Category: Entertainment

Former Atalanta midfielder Michel Adopo has expressed confidence that Atletico Madrid’s Ademola Lookman will find the back of the net when his team faces Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final second leg.

The Gunners welcome the Spanish side to the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday evening for the decisive encounter. The first leg in Madrid ended in a 1-1 stalemate, leaving everything to play for in London.

Adopo, who shared a dressing room with Lookman during their time at Atalanta, told The Sun that the Nigerian international is now at a top club and predicted a goal against Arsenal. “After the Europa League triumph, Lookman himself didn’t seem to grasp how special his performance was,” Adopo recalled. “Joining Atletico is a fantastic step for him—finally he’s at a giant institution. I truly believe he will score against Arsenal.”

Award-winning Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage has shared how her former label boss at Mavin Records, Don Jazzy, revolutionized her approach to music, teaching her that talent knows no limits.

In a candid interview, the ‘Kele Kele Love’ vocalist recounted her challenging shift from R&B to Afrobeats after relocating to Nigeria in 2012. Initially, the transition felt daunting, but Don Jazzy’s mentorship opened her eyes to new possibilities. She emphasized that he convinced her she could master any genre with dedication and focus.

“He pulled me out of my comfortable R&B bubble and exposed me to diverse sounds,” Savage explained. “Don Jazzy made me understand that talent is not restricted—you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it.”

The singer, who once worked as a backup vocalist for international stars like George Michael and Mary J. Blige, returned to Nigeria drawn by the booming local music scene. She signed with Mavin Records, a move she says she never regrets, despite the initial hurdles.

Savage’s story highlights the pivotal role Don Jazzy played in her career, transforming her from an R&B purist into a versatile Afrobeats sensation.

Skit maker and live streamer Carter Efe has described his victory over singer Portable in their celebrity boxing match as incredibly straightforward. The bout, which took place at the Chaos in the Ring 4 event on Friday night at the Balmoral Hall of the Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos, saw Carter Efe unseat the defending champion and take home a whopping N50 million cash prize.

Speaking to reporters after the fight, Carter Efe expressed that he felt like a world-class boxing icon and emphasized how thoroughly he outperformed Portable. He boasted that he had already bruised Portable’s face in the first round and left the singer visibly weakened before the second round. “I feel like an international superstar. My new nickname is Carter Mayweather. The match was a piece of cake. By the first round, I had already damaged his face. By the second, he was trembling. In the third round, he collapsed,” he declared.

The contest ended with a unanimous decision from all three judges, who scored the bout 27–30 in Carter Efe’s favor.

Emeka Okonkwo, the Lagos socialite and entrepreneur better known as E-Money, has made good on his word by handing over a N50 million cash reward to comedian Carter Efe. The payout came after Carter Efe triumphed over singer Habeeb Okikiola, widely recognized as Portable, in a much-anticipated celebrity boxing bout.

The match, which headlined the Chaos in the Ring 4 event, took place at Balmoral Hall within the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos. E-Money publicly confirmed the gift following the contest, prompted by Ezekiel Adamu, CEO of Balmoral Group Promotions. “We back our words with action, so congratulations Carter on your win. N50 million for you,” E-Money stated.

Adamu also praised the event, calling it a thrilling and well-organized spectacle. “We promised Chaos in the Ring and we delivered exciting fights tonight. There’s more to come—thanks to everyone who contributed to this success and to the fighters for their outstanding performances,” he added.

The celebrity showdown was the highlight of the evening, fueled by weeks of fiery exchanges and public dares between the two entertainers. Portable had entered the ring brimming with confidence, boasting that he would claim his third boxing belt after earlier exhibition wins over Charles Okocha and Speed Darlington. However, Carter Efe dominated the action, using his superior height and reach to outbox Portable across three rounds. The judges unanimously scored the fight 27–30 in favor of the comedian, sealing his victory.

Korra Obidi, the Nigerian-born dancer and singer currently based in the United States, recently opened up about her experiences in Nigeria, asserting that the country’s citizens are forced to act as their own government.

During an appearance on the One 54 podcast, the artist expressed that Nigeria is abundant with potential yet hampered by ineffective leadership. She elaborated that due to the government’s inability to deliver basic services, residents must fend for themselves.

Obidi highlighted the paradox of Nigeria’s blessings, noting the absence of natural calamities and the rapid expansion of Lagos, despite predictions of flooding. She pointed out that the nation boasts roughly 300 million people, a majority being young, with a booming tech sector. However, she emphasized that poor governance stunts progress, leading many to disregard governmental influence entirely.

Sharing her personal observations, Obidi explained, “In Nigeria, you are your own government.” She detailed how individuals take charge of providing their own water by drilling wells and purifying it, generating electricity through solar panels or generators, and essentially running their own miniature ministries. According to her, everyone operates their own small kingdom, focusing solely on survival.

The Nigerian film industry has lost one of its most memorable comedic talents. Cecilia Oby Kechere, widely recognized for portraying the iconic Madam Koi Koi in the 2002 blockbuster ‘Aki na Ukwa,’ has passed away. She was 55.

Uche Agbo, National President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), confirmed the sad news to the public on Saturday, May 2. According to Agbo, Kechere succumbed to a lengthy illness on Monday, April 27, 2026.

In a heartfelt statement, Agbo expressed profound grief: ‘We announce with deep sorrow the passing of Madam Cecilia Oby Kechere, Vice Chairman of DGN Abuja Chapter. She died after a prolonged illness. Cecilia was a graduate of Theatre Arts from the University of Ibadan, a dedicated professional, and an invaluable member of our guild. Her contributions to DGN’s growth and unity, especially in Abuja, will be immortalized. On behalf of the National Executive Council and the entire DGN family, we offer our deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, and all Abuja Chapter members. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace.’

A native of Mbaise in Imo State, Kechere entered Nollywood in 2001, beginning her journey with the popular August-Meeting film series. Her breakout role as the strict, cane-wielding teacher Madam Koi Koi in ‘Aki na Ukwa’ etched her name in the hearts of millions, making her a household name across Nigeria and beyond.

Kechere’s demise marks another significant loss for Nollywood, which has seen several veteran actors pass away in recent months. Her legacy as a versatile actress and director, coupled with her leadership in the DGN, leaves an indelible mark on the industry.

In a commanding Sky Bet Championship match at The Den, Millwall secured a 2-0 victory over Oxford United, with Nigerian prospect Femi Azeez stealing the spotlight. The 24-year-old winger opened the scoring in the 34th minute with a clinical finish, giving the Lions an early edge. Just three minutes after the halftime interval, Azeez struck again, effectively sealing the win for his side.

Azeez’s standout performance takes his season tally to 11 goals and eight assists in 35 Championship appearances, underlining his growing reputation as a key player for Millwall. Despite the triumph, Alex Neil’s team fell short of automatic promotion to the Premier League, finishing just outside the top two spots.

Millwall now turn their attention to the Championship playoffs, where they will face Hull City, led by Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi, in the semi-finals. The clash promises to be a thrilling encounter between two sides vying for a place in English football’s top flight.

Renowned former England manager Fabio Capello has strongly recommended that AC Milan pursue the acquisition of Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee. The Italian tactician believes that pairing Zirkzee with Christian Pulisic would create a formidable attacking duo for the Rossoneri.

Capello, speaking to Gazzetta, emphasized that Zirkzee’s style of play is perfectly suited for Milan’s current system. He said, “If I were in charge at AC Milan, I would complete the swap (Zirkzee joining Milan) without hesitation. I see the Dutch striker as an ideal fit for Max’s 3-5-2 formation.”

The Dutch international has struggled to make a significant impact at Old Trafford since his transfer from Bologna two years ago. Capello highlighted Zirkzee’s ability to link up play and communicate effectively on the pitch. “Zirkzee is a player who brings the team into the game and excels at interacting with his teammates. In my view, the partnership between him and Pulisic would be exceptional,” Capello added.

Manchester United’s Brazilian midfielder Casemiro is reportedly weighing a potential move to Major League Soccer side Inter Miami after receiving an official proposal. According to renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, the 33-year-old has been tempted by the offer and is in active discussions with the MLS club about a summer transfer.

Romano revealed via social media on Saturday that Inter Miami is prioritizing the signing of Casemiro to strengthen their midfield options. The club is working diligently to finalize the deal, which would see the player join as a free agent once his contract with Manchester United expires at the end of the season.

Casemiro’s availability on a free transfer has attracted interest from multiple clubs across Europe as well, but Inter Miami appears to be leading the race for his signature. The five-time UEFA Champions League winner is said to be intrigued by the prospect of playing in the MLS alongside former Barcelona stars Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets.

Since joining Manchester United from Real Madrid in 2022 for an initial fee of £60 million, Casemiro has made 112 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring 12 goals. However, his performances have dipped this season, and the club is open to letting him leave to free up wages and make room for younger talents.

Despite interest from other European clubs, the allure of living in Miami and reuniting with familiar faces from their time in Spain could sway Casemiro’s decision. Inter Miami has been aggressive in the transfer market, aiming to build a star-studded squad capable of competing for MLS titles.

Kano Pillars are brimming with optimism as they prepare for a crucial Nigeria Premier Football League fixture against Kun Khalifat FC on Sunday. The encounter, set to take place at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri, presents a significant opportunity for the Sai Masu Gida to strengthen their position in the league standings.

The club has emphasized that the players are in excellent spirits and completely concentrated on the task ahead. In a statement released on their official social media channels, they expressed a collective ambition to return with a favorable outcome from this away match.

Kun Khalifat FC, who have not tasted defeat in their last three outings, represent a formidable obstacle. However, Kano Pillars are aware that avoiding a loss is paramount to keep clear of the relegation scrap. With each match carrying increasing weight, the team understands that a positive result could provide a vital cushion as the season progresses toward its climax.

Coach and squad alike are channeling their energy into tactical preparation, aiming to nullify the strengths of their opponents while exploiting any weaknesses. The clash promises to be a test of nerve and skill, as both sides vie for critical points in the NPFL campaign.