The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • IK Ogbonna condemns ‘politics’ in Nigerian cinema industry

    IK Ogbonna condemns ‘politics’ in Nigerian cinema industry

    Actor IK Ogbonna has spoken out against alleged unfair practices in Nigeria’s cinema industry, claiming that Ini Edo’s film, “A Very Dirty Christmas”, which he starred in, has been subjected to manipulative tactics by cinema houses.

    In an Instagram post, Ogbonna stated that showtimes have been shifted, slots replaced, and even air conditioning turned off in halls showing the film, making it challenging for producers to recover their investments.

    He condemned these actions, urging cinema houses and producers involved in these tactics to cease, warning that they are hurting the industry.

    He wrote, “Politics in Nigeria’s cinema has to stop. This message is for the cinema houses directly and also for the producers who are influencing these politics. We’ve poured our heart, soul, and countless hours into bringing ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’ to the big screen, and it’s unacceptable that we’ve encountered these manipulative tactics.

    “Showtimes have been shifted countless times, our slots replaced, and even the air conditioning turned off in halls showing our film. Celebrities doing meet-and-greets have had negative experiences. And let’s not forget the attendees behind the counter who manipulate and influence customers, steering them away from certain films. This kind of bias is unacceptable.

    “To the other producers involved in these tactics: you know yourselves. We won’t name names, but it’s time to stop. You’re part of this industry, and by playing these games, you’re hurting it. The politics is as clear as day and night. Stop now so we can have a fair and thriving cinema environment.

    “Producers invest heavily and simply want a fair chance to share their work and recover their investments. Let’s put an end to these dirty and ridiculous practices in Nigerian cinema. #FairCinema AVeryDirtyChristmas”.

    Ogbonna had also defended the creative rights of artists, arguing that external bodies should not dictate what they can or cannot do.

    He cited the existence of the Film Censors Board, which reviews and approves films before release, as an example of the existing regulatory framework.

    The actor’s comments come in the wake of threats from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) against Ini Edo over the movie title, which Ogbonna deemed unfair, particularly since the film has been performing well nationwide.

    Ogbonna questioned the timing of CAN’s reaction, stating that their silence during the film’s promotional phase was notable.

  • Nkechi Blessing to abandon film production amid financial losses

    Nkechi Blessing to abandon film production amid financial losses

    Actress Nkechi Blessing has announced her decision to take a break from film production, citing significant financial losses.

    According to her, she has spent over 80 million naira producing movies since September, without receiving any substantial returns.

    Nkechi wrote, “I no do again abeg…I have spent over 80 million naira producing movies since September and I haven’t gotten 1m back…I no do again abeg make I go back to flying round d world…As una no gree watch film if the Movie is not over hyped,I don try the ones we were there for self no even fit help…I am done abeg!”

    Her announcement has sparked a wave of support from fellow celebrities, including Tonto Dikeh and Eriata Ese, who are urging her to remain resilient in the face of adversity.

    Tonto Dikeh emphasised the importance of perseverance, “Give up? Who is permitting that sin? Not on my watch.

    “What do we do/Post? Send it to your friends. We will Share it everywhere. You are a helper and we will do the same for you effortlessly. We don’t accept defeat here. We don’t even condone it.

    “Spit it out and declare “I forgive myself for thinking less of what God can do with the work of His hands my life. We rise. We push. We win”.

    While Eriata Ese reminded Nkechi that success rarely comes easily and that consistency is key.

    “Remember that good things don’t come easy, it may look like a waste now but in time to come you will remember today and say “I thought it wouldn’t work” na who give up Fk up, consistency is key don’t forget”, she wrote.

    The actress’ struggles highlight the challenges faced by many in the Nigerian film industry, where production costs are high and returns are often uncertain.

    The industry has seen significant growth in recent years, but it remains plagued by issues such as piracy, poor distribution networks, and limited access to funding.

  • Christmas: Police foil kidnap attempt, rescue victim in Benue

    Christmas: Police foil kidnap attempt, rescue victim in Benue

    The Police Command in Benue on Christmas Day successfully foiled a kidnap attempt and rescued one Geoffrey Akume.

    The command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, made the disclosure in a statement on Thursday made available to newsmen in Makurdi.

    Edet said the incident occurred in the early hours of the day at Tiortu, along Gboko/Makurdi Road.

    The police spokesperson explained that the victim, who was on transit from Gboko to Makurdi, was accosted by armed men suspected to be kidnappers at Tiortu.

    She said they forcefully abducted the victim and were in the process of taking him deeper into a nearby thick forest.

    “Upon receipt of the distress information, operatives of the Benue State Police Command swiftly swung into action and commenced intensive patrols and a coordinated search of the area.

    “On sighting the police team and hearing the sirens, the perpetrators abandoned the victim and fled into the forest.

    “The victim who escaped from the fleeing kidnappers was successfully rescued by the police patrol team, unhurt and with no ransom paid.

    “He was subsequently taken to Abinse Police Station, where he was debriefed by the Benue State Commissioner of Police and later reunited with his family,” she said.

    Edet said the Commissioner of Police, Mr Ifeanyi Emenari, has commended the swift response, courage, and professionalism of the operatives involved in the operation.

    Emenari reassured the good people of Benue of the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property, especially during the festive season.

    He further assured residents that patrols, stop-and-search operations, and intelligence-led policing have been intensified across strategic locations in the state.

    “Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or through approved emergency channels.

    “Efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects,” she said.

    (NAN)

  • Yuletide: Ensure public safety, CAN urges govt.

    Yuletide: Ensure public safety, CAN urges govt.

    The Oyo State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged government at all levels to ensure public safety during the Yuletide.

    The state CAN Chairman, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, in commemoration of Christmas, made a remark in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Thursday.

    Ogundiya urged the government to take a multi-faceted approach to address the root causes of insecurity in the country.

    “The Yuletide season is upon us, and it’s a time for peace, love, and togetherness, but the recent surge in killings and banditry in Nigeria is a major concern,” he said.

    He called on the government to deploy security personnel and increase security presence in high-risk areas, especially in rural communities and along highways.

    Ogundiya emphasised the need to engage with local leaders and communities to gather intelligence and foster collaboration in preventing attacks.

    The Oyo CAN chairman called for the support of victims’ families and affected communities.

    He emphasised the need to address poverty, unemployment, and the lack of opportunities, contributing to banditry in one form or another.

    “There is a need to ensure prompt investigation and prosecution of perpetrators of evil.

    “Also, the government can work with traditional leaders, civil societies, and other stakeholders to promote peace,” he said.

    Ogundiya remarks that Christmas is a celebration of love, kindness, and generosity.

    He adds that it’s also about spreading joy and cheer, taking time to appreciate the people and things that matter most.

    Amid the festivities, the cleric enjoined all Christian faithful to remember that Jesus’ birth signifies love, hope, and salvation.

    He advised them to embody Christ’s spirit by giving to those in need.

    “Balance your celebrations with prayer and quality time with loved ones, and let your Christmas spirit overflow into everyday life.

    “Reach out to the marginalised and lonely, thank God for the gift of Jesus, and share the gospel with others,” Ogundiya said.

    (NAN)

  • I was paid N2.5m to ridicule Davido online – Actor Uche Maduagwu

    I was paid N2.5m to ridicule Davido online – Actor Uche Maduagwu

    Controversial actor Uche Maduagwu has publicly apologised to music star Davido, revealing he was paid N2.5 million to criticise the singer and his family on social media.

    In a recent interview, Maduagwu expressed remorse for his actions, stating that Davido had never personally wronged him.

    Maduagwu claimed he was part of a group of five influencers paid to drag Davido online, and is now urging others involved to come forward and apologise.

    “I want to use this opportunity to apologise to Davido. I was paid to ridicule you, your wife, and your family on social media. I am not the only one, we were like five influencers. I sincerely apologise. Please forgive me. I collected N2.5 million to ridicule you. I am sorry,” he said.

    The actor added that his conscience could no longer allow him to remain silent, describing his actions as wrong and regrettable.

  • Christmas: Ikeja residents applaud LG vice chairman Omisore over free food items 

    Christmas: Ikeja residents applaud LG vice chairman Omisore over free food items 

    Hundreds of families in Alausa, Ikeja, benefited from a Yuletide food relief initiative as the Executive Vice Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Mr. Abisola Omisore, distributed mini bags of rice to residents of his immediate community.

    The three-day distribution exercise, which ended on December 25, took place at Sunday Adigun Street, Ikeja, as part of efforts to support residents during the Christmas season.

    An octogenarian and long-time resident, Mrs. Seliat Bashiru, commended the vice chairman for the kind gesture, noting that the food items would significantly support her family during the festive period.

    “We really appreciate the vice chairman for his kindness to the residents, and we pray that God continues to bless him in his political career,” she said.

    Another beneficiary, Mr. Sodiq Adebayo, also expressed gratitude, describing the initiative as timely and impactful.

    “We are really happy with the rice given to us at this point in time. It will go a long way in taking care of the beneficiaries during this season,” he said.

    Speaking during the exercise, Omisore described the initiative as a modest way of giving back to the people and sharing in the joy of the festive period.

    He said the gesture aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Ikeja political agenda, both of which emphasise people-centred governance and social support.

    The vice chairman acknowledged that while the relief package could not reach every household, it would nonetheless provide meaningful assistance to many families during the Yuletide.

    He also urged residents, particularly youths, to remain calm and peaceful throughout the festive period, stressing the importance of unity and social harmony.

    Omisore further assured the community of his commitment to expanding and improving the scope of such relief initiatives in subsequent years, adding that the welfare of residents remains a priority.

    “This is one of the little ways we can bring relief to the people during the festive season by providing them with essential items to celebrate,” he said.

  • NairaPoint unveiled to celebrate entrepreneur’s  40-Year business legacy

    NairaPoint unveiled to celebrate entrepreneur’s  40-Year business legacy

    A cutting-edge Nigerian fintech platform, NairaPoint, has been officially launched at the prestigious Ikoyi Golf Club, Lagos, in an event that also celebrated the remarkable 40-year business journey of Mrs. Funke Otti, a legacy marked by resilience, visionary leadership and trailblazing success.

    The launch attracted a distinguished audience of finance experts, bankers, regulators and business leaders, alongside guests from across Nigeria’s social and professional landscape.

    Delivering the keynote address, the Vice Chairman of NairaPoint, Dr. Mohammed K. Santuraki, described Mrs. Otti as “a successful woman who dared to succeed in the field of business where many men have faltered,” commending her courage, foresight and lasting impact on Nigeria’s business environment.

    Designed to tackle critical financial challenges, NairaPoint provides secure, mobile-first solutions, including digital wallets, seamless payment services and micro-financial products tailored to individuals and small businesses often underserved by traditional banking systems.

    The platform enables users to save, transfer and grow their wealth anytime and anywhere, positioning NairaPoint as a significant driver of financial inclusion and digital innovation in Nigeria.

    During the launch, the NairaPoint team expressed profound gratitude to early supporters while emphasizing a commitment to trust, innovation, and customer-centric growth. Mrs. Otti, reflecting on her four-decade career, remarked, “This gathering marks the beginning of a journey built on strong partnerships, creativity, and the unwavering support of our customers and well-wishers. As we grow, we remain committed to listening, improving, and building a platform Nigerians can truly rely on.”

    The evening also featured active engagement from the Board of Directors, including Retired Hon. Justice Oluwatoyin Abosede Taiwo and Funola Oyewo, who interacted with guests and captured memorable moments. NairaPoint highlighted its strategic alliances, regulatory compliance, and integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain as central pillars of its expansion strategy.

    Adding a vibrant, communal dimension to the celebration, NairaPoint sponsored a golf kitty, awarding prizes to outstanding golfers in both men’s and women’s categories. The initiative underscored the company’s dedication to community engagement, blending innovation, business, and leisure into a single memorable evening.

     The evening reached its finale with a grand celebratory dinner, the event honored both the official launch of NairaPoint and Mrs. Funke Otti’s four-decade business journey. Together, they signal a bold vision for the future, a fintech poised to redefine Africa’s digital financial landscape, anchored in determination, integrity, and visionary leadership that inspires generations.

  • Shettima: Borno mosque attack will not undermine Nigeria’s resolve on security

    Shettima: Borno mosque attack will not undermine Nigeria’s resolve on security

    …as Tinubu orders immediate security surge, deploys tactical teams to Maiduguri

    … Fed govt vows swift justice for perpetrators as mosque bombing kills worshippers in Gamboru Market

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has strongly condemned the bomb explosion that killed about five people and injured several others at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the incident as a despicable assault on innocent citizens and the peace of the nation.

    In a statement issued on Thursday by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had ordered an immediate intensification of security operations in the state following the attack, as the Federal Government moved swiftly to prevent further violence and bring the perpetrators to justice.

    Shettima disclosed that additional tactical security teams were being deployed to the affected area to track down those responsible for the terror attack at the bustling Gamboru Market area of Maiduguri.

    “The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and security of our nation. Our security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice immediately,” the Vice President said.

    Expressing confidence in the country’s security architecture, Shettima said ongoing operations would not only lead to the arrest of those behind the attack but would also unravel the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

    He commiserated with the Borno State Government, residents of the area and families of those who lost their lives, assuring them of the Federal Government’s support at this difficult time. 

    According to him, the attackers would face the full weight of the law.

    “We sympathise with the Government of Borno State, residents, and families who have lost their loved ones in this attack. The Federal Government is confident that those responsible for this despicable act of terrorism will face the full weight of the law,” he said.

    The Vice President further reassured Nigerians that the Tinubu administration’s commitment to national security remained unwavering, stressing that the protection of lives and property was a core constitutional responsibility of government.

    “Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in 2023, this administration has consistently reaffirmed its unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity, and stability of our nation,” Shettima said, adding that the resolve of the government remained “steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

    He noted that the Federal Government would continue to provide security agencies with the necessary resources and support to decisively defeat terrorism in all its forms.

    Shettima also said the Federal Government was working closely with state authorities and local security agencies to strengthen the protection of vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North-East and other parts of the country.

  • Forget hustle: How smart decisions will define success in 2026

    Forget hustle: How smart decisions will define success in 2026

    December has a way of slowing people down. The year feels heavy, plans seem unfinished, and conversations quickly shift to “next year,” as though January will magically correct what discipline could not. Yet the truth is simple: the people who will move fastest in 2026 will not be those with the loudest goals, but those who know how to decide, act and adjust without burning out.

    Speed is not about rushing.

    It is about clarity.

    This is what that clarity looks like in practice.

    Decide and commit to it

    Many people are exhausted not because life is especially hard, but because they are perpetually undecided. They juggle too many options at once. They want to relocate but also want to stay. They dream of building a business but cling to job security. They crave rest but feel guilty whenever they slow down.

    In 2026, speed will come from choosing one clear direction. This is not about making a perfect choice, but a deliberate one. Decide what you are focusing on for the first six months of the year.

    Choose one major goal.

    One skill to improve.

    One area of life that gets priority.

    Once the decision is made, stop renegotiating with yourself every week. That internal debate is what drains energy. Clarity reduces stress, while indecision multiplies it.

    Execute immediately, not perfectly

    Waiting until everything is ready is one of the most costly habits people carry into a new year. The fastest movers are not necessarily smarter; they simply start sooner.

    Execution does not mean doing everything at once. It means taking the next obvious step immediately.

    If you want to switch careers, start learning before January ends.

    If you want to grow a brand, start posting even when it feels awkward.

    If you want to save money, automate it instead of relying on willpower.

    Momentum is built through motion, not endless planning. Motivation is overrated. What matters more is a simple system that allows small actions to happen daily, even on boring days.

    Review quickly and adjust without emotion

    This is where many people burn out. They either ignore feedback or take it personally.

    Moving fast in 2026 will require regular reviews of results without attaching your identity to them. Ask simple questions: what is working, what is not, and what needs adjustment?

    The data could be income figures, engagement levels, habits or even energy patterns. Data is not judgment; it is direction. The faster you review honestly, the faster you improve. Waiting until December 2026 to realise the year slipped away is the real failure.

    Why this approach prevents burnout

    Burnout often comes from intensity without structure. Clear decisions reduce mental strain. Small, consistent execution prevents overwhelm. Early reviews stop you from wasting time on what is not working.

    This system creates calm progress. You move faster because you are no longer carrying unnecessary weight.

    What to remember as the year ends

    2026 does not need to be dramatic to be successful. It needs to be intentional. You do not need to do more. You need to decide better, act sooner and learn faster.

    That is how real momentum is built: quietly, consistently and sustainably. By this time next year, the difference will be clear.

  • Tonto Dikeh offers Christmas comfort to grieving individuals

    Tonto Dikeh offers Christmas comfort to grieving individuals

    Actress Tonto Dikeh has penned a message for individuals experiencing grief and loneliness during the Christmas season.

    In a post on X, Dikeh acknowledged the pain of loss, reminding her followers that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and to miss loved ones who are no longer present.

    She prayed for strength, rest, and peace for those struggling to cope with their emotions, and encouraged them to hold on to hope and find solace in the love and memories they shared with their departed loved ones.

    Dikeh wrote, “To you whose heart feels heavier this Christmas, This season may look bright on the outside, yet feel painfully quiet within. The empty chair, the missing laughter, the memories that come rushing back . they are real, and so is your grief. Love does not disappear when someone is gone; it lingers in every memory, every tradition, every moment you wish you could share again.

    “Please know that it is okay to miss them. It is okay to cry. You are not weak for feeling this way .you are human, and you loved deeply.

    “May God hold you especially close in this season. May He comfort you in ways words cannot, wrap you in His peace, and remind you that you are not alone, even in your quiet moments. May the memories you shared become a source of gentle warmth rather than pain, and may hope slowly find its way back into your heart.

    “We pray for strength for the days that feel long, rest for the nights that feel heavy, and light for the moments that feel dark. May God’s presence be your refuge, and may His love carry you through this season and beyond.

    “You are seen. You are held. And your loved one will never be forgotten. With love, prayers, and compassion.”