Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Category: Entertainment

  • Veekee James Dazzles in Lavish Dubai Gender Reveal Viral Video

    Veekee James Dazzles in Lavish Dubai Gender Reveal Viral Video

    A TikTok video by Legit.ng has captured the internet’s attention, showcasing celebrity fashion designer Veekee James and her husband, Femi Atere, at their extravagant baby gender reveal party in Dubai. The viral clip shows a tearful and emotional Veekee James as the news was finally shared with their inner circle in a high-production setup that featured stunning views of the Dubai skyline.

    The event, which has been described as “peak luxury,” saw the fashion mogul wearing a custom-made maternity gown that further cemented her status as a style icon. Fans and fellow celebrities have flooded her comments section with congratulatory messages, though the designer kept the specific gender a “tease” for her YouTube subscribers, a move that has fueled even more engagement on her social media pages.

    Veekee James has been very open about her marriage and journey to motherhood, often sharing intimate moments with her followers. This latest update follows a string of high-profile events the couple has hosted since their wedding, making them one of the most-watched “celebrity couples” in the Nigerian lifestyle space.

    Critics and fans alike are currently debating the “over-the-top” nature of the reveal, with some praising the celebration of black love and success, while others question the necessity of such a grand display in Dubai. Regardless of the opinions, the video remains one of the top trending stories on Nigerian Instagram and TikTok today.

    * Legit.ng (Entertainment): “Veekee James’ baby’s gender emerges as video from lavish reveal party in Dubai goes viral: ‘She cried’.”

    * Instagram (@veekee_james): “God’s plan is always the best. Thank you for this miracle.” (paraphrased from recent posts).

    Echotitbits take:

    Veekee James is the undisputed queen of turning personal milestones into viral marketing masterclasses. By hosting this in Dubai and teasing the result, she’s maximizing her digital footprint and setting a new (and very expensive) standard for Nigerian celebrity lifestyle content. Expect a surge in “Dubai reveal” packages among the elite following this.

    Source: Legit.ng — https://www.legit.ng/entertainment/fashion/1696112-veekee-james-baby-gender-emerges-video-lavish-reveal-party-dubai-viral-cried/ February 8, 2026

    Photo Credit: Legit.ng

  • President Tinubu Set for Historic UK State Visit at King Charles’ Invitation

    President Tinubu Set for Historic UK State Visit at King Charles’ Invitation

    In a post shared by Buckingham Palace and reported by the Associated Press, it has been confirmed that Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu will undertake a historic state visit to the United Kingdom in March 2026. This visit marks the first time in nearly 40 years that a Nigerian leader has been invited for a full state reception, which includes a stay at Windsor Castle and a royal banquet hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

    The visit is scheduled for March 18 and 19, signaling a significant strengthening of diplomatic and cultural ties between Nigeria and its former colonial ruler. King Charles, who has visited Nigeria four times as Prince of Wales, previously hosted President Tinubu for a private audience in 2024, but this upgrade to a “State Visit” represents the highest level of diplomatic honor.

    The announcement has trended heavily on Nigerian social media, with many discussing the potential lifestyle and fashion statements expected from the Nigerian First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, who will accompany the President. State visits are known for their high-glamour carriage processions and ceremonial displays, providing a massive platform for showcasing Nigerian culture on the global stage.

    Beyond the ceremony, the visit is expected to touch on trade, security, and the thriving “Japa” migration wave between the two nations. It also places Nigeria back in the spotlight of global diplomacy, following similar state visits hosted by the King for leaders like Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron.

    * Las Vegas Sun (AP Feed): “Officials said President Bola Tinubu and first lady Oluremi Tinubu will travel to the U.K. on March 18 and 19.”

    * Buckingham Palace (Official Statement): “The King and Queen will host the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Mrs. Tinubu at Windsor Castle.”

    Echotitbits take:

    This isn’t just politics; it’s a massive “soft power” moment for Nigeria. The fashion world will be watching what the Nigerian delegation wears to the state banquet, likely a masterclass in traditional luxury. For the lifestyle scene, this marks a renewed “London-Lagos” synergy that could lead to more UK-Nigeria cultural festivals and business partnerships.

    Source: Channels TV — https://www.channelstv.com/2026/02/08/tinubu-to-meet-king-charles-pay-state-visit-to-uk/ February 8, 2026

    Photo Credit: Channels TV

  • Tributes Pour in as Nollywood Veteran ‘Aunty Ajara’ is Laid to Rest

    Tributes Pour in as Nollywood Veteran ‘Aunty Ajara’ is Laid to Rest

    According to The Punch, the Yoruba film industry is in mourning as veteran actress Ajara Lasisi, affectionately known as “Aunty Ajara,” was laid to rest this weekend. The funeral, attended by a heavy presence of Nollywood royalty, was a somber reminder of the actress’s long-standing contribution to the screen. She passed away recently following a prolonged battle with a liver-related illness.

    The burial ceremony turned into a celebration of her life, with colleagues sharing anecdotes of her mentorship and motherly role on set. Viral videos from the event show many of her peers in tears, highlighting the deep vacuum her passing has created. The funeral has also reignited discussions about health insurance and welfare for aging veterans in the Nigerian entertainment sector.

    Nigerian Entertainment Today (TheNETng) reported: “Nollywood actress Aunty Ajara dies after a prolonged battle with illness… she was a pillar of the Yoruba film industry.” NewsNow also carried the tribute: “Tributes pour in as actress Ajara is laid to rest… Colleagues and family pay final respects to a legend.”

    Echotitbits Take:

    Aunty Ajara’s death is a sobering moment for Nollywood. While the industry celebrates its “new school” global hits, the passing of veterans like Ajara often highlights the lack of a robust pension or health system for those who built the foundation. Watch for a renewed push from the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) for better health insurance schemes in the wake of this loss.

    Source: Daily Post — https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/05/late-nollywood-actress-aunty-ajara-laid-to-rest/ February 7, 2026

    Photo Credit: Daily Post

  • Iyabo Ojo Stirs Nollywood with Bold ‘Year for Doers’ Declaration

    Iyabo Ojo Stirs Nollywood with Bold ‘Year for Doers’ Declaration

    In a report by Leadership Nigeria, Nollywood powerhouse Iyabo Ojo has declared 2026 the “Year for Doers,” a statement that has caused significant ripples across the Nigerian film industry. Amidst what insiders describe as “disquiet” and growing pains within Nollywood, Ojo’s call to action is being interpreted as a challenge to her colleagues to prioritize productivity and professionalism over social media drama.

    Ojo, who is as famous for her business acumen as she is for her acting, emphasized that the industry needs to evolve beyond “eye service” and focus on creating sustainable structures. Her comments come at a time when many actors are diversifying into tech and real estate, and her “Year for Doers” mantra is quickly becoming a viral hashtag among the younger crop of influencers and actors.

    NewsNow tracked the immediate impact of her words: “Actress Iyabo Ojo Declares 2026 ‘Year For Doers’ Amid Disquiet In Nollywood… sparking widespread conversation.” Vanguard Nigeria added context to her influence: “Ojo remains a central figure of drama and progress, urging her peers to move from talk to action.”

    Echotitbits Take:

    Iyabo Ojo is the unofficial “Queen Mother” of Nollywood’s digital era. When she speaks, the industry listens—or at least argues. This “Year for Doers” campaign is likely a precursor to a major business announcement or a new production slate. She is positioning herself as the industry’s productivity coach, which is a clever way to stay relevant as the traditional film model shifts toward streaming.

    Source: The Nation —  https://thenationonlineng.net/2026-is-for-doers-not-talkers-iyabo-ojo-speaks-amid-nollywood-drama/ February 7, 2026

    Photo Credit: The Nation

  • Bay Area Icons E-40 and Too $hort Ignite Super Bowl Week in the US

    Bay Area Icons E-40 and Too $hort Ignite Super Bowl Week in the US

    According to AP Entertainment, legendary Bay Area rappers E-40 and Too $hort delivered a high-octane performance at the NFL Honors show, cementing the Bay Area’s musical influence during the ongoing Super Bowl week. The show underscored the “ingrained independence” of the NorCal hip-hop scene, which has historically thrived by building its own infrastructure outside the traditional Hollywood or New York systems.

    The performance served as a soulful yet street-ready celebration of the “hyphy” movement’s evolution into the modern era. As the Super Bowl festivities heat up, the inclusion of these veterans highlights a trend in US pop culture toward honoring regional pioneers who paved the way for the current generation of genre-bending artists.

    Providing further coverage, The MRT noted: “E-40 and Too $hort’s NFL Honors show underscores Bay Area’s music presence… bringing a soulful, street, and pop lane to the stage.” Everything Is Noise also reflected on the cultural weight of such performances, stating: “Hip-hop here grew from artists selling tapes out of car trunks to dominating the NFL’s biggest week.”

    Echotitbits Take:

    This isn’t just a nostalgia trip; it’s a strategic branding move by the NFL to lean into “authentic” street culture. For E-40 and Too $hort, this prime-time exposure during Super Bowl week ensures their business ventures (including wine and spirits) reach a massive mainstream audience. Expect more “OG” hip-hop appearances as the league tries to maintain its cultural relevance with the 35+ demographic.

    Source: MRT — https://www.mrt.com/entertainment/article/e-40-and-too-hort-s-nfl-honors-show-underscores-21339783.php February 7, 2026

    Photo Credit: MRT

  • ‘Dara’ Makes History as Sole African Selection for DC Independent Film Festival

    ‘Dara’ Makes History as Sole African Selection for DC Independent Film Festival

    A TikTok video by @naija_film_hub highlights the growing international buzz for Dara: A Port Harcourt Love Story, which has achieved a major milestone in global cinema. According to Punch Newspapers, the feature film is the only African production selected to showcase at the prestigious 2026 DC Independent Film Festival. This selection places Port Harcourt’s unique cultural landscape on a major global stage.

    The film, which explores the complexities of romance against the backdrop of one of Nigeria’s most vibrant yet volatile cities, has been praised for its authentic storytelling and high production value. Its inclusion in the DC festival is seen as a win not just for the director, but for the entire “Pitakwa” (Port Harcourt) creative ecosystem, which often plays second fiddle to the Lagos-centric Nollywood industry.

    Validating the report, NewsNow confirmed the selection: “The Nigerian feature, ‘Dara: A Port Harcourt Love Story,’ is the only African film selected for the 2026 DC Independent Film Festival.” The Nation also celebrated the feat, quoting the producers: “This is a victory for grassroots storytelling and shows that African narratives are globally competitive.”

    Echotitbits Take:

    While Lagos dominates the headlines, Port Harcourt is quietly becoming a hub for “prestige” Nollywood. Dara’s success at an independent festival suggests a shift toward more localized, gritty narratives that resonate with Western critics. Expect this film to lead the charge for a new wave of regional Nigerian cinema that bypasses traditional distributors for the global festival circuit.

    Source: Punch Newspapers — https://punchng.com/dara-to-represent-africa-at-dc-independent-film-festival/ February 7, 2026

    Photo Credit: Punch Newspapers

  • Andre Dikeh-Churchill: Tonto’s Son Officially Reclaims Father’s Name

    Andre Dikeh-Churchill: Tonto’s Son Officially Reclaims Father’s Name

    According to Punch Newspapers, a significant family milestone was reached this weekend as Andre, the son of Nollywood star Tonto Dikeh, officially adopted his father’s surname, Churchill. This development follows a heartwarming and long-awaited reunion between the young boy and his father, Olakunle Churchill, effectively ending a public and often contentious separation that spanned nearly ten years.

    The transition marks a turning point for the family, which has been under the intense scrutiny of the Nigerian public for years. Tonto Dikeh, known for her vocal stance on her co-parenting struggles, appears to be embracing this new chapter of reconciliation. Fans and followers have flooded social media with reactions, mostly praising the move as a healthy step for the child’s emotional well-being and identity.

    In a report by NewsNow Nigeria, the reconciliation was described as a pivotal moment for the duo: “Tonto Dikeh’s son finally adopts father’s surname… after a heartwarming family reunion ending a nearly decade-long separation.” This sentiment was echoed by The Nigerian Voice, which noted the shift in the family dynamic, stating that the adoption of the Churchill name is a “landmark event defining 2026 family-focused trends in the industry.”

    Echotitbits Take:

    This is a massive shift in one of Nollywood’s longest-running personal sagas. After years of legal battles and social media shade, the rebranding of “Andre Churchill” suggests a ceasefire that prioritizes the child’s stability. Watch for Tonto to pivot her brand more toward “peaceful co-parenting” advocacy in the coming months, as this move significantly softens her previously hardline public image.

    Source: Punch Newspapers — https://punchng.com/tonto-dikehs-son-finally-adopts-fathers-surname/ February 7, 2026

    Photo Credit: Punch Newspapers

  • Iyabo Ojo Stirs Drama Over Funke Akindele and Kunle Afolayan’s Movie Promotion

    Iyabo Ojo Stirs Drama Over Funke Akindele and Kunle Afolayan’s Movie Promotion

    In a post shared by @iyaboojofespris, the Nollywood actress has sparked a fresh debate regarding the promotional strategies used by industry giants Funke Akindele and Kunle Afolayan. In what many are calling a “subtle jab,” Iyabo Ojo questioned the trend of using viral dance videos and social media gimmicks to drive box office numbers, suggesting that the focus should remain on the “quality of the craft” rather than “clout.”

    The comment follows a week where Funke Akindele’s frequent dance videos for her latest project were contrasted with Kunle Afolayan’s more traditional, cinematic approach to marketing. While Ojo did not mention names directly, the timing and context made the target of her critique clear to industry insiders and fans alike.

    Funke Akindele, known for her “Queen of the Box Office” status, has frequently used TikTok trends to propel her films to record-breaking heights. Afolayan, meanwhile, has often advocated for a more “prestige” aesthetic in Nollywood. Iyabo Ojo’s intervention has divided fans, with some supporting her call for artistic integrity and others defending the commercial necessity of social media “hype.”

    As the debate rages, other Nollywood stars like Regina Chukwu have weighed in, noting that “life is turn by turn” and that there is room for different styles of success in the evolving Nigerian film market.

    * Olori Supergal reported on the clash: “The debate over Nollywood promotion styles has reached a fever pitch as Iyabo Ojo’s comments go viral.”

    * Legit NG highlighted the rivalry: “Fans are choosing sides as the promotion strategies of Akindele and Afolayan are put under the microscope by their peers.”

    Echotitbits take: This isn’t just a “celebrity spat”—it’s a philosophical divide in Nollywood. One side prioritizes the “influencer-to-cinema” pipeline that guarantees revenue, while the other values the “film festival” prestige. Iyabo Ojo is positioning herself as the voice of the “traditional” actor, but in an economy where Funke Akindele’s methods consistently break records, Ojo’s critique might be seen as shouting against the wind. Watch for Funke’s inevitable “indirect” video response.

    Source: Legit NG — https://www.legit.ng/entertainment/celebrities/1695836-funke-akindele-kunle-afolayan-iyabo-ojo-drops-subtle-jab-movie-promotion-style-saga/ February 6, 2026

    Photo Credit: Legit NG

  • Central Cee Reveals Conversion to Islam and New Name

    Central Cee Reveals Conversion to Islam and New Name

    In a post shared by @CentralCee, the British rap phenomenon has officially announced his conversion to Islam. The “Doja” hitmaker shared that he recently took his Shahada (the Islamic profession of faith), marking a significant spiritual turning point in his life. He also hinted at a new Muslim name, though he continues to use his professional moniker for his music career.

    The rapper, who has strong ties to the UK rap scene and a massive global following, explained that his journey toward Islam has been a gradual process of self-reflection and seeking peace. The announcement was met with an outpouring of support from the Muslim community and fellow artists, many of whom welcomed him to the faith.

    Central Cee’s conversion comes at the height of his fame, as he continues to dominate charts across Europe and North America. He noted that his new faith has already begun to influence his perspective on success and his responsibilities as a public figure.

    Fans are curious to see if this spiritual shift will be reflected in his future lyrical content, which has traditionally focused on the gritty realities of London street life and his rapid rise to stardom.

    * Legit NG covered the announcement: “The British rapper shared the news with his millions of followers, sparking a conversation about faith in the hip-hop community.”

    * Daily Post Nigeria reported: “Central Cee has opened up about his spiritual journey, confirming he has taken his Shahada and embraced Islam.”

    Echotitbits take: Central Cee is one of the most influential voices in global youth culture right now. His conversion follows a trend of high-profile UK artists seeking spiritual grounding amidst the chaos of the industry. This move will likely deepen his connection with his substantial Muslim fanbase in the UK, France, and West Africa, and could signal a shift toward more “conscious” themes in his upcoming projects.

    Source: DailyPost — https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/06/british-rapper-central-cee-converts-to-islam/ February 6, 2026

    Photo Credit: DailyPost

  • NBA Trade Deadline: Giannis Stays Put as Anthony Davis Heads to Washington

    NBA Trade Deadline: Giannis Stays Put as Anthony Davis Heads to Washington

    A report by CBS Sports confirms that the 2026 NBA trade deadline has officially closed with several “blockbuster” moves, though the biggest name in the rumor mill, Giannis Antetokounmpo, remains a Milwaukee Buck. Despite intense interest from the Knicks, Heat, and Warriors, the Bucks’ front office reportedly found no offer enticing enough to part with their “Greek Freak.”

    While Giannis stayed put, the league was still rocked by a massive trade that saw perennial All-Star Anthony Davis moved from the Dallas Mavericks to the Washington Wizards. This move signals a massive shift in the Eastern Conference landscape, as the Wizards look to build a contender around the veteran big man.

    Other notable moves included the Los Angeles Clippers trading away Ivica Zubac to the Pacers and James Harden joining the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Darius Garland. The Clippers’ fire sale has puzzled analysts, especially given their recent strong performance in the standings.

    The deadline chaos has left several teams significantly reshaped for the final push toward the playoffs. Fans are now eagerly waiting to see how these new lineups integrate, with the Washington Wizards suddenly becoming one of the most talked-about teams in the league.

    * Sporting News detailed the Davis trade: “Washington has landed a franchise-altering talent in Anthony Davis, giving up a package of picks and young talent to secure the move.”

    * ESPN reported on Giannis’ reaction: “Shortly after the deadline passed, Giannis took to social media with a simple message: ‘I’m not leaving.’”

    Echotitbits take: The failure to move Giannis shows that the Bucks are still “all-in” on their current era, but the Anthony Davis move is the real shocker. Davis in D.C. changes the gravity of the East and suggests Dallas is hitting the reset button around Luka Dončić. The Clippers’ decision to ship out Harden and Zubac looks like a massive luxury tax play, essentially waving the white flag on this season’s championship aspirations.

    Source: CBS Sports — https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/nba-trade-deadline-live-updates-rumors-feb-05-2026/live/ February 5, 2026

    Photo Credit: Creative Blog