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Naira Marley not our ambassador for anti-drug abuse campaign – NDLEA

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Contrary to the information flying around, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has said the visit of Afrobeats star Afeez Adeshina Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, to the agency was not for an ambassadorial role.

 

In a surprise development, Marley visited the anti-narcotic body’s headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, August 17, 2023, where he also met the agency’s Executive Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.).

 

Following the visit, the singer appeared in a video on social media where he was seen preaching to youths and teenagers to desist from abusing drugs.

 

In the wake of the development, the social media went agog, with many suggesting that Marley had bagged an ambassadorial role with the NDLEA during the visit.

 

Reacting to this in a statement on Saturday, August 19, 2023, the NDLEA spokesman, Femi Babafemi, said the agency’s engagement with the controversial artiste was to encourage him to use his platform and influence to put out content that will discourage millions of his followers from abusing substances.

 

“This clarification became necessary following continued misrepresentation of the purpose of the visit especially on online platforms where some reports suggest that the British-Nigerian singer was appointed as an NDLEA Ambassador.”

 

“This is a misleading and absolute falsehood as the pictures of the visit and the short video containing Naira Marley’s advocacy message to his followers were properly captioned and shared by the Agency without any suggestion of such an appointment.

 

“The decision by the Agency to encourage Naira Marley with over seven million followers, half the population of those who abuse drugs in Nigeria, to use his platform to share anti-substance abuse messages as against using same to promote and glamourize drug abuse with the dire consequence of misleading millions of Nigerian youths into their peril, is to create a balance between our drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.

 

“This is also in line with the Agency’s whole society approach to the fight against drug abuse and in tune with global best practices as well as the theme for this year’s World Drug Day; People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention,” the statement read in part.

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Portable takes London by storm, rubs shoulders with Skepta at British Fashion Awards

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Portable takes London by storm, rubs shoulders with Skepta at British Fashion Awards

Nigerian Street-Hop sensation, Habeeb ‘Portable’ Okikiola, stole the spotlight at the prestigious British Fashion Awards as he reveled in the company of British-Nigerian rapper Skepta. The Royal Albert Hall in London witnessed the dynamic duo making waves on Monday, December 4, 2023, as Portable strutted down the red carpet in style, leaving an indelible mark on the star-studded event.

 

Numerous videos circulating on the internet captured the lively artist’s unforgettable moments, showcasing his infectious energy and unabashed joy. The controversial artist, known for his unique style, turned heads as he walked the red carpet alongside Skepta and his entourage, drawing cheers from adoring fans who couldn’t get enough of the unexpected duo.

 

Dressed in his signature snazzy suit, with the daring choice of no shirt beneath the blazer, Portable posed gallantly for the cameras. The internet buzzed with excitement as fans shared their delight at witnessing the Street-Hop sensation making a statement on such a grand stage.

 

In a heartwarming clip, Portable exhibited his softer side as he met the renowned singer Tiwa Savage. The artist’s infectious smile reached its peak as he embraced Tiwa, affectionately referring to her as his “godmother.” Overflowing with admiration, Portable expressed, “I don see my godmother, my godmother. God bless you mami. I’m happy to see you, and God bless you.”

 

The artist took to his Instagram account to keep fans and followers in the loop, sharing a series of pictures and videos capturing his memorable moments at the award show. Among the highlights was a viral clip where Portable serenaded Skepta with one of his songs, creating a unique and unscripted musical collaboration that resonated with fans worldwide.

 

As Portable continues to make waves beyond Nigerian borders, his unexpected camaraderie with Skepta at the British Fashion Awards adds a new chapter to his remarkable journey. The fusion of cultures and musical influences on display at the event showcases the global appeal of Nigerian music, solidifying Portable’s status as a rising star in the international music scene.

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Portable extends collaboration request to Wizkid and Davido after former’s philanthropic gesture

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Portable extends collaboration request to Wizkid and Davido after former's philanthropic gesture

Street Pop sensation Portable has once again grabbed the headlines, this time with a direct request for Nigerian music icons Wizkid and Davido. In response to Wizkid’s recent philanthropy towards rising hypeman GEO, Portable took to his Instagram account to remind everyone that he was the catalyst behind Wizkid’s initial inclination to show love to the streets.

 

Portable’s claims find merit in a previous appearance on The Honest Bunch Podcast, where he urged Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy to “show love to the trenches.” Following Wizkid’s generous gift of 20 million naira to GEO after the viral success of Portable’s single “Big Wizzy (Italawa),” Portable has now voiced his own request in a video.

 

In the video, Portable made it clear that he wasn’t seeking financial assistance from Wizkid; instead, he expressed his desire to collaborate with the Afrobeats megastar on a future project. He also extended a similar request to Davido, asking for a “life-changing verse.”

 

 

Portable, who rose to prominence with the Olamide Baddo-assisted hit single “Zazzu Zeh,” has been actively seeking collaborations with A-list artists. This move follows previous calls to other industry heavyweights such as Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, and Asake as he pursues his superstar ambitions.

 

Despite no responses from the artists on his wish list, Portable remains undeterred in his pursuit of notable collaborations, displaying resilience and determination in his quest for a breakthrough in the Nigerian music scene.

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Ruger’s ‘Asiwaju’ reigns supreme: Most streamed song in Sub-Saharan Africa on Spotify in 2023

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Ruger's 'Asiwaju' reigns supreme: Most streamed song in Sub-Saharan Africa on Spotify in 2023

In a resounding celebration of the global dominance of Nigerian mainstream music, Afrobeats has emerged triumphant on Spotify’s list of the most streamed songs in sub-Saharan Africa for 2023. Notably, eight Nigerian songs have claimed spots in the top 10, underlining the genre’s continuous ascent on the international stage.

Leading the pack is Ruger’s chart-topping single ‘Asiwaju,’ a smash hit that has resonated across the continent and secured its status as the most streamed song in sub-Saharan Africa for the year. The accomplishment highlights Ruger’s prowess and the widespread acclaim his music has garnered.

Following closely at the second spot is Ayra Starr with her sensational track ‘Rush,’ a global hit that propelled her into the international spotlight and earned her a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance. The recognition affirms Ayra Starr’s rising influence in the music industry.

Claiming the fourth spot is the award-winning superstar Asake with ‘Lonely At The Top,’ a compelling single from his sophomore album ‘Work of Art.’ Asake’s ability to blend impactful lyrics with infectious beats has solidified his position among the musical elite.

Omah Lay, one of the most streamed artists in sub-Saharan Africa for 2023, secures the fifth spot with ‘Soso.’ His consistent chart presence reflects the profound impact he continues to have on the music scene.

Notably, Davido makes a double appearance on the list with ‘Feel’ and ‘Unavailable’ claiming the sixth and seventh spots, respectively. The versatility and popularity of Davido’s music are underscored by his dual presence in the top 10.

The complete list of the most streamed songs on Spotify in sub-Saharan Africa for 2023 is as follows:

1. Ruger – Asiwaju
2. Ayra Starr – Rush
3. Tyler ICU – Mnike (feat. DJ Maphorisa, Nandipha808, Cecka RSA & Tyron Dee)
4. Asake – Lonely At The Top
5. Omah Lay – Soso
6. Davido – Feel
7. Davido – Unavailable ft. Musa Keys
8. Libianca – People
9. Burna Boy – Last Last
10. BNXN – GWAGWALADA ft Kizz Daniel, Seyi Vibez

This remarkable achievement not only underscores the influence of Nigerian artists but also highlights the diverse talent and global appeal of Afrobeats. As the genre continues to dominate international music charts, artists like Ruger, Ayra Starr, and Davido are at the forefront of shaping the contemporary sound that resonates with audiences across the world.

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