Debie Rise Celebrates Birthday In Style As She Drops New Music

Debie Rise, one of the runner ups of BBNaija 2017 is celebrating her birthday today and she is full of gratitude to God for her life.

The talented singer shared a post on Instagram talking about her past experiences and how with the help of God she has managed to achieve a lot.

She also talked about her EP which she titled “Temi The Riser” which is set to drop today, the 20th of December.

In her words on Instagram: “This time last year I was in a “Dark Place” but God has really lifted me..
I know my story (the real story), but my life today is a testimony of God’s Faithfulness.
Whatever it is, pls hold on to that dream, God is able to help you RISE ABOVE GENERAL EXPECTATIONS (R.A.G.E).
I am Debie The Riser!!! Do we have other Risers?? Mandy The Riser!!!”

 By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

Edo State Festival: Painting the Town with Culture

The festivities continues with a spice of mental development as a seminar centered around Education on Edo Culture was held at Imaguero Culture Hall on the 19^th of December, 2017 as regards to #Edofest 2017. Some of the speakers present at the seminar were Hon. Osaze Osemwegie – Ero, Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora Affairs, Dr Osagie Obayuwana, Commissioner of Justice, Dr S.O Igbinedion and so many others.

The much talked about Edo festival #Edofest started on the 17^{th of} December, 2017, in a grand style with an open procession from Ramat Park all the way to King Square Ring Road Benin City. His Excellency, the deputy speaker of Edo State, Phillip Shaibu, commissioner of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora Hon. Osaze Osemwegie - Ero, crown prince of Benin kingdom, Hon Ogbeide Ihama, members representing the good people of Oredo at the Federal house of Representative, Nollywood Movie Director Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, Desmond Elliot, other Nollywood actors and dignitaries joined the Carnival procession. Edo rich cultural heritage was displayed with Benin cultural dance troupe another groups.

On the 18^th December, 2017, it was a display of different cultural troupes at the palace of His Royal Majesty of Benin, Oba Ewuare II N’ Ogidigan of the 18 Local Governments of Edo State. The rich cultural heritage of Edo state was displayed for the delight of all. His Royal Majesty of Benin, The Commissioner for Art and Culture Hon. Osaze Osemwegie - Ero, Nollywood film producer Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen and other Nollywood stars were also there to grace the occasion together with other dignitaries in the society.

Edofest is scheduled to end on 21^st December, 2017 with an entertainment and award night

 By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

Enrique Iglesias and Anna Kournikova Welcome Twins

42-year-old singer, Enrique Iglesias and his 36-year-old, former Tennis player girlfriend, Anna Kournikova are now parents. Anna delivered of a set of twins in Miami on Saturday. The children, a boy and a girl have been reportedly named Nicholas and Lucy.

Some friends have said that they were taken unawares by the news but are happy for the very private couple.

The couple have been dating since 2001 after she featured in Enrique’s Escape music video.This will be their first kids since the relationship began.

On whether they will get married, Anna once said that she doesn’t want to get married but is comfortable staying in a committed relationship.

Anna, tennis career was cut short by spinal problems while her Spanish songwriter boyfriend, Enrique is behind the evergreen song, Hero.

 By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

Burna Boy’s Court Case Adjourned To December 29

Two days ago, information that Nigeria’s reggae-dancehall star, Damini Ogulu who is popularly known as Burna Boy presented himself to the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters to explain his side of the robbery incident at Eko Hotels and Suites against fellow musician, Mr 2Kay.

The music star who has maintained his innocence in the matter pleaded not guilty to a two-count charge at the Ikeja Magistrate Court and was granted a bail of N100,000 with two sureties by Mrs. B.O Osusanmi, the presiding Magistrate.

However, the Police Commissioner, Edgal Imohimi has said that the sum of N50,000 was paid to the gang before the job was done by his manager, Joel Kantiock and N50,000 by Burna Boy after the job was done.

Mr 2Kay was robbed of valuables worth over N9 million.

Meanwhile, his concert which was billed to start yesterday has been affected by the issue.

The case was adjourned till December 29 for further hearing

By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

Igwe of Goals - Football legend, Thierry Henry

You have just to love Football legend, Thierry Henry. The star who is in Nigeria to meet with the winners of the Guinness “Be a Front Row Fan” promotion  as well as fans has been getting a taste of the Nigerian life.

The star who has openly declared his love for Nigerian Jollof was seen yesterday fully clothed in an Igbo regalia after being crowned the Igwe (Igbo word for King) of Goals.

He professed his admiration for former teammate and football legend, Kanu Nwankwo describing him as “underrated”. Also, fans had the chance to watch a West Brom EPL game against Manchester United with Henry at the Landmark Event Centre.

Henry is a player who has made his mark in football history. He was active in professional football between and 1994-2010 and is presently the second assistant manager of Belgium’s national team.

By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

“Trends” A Thing?

Once upon a time, suede was dated, flare trousers were the uniform, and almost every man owned a leather jacket. Fast forward to 2017, suede is sexy, flare trousers are considered a nod to individualism, and leather jackets are a statement.

A rise in feminism and individualism has eliminated condemn, and the ferocious rise of the voices from the media and individuals have made something that would normally be considered bad, seem cool, and something that would be presumably tacky like sequins seem fabulous.

In fashion, there seem to be no boundary anymore. Vintage is fresh and modern is timeless. Cold shoulders for the last five years have been a thing. Outfits no longer die fully like they used to.

21st-century superstars like Rihanna and Pharell have defined style in modern days. Both artistes are gender fluid when it comes to clothes, and time is no limit.

Trends, like style, have become so eternal they no longer exist. There seem to no longer be a seasonal style. What is in today is still in tomorrow.

By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

The World’s First “Flushable Pregnancy Test” coming 2018

Last Monday, the world of medicine to another step forward as the Food And Drugs Administration cleared Lia, the world’s first biodegradable pregnancy test. Lia is set to enter the market towards the middle of 2018 and will be sold at all relevant stores and outlets.

Normal pregnancy tests are made of plastic and should be discarded after use. Lia makes all the difference because it’s made out of biodegradable paper which means it can be bent or folded. It also disperses water which makes it perfect for flushing down the toilet when it has been used.

Lia was born from the minds of Bethany Edwards and Anna Simpson, who began working on the idea as graduate students in the University of Pennsylvania’s Integrated Product Design program. Their aim was to create a pregnancy test that was discreet and environmentally friendly without compromising on quality.

On Lia’s website, they promise more than 99 percent accuracy which means it’s on the same level with top brands of its plastic alternative.

By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

Manage Your Skin this Harmattan

It is December and we are sure you all are excited as we are.  But alongside the excitement of the festive period, comes fear of how best to manage ones skin.

While other parts of the world are suffering from the winter cold, some African countries like Nigeria and others are suffering from the Harmattan season.

This season brings dry and dusty winds that come from the Sahara and make its way through the continent over the Gulf of Guinea. During this time humidity levels drop significantly lower and the air is much cooler.

Below are some tips to ensure you maintain healthy skin during harmattan.

1. Cleanse Daily
Washing your face may seem like basic knowledge, but there are people who go to sleep without doing it. You should wash every morning and never go to bed without continuing your daily skin regimen, which includes cleansing and moisturizing.

 Washing your face with a mild soap gets rid of the heavy layer of grime on your face that has settled in your pores through the day. Also avoid harsh soaps with detergents in them because they will only strip natural oils and make your face drier.

2.  Water

The air is dry as the humidity level has dropped drastically and if you must escape the harshness of the dry weather, you must stay hydrated; it’s the best way to still keep that healthy glow.

Make sure you drink more water and take a cold or lukewarm bath as often as possible; try as much to stay away from hot baths, they strip your skin of oils and you don’t want to dry out your skin.

You also want to take lots of fruits and veggies that have a robust deposit of water like cucumber and watermelon.

3. Exfoliate

Many of us tend to ditch our scrubs during the harmattan but have you ever wondered how the much needed moisture will get into your skin with those dead skin cells in the way? One way to scrub and not dry your skin out is to make a DIY sugar and honey scrub.

You can also make use of any other scrub that is not too harsh.

4. Moisturize

It is super important to moisturize your skin and lip. You don’t want to go around with your skin so dry and unnatural.

Concentrate on using moisturizers that are rich in natural butters and oils.  Here’s how to make sure you get the best out of your moisturizers during the harmattan; make sure you moisturize immediately after your shower when your body is still very wet so you can trap the moisture (water).

Also, ensure to always keep hand cream in your purse just in case a stubborn part of your skin gets easily affected by the harsh weather.

5. Pay attention to your clothes

You also need to be careful about the fabrics you wear. If at all you want to layer, please keep the softer fabrics near your skin so your skin can still breathe. Do not pile up different fabrics in a bid to chase cold. This would only make your skin suffer.

6. Eat Healthy Fats

Not all types of fat are bad for you. There are healthy fats you can consume without the fear of excess cholesterol and also can be heart-healthy. Healthy fats give you energy. You can get healthy fat from polyunsaturated fats such as in nuts, seeds, vegetable oils such as corn and safflower oil, and fatty fish. Avocados are also a great source of healthy fats.

7. Remember Your Hands and Lips

Your hands and lips are the most vulnerable areas of your body during the harmattan season. As a result, you need to take extra care of these areas as we tend to swipe out the moisture from them very frequently, like when we eat, or visit the bathroom. Make sure that you have your lip balm and your hand lotion handy.

 By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

Rock Star, Johnny Hallyday Passes on

Johnny Hallyday died at 74 on Wednesday, December 6, after a battle with cancer.

He was called the “French Elvis”; the singer helped popularise rock ‘n roll in his country.

Described by French President Emmanuel Macron as a vibrant icon, Hallyday’s career spanned more than half a century, selling more than 100 million records.

His early music brought rock and roll to French shores and earned him an army of fans throughout the French-speaking world.

In later days, he was celebrity royalty, gracing the covers of magazines, and became known for his elaborate stage performances.

Hallyday said in a 2012 interview:

"I always try to do shows that are a little bit different compared to the ones that I did before. But yes, I do try and do things that are out of the ordinary with nice lights and special effects, screens, anything that can make people dream."

Hallyday had been preparing a new album and stage tour when news of treatment for respiratory problems in a Paris hospital was announced last month

By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

 

Bitcoin charges past $14,000

Bitcoin ploughed past $14,000 to a fresh record on Thursday as investors continued to pile in, triggering a warning the cryptocurrency was “like a charging train with no brakes” that would inevitably slip back.

It touched a new high of $14,485 before slipping back to $14,398 in Asian afternoon trade, according to Bloomberg News.

The rally came just a day after the virtual currency, which has been used to buy everything from an ice cream to a pint of beer, hit the $12,000 mark for the first time.

Bitcoin — which came into being in 2009 as a bit of encrypted software and has no central bank backing it — has risen from a 2017 low of $752 in mid-January, and surged dramatically in the past month.

The increased interest has been driven by growing acceptance among traditional investors of an innovation once considered the preserve of computer nerds and financial experts.

US regulators last week cleared the way for Bitcoin futures to trade on major exchanges, including the world’s biggest futures centre the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME).

But some, including the US Federal Reserve, have warned against dabbling in Bitcoin as it could threaten financial stability, and fears of a bubble have increased as the price has soared.

“Bitcoin now seems like a charging train with no brakes,” said Shane Chanel, from Sydney-based ASR Wealth Advisers. “There is an unfathomable amount of new participants piling into the cryptocurrency market.”

But he warned: “Once the hype slows down, we will most certainly see some sort of correction.”

Chris Weston, chief market strategist at IG, also predicted “downside moves” in future.

“When the price does turn and there is confusion, even panic…. then watch the short sellers come out in droves,” he said.

Transactions happen when heavily encrypted codes are passed across a computer network.

Bitcoin and other virtual currencies use blockchain, which records transactions that are updated in real time on an online ledger and maintained by a network of computers.

But it has also suffered controversies. In 2014 major Tokyo-based Bitcoin exchange MtGox collapsed after admitting that 850,000 coins — worth around $480 million at the time — had disappeared from its vaults.

 By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

Winner of the Tech Company of the year award- Vatebra

Leading pan-African tech solutions provider, Vatebra Limited, has won the award for the Technology Company of the Year for 2017.The announcement was made at the Nigerian Technology Awards Ceremony held in Lagos.

In winning the most coveted award of the night, Vatebra topped the list of nominees in a category with some industry big names. Having bagged the same award in 2016, Vatebra has concretized its position as the backbone of Information Technology in Africa.

Nigeria Technology Awards (NiTA) is an award organized to recognize, celebrate and reward Technology Entrepreneurs, Innovators, Academicians, Inventors and policy makers (Government) in Nigeria. The Awards as projected by the organisers is aimed at building a large scale and internationally recognized Technology Awards in Nigeria.

By rewarding professional expertise in the technology space the organisers of this worthy cause have in many ways helped to build a culture that will in return promote innovation, healthy competition and improve service delivery.

Vatebra’s Managing Director, Kunle Akinniran, who received the award on behalf of the company said, “Vatebra is honoured to receive this great award; and in a special way we would like to thank our customers, partners, policy makers and other stakeholders who challenge us to do better every time, thereby fostering our drive for excellence”.

Vatebra is behind some of the critically acclaimed tech successes in Africa such as the Deployment of Customised Solutions, Mobile applications, Identity Solutions/Biometrics, e-payment solutions and many others. The Company was established in 2003 as Fleet Technologies Limited in order to bridge the gap in the provision of competent and dependable Software Solutions in Nigeria and Africa. Vatebra has presence in Lagos, Abuja, Accra, Freetown and Nairobi.

 By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

Google pulls YouTube from Amazon devices

Rare public spat in the technology industry escalated when Google said it would block its video streaming application YouTube from two Amazon.com Inc devices.

Google also criticized the online retailer for not selling Google hardware, Media reports on Wednesday.

The feud is the latest in Silicon Valley to put customers in the crossfire of major competitors.

Amazon and Google, which is owned by Alphabet Inc, square off in many areas, from cloud computing and online search, to selling voice-controlled gadgets like the Google Home and Amazon Echo Show.

The stakes are high: many in the technology industry expect that interacting with computers by voice will become widespread, and it is unclear if Amazon, Google or another company will dominate the space.

Amazon’s suite of voice-controlled devices has outsold Google’s so far, according to a study by research firm eMarketer from earlier this year.

In a statement, Google said, ”Amazon doesn’t carry Google products like Chromecast and Google Home, doesn’t make (its) Prime Video available for Google Cast users, and last month stopped selling some of (our sister company) Nest’s latest products.

“Given this lack of reciprocity, we are no longer supporting YouTube on Echo Show and Fire TV. We hope we can reach an agreement to resolve these issues soon,” Google said.

Amazon said in a statement, “Google is setting a disappointing precedent by selectively blocking customer access to an open website.”

It said it hoped to resolve the issue with Google as soon as possible but customers could access YouTube through the internet – not an app – on the devices in the meantime.

The break has been a long time coming.

Amazon kicked the Chromecast, Google’s television player, off its retail website in 2015, along with Apple Inc’s TV player.

Amazon had explained the move by saying it wanted to avoid confusing customers who might expect its Prime Video service to be available on devices sold by Amazon.

Amazon and Apple mended ties earlier this year when it was announced Prime Video would come to Apple TV; not so with Google.

In September, Google cut off YouTube from the Amazon Echo Show, which had displayed videos on its touchscreen without video recommendations, channel subscriptions and other features.

Amazon later reintroduced YouTube to the device.

However, the voice commands it added violated the use terms and on Tuesday Google again removed the service.

The Fire TV loses access to its YouTube app on Jan. 1, Google said.

Amazon has sold that device for longer than the Echo Show, meaning more customers may now be affected.

 By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

Inlaks employs 13 trainees in ATM management

Inlaks, an information technology and infrastructure solutions provider, has offered automatic employment to 13 persons that graduated from its IT academy in Lagos. The beneficiaries were trained in the management of automated teller machines.

The company, which provides IT solutions to financial institutions, telecom, oil and gas companies, among others, said the beneficiaries, who were drawn from different parts of the country.

The Director, Infrastructure Business Unit, Inlaks, Tope Dare, said the company decided to train people who were unemployed to fill the vacancy it needed instead of going through the usual recruitment process of employment.

According to him, the company received about 220 applications when it made its plans public. He added that after an online test was conducted for them, 15 of them emerged successful. He stated that the 15 persons were invited to Inlaks Academy in Lagos for the training, which lasted six months.

At the end of the exercise, Dare said 13 of the trainees were employed by the company, while one of them withdrew at the end of the exercise. The coordinator of Inlaks ATM Academy, Rahmon Alabi, said the training went beyond ATM management to include stock operation, customer service operation and quality assurance.

He said the training comprised two months intensive classroom training and four months of practical in the workshop and field work. The trainees, he said, were paid monthly stipends and enjoyed other benefits, even though there was no formal agreement signed between them and the company beforehand.

 By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

‘Glee’ star Naya Rivera files for Divorce from Husband

“Glee” actress Naya Rivera has again filed for divorce from her husband Ryan Dorsey, 3 years after tying the knot, The Blast reports.

30-year-old Rivera cited irreconcilable differences as a reason for the divorce, according to court documents obtained by The Blast.

The divorce was filed for at the Los Angeles Superior Court just over a week after she allegedly hit her husband while they took their son out for a walk.

This is the second time Rivera is filing for divorce from Dorsey whom she married just 3 months after breaking her engagement with rapper Big Sean.

She had filed for a divorce in November 2016, but eventually asked the court to dismiss the paperwork.

She is requesting joint legal and physical custody of their 27-month-old son, Josey Hollis Dorsey, and wants the judge to block either side getting spousal support.

She listed November 24 as the day of separation on the divorce papers, which is day after the altercation with Dorsey took place.

By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

President Trump Absent At Kennedy Awards to avoid ‘Political Distraction’

Some of the biggest names in music have been honoured by the Kennedy Center on Sunday, December 3, in an awards ceremony the President of the United States, Donald Trump purposefully missed.

The White House said in August that Donald Trump and his wife wouldn't attend the show to avoid any "political distraction," after threats of a boycott.

Traditionally, attendees are treated to a reception with the President and First Lady.

Celebrated singers Lionel Richie and Gloria Estefan, rapper LL Cool J, television producer Norman Lear and dancer Carmen de Lavallade were all honoured for their contribution to the arts.

Estefan, 60, who was born in Havana, Cuba, said she was thankful Trump chose not to attend. She said,
"I really appreciate that the President had the thought to let us shine on this night and avoid the controversy."

Richie was humbled by the award.
"This is from America. This is actually America saying, we're very proud of your contribution. And we want to show you how proud we are of you. That says a lot".

By Ogodogun  Oghenekevwe

11 Interesting African Facts

Once called the Dark Continent, Africa is full of extraordinary wonders! While many might guess a few interesting facts about the world’s hottest continent (pun intended) there’s always room to learn more about our motherland! Here are some interesting facts about Africa.

1.

Originally used by Ancient Greeks and Romans, the term “Africa” means “sunny” in Latin and ‘Aphrike’ in Greek means “without cold”. They would use the term in reference to only the northern regions of the continent.

2.

Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world. It is located in East-Central Africa along the equator and borders the countries of Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. The lake receives its water mainly from direct rainfall and thousands of small streams.

3.

Egypt is the most popular tourist destination in Africa, it attracts about 10 million visitors per year and it is mostly known for its pyramids. What many people do not know is that the Republic of Sudan actually has double the number of pyramids in Egypt.

4.

Ever heard of the oldest known mathematical object? It’s called the Lebombo bone, which dates back to approximately 35,000 B.C and was discovered in the Lebombo Mountains of Swaziland.

5.

Scholars once described the West African city of Timbuktu in Mali, as “the Paris of the Medieval World”. During its Golden Age the city was home to numerous Islamic scholars, important trading networks, and ancient intellectual cultures including medieval manuscripts, poetry by women, legal reflections, and inventive scientific dialogues.

6.

Part of the Star Wars movie, starring George Lucas was actually filmed in the Tunisian Sahara Desert.

7.

Africa inhabits four of the five fastest land animals in the world. These include the cheetah, the wildebeest, the lion, and the Thomson’s gazelle. All of these animals can sprint above 50 miles per hour, while the cheetah races at the top speed of about 70 miles per hour.

8.

The hippo is the deadliest animal in Africa, as hippos are responsible for killing approximately 3,000 people every year. They are strangely aggressive and their big “yawns” usually show off their sizable and sharp teeth. It doesn’t take too much to aggravate a hippo and send them into a tantrum as you can find them fighting daily.

9.

Ethiopia is included in several prominent ancient Greek literature and dramas. The legendary author, Homer of the Illiad and the Odessey, two classic poems which are the central works of ancient Greek Literature, refers to the Ethiopians as a “blameless race” and “amongst the noblest of men”.

10.

According to history, nearly half of the entire world’s gold ever mined has come from Witwatersrand in South Africa.

11.

Africa is home the world’s largest frog called the Goliath frog. It can be found in Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon.

By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

ELDee Condemns Human Trafficking in African Homes

Nigerian-American rapper turned IT Consultant Olanrewaju Dabiri, popularly known as Eldee has condemned what he describes as “other forms of slavery” that exists in Africa and beyond the continent. Following the recent news about the thriving slave trade of African migrants in Libya, eLDee has come out to air his own views on the issue, saying that we need to inspect all the ways in which we enslave others.

eLDee called out everyone for only making a statement about an issue when it is convenient.

The other forms of slavery he mentioned were child labour, underpayment of the house helps from different African countries who work like slaves from dusk until dawn only to make N10,000 a month, declaring that they must be put to a stop.

In a series of tweets he posted, he made it clear that everyone who had ever paid for a maid was just as guilty as the slave trader in Libya.

By Oghenekevwe Ogodogun

 

Internet records 900% growth over a decade

The last 17 years have been very eventful for the Internet economy, growing nearly 900 per cent from 400 million in 2000 to 3.5 billion users as at today. As such, the Internet has had an unprecedented impact on the economy and societies around the globe.
 
The Internet Society, which gave this statistics, noted that the Internet is no longer just the home of email, static webpages and discussion boards; today’s Internet is so much more. It now a dynamic space for collaboration, commerce and expression.
 
According to it, video currently accounts for more than two-thirds of all Internet traffic in the world, and people accessing the Internet via a mobile device now outnumber those connecting from a computer. The Internet has changed political systems, revolutionized business, and reshaped communities worldwide.

In spite of all this dynamism, certain properties of the Internet persist. These properties, which are called invariants, have been the foundation for the Internet since its earliest days. At the same time, it is because of these invariants that the Internet has become such a dynamic resource. These technical properties are at the heart of the Internet’s success — they provide users with the ability to fully benefit from the Internet.
 
These invariants include global reach, general purpose, accessibility, interoperability, collaboration, supports for innovation without permission, among others. Internet penetration and usage varies widely across the world. For instance, in Africa, urban areas generally have higher penetration rates than rural areas do. As of 2017, 388 million of the continent’s 1.25 billion people are online, with 160 million holding Facebook accounts. Out of the 388 million users, Nigeria accounted for 91.5 million with Kenya following with 44 million people on the Internet. The African region is still adjudged as continent with the slowest growth.
 
However, For Africans to benefit from the opportunities the Internet has provided, the Internet Society believed that there was need for governments in the region to know what these opportunities are and ensure that they remove the hurdles that stop countries and citizens from benefiting from them.
 
Africa Region Bureau Director for the Internet Society, Dawit Bekele, believes that with right policies the continent can benefit immensely from the Internet economy. Bekele said Africa needed a secure and reliable Internet infrastructure that users trust in order to bring large and small businesses online, along with governments and other social services.
  
He explained that the Internet Society in collaboration with the African Union (AU) recently introduced Internet Infrastructure Security Guidelines for Africa to help AU member states strengthen the security of their local Internet infrastructure through actions at a regional, national, ISP/operator and organizational level.
 
According to him, in Kenya, the Internet economy already represents 3.6 per cent of the country’s GDP and in other developing countries 1.3 per cent of GDP comes from the Internet economy. He said the McKinsey Global Institute predicted that in addition to contributions to GDP, the Internet will deliver productivity gains across Africa.
These productivity gains, according to him, are across six key sectors: financial services, education, health, retail, agriculture and government are projected to be valued at between $148billion and $318billion by 2025.However, he noted that a thriving Internet economy in Africa could be put at risk by the increasing number of Internet shutdowns in the region.
 
He revealed that in 2016 alone, there were at least 56 shutdowns of the Internet around the world. “These shutdowns affect individuals and organisations that depend on the Internet for their daily lives, and have negative effects on the economy.
  

By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

To get that Hot Post Baby Body, Here's an advice...

Giving birth to a child is one of the most amazing things that could ever happen to a woman. On the other hand, getting your body back in shape after childbirth is a harrowing task many never succeed at. We see out celebrities with amazing post-baby bodies do you ever wonder how they do it.

If you do, then you are not alone. Women who have gone through the process of bringing a child into the world will quickly tell you that fighting the added weight is very difficult. The secret to how others get back in shape in no time is not so secret after all and it has only a little to do with how much care they can afford.

An average woman may not be able to pay for nannies, personal chef, nutritionist, personal trainer and the works, but there are simple things you can do that will work like magic.

Consistently doing these 4 things will help you get your body back in no time

1. Don’t be afraid to sweat

There is no escaping it, exercise is the number one secret celebrities use to get back in shape after childbirth. You might not be able to afford a personal trainer or even to register with a gym but right in your home, you can come up with a schedule for your work outs. Wait for your doctor to give you the go ahead first; usually you can start exercising 6 weeks postpartum. If you are also currently pregnant, keep moving. There are loads of exercise tutorials to this effect online; take advantage of them.

2. Always eat healthy

You don’t need a doctor or a nutritionist to tell you that fruits in place of pastry are better for your body. While you work on exercising to get your body back, the kind of food you eat will determine how much progress you will make. Drinking lots of water, cutting down on carbohydrates and opting for more protein right from your pregnancy stage till after birth will put your body in a better condition to snap back. Creating good food habits while pregnant makes it easier for you to follow through after giving birth.

3.  Take time-off for yourself

Don’t be alarmed, we are not saying you should leave your baby and take off. Taking time-off for yourself to rest and relax means you accept all the help you can get and make use of it. You might not be able to afford a nanny or housekeeper to do things in your stead but think of family members who will be willing to take care of things while you take a nap every now and then. Some of these times should be spent in the company of your significant other as well. It will help you bond better and just enjoy parenthood.

4. Dress strategically

Your outfits can cover up a lot while you try to get back that hot body. Even without a stylist, picking outfits that will flatter your post-baby body can give the illusion of a hot one. Upgrading your wardrobe a bit might be necessary here and make sure you go for pieces you feel confident in. Feeling good in what you have on will help you pay less attention to the ‘flabby bits’. Also remember that nothing looks sexier on a woman than her confidence.

By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

 

Emem (Kush), Manager of Peter Okoye (Mr P)

Peter Okoye, now known by his stage name Mr P of the defunct group P Square, has announced Emem Ema of the rested musical girl group Kush, as his new manager.

Other members of the Kush group included celebrity photographer TY Bello and Gospel singer Lara George.

Mr P, who made the announcement on his Instagram page with two photos of himself and Emem, wrote:

“Formal introduction! Meet my manager @vzhun Welcome to the PClassic team…

Her contact details on my bio…Work Mode! #Manager#Pclassic#coolitdown#formyhead”

The group P Square finally split when Peter set social media on fire after posting a Snapchat video revealing that he was in Philadelphia, on his own for a solo show, without his twin brother, Paul. He said:

“My name is Mr P, as from today, guess what? It’s show time, I’m about to go on stage.”

He accused his twin Paul of no longer being willing to cooperate with him and even went as far as cancelling their scheduled music tour to the United States.

Peter stressed that he was tired of the “drama” and all he wanted was to opt out of the Psquare group and contract.

He also demanded a termination of the agreement as a group based on serious allegations against his twin Paul and their elder brother and manager, Jude.

By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

‘It’s a Baby Boy’- Kevin Hart And Eniko Parrish

Comedian Kevin Hart and wife Eniko Parrish have welcomed their son.

Hart announced the news on his Twitter page on Tuesday, including the name of their baby boy.

Kevin Hart has announced the birth of his third child. He wrote:

“God is truly amazing….Kenzo Kash Hart was born at 1:45am. He is Healthy & already smiling. Thank you all for your prayers!!!! We love & appreciate ya.”

Kenzo is the first child of the couple. Hart already has two children with ex-wife Torrei Hart –a daughter, Heaven, 12, and a son, Hendrix, 10.

Hart’s children attended his lavish wedding ceremony with Parrish last year after the couple had been dating for several years.

The couple announced they were expecting a baby back in May and had the baby shower last month.

 By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

Infinix Zero 5 model in Nigeria

Sequel to the recent unveiling of Infinix Zero 5 model in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) last week, Chinese company, Infinix Nigeria, has launched the flagship model in Lagos.
  

Speaking on the model, Global Head of Infinix, Benjamin Jiang, said: “the Zero series at large has been our flagship product globally by virtue of its innovative feature and validates our research and development (R&D) prowess. It has witnessed brilliant performance in key global market such as Africa.” Highlighting the vision of the firm, he said, “Our vision is to take Smartphone photography to a level where it bridges the gap between amateur and professional photography.

“With the innovative design of the Zero 5, incredible dual camera, 2x optical zoom and overall performance, it bridges the narrowing gap between Smartphone and tablet, and we believe this new device speaks to the middle class consumer demand in the dual-camera Smartphone segment.
  
“The Zero 5 Smartphone is Infinix most high-end technologically- advanced product to date. The Chinese company will target a new generation of customer and firmly believe that the Zero 5 innovative design and feature particularly the camera will shock the industry and offer best-in-class products in the Smartphone sector.
 
“Using android’s nougat operating platform, the Zero 5 boasts an optical loom dual camera and massive 16MP front-facing camera, rear fingerprint scanner and protective screen feature.’’
 
The Zero 5 rear dual camera uses both a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 13 mp telephoto lens, with a 2x optical zoom and 10x digital zoom, and an f/2.0 aperture. There is also a special portrait Master Mode that uses an RGBW sensor and multi-frame noise reduction technology to assist users in capturing the perfect hero shot.
  
According to Jiang, the outstanding feature of the Zero 5 is unquestionably the front camera dubbed the selfie camera. The selfie camera is a mega 16MP four-in-one camera with an LED flash to boot, “in a market where the selfie is king and Instagram reigns supreme, Infinix expects the 16 MP front camera to take things to a new level and become a must have accessory for selfie lovers.”

By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe

‘Despacito’ Wins Big at Latin Grammys

‘Despacito,’  the viral dance hit that swept past borders, won big Thursday at the Latin Grammys where singer Luis Fonsi announced a new frontier for the song — the Chinese-speaking world.

“Despacito” won four awards including Record of the Year and Song of the Year, which recognizes writing, in the year’s biggest night for Spanish- and Portuguese-language music.

The infectious reggaeton tune, which Fonsi sings with a rap assist from fellow Puerto Rican Daddy Yankee, was already a global hit when a remix featuring Justin Bieber brought it into the US mainstream.

“Despacito” became the most-watched video ever on YouTube and tied for most weeks on number one of the US singles chart — a feat all the more impressive considering how few non-English songs fare well in the world’s largest music market.

“It’s been a beautiful year. Twelve or 11 months of hard work representing our language in the entire world and enjoying a song that, thanks to Latin audiences and many beyond, has become so influential and has united the entire world and broken language barriers,” Fonsi told reporters at the gala in Las Vegas.

Fonsi is not done with “Despacito.” He announced he will launch a new version in two weeks with Singaporean singer and producer JJ Lin, a star in Mandarin-language pop.

“I sang a little bit in Mandarin. The song has become a worldwide phenomenon and singing it in Mandarin is an honour,” said Fonsi, who will tour Asia next year.
After working with Bieber, Fonsi has a collaboration ready with another North American star — “Echame La Culpa” (“Blame Me”), a new song that comes out Friday featuring Demi Lovato.

Fonsi described “Despacito” as an “ode to Puerto Rico” — ravaged in September by Hurricane Maria — and thanked Daddy Yankee, who was noticeably absent from the Latin Grammys.

 

Daddy Yankee recently told Puerto Rican newspaper, El Nuevo Dia, that he no longer wanted to perform “Despacito,” explaining, “Songs have their moment and they have to evolve.”

Fonsi denied any rift, saying both Daddy Yankee and Bieber: “They are my brothers and without them, I would not have achieved this.”

Panamanian singer Erika Ender, a co-writer of “Despacito,” found a more political meaning to the song which triumphed in the United States just after Donald Trump won the US presidential election after campaigning to get tough against immigration.

“This is a song that can break any type of barriers or walls,” she said, in a clear allusion to Trump’s pledge to build a wall on the Mexican border.

 By Ogodogun Oghenekevwe