Entertainment

By Maryam Ahmad

Brazilian and Real Madrid football sensation Endrick has captured the hearts of fans worldwide with his exceptional talent on the pitch, but his love story with Gabriely is just as captivating. In a heartfelt revelation, Gabriely shared how she fell in love with the young star without knowing he was a rising footballer.

Recalling their first encounter, Gabriely described the moment she first saw Endrick at a shopping mall. “When I first saw Endrick, I didn’t know he was a football player. He was sitting on his own,” she said. “I looked at him and thought, ‘What a wonderful man! He has a seductive look and character.’”

It was a moment of instant connection for Gabriely, who felt something special before she even knew of Endrick’s football career. “I saw that he was the man of my life, of my future… I fell in love at first sight, then discovered he was a Palmeiras player,” she added.

The teenage football prodigy, who has already signed with Real Madrid and is set to join the club in 2024, has been making headlines for his performances with Palmeiras. However, his love story with Gabriely adds a personal touch to his journey, proving that true connections can happen in the most unexpected ways.

By Maryam Ahmad

Senegalese-born TikTok star Khaby Lame, the most-followed personality on the platform, recently met with Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, in Dakar. The visit focused on youth empowerment and using social media for positive change.

Lame, who was born in Senegal before relocating to Italy, expressed his commitment to giving back to his homeland. He underscored the importance of education and digital literacy, highlighting how platforms like TikTok can inspire and educate young people.

President Faye praised Lame for his global influence, noting that his journey from humble beginnings to international fame inspires African youth. The president encouraged young people to leverage digital opportunities for self-development and economic growth.

Beyond meeting with the president, Lame partnered with UNICEF during his stay in Senegal. Over four days, he engaged with children in health, education, and climate change awareness programs. His visit aimed to draw attention to the challenges faced by African youth and promote initiatives that support their growth.

Lame’s visit underscores the power of social media influencers to drive change. His collaboration with government and international organisations highlights the role digital platforms play in shaping the future of young Africans.

Many Nigerian youth are also turning to social media for career opportunities, so Lame’s story motivates content creators and entrepreneurs across the continent. His rise to fame proves that talent, creativity, and persistence can open global doors, regardless of one’s background.

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has sought collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC) to successfully host the African Volleyball Inter-Club Women’s Championship.

During a courtesy visit to the Commission’s Chairman, Shehu Dikko, on Monday, January 27, 2025, CGC Adeniyi reiterated the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) dedication to using sports as a means of fostering national unity, boosting Nigeria’s global sporting reputation, and creating opportunities for young athletes.

Commending the Commission’s leadership for its professionalism, he expressed confidence in Nigeria’s return to sporting excellence.

He also highlighted that the tournament, scheduled to take place in Abuja in April 2025, is expected to attract top volleyball clubs from across Africa.

“For the first time in a long time, we have tested and accomplished professionals driving sports development in Nigeria. We have no doubt that the glory days of sports are back,” CGC Adeniyi stated.

He further revealed that the Nigerian Olympic Committee had granted the NCS the right to host the competition in partnership with the Nigerian Volleyball Federation, with matches set to run from April 1 to April 14, 2025.

He assured that Customs would provide full support to ensure a remarkable event that would solidify Nigeria’s standing in sports.

Responding, NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko applauded Adeniyi’s vision and described the championship as a vital step in promoting Nigeria’s image and encouraging youth participation in sports.

“This championship is not just an opportunity to showcase our athletes but also a platform to inspire young Nigerians and demonstrate our organisational capabilities to the world.

Sports are a unifying force, and we will work to ensure that this event reflects the best of what Nigeria can offer,” Dikko said.

He pledged the NSC’s full backing, promising access to sports facilities, technical expertise, and logistical support to ensure the tournament sets a high standard for future competitions.

Additionally, the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Engr. Habu Gumel, praised CGC Adeniyi for incorporating sports into the Customs Service’s activities.

He assured that efforts would be made to make the championship a resounding success.“We must be deliberate in our preparations and ensure that this championship becomes a springboard for hosting more international tournaments. The National Sports Commission is fully committed to providing all necessary support,” he stated.

With this collaboration, the African Volleyball Inter-Club Women’s Championship is set to elevate Nigeria’s profile in international sports and provide a platform for young talents to shine.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has issued a stern warning to Kano Pillars, threatening to revoke their provisional approval to host matches at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano if the stadium’s floodlights are not operational by their next home game on Matchday 22.

The league body reminded the club of their commitment to fix the floodlights, a promise made when they were granted approval to return to the stadium last November.

In a statement, the NPFL stated, “Should the flood lighting not be functional for the team’s next home fixture on Matchday 22, Kano Pillars would play home games at any approved venue.”

Earlier in the season, the four-time league champions were forced to play their home matches at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina.

The ‘Sai Masu Gida’ are scheduled to host El-Kanemi Warriors this Sunday.

The Daily Reality understands that failure to comply with the directive may see Kano Pillars exiled from their home ground once again.

By Muhsin Ibrahim

Umar Maikudi, also known as Cashman, was elected as the National President of the Motion Picture Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN) at an event held in Nasarawa State on 18 January 2025.

As the newly elected National President, Maikudi expressed gratitude and enthusiasm for collaborating with filmmakers and film scholars to explore potential partnerships that could benefit the film industry. 

In a message sent to media houses across Nigeria, the president stated, “Let’s work together to drive growth and development in the sector.”

Maikudi concluded by encouraging others to “feel free to reach out to me to discuss potential collaborations and partnerships.”

Hailing from Kaduna, Maikudi has been a film scholar and actor for many years. He has appeared in several films, including the Netflix series War: Wrath and Revenge, part of the famed Sons of the Caliphate drama.

By Jamilu Uba Adamu,Kano

The 2024 Nigeria National League’s kickoff has sent waves of excitement throughout the country, and Kano State is no exception. The football match between Barau Football Club and Plateau State’s Mighty Jets at the newly refurbished Danbatta Stadium marked a significant milestone in Kano’s football history. This development is a shining example of Senator Barau Jibrin’s commitment to sports development in the Kano North Senatorial district.

As a sports enthusiast, I find it heartwarming to witness the remarkable impact of Senator Barau Jibrin’s dedication to sports development in Kano State. The senator representing Kano North has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the welfare and development of his constituents, with a particular focus on sports.

The refurbishment of the Danbatta Stadium is a shining testament to Senator Jibrin’s visionary leadership. This world-class facility promotes sports and contributes significantly to the community’s economic growth and social cohesion. The stadium has the potential to unite not only people across Kano North but the entire Kano State, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

Senator Jibrin’s recognition of the importance of sports development in rural areas is equally commendable. He understands that structured sporting events can profoundly impact these communities, providing a platform for young talents to emerge and promoting job creation, socialization, unification, and economic emancipation. This is a critical aspect of his leadership, as it acknowledges the often-overlooked potential of rural areas to contribute to the state’s sports development.

As Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin’s commitment to sports development is a shining example for other politicians to follow. His efforts have marked a significant milestone in Kano’s football history, 

In conclusion, Senator Barau Jibrin’s unwavering commitment to sports development in Kano State is a beacon of hope for the future of sports in Kano. His visionary leadership and dedication to the welfare of his constituents make him an exemplary politician. 

Adamu, a Kano-based freelance sports writer, can be reached via jameelubaadamu@yahoo.com.

By Jamilu Uba Adamu

As the beautiful game continues to captivate audiences worldwide, the importance of safety and security in football stadiums cannot be overstated. In modern football administration, substantial investments are made to train security personnel on crowd control measures, ensuring spectators and players are safeguarded on match days.

However, the reality in Nigeria is alarming. A stadium with a capacity of 18,000 was recently grossly overcrowded with nearly 30,000 football fans. The stark reality is that overcrowding due to ticket overselling poses a significant threat to the structural integrity of our dilapidated stadium stands. The consequences of a disaster are too catastrophic to contemplate.

The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) must proactively address this ticking time bomb. The NPFL must encourage teams to educate fans, club officials, and security personnel on crowd control and ticket sales management. This includes training stewards and security officers on safety measures, such as emergency evacuation procedures, first aid, and access control measures. 

In addition, clubs should take responsibility for ensuring their stadiums meet the minimum safety standards. We all want to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone! 

The benefits of prioritizing safety and security in our football stadium extend beyond preventing disasters. A safe and secure environment enhances the fan experience, fostering a more enjoyable and family-friendly atmosphere.

In conclusion, the NPFL and clubs must address our football stadium’s safety and security issues with the urgency they deserve. By investing in education and training all relevant stadium personnel, we can prevent tragedies and ensure that football matches remain thrilling in a safe and secure atmosphere. As the saying goes, “A stitch in time saves nine.” Let us act now to safeguard lives.

On this note, it is worth commending the efforts of Dr. Christian Emeruwa, Head of Safety and Security at the Confederation of African Football (CAF). He has been instrumental in training safety and security officers, police, and other relevant stakeholders through the CAF Safe Stadium Initiative. 

Dr. Emeruwa’s tireless efforts have benefited several African countries, including Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, and Uganda. We hope that the Nigerian NPFL will soon benefit from this initiative and prioritize the safety and security of our football fans.

Jamilu Uba Adamu wrote from Kano via jameelubaadamu@yahoo.com.

By Anwar Usman

Dr. Victor Okhai, a seasoned filmmaker and critic in Nigeria, decried that cultural imperialism has made people forget about Indigenous films, which has caused a significant setback in the local film industries.

This was made known during the Kano Indigenous Languages of Africa Film Market and Festival (KILAF) conference, which was held on Monday at the Faculty of Communications, Bayero University, Kano.

He explains that ” one thing about indigenous film is that it contains a variety of activities. One can see how a particular culture operates, their way of life, and other things contained within that particular culture that people cannot know without being portrayed in a local movie.”

Dr Okhai further added that people mainly rely heavily on American movies. As such, they ignore their own heritage and embrace the Western way of life, which later cultivates them and makes them behave in a particular way the filmmakers want.

He also asserts that “through local films, individuals within a particular culture can be able to know their roots, what their forefathers have done which they might not necessarily know.”

“Indigenous film serves as an important medium of explaining cultural heritage, an avenue for generating revenue and an important tool for entertainment,” Okhai stated.

By Anas Abbas

Joseph Dame Ali, a lecturer in the Department of Theatre and Performing Arts at Bayero University, Kano, described the unique characteristics of Kannywood films, particularly emphasising the cultural significance and narrative depth of the Hausa movie Mai Martaba, directed by Prince Daniel Aboki.

Mr Ali made this known today during a paper presentation at the Kano Indigenous Languages of Africa Film and Festival ( KILAF ) conference at Bayero University, Kano.

The academic described Kannywood’s cinematic offerings as often predictable, yet he highlighted “Mai Martaba” as a notable exception.

He praised the film’s intricate storytelling, stating, “If you missed a second, you missed a lot.” The film’s vibrant portrayal of local culture is further viewed by its authentic costume, makeup, and props, which reflect a pre-Western colonial-era aesthetic.

The movie’s director, Prince Daniel Aboki, who is also a journalist, has chosen to cast largely unknown actors, allowing fresh talent to shine while keeping the audience engaged with a narrative-driven approach.

Ali emphasized that “the film relies heavily on narration, showcasing a storytelling style that resonates with viewers”.

Through his work on Mai Martaba, Aboki has established himself as a Kannywood actor, contributing significantly to the evolving landscape of Hausa cinema.

Nigeria has also selected the award-winning film as its official submission for the Best International Feature Film (IIF) category at the 97th Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars.

By Anas Abbas

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reassured Nigerians living in Libya of its unwavering commitment to their safety and welfare, particularly in light of recent tensions following a ruling by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) against the Libyan Football Association.

Reports have emerged indicating that some Nigerians in Libya faced harassment from local authorities after CAF’s decision, which criticized the Libyan FA for mistreatment of the Nigerian football team and officials during a Nations Cup Qualifying Match.

In a statement released on Sunday by spokesperson Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, the Ministry confirmed that Nigerians currently residing in Libya are safe and able to carry out their daily activities without interference.

The Ministry emphasized its proactive stance in monitoring the situation and reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad. “The well-being of Nigerian citizens anywhere in the world is a top priority for the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and we will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure their safety,” the statement read.

As of now, the Ministry assures that Nigerians in Libya are not experiencing any form of harassment from local authorities, reinforcing the government’s dedication to their security amidst ongoing diplomatic developments.