THEWILL DOWNTOWN NOV 28 EDITION

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

DREW UYI

SUPER AGENT,

On Branding, Football and Entertainment

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

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Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Desire Onyema @desire_makeover

EDITOR’S NOTE

A

s a young girl, I was quite the athlete; representing my house in track and field sports events. Now while I enjoyed sporting activities, I’m not sure I ever considered being a professional athlete. As I grew a little older and saw several athletes and especially footballers playing in other countries, I wondered how they were moved from one country, and club to another. It seemed like a lot, till my dad explained that these people usually worked with representatives -agents whose job it was to close those deals.

One of such agents is our cover personality this week at DOWNTOWN. Drew Uyi who has a wealth of experience as a football agent, matches that with some of the biggest names in football as his clients. What I admire most about his work is his 360-degree approach towards managing them – from their job to social media, including financial and business guidance, which he hopes will sustain them long after they are past their prime. “Any player under my management will never go broke. I can beat my chest on that because first and foremost, I will not even allow my players to spend their salary when they have endorsements.” Now that’s a man who is truly passionate about his work! You’ve got to read his very authentic interview; he gives a lot of insight into the football industry.

Also in this week’s issue, our fashion pages show you different ways to style the same pair of shoes, while our beauty page puts the spotlight on cellulite. Don’t miss Oddbod’s new adventure on page 6, and Downtown Confidential talks about outercourse on page 7. Our movie review writer, Bolu Adesina critics No Sudden Moves; while Websights has our take on what’s been abuzz on social media lately. It’s quite a captivating issue, so tell a friend to tell a friend.

COVER SUPER AGENT, DREW UYI ON BRANDING, FOOTBALL AND ENTERTAINMENT

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WEBSIGHTS REVERENCE, REUNION, REVELATION

04-05 FASHION 4 WAYS TO STYLE YOUR JIMMY CHOO AVELINE 100MM

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Blazer: @abrollings_clothiers Photographer: @bevonburke Location: InterContinental London - The O2 Golf Outfit: Polo Sports Golf Hat: @bululimited Location: N1 Golf Range Greenwich Photograher: @bevonburke

THE SCENE DOWNTOWN HENNESSY HOSTS LES TWINS IN LAGOS, NIGERIA

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ODDBOD & THE CITY YOLO! SO TREAT YO’SELF

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DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL NO MAIN COURSE, JUST OUTERCOURSE PLEASE

THE SCENE DOWNTOWN AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS

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DOWTOWN ZODIAC MUTABLE SAGITTARIUS

REVIEW

NO SUDDEN MOVE

Odun Ogunbiyi @oddbodandthecity

- Contributing Editor Odunayo Ogunbiyi is an ex pharmacist with a passion for food and pampering. Writing about her exploits wherever in the world she may find herself is just her way of staying sane in this zany world.

Boluwatife 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.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

AUSTYN OGANNAH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Editor-at-Large: Chalya Shagaya Senior Lifestyle Editor: Ayodele Johnson Writers: Kehinde Fagbule, Tilewa Kazeem Graphics/Layout: Olaniyan John Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘ SunZA’ www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown

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David Nwachukwu@ebube.nw - Contributing Writer David Nwachukwu has always been immersed in fashion from the age of 10, watching a Dior by Galliano show on television.

His work in fashion stretches across media, marketing, brand communications as well as design.As a fashion & lifestyle journalist, David has tracked key industry data for various publications including Industrie Africa, Culture Custodian, Haute Fashion Africa, and HELLO! Nigeria. A Geography graduate from The University of Lagos, David consciously aligns this background in environmental advocacy and sustainable development with the need to promote a more ethical fashion ecosystem. He currently oversees strategic FRPPXQLFDWLRQV DW &OHDQ 7HFKQRORJ\ +XE b

Efua Oyofo @efuastar - Contributing Writer Efua has always enjoyed telling stories.

A writer and cultural storyteller, Efua Oyofo helps clients tell their most compelling story. She focuses on social impact storytelling, and hosts a podcast: This African Love, exploring the culture of dating - and helping people develop more effective ways to navigate relationships in today’s world.

BEAUTY THE DREADED DIMPLES

WHAT YOU SAID INSTAGRAM @munictouch

@graphedblue

@alexmirage Love this

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

FASHION

4

WAYS TO STYLE YOUR JIMMY CHOO AVELINE 100MM ASYMMETRIC SANDALS

BY BLESSING MUKORHO

Cat Eye Acetate Sunglasses CELINE Beaded Logo Felt Baker Boy Cap RUSLAN BAGINSKIY

Luxurious The latte-coloured Aveline asymmetric sandals from Jimmy Choo gives a perfect finish to a loose blouse and leather pants combination. With striking brown undertones, the Aveline sandals bring together each shade of brown and may be paired with a brown baker boy cap or white sunglasses.

I

n the legendary words of the globally recognized luxury designer, Jimmy Choo, “the right shoe can make everything different”, he was not wrong.

Shoes are undoubtedly the most transformative element of any look.

They not only complete your outfit, but they also give you an overall presence and edge. Here are four different ways to style your favourite shoes for any occasion.

Latte Latt La ttee Aveline Avel Av elin inee 100mm 100m 10 0mm m Asymmetric Sandals JIMMY CHOO Suede Su ued edee And And Leather Leat Le athe herr Straight-leg Stra St raig ight ht-l-leg eg Trousers TTro rous user erss MM6 MAISON MARGIELA

The Pouch Large Leather Clutch BOTTEGA VENETA

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

FASHION Posh Pink Styled with a white two-piece and nd pink mini bag, these shoes help p to achieve a sophisticated look.

To execute an even finer finish, you may complete this look with h a chic neckpiece and/or a pair of earrings.

Blushing Pink Complementing your khaki-green pants suit with the blush pink sandals will add a classy touch to an otherwise simple look. Of course, pairing these with a statement clutch and jewellery to match will do wonders for your overall style.

Positively Conscious Clyde Two Piece Set Set REFORMATION

High h Rise Wooll Suit Trousers GIVENCHY Blush Pink Aveline 100mm Asymmetric Sandals JJIMMY CCHOO OO

Pink Aveline 100mm Asymmetric Sandals JIMMY CHOO Satin Crystal Embellished Mini Bag AMINA MUADDI

Rebel Red Dare to be different by pairing your red shoes with a mini or midi dress..

Don’t forget to complete your look with wiith a statement clutch, fit for any occasion. ion on.

Single Breasted Wool Grain De Poudre Suit Jacket GIVENCHY

Onthego Hand Bag LOUIS VUITTON

Flamenco Mini Leather Clutch LOEWE

Tie-neck Midi Dress Ti Tie e ne neck ck M idii Dr id Dres esss REDVALENTINO

Red Aveline 100mm Asymmetric Sandals JIMMY CHOO

Linear Medium Diamond And 14kt Gold Earrings ALISON LOU

Diamond Rhodolite Pearl Gold Di Diam amon ondd Rh Rhod odol olit itee Pe Pear arll & Pi Pink nk G oldd Cu ol Cuff ff DELFINA DELETTREZ

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VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

ODUN OGUNBIYI

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

ODDBOD & THE CITY

YOLO! So

Treat Yo’self T

he power of positive thinking and manifestation never ceases to amaze me. Once you overcome fear, face yourself in the mirror, and have the balls to admit what you want and how you want your life to look, you really are the author of your destiny.

These days, I have been practising putting myself first. Dropping one’s child off at boarding school will rearrange one’s brain; I’m now taking the time to do things that I never seemed to have time to do before— reading like a beast, finding time to travel, reconnecting with old friends. I am saying NO to what doesn’t suit me and YES to new, fun things.

When I got invited to try out a treatment at a new spa, I responded with a resounding YES with capital letters because this body was in dire need of some pampering.

Vintage by Naomie is a luxurious spa in the heart of Lekki that opened in October this year.

When you walk in, everything about the space screams luxury and indulgence, with an atmosphere that just demands speaking to everyone in dulcet tones.

You start by filling out a form so that the therapist

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will have a better idea of your treatment needs and what kind of products and oils to use on your skin.

I opted for an Ayuverdic massage called Abhyanga.

Ayurvedic medicine is one of the world’s oldest medical systems still in practice today based on ancient writings that rely on a natural, holistic approach to physical and mental health.

Abhyanga, the most popular massage in Ayurveda, is a warm oil massage applied to the entire body, from the scalp to the soles of your feet. Oil is the central component of this practice. When combined with massage strokes, it’s thought to promote overall health and wellness.

The best oil for Abhyanga depends on your “dosha,” or body type, hence the questionnaire. In Ayurveda, three doshas determine which oils you need to encourage balance and health.

•Vata - dry skin •Pitta - sensitive or overheated skin •Kapha - oily skin If I had to guess, they would have had to play in the dry and sensitive skin arena for me.

After a quick foot scrub and cleaning, it was up on the enormous wooden table for my first ever four-hand massage. I had already informed them of my trouble spots, so much attention was paid to my shoulders and lower back, and suitable care was given to my knee situation.

When done right, Abhyanga massage has been shown to (yes scientifically) reduce blood pressure and stress, improve overall skin health by increasing blood flow to the skin, reduce muscle stiffness and improve lymphatic drainage.

I am not sure how long the massage actually took (I drifted into a very comfortable lull), but it was a very relaxed Ods that was flipped over for the fullbody scrub. And by the time I got into the steam bath, I was ready to go to sleep.

If you are thinking about investing some time for some well-earned selfpampering, the Abhyanga massage at Vintage by Naomie is the way to go. I was relaxed and mentally recharged, and my skin felt amazing afterwards, as did my hair (soaked up all that steam and oil attention).

Outstanding customer service, great atmosphere, I highly recommend.

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

DOWNTOWN OWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

No Main Course,

Just Outercourse Please

BY TILEWA KAZEEM

T

he melodies of how the earth came about have been sung for eons. a very rude shooting star; the size of more than a hundred football fields violently smashing into the earth and disintegrating the dinosaurs is science’s, Billie Jean. Everyone is still singing it. As for religion, they have “the rib of my rib” story featuring Adam and Eve. Everything has its own creation story, even you. There’s a birth certificate stored away that attests to that fact. Since we’ve been able to come to that consensus then it’s safe to say something came before intercourse, right? Before you started getting it down, you obviously expelled your sexual tension one way—I know I did.

For some people, sex is personal. Raw and undiluted passion must be groomed, not picked up like a first language. It can’t be faked. For others, they can have multiple sex partners with zero feelings for them.

Then there’s the hybrid. They’re half-of-each which makes them susceptible to each side at a moment’s notice.

That’s why I don’t harbor hard feelings for people who haven’t been deflowered.

Although they are still in mint condition, that doesn’t mean they are sterile. They have raging hormones too but just because they have strong qualms towards fornication doesn’t mean they are strangers to rude visits from Konji— a friend we are all familiar with.

Sometimes, you might just be infatuated or in love with someone who houses those reservations and you decide to hitchhike with that emotion for as long as it lasts. One day you’re in her poorly-lit apartment.

Your classes had ended earlier so you are waiting at the garden for her to be done with hers. Reveries of walking home together made 2-hours seem like a short time to wait.

As you sit on her student’s bed perked up by two palettes at the edge of the room. You

Illustration by Victor Asowata

stare at the floor so it wouldn’t seem like you were watching her gently peel her clothes off her caramel skin— It’s the little things you know.

She’s still wearing her smile though. The one you put there walking her home. One thing leads to another, Abracadabra and you both are locked in a heated kiss like two crocodiles in synchronized death rolls. Her beautiful breasts look trapped in her brassiere so you unshackle them and she takes them off, teamwork at its finest.

Now she’s on top of you like a surfer, waiting to catch a wave in the ocean. Both pelves are tightly pressed against each other. Not even underwear could conceal both sexual parts passionately pulsing and yearning for each other. The air is hot and it reeks

of sexual desire. You try to slide those panties to the side and dive in but she stops you. She does. You find out she is on a coitus sabbatical and you have to settle for an outercourse. The substitute for penetration.

In my case, it was a tier of nonpenetrative sex called dry humping.

Others include; use of sex toys, kissing, massage, masturbating, et cetera. She was sexually active but she wasn’t welcoming a penis in and around her vagina which was a bummer for me but it was still pleasurable for both of us.

This doesn’t mean outercourse predates intercourse. It just highlights a sexual activity that not many knew about or paid attention to.

Although for most guys, penetration is preferred, they still partake in this sexual activity. One thing men know is that they want women and if non-penetrative sex is what gets them closer to the goal, we’ll do it.

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VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

COVER

SUPER AGENT,

DREW UYI

On Branding, Football and Entertainment The football industry has become one of the biggest markets in the world. Every day new players are discovered and get shiny opportunities to ply their trade, usually in a foreign land. Often, players look to agents to bring them to these lands and help them grow. Drew Uyi is an FA licensed agent and brand strategist who emphasises the branding aspect of the sport. He started as an entertainment industry man, with involvement in the AY Live comedy show EXW KH HYHQWXDOO\ PRYHG EDFN WR KLV ƓUVW ORYH VSRUWV management. Today, he has worked with talents like Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Moses, Ahmed Musa, and Odion Ighalo. In this interview with DOWNTOWN’s (GLWRU bOnah Nwachukwu DQG ZULWHU bBoluwatife Adesina, he goes into his life experiences, some branding advice, and much more.

H

ow exactly did you get into being an agent?

I’ve always known from day one that I would be an agent. I grew up in Benin City, Edo State and when I was in secondary school, I knew that I wanted to study sports management. But by the time I finished secondary school, there were no University courses like sports management in Nigeria. There was only marketing and advertising, so I started with that before eventually, the course was available. However, by the time I graduated, the barriers were very high to becoming an agent. They were so high, it was easier to get into the entertainment industry and that was when the likes of Tuface, Styl-Plus, Basket Mouth, AY, P-Square were all coming up and they needed someone in the UK to represent and manage them internationally and that was how I started building my clientele. So by the time FIFA then changed the rules to allow us to connect directly with our FA (Football Association), and we didn’t have to travel all the way to Switzerland to write exams and the tedious process that was initially required, I went to get my licence from the English FA and with the platform, I’d already gotten, I didn’t have to start from zero.

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You’ve managed and worked with some big names in sports, African music, and the entertainment industry at large. What would you say is the common ground and how were you able to switch industries so effortlessly?

Sports is real-time entertainment and the main stakeholders are talents. Managing an athlete and managing an artist is more or less the same. The difference is that they come from different backgrounds. An artist can just emerge from the streets, while in football, they go through an academy, so they’re more grounded and there’s a structure in that than in music. My experience working with talents over time has made me know if an artist is ready to work or not. It is not easy because working with talent is a talent on its own. It looks glamorous but it is not easy, it is a cut-throat business.

9LFWRUb2VLPKHQ FRPPDQGHG D Ş PLOOLRQ IHH SRWHQWLDOO\ rising to 80 million. Before that, Nigerian stars had always been undervalued. Why do you think this is?

Osimhen has been an interesting footballer from day one. He played the Under-17 World Cup for Nigeria, so there’s been a buildup. As I’ve always said, it’s not too early to start branding. From the beginning, he knew what he was doing, he started his branding from the Under-17, he was quite the character. After they won the tournament, he was transferred to Germany where he had a few injuries and a slow start which saw him go to Belgium. His career really picked up when he joined Lille (in France). Lille is very good with Nigerian players with Osaze Odemwingie making a name for himself there in the past as well.

Apart from his good performance, there is a branding team around him. He was fortunate to be in that club because they positioned him in a way that his brand value then affected his market value. Firstly, his performance was on point, but his performance alone couldn’t take him to where he is today. And that is the same thing Napoli is doing now; they are positioning him for greater heights. It is a business, so I am not surprised by his market value and I believe that it will still rise higher.

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

COVER Speaking of marketability, Nigerian footballers don’t play for top clubs in Europe and this is quite worrisome. How do you reckon that could be fixed?

It depends on the players as well. Are they putting themselves out there? I think it is about time Nigerian players started having a strategic team around them, a proper structure as opposed to having groupies or just people around. Football is a serious business. They need to work with football agents that focus on them, not just an agent that has about 300 players on their clientele and they are just one of the numbers. They need to work with agents that pay attention to them, have their interest at heart, and don’t just think about negotiating a contract and going home to sleep. They should start working with agents that are good for marketing and branding. There’s a lot of work to be done for them to be signed to the big clubs.

Let’s talk about marketability right now and putting themselves out there as you’ve said.

These days, social media is very significant and it has been integrated into sports. In terms of finances and income streams, do you think a player’s digital footprint is just DV LPSRUWDQW DV WKHLU RQ SLWFK DFWLYLWLHV" Yes, the off-pitch is very important and it is something they have to invest in. You cannot leave your club or agent to do that for you, you have to do it yourself, especially if your agent doesn’t have an idea how to go about it. I’ve asked a few agents what they were doing for their players as regards branding and they couldn’t be bothered. I think that is the wrong approach. I don’t advise my players to use social media because I will do it for them. I will put a team around them that will be running their social media, and that is not limited to just Twitter and Instagram, it is with YouTube as well. Social media is nonnegotiable as far as I’m concerned because if you’re not on there, your career is dead.

What other ways aside from social media do you promote your athletes?

I have over twenty years of experience in media, PR, and entertainment. Although it is inbuilt, the experience over time helps me a lot, it comes naturally. If you want to put yourself out there, it is ‘give and take.’ It is a very simple principle: you have to give something to get something in return, whether it is financially, with visibility, or by being available. For instance when a charity organisation asks to collaborate, even if you’re not giving them money, you give them your time. That is how you put yourself out there and people believe that you are not just about the money or yourself, but about giving back.

Do you ever try to do some scouting yourself?

Yes, I do some scouting when I come but I’m not a scout. I see football from the marketing and advertising

Blazer: @abrollings_clothiers Photographer: @bevonburke Location: InterContinental London - The O2

One of the biggest names on your clientele is the Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa. He recently decided to sign for the Nigerian Premier League FOXE .DQR 3LOODUV GXULQJ WKH RII VHDVRQ $VLGHV IURP keeping his fitness level up, what was that move about? And what were your thoughts on it?

The best marketing doesn’t seem like marketing. Interestingly, Ahmed Musa is not from Kano, he’s more or less from the middle belt of Nigeria. He can do a lot of stuff for himself without people knowing it. His teammates think that he’s just your average player, but he is not. He is so aware of things happening around him. He has the fanbase, he’s the biggest player in the north and they have the highest numbers. He has done a lot of things deliberately like giving a lot during their Muslim festivals, so they now see him as a Kano indigene. He’s the kind of guy that would share three trailers worth of rice with people. Politicians want to talk to him, people want to have dinner with him, they want to be associated with him because he’s gotten people on his side. His move to Kano Pillars was strategic. As a professional athlete, you have got to be strategic, and that is why he has registered over 100 caps for the Super Eagles, it is not a coincidence.

point of view. When I see a player, I try to size them up to know what else they’ve got apart from football. I ask myself, “How can we monetise this talent?” You have to be more than an athlete. You cannot bring me a footballer that doesn’t have an education. You need to have a basic education. Also, I come home and see some players but most times, these players are not ready psychologically, and if they are not ready mentally, there’s little you can do for them. According to statistics, 83% of Nigerian players that move abroad fail trials because they are not ready.

Having worked with some of the biggest names in African football; the likes of Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Moses, Ahmed Musa, Odion Ighalo, and a host of other top African players, is there anyone you probably missed an opportunity to represent and still hurts till this day?

I think it is the other way around. They missed an opportunity to work with me because the truth of it is that they stand more to gain from me than me gaining from them with all humility. A lot of ex-players have come to me to tell me that they wished they had someone like me when they were playing. For most of them, their biggest challenge was having a lot of people around.

They have a lot of groupies that will stop the people who really want to help them. I see it as a win-win situation because obviously, I’m not running a charity. I’m giving you value and getting just 10% for it in return. I feel sorry for the athletes because at the end of the day they miss so many opportunities. I don’t like saying it but they have a short shelf life, so when they hang up their boots, the money stops coming in and nobody is going to call your phone.

Wilfred Ndidi has been in the Premier League for four and half seasons now. He has established himself as one of the top players in his position.

He’s recently just won the FA cup and perhaps life is good at Leicester with fellow countryman, Seniorman Kelz. But ultimately the best players want to play for the biggest clubs in Europe, playing Champions League football regularly. Could you give us an insight into what the situation with him is like?

Working with him closely, I think he’s doing pretty well at the moment. Leicester is not a small club, they are playing in the Europa League. Facility-wise, they have the best training ground in England, if not in Europe, they’ve just opened it a few months ago, that is an incentive. They are also planning to build a new stadium. So far so good, bigger clubs are looking at him. Eventually, when the time comes, he will go to where he’s destined to be.

At the same time, I’m not his agent, I work with him in a different capacity, where he has seen the results. We will keep pushing and hope it eventually pays off. You might be the best player but if you don’t put yourself out there, you won’t get where you ought to be. He is a really quiet guy, but at the same time, Kanté is a quiet guy as well. There’s a way you go about it. My job is to give these athletes the eyes to see beyond football.

As an agent, do you put things in place for your clients to fall back on after retirement? Something they can keep up with, that is close to the lifestyle they lived while they are still hot on the shelf. A lot of them tend to slip into oblivion and some of them end up poor because deals and endorsements don’t come in anymore, whereas you have a David Beckham who has been retired for a while, yet recently just signed D PLOOLRQ SRXQG GHDO WR EH WKH IDFH RI WKH 4DWDU World Cup. How do you position your player such that even after their shelf life is up, they are still able to have endorsement deals?

Anyone that follows my post will know my mindset. For me, I am always a step ahead, I see the end from the beginning, so any player under my management will never go broke. I can beat my chest on that because first and foremost, I will not even allow my players to spend their salary when they have endorsements. But then, how many Nigerian players have endorsements?

Now I’m educating players and you will be surprised that all these guys know is football.

…For me, I am always a step ahead, I see the end from the beginning, so any player under my management will never go broke. I can beat my chest on that because first and foremost, I will not even allow my players to spend their salary when they have endorsements…”

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VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

COVER mouth. But at the same time, they wouldn’t be there if it were a Nigerian situation whereby people are blocking them.

Some of the negative press around agents seems to revolve around young players getting exploited by them. Do you have any tips for upcoming players to avoid getting caught up in that sort of experience?

That question is a bit difficult because these young players are extremely desperate. Also, there are few spaces for them, so the competition is crazy. How many clubs are in Europe? Where can they fit in? You can only play 11 players at a time. There are a couple of people who impersonated me to exploit young players. The players eventually reached out to me and I will tell them outrightly that I don’t know that person and they shouldn’t pay anyone. They will still go ahead and pay the impostor.

They are gullible and just want to play. <RXōYH UHJXODUO\ HPSKDVL]HG VHOI EUDQGLQJ IRU SOD\HUV RQ \RXU Instagram. What are some of the key tips that you give to athletes?

That is my unique selling point. The values I share online are just 10% of what I know, so obviously there is more in the bag. Some players come to me to ask about branding and I look at their page, they are not ready. You are not going to get verified if your page is private. The first thing to do is get verified. As a brand, this helps a lot with people’s perception of you which in turn helps for business.

… It is a passion for me, the satisfaction of getting the job done.

Putting smiles on my clients’ faces….

I enjoy the results. I think at this stage of my life, I’ve seen it all. What I enjoy most is giving back, helping out, letting people know when they are going about it the wrong way.”

Unfortunately, they have people around them that can’t do the job and are blocking people from doing it. If I have a player that is submissive to me, I will make sure that he doesn’t spend his salary. The salary will be for investment and he will be living off his endorsements and that is very possible.

The commercialisation of sports has given rise to Mino Raiola and Jorge Mendez. How did these agents garner such influence?

These guys have been doing this over time and it is thanks to people giving them that opportunity to work. I have given so much value that I should be managing the majority of Nigerian players.

The players want to work with me but the people around them are proving to be a stumbling block. I’ll give you a scenario; there’s a player that wanted to work with me and asked me to talk to his ‘boy’ to give me access and everything I need to work. The particular boy was scared thinking that Drew will come in to outshine him.

That was his bread and butter and he wasn’t prepared to let anyone in. The superagents you mentioned have all been in positions where people believe in them and those are the footprints I’m following. I know where they are coming from because I’ve been in the system.

These guys are all about investment, wealth creation, monetising and maximising. Those guys are good at what they do, and it is word of

PAGE 10

Your job takes you all over the world, how do you maintain ties back in Nigeria? How often do you visit?

My immediate family is all based in the UK apart from my parents and they come to London every year to visit.

I have friends in Nigeria though but it is a global world and you can communicate with anyone from wherever you are. I keep in touch with Nigeria and try as much as possible to visit as often as I can. :KR DUH VRPH RI WKH EHVW EUDQGHG DWKOHWHV LQ \RXU RSLQLRQ" 3HRSOH that have been able to leverage sports into much more than just their salaries.

It is not even the loudest people that have done that, some quiet people have done really good for themselves.

The blueprint is from the United States which is home to people like LeBron James. Michael Jordan has done a lot for himself as well but I will pick James over him because he’s done more for his community. But there are so many obvious names such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Most people in Europe see sports as a business, so they run it like one. We mentioned David Beckham, he’s done brilliantly well for himself. Also, his compatriot, Marcus Rashford, whose impact has been nothing short of amazing. There are also players who despite not having the big branding, have done very well with their investments. Investment and branding are two things that most European footballers have done very well but several African players don’t even know about. +RZ GLG &29,' DIIHFW KRZ \RX GR EXVLQHVV" ,Q WKRVH PRQWKV WKDW there were no sports, how were you managing your time?

That was the best time for me because that is when you really work. For the Americans, the off-season is when they really do stuff, that’s when they invest in their brand and tell their stories. So during the pandemic, we encouraged the athletes to go live on Instagram so their fans get to know them better. Branding is all about numbers, so how do you get your numbers up? It is by showing who you are. For instance, if you are a Catholic, tell people that and that will be the connection between you and your fans. Take Victor Osimhen, he identifies as a Lagos boy because that is where he grew up and he’s made that his brand. He could’ve played the Edo State card as that is his state of origin but he chose not to. This works for him as Lagos is a city with over 25 million people. You are the author of your own story, so tell it in the way that favours you. Branding is an act, it is not just what you read in books, it is your experience over time to know what works and what doesn’t.

How different is the life of a real agent from the ones depicted in Hollywood films and TV? To be honest, it is a reflection of real life. It is a glamorous job, you have a lot of people that want to work with you, and some shadow you. Everyone likes sports and entertainment, and as I have said, it is a cut-throat business, especially in the Nigerian space because a lot of family members and childhood friends don’t know these things, yet they want to put themselves in there and it is sometimes overwhelming for the players.

If you could manage anyone in sports, who would it be and why?

Being an agent for me is purposedriven. My purpose is to help African players, precisely Nigerians.

So I’m not even looking outside the box, I just want to help black players. Any player that I want to work with has to be on a one-onone basis, that way I know that we can achieve a lot together.

I’d also rather work with young players than the ones that are past their prime but I can work with any player. The likes of Samuel Chukwueze and Chidera Ejuke, don’t need to do much.

You just need to give them simple instructions, tell them what to do so as not to distract them from their sport. There’s a player I’m working with in the UK right now, Emmanuel Dennis of Watford.

These boys know what they want but at the same time, people around them are feeling threatened. There are a lot of these young lads coming up that I would like to extend my arms to help them but they have to be willing to work as well.

What are some of the tips you would give to someone starting to be a football agent?

It is like every other job, you have to look for a mentor, you need to shadow someone. The truth of the matter is that it is based on relationships and gaining people’s trust. To start up, there are not a lot of agencies that will take you on, that is for sure because like I’ve said, I went out and took a different approach. Football is a very close-knit business, nobody is going to just take you off the streets.

I think doing a course related to management or law will also help.

What is your favourite part of being an agent?

It is being able to help. It is a passion for me, the satisfaction of getting the job done. Putting smiles on my clients’ faces, making sure they don’t go broke after their career. The satisfaction of creating a legacy. I enjoy the results. I think at this stage of my life, I’ve seen it all. What I enjoy most is giving back, helping out, letting people know when they are going about it the wrong way.

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

DOWNTOWN ZODIAC

Mutable Sagittarius ZODIAC SYMBOL: ARCHER ER 21 DURATION: NOVEMBER 22 – DECEMBER ZODIAC ELEMENT: FIRE SIGN RULER: VENUS

BY TILEWA KAZEEM

A

s we gallop towards the end of the year and rush to embellish our Christmas trees for the festive season, we look to the Sagittarius Zodiac for guidance. Represented by an Archer (Centaur, a half-horse half archer) named Chiron, their endless, contagious energy is applied to cognitive and physical challenges of every kind. Chiron, the zodiac’s avatar, was regarded as a god of wisdom and bravery.

Those born under the Sagittarius sign possess dynamic personalities and are inherently dual, like the Archer. A Sagittarian is an optimistic extrovert who evokes respect and affection from all those around them. Their personality combines loyalty, intellect, assertiveness, and compassion. All these and their talent are what make them unique. Natives of this zodiac have a caring personality, and having them in your corner would do you a world of good. They possess a strong sense of independence that distinguishes them from any other sign.

A Sagittarian is always on the lookout for the latest intellectual, physical, and spiritual adventures. Governed by Jupiter, these thrillseekers have effortlessly magnetic characters.

In their conversations, they also include wit and humour, making them the comedians of the zodiac. In terms of compatibility, Sags are most compatible with the Leo and Aquarius sign. With a Leo, their bond will be bolstered by expanding each other’s horizons.

The adoration of the truth and the thirst for knowledge that rules Sag’s life pairs nicely with the marine sign’s unorthodox, free-spirited personality. Notable Sagittarians include; Lota Chuwku, the Late Sound Sultan, Davido, and Timaya.

Don Jazzy Similar to Davido, Michael Collins Ajereh falls under this energetic and witty zodiac sign. In an interview, he was once described as the happiest artist in the Nigerian music ecosystem, and that might just be the most adequate assessment of who he is. His antics on social media show just how playful and witty he is. His cheerful demeanour has earned him numerous gifts from his fans.

He once said— we are paraphrasing— he does not need to buy clothes because he gets so many as gifts, and they are enough to last a while.

Davido The DMW boss checks all the boxes as a Sag. His contagious aura can not help but rub off on you. Whether it’s in person or from your screen, he gives off an energy that feels all too familiar. In a tweet posted by the awardwinning artist, he claimed his gateman has a house of his own and two cars. Not many people can boast of the same. His charity and compassion extend from those within KLV LPPHGLDWH FLUFOH WR KLV VWDII b Having his private jet might just go to show just how adventurous David Adeleke is. London today, Salzburg tomorrow.

This Sag is also known for living life to the fullest extent. Despite not being blessed with the talent and innate ability to sing, he independently started his record label while training himself to sing and gradually became the star he is today.

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN THEWILL

VOL VOL 11 NO.42 NO.42 •• NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 28 28 –– DECEMBER DECEMBER 04, 04, 2021 2021

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA Scan this with your camera to access the playlist (Apple Music)

Movie Review:

Playlist for the week

NO SUDDEN MOVE

Sade - The Sweetest Taboo

I

t’s the twists and turns rather than the sudden moves you need to be aware of as you approach Steven Sodebergh’s latest snakey and sneaky 50’s-set crime thriller. What starts as an almost domestic story involving a couple of low-rent hoods will gradually morph into a game of high stakes with unlikely players and a plot that takes its cue from events in the real world full of corporate rather than card sharks.

Not that Curtis Goynes (Don Cheadle) realises that to start with. A savvy ex-con, who we’ll learn has a secret or two in his pocket, he gets hired along with the racist, less smart Ronald Russo (Benecio Del Toro), to do a spot of “babysitting”. Both of them have enemies in the mob, including crime bosses Frank Capelli (Ray Liotta) and Aldrick Watkins (Bill Duke), and neither of them is happy to discover the job watching over the family of patsy Matt Wertz (David Harbour) involves a third criminal, Charley (Kieran Culkin). ,Q WKH VSLULW RIbQRLU ZKDW VHHPV OLNH it should be easy money turns out to be anything but, when the piece

Tame Impala - Feels Like We Only Go Backwards

of paper Matt is supposed to retrieve from the safe is missing and someone somewhere might well have an ulterior motive for wanting Curtis and Ronald to be sitting ducks. This is only the start of scriptwriter Ed Solomon’s plot that sprouts slippery tentacles in several - perhaps at least two too many - directions at once. Curtis sees an opportunity to make some quick cash and takes Ronald along for muscle, little realising the larger wheels that are turning, involving another sort of kingpin altogether (played with cool ease by Matt Damon). Then there’s the cop (Jon Hamm) who doesn’t quite believe the tale Matt has cooked up with his wife (Amy Seimetz), and an obligatory femme fatale (Julia Fox).

Soderbergh eats up this sort of thing like breakfast pancakes, keeping the pace tight and the mood claustrophobic, an atmosphere reinforced by the editing and lenses used (also by Soderbergh, under his regular pseudonyms Mary Ann Bernard and Peter Andrews). The latter gives a ‘fisheye’ effect to the edges of the frame so that the straight and narrow are literally bent out of shape, mirroring the crooked dealings at the heart of the film. While the style is never in doubt - the production design is a 50’s fan’s dream with its vintage cars and sharp costuming all set off by David Holmes’ suitably jazzy score - it threatens to be a bit too clever for its own good as what looks like a McGuffin is only bluffing and the bigger picture is gradually revealed.

Still, as Curtis would no doubt tell you, better to be too clever than too stupid.

Rating: 7/10

PAGE 12

Scan this with your camera to access the playlist (Spotify)

Lone - Jaded

MF DOOM; Pebbles The Invisible Girl - Doomsday

BADBADNOTGOOD_ Sam Herring - Time Moves Slow

Amaarae_ Moliy_ Kali Uchis

Tame Impala - Is It True

Weekend Gessafelstein-Lost in The Fire

KAYTRANADA_ Mick Jenkins Gray Area (feat. Mick Jenkins)

Netflix Watch of the Week

Red Notice 5HG 1RWLFHbplays like a good Michael Bay movie. (No, that’s not an oxymoron.) The story roars to life from its opening scenes, with Special Agent John Hartley (The Rock) racing to the scene of a possible crime where he hopes to prevent the world’s second-best art thief, Nolan Booth (Ryan Reynolds) from obtaining an encrusted and highly lucrative Egg. There’s a nonsense back story involving Cleopatra, and the valuable heirloom that was given to her by Anthony on their wedding day. It hardly matters, so long as the quest for the Egg keeps this bouncy story in perpetual motion. Writer-director Thurber even writes in a sharp joke about the Egg being a MacGuffin, becauseb5HG 1RWLFHbis keenly aware of its JRDOV DQG H[SHFWDWLRQV b Thurber’s screenplay also suffers ever so slightly on an over-reliance on its empty MacGuffin, the three valuable “Eggs” that need to be stolen for our gorgeous leads to infiltrate… something or other. Poking fun at the SUHGLFWDELOLW\ RI WKH VFULSW KHOSV UHGXFH WKH VWLQJ EXWbRed NoticebVWLOO UHOLHV RQ VXFK FOLFKH VHTXHQFHV DV D SULVRQ fight, a sadistic torture scene, surprise backstabbing.

The list goes on. Each one comes with a twist that keeps things interesting, and like I said, wildly entertaining.

6RbRed NoticebLVQōW SHUIHFW %XW LW JHWV D JUHHQOLJKW IURP me.

Phonte - Such Is Life

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

BEAUTY B E AU UTY

Do Cellulite Creams Work?

A lot of brands claim that their creams can rid you of cellulite but the honest truth is that most topical creams cannot penetrate deep enough to get to the root of the cellulite. That said, you might want to give it a go.

Malin Andersson

THE DREADED DIMPLES

BY ONAH NWACHUKWU

H

aving dimples on your face is considered a sign of beauty; so coveted is this beauty mark that plastic surgeons offer it as a procedure.

While it’s one of the most wanted signs of beauty when it comes to the face, it is a totally different ball game when it comes to the upper thighs and bum. Not exactly a sign of beauty on those parts of the body, there, they are called cellulite; and the battle against them has been on for eons. Even celebrities like Kim Kardashian have been known to battle cellulite. So the question still remains: how do we get rid of cellulite?

Cellulite is the dimpled flesh usually found on the upper thighs, bum, and hips. The thing about cellulite is that it doesn’t necessarily appear because you are fat, although its appearance is more obvious in bigger people. Rather, factors such as genes and hormones add to the appearance of cellulite.

Firm and Tone Serum MURAD

Precision Body Excellence Firming and Shaping Gel Anti- Cellulite CHANEL

Procedures To Manage Cellulite Subcision: It involves using a needle just below the skin to break up the tough bands beneath the skin. While research shows that patients have been satisfied with this procedure, it should be noted that its result is not permanent; it lasts for about 2 years.

Carboxytherapy: It involves inserting carbon dioxide gas beneath the skin to destroy the fat. This procedure has been known to be painful and cause temporary bruising. You decide if it’s worth a temporary treatment.

9DFXXP DVVLVWHG 3UHFLVH 7LVVXH 5HOHDVH This procedure is similar to subsicion. It uses a device that cuts through tough fibrous with small blades then uses a vacuum to pull the skin into the dimpled area. The benefits of this procedure have been known to last several years. Again, it is only a temporary solution.

What’s Your Sign?

There are different categories of cellulite. The first category is the type that only shows when you pinch your skin.

The second is the mild to moderate category. It is more visible. The third is the stubborn cellulite-it’s usually painful.

Carboxytherapy Treatment

Malin

PAGE 13

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

THE SCENE DOWNTOWN

AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS

BY KEHINDÉ FAGBULE

Brandy stunned in an DOO EODFN HQVHPEOH

Rap superstar Cardi B made her hosting debut, pulling off seven different looks and revving up the crowd at the 49th annual American Music Awards held at the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles.

Before the star-studded ceremony began, 21 of the 32 fan-voted winners were unveiled on TikTok. Taylor Swift, the most decorated artist in AMA history, was awarded Favourite Female Pop Artist and Favourite Pop Album for “Evermore”, while Bruno Mars and Anderson Paak’s collaborative project Silk Sonic won Favourite R&B song for “Leave the Door Open”.

Korean pop sensation BTS was high like the moon, scoring the coveted artist of the year win.

Doja Cat and Megan Thee Stallion were the top winning female artists at this year’s AMAs, also with three awards.

The “WAP” rapper was named favourite female hip-hop artist, her “Good News” winning for favourite hip-hop album and her “Body” was crowned favourite trending song, a new award this year. Doja Cat won collaboration of the year for “Kiss Me More” featuring SZA, favourite female R&B artist, and favourite R&B album for “Planet Her.” Newcomer Olivia Rodrigo had the most nominations of the night, with seven, while The Weeknd had six. The “drivers license” singer won new artist of the year.

Other winners include Machine Gun Kelly for favourite rock artist award, Ed Sheeran for favourite male pop artist, Becky G for favourite female Latin artist, and Kanye West for favourite gospel artist.

Here are some of the noteworthy celebrities on the red carpet.

Cardi B wore a Schiaparelli look, styled by Kollin Carter

Here are the winners: • • • • •

Marsai Martin wore a Missoni Spring/Summer 2022 dress, styled

by Byron Javar

• • • • • • • • • • • • Anderson. Paak and Bruno Mars both wore Gucci suits

Winnie Harlow wore a Zuhair Murad FW21 look, styled by Jason Bolden

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Billy Porter wore Botter Spring/ Summer 2022 RTW, styled by Ty Hunter and Colin Anderson

Cardi B arrived in a black gown with a sequin leopard-print pattern

PAGE 14

Chloe Bailey wore Monsoori, styled by Jill Jacobs

Halle Bailey wore a LaQuan Smith Fall/Winter 2021 look, styled by Nikki Carter

Artist of the year - BTS New artist of the year - Olivia Rodrigo Collaboration of the year - Doja Cat ft. SZA, “Kiss Me More” Favourite trending song - Megan Thee Stallion, “Body” Favourite music video - Lil Nas X, “MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)” Favourite male pop artist - Ed Sheeran Favourite female pop artist - Taylor Swift Favourite pop duo or group - BTS Favourite pop album - Taylor Swift, evermore Favourite pop song - BTS, “Butter” Favourite male country artist - Luke Bryan Favourite female country artist - Carrie Underwood Favourite country duo or group - Dan + Shay Favourite country album - Gabby Barrett, Goldmine Favourite country song - Gabby Barrett, “The Good Ones” Favourite male hip-hop artist - Drake Favourite female hip-hop artist - Megan Thee Stallion Favourite hip-hop album - Megan Thee Stallion, Good News Favourite hip-hop song - Cardi B, “Up” Favourite male R&B artist - The Weeknd Favourite female R&B artist - Doja Cat Favourite R&B album - Doja Cat, Planet Her Favourite R&B song - Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak), “Leave the Door Open” Favourite male Latin artist - Bad Bunny Favourite female Latin artist - Becky G Favourite Latin duo or group - Banda MS de Sergio Lizárraga Favourite Latin album - Bad Bunny, El Último Tour Del Mundo Favourite Latin song - Kali Uchis, “Telepatía” Favourite rock artist - Machine Gun Kelly Favourite inspirational artist - Carrie Underwood Favourite gospel artist - Kanye West Favourite dance/electronic artist - Marshmello

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

THE SCENE DOWNTOWN

Hennessy Hosts Les Twins in Lagos, Nigeria All You Need to Know About their Visit

rry) Les Twins (Laurent & La

L

agos, Nigeria - World famous urban dance duo, Laurent, and Larry Bourgeois, professionally known as Les Twins were in Lagos, Nigeria from November 11th - 13th as part of their global “Move Out Loud” campaign in collaboration with Hennessy V.S. The Twins enjoyed a vibrant twoday stay, engaging in various activities.

Both cultural beacons, Hennessy V.S and Les Twins, joined forces to create a multi-media collaboration around the tagline “Move Out Loud”, to celebrate French heritage and the pioneering spirit. This campaign creates an exceptional, inclusive platform for artistic expression through live dance, music, and fashion.

The Twins started the day off with a meet & greet with key media personnel; in which they got the chance to speak about the collaboration, as well as their lives, engaging with the media houses represented in an intimate setting.

The Twins then hosted an exclusive Dance Masterclass, featuring key stakeholders in dance and dance enthusiasts.

The masterclass was exciting and energetic. Participants had the opportunity to see Les Twins live in action, and dance alongside them, which was a dream come true for many of them. Participants in the masterclass certainly learnt a thing or two from the legendary Twins and were willing to give hands-on advice. It was indeed a Very Special Masterclass!

Following the Masterclass, the Twins had time to wind down, as they hosted select guests to an interactive lunch. Guests included a mix of influencers, industry heads, and budding dancers.

Finally, for the day, Les Twins was hosted at Zorya Nightclub for an experience of the much talked about & sought-after Lagos nightlife. The Twins took it to new heights with a vibrant dance performance which had the crowd ecstatic and yearning for more.

The following afternoon, right before they jetted off to Paris, France, they were hosted to an exclusive high-energy brunch at KOI Restaurant. The brunch gave the Twins one last chance to participate in a Lagos party. Guests were treated to specially crafted #HennessyxLesTwins cocktails, canapes, and a final chance to intimately engage with the Twins.

Speaking on the visit of the iconic dance duo, Marketing Manager, Moet Hennessy Nigeria, Oluwole Awoleke, said “We are absolutely thrilled to have been able to host Les Twins in Lagos as part of the collaboration with Hennessy for the 2021 Hennessy VS limited edition bottle.

This collaboration is a story of many firsts and provides opportunities for us to constantly express Hennessy’s DNA. We had a lot planned for the Twins during their short stay, and judging by how much they enjoyed it, we can confidently say we gave them the best possible experience here in Lagos”.

For the first time ever, a single limited edition of Hennessy V.S is represented by two complementary graphic designs, each bottle features a likeness of either Laurent or Larry, rendered as captured digitally, with all their signature energy, including a QR code that opens up the many facets of this campaign experience to all.

The Hennessy V.S 2021 Limited Edition bottle by Les Twins is now available in leading stores nationwide.

Laurent & Nancy Isi me

Dancers from the Ve ry Special Mastercl ass

the Masterclass Les Twins & Dancers at

at Zorya Les Twins Performing

Les Twins & Ivatar

Les Twins (Larry & Laurent)

Les Twins Guests at Zorya

Les Twins (Laurent)

#HennessyxLesTwins #HennessyVerySpecial

Les Twins (Laurent & Larry) Les Twins & DJ Obi

PAGE 15

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

VOL 1 NO.42 • NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 04, 2021

websights FASHIONDOWNTOWN

BY KEHINDÉ FAGBULE

Reverence, Reunion, Revelation “Peter And Paul Dem Be One No Be Two”

“We rise by lifting others” A few days to his birthday, serial hitmaker and music executive, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido put up a post on his Instagram page challenging his friends to show him love by crediting his bank account as detailed in the post. He made the post on a Wednesday morning, and the next day, he had amassed over 150 million Naira. The donations would eventually rise to over 200 million Naira to the shock of Nigerians who were constantly kept abreast of developments via the celebrant’s social media pages.

“I would like to say a big thank you to everyone, especially because I didn’t plan this. I was just on my balcony at the hotel in Dubai, and I jokingly posted my account number, asking my friends to donate for my birthday. I initially wanted to ask just close friends but I ended up posting it online and the love that people have shown me is really unbelievable. I used to question myself if it is worth it being a good person. But, these past few days have shown me that it is not by mouth and I appreciate it. A lot of people have called me, telling me to keep the money raised to myself and listen to no one. I wouldn’t say that I do not need the money but I think there are people who need it more than I do.

At the moment, I have garnered about N201m and I have decided to donate all the money to orphanages. I will also add N50m from my purse to the N201m, which makes it N251m to be donated.”

In a letter posted on his Instagram page, the singer stated that he would constitute a committee that would oversee the disbursement of the funds to orphanages across the country.

One of the most sensational pop groups out of Nigeria, P-Square, made up of twin brothers, Peter and Paul Okoye, has buried the hatchet between them and is back on good terms.

Recall that the group broke up in 2017 after over a decade of releasing several hits together.

Though both brothers enjoyed a level of acceptance with their solo careers, fans think that it does not come close to the acclaim they enjoyed as P-Square. Hence, many were pleasantly surprised when it came to light that the brothers had resumed following each other on social media just a few days before their birthday.

On their 40th birthday on November 18, 2021, videos emerged of the brothers performing together at a party. Guests at the party, including comedian and activist, Debo Adedayo, aka Mr. Macaroni, who was particularly thrilled by the reunion. Other guests at the party also jubilated with the brothers as they sang some of the defunct group’s hit songs.

Fans on social media also expressed excitement at the brother’s reunion. p

“Lekki Massacre Happened” – Lagos Judicial Panel The ignoble attempt by federal authorities to cover up the October 20, 2020 shooting and killing of unarmed #EndSARS protesters at the Lekki toll plaza in Lagos was recently exposed in the report of the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry on Restitution for Victims of SARS Related Abuses submitted to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, but which has since been leaked.

The 309-page report, which is being contested by some members of the panel and has been discredited by the federal government, provided graphic details of how after soldiers exited the scene, the Nigeria Police Force followed up with the killing of protesters, shooting directly at fleeing demonstrators, who were running into shanties and the lagoon. Officials of the Lagos State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit reportedly evacuated dead bodies and deposited them at various hospital mortuaries in the state. The report shockingly averred that some trucks with brushes underneath were brought to the Lekki Tollgate in the morning of October 21, to clean up the scene to conceal evidence. This is nothing short of evil. Nigerians and indeed the world demands full accountability and justice for the deceased and wounded.

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