Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

Billionaire businessman Femi Otedola’s eldest daughter, Tolani, has captured attention after flaunting a rare Japanese crown melon valued at £150 (about ?300,000) converted to nigeria currency

The rare fruit, weighing approximately 150 pounds, is highly prized in Japan for its meticulous cultivation.

Farmers are known to nurture each melon with exceptional precision and care, often comparing the process to raising a child.

In a video shared online, Tolani referred to it as a ‘special melon,’ expressing her admiration for unique and exotic fruits.

She praised its rich aroma and juiciness, noting her appreciation for its exceptional quality.

Playfully, Tolani joked that such luxurious treats could easily win her heart, admitting that she sometimes skips dates because ‘the way to her heart is through her stomach.’

Although she humorously questioned whether the hefty price truly matched the taste, she seemed delighted by the experience, calling it a unique culinary indulgence.

This is not the first time the billionaire heiress has attracted attention online.

She previously went viral after showcasing an exotic luxury mango she purchased.

She said ‘This melon was 150 pounds. This was a present that I received. If you know me, you know that the way to this girl’s stomach, no, the way to this girl’s heart is through her stomach, especially fruit, strange and crazy fruit.

She continued ‘So this is a crown melon. It’s one of those special melons that, you know, in Japan, they have these like people who tend to these melons like they’re their babies. That’s one of these.’

She expressed amazement at its juiciness and aroma, describing it as one of the most flavorful fruits she had ever tasted.

‘The melon is extremely expensive it costs about 150 pounds,’ she said,

adding that its rich taste and freshness made it a memorable experience. Tolani humorously noted that her enthusiastic way of eating was one reason she avoids dining out, before ending the clip by saying she needed to take the fruit inside to enjoy it properly.

Nigerian artist and cultural researcher, Zainab Nneka Odemwingie, has called for renewed efforts to preserve and promote African folklore and identity.

Odemwingie, who is pushing for cultural preservation, said that generations of children are growing up disconnected from their roots due to the dominance of Western fairy tales.

Speaking at a media briefing during the presentation of her heritage project My African Baby, she said that the overwhelming exposure of African children to characters like Cinderella and Princess Elsa has erased awareness of the continent’s rich heritage, historical figures, and traditional stories.

Odemwingie said: ‘Growing up, I kept wondering where the dolls and fairy tales that looked like me were. Where were the African princesses whose stories reflected our roots and history?

‘Our children know foreign characters by heart, but many of them have never heard of Queen Idia or the legends of our ancestors.’

She explained that she has dedicated her art and research to reviving Africa’s forgotten stories using contemporary tools that appeal to younger audiences.

Beyond traditional paintings, she said her works employ comics, visual storytelling and immersive virtual reality experiences to retell the stories of African heroes and kingdoms.

Her artworks including Ivie Ogho, Faces of Ancestry, and Fulani Elegance as well as her comics and exhibitions, all aim to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity.

She urged the Federal Government to support creatives working in this space through better funding, infrastructure, and easier access to relevant institutions.

‘In other countries, it’s easy to access tourism agencies, funding opportunities and research facilities. Here, it’s almost impossible to even meet officials. We need policies that improve accessibility and provide proper funding so that artists can preserve our stories and present them to the next generation’, she said.

President Bola Tinubu has called on Plateau residents to be peaceful and unite for the progress and growth of the nation.

Tinubu made the call while speaking at the Funeral Service of Nana Lydia Yilwatda on Saturday in Jos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the deceased was the mother of Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Tinubu called on Plateau residents and Nigerians in general to shun religious and ethnic differences.

‘I inherited Islam from my family, I didn’t change; but my wife is a pastor and she prays for me at all times.

‘I have never convinced or converted her; I believe in the freedom of religion.

‘We are praying and answerable to the same Almighty God. We will account to Him of our deeds and character.

‘So, our love to others is what matters; we must learn to live together as one people,’he said.

Also speaking, Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau thanked the president for finding time out of his tight schedule to attend the funeral service.

The governor, who identified insecurity as the majority set back to the growth of the state, said that his administration had put modalities in place to promote peaceful coexistence and tranquility in Plateau.

Mutfwang seized the opportunity to thank the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu for supporting the displaced and vulnerable women and children in the state.

Earlier, Yilwatda, the chief mourner, said that his mother was a dedicated, committed and loving wife, who largely led a life of service to humanity.

‘She was a strong, loyal and determined woman; she led an exemplary lifestyle full of sacrifice and humility.

‘My parents, particularly my mother lived for others; whatever I give her, she shares it with our neighbours.

‘That is the woman that we are celebrating today,’he said.

The APC national chairman thanked the president, governors, members of the national assembly, the government of Plateau and all Nigerians for standing by him and his siblings during their moment of grief.

NAN reports that the deceased, 83, would be interred in Dungung, Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau.

Strategic partners of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on President Federation Cup, GTI Group, have congratulated the football ruling body in the country on their successful staging of its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in the city of Ibadan last weekend.

GTI’s Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, in a statement commended the NFF Board for the successful outcome of the AGM and thumbed up its Board led by Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau for the successes achieved so far for football development in Nigeria.

He said: ‘GTI Group congratulates the Nigeria Football Federation on the successful outcome of its Annual General Meeting held in Ibadan, which the President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, used the occasion to demonstrate his commitment to engaging positively with football stakeholders, including state football associations, clubs and fans. His interactions with the various groups at the AGM showcased his impactful leadership and dedication to promoting Nigerian football and fostering a collaborative environment.

‘His tenure has also seen notable successes in Nigerian football, including the Super Falcons’ recent achievements and the positive growth of domestic competitions like the Nigeria Premier Football League, in which GTI Group is their strategic partner.

‘Aside the aforementioned, GTI commends Governor Seyi Makinde and the good people of Oyo State for their hospitality and great support during the NFF AGM. His Excellency used the occasion to appreciate the improvement in the quality of officiating in the Nigeria Premier Football League ably led by Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye.

‘However, it is unfortunate that both Kwara United and Abia Warriors crashed out at the preliminary phase of the CAF Confederation Cup last weekend and this clearly shows that Nigerian clubs competing at the continental level should raise their game in order to compete favourably with better outcomes. The future is still bright for our clubs at the continental level and that is why GTI Group has been calling on Corporate Nigeria to invest more in our football as it is done in other thriving leagues elsewhere in the world.

‘To Remo Stars and Rivers United, who are flying Nigeria’s flag currently at the preliminary stage of the CAF Champions League, we encourage them to dig deep and ensure they remain committed to having a successful campaign. They should endeavour to give our soccer fans something to cheer for this season because we understand the demands of competing for trophies at the continental level could be quite enormous,’ Ekejiuba concluded.

The Premier League enters its seventh with the Chelsea and Liverpool clash the biggest fixture of the weekend’s action. All games will be broadcast live on SuperSport Premier League (GOtv Ch. 65, DStv Ch. 203).

The action kicks off today at 12:30 pm with Leeds United hosting Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs remain unbeaten and will be confident of extending their strong run, though Elland Road has often proven a tricky venue for visiting teams.

At 3:00 pm, Arsenal welcome West Ham United to the Emirates. The Gunners are chasing momentum in their title push and will see this as an opportunity to build on recent performances, while the Hammers hope to cause an upset. At the same time, Manchester United face Sunderland at Old Trafford. United will look to assert themselves against a side battling near the bottom of the table. Wolverhampton Wanderers also take on Brighton and Hove Albion in another 3:00 pm kick-off.

The standout match of the weekend follows at 5:30 pm, when Chelsea host Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. The Blues aim to steady their campaign after an inconsistent start, while Liverpool travel with attacking firepower but remain defensively vulnerable.

Tomorrow, Newcastle United welcome Nottingham Forest at 2:00 pm. Newcastle have struggled for consistency this season but will look to make home advantage count against a spirited Forest side.

Later at 4:30 pm, Brentford host champions Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s men are strong favourites, especially after their ruthless display last weekend, though Brentford have previously proven capable of unsettling bigger opponents. Catch all the action live on SuperSport via GOtv and DStv.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said 16 military officers will face a full military disciplinary process over indiscipline and breach of service regulations.

The Military High Command revealed this in a statement through the Director Defence Information, Brig -Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Saturday.

According to the statement, the officers have been arrested, while investigation is still ongoing to determine the gravity of their offences.

The statement reads: ‘Investigations have revealed that their grievances stemmed largely from perceived career stagnation caused by repeated failure in promotion examinations, among other issues.

‘Some of the apprehended officers had been under jurisdiction for various offences, either awaiting or undergoing trial. Their conduct was deemed incompatible with the standards of military service.

‘Upon completion of investigation, indicted officers will face the full military disciplinary process in accordance with established procedures to ensure accountability and preserve professionalism within the Armed Forces.’

While assuring Nigerians that the actions are strictly disciplinary in nature and part of routine efforts to maintain order, discipline, and loyalty within the ranks, the military high command said the ‘Armed Forces of Nigeria will not tolerate behaviour that undermines the integrity of the institution or threatens its constitutional role under democratic authority.’

‘The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains fully committed to its constitutional responsibilities and will remain professional at all times,’ the DHQ said.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has refuted media reports claiming he accused the late former President Muhammadu Buhari of having ties with Boko Haram, describing the allegations as ‘false and misleading.’

In a statement on Saturday by his media aide, Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan clarified that his recent remarks at the launch of Scars – a book written by former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (rtd) – were taken out of context.

He explained that he merely referenced a past incident in which Boko Haram named Buhari among individuals it wanted to represent them in peace talks, noting that this was part of the group’s deceptive tactics and not an indication of any connection between Buhari and the insurgents.

‘At no time did Dr. Jonathan suggest, imply, or insinuate that President Buhari had any connection with Boko Haram or that he supported the group in any form,’ the statement reads.

‘His remarks were made to illustrate the deviousness and manipulative strategies employed by Boko Haram in their early years.’

The former president emphasised that the mention of Buhari’s name by the insurgents was one of several false claims made by factions pretending to represent Boko Haram at the time.

‘Boko Haram often invoked the names of respected public figures to sow confusion, exploit political divisions, and undermine public confidence in government,’ Eze added.

Jonathan’s office further questioned why, if Buhari was truly the group’s chosen negotiator, Boko Haram did not end its violent campaign after he became president.

‘Dr. Jonathan recognises that President Muhammadu Buhari, like every patriotic Nigerian, stood firmly against terrorism and was himself a target of Boko Haram violence,’ the statement continued.

Jonathan urged Nigerians to disregard the misrepresentation, reaffirming his continued commitment to national peace, unity, and democratic stability.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness among Nigeria’s diverse religious communities, pledging to unite the country under a shared vision of peace and prosperity.

Speaking at the headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Jos, Plateau State, Tinubu told Christian leaders from Northern Nigeria that his government is dedicated to ensuring justice and inclusivity for all citizens regardless of faith.

According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said: ‘I have a mission to unite this country, ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress’.

He urged clerics to have faith in his leadership, adding that religious harmony remains essential to national stability.

‘As leaders, we have the responsibility to manage religious issues for the benefit of all,’ he added.

Tinubu also assured the gathering that his administration is determined to end insecurity and criminality.

‘We are defeating bandits, and we will defeat them. We will deal with them and combat the farmers-herders clashes,’ he declared, noting that ongoing economic reforms are being executed to benefit every Nigerian.

The President was in Jos to attend the funeral prayers for Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who died at the age of 83.

Paying tribute to the late matriarch, Tinubu described her as ‘a devoted mother and humanitarian.’

‘In our family, we have a strong Muslim background, and I married a Christian, a pastor for that matter, and I have never forced her to change her religion,’ the President said, stressing his belief in mutual respect and coexistence.

He recalled his political journey through Jos during the Social Democratic Party (SDP) era and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return as President to honour the late Mrs. Yilwatda.

Yilwatda described his late mother as a resilient woman who lived on medication for 47 years yet worked tirelessly for her family and community.

He thanked the President for attending the funeral and for the trust reposed in him as APC chairman.

Reverend Dr Amos Mohzo, President and Spiritual Leader of COCIN, lauded President Tinubu for appointing Northern Christians to key national positions, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and Professor Yilwatda.

He also praised the administration’s attention to insecurity in Plateau and Benue States and appealed for more support for displaced Christian communities.

Mohzo pledged the Church’s support for the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his efforts toward peace and national development.

Dignitaries at the event included Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman; National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

Others were former SGF Boss Mustapha, former governors Tanko Al-Makura, Adamu Mu’azu, Fidelis Tapgun, Yahaya Bello, and Rochas Okorocha, as well as lawmakers, ministers, and members of the APC National Working Committee.

Gospel singer Moses Bliss has expressed disappointment over his recent cancelled visit to Tanzania, which was scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025.

Bliss was billed to perform at a concert in Tanzania, which drew over 60,000 people.

In a statement on Instagram, he said despite weeks of preparation and assurance from the organising team that his team’s visas were in order, they were denied entry into the country at the last minute.

However, due to the visa issues, the concert was ultimately cancelled.

Moses Bliss apologised to the Tanzanian fans, pointing that the delay was not their fault and expressed gratitude for their love and patience.

The singer revealed that his team had invested significant time, energy, and resources into the concert, which was meant to be free for everyone.

He promised to reschedule the concert, reinstating God’s promise to make all things beautiful in His time.

The statement reads: ‘I have been overwhelmed with emotions since hearing that over maybe 60,000 of you gathered last night with eager hearts, ready to worship Jesus together with me. The thought that such a great multitude came out for this encounter with God leaves me humbled and broken, knowing I could not be there physically as planned.

‘I want you to hear the truth directly from me. My team and I were scheduled to fly from Nairobi into Tanzania on the 2nd of October after a successful program in the stadium in Kenya. Bags were packed, instruments ready, and our hearts burning with anticipation. But at the airport, to our deepest shock, we discovered that our visas had not been released, despite weeks of assurance from the organizing team in Tanzania that the approvals were already in place.

‘From that moment, we did not relent. We mobilized every contact possible, leaders across Tanzania, friends across Africa, and even sought Presidential intervention. We were told, time after time, that the visas had been ‘approved,’ only for another excuse to follow: that the officer in charge of issuing them was not on seat, or that emails had not been sent yet. For two days straight, I remained at the airport, waiting in faith, hoping that at any moment the approvals would come and we travel. But each hour ended with disappointment.

‘We were even instructed to proceed with our flight and assured that the visas would be granted on arrival. Trusting those words, we boarded and landed in Dar es Salaam at midnight, while the program was already ongoing. To our deepest pain, immigration did not permit us entry into the nation.

‘This was not just painful for me personally, it was heartbreaking for my entire team, who had invested their energy, prayers, and preparation into this divine assignment. Beyond that, hundreds of thousands of dollars were

invested to make this concert absolutely free for everyone, because our hearts was to see the whole nation worship without barrier.

‘Tanzania, please hear me, you were not at fault. You came out in numbers, ready for God, and that moves me deeply. I have cried, prayed, and wrestled with this disappointment, but one thing I know, our God makes all things beautiful in His time.

‘I owe you not just an apology, but a promise; by God’s grace, I will return. This setback will only pave the way for an even greater outpouring of His glory when we finally gather in Tanzania.

‘From my heart to yours, I say thank you for your patience, your love, and your unwavering faith. The delay may hurt, but it will not deny us the encounter God has destined’.

Controversial comedian and reality TV star DeeOne has completed a Guinness World Record (GWR) attempt for the longest stand-up comedy performance by an individual.

According to organisers, the comedian began the 52-hour marathon at midnight on October 2 and wrapped it up on Saturday, October 4, 2025.

The event, which held at Pallazzo, Ikeja, Lagos, drew a large turnout of supporters and industry colleagues.

Speaking after the record-breaking effort, DeeOne explained that his motivation was to inspire young Nigerians and dreamers everywhere.

‘No goal is too high to achieve,’ he said.

several Nigerian celebrities, including Pamilerin, Acapella, FunnyBone, Uche Maduagwu, Husband Material, EmmaOhMaGod, K-Solo, Constance Owoyemi, Akinolu Jekins, and Gbenga Adeyinka the 1st attended the event.

The attempt has been submitted to Guinness World Records for official verification.