Welcome to the weekly roundup of the Top News Stories from Nigeria, broader Africa, and around the globe (covering February 9 – 15, 2026).
Nigeria leads with political buzz as INEC officially sets the 2027 general election dates, alongside vibrant cultural moments, celebrity flexes, economic updates, and lifestyle highlights.
Dive in for the freshest scoop — starting with Nigeria, then Africa, and the world!
Gov’t & Politics:
INEC Officially Set Feb 20th & March 6th For 2027 General Elections
INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan announced this on Friday, February 13, 2026, during a press conference in Abuja, while releasing the official Notice of Election and the detailed Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 polls as follows:
- Presidential and National Assembly elections: Saturday, February 20, 2027
- Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections: Saturday, March 6, 2027 (exactly two weeks later
Economy & Finance:
CBN Reaffirmed Ban On Money Bouquets
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reaffirmed its ban on using naira notes to create money bouquets (also called cash bouquets or flower cash bouquets), classifying the practice as a form of naira abuse under existing currency laws. This reinforcement came ahead of Valentine’s Day 2026 (February 14), sparking widespread discussions and memes about “heartbreak for lovers” on social media.
Music:
REMA Claimed 6th On BillBoard’s 25 Biggest One Hit Wonders
Afrobeats Superstar Rema ranked 6th on BillBoard’s 25 Biggest One hit Wonders of the 21st Century. A new feat celebrated by music lovers and his fans worldwide.
Davido Denied Joint Custody Of Imade
After a court ruling during the course of the week, Davido had an emotional outburst via his X account regarding a custody battle with Sophie Momodu over his first daughter Imade. This caused divided opinions among fans and the general public but David in his words said “My daughter will grow up knowing I fought for her.. Let’s move on.. One love!”
Teni’s New Look Gets Everyone Talking
Popular Afrobeats Singer and Entertainer, Teni debuted a new look following the release of her new single Labubu. This was met with mixed reactions from fans but Teni always does Teni things.
Entertainment & Lifestyle:
Davido Flies Jaskaro And His Mother From Warri For A Cook-In
Jaskaro aka Daddym was the latest recipient of Afrobeats superstar Davido’s benevolence as flew popular TikTok chef Jaskaro (real name: John-Avah Stanley Oghenekaro, also known as “Daddym” or Jaskaro) and his mother from Warri (Delta State) to Lagos for a special private cook-in session at his mansion.
From Davido’s grand gestures, you can tell the musician enjoyed his meal.
Burna Boy Adds a New Toy To His Already Exotic Garage
The African Giant himself has added a stunning 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 RS to his already impressive car collection and it’s being hailed as his latest “new toy” in luxury style.
Femi Dapson Receives Criticism
Femi Dapson dominated headlines after renting two massive Lekki billboards on Valentine’s Day (Feb 14, 2026) to publicly shower his fiancée Simisanya with love messages, earning huge praise as “husband material.”
But the buzz turned mixed when a resurfaced clip showed him saying he waited to approach her until he had money, because “love is sweeter with cash” sparking criticism that it sounded materialistic despite the romantic flex.
I Don’t Like When Brides Are Told To Kneel Down And Feed Their Husbands At Weddings
Ife Agoro weighed in on a wedding custom during a podcast episode, this caused an uproar online but trust Ife to stand her ground regardless.
Hilda Baci Receives Third GWR Plaque
What’s better than having 2 Plaques? Of course 3 Plaques.. Popular Chef Hilda Baci took to her social media platform to share the delightful news as she received her third plaque from the GWR team for the biggest rice serving (not limited to jollof style).
Fashion:
Funke Akindele Slays In An Elevated Aso Oke Look
This Funke Akindele’s Aso Eko look was a fashion masterclass.
Cardi B’s Kicked Off Her “Little Miss Drama” In Style
Cardi B kicked off her Little Miss Drama Tour (her first major arena tour in years, supporting her album Am I the Drama?) on February 11, 2026, at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California. She absolutely launched it in style, turning the stage into a high-fashion runway with multiple bold, custom, and racy outfit changes that perfectly matched the tour’s dramatic, unapologetic vibe. Fans and media are calling her tour looks iconic, with non-stop wardrobe rotations proving the stage is her catwalk.
Movies:
We Make Films For Intellectuals And People Who Can Think – Kunle Afolayan
Kunle Afolayan hits back at the critics of his new release Anikulapo Season 2.
Nollywood Superstar and Executive Producer Funke Akindele Star in FOLA’s New Short Film For EKO
Fola released a short film for his hit single EKO featuring Funke Akindele and what a watch!
Rita Dominic Gifted A Range Rover By Her Husband
Nollywood Actress Rita Dominic-Anosike was gifted a Range Rover for Valentine by husband Fidelis Anosike. In a heartwarming video shared online, Rita was seen caught off-guard by her husband. Talk about being loved properly and intentionally.
Sports:
Kenya & Ethiopia Win Major Medals At Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2026
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2026 (its 11th edition) took place on Saturday, February 14, 2026 (Valentine’s Day), in Lagos, Nigeria. It’s Africa’s premier road race, holding World Athletics Gold Label status, with aspirations for Platinum upgrade. The event attracted over 25,000 participants, including elite international runners, locals, and fitness enthusiasts.
Kenya’s Ezra Kipchumba Kering won in 2:11:55 during the Men’s 42km race, claiming the $50,000 top prize. He delivered a strong late surge, improving his personal best. Ethiopia’s Meseret Dinke won the Women’s race in 2:37:36.
Rest of Africa:
DRC Ceasefire Progress
The Democratic Republic of Congo accepted the principle of a ceasefire in the east (against Rwanda-backed M23), calling for a freeze on positions. Mediators (including Angola) push for implementation around February 18, with UN monitoring potential.
