Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde Debuts First Directorial Project in Los Angeles

By

-

February 24, 2026

A TikTok video by @thenetng highlights Nollywood icon Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde’s successful transition to the director’s chair with her film “Mother’s Love.” The movie recently screened at the prestigious Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) in Los Angeles, marking a significant milestone for the actress often referred to as “Omosexy.”

The film explores deep emotional themes and has been praised for its production quality and storytelling. This directorial debut comes after years of Omotola being one of the most bankable faces in African cinema, signaling her intention to shape the industry from behind the camera.

During the screening event, the actress-turned-director engaged with international audiences, discussing the challenges of bringing authentic Nigerian narratives to a global stage. The reception at PAFF suggests that her transition is being taken seriously by international critics and film enthusiasts.

This move follows the footsteps of other Nollywood veterans like Genevieve Nnaji and Funke Akindele, who have successfully pivoted to directing and producing. Omotola’s expansion into filmmaking adds another layer to her legacy as a pioneer of the “New Nollywood” era.

* Nigerian Entertainment Today: “Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde took Mother’s Love to Los Angeles this weekend… at the prestigious Pan African Film & Arts Festival.”

* Official PAFF Website/Socials: “Screening of ‘Mother’s Love’ directed by Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde was a highlight of our weekend showcase.”

Echotitbits take:

Omotola is playing the long game. By debuting her directorial work at a US-based festival rather than just a local cinema run, she is positioning herself for global streaming acquisitions (Netflix/Amazon). This is a masterclass in brand evolution; she isn’t just an actress anymore, she’s an auteur. Expect “Mother’s Love” to secure a major distribution deal within the next quarter.

Source: ThisDayLive — https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/02/14/omotola-marks-three-decades-in-nollywood-with-mothers-love/ February 24, 2026

Photo Credit: ThisDayLive

Inline1

Gospel Legend Busola Oke Breaks Down Over Music Industry Pressures

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 24, 2026

0

In a post shared by The Nation Online, renowned gospel artist Busola Oke, famously known as “Eleyele,” sparked massive concern among her followers during a distressing live TikTok broadcast. The veteran singer broke down in tears, lamenting that “good music doesn’t sell anymore” and expressing deep frustration over her current financial and emotional state.

Oke revealed that she can no longer cope with the modern entertainment landscape, where talent often takes a backseat to viral trends. She questioned how an artist is expected to find peace of mind when basic needs like food and stability are missing, suggesting a lack of support from former associates and the industry at large.

The broadcast has triggered a wave of empathy across social media, with fans and fellow artists calling for a support system for veteran musicians. Oke, who rose to fame with hits like Ogo Tuntun and Asoro Ma Tase, appeared visibly exhausted by the mounting pressures of maintaining a career in a shifting digital economy.

The situation highlights a growing trend of “legacy” artists struggling to monetize their craft in the era of streaming and social media dominance. Her outburst serves as a raw reminder of the mental health challenges faced by celebrities who feel left behind by the industry they helped build.

* Nigerian Entertainment Today: “To my fans, I’m sorry. I never planned to do this, but I can’t take this anymore. I’m done.”

* Official TikTok (@busolaoke_eleyele): Live broadcast footage shows the singer in tears saying, “How can you be at peace when there’s no peace?”

Echotitbits take:

Busola Oke’s breakdown is a symptom of the “visibility trap” where fame does not translate to financial security for older Nigerian artists. This is a cry for help that will likely trigger a fundraising effort or a collaborative project with younger stars to revitalize her brand. It’s a sobering look at the lack of royalties and retirement structures in the Nigerian music scene.

Source: The Nation Online — https://thenationonlineng.net/i-cant-take-it-anymore-im-done-gospel-singer-busola-oke-breaks-down/ February 24, 2026

Photo Credit: The Nation Online

Inline1

Afrobeats Star Fido Issues Public Apology After Record Label Fallout

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 24, 2026

0

According to Channels TV, Nigerian singer Fido (Awosika Josiah) has officially apologized for his recent controversial outbursts following a messy dispute with his former record label. The “Awolowo” crooner admitted that his sudden rise to fame led to “ego and inexperience” influencing his decisions, which resulted in derogatory remarks about industry heavyweights and his former management.

The singer’s fall from grace began after he accused his label of exploitation, claiming he received only ₦1.5 million from a $20,000 advance. However, the situation worsened when he disparaged superstar Davido and the “30BG” fanbase during a live session, leading to a massive online boycott and loss of support from key influencers.

Fido now states he has taken time to reflect on his actions and is seeking a path toward professional growth. He expressed gratitude to those who held him accountable during the backlash, acknowledging that his words were hurtful and unnecessary.

The apology comes at a critical time for the young artist, whose career momentum stalled significantly during the months-long feud. While a public apology is a necessary first step, Fido faces an uphill battle to win back the trust of the 30BG fanbase and major industry stakeholders who value professional conduct as much as talent.

* Nigerian Entertainment Today (TheNet.ng): “I messed up, I allowed ego and inexperience to influence my decisions — Fido apologizes.”

* The Nation Newspaper: “The singer, born Awosika Olayemi, admitted fault and reflected on the impact of sudden fame on his actions.”

Echotitbits take:

This move signals a desperate but strategic attempt to salvage a career that was rapidly “canceling” itself. In the Afrobeats ecosystem, alienating a powerhouse like Davido can be a death sentence for a rising star; Fido’s pivot to humility suggests he has realized that talent alone cannot sustain a career built on burnt bridges. Watch for whether his next musical release gets the same “organic” push he once enjoyed.

Source: Channels TV — https://www.channelstv.com/2026/02/24/i-messed-up-fido-apologises-after-dispute-with-ex-label/ February 24, 2026

Photo Credit: Lagos.Jump Radio

Inline1

US Congress Report Recommends Sanctions Over Religious Freedom Concerns

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 24, 2026

0

According to The Nation Newspaper, a recent report submitted to the United States Congress has recommended specific sanctions and the blocking of certain Nigerian exports, including beef, citing concerns over the persecution of religious minorities.

The report specifically points to the ongoing conflict involving Fulani herdsmen in the North-Central region as a primary driver for the recommendation. While not yet law, the document has sparked a diplomatic frenzy in Abuja, with the Federal Government moving to address the allegations through bilateral channels.

The escalating diplomatic tension was also tracked by Vanguard News, which reported that the US is seeking a formal bilateral pact with Nigeria to monitor religious freedom more closely. Vanguard quoted the report’s summary: “The persistence of these attacks necessitates a review of our trade relations to ensure human rights are prioritized.”

The Punch further detailed the Nigerian presidency’s response, noting that the government “strongly disagrees with the report’s findings,” describing them as a misrepresentation of what is largely a socio-economic conflict over land and resources.

Echotitbits take:

This is a significant diplomatic hurdle for the Tinubu administration. If the US Congress acts on these recommendations, it could hurt Nigeria’s agricultural exports and dampen foreign investment. The government’s best defense will be the successful implementation of the new state police and the “Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration” (DDR) centers being proposed in states like Benue.

Source: PM News Nigeria – https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2026/02/24/war-anniversary-zelensky-accuses-putin-of-failing-to-break-ukraine/, February 24, 2026

Photo credit: PM News Nigeria

Inline1

Nigerian Stars Shine at 2026 BAFTA Film Awards

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 24, 2026

0

In an update published by Channels Television, the Nigerian film industry celebrated a historic night as several stars and productions took home top honors at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards. Wunmi Mosaku and the Nigerian-produced film My Father’s Shadow were among the major winners, signaling the continued global ascent of Nollywood-linked talent.

The recognition underscores a year where Nigerian storytelling has dominated international streaming platforms and prestigious award circuits alike.

The triumph was also celebrated by Daily Post, which noted that the win is a testament to the improving production quality in the Nigerian creative sector. Daily Post quoted a film critic saying, “Nollywood is no longer just about volume; it is now about world-class artistry.”

The Guardian Nigeria also featured the story, reporting that the government intends to use these wins to drive further investment into the creative economy. The Guardian quoted a ministry official: “Our stars are our best ambassadors, and their success at the BAFTAs is a victory for the entire nation.”

Echotitbits take: The “Nollywood to the World” movement has reached a new pinnacle with these BAFTA wins. Beyond the prestige, this translates to higher valuations for Nigerian intellectual property and more co-production deals with global studios. Expect the Federal Government to roll out more tax incentives for the film industry in the 2026 budget to capitalize on this momentum.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/full-list-nigerians-shine-at-2026-bafta-film-awards/, February 24, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

Inline1

Ondo State Inks Landmark $4 Billion Deal for Deep Sea Port and Petrochemicals

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 24, 2026

0

Reporting by the Nigerian Tribune indicates that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has signed a transformative investment framework during the Ondo State Investment Summit 2026. The deal includes the development of a Deep Sea Port where the state holds a 12.5% stake, alongside a massive $4 billion petrochemical fertilizer plant.

The Governor declared that the state is shifting its economic base from a civil service-driven model to a private sector-led industrial powerhouse, aiming to leverage its coastline for global trade.
Supporting coverage from ThisDay Live emphasized the scale of the foreign direct investment involved, quoting Governor Aiyedatiwa: “Ondo State is now open for business, innovation, and global partnerships on a scale never seen before.”

Additionally, The Nation highlighted the federal support for the project, noting that the Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs attended the signing. The Nation quoted official remarks stating, “This project aligns with the national goal of boosting domestic production and reducing our reliance on imported fertilizers.”

Echotitbits take:

Ondo State is sitting on a goldmine with its coastline, and this deep-sea port could potentially decongest the Lagos ports. The $4 billion petrochemical plant is particularly strategic, as it positions Nigeria to become a net exporter of fertilizer to the West African sub-region. Watch for the environmental impact assessments and the timeline for the commencement of dredging.

Source: Vanguard- https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/summit-aiyedatiwa-signs-mous-on-deep-seaport-4bn-petrochemical-fertiliser-plant/amp/, February 24, 2026

Photo credit: Vanguard

Inline1

Naira Maintains Stability as Inflation Slows for Tenth Consecutive Month

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 24, 2026

0

Figures cited by Vanguard News show that the Nigerian Naira opened the week with a firm stance at the official market, trading around N1,344.65 per dollar. This stability is attributed to sustained Central Bank interventions and a marked decrease in “panic buying” by domestic traders.

Economic data released today also indicates that headline inflation has decelerated to 15.10% as of January 2026, marking the tenth straight month of cooling prices, which has bolstered investor confidence in the local currency.
The cooling inflation trend was corroborated by reports from Nairametrics, which noted that the harmonization of exchange rates is finally gaining traction. Nairametrics quoted a market analyst saying, “The current alignment of rates provides a more predictable environment for businesses.”

Furthermore, The Guardian Nigeria reported on the psychological impact of the stable currency, noting that “liquidity in the official window has improved significantly, reducing the reliance on the parallel market for essential imports.”
Echotitbits take:

While a 15% inflation rate is still high by global standards, the downward trend for ten months is a massive win for the current economic team. The stability of the Naira at these levels suggests that the “fair value” has been found. The next hurdle will be ensuring this stability translates into lower food prices for the average Nigerian household.

Source: Vanguard News – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/dollar-to-naira-exchange-rate-today-february-24-2026/, February 24, 2026

Photo credit: Vanguard News

Inline1

National Assembly Halts Plenary Sessions to Finalize 2026 Budget Defense

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 24, 2026

0

In an update published by Premium Times, the leadership of the National Assembly has officially postponed the resumption of plenary sessions, originally slated for today, February 24. The delay is intended to provide various house committees and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) more time to conclude the defense sessions for the 2026 Appropriation Bill.

An internal memo from the Acting Clerk of the House confirmed that lawmakers are now expected to reconvene in early March to begin the final phase of budget deliberations.
The legislative shift was confirmed by The Punch, which reported that the move was necessary to ensure no sector is underfunded. The Punch quoted Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana: “This postponement is to enable committees of the Assembly to conclude ongoing budget defense sessions effectively.”

Similarly, Daily Post highlighted that the 2026 budget is under intense scrutiny due to its focus on industrialization and mining. Daily Post reported that “legislative thoroughness is being prioritized over speed to avoid the pitfalls of previous fiscal years,” citing a senior parliamentary source.

Echotitbits take:

A delay in plenary usually signals friction between the executive’s proposals and the legislature’s priorities. With the 2026 budget targeting a massive shift toward production and mining, lawmakers are likely haggling over the specific allocations for infrastructure. The March 5th deadline will be a critical date to see if the budget can be passed before the end of the first quarter.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/nassembly-shifts-plenary-resumption-to-march-5/, February 24, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

Inline1

CBN Unveils Payment System Vision 2028 to Slash International Transfer Costs

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 24, 2026

0

According to The Nation Newspaper, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Olayemi Cardoso has introduced a new “Payment System Vision 2028” aimed at revolutionizing cross-border transactions for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The initiative is designed to integrate advanced financial technology to reduce the high fees currently associated with international remittances.

Cardoso highlighted that by simplifying these channels, the apex bank expects monthly remittance inflows to surge from the current $600 million to over $1 billion by the end of the fiscal year.

This strategic move has gained significant traction across the financial sector. Nairametrics reported that the framework includes the introduction of Non-Resident Nigerian Investment Accounts, quoting Governor Cardoso as stating, “Our goal is to eliminate the bottlenecks that have historically hindered the flow of diaspora capital into the domestic economy.”

Additionally, Leadership News emphasized the technological aspect of the reform, noting that “Automation and the National Single Window will be the twin pillars of this new financial era,” as the bank seeks to deepen financial inclusion for the underbanked.

Echotitbits take:

Reducing the cost of remittances is a masterstroke for stabilizing the Naira without depleting foreign reserves. By formalizing these channels, the CBN is effectively competing with the “gray market,” which should lead to better liquidity in the official window. The success of this vision depends heavily on the robustness of the cybersecurity measures integrated into the new 2028 framework.

Source: The Nation Newspaper – https://thenationonlineng.net/cbn-to-make-international-money-transfers-cheaper-for-small-businesses/, February 24, 2026

Photo credit: The Nation Newspaper

Inline1

Federal Government Expands State Police Implementation Strategy to Curb Insecurity

By

Bob Echols’s

-

February 24, 2026

0

Reporting by Punch Newspapers indicates that President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the establishment of state police forces across the federation. During a high-level briefing, the President emphasized that the transition to a decentralized policing system is no longer a matter of debate but a necessary evolution to tackle localized banditry and kidnapping.

He urged calm in volatile regions, particularly Kano and Plateau, promising that the legislative framework would be fast-tracked to ensure operational readiness within the year.

The development has been mirrored in accounts from other major platforms. Vanguard News noted that the President’s vow comes amid renewed pressure from regional leaders, quoting the President as saying, “We are moving from the era of deliberation to the era of implementation because the security of our citizens cannot wait.”

Furthermore, Channels Television corroborated the federal stance, reporting that the move is aimed at bridging the gap in intelligence gathering at the grassroots level. Channels TV cited an official memo stating, “The decentralized model will prioritize local knowledge and swifter response times to rural threats.”

Echotitbits take:

The shift toward state policing represents the most significant structural change to Nigeria’s internal security architecture since 1999. While the political will appears present, the real challenge lies in the funding models and the prevention of political victimization by state governors. Watch for the National Assembly’s upcoming constitutional amendment debates to see how much autonomy these new units will truly possess.

Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/news/insecurity-bickering-over-timing-safeguards-for-state-police/, February 24, 2026

Photo credit: The Guardian

Inline1