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Fela Kuti Makes History, Becomes The First African To Receive Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, the Afrobeat legend, has made history as the first African musician to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy.

The honour was bestowed posthumously at the 2026 Special Merit Awards in Los Angeles on Saturday, January 31, a day before the main Grammy Awards ceremony. His children Yeni, Kunle, Shalewa and Femi Kuti were present to receive the award on his behalf.

While addressing the audience, Yeni Kuti thanked the Recording Academy and said she believed their father would be “smiling down on us.”

She also recognised her siblings Motunrayo and Seun, who were absent, and applauded her nephew Made Kuti for pushing Afrobeat to greater heights.

“I’m sure my father is smiling down on us.

“I want to acknowledge my siblings who couldn’t be here tonight, Motunrayo and Seun, and my nephew who is carrying Afrobeat to another level, Made.”

Femi Kuti, in his remarks, expressed appreciation to those who have helped sustain and spread Afrobeat across the world, including DJs, media practitioners, their record label Partisan, legal teams and fans globally.

He described the recognition as a milestone not just for their late father, but for Africa and the global fight for justice.

“I would like to thank all the people carrying Afrobeat that are in this place tonight. DJs, the press, our label Partisan, our lawyers, fans all over the world. Thank you for bringing our father here, it’s so important for Africa. It’s so important for world peace and struggle., Femi said.

Fela shared the prestigious honour with other celebrated figures in global music, among them Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Cher and Paul Simon.

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Heartbreak As Nigerian Singer D!es After By Bitten By Snake At Her Home (Photos)

In what will come across as a really heartbreaking development, the Nigerian music industry has been plunged into mourning following the de@th of fast-rising singer Ifunanya, popularly known as Nanyah Music.

The young artiste, who gained public attention after appearing on The Voice Nigeria, was said to have been bitten by a snake at her residence.

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According to reports, the incident happened at home, after which she was quickly taken to a hospital for treatment.

Despite efforts by medical workers, she was later confirmed de@d.

The news of her passing spread rapidly online, leaving fans, fellow artistes and music lovers in shock.

Nanyah Music was known for her strong vocals and growing presence in the Nigerian music scene.

She built a loyal following through live performances and regular engagement on social media, where she was reportedly active just hours before the incident.

Many of her fans and supporters have taken to social media to mourn her and share tributes, while awaiting official statements from her family or close associates.

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Ailing Nigerian Actress, Aunty Ajara Is In Critical Condition And Pregnant – Mama No Network Raises Alarm (Video)

Mama No Network, the popular Nollywood actress, has appealed to Nigerians for urgent assistance for her colleague, Aunty Ajara, who is pregnant and in critical health condition.

The appeal was made on Friday, January 31, 2026, through a video shared on Instagram, where Mama No Network explained that Ajara’s health has worsened and time is no longer on her side.

She said the situation is not for online attention but a real-life emergency that requires quick action.

According to her, Ajara needs urgent support in the form of prayers and money to help her survive the condition she is battling.

Mama No Network explained that she does not usually come out to ask for help, but decided to speak because of her deep care for Ajara.

She described Ajara as humble, respectful and kind, adding that she has always been thankful for any assistance she receives.

She further revealed that Ajara uses most of what she earns to care for her mother, who is a stroke patient.

She explained that Ajara is not lazy or jobless, but her health has made things difficult for her.

Mama No Network also disclosed that Ajara is pregnant and that the pregnancy was discovered late after her condition became worse.

She said she had advised Ajara in December to seek proper medical care instead of treating herself at home.

During the hospital visit, doctors confirmed the pregnancy and later diagnosed her with a liver-related illness, which was first thought to be pregnancy issues.

Despite her poor health, Ajara was said to have been moving from place to place, which may have further affected her condition.

Mama No Network appealed to the public not to ignore the situation and said any drug or treatment recommended by doctors to ease Ajara’s pain would be accepted.

She called on Nigerians to come together to support Ajara during this difficult time.

She said: “Good day, everyone. I hope you are all doing well. I am here to appeal to the public concerning Ajara. Many of us often question why we post ‘RIP’ messages more than we celebrate and support one another while we are still alive. For God’s sake, I am sincerely begging you all , Ajara is currently in a critical condition.

“Some people think this is content, but it is not. This is real life. Time is not on Ajara’s side right now, and we urgently need your support, both financially and in prayers. You all know that I, Mama_no_network, rarely do things like this, but Ajara is a child I love deeply. She is very accommodating and respectful.

“One of the main reasons I am speaking out is because no matter the amount of money you give Ajara, she is never ungrateful. All she ever says is that she is going home to give it to her mother, who is a stroke patient. She takes care of her mother with every penny she earns. It is not that Ajara is not working or earning, but you all know her condition.

“I am also appealing because Ajara is currently pregnant. We did not detect the pregnancy early until her condition worsened. In December, I advised her to go to the hospital for proper treatment instead of self-medication. It was during that visit we discovered she was pregnant. Sadly, the doctors have now said it is a liver disease, which we initially thought was pregnancy-related.

“Despite her condition, Ajara has been travelling to different locations. Please, this is not content, and we cannot sit back and fold our arms. Also, we will take any recommended drug to reduce her pain.

“We sincerely beg you, our people, to come to her aid. Thank you.”

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Nollywood Actress, Angela Okorie Remains In Prison Despite Meeting Bail Condition

Angela Okorie, the arrested Nollywood actress and singer, remains in Suleja prison custody despite meeting her bail conditions.

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday, granted Angela bail of N5 million, with one surety in like sum, and must be a level 13 civil servant.

Her bail was reportedly secured after the intervention of some activists, including Omoyele Sowore, Mama Pee, actor Stanley Ontop, and Randy Peter.

Despite meeting her bail condition, the actress remains in prison.

The development sparked controversy on social media.

However, revealing why the actress still remains in custody, actor Stanley Ontop in a post on his Instagram story, explained that her bail condition was processed late on Friday.

While assuring the public that Angela will be released on Monday, Stanley wrote, “Angela Okorie Bail application has been processed, but after we had finished the processing, time has gone.

“So she will be out from Suleja prison by Monday. We have met all her bail conditions, we await Monday for her release.”

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We Are Not Even Doing The Same Thing – Nollywood Actor, Kunle Afolayan Clarifies Rivalry With Ibrahim Chatta (Video)

Kunle Afolayan, the Nollywood actor and filmmaker, has dismissed speculations of a rivalry between himself and his colleague, Ibrahim Chatta.

Afolayan addressed the rivalry speculations on Wednesday, January 28, at the watch party of Anikulapo: ‘The Ghoul Awakens’ held at Igbojaye, Oyo state, with Ibrahim Chatta in attendance.

The likes of Kiekie, Broda Shaggi, Papi Luwe, Sola Kosoko, Gabriel Afolayan, among other Nollywood stars, were present at the event.

Speaking at the watch party, Kunle Afolayan said he and Chatta were working to preserve the culture and heritage of their ancestors, stressing that they are not competing with each other.

He said, “There is no competition between us. We are both doing everything possible to uplift the glory of all, not just our ancestors, but the lineage and where we are from, from the root. There’s Afri Chatta in Oyo. If you haven’t been there, you should go.

“Many of the films you’ve seen, like Ageshinkole, were shot at Afri Chatta Resorts and Film Studio. There is no competition! We are not even doing the same thing. And this is the first time he is going to come here. Even though I’ve invited him several times, I’m guilty too.” 

Kunle Afolayan also addressed his choice not to delve into cinema projects in Nigeria, saying: “I don’t want 2 billion or 1 billion in cinema, if I wouldn’t be able to take N10 million.” 

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Be Ready To Provide Evidence – Actress Priscilla Ojo Denies Saying “Postpartum Depression Is An Illusion Caused By Poverty”

Popular influencer and mother of one, Priscilla Ojo, has spoken out against a viral quote falsely attributed to her, cautioning that there could be serious repercussions for spreading misinformation.

On Friday, Priscilla took to her Instagram Story to share a screenshot of a post by an X (formerly Twitter) user that claimed she had said postpartum depression is “an illusion caused by poverty.”

The post read: “Priscilla was asked about marriage after childbirth. She said she never experienced postpartum depression; instead, her love for her husband tripled. She believes postpartum depression is an illusion caused by poverty.”

Responding to the post, Priscilla strongly denied ever making such statements, describing the claims as both “insensitive” and “insulting to mothers.”

She wrote: “I never said this, what’s wrong with Twitter people? Be ready to provide evidence!!”

She further added: “What do you mean I said ‘postpartum is an illusion caused by poverty’? Insulting to mothers, very insensitive.”

Priscilla’s response highlights the growing concern over the spread of false information on social media and its potential impact, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like maternal health.

Her warning serves as a reminder for social media users to verify sources before sharing or attributing quotes, particularly on issues that affect vulnerable groups such as new mothers.

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I’m Not The One Hindering Your Progress – Funke Akindele Replies Kunle Afolayan Over His Remarks On Cinema Movies

Funke Akindele, the renowned Nollywood actress and filmmaker, has responded to her colleague Kunle Afolayan’s remarks on profit-making strategies and a ₦2 billion cinema gross.

Actor, Kunle Afolayan had in series of videos criticised current marketing strategies used for cinema movies.

While addressing his colleagues on his approach to filmmaking and profitability, the filmmaker during the launching of his movie ‘Anikulapo’, said “There is no competition between us. I don’t just want N1 billion or N2 billion in the cinema that I won’t be able to personally receive N10 million from.”

Also, when asked why he does not collaborate with cinema, Kunle Afolayan, during his recent appearance on ‘Lagos Business of Film Summit’, said “I want to make a film if you can guarantee I don’t have to dance to sell. We need to come up with other strategies. How do we sell without exhausting ourselves? I don’t know how the likes of Funke Akindele and others are doing it. Creating skits every day, changing costumes all the time. I can’t do it.”

However reacting to his cmments on her Instagram story, Funke who attribute Kunle’s statement to jealousy, said “I’m not the one hindering your progress. Ka rin ka po, yiye ni n ye ni

“If you can’t beat them or join them, create your own path. No allow jealousy burn you. The sky is so big for everybody to fly. Eyin Werey jojo. You can do it! The opportunities are endless, and everyone has their own path. I’m focused on mine, and I have faith in God’s plan for me.

“Go ahead and create alternative promotion or marketing strategies for promoting your business, or hire a company to handle it”, she said

Funke Akindele

Earlier, the actor and filmmaker made the comments amid box office records of N1 billion and N2 billion set by actress Toyin Abraham, and Funke Akindele.

Watch Kunle Afolayan speak below:

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Davido And Femi Kuti Attend Grammys Honors Party For Fela (Video)

Davido, the Afrobeats star and Femi Kuti, the Afrobeat legend, were among the distinguished guests at the Grammys Honors Party in Los Angeles, celebrating the legacy of the late music icon Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

The event, organised as part of Grammy Week activities, brought together artists, industry executives and cultural figures to honour Fela Kuti’s lasting impact on global music and socio political activism.

Videos from the gathering showed Davido and Femi Kuti interacting at the event, a moment many described as symbolic of the generational continuity within Nigeria’s music culture.

The tribute highlighted Fela Kuti’s enduring influence decades after his death, with his music and ideals continuing to resonate across borders and genres.

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Why It Irritates Me When People Say I Supported Buhari Or Campaigned For Tinubu – Femi Kuti

Afrobeat superstar Femi Kuti has said he feels irritated when people link him to the late former President, Muhammadu Buhari.

He stated this during an appearance on Arise Television while reacting to the posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award conferred on his father, Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

Femi described the award as a global recognition of a life spent fearlessly confronting dictatorship, corruption and injustice in Nigeria and across Africa.

He stated that everybody is excited about the development, adding that the honour carries deep emotional and historical significance, particularly for those who lived through the era of military rule that shaped Fela’s music and activism.

“Everybody is very happy. We’re excited. I’m in Los Angeles right now, and it’s very hard to really explain, unless you were alive in the 1970s, what my father did, fighting dictatorship in Nigeria at that time. People were very frightened of the military,” Femi said.

He recalled the repeated state violence Fela endured and the toll it took on his family.

“It was raid after raid. The burning of Kalakuta. His mother being thrown out of the window, she later died from the injuries she sustained,” he said.

“It is so hard to explain to people today how frightening it was for his children at that time. We never knew when he would be arrested, or when he would be released. It was arrest after arrest.”

Femi said Fela’s music cannot be separated from Nigeria’s political history, noting how his father’s sound evolved into a tool of resistance.

“You have to understand how he developed his music over the years,” he said.

“From the 1960s, I remember his first hit, then Lady, Shakara. Then he went political. He confronted regime after regime, and then the burning of the house. So yes, Fela had a life.”

Responding to questions about how Fela might have reacted to Nigeria’s present-day political reality, Femi rejected attempts to associate himself or his family with political figures his father opposed.

“When people say that somebody like me supported Buhari, that lie irritates me,” he said.

“Or when people say I campaigned for Tinubu, those things hurt me as a person. As Fela’s son, it is impossible for us to be part of any government that is not for the people, especially governments he opposed, people who beat him, arrested him or jailed him.”

Femi said the Grammy recognition reflects decades of effort by the Kuti family and the global Afrobeat community to preserve Fela’s legacy.

“My elder sister, my brother Seun, my son Made, the rest of the family, we have all done our little bit to keep talking about him,” he said.

“You have musicians playing his music. You have people studying his music. You have Afrobeat artists today inspired by him. People are sampling his music.”

He added, “To top it with one of the biggest awards in the world, the Grammys, what more can we want? But it’s not for the family alone. Fela was a father to many people. That’s why we say ‘our father’. He was a voice for the voiceless in the 1970s and 1980s.”

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Veteran Nollywood Actor, Jide Kosoko Reacts To His Emergence As Oloja Of Lagos-Elect

Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has described his emergence as the Oloja of Lagos-elect as a solemn call to service, carrying profound cultural and communal responsibilities.

Kosoko, 72, was formally presented as Oloja-elect on January 24 at the palace of the Elereko of Lagos, marking a new chapter in his public life beyond the film industry.

Speaking during to newsmen on Friday, the actor expressed excitement over the development, noting that he considers the selection well-deserved. He, however, did not clarify whether his new traditional role would have any impact on his acting career.

Reacting to the announcement, Nollywood actor and theatre practitioner Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr Latin, congratulated Kosoko, describing the appointment as further proof that practitioners in the film industry are disciplined, responsible and relevant contributors to society.

“Jide is not the only prince in Lagos or in the Kosoko family, but because of his intelligence and respect in the community, he was chosen as Oloja of Lagos,” Amusan said.

Kosoko now joins a growing list of entertainers who have taken up traditional leadership roles, following the coronation of comedian and actor Okey Bakassi as a monarch in his Imo State community last year.

The Oloja of Lagos stool had remained vacant since the death of Chief Adebola Ige in 2017.

The announcement of Kosoko’s emergence was made by Mrs Mutiat Ali-Balogun, the Olori Ebi General of the King Kosoko Royal Family, who publicly presented him to the gathering.

During the ceremony, she raised his hand before members of the royal family and guests, while traditional rites and prayers were performed. She was joined by the Deputy Olori Ebi General, Oyindamola Ayepola, who also heads the Meshimo Ruling House.