10 Things – THISDAY Style

Toke Makinwa Unveils New Fragrance Line

Nigerian media icon Toke Makinwa has announced her latest venture into the beauty industry with the launch of two scents from her debut fragrance line, ‘Dive by Toke Makinwa’ and ‘Vogue by Toke Makinwa’.This new addition to Toke Makinwa Beauty will debut on April 28, 2024. 

Burna Boy Recognised Among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2024

Nigerian superstar Burna Boy, born Damini Ogulu, has been honoured by TIME Magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People of 2024. In her tribute writeup, legendary singer Angelique Kidjo celebrated Burna Boy’s impact on the global music scene, emphasising his role in the worldwide acceptance of African music and likening his influence to that of Fela Kuti. 

Tunde Onakoya sets 58-hour new chess marathon record

Tunde Onakoya, the Nigerian chess virtuoso has etched his name into the annals of history! He has shattered the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, surpassing the previous mark of 56 hours and 9 minutes set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018. Onakoya’s epic feat saw him push through the 57-hour mark and beyond, ultimately reaching an astounding 58 hours of non-stop chess mastery. This event, took place at the iconic Times Square, started at 10 a.m. on April 17 ran until 8 p.m. on April 19, with Onakoya playing non-stop for 58 hours. Onakoya’s goal is not just to break the record but also to raise $1 million for global chess education programs for children.

Dubai Faces Unprecedented Flooding

Dubai has experienced its most severe rainfall in over 75 years, leading to extensive flooding and chaos across the city. In a single day, the city saw more than 250 mm (about 10 inches) of rain, causing widespread disruption, including halted flights, traffic standstills, and school closures. This event marks a significant anomaly for the region, which typically sees only modest annual rainfall.

Clara Chizoba Krongbong Sets New Record for Longest Interview Marathon

The Guinness World Records have officially recognised media entrepreneur Clara Chizoba Krongbong for the longest interviewing marathon, which lasted an impressive 55 hours. Starting on March 8, 2024, and wrapping up on March 10, Krongbong’s record-setting effort highlights her dedication to utilising media for advocacy on diversity and inclusion. 

DJ Spinall Makes History at Coachella

DJ Spinall became the first Afrobeats DJ to perform a dedicated set at the prestigious Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. His historic appearance occurred on April 14, 2024, where he energised the crowd with a mix of popular African pop hits, accompanied by surprise performances from Nigerian artists Teni and Fireboy DML.

A Decade Since the Chibok Abduction

April 14, 2024, marked the 10th anniversary of the tragic abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok, Borno State, by Boko Haram terrorists. Despite efforts, approximately 92 of the girls remain unaccounted for. Families and activists continue to mourn and call for action as they remember the horrors of that day.

Eniola Aluko Becomes The First Black Woman to Own An Italian Football Club

Former England international Eniola Aluko has become the first black woman to own an Italian football club, having acquired a major stake in FC Como’s female team. Aluko’s involvement is part of a $100 million investment by the ownership group Mercury 13, marking a significant step in promoting diversity in sports leadership.

World’s Best Airport Title Shifts to Qatar

Hamad International Airport in Doha has been named the world’s best airport at the Skytrax Awards, overtaking Singapore’s Changi Airport, which held the title for 12 years. Alongside its top overall ranking, Hamad International also received accolades for the world’s best airport shopping and the best airport in the Middle East.

Arise TV goes live in S’Africa and nine other countries

ARISE News Channel has commenced operations in South Africa and nine other African countries. They include Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi and Mozambique. Others are Namibia, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

The Chief of Staff to Chairman/Editor-in-Chief of the media house, Ms Fauziya Ali-Mohammed, confirmed this in a statement on Thursday.

Fauziya said, “The Management of ARISE News Channel is delighted to announce that your favourite cable news network has gone live in South Africa and nine other countries in Southern Africa on Multichoice/DSTV Channel 416.

“The Emmy-winning ARISE News Channel, which marked its 11th anniversary on January 31 this year, is Africa’s premier broadcaster globally, showcasing the continent in Business, Politics, Technology, Commerce, Science, Sports, Showbusiness and Fashion, while projecting the best of Africa – its peoples and cultures around the world.”