opens up about the struggles of dwarfism in marriage.”

    * Leadership Nigeria (Lifestyle): “Doctor Wanted Me To Get Pregnant Outside… Nkubi’s Wife Opens Up… couple continues to thrive.”

    Echotitbits take:

    This story sheds light on the deep-seated stigma surrounding physical disabilities in Nigeria, even within professional medical circles. By speaking out, Nkubi’s wife is challenging the narrative that people with dwarfism cannot have healthy, “normal” families. It’s a powerful viral moment that shifts the focus from celebrity gossip to a much-needed conversation about disability rights and marital loyalty.

    Source: Naija News — https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/12/doctor-advised-me-to-get-pregnant-outside-or-go-to-my-brother-in-law-nkubis-wife-opens-up/ February 12, 2026

    Photo Credit: Naija News

  • 2Baba Opens Up on “Womanizer” Label and Fatherhood Regrets

    2Baba Opens Up on “Womanizer” Label and Fatherhood Regrets

    According to Voice of Nigeria (VON), legendary singer 2Baba (Innocent Idibia) has used a recent interview to clear the air on his long-standing public image. The 49-year-old artist rejected the “womanizer” label that has followed him for decades, describing himself instead as a “lover boy” who simply loves hard and is straightforward about his feelings.

    During the candid session, 2Baba reflected on the weight of public scrutiny regarding his family life and the many children he has from different women. He admitted to having certain regrets about the way his fatherhood journey unfolded, noting the challenges of balancing fame with raising eight children.

    The “African Queen” crooner expressed that while he is often the subject of jokes regarding his personal life, the reality of managing his family dynamics is a serious and ongoing effort. He defended his marriage to Annie Idibia (Natasha), reiterating his commitment despite the many storms they have weathered in the public eye.

    The interview has sparked a mix of empathy and criticism from the Nigerian public. Some viewers praised his honesty about his flaws, while others pointed out that the “womanizer” tag was a natural consequence of his highly publicized romantic history.

    * Legit.ng (Celebrity News): “The biggest misconception about me is that I am a womaniser… I am just straightforward. But I am a lover boy,” 2Baba said.

    * The Punch (Lifestyle): “2Baba opens up on greatest misconception… 49-year-old musician revealed that balancing his [life] is a challenge.”

    Echotitbits take:

    2Baba is currently in a “legacy-defining” phase of his career, attempting to reframe the narratives that have defined him for 20 years. By addressing the “womanizer” tag head-on, he is trying to transition from a figure of tabloid gossip to a respected elder statesman of the industry. His honesty about fatherhood regrets is a rare moment of vulnerability that might help humanize him to a younger generation of fans.

    Source: News Ghana — https://www.newsghana.com.gh/2baba-denies-womaniser-label-opens-up-on-fatherhood-challenges-in-new-interview/ February 12, 2026

    Photo Credit: News Ghana

  • Uzor Arukwe Threatens Legal Action Over BamBam Marriage Crisis Rumors

    Uzor Arukwe Threatens Legal Action Over BamBam Marriage Crisis Rumors

    In a post shared by @uzorarukwe on X (formerly Twitter), the Nollywood actor has officially addressed the viral allegations linking him to the rumored marital strain between reality stars BamBam and Teddy A. Arukwe expressed his frustration over “baseless accusations” that have circulated online following his professional collaboration with BamBam.

    The actor revealed that his legal team has identified specific social media accounts responsible for spreading the narrative that he had an affair with his colleague. He emphasized that their relationship is strictly professional, stemming from their work on the 2025 YouTube film “Love In Every Word.”

    The rumors gained momentum after eagle-eyed fans noticed that BamBam and Teddy A had reportedly unfollowed each other on Instagram. While the couple has faced marriage rumors before, the inclusion of Arukwe as a third party prompted the actor to step forward and protect his reputation.

    Arukwe’s statement served as a stern warning to bloggers and “trolls” who use celebrity names to drive engagement. He noted that he chose not to name the specific account publicly to avoid giving them the attention they seek but confirmed that legal proceedings are being initiated.

    * Vanguard Nigeria (Entertainment): “Arukwe addressed the controversy in a statement on social media… those responsible would be held accountable for reputational damage.”

    * The Punch (Nollywood News): “Nollywood actor, Uzor Arukwe, has threatened legal action against individuals circulating what he described as false and damaging rumours.”

    Echotitbits take:

    This situation highlights the dangerous intersection of on-screen chemistry and real-life gossip in Nollywood. While “unfollowing” is often the first sign of trouble in celebrity marriages, dragging a co-star into the mix without proof is a legal minefield. Arukwe’s decision to involve lawyers suggests he’s drawing a hard line against the “fan-fiction” style of reporting that often plagues Nollywood stars.

    Source: Vanguard — https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/uzor-arukwe-threatens-lawsuit-over-links-to-bambams-marriage-crisis/#google_vignette February 12, 2026

    Photo Credit: Vanguard