Search Results

American singer Ray J says doctors told him he has one month to live after a heart-related hospitalisation, according to a recent video statement. Entertainment Ray J Says Doctors Gave Him One Month to Live After Heart Crisis American singer Ray J says doctors told him he has one month to live after a heart-related hospitalisation, according to a recent video statement. Published: January 29, 2026 at 10:11:47 AM Modified: January 29, 2026 at 10:11:47 AM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal According to The Sun report , American singer and reality television personality Ray J has disclosed that doctors informed him he may have only one month to live following a recent hospitalisation linked to heart complications. The 45-year-old entertainer, whose real name is William Ray Norwood Jr., shared the information in a video posted on social media after receiving medical treatment for pneumonia and heart pain. In the video, Ray J said his doctors warned him about the severity of his condition, adding that his heart is functioning at approximately 25 percent capacity. During the recording, the singer appeared visibly emotional as he described the diagnosis and suggested that his future was uncertain. He attributed his deteriorating health to years of excessive partying and heavy alcohol consumption, acknowledging that his lifestyle choices had caused lasting damage. Ray J also revealed plans to travel to Haiti in the coming weeks in search of alternative treatment options that could potentially extend his life. He thanked his parents and his sister, fellow singer Brandy, noting that she has been supporting him financially with medical expenses. Earlier in January, Ray J was hospitalised in Las Vegas after experiencing severe pneumonia and heart-related pain. The incident followed a similar health scare several years ago that required oxygen support. Source: The Sun Nigeria ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment United States United States Keep Reading Entertainment Ray J Says Doctors Gave Him One Month to Live After Heart Crisis Singer shares prognosis following hospitalisation for pneumonia and heart issues . Entertainment Nel Ngabo to Perform in Uganda for First Time After Seven Years Rwandan singer schedules Kampala concert on February 1, 2026, marking a regional milestone . Entertainment Asake Sets New Billboard Afrobeats Songs Chart Record Nigerian star reaches 60 entries as Wizkid collaboration peaks on U.S. chart . Entertainment Kylie Jenner Appears in Charli XCX’s New Music Video Project Reality star features as a lookalike in Charli XCX’s single tied to upcoming mockumentary .

Asake extends his Billboard Afrobeats Songs chart record to 60 entries as his Wizkid collaboration reaches a new peak. Entertainment Asake Sets New Billboard Afrobeats Songs Chart Record Asake extends his Billboard Afrobeats Songs chart record to 60 entries as his Wizkid collaboration reaches a new peak. Published: January 29, 2026 at 8:03:17 AM Modified: January 29, 2026 at 8:03:17 AM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal According to a Daily Post report , Nigerian singer Asake has further extended his lead as the artist with the most entries in the history of Billboard’s U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart. The milestone was reached after Asake recorded his 60th entry on the chart, driven by his collaborative single with Wizkid, “Jogodo,” which climbed to a peak position of number four this week. The achievement strengthens his standing as one of the most commercially consistent Afrobeats artists on the U.S. charts. Elsewhere on the Billboard Afrobeats Songs chart, South African singer Tyla maintained her strong run as her song “Channel” held onto the number one spot. Tyla was recently named the Top Afrobeats Artist of 2025 , continuing a year marked by sustained chart success. Her earlier hit “Water” previously set a benchmark on the chart after spending 55 weeks at number one. In related chart news, Nigerian superstar Burna Boy secured his first-ever top 20 placement on the Billboard Hot 100 this week. His feature on Gunna’s “WGFT” climbed to a new peak of number 16 following the release of a remix featuring Chris Brown . With the latest entry, Burna Boy has now become the first African artist to debut a song on the Billboard Hot 100 for five consecutive years , spanning from 2021 through 2025. Source: Daily Post ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria Keep Reading Entertainment Asake Sets New Billboard Afrobeats Songs Chart Record Nigerian star reaches 60 entries as Wizkid collaboration peaks on U.S. chart . Entertainment Kylie Jenner Appears in Charli XCX’s New Music Video Project Reality star features as a lookalike in Charli XCX’s single tied to upcoming mockumentary . Entertainment Nel Ngabo to Perform in Uganda for First Time After Seven Years Rwandan singer schedules Kampala concert on February 1, 2026, marking a regional milestone . Entertainment Korede Bello Reflects on Faith, Says Christ Has Risen Singer shares message on resurrection, faith identity, and journey to Christianity .

A new report by Global Initiative exposes how Rwanda-backed M23 rebels fuel Congo’s dirty gold trade, undermining a $300M UAE-backed reform deal with Kinshasa. D.R.Congo, Rwanda Gold smuggling in Congo linked to Rwanda-backed M23 rebels EXPOSED: How Rwanda’s Proxy War Hijacked a $300M Reform Deal A new report by Global Initiative exposes how Rwanda-backed M23 rebels fuel Congo’s dirty gold trade, undermining a $300M UAE-backed reform deal with Kinshasa. Published: January 29, 2026 at 4:55:03 AM Modified: January 29, 2026 at 4:55:03 AM Written By | Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda A new exposé reveals how Rwandan-backed M23 rebels continue to control Congo’s lucrative gold trade, undermining official reform efforts led by Kinshasa and the UAE. Despite a joint venture meant to clean up the sector, smuggling networks tied to Rwanda have expanded under the cover of war, fueling conflict, corruption, and environmental devastation. EXPOSED: Conflict Gold in Congo: As Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seized key eastern Congolese trade hubs and gold-rich territories in early 2025, a deeper pattern of organized looting has once again come to light, one that reveals how Congo’s mineral wealth continues to fund violence, foreign interference, and environmental destruction. A new report by Global Initiative shows how Congolese gold is still flowing through murky, unregulated supply chains, despite efforts by the Congolese government and international partners to formalize the sector. The study raises critical alarms: Rwanda’s covert role as a smuggling corridor has not stopped; it has intensified under the cover of war. The Failed Gold Venture: Primera and the Illusion of Reform At the center of this exposé is Primera Gold DRC SA, a joint venture launched in December 2022 between Kinshasa and a UAE-registered firm. It was touted as a bold step to clean up Congo’s artisanal gold sector and curb smuggling, especially to neighboring Rwanda, which has long served as an illegal exit route for looted Congolese minerals. By 2023, Primera had exported over five tonnes of gold worth $300 million, mostly from South Kivu. But behind the numbers lies a troubling reality: Gold was extracted from zones controlled by non-state armed groups, many linked to Rwanda. Evidence of child labor, illegal dredging, and environmental destruction was found. Worse still, the destination of the revenues remains opaque, raising red flags about elite capture and foreign profiteering. Rwanda’s Shadow Continues to Loom Over Congo’s Gold While the UAE engaged with Kinshasa in this joint venture, UAE-based firms simultaneously continued importing gold from Rwanda, a country without significant gold reserves, yet one of Africa’s top exporters. The United Nations has repeatedly documented Rwanda’s role in laundering gold smuggled out of Congo through a system that rewards conflict and punishes accountability. This is resource theft dressed in diplomacy, where Rwandan-backed violence paves the way for foreign enrichment, while Congolese communities suffer displacement, ecological destruction, and exploitation. Who Benefits? The Hidden Hands Behind Congo’s Gold The report further exposes how influential elites shaped and benefited from the Primera Gold venture, all while evading financial transparency. It slams the absence of proper oversight from: Regional watchdogs like the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), Financial institutions and banks, Global certification bodies are responsible for clean supply chains. With no ICGLR audit of Primera’s operations, and with UAE refineries processing gold of unknown origin, the system is wide open for Rwanda’s shadow networks to thrive. A Global Crisis: Conflict Gold, Dirty Deals, and Complicity Over two years of fieldwork and research make one thing clear: Congo’s gold sector remains deeply entangled with armed conflict, foreign interference (especially from Rwanda), and corporate impunity. The promises of reform through partnerships like Primera have collapsed under the weight of corruption and regional sabotage. ADVERTISEMENT DR.Congo DR.Congo Rwanda Rwanda Keep Reading Mining and Minerals EXPOSED: How Rwanda’s Proxy War Hijacked a $300M Reform Deal Conflict gold from eastern Congo continues to be smuggled through Rwanda despite reform pledges . Economic Reports DRC Debut Eurobond: $750M Bond Plan, Risks & Strategy First-ever global bond issue to fund infrastructure; full program worth $1.5 billion . DRC Peace Effort Rubaya returnees face new barrier: healthcare access in Masisi In North Kivu’s return phase, user fees and medicine shortages keep families away from clinics . Justice & Crime Karisimbi youth council demands protection after Kasika killing Council condemns the shooting of a 54-year-old woman in Goma and urges safety for residents .

The New York Times

The U.S. response to South Africa’s naval drills focuses on Iran’s participation, command-and-control questions, and shifting alignments. Politics The joint military drills off South Africa's coast are being led by China © RODGER BOSCH / AFP Washington concerned about Iran’s role in South Africa’s naval drills The U.S. response to South Africa’s naval drills focuses on Iran’s participation, command-and-control questions, and shifting alignments. Published: January 28, 2026 at 7:48:09 PM Modified: January 28, 2026 at 8:00:35 PM Written By | Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga The U.S. backlash to South Africa’s recent multinational naval exercises is less about routine maritime cooperation and more about who participated, how they participated, and what that signals diplomatically especially at a moment when Iran is under intense international scrutiny. The dispute has widened tensions between Washington and Pretoria following drills hosted off South Africa ’s coast in January as first reported by The New York Times . 1) Iran’s participation, despite an alleged downgrade order A central U.S. concern is the claim that Iran took part more fully than South Africa’s political leadership intended. According to reporting on the fallout, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office said he wanted Iran relegated to observer status, but Iran still participated in the exercises raising questions in Washington about whether South Africa’s defense structures carried out a political directive. 2) The optics of live-fire drills during unrest in Iran The diplomatic sensitivity is amplified by timing. The drills reportedly included live-fire components while Iran faced global condemnation over lethal domestic repression. U.S. messaging has framed South Africa’s decision to allow Iranian vessels to operate in its waters as a political choice with moral and strategic implications, not a neutral act. 3) A direct U.S. embassy rebuke and the language used After the exercises, the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria issued an unusually blunt criticism, arguing South Africa was effectively aligning itself with Tehran. The statement included the line that permitting Iranian forces to operate locally is “choosing to stand with a regime that brutally represses its people and engages in terrorism.” 4) The broader signal: BRICS defense cooperation meeting U.S. red lines The drills were tied to a wider BRICS-plus setting and involved major U.S. competitors and partners in the bloc’s orbit. For Washington, the issue is not simply a single exercise it is the pattern: how South Africa positions itself amid intensifying great-power competition, and whether “non-alignment” is drifting into partnerships the U.S. views as hostile or destabilizing. Why this matters now South Africa has long argued it pursues an independent foreign policy, but U.S. officials appear focused on credibility and control: if Pretoria publicly signals one level of Iranian participation while the military delivers another, that creates uncertainty for partners and political risk for the government. The episode also adds strain to an already difficult U.S. South Africa relationship, where symbolism and alignment can carry real consequences. Source : The New York Times ADVERTISEMENT South Africa South Africa Keep Reading African Politics Washington concerned about Iran’s role in South Africa’s naval drills Washington’s concern centers on Iran’s role, live-fire optics, . Entertainment Big Brother Mzansi Season 6 Week 2: First Evictions Confirmed Tensions escalate as Dube takes HoH power and Lawredo, Ofentse exit the house . Business Profiles JDA boss Mathibe on bail as money-laundering case set for June Police say probe into procurement irregularities continues; further arrests not ruled out . Local Experiences Debate grows over King Misuzulu’s KwaZulu-Natal rename push Analysts warn of cultural exclusion as the Zulu monarchy defends dropping “Natal”. .

Rwandan artist Nel Ngabo will stage his first-ever concert in Uganda on February 1, 2026, after seven years in music. Entertainment Nel Ngabo to Perform in Uganda for First Time After Seven Years Rwandan artist Nel Ngabo will stage his first-ever concert in Uganda on February 1, 2026, after seven years in music. Published: January 28, 2026 at 9:03:49 PM Modified: January 28, 2026 at 9:03:49 PM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal According to the source article, Rwandan singer Rwangabo Byusa Nelson, popularly known as Nel Ngabo , is preparing to perform in Uganda for the first time since launching his music career seven years ago. The concert is scheduled to take place in Kampala on Sunday, February 1, 2026. The performance will coincide with regional celebrations marking Heroes Day, a public holiday observed in Uganda. Nel Ngabo described the upcoming show as a significant step in expanding his music beyond Rwanda and reaching a broader East African audience. The artist said the event is intended to celebrate unity and shared cultural moments, noting that it provides an opportunity to engage Ugandan fans while honoring the historical significance of the day. Nel Ngabo also indicated that the Kampala concert will serve as the opening event in a series of international performances planned for 2026, as part of efforts to grow his presence on the global music scene. Since debuting with the song Why , Nel Ngabo has released several popular tracks including Nzahinduka , Byakoroha , and Ya Motoma , the latter featuring Platini. He also collaborated with Platini P on Look at You , a track included on their joint album Vibranium . Over the past seven years, the singer has released three studio albums. His most recent project, Life Love & Light , was released in May 2025, following earlier albums RNB 360 and Ingabo . The upcoming Kampala show places Nel Ngabo among a growing number of Rwandan artists seeking to establish a presence on international stages. Source: InyaRwanda ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment Rwandan Entertainment Rwandan Entertainment Rwanda Rwanda Keep Reading Entertainment Kylie Jenner Appears in Charli XCX’s New Music Video Project Reality star features as a lookalike in Charli XCX’s single tied to upcoming mockumentary . Entertainment UK Court Sentences Rapper DigDat to Life for Attempted Murder Nathan Tokosi will serve at least 24 years after London shooting conviction . Entertainment Korede Bello Reflects on Faith, Says Christ Has Risen Singer shares message on resurrection, faith identity, and journey to Christianity . Entertainment Blakk Rasta Questions Delay in GH₵100m Lawsuit by Shatta Wale Broadcaster says no court summons received days after defamation suit was publicised .

Returnees in Rubaya, Masisi say cost blocks care, driving self-medication as health staff urge urgent support for free services. Rubaya returnees face new barrier: healthcare access in Masisi Returnees in Rubaya, Masisi say cost blocks care, driving self-medication as health staff urge urgent support for free services. Published: January 28, 2026 at 7:18:53 PM Modified: January 28, 2026 at 7:33:41 PM Written By | The Editorial Staff The Editorial Staff In Rubaya, a mining town in Masisi territory (North Kivu) , families who recently returned after conflict-driven displacement say they are struggling to access basic healthcare largely because they cannot afford consultations and medicines. Some residents report staying home while sick or turning to self-medication, a trend local health workers describe as increasingly risky actualite reports . Cost is keeping patients away from the clinic Returnees interviewed in Rubaya describe a daily reality shaped by economic insecurity: choosing between food and medical care. Several said they avoid health facilities altogether because they expect they will not be able to pay after a consultation especially if treatment requires multiple prescriptions. “We are sick, but we cannot afford to go to the hospital… Without money for medicine, our lives are in danger,” residents told local reporters in Rubaya. At the Rubaya Reference Health Center, staff say they are seeing fewer patients than expected despite persistent needs. Gabriel Kundabose, a community liaison and deputy secretary of the local Health Committee (COSA), links the drop in attendance to out-of-pocket costs. He says “community participation” in paying for care has fallen sharply, and that many patients delay treatment until conditions worsen. Health workers in Rubaya warn that when people avoid clinics, illnesses often go undiagnosed and untreated. Returnees interviewed in the report described relying on home treatment and traditional healers without prior testing or medical guidance an approach clinicians say can delay proper care, complicate infections, and increase preventable deaths. This pattern is not unique to Rubaya. Across parts of North and South Kivu, humanitarian reporting has repeatedly flagged how non-functional facilities, looting, supply gaps, and limited electricity constrain service delivery especially in areas where families are trying to return and rebuild. For example, OCHA has documented that in several return areas of Masisi, health facilities have remained damaged or under-equipped, with shortages of supplies and basic infrastructure. The “return phase” is exposing a new frontline For many communities, returning home is often treated as a sign that the crisis is easing. But Rubaya illustrates a harsher truth: return does not automatically mean recovery. When health access depends on user fees, the return phase can quickly become a second emergency one defined by untreated disease, worsening maternal and child health outcomes, and preventable complications. The ICRC has warned that health facilities in eastern DRC have faced serious strain, including medicine shortages and staffing gaps, as violence and insecurity disrupt supply routes and overwhelm services . Conflict dynamics still shape the health crisis Rubaya sits in a wider conflict environment where armed groups including M23 have been active and where control of strategic areas can shift. Even when frontlines move away from a town, the aftereffects remain: destroyed livelihoods, interrupted markets, and reduced household income all of which directly affect whether families can pay for treatment. Regionally, Kinshasa has repeatedly accused Rwanda of backing M23 , while Rwanda has denied supporting the group. International reporting has also addressed these allegations: UN sanctions reporting mechanisms for the DRC have published expert reports related to armed groups and regional dynamics . For civilians, the practical consequence is clear: prolonged insecurity and repeated displacement undermine health systems and household finances at the same time leaving returnees exposed when they come back. Local authorities appeal for emergency support Faced with falling clinic attendance and growing concern about untreated illness, local health authorities in Rubaya are calling on humanitarian organizations to reinforce facilities with essential medicines and supplies. The aim, according to the report, is to make care free or subsidized for the most vulnerable particularly returnee families with little or no income. Kundabose urged NGOs “driven by a spirit of solidarity” to support returnees by enabling free access to care, arguing it would significantly improve public health outcomes. What happens next If emergency support does not arrive quickly, health workers say Rubaya risks a cycle where delayed treatment becomes the norm raising the likelihood of severe cases, higher costs later, and avoidable deaths. A targeted response subsidized services, essential drug stocks, and community outreach could help stabilize access while longer-term recovery efforts rebuild livelihoods. Source : Actualite cd ADVERTISEMENT DRC Politics DRC Politics Africa Africa DR.Congo DR.Congo Keep Reading DRC Peace Effort Rubaya returnees face new barrier: healthcare access in Masisi In North Kivu’s return phase, user fees and medicine shortages keep families away from clinics . Government Announcements DRC: Kinshasa Launches Uvira Recovery Plan Kinshasa unveils its recovery plan for Uvira following the partial withdrawal of M23/RDF forces . Justice & Crime Karisimbi youth council demands protection after Kasika killing Council condemns the shooting of a 54-year-old woman in Goma and urges safety for residents . Geopolitics Africa DRC, Zambia Open 14th Joint Defense and Security Session Bilateral commission meets in Lubumbashi amid regional security concerns. .

Kylie Jenner makes a surprise appearance in Charli XCX’s latest music video, part of the singer’s upcoming mockumentary film project. Entertainment Kylie Jenner Appears in Charli XCX’s New Music Video Project Kylie Jenner makes a surprise appearance in Charli XCX’s latest music video, part of the singer’s upcoming mockumentary film project. Published: January 28, 2026 at 7:55:53 PM Modified: January 28, 2026 at 8:11:59 PM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal According to the source article, Kylie Jenner has made an unexpected appearance in Charli XCX’s latest music video, marking a crossover between pop music and reality television. The video accompanies Residue , a new single by the British singer-songwriter that forms part of her upcoming mockumentary project titled The Moment . The visual features Charli XCX surrounded by multiple lookalikes, with Jenner appearing as one of the clones styled to resemble the artist. Jenner is shown wearing loose black hair and a white tank top, visually matching Charli XCX’s aesthetic in the video. One scene includes Jenner portraying the singer while smoking, a moment that drew attention following the release. Charli XCX confirmed via social media that both the song and its music video are now available. The music video was co-produced by AG Cook, a longtime collaborator of Charli XCX, and directed by photographer Aidan Zamiri. The project continues Charli XCX’s recent run of high-profile creative ventures across music and film. Beyond music, the artist has been promoting several acting projects and recently attended the Sundance Film Festival in Park City. There, she premiered three upcoming films, including The Gallerist , which reportedly opens later this month, and I Want Your Sex , directed by Gregg Araki. Charli XCX is also set to star in The Moment , the mockumentary linked to Residue . The film features an ensemble cast that includes Alexander Skarsgård, Rachel Sennott, and Kylie Jenner. The movie is scheduled for release in U.S. theaters on February 6. Source: Geo News ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment United States United States Keep Reading Entertainment Kylie Jenner Appears in Charli XCX’s New Music Video Project Reality star features as a lookalike in Charli XCX’s single tied to upcoming mockumentary . Entertainment UK Court Sentences Rapper DigDat to Life for Attempted Murder Nathan Tokosi will serve at least 24 years after London shooting conviction . Entertainment Korede Bello Reflects on Faith, Says Christ Has Risen Singer shares message on resurrection, faith identity, and journey to Christianity . Entertainment Blakk Rasta Questions Delay in GH₵100m Lawsuit by Shatta Wale Broadcaster says no court summons received days after defamation suit was publicised .

Korede Bello speaks on Christian faith, emphasizing Christ’s resurrection and his personal journey from Islam to Christianity, according to a Tribune Online report. Entertainment Korede Bello Reflects on Faith, Says Christ Has Risen Korede Bello speaks on Christian faith, emphasizing Christ’s resurrection and his personal journey from Islam to Christianity, according to a Tribune Online report. Published: January 28, 2026 at 5:16:18 PM Modified: January 28, 2026 at 5:16:18 PM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal According to a T ribune Online report, Nigerian singe r Korede Bello has shared a public reflection on his Christian faith, stating that Jesus Christ should no longer be viewed solely through the lens of the crucifixion but through the resurrection and ascension. In a video posted on Instagram, the musician addressed what he described as an overemphasis on the image of Jesus on the cross, explaining that Christian belief is rooted in the completed sacrifice and the resurrection of Christ. He clarified that his remarks were not intended to diminish the significance of the cross but to highlight what he sees as the core of Christian identity. Bello recounted a personal moment during prayer that reshaped his understanding of faith, saying he realized that Christ is no longer on the cross but is seated beside God the Father. He explained that this perspective influenced how he now views prayer and spiritual identity. Referencing biblical teachings, the singer stressed the importance of the resurrection, citing the Apostle Paul’s assertion that faith is incomplete without belief in Christ’s rising. He argued that Christian worship should focus on the risen Christ rather than repeatedly revisiting the crucifixion. The artist also spoke about his religious background, revealing that he was born into a Muslim family and later embraced Christianity after independently studying the Bible. He said his decision was driven by personal conviction rather than religious pressure. Bello further expressed concern that some believers remain fixated on the symbolism of the cross, suggesting that this focus overlooks what he described as the transformative meaning of Christ’s resurrection. He added that Christian identity should be reflected through love, referencing Jesus’ teaching that love is the defining mark of his followers. He concluded by emphasizing communion as a means of remembering Christ’s sacrifice and victory, noting that it serves as reflection rather than repetition of the crucifixion. Source: Tribune Online ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment Keep Reading Entertainment Korede Bello Reflects on Faith, Says Christ Has Risen Singer shares message on resurrection, faith identity, and journey to Christianity . Entertainment Blakk Rasta Questions Delay in GH₵100m Lawsuit by Shatta Wale Broadcaster says no court summons received days after defamation suit was publicised . Entertainment UK Court Sentences Rapper DigDat to Life for Attempted Murder Nathan Tokosi will serve at least 24 years after London shooting conviction . Hollywood Updates Joe Alwyn Marks Career Moment Amid Taylor Swift Wedding Reports Actor attends royal event in London as reports emerge about Swift and Kelce wedding plans .

Nigeria and Türkiye advance defence, training and intelligence cooperation as Tinubu’s visit stays on track despite viral footage. President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Ankara to push a more formal, operational security partnership Tinubu’s Türkiye Visit Deepens Security and Defence Ties Nigeria and Türkiye advance defence, training and intelligence cooperation as Tinubu’s visit stays on track despite viral footage. Published: January 28, 2026 at 3:07:45 PM Modified: January 28, 2026 at 4:04:30 PM Written By | Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Nigeria and Türkiye are using President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Ankara to push a more formal, operational security partnership one that spans counter-terror cooperation, military training and intelligence coordination even as a brief stumble during the welcome ceremony briefly pulled online attention away from the agenda , BBC reports . At the centre of the visit are commitments that both governments have framed as practical support for Nigeria’s security campaign. Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said the two countries would expand cooperation in counterterrorism, including military training and intelligence, as they signed multiple agreements aimed at strengthening political, economic and security ties. That security focus matters in a regional climate where online narratives can move faster than official statements. In recent months, heightened insecurity in Nigeria has also attracted external commentarysometimes sparking exaggerated “intervention” or “invasion” talk in online spaces after political statements abroad. Officials in Abuja have repeatedly sought to keep attention on institution-to-institution partnerships rather than rumor-driven speculation . What was agreed and what it signals According to Türkiye’s readout, the leaders reviewed cooperation across trade, investment, energy, education and defence industry links, and signed accords that include military collaboration and mechanisms intended to structure future cooperation. In parallel, Nigeria’s delegation highlighted that the visit continued as scheduled, with aides insisting the president was not injured and proceeded to bilateral engagements . The viral stumble and the information problem The reception stumble captured on official footage prompted rapid social sharing and competing interpretations. Nigerian officials said Tinubu lost balance after stepping on a metal object and described the incident as minor, stressing that official meetings continued. The episode is a reminder that diplomatic messaging now competes with a real-time content ecosystem where small moments can eclipse substantive policy outcomes. Why Türkiye matters in Nigeria’s security calculus For Abuja, Türkiye offers a mix of diplomatic alignment and security cooperation framed around capacity building training, intelligence coordination and defence collaboration rather than one-off gestures. For Ankara, Nigeria represents a major partner in Africa with growing strategic relevance, including in multilateral platforms cited by Turkish officials. For Abuja, Türkiye offers a mix of diplomatic alignment and security cooperation framed around capacity building training, intelligence coordination and defence collaboration rather than one-off gestures. For Ankara, Nigeria represents a major partner in Africa with growing strategic relevance, including in multilateral platforms cited by Turkish officials. If the commitments announced in Ankara translate into implementation joint training tracks, intelligence-sharing routines and clearer cooperation frameworks the visit will be remembered less for a viral clip and more for accelerating a security partnership at a time when Nigeria is seeking practical support and predictable allies. The source : BBC reports . ADVERTISEMENT Nigeria Gov Services Nigeria Gov Services Nigeria Nigeria Keep Reading Geopolitics Africa Tinubu’s Türkiye Visit Deepens Security and Defence Ties Ankara pledges counter-terror support as viral stumble clips revive misinformation risks . Political Scandals Why Abba Yusuf’s APC Switch Is Shaking Kano Politics Opposition rejects “earthquake” narrative as NNPP cites betrayal and APC calls it a homecoming . Justice & Crime Nigeria to Try Some Officers Held in 2025 Coup-Plot Probe Military says some of 16 arrested last October will face a judicial panel after an internal inquiry . Justice & Crime Intelligence-led ops underway to rescue Kaduna church abductees Military says surveillance, patrols and targeted actions aim to free Kurmin Wali captives safely .

Alexandra court grants R50,000 bail to JDA and acting JOSHCO CEO Themba Mathibe; case postponed to 2 June as police trace cash flows. JDA boss Mathibe on bail as money-laundering case set for June Alexandra court grants R50,000 bail to JDA and acting JOSHCO CEO Themba Mathibe; case postponed to 2 June as police trace cash flows. Published: January 28, 2026 at 1:23:50 PM Modified: January 28, 2026 at 1:38:05 PM Written By | Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga A south African Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) head and acting Johannesburg Social Housing Company (JOSHCO) CEO Themba Mathibe has been granted R50,000 bail on a money-laundering charge, with the case postponed to 2 June as police continue an investigation they say could still expand to include additional arrests as reported by News24. Mathibe was arrested on Monday after police say he was found in possession of a substantial amount of cash at his home. While police did not confirm the exact figure, News24 reported it had been reliably informed the amount was around R2 million . National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the arrest followed an extensive investigation into allegations of procurement irregularities linked to the City’s social housing company. She said the arrest was carried out by the police Cold Case Unit and Special Task Force , and that investigators acted on a J51 search-and-seizure warrant , raiding both Mathibe’s home and offices. JOSHCO confirmed that police conducted a raid at its headquarters and that some employees were questioned. The organisation said it respected the rule of law and the presumption of innocence, and indicated its board would consider the way forward once any allegations were formally confirmed through the relevant legal and governance channels . People also read: Authorities to Review Safety After Chapman’s Peak Off-Road Incident Why the ANC NEC Lekgotla matters ahead of local elections Booysens court shooting linked to Mondeor murder trial: Nel The case lands in a sensitive part of city governance: JOSHCO is mandated to help address Johannesburg’s housing backlog and is solely owned by the City of Johannesburg, with thousands of rental units under management, according to sector body NASHO. The JDA, meanwhile, is the City’s development agency responsible for implementing regeneration and infrastructure programmes, and its executive listings identify Mathibe as CEO. For now, the court timetable is clear, while the investigative picture remains open: police say they are still pursuing the procurement probe and have not ruled out more arrests ahead of the June appearance. Source: News24 ADVERTISEMENT South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services South Africa South Africa Keep Reading Business Profiles JDA boss Mathibe on bail as money-laundering case set for June Police say probe into procurement irregularities continues; further arrests not ruled out . African Politics Why the ANC NEC Lekgotla matters ahead of local elections Boksburg meeting focuses on implementing January 8 priorities and fixing municipal delivery gaps. . Local Experiences Debate grows over King Misuzulu’s KwaZulu-Natal rename push Analysts warn of cultural exclusion as the Zulu monarchy defends dropping “Natal”. . African Destinations Why zanzibar chose london buses to promote its tourism brand Zanzibar rolls out ads on London's iconic double-decker buses to boost tourism in the UK market. .

UK rapper DigDat, born Nathan Tokosi, has been sentenced to life in prison for attempted murder following a 2023 London shooting, a court ruled. Entertainment UK Court Sentences Rapper DigDat to Life for Attempted Murder UK rapper DigDat, born Nathan Tokosi, has been sentenced to life in prison for attempted murder following a 2023 London shooting, a court ruled. Published: January 28, 2026 at 2:31:58 PM Modified: January 28, 2026 at 2:34:16 PM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal According to Inyarwanda.com , a UK court has sentenced rapper Nathan Tokosi , widely known by his stage name DigDat, to life imprisonment after convicting him of attempted murder linked to a shooting in west London. The ruling was delivered by the Old Bailey court, which ordered that the 26-year-old must serve a minimum of 24 years in prison before he can apply for parole. Tokosi was found guilty of shooting a 27-year-old man, Daniel Offei-Ntow, multiple times during a late-night attack in Notting Hill on November 20, 2023. Prosecutors told the court that Tokosi carried out the attack by firing a handgun through the open window of a vehicle in which the victim was seated. Offei-Ntow sustained gunshot wounds to the head, mouth, and other parts of his body, requiring two emergency surgeries to save his life. Detective Chief Inspector Chris Shepherd described the incident as a premeditated and violent act intended to kill. Police officers responding to the scene found the victim’s vehicle heavily stained with blood on Clydesdale Road during the early morning hours. The prosecution said CCTV footage showed Tokosi repeatedly driving around the area in the days and hours leading up to the shooting, using a stolen Audi vehicle. The firearm used in the attack was later recovered along with the stolen car. During sentencing, the court heard that Tokosi had a long history of violent behavior dating back to childhood. Records showed that he had previously been convicted of assault and knife-related offenses as a minor and had served time in youth detention for attempted murder. Tokosi was initially convicted in February 2025 on charges including attempted murder, possession of a self-loading pistol, and possession of prohibited ammunition. A subsequent hearing in November 2025 resulted in additional convictions related to illegal firearm possession, leading to the life sentence. Under UK law, a life sentence does not guarantee permanent imprisonment but places the offender under lifelong supervision. Tokosi will only be considered for release after serving the minimum term, subject to a risk assessment by parole authorities. Source: Inyarwanda.com ADVERTISEMENT Entertainment Entertainment U.K U.K Keep Reading Entertainment UK Court Sentences Rapper DigDat to Life for Attempted Murder Nathan Tokosi will serve at least 24 years after London shooting conviction . Hollywood Updates Joe Alwyn Marks Career Moment Amid Taylor Swift Wedding Reports Actor attends royal event in London as reports emerge about Swift and Kelce wedding plans . Entertainment Blakk Rasta Questions Delay in GH₵100m Lawsuit by Shatta Wale Broadcaster says no court summons received days after defamation suit was publicised . Entertainment Davis D Explains Rift With Producer Element Over “Bermuda” Dispute Singer says payment dispute over saxophone feature led to YouTube takedown and fallout .