Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Author: Bob Echols’s

BBNaija Power Couple Teddy A and BamBam Spark Breakup Fears

A report by Leadership News indicates that former Big Brother Nigeria housemates Teddy A and BamBam have sparked intense breakup rumors after fans noticed they had unfollowed each other on Instagram. The couple, who married after meeting on the show’s third season, have long been considered one of the most stable “shippings” in the franchise.

The social media activity was compounded by a viral video of a man claiming to know the “real reason” for the crisis, alleging domestic friction and lifestyle differences. However, the couple recently appeared in a pre-recorded interview where they recounted past instances of being “wrongly accused” of marital issues, adding a layer of confusion to the current reports.

While neither has released an official statement regarding the unfollowing, Nigerian Twitter (X) has been flooded with “investigative” posts analyzing their recent solo public appearances. Some fans remain hopeful that it’s a PR stunt for an upcoming joint project or reality show.

* Legit NG quoted a viral TikTok source: “No husband takes that; alleged reason for couple’s rumoured marital crisis emerges.”

* Naija News cited filmmaker Onyeka Nwelue: “Nothing has happened to Teddy A and BamBam’s marriage.”

Echotitbits take:

The “unfollow” is the modern-day divorce filing in the world of celebrity gossip. However, given their history of debunking rumors, this could be a calculated move to drum up engagement for a new brand deal. Until there’s a formal “we have decided to part ways” post, treat this with high skepticism—celebrity marriages are often more resilient than their social media handles suggest.

Source: Leadership — https://leadership.ng/bbnaija-power-couple-teddy-a-and-bambam-spark-breakup-rumors-after-social-media-unfollow/ February 11, 2026

Photo Credit: Leadership

February 11, 2026
Kunle Afolayan Blasts Critics of “Anikulapo: The Ghoul Awakens”

In a post shared by Nigerian Entertainment Today, renowned filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has fired back at critics of his latest Netflix series, Anikulapo: The Ghoul Awakens. The director, known for his high-production value and cultural storytelling, described critics as “senseless” if they failed to grasp the intellectual depth of the project.

The series, a sequel to the hit film Anikulapo, has received mixed reviews since its release, with some viewers complaining about the pacing and plot complexity. Afolayan argued that he makes films for “intellectual thinkers” and suggested that those who don’t understand the nuance of his work are not his target audience.

The backlash to his comments has been swift on TikTok and X, with fans debating whether filmmakers should be open to constructive criticism or if the “auteur” status allows them to dismiss public opinion. Despite the controversy, the series remains one of the most-watched titles on Netflix Nigeria this week.

* Legit NG reported: “Kunle Afolayan faces heavy criticism after describing critics of Anikulapo Season 2 as senseless.”

* Kunle Afolayan (via Instagram): “We make films for intellectual thinkers; if you get it, you get it.”

Echotitbits take:

Afolayan is leaning into the “misunderstood genius” trope, which is a risky PR move in the era of fan-driven success. While his technical brilliance is undeniable, dismissing audience feedback can alienate the very people who drive Netflix’s algorithms. Expect a “clarification” post soon, but for now, the controversy is only driving more curiosity—and views—to the series.

Source: Vanguard — https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/video-anikulapo-is-for-thinkers-not-everyone-afolayan-tells-critics/February 11, 2026

Photo Credit: Vanguard

February 11, 2026
Tyla’s Grammy Win Over Afrobeats Stars Sparks Industry Strategy Debate

According to Streamline Feed, an anonymous Recording Academy member has revealed the strategic reasons why Nigerian giants like Davido and Burna Boy lost the “Best African Music Performance” category to South Africa’s Tyla at the 2026 Grammys. The insider pointed to “team power” and localized lobbying in Los Angeles as the deciding factors over raw streaming numbers.

The revelation suggests that while Afrobeats dominates global charts, Tyla’s label, Epic Records, executed a more surgical campaign within the Recording Academy’s voting circles. The source noted that the “split vote” phenomenon—where multiple high-profile Nigerian nominees dilute each other’s support—also worked in Tyla’s favor.

This insight has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian music industry, prompting a shift in how artists approach awards season. The discussion has moved from complaining about “robbery” to analyzing how Western label structures influence the “opaque” voting process of the Grammys.

* Legit NG reported: “Statistics for Tyla’s ‘Push 2 Start’ vs Davido’s ‘With You’ spark fierce online debate among fans.”

* Recording Academy Insider (quoted in Streamline): “Tyla’s victory was engineered by a formidable team working the room where it counts.”

Echotitbits take:

This is a wake-up call for the “Afrobeats to the World” movement. Streams don’t always translate to statues; industry politics do. We’re likely to see Nigerian labels investing more in US-based PR and “For Your Consideration” campaigns next year. The “split vote” issue is real, and until there’s a more unified strategy, the Grammy might remain elusive for Nigeria’s “Big Three.”

Source: Streamline Feed — https://streamlinefeed.co.ke/news/grammy-gatekeepers-insider-reveals-why-afrobeats-giants-lost-out February 11, 2026

Photo Credit: Premium Times

February 11, 2026
NBA Hands Down Heavy Suspensions Following Wild Hornets-Pistons Brawl

In a report by Larry Brown Sports, the NBA has officially sanctioned four players involved in a violent altercation during Monday’s game between the Charlotte Hornets and the Detroit Pistons. The league’s disciplinary office acted swiftly after multiple punches were thrown, resulting in some of the stiffest penalties seen this season.

Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart received the most significant punishment, a seven-game suspension without pay. The league cited his “repeated history of unsportsmanlike acts” as a primary factor for the length of the ban. Stewart reportedly left the bench area to escalate the fight, which the NBA viewed as a major violation of player safety protocols.

Other players caught in the crossfire include Moussa Diabate and Miles Bridges, who both earned four-game suspensions for their roles in the melee. Jalen Duren, despite being an All-Star selection, was handed a two-game ban for initiating the initial contact that sparked the chaos. All suspensions are set to begin immediately as teams head into the final stretch before the All-Star break.

* Men’s Journal noted: “League determines suspensions for brawl; Duren will still participate in Sunday’s All-Star Game.”

* Chris Haynes (via X) shared: “Detroit center Isaiah Stewart has been suspended seven games for leaving the bench area and fighting.”

Echotitbits take:

The NBA is clearly trying to avoid a “Malice at the Palace” 2.0 scenario by throwing the book at Isaiah Stewart. While the Pistons are currently leading the Eastern Conference, losing their defensive anchors for several games could disrupt their momentum. Watch for how the Pistons’ depth is tested over the next week and whether Stewart’s “enforcer” reputation becomes a permanent liability for his career.

Source: Larry Brown Sports — https://larrybrownsports.com/basketball/nba-announces-suspensions-from-hornets-pistons-brawl/740747 February 11, 2026

Photo Credit: Larry Brown Sports

February 11, 2026
Veteran Nollywood Icon Pete Edochie Squashes Viral Death Rumors

According to Olori Supergal, legendary Nollywood actor Pete Edochie has personally debunked widespread reports claiming he had passed away. The veteran actor, known for his deep proverbs and commanding screen presence, addressed the rumors in a video statement to reassure his global fanbase that he is “alive and kicking.”

The false news reportedly began circulating on social media platforms late Tuesday, causing significant distress among movie lovers. Edochie expressed disappointment at the recurring nature of these hoaxes, which often target high-profile elders in the entertainment industry. He urged the public to disregard such malicious “clickbait” and focus on his actual contributions to the arts.

The actor’s family members also stepped in to clarify the situation, noting that the “Lion of Africa” is currently in good health. This marks the latest in a series of celebrity death hoaxes that have plagued the Nigerian digital space in recent months, prompting calls for stricter regulations on social media misinformation.

* Naija News reported: “‘I’m alive’ – Pete Edochie slams fresh death rumours as he confirms he is in good spirits.”

* Legit NG quoted his eldest son, Leo Edochie: “To those spreading false reports, my father is well and active.”

Echotitbits take:

This incident highlights the toxic side of the “attention economy” where bloggers sacrifice ethics for traffic. While it’s a relief that the legendary actor is safe, the recurring nature of these rumors suggests a need for fans to verify news from official handles before sharing. Expect more calls from the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) to sanction platforms that profit from such harmful misinformation.

Source: Vanguard — vanguardngr.com/2026/02/im-alive-and-kicking-pete-edochie-debunks-death-rumours/ February 11, 2026

Photo Credit: Daily Post

February 11, 2026
Cargo Clearing Resumes as FAAN Reduces Tariffs Following Eight-Day Strike

According to an update by The Guardian, freight forwarders and cargo agents at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos have called off their week-long industrial action. The breakthrough came after the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) agreed to lower the proposed cargo tariff from N20 per kilogram to N15 per kg. This compromise follows an eight-day strike that had completely paralyzed clearing operations at the country’s busiest airport.

The strike had led to a massive backlog of goods, including perishables and industrial raw materials, causing significant losses for importers. Frank Ogunojemite, President of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders & Logistics (APFFLON), confirmed that agents have been directed to resume duties immediately. While the new N15 rate is still an increase from the previous N7 per kg, the agents accepted it as a “middle ground” to allow business to continue.

Validating the resolution, Vanguard reports that the agreement was brokered during a high-stakes meeting chaired by Lekan Thomas, FAAN’s Director of Cargo Development. The publication quotes Henry Agbebire, FAAN’s spokesperson: “The outcome reflects the spirit of dialogue and shared responsibility.” ThisDay added that ground handling companies like SAHCO and NAHCO have been put on high alert to handle the surge of clearing requests expected over the next 48 hours.

Echotitbits take:

The resolution of this strike is a relief for the supply chain, but the 114% hike (from N7 to N15) will inevitably be passed on to consumers. Expect a slight uptick in the price of imported air-freighted goods by the end of the month. The government is clearly looking for revenue, but at the risk of fueling inflation.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/faan-cargo-agents-reach-compromise-on-cargo-tariff/, February 11, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

February 11, 2026
National Revenue Service Clarifies Input Recovery Benefits in New Tax Act

According to TVC News, the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) has begun an intensive sensitization campaign to explain the benefits of the new Tax Act to skeptical business owners. A key highlight of the new regime is the transition to a 7.5% “full input recovery” system, which now includes services and capital expenditure (capex), unlike the old regime which was far more restrictive. Executive Chairman Zacch Adedeji emphasized that these reforms are intended to reduce the overall tax burden on productive sectors while widening the tax net.

The new Act also streamlines Personal Income Tax (PIT) and Company Income Tax (CIT) to remove “nuisance taxes” that have historically complicated compliance for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Despite these explanations, many Nigerians remain wary of the NRS’s expanded enforcement powers. The government, however, insists that the automation of tax collection will reduce human interface and corruption, ultimately leading to a more transparent fiscal environment.

Validating these updates, Channels TV reported on the public’s mixed reactions to the “full input recovery” clause, with an economic analyst stating, “While the math looks good for big corporations, small businesses still fear the aggressive enforcement stance of the NRS.” The Nation also covered the development, quoting Taiwo Oyedele of the Presidential Tax Reform Committee: “Our goal is to make Nigeria a tax-friendly destination where the system is fair and predictable.”

Echotitbits take:

The “full input recovery” is a significant olive branch to the manufacturing and service industries. It essentially means businesses can recoup more of the VAT they pay on operations. However, the success of this policy depends on whether the NRS can actually process these refunds faster than the old, sluggish system.

Source: Arise – https://www.arise.tv/lirs-activates-power-of-substitution-under-new-tax-law-to-boost-tax-recovery/, February 11, 2026

Photo credit: Arise

February 11, 2026
Lagos State Judiciary Overhauls Justice System with New Efficiency Reforms

Figures cited by Premium Times show that the Lagos State Government has introduced sweeping reforms aimed at ensuring civil cases are concluded within 18 months and tenancy disputes within six months. The state’s Attorney-General, Lawal Pedro (SAN), announced these changes during a press briefing, highlighting the deployment of a new “criminal information system” capable of tracking defendants across all courts. These measures are designed to eliminate the perennial issue of case backlogs that have long plagued the state’s legal system.

The reforms also focus heavily on reducing prison congestion through non-custodial sentencing, inmate profiling, and an expanded plea-bargain process. For the first time, the state is implementing a robust witness protection and support law to encourage citizens to participate in the criminal justice process without fear of retaliation. The Ministry of Justice believes these institutional shifts will significantly improve the “Ease of Doing Business” in Lagos by providing a more predictable legal environment for investors.

In support of these claims, The Guardian reports that legal practitioners in Lagos have expressed cautious optimism about the timelines, with one senior lawyer stating, “The focus on technology is the only way to clear the thousands of pending cases in our registries.” Additionally, Vanguard highlights the government’s collaboration with the judiciary, quoting a state official who affirmed, “Lagos is setting a template for judicial speed that the rest of the federation must follow.”

Echotitbits take:

Lagos is acting as a laboratory for judicial reform in Nigeria. If the 18-month civil case cap holds true, it could spark a massive influx of foreign direct investment, as legal delays are a top deterrent for businesses. The real test will be the consistency of the “forensic measures” and technology infrastructure under pressure.

Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/news/lagos-judiciary-expands-access-to-justice-with-enhanced-virtual-court-hearing-system/ February 11, 2026

Photo credit: The Guardian

February 11, 2026
United States Deploys 200 Military Personnel to Nigeria for Counter-Terrorism Training R

Reporting by The Punch indicates that the United States government has authorized the deployment of 200 military personnel to Nigeria to bolster the country’s fight against insurgency and banditry. This move, reportedly approved by the Trump administration following a request from President Bola Tinubu, focuses specifically on enhancing the “air and infantry operations” of the Nigerian Armed Forces. The troops are expected to arrive in the coming weeks to provide high-level technical guidance and intelligence-gathering strategies.

The deployment marks a significant escalation in international military cooperation between Abuja and Washington. While the American forces will not be engaged in direct combat on the front lines, their presence is intended to refine the tactical efficiency of Nigerian troops who have been battling Islamic extremists and kidnapping syndicates for over a decade. The collaboration follows recent high-profile security breaches that have drawn international concern toward the West African sub-region.

Validating this story, Daily Post features comments from U.S. Representative Riley Moore, who stated on Fox News that the situation in Nigeria had become a “bloodbath” requiring urgent intervention. Moore noted, “We are making steps in the right direction to address this persecution… we are sending 200 troops to train the Nigerian military.” Furthermore, Gazette Nigeria highlights the diplomatic context, quoting a U.S. Africa Command spokesperson who said, “We want to partner with capable and willing partners that are able to address these shared security concerns.”

Echotitbits take:

The arrival of U.S. special forces suggests a “re-globalization” of Nigeria’s security architecture. While the non-combat role is emphasized to manage public perception, the intelligence and tactical edge provided could be a game-changer for the Nigerian Air Force. The key will be ensuring that these foreign tactics are successfully adapted to the local terrain.

Source: Leadership – https://leadership.ng/us-deploys-200-troops-to-nigeria/, February 11, 2026

Photo credit: Leadership

February 11, 2026
Federal Government Partners with Ericsson to Launch Youth Tech Innovation Hackathon

According to reporting by Leadership, the Nigerian government is set to unveil a major technological empowerment initiative dubbed the “Connect NextGen” Innovation Hackathon. The four-month-long program, which is being coordinated through the Office of the Vice President, officially kicks off on February 11, 2026, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. This partnership with global telecommunications giant Ericsson is designed to equip Nigerian youths with advanced skills in modern technologies, fostering a new generation of digital entrepreneurs.

The initiative aligns with the broader national agenda to deepen digital inclusion and create high-value jobs within the tech ecosystem. By leveraging Ericsson’s global expertise, the hackathon will provide participants with hands-on training and mentorship in emerging fields like 5G, Artificial Intelligence, and Internet of Things (IoT). The government expects that the solutions developed during this period will address local challenges while positioning Nigeria as a competitive hub in the global digital economy.

In validation of this development, The Nation reports that the “Connect NextGen” program is a critical component of the administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda for the ICT sector. The publication quotes a senior official from the Vice President’s office stating, “This hackathon is not just a competition but a strategic pipeline for talent discovery and national development.” Similarly, ThisDay emphasizes the private-sector involvement, noting that “Ericsson’s technical leadership will provide the necessary backbone for Nigerian youths to innovate at scale.”

Echotitbits take:

This move signals a shift toward practical, industry-led skill acquisition rather than just theoretical training. By involving a global leader like Ericsson, the government is bridging the gap between local talent and international standards. Watch for how the winning innovations are integrated into the public and private sectors over the next fiscal year.

Source: The Nation – https://thenationonlineng.net/fed-govt-ericsson-to-launch-connect-nextgen-innovation-hackathon/, February 11, 2026

Photo credit: The Nation

February 11, 2026