Showbiz
Olamide Maintains Street Decent on Global Stage With UY Scuti
By Stephen Chibuzor
Ever since Olamide emerged in 2010 with the freestyle-inspired hip-hop single Eni Duro, the Lagos native has kept us on our toes: his first three albums, Rapsodi, YBNL and Baddest Guy Ever Liveth were indigenous rap albums that defined hip-hop as a commercial genre in Nigeria.
From his fourth tape, Street OT, he began to incorporate more pop-leaning sounds as he delivered Afropop anthems like Story for the gods (2014), Lagos Boys (2015), Wo (2017), Science Student (2018), Woske (2019) and Infinity (2020).
“I’m a citizen of the world now, so my choice of sound is a combination of all the beautiful music I’ve heard. This is a full-time pop album, and its way, way above everything I’ve ever done.
“My son is a huge fan of astrology, and one day he asked me what the biggest star in the universe was. I found out; it stuck in my head and I titled the project that because it’s the biggest move I’ve made in my career,” Olamide said.
Olamide has retained his reputation as the most charismatic Voice of the Street by consistently delivering streetwise lyrics during his pop transitions. On his latest project, UY Scuti, his Caribbean pop sensibilities are the highlight of the 10-track tape. It’s buttressed by some brilliant beat making—throwback Caribbean harmonies produced by Eskeez (“Julie”), undiscovered guest features—Fave (a newcomer in the Nigerian music scene), and Layydoe (who infused an afro bashment vibe), and Olamide writing from his most self-assured position yet.
It’s as if Olamide spent the last year scouring through streaming service playlists for rhythms that could make his lessons from the streets that raised him feel more thrilling and reflect his expanding worldview. He was able to adapt Caribbean melodies into his sound without damping his sharp-witted pen game and it emphasized his prestige as the biggest star.
Fans’ reaction to the pop direction of UY Scuti has been positive as it pulled over one million streams on Boomplay alone within the first 24 hours after it dropped.
It surpassed other new releases to trend number one in the country on other streaming platforms though, the bonus track, Petty was available exclusively on Boomplay.
The streaming service also showed support for the project’s rollout through strategically located billboards and with their primary focus on African local and urban music for its over 60 million MUA, the favourable numbers confirmed that Olamide’s globe-trotting approach to the album didn’t discourage his local fanbase. It’s a testament to his endearing character that has also allowed him numerous opportunities to be endorsed as an ambassador to some top local and international brands.
UY Scuti positions Olamide as one of Afropop’s ambassadors as the genre continues to grow more internationally renowned following recent Grammy awards and other international recognition.
As reported by Boomplay, UY Scuti has been played over 4 million times on the platform which is impressive within the context of the streaming platform’s 68 million MAU. Olamide continues to release new albums yearly, keeping fans entertained without being afraid to experiment and explore new sounds.
Stephen Princewill Chibuzor popularly called papi wemba is a music enthusiast, Afrobeat music curator, entertainment and lifestyle PR consultant and serial entrepreneur who writes at his leisure. He is currently making magic with Boomplay as their PR Manager (Nigeria)
Africa’s biggest reality television show, Big Brother Naija, returns for its highly anticipated Season 11 on Sunday, 26 July 2026 on DStv and GOtv.
The launch show will air from 7 pm on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family channels, with the 24-hour show on DStv channel 198 and GOtv channel 49. BBNaija fans can also watch the show live via DStv and GOtv Stream.
This season’s winner will walk away with a record ₦160 million grand prize, which includes a cash sum of N100 million and a brand-new SUV. The prize is the highest in the show’s history, raising the stakes for what is expected to be another landmark season.
Speaking on the new season, Atinuke Babatunde, Executive Head, Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice, said:
“Big Brother Naija has consistently redefined entertainment in Africa by bringing together authentic storytelling, compelling personalities and moments that resonate with millions of viewers. Season 11 builds on that legacy with even bigger stakes, fresh twists and an exciting mix of housemates that will keep audiences engaged from premiere night through to the finale”.
The new season also ushers in an exciting lineup of brand partners, with betPawa, the home of Africa’s biggest winners, joining the Big Brother Naija family as the Headline Sponsor.
Commenting on the partnership, Borah Omary Ndanyungu, Head of Local Marketing & CSR, betPawa, said: “At betPawa, we believe in creating unforgettable experiences that bring people together through the things they are passionate about. Big Brother Naija is one of Africa’s most celebrated entertainment properties, and we are proud to come on board as Headline Sponsor for Season 11. We look forward to rewarding fans, deepening engagement throughout the season and delivering exciting experiences that complement the energy and excitement of the show.”
Guinness returns as the Gold Sponsor, while Minimie comes on board as an Associate Sponsor, reinforcing continued confidence from leading brands in one of Africa’s most influential entertainment platforms.
On the season’s partnerships, Babatunde commented: “We are delighted to welcome betPawa as our Headline Sponsor alongside Guinness and Minimie, whose partnership reflects the enduring value and impact of the Big Brother Naija platform.”
Since its return in 2017, Big Brother Naija has evolved beyond a reality TV show into a cultural phenomenon, creating household names, creating jobs across the creative economy, and shaping popular culture.
With Ebuka Obi-Uchendu returning as the show’s host, viewers can expect a season filled with unexpected twists, dynamic tasks, strategic gameplay, entertaining challenges and the authentic interactions that have made Big Brother Naija one of Africa’s most-watched reality TV show franchises.
Season 11 premieres on Sunday, 26 July 2026, with viewers able to follow every moment of the action throughout the season on DStv, GOtv, DStv Stream and GOtv Stream. Eligible subscribers can vote through the MyDStv and MyGOtv self-service apps, upgrade their packages for additional voting benefits, and enjoy uninterrupted access throughout the season by subscribing or renewing for multiple months.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The first dedicated talent management training institution in Nigeria, TGM Academy, is set to commence operations in September 2026.
This institution is the brainchild of one of Nigeria’s leading public relations and strategic communications agencies, That Good Media (TGM).
The firm has expertise in talent management, influencer sourcing, personal branding, media relations and reputation management.
According to a statement from the company, TGM Academy will equip aspiring and practising talent managers with the knowledge, skills and industry exposure required to support the growth of Nigeria’s rapidly expanding creative economy.
The academy was established to professionalise talent management as a viable career path while developing a new generation of globally competitive managers capable of strengthening Nigeria’s creative ecosystem.
While talent management has become increasingly important in helping creatives access international opportunities, build sustainable careers and create long-term
commercial value, the profession has lacked structured education, recognised standards and dedicated capacity-building platforms.
Ahead of the launch in about two months, TGM is organising a Talent Management Leadership Roundtable on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Abora Suites of Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the French Consulate, and Megowa, a digital platform connecting Nollywood talent with industry opportunities, training and resources across the African creative landscape.
Expected at the event are senior talent managers, entertainment executives, brand leaders, diplomats, cultural institutions, media executives, creatives and key decision makers whose work is shaping the future of Nigeria’s creative economy.
The roundtable themed Talent Management as Critical Infrastructure for Cultural Exchange and the Creative Economy will examine the evolving role of
talent management as a strategic enabler of commercial growth, international collaboration and cultural exchange.
It will create a platform for honest conversations around the future of talent management and its role in driving the creative economy, as participants will explore how professional management contributes to the long-term success of creatives, what brands expect before entering partnerships, how managers can build trusted relationships with corporate organisations, and how diplomatic missions and international cultural institutions engage with the creative sector through cultural exchange programmes, festivals and international collaborations.
The discussions will also examine the structures, competencies and ethical standards required for Nigerian talent managers to compete successfully within global markets, with insights generated during the roundtable to directly inform the curriculum, partnerships and learning framework of TGM Academy ahead of its official launch.
The wait is almost over. On July 26, Big Brother Naija returns for its eleventh season, bringing with it a brand-new theme, fresh housemates and another chapter of the reality show that continues to dominate conversations across Africa.
While fans are still guessing who will make it into Biggie’s House, one thing is already clear: this season is raising the stakes.
Everything Is For The Taking
This year’s theme, Everything Is For The Taking, sets the tone for what promises to be one of the most competitive seasons yet. It suggests a game where every task, every alliance and every decision could make the difference between staying in the House and walking away with the grand prize.
For the new housemates, nothing will come easy. They’ll have to earn every opportunity, win over viewers and navigate the twists that have become a hallmark of the BBNaija experience.
A New Set of Housemates, Endless Possibilities
As always, the identities of the new housemates remain under wraps, but that has only added to the excitement.
Every BBNaija season introduces a unique mix of personalities. Some become fan favourites almost overnight, others surprise everyone with their strategy, while a few create unforgettable moments that keep social media buzzing throughout the season.
Who will become this year’s breakout star? Fans will soon find out.
Big Brands Return for Season 11
Season 11 will once again feature some of Nigeria’s biggest brands, with betPawa as the headline sponsor, House of Guinness as the gold sponsor and Minimie as the associate sponsor.
Their continued partnership reflects the cultural impact and wide audience the show continues to attract year after year.
The Countdown Begins
With the premiere just around the corner, anticipation is building for another season of drama, competition, unexpected twists and unforgettable moments.
Whether you’re tuning in for the games, the relationships, the strategy or the entertainment, BBNaija Season 11 promises another exciting ride.
The countdown has officially begun, and if the theme is anything to go by, this season will remind everyone that in Biggie’s House, everything truly is for the taking.
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