The global music star revealed that her first name, Onika, is the Trinidadian derivation of the Igbo name Onyekachi.

Minaj was responding to a post by a fan praising her recent appearance at the United Nations, where she spoke against jihadist attacks on Christians in Nigeria.

The fan claimed that Minaj’s first name, Onika — interpreted as “Who is greater than God” — was a sign that she was destined for greatness, including boldly speaking against injustice.

Sharing a photo that explained the meaning and variations of the name Onika on X, the fan wrote:

“The name Onika means ‘continued belief in a supreme being who holds ultimate authority and surpasses all others in greatness.’

“Let my Nigerian Barbz and friends confirm how God destines someone for great things before they are even born!”

In her response, Minaj wrote:

“Will it get even more mysterious if I told you the tattoo on my arm means ‘God is with me’ in Chinese?”

Her appearance, which organisers say was arranged by Alex Bruesewitz, an adviser to US president Donald Trump, took place at a panel where US officials set out the administration’s concerns about religious violence in the West African country.

Minaj opened by saying she felt nervous and grateful for the chance to speak. She thanked US Ambassador to the UN Michael Waltz and President Trump for prioritising the issue and framed the intervention as a moral duty rather than a partisan act.

She told the audience that protecting worshippers everywhere is about “uniting humanity” and said her fans, the Barbz, “will never stand down in the face of injustice.”

The speech mixed personal reflection with sharp language about churches burnt, families torn apart, and communities living in fear.  

The event came after a flurry of comments from Washington that had already heightened tensions.

In recent weeks, President Trump publicly accused the Nigerian government of failing to stop attacks on Christians and ordered US agencies to prepare responses, remarks that included warnings of possible military action if the situation did not improve.

The comments prompted a swift and pointed response from Nigerian officials who rejected suggestions of state-backed persecution and stressed Nigeria’s constitutional guarantees for religious freedom.

US ambassador Michael Waltz praised Minaj on social media, calling her “not only arguably the greatest female recording artist but also a principled individual who refuses to remain silent in the face of injustice.”

He said he looked forward to standing with her as the US discussed steps to protect persecuted Christians.

Minaj replied she was grateful for the opportunity and said she did not take the invitation lightly.

Analysts caution that the situation on the ground in Nigeria is complex.

Attacks on religious communities in some regions are linked to armed groups, banditry and disputes over land and resources as well as to extremist violence.

Observers note that violence has also affected Muslim communities and that security, governance and economic factors all complicate how the problem should be addressed.

Minaj’s intervention is likely to deepen an already heated international conversation about Nigeria’s security problems.

Supporters say her global profile helps spotlight victims and mobilise pressure for action.

Critics warn that celebrity interventions can inflame diplomatic tensions and simplify complex, locally rooted conflicts into binary narratives.

In Abuja, the federal government has pushed back against rhetorical escalation while signalling willingness to work with partners to tackle insurgency and criminal violence.

Nicki Minaj told the UN audience she would keep speaking for people who face persecution and urged others to join in defending freedom of religion around the world.

The diplomatic and security debate she has reignited is likely to continue in the days ahead.

Trump, in a statement on Truth Social alleged that thousands of Christians have been killed by radical Islamist groups in Nigeria. He announced that the United States was officially designating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over what he called the mass killings of Christians across the nation.

Reacting to the post on her X account, Nicki Minaj expressed deep empathy for persecuted Christians and gratitude for religious freedom in America.

“Reading this made me feel a deep sense of gratitude. We live in a country where we can freely worship God,” she wrote. “No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion. We don’t have to share the same beliefs in order for us to respect each other.

The “Super Bass” rapper went on to acknowledge the global nature of religious persecution, urging her followers not to ignore such tragedies.

“Numerous countries all around the world are being affected by this horror & it’s dangerous to pretend we don’t notice,” she continued. “Thank you to The President & his team for taking this seriously. God bless every persecuted Christian. Let’s remember to lift them up in prayer.”

President Trump’s remarks have sparked global reactions after he cited figures suggesting that 3,100 Christians were killed in Nigeria alone compared to 4,476 worldwide, calling it a “global moral test” that requires urgent attention.

Thomas Weidenmüller claimed in court docs obtained by Page Six that the “Anaconda” rapper and her husband, Kenneth Petty, have refused to pay him the more than $500,000 they owe him after he filed an assault lawsuit against the registered sex offender.

Weidenmüller has now asked a court to help him collect the money by placing Minaj’s 11-bedroom, Hidden Hills, Calif., home up for sale.

“The dwelling is subject to a $13,258,000 mortgage lien and a $722,151 homestead exemption—together just under $14 million,” the court docs read.

“The property’s current fair market value is appraised at $20 million, yielding approximately $6 million in equity beyond the lien and exemption. That amount is more than sufficient to satisfy the judgment, plus accrued interest and enforcement costs.”

Weidenmüller’s legal team claims in the docs that the sale of the pop star’s home “would satisfy the entire judgment, with millions to spare.”

“Minaj is a global music superstar, estimated to have a net worth of anywhere between $150-190 million
and is reportedly the highest paid female rap star in the world,” the docs state.

“There is little doubt that she is highly capable of paying the judgment in full and, yet, she has refused to do so despite multiple written requests for payment and levies served upon several of her suspected creditors. [Weidenmüller] should not have to wait any longer.”

Page Six has reached out to Minaj’s rep for comment but did not immediately hear back.

Us Weekly was first to report the news.

When Weidenmüller worked as a security guard for Minaj’s 2019 concert in Germany, he claimed Petty, 47, sucker punched him in the jaw.

The incident allegedly occurred after the “Starships” emcee, born Onika Maraj, berated a female security guard for allowing a male fan to get onstage during her show.

Minaj, 42, allegedly yelled at the guard, calling her a “f–king bitch” while recording the belittling exchange.

Weidenmüller, who was the head of security for the evening, said he stepped up to console the crying guard before approaching the “Barbershop: The Next Cut” actress to discuss the alleged incident.

“Who do you think you are?” he claimed Minaj yelled before allegedly throwing her shoe at him.

Weidenmüller then claimed the “Moment 4 Life” rapper verbally berated him in her room before Petty punched him out of the blue, breaking his jaw.

Due to the alleged assault, Weidenmüller claimed he had to undergo eight surgeries to repair the damage to his jaw, which involved inserting five plates into his face.

A judge awarded Weidenmüller $503,318 for the damage under a default judgment.

Minaj and Petty tied the knot in October 2019 and welcomed a son, only known as “Papa Bear,” in September 2020.

The couple’s lavish ceremony, reportedly costing $3.7 million, became the talk of Africa, drawing celebrities, dignitaries, and music lovers from across the globe.

But amid the glitter and applause, a pocket of online critics had plenty to say.

Some nitpicked his outfit choices, others offered unsolicited “should’ve, could’ve” takes, and a few simply seemed determined to find flaws in the day.

Davido, however, is having none of it. In a social media post oozing pride and satisfaction, he fired back at the naysayers:

“We had an amazing wedding. Perfect, in fact! Me and my wife’s body still dey sweet us like this. Nothing una fit do, say, or make up will ever change the fact that we had a fairytale wedding, one of the best days, if not the best day, of our lives. The whole world celebrated us!”

The post was met with waves of support, including from international rap queen Nicki Minaj.

Nicki not only congratulated the couple but also acknowledged the effort and grandeur of the occasion.

And if Davido’s words are anything to go by, no amount of online chatter is about to dim that glow.

During her highly anticipated performance, Nicki Minaj paused to share unexpected congratulations with Nigerian music sensation Davido and his partner Chioma.

The Anaconda hitmaker, known for her charismatic stage presence, made the announcement to a cheering crowd before launching into her debut live performance of “Holy Ground,” her popular collaboration with Davido.

The shout-out, instantly became a viral moment as fans expressed excitement and support for Davido and Chioma’s reported union.

Interestingly, Davido replied to Nicki Minaj by acknowledging her as a queen in the music sphere.

Queen ??❤️ https://t.co/zpq6zc2sF2

— Davido (@davido) June 28, 2024

MORE:

• University of Ghana: Lecturer, students busted over bed, room allocation scandal
• One reported dead, others injured in accident on Accra-Kumasi Highway
• Minority blocks laying of L.I. to regulating cement pricing

Minaj filmed part of her encounter with police, posting it to social media.

In the video, a police officer can seemingly be heard telling Minaj: “You are under arrest.”

A spokesman for Dutch police, Robert van Kapel, told NBC News: “We can confirm that we have arrested a 41-year-old American woman at Schiphol Airport because of possession of soft drugs”, without naming the woman in question.

A statement given to the PA agency by Dutch police confirmed that the woman remained under arrest on Saturday evening.

The music star posted a series of messages on X apparently in relation to the incident.

“They took my luggage without consent,” she wrote in one. In another, she added: “This is Amsterdam btw [by the way], where weed is legal,” using a colloquial term for the drug cannabis.

The artist was reportedly preparing to fly to Manchester for a concert at the Co-op Live venue on Saturday evening.

Minaj had originally been scheduled to go on stage at 20:00 BST.

Doors to the concert opened around 30 minutes late on Saturday. With thousands in the venue as of 20:30, it was unclear whether the gig would go ahead as planned.

The BBC has approached Minaj’s representatives for comment.

The announcement of the remix comes hot on the heels of Nicki Minaj’s recent Grammy Awards disappointment, where she lost the Best Rap Song category to Killer Mike.

Despite the setback, Nicki Minaj wasted no time in captivating her audience with new music.

Taking to her Instagram page, the Queen of Rap shared a teaser of the remix for her song “Tested Approved and Trusted,” featuring Burna Boy.

The snippet offers a tantalizing glimpse into the collaboration, showcasing Nicki Minaj’s signature flow which complements Burna Boy’s Afrobeat vibe.

The news of the collaboration has set tongues wagging across social media platforms, with fans eagerly anticipating the full release of the track.

Watch snippet below:

On Sunday, a pair of videos from the documentary surfaced online of Ye having a phone conversation about giving songs away, industry plants, the Illuminati and more. 

In one video, the Chicago legend is sitting on a couch going through a magazine and speaking on Corey Gamble being a part of the CIA and claiming Cardi B is an “industry plant” that took over Nicki Minaj’s spot.

“Cardi B is a plant by the Illuminati,” Ye said. “She don’t write her raps. She just there to sound as ignorant as possible and then make songs like, ‘fuck them and get some money.’ She has literally replaced Nicki Minaj, purposely that they put her there, and now she doesn’t know what to do, and she has no idea what the fuck is going on. She thinks it’s just a blessing from the universe. It ain’t no blessing from the universe.”

However, it’s possible for people to change. Hours after the footage leaked, Cardi shared an interview Ye did with Jason Lee in 2022 in which he spoke about how much he loves her and that he always believed in her. Shortly after the Lee interview, Ye and Cardi joined forces on the 2022 single “Hot Shit” with Lil Durk.

In another leaked video, Kanye is on the phone with Scooter Braun and speaking on getting out of “this G.O.O.D. Music shit now.” The Donda rapper stated he needed to end his record label because he’s “great,” questioned why he gave Pusha T Daytona and Teyana Taylor KTSE, and criticized Nas for being off-beat on “Cops Shot the Kid” off their collaborative effort, NASIR.

“The fuck I’m doing giving ‘Wanna Love You’ to fucking Teyana? What the fuck am I doing giving that Daytona album to Pusha? What the fuck I’m doing bro?,” said Kanye. “That shit was three Dark Fantasies that I gave away. ‘Cops Shot the Kid,’ Nas rapping all god-damned offbeat on it and don’t even want to shoot a video. Then shoot the video and don’t even tell me.”

He continued, “These muthaf*ckers don’t appreciate me. These muthaf*ckers are trying to use me. I’m the greatest muthaf*cking artist living, and I can do everything.”

Kanye also added that he wanted to do his own festival instead of performing at others and has since done everything that he claimed people didn’t think would happen.

He also said he knew what he was saying could put his life in danger but wouldn’t end up like XXXTENTACION, who was known for speaking out against the industry.  

“I know my life is on the line when I’m talking, but I know ain’t nobody going to touch me because I’m too high profile. I’m not [XXXTENTACION], so y’all can’t take me out,” he continued. “But I bet you I get off my muthafucking publishing, I bet you I get my muthafucking festival, and I bet you I get off of Universal, and I bet you all I won’t talk to Adidas again.”

The explosive footage is just one of many things that have been leaked over the last few weeks. Most of the leaks include song snippets, unreleased music videos, and more.  

MORE:

• NPP appeals to NDC to return to IPAC

• It is more than possible – Alan’s wife on 2024 victory

• Former NPP MP pledges support for Alan Kyerematen

The publication released its ‘Top 50 Greatest Rappers of All Time’ on Wednesday, in honour of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary.

When it came to naming the GOAT rapper, Billboard put none other than Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Corey Carter, at the top of their list.

Meanwhile, Nicki came in at number 10, officially making her the only female in the top ten list and therefore the greatest female rapper of all time.

Rapping legends such as Tupac, Eminem, The Notorious B.I.G, Snoop Dog and Nas also made it into the top 10.

Billboard claimed that Nicki, 40, who hails from South Jamaica, has earned her crown as the modern-day Queen of Rap with her fierce, braggadocious spirit.

The publication wrote: ‘She’s undeniably blazed the trail for the next generation of female MCs, while at the same time, building a legacy whose impact is hardly limited to the hip-hop world.

‘Nicki is one of only a dozen artists to have more than 100 Billboard Hot 100 entries, and earned the MTV Video Vanguard Award in 2022 for her provocative music video.

Nicki, who rose to fame as part of rapper Lil Wayne’s Young Money camp, is now reportedly worth a cool $130 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.

Billboard then highlighted some of Jay-Z’s successful career moments that have put him in the number one spot.

The rap mogul, 53, has now won 24 Grammys, sold 140 million records and has 14 Billboard 200 No. 1 albums (the most amongst solo acts).

They wrote: ‘Beyonce Knowles-Carter’s husband has succeeded in every era, spitting regal-scented rhymes that speak to the struggle, and to the opulence that follows an intensely self-made greatness.

‘Maybe there are other rappers who could claim to match Jay at his peak. But there are simply none who can match his entire career — his longevity, the breadth of his accomplishments, and what he’s meant to hip-hop from a musical, cultural and financial standpoint for the last three decades.’

The Billboard list left fans divided and sparked a debate on Twitter about who the GOAT rappers really are.

Tweeting about Nicki’s ranking, one fan penned: ‘She’s the Queen of Rap! We knew this.’

Another said: ‘And some of y’all are still lying to themselves saying she fell off’

A third disagreed: ‘Billboard should be ashamed for putting Nicki before SO MANY OTHER RAPPERS!’

When it came to discussing Jay-Z, someone wrote: ‘Na, he top 10 but not greatest’

While another said: ‘We don’t need Billboard to tell us this …. Culture been knew!’

One penned: ‘This isn’t news at all. This is a well known fact’ 

Many argued that Kendrick Lamar, who was ranked number 2, should have been top of the list. 

Billboard’s 10 Greatest Rappers of All Time

1. Jay-Z
2. Kendrick Lamar
3. Nas
4. Tupac
5. Eminem
6. The Notorious B.I.G.
7. Lil Wayne
8. Drake
9. Snoop Dog
10. Nicki Minaj

The ‘Super Bass’ hitmaker, in an Instagram live, said that she is ready to explore the country. She added that Ghana is one of the African countries she has made plans to visit.

Nicki Minaj said that she would be having a “business type of situation” during her visit but she did not specify when she would make the rip.

The songstress also revealed that she would be working with a Ghanaian artiste.

“I would love to come to Ghana, I actually may be doing something major, a business type of situation with an artiste from Ghana really soon,” she said.

While at it @NICKIMINAJ might be coming to Ghana!! ?????????????? oh I’m ready Nicki I am!!!!!!?❤️ pic.twitter.com/PO1Oz3cW6u

— WE GO UP (@big9_ne) October 14, 2022

Nicki Minaj is not the only American artiste who has shown interest in coming to Ghana.

Meanwhile, Meek Mill is also finally making his way to Ghana after years of expressing interest.

The rapper is set to perform at the 2022 AfroNation concert to be held in December 2022.

This comes barely a month after Meek Mill told fans on social media that he would like to perform in Africa before the year ends. At the time, he did not specify which part of the continent he would like to visit.

The American rapper, in a live video addressing The Grammy’s board and her music, revealed Ghana is one of the top African countries she plans on visiting soon.

As a matter of fact, she guaranteed that she would be having a “business type of situation” in Ghana come December.

She also hinted that she has a collaboration with a Ghanaian artiste, though she left the identity for the imagination of fans.

Four Ghainaian artistes have been tipped to be hitting the studios with Nicki, and fans have speculated one of them might have hit the jackpot.

Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale and Wendy Shay have earlier expressed interest in working with the pop star.

The collaboration, when released, will increase Ghana’s chances of bagging international awards and be a selling point for most artistes.

ALSO READ

Black Sherif nominated for 2022 MTV Europe Music Awards; check out…

No one can sabotage me – Black Sherif warns detractors

DJ Khaled dines with Burna Boy as they hit studio to…

Watch video below:

According to court docs obtained by Page Six, the rapper, 39, claims that Nosey Heaux — born Marley Green — posted a video Monday that included allegations of drug use. 

“[Minaj is] shoving all this cocaine, shoving in all this cocaine up her nose. Allegedly. Thank you. Allegedly. But we all know it’s true,” Nosey Heaux allegedly said via social media. 

“F—k, listen, I can’t even say allegedly with that ’cause I — we all know it’s true. I’m not saying allegedly on that. Nicki Minaj is a cokehead.”

Minaj is also upset with Nosey Heaux for allegedly making disparaging comments about her 1-year-old son, whom the musician shares with husband Kenneth Petty. 

Petty, 44, is a registered sex offender convicted of attempting to rape a 16-year-old girl in 1994. Per the docs, the blogger claimed the couple’s son needs therapy because, “Your baby is going to be a rapist, too.”

“Marley Green is a disgrace — someone so lacking in fundamental decency that she has posted vile comments about Nicki’s 1-year-old son. When this case is over, she will no longer be permitted to use the name ’Nosey Heaux’ because we will take her trademark from her when she does not have enough money to pay the judgment,” Minaj’s attorney, Judd Burstein, told Page Six in a statement.

“Anyone else who spreads lies about Nicki will suffer a similar fate. My marching orders are to aggressively sue anyone with a media or social media following who damages her with intentional lies. Eventually, the lesson will be learned.” 

The “Starships” singer is suing Nosey Heaux for defamation, claiming she’s never used cocaine and is seeking damages of no less than $75,000.

After Minaj chose to sue Nosey Heaux, the blogger shared screenshots of an alleged Instagram direct message exchange with the hip-hop star. 

“We know you don’t really have any money to speak of so losing all this little advertisement money from YouTube will make a huge dent,” Minaj allegedly wrote. “You’ll only be the first of many tho.” 

Nosey Heaux then followed up with, “Are you ok Nicki? File your lawsuit ok? I’m not afraid and I won’t be intimidated.” 

Minaj allegedly replied, “YAAAAAYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!”

MORE:

• Kenya’s President Ruto reverses ex-president Kenyatta’s orders on first day in office

• Tears flow as diminutive actors carry coffin of late actor Baba Fabregas [Video]

• Meet the popular YouTubers who spent less than GH¢9K on wedding

The Atlanta native has unfollowed his “Monster” collaborator after her “clown” shade at the Essence Festival.

As captured in a screenshot, the Yeezy designer is no longer following the “Anaconda” hitmaker as of Monday, July 11. Nicki, meanwhile, still follows Ye on her own personal account.

While it’s unclear when Ye clicked the unfollow button, his move comes a week after Nicki appeared to throw shade at him during her set at the Essence Festival in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Taking the stage at the Caesars Superdome on July 1, she performed her Lil Baby-assisted single “Do We Have a Problem?” before launching into fan favourites such as “We Go Up”, “Did It On ’em” and “Beez in the Trap”.

However, when her DJ cued up “Monster”, Ye’s 2010 single where Nicki delivered a guest feature, she stopped the show.

In a clip of the show that night, Nicki said, “Wait, hold up, hold up! Hold on, hold on!” She went on telling the audience, “A monster though! A monster though! But we don’t f**k with clowns,” seemingly referring to the 45-year-old emcee.

While Nicki didn’t mention Ye’s name during her set at the festival, many believed that it was aimed that the “Hurricane” rapper since he recently hopped on Cardi B‘s new song “Hot S**t”, which also features Lil Durk.

Nicki and Cardi have been feuding since 2017, when the latter broke out on the rap scene and was instantly compared to the “Bang Bang” rapper.

The tension culminated in an altercation at New York Fashion Week in 2018, during which Cardi reportedly approached Nicki about “spreading lies” and Cardi threw her shoe at Nicki.

MORE:

• I’m wiser now – MzVee

• Mexican mayor marries alligator in colourful wedding ceremony

• Embarrassing moment lady’s fake butt fell out of place while on the dancefloor

Kenneth Petty was required to inform authorities when he moved due to an attempted rape conviction from 1995.

But the 44-year-old admitted failing to do this when he relocated to California with Nicki Minaj in 2019.

He’s now been sentenced and fined $55,000 (£46,000), according to the US Attorney’s Office.

Under US law, registered sex offenders have five days to update their details if their residence changes.

Petty had previously pleaded not guilty to this at a 2020 court appearance, but changed his plea last September.

At his latest hearing prosecutors said house arrest was not tough enough, and urged the judge to give Petty further prison time.

In the hours after the sentencing, Nicki Minaj posted a picture on Instagram of her husband and son.

Petty began dating the rapper in late 2018, with the pair having reportedly known each other since childhood.

A year later they were married and they now have a son.

Their relationship has proved controversial due to his criminal past, with Nicki defending her partner against criticism.

In August 2021, the pair were sued by the woman he was convicted of attempting to rape.

She filed a lawsuit alleging that the couple harassed her to try to make her take back her claims.

In an interview on Daybreak Hitz, the Rock star said he would also love to have a song with Justin Bieber and Elemay.

According to him, it is about time he moves on from local collaborations to international features that will cement his music prowess.

The Lynx signee said he would be more than elated to give Nicki Minaj a verse to rap on if he had the opportunity.

Watch the video below:

MORE:

• JHS 2 pupil stabs 16-year-old schoolmate to death in fight over boyfriend

• Vivian Jill explains why she refused to kiss Sunsum Ahuofe in a film [Listen]

• Anas and CNN out with new exposé on Journalism in Ghana

Charles Polevich, 71, on Friday admitted to leaving the scene of the February 2021 accident that fatally injured Robert Maraj and tampering with evidence, according to Nassau County District Attorney spokesman Brendan Brosh.

Nassau County Judge Howard Sturim committed Polevich to “no more than one year in jail,” with community service and license suspension, according to Brosh. Polevich is due back in court August 3 for the official sentencing.

Police escort Charles Polevich after his arrest in February 2021.The Nassau County District Attorney, who recommended a sentence of one to three years, expressed disappointment with the sentencing commitment.

“Given the severity of the defendant’s conduct, we disagree with the sentencing commitment from the court,” Brosh said in a statement to CNN.

An attorney for Polevich, Marc Gann, told CNN in a statement Sunday, “Mr. Polevich is extremely remorseful for any role he may have played in Mr. Maraj’s death. There are no allegations of substance use or abuse as causative of his conduct and it is our belief that a medical heart issue contributed to Mr. Polevich’s conduct.”

Maraj, 64, who police previously confirmed to CNN was Minaj’s father, had been walking in Mineola, Long Island, in the evening when he was “was struck by a northbound, undescribed, vehicle that left the scene of the accident,” the Nassau County Police Department said in February 2021.

Maraj later died at the hospital, police said.Nassau Police Homicide Detective Lt. Stephen Fitzpatrick previously told CNN that after the incident, Polevich altered and hid his white Volvo station wagon in an attempt to hide it from police.

Through security footage, police were able to track the car back to the suspect’s house, he said.”He’s absolutely aware of what happened,” Fitzpatrick said. “He got out of the car and he looked at the deceased, got into his car and made the conscious decision to leave.Instead of dialing 911, instead of calling an ambulance for the man, he went and went home and secreted his vehicle.”

Carol Maraj, the victim’s widow and mother to Nicki Minaj, filed a $150 million civil lawsuit against Polevich a month after his death. That lawsuit is pending, according to online court records.

In a letter posted on her website last May, Minaj wrote of her devastation at her father’s death.

“Tho I can’t really bring myself to discuss the passing of my father as yet; I can say it has been the most devastating loss of my life. I find myself wanting to call him all the time. More so now that he’s gone. Life is funny that way. May his soul rest in paradise. He was very loved & will be very missed,” she said at the time.

The music star recently had a talk with American media personality, Joe Budden, and they touched on different issues including the Grammy Awards.

During the interview, Budden mentioned that the Grammy board needs people that know that Wizkid’s Essence was song of the year.

To that, Nicki Minaj enthusiastically agreed as she nodded her head and said “right!! right!!”

She also said: “You wanna know what’s so funny? We should have our own Grammy board.”

Nicki Minaj’s acknowledgement of Wizkid’s success was captured on video and soon went viral on social media.

Watch the video below:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by GossipMillNaija (@gossipmilltv)

MORE:

• Russian bomber tells Vladimir Putin ‘stop, we have already lost war’ in Ukraine

• Russian model who trashed Putin on social media found dead in suitcase

• Former NADMO staff arrested over GHS43K salary [Video]

According to her, musicians lose their identity over the years when they jump on all trends that spring up in the industry.

“I don’t think people realize that if you jump on every trend, you become faceless,” Minaj said in a yet to air interview with Joe Budden.

She said that there are possibilities where these trends were not the ultimate goal of artistes who start them, especially since they have the tendencies to define their future in the industry. 

They are only being influenced by their management, she added.

“You know once anybody has success with anything, it seems like everybody just jumps on that sound, even if they may not have even liked it, it might be people behind them telling them to do it,” Nicky Minaj said.

She explained that it is important for artistes to stay true to themselves, their craft and carve an identity for themselves.

“Once you do that, and once you do it a couple of times, who then are you, We’ve now forgotten who you are. I don’t think people realise that if you jump on every trend, you become faceless.”

Watch the video below:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by JBN x JBP (@joebudden)

MORE:

• Sad scenes as Guan DCE who died after 11 days in office is buried [Video+Photos]

• Photos drop as teacher weds former student

• Ukrainian soldier blew himself up on bridge to block advancement of Russian tanks

In a statement police say Robert Maraj was walking along a road in Long Island on Friday night when he was hit.

After the driver left the scene, the 64-year-old was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead the next day.

Officers from Nassau County Police Department say “the investigation is ongoing”, and the rapper hasn’t said anything publically yet.

READ ALSO:

• Video of Benedicta Gafah shaking her backside causes stir

• Check out timetable as ECG announces power cut in parts of Accra

• Sad news hits highlife legend Nana Acheampong

The statement didn’t say Robert Maraj was Nicki Minaj’s dad, but a police spokesman confirmed to AFP that he was her father.

The rapper – whose real name is Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty – was born in Trinidad and Tobago and raised in the Queens borough of New York City.

She’s been nominated for 10 Grammys, won five MTV Video Music Awards and broken the record for the most Billboard Hot 100 entries by a solo female artist.

She announced she was ‘retiring’ in 2019 but has released new music since then.

The 38-year-old recently paid $450,000 to the singer Tracy Chapman to settle a copyright dispute after sampling one of her songs.

Nassau County Police in New York said he was walking on the road between Roslyn Road and Raff Avenue Friday evening around 6:PM when he was hit by a vehicle heading northbound.

Cops say the driver then fled the scene without a meaningful description from witnesses.

He was taken to an area hospital in critical condition, where he succumbed to his injuries and passed over the weekend.

ALSO READ:

• Nicki Minaj shares first photo of baby’s face

• #LekkiMassacre: Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Beyoncé & others condemn ‘violent’ protest in Nigeria

The Homicide Squad is investigating the case and asking for the public’s help in identifying the responsible party.

There was not a decent description of the suspect’s vehicle.

Nicki hasn’t spoken on her dad’s death yet. There are shots of them together embracing over the years, so they obviously had a decent relationship and saw each other from time to time.

It’s unclear what her relationship with her dad was in recent times.

A representative of the musician confirmed her dad’s death, but did not have further comment at this time.

Mr Maraj was 64.

Taking to Instagram, Nicki, who birthed her son, Jeremiah Maraj-Petty in September, expressed gratitude to her baby for making her a first-time mother.

The only known photo of her son is a tiny leg she posted to celebrate her marriage anniversary, but in a latest post, she gave a full glimpse of her child.

“PapaBear thank you so very much for choosing me to be your mama ??? Wishing you guys a happy & prosperous New Year. Thank you for your love & support throughout this journey. It’s meant so much to me,” she captioned.

The 38-year-old wife of Kenneth Petty who admitted motherhood is a fulfilling job she has ever taken, confessed breastfeeding is painful.

However, from the six photos she posted, Nicki hinted she super excited to be called a mother.

Swipe to see photos

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Barbie (@nickiminaj)

International icons such as Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, DJ Khaled, Gabrielle Union and Beyonce among others have called on the Nigerian government to listen to the woes of the people against police brutality happening in the country.

According to Rihanna, I can’t bear to see this torture and brutalisation that is continuing to affect nations across our planet! It’s such a betrayal to the citizens, the very people put in place to protect are the ones we are most afraid of being murdered by!

My heart is broken for Nigeria man! it is unbearable to watch! Im so proud of your strength and not letting up on the fight for what’s right!

MORE:

• #EndSARS: Sarkodie joins Nigeria to fight against police brutality

• #EndSARS: Shatta Wale joins Nigerians to protest

• Hot ladies in s3xy bikini storm Shatta Wale’s birthday party [Watch]

Nicki Minaj encouraged the youth not to give up the fight because their voices were being heard.

She tweeted: Standing with & praying for the brave young people of Nigeria who are on the front lines of this senseless violence. Your voice is being heard.

Musician ‘Chance The Rapper’ also urged world leaders to focus on what is happening in Nigeria.

He wrote: There is a massacre happening in Lekki. Firing squads mass murdering young people in Nigeria. The world needs to engage #endSARS

Queen Beyonce also said she was broken to see the senseless brutality taking place in Nigeria.

Her message made it clear that she had been working on partnerships with youth organisations to support those protesting for a change by providing emergency healthcare, food and shelter.

American actress, voice artiste, activist, and author, Gabrielle Union, urged everyone to add their voice to amplify what is happening in Nigeria.

Top producer, DJ Khaled, was dumbfounded, hence posted a photo and asked the world to pray for Nigeria as they fight for their rights.

American politician, diplomat, lawyer, writer, and public speaker, Hillary Clinton didnt opt out in the voice against the government of Nigeria.

She called on President Muhammadu Buhari to stop killing the protesters.

British singer, rapper and songwriter, Stefflon Don, sent her prayers down to the protesters and asked them to stay safe.

Rapper Diddy supported the cause with the hashtag #EndSARS.

He retweeted messages from other celebrities who condemned the attacks.

Rapper Meek Mill threw more light by sharing the hashtag on his Instagram page.

Again, ‘2 Chainz’ posted a Nigerian flag to signify his undying support against police brutality in Nigeria. He attached a praying emoji to depict his mood.

Boris Kodjoe tweeted at Nigeria’s President Buhari and told him about how the world was watching the horrific images of police and military brutalising citizens in the country.

Just prior to giving birth, Minaj posed for famed photographer David LaChapelle and bared her baby bump for an ethereal photo shoot.

Minaj announced she was pregnant on July 20 with an Instagram picture of herself cradling her bare baby bump. “Preggers,” she captioned the photo.

“Love. Marriage. Baby carriage,” she wrote alongside another photo. “Overflowing with excitement & gratitude. Thank you all for the well wishes?.”

MORE:

• Judge grants Nicki Minaj’s husband permission to attend the birth of their child

• Nicki Minaj shows off massive wedding ring from husband

• Video: Nuns jamming to Nicki Minaj’s song goes viral

Minaj and Petty tied the knot last October. In June, she talked about their marriage during her appearance on Lil Wayne’s Apple Music series, Young Money Radio.

“I didn’t think it would be as refreshing and calming as it is,” she said.

“Even if you’re not married, when you have someone that feels like your soul mate or someone who understands you, it just makes you feel like you’re on top of the world.”

When ET spoke with Minaj back in October at the launch party for her Fendi capsule collection, Fendi Prints On, she already talked about having children with Petty.

“We practice all the time, like, you know, three times a night,” she quipped.

Petty is currently awaiting trial after being arrested in March for failing to register as a sex offender when he moved to California to be with the rapper. 

Recall, Kenneth was required to register as a sex offender in California because he was convicted of first-degree attempted rape in 1995.

But he will now be able to travel with Minaj, 37, ‘periodically on business trips as her manager,’ which will ensure he is present when she goes into labor, according to TMZ.

Other pretrial conditions will stay in place, meaning Petty cannot use illicit substances and he will continue to wear an ankle monitor, the publication reported.

The couple who both got married in 2019, announced that they were expecting their first child together via Instagram earlier this month. 

The entrepreneur, known wildly as Delay, in recent times has expressed her desire to have a partner and start a family of her own.

Joining scores of fans to congratulate her, Delay posted a photo of the rapper showing her baby bump on her Instagram page.

ALSO READ:

• Delay ‘cries’ over partner and baby in latest post [Photo]

• Check out Delay’s reply to fan who wants to be her toyboy

Delay’s caption indicated she wished to be in her shoes.

“Me k)n ad). She looks sooooo goooddddd ??????❤️❤️ It’s Barbieeeeeee.”

Read the full post below:

The 37-year-old rapper shared the stunning image to Instagram where she cradled her bare baby bump as she wore a floral mesh string bikini and silver platform high heels.

The Anaconda singer kept it simple with her caption, only writing ‘#Preggers’ and adding a yellow heart emoji.

+

For months there have been rumours that the chart-topping singer was pregnant but she never confirmed nor denied. 

In June she shared a busty photo but not her tummy as she seemed to only fuel those rumours.

Confirming the reports in her latest post, showcased her ample assets in the snap, protecting her modesty with a colourful star shaped nipple pasties

She is expecting with her husband, 42-year-old Kenneth ‘Zoo’ Petty, whom she tied the knot with in 2019.

He announced this when he revealed he is releasing a new song with Jamaican-American group Major Lazer and United Kingdom’s K4mo.

According to the Sample You hitmaker, the tune will be released on July 16.

“It’s going to be amazing as always”, the Afrobeats star said in a press release.

MORE:

• Hajia4Real’s photo with Lil Win causes stir [Watch]

• McBrown’s ‘workout’ with daughter, Baby Maxin [Watch]

• Check out 6 of Castro’s hottest songs

This comes on the heels of his One Day You Will Understand EP, which was released on June 10.

“With notable features from Blaq Jerzee, C Natty, Guilty Beatz, King Promise, Legendury Beatz, Mikel and Nonso Amadi, we gathered over 6.5 million streams across all platforms within its first seven days, with number one ranking on Apple Music in various countries across rock and all genres,” Mr. Eazi said.

“Thank you for your incredible support over the years as we continue to provide you with the best entertainment for all seasons across our channels,” he added.

Aside producing bangers, Mr. Eazi has empowered emerging artistes like JoeBoy and J.Derobie through his EmPawa Music.

Dancehall musician, Shatta Wale, says he has been in touch with A-list celebrities such as Meek Mill, Nicki Minaj, Vybz Kartel and Cardi B in recent times.

According to him, he has already cemented his name in Ghana’s music space, hence the need to focus more on international collaborations with these major pop stars.

He made this assertion in an interview on Hitz FM’s Yaad Settingz show last weekend while talking about his forthcoming album and stars he might feature both home and abroad.

MORE:

• A rare photo of ex-President Kufuor, wife pops up

• Sista Afia and Efia Odo clash over Abeiku Santana

• Kennedy Agyapong’s message to Medikal [Watch]

There is an adage that goes like ‘dance a yard’ before ‘you dance abroad’. That’s what I go by so I wanted my community to love me and feel me for my career and talent.

And I think this is the best time for me to go out there because I’m talking to a whole lot of celebrities out there; talk about Meek Mill, Nicki Minaj, Vybz, Cardi B, and other people… I have people I am linking to get me those steps and its basically one of those things.

It’s going to be an international album. In Ghana I will feature a couple, surprise acts that people might not think I will feature them, he noted.

The young talented singer has collaborated with a lot of top international artistes and is about to add Nicki Minaj to his ever growing list.

He made the announcement on his Twitter page to whet the ‘appetite’ of his fans who are anxious to listen to their champion bless the microphone.

MORE

• How an internet meme ruined a photo model’s career and private…

• Castro to be declared legally dead next year

The collaboration, he hinted, gives production credit to Nigerian guru, Speroach Beat who is behind most of his hit songs.

It is unclear when the song will be released, but the album is set to air by July.

The situation began after Meek liked a photo that made reference to Minaj’s husband Kenneth Petty.

The Grammy-nominated songstress, 37, posted a shot of the rapper staring at a cellphone, writing, ‘Trigger fingers turn to #TwitterFingers bad built face ass obsessed with the Queen.

The Queens, New York native then said that Mill, 32, was preoccupied with her life, and that his actions were humiliating his girlfriend, fashion designer Milan Harris.

‘N**** been tweeting bout my man for a year now,’ Minaj said. ‘Talking bout he went to my page to see him but he was blocked. My n****, move on. I know ya b**** embarrassed.’

She made reference to an incident in which Meek ‘s****ed’ himself in a West Hollywood store when he was ‘pressed’ by Petty, according to The Daily Beast.

MORE STORIES:

• Women are for the kitchen, bedroom – Bulldog

• Wendy Shay reacts to death prophesy by prophet

• US rapper Lil Wayne reveals he’s 53% Nigerian [Video]

Things only escalated from there, as Meek referred to Minaj’s brother Jelani Maraj, who in New York on Monday was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison in connection with his 2017 conviction for sexually assaulting an 11-year-old girl in 2015.

You sad you willing to crash your man because you losing now and everybody in the industry know you a bad person!’ Meek said. ‘You been knew your brother was raping that little girl that’s why I got away from you!’

Minaj launched her own salvo back at Meek, claiming he was physically abusive with her and other women in the past: ‘You beat your own sister and taped it. Spit on her & taped it. Kicked me in front your mother and sent her to the hospital.’

She implied that Meek was feeling bold amid his friendship with Drake, adding, ‘S***ing drake dick made u feel tough again. Move on.’

Minaj then criticized Meek for mentioning the issue involving her brother, saying, ‘Imagine talking about an alleged rape of a child to hurt someone who wasn’t involved just so ppl can dislike me.’

he continued: ‘You can never stand on your own. You won’t tell ppl the mother is on tape asking me for $20 million to make the charge go away tho. U was around. U know. See u soon.’

Meek denied Minaj’s claims of physical abuse, telling his 9.1 million followers that he’s looking to avoid talking about Minaj in the near future.

‘For clarification I don’t hit women and I won’t let my interviews be filled with question about her or any situation to do with her when I come out to do press for my new album!’ he wrote. ‘No devils tricks.’

Amid the conflict, Meek announced he and Harris are going to have a child, but quickly took down the tweet.

‘My girl is with me pregnant watching me tweet about my ex is very clownish,’ he said. ‘Ima exit.’

Harris in December revealed she’s pregnant, showing off her baby bump in an Instagram clip.

Meek then tweeted for the last time to climax, ‘meanwhile Jeff Bezos & running up billions by the minute while us ni**as just gone wild beefing all day lol… I see Sh*t different now and i don’t really got the time no more.’

Judge Robert McDonald sentenced Jelani Maraj in a New York court Monday, several months after the verdict been reached.

Maraj was found guilty of predatory sexual assault against a child and endangering the welfare of a child in a trial that lasted less than 3 weeks.

MORE STORIES:

• How Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Beckham reacted to Kobe Bryant’s death

• Shatta Wale releases song after demise of Kobe Bryant, daughter [Listen]

At the time of the verdict, the Nassau County D.A. told us, “We hope that today’s verdict will help the family in the healing process.”

Back in 2017, Nicki visited her brother while he was locked up. We were told she only went to support her mother.

TMZ broke the story that Nicki never testified during the trial – despite claims made by her brother’s defense team that she would.

The social media photo sharing site recently revealed plans to hide how many people have liked a post for everyone but the owner of it.

Users will no longer be able to see how many people have liked a photo, unless they are the ones posting it – so essentially no-one will be able to brag about how many likes they’re getting.

Many have applauded the decision as one to help people combat the pressures of social media and being ‘successful’ online. Yet Nicki, 36, has said she will refuse to use Instagram if this function is removed because she doesn’t think it makes the app any ‘better’.

SEE THIS: American rap artiste Kodak Black jailed for firearms violation

The Superbass singer, who currently has 107 million followers on Instagram, tweeted: “I’m not posting on IG after this week cuz they removing the likes. Hmmmm what should I get into now? ‘Think of all the time I’ll have with my new life.

“They took away your engagements in the first place by disrupting the algorithm. Then they boost it to show you how much better this new iPhone is.

“I mean how much better this new IG feature is. – lemme guess, u don’t believe your iPhone messes up when the new iPhone comes out…”

Nicki isn’t the only celeb weighing in on the discussion.

Kim Kardashian West said she was pleased to see creators of the app discussing plans to remove likes, but pointed out that it could have a negative impact on celebrities and influencers, who often earn a bulk of their money from the amount of followers and interaction they have on a post.

ALSO SEE: Efya reveals bravest thing she’s ever done in life

“It is tricky,” the reality star said. “I think about when I raise my kids: Screen time, phone time, what to post, what not to post. As far as mental health, it’s something that, you know – I think taking the ‘likes’ away and taking that aspect away from it would be really beneficial for people.

“And I know that the Instagram team has been having lots of inner conversations with a bunch of people to get everyone’s take on that and is taking it really seriously.

“And that makes me happy.” Adam Mosseri, Instagram Chief Executive Officer, announced plans to test the new feature last week, when he said he wanted to ‘depressurise’ the site for young people.

And, the “Megatron” rapper wants everyone to know that she didn’t pay for it. 

“Everybody said that you secured the bag, you married a multi-millionaire and you secured the bag,” said Minaj, who was dressed up as Tiffany Valentine from “The Bride of Chucky.” The rapper stayed in character, mimicking Jennifer Tilly’s distinctive voice.

READ ALSO: Photos: Sarkodie named ambassador for Year of Return

Petty, who matched his wife’s fly as serial killing doll Chucky, responded: “You know I just cut somebody’s (expletive) finger off for that ring,” as Minaj flashed her huge rock. 

“You mean, I didn’t buy this ring?” she asked. Petty replied, “No, you didn’t buy that ring!”

ALSO READ: Trump reacts to Kanye West’s ‘Jesus is King’ album

Her hard-to-miss ring is from New-York based jeweler Rafaello & Company.

“Congrats to the King and Queen, We wish you both lots of love and happiness together,” the company wrote. “Thank you for trusting us with designing and making these very special pieces for you both. @nickiminaj.”

Here’s a closer look:

READ ALSO: Shatta Wale breaks silence on why he didn’t attend Sarkodie’s ‘This Is Tema’ concert

Minaj, 36, announced her marriage to Petty, 41, on Instagram last week following nearly a year of dating. She shared her marital bliss with a video of matching “Mr. and Mrs.” mugs and coordinated “Bride” and “Groom” baseball caps. 

 “10•21•19,” the rapper captioned the footage, appearing to reference the lovebirds’ wedding date.

Source: usatoday.com

Wizkid has managed to gain acceptance in the far shores of the US ever since his ‘One Dance’ collaboration with Drake.
His popularity among international fans has almost become seamless and he has his refined musical style to thank for that.
He is now in the hierarchy of African stars who have broken off the status of being continental celebrities to gaining recognition on a world stage.

The recent release of his new work “Sounds from the Other Side” which had inputs from the likes of Drake, Chris Brown and Trey Songz has certainly helped cement his rapid rise to fame.
All the tracks on the project are clear justification of why the singer is highly regarded internationally.
There is really nothing much for him to prove.

The story of an ‘Ojuelegba’ songster who is now shocking the world with his unique talent is just enough statement.