“I Would Have Been a Mathematics Teacher If Not for Music” – Tems Opens Up on Her Hidden Passion for Numbers, Teaching, and the Pivot That Changed Her Life Forever

 Grammy-winning Nigerian singer, songwriter and producer Temilade Openiyi, globally celebrated as Tems, has revealed in a deeply personal interview that if music had never claimed her destiny, she would be standing in front of a classroom teaching Mathematics to secondary school students right now.

Speaking on the latest episode of Apple Music’s Africa Now Radio with host Nandi Madida, the reclusive superstar, known for her introspective lyricism and genre-defying sound, reflected on the fork in the road that defined her path:

“I was literally on the verge of becoming a Mathematics teacher. I had finished my degree in Economics at a university in South Africa, but I had already started applying to schools in Lagos to teach Maths. I love numbers. I love the logic, the certainty, the way everything just clicks when you understand it. There’s something peaceful about it. If music hadn’t pulled me so strongly, I would be in front of a blackboard somewhere in Surulere right now, wearing glasses and writing equations for JSS 3 students.”

Tems, who quietly graduated with a Second Class Upper in Economics from Monash South Africa (now IIE MSA) in Johannesburg in 2017, explained how her analytical mind and love for problem-solving still shape her artistry:

“People think I’m joking when I say I’m a nerd at heart, but music production is literally maths. Timing, frequencies, BPMs, harmonics, everything is numbers. When I’m layering vocals or deciding how many milliseconds of reverb to add, I’m doing calculations in my head. My brain still works like a Maths teacher, just with melodies instead of quadratic equations.”

The revelation has sent shockwaves across social media, with #MathsTeacherTems trending in Nigeria and Ghana within hours. Fans have flooded timelines with memes of Tems in a teacher’s gown writing “solve for x” on a chalkboard, while others shared heartfelt stories of how her music has inspired them in STEM classrooms.

Veteran educator and founder of Lagos-based STEM initiative EduTech Africa, Mrs. Funmi Adeyemi, reacted on X: “We almost had Tems as a Mathematics teacher?! Nigeria lost a brilliant educator but the world gained a once-in-a-generation artist. Either way, she’s still teaching millions how to feel and think deeply.”

Tems also spoke candidly about the moment she chose music over a conventional career:

“I was already doing lesson plans in my head. I even bought markers and a whiteboard for my future classroom. But one night I recorded ‘Try Me’ on my phone and something shifted. The song felt like the most honest thing I’d ever done. I sent it to a few friends and within weeks it was everywhere. That was God telling me: ‘Your classroom is bigger than four walls.’”

Since that pivotal 2018 breakout, Tems has gone on to become one of Africa’s most decorated artists: an Academy Award nominee, Grammy winner, two-time BET Award recipient, and the first Nigerian woman to top the Billboard Hot 100 (via her feature on Future’s “WAIT FOR U”). Her debut album Born in the Wild (2024) debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard World Albums chart and has spent 76 weeks on the UK Official Albums Chart.

Despite her global success, Tems says she still keeps a Mathematics textbook on her nightstand “for comfort reading” and occasionally tutors her younger cousins in algebra when she visits Lagos.

“Teaching never left me,” she concluded. “I just teach through songs now. Every time someone says my music helped them through depression or gave them courage, that’s me marking attendance in the biggest classroom I could ever imagine.”

Burna Boy Postpones Multiple International Tour Dates Citing “Production and Logistical Reassessment” – Move Comes Hours After Viral Video Shows Sections of Fans Asleep During Antwerp Concert

 Grammy-winning Afro-fusion superstar Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, has quietly cancelled or indefinitely postponed at least eight upcoming shows on the European and North American legs of his highly anticipated I Told Them… World Tour Extension, industry sources and ticket vendors confirmed today.

The affected dates include:

December 2 – Ziggo Dome, Amsterdam, Netherlands (cancelled)

December 5 – Accor Arena, Paris, France (postponed)

December 8 – Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY (postponed)

December 11 – State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA (cancelled)

December 14 – Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA (cancelled)

December 17 – Capital One Arena, Washington, DC (postponed)

December 20 – O2 Arena, London, UK – second date (cancelled)

December 22 – Utilita Arena, Birmingham, UK (cancelled)

In an official statement released through his management, Spaceship Collective, Burna Boy’s team cited “unforeseen production and logistical challenges” as the reason for the changes, adding that “new dates will be announced in due course” and that all purchased tickets will be honoured or fully refunded.

However, multiple ticketing platforms (Ticketmaster, AXS, and Eventim) and secondary resale sites now show significantly lower-than-expected sales for several of the venues, with some arenas reporting fewer than 45 % of seats sold as recently as 72 hours before the first cancellations were processed. Industry insiders speaking on condition of anonymity told Pulse Nigeria and Billboard that “ticket sales momentum stalled dramatically after the Antwerp video went viral last week,” with refund requests spiking by over 400 % in the 48 hours following the clip’s circulation.

The now-infamous 42-second video, filmed at Sportpaleis Antwerp on November 18, shows large sections of the upper tiers appearing disengaged or asleep during Burna’s performance of mid-tempo tracks from his 2023 album I Told Them…. The clip, originally posted by a Belgian concertgoer with the caption “20,000 euros on production but the crowd is sleeping 😂,” has amassed 28 million views across TikTok and X, spawning memes, reaction videos, and heated debates about audience expectations, setlist choices, and the sustainability of premium ticket pricing in a post-pandemic economy.

Burna Boy has not directly addressed the video on his personal channels, but close associates say the African Giant was “deeply hurt” by the narrative that fans were bored, pointing out that the same Antwerp show sold 16,800 tickets and received a standing ovation for hits including “Last Last,” “Ye,” and “On The Low.” A source within his camp told The Native: “He’s not cancelling because people fell asleep at a few slow songs; he’s protecting the integrity of the experience he wants to deliver. If the energy in certain markets isn’t matching the vision right now, he’d rather regroup and come back stronger than force half-filled arenas.”

The cancellations mark a rare setback for an artist who, until recently, was riding an unprecedented wave: sold-out stadium runs in Nigeria, the Caribbean, and Portugal; a historic headline slot at the 2025 Grammy Awards performance segment; and consistent Top 10 Billboard 200 debuts. Analysts note that ticket prices for the extension leg averaged $175–$450 in some cities, significantly higher than his 2023–2024 arena run, at a time when European and North American fans are grappling with cost-of-living pressures.

Fan reactions remain sharply divided. While some expressed disappointment (“I flew from Nigeria to Paris for Dec 5. This hurts,” wrote one supporter), others defended the decision: “Burna doesn’t do half measures. Rather postpone than give a mid show. Respect.”

Refunds are being processed automatically through original points of purchase. A revised tour schedule is expected to be announced in January 2026, with speculation that Burna Boy may pivot toward festival headline slots and a potential African stadium homecoming leg to close out the I Told Them… era.

Ayra Starr Confirms Permanent Relocation to New York: "My Spirit Has Always Belonged Here" – Global Afrobeats Sensation Opens Up on Embracing a New Chapter, Carrying Nigerian Culture Worldwide, and the Magic of Her Adopted Home

 n a candid and heartfelt interview that has captivated fans across the globe, Nigerian Afrobeats prodigy Ayra Starr has officially confirmed her relocation to New York City, describing the move as a profound personal epiphany and a strategic leap toward amplifying her burgeoning international career. The 23-year-old sensation, born Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, revealed during a recent appearance on Hot 93.7 FM's Buck N Regg show in Hartford, Connecticut, that she made the permanent move less than two months ago, settling into a cozy apartment in the heart of Manhattan where she's already begun furnishing her space with essentials like a grand piano, a plush couch, and a comfortable bed.

"I do live in New York now. I officially moved in less than two months ago. I'm always in New York regardless—it reminds me so much of Lagos," Ayra Starr shared with her trademark blend of vulnerability and vibrancy. "There are a lot of Nigerians here, a huge African diaspora. So it feels like home. My spirit has always belonged to New York." The singer, who first hinted at her deep affinity for the city through viral social media posts and electrifying performances, recounted a pivotal "moment of sonder" during a recent stage show that solidified her decision. "I was kind of skeptical about moving, even around that time. But when I remember just being on stage and feeling like, 'Hmm... I really like it here. I might actually move here'—it was like a lightbulb went off. I love it. I know my priorities. I know why I'm here, and I'm here for a good time."

Ayra Starr's relocation marks a significant evolution for the Mavin Records signee, whose meteoric rise since her 2021 breakout single "Bloody Samaritan" has seen her evolve from a Lagos-based sensation to a global force. With over 10 million monthly Spotify listeners, sold-out world tours, and collaborations with icons like Coldplay, Rihanna, and Doja Cat, the move positions her at the epicenter of the music industry. "This is both a personal adventure and a way to grow my international footprint," she explained. "New York has opened doors to fresh collaborations and partnerships—though I can't spill the tea just yet. It's about being where the energy is, where I can push boundaries and connect with creators who see the world like I do." Sources close to her team note that the relocation will streamline her North American touring schedule and media engagements, allowing for deeper immersion in markets hungry for Afrobeats' infectious sound.

Yet, amid the excitement of her new life, Ayra Starr was quick to address the emotional layers of leaving Nigeria behind. "Nigeria will always be home—my heart, my family, my roots," she affirmed, her voice softening as she spoke of balancing transatlantic flights for shows and family visits. "I'm still adjusting to the routine: the freezing cold (I made a whole video in it the other day!), the non-stop hustle, and yes, even the furniture shopping. But it's liberating. I feel inspired every day walking these streets—it's chaotic, colorful, and full of possibility, just like Lagos." Fans have flooded social media with supportive messages, with #AyraInNYC trending worldwide and memes joking about her "quieter" online presence being due to unpacking boxes rather than any hiatus. "She's not leaving us; she's taking us with her," one devotee tweeted, capturing the sentiment of the Mobstarrs—Ayra's fiercely loyal fanbase—who celebrated the news with fan art, relocation playlists, and virtual housewarming parties.

Central to Ayra Starr's ethos is her unwavering commitment to cultural preservation, a theme she wove throughout the interview. "I want to be able to carry my culture wherever I go," she declared passionately. "Because even though I want more than what's given to me, I want to still say, 'This is who I am. This is what I'm taking to the world. This is what I'm showing the world.'" From infusing Yoruba phrases into her lyrics to collaborating with African diaspora artists in Brooklyn's vibrant scenes, Ayra envisions her New York chapter as a bridge rather than a break. "Afrobeats is exploding globally, and being here lets me represent Nigeria authentically—raw, unapologetic, and full of joy. It's not about abandoning home; it's about exporting it."

The timing of her announcement couldn't be more serendipitous, coinciding with the buzz around her recent projects, including a limited-edition Ayra Starr doll line launching in the US, UK, France, and Nigeria, and whispers of a sophomore album in the works. Ayra Starr, discovered by Don Jazzy in 2019 through an Instagram freestyle, has amassed accolades including a BET Award, MTV EMA, and a Billboard Music Award nomination. Her relocation underscores a broader trend among African artists—think Burna Boy's LA base and Tems' global jet-setting—positioning the continent's talent as indispensable to the world's cultural conversation.

As she settles into her new rhythm, Ayra Starr invited fans to join her journey: "Come visit, come create, come feel the magic. New York isn't just a city; it's a state of mind

“Venerable Achi Was Killed for His Faith” – Renowned Journalist Rufai Oseni Condemns Rising Religious Persecution in Nigeria, Calls for Urgent Government Action Amid Escalating Violence Against Christians

 Prominent Nigerian broadcaster and Arise TV anchor Rufai Oseni has issued a powerful condemnation of the targeted killing of Venerable Ademola Achi, a respected Anglican priest in Plateau State, describing the attack as a brazen act of faith-based persecution that demands immediate national reckoning. In a viral social media post and on-air segment aired on Wednesday morning, Oseni declared: “Venerable Achi was killed for his faith. This is not just another statistic; it is a clarion call to our leaders that religious intolerance is eroding the soul of our nation.”

The 52-year-old cleric, who served as Archdeacon of Mangu in the Diocese of Jos, was brutally murdered on Tuesday evening, November 25, 2025, in his residence in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. Eyewitness accounts and preliminary investigations by local security forces reveal that armed assailants, suspected to be Fulani militants, stormed the compound around 8:30 p.m., shooting Venerable Achi multiple times at close range before fleeing into the night. His wife and two children, who were present during the attack, escaped with minor injuries after hiding in an adjoining room. The assailants reportedly chanted anti-Christian slogans during the raid, underscoring the apparent religious motivation behind the violence.

Venerable Achi, ordained in 2001 and a tireless advocate for interfaith dialogue and community peacebuilding, had been vocal in recent months about the escalating threats facing Christian communities in Nigeria's Middle Belt. In a sermon just two weeks prior, he warned of "a shadow of intolerance creeping over our lands," urging congregants to pray for protection while emphasizing non-violent resistance. His death marks the third high-profile killing of a Christian leader in Plateau State this year, following the assassinations of Reverend Silas Ali in July and Sister Maryam Ibrahim in September—incidents that have fueled widespread outrage and fears of a coordinated campaign against religious minorities.

Oseni's statement, shared across his X (formerly Twitter) platform with over 1.2 million followers, has amassed more than 500,000 engagements within hours, igniting a national conversation on religious freedom. "When a man of God like Venerable Achi is gunned down in cold blood simply because he preaches love and peace in the name of Christ, we must ask: What kind of Nigeria are we building?" Oseni wrote. "This is not banditry; this is jihadism disguised. Our government must act decisively—deploy intelligence resources, prosecute perpetrators, and protect our places of worship—or risk a full-blown religious war."

On Arise TV's flagship morning show The Morning Show, Oseni expanded on his remarks during a live panel discussion, linking Venerable Achi's murder to a broader pattern of impunity. "From the Christmas Eve attacks in 2023 that claimed over 200 lives to the school abductions and church burnings, the data is damning: Over 2,000 Christians killed in faith-related violence in 2025 alone, per reports from the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety)," he noted, citing statistics that have drawn international scrutiny. Oseni called for the establishment of a dedicated National Religious Tolerance Commission and urged President Bola Tinubu to convene an emergency summit with faith leaders from all denominations.

The Anglican Diocese of Jos, in a statement released by Bishop Benjamin Kwashi, described Venerable Achi as "a shepherd who laid down his life for his flock," vowing to pursue justice through legal channels while organizing a statewide prayer rally. "Ademola's blood cries out for equity," the bishop said. "He was not just a priest; he was a bridge-builder in a fractured society." Tributes have poured in from across Nigeria's religious spectrum, including from the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), which has declared November 30 a national day of mourning and solidarity.

Human rights organizations echoed Oseni's urgency. Amnesty International Nigeria's Director, Osai Ojigho, stated: "Rufai Oseni's voice amplifies what we've been screaming: Systemic failure to address religious violence is complicity. Venerable Achi's death is a stain on our democracy." Meanwhile, global watchdogs like Open Doors USA, which ranks Nigeria ninth on its World Watch List for Christian persecution, renewed calls for targeted sanctions against enablers of such atrocities.

Oseni, 41, a University of Lagos alumnus and award-winning journalist known for his incisive commentary on governance and social justice, has positioned himself as a fierce defender of press freedom and minority rights. His remarks come amid his ongoing advocacy series on Arise TV, "Faith Under Fire," which has spotlighted similar cases and garnered accolades from the Nigerian Guild of Editors.

As investigations continue, with Plateau State Police Commissioner Okon Effiong confirming the arrest of two suspects, the nation braces for potential reprisals in an already volatile region. Oseni's impassioned plea resonates as a turning point: "Venerable Achi's legacy is not in his death, but in the peace he championed. Let us honor him by choosing justice over vengeance, unity over division."

"Ven. Edwin Achi, Anglican Vicar of the Kaduna Diocese, was k!ll£d by kidn@ppers because of his Christian faith. Earlier this morning, someone revealed to me that a ransom had been paid for his release, only for the kidn@ppers to send a picture of his corpse. Now, how do they… https://t.co/HoB6sOJwn0 pic.twitter.com/I7V941ikWb

— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) November 27, 2025

Wizkid Teases HBO Documentary 'Long Live Lagos' with Exclusive Snippet on Instagram: A Raw Glimpse into the Starboy's Untamed Journey from Lagos Streets to Global Stages

 Global Afrobeats icon Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, professionally known as Wizkid, has ignited a firestorm of excitement and debate across social media with a tantalizing preview of his upcoming HBO documentary, Wizkid: Long Live Lagos. Shared via Instagram Stories and a cross-posted clip on X (formerly Twitter) yesterday, the snippet offers an unfiltered look into the Grammy-winning artist's mindset, sparking conversations about legacy, mentorship, and the blueprint of success in African music.

1In the 89-second teaser video, Wizkid reflects candidly on his meteoric rise, declaring, "There was no blueprint for me." The clip, set against evocative footage of Lagos' bustling streets and archival performance highlights, captures the essence of his self-made ethos while acknowledging the profound influence of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti as a spiritual guide in pursuing music. Posted with the caption "New doc premiering on @HBO. Dec 11th! 🦅 #WizkidLongLiveLagos 🇳🇬," the reveal has amassed over 3.7 million views on X alone within 24 hours, with fans and critics alike flooding timelines with reactions ranging from fervent support to pointed critiques.

The documentary, a collaboration between HBO Documentary Films, Ringer Films, Macro, and MGX Creative, is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Karam Gill and executive produced by Bill Simmons. Premiering exclusively on HBO and streaming on Max on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT, Long Live Lagos chronicles Wizkid's transformative journey from the vibrant Surulere neighborhood of Lagos to headlining the historic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London in July 2023—the first African artist to achieve such a feat before 60,000 roaring fans. The film weaves personal introspection with cultural commentary, exploring themes of African identity, colonial legacies, and the explosive global ascent of Afrobeats.

Viewers will witness intimate moments from Wizkid's preparation for the landmark show, including the emotional undercurrents of balancing superstardom with personal trials, such as his late mother's battle with cancer—a poignant thread that adds depth to his narrative of resilience. The documentary features illuminating interviews with key figures in Wizkid's orbit, including his longtime manager and partner Jada Pollock, Afrobeat royalty Femi Anikulapo-Kuti (son of Fela), BBC Radio 1Xtra's Julie Adenuga, veteran producer Sunday Are, philanthropist Seni Saraki, and music executive Karen Binns. Longtime fans also share testimonials, underscoring the profound pride Nigerians feel in witnessing one of their own redefine the world's perception of African artistry.

Wizkid's bold assertion in the snippet—that he forged his path without a predefined "blueprint"—has polarized audiences, reigniting discussions on the role of mentorship in the industry. While supporters hail it as a testament to his innovative spirit and trailblazing independence, detractors argue it overlooks the foundational support from his former label boss, Banky W, and predecessors like 2Baba and D'banj who laid the groundwork for Afrobeats' mainstream breakthrough. "Wizkid didn't just break barriers; he built the door," tweeted one fan, encapsulating the sentiment of many who view the film as a celebration of uncharted ambition. Others, however, called for greater acknowledgment: "Fela inspired you, but Banky signed you—respect the blueprint you walked in," read a viral reply.

This latest reveal builds on the documentary's buzz since its world premiere at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival in June, where Wizkid made headlines by debuting his newborn daughter on the red carpet and engaging in a heartfelt Q&A about the vulnerabilities of fame. Originally conceived during a whirlwind period of sold-out tours and personal challenges, Long Live Lagos—part of HBO's acclaimed Music Box series—positions Wizkid not just as a musician, but as a cultural ambassador reshaping global narratives through sound and story.

As anticipation builds toward the December premiere, Wizkid's post serves as a clarion call for African creatives to own their legacies unapologetically. "This is more than a film; it's Lagos breathing on the world stage," said Jada Pollock in a statement to press. With Morayo, his critically acclaimed 2025 album, still dominating charts worldwide, Wizkid continues to embody the Starboy ethos: relentless, revolutionary, and rooted in the Motherland.

Fans can mark their calendars for the global debut and join the conversation using #WizkidLongLiveLagos. 

New doc premiering on @HBO.
Dec 11th! 🦅 #WizkidLongLiveLagos 🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/zGcFx2duv1

— Wizkid (@wizkidayo) November 24, 2025