Author: ntadesk

By Joshua Olomu

Veteran showbiz maestro and foremost activist, Charles Oputa, popularly known as CharlyBoy, has paid tribute to late Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, following his posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports Recording Academy honours the Afrobeat pioneer with the Lifetime Achievement Award, 29 years after his death, making him the first African artist to receive such honour.

The award ceremony took place in Los Angeles on Saturday, the night before the main ceremony of the 68th Grammy Awards, with Femi Kuti and his siblings accepting the award on their father’s behalf.

The milestone has continued to generate accolades from Afrobeats lovers around the world, with many describing it as “win for African musicians, particularly voices that spoke against injustice and oppression’’.

NAN reports that CharlyBoy celebrated the late singer in a post on his social media page, descrbing him as “a fearless voice of the masses, who confronted injustice through music’’.

CharlyBoy wrote: “Fela no just wake up to live, he wake up to fight. Every morning na battle plan, every night na drum and sweat.

“Kalakuta be him country, him law, him refuge. No fence between life and message.

“He insult power with chest full, collect beating, prison, exile and still come back louder; For Fela, lifestyle na sacrifice; If body break, so be am.

He added: “Charly Boy burn different. No be wildfire, na controlled flame; Black clothes, piercings, bike roarm image sharp like blade.

“Fela choose chaos as language; Charly Boy choose symbolism.

“One sleep inside war, One walk through am with caution.

“But make nobody lie, both get fire; Both refuse silence.

“Both no bow…”

Born on June 19, 1950, Charles Oputa is the son of renowned former Supreme Court Justice, late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa.

He is a foremost singer-songwriter, television presenter, actor and producer, known for his alternative lifestyle, political views, and media productions.

He was the host of the popular “The Charly Boy Show’, a 2011 judge for the talent hunt show ‘Nigeria Idol’, and a former president of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria.

The “Areafada” as he is fondly called, is known as an advocate of the masses who fought for the rights of ordinary Nigerians and on several occasions tortured by security operatives for standing up to authorities.

In the mid-nineties, during military era CharlyBoy fought for the rights of military pensioners, by marching to the defence headquarters in Abuja to demand payment of their pension arrears.

In 2017, CharlyBoy led “Our Mumu Don Do’’ movement, and participated in a daily sit out protest alongside other activists.

The movement was to call on the late President Muhammadu Buhari, to resume office or resign after he had allegedly spent over 60 days outside the country on a health visit to the UK.

The maverick activist recently told NAN that plans were underway to unveil his memoir, “999’’, an intriguing story of his life’s journey so far.

He said the book is a “tell-it-all tale of how he fought personal wars, rebelled against and disowned his parents and married four times before he turned 36’’

The Septuagenarian said he initially aspired to become a priest, but left the seminary after one year.

.According to him, he opted for music and embraced the streets, dashing the high hopes of his father on him.

He said while his father was a legal luminary, he rebelled against parental interference in his career path with a determination to fight for the oppressed, a decision he paid dearly for, but never regretted.(NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

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Source: NAN – https://nannews.ng/2026/02/02/grammys-charlyboy-eulogises-fela-for-lifetime-achievement-feat/

 

By Joy Akanu

Fans and colleagues of veteran Nollywood actor and lawmaker, Desmond Elliot, have celebrated him as he marks his 51st birthday on Wednesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ace actor had earlier made a post on Instagram announcing his birthday.

He said: “Today, I celebrate my 51st birthday with a heart full of gratitude and reflection.

“As I embrace this new year of life, I want to take a moment to honor the memories of those we recently lost: Bukky Coker, Gbenga Adenowo, and Omolara Obatolu.

“In their memory, I dedicate this special day to them, praying for comfort and strength for their families during this difficult time.

“I am truly grateful for the gift of life and the love of my family and friends.

“Here’s to cherishing every moment and holding our loved ones even closer.

“Thank you, God, for the blessings in my life and for the memories that will always remain in our hearts. #BirthdayReflections #InMemory Gratitude #51AndThriving #Blessed #Joyinoverdrive.”

Following the post, his fans, well-wishers and industry colleagues have flooded social media with goodwill messages and prayers for the ace thespian.

Iam_osayandeogiemwonyi posted: “Happy birthday papa. May this new chapter be a new beginning of God’s innumerable blessings in your life.”

25billiondollars said: “This is so amazing, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU SIR. God bless you. We believe you wella. Our future president.”

Olori_Folaademi offered prayers for him,”Happy birthday Hon. DOE. Age with God’s unending grace and increase in all that you do.”

Odamttencharlotte said  “Happy birthday my big boss. May God continue to bless you n give you more years. Enjoy to the day to max sir.”

Frankysage wrote “Happy Birthday Sir, Long Life and Prosperity, Good Health, More answers to your secret prayers, Wisdom, Knowledge, and Understanding of God, More Light of God Shine Upon Your Life in Jesus Mighty Name I Pray, AMEN.”

Also, some of the veteran actor’s colleagues in the motion picture industry offered glowing birthday wishes to him.

Ufuoma Mcdermott(ufuomamcdermott), said, “Happy birthday dearest. Blessings unending.”

Chioma Akpotha (chiomakpotha) wrote “Happy birthday Dessy.”

Iniedo  said “Happiest birthday Des.”

Nancy Isime(nancyisimeofficial)  “Happy Birthday Uncle Des.”

Ace comedian and actor (aycomedian) wrote,”Happy birthday brotherly.”

NAN reports that Desmond Elliot, born Feb. 4, 1974, in Lagos, began his career in television soap operas such as Everyday People, One Too Much and Saints and Sinners.

He later became one of Nollywood’s leading actors, appearing in over 200 films, including Men Who Cheat, Yahoo Millionaire and 30 Days in Atlanta.

The actor has received several major nominations, including African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in 2006 and multiple Best Actor nominations at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

Beyond filmmaking, Elliot ventured into politics in 2014 where he contested under the All-Progressives Congress and won the Surulere Constituency in the April 2015 Nigerian General Elections.

He is also known for his advocacy work, including involvement in initiatives aimed at addressing child illiteracy in Nigeria and across Africa. (NAN)

 

Edited by Chidi Opara

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Source: NAN – https://nannews.ng/2026/02/04/fans-colleagues-celebrate-nollywood-veteran-desmond-elliot-51/

 

By Chelsea Isa

 

Award winning  Blockbuster “Son of the Soil”, is set for premiere at the Pan – Africa Film Festival(PAFF) in the United States, its producers have said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 34th edition of the annual PAFF is scheduled to hold between Feb. 7 and 22 in Los Angeles, California.

Chee Keong Cheung, director of the iconic film, made the premiere announcement in a post on his Instagram page-@cheekeongcheung.

The post reads: “Son of the Soil’ has been selected for its U.S. premiere at the 34th Pan-African Film Festival (PAFF) in Los Angeles.

”The PAFF selection marks another step in the film’s global journey and reflects the growing appetite for ambitious, cross-market African storytelling on the international stage.”

“Son of the Soil”, produced by Action Xtreme and sovereign Films in association with Boxonia Blueprint, features veteran actors Patience Ozokwo, Ireti Doyle and Taye Arimoro.

Other cast include Sunshine Roseman, Phillip Asaya, Ijelu Folajimi, Damilola Ogunsi, Sharon Rotimi and Emeka Golden, among others.

Directed by Chee Keong Cheung, the film produced by British-Nigeria actor Razaaq Adoti, highlights Lagos’s criminal underworld, featuring intense action scenes, including gunfights and chases.

It is characterised by its fast-paced, violent, and revenge-driven narrative.

Shot in Lagos, the plot of the movie follows the story of Zion Ladejo (Razaaq Adoti), a haunted ex-Special Ops soldier who returns to Lagos after his sister’s murder.

He wages a violent war against a drug syndicate to find those responsible, seeking vengeance and redemption.

NAN reports that the Pan – Africa Film Festival, founded in 1992 by Danny Glover, Ja’Net DuBois, and Ayuko Babu, is the largest and longest-running Black film and arts festival in the United States.

It is held  annually in Los Angeles during Black History Month (Feb), showcasing  over 150 films and art from the African Diaspora to promote cultural understanding, racial tolerance, and positive, diverse Black images. (NAN)

 

Edited by Deborah Coker

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Source: NAN – https://nannews.ng/2026/02/04/nollywood-blockbuster-son-of-the-soil-set-for-premiere-at-pan-african-film-festival/

 

 

By Priscilla Osaje

 

German tourism expert, Julia Kleber, has called for strategic investment to explore tourism opportunities for effective storytelling and capacity building in order to position Nigeria as a competitive global destination.

Kleber, who is the Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Kleber Group, made the call at  a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja.

She described Nigeria as a country with vast and large untapped tourism opportunities.

“Nigeria possesses  core elements required to build a strong tourism sector, which include rich culture, diverse landscapes, vibrant arts, music, cuisine as well as welcoming population,  but remains largely underrepresented in the global tourism market.

“I have been struck by the beauty of this country and the warmth of its people since my arrival on Sunday.

“Nigeria has extraordinary tourism opportunities, but these assets are still not fully visible on the global stage,” Kleber said.

According to her, tourism is one of the most effective drivers of job creation and economic growth, with strong linkages to sectors such as aviation, agriculture, hospitality, energy and infrastructure.

“Africa remains largely unexplored from a tourism perspective, and Nigeria, in particular, has a huge opening. Tourism is a peaceful industry that creates jobs, attracts investment and stimulates wide economic activity”.

She called for improved international perception of Nigeria through targeted promotion, market education and authentic storytelling that reflected the country’s heritage, culture and attractions.

“Sustainable tourism development requires a clear strategy that focuses on product development, investor’s engagement, infrastructure, training and capacity building for local communities and hospitality workers.

“Our goal is to place Nigeria firmly on the international tourism map and present it as an authentic and attractive destination for travellers and investors,” Kleber added.

Highlighting Kleber Group over three decades, the Kleber Group CEO said the group had  experience in tourism development across Africa, including engagements in South Africa, Namibia, Uganda, Zambia, Sierra Leone and Angola, as well as work in the aviation and hospitality sectors.

Kleber  added that  strong public-private collaboration and deliberate tourism planning  has helped to attract global attention and secured more than 450 million dollars in government investment for tourism infrastructure in Angola.

“This shows what we can achieve when tourism is treated as a viable economic sector. Nigeria has similar opportunities and even greater potential.

Kleber also spoke on Voice for Africa, an initiative launched during the COVID-19 period to promote positive narratives about the continent and counter perceptions that discourage travel and investment.

She expressed optimism about Nigeria’s tourism outlook, citing ongoing engagements with government institutions, national parks and other stakeholders.

“There is a journey ahead, but the process has started. With collaboration, implementation and commitment, tourism can become a major source of jobs, investment and sustainable growth in Nigeria”.

Also speaking, Amb. Phil Roberts called for closer collaboration with the media to reshape Nigeria’s global tourism image, noting that negative narratives often overshadow the country’s tourism assets.

“Two years ago, I trekked from Abuja to Delta State to promote Nigeria as a tourism destination, and in October last  year,I undertook another project from Nigeria to Ethiopia.

“What people abroad see and hear from me is often very different from what our media projects online,” Roberts said.

He recalled concerns raised ahead of Kleber’s visit regarding insecurity, stressing  that such perceptions often discourage tourists.

“Nigeria is frequently portrayed as a war theatre, and that is harmful to tourism development.

“Several high-level engagements have been held since Kleber’s arrival, including meetings with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture and Tourism, the Federal Capital Territory Administration, the Presidential Villa, the Nigerian National Parks Service and other stakeholders.

“Further engagements are  planned with the Presidency and we  plan to organise a Tourism Investment Summit across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones because  tourism development must reflect regional diversity.

“Tourism is not one-size-fits-all, each  zone has its unique attractions and strengths,” he said.

As regards to infrastructure, Roberts said sustainable tourism could not thrive without deliberate investment, adding that discussions were ongoing with investors, including the World Trade Centre, on tourism-related infrastructure.

“Do not underplay the role of the media in tourism growth because tourism is about storytelling, without the media driving these stories, the effort will not yield results.

“We will work closely with the media to project Nigeria’s tourism narrative,” he said.

Mr Jeffrey Adamade, Special Assistant on NGO/Partnerships to the Office of the Wife of the Governor of Cross River State, said the state remained open to partnerships, describing Cross River as one of Nigeria’s leading tourism destinations.

Similarly, Mr  Bonaventure Onuorah,Chairman of KU Worldwide, reaffirmed the commitment of Kleber Group and its partners to work with Nigerian stakeholders to project the country’s tourism assets globally.(NAN)

 

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

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Source: NAN – https://nannews.ng/2026/02/04/expert-advocates-strategic-investment-to-explore-tourism-opportunities/

 

By Joan Odafe

 

Cambridge University has formally transferred legal ownership of 116 Benin artefacts in its Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA) to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM).

The university said this is a major step in its on-going efforts to address colonial-era dispossession of cultural heritage.

The decision, announced by the university on Monday, followed a formal request made by the NCMM in January 2022 for the return of objects taken by British troops during the 1897 sacking of Benin City.

The university’s Governing Council supported the claim, and authorisation was subsequently granted by the UK Charity Commission.

The artefacts, mainly cast in brass, also ivory and wooden sculptures, were seized during the so-called ‘Punitive Expedition’ mounted by British forces in February 1897, following a violent trade dispute the previous month.

The university said arrangements for the physical transfer of most of the objects would be made in due course.

The university, however, said a small number would remain in Cambridge, on loan and on display, at  MAA, where they will continue to be accessible to visitors, students and researchers.

The university said its decision aligned with similar commitments made by museums in the UK, the United States and Europe to return Benin material taken during the colonial period.

It said that, MAA, which is one of several UK institutions holding artefacts from Benin, had been involved in long-term research, dialogue and engagement with Nigerian stakeholders, including representatives of the Benin Royal Court, artists, academics and students.

It said MAA curators had undertaken study and liaison visits to Benin City since 2018, meeting the Oba, members of the Royal Court, state and Federal Government officials.

The university  also hosted the Benin Dialogue Group in 2017 and received delegations from the NCMM and the Royal Court in Cambridge in 2021.

Reacting to the development, the Director-General of  NCMM, Olugbile Holloway, described the transfer as a turning point.

“This development marks a pivotal point in our dialogue with the Museum of Archeology and Anthropology at University of Cambridge and it is our hope that this will spur other museums to head in a similar direction.

“The return of cultural items for us is not just the return of the physical object, but also the restoration of the pride and dignity that was lost when these objects were taken in the first place,” he said.

Holloway also acknowledged the support of Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, and commended the university for taking a step in the right direction.

“We look forward to welcoming the artefacts back home soon,” he said.

The Director of  MAA, Prof. Nicholas Thomas, said the return reflected years of sustained engagement and a growing global consensus.

“It has been immensely rewarding to engage in dialogue with colleagues from the National Commission of Museums and Monuments, members of the Royal Court, and Nigerian scholars, students and artists over the last ten years.

“Over the period, support has mounted, nationally and internationally, for the repatriation of artefacts that were appropriated in the context of colonial violence.

“This return has been keenly supported across the university community,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that NCMM, which operates under Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy,  oversees 53 museums, 65 national monuments and two World Heritage Sites across the country.

Also, the MAA, founded in 1884, is one of Cambridge University’s oldest museums, with collections spanning global cultural history, archaeology and contemporary Indigenous art. (NAN)

 

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

 

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Source: NAN – https://nannews.ng/2026/02/09/cambridge-university-returns-116-benin-artefacts-to-ncmm/

 

By Priscilla Osaje

 

Mr Jeon Ju-ho, Director of Korean Cultural Centre in Nigeria (KCCN), says the centre has lined-up People-to-people (P2P) programmes and activities to  deepen cultural exchange between his country and Nigeria.

He disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.

The director said such events include the  upcoming Music Fusion Concert, an event that would bring together Korean K-POP music   and Nigerian Afrobeats   to celebrate  global influence of both genres.

He further said other activities for year include the screening of short films from Korea and Nigeria, aimed at   showcasing emerging filmmakers, promote cross-cultural storytelling and explore shared social themes through cinema.

According to him, the 2026 activities will reflect KCCN’s growing role as a hub for intercultural dialogue and creative collaboration.

“Korean Food Cooking Competition (Korean cuisine) will challenge participants to demonstrate culinary skill, creativity, and cultural understanding using traditional Korean ingredients and techniques.

“The K-pop festival is aimed at bringing together fans, performers, and dance crews for performances, competitions, and fan-driven activities, celebrating the strong K-pop community in Nigeria.

“Also, the ‘Hanbok Design Fashion Show & Exhibition will present innovative designs that blend traditional Korean hanbok with Nigerian textiles and aesthetics among others,” he said.

He said such platforms  would highlight creative possibilities that emerged when Korean and Nigerian artists share one stage.

The director further said the 2026 Korean National Day would mark Korea’s national identity and diplomatic presence in Nigeria.

He said among other activities, the day would feature Asian Film Festival, which broadens cultural engagement by showcasing films from across Asia.

According to him, “KCCN will continue to strengthen cultural diplomacy, foster mutual understanding, and create platforms for meaningful exchange between Korea and Nigeria through the diverse lined-up activities”.(NAN)

 

Edited By Joshua Olomu

 

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Source: NAN – https://nannews.ng/2026/02/11/kccn-unveils-programmes-to-deepen-cultural-exchange-with-nigeria/

 

By Joan Odafe

Heartbreak tunes, more than love songs, have dominated Nigerians’ listening this Valentine’s season, according to a new data by Spotify.

 

The data shows playlists focused on longing, vulnerability, and emotional recovery.

 

In a statement on Friday in Lagos, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, said insights from the streaming platform, showed that mood-led playlist creation had surged in the weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day.

 

Okumu said data showed that heartbreak-themed listening rose faster than love-coded playlists.

 

According to her, between Jan. 1 and Feb. 4, Spotify recorded a steep increase in ‘yearn playlists’, a signal of heartbreak and longing, which jumped by 305 per cent from 2024 to 2025.

 

She said this was followed by another 170 per cent rise from 2025 to 2026.

 

“While romance remained present, the figures suggested Valentine’s Day in Nigeria is increasingly becoming a season where listeners sit with complicated emotions rather than just celebrate love.

 

“Valentine’s Day in Nigeria is no longer a single-note romance moment.

 

“We are seeing listeners embrace love and heartbreak as equally valid emotional realities, and use music to move through both with honesty,” she said.

 

Okumu said Spotify’s data points to Gen Z as the clearest driver of the heartbreak trend.

 

According to the data, among listeners aged 18 to 24 on Valentine’s Day, nearly 60 per cent skewed toward heartbreak listening while almost 40 per cent leaned into love.

 

She said the pattern cuts across gender, with men accounting for over 65 per cent of heartbreak streams and 61 per cent of love streams, while women represented just over a third in both categories.

 

She said, geographically, heartbreak listening was most concentrated in Lagos, followed by Abuja, Port Harcourt, Ibadan and Benin, highlighting how young Nigerians in major cities are using music to process romance, ambiguity and healing.

 

She noted that even as heartbreak topped the mood charts, Nigerians were not navigating these emotions alone.

 

According to her, Valentine’s Day 2025 was described as the “Blendiest” day of the year, with collaborative listening peaking as users merged Afrobeats, street-pop and R&B into shared playlists.

 

Top Blend tracks included Fido’s ‘Awolowo’, OdumoduBlvck’s ‘Juju’ (with Smur Lee & Shallipopi)

,and Rema’s ‘Fi Kan We Kan’.

 

“In direct song shares, listeners leaned toward emotionally direct records such as Future’s ‘Worst Day’ and Drake’s ‘Give Me A Hug’.

 

Okumu said the broader Valentine season was also expanding beyond romance into friendships and community.

 

“Globally, ‘Galentine’ playlist creation rose by more than 70 per cent year-on-year, reflecting how many young listeners are marking the day through peer support as much as romantic connection.

 

“Faith-based podcasts also remained highly visible on Feb. 14, alongside relationship-centred conversations, pointing to a listening culture where romance, spirituality and community wisdom coexist.

 

“This year’s Valentine’s data presents a portrait of a generation redefining connection: emotionally fluent, culturally hybrid, community-oriented, and unafraid of contradiction”. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

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Source: NAN – https://nannews.ng/2026/02/13/valentines-dayheartbreak-tunes-top-nigerians-playlists-spotify/

By Aderonke Ojediran

Nigerian artistes Osas Okonyon and Abbey Wonder have released a new single, “All My Love”, to feature in the forthcoming Nollywood movie, ‘EVI’.

 

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Bolaji Ajayi, a publicist, on Saturday in Lagos.

 

 

The collaborative track, which blends soulful vocals with contemporary Afro-pop elements, serves as part of the official soundtrack for the film and explores themes of devotion, sacrifice and emotional connection.

 

The movie,’EVI’, is produced by Judith Audu, a Nigerian Producer and actress.

 

 

Speaking on the release, Okonyon described the song as a deeply personal expression crafted to complement the film’s storyline.

 

 

“‘All My Love’ reflects the emotional journey of the characters in the movie.

 

 

“It’s about giving wholeheartedly despite challenges, and we wanted listeners to feel that sincerity through the music,” she said.

 

 

Abbey Wonder, who also produced the track, noted that the collaboration was built around storytelling rather than commercial appeal.

 

 

 

“The focus was to create something authentic that supports the film’s narrative while standing strong as a song on its own.

 

“It’s a soundtrack that speaks to real-life experiences of love and commitment,” he said.

 

 

The artistes said the single marks the beginning of a broader creative rollout tied to the movie, with more musical releases expected as the film’s premiere approaches.

 

 

‘All My Love’ is now available across major digital streaming platforms.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

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Source: NAN – https://nannews.ng/2026/02/14/osas-okonyon-abbey-wonder-release-all-my-love-single/

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Source: NAN – https://nannews.ng/2026/02/17/alleged-assault-court-adjourns-odumodublvck-trial-until-april-8/

 

 

 

 

By Babajide Awoyinfa

 

Opeyemi Kolawole, a gospel minister, has released a new single, “Tooto”, a spirit-filled song inspired by her reflection on Psalms 8 and 19

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that “Tooto”, a Yoruba word meaning “Worthy”, celebrates the greatness and majesty of God as revealed in creation and scripture.

 

Opeyemi, in a statement on Thursday in Lagos, said reading the Psalms in her mother tongue always stirs her spirit deeply and brings fresh revelation about God’s sovereignty and glory.

 

“Psalms 8 and 19 brought me into a deeper place of worship.

 

“I was overwhelmed by the greatness of God, and the song flowed from that encounter,” she said.

 

According to her, “Tooto” offers listeners heavenly worship where angels continually declare God’s worthiness.

 

“I am first a worshipper of God, everything I do flows from that understanding and commitment,” she said.

 

She described the song as an invitation into reverence, surrender and heartfelt adoration rooted in scriptural truth.

 

She added that early feedback from worship gatherings and online platforms have been encouraging and affirming.

 

She noted that her music blends contemporary Christian sounds with rich African traditional rhythms and Yoruba psalmic expressions. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

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Source: NAN – https://nannews.ng/2026/02/20/opeyemi-kolawole-releases-spirit-filled-single-tooto-inspired-by-psalms/