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Angélique Kidjo Makes History as First African Artist to Receive Hollywood Walk of Fame

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By Prosper Mene 

Beninese music icon and five-time Grammy winner Angélique Kidjo has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first African artist ever selected to receive a star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce announced Kidjo as part of the illustrious Class of 2026, recognizing her extraordinary contributions to music and global culture in the ‘Recording’ category.

Kidjo, well known for her powerful voice and genre-defying sound, has spent over four decades blending African rhythms with global influences, creating a musical legacy that resonates worldwide. Her work, which spans 16 albums, cuts across cultural boundaries, fusing traditional African sounds with jazz, pop, and classical music. Beyond her artistry, Kidjo is celebrated for her commitment to social justice, heading causes such as women’s rights, education, and unity, making her a true global ambassador for change.“This honor is a testament to the power of music to connect people across continents and cultures,” Kidjo shared in a statement posted on X. “I am deeply humbled to represent Africa on this iconic platform.” Her selection is a significant moment for African representation in global entertainment.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame, established in 1960, features over 2,700 stars along Hollywood Boulevard, honoring luminaries in film, television, music, and more. Kidjo’s inclusion in the 2026 class, alongside names like Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, and Shaquille O’Neal, shows her status as a trailblazer. The announcement, made on July 2, 2025, at a press conference in Los Angeles, highlights her role in expanding the recognition of African talent on the world stage.

Kidjo’s star is more than a marker on a sidewalk it’s a celebration of her artistry, influence, and a call for greater diversity in Hollywood.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2026 ceremonies will take place throughout the year, with Kidjo’s star set to shine as a beacon of African excellence on this iconic landma

rk.

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Nigeria’s First Lady Donates N1 Billion to Plateau Attack Victims, Calls for Lasting Peace

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By Prosper Mene 

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, announced a N1 billion donation to support victims of recent violent attacks in Plateau State, noting that her gesture comes from compassion and love for the nation, not political motives. The donation, channeled through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), aims to provide relief to internally displaced persons and vulnerable communities affected by the unrest, which has claimed over 250 lives and displaced more than 5,000 people.

During her visit to the Plateau State Government House, Senator Tinubu expressed deep concern over the recurring violence in the region, describing it as a tragedy that must end. “I come as a mother whose heart bleeds. This will be the last time I visit Plateau for this kind of intervention, and I pray God will honor this,” she said, urging traditional and religious leaders to prioritize peace and unity. She emphasized that the funds were privately sourced through the RHI, not government allocations, and are intended to aid recovery and foster sustainable development.

Addressing a gathering of stakeholders, including political leaders, traditional rulers, and women’s groups, the First Lady called for collective action to ensure safety, particularly for women and children. “Whatever it takes, bring peace to this land,” she urged, appealing to the men of Plateau to protect their communities and allow residents to live without fear. She also referenced Nigeria’s former national anthem, encouraging the youth to embrace unity and work toward a legacy free of violence.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in his remarks, praised Senator Tinubu’s compassion, describing her as a “mother of the nation” and pledging to ensure the transparent and equitable distribution of the funds to meet the needs of the victims. The wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, who was also present, highlighted the broader impact of the RHI, noting its contributions to food and financial support for women and persons with disabilities across Nigeria.

Senator Tinubu’s visit concluded with a formal presentation of the donation to the state government, accompanied by food items and clothing for the affected communities. She expressed hope that her next visit to Plateau would be to celebrate progress and peace, not to mourn tragedy. “You are the custodians of this land. We in political offices will come and go, but you remain. Please, bring peace to this land,” she reiterated to traditional leaders.

This contribution, a significant one, follows Senator Tinubu’s previous humanitarian efforts, including a N110 million donation to families of deceased athletes in Kano State and support for disaster victims in Niger and Enugu States, showcasing her commitment to uplifting vulnerable Nigerians through the Renewed Hope Initiative.

While Plateau State grapples with the aftermath of violence, the First Lady’s donation and heartfelt appeal for peace signal a call for unity and collective responsibility to rebuild and heal the region.

 

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CAF Unveils “Born Winners” as Slogan for 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco

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By Prosper Mene 

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has revealed “Born Winners” as the official slogan for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), to be hosted across Morocco’s iconic cities from July to August 2025. The powerful slogan captures the indomitable spirit, resilience, and purpose-driven ambition of African women footballers who are redefining the sport and inspiring a new generation across the continent.

Announced at a vibrant press event in Casablanca, the “Born Winners” theme celebrates the extraordinary journey of women in African football, showcasing their ability to overcome systemic challenges, societal barriers, and limited resources to achieve greatness. “This slogan is a tribute to the women who rise above adversity, showcasing not only their athletic prowess but also their role as trailblazers shaping the future of African football,” said CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe. “The 2024 WAFCON will be a stage to honor their legacy and amplify their impact.”The tournament, hosted in Morocco for the second consecutive time, will feature 12 of Africa’s top women’s national teams, including defending champions South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, nine-time winners Nigeria’s Super Falcons, and emerging powerhouses like Zambia and Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses. Matches will be played in world-class venues across cities such as Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech, with Morocco leveraging its successful hosting of the 2022 WAFCON to deliver an unforgettable spectacle.

CAF emphasized that the 2024 WAFCON is more than a tournament, it’s a movement to elevate women’s football and promote gender equality across Africa. The event will include initiatives to engage young female fans, such as grassroots football clinics, mentorship programs with players, and partnerships with local organizations to promote women’s leadership in sports. “We want every girl watching to see herself as a born winner, capable of achieving her dreams,” said a CAF spokesperson.

The “Born Winners” slogan has sparked widespread enthusiasm on social media, fans and analysts have hailed it as a fitting tribute to the tenacity of African women. Posts have highlighted the progress of women’s football, with users noting the increasing visibility of players like Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala, a six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year, and Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak, who are becoming global ambassadors for the sport.

Morocco’s government has pledged full support, with investments in infrastructure, fan engagement, and tourism to ensure the tournament boosts the local economy and showcases the country’s cultural richness. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) is also working to ensure accessibility, with affordable ticket prices and live broadcasts to reach millions across Africa and beyond.The 2024 WAFCON will serve as a qualifier for the 2025 FIFA Women’s World Cup, adding extra stakes to the competition. With the global spotlight on women’s football growing, CAF aims to use the tournament to advocate for increased investment in women’s leagues, better training facilities, and equitable pay for female players across the continent.

CAF has promised a celebration of skill, passion, and unity that will resonate far beyond the pitch. Fans can stay updated on match schedules, ticketing, and exclusive content through CAF’s official website and social media channels.

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Katsina Hosts North-West Governors’ Summit to Advance Nigeria for Women Project, Empowering Women Across the Region.

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By Prosper Mene 

The Katsina State Government, under the leadership of Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, hosted a landmark two-day North-West Governors’ Summit on July 2-3, 2025, focused on advancing the Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up (NFWPSU). The summit, held in Katsina, brought together governors, the World Bank, policymakers, and changemakers to strategize on institutionalizing a future where women in the North-West region are economically empowered, socially secure, and politically visible.

The Nigeria for Women Project, a federal initiative supported by the World Bank, aims to address the region’s 47% financial exclusion rate, a key driver of poverty, by scaling up access to credit, markets, and financial literacy for women. The summit highlighted the urgent need to empower women, who make up half of Nigeria’s population, as a cornerstone of sustainable development. Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, emphasized this during her address, stating, “No nation can thrive while excluding half its population. This is a national imperative.”

Katsina State, one of only two states, alongside Ekiti state to begin community-level implementation of the NFWPSU, has already formed Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) to foster economic empowerment. Governor Radda announced that over two million women in Katsina alone are expected to benefit from the project, with initiatives like blended finance vehicles to crowd-in private and philanthropic capital to support women’s cooperatives and expand local value chains.

“This summit is about action, not just talk,” said a representative from the Katsina State Government. “We are committed to unlocking the potential of women to drive economic growth, reduce social vices, and build resilient communities.” The event featured discussions on scaling Women Affinity Groups, enhancing financial inclusion, and integrating women into formal economic systems to break the cycle of small-scale activities.

The Federal Government, in collaboration with the World Bank, aims to empower 460,000 women across six North-West states through this initiative, with Katsina leading the charge.

As the Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up gains momentum, Katsina’s proactive leadership sets a model for other states, citing a bold commitment to a future where women’s economic, social, and political empowerment drives regional progress.

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Federal Government Partners with Sytiamo Technologies to Empower Market Women with Affordable Credit Across Nigeria

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By Prosper Mene 

In efforts to boost financial inclusion and empower women in Nigeria’s informal economy, the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), has announced a transformative partnership with Sytiamo Technologies. The initiative aims to provide affordable, collateral-free credit to 10,000 market women across 224 markets in 28 states, starting with the vibrant Ariaria International Market in Aba, Abia State.The program, which seeks to strengthen the economic backbone of Nigeria’s markets, has already empowered over 1,000 women in Ariaria with access to up to ₦100,000 each in low-interest inventory financing.

This effort is designed to enable market women to expand their businesses, increase productivity, and improve their livelihoods without the burden of prohibitive loan terms.“Through this partnership, we are giving market women quick access to the capital they need to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods,” said Mr. Michael Ogbaa, Managing Director of Sytiamo Technologies. “This is about creating sustainable economic opportunities for women who are the heartbeat of Nigeria’s informal economy.”

Speaking at the program’s launch in Ariaria, Mr. Uzoma Nwagba, Managing Director of CREDICORP, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative. “Supporting women with credit is not just a social good; it’s good business. Women are proven to be better custodians of credit, with higher repayment rates than men. With 66.7% of our executive team and 50% of our management being women, this partnership reflects our deep belief that empowering women builds more resilient communities,” he said.

The partnership is in synce with Nigeria’s economic goals of fostering financial inclusion, reducing poverty, and driving growth in the informal sector. By providing accessible credit without collateral, the initiative removes longstanding barriers that have prevented market women from scaling their businesses. Chinyere Okoro, President of the Ariaria Textile Market Women Association, praised the program, noting its potential to transform lives and local economies.

As the program rolls out to additional markets across the 28 states, it is expected to create a ripple effect, fostering economic resilience and empowering women to drive growth in Nigeria’s vibrant market ecosystem.

 

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Hit-and-Run Victim Faces N5m Surgery Bill After Hospital Neglect Over N150k

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By Prosper Mene 

Comfort, a victim of a hit-and-run accident, is now struggling with a N5 million medical bill for life-saving surgery after a hospital allegedly neglected her initial treatment due to an unpaid N150,000 deposit. The incident, which has sparked outrage, showcases the dire consequences of financial barriers in accessing timely healthcare. 

According to Comfort, she was rushed to the hospital following the accident, but the facility refused to commence treatment without the N150,000 upfront payment. Unable to pay immediately, her condition worsened, escalating from a treatable injury to a critical state requiring complex surgery costing N5 million. “I was left in pain, begging for help, but they turned me away because I couldn’t pay,” Comfort recounted, with her voice heavy with frustration.The delay in treatment has left Comfort with severe complications, and she is now facing a race against time to raise funds for the procedure. Her family has appealed for public support, as the exorbitant cost is far beyond their means.

The heartbreaking case has ignited discussions on social media, with many condemning the hospital’s actions and calling for reforms in Nigeria’s healthcare system to prioritize patient care over profit.

This tragic story focus on the larger issue of healthcare accessibility in Nigeria, where financial constraints often determine who gets treated and who doesn’t. In the meantime as Comfort’s family scrambles to raise the funds, her plight serves as a reminder of the urgent need for systemic change to ensure no one is denied care due to inability to pay.

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Over 900 AXA Mansard Employees Join Efforts to Combat Violence Against Girls and Children

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Over 900 staff members of Nigeria’s leading insurance company, AXA Mansard, have actively participated in initiatives aimed at combating domestic and sexual violence against children nationwide. These efforts coincided with the company’s annual social responsibility event, AXA Week for Good, where employees engaged in community outreach, education, and advocacy across Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.

As part of the program, hundreds of employees visited schools to educate students and teachers on recognizing, preventing, and reporting violence. This initiative is a core component of AXA Hearts In Action (AHIA)—a volunteer platform encouraging staff to contribute their time, expertise, and resources to societal causes.

Rashidat Adebisi, Chief Client Officer of AXA Mansard, emphasized the importance of collective action: “Our employees are not just giving time; they are working together for a better future. We share our knowledge to protect vulnerable communities and support human progress.”

Under the theme “Being a Girl Shouldn’t Be A Risk,” staff also participated in awareness walks designed to highlight the threats faced by girls in Nigeria and the importance of safeguarding their rights. Adebisi pointed out that Nigeria’s 105 million children—half of the country’s population—are at risk, with data revealing that 60% of children experience some form of violence before turning 18.

She stressed that protecting children and particularly girls is vital for Nigeria’s future and the continent’s development. “Our goal is to ensure that every girl has a safe space and access to help, and to eliminate perpetrators of violence,” she said.

In 2024, over 23,000 volunteering hours were logged by more than half of AXA Mansard employees, reflecting the company’s deep commitment to social impact. By empowering staff to take meaningful action, AXA Mansard continues to demonstrate that corporate responsibility extends beyond business—aiming to create a safer, more inclusive society for all.

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Saint Lucia’s Deep Nigerian Roots Highlighted During Historic State visit

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By Prosper Mene 

In an address to a joint session of Saint Lucia’s bicameral parliament, Senate President Alvina Reynolds pointed out the profound ancestral ties between Saint Lucia and Nigeria, citing a British census from 1815 that revealed most of the island’s formerly enslaved residents were of Nigerian origin. The remarks came during a historic state visit by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, marking the first time a Nigerian leader has officially visited the Caribbean nation. Reynolds referenced the 1815 census, which recorded 16,282 enslaved people in Saint Lucia, of whom 3,488 were born in Africa. Of these, 34% hailed from Nigeria, 11% from the Nigeria-Cameroon region, and 22% from the Congo, with the remaining 12,794 born locally but primarily descended from Senegambia and Nigeria. “The legacy of the transatlantic slave trade, spanning over 350 years, forged an unbreakable historical and cultural link between Africa and the Caribbean,” Reynolds declared, pointing out the enduring connection between the two regions.

The visit, described as a “symbolic moment of cultural reconnection,” highlighted shared history and mutual aspirations. Reynolds paid tribute to Sir Darnley Alexander, a Saint Lucian who served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979, the only non-Nigerian to hold the post in the country’s post-independence history. She also noted the contributions of Nigerian Catholic priests serving in Saint Lucia, including Father Festus, who attended the session as a special guest.

Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre repeated Reynolds’ sentiments, calling the visit a “moment of freedom and celebration” and describing Saint Lucia as “a small fragment of Africa” with a “genetic Nigerian connection that cannot be erased.” In a lighthearted comparison, Pierre noted that Saint Lucia’s population is smaller than that of Eti-Osa Local Government in Lagos State, yet emphasized the island’s pride as a sovereign nation with a deep connection to Nigeria and West Africa.

President Tinubu’s visit, a broader effort to strengthen Nigeria’s ties with the Caribbean, included discussions on cooperation in tourism, air connectivity, creative industries, sports, banking, fintech, renewable energy, and medical collaboration. An agreement to deploy Nigerian medical professionals to Saint Lucia is also being finalized, kickstarting a new chapter in bilateral relations.

The event, which coincided with World Parliament Day, saw Tinubu praised as a “fighter for democracy” by local commentators. Over 300 guests, including diplomats and members of the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia, attended the session, reflecting growing interest in a Nigeria-Caribbean alliance built on shared heritage and mutual respect.

As Saint Lucia and Nigeria deepen their diplomatic and cultural ties, Reynolds’ address serves as a vital reminder of the island’s African roots, with Nigeria’s influence over its history and identity.

 

 

 

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Islamic Scholar Remanded in Kwara Prison Over Defamation

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By Prosper Mene 

An Upper Area Court in Ganmo, Kwara State, has ordered the remand of prominent Islamic scholar Alhaja Kafilat Kaola at the Oke Kura Correctional Facility in Ilorin, following a defamation lawsuit filed by another well-known cleric, Alhaji Taofeek Akeugbagold.

The case originates from allegations that Alhaja Kaola made defamatory statements against Akeugbagold, prompting him to seek legal redress. During Monday’s court proceedings, Kaola’s counsel pleaded for bail, citing her public status and assuring the court she would not abscond. However, the plaintiff’s counsel, Ajasa Ademola, opposed the bail application, arguing that Kaola was not entitled to such privilege under the law. Ademola presented a viral video as evidence, in which Kaola allegedly disparaged a judge and a lawyer in a previous legal matter, further supporting his objection to bail.After hearing arguments from both sides, the presiding judge ruled that Alhaja Kaola be held in custody at Oke Kura Correctional Centre pending further legal proceedings.

The case has ignited discussions on social media, with some questioning the pursuit of legal action between religious leaders who often preach peace and unity. “When two religious leaders take each other to court, where is the unity, peace, and forgiveness they preach?” asked a user on X. Others, however, argue that seeking justice should not be overlooked, regardless of shared faith. Alhaja Kaola, a respected female Islamic cleric and school proprietor, and Alhaji Taofeek Akeugbagold, a prominent figure in the Islamic community, are both influential voices in Kwara State. The case is set to continue, with further hearings expected to address the defamation claims and the evidence presented.

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UK-Based Nigerian Carer Caught on Camera Abusing Elderly Dementia Patient Days Before His Death

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By Prosper Mene 

A shocking incident involving a Nigerian-born carer, Bilikesu Olagunju, was filmed violently mistreating an 88-year-old dementia patient, John Attard, just days before his death. The abuse, captured on a hidden camera installed by the victim’s son, occurred on Christmas Eve 2022 at Mr. Attard’s home in Bexley, Kent, where Olagunju had been employed as a care worker for only six days.The distressing footage, presented at Woolwich Crown Court, showed Olagunju, 42, stripping the frail pensioner, dragging him by his arm and collar, and ignoring his repeated cries of pain. At one point, she threatened, “Maybe I will beat you up. I will flog you. I will take you to the GP to get injections. I will call the police on you.” The video also revealed Olagunju pouring marmalade into Mr. Attard’s coffee, despite knowing he was diabetic, further endangering his health.On Christmas morning, Mr. Attard was found unresponsive by his son, Chris Attard, with blood streaming down his face. He was rushed to the hospital but never regained consciousness, passing away ten days later. While a post-mortem examination could not conclusively link the abuse to his death, Chris Attard firmly believes the trauma contributed to his father’s sudden decline. “If those cameras had not been there, that person could still be out there treating elderly people like this,” he said, describing the lenient sentence as “an insult.”Olagunju, employed by Unique Personnel UK, pleaded guilty to one count of ill-treatment or willful neglect of a person lacking mental capacity. She was sentenced to a six-week prison term, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to complete 50 hours of unpaid community service. During the hearing, Olagunju expressed remorse, with her lawyer citing her lack of proper training and recent arrival in the UK as mitigating factors. However, Judge Charlotte Welsh emphasized that the absence of training did not justify her actions, stating, “Your actions are evident of your failure to treat Mr. Attard as a person deserving of as much dignity and respect as the rest of us.”Chris Attard has since turned his focus to the care agency, accusing Unique Personnel UK of negligence for assigning an inadequately trained carer to a vulnerable client. “They should have been in the dock alongside Olagunju,” he said, vowing to expose the company’s shortcomings.The case has reignited calls for stricter oversight and mandatory training in the care industry, with many pinpointing the need for better safeguards to protect vulnerable individuals.

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