Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Tag: lifestyle

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo Launches “FR34K Gummies” Candy Line

    Giannis Antetokounmpo Launches “FR34K Gummies” Candy Line

    In a post shared by @giannis_an34 on Instagram, NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has officially transitioned from being a candy enthusiast to a “candy man.” The Milwaukee Bucks forward announced the launch of “Giannis FR34K Gummies,” a premium candy line created in partnership with Candy Funhouse, a company he became an owner of in 2023.

    The “Greek Freak” shared that this business move is deeply personal, rooted in his well-documented love for sweets and his desire to create something his children can enjoy. The gummies even feature shapes modeled after his own face, adding a signature touch to the product line that launched this Thursday.

    Giannis revealed that he has been involved in the creative process for a long time, ensuring the flavors and packaging reflected his personality. The product is being released under the “Candy Fun Street” platform, targeting fans who want a piece of the superstar’s lifestyle off the court.

    While Giannis is currently dealing with a minor injury that has kept him out of some recent games, his business portfolio continues to expand. The launch of the gummies marks his latest venture in the consumer goods space, further solidifying his brand as a global entrepreneur.

    * Fox Sports (NBA): “Giannis Antetokounmpo goes from candy fan to candy man… says it means something to him and his family.”

    * AP News (Sports/Business): “Milwaukee Bucks All-Star unveiled the Giannis FR34K Gummies… realization of a long-term dream.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Giannis is following the classic “superstar-to-mogul” blueprint, but with a uniquely playful twist that fits his public persona perfectly. Unlike the more serious tech or real estate investments of his peers, a candy line is approachable and highly marketable to the NBA’s younger demographic. Watch for this to become a staple in stadium concessions and a case study in authentic athlete branding.

    Source: Fox Sports — https://www.foxsports.com/articles/nba/giannis-antetokounmpo-goes-from-candy-fan-to-candy-man-with-his-own-line-of-gummies February 12, 2026

    Photo Credit: MassLive

  • 2Baba Opens Up on “Womanizer” Label and Fatherhood Regrets

    2Baba Opens Up on “Womanizer” Label and Fatherhood Regrets

    According to Voice of Nigeria (VON), legendary singer 2Baba (Innocent Idibia) has used a recent interview to clear the air on his long-standing public image. The 49-year-old artist rejected the “womanizer” label that has followed him for decades, describing himself instead as a “lover boy” who simply loves hard and is straightforward about his feelings.

    During the candid session, 2Baba reflected on the weight of public scrutiny regarding his family life and the many children he has from different women. He admitted to having certain regrets about the way his fatherhood journey unfolded, noting the challenges of balancing fame with raising eight children.

    The “African Queen” crooner expressed that while he is often the subject of jokes regarding his personal life, the reality of managing his family dynamics is a serious and ongoing effort. He defended his marriage to Annie Idibia (Natasha), reiterating his commitment despite the many storms they have weathered in the public eye.

    The interview has sparked a mix of empathy and criticism from the Nigerian public. Some viewers praised his honesty about his flaws, while others pointed out that the “womanizer” tag was a natural consequence of his highly publicized romantic history.

    * Legit.ng (Celebrity News): “The biggest misconception about me is that I am a womaniser… I am just straightforward. But I am a lover boy,” 2Baba said.

    * The Punch (Lifestyle): “2Baba opens up on greatest misconception… 49-year-old musician revealed that balancing his [life] is a challenge.”

    Echotitbits take:

    2Baba is currently in a “legacy-defining” phase of his career, attempting to reframe the narratives that have defined him for 20 years. By addressing the “womanizer” tag head-on, he is trying to transition from a figure of tabloid gossip to a respected elder statesman of the industry. His honesty about fatherhood regrets is a rare moment of vulnerability that might help humanize him to a younger generation of fans.

    Source: News Ghana — https://www.newsghana.com.gh/2baba-denies-womaniser-label-opens-up-on-fatherhood-challenges-in-new-interview/ February 12, 2026

    Photo Credit: News Ghana

  • Blackdrum TV Celebrates 5 Years of Promoting African Culture

    Blackdrum TV Celebrates 5 Years of Promoting African Culture

    According to Vanguard, Blackdrum TV is celebrating its fifth anniversary of broadcasting authentic African culture and lifestyle content. Launched on February 1, 2021, the channel has become a major player on the StarTimes platform, reaching audiences across the continent and the diaspora. Over the past five years, the channel has broadcast over 500 live and recorded events, ranging from festivals and fashion shows to art exhibitions, solidifying its position as a key voice for African storytelling.

    The channel’s leadership highlighted its commitment to showcasing the vibrancy of African experiences to viewers aged 16 to 65. As it marks this milestone, Blackdrum TV plans to expand its digital footprint and increase its weekly hours of fresh content. The anniversary is seen as a testament to the growing global appetite for African-centric media and the resilience of the continent’s creative ecosystem.

    The celebration was also reported by Tribune and Daily Post. Tribune noted that “the channel has been a platform for emerging African designers,” while Daily Post highlighted its “100% broadcast uptime over the last half-decade.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Blackdrum TV’s success shows that there is a massive market for “cultural lifestyle” content beyond just news and movies. As they move into their sixth year, watch for them to launch a dedicated streaming app to capture more of the younger, mobile-first demographic in the diaspora.

    Source: TheSun – https://thesun.ng/blackdrum-tv-5-years-of-telling-authentic-african-stories-on-startimes/#google_vignette, January 31, 2026

    Photo credit: TheSun

  • Tiwa Savage Stuns in Bold Avant-Garde Look at International Fashion Week

    Tiwa Savage Stuns in Bold Avant-Garde Look at International Fashion Week

    Afrobeats star Tiwa Savage drew major attention during a surprise appearance at a high-profile fashion event in Europe, wearing a custom structured look that fused African motifs with futuristic silhouettes.

    Social media reaction positioned the singer as a cross-over style force, with fans praising her consistency in spotlighting Nigerian creativity on global platforms.

    Industry chatter suggests the appearance may tie to a forthcoming luxury partnership, as Savage hints at a new phase that expands beyond music into aesthetic branding and creative direction.

    Echotitbits take: Tiwa Savage is no longer just a musician; she is a luxury brand. These high-profile fashion appearances are strategic moves to secure her legacy as a global icon. Watch for a major fashion collaboration—or the launch of her own lifestyle line—in the coming months.
    Source: Pulse – https://www.pulse.ng/story/tiwa-savage-takes-over-london-paris-and-milan-fashion-week-in-style-2024072608183466690  2026-01-26
    Photo Credit: Pulse

  • Di’Ja Announces Birth of Her Fourth Child

    Di’Ja Announces Birth of Her Fourth Child

    In a post shared by @aphrodija on Instagram, Mavin Records alumna Di’Ja has joyfully announced the arrival of her fourth child. The singer, known for her private family life, shared a glimpse of the newborn, sparking a wave of congratulatory messages.

    The announcement comes after the singer had been relatively quiet on the music front, focusing on her family and personal business ventures. Di’Ja has been praised for her ability to balance a successful career with a growing family.

    Colleagues like Tiwa Savage and Don Jazzy were among the first to send well-wishes. While she hasn’t released a full project recently, supporters are hopeful that the new addition will inspire a return to the studio later this year.

    Verification from P.M. News stated: ‘Singer Di’Ja announces the arrival of her fourth child, sharing the good news with her fans.’ Naija News also reported the development, quoting the singer’s post: ‘We are beyond blessed to welcome our newest addition.’

    Echotitbits take: Di’Ja has successfully carved out a niche as the ‘wholesome sweetheart’ of the scene. This birth announcement strengthens her brand, potentially leading to lucrative endorsements in the parenting sector.

    Source: P.M. News – https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2026/01/04/dija-announces-arrival-of-fourth-child/ January 4, 2026
    Photo Credit: P.M. News

  • Kylie Jenner’s gold-bikini New Year Stories light up the style cycle again

    Kylie Jenner’s gold-bikini New Year Stories light up the style cycle again

    According to People, Kylie Jenner welcomed 2026 with poolside Instagram Stories featuring a gold metallic bikini and a noticeable jewelry detail.

    The clips quickly bounced from Stories to headline coverage, turning a casual holiday post into another viral fashion moment.

    As usual, the reaction is split between admiration for the look and criticism of ‘influencer culture’ dominance.

    • TMZ/Yahoo Entertainment (recap): ““Rings in New Year… out of gold bikini.””
    • AOL repost (summary): ““a series of Instagram Stories… by a pool.””

    Echotitbits take: Kardashian-Jenner posts often function like mini campaigns—even when they look casual. Watch for brand linkages, product tags, or follow-up posts that convert attention into business.

    Source: People — Jan 2, 2026 — https://people.com/kylie-jenner-rings-in-2026-with-busty-gold-metallic-bikini-11878663

    People
    Jan 2, 2026
    Photo Credit: People

  • Destiny Etiko Reflects on 2025 Wins While Teasing ‘Bigger Deals’ for 2026

    Destiny Etiko Reflects on 2025 Wins While Teasing ‘Bigger Deals’ for 2026

    In an update published by Vanguard, Nollywood superstar Destiny Etiko has expressed her gratitude for a successful 2025, which saw her dominate both the box office and digital streaming platforms. The actress hinted at major international collaborations and production deals already signed for the 2026 calendar year.

    Etiko’s rise coincides with the broader growth of the Nigerian entertainment industry, which has become a significant contributor to the nation’s non-oil GDP. Her message to fans emphasized resilience and the importance of professional evolution in an increasingly competitive global market.

    The Guardian noted that entertainment spaces like Lakowe Lakes are ‘quietly challenging how people connect,’ reflecting the lifestyle boom Etiko represents. Additionally, BusinessDay highlighted that ‘growing sports and entertainment events are shaping youth and the economy,’ marking personalities like Etiko as key economic influencers.

    Echotitbits take: Etiko has successfully transitioned from ‘YouTube Queen’ to a legitimate corporate brand. Her 2026 strategy likely involves behind-the-camera roles, following the path of Funke Akindele and Mo Abudu in building media empires rather than just acting.

    Source: Facebook — https://web.facebook.com/100070183201863/posts/actress-destiny-etiko-sealed-the-year-2025-with-heartfelt-gratitude-message-as-s/1179369201079176/?_rdc=1&_rdr#
    Facebook January 3, 2026

    Photo Credit: Facebook

  • Anambra teen wins healthy cooking contest as Soludo’s programme pushes nutrition in schools

    Anambra teen wins healthy cooking contest as Soludo’s programme pushes nutrition in schools

    Photo Credit: The Punch
    2025-12-20 09:45:00

    In a report published by The Punch, a student of St. Charles College, Onitsha, Ikechukwu Ifechukwu, won Anambra’s 2025 Healthy Living Cooking Competition linked to First Lady Dr Nonye Soludo’s school programme.

    The event in Awka brought students from all 21 local government areas to compete on healthy meal preparation under time limits, with judging based on hygiene, taste, presentation and service.

    Organisers say the aim is to strengthen nutrition awareness and practical life skills among young people, while also challenging gender stereotypes around cooking.

    Daily Post described the outcome as a male student who “emerged winner” of the cooking competition in Anambra. The Punch quoted Mrs Soludo saying the initiative “defies stereotypes and traditional misconceptions,” adding that schoolboys have now won for two straight editions.

    Echotitbits take:
    It’s lifestyle content with a policy edge: nutrition habits built in school can scale into public health outcomes. Watch for whether the programme expands, how schools track nutrition outcomes, and whether local foods and hygiene education become more visible in the curriculum.

    Source: The Punch — December 20, 2025 (https://punchng.com/anambra-college-student-wins-soludos-cooking-competition/)
    The Punch 2025-12-20

  • PPLD International to train 1 million young graduates in 2019

    PPLD International to train 1 million young graduates in 2019

    By Tobiloba Kolawole

     

    A training and development organization, Purpose Power and Lifestyle Design (PPLD)  International is set to train young graduates through its Prep for Success (PFS) programme.

    According to the Chief Inspiration Officer of the organization, Tunde Makun, the PFS will hold for two days, Thursday 24th and Friday 25th.  

    The Prep for Success programme, which is in its 13th edition, is the company’s initiative to breeding a new crop of business and thought leaders who will drive the emerging African continental growth.

    Makun said: “Our young graduate population continues to grow rapidly in the job market. And while that’s going on, confusion and disenchantment deepen. For the few who are lucky to be invited for interview, most employers aren’t pleased with the quality of the interview candidates. Clearly, we have a duty to not only provide for them, but also to guide them.

    “That’s why we created the hugely experiential graduate Prep for Success

    PFS training program to help Young Graduates lay an amazing foundation for a fast-track into the future; securing and growing in a choice career or business”, Makun noted.  

    Some of the facilitators and sponsors that will attend the training are Mrs Gbemisola Adetola, a Public Relations Consultant; Mrs Adebola Fashaun, a retired Judicial Officer and Mrs Bioye Animashaun, a Legal Practitioner.

    Makun added that, “The truly transformational 2-day PFS program is the code you need to navigate the future with confidence. Now in its 13th class, the testimonials from this program have been phenomenal.

    Tunde Makun, a successful entrepreneur in the oil and Gas marketing industry also expressed regret that the country is not thinking much about the young ones. He noted that in 2019, PPLD will do a lot to deepen its connection with the youth especially, helping them to navigate through tortuous environment to attaining successful careers.  

    He said: “Our connection with the youth this year is very ambitious. We are looking at reaching to as much as a 1 million youth. The idea is to make sure that there are some key deliverables. Leadership is one of them, and helping them to redefine how to live in a community.

    “We want to train the youth to lead themselves in a community where they live according to rules of engagement that works for communal living rather than individual living”, Makun said.

    Notable past facilitators and mentors at PPD training programmes include Prof. Pat Utomi, Dr. Doyin Abiola, Mr Leo Stan Ekeh, Dr. Christopher Kolade and many others.

    The internationally certified coach said he is collaborating with partners in the United States of America, who would become mentors and share resources to help PPLD achieve its goal of catapulting young graduates to success in Nigeria.