The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • MTN screens Deafening Silence to a selected audience

    MTN screens Deafening Silence to a selected audience

    The management of MTN Nigeria recently hosted an exclusive screening of the film ‘Deafening Silence.’

    The screening, which was held in December 10, 2024, at MTN rooftop event center in Lagos, qas part of the telco’s  commitment to the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

    The event also aimed at fostering awareness and drive conversations about gender-based violence (GBV) among its workforce, emphasising the company’s dedication to addressing societal issues that affect women across different communities in Nigeria.

    The compelling 90-minute drama, Deafening Silence is a joint EU-UN Spotlight Initiative in collaboration with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Foundation for Resilient Empowerment and Development (FRED). The movie explores the harsh realities of GBV through the story of different women and girls. Produced by Emem Isong and directed by Biodun Stephen, the film features an ensemble cast of acclaimed actors, including Kate Henshaw, Chidi Mokeme, Bimbo Akintola, Femi Jacobs, and Toni Tones. Since its premiere in June 2024, the film has received acclaim for its ability to shed light on the physical, emotional, and systemic abuses faced by women and girls.

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    The screening aligns with the broader objectives of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, a global initiative aimed at eradicating violence against women and girls. Launched in 1991 during the inaugural Women’s Global Leadership Institute, the campaign begins annually on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and concludes on December 10, which is the Human Rights Day.

    Speaking at the event, Temilade Olabanji, Senior Manager, Sustainability and Shared Value, MTN Nigeria, stressed the importance of collective action. “Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue; it’s a human rights issue that requires all of us to act. As we watch this movie, let it spark conversations, educate us, and inspire us to speak up for a world free of discrimination, fear, and violence against women,” she remarked.

  • Keke Ogungbe blocked my interview, says Kelly Hansome

    Keke Ogungbe blocked my interview, says Kelly Hansome

    Former recording artist with Kennis Music, Kelly Hansome, has alleged that Kenny Ogungbe, prevented his interviews from being aired during their long standing rift.

    The singer made this revelation during a social media interview with media personality, Daddy Freeze, where he expressed frustration over the challenges he faced during that period.

    “I did a lot of interviews that they didn’t let come out. Baba Keke blocked my interviews. I had people call me and threaten me; I had people call me when I did my show in London. It’s like bullying me,” Kelly Hansome said.

    Read Also: Ubi Franklin hails Tinubu’s New Year speech

    Reflecting on his experiences, the singer questioned the reasons behind the treatment he received. “Right now, I dey look myself like I be small pikin. I’m thinking, did I sleep with anybody’s wife? No. Did I chop one money? No. What is the thing that I’ve done that is unforgivable?” he added.

    Kelly Hansome also revealed that he turned down a potential deal with Columbia Records due to fears of contractual disputes. “Columbia Records called me that they wanted to start signing Nigerian artists and I’ll be writing songs for them, but I was scared. I didn’t want anything with a big label to start debating the ownership of my songs,” he explained.

    The accusations shed light on the challenges the singer faced in his career, particularly during his fallout with Kennis Music.

  • Wonder Dayo Kujore’s son, Doyin releases new album

    Wonder Dayo Kujore’s son, Doyin releases new album

    Doyin Kujore aka Arenibala Solace, one of the sons of the late Juju maestro Wonder Dayo Kujore, has released a new album entitled ‘Soko music Incarnation.’

    The album, according to Arenibala Solace and leader of the Reformed Soko Exponent Int’l Band, is to show his dexterity in the area of juju music and to up the beat from that of his late dad.

    “It is not  just a song but a great song that will lift your soul, warm your heart and make you feel good.”

    He said that ‘SokoMusic Incarnation,’ which was released and launched on December 17, 2024 at K&M Events centre, Lagos in the presence of top musicians like General Kolinton Ayinla, Asiwaju Dele Taiwo, Alhaji Fancy Aye Alamu, King Segun Blessing, Ludare Olateju and others is available.

    Read Also: Ubi Franklin hails Tinubu’s New Year speech

    The leader of reformed Soko music added that he decided to release a full album due to the success of a single titled ‘Obanibasiri.’

    He also confirmed that Soko music is still alive after the death of my dad who is the Soko music creator.

    Wonder Doyin Kujore started music at a tender  age in  church choir  but started playing Juju music in 1996 with the  influence of his late dad.

    He officially launched his band in 2000 after studying  accounting at the Lagos State Polytechnic, now Lagos State University of Technology, Lagos.

  • Echoes of Hype & Bantz rages on

    Echoes of Hype & Bantz rages on

    After so much anticipation and preparations for the festive season, Christmas and New Year celebrations may have come, and at the moment, negotiating to make way for another season of endeavor to manifest.

    However, many are still basking in the euphoria of all the pleasant moments that were savored during the yuletide, one of which was the hosting of one of the entertainment events that defined the yuletide as well as added spice to it for Lagosians.

    Akan Friday Ekanem’s event and entertainment outfit, AKStreetz, staged an entertainment show for the season that was tagged ‘Hype & Bantz.’

    Read Also; ‘Wike too busy to respond to Rivers opportunistic elders’

    The event, which was held at Baracuda beach, Ajah, was a fun-filled and outstanding one, and with all the arrangements properly executed,  ‘Hype & Bantz’ didn’t fall below expectations as thousands of fun seekers were duly compensated for their time and resources.

    Backed by Airtel and Best Premium Spirit, the event had superlative performances from DJ Embassy, DJ Soul, DJ Preppy, hype men like Excel, July, and Aksmuth.

  • Musawa secures funding for filmmakers

    Musawa secures funding for filmmakers

    The Honourable Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, has secured a $200 million financing facility.

    According to the ministry, the funding was secured with the African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim Bank) to support the growth of the country’s creative industry.

    The Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board, Dr Shaibu Husseini, has urged filmmakers to take the opportunity of the funding in 2025.

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    Husseini urged stakeholders to access the funding by securing grants for their productions.

    He also advocated for a deliberate collaboration and capacity building to close the gap between Nollywood and other major film climes. “To compete with international film industries, there is the need for collaboration among Nigerian producers,” he stressed.

    He cited the example of the Nollywood film ‘The Wedding Party,’ which was produced by four major production companies.

    The Executive Director also stated that the Year 2025 would see improved funding mechanisms for stakeholders, greater collaborations with streaming platforms, increased number of cinemas and training programmes for youths interested in film production.

  • Obesere to thrill fans at Equal Right Restaurant on Jan 2

    Obesere to thrill fans at Equal Right Restaurant on Jan 2

    Nigerian Fuji artist, Akande Abass Obesere is set to thrill fans at the Equal Right Restaurant’s End of the Year Party billed for January 2, 2024.

    In a bid to celebrate loyal customers and usher in the new year with great fanfare, management of Equal Right Restaurant and Bar is set to host a grand End of the Year Party with the Fuji star on bandstand.

    Read Also: 2025: Pivotal year for Tinubu, Nigeria

    Known for his dynamic stage presence and infectious rhythms, Obesere, popularly referred to as the “Paramount King of Fuji,” is set to entertain the teeming fans and loyal customers of the restaurant. His performance is expected to be a major attraction, drawing Fuji music enthusiasts from across the region.

    Hon. Mariam Ogembe, the CEO of Equal Rights Restaurant and Bar, expressed her excitement about the upcoming event saying, “This celebration is our way of showing appreciation to our loyal customers for their continuous support, cooperation, and understanding throughout the year. We want to give back to the community that has supported us, and what better way to do that than with good music and delicious food.”

  • NFVCB boss Husseini rolls out plans for 2025

    NFVCB boss Husseini rolls out plans for 2025

    The Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Dr. Shaibu Husseini, has rolled out plans for the New Year while expressing optimism about the future of the Nigerian film industry.

    Speaking on Lagos Television’s programme ‘The Conversation,’ Dr. Husseini highlighted his plans for the board.

    The Executive Director also announced plans to establish a script writing lab to improve the skills of local writers. Dr Husseini stated that the establishment of the proposed production labs will reduce the challenges most Nigerian films face in other countries.

    According to him, the board no longer censors films, rather classifies them.This greatly puts the responsibility of the rating of the film entirely on the filmmaker, because the board classifies based on the classifiable elements in the film.

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    For instance, some Islamic countries may not allow the showing of films with certain levels of nudity in their jurisdictions. He was, however, optimistic that the establishment of the Production Labs, will enhance the skills of the filmmakers. He acknowledged that despite all these challenges, Nollywood had a remarkable year in 2024.

    Husseini also disclosed that the Hon Minister has approved a proposal from the board to grant a two-year waiver to investors interested in opening a minimum of five community cinemas. This initiative aims to increase revenue generation from the film industry and bring cinema closer to the people at an affordable rate.

    As the industry looks forward to 2025, Dr. Husseini expressed optimism about its potential for growth and global recognition. He emphasised the need for skilled professionals in different aspects of film production and encouraged stakeholders to take advantage of the government’s interventions and the NFVCB’s initiatives to develop the industry.

    Dr. Husseini further identified funding, poor production quality, and censorship restrictions as major challenges facing the industry. However, he expressed confidence that these challenges would be addressed in 2025.

  • Annastacia Ubah wins 10th Face of Ajegunle Beauty pageant

    Annastacia Ubah wins 10th Face of Ajegunle Beauty pageant

    Annastacia Ubah emerged victorious at the 10th Face of Ajegunle beauty contest, which was held recently.

    Annastacia edged out 11 other contestants to claim the N500,000 grand prize and adorn the coveted crown.

    The pageant’s founder, Lucy Akaedu said the event theme, ‘The Tenversary,’ is a reflection of FOA’s 10 years commitment to improving and transforming the lives of young girls in communities across Ajegunle since 2014.

    Read Also: 2025: Pivotal year for Tinubu, Nigeria

    “The brand FOA has groomed and raised over 3000 girls through pageantry, skills acquisition, leadership training, community development training, seminars and empowerment.

    A decade ago, we embarked on a journey filled with dreams, aspirations, and a shared vision. We faced challenges, numerous challenges, overcame obstacles, and achieved great success through hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence,” she said.

    Music sensation, Hanno, and lots of comedians thrilled the audience at the event.

    Dignitaries at the event include Giwa Muritala Omotola-Moore, Senior Special Assistant to Lagos Governor On Technical And Vocational Education, who represented the Minister of Youth Development, Chief Obinna Nwaka, Director General, Committee of Youth On Mobilisation And Sensitisation (CYMS), Olawale Haruna Ariyo, Mrs Disu Olajumoke, Head, Tourism and Heritage,  Ajeromi Ifelodun council,  among others.

  • Ife Akinmoyo premieres biopic on grandfather, ‘OBJ Unscripted’

    Ife Akinmoyo premieres biopic on grandfather, ‘OBJ Unscripted’

    One of ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo’s granddaughters, Ife Akinmoyo, has released a documentary cum biopic on the two time president and one time Head of state.

    The documentary is entitled ‘The OBJ Unscripted’ and was premiered at the EbonyLife Studios on Ademola Adetokunbo Street, Victoria Island, Lagos on December 27, 2024.

    The young filmmaker kicked off the premiere with an interaction session that saw the ex-president meeting with selected journalists and youth thought leaders.

    The session saw Obasanjo expressing gratitude to his granddaughter as well as attendees before delving into his story and how his father convinced him to opt for education instead of farming or vehicle engineering.

    The session also became an opportunity for  youths to connect personally with the former president in what turned out to be an inspiring engagement that birthed insights and motivation to continue to pursue the Nigeria of our dreams.

    After the session, the ex-president proceeded with guests to screen the biopic.

    After the screening, guests moved to the exhibition hall where an effigy, pictures and other art works about the ex-military general and president were displayed.

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    In a conversation with Ife Akinmoyo on the biopic cum documentary, she said, “I kind of wanted people to see him as a regular man and who he is just outside of the concept of a global leader and politician everyone knows him as. So in the video, you would see him playing squash and see him being him. But you would still get to see that even when he tries to be him, all the other responsibilities of who he is still play a big role in every part of his day. I hope the documentary inspires people to push their God-given gifts and dreams.”

    Continuing, she said,  “On a normal day, I work in finance as I am a banker but this year I embarked on an exciting journey titled, OBJ Unscripted and it’s a short documentary that gives viewers a sneak peek into the life of my grandpa. My grandpa acts with a sense of urgency as for him each second counts to help humanity and everyone. He really believes in his purpose in life and that’s something everyone can draw inspiration from. So tomorrow is not promised so do everything you want to do tomorrow today.”

  • ‘I am obsessed with Jamaican culture’

    ‘I am obsessed with Jamaican culture’

    Sultry Nigerian singer, Chidozie Ugochinyere aka Fave, has revealed that there’s an unknown side of her which is very obsessed with Jamaican culture.

    Fave, whose collaboration with Davido on the hit song, ‘Kante,’ has further increased her fame worldwide, made this known in a recent interview.

    In her words, “I’m aware I don’t have that many songs out there, so people have this certain idea of me:  “Fave is this sultry singer.” But there’s also a side of me that is very attached to dancehall; very obsessed with Jamaican culture. Everything is so raw, so real. I always unintentionally or subconsciously find myself creating things that have that foundation of Jamaica or dancehall or reggaeton.”

    Read Also: 2025: Pivotal year for Tinubu, Nigeria

    The 24-year-old singer further said though she began her career singing sombre music as a result of her musical influences, she doesn’t love to stay in one genre of music.

    “I do not love to stay in one genre of music. I really love to explore. As I started to branch out in the industry, I started to tell myself to see what happens if I actually try to handle a different genre. I realised that I actually had a lot of potential in me for different genres of music. As of right now, it’s still very exciting for me. As much as I used to run away from Afrobeats before, because it was very uptempo, now I’m like, “Bring it all. You’re definitely getting to see a different side of me.”