The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Jagun Jagun, The Weekend win big at 20th edition of AMAA

    Jagun Jagun, The Weekend win big at 20th edition of AMAA

    Femi Adebayo’s Jagun Jagun and Daniel Oriahi’s The Weekend are some of the films that won at least three awards at the 20th edition of the Africa Movie Academy Awards.

    Jagun Jagun scooped two awards in achievement in visual effect and achievement in make-up categories while Femi Adebayo’s role in the same film won him the best actor in a supporting role category.

    In the same vein, Oriahi’s The Weekend won four awards in categories, including Best Film, NFVCB award for Best Nigerian Film, Achievement in screenplay, and achievement in cinematography.

    The 20th edition of the continental film awards, Africa Movie Academy Awards, AMAA, held to a fully packed venue on Saturday.

    Read Also: Davido excited after voting first time in US

    The board of the Africa Film Academy (AFA), the organisers of AMAA, held the 2024 edition amid pomp and glee at the Balmoral Convention Centre at Ikeja, GRA.

    The five-hour-long ceremony was co-produced by Kingsley James, and Raymond Anyiam-Osigwe in Lagos.

    With over 700 guests from various parts of Africa, 26 awards were won by African film practitioners that included actors, cinematographers, producers, costumiers, set designers and more.

  • Ayefele clarifies interview with former assassin

    Ayefele clarifies interview with former assassin

    Popular gospel musician and radio broadcaster, Dr. Yinka Ayefele, has responded to the public outcry over his recent radio interview with an alleged former assassin turned evangelist. The interview, which featured a man claiming to have used over 80 individuals in ritual practices, stirred controversy as listeners urged Ayefele to reveal the guest’s identity and report him to the authorities.

    The Tungba gospel artist faced backlash, with critics accusing him of concealing the identity of a self-confessed former killer. However, Ayefele clarified his position in a phone conversation with viral media personality, Yinka TNT, explaining that he had adhered strictly to the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) guidelines by keeping his guest’s identity confidential.

    Read Also: Many married women s3xually dissatisfied – Eva Alordiah

    According to Ayefele, he sought consent from the guest, who preferred to remain anonymous, a decision in line with broadcasting protocols. “The NBC code includes NTBB (Not to be Broadcast) guidelines, and since social media platforms like Facebook entered the scene, we always ask guests if they want their faces shown online. The final decision is theirs,” he explained.

    Ayefele further revealed that the guest, who has since reformed, served time in prison before becoming an evangelist. “The individual isn’t a traditional priest but a former assassin. He confessed to having participated in armed robberies along the Osogbo expressway and has been imprisoned eleven times. During the interview, I asked if he was prepared to face arrest, and he said he was, as he had already served his term and the offences weren’t new,” Ayefele noted.

  • Snow D celebrates dream for success with Money

    Snow D celebrates dream for success with Money

    Nigerian artist Aghedo Osakpolor aka Snow D is back in the spotlight with the release of his new single, Money.

    The song is produced by Push Push and captures Snow D’s reflections on ambition, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of success.

    Snow D, originally from Benin in Edo State, first made waves with his debut single, Life in the Ghetto, which offered a raw, authentic glimpse into the struggles faced in Nigeria’s underprivileged communities.

    With the accompanying music video, Snow D showcased not only his talent but his passion for storytelling, drawing attention to the harsh realities of life many face.

    Read Also: Davido excited after voting first time in US

    “Life in the Ghetto was personal to me,” Snow D explained. “Growing up, I saw a lot of struggle around me, and I wanted my first song to reflect the resilience of people who live in those tough environments. I wanted to give them a voice, a way to feel seen and understood.”

    Now, with Money, he said: “This song is for everyone out there working hard, day and night, to change their story,” he shared. “Money represents more than just wealth; it’s a symbol of the dreams and opportunities we’re all chasing. I wanted this song to feel like an anthem for everyone who’s grinding and putting in the effort to reach their goals.

    “I know what it feels like to dream big and push through challenges,” he said. “Money is a reminder that no matter where you start, you can achieve what you set your mind to if you keep moving forward.”

  • Bodex social media hangout to hold 5th edition Dec 7

    Bodex social media hangout to hold 5th edition Dec 7

    Organisers of the Bodex Social media Hangout (BSMH) have announced plans for the fifth edition to be held on December 7.

    The annual event, which is themed Social Media: The Influence, Power And Impact, is billed to be held at the Landmark Event Center, Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    In a chat with the convener Bodex Hungbo, she said the festival was free and requires no registration.

    Read Also: Many married women s3xually dissatisfied – Eva Alordiah

    Reflecting on this momentous milestone, Hungbo stated: “This year’s edition celebrates the growth and resilience of our community. After six years of dedicated effort – excluding our COVID hiatus – we are thrilled to offer this milestone experience to everyone who has been a part of our journey.”

    For the 2024 edition, Hungbo said, BSMH will deliver an unmatched blend of knowledge sharing, networking, awards, and entertainment. Some of the activities lined up for the event include live musical and dance performances, red carpet extravaganza, games and fun activities, exclusive food and drinks

    Expected to lead dignitaries to the event is the executive Governor of Lagos, Babatunde Olusola Sanwo-Olu.

  • Joseph Benjamin returns with Style Magnate

    Joseph Benjamin returns with Style Magnate

    Actor and television personality Joseph Benjamin is back on the entertainment scene as the host of Style Magnate.

    Benjamin returned to the scene to host the fashion reality TV show from Showmax to transform the local fashion landscape.

    Known for his roles in Tango With Me, Mr. and Mrs. amidst other shows, Benjamin has built a career around highlighting African talent.

    With Style Magnate, he’s taking on a role that aligns perfectly with his vision of nurturing homegrown creativity in an industry he believes is ready for global recognition.

    “When they approached me with the idea for the show, I saw that it was something fresh and new, and it actually speaks to fashion and what we represent in Nigeria,” the famed MTN project Fame host shared with The Nation.

    Read Also: Davido excited after voting first time in US

    “I thought this is a great platform for us to showcase what we have, especially as the fashion industry worldwide is booming. It felt like the perfect time to dive into this in a big way.”

    Style Magnate is a high stakes fashion and design competition featuring 20 emerging designers who were carefully selected through a rigorous audition process. The 20 designers are vying for a prize package worth 100 million Naira, which includes a 10 million Naira cash award, a three-month internship with a top fashion brand, a one-bedroom loft apartment, and the prestigious title of The Style Magnate.

    “I believe Style Magnate will serve as an entry point for designers who might not otherwise have access to the spotlight,” the multi-talented host explained.

    The show, which has drawn comparisons to Benjamin’s previous work on Project Fame, aims to fill a gap in the fashion industry. Like the music reality shows that have launched the careers of Nigerian musicians, Style Magnate gives designers a platform to reach a broader audience.

    “It’s fresh, it’s the first of its kind,” Benjamin said.

    “Fashion is an untapped goldmine here in Nigeria and across Africa. I think we’ve barely scratched the surface of the potential we have.”

    Returning to the Nigerian entertainment scene as the host of Style Magnate feels like a full-circle moment for the entertainer.

    Having made his own name on Project Fame, he’s excited to pass on that legacy by inspiring a new generation of fashion talent. “This show is a great opportunity for budding designers to showcase their creativity to the world,” he said.

  • Florence Okonkwo spotlights African cuisines in 54 Flavours of Africa

    Florence Okonkwo spotlights African cuisines in 54 Flavours of Africa

    Nollywood actress, film producer, and entrepreneur Florence Okonkwo is set to launch the African cookbook, 54 Flavours of Africa.

    The book will be unveiled on Friday, November 8, at a star-studded event at Odeon Cinema, Greenwich, London.

    According to the author, the cookbook offers a glimpse into Okonkwo’s rich and personal culinary journey, revealing a passion for African cuisine that stems from her travels and explorations across the continent. It also features over 100 diverse recipes, taking readers on a gastronomic tour of Africa, from the savoury Jollof rice of West Africa to the aromatic tagines of North Africa, the bold curries of East Africa, and the mouthwatering grills of Southern Africa.

    Read Also: Many married women s3xually dissatisfied – Eva Alordiah

    Okonkwo said: “This cookbook is a vibrant celebration of Africa’s rich culinary heritage, showcasing the heart and soul of our food. It’s more than just a collection of recipes – it’s a story of culture, diversity, and the flavours that define our beautiful continent. You will find everything from the fiery jollof rice of West Africa to the fragrant tagines of North Africa, the comforting curries of East Africa, and the smoky grills of Southern Africa. I’ve included not only traditional dishes but also modern twists and fusion recipes that reflect Africa’s evolving culinary landscape.”

    Don Mark Okonkwo, Lead Editor and Publishing Partner at Elegantflix Limited, described 54 Flavours of Africa as a project designed to bring the essence of Africa straight to kitchens worldwide, connecting people to African culture regardless of their location or background.

  • Oborevwori, others to grace premiere of Decade Boy

    Oborevwori, others to grace premiere of Decade Boy

    Ogwashi-Uku, the headquarters of Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, will be agog as it hosts Delta State’s Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and others for the public presentation of Decade Boy, a movie which chronicles the story of how idle young persons are lured into hard drug addiction.

    Among other guests scheduled to grace the event are Prince Ned Nwoko, Rt. Hon. EmomoTimi Guwor, Hon. Chief Isaac Anwuzia and the chief host and council chairman, Pastor Jude Chukwunwike.

    The event, which is scheduled for Friday, November 8, 2024, at the event centre in the town at 2:00 pm will take place under the chairmanship of business mogul, Chief A.C Okocha; with the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Princess Pat Ajudua as the mother of the day.

    Read Also: Davido excited after voting first time in US

    A statement by the producer of the movie, Vincent Mordi, indicates that the movie was born out of his personal experience when he encountered the devil called drug. The producer said a formal launching of a nationwide silent war campaign against drug abuse and drug addiction will commence on the day of the launching.

    The producer has enjoined governments at all levels to curb the growing menace of drug abuse among Nigerian youths through education, particularly the establishment of skills acquisition centres in all the 774 local government areas.

  • VASA releases five-track EP ‘Book of Vasa Pt. 2’

    VASA releases five-track EP ‘Book of Vasa Pt. 2’

    Afrobeat artiste VASA (Freedom Ali) has released the highly-awaited project ‘Book of Vasa Pt. 2,’ a five-track sequel to his acclaimed ‘Book of Vasa Pt. 1’.

    This new EP, featuring dynamic collaborations with Jaywillz and Nyola, delves even deeper into VASA’s distinct narrative of love, growth and personal evolution, pushing boundaries with soulful melodies and vibrant Afrobeat rhythms.

    Released in June 2024, ‘Book of Vasa Pt. 1’ first introduced fans to VASA’s captivating sound and complex storytelling with the track, Trabaye featuring Crayon from Mavin Records quickly gaining widespread attention and sparking fan excitement. 

    ‘Book of Vasa Pt. 2’ picks up where its predecessor left off, taking listeners on an expansive journey that explores love, introspection, and life’s evolving stages with even greater depth and creativity.

    VASA described this latest project as a continuation of his musical evolution: 

    “This EP represents the next chapter in my story. With each song, I aim to show how love changes us and how we grow from our past experiences. 

    “This chapter feels especially close to my heart, and I can’t wait for listeners to feel that connection,” he stated. 

    ‘Book of Vasa Pt. 2’ is crafted to resonate universally while rooted in the rich sounds of Afrobeat, further establishing VASA’s voice in the Nigerian and international music scenes. 

    The EP delivers a seamless fusion of soulful grooves, reflective lyrics, and innovative beats with standout contributions from Jaywillz and Nyola adding fresh perspectives and emotional depth to the project.

  • Zaaki Azzay hosts inaugural ‘True Nigerian Party’

    Zaaki Azzay hosts inaugural ‘True Nigerian Party’

    The celebrated TV show, ‘True Nigerians — heroes of our time’ known for highlighting Nigerians who embody true patriotism and exemplary qualities, has now taken its message live with the inaugural edition of The True Nigerian Party.

    Hosted by Zaaki Azzay, the event took place at the Lafia City Hall in Nasarawa State, blending cultural pride with a strong message of hope and unity for Nigerian youth.

    “True Nigerians (heroes of our time) is a TV programme where we celebrate Nigerians who are role models and worth emulating. It airs on nine major TV stations and has been running for fifteen years, with the awards segment active for ten years now.

    The show’s widespread popularity has created a dedicated viewership, especially among young Nigerians who actively participate in the awards through viewership and voting”, Azzay said.

    On the motivation behind The True Nigerian Party, the veteran artiste said “Understanding that Nigeria’s population is predominantly youth-driven, we decided to launch the True Nigerian Party to celebrate Nigeria, encourage patriotism, and counter the ‘Japa’ trend. Our goal is to discourage young Nigerians from turning to drugs and crime, even in tough times. This event is meant to inspire hope, encouraging them to make choices that won’t waste their lives.”

    Read Also: The world now respects Africans – Davido

    The support from the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, was instrumental in bringing the event to life. “When we discussed hosting this event, the governor himself invited us to Nasarawa, offering security, the venue, and ongoing support from the planning stages, A visionary leader, he saw the importance of hosting it in Lafia, providing the youth in his state with a platform for networking and education on the dangers of crime and drugs. His support truly enabled this impactful event, as he attended in person along with his deputy.”

    The True Nigerian Party brought together over 3,500 enthusiastic youths for a lively celebration of patriotism and resilience, showcasing electrifying performances by artists like Ruggedman, Magnito, and Zaaki himself.

  • Victor Osuagwu says Charles Awurum is in Canada on vacation

    Victor Osuagwu says Charles Awurum is in Canada on vacation

    After a video of top comic actor Charles Awurum in Canada surfaced, rumours began flying around that he had relocated.

    Debunking the claims and quickly nipping it in the bud, Awurum’s close friend and colleague, Victor Osuagwu disclosed that Awurum is in Canada for vacation.

    Read Also: Foundation tasks Lagos market women, men on environmental cleanliness

    He revealed that Awurum had simply taken a break from his busy schedule.

    “He went on vacation, not that he ran away,” Osuagwu explained. “As soon as he’s done with his holiday, he will return to the country to continue with his lined-up projects.”