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Presidential State Visit to Türkiye Focuses on Bilateral Trade and Security

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is departing Abuja on January 26, 2026, for a state visit to the Republic of Türkiye aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and signing new Memoranda of Understanding across security, aviation, and scientific research.

The delegation includes the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Defence, and the Attorney General, with talks expected to focus on increasing trade volume and deepening cooperation in defense technology and infrastructure. Officials say the discussions will target practical outcomes that improve Nigeria’s security capacity and economic performance.

Despite the strategic importance of the trip, the presidency has faced criticism over the level of detail released about the itinerary. Government officials maintain that the engagement is designed to deliver measurable economic and security benefits, and that both countries will also hold strategic political and diplomatic discussions around shared priorities.

Echotitbits take: Nigeria is looking to Türkiye as a key partner for defense procurement and agricultural technology. The success of this trip will be measured by the concrete investment figures in the defense and manufacturing sectors by year-end.
Source: State House – https://statehouse.gov.ng/president-tinubu-to-undertake-state-visit-to-turkiye/ 2026-01-26

Photo Credit: State House Media

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Amosun Rallies Mammoth Crowd in Abeokuta, Endorses Tinubu for 2027

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Former Ogun State Governor and Senator Ibikunle Amosun turned his 68th birthday celebration into a large-scale political rally at the Ake Palace Pavilion in Abeokuta on January 25, 2026. Addressing supporters, Amosun publicly endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second-term bid ahead of 2027, arguing that the South should complete an eight-year tenure for stability and equity.

Amosun described rotational presidency as a practical framework for national cohesion. He maintained that after eight years of Northern leadership, fairness requires that the presidency remain in the South until 2031, positioning Tinubu as the region’s consensus candidate. Despite reports of internal party friction and alleged boycott directives, the rally drew prominent APC figures and filled the pavilion to capacity.

Beyond politics, the event reportedly included a humanitarian visit to the Ibara Correctional Centre, where Amosun’s team donated relief items. Additional reporting characterized the rally as a demonstration of enduring political influence, with Amosun urging Nigerians to exercise patience with ongoing reforms and to respect zoning in the interest of national stability.

Echotitbits take: Amosun is effectively reminding everyone that he remains the “issue” in Ogun politics. By backing Tinubu so early and so publicly, he is carving out a strategic position for himself in the 2027 power map, likely to the chagrin of the current state administration.
Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/2027-presidency-respect-rotational-agreement-amosun-tells-north/ 2026-01-26

Photo Credit: Vanguard

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APC Strengthens Northern Grip as Kano Governor Formally Joins Ruling Party

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Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has finalized his political transition from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He is scheduled to officially register at his Gwale ward on January 26, 2026, a move that signals a major realignment in Nigeria’s most populous northern state.

State officials have described the move as a “homecoming.” The governor’s camp says the shift will improve coordination between Kano’s government and the federal administration in Abuja. The transition reportedly includes the defection of 22 state lawmakers and 44 local government chairmen, potentially reshaping legislative and administrative alignments across the state.

While supporters frame the decision as a pathway to accelerated development, critics argue it may narrow political diversity in Kano. Separate reporting has described the defection as further consolidating the APC’s position nationally, with Kano officials also pushing back against narratives that the state’s political future should revolve around any single individual.

Echotitbits take: This defection effectively collapses the NNPP’s strongest base. Watch for how the Kwankwasiyya movement reacts—this could either lead to a total APC hegemony in Kano or trigger a new, aggressive opposition coalition.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/kano-gov-to-formally-rejoin-apc-monday/ 2026-01-26

Photo Credit: The Punch

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Fans Raise Alarm Over Nollywood Star Alex Ekubo’s Long Absence

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Concern is growing among Nollywood fans as actor Alex Ekubo has remained largely absent from public digital spaces for over a year. The usually active celebrity’s silence has triggered a range of online theories, from a quiet marriage to a career pivot.

Daily Post reported that there has been no official statement from Ekubo’s management about his whereabouts. Tribune Online also noted that colleagues have remained tight-lipped, adding fuel to ongoing speculation.

Echotitbits take: In an era of oversharing, a celebrity going dark for a year is a loud statement. While some speculate health issues or a personal crisis, it is equally plausible he is executing a deliberate rebrand or embracing privacy. Until he posts, the “Missing Alex” trend will likely continue to cycle across TikTok and entertainment blogs.
Source: The Whistler – https://thewhistler.ng/fans-ask-questions-as-alex-ekubo-vanishes/ 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: The Whistler

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A$AP Rocky Shares Mother’s Prediction About Rihanna Love Story

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Rapper A$AP Rocky has shared an anecdote about how his mother predicted his relationship with Rihanna long before they became a couple, describing an early sense of connection between the two superstars.

Rolling Stone noted that Rocky’s openness about family life has broadened his appeal, while HotNewHipHop reported that he continues to praise Rihanna as a defining partner, reinforcing their reputation as a modern pop-culture power couple.

Echotitbits take: Rocky and Rihanna have perfected the “relatable royals” playbook. By sharing mother-approved, family-oriented stories, Rocky deepens the father-and-partner narrative that has reshaped his brand, helping their relationship read as grounded rather than performative celebrity romance.
Source: Facebook/TheNet.ng – https://web.facebook.com/thenetng/posts/i-want-you-with-rihanna-aap-rocky-on-how-his-mum-predicted-his-love-story-with-h/1299857468842887/?_rdc=1&_rdr# 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: Facebook/TheNet.ng

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Eucharia Anunobi Heads to Court Over Leaked ‘Celibacy’ Allegations

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Veteran Nollywood actress and pastor Eucharia Anunobi has filed a petition against Apostle Psalm Okpe over leaked audio recordings that allegedly reference a past romantic relationship—claims she denies. Anunobi has maintained she has remained celibate for 14 years since her ordination.

The Whistler reported that she is seeking damages for defamation and emotional distress. Leadership Newspapers reported that the Apostle has not issued an official response, while the actress insists that no man can credibly claim intimacy with her since her spiritual rebirth.

Echotitbits take: This is classic Nollywood-meets-Ministry controversy. Anunobi’s lawsuit is as much a legal move as it is brand protection, aimed at defending her hard-earned moral authority persona. Public opinion will likely hinge on whether additional recordings or corroborating context emerges.
Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/entertainment/naija-fashion/850408-leaked-sex-allegations-eucharia-anunobi-files-petition-against-apostle-psalm-okpe-heads-to-court.html 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: Premium Times

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Newlywed Arrested for Husband’s Fatal Poisoning in Jigawa State

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Police in Jigawa State have arrested a newlywed woman for allegedly killing her husband with rat poison. The incident has shocked the local community as investigators reconstruct the events surrounding the fatal meal.

Daily Trust reported that the suspect allegedly confessed during initial questioning. Leadership News also reported that the Jigawa State Police Command is preparing to charge the suspect to court after preliminary investigations are concluded.

Echotitbits take: This tragedy highlights the darker side of social and domestic pressures in rural Nigeria. Beyond the viral headlines, it reinforces the need for stronger community safeguards, mental health awareness, and early intervention mechanisms around domestic conflict.
Source: Daily Trust – https://dailytrust.com/newlywed-wife-arrested-over-alleged-poisoning-of-husband-in-jigawa/ 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: Daily Trust

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Manchester United Targets Double Chelsea Swoop as Transfer Window Nears End

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Manchester United is reportedly considering a double move for Chelsea-linked targets as the January transfer window approaches its final week. Reports claim the club is tracking Cole Palmer’s situation and also weighing interest in forward Liam Delap amid speculation about instability within Chelsea following inconsistent results.

The Daily Mail reported that United is monitoring Palmer amid claims he is unhappy in London, while Sports Illustrated suggested other clubs are also watching developments, setting the stage for potential bidding pressure.

Echotitbits take: Cole Palmer to Manchester United would be one of the biggest transfer shocks of 2026. Even if Chelsea publicly dismisses unrest claims, the very idea of a nine-figure exit illustrates how quickly Premier League power dynamics can shift when elite creators become “available,” even as rumors.
Source: Team Talk – https://www.teamtalk.com/manchester-united/yisa-alao-chelsea-sheffield-wednesday-2026-transfer 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: Team Talk

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Falz and Yemi Alade Shine at 9th AFRIMA Awards in Lagos

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The 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) held in Lagos reportedly delivered a strong Nigerian showing, with Falz doubling as host and performer while Yemi Alade won Best Soundtrack for her work on the Iyanu animated series.

Punch Newspapers noted that the event celebrated African music diversity with surprise wins for emerging acts. Premium Times also highlighted the significance of Yemi Alade’s soundtrack win as evidence of growing synergy between Nigerian music and global animation platforms.

Echotitbits take: AFRIMA remains a key platform for legitimizing African music on the continent’s own terms. Falz’s host-performer versatility and Yemi Alade’s move into major soundtrack work reflect a new phase where top Nigerian stars are building multimedia brands beyond radio hits.
Source: TheNet.ng – https://thenet.ng/falz-shines-as-host-performer-9th-afrima-awards-lagos/ 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: Nigeria Info FM

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Police Apprehend Prime Suspect in Death of Street-Pop Star Destiny Boy

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The Ogun State Police Command has reportedly recorded a breakthrough in the investigation into the death of fast-rising Fuji-pop singer Afeez Adeshina, better known as Destiny Boy. A prime suspect has been taken into custody in connection with the death of the 21-year-old artist, a protégé of Fuji legend Pasuma known for viral covers of Afrobeats hits.

Vanguard News reported that the suspect is being interrogated to determine motive, while Daily Post cited a police statement indicating that evidence is being gathered to ensure justice for the family and fans.

Echotitbits take: Destiny Boy bridged traditional Fuji and modern street-pop, and his death has deeply shaken the Nigerian music community. While the arrest offers a path toward closure, the rumors of strange illness and foul play around his final days suggest a larger story the investigation must now clarify.
Source: BBC – https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd0ykeze3xvo 2026-01-25
Photo Credit: BBC

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