At least, six Nigerian entertainers including Bovi, Flavour, Chike, Timi Dakolo, and Wande Coal wowed guests in Abuja as Amb. (Dr) Nana Aisha Gambo celebrated her 50th birthday.
The event, held at the Armed Forces Officers Mess, Asokoro, was a dazzling affair that showcased the celebrant’s remarkable journey and philanthropic spirit, with a reminisce of her grass-to-grace story.
The celebration was further enlivened by performances from the rave of the moment. The energetic sets kept the guests dancing and entertained throughout the night. The event was hosted by comedian Bovi and Navy Capt Folorunsho.
In a heartwarming gesture, Gambo announced that she donated two houses of two bedrooms each in the Asokoro Extension axis of Abuja to two of her most loyal staff members as a token of her appreciation for their dedication and hard work. This generous act showcased her commitment to giving back to the community and recognising the contributions of those who have supported her.
The highlight of the evening was Gambo’s heartfelt speech, where she recounted her inspiring journey from a young entrepreneur to a successful businesswoman.
She expressed her gratitude to her family, friends, and business associates for their unwavering support throughout the years.
At the climax of the event, she unveiled her newest line of business, Opera House Jewelry Nigeria Limited, a dazzling jewel in the crown of Framazaz Resources.
To address ongoing internal conflicts within PMAN’s leadership, and chart a path toward resolution and sustainable growth for the union, a meeting was held between the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) and the Registrar of Trade Unions, Mr. Folonipe Amos.
Held at the Registrar’s office in Abuja, the Registrar, who expressed disappointment that not all parties honoured the invitation to the meeting, emphasised that the goal of the meeting was to interpret the union’s constitution and ensure that all actions taken by the leadership are in line with the rules governing the association.
PMAN President, Pretty Okafor, provided a comprehensive account of events leading to the current dispute, highlighting his efforts to maintain peace within the union despite internal challenges.
He noted that despite their disagreements, he has remained committed to ensuring that PMAN’s core projects, including the PMAN House, PMAN Radio Station, and development of PMAN’s land in Abuja, continue without interruption.
Okafor further revealed that he had personally facilitated the acquisition of radio station equipment and secured international deals to advance PMAN’s interests. However, these efforts were met with opposition from some members of the NWC, leading to tensions that escalated into attempts to unseat him while he was abroad on official duties.
The Registrar reiterated that the NWC is accountable to the National Executive Council (NEC) and that the NEC, as the union’s second-highest decision- making body, has the power to override the NWC’s decisions.
He encouraged all parties to work within the framework of the PMAN constitution and assured them that disputes of this nature are to be handled by the Trade Union Dispute Act.
Okafor expressed his vision for a more unified and resourceful PMAN.
Last week Sunday will remain a memorable day for the delectable actress, Ijeoma Imoh, as she gathered family, friends, colleagues, associates, and well-wishers to celebrate her 45th birthday.
Looking radiant and beautiful, Imoh spared no expense as she feted the crowd that spilled into the street. She was everywhere, making sure everyone was well taken care of.
In her honour, Xplicit Dancers owned by David Abraham, (Toyin Abraham’s elder brother) gave a wonderful performance of their dancing dexterity as well as the MetallicBull Ridaz of which she is a member and known as Met-Flo (Metallic Fluorescent) also displayed their extraordinary biking skills to the admiration of the guests.
An excited Imoh settled for one of the 13 cakes placed on the table to cut, amidst cheers and the clicking of glasses.
Some of her colleagues present on the occasion include Ngozi Nwosu, Paul Obazele, Cossy Orjiakor, Victor Osuagwu, Songito, Musa, Nora Igbokwe, and many others.
From 1975 when Tony Akposheri began his acting career, he has remained constant as the northern star in Tinsel Town. Popularly known as ‘Zaki,’ a character he portrayed in the rested comedy sitcom, the ‘New Masquerade,’ Akposheri who somehow has managed to stay off controversies has over time witnessed the different evolution in the film industry. Now in his 60s, Akposheri, who has contributed immensely to the industry is not happy about the way veterans are being treated. He speaks with SAM ANOKAM about his career, covid, and the secret behind his scandal-free life.
What have you benefited from fame?
It is just joy. I must tell you, it is just the joy of life. If you talk about money, No. It is a joy because I love doing it, and it gives me self fulfilment. I love it when people tell me, ‘You put smiles on my face and you make me happy, congratulations.’ That’s it. Nobody has ever come to say Zaki of course you know the name Zaki, very strong during the time of ‘Masquerades.’ Till date, they still call me Zaki, especially old school, but nobody has called me to say Zaki how do you cope? How can I help you? After Zaki, the other project I went into was an MNET series where I played ‘Funto’ in ‘Eji Meji.’ Funto was another household name and people liked my character and I executed it very well.
One other thing is that I enjoy passing knowledge. Talking to the up-and-coming acts, how they should carry on, encouraging them, telling them the way it should be done. Today my family, my wife my children, have a sitcom that we are working on. When my son-in-law and my daughter who is also an actor and writer came up with the idea, we said, let us shoot a series that revolves around the family. We called it ‘Naija Dad.’ We did that, rehearsed but the money we were expecting did not come. I said there is no use waiting for money, let us do what we can, so we turned it into a skit.
Every week, I now release a skit. But then I’m still waiting for money. A friend of mine Esther Ekanem was in ‘Cockcrow at Dawn,’ and ‘Behind the Clouds,’ and advised me not to wait for money asking if I had ever seen who has come up to help veterans.
Today the skit is on YouTube. But the day that I will give glory to God is when I get a sponsor. I feel and I know I have so much to still give to my fans, and to society as regards quality comedy. When I give, I make you happy and also pass on the message. A lot of veterans are wasting away. I still remember talking to the late James Iroha (Gringory of the New Masquerade) before he died one day, he said, ‘Tony, I am wasting o, I have a lot to give but nobody is coming to help.’
When you talk about the ‘New Masquerade,’ how much were we being paid?
Today I could not come out with my car. I parked it somewhere, I took a cab. A lady sat at the back of the cab I took. She said, ‘Oga Zaki, you will pay for my fare today.’ But after a while, she said, ‘No you won’t pay because you are not making money and you did not make money in your own time, I will pay for you. I still watch you to date and young producers don’t remember people like you all the time. Don’t worry I will pay for you.’ She had to pay for me. That woman was coming from the market.
This veteran thing that you keep harping on, what should be done about it?
The government and the associations should pay royalties to us, just like what Tony Okoroji is doing with COSON. You cannot just play any music anyhow, if you play it, you pay for it. The life of these people should be taken into consideration. These people have put so much into this industry in the past, how do you honour them? You don’t honour them rather you call one small one that started yesterday and you give him OON, MFR, and all that. But in times past, these people put so much, they make you happy. They are still there. Honour them! All these posthumous awards, are they really worth it? I think the government has to do something; the organisations also have something to do. And that is where the Ministry of Information or Art and Culture comes in.
Apart from acting, what else do you do?
I am content with being an actor and filmmaker. It can take care of my responsibilities, family and be happy. That is all I do. A filmmaker has to be versatile; you produce, you direct, that can occupy your time. I do venture into farming once in a while.
What is your Football club?
It is the Super Eagles of Nigeria. Since Stationery Stores are no more, Bendel Insurance are no more, Mighty Jets no more, and Rangers International are no more. I am a typical Nigerian man, why should I be supporting foreign clubs while we have our own here? I know Super Eagles is not a club but I am looking forward to a day when we would really improve our football clubs. Everything should not just go down the drain. I support my own club, if I should venture into another one, it is Black Stars of Ghana and some other African countries’ clubs.
How did you land the role of Zakky in the ‘New Masquerade’ that gave you popularity?
I was a staff at the NTA headquarters, Lagos when our executive producer, Ambasdsador (Dr.) Peter Igho, was then the general manager of the national programme, Lagos . He thought it wise that those old programmes should be brought back. The reason they call them new. Like the ‘New Masquerade’ was on in the 70s at Aba, ‘Village Headmaster’ was on in Lagos, and ‘Samanja’ was on in the north.
He said they should revive them, they were revived. Then, I was the producer of a national programme. I was taken to Enugu to be the production manager of the ‘New Masquerade.’
While the ‘New Masquerade’ was going on, other productions like ‘Village Headmaster’ and ‘Samanja,’ were also going on. As I was the PM, a role was created by the late Peter Eneh, the role was Zakky. The role had to do with a stubborn student who was into bad activities and also a drunkard. When the role was created, the late Bolaji Daudu was the director. I went for the audition. If you are a staff member and you are working as a crew member, if a role comes out, you will be auditioned for it. I think Nkem Owoh too came for the audition. Fortunately, I was picked.
Let me tell you one thing. It is good when you are given a role, to improve on the role. The role of Zakky was created as an extra, minor in the sense that there were few lines for him. By the time we finished reading the first day, I met the director and asked if I could use my creative way to play the role. He said as long as I follow the story, good. When I was in Lagos, I spoke pidgin English. My kind of pidgin English is refined because I’m from the Warri side, Abraka. There in the office when I speak pidgin people laugh, and I make people happy even our GM then, Chief Peter Igho will invite me to entertain his guests most times by speaking my slang.
When I got home after that rehearsal, I told myself if I could make people happy with my slang and all that, why don’t I also do it on TV? On the day of recording, which was on a Monday, I used my Waffi slang, and when that programme was aired, people were happy saying there was a discovery because amongst them all, I happened to be the youngest. Chief Zebrudaya is an Igbo man, Gringory playing the role of Calabar, Jegede playing the role of Yoruba, and here is Zakky representing the Urhobo or Niger Delta with his own slang. So that minor like wakapass who was supposed to appear in one episode when it was aired, the feedback was enormous, that minor turned out to be a major role which really sold me out very well in the 80s. Then there was only one television station, NTA, which was being broadcast in Cameroon, Ghana, and some other African countries. That was how I became so popular and great in New Masquerade.
As a veteran, do you still have a role model?
I am my role model. I am not getting any younger. Someone that is going to be 70 but if I should say I have a role model; it is Clint Eastwood – the man who played the role of the Good in the movie; The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. I respect him even at over 90 years; he is still directing films and playing roles. I respect someone like that. He is one person who never had any scandal till now. He has touched so many lives and has been passing on knowledge.
You are an actor, director, and producer, but do you have any plans to produce a cinema movie?
Of course, it is money that I need to do that, I have been directing for so long. I directed the ‘New Masquerade,’ ‘Hills and Valleys,’ and other projects for NTA, and I am still in the field. Just look around, amongst all my mates, who is still presently directing or still playing roles? As old as Clint Eastwood is, he is still directing movies. They respect and regard him. Do we have that here in Nollywood? I have plans. I have lots of scripts. My daughter writes very well. All I need is money.
There is this controversy about Idris Elba playing the role of Okonkwo in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart. What is your take?
If you don’t value your thing, others will value it. I don’t have anything against it. After all, it is our own story. They are welcome. They should do it but as long as they also use us, it is a way forward. If you watch our films today, which people are actually bringing the Nigerian culture about? It is Asaba. People may be criticising them here and there, but then I also appreciate them, I don’t discourage them. And when we talk about the Nigerian culture it is one-sided. That is the Igbo because they say he who pays the piper calls the tune. They are the ones bringing out their money to shoot the films but it would be better and it is because today if you go to Benin, a lot of productions are going on not necessarily only the Benin language but I think they are also versatile like touching Delta and others. We are talking about ‘Things Fall Apart.’ I welcome the idea. They are going to use their money to finance it. It is a good story just like when you watch the ‘Lion King.’ It is purely an African story. It came out as a cartoon. It is a South African story and you watch it today. We all watched it. It is not just starting because some of the films you watch are shot in Hollywood. A lot of them are also African stories. As long as it is bringing us out the more, I welcome it. I know that the series has been shot because the executive producer then was Peter Igho when Pete Edochie played the role of Okonkwo, that was just the series. It is a good book and I welcome the idea but I am saying that it could be fun and better if they use most of us from Nigeria here or black Africa.
Is there any possibility of bringing back the ‘New Masquerade?’
We tried coming back but they said that Gen Z would not understand our English. It is quite unfortunate. Actually, Wale Adenuga tried bringing us back. We had to go to Enugu for an audition because some of us had left. Chief Zebrudaya is still alive and okay, Ovularia is gone, and we are yet to bury her. Gringory is gone, Natty is gone, Jegede is gone, Apena is gone, and Ramota is gone, so there were just a few of us remaining. Even when we had the audition, we tried as much as possible to fill them which of course Wale wanted but along the road, something went wrong that Wale had to drop it but it is only in the U.S. or London that you will see a soap opera running for like 50 or more years. In the U.S. or London, you see them upgrading and changing the people when they can no longer play the role again.
I must tell you, I just returned from Abuja where I was awarded an Ambassador of Senior Citizen of Nigeria. The person who sat next to me on the plane was asking why we haven’t brought back the ‘New Masquerade’ or something like that. He said he is old school and there are lots of old school people who have been watching us right from time. I told him to flow with the tide that things are changing. Right now, it is Gen Z time. He said a lot of them cannot also watch what these Gen Z are watching, I now said coming up with something like that would cost huge money. We need money to produce a programme. Wale Adenuga tried to bring back the ‘Village Headmaster,’ but Dejumo Lewis is late, but some of them are still around. Though it didn’t last, they are no longer shooting. If we value our things so much, we can come back. This is why I appreciate the Yorubas very well. They are shooting everything. They are bringing back the Yoruba culture and I like that. I watch a lot of Yoruba movies. If we value our things, we can come together and make it better.
Over the years, you have maintained your integrity, how have you managed to stay off scandal?
One, it’s God. Two, there is nothing like humility. What you know should not be done to you don’t do it to others. My mother warned me many years ago. She said, ‘Tony as you are going out, there are two things you must not fall into – woman and money. If you do business with a man or with your colleagues, if it is going to bring problems, leave the money, go. Think of your life first. Then woman is another thing. Don’t follow another person’s wife. Never involve yourself in any scandal!”
To crown it all is humility. When I kneel and pray to God to please bless me, what I pray for my children is what I also pray for other people’s children. What I don’t want my children to be, I don’t want others to be. I take life the way I see it. Like today, I was tempted to call somebody who was owing me. I wanted to tell him that today is one of my daughter’s birthdays and I cannot afford to do this or that for her but I thought otherwise. You see prayers matters. Listen to the lines of your prayers. Move with it. So that when you stand up from where you prayed you follow it so that God will answer you.
What is that experience in Nollywood that you will never forget?
The good thing is that I am still alive and I am functioning today. Once in a while they still call me for jobs. Most especially, God still gave me the zeal to remember lines, and acting, especially when I step on that set. When you see your mates being called for something you are not recognized for or called upon to earn that money, it is painful. It is not just by acting alone. Abroad, they pay for some special appearances but you just discover that some of these guilds, especially our guild, would not remember you when it comes to that meanwhile, this is where such veterans are supposed to be because they don’t labour so much when it comes to that as the job is not coming. There are so many things on the ground that veterans should be benefitting from. How are they being recognized? How are they being celebrated? They don’t celebrate them like I said earlier; one joy I receive again is passing knowledge to the younger ones. Charles Inojie was once having a birthday party some time ago, I was invited. He said he never believed I would come when he was giving his vote of thanks. He said I am one man he was watching when he was very young and that I am that man who goes on any set and brings himself to a level of every other actor or crew member. I said that is what keeps me on.
What project are you working on?
Regarding producing and directing films, no, but acting, yes! There is a series I am starting on the 24th, it is about 26 episodes. A lot are coming in but majorly acting.
Among the luminaries present at the 2024 Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF), one figure towered above the rest—not just in stature, but in the depth of his influence on African cinema: Richard Mofe-Damijo, affectionately known as RMD.
He is more than just a veteran actor; he is a cinematic legend whose influence has indelibly shaped Nollywood and placed African cinema firmly on the global stage. His presence at the festival was more than a celebratory appearance; it was a homage to a legacy that continues to elevate African storytelling and amplify its voice worldwide.
RMD’s journey began humbly in Warri, Nigeria, where, as a young boy, he trekked just to find a place to watch television. As he shared during a fireside chat at the festival, this is where his passion for performance was first ignited. His TV debut in 1982 set the stage for a career that would span over 30 years, pushing the boundaries of what African cinema could be.
By the late 1980s, RMD had already become one of Nollywood’s most captivating actors, with unforgettable performances in films like Out of Bounds (1997), Hostages (1997), and Diamond Ring (1998). These films not only showcased his exceptional range but also underscored his ability to breathe life into characters that reflected the rich and complex realities of African life. His body of work helped transition Nollywood from its regional origins into an international phenomenon, earning it a global audience and, eventually, a seat at the table of global cinematic conversations. The Wedding Party (2016) and King of Boys (2018) cemented his reputation as a trailblazer who has brought African stories into the global spotlight.
It’s impossible to speak about Nollywood’s meteoric rise without mentioning icons like RMD, who have been instrumental in this transformation with enthralling performances.
Beyond his roles, RMD’s voice commands respect and unusual demure in any room he enters. It’s a voice that feels like the embodiment of African cinema itself, simultaneously wise and soulful. At SVAFF, his words echoed with the authority of someone who has lived and breathed the essence of storytelling. “Films are not just entertainment,” he said. “They are a mirror to our society, showcasing the struggles, dreams, and triumphs of our people.”
It’s this deep understanding of storytelling’s role in shaping collective identity that has made RMD not just an actor but an ambassador of African narratives on the world stage.
In recent years, RMD has continued to push boundaries, as seen in his work on Castle & Castle and the critically acclaimed Black Book, where his performances have captivated audiences globally. His ability to straddle both mainstream and niche roles is a testament to his enduring versatility.
At SVAFF, there was an especially poignant moment when RMD paid tribute to his son, Tega Mofe-Damijo, drawing a beautiful parallel between his own career and the new generation of filmmakers. Much like Denzel Washington, RMD sees this passing of the baton as a symbol of continuity in African storytelling across generations. The love and pride in his voice as he spoke of Tegha was palpable, underscoring that true legacy is not just about individual success but about inspiring and nurturing future storytellers.
Despite his iconic status, RMD remains deeply grounded. He often attributes his success to the cultural wealth of Africa, saying, “I grew up understanding that storytelling is a powerful tool. It fosters empathy and understanding across cultures.” His humility and grace are evident in every aspect of his life, from his mentorship of young filmmakers to his impeccable fashion sense. Known for his timeless style, RMD’s fashion choices, much like his performances, tell stories of their own. His signature fragrance line, timeless, reflects the lasting impact he has had on both film and fashion.
In response to being honoured at the 2024 SVAFF, RMD expressed his gratitude, saying: “It’s an honour to be nominated by an organization that bridges two worlds I cherish: the innovation of Silicon Valley and the powerful storytelling of film, especially those narratives that highlight African experiences.”
In his acceptance speech, RMD delivered a powerful reflection: “Every character I play carries a piece of our collective story.”
Through his work, he has helped shape how African stories are told, perceived, and cherished worldwide.
Richard Mofe-Damijo is not just an icon; he is a guiding light for African storytellers, past, present, and future. His contributions will echo across generations as he continues to inspire, mentor, and push the boundaries of what African cinema can achieve.
With new projects on the horizon, like Phoenix Fury, and Jade Osiberu’s “Christmas in Lagos” the world can only wait in anticipation for what this legend will deliver next.
Fashionista Oluwakemi Coker has thrown open the doors of her Stylebykenyville fashion house.
The official flagship store was recently declared open in the FESTAC area of Lagos State.
The launch commences its grand entry into the key luxury market, and will offer same-day delivery across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Kwara and its environs for starters.
The fashion house, located in the heart of Festac Town, 512 road, is home to some of the best quality fittings for both male and female including children and will see it drive its sales both at the store and online on all its handles.
Coker, the brain behind StylebyKenyville, prides itself with signature designs from iconic collections carefully crafted with the young and old in mind. It’s a reflection of the House of the Lagos cosmopolitan spirit.
Ever since he veered into gospel, Selense singer John Agoha aka Agoha, has been making waves with his new found faith.
In furtherance, he has released a couple of singles among which is the popular ‘Eledumare.’
Agoha has travelled far and wide while plying his trade aside ministering in gospel concerts and shows.
As his popularity soars, Agoha will be ministering in uplifting worship songs as lead artiste at the Christlink Assembly 2024 anniversary themed: Mercy and Favour.
The event scheduled for November 12 to November 15 with a grand finale thanksgiving on November 17, at Chrstlink Assembly, Surulere, Lagos, would have as guest speakers Dr. Rev. Uche Ume and Pastor Felix Ulor while Apostle Steven Nwaokeke remains the host.
Agoha revealed that the event would definitely be a life-changing experience.
He said: “Ever since I started ministering in songs a lot of good testimonies have followed my ministries. Lives are being changed. People are delivered and saved. This one would not be different.”
The Bridge Program, launched on August 31, 2024, concluded its first cohort on October 12, 2024.
The program equipped 30 participants with vital skills across four tracks: Fashion Business Management, Fashion Business Intelligence, Apparel Production Management, and Apparel Retail and Merchandising.
Guided by 21 facilitators from Nigeria, the UK, and the US, participants gained global insights through practical lessons and field trips to KLO Fashion Manufacturing and Trax Apparel.
The program’s closing ceremony, Entrepreneurship Day, was held at Admire Wardrobe in Lagos, where participants presented case studies offering innovative business solutions.
Judges included: Rhoda Aguonigho, (Founder, Lhaude Africa); Bernice Asein, (founder, Fashion Law Institute); Chioma Ukpabi, (Co-founder, SUWK Technologies); Ezeoke Okechukwu, (founder, KLO Fashion Manufacturing); Professor Adebisi, Director of Entrepreneurship and Skills Development Centre, University of Lagos, was also in attendance, highlighting the importance of sustainable fashion businesses.
Fast rising artist Raheem Moses Oluwaseun aka Troms has unveiled his latest single entitled ‘Starlight.’
The mid-tempo Afrobeats tune peels back the layers of romance, exploring its thrills, complications, and subtle nuances.
On ‘Starlight,’ Troms delivers an intricate weave of lush percussions and gentle guitar riffs, crafting a track that transcends typical Afrobeats. It’s a tale of connection and vulnerability, where Troms’ lyricism shines, as his vocals glides through effortlessly, pulling listeners into the warmth of a late-night conversation between lovers under the Lagos night sky.
At 23, Troms is already carving out a space in music that many spend a lifetime trying to define. Hailing from the bustling streets of Lagos, Troms grew up immersed in a family obsessed with music and entertainment. His early days were filled with school and church performances, but by 2020, Troms had locked in his sights on the world stage.
Influenced by artists like Jon Bellion, JP Saxe, Moelogo, and Jazmine Sullivan, Troms’ sound sits at the intersection of soul, groove, introspective and happy sounds—a vibe that lingers in the air long after the music stops.
Multi-award-winning artist and Afrobeats superstar, David Adeleke aka Davido, has hinted at the possibility of venturing into politics in the future.
The Grammy Award nominee made this revelation during his recent appearance at a summit in Abuja.
During a panel session, Davido, whose influence in Nigerian music and entertainment continues to grow globally, briefly touched on the idea of transitioning from entertainment to politics.
His comments drew attention, especially given his family background in politics.
Davido’s uncle, Ademola Adeleke, currently serves as the Governor of Osun State, having been elected in 2022 after a fierce gubernatorial race.
While addressing the topic, Davido did not completely dismiss the possibility of a political career, saying, “let me be singing for now, I think for now I am good at my job (music), for now let me stick to what I’m doing.”
His response left the door open for speculation about his future ambitions, sparking conversations among fans and political observers alike about what role he could eventually play in Nigeria’s political landscape.
“You know in Nigeria politics is complicated. It’s sweet oh but it’s complicated. It’s our country and we can’t leave here, we can hope and pray that things get better with time. I have hope. I always tell people that the younger generation are getting older and wiser, I’m also excited about the younger generation getting involved in governance over time,” he concluded.
