MTN Unveils "Next Afrobeat Star" To Discover, Groom Musical Talents

MTN Nigeria has unveiled a new reality television show called, “Next Afrobeats Star”, to groom musical talents by providing a lifetime opportunity to turn their dreams and aspirations into reality.

Speaking at a news conference in Lagos on Saturday night, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria, said the show would feature a competition and grooming sessions to discover and elevate the next global icon of Afrobeats.

According to her, the winner of the show will receive a record deal valued at 100,000 dollars, which is N155 million.

She explained that the top four finalists will also be rewarded with deals ranging from 25,000 dollars  to 75,000 dollars, to support the production of their debut projects.

She said: “Tonight, we are not just launching a show, we are launching a dream. A dream that will rise from the streets of Lagos, echo through the valleys of Jos, and reach the furthest corners of Nigeria.

“At MTN, we believe in progress, not just as a brand stance but a purpose. We believe that every Nigerian, regardless of background, location, or education, deserves a chance to be connected, seen, heard, and celebrated.

“That is why we are taking this message to every corner of Nigeria from the bustling cities to the most remote villages so that no youth is left behind, because talent knows no boundaries, and neither should opportunity.

“It is a platform where raw talent meets real opportunity. Where the rhythm of Nigeria meets the reach of the world.”

According to Ikenna-Emeka, the initiative also aligns with the Federal Government’s bold vision to transform Nigeria into Africa’s creative capital.

She said through the Destination 2030 strategy, the government was working to position Nigeria as a leading global hub for creative excellence by the year 2030.

“This vision is about more than economic growth; it’s about cultural pride, global influence, and national identity.

“It is about creating an enabling environment for artistic brilliance, promoting diversity and creativity, and preserving the rich heritage that makes Nigeria unique.”

She called on the youth to embrace the opportunity to make a difference on the global stage.

According to her, the “Next Afrobeats Star” is a bold initiative by MTN Nigeria, in partnership with Ultima Studios and ONErpm.

Also, Temilolu Salako, Senior Manager, Youth Segment at MTN Nigeria, noted that renowned afrobeats producers would be engaged as judges and mentors during the show.

“Today, we’re not just launching a talent search, we are kicking off a movement. The Next Afrobeats Star is more than a campaign. It’s a spotlight.

“It is a microphone, a stage for the next voice that will shake the charts and shape the sound of Nigeria and beyond, and powering this bold journey is a brand that’s all about youth empowerment, creativity, and self-expression, that is MTN Pulse.”

Alexander Uwaifo, known professionally as Andre Vibez, a music producer who is one of the judges for the show, said: “I am excited to showcase my experience in helping to discover the crop of stars in the Afrobeats business.”

Another judge for the show, Femi Ayeni, Chief Executive Officer of Ultima Studios said, “Nigerians should expect that this will be different from other talent shows.”

 

 

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Why We Are Spending N712 Billion On Murtala Mohammed Airport Lagos

   The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has explained that the Federal Government’s decision to spend N712 billion on the renovation of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos is driven by the urgent need to replace decaying infrastructure, expand capacity, and bring the nation’s busiest airport in line with modern global standards.

The Minister gave this explanation in a statement issued on Sunday, following the Federal Executive Council’s recent approval of the transformation project.

After the Federal Executive Council meeting on Monday, the FG approved airport projects worth N919.10bn in total.

He described the package as “massive infrastructural upgrades” across key gateways, especially the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. 

He explained that MMIA, International Terminal 1 will be stripped to the carcass and fully rebuilt, with all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems replaced—an award to CCECC that also covers Terminal 2 works (apron expansion, access roads, bridges and associated infrastructure).

However, justifying the huge amounts earmarked for these projects, the minister explained, “To further enunciate our plans for the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, let me further clarify the approval we secured from the Federal Executive Council Meeting last week.

“There are two international terminals in Lagos. Terminal One is that old building directly facing the long stretch of road leading to the airport, built and commissioned in 1979 by the Obasanjo-led military regime. It has two wings known as Wing D and Wing E. Terminal Two is the new building on the right-hand side as you drive into the airport, started by President Jonathan’s government with a Chinese loan, completed during President Buhari’s government (with the loan), and made operational during President Tinubu’s first one month in office,” the statement partly read.

Keyamo noted that Terminal One has fallen into a state of disrepair, becoming unfit for modern aviation demands.

He noted, “Due to years of neglect and because the traffic over time quadrupled beyond its capacity, the building and facilities at Terminal One became totally decrepit. We have been engaged in some patch jobs over the years just to make it a bit presentable.

“Now, shorn of all the rhetoric, what we simply want to do is to totally strip down that building, including the entire roof (leaving only the carcass), then re-design/reconfigure it and build a brand-new airport for the nation to meet modern, international standards that can also cater for the increased traffic. Both Wings D and E would be affected.”

On Terminal Two, he revealed plans for expansion and correction of long-standing design flaws that inconvenience travellers.

“As for the new Terminal (Two), we got approval to expand the building and the apron (where aircraft park for boarding and disembarkation) in order to accommodate more aircraft, including wide-body aircraft. That is not all; we are constructing two new independent ring roads in and out of the airport (one for departure and one for arrival) and a bridge that will take travellers directly to the upper floor of Terminal Two departure lounge, instead of lifting our luggage the escalators when we are departing. It is a design error we intend to correct”, Keyamo explained.

He also highlighted the integration of advanced technology into the redesigned airport, aimed at bringing it up to global standards.

The minister stressed that the initiative will be funded entirely through domestic resources.

“We have also introduced smart solutions to the new designs in order to deliver a smart airport to Nigerians that can compete with any airport in the world. In all, Nigerians will be proud of what we are going to deliver. And take note, this will not be done by a loan from anywhere, but by the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, which is one of the gains made from the removal of subsidies.”

To ensure public accountability, Keyamo said stakeholders will be invited to monitor the progress of the project when it begins.

“As the work progresses, we will be inviting the press, civil society groups, members of the National Assembly and interested Nigerians on regular tours of the facility to monitor the extent and quality of work. It is part of our national heritage and we should all rightly be interested in the final outcome”, he noted.

He also urged the public to make global comparisons in airport project costs for better perspective.

“I will also encourage our compatriots to simply google the cost of most modern airports built around the world in the last few years (including those in Africa like Angola, etc.) and you will agree with me that the Bureau for Public Procurement that scrutinised and fixed the final cost of this project did a fantastic job for the nation”, the minister noted.

In conclusion, Keyamo pointed to underused facilities in other cities and invited Nigerians to watch a video presentation of the proposed revamp.

“And as a final word, it is important to tell Nigerians that we also have brand-new terminals in Kano, Abuja and Port Harcourt. However, presently, they are all underutilised due to the traffic that is less than thirty per cent of their capacities.

“For further explanation and transparency, we have produced a video (which I attach hereunder) that graphically explains the proposed works upon which we are embarking. I hope you find it useful,” the statement concluded.

 

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Lagos Taskforce Clears Agege Under-Bridge, Impounds 55 Vehicles

In a bold effort to decongest traffic and restore sanity to the Agege underbridge area, the Lagos State Taskforce, has cleared illegally parked vehicles and impounded 55 commercial transport units during a major enforcement operation.

Led by the chairman of the Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, the operation targeted long-standing traffic disruptions caused by commercial vehicles — including Danfo, Korope, and tricycles (Keke Marwa) — which had turned the Agege roundabout along Ogba Road into an illegal parking hub.

The enforcement, which also extended to Ogba, Iju, and Ishaga roads, followed surveillance by the agency’s Monitoring Unit and reports submitted through its “See Something, Say Something” platform. Dozens of vehicles obstructing the free flow of traffic were removed, bringing immediate relief to motorists and residents in the area.

Speaking during the operation, CSP Akerele condemned the habitual recklessness of commercial drivers, describing traffic gridlock as a man-made problem.

“Traffic logjam is not natural, not created by God, but a product of human recklessness. We will not tolerate or surrender to any form of indiscipline on our roads,” he said.

The Taskforce boss emphasized that the clean-up marks a significant shift in Lagos State’s traffic enforcement strategy, aimed at reducing travel time, improving safety, and upholding road laws. 

He reiterated the agency’s commitment to sustaining operations that promote traffic order and discipline across the state.

“We urge all motorists and commuters to comply with traffic regulations. Our roads must remain safe and motorable for everyone at all times,” Akerele added.

According to the agency, a total of 55 vehicles — including Danfo, Korope, and Keke Marwa — were seized during the operation. The drivers of the impounded vehicles are set to be charged in court for various traffic offenses.

According to the director, press & public affairs of taskforce, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the Lagos State Taskforce has vowed to continue its crackdown on illegal parking and other road offenses in its ongoing bid to keep Lagos traffic flowing.

 

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Nollywood Star Actress Omotola Odunsi Dies At 31

Nollywood has again been thrown into mourning following the death of actress Omotola Odunsi.

Omotola’s death was confirmed by her colleague, Akinola Akano, popularly known as Segbowe.

Segbowe posted an emotional tribute on his Instagram page on Thursday.

He shared screenshots of his last chat with Omotola, where she told him she was feeling better after being unwell.

“Motola! Strange but I tried checking on you at the wee hours of that morning.

“You said you were FINE & BACK! This is a rude shock, Omotola! Journey well, sister. God be with your family,” Segbowe wrote.

Though the cause of her death has not been officially disclosed, her sudden demise has shocked many in the Nollywood community.

Veteran actor Odunlade Adekola, under whose mentorship Omotola trained, also confirmed her passing in a short but emotional Instagram story post:

“Jesus Christ. RIP Omotola.”

Ashabi Simple, actress and mother to singer Portable’s child, recalled their recent meeting on a movie set and expressed disbelief:

“You’re one of the best actors I’m rooting for… You laboured and didn’t wait to reap. Most of your wishes didn’t even come true. GOD, we can’t question you. Death is deep.”

Omotola Odunsi began her Nollywood journey in 2018 after successfully auditioning for Odunlade Adekola Films Production (OAFP). She left her job as a credit officer in a state-owned bank in 2019 to pursue her passion for acting full-time, with her family’s support.

She graduated in 2023 and featured in a number of well-received Yoruba films, including: Lisabi: The Uprising, Officer Adaeze, Amonata, Ayanmo Ire, Ifedayo, Ajanaku, Darkness, Dagogo, Doctor Adunni, President Kuti, Folagbade

Omotola Odunsi was widely admired for her emotional range, on-screen presence, and dedication to her craft. Her passing is a significant loss to Nollywood, particularly the Yoruba film industry.

 

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Second Semester Exams At Risk As Striking Workers Shut LASU

The second-semester examinations of undergraduate students at the Lagos State University (LASU), scheduled to begin on Monday, August 4, may not hold following the indefinite strike embarked on by the university’s workers.

The industrial action, which began on Thursday, July 31, has already crippled both academic and non-academic activities at the institution.

Findings on Friday indicated that the examinations could only proceed as scheduled if something dramatic happened over the weekend that would prompt the suspension of the strike.

All members of staff of the university and its affiliate campuses (LASUCOM and LASU Epe Campus) downed tools last Thursday to protest poor welfare and other unresolved issues with the management.

In a letter to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, dated July 31, 2025, the leadership of the four unions in the institution vowed not to call off the strike until all their demands were met.

Operating under the auspices of the Joint Action Committee, which comprises the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, SSANU, Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, NASU, and National Association of Academic Technologists, NAAT, the unions stated that the decision to embark on the indefinite industrial action was reached at an Emergency Congress of the committee.

The letter, signed by Prof. Ibrahim Bakare (Chairman, ASUU-LASU), Sylvester Idowu (Secretary, ASUU-LASU), Oluwaseyi Lawal (Chairman, SSANU-LASU), and Waheed Majekodunmi (Secretary, SSANU-LASU), and titled “Notice of Indefinite Strike Action”, reads in part: “Sequel to the decision reached at the Emergency Congress of the Joint Action Committee of the Lagos State University Staff Unions (ASUU-LASU, SSANU-LASU, NAAT-LASU & NASU-LASU) that an indefinite strike action should commence effective from Thursday, July 31, 2025, we write to notify you that the indefinite strike action has commenced in Lagos State University. The strike action will remain in force indefinitely until all the demands of staff members are met by the appropriate authorities.

“Consequently, all members of staff of the University and its affiliate campuses (LASUCOM and LASU Epe Campus) are hereby directed to withdraw their services and vacate their official duty posts with immediate effect. While we thank you for your kind gesture and support always, please accept the assurances of the unions’ kindest regards.”

 

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Five Killed, Five Seriously Injured In Car Accidents Along Lekki-Epe Expressway

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has confirmed the death of five people in two separate accidents that occurred along the Lekki-Epe Expressway on Thursday.

This is just as five other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries in the crashes.

According to a statement by the LASTMA spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, on Thursday, the first accident occurred at the Abijo Bus Stop along the expressway when a van crashed into a stationary construction company’s equipment.

He stated, “The first catastrophic incident unfolded during the early hours of the day at the Abijo Bus Stop, precisely under the pedestrian bridge on the inward Epe corridor, where a Mitsubishi pick-up van bearing registration number AKD 733 JM, travelling at an exceedingly perilous speed, lost control and crashed into a stationary Craneburg Construction Company equipment, lawfully parked.

“The colossal impact resulted in the instantaneous death of four occupants (three males and one female) whose bodies were recovered lifeless at the scene of the accident.

“Demonstrating their operational dexterity and swift emergency response capabilities, LASTMA operatives successfully rescued three additional female occupants from the wreckage and handed them over to officers of the Eleko Division of the Nigeria Police Force for onward transfer to nearby medical institutions for urgent care and further evaluation.”

Taofiq stated further that another road crash at the Frajend Group area inward Bogije along the expressway led to the death of a driver who rammed into a stationary truck.

“The devastating collision resulted in the immediate death of the SUV driver, while two other passengers, grievously injured and entrapped within the crushed vehicle, were meticulously extricated by LASTMA personnel after a laborious and delicate rescue operation.

“Upon successful recovery, both survivors were immediately placed in the custody of officers from the Elemoro Police Division, who ensured their prompt conveyance to medical facilities for life-saving intervention,” the spokesperson added.

Reacting through Taofiq, the LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased, while warning motorists and drivers of the dangers of speeding.

“We stand in solidarity with the bereaved families during this moment of unspeakable loss and anguish. It is our earnest prayer that the Almighty grant them the strength to bear these irreparable losses.

“These deeply saddening occurrences serve as grim reminders of the catastrophic consequences that stem from the wilful violation of established speed regulations.

“The Lagos State Government has made substantial investments in traffic control infrastructure, ranging from road signage and speed limiters to high-visibility furniture, to mitigate such disasters,” Bakare-Oki said.

He urged members of the public to report traffic-related emergencies, obstructions, or accidents through LASTMA’s dedicated toll-free hotline: 0800 00 527 862.

 

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Nigeria And Ghana Hold Talks Over Anti-Nigerians Slogan

    The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has appealed for calm, following calls by some Ghanaians for the deportation of Nigerians from the country.

A statement on Thursday by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze, said she spoke during a joint press conference with Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Ablakwa, in Accra, on Wednesday.

She said the viral videos depicting protests had raised concerns in Nigeria, prompting President Bola Tinubu to dispatch her as a special envoy to assess the situation firsthand.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu said, “We are here in the Republic of Ghana on a fact-finding mission as special envoy of President Bola Tinubu as a result of recent disturbances that have made the rounds in Nigeria.

“We are pleased to note that things are rather calm here. Since we arrived, I haven’t seen people burning tyres in the streets or carrying placards everywhere calling for Nigerians to be deported.”

She attributed the calm to the Ghanaian government’s intervention, adding that the fears raised by the videos seemed to have subsided upon assessment of the actual situation.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu reiterated the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and Ghana, cautioning against the spread of inciting content that could escalate tensions between citizens of both countries.

She disclosed that her delegation had met with Ghanaian officials, community leaders, and individuals involved in the situation to ease tensions.

She also called for the institutionalisation of the Nigeria-Ghana Joint Commission to promote stronger bilateral relations and citizen-to-citizen engagement.

In his remarks, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ablakwa, said the government was engaging both Ghanaian citizens and the Nigerian community to address concerns and maintain peace.

“The Ghanaian government will ensure that everyone in the country, citizens and non-citizens, is protected,” he said, adding that residents must also be law-abiding and avoid divisive actions.

He stated that the viral videos were not a true reflection of the situation and disclosed that he had met with the Nigerian accused of attempting to form a kingdom in Ghana, clarifying that territorial intentions were not the motive.

Ablakwa recalled past episodes of diplomatic strain between the two countries, including Ghana’s Aliens Repatriation Order and Nigeria’s 1983 “Ghana Must Go” expulsion, stressing the need for both nations to learn from history and manage relations carefully.

“Regardless of our shared history, if these things are not managed well, it will take us back to certain dark occurrences in our history,” he said.

 

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