Mixed reactions trail Kizz Daniel’s cancelation of Lagos concert
Mixed reactions have continued to trailKizz Daniel’s decision to cancel his planned Lagos concert which was slated for this month.Kizz Daniel famous for his major hits like Buga and Cough, on Friday announced that he won’t hold a Lagos concert this December.Kizz Daniel, whose real name is Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe, explained that the decision was not an easy one,citing the harsh economic conditions in Nigeria for his action.According to him, hosting a concert during these trying times could put unnecessary pressure on my fans.In added:”I can’t imagine asking my fans to spend their hard-earned money on concert tickets when they are already struggling with the high cost of living. It doesn’t feel right.”Meanwhile,some fans praised him for his show of empathy, calling his decision thoughtful and considerate.A few others expressed disappointment, saying that they had been looking forward to seeing him perform live in Lagos.A fan wrote, “This is why we love Kizz Daniel. He understands the pains of the people. This is real love for his fans.”On the other hand, another fan said, “I understand the situation, but we also need some joy in these tough times. Music and concerts help us escape.” Kizz Daniel said in X “It’s been a tough year for Nigerians. They have been grappling with severe economic challenges in recent months. Rising inflation, fuel subsidy removal, and a weakening currency have left many struggling to make ends meet. These issues have driven up the cost of basic goods, transportation, and services, putting extra strain on households.”In this context, entertainment expenses, such as concerts, have become less of a priority for many Nigerians. Kizz Daniel’s decision reflects his understanding of the financial struggles faced by his fan base.It would be recalled that recently,many artists,like Kizz Daniel are adjusting to the economic realities in the country.Many performers have also had to scale down plans or seek alternative ways to connect with their fans. Some have opted for virtual concerts, smaller shows, or partnerships to reduce ticket prices.Music analysts believe that this new trend will continue as long as the economic downturn persists. They argue that while music remains a powerful tool for lifting the soul , affordability is now a key factor in concert planning.Kizz Danieldespite the cancelled concert, has assured fans that he is not stepping back from his commitment to bringing joy to them through music. He hinted at exploring other ways to connect with fans without putting financial burden on them.“Music is my way of giving back to the people. I’m working on something special for my fans, and I promise it will be worth the wait,” he said during the session.Kizz Daniel’s thoughtful approach has earned him respect from many in the entertainment industry. His decision to prioritize empathy over profit sets a strong example for others.Looking aheadAs the year draws to a close, many fans will miss the chance to experience Kizz Daniel’s electrifying stage presence in Lagos. However, his message of understanding and solidarity resonates deeply during these challenging times.Kizz Daniel’s choice to pause and reflect is a powerful statement. It underscores the need for artists and audiences to navigate these difficulties together.While Lagos may miss out on a December concert, fans across the world can continue to enjoy Kizz Daniel’s music, which remains a beacon of hope and happiness.
Military leader dissolves Burkina Faso’s government
Burkina Faso’s military ruler, Capt Ibrahim Traoré has sacked his Prime Minister, Apollinaire Joachim Kyelem de Tambela and dissolved the entire government. Capt Ibrahim Traoré seized power in a coup two years ago. The dismissal of the head of government and his cabinet was announced in a decree signed by the junta leader on Friday. The decree did not specify why the prime minister was sacked, but said members of the dissolved government will continue to serve until a new cabinet is appointed. Tambela, a civilian, was named prime minister in 2022, shortly after Ibrahim Traoré seized power in a coup. His dismissal comes barely weeks after another civilian prime minister, Choguel Maïga, was sacked by coup leader Gen Assimi Goïta in neighbouring Mali. It remains unclear if Capt Traoré will emulate his Malian counterpart by appointing a military official as prime minister, to maintain the junta’s grip on power. Burkina Faso, like its Sahel neighbours, continues to face security threats from jihadist groups. Despite promises by the military to improve security, the situation remains dire with frequent attacks from insurgents. There are concerns that junta leaders in the Sahel are trying to prolong their stay in power, by delaying elections meant to return their countries to civilian rule.
I’m one of highest-paid Yoruba-speaking actors – Ibrahim Chatta
Nollywood actor Ibrahim Chatta has addressed claims that he is an underrated actor in the industry. Speaking during an interview on Talk to B, a podcast hosted by his colleague Biola Bayo, Chatta dismissed the notion, emphasizing his gratitude for the grace he has received from God. Contrary to public perception, the Yoruba movie star described himself as fortunate, revealing that he enjoys one of the highest pay rates among Yoruba-speaking actors. He attributed misconceptions about his status to his low-key presence on social media. “And I will say this to my fans: I love you so much. You guys are amazing people. A lot of times, people will say Ibrahim Chatta is underrated. No, I am one lucky bastard. I have enjoyed the grace of God too much. I don’t deserve the things God did to me,” he said. Chatta explained that his charges are well-known among his colleagues in the industry. “I am one of the highest-paid Yoruba-speaking actors. My colleagues know that my charges are high, but because they don’t see me posting things on social media, they think otherwise,” he noted. The actor also expressed appreciation to his fans, acknowledging their role in his success despite his lack of formal education. He revealed that his early career earnings from music and soundtracks allowed him to demand fair compensation for his acting roles, even before his peers began requesting fees for movie appearances.
Palace stun Man City, prolong Guardiola’s men winless away streak
Manchester City’s away-day woes deepened at Selhurst Park as the Premier League champions clawed their way back twice to salvage a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace. This extends their winless streak on the road to six games across all competitions. The drama began early, with Crystal Palace stunning the visitors just four minutes in. Colombian dynamo Daniel Muñoz broke through City’s defences, coolly slotting Will Hughes’s sublime through ball past Stefan Ortega to net his second goal in as many matches. It was a lightning strike that left Pep Guardiola’s men scrambling for a response. Moments later, Erling Haaland almost levelled the score, only for Palace’s Dean Henderson to make a heroic point-blank save. Man City pressed on with unrelenting intensity. İlkay Gundogan rattled the woodwork, while Savinho missed the rebound, curling it agonisingly wide. At the other end, the Citizens faced a defensive trial by fire as Ruben Dias executed a game-saving block to deny Jefferson Lerma’s fierce strike. Just when it seemed City would enter the break trailing, Haaland rose to the occasion, heading home a perfect Matheus Nunes cross for his 13th league goal of the season, restoring parity before halftime. The second half offered no reprieve. Palace struck again, with Maxence Lacroix leaping above Kyle Walker to head Hughes’ corner into the net, earning the midfielder his second assist of the match. But City’s answer came in stunning fashion. Rico Lewis, with poise beyond his years, unleashed an unstoppable shot into the top corner after a Bernardo Silva setup, igniting hopes of a comeback. However, Lewis’ night turned from hero to villain. In the 84th minute, a second yellow for a reckless challenge on Trevoh Chalobah saw him sent off, leaving City to fight the closing minutes with 10 men. Displaying grit, the depleted side held on for a draw, but it was far from a result to celebrate. With this latest stumble, Manchester City remain in fourth place, a daunting eight points off the top, having played a game more than the leaders. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace edged four points clear of the relegation zone, their battling display underlining their determination to survive.
Police arrest 15-year-old girl for putting Sniper in friend’s food, water
Ondo State Police Command has arrested a 15- year-old girl, Kemisola for attempted murder of her friend. The spokesperson of the command, Funmilayo Odunlami, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday, December 6, 2024, said the teenage girl was reprimanded by her friend’s mother four months ago. In order to exact revenge on the mother, she added sniper to the daughter’s food and water but fortunately, the young girl didn’t eat the food. The PPRO said, “A 15 year old girl was chastised four (4) months ago by her friend’s mum. To revenge, she added Sniper to her friend’s food and water. A tale of ‘if I can’t get the mother, I will get the child.’ Fortunately the young girl did not eat the food. Parents monitor your kid,”
Slapping therapist, Hongchi Xiao jailed over diabetic UK woman’s death
An alternative healer imprisoned in Australia who advocated “slapping therapy” to treat a range of illnesses was sentenced to 10 years in UK prison for the death of a 71-year-old diabetic woman who stopped taking insulin during one of his workshops. Hongchi Xiao, 61, was convicted of manslaughter by gross negligence on Friday for failing to get medical help for Danielle Carr-Gomm, who later died in 2016. California-based Xiao promoted paida lajin therapy, which is a practice that involves getting patients to slap themselves repeatedly to release “poisonous waste” from the body.The technique has its roots in Chinese medicine, but critics say it has no scientific basis and patients often end up with bruises, bleeding — or worse. Xiao was extradited from Australia, where he had been serving a 10 year sentence for manslaughter of a Sydney diabetic boy. The six-year-old boy died when his parents withdrew his insulin medication after attending one of his workshops in 2015. The court heard Ms Carr-Gomm was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1999 and was desperate to find a cure that didn’t involve injecting herself with needles, her son, Matthew said. She sought out alternative treatments and had attended a previous workshop by Xiao in Bulgaria a few months before her death in which she also became seriously ill after ceasing her medication. Hong Chi Xiao manslaughter sentence Despite her experience, she recorded a video testimonial, calling Xiao a “messenger sent by God” who was “starting a revolution to put the power back in the hands of the people to cure themselves and to change the whole system of healthcare.” Xiao had congratulated Carr-Gomm when she told other participants at the English retreat that she had stopped taking her insulin. But by day three, Carr-Gomm was “vomiting, tired and weak, and by the evening she was howling in pain and unable to respond to questions,” prosecutor Duncan Atkinson said. “Those who had received and accepted the defendant’s teachings misinterpreted Mrs. Carr-Gomm’s condition as a healing crisis,” Atkinson said. “I consider you dangerous even though you do not share the characteristics of most other dangerous offenders,” Justice Robert Bright said during Xiao’s sentencing at Winchester Crown Court. “You knew from late in the afternoon of day one of the fact that Danielle Carr-Gomm had stopped taking her insulin. “Furthermore, you made it clear to her you supported this.” Justice Bright said Xiao only made a “token effort” to get Carr-Gomm to take her insulin once it was too late and had shown no sign of remorse as he continued to promote paida lajin in prison.
How Elon Musk’s relationship with China could shield Tesla from Trump trade war
As Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House next month, businesses worldwide are bracing for a worsening US-China trade war. While electric vehicle (EV) makers were impacted by trade disputes during Trump’s first term, Tesla — and owner Elon Musk — could potentially benefit this time. Kyle Chan, a postdoctoral researcher in Chinese industrial policy at Princeton University, told the ABC’s Asia News Week that Mr Musk was “uniquely positioned” to mediate between the two superpowers. However, questions remain about how long the Trump-Musk bromance can last and whether the billionaire’s strong links to both countries could see the kingmaker end up becoming a “pawn.” ‘First buddy’ to Trump and Li Following Trump’s victory, Musk, who reportedly donated hundreds of millions to the Republicans, has become a key confidant of the president-elect. He’s been involved in everything from Trump’s phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to suggesting future cabinet picks. Meanwhile, he enjoys a friendly relationship with China, particularly Premier Li Qiang. Dr Chan says Musk “often touts his close relationship” with top officials. What role will Elon Musk play over the next four years? While Mr Musk jokes about being Trump’s “first buddy”, car industry analyst Lei Xing said the billionaire could also be considered “pro-China”. “He’s the ‘first buddy’ to Donald Trump, and he’s also maybe the ‘first buddy’ to Li Qiang,” he told the ABC. “Expect Elon to straddle both sides, and both men, and get what he wants.” How China is winning the global EV war Despite tariffs and a slowing global demand for electric vehicles in recent months, China is steaming ahead with its transition to EVs. China is Tesla’s biggest market outside the US, with sales comparable to those in America, and the car maker has enjoyed favourable treatment in the country not afforded to other foreign businesses. In particular, Shanghai is pivotal to the company’s success, with half of its global shipments coming out of the port city. “You cannot overstate the significance of Shanghai to Tesla,” Mr Xing emphasized. “Without Shanghai, there’s no Tesla today.” Trade war set to impact EVs EVs, along with lithium batteries and solar panels, are the “New Three” that Chinese President Xi Jinping believes will be the major drivers of the country’s growth. Government subsidies worth billions have been invested in China’s supply chains to boost manufacturing capacity, including for a significant export market. Other nations have expressed concern that China’s subsidies give its car makers an unfair advantage and are harming their own domestic industries. In May, the Biden administration imposed a 100 per cent tariff — a tax paid by importers — on Chinese EVs, and the EU followed with tariffs up to 45 per cent. Dr Chan said the EV tariffs were worth watching closely over the next few years as the industry lay at the intersection of two key issues. “It’s economically significant and you have a lot of jobs tied to that,” he said. He said the second issue was the contest between the two superpowers on tech advances. “If EVs are really going to be the future … is that something that the US is willing to let China dominate?” he asked. Despite a previous fallout with Donald Trump, Mr Musk is now in the president-elect’s inner circle. Tesla could benefit from Trump policies In late November, Trump announced he would impose at least a 10 per cent tariff on all goods coming from China. But even if the trade war worsens, Musk is in a position to influence policy and push for carve-outs to lower import costs of his businesses’ China-made parts. ‘Chinese brands a decade ahead of the rest’: The reality facing the EV industry Two rival Japanese car makers have announced they will work together on electric vehicles, countering the rise of Chinese competitors. As revealed in a new research paper, politically connected companies were more likely to receive exemptions from China-related tariffs during Trump’s first term. Dr Chan predicted Mr Musk could “facilitate communication between the Chinese and the American sides” and “find areas of overlap or compromise” between the two countries. Trump has also promised to eliminate a $US7,500 ($11,600) EV tax credit — an idea for which Mr Musk has expressed support. Mr Xing said in the short term, that would bad for Mr Musk’s company but in the long term, it could be positive. “It will make it more difficult for Tesla’s competitors, especially in the US market, to really dent Tesla’s market share,” the EV analyst said. In pole position to influence regulations Trump’s return to power comes as Tesla’s competitors are chipping away at its global EV dominance. Musk is betting the future of his company on autonomous driving technology, which Tesla brands Full Self-Driving (FSD), which is yet to receive full regulatory approval in the US. But some appear to believe his position in the Trump administration could help him influence regulations directly. Trump will likely restart his trade war with China, but this time Beijing is ready Donald Trump has already started making threats that could kick off a trade war with the world’s second-largest economy. But Beijing has been laying the groundwork for the prospect of another battle for some time. Tesla stock surged amid reports Trump’s transition team were seeking to develop rules for self-driving cars. While Tesla is a leader in autonomous driving in North America, it faces much stiffer competition in China and a lack of regulatory approval there as well. However, Mr Xing said he expected Mr Musk to go to China and get permission soon, saying it was “only a matter of time.” Dr Chan, though, said approval remained “an open question” “One might wonder whether this could be a bargaining point or a leverage point later on in negotiations that involve tariffs and the broader trade war,” the expert said. Will the Trump bromance last? In the past, Elon Musk has been somewhat of a political chameleon, shifting his
Nigeria’s trade surplus hits N5.81 trillion in Q3 2024 – NBS
The National Bureau of Statistics says Nigeria recorded a trade surplus of N5.81 trillion in the third quarter (Q3) of 2024. The surplus, which signposts increased export earnings, is less than the N6.95 trillion trade surplus recorded in the previous quarter (Q2) of 2024. According to the NBS’s foreign trade statistics released on Friday, December 6, Nigeria’s merchandise trade for the Q3 2024 saw a total value of N35.16 trillion, an 81.35 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023 and a 13.26 per cent rise from Q2 2024. The report also stated that total exports for the quarter increased by 98.00 per cent to N20.49 trillion, compared to N10.35 trillion recorded in Q3 2023. The amount is a 16.76 per cent increase from N17.55 trillion recorded in Q2 2024. “Total exports in Q3 2024 were valued at N20.49 trillion, reflecting a 98.00 per cent rise compared to N10.35 trillion in the corresponding quarter of 2023 and a 16.76 per cent increase compared to N17.55 trillion in Q2 2024,” the NBS report read. Crude oil and natural gas exports are major contributors The boost in exports in the quarter was mainly driven by Nigeria’s crude oil and natural gas exports, which are key contributors to the country’s foreign exchange earnings. According to the report, crude oil exports amounted to N13.41 trillion, representing a 57.06 per cent increase from N8.54 trillion recorded in Q3 2023. Exports of other oil products, including liquefied natural gas and petroleum gases, surged by 303.93 per cent to total N4.58 trillion. Agricultural exports also increased 301.87 per cent to reach N884.07 billion compared to the N219.99 billion recorded in Q3 2023. The amount represents a 9.20 per cent decline from what was recorded in the previous quarter. Solid minerals and manufactured goods exports also rose by 86.58 per cent and 419.93 per cent, respectively, within the period. Import versus export bill In Q3 2024, Nigeria exported crude oil, LNG and other petroleum exports more to Spain, followed by the United States, France, the Netherlands, and Italy. During the quarter, Nigeria’s total import bill increased by 62.30 per cent to N14.67 trillion from N9.04 trillion recorded in Q3 2023. The amount is 8.71 per cent higher than the N13.5 trillion that was recorded in Q2 2024. The report read, “The value of total imports stood at N14.67 trillion in the third quarter of 2024, representing a rise of 62.30 per cent from the value recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2023 (N9.04 trillion) and increased by 8.71 per cent compared with the value recorded in Q2, 2024 (N13.5 trillion).” In Q3 2024, the importation of manufactured goods increased by 76.44 per cent to N6.98 trillion, raw materials importation increased by 66.11 per cent to N1.58 trillion, and the importation of agricultural products increased by 37.06 per cent to N882.24 billion, compared to Q3 2023. Nigeria imported more from China, followed by India, Belgium, the United States, and Malta. The country imported such goods as motor spirit, gas oil, durum wheat, and used vehicles from these countries.
I cherish the ‘Culture warrior’ tag – Kemi Badenoch
Nigerian-born UK Conservative leader, Kemi Badenoch has declared that she loves being labelled a “culture warrior.” The Tory leader, in a speech in Washington DC, said being criticized for this by “the left-wing media” was meant to be an insult, “but I love the title.” According to Badenoch, her grandfather told her she was descended from warriors, so she was “keeping up the tradition,” she quipped. The term “culture war” is generally used in a negative way to describe a political battle between opposing values, often focused on social issues such as gender politics. Badenoch met Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Mike Johnson in DC as she seeks to build links with senior Republicans ahead of Donald Trump’s return to the White House next month. In a post on X, she said they discussed building alliances in “a centre-right resurgence” across the West. The Tory leader is not expected to meet President-elect Trump during her visit. Badenoch has previously resisted the “culture warrior” tag, insisting during her successful leadership campaign she did not like fighting – but was prepared to fight to defend Conservative principles. Her “culture warrior” comments came in a speech at a dinner hosted by the International Democracy Union, a global alliance of centre-right parties. She said she believed in tradition, adding “if we don’t defend our culture, who will?”
LASTMA officials rescue newlywed couple, 16 others onThird Mainland Bridge auto crash
A coordinated rescue operation by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and emergency agencies saved 18 victims from a fatal road accident on the Third Mainland Bridge near Ilaje, heading toward Iyana Oworonsoki. LASTMA Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, Adebayo Taofiq in a statement today ,said the accident which was caused by brake failure of a speeding LT commercial bus (BFG 204 XF), involved a mini truck (AGL 22 YE) . Taofiq said among the rescued persons were a newlywed couple returning from the Ikoyi Marriage Registry. He said 16 passengers, seated in the rear of the bus—including 11 women and five men—sustained serious injuries and were rushed to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre for urgent treatment. According to him, two others, trapped in the wreckage with severe limb fractures, were rescued by LASTMA personnel, emergency responders, and bystanders before being taken to Gbagada General Hospital. He noted that the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASABUS) and Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) Response Unit facilitated the swift evacuation, while law enforcement and Lagos Task Force operatives maintained order at the scene. Expressing sympathy for the victims, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki urged drivers to observe speed limits and regularly maintain their vehicles, particularly braking systems. He emphasised LASTMA’s ongoing public education campaigns on safe driving practices, especially during the festive season.
