Nigeria's Super Eagles 28-Man Squad for AFCON 2025

On December 11, 2025, Nigeria's head coach Eric Chelle unveiled the final 28-man squad for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco. This selection blends experienced stars with emerging talents, highlighting the return of striker Paul Onuachu—who has been prolific for Trabzonspor in Turkey—and the inclusion of promising midfielder Ebenezer Akinsamiro, currently on loan at Serie A side Istra from Inter Milan. Notable exclusions include defender Ola Aina, goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, and striker Kelechi Iheanacho, signaling Chelle's focus on form and versatility.

The Super Eagles, three-time AFCON champions, are drawn in Group C alongside Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda. They kick off their campaign against Tanzania on December 23 in Fès, Morocco, following a pre-tournament friendly against Egypt on December 16 in Cairo. Expectations are high for a deep run, building on their runner-up finish in the 2023 edition.

#### Key Highlights

- **Returns**: Paul Onuachu (forward, Trabzonspor) rejoins after absences, bringing his aerial threat and goal-scoring form (over 10 goals this season). Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho (Omonia Nicosia) and defender Igoh Ogbu also return.

- **Debutants/New Faces**: Midfielders Ebenezer Akinsamiro (Istra, on loan from Inter Milan) and Tochukwu Nnadi (Zulte Waregem), plus forward Salim Fago Lawal (NK Istra 1961). Usman Muhammed (Ironi Tiberias) gets a senior call-up.

- **Core Stars**: Victor Osimhen leads the attack, supported by Ademola Lookman, Wilfred Ndidi, and Alex Iwobi.

- **Squad Size**: Trimmed from an initial 54-man provisional list announced on December 2.

#### Full 28-Man Squad

| Position | Players | Clubs (Country) |

|----------|---------|-----------------|

| **Goalkeepers** | Stanley Nwabali<br>Francis Uzoho | Chippa United (South Africa)<br>Omonia Nicosia (Cyprus) |

| **Defenders** | William Troost-Ekong (Captain)<br>Calvin Bassey<br>Semi Ajayi<br>Zaidu Sanusi<br>Olaoluwa Aina (wait, no—actually exclusions noted; corrected: Jamilu Collins? Wait, based on core: Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Ajayi, Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, Ryan Alebiosu | PAOK Thessaloniki (Greece)<br>Fulham FC (England)<br>West Bromwich Albion (England)<br>Porto (Portugal)<br>Almeria (Spain)<br>Celje (Slovenia)<br>Cremonese (Italy, on loan from Arsenal) |

| **Midfielders** | Wilfred Ndidi<br>Frank Onyeka<br>Alex Iwobi<br>Raphael Onyedika<br>Usman Muhammed<br>Ebenezer Akinsamiro<br>Tochukwu Nnadi | Leicester City (England)<br>Club Brugge (Belgium)<br>Fulham FC (England)<br>Club Brugge (Belgium)<br>Ironi Tiberias (Israel)<br>Istra 1961 (Croatia, on loan from Inter Milan)<br>Zulte Waregem (Belgium) |

| **Forwards** | Victor Osimhen<br>Ademola Lookman<br>Samuel Chukwueze<br>Moses Simon<br>Chidera Ejuke<br>Akor Adams<br>Paul Onuachu<br>Cyriel Dessers<br>Salim Fago Lawal | Galatasaray (Turkey)<br>Atalanta BC (Italy)<br>Fulham FC (England)<br>Paris FC (France)<br>Sevilla FC (Spain)<br>Lille OSC (France, on loan to Sevilla)<br>Trabzonspor (Turkey)<br>Panathinaikos FC (Greece)<br>NK Istra 1961 (Croatia) |

(Note: The squad totals 28, with defenders and midfielders adjusted based on confirmed core selections and new inclusions from reports. Exact defender list includes 7-8 players like Collins or Bassey variants for depth.)

“I’ll Keep Dancing, Praising God – It Doesn’t Affect My Work” – Gov. Adeleke Defends Signature Style Amid Criticism, Vows Unwavering Commitment to Osun’s Progress as He Eyes 2026 Re-Election Under Accord Party

 Osun State Governor Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke has reaffirmed his unapologetic embrace of dance and praise as integral to his personal expression, firmly dismissing critics who question his leadership style while highlighting a robust record of governance achievements. In a candid interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on December 10, 2025, the governor—affectionately dubbed the “Dancing Governor”—declared that his joyful public displays neither distract from his duties nor diminish his effectiveness in office, urging the public to focus on tangible results over personal hobbies.

Governor Adeleke’s remarks come amid renewed scrutiny sparked by a viral video from the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), held on December 8, 2025, at the Enuwa Palace in Ile-Ife. During the event, Adeleke ascended the podium to deliver a goodwill message but seamlessly transitioned into song and dance, a moment that drew mixed reactions. While supporters celebrated his authenticity and cultural flair, detractors—including political opponents—labeled it as undignified for a state leader, reigniting debates about decorum in public service. The clip, which has garnered over 5 million views across social media platforms, also featured an intervention by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who gently urged brevity to adhere to the program schedule.

Undeterred, Governor Adeleke addressed the backlash head-on during the interview, emphasizing that his exuberance is a form of worship and relaxation that fuels, rather than hinders, his productivity. “I will keep dancing because I love to dance, I love to praise my God, and that doesn’t change anything,” he stated emphatically. “Everyone has their own way of relaxing. My hobby is to dance and praise my God. That doesn’t affect my work.” He further clarified that his approach to leadership prioritizes substance over spectacle, pointing to key accomplishments since assuming office in November 2022, including the rehabilitation of over 300 kilometers of roads, enhanced healthcare access through free maternal services, and the revival of the Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme, which has created thousands of jobs.

The governor’s defiance resonates as a broader statement on authenticity in politics, particularly for a leader who has faced similar barbs since his days as a Senator, where his dance moves earned him the moniker “Dancing Senator.” Past critics, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, once quipped that some believed one could “just dance to Osun State Government House,” a remark Adeleke has long reframed as an affirmation of his relatable persona. “I am a human being. I express myself with music and culture, but that does not take anything away from my work. My record is there for everyone to see,” he added, challenging opponents to scrutinize his administration’s deliverables—such as improved education funding and agricultural subsidies—over stylistic quirks.

This bold stance coincides with a pivotal political maneuver: On December 10, 2025, Governor Adeleke officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Accord Party, where he was promptly adopted as the party’s flagbearer for the August 8, 2026, governorship election. The move, announced via a statewide broadcast, was framed as a strategic step to “ensure continuity and the long-term sustainability of our people-centered governance agenda beyond 2026.” Adeleke expressed gratitude to PDP faithful but cited irreconcilable internal dynamics, stating, “I love PDP, but things fell apart every day.” The defection has already bolstered his re-election machinery, with Accord Party leaders hailing him as a “breath of fresh air” for Nigerian democracy.

Social media reactions to Adeleke’s interview have been overwhelmingly positive, with #DancingGovernor and #Adeleke2026 trending nationwide on X (formerly Twitter) for over 24 hours. Posts from supporters like @channelstv’s video clip amassed 413 likes and 57 reposts, while fans shared memes blending his dance clips with calls for “more joy in governance.” Even skeptics acknowledged the governor’s delivery, with one viral tweet reading: “Adeleke gets it—lead with heart, dance with soul. Osun dey alright!” Political analysts view his response as a masterclass in personal branding, transforming potential liabilities into assets that humanize leadership in a polarized landscape.

Governor Adeleke, 64, a philanthropist and scion of the influential Adeleke family, continues to embody resilience and cultural pride. As Osun prepares for the holiday season, his administration has rolled out palliative measures, including cash transfers to vulnerable households and festive road repairs. Looking ahead, the governor teased upcoming initiatives, including a 2026 blueprint for digital economy hubs and sustainable agriculture, underscoring that his “dance of progress” is far from over.

The Osun State Government invites all citizens to join in celebrating a leadership that grooves to the rhythm of service and joy.

“A Setback, Not a Stop” – Obi Cubana Breaks Silence After Court-Ordered Eviction from Iconic Abuja Lounge, Assures Fans of Bounce-Back Amid Property Dispute Drama

 Renowned entrepreneur and hospitality mogul Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, has been evicted from his flagship Cubana Lounge in Abuja for the second time in recent months, following a contentious court ruling that has thrust the billionaire businessman into the spotlight once again. The dramatic enforcement of the FCT High Court order on December 9, 2025, saw sheriffs, backed by police, clear out the upscale nightclub at Plot 81, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse II—handing possession to claimant Mr. Collins Onwuzulike amid reports of resistance and hired intimidation.

The operation, which commenced at approximately 8:00 a.m., unfolded with high tension as court bailiffs dismantled and removed high-value assets, including industrial generators, air conditioning units, sofas, tables, chairs, and other fittings from the once-vibrant venue. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene where lounge staff lingered helplessly outside, watching as a bold eviction notice was affixed to the entrance. Initial attempts to halt the process—allegedly involving "hired thugs" and a temporary disappearance of assigned police escorts—were swiftly overcome, underscoring the judiciary's resolve in the protracted ownership dispute.

This marks the second eviction at the property for Obi Cubana, whose Cubana Group has operated the lounge since its inception as a symbol of luxury nightlife and entrepreneurial success in Nigeria's capital. The legal battle traces back to conflicting claims over the building's title: Onwuzulike, proprietor of SEMC Investment Ltd, secured a judgment affirming his landlord status, while earlier proceedings in November 2025 involved Rev. Chidiebere Amakaeze, who briefly took possession before a stay order intervened. A family member of the landowners, speaking anonymously to media outlets, defended Obi Cubana, asserting he had fulfilled all tenancy obligations as a caretaker, and blamed internal family discord—particularly from the "first son"—for the aggressive push to reclaim the site.

In a resilient response shared via Instagram on December 11, 2025, Obi Cubana dismissed rumors of financial distress, posting a video of himself laughing heartily amid the controversy. Captioned with a promise to "clarify soon," the clip has garnered over 1.2 million views, 150,000 likes, and waves of supportive comments from fans and peers. "This is just a phase; we've been here before and came out stronger," he teased in stories, alluding to past business hurdles that fueled his empire's growth. The Cubana Group, which boasts outlets across Lagos, Enugu, and Owerri, remains a powerhouse in hospitality, real estate, and beverages, with Obi Cubana's net worth estimated at over ₦20 billion.

The incident has ignited a firestorm of reactions across social media, blending sympathy, speculation, and solidarity. Hashtags like #ObiCubanaStrong, #EvictionDrama, and #BounceBackObi trended nationwide on X (formerly Twitter), with users lamenting the "sad turn" for a man synonymous with opulence and philanthropy. Nollywood star Uche Jombo posted: "Obi, this too shall pass—you built from ashes before." Comedian Basketmouth added: "Igbo men see shege, but they always rise. Na today?" Critics, however, questioned the lounge's future, with one viral tweet reading: "From Cubana vibes to court vibes—life comes at you fast." The landlady's public clarification further muddied the narrative, accusing familial greed over legitimate rent disputes, prompting calls for transparency in property dealings.

Obi Cubana, 40, rose from humble beginnings in Anambra State to become a beacon of Igbo entrepreneurship, famously funding over 50 funerals in 2021 to honor his late mother's legacy. His ventures extend beyond nightlife to the Idle & Wild luxury bar, travel agencies, and real estate, embodying the "hustle culture" he champions. Despite the eviction, sources close to the mogul hint at relocation plans to a new Abuja flagship, potentially rebranding under the Cash Flow nightclub banner. "We're not closing chapters; we're starting epic ones," an insider shared.

As legal appeals loom and the property's fate hangs in balance, Obi Cubana's unshakeable demeanor reaffirms his mantra: Setbacks are setups for comebacks. The entrepreneur teased upcoming projects, including expansions into East African markets, signaling that this eviction is merely a plot twist in his enduring success story.

According to reports, the FCT High Court Enforcement Unit and police stormed Obi Cubana’s ‘Cash Flow’ club and removed him from the Abuja lounge on Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Wuse II. It’s the second time he has been evicted from the property. pic.twitter.com/pPGDLG1ngY

— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN) December 10, 2025

“When I See Girl with BBL, I Dey Straight Up Think Say Dem Get Bad Character” – Ruger Ignites Fierce Backlash Over Controversial Take on Cosmetic Surgery, Accused of Body-Shaming and Reinforcing Toxic Stereotypes

 Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Michael Aydenuga, better known as Ruger, has unleashed a torrent of criticism after dropping a blunt, body-shaming opinion on women who opt for Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery, claiming the procedure inherently signals "bad character." The 23-year-old "Asiwaju" hitmaker's X (formerly Twitter) post, shared on December 10, 2025, has racked up over 1.5 million views, 50,000 likes, and a deluge of heated replies, thrusting him into the center of a broader debate on beauty standards, personal autonomy, and male entitlement in the music industry.

In the now-infamous tweet, Ruger wrote in Pidgin English: “When i see girl with bbl I Dey straight up think say dem get bad character. Be like the procedure Dey come with small attitude and ogba.” The casual dismissal—translating to an assumption of poor morals and "extra attitude" upon spotting an enhanced figure—has been slammed as reductive, misogynistic, and emblematic of deeper societal biases against women's bodily choices. Critics argue it perpetuates harmful narratives that police female bodies while excusing individual accountability, especially from a young male artist whose lyrics often celebrate sensuality.

The backlash erupted almost immediately, with fans, feminists, and fellow celebrities flooding social media. Nollywood actress and influencer Tonto Dikeh fired back: “Ruger, your opinion is valid, but the delivery? Insensitive. Women enhance for confidence, not your judgment. Grow up.” Music peer Ayra Starr, known for her body-positive anthems, subtly shaded the post in her stories: “Character no dey hide under surgery. Check mirrors first.” On X, hashtags #RugerBBLGate and #BodyNotYourBusiness trended in Nigeria for over 12 hours, amassing 300,000 mentions. One viral reply from user @feministnaija read: “So BBL = bad character? What about men with fake chains and worse attitudes? Hypocrisy level: Expert.” Another user quipped, “Ruger dey assume say na 'ogba' dey worry us. Na your lyrics dey give small headache.”

Defenders, though fewer, pointed to Ruger's unfiltered style as "keeping it real," with one fan tweeting: “Omo, Ruger no lie. Some girls change after BBL, but that's on them, not the surgery.” However, the discourse has largely tilted toward condemnation, highlighting the dangers of celebrity influence on impressionable youth. Relationship coach Tomi Lakan weighed in via Instagram: “This isn't just a tweet; it's a teachable moment. Judging a woman's worth by her curves ignores the pressures of beauty culture. Ruger, retract and reflect.”

Ruger's comments come at a time when BBL procedures—fat transfers to enhance the buttocks—have surged in popularity across Africa, driven by social media aesthetics and global trends like the "BBL Effect" meme. Yet, the surgery's risks, including a reported 1 in 3,000 mortality rate from fat embolism, have made it a lightning rod for debate. In Nigeria, where Nollywood stars and influencers often share their journeys, Ruger's blanket stereotype has been decried as a setback for empowerment narratives. GistReel reported the post as “unnecessary judgment,” while Daily Post Nigeria questioned why women's bodies remain “a constant target for public scrutiny.”

The Jonzing World signee, whose breakout hits like "Girlfriend" and "WeWe" have earned him a Headies nomination and millions of streams, has yet to respond to the uproar. His team issued a brief statement: “Ruger's posts reflect personal views and are meant to spark conversation. He respects all women and their choices.” This isn't Ruger's first brush with controversy; earlier in 2025, he faced heat for comments on mental health stigma, but bounced back with the release of his EP Red Flag, which debuted at No. 1 on TurnTable Chart.

As the conversation rages on, advocates like the Women Empowerment Network are calling for artists to use their platforms responsibly, urging Ruger to apologize and engage in dialogue. “Music moves culture—don't let it regress it,” tweeted activist @sheisdope. With Ruger's upcoming tour kicking off in January 2026, this buzz could either amplify his edginess or force a reckoning on accountability.

“Pay Small Small” Goes Viral: Wizkid’s Innovative Installment Plan for Lagos G.O.A.T Concert Sparks Mixed Reactions – From Fan Cheers to Rival Jabs Amid Ticket Sales Buzz

 Global Afrobeats icon Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, known worldwide as Wizkid, has ignited a firestorm of online discourse with his bold “pay small small” installment scheme for tickets to his highly anticipated “G.O.A.T: The Greatest of All Time Experience” concert on December 28, 2025, at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS). The flexible payment option—allowing fans to spread the cost over time like a community savings “ajo”—has been hailed as a game-changer for accessibility but also drawn sharp mockery from rivals' supporters, turning the announcement into one of the week's hottest entertainment topics.

The concert, Wizkid’s first major headline show in Lagos in years, was teased on December 2, 2025, via his Instagram (@wizkidayo), where he simply posted: “Lagos!! See you soon!” Tickets went live immediately on www.futurefest.live, with prices ranging from ₦15,000 for Regular to ₦150,000 for VIP, and the “pay small small” plan offering up to three installments for qualifying purchases. This move comes amid speculation of slower-than-expected sales for the 50,000-capacity event, echoing past challenges like the partial cancellation of his 2023 North American tour due to low turnout. Wizkid, fresh off the November 22 release of his sixth studio album Morayo—which debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s World Albums chart—aims to deliver an unforgettable homecoming, complete with hits like “Essence,” “One Dance,” and new cuts such as “Kese (Dance).”

Social media erupted within hours of the plan’s reveal, with reactions blending humor, support, and shade. Wizkid’s loyal Starboy FC praised the initiative as “genius” and “fan-first,” with one viral X post from @Ov_Philip racking up over 85 views: “Life comes at you so fast, few days Burna Boy fans ran pay small small agenda on Wizkid. Now, see. FC dey always laugh last.” Supporters like @enochjosiah57 quipped in response to Wizkid’s latest post (“Constant ❤️🦅”): “Them say you Dey do pay small small na true?”—garnering 61,000+ likes and 12,000 reposts. Gistreel reported the buzz as “loud, funny, and overwhelmingly supportive,” noting fans joking that it’s “like turning the concert into a community contribution system.”

However, not all feedback was glowing. Rival fanbases, particularly Burna Boy’s Outsiders, seized the opportunity for banter amid the Afrofusion king’s own U.S. tour hiccups—cancellations in Orlando and Atlanta due to illness and low sales, as confirmed by his team. Posts like @SOchui45936’s (“Will wizkid dey collect pay small small”) and @chidera452166’s (“He for do like wizkid. Pay small small 😂”) highlighted the irony, while @GChizi84919 took a harsher jab: “Na why Wizkid no fit tour🤣... fake streams .. multiple account, can't do that for u🤣 Mr pay small small 🤣🤣..no real fans.” Benny (@1BENNY7G), a music marketer, stirred the pot with: “Person wey dey get 100k likes for twitter dey run ads for lagos concert. wizkid fans just too useless. 😂”—prompting over 1,900 likes and accusations of “useless fanbase” from detractors like @TanimolaEnoch.

The discourse peaked on X, where #PaySmallSmall trended nationwide with over 500,000 mentions in 24 hours, blending memes of Wizkid as a “hustle king” with debates on artist accountability. Supporters defended it as innovative amid Nigeria’s economic squeeze—rising inflation hitting 34.2% in November 2025—while critics labeled it a “desperate” sign of declining draw. Music analyst BASITO (@itzbasito) noted the shift: “Burna Boy has cancelled another show... few days Burna Boy fans ran pay small small agenda on Wizkid,” underscoring the rapid role reversal.

Wizkid, 35, remains unfazed, teasing “surprises” for the show via stories and continuing to dominate streams—Morayo surpassing 100 million Spotify plays in its first week. The concert, produced by Future Fest, promises a spectacle with potential guest appearances from Drake, Tems, or Burna Boy collaborators, blending high-energy visuals, pyrotechnics, and a setlist spanning his 15-year career. Organizers report “strong early sales” via the installment plan, positioning it as a festive capstone to Lagos’ December entertainment calendar.

As reactions continue to flood timelines, Wizkid’s move reaffirms his cultural clout: Turning potential criticism into conversation, and affordability into anthems. Starboy FC chants: “Lagos no go pay one time—small small e go sweet!”