Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has said he is open to joining any club after leaving South African side Chippa United. His exit has made him one of the most talked-about free agents in African football.

The 29-year-old recently ended his contract with Chippa United by mutual agreement. The decision brought his four-year stay at the club to a close, a period that played a major role in raising his profile.

Nwabali’s status grew sharply after his strong performances for Nigeria at AFCON 2023 and the 2025 tournament. His penalty saves during both competitions earned him praise and placed him among the country’s leading goalkeepers.

Despite the attention around his name, Nwabali said he has not received a concrete offer since leaving Chippa United. Speaking on Sports Nights Amplified with Andile Ncube, he explained that he is taking his time and focusing on the right sporting project.

“I can play anywhere I want to play; there is no restriction,” Nwabali said.

“I am open to any club, local or international. Football deals with happiness, and my happiness comes first.”

In recent weeks, the goalkeeper has been linked with several clubs. These include South African giants Kaizer Chiefs, Morocco’s Raja Club Athletic, Saudi club Al-Ettifaq, a possible move to the Rwandan league, and English Championship side Queens Park Rangers. A switch to QPR would be his first move to Europe.

However, Nwabali made it clear that these links remain rumours and nothing more.

“There are no calls yet. The only calls are from my family and friends and people who are shocked at the news,” he revealed and he said

Stanley Nwabali’s departure from Chippa United has opened a new chapter in his career. While interest continues to build, the goalkeeper says he is still waiting for a serious offer and is determined to make a move that feels right for him. For now, his next destination remains undecided.

“At other times, they said that the plane I boarded from Enugu to Ethiopia suddenly crashed and I didn’t survive. There was also a day, my wife woke up to prepare for church service, when her telephone rang and the caller said he heard that I passed away this morning. Last year, somebody from Ghana alleged that Pete Edochie was already in the grave.

“However, there was something late Nnamdi Azikwe thought me when I interviewed him. He said that anybody who’s wishing you death will die before you. All those people that wished Zik death died before him. That was what I learnt from Zik. On the 7th of March, I will be 79. My father died at 96, so we have longevity in my family,” Pete Edoche said.

Pete Edochie is regarded as one of Nollywood’s most respected figures, known for his deep voice, strong screen presence, and decades-long career in film and television.

The veteran actor’s response puts an end to the latest round of death rumours surrounding him. While false reports about celebrities continue to spread online, Pete Edochie has once again reassured the public that he is alive and well.

Nollywood actress Faithia Williams Balogun has announced the death of her mother, a loss that came just hours before her 55th birthday celebration in Lagos.

The actress shared the news on Monday morning, revealing that her mother passed away on Sunday, the eve of her birthday party. According to her, the sad development was deliberately kept from her until after the celebration had ended.

Faithia explained that she was allowed to go ahead with the birthday event without knowing about her mother’s passing, only learning of the tragedy afterward. She did not give details about the cause of death.

Following the announcement, the actress appealed to her fans and the general public to remember her and her siblings in their prayers as the family mourns the loss.

DAILY POST reports that Faithia hosted her 55th birthday party in Lagos on Sunday. The event was attended by several well-known figures in the entertainment industry and beyond.

Celebrities present at the celebration included Funke Akindele, Fuji singer Pasuma, Kazim Adeoti, Wumi Ajiboye, MC Oluomo, among others.

Faithia Balogun’s announcement has drawn sympathy from fans and colleagues, coming just after what was meant to be a joyful milestone celebration. As she and her family grieve, many are expected to continue sending prayers and messages of support during this difficult time.

Dami Marshall, daughter of Fuji music legend King WasiAyinde Marshall, also known as KWAM1 or K1 De Ultimate, has denied reports claiming she is romantically involved with singer Asake.

The rumours started after Dami shared a photo of herself with Asake at a recent event. The post was captioned, “Mr Money and Mrs Money,” which quickly led to speculation across social media and blogs.

Addressing the claims, Dami made it clear that there is no romantic relationship between her and the singer. She explained that the photo was taken during her first time meeting Asake.

“Guys, that was my first time meeting him [Asake], so I took a picture. Do not believe blogs, they can do anything for traffic,” Miss Marshall wrote on her Instagram page.

Her statement effectively shut down the rumours that had gained traction online.

Asake, who is popularly known as Mr Money, is not publicly linked to any romantic partner at the moment. His last known relationship was with a Gambian woman, Madame Mystique, which reportedly ended in 2014.

Dami Marshall’s clarification puts an end to the dating rumours that followed her viral photo with Asake. For now, both remain focused on their personal lives and careers, with no confirmed romantic ties between them.

Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has said Nigeria needs a leader who is willing to make deep personal sacrifices for the country ahead of the 2027 general elections.

She made the statement on Sunday during an interview on Channels Television while reacting to questions about Nigeria’s political future and leadership challenges.

According to Omotola, the country has all the resources needed to succeed but continues to struggle due to poor leadership choices.

She said, “It’s unfortunate that we’re still where we are now. We have everything that every other nation wants and clamoring for.”

Speaking further, the actress stressed that true leadership sometimes requires painful and bold decisions for national progress.

“I wish that our leaders can be bo ok d enough to take some decisions to liberate this country even if it means dying for Nigeria,” she said.

Omotola also pointed out that no nation is naturally perfect, adding that strong laws and proper enforcement are what keep societies stable.

“Every nation can become very bad or terrible. Even America can be most lawless country if there were no laws or enforcement,” she said.

She explained that leadership must begin with respect for the law and commitment to public service.

“What keeps any nation sane or in order is laws and enforcement, and it starts from that. So my prayer for Nigeria is that we actually get and find leaders who are selfless and ready to die for this country,” Omotola added.

The actress also criticised political rhetoric that she believes does not match the actions of some leaders.

“We saw the people coming to say I love Nigeria. I was poor. I did not have one shoe. All are lies. They don’t care,” she said.

 

Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde’s comments highlight growing public concern about leadership and accountability as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections. Her call reflects a wider demand for leaders who place national interest above personal gain. As political activities increase, Nigerians will be watching closely to see who steps forward with actions that match their words.

“I have my favourite songs from each, from all of them. But if I must be put on the spot, I think Burna is on the top of the game right now,” he stated.

He explained that comparing musicians is similar to comparing painters, noting that each artist has a unique sound and style. Because of this, he said such debates are often based on personal taste.

2Baba made it clear that his comments were not about money, awards, or personal success, but about how he views the music scene as a whole.

“Different artists have different styles. There’s nothing like this one sing pass. Different people have different tastes in what they want and what they like. I’m going into a general aspect of this. I don’t know their bank accounts.

“I don’t have any information about their personal successes or all that. I don’t have that. So I can’t speak on that.

“But from what I can measure from at least common sense and understanding of the music world, I think right now Burna is at the top of this chain.

“Not just in Nigeria, in Africa, in the world. He’s on that but everybody’s doing fantastically well,” he said.

Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido are widely regarded as Nigeria’s Afrobeats big three. Their global success has often sparked debates among fans about who truly leads the genre.

2Baba’s comments add fresh fuel to the long running Afrobeats debate, with the music legend firmly placing Burna Boy at the top based on global impact. While fans may continue to argue over rankings, he stressed that all three artists are thriving and representing Africa on the world stage.

Chioma Ivoke urges parents, Nollywood to guide young people on intimacy

Nollywood actress Chioma Ivoke has called on parents and the film industry to take responsibility for shaping how young people understand intimacy and personal values.

Not just Nollywood, not just immediate families—the entire society has a role to play. However, the primary responsibility lies with parents,” she said.

According to her, parents must start early by teaching children the right values and giving them proper knowledge about life. She explained that this guidance will serve as a foundation for children as they grow and begin to encounter different influences.

“Parents must teach their children the right values at a young age and give them proper knowledge about life. This will serve as a guide as the child grows,” she stated.

Ivoke added that when children are raised with strong values at home, they will be better equipped to resist negative influences online.

“With a strong foundation from home, children will better understand that many things seen on social media are not the right way to live,” she said.

While stressing the role of parenting, Ivoke acknowledged that Nollywood still has a duty to promote positive messages, especially as young people are increasingly drawn to visuals.

“That said, the Nollywood industry also has a significant role to play by telling impactful stories that positively influence society, especially young minds,” she said

Chioma Ivoke’s comments highlight the shared responsibility of parents, the film industry, and society in shaping how young people understand intimacy and personal values. She places primary emphasis on early parental guidance, noting that strong values at home help children navigate negative influences, particularly on social media. At the same time, she stresses that Nollywood should continue telling stories that positively influence young minds.

Nollywood actress Chioma Ivoke speaking on the role of parents and Nollywood in guiding young people on intimacy and values.

South African singer Tyla has won the Best African Music Performance award at the Grammy Awards, edging out top African stars including Davido, Burna Boy and Ayra Starr.

The 24-year-old artist claimed the prize with her song Push 2 Start. She beat four other nominees, three of them Nigerian, as well as Ugandan singer Eddy Kenzo. The win marks Tyla’s second Grammy, following her 2024 victory for her global hit Water.

Speaking after the ceremony in Los Angeles, Tyla shared her excitement about the moment. She said:
“This is insane, this is so insane! I’m just so lucky to be here and I’m so proud to be African.
I’m excited to see more of us over here.”

Her win quickly sparked reactions online. Messages celebrating her success spread across social media, especially in South Africa, where many fans praised her achievement.

One X user wrote:
“South Africa is proud of you ! We are proud of you!,”

Another fan, while hoping Ayra Starr would have won, still acknowledged Tyla’s effort, saying:
“You deserve it.”

The nominees for Best African Music Performance included:
Love by Burna Boy
With You by Davido featuring Omah Lay
Hope & Love by Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin
Gimme Dat by Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid
Push 2 Start by Tyla

Despite the global success of Afrobeats, Nigerian music fans expressed disappointment after none of the country’s artists won awards on the night.

Burna Boy also received a nomination in the Best Global Music Album category, while Senegalese legend Youssou N’Dour and Beninese icon Angelique Kidjo were also nominated in global categories. None of them won their awards.

However, Nigeria was not completely left out.
Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award, 29 years after his death.

South Africa also had another strong presence at the ceremony, with comedian Trevor Noah hosting the main Grammy event for the sixth and final time.
His night later drew attention after US President Donald Trump reportedly threatened legal action over jokes made about him and Jeffrey Epstein.

Tyla’s latest Grammy win highlights her growing influence on the global music stage and continues South Africa’s strong showing at the awards.
While Nigerian fans were left disappointed, the recognition of Fela Kuti served as a reminder of Africa’s lasting impact on world music.
Attention now turns to how African artists will build on this momentum in the coming year.

South African singer Tyla holding her Grammy award for Best African Music Performance in Los Angeles

Popular Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has spoken out against critics of her movie marketing style, saying her success should not be seen as a barrier to others.

Akindele, who is well known for using dance and comedy to promote her films, shared her thoughts in a series of posts on her Instagram story on Saturday. She made it clear that everyone has room to grow in the industry.

“I’m not the one hindering your progress. Ka rin ka po, yiye nin ye ni,” she wrote.

The award winning filmmaker explained that success is not limited to one person or one approach. According to her, the entertainment industry offers space for everyone willing to work and think creatively.

She said the sky is big enough for everyone to fly and encouraged others to find their own way if they cannot follow the same path.

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

Akindele also reminded her followers that opportunities are not scarce and that personal focus is important.

“You can do it! The opportunities are endless, and everyone has their own path. I’m focused on mine, and I have faith in God’s plan for me.”

Funke Akindele is currently the highest-grossing filmmaker in Nollywood. According to PUNCH Online, she holds the record for the top three highest-grossing Nigerian movies.

Her film Behind The Scenes, released in 2025, has earned N2,407,000,000 and is still counting. Everybody Loves Jenifer, released in 2024, grossed N1,882,553,548, while A Tribe Called Judah, released in 2023, made N1,408,227,541 at the box office.

Funke Akindele’s response highlights her belief that success in Nollywood is not a competition with limited space. As she continues to set box office records, she is urging others to focus on creativity, growth, and finding marketing strategies that work for them.

Paris Saint-Germain are through to the 2025 UEFA Champions League final after outclassing Arsenal over two legs, setting up a titanic clash with Inter Milan in Munich.

PSG Ends Arsenal’s European Run to Secure Champions League Final Spot

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have punched their ticket to the UEFA Champions League final after a dominant 2-1 win against Arsenal in the semi-final second leg, completing a 3-1 aggregate triumph at the Parc des Princes.

Carrying a narrow 1-0 lead from the first leg in London, Luis Enrique’s side came into the return leg brimming with intensity and confidence. That drive paid off just before the half-hour mark when Spanish midfielder Fabián Ruiz slotted home a well-timed strike to double PSG’s aggregate lead and ignite the home crowd.

Arsenal, despite their composed defensive showing in the first leg, couldn’t hold back PSG’s momentum. The pressure mounted in the second half, and in the 72nd minute, Achraf Hakimi delivered a clinical finish after cutting inside from the right flank, sending the French side into a commanding position.

Although Bukayo Saka gave Arsenal a glimmer of hope just four minutes later with a composed goal to make it 2-1 on the night, PSG’s experience and discipline saw them through the final stages. The Gunners pressed forward but lacked the final touch needed to overturn the deficit.

Luis Enrique praised his squad post-match, stating, “The players showed character, composure, and belief. This is a step closer to our dream.”

For Arsenal, it was a bitter ending to a promising European campaign. Mikel Arteta’s team showed spirit but ultimately fell short against one of Europe’s most star-studded lineups.

With this result, PSG will now face Inter Milan in what is expected to be a gripping Champions League final on May 31 at the iconic Allianz Arena in Munich. The stage is set for a potential historic night as PSG chase their elusive first Champions League crown.

Who do you think will lift the Champions League trophy this year—PSG or Inter Milan? Drop your predictions in the comments below!