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Liverpool vs Arsenal: Early Premier League Showdown
Anfield, Liverpool This weekend, football fans are in for a treat as Liverpool host Arsenal in one of the most anticipated Premier League fixtures of the season. Both clubs have started with two wins from two, maintaining perfect records and demonstrating their intent to compete for the title in 2025.
Liverpool have been impressive in attack, with Mo Salah and Darwin Núñez leading the offensive charge. However, recent performances have revealed defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in transition, which could be a concern against a lethal Arsenal attack. Manager Jürgen Klopp will need to tighten the backline and rely on tactical discipline to keep Arsenal at bay.
Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, remain one of the tightest defensive sides in the league while also showcasing a dynamic attack led by Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. Their ability to exploit defensive gaps and control possession makes them a formidable opponent at Anfield.
The Liverpool vs Arsenal 2025 clash is expected to be fast-paced and tactical, with both managers known for innovative strategies. Set pieces, pressing, and midfield battles could decide the outcome, making every goal, pass, and interception critical.
Fans can anticipate a match that is not only about points but also about momentum in the early Premier League title race. With both teams unbeaten, this fixture could set the tone for the rest of the season, providing drama, excitement, and top-quality football.
Don’t miss this high-stakes encounter, which promises to be a clash of Premier League heavyweights. Stay tuned for live updates, match previews, and expert analysis. (premierleague.com)
Tacha Rebuilds Career After BBNaija Disqualification
Lagos, Nigeria Reality star and entrepreneur Natacha “Tacha” Akide revealed that following her controversial disqualification from Big Brother Naija, several celebrities distanced themselves, implying her career was over. (guardian.ng)
However, Tacha refused to let this setback define her. She shifted focus to online sales and content creation, using her entrepreneurial skills to rebuild her personal brand. Her resilience and creativity allowed her to regain prominence in the entertainment and social media space.
Reflecting on her BBNaija experience, Tacha said she has no regrets, emphasizing the lessons she learned from the journey:
“There’s always a lesson to be learnt.”
Her story has inspired many aspiring influencers and entrepreneurs, showing that setbacks can be transformed into opportunities for growth and success.
Shettima Remains Tinubu’s Loyal Pillar
Abuja, Nigeria In a recent statement, APC national vice chairman (North East), Dr. Umar Duhu, described Vice President Kashim Shettima as a “pillar of strength, loyalty, and unity” within the Tinubu administration, crediting him with delivering strategic insight, diplomatic finesse, and administrative discipline during complex reform efforts. Leadership News
Duhu emphasized that Shettima has gone beyond ceremonial duties to play a substantial role in guiding national economic reforms and fostering reconciliation across diverse regions. He referenced Section 141 of the Nigerian Constitution, noting the Vice President’s position as a vital governance partner. Leadership News
Speaking of Shettima’s unwavering support, Duhu quoted an excerpt from his inaugural address:
“My loyalty to President Tinubu is unshakeable, and I will work tirelessly to support his vision for a greater Nigeria.”
That declaration, Duhu argued, has shaped Shettima’s consistent approach to leadership. Leadership News
The Yoruba Youth Progressive Forum (YYPF) also commended Shettima for his “unalloyed loyalty”, highlighting his early endorsement of Southern leadership during the 2023 primaries and pointing to it as a unifying force in the build-up to Tinubu’s presidency. THISDAYLIVEThe Guardian Nigeria
US Judge Blocks Trump’s Rapid Deportation
Washington, D.C. On August 29, 2025, U.S. District Judge Jia Cobb blocked the Trump administration’s plan to expand rapid deportation across the country. The policy would have allowed undocumented immigrants to be deported swiftly without a court hearing, raising serious due process concerns. (cnn.com)
Judge Cobb emphasized that expedited removal must ensure all individuals have a fair chance to contest their deportation in court. She ruled that the nationwide expansion could lead to illegal deportations if protections are not followed.
The Trump administration has said it plans to appeal the ruling, arguing that fast-track deportation is essential for effective immigration enforcement. For now, the expansion of the rapid deportation program is officially halted.
This decision highlights the ongoing tension between immigration enforcement and legal protections in the United States.
Open Grazing Violence Kills 2,800 in Five Years
Nigeria Open grazing conflicts between herders and farmers have claimed over 2,800 lives in the past five years.
According to reports, between 2020 and 2024, at least 2,349 people were killed in 359 violent incidents. In just the first half of 2025, another 451 deaths were recorded, with Benue (254 deaths), Plateau (121), and Nasarawa (20) being the hardest-hit states. Other clashes also occurred in Ondo, Ebonyi, Enugu, Edo, Taraba, Delta, and Imo.
Despite 19 states, including all 17 in the South, passing anti-open grazing laws, enforcement has remained weak, allowing clashes to continue.
The crisis has also caused mass displacement. Since 2019, more than 2.2 million people have been forced from their homes in Benue, Plateau, and Nasarawa alone, worsening Nigeria’s humanitarian situation.
SPECIAL MOVIE AWARDS (SMA) TO PRESENT TROPHIES TO 2025 WINNERS IN FREETOWN CEREMONY
Freetown, Sierra Leone — The Special Movie Awards (SMA) 2025 organizing committee, in collaboration with AYV Media Empire, is proud to announce the official presentation of awards to this year’s winners, scheduled to take place on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 2:00 PM. The ceremony will be held at the AYV Headquarters, Wesley Street, Tower Hill, Freetown, Sierra Leone.
This formal gathering will bring together celebrated filmmakers, actors, producers, and key stakeholders in the African film industry to personally receive their accolades. The Special Movie Awards recognize excellence in film and celebrate the powerful stories shaping the African narrative.
Honorees and Winning Productions:
|
S/N |
PRODUCTION COMPANY |
MOVIE TITLE |
COUNTRY |
CATEGORIES |
|
1. |
Basic Movies Production / Dora’s Picture |
Myth of the Gods
|
Best Costumier |
Abass Kabia
|
|
2. |
Basic Movies Production / Dora’s Picture |
Myth of the Gods
|
Best Visual Effects |
Alie B. Sesay (Basic) |
|
3. |
Basic Movies Production / Dora’s Picture |
Myth of the Gods
|
Best Indigenous Film |
Augusta Dora Tucker |
|
4. |
African Homes Entertainment
|
Never Enough |
Best Regional Film
|
Emmanuel V Moriba |
|
5. |
African Homes Entertainment
|
Never Enough |
Best Supporting Male Actor |
CHRIS COOKSON (FYNFACE)
|
|
6. |
Sammico Planet Movies |
Insurmountable |
Best Director |
General Bah
|
|
7. |
Sammico Planet Movies |
Insurmountable |
Best Editor |
General Bah
|
|
8. |
Sammico Planet Movies |
Insurmountable |
Best Feature Film
|
General Bah |
|
9. |
Sammico Planet Movies |
Insurmountable |
Best Leading Male Actor |
Marklaw Penant Bangura |
|
10. |
Sammico Planet Movies |
Insurmountable |
Best Leading Female Actor |
Isata Faith Bangura
|
|
11. |
Sammico Planet Movies |
Insurmountable |
Best Supporting Female Actor |
Gladys Conteh
|
Other Awards:
SMA – Best Diaspora Actor- Sydney Franky Boyle Feury
This presentation ceremony will serve not only as a moment of recognition but also as a spotlight on Sierra Leone’s immense contribution to African cinema.
The public, members of the media, and industry stakeholders are invited to attend and show support for the country’s vibrant film community.
For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
Email: info@afrinitypro.com
Website: www.afrinitypro.com
Contact: +2347064547500
SMA 2025: Full List of Winners and Honorees Announced
The Special Movie Awards (SMA) 2025 took place with great excitement, honoring remarkable talent and contributions in African cinema. This year’s event celebrated not only outstanding film projects but also individual excellence across acting, directing, and behind-the-scenes artistry.
The biggest winner of the night was Insurmountable, which took home:
Best Director – General Bah
Best Feature Film
Best Leading Male Actor – Marklaw Penant Bangura
Best Leading Female Actor – Isata Faith Bangura
Best Editor – General Bah
Best Supporting Female Actor – Gladys Conteh
Coup the Grace won Best Picture and Best Short Film, while Myth of the Gods earned recognition for Best Costumier, Best Indigenous Film, and Best Visual Effects.
Other winners included:
1.Best Documentary – Treasure Woman
2.Best Hair/Makeup Artist – Seven Virgins
3.Best Regional Film – Never Enough
4.Best Supporting Male Actor – Fynface (Never Enough)
5.Best Sound – Heritage (The Ebrimas)
In addition to the competitive awards, SMA 2025 also honored several industry veterans, filmmakers, and institutions for their exceptional contributions:
SMA Veteran Filmmakers Awards 2025
1.Kensteve Anuka
2.Franklin Chika Adim
3.Sheikh Tijan Sonko
4.Akenaton Topper Loborde
5.Abdoulie Samba
6. Saul Jagne
7.Bittaye Mbye
8. Alioune Seck
9.Cornelius Gomez
10.Haddy Nyang
11.Muhammed Nyang
12.Fatima Susan Joh
12.Mansata Marena
SMA Filmmakers & Actors Awards 2025
1.Mariama Colley
2.Charmaine Bangura Jawara
3.Bubacarr Aminata Sankanu
4.Bubacarr Zaidi Jallow
5.Omar Leigh
6.Pa Abdou Waggeh
7.Mariama Jammeh
8.Chris Stephens
9.Kehinde Omotowa
10.Bankole Browne
11.Alex Manneh
12.Hassan Conteh
13.Abdul Karim Kekura
14.Linda I. Odogwu
15.Sandra Luseni-Palmer
16.Kayode John Adeleke
17.Mbye Bittaye
18.Roland Senghore
19.Alhagie Manka
20.Baboucarr Manka
21.Monica Davies
22.Bintou S. Jammeh
23.Abdoulie Khan
24.Mam Demba Ceesay
25.Anna Marie Jabang
26.Chuku ND
SMA – Best Diaspora Actor
1. Sydney Franky Boyle Feury
Postmortem Awards
1.Orukpe Chris Adams (Chrisblacknation)
2.Ebou Waggeh
Special Awards
1.H.E. President Adama Barrow – President of the Republic of The Gambia
2.Africell GSM Company
3.West African Insurance Institute (WAII)
4.Discount Centre Fajara
Other Recognitions
1.WAX Media
2.Nigerians in the Diaspora
3.Glamour Ladys
4.Sierra Leone Nationals Union (SLeNU)
5.State of Mic
The SMA 2025 was a true celebration of culture, creativity, and the continued rise of African storytelling through film.
18 Days to Go! 🎉
The countdown is officially on for SMA 5.0 – Special Movie Awards 2025!
Get ready for a night of glamour, excellence, and unforgettable cinema moments as we celebrate Africa’s brightest talents in the film industry.
📍 Venue: West Africa Insurance Institute, Kotu South, The Gambia
📅 Date: Saturday, 28th June 2025
🕕 Red Carpet: 6:00PM sharp!
🌟 It’s more than an award show—it’s a cultural celebration!
Join the stars, the fans, and the storytellers shaping African cinema.
SMA BREAKING NEWS
SMA BREAKING NEWS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 09/06/2025
PRESS RELEASE: Rescheduling of SMA 2025 to 28th June 2025 Due to Venue Booking Adjustment
Afrinity Productions hereby communicates to the public, nominees, partners, and invited guests that the Special Movie Awards (SMA) 2025 has been rescheduled. The event will now take place on Saturday, 28th June 2025, instead of the previously announced date of Saturday, 21st June 2025.
This adjustment has become necessary due to a modification in the venue booking at the West Africa Insurance Institute, Kotu South, The Gambia, which is beyond our control. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and continued support.
The revised event details are as follows:
🗓 New Date: Saturday, 28th June 2025
🕕 Red Carpet: 6:00 PM Prompt
📍 Venue: West Africa Insurance Institute, Kotu South, The Gambia
We remain dedicated to delivering a world-class celebration of African cinematic excellence and look forward to hosting you at SMA 5.0, now allowing even more time for thorough preparation for an unforgettable evening.
We thank you for your patience and cooperation. Further updates will be provided through our official communication channels.
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:
📧 info@afrinitypro.com | 🌐 www.afrinitypro.com
🎬 Film Spotlight – SMA 2025
Title: GET INVOLVED – The Documentary
Country: The Gambia
Production Company: Ousman-Koro-Ceesay Foundation
How far can compassion go?
GET INVOLVED is a powerful social documentary spotlighting community efforts and child advocacy in The Gambia. A wake-up call for action and care.
📍 A feature at SMA 2025 – Postponed. New date to be shared soon.
D5 Creation