Davido’s ‘Timeless’ album earns silver certification in UK

Nigerian Afrobeats sensation David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has added another major milestone to his decorated music career, as his fourth studio album “Timeless” has officially earned a Silver Certification in the United Kingdom.

According to Chart Data, a reputable platform tracking global music achievements, the certification was awarded after the album surpassed 100,000 unit sales in the UK — making it eligible for the highly coveted silver plaque.

Released on March 31, 2023, Timeless is a 17-track body of work that showcases Davido’s versatility and evolution as an artist. The album blends a range of genres, including Afrobeats, highlife, dancehall, reggae, konto, and Afropop, and features collaborations with several top-tier artists such as Asake, Skepta, Dexta Daps, Fave, The Cavemen, and Angelique Kidjo.

Upon release, Timeless shattered multiple streaming records across digital platforms, including Spotify Nigeria, Audiomack, Boomplay, and YouTube, positioning it as one of the most commercially successful Afrobeats albums to date.

Among its standout tracks, “Unavailable” emerged as a global anthem and also received Silver certification in the UK. The song went on to earn a Grammy nomination for Best African Song Performance.

Read Also: Davido to host livestream concert for fans to mark 32nd birthday

Another fan-favorite, “Feel”, was also recognized with a Grammy nomination in the Best Global Song Performance category — a clear testament to the international appeal of Davido’s sound.

The album itself was nominated for Best Global Album at the Grammy Awards, further affirming Davido’s status as a global force in music.

Following the album’s success, Davido embarked on the “Timeless Tour”, which took him across North America and Europe, with sold-out stops in major cities including Washington D.C., New York, Toronto, and London. The tour further cemented his legacy and connected fans across continents to the energy of his new sound.

With the Silver Certification now added to its accolades, Timeless continues to break boundaries and expand the reach of Afrobeats on the global stage.

For more updates on Nigerian music and entertainment, keep it locked on News Access NG.

Fans flood social media with tributes as Wizkid turns 35

Nigerian music superstar Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, widely known as Wizkid, marked his 35th birthday on Tuesday, July 16, and fans across the globe have taken to social media in massive numbers to celebrate the Afrobeats icon.

Using trending hashtags like #WizkidAt35, #StarBoy35, and #WizkidDay, supporters flooded X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and other platforms with heartfelt messages, rare throwback photos, and performance clips to honour the singer’s remarkable journey in music.

From fans referring to him as the “Greatest of All Time (GOAT)” to others hailing him as the man who “changed the sound of Africa,” the outpouring of love reflects Wizkid’s immense cultural impact.

“Happy Birthday to the Greatest to ever do it. Wizkid FC loves you forever,” wrote @itzbasito.

Another fan, @dammiedammie35, tweeted, “35 years of greatness. Happy Birthday to our GOAT, Machala himself! Starboy forever!”

@omojuwa posted, “Wizkid’s impact on the culture is unmatched. Legend living.”

Read Also: Wizkid drops new album ‘Morayo’ in tribute to late mother

Clips of his early interviews, award-winning performances, and historic shows from Lagos to London and Paris made the rounds as fans reminisced on his growth from a teenage star to a global music force.

“You gave us Ojuelegba, and the world listened. Long live the king,” @drealofficial wrote, while @itz_KingBryan added, “Happy birthday to the man who changed the sound of Africa. May your reign never end, Big Wiz!”

Wizkid, born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos, began his musical journey at the age of 11, singing with his church choir group, Glorious Five. He shot to fame in 2010 with the release of his debut single “Holla at Your Boy” after signing with Banky W’s EME Records. A year later, he released his acclaimed debut album “Superstar,” which launched him into national and continental stardom.

Over the years, Wizkid has grown into one of Africa’s biggest music exports, known for his genre-blending sound that fuses Afrobeats, R&B, pop, and dancehall. He has won numerous international awards, including a Grammy Award, BET Awards, MOBOs, MTV EMAs, and more. His landmark collaboration with Beyoncé on “Brown Skin Girl” won a Grammy in 2021, further cementing his place on the world stage.

His discography boasts successful albums such as Ayo, Sounds From The Other Side, Made in Lagos, and More Love, Less Ego, with hit tracks including Ojuelegba, Essence, Fever, and Soco. His ability to continuously evolve while staying true to his African roots has earned him a loyal global fanbase.

As fans across continents continue to celebrate him, one thing is clear — Wizkid has not only transformed Nigerian music but has helped redefine Africa’s place on the global music map.

For more updates on your favourite celebrities and entertainment news, stay connected with News Access NG.

BBNaija returns this July with ₦150m grand prize

The much-anticipated Season 10 of Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) is set to premiere this July, and the stakes have never been higher. Organisers of the hit reality television show have announced a staggering ₦150 million grand prize for the winner — the largest in the show’s history.

The official announcement was made during a press briefing on Wednesday, where the showrunners revealed that this season will kick off with a two-day launch event, ushering in a fresh wave of entertainment, drama, and competition that has come to define the BBNaija brand since its debut in 2006.

Returning to host the new season is Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, a household name and long-time face of the show. While addressing journalists at the briefing, Ebuka reflected on the show’s remarkable journey over the years.

“We’ve had 197 housemates across nine seasons, over 709 days of airtime, and a total of ₦637 million awarded in prizes,” he said.

Read Also: BREAKING: Kellyrae winn BBNaija season 9

Season 9, titled “No Loose Guard,” introduced an unexpected twist to the format, as housemates auditioned in pairs and initially entered the house as duos. As the season progressed, they were eventually unpaired and competed as individuals. This twist added a new layer of strategy and emotional complexity to the show, keeping audiences glued to their screens.

The ninth season was eventually won by Kellyrae, who not only clinched the ₦100 million cash prize but also etched her name in BBNaija history as the first married housemate to win the show.

This year’s edition is already generating buzz for its record-breaking prize money and promises to feature even more electrifying content, unique tasks, and unpredictable twists. While details on the housemates remain under wraps, fans can expect a diverse mix of personalities and storylines that reflect the show’s evolving identity and massive cultural impact.

Big Brother Naija has grown beyond just a reality show; it’s now a cultural phenomenon that shapes conversations across Nigeria and the African continent, launching careers and giving millions of viewers a shared entertainment experience.

As anticipation builds, all eyes are on BBNaija Season 10 — a milestone edition that promises to be bigger, bolder, and more rewarding than ever.

Stay tuned to News Access NG for exclusive updates, profiles of housemates, and behind-the-scenes coverage throughout the season.

Actress Rosy Meurer says husband Churchill not a woman beater

Nollywood actress,  Rosy Meurer, has debunked the  rumours  against her husband, Olakunle Churchill of abusing her physically, saying that her ‘husband is not a woman beater’.

The actress,  who took to her social media platforms to debunk the rumour, said that it was very significant for a person to tell his or her own story, rather than allowing others to spread fake news.

According to her, her husband  is never a woman beater,  stressing that the allegations on social media platforms were false as she expressed frustration over their claims.

“If you don’t tell your side of the story, they will tell it for you in ways that suit them for the world to believe.

” It is the world we find ourselves in. You must speak for yourself.

“Debunking has never been my thing, I prefer to allow amateurs,  jobless, idle minds think what they want and spread what they choose  because they say everyone is entitled to an opinion.

“But because I have a family, I have children ,  I have people that look up to me I choose to speak up for myself.

” No one is allowed to tell my story. It’ is my story not yours. Only I can tell you what is  happening in my life and no one else.

Read Also: FULL LIST: Anora leads 2025 Oscars as big winners are announced

” It is  funny when haters wish beating in my Marriage when it is obvious their mothers, daughters and sisters will fall victims of massive beatings.

“I no send anybody banter, guess the media is never hot for so long, reason why they cook up gist to keep the space busy. Can’t blame them.

“My husband never fit talk wetin dey him mouth finish, let alone beating a woman.

” Allegations no be by force, my husband is not a woman beater. They just want to permanent the lies of the past which they generated  Kudos,” she wrote.

Meanwhile ,Churchill had earlier responded to the rumours, joking that his critics would have to wait until menopause before he and his wife would divorce.

He mentioned that his family was currently enjoying a vacation in Disney Paris.

“I hear say I dey trend who cook am? My family dey Disney Paris dey enjoy summer life.

“Una go wait until menopause come. Meh, I see you. My people, my wife, no get staff or friends, una don make we trend today. Thanks,”  Churchill wrote.

Meureris a Gambian-born Nigerian actress and producer. She is most known for her 2014 role as Kaylah in the TV series Oasis and 2018 role as Kemi Alesinloye in Ayo Makun’s  popularly known as AY movie tilted  ‘Merry Men : The Real Yoruba Demons’

The duo got married in 2019 and their marriage is blessed with two children.

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‘Aiyetoro Town’ season 2 for premiere June 22 – Akindele

Nigerian filmmaker, Funke Akindele is set to premiere the return of ‘Aiyetoro Town’ season 2 on June 22, after five years of its debut.

Akindele took to her social media platforms to announce the premiere date of the anticipated second season of the hit movie.

According to the box office queen, the new season will deliver a mix of laughter, drama, and meaningful life lessons on FAANtv’s YouTube channel on Sunday June 22.

She added that the second season would continue the legacy of the first season that was debuted five years ago.

The actress expressed gratitude to the cast and crew members of the movie, for their dedication and talent.

She described them as the “real MVPs” behind the project, as well as crediting them for bringing the story to life.

“Five years ago, we brought you Aiyetoro Town season 1 and now we are back with season 2

“Get ready for laughter, drama and of course, life lessons. Aiyetoro Town Season 2 premieres on FAANtv’s YouTube channel on Sunday, June 22.

Read Also: Amber Rose reveals why she no longer identifies as a feminist

“A big thank you to my amazing cast and crew, your dedication and talent made this story come alive. You all are the real MVPs,”she wrote.

Akindele popularly known as Jenifa is a Nigerian filmmaker, actress, director, producer, politician and realtor.

She has produced numerous movies and has won Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her role in ‘Jenifa’which brought her to fame.

Akindele reprised the role in 2011 sequel ‘The Return of Jenifa’ and 2015 soft reboot television series titled  ‘Jenifa’s Diary’, for which she was named the Best Actress in a Comedy at the 2016 and 2017 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards.

She won the same award in 2020 and 2022, making it her fifth win for the Best Actress in a comedy category.

Akindele is the most nominated actress/filmmaker at the AMVCA and holds the record for most wins for an actress with six.

Her blockbuster movie, “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” achieved unprecedented box office success.

The film grossed over one billion naira within 19 days, earning 40 percent of December’s box office revenue and becoming the highest-grossing movie in West Africa with ₦1.6 billion.

This accomplishment solidified her position as Nigeria’s highest-grossing producer and director, a benchmark unlikely to be surpassed soon.

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Amber Rose reveals why she no longer identifies as a feminist

American model and activist Amber Rose has publicly announced her departure from feminism, revealing that her decision was influenced by disturbing experiences with women who manipulated men through deceitful tactics.

She shared her thoughts during an interview on the Club Shay Shay podcast, where she expressed her disillusionment with certain behaviors she witnessed among some of her female friends.

According to Rose, she encountered women who lied about pregnancies and even faked abortions to extort money from men. She found such actions deeply troubling and emphasized the importance of honesty and trust in relationships.

“I have had girlfriends lie about abortions to get money. Some even act like they are pregnant [to extort men]. It’s disgusting. This is why I stopped my SlutWalk. This is why I’m no longer a feminist,” she stated.

Rose, who previously championed women’s empowerment and s3x positivity through her annual SlutWalk movement, expressed disappointment in how some women exploited men under the guise of feminism. She claimed that some deliberately deceived their partners by pretending to be on birth control to “trap” them into unwanted fatherhood.

Read Also: Court halts EeZee Tee’s arraignment in EFCC case, adjourns to May 14

“I saw the dark side of what women can do; you guys are extorting men, lying about pregnancies, saying you’re on birth control when you’re not to trap men. If a man cums inside of you and you said you’re on birth control, he trusts you. You don’t have to trap him like that,” she added.

Her statements have sparked widespread debate, especially given her past as an outspoken feminist and advocate for women’s rights. Many supporters of feminism argue that her reasons for renouncing the movement stem from personal experiences rather than the core principles of feminism, which advocate for gender equality. Critics, however, suggest that her statements highlight a darker side of gender dynamics that often goes unspoken.

Amber Rose’s SlutWalk movement, which she founded in 2015, aimed to combat victim-blaming and empower women to embrace their sexuality without shame. However, her recent revelations indicate a shift in perspective, suggesting that she now sees certain behaviors within feminism as problematic.

While some people have commended her for speaking out, others believe her statements generalize a few bad experiences to an entire movement. As debates continue, Rose’s decision to distance herself from feminism marks a significant shift in her public stance on gender issues.

Court halts EeZee Tee’s arraignment in EFCC case, adjourns to May 14

The Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has postponed the arraignment of gospel music executive Ezekiel Onyedikachi, popularly known as EeZee Tee, in the case brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

At Thursday’s court session, Justice Alexander Owoeye stated that the case could not proceed due to an administrative procedure, prompting the court to adjourn the matter until May 14, 2025.

EeZee Tee, the CEO of EeZee Conceptz, was present in court as proceedings unfolded.

Read Also: Appeal Court affirms Olaoye as Soun of Ogbomoso

The case, which has attracted significant public interest, is reportedly linked to financial and contractual disputes involving gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, one of the top artists previously managed by EeZee Conceptz before parting ways with the label.

The adjournment means all parties will have to wait for the next hearing, which could determine the trajectory of the legal battle.

As developments unfold, more details are expected to emerge.

Senator Nwoko congratulates Regina Daniels on Nollywood Personality of the Year Award amid rumored marital saga

Senator Ned Nwoko has publicly congratulated his wife, Regina Daniels Nwoko, on being honoured as Nollywood Personality of the Year by The Sun Newspaper.

His heartfelt message comes amid ongoing speculation about the state of their marriage, following recent social media activity that raised eyebrows among fans.

The rumours began when Regina Daniels, a popular Nollywood actress and producer, suddenly deactivated her Instagram account, leaving her millions of followers in the dark.

After a two-week hiatus, she returned to the platform but made a noticeable change—she removed “Nwoko” from her Instagram bio, further fueling speculations of a possible rift between her and her husband.

Fans and social media users quickly speculated about potential marital issues, with many questioning if the couple was facing challenges behind closed doors. However, Ned Nwoko’s recent public show of support and admiration for his wife appears to dismiss the rumors, suggesting that all is well between them.

However, taking to social media, the billionaire politician and philanthropist expressed his pride in Regina’s achievements, highlighting her dedication and influence in Nollywood.

He wrote: “Congratulations, Regina Daniels. A big congratulations to my dear wife, Regina Daniels, for being honored as The Sun Newspaper’s Nollywood Personality of the Year!

Read Also: Alleged cybercrime: Court grants Speed Darlington to N20m bail 

“Your dedication, talent, and passion for the industry continue to set you apart. This recognition is a testament to your hard work and the impact you’ve made in Nollywood. I am incredibly proud of you and excited for all the greatness ahead. Keep soaring, my love! The sky is just the starting point.”

The message has since gone viral, with many interpreting it as a strong declaration of unity and support for Regina. Fans of the actress have also flooded her social media pages with congratulatory messages, while some remain curious about the real state of their relationship.

Regina Daniels, who began her acting career as a child star, has grown into one of Nollywood’s most influential figures, often using her platform to advocate for young women and social causes. Her latest recognition by The Sun Newspaper further cements her status as a powerhouse in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Despite the ongoing rumours, the couple has not publicly addressed any marital issues, leaving fans to speculate whether the Instagram bio change was simply a personal decision or something more.

For now, Ned Nwoko’s glowing tribute to his wife suggests that their marriage remains intact, and Regina Daniels continues to soar in her flourishing career.

FULL LIST: Anora leads 2025 Oscars as big winners are announced

The golden glow of the Dolby Theatre shimmered with excitement as the biggest night in Hollywood unfolded—the 97th Academy Awards.

The evening’s spotlight was on “Anora,” a film that had captivated audiences worldwide. Directed by Sean Baker, “Anora” wove a poignant tale of love and resilience, earning it six nominations.

Journalists, fans, and industry insiders buzzed with anticipation, eager to witness history in the making. Among the crowd stood Elena Carter, an aspiring filmmaker who had long dreamed of this moment, watching as the night’s winners took the stage, shaping the future of cinema before her eyes.

As the ceremony unfolded, “Anora” clinched five Oscars, including Best Picture. Sean Baker’s visionary direction and original screenplay were honored, and Mikey Madison’s portrayal of the titular character earned her the Best Actress award.

The first major announcement sent waves through the audience—Best Picture went to Anora, a raw and riveting drama that had captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike. Sean Baker, the film’s director, took to the stage, his voice shaking with emotion. “This film is about the resilience of the human spirit,” he said. “And tonight, I share this honor with everyone who believes in telling real, authentic stories.”

Mikey Madison, who portrayed the lead in Anora, was next, winning Best Actress. Tears welled in her eyes as she accepted her golden statuette. “This role changed my life,” she said. “And I hope it inspires others to take risks and believe in their art.”

Meanwhile, Adrien Brody’s powerful performance in The Brutalist earned him the Best Actor award, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile performers. The night also saw Zoe Saldaña take home Best Supporting Actress for her gripping role in Emilia Pérez, and Kieran Culkin earn Best Supporting Actor for A Real Pain, marking a triumphant evening for emotionally charged performances.

Elena clutched her notepad, scribbling every detail, absorbing the magnitude of the moment. She knew how these awards were more than just accolades—they were a statement about the stories that mattered.

As the ceremony continued, I’m Still Here, a poignant Brazilian film, won Best International Feature, while Flow took home Best Animated Feature, its innovative storytelling setting a new benchmark in animation. El Mal from Emilia Pérez won Best Original Song, its haunting melody leaving the audience spellbound.

Read Also: FULL LIST: Six Nigerian scientists, engineers on Biden’s honours list

Among the technical categories, Dune: Part Two dominated with wins in Best Sound and Best Visual Effects, showcasing the power of immersive filmmaking. The Brutalist triumphed in Cinematography and Original Score, while Wicked dazzled in Best Production Design and Costume Design, proving that spectacle and substance could coexist.

By the end of the night, as the winners gathered backstage, Elena felt a renewed sense of purpose. She knew her journey was just beginning. One day, she promised herself, she would be up on that stage, telling a story that moved the world.

As the credits rolled on another historic Oscars night, the message was clear—cinema was alive, evolving, and forever inspiring.

Here is the full list of winners

Best picture

WINNER: Anora
The Brutalist
A Complete Unknown
Conclave
Dune: Part Two
Emilia Pérez
I’m Still Here
Nickel Boys
The Substance
Wicked

Best actress

WINNER: Mikey Madison – Anora
Cynthia Erivo – Wicked
Karla Sofía Gascón – Emilia Pérez
Demi Moore – The Substance
Fernanda Torres – I’m Still Here

Best actor

WINNER: Adrien Brody – The Brutalist
Timothée Chalamet – A Complete Unknown
Colman Domingo – Sing Sing
Ralph Fiennes – Conclave
Sebastian Stan – The Apprentice

Best supporting actress

WINNER: Zoe Saldaña – Emilia Pérez
Monica Barbaro – A Complete Unknown
Ariana Grande – Wicked
Felicity Jones – The Brutalist
Isabella Rossellini – Conclave

Best supporting actor

WINNER: Kieran Culkin – A Real Pain
Yura Borisov – Anora
Edward Norton – A Complete Unknown
Guy Pearce – The Brutalist
Jeremy Strong – The Apprentice

Best director

WINNER: Sean Baker – Anora
Jacques Audiard – Emilia Pérez
Brady Corbet – The Brutalist
Coralie Fargeat – The Substance
James Mangold – A Complete Unknown

Best international feature
WINNER: I’m Still Here – Brazil
The Girl with the Needle – Denmark
Emilia Pérez – France
The Seed of the Sacred Fig – Germany
Flow – Latvia

Best animated feature

WINNER: Flow
Inside Out 2
Memoir of a Snail
Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
The Wild Robot

Best original screenplay

WINNER: Anora – Sean Baker
The Brutalist – Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold
A Real Pain – Jesse Eisenberg
September 5 – Moritz Binder, Tim Fehlbaum, Alex David
The Substance – Coralie Fargeat

Best adapted screenplay

WINNER: Conclave – Peter Straughan
A Complete Unknown – Jay Cocks and James Mangold
Emilia Pérez – Jacques Audiard
Nickel Boys – RaMell Ross and Joslyn Barnes
Sing Sing – Clint Bentley and Greg Kwedar

Best original song

WINNER: El Mal – Emilia Pérez
Never Too Late – Elton John: Never Too Late
Mi Camino – Emilia Pérez
Like A Bird – Sing Sing
The Journey – The Six Triple Eight

Best original score

WINNER: The Brutalist
Conclave
Emilia Pérez
Wicked
The Wild Robot

Best documentary feature

WINNER: No Other Land
Black Box Diaries
Porcelain War
Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat
Sugarcane

Best costume design

WINNER: Wicked
Nosferatu
A Complete Unknown
Conclave
Gladiator II

Best make-up and hairstyling

WINNER: The Substance
A Different Man
Emilia Pérez
Nosferatu
Wicked

Best production design

WINNER: Wicked
The Brutalist
Dune: Part Two
Nosferatu
Conclave

Best sound

WINNER: Dune: Part Two
A Complete Unknown
Emilia Pérez
Wicked
The Wild Robot

Best film editing

WINNER: Anora
The Brutalist
Conclave
Emilia Pérez
Wicked

Best cinematography

WINNER: The Brutalist
Dune: Part Two
Emilia Pérez
Maria
Nosferatu

Best visual effects

WINNER: Dune: Part Two
Alien: Romulus
Better Man
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
Wicked

Best live action short
WINNER: I’m Not a Robot
Anuja
The Last Ranger
A Lien
The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent

Best animated short

WINNER: In the Shadow of the Cypress
Beautiful Men
Magic Candies
Wander to Wonder
Yuck!

Best documentary short

WINNER: The Only Girl in the Orchestra
Death by Numbers
I Am Ready, Warden
Incident
Instruments of a Beating Heart

I’m a covenant child, Odumodublvck reveals

Rapper Tochukwu Gbubemi Ojogwu Aka Odumodublvck , has shared the extraordinary circumstances surrounding his birth.

The acclaimed “Industry Machine” claimed to be a “covenant child,” born to his mother at 39.

Odumodublvck also declared himself one of the most confident artists in music history.

He attributed his unwavering self-assurance to upbringing in the church, which he credits as the foundation of his music.

Read Also: ‘I’m next’, says Skepta after Portable dragged Olamide

He said: “I am the only child of my mom. She gave birth to me when she was 39. I’m a covenant child.

“That’s what people don’t understand. I don’t just come out and say things. They are not fallacies. I grew up in the church.

“That’s the foundation of my music.

“I am one of the most confident artistes in the history of music… I am just a vessel.”