Nigeria News (Standard)
Cape Verde Coach Bubista Hails Team’s Historic World Cup Progress
Manager credits players’ ambition after Cape Verde secures maiden FIFA World Cup qualification in dramatic fashion
Manager credits players’ ambition after Cape Verde secures maiden FIFA World Cup qualification in dramatic fashion
Cape Verde national team coach, Bubista, has commended his players for their determination and belief after the country reached a new milestone by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup for the first time. The achievement was confirmed on Monday following a decisive match that sealed their historic spot at the global football tournament.
The crucial victory, which took place at home in Praia, saw Cape Verde overcome their final group stage opponents to clinch one of Africa’s coveted World Cup slots. The result sparked celebrations across the island nation as fans and football stakeholders hailed the team’s achievement.
This qualification marks a significant leap for Cape Verdean football, coming after years of steady progress on the continental stage, including previous Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) appearances. For many Nigerians and other African observers, Cape Verde’s rise under Bubista is seen as proof of what smaller nations can achieve with proper planning and investment in youth development.
Coach Bubista praised his squad’s mentality after the match, stating that their success was a product of hard work and big dreams. “We came to dream big,” he said, while also acknowledging the support from the country’s football federation and fans. He highlighted how this achievement would inspire future generations and strengthen football development on the islands.
With their place now secured in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, Cape Verde is expected to intensify preparations for their debut appearance on world football’s biggest stage. The nation joins other African qualifiers and will be looking to represent West Africa with pride when the tournament kicks off next year.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Mr Eazi Addresses Speculation on Grey Hair, Cites ‘Targaryen’ Roots in Lagos Social Media Video
Singer jokes about his silver hair after months of online debate, with fans linking it to stress, genetics, or age
Singer jokes about his silver hair after months of online debate, with fans linking it to stress, genetics, or age
Nigerian singer and entrepreneur Mr Eazi has finally responded to widespread speculation about his grey hair, using a playful social media video from Lagos on Saturday, 22 June 2026, to address the ongoing conversation among fans. The musician, whose real name is Oluwatosin Ajibade, joked that he is a “Targaryen”—referencing the iconic silver-haired family from Game of Thrones—after being questioned repeatedly about the reason for his striking hair colour.
The latest incident reportedly occurred at an airport, where a traveller approached Mr Eazi to ask whether his grey hair was a result of stress, genetics or dye. In the video posted online, Mr Eazi said, “Yesterday at the airport, somebody came to me and was asking me some questions about my hair and how they’ve been debating about the hair. Is it genetics? Is it dye? Is it stress?” He then paused before delivering his tongue-in-cheek explanation: “So I’m happy to let you guys know that I’m a Targaryen. I am a Targaryen and I’ve been keeping that from you guys.”
The statement sparked reactions across social media platforms in Nigeria, with many fans understanding the joke as a nod to the popular television series House of the Dragon and its predecessor Game of Thrones. Both feature members of House Targaryen who are known for their distinctive silver-white hair. Mr Eazi has previously referenced his grey strands in public appearances and online posts; earlier this year he encouraged fans to call him “Sir Eazi,” saying he was no longer “anybody’s mate” due to his mature look.
Since late 2025, photos and videos showing Mr Eazi’s changing appearance have fuelled debate among Nigerians online. While some suggested that the pressures of running multiple businesses—including emPawa Africa—could be responsible for early greying, others linked it jokingly to his marriage with Temi Otedola or pointed out that greying could simply be natural maturity. The singer has consistently used humour rather than direct answers to address these speculations.
With this latest public response, Mr Eazi appears content to keep fans guessing while enjoying their theories. As conversations continue on social media about his signature look, the artiste’s playful approach has only added more intrigue to the topic.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Osun Athlete Coach Dreh Launches 226km Triathlon Across South-West States
Dare Samuel Akinrodoye set to swim, cycle, and run from Osun to Lagos; event aims to test physical and mental endurance
Dare Samuel Akinrodoye set to swim, cycle, and run from Osun to Lagos; event aims to test physical and mental endurance
Nigerian endurance athlete Dare Samuel Akinrodoye, popularly known as Coach Dreh, will undertake a gruelling 226-kilometre triathlon traversing Osun, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos states on September 27, 2026. Organisers said the event, tagged ‘The 226 Challenge’, is designed to push the boundaries of physical strength and mental resilience among Nigerian athletes.
The challenge will commence at Owala Lake in Osun State with a 3.8-kilometre swim. From there, Coach Dreh will embark on a 180-kilometre cycling segment through Osun, Oyo, Ogun and conclude in Lagos State. The final leg involves a full marathon run of 42 kilometres to complete the total distance. According to organisers, this route was mapped out to highlight the diverse terrain of South-West Nigeria and inspire more participation in endurance sports.
The event marks one of the most ambitious individual triathlons attempted by a Nigerian athlete across multiple states. Stakeholders in the sporting sector say such challenges are important for developing local interest in endurance competitions and showcasing Nigerian talent on a global stage. With growing attention on triathlon events worldwide, observers believe this effort could lay groundwork for future international representation by Nigerian athletes.
Organisers emphasised that ‘The 226 Challenge’ is not just about personal achievement but also aims to promote fitness culture and healthy living among Nigerians. They said logistics and safety arrangements have been put in place along all four states’ routes. At the time of reporting, government sports agencies had not issued an official statement regarding support for the event.
Coach Dreh’s journey is expected to draw attention from sports enthusiasts across the country as preparations continue ahead of the September event.
Source: https://guardian.ng/life/nigerian-athlete-coach-dreh-to-swim-cycle-run-226km-across-four-states/
Nigeria News (Standard)
French Institute Urges Increased Support for Live Music, Emerging Artists at Abuja Event
Cultural stakeholders gather in FCT as French Institute marks World Music Day, calls for policy backing and investment
Cultural stakeholders gather in FCT as French Institute marks World Music Day, calls for policy backing and investment
Music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and performers converged on Team Compound in Abuja on Saturday as the French Institute marked World Music Day with a call for stronger backing of live music and upcoming artistes. The event, which drew a diverse crowd from across the Federal Capital Territory, highlighted the challenges facing Nigeria’s creative sector and underscored the need for sustained support.
The celebration featured live performances from both established acts and emerging talents, providing a platform for artistes to showcase their craft. Organisers said the event aimed not only to entertain but also to raise awareness about the pressing issues confronting musicians and the broader entertainment industry in Nigeria. According to participants, limited access to funding, inadequate venues, and lack of institutional support continue to hinder growth in live music.
Stakeholders present at the occasion stressed that increased investment from both government and private sector is essential to nurture new talent and preserve Nigeria’s rich musical heritage. The French Institute noted that collaborative efforts between cultural bodies, policymakers, and investors would create more opportunities for young artistes. “Supporting live music is not just about entertainment; it is about sustaining our cultural identity and creating jobs,” an organiser said during the event.
No government representative was immediately available for comment on proposed policy changes or direct support for emerging artistes. However, industry observers say targeted interventions—such as grants, infrastructure upgrades, and promotion of local content—could help address existing gaps. The opposition could not be immediately reached for their reaction.
As momentum builds around initiatives like World Music Day, many in Nigeria’s creative community are hopeful that sustained advocacy will lead to concrete reforms. Stakeholders say improved support structures could boost employment, enhance international recognition of Nigerian music, and strengthen cultural ties within West Africa.
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