The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Allwell Ademola’s family breaks silence over actress’ death

    Allwell Ademola’s family breaks silence over actress’ death

    The family of actress Allwell Ademola has released an official statement confirming her death, following reports that she passed away on Saturday night, December 27, 2025.

    The statement, shared by her friend and colleague, Rotimi Salami, clarified that Ademola was 49 years old at the time of her death.

    This followed earlier reports within the entertainment industry, which had claimed that the actress died at the age of 43 after reportedly suffering a heart attack at her residence before being taken to the hospital.

    The family expressed appreciation for the outpouring of love, prayers, and condolence messages from colleagues, friends, and well-wishers, noting that the support has been a great source of strength during the difficult period.

    In the statement signed by Adegboyega Adebayo, the family described Ademola as a gifted and passionate creative who touched many lives through her art, talent and dedication to the creative industry.

    The statement reads, “On Behalf of the Ademola family, with heavy hearts and total submission to the will of God, we announce the passing of our beloved sister, mother, and aunt, Princess Allwell Ademola, who departed this life on Saturday, the 27th day of December, 2025, at the age of 49.

    Read Also: After Tinubu, I’m Nigeria’s most abused politician, says Wike

    “Princess Allwell Ademola, a proud daughter of the great Ademola Family of Ogun State (Great-granddaughter of ALAKE of Egba land), who was a gifted and passionate creative. From childhood until her passing, she distinguished herself as a thespian, actor, singer, and filmmaker, touching many lives through her art, talent, and unwavering dedication to the creative industry.

    “The Ademola family sincerely appreciates the overwhelming love, prayers, and messages of condolence from her colleagues, friends, and well-wishers across the world during this difficult time. Your support has been a great source of strength to us.

    “May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and may God grant us all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

    “Further details regarding burial arrangements will be communicated in due course. Signed, Adegboyega Adebayo, For the Ademola family.”

  • Muyiwa Ademola seeks forgiveness in tribute to late cousin, Allwell Ademola

    Muyiwa Ademola seeks forgiveness in tribute to late cousin, Allwell Ademola

    Renowned actor Muyiwa Ademola has paid tribute to his late colleague and cousin, Allwell Ademola, who passed away on December 27, 2025.

    Ademola expressed his sadness and sought forgiveness in his message, urging others to do the same.

    He described the news of Allwell’s death as “one of the saddest” he had ever received, and used the moment to call for forgiveness, peace, and love among humanity.

    He also publicly forgave anyone who may have wronged him, emphasising the importance of love and unity.

    “Goodnight, cousin. It is one of the saddest pieces of news I have ever received. I do not know what to write. Please, if I have wronged you in any way, forgive me. Remember, a day like this is certain for you and I.

    Read Also: Nigerian Breweries, Terra Kulture partner to celebrate women resilience

    “I’m letting go of all the grudges in my heart, too. My heart is heavy, and I want it so light. If you have wronged me in any way, I have forgiven you as well. Let’s keep being peaceful in this empty world,” Ademola wrote.

    Allwell Ademola, a renowned actress, producer, and singer, was 43 years old at the time of her passing.

    She was known for her exceptional talent and contributions to Yoruba Nollywood, starring in films like “You or I” (2013) and “Omo Emi” (2017).

  • Burna Boy, VDM visit Kirikiri maximum security custodial centre

    Burna Boy, VDM visit Kirikiri maximum security custodial centre

    The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Lagos State Command, has received popular Nigerian music star, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, alongside social commentator Otse Vincent, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).

    The duo paid a courtesy visit to the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri, Apapa, Lagos, to seek information on legal procedures that would facilitate the discharge of inmates through the payment of fines.

    In a statement on Sunday, the authorities of the custodial centre said the visit was aimed at obtaining first-hand information on the legal and administrative processes involved in releasing inmates eligible for discharge through fine payments, in line with existing laws and correctional regulations.

    The Public Relations Officer of the centre, Osho Onimisi Joseph, said the visitors were received by the newly appointed Officer-in-Charge, Deputy Controller of Corrections, Sanni Richard.

    According to Joseph, Burna Boy and VeryDarkMan were given professional guidance and detailed clarification on procedures relating to fine payments, eligibility criteria, and the legal safeguards put in place to ensure transparency, accountability, and strict compliance with judicial directives.

    Read Also: Shallow religious knowledge responsible for violent extremism in Nigeria – Imam

    He added that the Nigerian Correctional Service reiterated that the payment of fines for eligible inmates is a lawful process strictly guided by court judgments, correctional regulations, and due process.

    He said, “No inmate is released without proper verification, documentation, and authorization in accordance with extant laws.

    “Furthermore, the general public is assured that inmates in NCoS custody are held in safe, secure, and humane conditions, in line with the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules), and other internationally accepted best practices.

    “The rights, dignity, welfare, and rehabilitation of inmates remain a core priority of the Service.

    “The Lagos State Command commends individuals and organizations who demonstrate interest in lawful initiatives that promote access to justice, custodial decongestion, and the humane treatment of inmates, while encouraging sustained collaboration within the bounds of the law.

    “The Nigerian Correctional Service remains committed to its statutory mandate of safe custody, humane treatment, reformation, rehabilitation, and the successful reintegration of inmates into society.”

  • Commissioner DJ Wysei sets for Mbaise homecoming concert

    Commissioner DJ Wysei sets for Mbaise homecoming concert

    It promises to be a fun-filled d festival of music and dancing as acclaimed Nigerian DJ and performer, Commissioner DJ Wysei, is returning to her Mbaise roots in what promises to be a historic and emotionally charged moment as she stages her first-ever homecoming concert in Imo State.

    Slated to  hold on December 31 at Ahiara Junction (Podium), Mbaise, the concert represents a defining moment in DJ Wysei’s journey one that goes beyond entertainment to embrace identity, gratitude, and community pride.

    Over the years, Commissioner DJ Wysei has built a strong reputation for electrifying performances, commanding stage presence, and cultural relevance across multiple cities. Now, she brings that full experience home, closing the year with what is expected to be a major end-of-year celebration in Mbaise.

    Read Also: This year will not see my end’, late Actress Allwell Ademola declared in last post before death

    Speaking on the significance of the event, she described the homecoming as more than just a performance.

    This homecoming is bigger than music. It’s about gratitude, legacy, and letting my people see that dreams born here can travel far and still return home stronger,” she said.

    The Homecoming Concert is expected to deliver a high-energy DJ performance, 

    Surprise guest appearances, Cultural celebration and community bonding and a unifying end-of-year experience for Mbaise and surrounding communities

    Set against the vibrant atmosphere of Ahiara Junction, the event is poised to attract Mbaise natives neighbouring towns, fans, music lovers, and industry stakeholders marking one of the area’s most anticipated cultural gatherings of the year.

    At its core, the concert stands as a powerful statement about remembering one’s roots while building a global presence reinforcing the values of home, heritage, and giving back.

  • Pastor Chris Okafor kneels to apologise to Doris Ogala amid accusations

    Pastor Chris Okafor kneels to apologise to Doris Ogala amid accusations

    Senior Pastor Chris Okafor of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries has publicly apologised to actress Doris Ogala for past mistakes, kneeling before his congregation in a gesture of remorse.

    The apology came after Ogala accused Okafor of an affair, broken marriage promises, and sharing explicit content, sparking a heated public feud.

    Ogala had also claimed that Okafor offered her $10,000 to retract claims that she was hired by rival pastors to defame him.

    In a viral video, Okafor, speaking to his congregation, acknowledged his imperfections and expressed willingness to make amends, specifically naming Ogala in his apology.

    However, he maintained that many of Ogala’s allegations were untrue, stating that they contained “so many lies.”

    He said, “Listen, we’re not joining issues. Mistakes have been made in the past, and I tender an apology to everybody.

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    “I am sorry to everyone I have offended, to Doris Ogala also. I say sorry and apologise to everyone that I’ve offended.

    “I’m ready to make restitution to anyone, anybody, any lady I have offended. I am sorry. Forgive me.”

    Acknowledging his imperfections, he added, “Not perfect, I’ve never been perfect.”

    “I’m kneeling before everyone and before the church. Forgive me. You can judge me. Pray for me,” he added.

    Ogala has responded, forgiving Okafor but rejecting his claim that she lied about the accusations.

    “Chris Okafor, I forgive you, but there’s a problem. Where you said everything is a lie. I have a problem with that because I don’t lie,” she wrote.

    Okafor’s apology comes amidst ongoing controversy, with Ogala filing a N1 billion lawsuit against him for alleged emotional distress, reputational damage, and breach of trust.

  • ‘This year will not see my end’, late Actress Allwell Ademola declared in last post before death

    ‘This year will not see my end’, late Actress Allwell Ademola declared in last post before death

    Actress and filmmaker Allwell Ademola’s last Instagram post has gone viral following her sudden death on Saturday.

    In a video shared just hours before her passing, Ademola sang a soulful prayer, with lyrics that now seem prophetic: “In the name of Jesus, I will see the end of this year; this year will not see my end”.

    READ ALSO; Actress Lizzy Gold mourns father’s death on Boxing Day

    The 43-year-old actress’s death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with colleagues and fans expressing their grief and shock.

    The video, which initially appeared to be an end-of-year post, has become a digital memorial, with many reflecting on the irony of her passing just four days before the start of 2026.

  • Actress Lizzy Gold mourns father’s death on Boxing Day

    Actress Lizzy Gold mourns father’s death on Boxing Day

    Nollywood actress Lizzy Gold has announced the death of her father, who passed away on Boxing Day, December 26.

    The actress broke the news on Saturday via her Instagram page, describing her late father as her “gist partner” and expressing deep shock and grief over the loss.

    In an emotional post, Lizzy Gold said her father’s death was her greatest fear and that it had dealt her a devastating blow. 

    She disclosed that he passed away on Friday, noting that it was not the plan, as he was meant to cross into the new year with his children.

    She added that her heart was shattered by the loss and wondered how she would survive the pain.

    “What I fear most has happened to me…death has given me a huge blow….my father is gone …..he left us yesterday …this wasn’t the plan daddy…you were suppose to cross over with your children into the new year….my heart is shattered …my jist partner is gone ..so I won’t see you again? oh God will I ever survive this ? Will I survive this pain ???”, she wrote.

    The circumstances surrounding her father’s death have not been disclosed.

    The post has sparked an outpouring of condolences from fans and colleagues.

  • Tributes pour in as Nollywood mourns Allwell Ademola’s passing

    Tributes pour in as Nollywood mourns Allwell Ademola’s passing

    The Nigerian film industry is mourning following the sudden passing of actress and producer, Allwell Ademola, who reportedly died on Saturday at the age of 43.

    According to online entertainment sources, Ademola reportedly suffered a heart attack at her residence before being rushed to a Lagos hospital.

    The news of her passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences from colleagues and fans, who are still reeling from the shock of her sudden demise.

    Faithia Williams, a fellow actress, expressed her shock on social media, writing, “Haaaa. This hit me so bad. Eniobanke. Allahu Akbar..Allwell”.

    Mide Martins, another colleague, shared a photo of Ademola on Facebook, saying, “Kabiosi Eledumare. Our ever playful, joyful, cheerful, lively all well is gone!! God this is too heartbreaking!!!!”

    Another colleague, Damola Olatunji, posted a candlelight image with the caption:

    “Life is a mirage.”

    Actress, Bidemi Kosoko, expressed disbelief at the reports, saying: “No way. No, no,, no. Ko possible ooo. This isn’t true. God forbid, in Jesus’ name.

    “I refuse to accept this one Lai Lai God forbid. Olorun oni je. Just reply to my message, abeg Oremi/ aunty mi. I will wait patiently for your reply.”

    Ademola was a respected figure in Nollywood, known for her work in films like “You or I” and “Omo Emi”.

    She was also a talented singer and scriptwriter, and her production company, Allwell Ademola Production, produced several hit movies.

    The cause of her death has not been officially confirmed, and an investigation is ongoing.

  • Examining revenue streams, profit sharing in Nigerian cinemas

    Examining revenue streams, profit sharing in Nigerian cinemas

    Nigerian cinemas operate on a multi-faceted business model, generating revenue primarily through ticket sales and concessions, with proceeds shared among key stakeholders, including government, cinema operators, distributors, and producers.

    This article delves into the intricacies of Nigeria’s cinema revenue model, highlighting the various revenue streams and the structured sharing formula.

    Revenue Streams: Where the Money Flows

    Nigerian cinemas rely on three primary revenue streams:

    1. Box Office (Ticket Sales): The primary revenue driver, especially for hit films, ticket sales account for the largest share of cinema revenue.

    2. Concessions: Sales of snacks, food, and drinks at high markups contribute significantly to cinema profits.

    3. Advertising: Screen advertisements shown before the movie and during intermissions provide an additional revenue stream.

    Read Also: Filmmakers claim unfair screening practices on December releases

    Revenue Sharing: The Cash Waterfall

    The money generated from ticket sales is distributed through a “cash waterfall” process, with the following sequence:

    1. Taxes: 10% of gross ticket sales are deducted as taxes, comprising 5% Federal Government Value Added Tax (VAT) and 5% State Government entertainment tax.

    2. Net Box Office Revenue: The remaining revenue after taxes is shared between the cinema (exhibitor) and the distributor.

        – Nollywood Films:

     Week 1: 50% (distributor) / 50% (cinema)

     Week 2: 45% (distributor) / 55% (cinema)

     Week 3+: 40% (distributor) / 60% (cinema)

    Hollywood Films: Variable terms, subject to contractual agreements, but often following a similar sliding scale principle.

    3. Producer Share: From the distributor’s share, a fee (10-15%) and applicable withholding taxes (10%) are deducted, with the remainder going to the film’s producer (~30-40% of total box office gross).

    Operational Costs: Behind the Scenes

    Cinemas face significant operational costs, including:

    – Real estate and equipment maintenance

    – Staff salaries

    – High electricity/fuel expenses due to reliance on generators

    Target Audience and Film Types

    Cinemas rely on a growing middle-class with disposable income, with urban centers like Lagos dominating box office revenue.

    Hollywood blockbusters consistently attract large audiences, while Nollywood films perform well during peak seasons/holidays.

  • Larry J shuts down Eko Hotel for Christmas show

    Larry J shuts down Eko Hotel for Christmas show

    Olanrewaju Gregory popularly known as Larry J held his annual show on Thursday, December 25 at the Eko Hotel and Suites.

    The event kicked off at 6.p.m and didn’t end until midnight when Larry J was joined by attendees and colleagues to ignite fireworks at the Car Park B.

    Speaking of the success, Larry J said, “It was a family friendly show. It’s a night of comedy and laughs. The reason why we separated comedy from laughs is because we featured a comedy competition where the winner went home with N1 million. Even though we have not found a sponsor, we need to support our own craft because there are lots of good comedians out there who are even looking for platforms. We want to support the industry and ethical comedy. Some of my friends were around and some even came to just sit down and enjoy themselves like Ali Baba and some of my friends who are also actors, Deyemi Okanlawon and the rest of them. They just came to enjoy themselves.”

    In attendance were several fans of Larry J while other comedians including Kenny Blaq, Damola is my name, Forever, Judicious, Phronesis and others headlined the event. 

    READ ALSO: Malami’s burden

    On the process of picking the winner of the competition, Larry J said, “the vetting process is very simple; we look at ethical comedy and appearance. The kind of joke is very important, anyone who mistakenly uses the F word will have to exit the stage immediately because it’s a family show. No comedian will talk about women’s breasts. I want to leave the audience with the feeling that they can go for a comedy show and enjoy it so much and will not feel guilty about it. Because there are people who are very religious and feel like they have committed a sin after listening to a joke.”

    When asked if he fears Artificial Intelligence (AI) will replace comedy, he said: AI cannot replace comedy. I have tried but AI failed when it comes to details. Some taught AI my pattern of comedy but could not get it when it comes to the switch. AI was confused, it couldn’t imitate me. I have an animation of my work which will be built next year but I was told to do the voicing because AI cannot get it right. AI can do comedy but it can’t do my voice. Maybe I would have gone to meet the Lord before AI will take over comedy.”