celebrity radar - gossips
Back to School Initiative by Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen Enters Second Phase
Back to School Initiative by Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen Enters Second Phase
“Bringing Hope to Inner-City Families in Johannesburg.”
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
The annual “Back to School” Giveaway has once again reaffirmed its place as a vital lifeline for vulnerable families in Johannesburg’s inner-city communities, as the second phase of the 2026 edition was successfully carried out on Wednesday, 5 February. The program, which covered Yeoville, Berea, Hillbrow and surrounding areas, continues to stand as a powerful example of grassroots leadership driven by compassion, consistency and a deep sense of community responsibility.
Now in its fourth consecutive year, the initiative was founded by Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen with the core objective of easing the burden on struggling households and ensuring that children begin the academic year with dignity, confidence and the basic tools required for learning. In neighborhoods where economic hardship, unemployment and social pressures often threaten access to quality education, the program has become a beacon of hope and a reliable support system for many families.
The second phase of the 2026 edition expanded the reach of the initiative, delivering school materials to more children and households. The distribution included essential learning items such as school bags, exercise books, writing materials and other educational supplies designed to give pupils a strong start to the school year. For many families, these items represent not just material support but also a renewed sense of encouragement and belonging.
Speaking during the distribution, community leaders emphasized that education remains one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty and social exclusion. They noted that when children begin the school year without the necessary materials, it often leads to embarrassment, low self-esteem and, in some cases, absenteeism. The “Back to School” initiative seeks to address this challenge by restoring dignity and creating a more equal starting point for all learners.
Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen, the founder of the program, was accompanied by fellow community leaders including Hon. Angel Monalisa, Hon. George O. Sylvester and Hon. Otono Osiaima. Their presence reflected a shared commitment to service, unity and the collective responsibility of leaders to uplift their communities. The program was not presented as a political event but as a humanitarian intervention aimed at empowering the next generation.
Over the years, the initiative has grown from a modest distribution effort into a widely recognized symbol of unity, inclusion and social responsibility within the inner city. It has consistently attracted support from volunteers, community stakeholders and concerned individuals who believe in the transformative power of education.
One of the most remarkable features of the program is its inclusive, pan-African character. This year’s beneficiaries were not limited to any single nationality. Children from Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Mozambique and several other African countries received support. This diversity reflects the true identity of Johannesburg’s inner city, where people from across the continent live, work and raise families together.
Community members praised the initiative for promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among African nationals. In a city often affected by economic competition and social tensions, the “Back to School” program offers a different narrative with one that highlights cooperation, solidarity and the shared responsibility of building a better future for the continent’s children.
Parents who attended the distribution expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting that the rising cost of living has made it increasingly difficult to provide basic school supplies for their children. Many described the program as timely and impactful, especially at a period when households are under significant financial pressure at the start of the school year.
For the children themselves, the event was more than just a distribution exercise. It was a moment of excitement, encouragement and affirmation. Receiving new school materials in a supportive and celebratory environment gave them a sense of pride and readiness for the academic challenges ahead.
Observers have noted that the consistency of the program over four years has helped build trust and credibility within the community. Unlike one-off charity events, the “Back to School” initiative has become an expected and dependable intervention that families look forward to each year. This consistency has reinforced the idea that genuine leadership is measured not by words, but by sustained actions that improve lives.
The second phase of the 2026 edition also highlighted the importance of collaborative leadership. By bringing together multiple community figures, the program demonstrated that collective efforts can produce stronger and more lasting results. It sent a clear message that community development is not the responsibility of one individual alone, but a shared mission that requires cooperation and unity.
As the program continues to grow, organizers have expressed their commitment to expanding its reach and impact in the coming years. Plans are already being considered to involve more partners, attract additional support and reach even more children across the inner city.
Ultimately, the “Back to School” initiative is more than a seasonal act of charity. It is a long-term investment in education, dignity and social stability. By ensuring that children begin the academic year equipped and confident, the program contributes to better learning outcomes, improved self-esteem and stronger community cohesion.
The successful completion of the second phase on 5 February 2026 stands as another milestone in the program’s journey. It reinforces the enduring belief that when leadership is guided by compassion and service, communities can rise together without borders, without barriers and with renewed hope for the next generation.
Business
Laffmattazz Announces Strategic Partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited for 2026 International Tour
Laffmattazz Announces Strategic Partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited for 2026 International Tour
Laffmattazz, one of Nigeria’s foremost comedy and live entertainment brands, is pleased to announce its official partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited for the highly anticipated Laffmattazz 2026 International Tour, themed “Next Chapter: A New Season of Laughter.”
Now in its 15th year, Laffmattazz—the brainchild of renowned Nigerian comedian Gbenga Adeyinka (Gbenga Adeyinka 1st)—has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its seamless fusion of comedy, music, and live stage performances.
The 2026 tour, which kicked off on Easter Sunday, April 5th, 2026 at the Jogor Centre, Ibadan, marks a significant milestone in the brand’s journey. Building on over a decade of success across Nigeria, this year’s edition signals a bold expansion into the international market, with a multi-city run in Canada, alongside major stops in Akure, Abeokuta, and Lagos.
This strategic partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited underscores a shared commitment to excellence and innovation. It is also aligned with FirstBank’s First@Arts initiative—a significant and ongoing program dedicated to supporting the creative arts, entertainment, and cultural sectors. Through this initiative, FirstBank provides financing, advisory services, and actively fosters a sustainable value chain for artists and creative entrepreneurs, while supporting key industry platforms such as the Nigerian Entertainment Conference.
Speaking on the collaboration, the Laffmattazz team stated:
“We are delighted to welcome First Bank of Nigeria Limited as a strategic partner for the Laffmattazz 2026 International Tour. As we mark 15 remarkable years of Laffmattazz, this partnership reinforces our vision to take premium Nigerian entertainment beyond borders, while delivering even bigger, better, and more memorable experiences for our audiences.”
As a key partner, First Bank will enrich the tour through innovative customer engagement initiatives, experiential activations, and exclusive fan experiences across all tour locations.
With its distinctive blend of humor, culture, and live entertainment, the Laffmattazz 2026 Tour is poised to connect audiences across cities and continents, bringing laughter to thousands of fans worldwide.
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About Laffmattazz
Laffmattazz is a premier Nigerian comedy and entertainment brand, now in its 15th year, renowned for its vibrant live shows and nationwide tours. Founded by Gbenga Adeyinka 1st, the brand continues to deliver high-quality experiences that celebrate creativity, culture, and laughter.
About First Bank of Nigeria Limited
First Bank of Nigeria Limited is Nigeria’s oldest financial institution, widely respected for its legacy of trust, innovation, and customer-centric financial solutions that support economic growth and development. Through its First@Arts initiative, the Bank continues to play a pivotal role in empowering the creative industry and driving sustainable growth across the sector.
Opinions divided over Pasuma Jaiye Kuti proposed wedding
The current threading in *entertainment* world of speculated society marriage between oganla Fuji, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma with Nollywood icon, and widely acclaimed Queen of the tube jaiyeola Kuti has brought out different opinions amongst the fans and entertainment personnel.
What started as a rumour and mirage is gradually turning to reality and some fans are saying it’s not possible for Jaiye Kuti who is one of the scandal free Nollywood actress to be involved in such an unholy union with Pasuma
Most people who spoke with our correspondence, are of opinion that such a marriage can only happen in a mirage sessions and in Nollywood movies that apart Jaiye Kuti been responsible and married with children, Pasuma is someone who have vowed not to married and have a woman under his roof.
But to some also, it’s not impossible as artistes are known to be engaging and married to each other after denied and counter claims, which made and at the end they will go ahead and married . With this most people believe that truly there’s marriage in offspring for both celebrities While both parties refused to comment on the trend controversial issues about the whole issue , the world is anxiously waiting if this well circulated story of Pasuma getting married to Jaiye Kuti will come to pass or it will turn out to be a mirage.
Either way the die is cast as all eyes will be on Jaiye Kuti and Pasuma with searchlight on Nigeria entertainment industry once again
celebrity radar - gossips
PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES OTEGA OGRA ON ELECTION TO WORLD FEDERATION OF ADVERTISERS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES OTEGA OGRA ON ELECTION TO WORLD FEDERATION OF ADVERTISERS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated his Senior Special Assistant on Digital Engagement, Strategy and New Media, Mr Otega Ogra, on his election to the Executive Committee of the World Federation of Advertisers (WFA).
The election took place today at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting, held during the Global Marketing Week Conference in Stockholm, Sweden.
President Tinubu described the development as a significant step for Nigeria’s growing influence in global communications.
He noted that Mr Ogra’s emergence as the only representative from West Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa on the Executive Committee reflects the depth of Nigerian expertise and the contribution of a new generation of young Nigerian professionals to global industry standards.
Mr Ogra was elected to the Executive Committee on the platform of the Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN), underscoring the role of Nigeria’s organised advertising and marketing industry in shaping representation at the global level.
The WFA is the leading global body for advertisers, representing over 150 multinational and Fortune 500 companies, alongside national advertiser associations across more than 60 countries, with a combined annual marketing spend running into hundreds of billions of dollars. Its Executive Committee is the organisation’s highest decision-making body, responsible for setting priorities and guiding global policy on responsible advertising, media transparency, sustainability, and the evolution of digital ecosystems.
President Tinubu noted that Mr Ogra’s election is both a personal distinction and a strategic opportunity for Nigeria and the African continent, placing them at the centre of global conversations on brand trust, platform accountability, innovation and the future of marketing and communications.
The President commended Mr Ogra, who also serves as Vice President of ADVAN, for his sustained contributions to strengthening Nigeria’s marketing and communications ecosystem, drawing on a career spanning leadership roles across the banking, manufacturing, and public sectors.
“Otega’s election reflects the growing recognition of Nigerian expertise and affirms our capacity to contribute meaningfully to the frameworks shaping global markets,” the President said.
President Tinubu added that the achievement aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in advancing the creative economy, strengthening digital governance, and positioning Nigeria as a competitive hub for innovation and enterprise.
Josh Faulks, CEO of the Australian advertiser association (AANA), and Simon Michaelides, Director General of the UK advertiser association (ISBA), also join the leadership team.
Current members of the executive committee, David Wheldon, President and Philip Myers, Deputy President, who is also the Chief Institutional Affairs and Corporate Communications Officer at Ferrero, continue in their current roles, as do all regional vice presidents.
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