The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • I was hospitalised while filming ‘Thinline’ – Mercy Aigbe

    I was hospitalised while filming ‘Thinline’ – Mercy Aigbe

    Actress and filmmaker Mercy Aigbe has shared a personal story about one of the challenging moments she faced while filming her latest cinema movie, Thinline.

    In a post on her Instagram page, Mercy revealed that she woke up one morning on set with severely swollen eyes, which made it impossible for her to film.

    She described the pain as excruciating and had to be hospitalised, where doctors diagnosed her with a severe infection.

    Despite the challenges she faced, Mercy expressed her gratitude to God, stating that she is still standing and will continue to push forward.

    She also thanked everyone who has watched Thinline in cinemas and appreciated the positive reviews.

    Mercy emphasised that the movie required a lot of hard work, pain, blood, and sweat, but she is proud of the final product.

    “Throwback to the set of THINLINE. I woke up one morning on set, and my eyes were like this! We couldn’t film; we had to break set, and the pain that came with this was excruciating. I was hospitalized, in fact, it was a whole lot of challenges! Doctors said it was a severe infection. It was a whole lot! A whole lot!!!!

    “It’s been an experience on this journey with THINLINE, a whole lot of challenges, a whole lot, but in all, I still GIVE GOD THE GLORY. In all these i am still standing and will keep pushing.

    “Someone actually said to me that Aunty Mercy all these challenges is it in anyway related to the Story you told in THINLINE and i said i don’t think so oh ! This movie has taken a lot of Hard Work, Pains, Blood and Sweat!

    “Big Thank You to everyone who has seen THINLINE in cinemas and i am loving the reviews so far! If you are yet to see it make it a date with this amazing movie you will love it !!!”.

  • 14 years after: Fuji stars absent at Sikiru Ayinde Barrister’s anniversary prayer

    14 years after: Fuji stars absent at Sikiru Ayinde Barrister’s anniversary prayer

    Monday, December 16, 2024, would have marked the 76th birthday of Fuji progenitor, Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. For the posthumous birth date, tributes from notable Fuji artistes were conspicuously absent despite claims that he was a leader and role model. OLAITAN GANIU writes.

    However, two major Fuji singers distinguished themselves by honouring the legacies of the late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. During his performance, Abeokuta-born Fuji genius Sefiu Alao, aka Baba Oko eulogised the late Fuji creator. On his part, Saheed Osupa announced plans for a special remembrance prayer at his upcoming show tagged, ‘Friend of Osupa: Exclusive White Agbada Party, ‘ scheduled for December 25 at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos. 

    Although, music enthusiasts and admirers commemorated Barrister’s legacy through social media posts and videos, underscoring his significant impact on the Fuji music genre. A clip of a rising Fuji songstress Yeesha Ladybarry praising the late icon gained some traction online. 

    Inspired by his artistry, a group, ‘Mr Fuji Fans Club’ also held a special prayer for the late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister in Lagos.

    Also at the late legend’s residence in Isolo, prayer session was held with family members, Muslim clerics, and a few individuals in attendance.

    Aside from the family, the only famous face sighted at the gathering was Fuji maestro, Alhaji Olawale Ishola Fatai aka Sandoka Yoboro Yobonson. It was known that the current president of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria (FUMAN), Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Agboola aka S.K. Sensation had joined the gathering and left before The Nation’s arrival.

    The Fuji Chamber’s compound was scanty and empty due to the low turnout by the reigning Fuji stars at the 14th remembrance prayer.

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    Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, also known as Alhaji Agba, passed away on December 16, 2010, at the age of 62 due to complications from diabetes. He died at St. Mary’s Hospital in London and was buried at his residence in Isolo, Lagos.

    Born in Mushin, Lagos, he began his musical journey at a young age, entertaining and awakening Muslim faithful in his neighborhood during Ramadan period in the 1960s. After leaving his job as a typist in the Nigerian Army, he pursued music full-time. According to him, he coined the term ‘Fuji’ from Mount Fuji after he travelled to Japan. 

    Barrister released his debut record in 1966 and went on to produce over 80 studio albums and live records, including ‘Bisimilahi’, ‘Iwa’, ‘Ile Aiye Dun Pupo’, ‘Love in Tokyo’, ‘Nigeria’, ‘Fuji Garbage’, ‘New Fuji Garbage’, ‘Reality’ among others

    During his career, he toured around the world, promoting Fuji music and earning numerous awards and accolades throughout his lifetime and music career. One of the most significant honour was being named a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) by the then President of Nigeria, Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo, in 2006. This recognition is believed to be largely attributed to his album “Precaution,” released in 1995, which addressed various issues facing Nigeria as a nation and proposed potential solutions to these national problems.

  • Yinka Quadri backs actors marrying one another

    Yinka Quadri backs actors marrying one another

    Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Alhaji Yinka Quadri, has shared his perspective on marriage within the Nigerian film industry.

    The revered thespian stated that there is nothing wrong if two actors find love and decide to marry each other.

    According to him, this is a common occurrence in many professions and is not exclusive to Nollywood.

    “It’s perfectly fine if actors marry each other. It’s a natural phenomenon that happens in every industry, not just ours,” Quadri remarked.

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    However, the Nollywood legend addressed allegations regarding the exploitation of young female actors in the industry.

    He dismissed rumors of senior colleagues “pimping” young actresses, insisting that such behaviour does not occur within their professional circle.

    “Where men and women are gathered, there may be mutual attractions. If two consenting adults agree to date each other what is the offense? Doctors, lawyers, Islamic and gospel singers marry each other so it’s not an offence,” he stated.

  • Woli Agba, Laolu Gbenjo, Ajele thrill at Sifax Group’s thanksgiving

    Woli Agba, Laolu Gbenjo, Ajele thrill at Sifax Group’s thanksgiving

    Top gospel entertainers led by Woli Agba, Laolu Gbejo, and MC Ajele thrilled staff and associates of Sifax group at the second edition of the annual thanksgiving event.

    The event kicked off with the Chairman of Sifax, Taiwo Afolabi, urging attendees and staff to dance out their hearts and merry for a glorious year.

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    The event, which had several clergies in attendance also had other gospel entertainers including  Beejay Sax, Abosede Akande, Adeyinka Alaseyori, Titilayo Eyinjujesu, Bidemi Olaoba, Dami Nator, Chigozie Wisdom.

    The event was held at Lagos Marriott Hotel and had the entire building locked down for the thanksgiving session, which had several dignitaries in attendance.

  • Netflix slates more releases after Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors

    Netflix slates more releases after Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors

    Following the release of Femi Adebayo’s blockbuster, ‘Seven Doors,’ Netflix is kicking off 2025 with a bang in January.

    According to a statement from the streaming platform, January will see a diverse mix of exciting titles across multiple genres.

    “Fans can look forward to new seasons of Young, Famous & African: Season 3, XO, Kitty: Season 2, The Upshaws: Part 6, and more. Get ready for a fun-filled start to 2025 with plenty of fresh content to enjoy. Start the year with a dose of romance as Love Is Blind: Germany premieres on January 3rd. This time, the experiment comes to Germany as local singles seek true love and a commitment that lasts a lifetime, all before meeting each other face-to-face,” the statement read in part.

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    The year kicks off with a kaleidoscopic journey through David Bowie’s incredible life and musical career in this acclaimed — and authorized — documentary with Moonage Daydream on January 5.

    This is followed by The Upshaws on January 9 while Ticket to Paradise and Gone in the Night

    Take centre stage on January 12.

  • Stars storm premiere of Ay’s latest film, The Waiter

    Stars storm premiere of Ay’s latest film, The Waiter

    It was a night of glamour, laughter, and fun as celebrities graced the premiere of The Waiter, the highly anticipated film by versatile actor, comedian and filmmaker, Ayo Makun aka AY.

    Held at Livespot Entertarium, Lekki, Lagos, the evening kicked off with a star-studded red carpet event, where celebrities brought their jaw-dropping outfits.

    AY arrived in style, expressing his excitement for the film’s release. 

    “I’m thrilled to share this story with the world. The Waiter is not just a comedy but as we have always done with the Akpos film series, the film has many teachable moments that we can learn from as individuals and as a country. It is a tale about resilience, humility, and finding one’s purpose in unexpected places,” AY said. 

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    Also speaking, producer of the film, Darlington Abuda described the movie as the best in the roll call of Akpos franchise yet.

    “If you have followed the Akpos movies, which has paraded some of Nollywood’s finest, you will know that we always have something up our sleeves. This time around, we have ramped up the action elements in the movie to make it more enthralling.

    “Producing ‘The Waiter’ was more than just bringing a story to life—it was about crafting an experience that resonates deeply with the audience, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll,” he said.

    The film parades top acts like Shaffy Bello, Obi Cubana, Toke Makinwa, Sushine Rosman, Regina Daniels, Ayo Maskun, May Edochie, Rahama Sadau, Deyemi Okanlawon, Williams Uchemba, and more.

  • Naija Diaspora Magazine honours Yoboro Yobonson

    Naija Diaspora Magazine honours Yoboro Yobonson

    The publisher of Naija Diaspora Magazine, Ismaila Adegbola has honoured Fuji music veteran Alhaji Olawale Ishola Fatai aka Sandoka Yoboro Yobonson for his commitment to the growth of Fuji music.

    Yobonson received an award of excellence as the ‘Ambassador of Fuji Music Worldwide’.

    The official presentation of the plaque to the Fuji maestro was held on December 16, 2024, during the 14th Year Remembrance Prayer of the Fuji creator, late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister at his Fuji Chamber, Isolo, Lagos.

    In a heartfelt acceptance speech, Yobonson expressed his appreciation to the Naija Diaspora Magazine who found him worthy of being the recipient of the prestigious award.

    “I, Alhaji Olawale Ishola Sandoka, is extremely happy for this tremendous honour which is conferred to me by Naija Diaspora Magazine. In fact, today is my joyous day,” he began.

    He added, “This award is very significant in my life as I clocked 60 years on earth few days ago. So, I give glory to Almighty Allah who makes me witness this special day in sound health. I am deeply appreciative of the recognition.

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    “Thank you for considering me worthy of such a prestigious accolade. I cannot express how much this award means to me. All I can say is thank you for believing in my ability and creativity. I dedicated this award to my leader and mentor, late Sikiru Ayinde Ololade Adeyinka Barrister (Mr Fuji) and the entire Fuji musicians worldwide.”

    On his part, the Editor-in-Chief of Naija Diaspora Magazine, Ismaila Adegbola, represented by a media expert, Ajao Ganiu Olaitan, stated that Fuji artiste was recognised for his pivotal role in preserving and elevating Fuji music, ensuring that its rich cultural heritage continues to thrive both locally and internationally.

    “This honor is a testament to your unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and commitment to the growth and global appreciation of Fuji music. Your tireless efforts to promote this vibrant genre, alongside your profound respect for its pioneer, the late Dr. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister MFR, have not gone unnoticed.Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.”

    “We look forward to celebrating your achievements and the continued evolution of Fuji music under your stewardship,” Adegbola said.

  • Fuji star showers band boys with cash gifts

    Fuji star showers band boys with cash gifts

    In the spirit of celebrating his 40 years on stage, Fuji music star Ajibola Odetola aka Pasuma has gifted 10 of his band boys with the sum of one million Naira each.

    Pasuma while presenting the cash gift said that this is in appreciation of ten members of his band who have been with him for over 30 years.

    He disclosed that these members have been with him since 1994 and he seized his 40 years on stage celebration to appreciate them for their loyalty all through the years.

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    Pasuma celebrated this milestone in his career amidst funfair with fans and well wishers at the Balmoral Hall, Ikeja.

    Notable personalities at the event include, Alhaji Kollington Ayinla, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, Saheed Osupa, Sulaiman Alao Malaika, Faithia Balogun, Lanre Teriba and a host of others.

  • Taye Currency missing in action as Pasuma, Osupa tango on stage

    Taye Currency missing in action as Pasuma, Osupa tango on stage

    Ibadan-based Fuji music singer, Taiye Currency was missing in action as Wasiu Alabi Pasuma and Saheed Osupa finally shared the stage for a duet.

    After years of rivalry and supremacy battles, the two musicians took a moment to entertained guests during Pasuma’s 40 years on stage ceremony held at the Sheraton Balmoral Hall in Ikeja, Lagos.

    The historic night turned out to be a reunion party as other Fuji artistes also joined the collaboration session. Some of the notable Fuji stars who shared the microphone together at the show include Sule Alao Malaika, Sefiu Alao, Rasheed Ayinde Merenge, Remi Aluko, Tope Nautical, and Tiri Leather.

    However, Taye Currency was nowhere to be found.

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    For decades, the rivalry between Pasuma and Osupa divided the Fuji music scene, with their fans often engaging in heated clashes, both on social media and hybrid events.

    Though the due were childhood friends, but their feud rises as fame shines on them. They dominated the Fuji music landscape for years, with both throwing lyrical jabs at each other in their songs. Their fierce competition, however, boosted record sales and show attendance, as acknowledged by Fuji music promoters and marketers.

    This newfound harmony has been celebrated as a positive step towards uniting Fuji music lovers and restoring peace to the genre’s fanbase.

  • Styl Plus to join Mayorkun, YKB, MC Lively at GOtv Boxing day

    Styl Plus to join Mayorkun, YKB, MC Lively at GOtv Boxing day

    Popular Nigerian boy band, Styl Plus will join Mayorkun and MC Lively for the 32nd edition of the GOtv boxing night.

    Flykite Productions, organizers of the GOtv Boxing Night, announced that the R&B group will perform live at the 32nd edition of the event, scheduled for December 26 at the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos.

    The night will also feature a blend of thrilling boxing action and premium entertainment, with live performances by Afrobeats stars YKB.

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    Speaking about the entertainment lineup, Bamidele Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Flykite Productions, said the inclusion of Style Plus is aimed at elevating the experience for fans. “GOtv Boxing Night is a unique mix of sport and entertainment. Adding Style Plus to the lineup ensures that attendees enjoy an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and boxing excitement,” he said.