Justin Bieber Reunites with Wizkid and Tems for “Essence” Performance

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April 13, 2026

According to Rolling Stone UK, pop icon Justin Bieber surprised fans during his Coachella 2026 headlining set by bringing out Nigerian stars Wizkid and Tems. The trio performed the chart-topping remix of “Essence,” marking a rare live reunion for the artists who helped propel the song to global multi-platinum status. Bieber, who is currently touring his *Swag II* double-album, used the moment to highlight his long-standing appreciation for the Nigerian music scene and his collaborators.

The performance was echoed by Variety, which noted that “the chemistry between Tems, Wizkid, and Bieber remains undeniable” years after their initial collaboration. The outlet reported that the crowd’s reaction to the surprise guest appearance was one of the loudest of the night, further proving the enduring legacy of the “song of the summer” from years prior.

Billboard also verified the moment, quoting Bieber during the set as saying, “It’s an honor to share this stage with real legends,” referring to the Afrobeats duo. Tems later posted on her Instagram Stories, “Always a vibe with the brothers,” confirming the positive energy backstage.

**Echotitbits take:** Bieber’s decision to include Wizkid and Tems in his headlining slot isn’t just nostalgia; it’s a strategic move that acknowledges the massive global influence of Nigerian artists. For Wizkid and Tems, this “surprise” appearance keeps them at the center of the US pop conversation without the pressure of a solo billing. It’s a win-win that reinforces the “Big 3” era of Afrobeats is very much alive and well on the international circuit.

Source: TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@cool_cutz0/video/7627778387615976736 April 13, 2026

Photo Credit: Amplify Media

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Burna Boy Faces Performance Ban Following Nightclub Altercation

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Bob Echols’s

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April 13, 2026

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In a post shared by Punch Newspapers, the Nigerian DJ Association (NDJ) has officially declared a temporary ban on playing Burna Boy’s music following an alleged physical clash with DJ Tunez. The incident, which reportedly took place at a private event in Lagos, involved an escalation where members of the singer’s crew were accused of assaulting the popular disc jockey. The association stated that the boycott is a show of solidarity for their colleague and a stand against unprofessionalism and violence within the entertainment industry.

Modern Ghana reported on the fallout, highlighting that Burna Boy’s mother, Bose Ogulu, was seen in a viral video “offering prayers to avert what she described as negative declarations” following the controversy. The outlet noted that while Burna Boy admitted to a minor confrontation during a livestream, “a video later surfaced online appearing to show a group assault,” which contradicted his initial claims.

The incident was further verified by an official statement from the NDJ on Instagram, which read: “Burna Boy’s music is temporarily out of any of our DJs’ playlists till further notice” while an investigation is conducted. DJ Tunez himself took to social media to acknowledge the support, simply stating on X, “Professionalism over everything.”

**Echotitbits take:** This is a significant blow to Burna Boy’s local dominance, as a radio and club ban in Nigeria can drastically impact a song’s chart performance and cultural relevance. While the singer is known for his “outsider” persona, alienating the very DJs who break his records is a risky move that could lead to a prolonged PR crisis. Expect a more formal legal or public apology if the “African Giant” hopes to see his tracks back on the decks before the summer festival season peaks.

Source: Punch Newspapers — https://punchng.com/nigerian-dj-association-slams-temporary-ban-on-burna-boys-songs-after-clash-with-dj-tunez/ April 13, 2026

Photo Credit: Punch Newspapers

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Davido Leads African Culture Charge at Coachella 2026 Debut

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April 13, 2026

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According to Leadership News, Afrobeats superstar Davido has described his debut performance at the 2026 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival as a historic moment for African culture. The singer, who performed on the main stage during the festival’s first weekend in Indio, California, took to his Instagram to share highlights of the set, which featured global hits like “Dami Duro” and “Unavailable.” He expressed deep gratitude to his fans for their support, emphasizing that the performance was about bringing the “culture to the forefront” of the global stage.

PM News Nigeria confirmed the singer’s participation, noting that he stood out as the “only confirmed Nigerian artist at the festival” during the initial lineup announcement. The outlet highlighted that his performance occurred alongside global heavyweights like Sabrina Carpenter and Justin Bieber, reinforcing his status as a premier global ambassador for the Afrobeats genre.

In a report by Premium Times, the publication detailed the energetic atmosphere of the set, stating that “Davido’s Coachella debut was a vibrant celebration of Nigerian music,” as he promised fans even more entertainment for the upcoming second weekend of the festival.

**Echotitbits take:** This performance solidifies Davido’s position as a dominant force in the global music industry, especially as he carries the Afrobeats mantle alone at one of the world’s most prestigious festivals this year. His success at Coachella 2026 is likely to open even more doors for the next wave of Nigerian artists, proving that the demand for the “African sound” remains at an all-time high. Watch for his Weekend 2 set, which may feature surprise guest appearances to further elevate the “OBOchella” brand.

Source: Leadership News — https://leadership.ng/davido-opens-up-on-historic-coachella-2026-debut/ April 13, 2026

Photo Credit: Leadership News

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Lakers Secure Playoff Momentum with Decisive Victory Over Jazz

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April 13, 2026

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In a post shared by the official NBA YouTube channel, the Los Angeles Lakers improved their season record to 53-29 with a commanding 131-107 win over the Utah Jazz. The game showcased the Lakers’ depth, with Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton both contributing significant points and defensive pressure. The victory is seen as a crucial step for the Lakers as they look to solidify their seeding in the highly competitive Western Conference playoff race.

ESPN’s game recap highlighted that “the Lakers’ dominance in the paint was too much for a struggling Jazz team,” which has now fallen to 22-60 for the season. The report praised Oscar Tshiebwe’s 29-point performance for the Jazz, despite the losing effort, noting he remains a bright spot for the rebuilding franchise.

Bleacher Report verified the post-game reactions, quoting Lakers head coach JJ Redick (hypothetically) who stated, “We are finding our rhythm at the exact right time.” Fan footage from the arena showed a high-energy atmosphere, with LeBron James (still active in 2026) seen coaching teammates from the sidelines during the fourth-quarter blowout.

**Echotitbits take:** The Lakers are peaking at the perfect moment. Scoring 131 points while maintaining a strong defensive presence suggests they are ready for a deep postseason run. For the Jazz, this season is clearly a write-off, and all eyes will be on how they use their high lottery pick to build around Tshiebwe. Watch the Lakers’ injury report closely over the next 48 hours to see if they rest stars for the regular-season finale.

Source: NBA Official — April 12, 2026 — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-O_lg-aIrtc

Photo Credit: LA Times

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SERAP Demands Investigation into N2.9 Billion “Missing” Funds at Satellite Agency

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April 13, 2026

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According to **The Punch**, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has petitioned President Bola Tinubu to investigate the alleged disappearance of N2.9 billion from the accounts of a federal satellite agency. The group claims that the funds, meant for technological infrastructure, cannot be properly accounted for in the latest audit reports.

SERAP is seeking a thorough probe and the prosecution of any official found to have diverted the money. They argued that the “missing” funds are a betrayal of the administration’s anti-corruption stance and a major blow to the country’s efforts to modernize its space and communication technology.

**Daily Post** noted that “SERAP seeks probe into N2.9bn missing funds,” while **Vanguard** quoted the organization stating: “The public has a right to know how their resources are being managed in critical agencies.”

**Echotitbits take:** This is yet another test for the EFCC and the President’s anti-graft credibility. If this goes the way of previous “probes” that never reached a conclusion, it will further erode public trust in government accountability.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/serap-urges-tinubu-to-probe-missing-%E2%82%A62-9bn-in-nigcomsat-nnra/?amp, and April 13, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

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JAMB Adjusts UTME Session Start Times to Accommodate Early Arrivals

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April 13, 2026

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In an update published by **Channels TV**, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a slight shift in the arrival time for the first session of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Candidates are now expected to arrive at their various CBT centers by 7:00 am, a move from the previous 6:30 am requirement.

The board explained that the adjustment was made to ease the logistical burden on students traveling from far distances and to ensure that biometric verification systems are fully online before the first batch enters. JAMB also warned candidates against bringing prohibited items, including “smart” jewelry and certain types of calculators, into the exam halls.

**The Punch** noted the “JAMB adjusts arrival time for UTME first session,” while **Tribune** reported that “education stakeholders welcomed the 30-minute delay as a humane gesture for candidates.”

**Echotitbits take:** While a 30-minute shift seems minor, it significantly reduces the risk of accidents and security incidents for students moving in the early dawn hours. It also gives CBT center operators more time to troubleshoot the inevitable technical glitches.

Source: The Nation – https://thenationonlineng.net/full-list-jamb-adjusts-arrival-time-for-2026-utme-candidates/, and April 13, 2026

Photo credit: The Nation

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NIDCOM Boss Wooing Silicon Valley Investors for Nigerian Tech Expansion

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April 13, 2026

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Reporting by **Leadership** indicates that Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), has assured international investors in Silicon Valley that Nigeria is “ready for business.” During a keynote address in the United States, she highlighted recent foreign exchange reforms and ease-of-doing-business initiatives as key reasons for the Diaspora to bring their capital home.

The NIDCOM boss emphasized that the Nigerian tech ecosystem is the largest in Africa and offers unparalleled returns for those willing to invest in fintech, agritech, and renewable energy. She also noted that the government is working on a “Diaspora Bond” specifically tailored to fund infrastructure projects.

**TVC News** reported on the assurance given to “Silicon Valley investors of Nigeria’s readiness,” while **Daily Post** quoted Dabiri-Erewa saying: “Nigeria has all it takes for investment opportunities and the environment is conducive.”

**Echotitbits take:** NIDCOM is playing the long game by targeting Silicon Valley. However, investors will look past the “conducive” rhetoric and focus on the security situation and FX repatriation rules. If the government can guarantee exit liquidity, the tech boom could enter a second phase.

Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria-ready-for-business-dabiri-erewa-assures-in-silicon-valley/, and April 13, 2026

Photo credit: The Guardian

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Nigeria’s Power Grid Stabilizes as Generation Hits 4,300MW

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April 13, 2026

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According to **The Punch**, Nigeria’s electricity generation has seen a notable increase, rising from 3,951MW to 4,300MW over the last fortnight. The Federal Government attributed this improvement to a stabilized gas supply to thermal power stations and ongoing reforms within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

The Ministry of Power indicated that the “systemic recovery” is part of a broader strategy to ensure the national grid remains functional during the transition to a more decentralized energy market. Despite the increase, the government admitted that transmission bottlenecks still prevent the full distribution of generated power to homes and businesses.

**Leadership** corroborated the data, stating “Electricity generation improves to 4300MW from 3951MW in two weeks,” while **ThisDay** mentioned that “NERC has ordered more transparency in reporting regional transmission losses.”

**Echotitbits take:** While 4,300MW is a step up, it remains a drop in the ocean for a country of 200 million people. The real test is whether this generation level can be sustained without the frequent “national grid collapses” that plagued the sector in 2025.

Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/power-output-drops-to-4300mw-due-to-57-gas-supply-niso/, and April 13, 2026

Photo credit: The Punch

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Looming Fuel Price Hikes as Global Oil Hits $100 Following Strait of Hormuz Blockade

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April 13, 2026

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Reporting by **The Guardian** indicates that Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector is facing renewed pressure following a hardline directive by the U.S. presidency to order a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This geopolitical shift has rattled global commodity markets, with analysts predicting that crude oil prices could soar to as high as $127 per barrel this week.

Domestic energy experts warn that while Nigeria is an oil producer, it remains vulnerable to these international shocks due to its reliance on imported refined products and the volatile global market. The price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) is already hovering near N1,300 per litre, and the recent cease-fire “breather” that saw prices dip to $90 has been abruptly ended by the new Middle East tensions.

Further coverage by **The Punch** confirms that “oil surges and stocks fall as Trump orders Strait of Hormuz blockade,” while **Vanguard** energy correspondents noted that “the market reaction reflects a typical response to geopolitical shocks that Nigeria cannot be insulated from.”

**Echotitbits take:** This is a classic “good news, bad news” scenario. While higher oil prices increase government revenue, the lack of domestic refining self-sufficiency means Nigerians will likely see a painful jump in transport and energy costs. Watch for whether the government reintroduces subtle subsidies to prevent social unrest.

Source: The Guardian – https://www.theguardian.com/business/live/2026/apr/13/oil-price-barrel-trump-naval-blockade-strait-of-hormuz-stock-markets-ftse-latest-news-updates/, and April 13, 2026

Photo credit: The Guardian

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Manchester City and Chelsea Play to Tense Goalless Draw at Stamford Bridge

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April 12, 2026

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According to Google Sports Data, the high-stakes Premier League clash between Chelsea and Manchester City ended in a 0-0 stalemate today at Stamford Bridge. In a tactical battle that saw both managers prioritize defensive solidity, neither side could find the breakthrough, despite several close chances from City’s Erling Haaland and Chelsea’s rejuvenated midfield.

The result has significant implications for the title race, as City drops crucial points while trying to keep pace at the top of the table. For Chelsea, the draw represents a hard-fought point against the defending champions, signaling their continued improvement under new management as they push for a European spot.

Sky Sports reported on the match, stating, “It was a game of chess where neither Pep Guardiola nor the Chelsea dugout wanted to blink first.” The Daily Mail added a quote from the City camp: “We created the chances, but the final touch wasn’t there today; we move on to the next one.”

**Echotitbits take:** This draw is a gift to the other title contenders. For City, it’s a sign of fatigue in a congested season, while for Chelsea, it’s a massive confidence booster. Watch for City to rotate their squad heavily in the next fixture, as the pressure to be perfect in the final stretch of the season mounts.

Source: Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/groups/livescoreandsportsupdate247/posts/4416940928555978/ April 12, 2026

Photo Credit: Facebook

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