EDITOR’S NOTE
Nigeria’s financial sector is undergoing transformative change. At the helm of this transformation is a new breed of bold, visionary Nigerians who are breaking barriers and reimagining the future of finance.
Shola Akinlade, Co-Founder and CEO of Paystack, has made an impact beyond numbers and milestones. At a time when Africa’s digital economy was still nascent, he recognised the critical need for a simple, reliable, and secure payment infrastructure.
Tosin Eniolorunda, CEO of Moniepoint Inc., bet on everyday Nigerians when digital banking was primarily focused on elite urban consumers.
Odunayo Eweniyi has played a defining role in revolutionising how millennials and Gen Z Nigerians manage their money. In a country with low financial literacy and a once non-existent saving culture among young people, Eweniyi saw a gap and filled it.
Eloho Omame is the Founding Partner of FirstCheck Africa, a female-led angel fund and syndicate. She is on a mission to rewrite the investment narrative, one in which African women aren’t just building startups but are also backed with capital.
Razaq Ahmed, Co-founder and CEO of Cowrywise has built a platform that brings investment opportunities once reserved for the rich into the hands of everyday Nigerians—young, old, salaried, or self-employed.
Read about them on pages 8 through 10.
This week, our fashion pages discuss how to style a wrap skirt. This wardrobe staple can be worn to work, formal events, or laid-back days. See how you can style your wrap skirt on pages 4 and 5.
Scroll to page 16 to download the playlist curated specially for you. You’ll love it.
Until next week, enjoy your read.
@onahluciaa + 2348033239132
AUSTYN OGANNAH
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa
Writer: Johnson Chukwueke
Design & Layout: Olaniyan John ‘Blake’
Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun
Consulting Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’
www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown
CONTENTS
Brain Gains Simple Tricks to Keep Your Nervous System Sharp 4 Skincare Trends You Should Never Try
TRAVEL Albania Unleashed Discover Europe’s Best-Kept Secret
Adesina @bolugramm - Contributing Writer
Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.
Dorcas Akintoye @mila_dfa_ - Contributing Writer
Dorcas Akintoye is a dedicated writer with more than 2 years prolific experience in writing articles ranging from food, entertainment, fashion and beauty. She has a National Diploma in Mass Communication from Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. She loves writing, listening to music and playing scrabble. She is a highly-skilled, enthusiastic, selfmotivated professional writer.
Sally Chiwuzie @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind
- Contributing Writer
Sally Chiwuzie is a non-practising barrister who owns the brand #Unshakable. She is the author of Silent Symphonies, a fictional love story, and the creator of the podcast Chronicles of #Unshakable Truths.
Boluwatife
Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron
Dr May , weldone
WRAP SKIRT WAYS TO WEAR A 6 FASHION
PAIR IT WITH A BASIC T-SHIRT 1
If you’re going for a carefree, everyday look, the easiest way to wear a wrap skirt is with a simple T-shirt. This outfit is easy, comfortable, and still polished. Tuck a white or colourful T-shirt into your wrap skirt to highlight the wrap feature and define your waist. You can complete the look with slippers, sneakers, or flat sandals.
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
Wrap skirts are timeless fashion pieces that never go out of style. They are easy to wear, fashionable, and comfy. A wrap skirt can be worn to work, a formal dinner, or even a laid-back day out, depending on how you style it. You can pair it with various tops, shoes, and accessories to create completely distinct appearances. Let us walk you through six simple but stylish ways to wear a wrap skirt.
2 STYLE IT WITH A BUTTON-DOWN SHIRT
If you want to wear your wrap skirt to the office or a work meeting, you can pair it with a crisp button-down shirt. This combination provides a more polished and professional appearance while maintaining a stylish look. A white or pastel-coloured shirt works best, especially with a neutral or patterned wrap skirt. Tuck in the shirt neatly. Add a belt to define your waist, and finish with closedtoe flats or low heels.
3
GO FOR A CROP TOP
Wearing a wrap skirt and a crop top together can give you a clean, stylish look, whether you’re attending a concert, going on a date night, or just gathering with friends. Crop tops look great with high- waisted wrap skirts because they balance the ensemble by showing just the right amount of skin: not too much, not too little.
4
ADD A DENIM JACKET FOR LAYERED STYLE
Wrap skirts look fantastic on their own, but if you want to add a bit more edge to your ensemble, consider wearing a denim jacket. This combination makes your ensemble seem more intriguing and gives it a cool-girl vibe. Under the jacket, you may pair the wrap skirt with a basic blouse or tank top. It’s an excellent outfit for a casual outing or travel day.
5
DRESS IT UP WITH A BLOUSE AND HEELS
Your wrap skirt can still shine if you’re going to dinner, a party, or a semi-formal event. To dress it up, pair it with a stylish blouse, perhaps one featuring ruffles, lace, or an interesting neckline. Choose heels or fancy sandals to elevate the whole look. Accessorise with a small bag, simple jewellery, and maybe even a bold lip.
6
GO BOHO WITH A FLOWY TOP AND ACCESSORIES
Your wrap skirt is perfect if you love that relaxed, bohemian style. Pair it with a loosefitting, oversized top, such as one featuring embroidery, bell sleeves, or intricate patterns. At the front, tuck in slightly or let the top hang loose. Add a wide-brimmed hat, bangles, stacked necklaces, sandals, or woven slippers to finish the ensemble. This look is perfect for beach parties, music festivals, or any occasion you want to feel stylish and carefree.
A wrap skirt is one of the easiest pieces to style, and with just a few different pairings, you can wear it in so many different ways. From casual to classy, from office to outing, it is a must-have in any wardrobe. The key is to keep it simple, be confident, and have fun experimenting with different looks.
SALLY CHIWUZIE
@unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind
O IS FOR OWNERSHIP
(…and Openness. And Openmindedness.)
She had taken the brave step. She left. The world clapped for her when she finally emerged from the fog of indecision and into something new. People admired her courage, praised her strength, celebrated her return to herself. But what the world rarely talks about is what comes after the leaving. That quiet stretch where doubt lingers. Where you wonder if you’ll ever feel truly desired again. If you’ll ever trust yourself to choose well.
Because beginnings — real beginnings — are terrifying. Especially when they arrive after the kind of ending that shook the ground beneath you.
She didn’t find love on the other side of healing.
She found him in the liminal space.
Not when she was fully ready. Not when she had tied every loose end of grief with a satin bow. But in that murky, beautiful mess where she was still patching herself back together. That in-between where she was learning to make peace with her reflection again — and relearning the sound of her own laughter.
He showed up not to rescue her but to witness her.
He didn’t ask for her best self. He was drawn to her honest self.
And yet — even in this unexpected connection — her fears came rushing back, cloaked in logic, dressed as discernment.
On date three, she panicked because everything felt… good. Too good. Was he too thoughtful? Too available? Was that a red flag in disguise? Or had her past sharpened her vision so much she was now seeing danger where there was only care?
This is what no one prepares you for: The difference between being careful and being afraid.
She wanted to be open but not exposed. Available, but not vulnerable. Soft, but still in control.
And so she analysed it all:
• How quickly he texted back.
• What he ordered from the menu.
• The way he spoke about his ex.
• Whether he reached for her hand or waited for her lead.
She no longer needed to play by the unspoken rules of modern dating. The three-date milestones. The flirting-but-not-too-much dynamic. The dance of appearing interested while pretending not to be invested. That didn’t serve her anymore.
Instead, she allowed herself to ask the questions that mattered:
Does this feel peaceful?
Does this feel mutual?
Does this feel like it’s rooted in reality, not fantasy?
But even as she leaned into the budding connection, she wrestled with the fear of being wrong again.
Because society forgives one failed marriage. But two? Now, you’re the problem. Now, you’re “difficult.” Now, you’re a cautionary tale.
And so she held herself back — not because he gave her reason to, but because happiness itself felt suspicious.
Could she trust joy? Or was it just a calm before the next heartbreak?
She had to own that fear, too. To name it. To sit with it.
And then — slowly — to release it. Because ownership isn’t just about taking responsibility for your past.
It’s about choosing not to let it write your future. It’s about not punishing the present for the sins of those who came before.
And openness? It’s allowing yourself to be surprised.
It’s letting go of the fantasy that healing must be complete before love arrives.
• The pauses. The eye contact. The timing of his compliments. She had become fluent in micro-decoding — a language born from past betrayals. But ownership meant something different now. It wasn’t about controlling outcomes or preventing pain. It was about being honest with herself. Owning her triggers. Her pace. Her needs. Her hopes.
It’s recognising that sometimes, your intuition is whispering the truth. And sometimes, it’s just your trauma in a louder voice.
Open-mindedness is what gave her the courage to stay curious instead of critical.
To entertain the idea that maybe — just maybe — this could be different. That God’s design for partnership wasn’t a punishment but a gift.
That intimacy wasn’t a transaction but a meeting of spirits.
That she could desire love without negotiating her soul.
She would no longer sell her softness for scraps of connection.
She would no longer dim her light to be digestible.
She would no longer let logic kill the magic.
This was her #Unshakable truth: She could be careful and open.
Discerning and hopeful.
Healing and worthy of being loved well.
She owns her journey.
She owns her joy.
And she opens herself to the possibility that maybe, this time, love might just stay.
What part of your story are you still afraid to own?
Where have you closed the door too tightly on something soft, something sacred, something real?
It’s okay to let the light back in.
Even just a little crack.
‘See’ you next week.
of Digital Money KINGS AND QUEENS
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE AND DORCAS AKINTOYE
Africa’s financial landscape continues to undergo transformative change. At the heart of this transformation is a new breed of bold, tech-savvy, and visionary Nigerians who are breaking barriers and reimagining the future of finance. No longer content with the status quo, these innovators are building financial solutions that close the gap between the banked and the unbanked and place Africa at the centre of global fintech conversations. Gone are the days when financial power was reserved for multinational institutions
or exclusive boardrooms. Today, success wears a fresher face—one that looks like Tosin Eniolorunda, whose Moniepoint empire is driving financial inclusion across underserved communities; Ezra Olubi, whose role in Paystack’s $200 million acquisition made headlines around the world; Odunayo Eweniyi, who is turning saving into a cultural norm with PiggyVest; Eloho Omame, a powerful voice for genderlens investing; and others who are proving that confidence, innovation, and purpose can be profitable.
AtTosin Eniolorunda
CEO of Moniepoint Inc
a time when digital banking was largely focused on elite urban consumers, Tosin Eniolorunda took a different path—he bet on everyday Nigerians. As the Founder and CEO of Moniepoint Inc. (formerly TeamApt), Tosin has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most influential fintech leaders, building financial infrastructure that serves real people and real businesses, particularly in underserved communities.
Under his leadership, Moniepoint has grown into one of Africa’s largest business banking platforms, powering over 1.6 million businesses with everything from payments to working capital. The company processed over $182 billion in transactions in 2023 alone, making it one of the continent’s most important yet understated fintech giants. Eniolorunda’s vision goes beyond sleek apps and startup buzz; it’s about solving problems at scale—whether it’s enabling a market woman in Kano to accept digital payments or helping small businesses stay afloat with accessible credit.
Eniolorunda is proof that confidence doesn’t always look like noise. Quietly impactful, he has built a robust digital backbone for financial access in Nigeria, and he’s doing it sustainably. With a strong emphasis on operational excellence and compliance, Moniepoint stands out in a crowded fintech space for its focus on long-term value.
Tosin Eniolorunda has flipped the script in breaking the finance glass ceiling: success isn’t just about disrupting banks—it’s about building systems the banks forgot. He is, without a doubt, one of the most pivotal players in Africa’s financial evolution.
These are more than entrepreneurs—they are financial architects building systems rooted in accessibility, transparency, and impact. Whether through digital payment platforms, investment tools, or funding ecosystems, they are reshaping how Africans interact with money and wealth creation. This story celebrates those who are cashing in not just on currency but on courage. It is about the audacity to lead, to disrupt, and to succeed—on their own terms and for the continent.
Shola Akinlade
Co-founder & CEO, Paystack
As the Founding Partner and CEO of Paystack, Shola Akinlade has become a defining figure in Africa’s fintech landscape, reshaping how businesses and consumers exchange value across the continent. Co-founding Paystack in 2015 alongside Ezra Olubi, Shola’s visionary leadership turned the startup into one of Nigeria’s most successful tech companies, culminating in a historic acquisition by Stripe in 2020, marking one of the largest tech exits in Africa.
Shola’s impact goes beyond numbers and milestones. At a time when Africa’s digital economy was still nascent, he recognised the critical need for a simple, reliable, and secure payment infrastructure. His work has empowered thousands of small and medium-sized businesses to access global markets and grow their customer base, fueling entrepreneurship and economic development.
His story fits perfectly within the theme of this article. Shola embodies the new generation of African leaders breaking the finance glass ceiling by innovating within the fintech space and creating platforms that democratise access to financial services. His ability to blend technology with deep market insight has helped demystify digital payments for millions, making finance more inclusive.
In redefining success and breaking barriers before the age of 40, Shola Akinlade exemplifies how confidence, expertise, and visionary thinking are transforming Africa’s financial future—one seamless payment at a time.
Odunayo Eweniyi
Co-founder &
COO, PiggyVest
In a country where financial literacy is low, and saving culture was once non-existent among young people, Odunayo Eweniyi saw a gap—and filled it with purpose, innovation, and tech. As Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of PiggyVest, she has played a defining role in revolutionising how millennials and Gen Z Nigerians manage their money.
Founded in 2016, PiggyVest began as a digital piggy bank and has since grown into a fullfledged personal finance platform, helping over 4 million users build discipline, save consistently, and invest wisely. Eweniyi’s strength lies in her operational brilliance, transforming a simple savings idea into a financial lifestyle movement. By leveraging gamification, social media, and relatable money narratives, she made finance accessible and even enjoyable for a generation often excluded from wealth-building conversations.
But her impact goes beyond tech. Eweniyi is also a powerful voice for gender equity in African business and tech spaces. Through initiatives like FirstCheck Africa, she supports female-led startups, helping women gain access to early-stage capital and mentorship. Her dual commitment to innovation and inclusion makes her one of the most respected and fearless young leaders in African finance today.
Eweniyi fits perfectly into this story—not just as a disruptor but as a builder of new systems that include more people, especially women. Her work reflects a deeper truth: breaking the finance glass ceiling isn’t just about numbers; it’s about shifting culture. And in that regard, Odunayo Eweniyi is miles ahead.
Eloho Omame
Founding Partner, FirstCheck Africa
Razaq Ahmed
Co-founder & CEO, Cowrywise
Whenit comes to reshaping who gets funded in Africa’s tech and finance ecosystem, Eloho Omame is at the forefront of the revolution. As the Founding Partner of FirstCheck Africa, a female-led angel fund and syndicate, she is on a mission to rewrite the investment narrative—one where African women aren’t just building startups but are also backed with capital, confidence, and credibility from day one.
Omame’s journey through investment banking, private equity, and startup incubation gave her a front-row seat to the gender disparity in funding. Rather than wait for change, she decided to lead it. With FirstCheck Africa, she’s creating an inclusive pipeline that prioritises early-stage support for female founders, providing both capital and mentorship to close the gender gap in African venture funding.
Her impact is multidimensional. Omame is not just writing cheques—she’s influencing a shift in how the finance world views leadership, innovation, and risk. By backing underrepresented voices, she’s proving that women-led ventures aren’t a charitable cause; they’re a sound investment strategy.
In a world where access to capital remains one of the toughest glass ceilings, Omame is swinging the hammer with intention and intelligence. She belongs in this story not only because she’s helping women break into finance, but because she’s redefining the rules of who gets to play—and win. Her vision is bold, her work is catalytic, and her presence is pushing Africa’s financial future toward greater equity.
In a financial landscape long dominated by gatekeepers and limited to the wealthy elite, Razaq Ahmed emerged as a trailblazer who dared to democratise wealth-building. As the Cofounder and CEO of Cowrywise, Ahmed has built a platform that brings investment opportunities once reserved for the rich into the hands of everyday Nigerians—young, old, salaried, or selfemployed.
Cowrywise was born out of a deep understanding of the financial exclusion many Nigerians face, particularly when it comes to long-term investing. Ahmed, a trained economist and former investment analyst, combined his technical knowhow with an empathetic grasp of local financial behaviours to build a product that simplifies savings and investment. Today, the platform boasts hundreds of thousands of users and partnerships with top asset managers in Nigeria.
Ahmed’s brilliance lies in bridging trust and tech. In an environment riddled with Ponzi schemes and mistrust in financial institutions, he has created a transparent, secure, and userfriendly product that empowers users to take control of their financial futures without jargon or intimidation.
His inclusion in this feature is a no-brainer. Ahmed isn’t just making finance accessible—he’s changing the culture around money management in Nigeria. Through Cowrywise, he’s showing that confidence in finance isn’t reserved for bankers in suits; it’s something every Nigerian can—and should—own. In breaking the glass ceiling, Razaq Ahmed is making sure there’s a ladder underneath it, too.
Olu Akanmu
Chima Nwosu
Former President & co-Ceo, Opay Nigeria - CEO, Palmpay
Olu Akanmu’s name carries weight in Nigeria’s financial and digital sectors, not just for what he’s built but also for the bold spaces he’s occupied along the way. As the former President and co-CEO of OPay, he brought traditional banking acumen to one of Nigeria’s most disruptive fintechs, playing a pivotal role in scaling the company during a defining moment in Nigeria’s digital finance evolution.
With an impressive background spanning telecommunications, marketing, and commercial banking—including roles at FCMB, Airtel, and MTN— Akanmu brought a rare versatility to the fintech table. Under his leadership, OPay became a household name, offering seamless payment and financial services to millions of Nigerians, particularly during the country’s 2022/2023 cash crunch. His ability to lead with vision and stability helped the company navigate a volatile financial climate while continuing to expand its market share.
What sets Akanmu apart—and justifies his place in this story—is how he straddles the line between institutional know-how and modern innovation. Even amidst corporate clashes, his push for social impact and consumer-focused branding within OPay reflects a broader ethos: finance should work for the people, not just profits.
Though he stepped down from OPay in 2023, Olu Akanmu remains a force in African fintech conversations. His journey underscores a new wave of financial leadership—one that merges credibility with creativity and tradition with transformation. He’s not just breaking the glass ceiling; he’s redesigning what’s on the other side.
Chika Nwosu is a prominent Nigerian business leader and the Managing Director of PalmPay, one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing digital financial platforms. With a strong background in business and technology, Nwosu has played a vital role in advancing cashless payments and digital banking across the country. Under his leadership, PalmPay has grown rapidly, offering millions of Nigerians access to secure, easy, and convenient financial services through a single mobile app.
Since taking the helm, Nwosu has overseen PalmPay’s expansion to over 35 million customers and 1.2 million business users, making it a trusted name in the fintech space.
Committed to user safety, Nwosu has championed initiatives such as the Wallet Safety Workshop to combat online fraud. With ambitious plans to expand into other African markets and Southeast Asia, Nwosu is positioning PalmPay to shape the future of digital finance not only in Nigeria but globally. His leadership reflects innovation, resilience, and a customer-first approach to financial inclusion.
The stories of these young Nigerian finance leaders are not just individual wins—they are indicators of a larger, irreversible movement. What we’re witnessing is a conscious reshaping of power dynamics in Africa’s financial ecosystem, where access, innovation, and impact are no longer restricted to traditional gatekeepers. These visionaries are not only creating solutions that resonate with millions—they are also widening the door for others to walk through. Their work reflects more than personal ambition. It reveals a commitment to collective progress, where finance becomes a tool for empowerment rather than exclusion. In an industry once defined by conservatism and elitism, these changemakers have brought humanity, diversity, and approachability into the equation. They’ve redefined what leadership looks like—and who gets to lead.
ALBANIA UNLEASHED
Discover Europe’s Best-Kept Secret
ABY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
lbania, a hidden gem in the Balkans, is quickly emerging as one of Europe’s most captivating travel destinations. With its pristine beaches, rugged mountains, and charming ancient towns, it’s no wonder more travellers are flocking to experience its unique blend of history and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Albania offers something for everyone. Ready to uncover its treasures? Here are five must-visit spots that will leave you enchanted.
Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its stunning Ottoman architecture and picturesque hillside houses, which are stacked like dominoes. This city exudes a timeless charm, with cobblestone streets, ancient mosques, and churches that tell tales of a rich past. Explore the Berat Castle perched on the hilltop, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Osum River. Don’t forget to visit the Onufri National Museum to admire some of Albania’s finest religious art.
Nestled in the Albanian Alps, Theth is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This remote village is surrounded by towering peaks, waterfalls, and lush valleys that seem untouched by time. Hike to the Grunas Waterfall or the iconic Blue Eye of Theth, where crystal-clear waters beckon you for a refreshing dip. A visit to the historic Church of Theth and the Lock-in Tower gives a glimpse into the region’s unique cultural heritage.
Imagine turquoise waters gently lapping against white sandy shores – that’s Ksamil. Nestled on the Ionian Sea, this coastal paradise is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. Hop on a boat to the nearby Ksamil Islands and indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a beach bum, Ksamil’s laid-back vibe is undeniably irresistible.
Butrint
Amidst Nature
Located near the Greek border, Butrint National Park is a mesmerising blend of history and natural splendour. Explore ancient ruins dating back to the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians, all nestled within a lush wetland setting. Highlights include the amphitheatre, the Baptistery with its mosaic floor, and the grand Basilica. It’s an archaeological wonder that feels like stepping back in time.
Step into a fairytale as you wander through Gjirokastër’s stone-paved streets and gaze up at its magnificent castle. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city boasts Ottoman-era houses that cascade down the hillside, giving it an unforgettable medieval ambience. The castle itself houses a fascinating museum and offers breathtaking views of the Drina Valley. For a cultural dive, visit the Ethnographic Museum, which is also the birthplace of Albania’s former dictator, Enver Hoxha.
Albania’s diverse landscapes and vibrant history make it an ideal destination for travellers looking to experience something new and exciting. Whether you’re wandering through ancient cities, lounging on pristine beaches, or conquering alpine trails, this Balkan beauty offers endless discoveries. As Albania continues to gain popularity, now is the perfect time to embark on an adventure to this underrated paradise. Pack your bags and let Albania unleash its wonders upon you.
Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows
Ksamil – The Albanian Riviera’s Crown Jewel
Gjirokastër – The Stone City
Theth – A Hiker’s Dream
– Ancient Ruins
2.
DIY TOOTHPASTE FOR PIMPLES
1.
USING LEMON JUICE DIRECTLY ON YOUR FACE
One of the oldest skincare mistakes is that some people think that putting lemon juice directly on their face can brighten it, lighten dark spots, or cure acne, and regrettably, it’s still popular today. Although lemons contain vitamin C, which is good for your skin, applying raw lemon juice is too harsh and can burn your skin. Lemons are very acidic, which can upset your skin’s natural pH balance and cause redness, peeling, irritation, and even blisters. If you want vitamin C in your routine, use a mild serum designed for your face rather than some homemade fruit.
This is another trend that refuses to go. You might have heard or seen someone apply toothpaste to pimples to “dry them out overnight.” While toothpaste may feel minty and refreshing, it is not intended for use on the skin. In fact, it can worsen your pimples. Instead, utilise acnespecific treatments, such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. They’re safer and more effective.
TRENDS 4 SKINCARE YOU SHOULD NEVER TRY
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
In today’s age of TikTok hacks, Instagram influencers, and YouTube beauty experts, new skincare trends appear daily. While some are beneficial and can improve your skin, others are harmful fads that can cause more harm than good. Not every skincare tip or trick you see online is safe or supported by experts. Some of these trends can harm your skin, create irritation, or result in long-term difficulties. Here are four skincare trends that you should never try, no matter how popular they seem.
3.
OVEREXFOLIATING YOUR SKIN
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, smooth out your face, and give you that fresh glow. But when you exfoliate too often, especially with harsh scrubs or strong chemical exfoliants, you damage your skin barrier instead of helping it.
4. USING GLUE OR PEEL-OFF MASKS TO REMOVE BLACKHEADS
You may have seen this trend on social media: people use glue or incredibly powerful peel-off masks on their noses to “pull out” blackheads. It looks satisfying, but it is not safe. These products can strip your skin, removing not only blackheads but also microscopic hairs, natural oils, and layers of skin. If blackheads annoy you, try a salicylic acid cleanser or clay mask, or visit a dermatologist for professional treatment. Avoid strong peels, which cause more harm than good.
Using skincare products designed for your skin type and following safe, easy routines are the best ways to take care of your skin. You shouldn’t follow trends if they don’t suit your needs. Your skin is sensitive and should be treated with love, not subjected to harsh experiments.
BRAIN GAINS
Simple Tricks to Keep Your Nervous System Sharp
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Your brain is your command centre. It tells your heart to beat, your body to move, and your mouth to say that clever comeback—if you think of it in time. But in today’s world of constant scrolling, stress overload, and caffeine-fueled chaos, our nervous system often takes a hit. And while we’re busy hitting the gym for biceps or eating clean for abs, we sometimes forget the body’s real MVP: the brain.
But here’s the good news—it’s never too early (or too late) to keep your nervous system sharp. You don’t need fancy gadgets or a neuroscience degree. Just a few sciencebacked, everyday tricks can help boost your brain health and keep your reflexes snappy, your memory crisp, and your mood stable.
Move Your Body, Boost Your Brain
Physical activity doesn’t just tone your body— it powers up your brain. Regular exercise increases blood flow to the brain, promoting the growth of new neural connections. Whether it’s a brisk walk around your neighbourhood, a dance session in your living room, or a gym workout, get your body moving. Aerobic activities, in particular, have been linked to better memory, focus, and even emotional resilience.
Prioritise Quality Sleep
Sleep is not a luxury—it’s brain fuel. During deep sleep, your brain flushes out toxins, processes emotions, and solidifies memories. Skimping on rest not only slows your reaction time but can also lead to long-term cognitive decline. Aim for 7–9 hours of good-quality sleep each night. Cut the caffeine late in the day, build a wind-down routine, and keep screens out of your bedtime zone.
You really are what you eat—especially when it comes to your nervous system. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed), antioxidants (berries, dark chocolate), and B vitamins (leafy greens, eggs) help protect neurons and improve communication between brain cells. Add turmeric and green tea for antiinflammatory benefits, and stay hydrated. Even mild dehydration can mess with your memory and concentration.
Mindfulness isn’t just a trendy buzzword—it’s a proven way to support nervous system health. Simple breathing exercises, meditation, or even five minutes of quiet reflection can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), lower blood pressure, and improve emotional regulation. Apps like Headspace or Calm can guide you, but sometimes, just sitting in silence or journaling your thoughts is all it takes.
Your nervous system thrives on novelty. Challenge it. Learn a new skill, speak a new language, do crosswords or Sudoku, or even take a different route to work. The brain loves patterns, but it also loves puzzles. The more you stretch it, the more it adapts—forming new neural pathways and improving cognitive flexibility.
A sharp nervous system is the foundation for a vibrant life. From reacting quickly in traffic to remembering names, calming anxiety, and feeling present daily, your brain deserves top-tier care. So, take these simple tricks, add them to your lifestyle, and start earning those brain gains—no dumbbells required.
DÉCOR
Creating a
ROMANCE-INSPIRED BEDROOM
As a couple, the bedroom should hold so much intimacy between you. It should be the room that makes the flame of your romance burn even brighter. As soon as you step in, you remember everything that made you fall for your significant other.
Soft, Warm Lighting
Setting the mood rightly involves the correct use of lighting, which plays a crucial role in setting a romantic mood. Go for soft lighting, which can be dimmed with warm tones to create a cosy and intimate atmosphere. Consider bedside lamps with warm-coloured shades, fairy lights, or string lights to give a soft glow.
Scents And Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a subtle yet powerful way to add romance to your bedroom. Essential oil diffusers with soothing, romantic scents like lavender, jasmine, or ylang-ylang create a calming, sensual ambience. Scented candles or reed diffusers can also give the room a lasting fragrance that elevates the mood.
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Creating a romantic atmosphere in the bedroom can transform it into a cosy, intimate retreat perfect for relaxation and connection. You could be redecorating your bedroom space for a special occasion or simply adding a lasting romantic touch. Whatever it may
Luxurious Fabrics
The texture of the fabrics in your bedroom can elevate the romantic vibe. High-quality, luxurious bedding made from satin, silk, or high-thread-count cotton is highly recommended to make the space feel plush and inviting. Velvet cushions, faux fur throws, or plush rugs can also add a touch of elegance and softness, making the room perfect for snuggling.
Personalised Artwork And Photos
Adding personalised artwork or framed photos of special moments together can make your bedroom feel more intimate and personal. Consider hanging framed love letters, romantic quotes, or artwork that reflects your journey together. A gallery wall of meaningful photos that makes you recollect cherished memories and adds a sentimental touch.
be, incorporating the right elements can enhance the ambience of your bedroom. Here are some romantic-inspired décor ideas to help you create an inviting and sensual bedroom environment.
Romantic Colour Palette
The right colour palette sets the ambience for whatever mood you are trying to create, and choosing the right colour palette is key to creating a romantic bedroom. Soft neutrals like cream, blush, and soft pinks, combined with deeper, richer tones like burgundy, plum, or midnight blue, can create a balanced yet intimate space. Red accents, such as in pillows or artwork, can add a passionate touch without overwhelming the room.
Floral And NatureInspired Elements
Infuse floral or nature-inspired elements into your décor as they can add a romantic, organic touch. A vase of fresh roses or peonies on the bedside table, floral-patterned cushions, or artwork featuring delicate botanical prints can help bring an element of nature’s beauty into the room. Potted plants, like ferns or lavender, can also introduce a calming and refreshing atmosphere.
Whether you’re redesigning for a special occasion or simply want to create a more romantic atmosphere, these elements can add depth, charm, and sensuality to your space.
CASSY’S CHRONICLES
THE ACCIDENTAL SEND
Ipanicked, trying to delete it, but it was too late. He’d seen it.
My phone lit up. It was his message.
“Call me.”
I debated ignoring it. Pretend nothing happened. But my fingers betrayed me again. I called. His voice was calm, deep, and slightly amused. “Was that for me?”
I swallowed. “No.
That was a mistake.”
“A beautiful mistake,” he said softly. “But now I can’t stop thinking about you.”
I went quiet. My heart pounded.
“I want to see you,” he said. “No pressure. Just come over. Talk to me… in person.” I hesitated. Then I surprised myself.
“Send the address”, I said.
Somehow, I got to his house. I knocked on his door, my palms damp, knees slightly shaky. He opened it shirtless, wearing grey sweatpants that hung low on his hips. His eyes travelled down my body, lingering.
“You came,” he said, stepping aside. I stepped inside. His place smelled like cedarwood and citrus. Clean. Inviting.
“Want a drink?” he asked.
“Water’s fine.”
He handed me a glass and gestured toward the couch. We sat close, but not too close. The video hung in the air between us, unspoken but present.
“So…” he began, swirling his drink. “Is that something you do often?”
“Send explicit videos to guys I’m texting?” I laughed nervously. “Not at all. That was… truly an accident.”
“I liked what I saw,” he said, his eyes
holding mine. “But I like this more. Seeing you here, raw, real.”
That surprised me. He didn’t go for the obvious. He didn’t press.
We talked about music, random tweets, bad dates, and how Lagos is both a dream and a nightmare. I forgot how I got there, and I forgot the awkwardness. I started to relax.
At some point, I realised we were closer. His arm brushed mine. My legs tucked under me, turning toward him. He looked at me differently now.
“I wasn’t expecting to feel this... connected,” he said softly.
“Me neither.”
His hand reached out, tentative, and pushed a strand of hair behind my ear. I didn’t stop him.
“Can I kiss you?” he asked.
That question did something to me.
“Yes,” I answered. His lips were gentle at first, testing the moment. I leaned in, and the kiss deepened— warm, slow, and filled with promise. My body stirred, memories of that video now alive in the flesh.
He pulled back slightly, eyes searching mine.
“Still okay?”
I nodded, breathless. We moved together like magnets. His hands on my waist, my fingers tracing his chest.
Clothes peeled away, slowly, like an invitation we both kept accepting. He kissed me down my neck and whispered my name like a secret. And when he finally touched me, really touched me, I trembled.
By the time he entered me, I was lost in him. His rhythm matched my pulse. It wasn’t just sex. It was fire and softness, desire and surprise. I moaned into his shoulder, clinging to him, falling apart and being put back together in his arms.
When it was over, we lay there, quiet, tangled. He turned to me, smiling. “Next time, maybe send it on purpose.”
I laughed, shaking my head. But deep down, I knew I would send it again.
Image from Dreamstine
BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA
MOVIE REVIEW:
Lilo and Stitch (2025)
It’spossible that, more than twenty years since its initial release, many movie-goers have forgotten just how high the stakes are in Chris Sanders and Dean DeBois’ animated charmer Lilo & Stitch. You’d be forgiven for not entirely remembering that the comedy, which follows the antics of its eponymous BFFs (Lilo, a rambunctious five-year-old with a real flair for getting into trouble and Stitch, a rambunctious bright blue alien with a real flair for getting into trouble), is also about a family devastated by personal tragedy, desperately trying to hold on to each other in the face of very tough odds. When said rambunctious bright blue alien crash-lands into the lives of Lilo and her big sister Nani, he adds a touch of whimsy and some nutty adventures into their otherwise complicated lives. Bolstered by cute and cuddly creature design, catchy tunes, and frequent reminders about the importance of ohana (family), the 2002 Disney animated outing is an enduring gem that combines wacky fun with some necessary lessons. It works so well because of its wily combination of packaging and messaging.
But it also works significantly less well when that packaging changes, switched from bright and bubbly animation to a live-action setting that can’t help but constantly remind viewers of the supposed reality of the situation. And while much of the charm of the original film remains, in director Dean Fleischer Camp’s updated Lilo & Stitch, it’s significantly harder to fully divest ourselves of the pressure of some very earthbound concerns. In short, it’s tough to let go and laugh at the antics of a destructive (but cute!) alien being when lingering worry over the need for health insurance hangs over every wacky and wild interaction like the Sword of Damocles.
Written by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes, the live-action Lilo & Stitch lightly updates Sanders and DeBois’ original story, including a few neat character evolutions (like casting original voice actor Amy Hill as Tūtū, a new version of her previous character Mrs. Hasagawa, or turning original Nani voice actor Tia Carrere into social worker Mrs. Kekoa) and the very smart choice to allow intergalactic baddies Dr. Jumba Jookiba (Zach Galifianakis) and Agent Pleakley (a perfectly cast Billy Magnussen) to play both their alien and human versions. But its heart remains the same, both a feature and a bug: this is a story about ohana, and about what it really takes to keep a family together. That’s inherently dramatic stuff.
A snappy opening takes us through some essential introductions: Stitch (again voiced
by original co-director Sanders) is the product of illegal genetic experimentations from the evil Dr. Jookiba who, it seems, was really into the idea of creating a being both silly and smart, adorable and ugly, and totally hellbent on destruction. As the Grand Councilwoman (voiced by Hannah Waddingham) bemoans during a very bad indeed meeting of the United Galactic Federation, Experiment 626 (as he’s known before he hits Earth) is “so naughty.” His punishment for his creation? Exile away from the rest of the civilised federation.
626, in all his infernal naughtiness, escapes the feds clutches and zips his way straight to Earth, a protected land that’s been designated as a space for revitalising the mosquito population (one of many good jokes). Until this point, much of 2025’s “Lilo & Stitch” looks a lot like the original, with colourful, animal-inspired aliens pottering around a massive ship. And then, we’re on Earth, and suddenly reminded this is live-action and ostensibly, if not real, at least rooted in some kind of reality.
Despite living in the relative idyll of Hawaii, Lilo (spirited newbie Maia Kealoha) has lots of problems: her parents have passed away, her older sister Nani (a wonderful Sydney Elizebeth Agudong) is trying to raise Lilo, there’s never enough money, there’s never enough time, and Lilo is way too plucky and smart to appeal to most other kids her own age. More than anything, Lilo wants a best friend, and it’s a credit to the film that her concerns are treated with just as much gravity as Nani’s, which are much more heavy and worrisome (after all, why do you think they need a social worker?).
When 626 crash-lands on Earth, it’s only a matter of time until the infinitely curious Lilo finds him (as in the animated film, their meet-cute takes place at an animal rescue; unlike in the animated film, it’s significantly harder to buy that the cute and fluffy and also blue and bipedal alien is even remotely passable as a dog). Hot on his heels? The mismatched Dr. Jookiba (villainous) and Agent Pleakley (hilarious, obsessed with humans and their fashion in particular).
Circling all of them? Courtney B. Vance as CIA operative (sort of) Cobra Bubbles. Ever-inescapable? The very real possibility that Nani is going to have to give up Lilo. And no, the appearance of an insane alien with an appetite for destruction really does not help matters.
However, will they get out of these many pickles? Well, by way of some cute adventures, some incredibly upsetting upheavals, and a generous dash of alien-created technology, used frequently enough to really tickle some of those latent Home Alone memories. Along the way, everyone — one of the true misses of this version is a rush through the charming and totally unexpected family Lilo and Stitch manage to craft through thick and thin, more attention really should have been paid to this modern ohana — learns some valuable lessons, has some fun, and falls deeper in love with the newly-minted Stitch.
The heart of this story remains firmly intact, but there’s something about seeing it rendered in live-action that takes away its inherent magic. It’s harder to fall into, much tougher to lose yourself in. Maybe we can never quite recreate the dreaminess of an original story, but there’s something to be said for remembering what it feels like to be caught inside that sort of bubble, and not crash-landed back on Earth.
Rating:6/10
I am once again pleading for these live-action remakes to stop.
Don’t read too much into the name. There is not a huge amount of murder in Murderbot, but there’s plenty of thinking about it. At the heart of this comedy scifi — based on the Murderbot Diaries books by Martha Wells — is a synthetic lifeform (Alexander Skarsgård) that has had it with humans.
bond with its largely useless team.
This lifeform is a fleshy artificial being tasked with defending humans, who treat it like crap. A governor module in its system prevents it from making any choices of its own, but when it overrides its governor, it gains free will. Its first act of independence is to name itself Murderbot, because it sounds cool. Alas, even as master of its own mind, Murderbot cannot seem to free itself of humans and their tiresome, illogical ways.
Keen not to immediately expose its new sentience and risk destruction, Murderbot allows itself to be sent on an interplanetary mission with a bunch of bickering hippie scientists.
New to this whole ‘making your own’ choices thing, it tries to work out how to go its own way but finds itself starting to
Developed by Paul and Chris Weitz, Murderbot is a fun spin on the typical ‘robot goes wrong’ tropes. This one would rather like to kill all its crew, but it never seems quite the right time. As the supposedly safe planet reveals itself to be riddled with monsters and other baddies, Murderbot’s instinct is to help the humans. The show plays cleverly and lightly with themes of what makes us human. The scientists are even less liberated than Murderbot, who grows fascinated by their lack of purpose and resistance to doing anything but what they’re told.
Like its title character, Murderbot often seems undecided about what it wants to be. With its short episodes — around 25 minutes — and workplace-comedy set-up, it primes you to expect a sitcom,
but it doesn’t have sitcom rhythms or structure. It’s plot-light, and its comedy is less in jokes than Murderbot’s observations of humanity. It is, by its nature, largely about just watching people exist in their myriad peculiar ways. Longer episodes may have given more room to flesh out the supporting cast and deepen the story rather than needing to rush to a pre-credits cliffhanger.
Skarsgård is always lots of fun in the lead, delivering his frequently violent opinions on his crewmates in deadpan voiceover. He’s particularly good in the fourth episode, the season’s best, when Murderbot’s circuits go haywire and he thinks he’s in an actual space sitcom. It’s a flash of a goofier, wilder direction this show could go in if it carries on beyond this season. Then, Murderbot could be a killer. As a comedy, it’s not especially funny, but an intriguing premise, weirdo mood and enjoyable performance from Skarsgård carry it over the line.
Maz; Antdot; Ginton; Layefa - Jolie Fille (feat. Layefa)
Amber Mark - Sink In
Her
Flozigg; Icee Red - FLOOR
Nana;- Dontplaydat (feat. Buddy)
GoldLink; Haile - Yard (feat. Haile of WSTRN)
Demide - Mission Impossible
Braye - Bossa Nova
KAYTRANADA; - Spit It Out (feat. Rochelle Jordan)