I’m a covenant child, Odumodublvck reveals

Rapper Tochukwu Gbubemi Ojogwu Aka Odumodublvck , has shared the extraordinary circumstances surrounding his birth.

The acclaimed “Industry Machine” claimed to be a “covenant child,” born to his mother at 39.

Odumodublvck also declared himself one of the most confident artists in music history.

He attributed his unwavering self-assurance to upbringing in the church, which he credits as the foundation of his music.

Read Also: ‘I’m next’, says Skepta after Portable dragged Olamide

He said: “I am the only child of my mom. She gave birth to me when she was 39. I’m a covenant child.

“That’s what people don’t understand. I don’t just come out and say things. They are not fallacies. I grew up in the church.

“That’s the foundation of my music.

“I am one of the most confident artistes in the history of music… I am just a vessel.”

‘I’m next’, says Skepta after Portable dragged Olamide

British rapper Joseph Adenuga also known as Skepta has reacted after controversial Nigerian singer, Portable, publicly called out another former collaborator.

Portable on Tuesday, took a swipe at famous rapper and YBNL boss, Olamide, mocking him over his alleged fallout with Asake, a former signee.

While mocking the successful music executive, Portable stated that the rapper only gave him a verse on the remix of his song Zazu instead of offering him a record label deal.

Read Also: Five Nigerian artists to watch out for in 2025

The controversial artiste also alleged that Olamide “snatched” his producer, dancer, and promoter from him.

Fans, apprehensive about the situation, began expressing concerns for Skepta, who featured Portable on his song Tony Montana last year.

This sparked discussions on social media, causing Skepta’s name to trend on X (formerly Twitter).

Reacting to the situation, Skepta posted, “Why am I trending? Lol.” A fan responded, “I think you know why.”

The rapper then replied, “I’ve just seen Portable is dragging somebody again. Apparently, I’m next. We dey wait lol.”

Five Nigerian artists to watch out for in 2025

As the Nigerian music scene continues to make waves globally, a new generation of artists is emerging with fresh sounds, unique stories, and remarkable talent. 

These artists are pushing boundaries, blending genres, and captivating audiences with their creativity and authenticity.

Here are five Nigerian artists you should keep an eye on in 2025:

1. Ruger

Michael Adebayo Olayinka, better known as Ruger, is no stranger to success. Born in Lagos State on September 23, 1999, Ruger’s fusion of Afrobeats and dancehall has given him a distinct edge in the Nigerian music industry. His big break came in 2021 when he signed with Jonzing World, quickly rising to fame with hits like Bounce and Dior. Since then, Ruger has kept listeners hooked with infectious tunes such as Girlfriend and Asiwaju.

In 2023, he released RU The World, cementing his status as a top-tier artiste in Nigeria. His signature eyepatch and bold fashion choices only add to his unique persona, setting him apart as one of the most exciting acts to watch in 2025. With his steady flow of hits and an unrelenting passion for music, Ruger’s journey is only just beginning.

2. Fido

Fido, born in Matogun, Ogun State, is quickly making a name for himself with his viral anthem Joy is Coming. Raised by a single mother and inspired by legends like Olamide and Kizz Daniel, Fido’s musical journey has been defined by his deep-rooted passion for Afro-fusion. His debut single Awolowo caught the attention of listeners, but it was Joy is Coming that truly catapulted him into the spotlight, topping charts and receiving massive support from influencers, including Kizz Daniel.

Read Also: FULL LIST: 15 ways students can explore volunteering opportunities

Fido’s music resonates with a sense of hope and resilience, capturing the hearts of audiences who see their own struggles reflected in his lyrics. Whether it’s through the escapism of Awolowo or the optimistic Joy is Coming, Fido’s relatable storytelling and independent artistry promise to make 2025 his breakout year.

3. Riich Mic

Riich Mic’s unique hairstyle are a symbol of his musical journey: rooted in melody, growing with experience, and flowing with rhythm. Like the interwoven strands, his sound is a fusion of Afrobeat, dancehall, and soul, carrying messages of resilience, love, and celebration.

Born Chinaza Michael Iroh on December 13, 1995, Riich Mic hails from Ohafia Local Government in Abia State, Nigeria. Now based in Abuja, he is making waves as a singer and songwriter known for his captivating vocals and dynamic storytelling.

Riich Mic’s love for music was nurtured from childhood. Raised in a musically inclined home, he found his voice in church, singing in the choir and learning to play the drums. However, life threw challenges his way when he lost his father in 2008. Despite financial struggles, his hardworking mother encouraged him to pursue his dreams. Although unable to complete his tertiary education, he turned to music as both an emotional outlet and a source of livelihood.

Inspired by legends like Fela Kuti, Lucky Dube, Tuface, and Olamide, Riich Mic developed his signature “Afro Motivation” sound—a mix of energetic beats and deep storytelling. His freestyles on social media gained traction, attracting major industry attention. In 2024, he signed with Bankerz Muzik Management and released “De Go,” a breakthrough single that solidified his place in the Afrobeat scene.

Following the success of “De Go” and “Come to My Party,” Riich Mic is set to release his love-themed single, “Ife Mi,” on February 12, 2025. The song promises to be a heartfelt anthem celebrating love in its purest form.

4. Neo Phlames

Adeniyi Babatunde Adewoyin, known as Neo Phlames, brings his multifaceted talents to the Nigerian music scene. A journalist and musician, Neo has been consistent in his artistic journey since his 2018 debut with Down Low. With performances at Felabration and opening for P-Square, Neo’s live shows speak to his versatility and passion for connecting with people through music.

His latest EP, I Just Did It, showcases his storytelling prowess, and his tracks continue to garner attention on airwaves across Nigeria. Despite balancing journalism and music, Neo has made it clear that music is his primary focus for the future. His blend of Afrobeat, highlife, and hip-hop makes him an artist to watch as his career continues to soar in 2025.

5. Skilzar

Oluwaseun Olaegbe, known as Skilzar, is not only an artist but also a tech entrepreneur and digital media powerhouse. Born in Osun State, Skilzar’s unique blend of Afro-pop with modern influences has resonated with a wide array of audiences. His collaborations with artists like GT Da Guitarman and Sugarboy A1 have only strengthened his position in the industry.

Beyond music, Skilzar is the founder of Skilzar Digital, a leading digital media company, and the creator of the Yessiey Award. His efforts to merge technology, creativity, and entertainment set him apart as a true innovator. With his expanding musical catalogue and an eye for digital media trends, Skilzar’s influence will undoubtedly continue to grow in 2025.

What I’ve learnt in my 38 years as actor –  Kunle Afod

Nollywood actor, Kunle Afod, says in his 38 years experience as an actor and director, he has learnt “there is no friend or foe anywhere”.

Afod, while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos, said that nobody should be perceived as a permanent friend or enemy in life.

He said: “Someone believed as a friend can turn to be a traitor and another fellow perceived as an enemy may become instrumental to one’s success.

“I have been able to learn these two phases of life which everyone should beware of.

“I started acting since 1986 and I have learnt that there are no friends nor foes anywhere. I think it is better for people to be liberal.

Read Also: Alleged cybercrime: Court grants Speed Darlington to N20m bail 

“The person you see as your friend might come to stab you and that fellow you see as your enemy might be the person that will help you.”

Afod disclosed plans to come up with a big screen production in 2025.

“This year, I am looking toward the big screen. I will also be coming up with new series of the proverbs challenge this year. I like creating contents that are competitive,” he said.

Advising up-and-coming actors and directors, Afod said they should work toward improving on their knowledge.

“Directors should also be willing to carry out lots of research to improve on their work, upgrade their knowledge from time to time,” he said.

(NAN)

Alleged cybercrime: Court grants Speed Darlington to N20m bail 

A Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, admitted the detained Singer, Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, to a N20 million bail with one surety in the like.

Justice Ekerete Akpan gave the order in a ruling on the singer’s bail application moved by his lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, after he pleaded not guilty to a two-count charge bordering on alleged cybercrime.

Justice Akpan ordered that the surety, who must be a Level 10 civil servant, must be a resident of Abuja and must depose to affidavit of means.

He directed that the address of the surety should be verified by the court registrar and the surety must either be a staff of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) or be a federal worker.

He also directed that the surety should deposit his letters of appointment and last promotion which must be verified by the deputy chief registrar of the court.

The judge, who ordered Speed Darlington to deposit his international passport, directed the surety and the defendant to also submit their two recent passport photographs with the court registrar.

He consequently ordered Speed Darlington to be remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre pending the perfection of his bail conditions.

Justice  Akpan adjourned the matter until March 18 for trial.

Read Also: Asake, Portable, 3 other Nigerian celebrities rocking face tattoos

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Inspector-General (I-G) of police had, in the amended charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/556/2024, dragged Speed Darlington to court for cybercrime offences.

He was alleged to have transmitted the message; “Burna Boy, how many oil Diddy drop for your ny*sh before them give you that grammy,” “speed darlington is such a clown infamaooo…” through his instagram handle; @20takeoffs on internet in a viral video.

“A publication which went viral and was read and watched by many in Abuja, Lagos and throughout the world which ycu know to be false for the purpose of causing annoyance insult, injury, enmity or hatred among numerous fans of Burna Boy and posing inconvenience, danger, needless anxiety to his life and damage to his name and integrity.”

“And you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 24(1)(a&(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc) Act, 2015 (as amended).

In count two, he was also alleged to have posted the message: “talking about burna boy odugwu is my language I am odugwu, odogwu is not nickname Odigwu is masquerade name, if you are a G, come my side come orlu road imo state no fit where I pass and where I pass army no dey passam you are a culture vulture you are not one of us…,” on his instagram handle; @20takeoffs.

The message was alleged to have also been posted on his other Instagram pages; instablog9ja, instablog9jamedia and published by Benny@benny 7gg.

The publication was said to intimidate, bully, threaten, or harass Burna Boy, “which communication placed him in fear of death, reasonable apprehension of violence or bodily harm and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 24 (2) (a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc) Act 2015 (as amended).”

Earlier, the prosecution lawyer, Garba Audu, informed the court that the matter was fixed for the defendant’s arraignment.

He prayed the court that the amended two-count charge dated Dec. 4, 2024, and filed Dec. 5, 2024, be read to the defendant.

Audu then applied to substitute the earlier charge dated Oct. 18, 2024, but filed on Oct. 21, 2024 and it was not opposed by Abubakar.

After the counts were read by the registrar, Speed Darlington pleaded not guilty.

“In view of the denial of the allegations by the defendant, I will be asking for a trial date to present our witnesses in court my lord,” Audu said.

But Abubakar drew the attention of the court to their bail application dated and filed on Dec. 6, 2024.

He said the complainant was served the same day the motion was filed.

The lawyer urged the court to admit his client to bail on liberal terms.

Although the prosecution lawyer opposed the bail plea, Justice Akpan admitted him.on bail.

(NAN)

Asake, Portable, 3 other Nigerian celebrities rocking face tattoos

Social media has been buzzing ever since Asake, the Grammy Award-nominated artist, revealed his new face tattoos. The ‘Terminator’ crooner showed off his bold new look in an Instagram post, which featured dollar signs and the word “Believe” among other designs. While reactions have been mixed, one thing is clear: Asake is making a statement. 

However, Asake is not the first Nigerian artist to embrace facial tattoos

Over the years, several Nigerian celebrities have adopted this bold trend, using their ink to make personal statements or add to their unique styles.

Let’s dive into five Nigerian artists who are rocking face tattoos and turning heads with their daring looks!

1. Olamide – The Pioneer of Facial Ink

Olamide is a name that’s synonymous with Afrobeat culture, and his influence goes far beyond his music. One of the early adopters of the face tattoo trend in the Nigerian music scene, Olamide showed off his facial ink in February 2019 while performing a dance to his hit single “Woske” on Instagram. Known for his versatile Yoruba and English lyrics, Olamide’s tattoos complement his street-smart, unapologetic style.

For Olamide, his tattoos have become a powerful extension of his personality. The face tattoos, much like his music, are bold and unafraid to challenge norms. Olamide’s decision to get facial tattoos has only added to his larger-than-life persona, making him one of the most recognizable faces in African music. His ink isn’t just a fashion statement—it’s a reflection of his journey and his unapologetic approach to life and music.

2. Small Doctor – From Street-Hop to Face Ink

Small Doctor, the Nigerian Fuji and Afro-pop artist, has been a big influence in the street-hop music scene. Known for his popular hit “Penalty,” Small Doctor made headlines when he showcased his face tattoo, which added to his already larger-than-life image. His music is deeply rooted in the streets, and his face tattoo seemed to reflect his strong connection to the culture he represents.

Small Doctor’s face tattoo came at a time when he was gaining more recognition and solidifying his place in the Nigerian music scene. His tattoos reflect his growth as an artist and his willingness to express himself in unconventional ways. The face ink helped reinforce the “street” persona that he’s known for, giving fans another reason to connect with him on a deeper level. With Small Doctor, the tattoo was more than just a trend—it was a symbol of the personal journey he’s been on, both as a musician and as an individual.

3. DJ Sose – The Iconic DJ with Unique Tattoos

Thomas Amar-Aigbe, better known as DJ Sose, is one of Nigeria’s most unique and instantly recognizable disc jockeys. His signature look, which includes his distinct facial tattoos, has become an iconic part of his image. DJ Sose’s tattoos are instantly recognizable, and they’ve become almost as famous as his skills on the turntables.

But DJ Sose didn’t always sport his tattoos. In a shocking twist, he removed his tattoos during his traditional marriage but had them reapplied during his white wedding. This decision left many fans and the media buzzing about his tattoos and what they represented. DJ Sose’s commitment to his facial ink speaks volumes about his personal identity and how much his tattoos have come to define him. For DJ Sose, his tattoos represent much more than just a style choice—they’re a part of who he is and his evolution as an artist.

4. Portable – The “Zazu” Star with a Tattoo Journey

Portable, the controversial singer and rapper behind the hit song “Zazu,” has become known for his bold persona and even bolder tattoos. Originally, Portable had just an ‘SOS’ tattoo on his chin, which matched his street-inspired, larger-than-life image. However, in a recent social media video, Portable revealed he was getting even more tattoos, showing the painful process as he added to his facial ink while in Cyprus.

The video quickly went viral, and fans couldn’t help but comment on Portable’s boldness and the meaning behind his growing collection of tattoos. Portable is known for his unapologetic personality, and his tattoos seem to symbolize this fearlessness. As his career continues to rise, his tattoos are becoming a part of his ever-evolving image—one that is tough, raw, and true to his roots.

5. Asake – A Bold New Look

Grammy Award-nominated artist Asake, known for his massive hits like “Terminator,” has recently shocked fans with his fresh new look. In an Instagram post, the artist debuted his face tattoos, which included dollar signs and the word “Believe.” His followers quickly took to social media to react, with some loving the boldness of the design, while others were a little more critical.

Read Also: Singer Portable thrills participants at Abuja Int’l Carnival

For Asake, this is a chance to elevate his personal image and express a deeper side of himself. His music already features themes of ambition and belief, so it’s no surprise that the word “Believe” is etched on his face. It’s clear that Asake isn’t just an artist with a unique sound—he’s an artist with a distinct identity. Fans are eager to see how this new look will influence his future releases and public persona. With his increasing global popularity, this new tattoo is another way Asake is solidifying his position as a trendsetter in the African music industry.

Summarily, These five Nigerian artists have embraced face tattoos as more than just a trend—they’ve turned them into powerful forms of self-expression. Whether it’s Olamide’s blend of street credibility and style, DJ Sose’s iconic and unique look, or Asake’s bold “Believe” tattoo, these artists are using their ink to say something about who they are and where they’re going.

The rise of face tattoos in Nigerian music reflects an increasing trend of artists using their image as a canvas for deeper personal meaning. These tattoos aren’t just about following trends—they are about asserting individuality, making bold statements, and expressing parts of their identity that words alone might not capture. As we move into 2025, it’s likely we’ll see more artists taking the leap and following in the footsteps of these trailblazers, adding their own unique mark on the world—literally!

Singer Portable thrills participants at Abuja Int’l Carnival

Energetic Nigerian singer Habeeb  Badmus, popularly known as Portable, on Monday   night thrilled  participants  at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Abuja International  Carnival.

Participants, including state delegates, government functionaries and music lovers, drawn from  different parts of the country, were held to series of electrifying performances by the “ZaZoo Zehh” crooner  at the Eagles Square.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the carnival, which held from Nov.23 to 25, with the theme,” Carnival of Renewed Hope: a Pledge to My Country”, had  participating troupe  from across different  states in Nigeria .

It featured a range of activities, including floats and street shows, musical concerts, traditional food competition, boat regatta, Durbar, children’s Fiesta and art exhibitions at different locations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The closing ceremony was a night of glitz and glamour in colourful and festive ambience, which characterises carnivals, as it featured indigenous fashion show  and parade  across the arena  by participating teams.

Read Also: Wizkid sets new Spotify record

The concert started after the results of the competitive events in the carnival were announced ,with River State emerging  ‘Overall Best State’ winner.

Dance floor for the night was opened with series of performances  by upcoming artistes before portable came on stage.

The “Brotherhood” crooner was then ushered on stage amidst ovation by participants, especially his fans, and then the ‘party just started.’

He performed some of his hit tracks, including  ‘Pay Me My Money’, ‘Ema Joke Dada’, ‘Clear’, among others, amid cheers from  fans.(NAN) 

Wizkid sets new Spotify record

Ace Nigerian Artist, Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, has set a new Spotify record for the biggest streams by any song.

The superstar’s recently released album titled “Morayo” has claimed the number 1 spot on the Apple Music Nigeria Chart, with all his tracks dominating the charts to positions.

One of his singles from the album titled “Kese (Dance)” set the record for the highest opening day stream on Spotify Nigeria with 1.5 million streams.

Read Also: Wizkid drops new album ‘Morayo’ in tribute to late mother

Another single “Piece of My Heart” also surpass 1 million opening day streams on Spotify.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Wizkid’s album, Morayo, which translates to “I see joy” in Yoruba, is a heart felt tribute to his late mother, Juliana Balogun, who passed away in August 2023.

The album, which was launched on the Nov. 22, features tasteful selection of artistes across genres.

(NAN)

Wizkid drops new album ‘Morayo’ in tribute to late mother

Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known by his stage name Wizkid, has released his sixth studio album, “Morayo” in tribute to his late mother, Jane Balogun, who passed on in August 2023.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the much-anticipated 16-track album was release on streaming platforms on Friday.

The tracks include hit songs — Troubled Mind, Karamo, Kese (Dance), Bad Girl, Time, Piece of My Heart and Pray, with collaborations
featuring renowned artistes such as Asake, Brent Faiyaz, Jazmine Sullivan, Anaïs and Tiakola.

Wizkid had earlier in June, in a video message shared on his social media page, told his fans that the album was to honour his late mother.

He said “my album ‘Morayo’, dedicated to my mum, the love of my life, drops very soon. Don’t dull. Don’t sleep.”

In another post on his X handle, he wrote: “Morayo! Friday, Nov. 22.”

However, the ace singer in October dropped a track “Piece of My Heart”, featuring American singer and songwriter,Brent Faiyaz, from the album for his curious fans.

The soul-stirring track immediately set a new record on Spotify for the biggest first day streams by any song, pulling 1.01 million streams.

Read Also: PICTORIAL: Davido receives luxury car as 32nd birthday gift

Wizkid broke the record he previously shared with Asake for their chart-topping single “MMS” from  Asake’s “Lungu Boy” album, making
“Piece of My Heart” Africa’s first song to surpass one million opening day streams on Spotify.

NAN reports that Wizkid, born in Surulere, Lagos, started his music career at 11 and released a collaborative album with Glorious Five, a group formed with Church friends.

In 2009, he signed with Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment and became famous with “Holla at Your Boy”, and since then, evolved to become a global brand.

Among other feats, Wizkid became the first Nigerian musician to have over one million followers on Twitter (now X) in 2014.

He became first Afrobeat artist to appear in the 2018 Guinness World Records for his contribution to “One Dance” and his song “Soco” became his first
Afrobeat single to be certified gold in Canada.

In mid-2019, Wizkid was featured on Beyonce’s “Brown Skin Girl”, taken from the acclaimed “The Lion King: The Gift” soundtrack, which earned
him his first Grammy Award, among other nominations and awards.

Besides “Morayo”, his studio albums include Superstar (2011), Ayo(2014),Sounds from the Other Side(2017),Made in Lagos(2020) and More Love Less Hate(2022)
(NAN)

PICTORIAL: Davido receives luxury car as 32nd birthday gift

Nigerian global music sensation, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has been presented with a premium Escalade 600 luxury car as a birthday gift from one of his favourite automobile brands.

The company announced the gesture on their Instagram page, thanking the star for his continued loyalty and patronage.

Read Also: Davido to host livestream concert for fans to mark 32nd birthday

“On your birthday, our brand, MR JAY AUTOS LLC, has decided to gift you this new Escalade 600 premium luxury. We appreciate your patronage and love for the brand. Happy birthday Oriande @davido. Cheers to many more years.”

Davido who turns 32 today, November 21, responded with affection, commenting, “Love you” on the post.