The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • How Wizkid reclaimed his mantle in 2025

    How Wizkid reclaimed his mantle in 2025

    Afrobeats has never been louder and prouder than it is in 2025. With trailblazers including Burna Boy, Davido, Tems, Asake, Olamide, Rema, Ayra Starr and other stars expanding its reach across continents, the genre’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric.

    However, one artist,  Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, aka Wizkid, reclaimed the spotlight in a way music pundits could not have predicted. OLAITAN GANIU writes.

    In a music landscape driven by constant output, Wizkid defied the rules as he failed to release an official single and album in 2025. Yet he topped music charts worldwide through collaborations.

    The 35-year-old Grammy winner became the most-streamed Nigerian artist on Apple Music and Spotify in 2025, an achievement propelled by both long-time fans and a new generation discovering his sound.

    The winning streak doesn’t end there; 25 of Wizkid’s songs ranked among the Most Streamed Songs on Apple Music Nigeria in 2025. Similarly, his last album, ‘Morayo’, a project named after his late mother, became the most-streamed album in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa on Apple Music this year.

    Music analysts opined that such dominance from a year-old album highlights the durability of Wizkid’s artistry and its magnetic pull.

    The Starboy head honcho’s influence on other artists’ body of work fueled his unmatched success. Among the standout are ‘Cash Flow’ ft. Young Jonn, ‘Getting Paid’ ft. Sarz, Asake and Skillibeng, ‘Big Time’ ft. OdumoduBlvck, ‘Dynamite’ ft. Tyla, ‘Billionaires Club’ ft. Olamide and Darkoo, ‘Kai’ ft. Olamide.

    Others include, ‘Forever Be Mine’ ft. Gunna, ‘One Condition’ ft. DJ Tunez and Fola, ‘Money Constant’ ft. DJ Maphorisa, ‘Lighter’ ft. A7S and David Guetta.

    His latest documentary, ‘Wizkid: Long Live Lagos’ follows the Afrobeat icon from his childhood to his current world domination.

    Directed by Karam Gill, the feature-length film  is an HBO production, featured as part of their ‘Music Box’ documentary season, which also aired the stories of Juice World and DMX.

    Read Also: Groups fault US delegation’s one-sided visit to Nigeria, decry exclusion of Muslim voices

    The show highlights the world-class performance he had in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London in July 2023, where he became the first-ever African artist to sell out the venue.

    Since his breakout in 2011 with his debut album, ‘Superstar,’ the ‘Ojuelegba’ singer continues to reinvent and sharpen his talent to remain culturally grounded.

    First, he solidified his presence in the Nigerian music industry before turning his gaze to the world. His U.S. debut ‘Sounds From the Other Side’ in 2017 showcased his ambition through collaborations with Drake, Major Lazer and Ty Dolla $ign, even if it didn’t deliver the commercial explosion expected. But Wizkid never lost sight of his mission and roots.

    “I’m an African. I ride for that… If the world can pay attention to one artist from Africa, why can’t they pay attention to all?” he claimed.

    In 2021, he cemented himself as a global torchbearer for Afrobeats when he earned a Grammy Award for his effort on Beyoncé’s ‘Brown Skin Girl’.

  • AFRIMA, British High Commission partner to promote culture, creative exchange

    AFRIMA, British High Commission partner to promote culture, creative exchange

    The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) and the British High Commission in Nigeria have entered into a cultural partnership aimed at boosting creative exchange, strengthening cultural ties, and opening more international doors for African music as the 9th AFRIMA Awards is set to hold from January 7-11, 2026.

    The collaboration, formalised through a newly signed Cultural Cooperation Agreement, also affirmed that the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos would co-host the Welcome Soirée for the Nominees and Guests in Lagos, the official opening event of the 9th AFRIMA Awards Week.

    The exclusive gathering will take place on January 7, 2026 and in attendance will be AU officials, AFRIMA delegates, jury members, international guests, nominees, creatives, and media professionals for an evening of networking and cultural connection.

    Unarguably, Africa’s global music awards, the 9th AFRIMA is organised by the International Executive Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission and the Lagos State government as the Official Host City.

    Speaking of the partnership, AFRIMA’s Chief Experience Officer (CXO), Adenrele Niyi, described the collaboration as a strategic move to deepen cultural diplomacy through music.

     “This partnership reflects AFRIMA’s mission to position African music as a global force,” she said.

    “Beyond the awards, we are committed to building spaces where creativity meets opportunity and where African talent can confidently engage the world. Working with the British High Commission expands our platform for industry innovation, collaboration, and meaningful cultural exchange.”

     Niyi added that this edition of AFRIMA will place strong emphasis on strengthening global creative-industry relationships.

     “Partnerships like this show just how relevant African music has become on the world stage. We’re honoured to collaborate with such an important institution, and we believe the impact will go far beyond 2025.”

    Read Also: Nigeria, Tanzania seal strategic MoU to deepen maritime cooperation across Africa

    The agreement, signed by Gill Lever OBE, Chargé d’Affaires, British High Commission Nigeria, aligns with the UK’s ongoing support for Nigeria’s creative industries through enhanced cultural exchange and innovation. She said:

    “The UK is delighted to partner with AFRIMA to celebrate the extraordinary creativity and talent of Africa’s music industry. This collaboration reflects our commitment to strengthening cultural ties between the UK and Nigeria, and across the African continent. Our Jollof and Tea campaign has shown us the power of bringing people together through culture, and we’re excited to build on that spirit. We look forward to a week of celebration that showcases the very best of African music and opens new doors for creative exchange and collaboration.”

    Across the five-day celebration, the 9th AFRIMA will deliver a lineup of key events including the Diamond Showcase (Jan 7–8), the Africa Music Business Summit (Jan 8), Host City Tour and CSR Visit, the Music Village Concert (Jan 9), the Nominees & Industry Party (Jan 10), and the Red Carpet and Grand Awards Night (Jan 11). The awards ceremony will be broadcast live to more than 84 countries, ensuring the excitement reaches audiences around the world.

  • Why I connected with Mthembu, says Mariam

    Why I connected with Mthembu, says Mariam

    The Real Housewives of Lagos star, Mariam Timmer has revealed that she connected more with her Durban counterpart, Annie Mthembu more than any other star of the Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip.

    In a recent chat, Timmer said, “I connected immediately with Annie Mthembu from the Durban franchise. Our energy matched from the start, and we bonded both personally and on a more professional, intentional level. I also connected well with Princess Jecoco from Abuja. There was instant familiarity and ease with her. As for the ones I didn’t connect with right away… let’s just say you’ll have to watch the show to see how that story unfolds.”

    READ ALSO; Christmas: 20 nice places to visit in Nigeria

    When asked if she formed any new friendships during the trip, Mariam said, “Absolutely! I formed some beautiful new friendships on this trip, especially with the Durban ladies and Princess Jecoco. They were truly a breath of fresh air, and I connected with them in a very genuine way. I really like their energy, their openness and the way they show up for the people around them. I also formed bonds with a few others, and what made it special was that our connection went beyond the show. Outside of RUGTA, we were able to open up, share what we were dealing with in our personal lives, and really support each other. That, to me, is sisterhood and I appreciated every moment of it.”

  • Wumi Toriola: Striving for excellence and professionalism

    Wumi Toriola: Striving for excellence and professionalism

    In the Nigerian film industry, the female practitioners seem to be taking the bull by the horn and changing the narrative – especially as producers.

    Year in, year out, young female practitioners are taking up the mantle of leadership to produce films and make a killing out of the job.

    Interestingly, quite a number of the female film practitioners are not only producing films but also taking giant steps in contributing to the growth of the industry in different ways.

    Popular actress and producer, Wumi Toriola is one of these female practitioners making indelible prints on the Nigerian film scene.

    Recently, Toriola, in an unusual manner, brought together a cross section of Nollywood stakeholders as she hosted a colloquium and end-of-year soirée themed “Future of Nollywood: Challenges and Progress.”

    The event, which she also described as “The Genesis 1.0,” held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, and featured insightful conversations on standards, professionalism, and the future of the film industry.

    READ ALSO; Aregbesola’s ally, Adeoti, set to join APC

    Delivering the keynote address, Professor Mojisola Bimbo-Manuel urged practitioners to take responsibility for shaping the future of Nollywood. She noted that actors wield significant influence, often serving as role models whom children listen to more than their parents.

    Bimbo-Manuel emphasised that the industry must adopt higher entry and professional standards if it hopes to attract serious investment.

    “People will put good money into filmmaking, but the only way to access that investment is to bring out good products,” she said. “There are so many people among you that should not move with you. Your industry is suffering because standards are not enforced.”

    She questioned Nollywood’s lack of structured criteria for entry compared to academia. “Before you can become a professor in UNILAG, you must have a PhD. What is the benchmark for getting into Nollywood?” she asked.

    She also stressed that female actors do not need to dress provocatively to command respect.

    Drawing from her personal life, she added, “I’ve been married for 29 years and no one has ever settled a quarrel between my husband and me. The world expects you to be perfect, but you are not. Still, you don’t need the negative publicity you sometimes get, because you have children who may suffer for it.”

    A financial expert, Akorede Idowu, also addressed the guests, advising Nollywood creatives to prioritise their financial well-being.

    “Everything has its season. The law of diminishing returns will always set in. You won’t always have the strength to work, and younger faces will keep joining the industry. It is wise to plan ahead,” he said.

    Idowu urged practitioners to save, invest, diversify their income streams, and build an emergency fund. He also encouraged them to stay informed about tax laws that apply to their work.

    Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board, Bukola Agbaminoja, pledged continued government support for the creative sector. She noted that global stars are currently in Nigeria shooting films because they are impressed by the quality of local talent.

    She added that the state government has provided grants running into hundreds of millions to filmmakers.

    As host, Toriola charged her colleagues to uphold integrity in their work.

    “Character is different from integrity,” she said. “People judge me by how I shout in movies, but you will never hear that I got paid and failed to do my job. We must ensure we operate with integrity in everything we do.”

    The event attracted several notable guests, including Yewande Adekoya, Dolapo Oni, Bimbo Aiyeola, Regina Chukwu, Adediwura BlarkGold, Fausat Balogun (Madam Saje), Omowunmi Ajiboye, Idris Aregbe, and Opeyemi Ajayi (Managing Director of Cinemax).

    This is coming on the heels of the launch of her YouTube channel, wumitoriolatv, and success of her co-produced film in the cinema, ‘Gingerrr.’ I connected with Annie

  • Wunmi Obe, The Jide Taiwo, Olumide Iyanda to join 3rd edition of WOMA-R

    Wunmi Obe, The Jide Taiwo, Olumide Iyanda to join 3rd edition of WOMA-R

    Preparations have intensified for the Roundtable segment of the third Wale Olomu Memorial Awards and Roundtable (WOMA-R).

    The third edition is scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2025 with the theme, “Unsung Legends Who Shaped Today’s Glory.”

    The third edition, according to the organisers, brings together some of the country’s most insightful voices to examine the evolution, influence and responsibilities of entertainment journalism within Nigeria’s creative economy.

    The 2025 Roundtable will feature a distinguished panel drawn from music, media, digital culture and contemporary creative practice.

    Confirmed participants include Wunmi Obe, multi-award- winning singer, songwriter and bandleader, who also serves as Executive Director, Business Development and Innovation at Punch Nigeria Limited; Olumide Iyanda, former entertainment writer at The Punch, former Editor of Saturday Independent, Publisher of QEDng and Deputy President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers; The Jide Taiwo, writer, media executive, cultural strategist and author of K1 De Ultimate: A Legacy Secured, History Made and other works; Aralola Olamuyiwa, the notable lady talking drummer and versatile performer; broadcaster Jimi Akinniyi, popularly known as Jimi the Baldheaded Guy, a digital content executive at ScreenNolly and ex-TV producer at TVC News; and Deborah Lawal (aka Kayefi Osha) – UK-based Afro-soul singer, songwriter and storyteller.

    READ ALSO; Christmas: 20 nice places to visit in Nigeria

    The Roundtable will air live on TopRadio 90.9 FM, and will set the stage for the awards ceremony on Saturday, December 20, 2025 where three Lifetime Achievement honourees and at least five Special Recognition award recipients will be celebrated for their contributions to Nigerian entertainment.

    Organisers further revealed that the full list of Special Recognition awardees will be released early on December 20, 2025.

    Chairman of the Steering Committee and veteran broadcaster, Tokunbo Ojekunle noted that the seven-member body is working with renewed vigour to deliver a deeply reflective and inspiring edition that honours the legacy of the late Adéwálé Olomu, whose pioneering work in entertainment journalism remains a touchstone for the industry.

  • Wande Coal, Zlatan, Shoday, DJ Neptune to ignite Goldberg’s Golden Xmas concert in Ibadan

    Wande Coal, Zlatan, Shoday, DJ Neptune to ignite Goldberg’s Golden Xmas concert in Ibadan

    A long list of Nigerian music stars led by Wande Coal, Zlatan, Shoday, and DJ Neptune, will ignite fun and thrills at the Nigerian Breweries Plc backed Goldberg Golden Xmas Concert. Scheduled to take place on December 13 at Polo Club, Ibadan, the announcement was made at the brand’s Legendary Christmas Press Cocktail, where the full lineup of performers was unveiled.

    Also joining the headliners are Jerry Shaffer, and Tolu Daniels – a powerful mix of Afrobeats vocalists, street-pop heavyweights, high-energy DJ and hypemen curated to deliver a night of pure December excitement.

    The 2025 edition reinforces Goldberg’s deep connection to the Southwest – its culture, its music, and its community. On the night, the Ibadan Polo Club will transform into a vibrant space where the region’s cultural identity, modern sound, and December excitement come together in one unforgettable experience.

    For decades, Nigerian Breweries has shaped the heartbeat of December in Nigeria –  fueling concerts, carnivals, nightlife, and the festive traditions that have evolved into what the world now recognises as Detty December.

    READ ALSO; Aregbesola’s ally, Adeoti, set to join APC

    As the season has grown into a N100+ billion cultural and economic force, the company’s brands have remained at the centre of the celebration, driving the energy that brings millions together.

    This year, as part of the Nigerian breweries Legendary Christmas campaign, Goldberg brand is taking that legacy further by delivering an electrifying Xmas concert in Ibadan – an experience designed to amplify the spirit of the season and deepen its connection to the Southwest.

    Speaking at the press cocktail, Sarah Agha, Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, described “Legendary Christmas” as more than a campaign, but a statement of intent. She said, “Every December, Nigeria transforms into something extraordinary. What began as a local year-end celebration has evolved into a global cultural export, a season the world now calls Detty December. Our brands have always been part of that energy. This year, we are taking it a step further by leading the charge, creating experiences across the country that capture the joy, creativity, and togetherness that make this season special.”

    The Golden Xmas Concert is expected to draw thousands of music lovers, culture enthusiasts, and Goldberg loyalists from across the region, capturing the spirit of the season and celebrating the identity of the Southwest in its purest form.

  • NFVCB congratulates Abubakar Yakubu on emergence as AGN president

    NFVCB congratulates Abubakar Yakubu on emergence as AGN president

    The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has congratulated Abubakar Yakubu on his election as President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) at the Guild’s national convention held in Benin City, Edo State.

    In a statement signed by the Executive Director/CEO of the NFVCB, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, the Board described Yakubu’s emergence as a well-deserved recognition of his longstanding dedication, professionalism, and service to the Nigerian motion picture industry.

    Dr. Husseini noted that Yakubu’s over ten years of service as Secretary General of the Guild has equipped him with the experience and institutional knowledge required to provide effective leadership at this pivotal time.

    “The Actors Guild of Nigeria remains a critical stakeholder in the creative economy. Its stability, professionalism, and ethical grounding are vital to the overall growth and global competitiveness of our film industry,” Dr. Husseini stated.

    READ ALSO; Christmas: 20 nice places to visit in Nigeria

    He charged the newly elected President to lead efforts to reposition the Guild, re-engineer its internal structures, and strengthen its capacity to serve members more effectively. He emphasized the need for the AGN under Yakubu’s leadership to prioritise members’ welfare, enhance capacity-building initiatives, and invest in programmes that directly support professional development.

    Dr. Husseini also urged the new administration to resist the temptation of embarking on activities or projects that fall outside the core mandate of the Guild or do not contribute meaningfully to its professional objectives. He stressed that staying focused on mission-driven programmes will ensure credibility, continuity, and measurable impact.

    The NFVCB expressed confidence that Yakubu will provide purposeful leadership and reaffirmed its willingness to continue supporting the Guild in the collective effort to strengthen the Nigerian creative and entertainment sector.

  • Wale Ojo premiere’s new movie, This is not a Nollywood movie

    Wale Ojo premiere’s new movie, This is not a Nollywood movie

    If you think you have seen actor Wale Ojo in all his elements, then you need to look out for and watch his newest movie, ‘This is not a Nollywood Movie.

    The movie, which is produced by Boma Akpore, premiered recently at iMax Cinemas, Lekki with movie buffs and enthusiasts equally turning out in show-stopping outfits.

    Shot in Nnewi, Southeast Nigeria and Lagos, the movie, which features Samuel Animashaun Perry aka Brother Shaggi, Bimbo Akintola, Chidi Mokeme, Hanks Anuku, and a host of other fast rising acts, showcased Ojo’s talent in comedy.

    Known for his role in movies like ‘Breath of Life, ‘The man died’ and several other blockbusters, Ojo toes a totally different path in ‘This is not a Nollywood movie’, evoking lots of excitement and laughter all through.

    For a man often described as a British Nigerian actor, Ojo in this funny, fast, furious and breath-taking movie underlined the fact that he may have imbibed the British culture; but he is also very well grounded in Nigeria’s culture and pidgin English.

    READ ALSO; Aregbesola’s ally, Adeoti, set to join APC

    The film tells the story of a struggling actor who, in company of his bosom friend, gave up everything in his Nnewi village to come to Lagos armed only with faith, having dreamt of being honoured with an international award, to shoot an award-winning movie.

    On arriving Lagos, things moved so fast that he could hardly recognise himself.

    Speaking just before the premiere, Ojo said: “Today’s event is going to be a landmark in the scale of Nigerian movies. ‘This is not a Nollywood movie’ is something that I have devised and I hope the audience are going to love it. It is full of laughter and action and I want people to come into the theatre and have a good time.

    “There is going to be a lot of the unexpected in the film; a lot of things that you’ve never seen in any other Nigerian film, and I just hope it builds up the level of what we have right now.”

    Of the challenges, he said: “There were a few challenges, but we got over them. But that was because we were trying to do a lot of stuff that had not been done before. So it’s a lot of hardwork. Overall, it was fun producing the film. I believe I gathered together a very good cast, so I’m just excited. I want people to enjoy and criticise it, and see if they love it.”

    And of the message, Ojo had this to say: “The message in this movie is that we should hold on to our own very strongly, very positively. We’re in very difficult times, and we as artists are the cultural leaders; we are the conscious warriors of a nation, and we have to build the spirit of our nation. And I think the movie does that in a great way. Right now, we should be a Country of Particular Entertainment.”

    Budget? “Very expensive”, he said. “I can’t give you a figure but it is very expensive. Even the promotion!”

  • Shakara Festival: Brymo, Johnny Drille to lead four day festival

    Shakara Festival: Brymo, Johnny Drille to lead four day festival

    Organisers of the Shakara Festival, have announced Brymo and Johnny Drille as two of the leading headliners of the four day event scheduled to kick off on Thursday, December 18, 2025 till Sunday, December 21, 2025 at the Nautica Beach Resort, Elegushi, Lekki, Lagos.

    In a recent chat with the organisers, it was revealed that Shakara Festival is poised to be Nigeria’s premier cultural and music experience billed to take place annually as one of the activities of the widely acclaimed Detty December in Lagos, Nigeria.

    During the chat with The Nation, the organisers also confirmed an electrifying “Shakara After Dark” takeover, which is in collaboration with DJ Obi’s Obi House party. The renowned nightlife brand, Obi’s House, will take over the late-night stage on December 20th, promising the ultimate rave experience. Obi’s House will bring its A-team of heavy-hitting DJs, including DJ Shawn, and Bonamax, to keep the party pulsating after the main stage concludes.

    Read Also: Lagos pop-culture commentator, Belove Olocha steps into global spotlight

    The festival’s musical curation showcases a powerful blend of established legends, Alté icons, and the fastest-rising stars in Afrobeats, Alternative, and Highlife music, guaranteeing a diverse and unforgettable sonic journey.

    Other artists billed for the event include BlaqBonez, Show Dem Camp, J’Dess, Mich Straw, Mavo, Llona, Tar1q, and Morravey, The Cavemen, Oshamo and Keys The Prince.

    The festival will climax on Sunday, December 21, with Shakara Gospel Day, an entire day dedicated to high-energy praise and worship featuring some of the biggest names in Nigerian Gospel music.

    The day will feature performances by Gbenga Akinfenwa, SMJ, Yinka Alaseyori, Bidemi Olaoba, Sinach, Kingdom, Magpsalms, Ada Ehi, and Gerald Bishung, offering a perfect, uplifting conclusion to the four-day cultural celebration.

    Shakara Festival is a comprehensive cultural experience built around four key zones: Shakara Junction, an ultimate marketplace for culture and commerce; Shakara Series, featuring deep-dive conversations and panels on the music industry and creative economy; Shakara Games Village, a dedicated space for competitive and casual gaming; and Shakara After Dark, the premier late-night party experience.

  • Olómú Festival gains strong backing

    Olómú Festival gains strong backing

    Coordinator of the Olómú Festival, Olori Ololade Oshin, has announced that traditional rulers, community leaders, and local institutions have endorsed the Olómú Festival scheduled to hold in Ito Omu, confirming its maiden 2026 edition as a major eco-cultural celebration.

    The Olómú Festival is positioned to strengthen environmental awareness, cultural preservation, and sustainable development across the Epe Division of Lagos State.

    Olori Oshin, who also doubles as the Iyalaje of Ito-Omu Kingdom, explained that the organisers intend to use the festival as a cornerstone for broader community growth. She revealed that Ito Omu plans to build a tourist village on its vast land, an initiative designed to elevate the festival’s profile and attract both local and foreign visitors.

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    She added that the community intends to expand agricultural cultivation to improve its contribution to food supply in Nigeria, while also advancing its fishing sector and harnessing the economic potential of its rich palm resources.

    She stressed that achieving these ambitions will require committed support from both government institutions and private sector partners.

    The coordinator noted that Ito Omu’s cultural heritage, natural wetlands, forested landscapes, and interconnected creek networks provide a compelling foundation for the festival.

    She stated that the Lagos State Government, the Lagos State Waterways Authority, Epe Local Government, and the region’s revered monarchs have already offered strong backing.

    His Royal Majesty Oba Kamorudeen Animashaun, Oloja of Epe; Oba Taiwo Yusuff Gbadamosi, Onitoomu of Ito Omu and Oba Nurudeen Ebudola Alugbin, Oniladaba of Ladaba, all described the festival as an important driver of cultural revival and sustainable tourism.

    A lively boat regatta added colour to the announcement, giving attendees a vibrant preview of the festival’s cultural energy and community spirit.