The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Sanwo-Olu: Lagos ready to host AFRIMA 2025

    Sanwo-Olu: Lagos ready to host AFRIMA 2025

    Lagos, the bustling cultural and commercial heartbeat of Nigeria, is once again highly favoured to host Africa’s most prestigious music celebration, All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has declared the state’s readiness to host the event.

    He made this commitment when he received a delegation from the African Union and the AFRIMA International Committee in his office.

    According to him,  Lagos is qualified to get the hosting right because of its status as the creative and cultural capital of Africa.

    Sanwo-Olu said hosting AFRIMA 2025 aligns with his administration’s vision to make the creative and tourism industry a major pillar of its development drive.

     “I am impressed by the diversity and calibre of the members of the AFRIMA International Committee. Seeing representatives from countries like Cote d’Ivoire, Mozambique, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, Morocco, and South-Africa is a strong affirmation that AFRIMA is a global pan-Africa initiative, it is a true continental platform,” Sanwo-Olu said as he welcomed the team.

    Head of Culture and Acting Director for Social Development, Culture and Sport at the African Union Commission Ms. Angela Martins, commended the Governor for his continuous support of the arts and reaffirmed the AU’s long-standing partnership with AFRIMA.

    READ ALSO: Sabotaging NELFUND

    “The African Union has been proud to partner with AFRIMA since 2014. Over the years, we’ve supported the awards to make sure they live up to their promise to celebrate and reward African talent and music and to promote our cultural values. Beyond entertainment, AFRIMA has become one of the tools through which we promote and communicate the African Union’s cultural policies and the wider vision of Agenda 2063, particularly in building the creative economy of the continet,” she said.

    AFRIMA President and Executive Producer Mike Dada, thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for the state’s investment in the creative industry, stating that AFRIMA is positioned to create big opportunities for tourism, entertainment, jobs, and the economy for the host city.

    Dada said: “Under your leadership, Lagos has made great progress in the creative industry. You’ve been a strong supporter and a true promoter of talent and fresh ideas. Whether it’s film, fashion, music, or technology, your efforts have helped make Lagos stand out as Africa’s creative capital. We at AFRIMA truly appreciate your support, and we believe Lagos is more than ready to host an unforgettable AFRIMA 2025.

    “Since AFRIMA was birthed in 2014, and hosted in Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal, with road shows in over 22 countries around the world, we’ve remained committed to celebrating and uniting Africa through music. AFRIMA is not just about music, it also resonates with real human stories, we’ve seen dreams come through, talents discovered, and careers launched. More importantly, AFRIMA is helping to reshape the global narrative about Africa. We’re showing that Africa is not a continent of lack but a cultural powerhouse that supports development and economic growth.

    “With over 1,600 nominees, and their teams, more than 1,100 production crew members expected in 2025 and over 400 million global broadcast audience, Lagos won’t just host an event; the impact of the one-week festival will be massive, opening more doors for tourism, hospitality, and new economic opportunities for business in the sector and beyond.”

    Other members of the delegation received by Sanwo-Olu are: Director of Brand Communications at AFRIMA Ms. Matlou Tsotetsi from South Africa; Chief Experience Officer (CXO) from Nigeria Ms. Adenrele Niyi; an Australian-Kenyan and Regional Director for Eastern Africa Mr. Mike John Strano; and Mr. Francis Doku, Country Director for Ghana. Also in the delegation were Mr. Kenny Ogungbe from Nigeria, a member of the AFRIMA International Congress and Media Committee, Ms. Edwidge Goli from Cote d’Ivoire, who serves as Liaison and Partnership Advisory Executive, Francophone region; and Ms. Victoria Nkong from Nigeria, an AFRIMA Associate Producer.

    The African Union and AFRIMA International Committee will on May 13 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia officially announce and present the certificate to the host of the 2025 AFRIMA.

  • KSA: I have not been kidnapped

    KSA: I have not been kidnapped

    “This is to clarify to everybody that I was not kidnapped nor did I kidnap myself but we thank God and I have to thank the whole world with calls from many of my fans wanting to know my wellbeing and state.” There were the words of Dr. Sunday Adeniyi-Adegeye (MFR) aka King Sunny Ade in a video shared yesterday.

    This is coming following an alarm raised by the musician’s daughter, Damilola Esther Adeniyi-Adegeye on social media on Monday, April 28.

    Damilola had claimed King Sunny Ade’s manager and son, Dayo Adegeye, had shielded her father away from the family and associates.

    “They are keeping him in different hotels, away from his family, pumping him with sleeping medications! My dad just lost his daughter and hasn’t even had time to mourn, yet they keep dragging him from show to show. I want my dad free from their bondage,” Damilola lamented.

    Read Also: Revisiting Adamolekun’s Reflections on Governance

    In furtherance, the decorated singer, who is 78, said he was in good shape and had neither been kidnapped nor in danger.

    “Glory be to the Almighty father in heaven. I am grateful to God Almighty, I am grateful to all my fans all over the world. My children, everybody and Nigerians all want to see me but it was during the time I decided to take a break to rest but this is to clarify to everybody that I was not kidnapped neither did I kidnap myself but we thank God. I am on my way to a show.

    “I still performed last weekend in Lekki, I wonder why anyone would start such a rumour but I can tell you that I wasn’t kidnapped. I thank God and the entire nation for their show of support and love. I am hale, hearty and in great condition.”

    King Sunny Ade’s management gave a statement debunking the claims made by Damilola.

    “Contrary to the falsehood and fabricated news dated 28th April, 2025 peddled by Damilola Esther Adeniyi-Adegeye and her associates who declared that I was missing, I hereby state as follows: “1. That I, Dr. Sunday Adeniyi-Adegeye MFR, also known as King Sunny Ade, am alive and well.

    “2. The falsehood about my disappearance or being missing by Damilola Esther Adeniyi-Adegeye and her cohorts are completely false.

    “3. I am alive, well and grateful for the love and support of my Fans, thanks for your concern.

    “4. It is very important to address the falsehood and fabricated news by Damilola Esther Adeniyi-Adegeye and her associates and to assure the general Public and loved ones that I am alive and safe.

    “5. Lastly, I utilize this medium to admonish the Blogger(s) responsible for this mischievous act  alongside those that take undue privileges to trample on my hard earned reputation and image to desist forthwith otherwise be prepared to face the wrath of the Law.

    “6. Thank you and God bless all, Dr. Sunday Adeniyi-Adegeye, MFR”

  • FirstBank, Headies to promote creativity

    FirstBank, Headies to promote creativity

    FirstBank Plc has partnered with the Headies Awards for its 17th edition, which was held recently in Lagos, Nigeria.

    The collaboration, according to a statement, underscores FirstBank’s commitment to supporting creative talents and SMEs within the creative industry, thus, providing them with the platform for international acclaim and recognition.

    The Headies, the statement added, is a leading music awards show celebrating top talents in Nigeria and Africa while providing a platform for upcoming and established artists.

    Since its inception in 2006, the Headies has consistently spotlighted the best in Nigerian and African music, attracting millions of viewers annually. After two successful editions in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, the Headies returned  to its roots in Nigeria.

    FirstBank was announced as the first financial institution to partner with Headies.

    Read Also; FG declares public holiday

    This historic and pioneering collaboration underscores FirstBank’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian creative industry while reinforcing its brand values of innovation, excellence and cultural empowerment.

    According to Olayinka Ijabiyi, Ag. Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communication, FirstBank : “We are thrilled to partner with the Headies Awards, an amazing platform that celebrates the very best of Nigerian and African music. At FirstBank, we believe in supporting arts and creativity and this partnership is a perfect embodiment of our commitment. The Headies Awards aligns with our First@arts initiative which supports the entire creative arts value chain – including performing arts, visual arts, and music, reflecting the bank’s commitment to nurturing talents, promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, driving national growth, and unlocking business opportunities in the creative arts sector”.

    Ayo Animashaun, the founder of The Headies stated : “The Headies Awards have been instrumental in promoting and celebrating Afrobeats, providing a platform for artists to gain recognition and break into the global market. We are excited about the partnership with FirstBank, a milestone collaboration that will undoubtedly elevate this year’s event and further solidify Afrobeats’ position as a dominant force in the global music landscape.”

  • MCSN, NCC train DJs in copyright

    MCSN, NCC train DJs in copyright

    The Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN) in collaboration with the Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC) will hold a one day training for members of the Deejays Association of Nigeria (DJAN).

    The training themed “Training in Copyright Laws and Enforcement Strategies”, will take place at the Lagos Airport Hotel on Wednesday, May 7.

    The event specially designed for the Deejays Association seeks to empower DJs with the knowledge about the proper use of musical works and the legal responsibilities they bear under the Nigerian Copyright Act 2022 and the consequences of copyright infringement.

    The session will focus on sensitising DJs on the importance of respecting the intellectual property rights of music creators. It will teach them that the unauthorised use of copyright music in their trade is a criminal offence under the new Act.

    Read Also: An anatomy of the Delta PDP defections

    Speaking on the importance of the training, MCSN emphasised that DJs were vital to the music and entertainment ecosystem and it was crucial they (DJs) understood that the music they use is someone’s intellectual property.

    “The goal is not on only to enforce compliance but to build a culture of respect, partnership and sustainability between DJs and music creators,” said a spokesman for the Society.

    The training will feature seasoned legal and copyright experts including representatives from the NCC who will explain the provision of the copyright Act, answer questions and provide guidance on the best practices moving forward.

  • Kizz Daniel gears up for world tour

    Kizz Daniel gears up for world tour

    By Oloyede Toibat

    Afrobeats superstar Kizz Daniel has officially announced his highly anticipated world tour.

    The tour has been tagged, ‘Uncle K.’

    The tour is scheduled to kick off on May 24, 2025 and head to different countries across the continent. The final leg of the tour will be held in December 2025 in Nigeria.

    Read Also: Revisiting Adamolekun’s Reflections on Governance

    According to the artist, his fans should expect live performances of new music, classic hits, and special surprises.

    With Afrobeats continuing to take over the world, Vado the Great, as he’s fondly called, is set to make an unforgettable impact with this tour.

  • Mr P, KieKie, Gbenga Adeyinka 1st light up Laffmattazz

    Mr P, KieKie, Gbenga Adeyinka 1st light up Laffmattazz

    Some of Nigeria’s brightest entertainment stars led by Gbenga Adeyinka 1st, Mr P and KieKie gathered to thrill fans at the Laffmattazz show in Ibadan.

    The music-cum comedy show, which was tagged ‘About Time,’ lit up Ibadan with epic performances, celebrity appearances, and unforgettable giveaways.

    The Easter Sunday edition of the 2025 edition of Laffmattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka and Friends turned the Jogor Centre, Ibadan, into a hub of entertainment, leaving unforgettable memories for thousands who attended.

    Read Also: Revisiting Adamolekun’s Reflections on Governance

    Hosted by the Grand Comedian of the Federal Republic, Gbenga Adeyinka, the show lived up to its hype with Kunle Afolayan, Sola Sobowale, Seun Soyinka, Aisha Lawal and other celebrities in attendance.

    Opening the night in grand style, Adeyinka made a dramatic entrance with a ‘Dorime’ dance alongside the ever-vibrant Kiekie, setting the tone for an evening of non stop laughter, music, and excitement.

    The lineup of performance was nothing short of electrifying with Mr P (Peter Okoye of P-Square), Terry Akpala, Babatunmise, and Keanzo thrilling the audience.

    The comedy kept rolling in with the likes of Kenny Blaq, Omobaba No.1, Taichi, Rapin Dady, Baba Alariya, Mr Escom, Stylo, Kamo State, Creative Tobi, and many others.

    DJs Secxy and Mass held the crowd spellbound with favourite mixes that elevated the event to party status.

    True to the Laffmattazz tradition, the night came packed with surprises and giveaways. Fans competed in the Ibadan Yoruba challenge, a spirited dance contest, and even got stage haircuts, thanks to Hair sense Salon, which also gave away 10 clippers.

    Bonike Bakery sweetened the event with loaves of bread for the crowd, while Eleganza gifted stylish coolers.

    With millions of naira in prizes won and unforgettable moments shared, Laffmattazz About Time proved once again why it remains the most anticipated comedy and music show in Southwest Nigeria.

  • AY settles rift with Seun Kuti

    AY settles rift with Seun Kuti

    Prolific stand-up comedian, Ayo ‘AY’ Makun has reconciled with Afrobeat singer Seun Kuti.

    The reconciliation comes nearly two years after a fallout between the two entertainers.

    However, in a turn of events, AY extended an olive branch to the son of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti.

    Taking to his Instagram page, the comedian tagged Seun in a peace-making post.

    Read Also: Revisiting Adamolekun’s Reflections on Governance

    “A big shoutout to my brother, Seun Kuti. Sometimes, misunderstandings happen, but what matters is that love and respect always find their way back.”

    In November, 2023, AY and Seun Kuti had a heated exchange on social media, taking jabs at each other in a widely-publicised altercation.

  • Smart Music Entertainment makes statement with Burna Boy’s concert

    Smart Music Entertainment makes statement with Burna Boy’s concert

    Smart Music Entertainment has solidified its reputation as one of the UK’s premier music promoters.

    The entertainment promotion company played a key role in selling out Burna Boy’s historic concert at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena.

    As part of the promotional powerhouse behind this milestone event, Smart Music Entertainment helped drive record-breaking ticket sales, showcasing its unparalleled ability to connect global superstars with passionate UK audiences.

    The Burna Boy concert at Co-op Live wasn’t just another show but a cultural moment with over 20,000 fans in attendance. The show became one of the fastest-selling Afrobeats events ever held in the North of England.

    Read Also: An anatomy of the Delta PDP defections

    According to a statement by the firm’s Managing Director, Oluwasegun Ikuesewo, the entertainment coy executed a high-impact, multi-channel marketing strategy that included digital campaigns, influencer partnerships, targeted street promotion, and grassroots outreach, ensuring every seat in the arena was filled.

    “This success is a testament to Smart Music Entertainment’s deep understanding of both artist branding and audience engagement. Their involvement proved pivotal in bridging the gap between international talent and local fanbases, raising the bar for live music promotion across Nigeria and the UK. From sold-out shows to unforgettable live experiences, Smart Music Entertainment continues to be a trusted name for artists, venues,” said Ikuesewo.

  • Rising Afrobeat artiste, Waju, eyes global stage

    Rising Afrobeat artiste, Waju, eyes global stage

    Emerging Afrobeat singer, Okegbile Peter, popularly known as Waju, is steadily carving a niche for himself in Nigeria’s music scene with his distinctive sound and soulful delivery.

    Born in Osu, Osun State, and raised in Abuja, Waju blends his Yoruba heritage with contemporary influences to create music that resonates with a broad audience. His journey into music began after discovering his natural ability to evoke emotions through lyrics and melody, a passion that pushed him to train under seasoned industry professionals.

    In 2022, Waju released his debut single, Mapariwo, which quickly gained traction in Abuja and introduced him to a wider audience. Since then, he has performed at several notable events, earning praise for his vocal strength and stage presence.

    Waju, who describes his style as a fusion of rhythm and storytelling, has continued to build his catalogue with songs that reflect growth and versatility. His latest release, July Eve, is a melodic ballad that explores the vulnerability of uncertain love.

    Speaking about the track, he said, “July Eve is a mood. It’s about taking a risk on love even when the outcome is unclear.”

    The singer says he is committed to pushing Afrobeat beyond its current borders and hopes to be among the new generation of artistes taking the genre to a global audience.

  • Lamine Yamal is better than Lionel Messi – Odumodublvck claims

    Lamine Yamal is better than Lionel Messi – Odumodublvck claims

    Rapper Odumodublvck has claimed that Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal is better than football legend Lionel Messi.

    The rapper made the statement on X following Yamal’s standout performance in Barcelona’s Copa del Rey El Clasico victory over Real Madrid, where the 17-year-old made two assists.

    Read Also: Woli Arole prophesies huge success for Muyiwa Ademola’s ‘Ori Rebirth’

    Odumodublvck argued that Messi did not achieve as much at Yamal’s age, adding that after watching Yamal live, he is convinced of his stance and “nobody can tell him otherwise.”

    “Yamal is better than Lionel Messi. Na me, Kala talk am. At 17, Messi was not touching this [Yamal’s] level. I saw him live. I saw him, you cannot whine me. Nobody can whine me”, he said.