Reporting by Channels TV indicates that Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja to represent President Bola Tinubu at the 2026 African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The summit, which officially opens this weekend, focuses on regional integration, security, and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) amidst global economic shifts.
The Vice President is expected to participate in high-level discussions concerning the continent’s food security and the reform of the AU’s financial architecture. His agenda also includes bilateral meetings with other African leaders to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic ties and economic cooperation within the West African sub-region and the broader continent.
Further validation from Premium Times and Leadership Newspaper highlights the importance of this trip for Nigeria’s foreign policy. Premium Times reported that “Shettima’s visit is pivotal for Nigeria’s push for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council via AU consensus,” while Leadership quoted a presidency spokesperson saying, “The Vice President will push for collective African action against terrorism and unconstitutional changes of government.”
Echotitbits take: This summit is a critical litmus test for Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa. With the AfCFTA entering a more mature phase in 2026, Shettima’s ability to secure favorable trade terms and security commitments will be vital for Nigeria’s domestic economic stability and regional influence.
Source: Channels TV – VP Shettima Leads Nigerian Delegation to 2026 African Union Summit in Ethiopia
, February 14, 2026
Photo credit: Channels TV
VP Shettima Leads Nigerian Delegation to 2026 African Union Summit in Ethiopia
Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara Credits Nyesom Wike for Political Rise Despite Rift
According to Vanguard reporting on February 14, 2026, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has made a surprise public acknowledgment of his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, asserting that his emergence as governor would have been impossible without Wike’s mentorship. Speaking at a ceremony where he received the “New Telegraph Man of the Year Award,” Fubara dedicated the honor to the FCT Minister, describing him as the one who “discovered” him and provided the platform to achieve political prominence.
The governor’s remarks come at a time of high political tension in Rivers State, characterized by a long-standing standoff between his loyalists and those of the Minister. Fubara emphasized that regardless of current interpretations of their relationship, he remains grateful for the initial support that shaped his career. This gesture is being viewed by some as a potential olive branch, though the Governor also reaffirmed his commitment to the people of Rivers State.
Validating reports from The Punch and Daily Post confirm the Governor’s statement during the Friday evening event. The Punch noted that “the governor’s public appreciation was a shift from the recent hostile rhetoric,” while Daily Post quoted Fubara directly: “I do not care how you interpret it or misinterpret it… without him, I wouldn’t be standing here as governor.”
Echotitbits take: This development suggests a tactical pivot in the Rivers political crisis. While it may not signal a full reconciliation, Fubara’s acknowledgment of Wike’s role could be an attempt to lower the political temperature ahead of the 2027 cycle. Watch for whether this leads to a reduction in legislative and judicial skirmishes in the state.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/rivers-crisis-fubara-remains-my-political-son-despite-rift-wike/, February 14, 2026
Photo credit: The Punch
Kunle Afolayan Defends “Anikulapo” Sequel Against Critics
In a video posted by @kunleafolayan on Instagram, the renowned filmmaker addressed the mixed reactions to his latest project, Anikulapo: The Ghoul Awakens. Afolayan told critics that “those who understand literature” would appreciate the depth of the story.
The sequel has sparked a divide among Nollywood fans, with some praising its visual effects and others criticizing the pacing. Afolayan emphasized that his work is meant to challenge traditional storytelling and preserve Yoruba cultural heritage.
The filmmaker also shared heartwarming clips of his children supporting him during the release week, momentarily shifting the focus from industry critique to his family life. Despite the debate, the series remains one of the most-watched titles on its streaming platform.
Afolayan’s “unbothered” stance reflects his confidence as a pioneer of the “New Nollywood.” By doubling down on his artistic choices, he is signaling that he prioritizes cultural authenticity over mainstream commercial formulas, a move that usually pays off for his brand long-term.
* Legit.ng (Website): “Kunle Afolayan reacts to criticism of Anikulapo… says those who understand literature get it.”
* TheNet.ng (Website): “Kunle Afolayan melts hearts as his kids shower him with love in adorable family video.”
Source: Legit.ng — https://www.legit.ng/entertainment/tv-shows/1696599-kunle-afolayan-faces-heavy-criticism-describing-critics-anikulapo-series-2-unintelligent/ February 13, 2026
Photo Credit: Legit.ng
Asisat Oshoala Dominates in Saudi League After Historic Transfer
In a post shared by @AlHilal_FC on X, the club celebrated Nigerian striker Asisat Oshoala’s continued impact in the Saudi Women’s Premier League. Since her move from Bay FC in late 2025, Oshoala has become the face of the growing women’s game in the Middle East.
The reigning African Women’s Footballer of the Year has been in scintillating form, helping Al Hilal climb the league table. Her move to Saudi Arabia followed a historic stint in the NWSL and a legendary career at Barcelona where she won three Champions League titles.
Oshoala remains the most followed African female footballer on Instagram, a testament to her global brand. Her success in Saudi Arabia is being watched closely as an indicator of the potential for women’s professional sports in the region.
Oshoala is successfully proving that her “star power” translates across continents. By dominating in Saudi Arabia, she is opening doors for more African women to secure lucrative deals in emerging leagues, potentially shifting the power balance of women’s global football.
* FOX Sports (Website): “Nigeria forward Asisat Oshoala joined Saudi Women’s Premier League club Al Hilal on transfer from Bay FC.”
* Associated Press (News Feed): “The former Barcelona star continues her career as one of the top players in the history of the sport.”
Source: Her Football Hub — https://herfootballhub.com/asisat-oshoala-al-hilal-transfer-bay-fc/ September 2, 2025 (Updated Feb 2026)
Photo Credit: Her Football Hub
Ja Morant Sends Love to Jaren Jackson Jr. Following Season-Ending Injury News
A Twitter post by @JaMorant showed the Memphis Grizzlies star reacting emotionally to reports that his former teammate Jaren Jackson Jr. may miss the rest of the 2025-2026 season. Jackson is scheduled for surgery to remove a localized growth in his left knee.
The news broke shortly after Jackson was traded, with NBA insiders reporting that the recovery time would likely sideline him for the remainder of the Grizzlies’ campaign. Morant, who shared years of success with Jackson in Memphis, posted heart emojis and words of encouragement.
Jackson has been a cornerstone for the Grizzlies since 2018, and his absence is a major blow to a team already struggling through a difficult season. The injury has also raised questions about the medical evaluations conducted prior to recent trade discussions.
This injury effectively ends any hope for a late-season Grizzlies surge. For Morant, who has had his own share of turmoil recently, this loss of a “running mate” further isolates him as the franchise enters what looks like an inevitable rebuilding phase.
* Newsweek (Website): “Ja Morant reacted to the news shortly after, sending love to his former running mate.”
* Chris Haynes (NBA Insider): “The expectation is that Jaren Jackson Jr. will undergo surgery and miss the rest of the season.”
Source: Newsweek — https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nba/ja-morant-shows-support-jaren-jackson-injury-news-11517016 February 13, 2026
Photo Credit: Newsweek
NBA Slaps Utah Jazz and Indiana Pacers with Fines for “Tanking”
According to a statement released by the NBA, the league has fined the Utah Jazz $500,000 and the Indiana Pacers $100,000 for “management of their rosters.” The fines come amid growing scrutiny over teams allegedly losing games on purpose to improve draft positions.
The Jazz were specifically penalized for benching stars Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr. during crucial fourth-quarter moments in recent games against the Magic and Heat. The league ruled that these players were physically able to play but were held out to influence the game’s outcome.
League officials warned that “tanking” undermines the integrity of the competition. The Pacers’ fine was related to similar roster management issues that the league deemed “detrimental” to the NBA’s brand during the lead-up to the All-Star break.
This move shows Commissioner Adam Silver is getting tougher on the “race to the bottom” for draft picks. It might discourage teams from resting stars, potentially improving the quality of late-season games but frustrating front offices looking for long-term rebuilds.
* ABS-CBN News (Website): “The NBA took aim at ‘tanking’ on Thursday, fining the Utah Jazz and Indiana Pacers.”
* ESPN (Sports Desk): “League statement confirms fines for conduct detrimental to the league regarding player availability.”
Source: OrlandoSentinel — https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2026/02/12/tankers-beware-jazz-fined-500000-pacers-100000-by-nba-for-player-participation-policy-breach/ February 13, 2026
Photo Credit: NBA
Barcelona Relaunches Pursuit of Victor Osimhen for Summer Transfer
A report by PUNCH Sports Extra states that FC Barcelona has officially renewed its interest in Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen. The Catalan giants reportedly view the 27-year-old as the ideal long-term replacement for veteran Robert Lewandowski.
Despite interest from Juventus and Atletico Madrid, Barcelona is said to be preparing a significant bid. Galatasaray, where Osimhen is currently playing, has reportedly set a starting price of around €80 million for the forward, who has scored 15 goals in 21 games this season.
However, club insiders in Turkey suggest that Galatasaray is in no hurry to sell their star asset. Negotiations are expected to be complex, given Osimhen’s long-term contract and his current high standing within the Turkish club’s project.
Osimhen’s move to a top-three European league seems inevitable given his current form. For Barcelona, securing him would be a statement of intent for their rebuild, while for Nigerian fans, it would mean seeing their top star return to one of the world’s most prestigious football stages.
* Daily Post Nigeria (Website): “Galatasaray Insider… dismissed rumours suggesting Victor Osimhen might leave the Turkish champions.”
* Haberlisin (Turkish Media): “Barcelona believe his blend of pace and ruthless finishing fits perfectly with their next phase.”
Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/barca-relaunch-move-for-e80m-osimhen/ February 13, 2026
Photo Credit: Daily Post
Jill Scott Makes Triumphant Return with First Soul Album in a Decade
In an announcement shared by @missjillscott on Instagram, the three-time Grammy winner revealed that her highly anticipated album To Whom This May Concern is officially dropping today, February 13. This marks her first full-length project in 11 years.
The 19-track album features a rich blend of neo-soul, jazz, and hip-hop, with collaborations from artists like Ab-Soul, J.I.D., and Tierra Whack. Scott described the project as a “heartfelt reclamation of community” and thanked fans for their extreme patience.
Produced by legends such as DJ Premier and Andre Harris, the album arrives just in time for Valentine’s Day. Lead singles like “Beautiful People” have already set a soulful, vulnerable tone for the record, which explores themes of resilience and human connection.
Jill Scott’s return is a massive moment for Soul and R&B culture. Given the decade-long hiatus, the album is expected to dominate adult contemporary charts. It also reinforces the longevity of “Neo-Soul” icons in an era dominated by shorter, viral-driven tracks.
* JubileeCast (Website): “Jill Scott returns with a new soulful and spirit-driven album 11 years in the making.”
* REVOLT TV (Website): “The cultural icon is marking a triumphant return… featuring vocal contributions from Ab-Soul and J.I.D.”
Source: JubileeCast — https://www.jubileecast.com/articles/34681/20260212/jill-scott-returns-with-a-new-soulful-and-spirit-driven-album-11-years-in-the-making.htm February 12, 2026 —
Photo Credit: JubileeCast
2Baba and Natasha Celebrate First Child with Heartfelt Church Dedication
In a post shared by Olori Supergal, legendary musician Innocent “2Baba” Idibia and his wife, Natasha Osawaru, were seen celebrating the church dedication of their first child together. The ceremony was an intimate affair attended by close family and friends.
Photos circulating online show the couple in high spirits, marking a joyful milestone in their marriage. This development comes as a positive headline for 2Baba, who has recently been open about the challenges and regrets associated with raising children from different mothers.
Fans have flooded social media with congratulatory messages, praising the couple for their resilience and the growth of their family. The dedication follows months of private celebrations since the child’s birth was first teased on social media.
This event offers a rare glimpse into 2Baba’s private life amidst the ongoing music industry debates. It serves to humanize the icon and focuses the narrative on his family growth, which he has recently described as his most important priority.
* TheNet.ng (Website): “Nigerian music icon 2Baba and his wife, Natasha Osawaru, have dedicated their first child together in a heartfelt church ceremony.”
* Naija News (Website): “Internet buzz as photo of private baby dedication of 2Baba and Natasha trends.”
Source: Daily Post — https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/12/2baba-wife-natasha-celebrate-child-dedication/ February 13, 2026
Photo Credit: Daily Post
Uzor Arukwe Vows Legal Action Over Defamatory Infidelity Claims
A report by The Punch reveals that Nollywood actor Uzor Arukwe has threatened to take legal action against a social media user who accused him of having an affair with colleague BamBam. The actor expressed deep frustration over the “malicious” rumors targeting his integrity.
The controversy erupted after an X (formerly Twitter) user alleged that Arukwe was a contributing factor to a supposed crisis in BamBam’s marriage to Teddy A. Arukwe swiftly denied the claims, describing them as entirely baseless and harmful to his professional reputation.
The actor stated that he intends to make a “scapegoat” of the individual responsible for the post to deter others from spreading unverified gossip. The incident has once again brought the issue of social media accountability and celebrity privacy to the forefront of Nollywood discourse.
Arukwe’s aggressive legal stance is a growing trend among Nigerian celebrities who are no longer ignoring “trolls.” If he follows through, it could set a precedent for how Nollywood stars handle digital defamation, which often disrupts their personal lives and brand partnerships.
* Vanguard Nigeria (Website): “Uzor Arukwe threatens lawsuit over links to BamBam’s marriage crisis.”
* Adedeji Adeyanju (TheNet.ng): “The actor has threatened to punish a social media user over false and defamatory claims.”
Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/nollywood-actor-uzor-arukwe-threatens-legal-action-over-affair-rumours/ February 13, 2026
Photo Credit: The Punch