Tag Archives: Dublin

AMA, Business

Two AFG Aviation Professionals Set New Aviation Industry Horizons Across the African Continent

MaraviPost

DUBLIN, Ireland, 25 February 2026- /African Media Agency (AMA)/- AFG Aviation Ireland Limited (AFG) is significantly deepening its commitment to the African aviation sector through a bold, continent-wide expansion initiative reflecting both its long-term confidence in the region and the accelerating demand for tailored aviation finance and asset solutions across Africa.

Following a series of successful transactions, among them the placement of two CRJ1000 regional aircraft with Cally Air in Cross River State, Nigeria, AFG has witnessed a surge of interest from airlines, operators, government stakeholders, and aviation authorities spanning the continent. The scale and pace of interest have reaffirmed Africa’s position as one of the most dynamic aviation growth sectors globally, prompting AFG to mobilize senior leadership to meet partners in person across key markets.

This momentum has catalyzed the next phase of AFG’s Africa strategy. Spearheading the firm’s continental goals are Christian Hatje, Managing Director Business Aviation and Acting Senior Vice President Commercial at AFG, and Shiekuma Gemade, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

Mr. Christian Hatje, SVP Commercial and Managing Director of AFG Aviation Ireland Limited, with Prince Otu, Governor of Cross River State, Nigeria

Together, Hatje and Gemade bring decades of combined experience in aircraft trading, leasing, structured finance, airline commercial strategy, and fleet development. Their mandate extends beyond transactions, focusing on partnerships and solutions aligned with each market’s operational realities.

In response to growing market outreach, Hatje and Gemade will undertake an extensive multi-country journey across Africa in the coming months. Reflecting AFG’s relationship-first philosophy, the team intends to meet directly with partners who have engaged the firm, ensuring each discussion benefits from on-the-ground insight and senior-level attention.

AFG’s approach is distinguished by what leadership describes as its institutional ethos: a holistic aviation platform powered by multidisciplinary expertise. The firm brings together specialists with decades of airline operator and OEM experience, ensuring every discussion commercial, financial, or technical, is grounded in real-world operational insight.

This integrated model enables AFG to support partners across the aviation value chain, including:

  • Commercial aircraft acquisitions and placements
  • Private jet transactions and structuring
  • Operating and finance leasing solutions
  • Fleet modernization strategy
  • Consulting and advisory services

“Africa represents one of global aviation’s most compelling growth frontiers,” said Christian Hatje, leading AFG’s Africa expansion. “The scale of engagement we’re seeing reinforces the importance of being physically present, listening, structuring thoughtfully, and building partnerships that endure.”

“The level of engagement we’re seeing is extraordinary. Being present on the ground allows us to structure solutions that reflect each partner’s operational and financial realities. We are bringing the full strength of AFG’s expertise across leasing, advisory, private aviation, and commercial platforms to support sustainable aviation development across the continent,” said Shiekuma Gemade.

With its Africa initiative now fully mobilized, AFG is positioning itself as a long-term strategic partner invested in the continent’s aviation future.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of AFG Aviation Ireland Limited.

About AFG Aviation Ireland Limited
AFG Aviation Ireland Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Aircraft Finance Germany (AFG), a leading global aircraft trading and asset management company. Specializing in innovative, tailored solutions for commercial and business aviation, AFG offers expertise in aircraft acquisition and sales, leasing, financing, ownership and asset management, passenger-to-freighter conversion, and strategic advisory services. Leveraging an extensive international network and a commitment to operational excellence, AFG delivers exceptional value to clients worldwide, making it a preferred partner for airlines and investors seeking growth in both mature and emerging markets.

The post Two AFG Aviation Professionals Set New Aviation Industry Horizons Across the African Continent appeared first on African Media Agency.

Entertainment

Who Is Dee Devlin? All About Conor McGregor’s Wife After Wedding

Maravi Post Reporter

 Conor McGregor tied the knot with his longtime partner, Dee Devlin, in December 2025.

The UFC star previously addressed his personal evolution and relationship, describing Devlin as his “wife-to-be” during a speaking engagement in Rome on October 23, 2025, ahead of a Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship event.

“I am not here just by chance. There is a higher power, God, that dictates my journey and all of our journeys,” he said. “I live my life by God’s word, since around the last time you mentioned at the last event, I have engaged on a spiritual journey. I am saved. I am healed.”

“On the back of that, the world is in for a treat,” the Irish mixed martial artist announced. “My competitive spark that was once in my heart is now a roaring blaze. I’m eager.”

UFC Star Conor McGregor’s Family Guide: Meet His Wife and Their 4 Kids

“Right now I have to dial myself in and go inward, and that I’ve done, and now I’m in a stage where I come back and show what I’m about,” McGregor continued. “Now I’m here with my own family, my beautiful children, my fiancée, wife-to-be soon.”

The couple said “I do” in December 2025, surrounded by their four children, at the Vatican in Italy.

“Today is an incredibly special day and a beautiful continuation of our life together,” Devlin exclusively told Us Weekly of her wedding day.

Us breaks down five things to know about McGregor’s wife:

Dee Devlin Is a Crucial Part of Conor McGregor’s Business Empire

Devlin worked as a waitress and model prior to becoming a member of McGregor’s team, assisting those in management and securing promotional events as well as her fiancé before he enters the octagon.

Who Is Dee Devlin 5 Things to Know About Conor McGregor s Fiancee After UFC Star Was Spotted With New Ring inline
Conor McGregor in Rome on October 23, 2025. TheMacLife/YouTube

“I definitely try to help him out all the time, even without realizing it. Especially around a fight because it’s such a tough time with his weight,” she shared in a 2015 profile with ESPN. “I cook, clean, pack his gym bag, all that kind of stuff.”

She also assists with his whiskey brand, Proper No. Twelve.

Dee Devlin and Conor McGregor Have Been Together for Nearly 2 Decades

The duo met in 2008, crossing paths at a nightclub in Dublin, where she was employed at the time.

“I knew her a bit beforehand, but I think the first time I spoke to her properly was when I saw her in a nightclub,” McGregor told VIP Magazine in July 2015. “I asked her to come over and we just started chatting. She seemed like a nice girl, and I like good girls.”

McGregor popped the question to Devlin on August 9, 2020, which marked her 33rd birthday.

“What a birthday, my future wife,” the former UFC Featherweight captioned his announcement via Instagram.

The Couple Share 4 Children Together

Devlin and McGregor have welcomed four children together over the years.

They first expanded their family with the birth of son Conor Jr., born in May 2017; then daughter Croía, born in January 2019; followed by son Rian, who arrived in May 2021; and son Mack, born in November 2023.

Dee Devlin and Conor McGregor Have Weathered Controversy

The MMA fighter was spotted kissing a mystery woman in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in July 2025, as seen in photos obtained by The Sun.

Devlin shared a post from a fan account to her own Instagram Story soon after, which read: “Happy Birthday to the person who always keeps Dee entertained and makes her smile.”

MMA Fighter Conor McGregor’s Ups and Downs Over the Years

McGregor has yet to speak publicly about the pictures.

She Remained by His Side After His Legal Battle

In November 2024, McGregor was found liable for the sexual assault of a woman stemming from an incident that took place in a Dublin hotel room in 2018.

He was ordered to pay the woman roughly $257,000 after denying the accusations, claiming to only have had consensual sex with her.

“People want to hear from me, I needed time,” McGregor wrote via X in a now-deleted tweet. “I know I made mistakes. Six years ago, I should have never responded to her outreaches. I should have shut the party down. I should never have stepped out on the woman I love the most in the world. That’s all on me.”

He continued, “As much as I regret it, everything that happened that night was consensual and all the witnesses present swore to that under oath. I have instructed my legal team to appeal the decision,” he said. “I can’t go back and I will move forward. I am beyond grateful to my family, friends and supporters all over the world who have stayed by my side. That’s it. No more. Getting back to the gym — the fight game awaits!”

McGregor lost his appeal against the verdict in July 2025.

Entertainment

Influencer Niamh Cullen and Late Husband Jamie Gill’s Relationship Timeline

Maravi Post Reporter

Irish influencer Niamh Cullen’s husband, Jamie Gill, died weeks after their first wedding anniversary.

“The unimaginable has happened. Our worst nightmare. My beautiful husband has been taken from us,” Cullen wrote via Instagram in November 2025, announcing Gill’s death at age 33. “[He was] the light of my life. I was the luckiest to be loved and adored by you Jamie. I love you endlessly, not just now, but eternally.”

Cullen married Gill, who maintained a relatively private profile, exactly one year earlier.

“6 months married (last week) we only realized today,” Cullen captioned a set of Instagram selfies in May 2025. “In sickness and in health JJ, I love you forever. You’re my inspiration everyday.”

Influencer Deaths of 2025: Stefanie Pieper and More Stars We’ve Lost

Keep scrolling for Cullen and Gill’s complete relationship timeline:

2017

The social media star revealed via Instagram that they met at Bingo Loco, a local bingo hall.

“8 years ago today. I’m so happy you picked up my card at Bingo Loco and changed your plans to come with us to Metropolis Festival,” Cullen wrote via Instagram in October 2025, celebrating their dating anniversary. “I still remember that warm, fuzzy, excited feeling like it was yesterday ✨. So grateful for everything that’s followed since, hopeful for better days and more memories to be made.”

At the time, Cullen was still living with her ex-boyfriend and asked to remain friends with Gill. Their bond turned romantic the next year.

July 2021

During an appearance on the “Good Glow” podcast, Cullen revealed that she and Gill had recently moved in together.

“I’m feeling super good. I’m in a really good place, [and] I’m living with my boyfriend, Jamie,” she said. “We’re excited.”

The “Unveiled” podcaster further gushed that Gill was a complete “gentleman” when they met.

December 2022

Niamh-Cullen-and-Jamie-Gill-Engaged-318924260_672081034579622_2957369302848685291_n
Courtesy of Niamh Cullen/ Instagram

Gill popped the question after several years of dating.

“And it went a little like this,” Cullen wrote via Instagram, sharing a snap of her diamond engagement ring.

November 2024

“I simply have no words,” she wrote via Instagram, sharing pics from their destination wedding. “Our wedding day 🕊️. Just the beginning of the [photo] spam.”

When Cullen and Gill embarked on their honeymoon to Italy, he subsequently got sick and was hospitalized for 10 days.

“Just two weeks before Christmas, Jamie underwent major surgery, where doctors discovered a cancerous tumor,” Cullen wrote via Instagram the next year. “Our world shattered in an instant, but we stayed strong. Jamie bravely faced 10 rounds of chemotherapy. There were ups and downs along the way, but nothing could have prepared us for what followed after his 10th session.”

The couple got legally married in Dublin in December.

August 2025

instagram_niamhcullenx_1
Courtesy of Niamh Cullen/ Instagram

Cullen took a social media hiatus amid Gill’s health struggles.

“Life has been interesting enough. We’ve had some stuff going on at home. I know we will share in time, but at the moment, it’s not my story alone to share,” she told VIP Magazine. “My husband has just been having some struggles with his health. We’re just taking it day by day. I’m trying to be busy but also spend time at home with Jamie.”

Later that month, Cullen shared throwback pictures of the couple from a Kylie Minogue concert the year before.

“This time last year [we were] going to see Kylie, Jamie still talks about it. After that, celebrating our first night in the house, we didn’t have a clue what was ahead,” Cullen wrote via Instagram. “But this makes me excited and hopeful that better days are coming. Life is short. Always make sure you are having a big ball. It’s something we always did together and will continue to do it soon.”

Fall 2025

Gill was hospitalized with pneumonia and sepsis, leading doctors to confirm that his cancer had returned.

“My blood still runs cold, but I know this: My husband is a fighter,” Cullen wrote via Instagram on November 14. “We will not give up.”

November 2025

Cullen marked her first wedding anniversary via Instagram amid Gill’s cancer recurrence.

“I can’t believe it’s already our one year wedding anniversary. I was too emotional over the weekend to even look through our photos or think about posting,” she wrote via Instagram on November 10. “Happy anniversary to my amazing, brave, and resilient husband ❤️‍🩹 You make my world a better place.”

Nineteen days later, Cullen confirmed that Gill died at age 33.

Entertainment

’90 Day Fiance’ Star Andrei Shares Tribute to Elizabeth’s Dad After Death

Maravi Post Reporter

90 Day Fiancé star Andrei Castravet shared an emotional tribute to wife Elizabeth Castravet’s father following his death.

Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, November 25, to honor his father-in-law, Andrei, 39, described the video as a “tough one to make” before calling Chuck Potthast “a man who meant a lot” to the couple’s family.

“It’s been incredibly, incredibly tough for us,” Andrei told fans in the clip, which was filmed inside his car. “I know there’s been drama, tensions and story lines over the years but what people saw on TV is just a tiny portion of our real relationship. What I can say is Chuck genuinely loved filming. He loved the energy, he loved the excitement, he really did. The connection of all of us … he loved people in general.”

Chuck’s death was revealed by Elizabeth and Andrei in a joint Instagram post shared on Sunday, November 23. The post stated that Chuck, who appeared on the TLC reality series since the family’s debut in season 5, died “two weeks ago.”

90 Day Fiance’s Andrei Castravet Jokes Wife Elizabeth’s Family Is ‘A Cult’

Throughout the family’s portrayal on the show, Andrei was often seen to be at odds with Chuck. Andrei said during his tribute that despite the pair’s televised differences, they shared a close bond.

“Some of my best memories are just off-camera when we’re laughing and talking and joking about how we’re fighting on TV, while we’re, in real life, getting along … just like best pals,” he told fans. “That’s how I’m going to remember him.”

On the show, Andrei was criticized by Chuck at one stage for being unemployed in addition to failing to look after his and Elizabeth’s home, among other accusations. Despite Andrei joining Chuck’s property management business, tensions between Andrei and Chuck’s family simmered for years and in 2021, Andrei was involved in a physical altercation with his brother-in-law Charlie which aired on the show.

Andrei hinted towards trouble in his relationship with Chuck within his tribute, but said he was not ready to reveal any intricacies.

’90 Day Fiance’ Tragedies: The Saddest and Most Shocking Deaths

“I want to make this clear that all the rumors and the click bait going around right now are just lies. When it comes to what actually happened, I’ll speak about it later in a respectful way. For now, I just want to honor him,” he told fans. “There’s a lot more to say to this … about our real connection and the truth behind everything. Rest in peace, Chuck.”

Elizabeth and Andrei’s joint announcement regarding Chuck’s death came as a shock to fans of the series. “Tragedy struck our family and it has left us completely shattered. My sweet, loving, and caring dad went to heaven. We’re trying to figure out how to navigate our lives and move forward without him,” Elizabeth wrote at the time. “Please respect our privacy during this extremely difficult time.”

The couple initially met on a dating app before meeting face-to-face in Dublin and marrying in 2017. They have since welcomed daughter Eleanor and son Winston in 2019 and 2022, respectively.

AMA

AFG Aviation Ireland Limited Expands African Footprint with CRJ1000 Finance Lease to Nigeria’s Cally Air

MaraviPost
Mr. Christian Hatje, SVP Commercial and Managing Director of AFG Aviation Ireland Limited, with Prince Otu, Governor of Cross River State, Nigeria, overseeing the landmark deal

DUBLIN, Ireland, 19 August 2025-/African Media Agency (AMA)/- AFG Aviation Ireland Limited (“AFG”), a global leader in commercial aircraft, is pleased to announce the successful acquisition of two Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft (MSN 19004 and MSN 19009) from Regional One, and the respective placement of both aircraft with Cally Air. The airline is the state-backed carrier of Cross River State, Nigeria, and will operate the aircraft under a finance lease agreement with AFG.

The addition of these modern, fuel-efficient regional jets will serve as a cornerstone for Cally Air’s fleet development, providing the operational foundation needed to expand connectivity within Nigeria and open new routes across West Africa. This strategic boost will help accelerate the airline’s growth trajectory, thereby supporting regional trade, tourism, and sustainable economic development.

“This agreement is a testament to AFG’s ability to connect global capital with local ambition,” said Christian Nuehlen, Founder and CEO of AFG. “Africa’s aviation sector is poised for exceptional growth, and we are committed to delivering the aircraft, financing structures, and expertise that enable our partners to realize their full potential. 

AFG’ Senior VP Commercial Christian Hatje adds: “Our collaboration with Cally Air reflects our long-standing belief in the opportunities this dynamic continent has to offers.”

With a proven track record in structuring complex transactions and delivering aircraft on time and within budget, AFG remains a trusted partner for airlines, lessors, and aviation stakeholders seeking to grow across the continent of Africa and other high-potential markets.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of AFG Aviation Ireland Limited.

About AFG Aviation Ireland Limited

AFG Aviation Ireland Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Aircraft Finance Germany (AFG), a leading global aircraft trading and asset management company. Specializing in innovative, tailored solutions for commercial and business aviation, AFG offers expertise in aircraft acquisition and sales, leasing, financing, ownership and asset management, passenger-to-freighter conversion, and strategic advisory services. Leveraging an extensive international network and a commitment to operational excellence, AFG delivers exceptional value to clients worldwide, making it a preferred partner for airlines and investors seeking growth in both mature and emerging markets.

Press Contact

For media and business enquiries, please contact: mk@afg.aero

The post AFG Aviation Ireland Limited Expands African Footprint with CRJ1000 Finance Lease to Nigeria’s Cally Air appeared first on African Media Agency.

Lifestyle

Film version of U2 frontman’s memoir to premiere at Cannes Film Festival

Maravi Post Reporter

The film version of U2 frontman Bono’s memoir premieres at the Cannes Film Festival currently underway in the southern French city.

It tells the story of his journey from Dublin schoolboy to global rock star, driven by his difficult relationship with his father.

“He’s on my mind because, well, he’s the reason I sing and so it’s just a, it’s a wound that will never close,”  he said.

After his mother died when he was 14, his grieving father withdrew, and Bono’s attempt to be seen and heard by him ultimately led to the formation of the band.

Shortly after her death, and in the same week, Bono met his future U2 bandmates –  Adam Clayton, Dave Evans (The Edge) and Larry Mullen Jr.

Bono, whose real name is Paul Hewson, also started dating Ali, who he has been married to since 1982.

“The real star of this movie is my da. I sort of like him better than I like myself because humour has become so important to me,” said Bono.

The film, “Bono: Stories of Surrender”, is based on the singer’s 2023 one-man stage show, which in turn was taken from his celebrated memoir, “Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story”.

The show at the Beacon Theatre in New York featured hit songs interwoven with tales from the book about his upbringing.

Bono said he learned valuable lessons about film-making from director, Andrew Dominik, and his daughter, Eve Hewson, who is an actor.

He said they explained that the camera knows when you are lying.

“So if you want to tell this story, you’d better get ready to take your armour off, take your sword, put it in the ground, take down your shield,” he said.

“You’re going to feel like being naked in front of the whole school, but that’s what it takes.”

The film streams on Apple TV+ from 30 May.

Source: Africanews

https://video.euronews.com/mp4/ED/15/03/05/06/ED_PYR_1503056_20250515174553.mp4
Lifestyle

Rugby: Maro Itoje is first Englishman to captain Lions since 2001

Maravi Post Reporter

Maro Itoje will captain the British and Irish Lions squad for the upcoming rugby tour of Australia. The 30-year-old lock is the first Englishman to captain the Lions since Martin Johnson in 2001 and will be heading on his third tour, after 2017 and 2021. Itoje is England captain but only since January.

He has just led his country to a second-place finish in the Six Nations and has made 93 caps for England across nine years. Itoje was present at the announcement of the Lions squad on Thursday in front of an audience of more than 2,000 rugby fans at The O2 arena in London.

When he was named as captain by Lions coach Andy Farrell, Itoje walked out in full Lions uniform — holding the lion mascot, Bill — to warm applause.

“It’s a tremendous honor and a tremendous privilege,” said Itoje, who revealed he got a phone call from Farrell on Tuesday but could barely hear him speak because it was a bad line.

After hanging up, Farrell needed to phone Itoje back to offer him the captaincy. Itoje’s path to the Lions captaincy might have been cleared by Caelan Doris, the Ireland captain, requiring a procedure on his shoulder after getting injured playing for Leinster against Northampton at the weekend.

Doris and Itoje were reportedly vying for the role of leading the Lions, one of the biggest honors in rugby.

The Lions, a team representing the best players from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, won the test series against the Wallabies the last time they toured Australia, in 2013. They have since drawn the series against New Zealand in 2017 and lost in South Africa in 2021.

For the latest tour, the Lions will play three tests against the Wallabies, along with six more games in Australia — against Western Force, Queensland Reds, NSW Waratahs, ACT Brumbies, an Invitational Australia and New Zealand XV, and a First Nations and Pasifika XV. The tour begins with a match against Argentina in Dublin on June 20 and ends with the series-closing third test on Aug. 2.

Source: Africanews

https://video.euronews.com/mp4/ED/14/37/91/08/ED_PYR_1437918_20250508143354.mp4
Regional, Travel & Tourism

RyanAir’s Afrikaans test policy for South African nationals sparks anger

Maravi Post Reporter

– –

There is public outrage after the Dublin-based carrier – RyanAir – imposed new rules on South African nationals.

The airline has said South African customers will have to take an Afrikaans test to prove their nationality before boarding flights.

The test will cover questions about who is the president of the country, what the capital city is and which side of the road do motorists drive on.

Passengers unable to complete these questions would be refused travel and issued with a refund, according to the airline which flies in Europe and North Africa.

According to a company spokesperson, the carrier said the rules were meant to deal with “high prevalence of fraudulent South African passports.”

– –

The budget airline, claimed the “simple questionnaire” was to tackle fraudulent South African passport holders. But it is facing criticism for conducting the general knowledge test in a language that is the third most used in the country.

The chief executive officer of the Afrikaans Language Board, Conrad Steenkamp, said the move as “absurd”.

He expressed regret at the decision by RyanAir to single out Afrikaans, as the country has 11 official languages.

South Africa 11 official languages include Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, Sepedi, Setswana, English, Sesotho, Xitsonga, Siswati, Tshivenda and Ndebele.

– –

The test appears to have been enforced by the airline after the South African government said there is a spate of ID fraud with criminals manufacturing and selling fake South African passports.

Jared Ruttenberg, a journalist in South Africa is quoted by the British press as saying “The British High Commissioner and even the Irish government have responded and said this is not a requirement on their behalf,” he said.

“There’s been disbelief and anger… in South Africa we have a very difficult past when it comes to languages and for many people would associate Afrikaans with the previous government [apartheid] regime.”

Ghanaian-British invents multi-language translator earbuds

Source: Africafeeds.com

Source: Africa Feeds