Nigeria’s gospel music industry has never been short of talent. From the pioneering voices that laid the foundation of indigenous gospel music to the contemporary stars filling stadiums and dominating digital platforms, the nation’s gospel landscape continues to evolve. Yet, every so often, a fresh voice emerges with a unique sound, compelling message, and unmistakable anointing that captures the attention of worshippers and music lovers alike.

One such rising phenomenon is Tobi Praise, a dynamic gospel music minister and band whose refreshing blend of contemporary gospel music with traditional African sounds is steadily carving a niche in Nigeria’s highly competitive gospel music space.

In an era where music often struggles to balance cultural authenticity with spiritual depth, Tobi Praise has found a remarkable formula. The band seamlessly fuses contemporary gospel melodies with the energetic rhythms of Hip-hop, the cultural richness of Juju, the soulful depth of Apala, and the infectious vibrancy of Fuji music. The result is a unique sound that resonates across generations, transcending age, tribe, and social background.

A Ministry Rooted in Purpose

More than entertainers, Tobi Praise sees music as a divine assignment. Their mission is simple yet profound: to spread the message of faith, hope, salvation, and God’s unfailing love through music and worship.

Founded by passionate musicians committed to ministry, Tobi Praise has evolved into one of Nigeria’s most promising gospel groups. Their performances are not merely musical presentations; they are spiritual encounters designed to inspire, uplift, and draw people closer to God.

Whether ministering at church conventions, gospel concerts, crusades, conferences, weddings, or community gatherings, the group consistently leaves audiences spiritually refreshed and emotionally inspired.

Their motto, “Lifting Hearts to God Through Music and Praise,” perfectly encapsulates their vision and calling.

The Sound That Makes the Difference

What sets Tobi Praise apart from many contemporary gospel acts is their fearless embrace of Nigeria’s rich musical heritage.

At a time when many artists are chasing international trends, Tobi Praise is proudly celebrating African musical identity while maintaining global appeal. Their innovative fusion of Hip-hop praise, Fuji-style worship, Juju rhythms, and Apala-inspired gospel compositions creates a soundscape that feels both familiar and fresh.

For older listeners, the music evokes cherished memories of indigenous praise traditions. For younger audiences, it offers contemporary energy and relevance. This rare ability to bridge generations has become one of the group’s strongest assets.

Their songs are marked by rich instrumentation, vibrant vocals, energetic stagecraft, and spiritually uplifting lyrics that inspire faith and encourage worship.

Beyond Music: A Mission to Transform Lives

While many artists define success by streams, downloads, and awards, Tobi Praise measures impact by transformed lives.

The group is deeply involved in youth mentorship, outreach initiatives, community development programs, and family-strengthening campaigns. Through these platforms, they seek to nurture positive values, inspire responsible living, and raise a new generation of worshippers committed to godly character.

By integrating contemporary music with culturally relevant sounds such as Fuji, Juju, Apala, and Hip-hop, they have found an effective way to connect with young people who might otherwise feel disconnected from traditional church expressions.

Their approach demonstrates a powerful truth: the Gospel remains timeless, but the methods of communicating it can evolve to reach new audiences.

Growing Recognition and Influence

The impact of Tobi Praise is becoming increasingly evident.

The band has ministered alongside respected gospel ministers at major crusades, revival meetings, and conferences. Their live worship sessions have reached thousands of viewers online, extending their ministry beyond physical venues.

Their growing catalogue of original songs continues to attract attention from gospel music enthusiasts who appreciate both musical excellence and spiritual authenticity.

Many observers within the gospel music community regard Tobi Praise as part of a new generation of ministers redefining indigenous gospel music for the twenty-first century.

Their culturally relevant yet spiritually grounded approach has earned admiration from worshippers across denominational and ethnic lines.

A Promising Future

As Nigeria’s gospel music industry continues to expand globally, artists who successfully combine authenticity, creativity, and spiritual substance will undoubtedly shape its future.

Tobi Praise appears poised to be among those leading voices.

With a clear vision, unwavering commitment to ministry, and an innovative sound rooted in African culture and Christian faith, the group is steadily building a legacy that extends beyond music.

Their belief that worship is more than sound—that it is an encounter capable of bringing healing, restoration, deliverance, and renewal—remains at the heart of everything they do.

In a world hungry for hope and meaning, Tobi Praise is offering both through melodies that inspire and messages that transform.

As audiences across Nigeria and beyond continue to discover their ministry, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: this is a gospel music movement whose best days are still ahead.

Contact Information

Tobi Praise Ministries
Phone/WhatsApp: +234 802 121 4006
Email: lizzytobby62@gmail.com
TikTok: @Tpraize8

Available for: Church Programmes, Gospel Concerts, Crusades, Weddings, Conferences, Worship Events, Community Outreach Programmes, and Special Ministrations.

The post TOBI PRAISE: THE GOSPEL MUSIC PHENOMENON BRIDGING GENERATIONS THROUGH PRAISE appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

By Jimmy Fatunbi

The Nigeria AI Film Festival (NAIFF) returns this September 2026 at Alliance Française Lagos to continue exploring the growing role of AI in filmmaking across Africa.

Following a strong debut, the festival founded by Obinna Okerekeocha has quickly become a gathering point for filmmakers, technologists, and creatives examining the intersection of AI and storytelling. Last year’s inaugural edition recorded over 400 submissions and featured curated screenings, industry panels, and the AI Academy—an initiative providing creatives with practical tools for AI-driven production.

Chidera “Odera Collins” Okonji, the festival’s Director of Communications, described the experience as “a necessary disruption,” noting how it challenges traditional narratives and opens new creative possibilities. For many attendees, the festival provided a firsthand look at how AI is already shaping filmmaking within Nollywood and across the continent.

Building on that momentum, the 2026 edition will emphasize experimentation, collaboration, and grounded conversations regarding the ethical use of AI in film. The festival will feature:

– Screenings of selected AI-driven films
– Industry panels and conversations
– Hands-on workshops and training sessions
– Networking opportunities across the creative and tech communities

Submissions for the 2026 edition opened on May 1 and will close on July 31. Filmmakers, artists, and digital creators are invited to submit works that explore new ways of telling stories with AI.

Director of Programs Chisom Ifeakandu noted that African storytellers deserve to be at the center of global conversations around AI and creativity. “We want to see films that use AI not as a gimmick, but as a real tool in service of stories that matter,” she said. “Show us something we’ve never seen before, make it feel true, and make it unmistakably yours.”

NAIFF remains dedicated to building a space where innovation in African cinema can grow in a meaningful and sustainable way, ensuring technology supports rather than replaces human creativity.

The post Nigeria AI Film Festival (NAIFF) Returns for 2026: Defining the Future of AI-Driven Storytelling in Africa appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

The Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), Ajah Mega Axis, has announced plans to hold its 2026 Mega Musical Concert on May 24, 2026, as part of efforts to seek divine intervention in personal, national and global challenges while celebrating God’s faithfulness.

The programme, themed “Sing Praises to God,” is scheduled to take place at the auditorium of MFM Lagos Region 28, Adoro, opposite GTCO, Ajah, Lagos State.

According to the Mega Regional Overseer, Pastor Enojiasun Irabor, and the Chairman of the MFM Ajah Council of Regions, Pastor Gideon Shonde, the concert is designed to serve as a platform for worship and evangelism aimed at winning souls for Christ and inspiring hope among worshippers.

They explained that the event would also provide emotional, physical and spiritual healing, comfort and deliverance through worship and praise sessions.

The church further disclosed that free meals would be provided for about 1,200 attendees during the programme.

Speaking ahead of the concert, the Mega Regional Administrator, Pastor Oluwafunmilayo Ojo, alongside a member of the planning committee, Toyin Bawa-Allah, described the event as more than just a musical gathering.

According to them, the concert is intended to create an atmosphere of healing, hope and divine encounter through worship.

They noted that worship has the power to transform lives, restore hope and strengthen faith, adding that the programme would also bring salvation, miracles and generational blessings while drawing more people closer to God.

Also speaking, the Mega Regional Choir Leader, Olakunle Oladapo, said preparations had been concluded for the event.

He described music as therapeutic, noting that it contributes to emotional, physical, cognitive and social wellbeing.

Oladapo encouraged members of the public, especially those dealing with depression, emotional burdens, sickness and difficult situations, to attend the concert for healing and deliverance.

He added that ministrations would be led by MFM gospel ministers, special guest music ministers, the MFM Ajah Mega Axis Choir and other gospel ministers from various MFM branches across Lagos State.

The post MFM Ajah Announces 2026 Mega Musical Concert appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

OlaideNigerian-born wrestling sensation Oba Femi has taken the global spotlight after producing one of the biggest upsets in recent WrestleMania history, defeating WWE icon Brock Lesnar in a dominant performance that lasted less than ten minutes. �
MMA Mania +2

The blockbuster encounter at WrestleMania 42 saw Oba Femi overpower the man famously known as

“The Beast,” leaving fans inside the arena stunned as the Nigerian powerhouse controlled the action from start to finish. Reports say Femi sealed victory with his devastating finisher, “Fall From Grace,” pinning Lesnar clean in the center of the ring. MMA Mania +1

The triumph marks a career-defining moment for the fast-rising star, who has continued to build momentum since arriving on WWE’s main stage. Many wrestling observers have described the result as a symbolic changing of the guard, with Oba Femi now seen as one of the company’s brightest future stars.

�The Times of India +1
Emotions also ran high after the match as Lesnar removed his gloves and boots inside the ring — a traditional sign often linked with retirement in professional wrestling. The moment sparked widespread speculation that the former world champion may have wrestled his final match. �

MMA Fighting +2
For Nigerian fans, Oba Femi’s stunning WrestleMania victory is being celebrated as another proud moment on the international sports stage, proving once again that homegrown talent can conquer the world.

The post appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Nigerian wrestling star Oba Femi is making headlines across the global sports entertainment world after being linked with a blockbuster WrestleMania clash against WWE legend Brock Lesnar.

The image circulating online has sparked excitement Nigerian Wrestling Sensation Oba Femi Set for Explosive WrestleMania Showdown with Brock Lesnaramong wrestling fans, showing the powerful Nigerian athlete standing face-to-face with the former UFC champion and WWE icon. Many supporters believe the match could become one of the most talked-about battles in WrestleMania history.

Oba Femi has built a reputation as one of the fastest-rising talents in professional wrestling. Known for his strength, fearless attitude, and commanding presence in the ring, the Nigerian powerhouse has continued to impress audiences with dominant performances.

On the other side stands Brock Lesnar, famously known as “The Beast.” With years of championship experience and a fearsome reputation,

Lesnar remains one of the most dangerous competitors in WWE history.

Fans say a showdown between both men would be a classic battle of power versus power, as two heavyweights collide on wrestling’s biggest stage. For many Nigerians, the possibility of seeing Oba Femi compete against one of the sport’s greatest names is a proud moment and a sign of Africa’s growing presence in international wrestling.

If the match becomes official, all eyes will be on WrestleMania as Oba Femi looks to prove he belongs among the elite and perhaps shock the world against one of wrestling’s most feared stars.

The post Nigerian Wrestling Sensation Oba Femi Set for Explosive WrestleMania Showdown with Brock Lesnar appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Nigerian disc jockey and record producer Imohiosen Patrick, popularly known as DJ Neptune, has raised concerns over the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in music production, warning that the technology could soon displace traditional producers and mastering engineers.

His remarks followed a post by media personality N6, who expressed alarm at the capabilities of AI tools in music creation, describing recent developments as “scary.”

Reacting, DJ Neptune recounted a personal experience where he was impressed by a music track sent to him for review, only to later discover that it was entirely generated using AI.

“I told the guy to sign the artist because what I heard was out of this world. That’s how my guy said it was AI work. It shocked me,” he said.

The development highlights the increasing adoption of AI technology in the music industry, where tools are now being used to create beats, enhance vocals, improve sound quality, and even produce complete tracks within a short time.

Industry observers note that processes which previously required hours or days in professional studios can now be executed almost instantly through advanced algorithms, raising concerns about the future of human roles in music production.

The post DJ Neptune Warns AI Could Replace Music Producers appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Nigerian artistes recorded major success at the 2026 edition of the MOBO Awards held in Manchester, with Wizkid and Ayra Starr emerging among the biggest winners.

Wizkid clinched the Best African Music Act award, beating fellow Nigerian nominees including Davido, Rema, Shallipopi, Tiwa Savage, and Adekunle Gold.

Ayra Starr secured the Best International Act award in what observers describe as a major global breakthrough, edging out international stars such as Cardi B, Gunna, and Kehlani.

In the media category, British-Nigerian content creator Niko Omilana won Best Media Personality, ahead of several nominees.

The awards ceremony, held for the first time in Manchester, celebrated Black music and culture, with strong representation from Nigerian and diaspora talents across multiple categories.

Other winners on the night included Olivia Dean, who won Best Female Act, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year, while Central Cee took home Best Hip-Hop Act. Flo won Best R&B/Soul Act, and Ezra Collective claimed Best Jazz Act.

In film and television, Stephen Graham won Best Performance in a TV Show/Film, while special honours were presented to Slick Rick with the Lifetime Achievement Award and Pharrell Williams as MOBO Global Songwriter.

The strong showing by Nigerian artistes at the event further highlights the growing global influence of Afrobeats and its expanding footprint in international music markets.

The post Wizkid, Ayra Starr Lead Nigerian Dominance at 2026 MOBO Awards appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

By Jimmy Fatunbi

Popular comedian, skit maker and social media influencer, Samuel Perry, popularly known as Broda Shaggy, has reportedly been hospitalised after he was allegedly shot in the Sango-Ota area of Ogun State.

Sources said the incident occurred under the Sango-Ota bridge on Sunday afternoon.

Although details surrounding the shooting remain sketchy, a police source who spoke on condition of anonymity said the content creator sustained the gunshot injury while filming a comedy skit at the location.

According to the source, Broda Shaggy was immediately rushed to Blooming Care Hospital in the Alakuko area of Lagos for emergency treatment.

“He was filming a skit under the Sango-Ota bridge when he sustained a gunshot injury. The exact circumstances are still unclear, but members of his crew quickly rushed him to the hospital,” the source said.

The source added that medical personnel at the hospital administered first aid upon his arrival.

Further findings by PUNCH Metro revealed that he was later referred to Duchess Hospital in the Government Reserved Area of Ikeja, where he is currently receiving treatment.

Efforts by our correspondent to reach both hospitals were unsuccessful, as calls placed to the contact numbers listed on their social media pages did not connect. A text message sent to them had also not been responded to as of the time of filing this report.

When contacted on Thursday, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed that the police were alerted by the hospital.

“The hospital contacted the police to report that a gunshot victim had been brought to their facility. Detectives and a patrol team were immediately deployed to the hospital, where they discovered that the victim was a skit maker and social media influencer popularly known as Broda Shaggy.

“He was seen on a stretcher with an injury to his thigh. The location of the incident is in Sango-Ota and not within our jurisdiction, but investigation is ongoing,” she said.

However, when contacted for further clarification, the spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the incident had not been officially reported to the police in the state.

“The incident was alleged to have occurred in Ogun State, but it has not been reported to the police,” he said.

Meanwhile, Broda Shaggy’s manager, Olufemi Oguntamu, also known as Penzaar, did not respond to calls placed to his phone. A text message sent to him had yet to receive a response as of the time of filin

g this report.

The post Broda Shaggy Receives Treatment After Alleged Gunshot Incident During Skit Recording. appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Socialite and High Fashion founder Rahman Jago has claimed that Afrobeats star Burna Boy has converted to Islam, sparking widespread reactions across social media.

The claim followed a viral video shared by Rahman Jago on Wednesday, showing Burna Boy reciting a quote from the Qur’an. The post, which was captioned “Allahu Akbar,” coincided with the Ramadan period and quickly gained traction online.

The video has generated thousands of reactions, drawing congratulatory messages from Muslim fans as well as humorous commentary from other users debating the influence of peers on personal faith decisions.

The development has triggered conversations about celebrity spirituality in Nigeria’s religiously diverse society, particularly given that there had been no prior public indication from Burna Boy about a change in his religious beliefs.

Reacting to the clip, former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad wrote that the artiste appeared happy and prayed for ease in his reported new faith journey. When asked by a social media user to confirm the conversion, Ahmad said some people close to the singer had indicated he had embraced Islam but noted that there had been no official confirmation directly from Burna Boy.

Rahman Jago subsequently reaffirmed the claim, stating that Burna Boy had indeed converted and is now a Muslim.

As of the time of filing this report, Burna Boy has not publicly confirmed or denied the claim.

The post Rahman Jago Claims Burna Boy Has Converted to Islam in Viral Post appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Singer Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has been named the most-streamed artiste of all time on Spotify Nigeria.

The announcement was made as Spotify marked its fifth anniversary in Nigeria, unveiling the top five most-streamed artistes in the country since its launch.

Asake tops the list, followed by Wizkid in second place and Seyi Vibez in third. Burna Boy and Davido complete the top five rankings.

In a statement, Spotify described Asake’s achievement as well deserved, noting that he has consistently captivated listeners with his distinctive sound and energetic performances.

Asake also secured the number one spot for the most-streamed song of all time in Nigeria with his track “Remember.”

Other top-ranking songs include “Dealer” by Ayo Maff and Fireboy in second place, “Awolowo” by Fido in third, “Kese” by Wizkid in fourth, and “Lonely At The Top” by Asake in fifth.

Streaming figures further show Asake’s dominance, with multiple entries among Nigeria’s most popular songs.

Nigerian artistes also performed strongly in other African markets. On Spotify Kenya, Asake’s “Lonely At The Top” ranked fifth, while Ruger’s “Asiwaju,” Ayra Starr’s “Rush,” and Fireboy’s “Bandana” occupied the top three spots. Kenyan singer Bein’s “Inauma” placed fourth.

In Ghana, Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck featuring Black Sherif led the chart with “Wotowoto Seasoning,” while Asake’s “Lonely At The Top” ranked second. Other top positions were also dominated by songs from Black Sherif, underscoring the growing cross-border appeal of Nigerian music across Africa.

The post Spotify Nigeria: Asake Emerges Most-Streamed Artiste appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.