Asake unveils name of new record label, A$AP Rocky waives right to testify, Kai Havertz suffers a torn hamstring in Dubai training camp. Stay in the know with our Rave News Digest, which summarizes five of the hottest global news stories you need to catch up on, saving you time and energy. Consider it your daily news fix.
1. Asake unveils the name of new record label
“Why Love” is Asake’s first release under his imprint GIRAN REPUBLIC pic.twitter.com/t5JocQllWW
— 49th. (@the49thstreet) February 11, 2025
Nigerian music sensation Asake has officially launched his record label, Giran Republic, signaling his departure from YBNL Nation and the start of a new chapter in his career. The announcement came alongside the release of his first single of 2025, “Why Love,” which debuted under the new label. This move had been anticipated by fans since last year when Asake subtly hinted at the transition by updating his social media bios and creating an official Giran Republic page.
Asake, born Ahmed Ololade, has quickly risen to prominence in the Nigerian music industry, initially making waves under Olamide’s YBNL imprint. His journey from dancer to chart-topping artist has been nothing short of remarkable, and with Giran Republic, he is stepping into an executive role while maintaining his artistry. Although details about Asake’s record label roster and future projects remain undisclosed, this development underscores his ambition to shape his musical legacy on his own terms, solidifying his place as a major force in the industry.
2. A$AP Rocky waives the right to testify
A$AP Rocky declines to testify in his assault trial. pic.twitter.com/h2SQdT9f61
— XXL Magazine (@XXL) February 11, 2025
A$AP Rocky has opted not to testify in his ongoing gun assault case, despite previous statements from his attorney, Joe Tacopina, suggesting he was “eager to tell his story.” The Harlem rapper, born Rakim Mayers, formally waived his right to take the witness stand in a downtown Los Angeles courtroom on Tuesday, February 11. With this decision, the defense rested its case, setting the stage for closing arguments. Rocky is facing two felony counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm, accused of shooting his former friend, Terrell Ephron—known as A$AP Relli—in Hollywood on November 6, 2021.
The trial has been marked by intense moments, including Rocky’s outburst at A$AP Twelvyy, a witness for the defense, when asked to define “AWGE,” the name of Rocky’s creative agency. His partner, Rihanna, has attended parts of the trial, which has seen heated exchanges between Ephron and the defense, as Tacopina argued that Ephron was attempting to extort the rapper. Before the trial, Rocky rejected a plea deal that included a 180-day jail term, leaving him facing up to 24 years in prison if convicted. Closing arguments are set for Thursday morning, February 13.
3. 2Baba confirms relationship with Edo politician Natasha Osawaru
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Nigerian music icon Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has confirmed his romantic relationship with Edo State politician Natasha Osawaru, putting an end to weeks of speculation. This revelation follows his recent separation from his wife and long-time partner, Annie Idibia. In a now-deleted social media post, 2Baba addressed the swirling rumors, making it clear that Osawaru played no role in his marital split. “To Whom It May Kwansighn. #I don yarn my truth. Feel free to continue alleging. We shall all be alright,” he stated. His confirmation comes after multiple sightings of him and Osawaru together, fueling widespread debate.
Responding to the backlash, 2Baba released a video statement criticizing the “false narratives” being spread about his new relationship. He defended Osawaru, calling her a “brilliant and amazing woman” who has been unfairly labeled a homewrecker. “She had nothing to do with what is happening between me and Annie in our marriage,” he clarified. The singer also expressed his love for Osawaru, stating his desire to marry her. The revelation has since divided social media, with fans sharing mixed reactions about this new chapter in 2Baba’s life.
4. NFL donates $100k to Kai Cenat’s dream of building a school in Makoko, Lagos State
🚨NFL donates $100,000 to support Kai Cenat’s School project in Makoko, Nigeria🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/vyJr5m6qle
— HYPETRIBE (@hypetribeng) February 11, 2025
The National Football League (NFL) has donated $100,000 to support popular streamer Kai Cenat’s initiative to build a school in Makoko, Lagos State. Makoko, a densely populated waterfront slum, is home to many underserved communities, where access to quality education remains a challenge. The contribution aims to empower global communities through charitable giving and supports Cenat’s vision of improving children’s educational opportunities in the region.
The donation stemmed from a charity event in New Orleans, where Cenat and fellow content creator IShowSpeed competed in a friendly match ahead of Super Bowl LIX. Despite IShowSpeed’s team securing a narrow 30-29 victory, the NFL pledged a combined $200,000 donation, splitting it between the two creators’ foundations. IShowSpeed will support Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, while Cenat’s share will fund his school initiative in Nigeria. This reflects the NFL’s commitment to impactful projects beyond sports.
5. Kai Havertz suffers torn hamstring in Dubai training camp
Kai Havertz is reportedly out for the rest of the season.
Arsenal are running out of attacking options 😬 pic.twitter.com/dTOlXeIVnR
— B/R Football (@brfootball) February 12, 2025
Arsenal’s season hopes have been dealt a blow as star forward Kai Havertz reportedly tore his hamstring during the training camp in Dubai. The Athletic states that the 25-year-old may face a lengthy recovery, with assessments ongoing to see if surgery is needed. Havertz, who has been instrumental for Mikel Arteta’s side this season with 15 goals and five assists in 34 appearances, is now focused on regaining full fitness ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.
His injury further deepens Arsenal’s attacking crisis, with key players like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus also sidelined. The Gunners, who failed to secure reinforcements in the January transfer window, will now rely heavily on Leandro Trossard and young talents such as Ethan Nwaneri to fill the void. As Arsenal prepares for their upcoming fixtures against Leicester City and West Ham United, Arteta faces a tactical dilemma with his limited attacking options, which could impact their pursuit of silverware in both domestic and European competitions.
Featured Image: @asakeofficlal/Instagram
Our Weekday News Digest summarizes five of the hottest news topics worldwide–including celebrity news from Hollywood to Nollywood, the latest trending global headlines from American reports to top African news today, and the best sports stories in 2024.
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