The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • I will no longer look for trouble – Portable 

    I will no longer look for trouble – Portable 

    Following his release on bail, controversial singer Portable has pledged to turn his life around and focus on a positive path.

    The “Zazu” crooner was granted bail set at N2 million after facing charges related to alleged assault and other offenses.

    In a video shared on social media, Portable assured his fans that he is now prioritizing financial stability and personal growth. 

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    He stated that he is done with trouble and is fully committed to making money and settling his bail debt.

    He said: “My fans, thank God for everything. If you have God, you have everything. I need money. I am not looking for trouble anymore. I’m now focused on making money. I have N2 million bail debt. I need more money. I am looking for money.”

  • Obi Cubana launches ‘golden age with gold bar’ campaign ahead of 50th birthday

    Obi Cubana launches ‘golden age with gold bar’ campaign ahead of 50th birthday

     …fans to win car, N2million

    As he gears up to celebrate his 50th birthday, the Chairman of the Cubana Group, Chief Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, has unveiled a special campaign titled “Golden Age with Gold Bar.” 

    The grand celebration will reward fans with exciting prizes, including a brand-new Gold Bar-branded car and a ₦2 million cash prize.

    Obi Cubana disclosed this during a live Instagram session, inviting fans, friends, and well-wishers to join in the festivities.

    The birthday celebrations will take place in Abuja, Lagos, and other locations worldwide. 

    As part of the campaign, fans who purchase Gold Bar Whiskey from select retail stores or online will stand a chance to win various prizes, including cash rewards, VIP invitations, and the grand prize—a luxury car. 

    Additionally, a 50th birthday logo design competition has been launched, offering graphic designers and artists a chance to win ₦2 million. A panel of top industry judges will select the winning design. 

    Speaking about the milestone celebration, Obi Cubana emphasized that his 50th birthday is not just about him but a time to reflect on the love, support, and success he has shared with people over the years. 

    “This journey has been amazing, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of so many wonderful people,” he said.

    “I invite everyone to celebrate with me, raise a glass of Gold Bar Whiskey, and enjoy the golden moments together.” 

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    With the countdown officially on, fans can participate by purchasing Gold Bar Whiskey and entering the promotion for a chance to win big.

    “This journey has been amazing, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of so many wonderful people.

    “I invite everyone to celebrate with me, raise a glass of Gold Bar Whiskey, and enjoy the golden moments together.”

    The countdown has begun, and fans now have a chance to be part of this grand celebration.

    To participate, they can start purchasing Gold Bar Whiskey and enter the promotion for a chance to win.

  • Destalker bags honorary doctorate from Estam University

    Destalker bags honorary doctorate from Estam University

    The prestigious Estam University, Benin, has awarded Oghenekowhoyan Onaibe Desmond, better known by his stage name Destalker, an honorary doctorate.

    The prestigious award was presented during the university’s Matriculation and Convocation Ceremony, which centred on the theme “Adapting to a Changing World: The Role of Building Your Legacy.”

    The event celebrated the achievements of distinguished individuals, including Destalker, and the accomplishments of undergraduates.

    In addition to Destalker, Atomon Osasere Boniface was also honored with an Honorary Doctorate Degree.

    The ceremony also marked the graduation of undergraduates who had successfully met the university’s academic requirements, while new students were formally welcomed into the institution.

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    Destalker, an award-winning comedian, actor, master of ceremonies, and philanthropist, has left an undeniable mark on the Nigerian entertainment industry.

    His journey from modest beginnings to becoming one of Africa’s most in-demand comedians is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and unshakeable belief in his dreams.

    Destalker’s entry into the comedy scene was far from easy. In 2008, he made a bold move to Lagos, Nigeria’s entertainment capital, driven by his ambition to carve out a space for himself. Armed with nothing but raw talent and determination, he began performing at local clubs, slowly building his reputation with his unique and captivating style on stage.

    What set him apart was his ability to blend humour with sharp social commentary, drawing from real-life experiences that resonated deeply with audiences. His authentic approach quickly won over fans, and his star began to rise.

    Destalker, known as MC Destalker, is a household name, performing at prestigious events both within Nigeria and internationally. His comedy is celebrated for its originality, cleverness, and its ability to tackle everyday issues in a way that connects with a wide range of people.

    The ceremony did not only honour Destalker but also saw the honouring of Atomon Osasere Boniface

  • I don’t regret bringing Deeone on Honest Bunch podcast – Nedu

    I don’t regret bringing Deeone on Honest Bunch podcast – Nedu

    Media personality Chinedu Ani popularly known as Nedu has stated that he has no regret inviting comedian Deeone to The Honest Bunch Podcast, despite the controversy that ensued.

    Deeone’s appearance on the show sparked a heated debate after he made allegations about social media critic VeryDarkMan.

    VeryDarkMan retaliated, accusing Nedu of masterminding the allegations.

    The backlash led to Nedu’s resignation as co-host of the podcast.

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    However, during a press briefing, Nedu expressed no regrets over inviting Deeone, stating that everyone is entitled to their opinion.

    “I didn’t regret bringing DeeOne to the Honest Bunch Podcast. Everyone is entitled to their opinion,” he said.

    He also highlighted the positive impact the podcast has had on many people’s lives, stating that “the show has helped many people”

  • Wizkid, Davido win at 2025 NAACP Awards

    Wizkid, Davido win at 2025 NAACP Awards

    Nigerian music sensations Wizkid and Davido have clinched awards at the recent NAACP Awards ceremony. 

    Wizkid won the award for Best Contemporary Duo or Group for his hit single “Piece of My Heart” featuring Brent Faiyaz.

    Davido also emerged victorious, winning the award for Best International Song for his collaboration with Chris Brown on “Hmmm”. 

    This marks the second time the duo has won an NAACP award, having previously won for their hit single “Sensational” in 2024.

    Full list of winners below:

    TV/MOTION PICTURE

    Outstanding Costume Design (Television or Motion Picture)

    “Wicked” – Paul Tazewell (Universal Pictures)

    Outstanding Hair Styling (Television or Motion Picture)

    “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” – Lawrence Davis (Peacock)

    Outstanding Make-up (Television or Motion Picture)

    “Shirley” – Debi Young (Netflix)

    Outstanding Stunt Ensemble

    “Rebel Ridge” – Keith Woulard, Nico Woulard (Netflix)

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    Outstanding International Motion Picture

    “Emilia Pérez” – (Netflix)

    Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance (Motion Picture)

    Blue Ivy Carter – “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture)

    Outstanding Directing in a Documentary (Television or Motion Picture)

    Dawn Porter – “Luther: Never Too Much” (Sony Music Entertainment/Sony Music Publishing/CNN Films)

    Outstanding Cinematography in a Motion Picture

    Jomo Fray – “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)

    Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Motion Picture)

    Malcolm Washington – “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)

    Outstanding Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture

    Ebony Obsidian – “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)

    Outstanding Ensemble Cast in a Motion Picture

    “The Six Triple Eight” – (Netflix)

    MUSIC

    Outstanding New Artist

    Doechii – (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)

    Outstanding Male Artist

    Chris Brown – (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)

    Outstanding Female Artist

    Beyoncé – (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)

    Outstanding International Song

    “Hmmm” – Chris Brown feat. Davido (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)

    Outstanding Jazz Album

    “Portrait” – Samara Joy (Verve Records)

    Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song

    “Working For Me” – Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)

    Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album

    “Live Breathe Fight” – Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)

    Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Traditional)

    Adam Blackstone & Fantasia – “Summertime” (BASSic Black Entertainment Records/Anderson Music Group/EMPIRE)

    Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Contemporary)

    Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz – “Piece of My Heart” (RCA Records/Sony Music International/Starboy Entertainment)

    Outstanding Original Score for Television/Film

    “Star Wars: The Acolyte (Original Soundtrack)” – (Walt Disney Records)

    Outstanding Song – Hip-Hop/Rap Song

    “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)

    Outstanding Album

    “Cowboy Carter” – Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)

    PODCASTS

    Outstanding Podcast – Limited Series/Short Form

    “Stranded” – (Broadway Video and Audible)

    Outstanding Podcast – News and Information

    “Native Land Pod” – (iHeartPodcasts, Reasoned Choice Media)

    Outstanding Podcast – Lifestyle/Self-Help

    “We Don’t Always Agree with Ryan & Sterling” – (ABF Creative & Indian Meadows Production)

    TELEVISION

    Outstanding Children’s Program

    “Gracie’s Corner” – YouTube TV

    Outstanding Performance by a Youth (Series, Special, Television Movie or Limited Series)

    Leah Sava Jeffries – “Percy Jackson and the Olympics” (Disney+)

    Outstanding Animated Series

    “Gracie’s Corner” – YouTube TV

    Outstanding Character Voice – Over Performance (Television)

    Cree Summer – “Rugrats” (Nickelodeon)

    Outstanding Variety (Series or Special)

    “Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was” (Netflix)

    Outstanding Guest Performance

    Marlon Wayans – “Bel-Air” (Peacock)

    Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series

    Crystal Jenkins – “No Good Deed – Letters of Intent” Netflix)

    Outstanding Writing in a Drama Series

    Ben Watkins – Cross “Hero Complex” (Prime Video)

    Outstanding Writing in a Television Movie or Special

    Juel Taylor, Tony Rettenmaier, Thembi L. Banks – “Young. Wild. Free.” (BET+)

    Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Television)

    Ayo Edebiri – “The Bear” (FX/Hulu)

    Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Television (Series, Special, Movie)

    Taraji P. Henson – “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)

    Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Television (Series, Special, Movie)

    Samuel L. Jackson – “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)

    Outstanding Directing in a Television Movie or Special

    Tina Mabry – “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu)

    Outstanding Directing in a Comedy Series

    Tiffany Johnson – “How to Die Alone – ‘Trust No One’” (Hulu)

    Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series

    Rapman – “Supacell – ‘Supacell’” (Netflix)

    Outstanding News/Information (Series or Special)

    “The Reidout” – MSNBC

    Outstanding Host in a Reality/Reality Competition, Game Show or Variety (Series or Special) – Individual or Ensemble

    Keke Palmer – “Password” (NBC)

    Outstanding Reality Program, Reality Competition Services/Game Show

    “Celebrity Family Feud” (ABC)

    BOOKS

    Outstanding Literary Work – Fiction

    “One of Us Knows: A Thriller” – Alyssa Cole (William Morrow – HarperCollins Publishers)

    Outstanding Literary Work – Non-Fiction

    “Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest” – Fawn Weaver (Melcher Media Inc.)

    Outstanding Literary Work – Debut Author

    Sarai Johnson – “Grown Women” (Harper – HarperCollins Publishers)

    Outstanding Literary Work – Biography/Autobiography

    “Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story That Awakened America” – Joy-Ann Reid (Mariner Books – HarperCollins Publishers)

    Outstanding Literary Work – Instructional

    “Wash Day: Passing on the Legacy, Rituals, and Love of Natural Hair” – Tomesha Faxio (Clarkson Potter – Crown Publishing Group)

    Outstanding Literary Work – Poetry

    “This Is the Honey: An Anthology of Contemporary Black Poets” – Kwame Alexander (Little, Brown and Company – Hachette Book Group)

    Outstanding Literary Work – Children

    “You Can Be a Good Friend (No Matter What!): A Lil TJ Book” – Taraji P. Henson, Paul Kellam (Zonderkidz – HarperCollins Publishers)

    Outstanding Literary Work – Youth/Teens

    “Brushed Between Cultures: A YA Coming of Age Novel Set in Brooklyn, New York” – Samarra St. Hilaire (Self-Published)

    Outstanding Literary Work – Graphic Novel

    “Punk Rock Karaoke” – Bianca Xunise

    SHORT FORM

    Outstanding ShortForm Series or Special – Reality/Nonfiction/Documentary

    “The Prince of Death Row Records” (YouTube TV)

    Outstanding Short Form Documentary (Film)

    “How to Sue the Klan”

    Outstanding Short Form (Live Action)

    “Superman Doesn’t Steal”

    Outstanding Short Form (Animated)

    “Peanut Headz: Black History Toonz “Jackie Robinson” (Exhibit Treal Studios

  • I was not fired from ‘The Honest Bunch’ podcast – Nedu

    I was not fired from ‘The Honest Bunch’ podcast – Nedu

    Media personality Nedu has clarified that he was not fired from The Honest Bunch podcast, but chose to step down due to personal attacks.

    The controversy surrounding his exit stemmed from an episode featuring reality TV star Deeone, who made allegations against social media critic VeryDarkMan. 

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    At a recent press briefing in Lagos, Nedu explained that he decided to leave the podcast to protect himself from the personal attacks. 

    He emphasised that his role on the show was to facilitate tough conversations, but the personal nature of the attacks had become too much to bear.

    Nedu stated: “Let me clarify that I wasn’t fired from Honest Bunch Podcast. I decided to step away when the attacks became personal. So that the show can go on.”

  • Portable: A mix of talent and controversy

    Portable: A mix of talent and controversy

    Habeeb Okikiola Olalomi is a young Nigerian singer, who is widely referred to as Portable.

    His rise to fame was in 2021 after the release of his monster hit, Zazoo Zeh, which features famous Nigerian rapper and record label executive, Olamide.

    From his first romance with fame, Portable had displayed uncommon love and affection for both controversy and shenanigans. He goes out courting trouble and ensures his social media audience are entertained till they are drained.

    The 31-year-old singer had always strolled on the fringes of controversy and trouble, hence, it came as no surprise whenever he’s at loggerheads with his colleagues.

    Few years before grabbing stardom, he was allegedly caught stealing a tricycle popularly known as keke napep in Lagos and was stripped naked after he was beaten by an irate mob.

    While many of his colleagues will be long forgotten if ever caught in just one of his litany of controversies, yet all these controversies never deterred the Ota, Ogun-state born singer, who possesses an uncommon voice.

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    From police cells to court rooms, music booths, concert stages and nightclubs, Portable has had his fair share of controversy with almost everybody and anybody. His first manager parted ways with him over controversies bordering on allegations of reaping. His lawyers parted ways with him weeks after he took to his social media handle to heap praises on them, his benefactors regret having to deal with him, his automobile plug still laments his experience with him.

    Recently, Portable is in the news again and this time, his cup seems to be full again as he displayed the height of his maleficence traits when he called out his biological father and rained abuses on him for failing to get legal documents and government approved papers for some of his properties.

    Portable embarked on a long deal with the law when he and his men attacked officers of the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.

    According to the Ogun State Police, Portable, armed with a firearm and other dangerous weapons, led a gang of nine thugs in a violent attack on the unarmed Ogun officials sustained various bodily injuries but managed to escape and reported the incident to the Ota Area Command.

    The recalcitrant singer refused arrest and scampered out of the area until he was declared wanted by the Ogun State Police command. On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, the singer turned himself in at the SCID, Yaba and was immediately whisked to Ogun State command headquarters in Elewe Eran.

    On Thursday, February 20, 2025, barely 24 hours after he submitted himself to the Police, Portable was arraigned at the Isabo Magistrate Court in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The controversial singer was arraigned on a five-count charge, including conspiracy, assault, armed conduct, and behavior likely to cause public harm. Despite pleading not guilty, his legal counsel, Oluwatoyin Ayodele, pleaded for bail, stating that Portable had shown remorse and learned his lesson.

    Magistrate O.L. Oke granted the singer bail in the sum of N2 million with one surety in like sum. The case was adjourned to March 5 for trial.

    It is unsure what is next in line for Portable’s web of controversies and trouble but the Ogun State government doesn’t seem ready to take it likely with the singer.

  • About Dapo Peters’ journey of talent, passion, and purpose

    About Dapo Peters’ journey of talent, passion, and purpose

    Dapo Peters is a multi-talented gospel artist whose journey into the world of music began as a young drummer boy, captivated by rhythms and melodies.

    Over the years, his passion for music has evolved, leading him to work with renowned gospel artists such as Laolu Gbenjo, Tosinbee, and BJ Sax. His versatility as a musician, producer, and concert manager has shaped him into a dynamic force in the gospel music scene.

    Though he pursued a degree in Computer Science, Dapo’s heart remained deeply rooted in music. His technical background, combined with his musical training, positioned him uniquely in the industry as a music and concert producer, who played a crucial role in organizing and managing several successful gospel concerts and music productions, while helping to shape the sound of worship experiences.

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    Despite his contributions behind the scenes, Dapo knew his ultimate calling was to minister through his own voice and sound. He fully embraced gospel music, stepping into the spotlight as an artist with a message of faith, hope, and gratitude.

    His debut EP, ‘The Garden,’ introduced listeners to his soul-stirring worship and contemporary gospel sound, earning him recognition for his heartfelt compositions and powerful delivery.

    Now, as he releases his upcoming project, ‘Praise Time,’ on February 14, 2025, Dapo Peters is filled with gratitude to God. The new project is a testament to his journey, a celebration of his faith, and a call to worship for all who listen. With ‘Praise Time,’ he aims to uplift souls, inspire thanksgiving, and remind listeners of the joy found in praising God.

  • Celebrating Alex Ozone

    Celebrating Alex Ozone

    Over the past decade, a new generation of artists have influenced pop music culture and redefined Nigeria’s global image on the music scene.

    In this widely spread of afrobeats genre to the world, there’s one name that has surreptitiously been the heartbeat of its global rise, Alex Ozone, the CEO of 03 Media and a showbiz promoter. While many stars bask in the spotlight, Ozone has been working tirelessly behind the scenes, championing the genre and pushing the beats of Africa beyond its borders.

    He’s the unsung hero who has exported the infectious sounds of Afrobeats to the Western world.

    Alex Ozone has been the driving force behind some of the genre’s biggest moments, connecting African talent to international audiences with unwavering passion.

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    The show promoter has raised the profile of Afrobeats music in Europe and America. Many musicians in Nigeria and other African countries have sought ways to export their music abroad, showcase their craftsmanship, and share the melodious sounds of the genre while earning foreign exchange.

    From Olamide, to Kizz Daniel, Lil Kesh, Kcee, Terry G, Chuddy K, YQ, Jaywon, Oritsefemi, Skales, Tekno, Patoranking and many others, Alex Ozone have supported them in one way or the other.

    In an industry where the business of music and generating revenue are key to developing the music industry, Alex Ozone, who hails from Ebonyi State, has honed his craft and engineered a system where tested and trusted musicians from this part of the world and beyond can showcase their music abroad, where music is taken seriously and high revenue is generated.

    As Afrobeats dominates charts and playlists, Alex Ozone, though often overlooked, deserves recognition as one of the greatest promoters of African music to ever grace the global stage.

  • Trace Awards goes to Zanzibar

    Trace Awards goes to Zanzibar

    Zanzibar, Tanzania, will play host to the second edition of the Trace Awards set to take place at The Mora, on February 26, 2025.

    Ahead of the event, a nominee reception press conference was held in Lagos, bringing together key industry figures, nominees and representatives of the show sponsors to discuss expectations for the upcoming awards ceremony.

    Among those in attendance were Sam Onyemelukwe, Managing Director of Trace West Africa, DJ Neptune, TG Omori, Kemi Longe, and Adefemi Adeniran, director of corporate communications and CSR, Airtel Nigeria

    Speaking at the event, Sam Onyemelukwe emphasized the significance of the Trace Awards in championing African music.

    “For me, the Trace Awards is personal. We worked on it for many years before the first edition last year. The reason it was so important for Trace to create this award is because the culture that started from the streets of Lagos has now gone global. We have been a key part of the Afrobeats and Amapiano movements, and we couldn’t just sit back and let outsiders take ownership of our culture. We had to stand up for Africa.”

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    Addressing the decision to host the awards outside Nigeria, Onyemelukwe explained: “We want to bring the continent together while showcasing Africa’s beauty. Zanzibar is an incredible destination, and this year’s show will be an entirely different experience. Unlike last year’s arena-style setup, this time we are taking the event to the beach, offering an unforgettable visual spectacle.”

    DJ Neptune expressed his excitement about this year’s event, particularly the recognition of DJs.

    “Kudos to Trace for acknowledging DJs this year. I’m looking forward to the awards in Zanzibar—it’s a great destination, and hopefully, we bring it back home soon.”

    Kemi Longe highlighted Johnnie Walker’s commitment to supporting the creative economy.

    “Johnnie Walker is deeply passionate about music. Our ‘Keep Walking’ philosophy embodies progress, consistency, bold innovation, and creativity—values that align perfectly with the Trace Awards. That’s why we are proudly sponsoring two major categories: Song of the Year and Best Newcomer, celebrating the artists shaping the future of African music.”