“Leave my baby… I’m the one who carried it…the DNA is negative…but it will change.”— Victim of cryptic pregnancy scam. For two years, BBC World Service’s investigative unit, BBC Africa Eye, investigated…
EXPLORE CULTURE
2024 has been incredible for the Nigerian music scene, especially with female artists taking centre stage and making waves globally. These women set and pushed boundaries, changed the narrative about female artists…
The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has appointed renowned actress, movie producer, and director Funke Akindele as its new National Goodwill Ambassador for Nigeria. Akindele’s appointment as UNAIDS National Goodwill Ambassador…
Activism in Nigeria has long been a dangerous pursuit, demanding unyielding courage and resilience. For women, however, the challenges are exponentially magnified. When they dare to challenge the status quo, they are…
It’s Beyoncé’s world, and we’re just living in it. With over three decades in the music industry, she continues to dominate at the highest level and shows no signs of giving up…
At the grand finale of the recently concluded Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) 2024, one film stole the spotlight: “Phoenix Fury”. Sweeping two major awards, Best Director and Best Film, this cinematic…
Thanks to these women, we do not pay tax to any British monarch who has no jurisdiction on our God-given corner of this globe.—Ndanyongmong H. Ibanga Due to the growing need to…
The official trailer for Jade Osiberu’s highly anticipated film, “Christmas in Lagos,” just dropped. Described as a holiday romantic comedy, the movie follows four friends navigating friendship, love, and loss during the…
My secondary school teacher who taught civic education once said, “Marriage gives a woman prestige.” According to her, marriage was designed to make life better and easier for women. However, her stance…
The holiday season is upon us, and if you’re still struggling to catch the festive vibe or plan the perfect activities, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! From dreamy travel destinations to cosy…
A deeper dive into Nigeria’s history and its military, a male-dominated field, reveals the extraordinary contributions of women who have defied the odds and rewritten the narrative. Among them is a remarkable…
As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to relax and unwind – and you don’t have to leave Nigeria to do it. From serene beaches to vibrant cities, hidden gems…
The Recording Academy announced nominations for various categories for the 2025 and 67th Grammys Awards on Friday, November 8, 2024, with many Nigerian artists listed in the major categories. Temilade Openiyi, popularly…
When we look through Nigeria’s history, the spotlight often falls on the men—celebrating their roles in shaping the nation’s legacy—while the remarkable contributions of its women are largely overlooked. Despite their significant…
Following its critically acclaimed debut in 2021, “Smart Money Woman” season 2 premiered on October 31, 2024, on the Azuwa Studios YouTube channel, with two episodes dropping every Thursday. Based on Arese…
As the year winds down, many of us crave the perfect holiday escape—a getaway that melts the year’s stress away and sets the tone for fresh starts. If you’re dreaming of an…
The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) is back with its 13th edition and runs from November 3, 2024, through November 9, 2024. This year’s theme, “Indigenous to Global: Cultural Wealth to Global…
The holiday season is almost upon us and we know for sure that Mariah Carey is preparing to come out of hibernation with her Christmas special to put us in the holiday…
The ninth edition of West Africa’s International art fair, ART X Lagos, has ended, and we’re excited to share our favourite moments from this year’s event. The event kicked off on Thursday,…
Before the advent of BellaNaija or Pinterest, Nigerian women had to look somewhere for fashion inspiration; we had fashion magazines. These magazines had us immersed in their pages, anticipating new editions because…
Lagos’ largest art fair is back in 2024 with its ninth edition, and the team held a press preview on Thursday 31st October, welcoming people of the press with excitement and warmth.…
The Halloween celebrations in Hollywood are off to a fiery start as celebrities share their costumes for the holiday. Halloween, which is celebrated annually on October 31st, originates from ancient Celtic festivals…
A few weeks ago, we shared what you should expect from watching Temidayo Abudu Makanjuola’s “A Night in 2005.” On Saturday, October 26, we went a step further to host 11 Nigerian ladies…
On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, renowned Nigerian actress Faithia Williams took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce the upcoming release of her movie “Efunroye: The Unicorn.” The tweet with the official movie…
Personality and fashion may seem distinct, but they are intricately connected. Clothing has been more than just a functional necessity; it’s a powerful tool for self-expression and communication. Personality traits, interests, values,…
According to the World Bank, 35% of women, that is, 1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced either physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence and 736 million women…
I was excited to receive an invitation to the screening of Temidayo Makanjuola’s latest film, “A Night in 2005.” Temidayo’s impressive body of work, including acclaimed titles like “Oloture,” “Blood Sisters,” and…
At her electrifying performance at the annual Rocking the Daisies festival in Cape Town in South Africa, Nigerian pop sensation Ayra Starr took the stage not only with her chart-topping hits but…
For our discussion today, let’s play a little game, shall we? Imagine your go-to outfit on a regular day. What does it look like? Tailored pants? Lots of accessories? Layering? For me,…
“Nearly every family here has twins or other multiple births”— Jimoh Titiloye Nigeria’s annual Twins Festival was held on Monday, October 14, at Igbo-Ora, Oyo state, celebrating twins and multiple births. For…
While popular travel destinations in West Africa like Accra, Ouagadougou, and Lagos, get amazing PR and tourist visitations, there are a lot more hidden gems waiting to be discovered as the breathtaking…
Nigeria’s fast fashion scene is growing, with production companies catering to the country’s style-conscious consumers. From global giants to homegrown brands, the industry is experiencing rapid growth, with PayPorte, Jumia Fashion, and…
“No one deserves to be physically assaulted. Not a call girl. Not an influencer. Not me as an actor, writer, producer, and woman.” – Nengi Adoki Editor’s Note: This article has undergone…
Prepare for another literary masterpiece as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie prepares to release her first feature-length book since “Americanah”. After a ten-year creative process, the celebrated author of “Purple Hibiscus” and “We Should…
My first experience with Nigeria came the night my father arrived home as usual but with several trucks moving equipment from his warehouse because the state government had informed him they needed…
Nigerian online communities are not excited, and neither am I because I feel that my cultural identity is about to be stolen. There has been pronounced skepticism over A24’s upcoming TV series…
Don’t you just love listening to men who think they “know” women? I’ve had a long day rolling my eyes and kissing my teeth just from listening to self-proclaimed relationship gurus who…
The one thing I wish more people understood is that bisexuality, and indeed, any sexuality at all, is not peculiar to just one race. Bisexuality, which refers to the capacity for emotional,…
Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been declared the winner of the Edo State governorship election. According to official results, Okpebholo secured a total of 291,667 votes, outpacing…
As the Edo State gubernatorial elections unfold, voters are actively participating in a pivotal moment for the region. The election, held on September 21, 2024, sees 17 candidates vying for the position,…
Lights, camera, fashion! The silver screen has long been a showcase for style and glamour, and Nigerian movies are no exception. Nigerian movies have long been a platform for showcasing women’s strength,…
Power is often defined by brute strength, economic might, or military force, but another form is rising quietly, yet undeniably powerful—soft power. It is the ability to shape global conversations, influence cultures,…
In a monumental sweep, HBO’s epic historical drama “Shogun” dominated the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards, securing an unprecedented 18 awards. Based on James Clavell’s 1975 novel, “Shogun” tells the captivating story of…
Toke Makinwa is a name that resonates with fans of reality television, especially as the vibrant host of “The Buzz.” With her infectious energy and sharp commentary, she has a knack for…
All it took was a can of petrol, a fiery-tempered boyfriend, and the death of an Olympic runner to remind us all of the horrible realities of femicide – the killing of…
With a little nudge from my editors, I took the initiative to see the new web series that’s got people talking—”All Of Us”—and I have something to say—a lot, actually. At just…
Beauty knows no borders, but its definition varies wildly across cultures and continents. In certain parts of Africa, being thick is revered, while being skinny is often seen as a sign of…
I have often said that black actors, especially black actresses, are not rated at all. This time, I come with receipts. When it comes to Hollywood, talent within the black community has…
On the coldest night in South Africa’s winter, the chilly atmosphere was filled with tension as a television crew prepared for a challenging shoot. The temperature had dipped to a bone-chilling -4…
In the heart of Lagos, a new beat is pulsing through the streets, and it’s not just about the music. Nigerian artists are crafting a revolution that blends sound and style, creating…
“Girls should not show their shoulders”, “Decent girls don’t expose their thighs”, “Your skirt should not be short”, and “Who are you trying to seduce with your dress?” These and many more…
Algerian Imane Khelif’s victory in women’s boxing at the 2024 Paris Olympics has sparked a wave of excitement and inspiration among athletes and coaches in the country. The success of Imane, who…
Nigeria’s Esther Nworgu has smashed two new Paralympics records, lifting a whopping 112 kg on her second attempt and 118 kg on her third attempt in the women’s 41 kg category. She is now…
Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei is currently fighting for life after her boyfriend reportedly poured petrol over her and set her on fire. The athlete, who finished 44th competing for Uganda in…
Movies are more than just narratives; they serve as visual mirrors that enchant us with their plots and stunning aesthetics, one of which is costume design. From the intricate details to the…
Nigerian singer and songwriter Adedamola Adefolahan, better known as “Fireboy,” has released his fourth studio album, and we’re excited to have our lover boy back! I still remember the thrill I got…
Singer, songwriter, and Grammy-winning artist Tems has hit one billion solo streams on Spotify and become the first Nigerian female artist to do so. The skilled singer achieved this milestone across all…
After winning 13 gold medals during the Olympic Games in Paris earlier this month, African athletes have returned to represent the continent during the ongoing Paralympics. These incredible female athletes are redefining…
Just weeks after hosting the Olympics, the 2024 Paralympics opened with a nearly four-hour ceremony in the city’s heart. In a dazzling display of inclusivity and determination, the 2024 Paralympic Games kicked…
“For the ones like me who stare at a mirror all day hoping to fix it all with their eyes… I have broken my mirror, please break yours.” —Damilare Kuku In my…
The rise of the “demure” trend can be traced back to TikTok, launched in early August by creator Jools Lebron and quickly went viral. Originally meaning “reserved” or “shy,” the term has…
The recent Paris 2024 Olympics was a landmark event, featuring a record 199 openly queer athletes competing in 32 sports. This is a noticeable jump from the previous number of 186 queer…
Kenyan content creator Elsa Majimbo’s recent video, stating her decision not to provide financial aid to her extended family, has created a lot of buzz on social media. In the video, posted…
The latest Hollywood sensation, “It Ends With Us,” adapted from Colleen Hoover’s book of the same name, is causing a stir and has become one of the most discussed movies lately. This…
From the vibrant African Cup of Nations to the thrilling National Basketball Association (NBA) stage, and the grand Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup, which stands as the pinnacle of…
“I fear intimate relationships both physically, as it causes me pain, but also emotionally, as it is difficult for me to trust people. The reason I find it difficult to trust people…
The 2024 Paris Olympics opened on the 26th of July with a magnificent ceremony that saw thousands of athletes ready to battle over two weeks for world dominance. The ensuing games had everyone on…
Hannah Neeleman, known as ‘Ballerina Farm,’ has finally addressed the recent controversy surrounding her trad wife lifestyle and family dynamics. Update: 2/8/2024 In a candid TikTok post, Hannah Neeleman responded to the…
The Paris 2024 Olympics have showcased a remarkable trend as pregnant athletes push the boundaries of what is possible in sports. This year, several expectant and new mothers have taken to the…
Watching groundbreaking female athletes like Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade break records in the sports world is extraordinary. But beyond their athletic prowess, these remarkable women are dedicated to creating positive change…
Is the viral trad wife movement a step backwards, or a redefined path to empowerment? As Nara Smith and Hannah Neeleman of Ballerina Farm reignite the conversation online, it’s time to dissect…
I relish in the little things these days, such as using my skin care products, wearing a favourite clothing item, slipping my feet into a much-loved pump or mule and walking past…
Nigeria, a kaleidoscope of cultures, finds its most vibrant expression through its cultural festivals. These celebrations are more than mere events; they are the soul of the nation, pulsating with life, tradition,…
The new season of the highly anticipated reality TV show Big Brother Naija (BBN) has kicked off, and viewers can expect ten weeks of entertainment as housemates battle for 100 million naira. The…
The 1990s marked a golden era for the Super Falcons, a period defined by the sheer strength of Mercy Akide, and the blistering pace of Patience Avre, Stella Mbachu, and Florence Omagbemi.…
Veteran Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Ms Onyeka Onwenu is dead. Ms. Onwenu is said to have passed away on Tuesday night at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing following a birthday performance…
Amidst the bustling streets of Nigeria, a vibrant and often overlooked community of female street artists emerges. These women wield brushes and colours to create captivating works of art that reflect their…
Books and their authors can transport us to different worlds, evoke deep emotions, and spark our imagination. Authors craft stories that entertain, educate, and inspire readers, providing a window into diverse perspectives…
The 2024 Olympics opened in Paris with a magnificent display as thousands of athletes glided along the River Seine, passing vibrant performers on bridges, riverbanks, and rooftops in a grand interpretation of…
Imagine a scene where vibrant colours swirl in a mesmerising dance, where tradition and love intertwine in a captivating display of culture. This is the enchanting world of the Wodaabe courtship dance…
“Art is power. It can influence perception, opinion and values.” – Ossie Davis. Nigerian women have long used art as a powerful tool for social commentary and change, whether through textiles, pottery,…
The long-awaited 2024 Paris Olympics is finally here, with the Summer Games commencing on July 26th! Paris, the host city for the first time in a century, is set to captivate audiences worldwide. From…
“I don’t believe we ever stop finding ourselves. If you’re willing to look, there’s always more.”— Simi Nigerian singer-songwriter Simi, one of the most unique voices in the music industry, has released…
Are you dreaming of a camping vacation but still attached to your comfort? No worries, there are plenty of camping alternatives to suit everyone’s preferences and budget. Foolproof checklist for your dream…
Photography is more than just taking pictures; it is a lens through which a person can view the world as it is. Many photographers do this in various ways: capturing the fun…
What does community mean to you? Is it the dictionary definition of a group of people living in the same place or region? Or is it a feeling of connection between people…
A new generation of poets is emerging in the vibrant tapestry of African literature. Previously, we explored the new wave of authors with incredible and captivating narratives in Africa. Now, we spotlight the new…
Imagine walking through the bustling markets of Kano, enveloped in the rich scent of freshly tanned leather and surrounded by various artisan-crafted leather goods such as intricately designed handbags, durable footwear, and…
In the rich tapestry of West African mythology, female deities have long held a revered and influential position. From the Fon people of Benin to the Yoruba of Nigeria, these powerful goddesses…
“What I love the most about women artists from these parts is how diverse and unique they are in their own right. And whatever your taste may be, an artist is catering…
Imagine holding a piece of history in your hands, a vessel that has carried the stories, traditions, the continent’s rich cultural heritage, artistic ingenuity, and soul of African communities for centuries– and…
Africa’s vast and diverse landscapes are home to some of the world’s most breathtaking national parks, offering a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. From the majestic savannahs of the Serengeti and Maasai…
Known primarily for its mountains, the Jura region has another significant asset that enhances its beauty: its lakes. Wild and often hidden from view, their clarity and depth make them as beautiful…
A world where creativity knows no bounds, where colours dance on canvas and sculptures whisper stories of the past and dreams of the future. Art exhibitions are not just displays of talent;…
Dear Reader, Thank you for embracing my Editor’s Letter. It has inspired me to share my journey of embracing and exploring local Nigerian creativity and Nigerian brands. This journey, I must admit,…
“Alté”, which is derived from the Nigerian term ‘alternative,’ symbolizes the essence of freedom of expression across various artistic forms.” —TeeZee Nigeria’s art scene pulsates with a vibrant mix of influences –…
Exploring the world of literary festivals unveils a captivating tapestry of storytelling, culture, and creativity. These vibrant gatherings serve as beacons of literary excellence, where authors from diverse backgrounds converge to share…
Nestled between Montpellier and Millau, the Cirque de Navacelles is a natural marvel in the heart of the Cévennes. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Hérault,” this breathtaking site offers stunning…
In the heart of Africa, a literary renaissance is unfolding. It is giving rise to a new generation of storytellers whose voices resonate with the rhythms of the continent and breathing new…
Feeling the travel bug bite but overwhelmed by the planning? Don’t let first-timer jitters hold you back! This ultimate travel guide is your ticket to a smooth, unforgettable adventure. We understand the…
Sequins catching the dim hangar lights, a bassline vibrating through the concrete floor, laughter echoing like defiance – the Fola Francis Ball wasn’t just a party, it was a sensory assault on…
Girls, we understand that sometimes you must drop everything and escape. Whether it’s leaving work, the kids, your pet baby, or your partner behind, having some quality time with your girlfriends is…
PRIDE– A mirror reflecting who we are and where we belong. Pride signifies embracing one’s identity, history, and culture and advocating for equality, visibility, and acceptance for all individuals. It shapes our…
The Nigerian music industry has experienced a surge in popularity and revenue due to the emergence of the genre Afrobeats in the last decade, resulting in a global appreciation of Nigerian music and its…
Over the past decade, the conflict between the LGBTQ+ community—including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer activists—and religious groups has escalated significantly worldwide. Despite Nigeria’s official status as a secular state, its…
When we meet Nicola Coughlan in the picturesque suburbs of Sydney’s Northern Beaches in 2023, she’s filming a new ad. The starlet, who gained fame through the Irish comedy series “Derry Girls”…
Beninese-Nigerian singer, songwriter, and Mavin Record signee Ayra Starr has released her second studio album, “The Year I Turned 21,” after a two-year gap from her debut album “19 and Dangerous,” which was a…
Each season of Bridgerton introduces us to a new noble standing. We’ve had Dukes and Duchesses, Viscounts and Viscountesses, and now Earls and a Marquess have descended on the Ton. But what…
Ever wondered where you could jet off to for a sun-soaked vacation without breaking the bank? Surprisingly, amidst rising holiday costs, three stunning Greek islands have emerged as the top picks for…
Yvonne Orji, in partnership with Sony Pictures, has announced her involvement in the adaptation of Yaa Gyasi’s Transcendent Kingdom. Recently, Orji signed a two-year, first-look deal with Sony Pictures Television, where she…
When we think about a relaxing evening at home, we often picture ourselves lying on the couch watching romantic comedies or feel-good movies. But sometimes, we crave something more intense. On those…
The Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) has once again proven itself to be a beacon of excellence in African television and film. This year’s edition was a testament to the power…
In every film, there are central characters who drive the story forward, impacting the plot with every twist and turn. And there are the supporting characters, who are crucial to the narrative’s…
After a whole year of passion, energy, and sleepless nights, the time has finally come to crown the best of the best in film at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA).…
The 2024 AMVCA awards are just around the corner, and the anticipation is palpable. While we eagerly await the red carpet glamour, we’re even more excited about seeing our beloved stars stride…
As we countdown to the grand evenings of the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards on May 10 and 11, 2024, we celebrate the trailblazing women who have dominated this year’s nominee list…