Entertainment
10 Iconic Venues Headlined by Davido

Davido has solidified his status as a leading figure in African music, showcasing his talent at some of the most prestigious venues worldwide. Here are ten iconic stages he has headlined:
1. Lusail Stadium, Qatar
As the first Nigerian artist to perform at the World Cup, Davido graced the closing ceremony of the 2022 FIFA World Cup at this 88,000-capacity venue, featuring on the official theme song, *Hayya Hayya*.
2. O2 Arena, London
In 2017, Davido made history by becoming the first Nigerian artist to sell out this 20,000-capacity arena as a solo act, returning to sell out the venue on two additional occasions.
3. State Farm Arena, Atlanta
Davido has a deep connection to Atlanta, his birthplace, and performed to enthusiastic crowds at this 16,000-capacity arena during the *Are We African Yet?* festival.
4. Accor Arena, France
Part of his *Timeless Tour*, Davido captivated audiences at this 20,000-capacity arena, further cementing his popularity in Europe.
5. Toyota Arena, Houston
In a city known for its love of Afrobeats, Davido sold out the 19,000-capacity Toyota Arena during his *Timeless Tour*.
6. Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C.
Davido is among a select few Nigerian artists to headline concerts at this 20,000-capacity venue, showcasing his international appeal.
7. Scotiabank Arena, Canada
In July 2023, Davido made history by becoming the first Nigerian artist to sell out this 16,000-capacity arena in Toronto.
8. 2017 AFCON Opening Ceremony, Gabon
Davido performed at the opening of the AFCON tournament alongside other stars, marking a significant moment in African football and music.
9. Stade 26 Mars Stadium, Mali
In 2017, Davido drew an impressive crowd of 60,000 fans to see him perform in this stadium, showcasing his continental appeal.
10. National Stadium, Sierra Leone
In the same year, he captivated over 50,000 fans in attendance at this national venue, solidifying his status as a superstar across Africa.
Davido’s performances at these venues highlight his influence and the global reach of Afrobeats.
Entertainment
Why I won’t sign up-and-coming artistes – Tiwa Savage

Nigerian singer-songwriter and actress Tiwa Savage has revealed that she has no plans to sign upcoming artists, citing the stress and responsibility involved in managing musicians. Instead, she aims to create an ecosystem where African artists can thrive independently.
Speaking in an interview with Forbes Africa on Thursday, Savage explained that handling artists can be overwhelming. “Everyone always asks me, ‘When will you sign an artiste?’ I don’t think I have the gift to sign another artiste, because artistes are stressful. I could just be sleeping, and then I will wake up and my artist is trending for something else,” she said.
Rather than signing musicians, Savage is focused on launching a music school that will equip artists with the skills they need before signing with record labels that can properly support them.
She also emphasized the importance of African artists building their own industry instead of seeking validation abroad. “Why are we trying to break into another market? We should build our own to be the one others try to break into,” she said, highlighting the need for infrastructure, affordable data, and investment in Africa’s entertainment industry.
Beyond music, the ‘Somebody’s Son’ hitmaker is expanding her portfolio, having made her executive producer debut in 2024 with Water and Garri. Looking ahead, she is setting her sights on greater ambitions. “I want to go into my mogul era – billionaire Tiwa Savage,” she declared.
Entertainment
Ayra Starr Makes History at 2025 MOBO Awards, Wins Best African and Best International Music Act

By Abigail Philip David
Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has emerged victorious at the 2025 MOBO Awards, winning the Best African Music Act category ahead of fellow Nigerian artists Asake and Tems, as well as South Africa’s Tyla.
Her win makes her the first female artist in 16 years to claim the award, marking a significant milestone in her career.
In addition to this achievement, Ayra Starr also took home the prestigious Best International Music Act award, triumphing over global stars like Beyonce, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, Tems, and Latto.
The ceremony, held in Newcastle, was hosted by Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi and celebrated the best of Black music and culture.
During her acceptance speech, a visibly emotional and overwhelmed Ayra Starr expressed her gratitude:
“Okay, this is my first MOBO. And this is the first time I’m winning a MOBO Award—make some noise! I am actually shaking right now. I am actually nervous.”
She went on to thank her supporters, her team, and her label, MAVIN Records, alongside her producers and family:
“Thank you so much to everybody who supported me. Thank you to my team—my amazing MOB-STARS. My amazing brothers who make music with me—the producers in the studio—my studio partners in crime; my label—MAVINS Records, Embryo, my mummy… Thank you so much. Thank you, MOBOs.”
Ayra Starr’s double victory further cements her status as one of Africa’s leading musical talents on the global stage.
Entertainment
Portable Apologizes to Ogun State Government, Seeks Divine Intervention

By Abigail Philip David
Controversial street singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has publicly apologized to the Ogun State government following recent legal troubles.
For weeks, the singer has been entangled in a dispute with the Ogun State Police Command, which declared him wanted on charges of conspiracy, serious assault, armed violence, public disturbance, and attempted murder. The allegations stemmed from claims that he recruited armed thugs to carry out attacks.
In response, Portable initially denied the accusations, claiming they were an attempt to bring him down. He challenged the police to present evidence and labeled them as unjust.
However, in a recent Instagram post, the singer shifted his tone, praying for divine intervention. He pleaded with God to turn his struggles into blessings, protect his family, and send him a helper. Expressing remorse, Portable admitted that fear drove him to flee.
“Ogun State Government, I’m sorry. It was fear that made me run. Thank God the police are our friends and family. God is everywhere—please forgive me. I believe in You. Any disappointment is a blessing,” he wrote.
Earlier this month, Portable had a heated clash with authorities after the government sealed his unfinished building and hotel over illegal development without proper approval. The incident led to the detention of some of his workers and customers.
Following the ordeal, he canceled his London show, citing the need to protect his family and properties. Over the weekend, he expressed frustration, lamenting that despite his contributions to Ogun State, he felt unappreciated.
In a desperate appeal, Portable even called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene on his behalf, urging him to plead with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun. He claimed that his troubles were politically motivated, stemming from his support for a political figure, Yayi.
Despite the controversy, the singer remains hopeful, relying on faith to navigate his challenges.
-
News8 hours ago
SDGs must be integrated into development plans – FG
-
News10 hours ago
2027: Stakeholders allege Akpabio, others have sold APC to PDP in Akwa Ibom
-
News8 hours ago
Nnamdi Kanu’s trial under ‘repealed’ law, mere charade – Lawyer
-
Foreign9 hours ago
Trump begins mass layoffs at Voice of America