Nigerian singer to perform alongside global stars as Obama Foundation opens new centre, with ceremony livestreamed worldwide

Nigerian music sensation Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has been confirmed as a performer at the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, United States, on Tuesday, 18 June. The announcement places the Lagos-born artiste as the only Nigerian and one of a select group of international acts featured in the high-profile event.

According to the Obama Foundation, Tems will share the stage with world-renowned musicians including Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Bono, Bruce Springsteen, Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera, Common, The Roots, Eddie Vedder, Marc Anthony and U2’s The Edge. Young American actress Marsai Martin is also slated to participate in the ceremony. The opening event will be livestreamed globally from the Centre’s John Lewis Plaza.

Tems’ inclusion marks another significant milestone in her rapidly expanding international profile. Over the past four years, she has distinguished herself among Nigerian artistes making waves on the global scene. In 2022, Tems became the first African woman to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart when her collaboration ‘Wait For U’ with Future and Drake reached number one. She also performed at the closing ceremony of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar that same year.

The Chief Executive Officer of Obama Foundation, Valerie Jarrett, described the opening as a once-in-a-generation celebration of democracy and culture. “This Grand Opening ceremony will be unlike any other, filled with music, performances and hope,” Jarrett said during the announcement. Former First Lady Michelle Obama noted that establishing the centre on Chicago’s South Side represents a full circle moment for her community, transforming previously underutilised land into a hub for history and leadership. The centre will open to members of the public from Wednesday, 19 June with further activities scheduled through Juneteenth weekend.

Since her breakout success internationally, Tems has won a Grammy Award and received an Oscar nomination for her contribution to ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ soundtrack. She was also listed among Time magazine’s 100 most influential people globally. Her selection for this event alongside legends who have shaped popular music further solidifies her position as one of Africa’s most influential cultural exports.

As Nigerians continue to gain recognition on world stages across entertainment and other sectors, Tems’ performance at such a symbolic event underscores both her talent and Nigeria’s growing impact on global pop culture.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/tems-obama-presidential-center-opening-performers-2026061714253434250

Former APC National Chairman dismisses allegations of manipulated signatures linked to Senate decision on Kogi lawmaker

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has refuted claims that signatures of his colleagues were forged in the controversy surrounding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District. The incident, which has generated heated debate within the Senate, occurred in Abuja on Wednesday.

The matter unfolded after reports circulated alleging that some senators’ signatures were falsified to push through a resolution suspending Akpoti-Uduaghan. The Senate was thrown into debate over the authenticity of the process, with concerns raised about due procedure and transparency. Oshiomhole, a former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisted there was no forgery involved and called for calm among lawmakers and the public.

The suspension saga has drawn attention due to its implications for legislative conduct and internal democracy within Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber. Many Nigerians have expressed concern about possible manipulation within the National Assembly, especially given recent tensions between ruling and opposition parties.

Oshiomhole said at a press briefing that all signatures appended to the Senate’s decision were authentic and properly obtained. He maintained that “no senator’s signature was forged or used without consent,” urging critics to verify facts before spreading unsubstantiated allegations. As at press time, no official statement had been released by Akpoti-Uduaghan or her aides regarding Oshiomhole’s position.

The Senate is expected to further review its internal procedures in light of this controversy. Political observers say the outcome may shape future disciplinary processes for lawmakers accused of misconduct, as well as public trust in legislative proceedings.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/888438-oshiomhole-denies-that-senators-signatures-were-forged-in-natashas-suspension-saga.html

Federal Fire Service partners National Association of Seadogs to educate Mile 2 Estate community on household fire hazards

Fire safety experts and the National Association of Seadogs (NAS) have called on Lagos residents to prioritise fire prevention, warning that negligence and ignorance remain major causes of outbreaks. The message was delivered at a fire safety sensitisation event held on Monday at Mile 2 Estate in Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area, where officials from the Federal Fire Service (FFS) Lagos Command joined NAS to address the community.

During the campaign, organisers explained that while some fires are accidental, a significant number result from careless handling of flammable materials and lack of adherence to basic safety guidelines. Mr. Oghene Michael, Operations Officer of Festac Fire Station, led a lecture highlighting the dangers of common household items such as cooking gas, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), curtains, clothing and furniture. “Many materials we use every day can catch fire easily if not handled properly,” Michael said at the event. He stressed that gases in particular can be especially dangerous due to their ability to spread quickly and ignite with minimal spark.

The programme included demonstrations on fire extinguisher use and advice on safe storage of combustible items. Residents were urged to avoid storing PMS or gas cylinders inside living spaces and to ensure electrical wiring met safety standards. Organisers also cautioned against leaving cooking unattended or overloading electrical sockets — practices they identified as frequent contributors to domestic fire incidents in Lagos.

According to NAS representatives, the collaboration with FFS is part of a broader commitment to community safety across Lagos State. They noted a rise in reported household fires during recent dry seasons, which have caused property loss and displacement for affected families. “We want people to see prevention as their responsibility, not just something for government agencies,” one official said.

The FFS Lagos Command advised residents to report fire emergencies promptly using official hotlines and encouraged regular participation in safety trainings. As at June 2026, authorities say heightened awareness and early intervention remain key strategies for reducing casualties and property damage from fires in densely populated urban areas like Amuwo-Odofin.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/seadogs-firefighters-sensitise-lagos-residents-on-fire-risks-prevention/