A TikTok video by @KizzDanielUpdates has highlighted the singer’s recent announcement that he is taking a significant break from recording new music. The “Buga” crooner shared that his primary focus for the remainder of 2025 and early 2026 will be his family, specifically his partner and children.
Kizz Daniel, who has consistently topped charts with hits like “Cough” and “Twe Twe,” expressed a desire for a “waterfront life” for his family, a goal he has been working toward since 2022. This announcement follows a highly successful run of global tours and award wins, including Song of the Year at the Soundcity MVP Awards.
While fans are disappointed by the lack of new music, many have praised the artist for prioritizing his domestic life. The singer’s label, Flyboy I.N.C., is expected to manage his existing catalog and brand partnerships during this quiet period.
* Wikipedia / Public Statements confirm: “In June 2025, Kizz Daniel announced that he was taking a break… to focus more on his family.”
* BellaNaija reports: “Kizz Daniel steps back from the studio to enjoy the fruits of his labor with his love d ones.”
Echotitbits take: Kizz Daniel has been on a relentless hit-making treadmill for years. Taking a hiatus now is a strategic move to prevent burnout and increase the “demand” for his eventual comeback. It also allows him to solidify his personal life away from the often-chaotic Nigerian music scene.
Source: The Nation — https://thenationonlineng.net/kizz-daniel-takes-break-from-music-to-focus-on-family/ February 15, 2026
Photo Credit: The Nation
Tag: Entertainment news
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Kizz Daniel Announces Music Hiatus to Focus on Family Growth
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Funke Akindele Shatters Box Office Records with Latest Nollywood Hit
In a report by TVC News, Nollywood powerhouse Funke Akindele has reached a staggering milestone as her new film, Behind The Scenes, officially becomes the highest-grossing Nigerian movie of 2025. The production has reportedly earned over ₦512 million within its first week of release, signaling a dominant start for the industry this year.
The film’s distributor, FilmOne Entertainment, confirmed the achievement via social media, noting that the project shattered five separate opening-weekend records. This rapid financial success places Akindele ahead of her previous benchmarks, further solidifying her reputation as the “Queen of the Box Office.”
Industry analysts point out that the movie’s pace is unprecedented, reaching the half-billion naira mark faster than any other local title this year. Fans and critics alike have flooded social platforms to celebrate the filmmaker’s ability to consistently draw massive crowds to cinemas.
* Legit NG reports: “Funke Akindele’s Behind The Scenes crosses ₦2.4bn, topping box office charts.”
* FilmOne Entertainment stated on Instagram: “Fastest Nollywood movie to hit ₦500M… This is what belief looks like.”
Echotitbits take: Funke Akindele continues to prove that she has cracked the code for Nigerian cinema-goers. This record-breaking run suggests that despite economic shifts, high-quality indigenous storytelling with aggressive marketing still commands massive purchasing power. Watch for this film to potentially challenge the ₦1 billion mark before the end of its theatrical run.
Source: TVC News — https://www.tvcnews.tv/funke-akindeles-behind-the-scenes-becomes-highest-grossing-nollywood-film-of-2025/ February 14, 2026
Photo Credit: Daily Post -
Argungu International Fishing Festival Kicks Off in Kebbi State
Reporting by Channels TV on February 14, 2026, indicates that the historic Argungu International Fishing Festival has officially commenced in Kebbi State. The festival, which had seen intermittent pauses in previous years due to security and logistics, returned with a grand opening ceremony attended by traditional rulers and international tourists.
The event features various cultural competitions, including the famous grand fishing contest where thousands of fishermen dive into the Matan Fada River to catch the largest fish using traditional nets. The Governor of Kebbi State, during the opening, highlighted the festival’s role in promoting peace, unity, and the state’s potential as a premier destination for cultural tourism in West Africa.
Further validation from Vanguard and Daily Trust showcases the economic impact on the region. Vanguard noted that “hotels in Argungu and Birnin Kebbi are fully booked for the four-day event,” while Daily Trust quoted a festival organizer: “This year’s edition is the largest in a decade, showcasing the best of Kebbi’s hospitality and heritage.”
Echotitbits take: Beyond the cultural spectacle, the Argungu festival is a major boost for the local economy and a sign of improved security in the Northwest. The success of this event could encourage the return of other dormant cultural festivals across Nigeria.
Source: Channels TV – https://www.channelstv.com/2026/02/12/photos-argungu-international-fishing-festival-kicks-off-in-kebbi/, February 14, 2026
Photo credit: Channels TV -
Timini Egbuson Bids Final Farewell as Father is Laid to Rest
According to Legit NG, Nollywood leading man Timini Egbuson was joined by a host of industry colleagues and friends as he performed the final burial rites for his father today. The actor, who has been relatively quiet on social media since the passing of the Egbuson patriarch, shared glimpses of the somber ceremony, which was marked by both mourning and a celebration of life.
The event saw a significant turnout from the Nigerian film community, reflecting the high regard in which Timini and his sister, veteran actress Dakore Egbuson-Akande, are held. Guests described the atmosphere as emotional but dignified, as the family honored the man who raised two of the country’s most prominent screen stars.
Timini’s final goodbye message to his “papa” has resonated deeply with his fanbase, many of whom have flooded his comment sections with prayers and condolences. The actor had previously spoken about his father’s influence on his career, often crediting his family’s support for his rise to becoming one of Nollywood’s most bankable leading men.
Following the burial, the family is expected to hold a private reception. This moment of personal loss comes during a busy year for Timini, who has several major box-office projects currently in production.
* The Nation reported on the funeral proceedings: “Friends and well-wishers gathered to support the Egbuson family as they laid their patriarch to rest in an emotional ceremony.”
* BellaNaija shared tributes from the event, noting: “Colleagues in the movie industry have continued to send messages of strength to Timini and Dakore during this difficult time.”
Echotitbits take: The Egbuson family is Nollywood royalty, and the outpouring of support shows the tight-knit nature of the industry’s “A-list” circle. For Timini, who is often seen as the life of the party, this public display of vulnerability and grief humanizes his brand. Expect a short hiatus from the screen as he takes time to grieve before returning to his heavy filming schedule.
Source: KemiFilani — https://www.kemifilani.ng/entertainment/dakore-akande-and-timini-lay-father-to-rest February 6, 2026
Photo Credit: KemiFilani
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Chioma Adeleke Faces “Cheap Dress” Backlash Following Grammy Appearance
According to Naija News, Chioma Adeleke, the wife of Afrobeats superstar Davido, has become the center of a heated fashion debate following her red carpet appearance at the 2026 Grammys. While her husband faced professional disappointment, Chioma faced personal scrutiny from fashion critics and social media trolls who labeled her outfit as “cheap” and “underwhelming” for such a high-profile event.
The backlash has divided fans, with many rushing to her defense, citing her grace and the difficulty of navigating the intense global spotlight. This controversy comes amidst a larger conversation about the pressure on the spouses of Nigerian megastars to maintain a “luxury” aesthetic that satisfies both local and international expectations.
BellaNaija took a more positive stance, showcasing her look in a feature titled “See Chioma’s Stunning Igbo-Inspired Outfit,” highlighting the cultural significance of the attire. However, Legit.ng reported on the harsher side of the internet, noting, “She looks cheap in the dress—Davido’s wife Chioma faces backlash.”
Echotitbits take:
The “Chef Chi” brand is usually bulletproof, but the Grammy stage is a different beast entirely. This backlash highlights the toxic “perfection culture” prevalent in Nigerian celebrity circles. Whether the dress was a hit or a miss, the real story here is the relentless scrutiny women in the industry face compared to their male counterparts.
Source: Naija News — https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/02/she-looks-cheap-in-the-dress-davidos-wife-chioma-faces-backlash-over-grammy-red-carpet-outfit/ February 4, 2026
Photo Credit: Naija News
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Kendrick Lamar Dethrones Jay-Z as the Most-Awarded Rapper in Grammy History
According to BET News, Kendrick Lamar has officially etched his name into the annals of music history at the 2026 Grammy Awards. By securing four additional trophies during the ceremony, the Compton-born lyricist has surpassed Jay-Z’s long-standing record to become the most-awarded rapper of all time. Lamar now boasts a career total of 27 Grammys, edging past Jay-Z’s 25.
Lamar’s dominant night included wins for Best Rap Album (GNX), Best Rap Song (“TV Off”), and Best Melodic Rap Performance (“Luther”). His acceptance speeches remained characteristically humble, focusing on the endurance of hip-hop culture. “It is hip-hop as usual, man,” Lamar remarked while accepting the Best Rap Album award, emphasizing that the culture will “always be right here.”
The night was also notable for a humorous mishap involving music icon Cher, who mistakenly announced the Record of the Year winner as “Luther Vandross” instead of Kendrick Lamar and SZA for their hit “Luther.” The producers took it in stride, using the moment to pay tribute to the late R&B legend before Lamar took to the stage to claim his record-breaking win.
This achievement marks a significant shift in the hip-hop hierarchy, as Lamar’s “GNX” era continues to dominate both critical charts and commercial airwaves. With his Super Bowl halftime show looming and his new status as the Grammy king, Kendrick Lamar’s influence on the genre has reached an all-time peak.
* PBS News (via AP): “The victory means Lamar broke Jay-Z’s record to become the rapper with the most career Grammys. Jay-Z has 25; Lamar’s total is 27.”
* Sounwave (Producer via Acceptance Speech): “Let’s give a shoutout to the late and great Luther Vandross.”
Echotitbits take:
Kendrick Lamar’s ascension to the top of the Grammy list is the definitive end of the “Old Guard” era in hip-hop. While Jay-Z remains a business titan, Lamar has become the Academy’s gold standard for artistic excellence. This record will likely stand for a long time, as Lamar shows no signs of slowing down his creative output.
Source: BET — https://www.bet.com/article/b3elkh/kendrick-lamar-makes-grammys-history-as-most-awarded-rapper February 2, 2026
Photo Credit: BET
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Funke Akindele’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ Makes History with N2 Billion Box Office Record
In a post shared by TheCable Lifestyle, Nollywood powerhouse Funke Akindele has once again redefined cinematic success as her latest film, Behind The Scenes, officially became the first Nigerian movie to cross the ₦2 billion mark at the box office. The film reached this unprecedented milestone in record time, further cementing Akindele’s status as the undisputed “Queen of the Box Office.”
The movie had already signaled its dominance early on, hitting the ₦500 million mark in just 12 days. Its continued momentum into February 2026 showcases the growing purchasing power of the Nigerian cinema-going audience and the immense appeal of Akindele’s storytelling. The actress and producer expressed her profound gratitude to her fans, whom she affectionately calls “family,” for their unwavering support.
Behind The Scenes has outpaced her previous record-breaking hits like A Tribe Called Judah, suggesting that Nollywood’s commercial ceiling is continuing to rise. The film’s success is being viewed as a “movement” rather than just a theatrical run, with FilmOne distribution confirming that the numbers have “shattered all previous records” in Africa.
This milestone comes at a time when Nollywood is seeking more international showcase opportunities, with two other unnamed Nigerian films recently selected for Hollywood showcases. Akindele’s success provides a blueprint for commercial viability that combines local relatability with high production standards.
* FilmOne Entertainment (via Instagram): “Behind the Scenes has officially BROKEN and SHATTERED records hitting over 2 BILLION at the box office.”
* Funke Akindele (via Instagram): “This is now a movement and we love to see it! I am grateful to God and my fans.”
Echotitbits take:
Funke Akindele isn’t just making movies; she’s building an empire that rival Hollywood’s mid-budget successes. Crossing ₦2 billion is a massive psychological and financial win for Nollywood, likely leading to increased venture capital interest in the industry. Watch for Akindele to potentially announce a global streaming deal or an international franchise expansion next.
Source: TheCable Lifestyle — https://lifestyle.thecable.ng/behind-the-scenes-is-first-nollywood-film-to-cross-n2b-mark/ February 2, 2026
Photo Credit: TheCable Lifestyle
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Tyla Triumphs Over Nigerian Stars to Win Best African Performance at 2026 Grammys
In an update published by Channels TV, South African singer Tyla has once again secured the “Best African Music Performance” award at the 2026 Grammy Awards. Tyla’s hit song “Push 2 Start” allowed her to beat out prominent Nigerian nominees, including Burna Boy, Davido, and Ayra Starr, marking her second win in this highly competitive category.
The victory has sparked significant conversation across the continent regarding the shifting dynamics of African music on the global stage. While Nigerian Afrobeats has dominated the charts for years, the rise of South African Amapiano-influenced sounds continues to gain massive traction with the Recording Academy and international audiences alike.
The Punch reported on the reaction from the Nigerian music industry, quoting a local producer who said: “This is a wake-up call for Afrobeats artists to keep innovating.” Premium Times also validated the win, highlighting that President Bola Tinubu praised the overall recognition of African talent at the awards. A report by Daily Nigerian quoted the President: “Fela’s posthumous honour and the success of our young stars show that Africa’s voice is louder than ever.”
Echotitbits take:
Tyla’s win signifies that the Grammy’s “African” category is no longer a default win for Nigerian stars. The competition is healthy and reflects a more diverse representation of African sounds. Watch for more cross-border collaborations between South African and Nigerian artists as they look to consolidate their influence on the global Billboard charts in 2026.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/grammys-2026-tyla-beats-burna-boy-davido-ayra-starr-to-win-best-african-music-performance/, and February 2, 2026
Photo credit: The Punch
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Nollywood Actor Arrested Over Alleged Involvement in Plot Against Government
Premium Times reports that Nollywood filmmaker and actor Stanley Amandi was arrested over alleged involvement in a propaganda scheme linked to the foiled coup plot.
Investigators reportedly allege he was recruited to help manage public messaging after a planned assassination of top government officials, as part of a wider sweep of civilian collaborators.
Daily Post and Leadership also reported reactions, including calls for due process and concerns about the use of cultural influencers in political subversion.
Echotitbits take: This is a rare instance where a creative-industry figure is publicly tied to a treason-related investigation. It underscores how governments increasingly treat narrative control as a national-security vector. Expect heightened scrutiny of politically themed productions, funding flows, and influencer networks.
Source: BusinessDay – https://businessday.ng/news/article/nollywood-actor-stanley-amandi-arrested-for-alleged-role-in-coup-plot-against-tinubu/ 2026-01-30
Photo Credit: BusinessDay
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Kunle Kuti says Wizkid is the only artiste he ever “begged” to meet — amid the Seun/Wizkid-fandom firestorm
According to TheCable Lifestyle, Kunle Kuti said Wizkid is the only artiste he has ever begged to meet, adding fresh fuel to a story already charged by the Seun Kuti vs Wizkid-fanbase clash. His comments are landing because they cut against the binary “legacy vs popstar” framing—showing admiration for Wizkid while still insisting that comparisons to Fela are misplaced.
Echotitbits take: This is a temperature check for how Nigerians handle legacy debates in the era of stan culture. If more Kuti-family voices weigh in—or Wizkid responds again—the discourse could shift from fandom wars to a broader cultural-history argument.
Source: TheCable Lifestyle – https://lifestyle.thecable.ng/wizkid-is-the-only-artiste-ive-ever-begged-to-meet-says-kunle-kuti/#:~:text=Kunle%20Kuti%2C%20the%20son%20of,my%20life%2C%E2%80%9D%20he%20said. January 28, 2026
Photo Credit: TheCable Lifestyle