The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Comfort Booth makes Nollywood debut with The Hotel Room

    Comfort Booth makes Nollywood debut with The Hotel Room

    Nigerian reality TV star and writer Comfort Booth is set to make her Nollywood debut with a new short film, ‘The Hotel Room.’

    The highly anticipated film is scheduled for premiere at the 2024 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).

    Produced by Judith Audu and executive produced by Booth and Adebowale Adeyemo, the film boasts of an impressive cast, including Tope Olowoniyan and Ibrahim Suleiman, with Uyoyou Adia at the helm as director.

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    Speaking on her filmmaking debut, Booth said the drama is poised to leave a lasting impression on festival-goers.

    “I’m thrilled to bring ‘The Hotel Room’ to life with such a talented team,” she said

    Continuing, Comfort, who is known for her role in ‘The Real Housewives of Abuja,’ said, “This experience has been transformative, and I’m eager to share this captivating story with audiences at AFRIFF. Nollywood’s energy and passion are infectious, and I’m honoured to be part of this vibrant industry.”

    ‘The Hotel Room’ tells the haunting tale of a woman’s journey to the afterlife, driven by her desire for revenge against her abusive husband.

  • Ebitimi launches Wait

    Ebitimi launches Wait

    The much-awaited single by Ebitimi, one of Nigeria’s talents based in the Philippines, is finally out.

    Produced by Spellz, the single entitled ‘Wait’ was officially released on October 4, 2024.

    Explaining more about his music, Ebitimi said that the need to promote and develop Afrobeats in Asian territory is the motivation to work and make Nigeria and Africa proud through Afrobeats music.

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    “Afrobeats has gone worldwide with the likes of Burna Boy, Wizkid and Davido leading the way. As a resident in the Philippines and a Port Harcourt boy, I want to contribute my quota in the music space and use my talent to uplift afrobeats in Asia. Working with Spellz was a dream come true. He is one of the biggest producers in Africa and well respected in the music industry with notable names like Tiwa Savage, Wizkid, 2baba and many more A list acts he has produced. We look forward to more hits with him.”

  • WAPTV’s indigenous TV channel of the decade

    WAPTV’s indigenous TV channel of the decade

    WAPTV was recently awarded the “Outstanding Indigenous TV Channel of the Decade” at the Marketing Edge Awards a few weeks back.

    The management of WAPTV joined other reputable media houses, corporate brands, advertising practitioners, and government MDAs as attendees and award recipients at Balmoral Convention Centre, Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja.

    The event, which was organised by Marketing Edge Magazine, selected wapTV to be honoured because not only is wapTV the very first TV Channel in Nigeria to have presenters speaking Pidgin English.

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    According to Wole Adenuga, Managing Director wapTV, “Since we launched in 2012, we have worked hard to constantly move with the trends while staying true to our core principles of providing edutainment content relatable to the average Nigerian. We appreciate the corporate brands, government mdas, independent movie & tv producers, religious organisations, and others who have engaged in productive partnerships with us over the years. We equally appreciate the over 35 million viewers who watch our network on Satellite TV daily, as well as the over 700,000 Subscribers on our YouTube Channel ‘waptvchannel’ which accumulates over 4.6 million views monthly.”

  • NGICE: Blackcourage and team visits NIPC ES

    NGICE: Blackcourage and team visits NIPC ES

    In preparation for the Nigerian -German Investment and Cultural Expo (NGICE), NGICE team led by the Director – General , Amb. Chielo Ojirika aka Chiboy the Blackcourage , Nigerian Music Ambassador to Germany, visited the Chief Executive Officer/ Executive Secretary of Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission(NIPC), Aisha Rimi, to brief her and seek the Commission’s active collaboration.

    NGICE is chaired by Sir, Mike Okiro, former Inspector General of Police, and Alhaji Kaulaha Aliyu, first Republic Parliamentarian and Investment expert.

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    The Nigerian -German Investment and Cultural Expo NGICE is a public private partnerships initiative , a collaborative efforts of Salute Nigeria Initiative, (The Presidency) Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Federal Ministries of Industry, Trade and Investment, Art, Culture and Creative Economy with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    NGICE is an All in One event aimed at showcasing the enormous investment opportunities and rich cultural heritage of Nigeria to the world using Berlin Germany as a showcase. Themed Unlocking Nigeria’s Investment Potentials for Industrial Revolution, Sub-Theme: Cultural Exports: Key Opportunities for Foreign Direct Investment. It is scheduled for 26th-30th November at Vicom Festsaal Berlin. There will be special daily sessions for states and organisations to make presentations.

    Picture Caption: Rimi (second left) in a handshake with Ojirika flanked left and right by unidentified other members of NGICE during the visit.

  • Douyé thrills with Golden Sekere

    Douyé thrills with Golden Sekere

    Renowned jazz artist, Douyé, has made bold strides with her current album, ‘The Golden Sèkèrè.’

    The 14-track album has continued to earn massive air-play and huge critical acclaim among music enthusiasts in Nigeria.

    Douyé, who is based in America, appears poised in offering her artistic creativity expressed through jazz music to Nigerians of various extractions.

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    Though jazz may not be considered popular among Nigerians, especially the younger generation, Douyé’s approach to the genre through her fusion of jazz with African rhythm, appears to have garnered enormous appeal for, and attraction to the entire package.

    The airwaves are awash with the jazz sounds from Douyé who also craves to be in live stage performances before music fans in Nigeria any time soon.

  • BWC Hotel unveils Atlantic pool bar, promises platform for budding artists

    BWC Hotel unveils Atlantic pool bar, promises platform for budding artists

    BWC Hotel, one of Lagos’ popular luxury destinations, has launched its new Atlantic Pool Bar amid fanfare, aiming to elevate the guest experience while promoting local talent.

    According to the General Manager of the hospitality outfit, Umakant Upadhyay, the Atlantic Pool Bar is set to play a significant role in supporting budding artists by hosting regular events where they can showcase their talents to potential investors and grow their fanbase.

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    “Our guests have been asking for an open space where they can relax and enjoy the natural breeze from the Atlantic Ocean, so we decided to renovate our poolside area to accommodate those requests,” said the GM. “We’ve introduced barbeque options and a cocktail bar, and today, we are thrilled to unveil it to our guests.”

    Speaking further, the GM noted, “What you’ve seen today is just the beginning. We will promote happy hours, ladies’ nights, and most importantly, provide a platform for up-and-coming artists almost every week to showcase their talent.”

    The new addition to BWC Hotel promises to not only enhance the social scene but also create opportunities for emerging talents in Lagos.

  • Why I ventured into music law – Akinyemi Ayinoluwa

    Why I ventured into music law – Akinyemi Ayinoluwa

    Partner and Co-founder of HighTower Solicitors and Advocates, Akinyemi Ayinoluwa, has explained why he veered into music law after leaving his career as an entertainer, songwriter and composer.

    Akinyemi Ayinoluwa, better known as Akinyemilaw, is a former recording artiste, performer and  lead singer of defunct music brand, 100 Degrees boy band before forging a new front in the Nigerian music industry to further deepen his passion and transform the entertainment landscape in the country.

    The former musician studied law at the University of Lagos, after which he worked as an associate at Wemimo Ogunde & Co and Awokoya & Co, for practical experience, before co-founding HighTower Solicitors and Advocates, to represent artistes, music producers, music writers and defend rights on intellectual property in the industry.

    In a recent interview,  Akinyemi Ayinoluwa explained what inspired his bold pursuit after quitting singing.

    “One of the thing that pushed me into doing music law is the fact that having once been an entertainer, I felt like I am a part of the music community. So I wanted to use my knowledge of law to advance the careers of artists and producers in the industry,” Ayinoluwa said in an interview.

    Speaking further, Akinyemi Ayinoluwa said: “And also I found myself bringing two things that I am passionate about together, law and music, because I am passionate about law and want to use it to shape the society and life better and I am passionate about music due to my journey in music and it has been keeping me going on”.

    Akinyemi Ayinoluwa, who is also a business manager, offers other value-driven services. He has authored numerous articles in music law, estate planning, commercial transactions and other related ventures. He is well sought-after to deliver speeches and courses on these subjects.

    With hard work and vision, his list of clientele which includes legendary I.D Cabasa, Magicsticks, Niphkeys Andre Vibes, Kukbeatz, Masterkraft, Blaq Jerzee, Northboi, Rexxie, Jaypizzle, RunCheck, Larry Lanes, Tuzi, Niphkeys, and many others keep growing.

    Akinyemilaw also spoke on the state of the music industry in the country and how musicians, producers and record labels can all benefit from business relationships without conflicts. 

    ”I think the music industry is getting better in Nigeria. Yes, there are many sad stories as regarding artists, producers deals and treatments but I believe with knowledge and fantastic representation and wisdom to advise that people like myself gives; it helps to aid musicians monetize their talents and content properly. Trust me, we do our best to guide this people but they have a mind of their own and they might not accept whatever suggestions you make at times,” Akinyemi Ayinoluwa stated.

  • NFC gets 3,120 submissions for Zuma film festival

    NFC gets 3,120 submissions for Zuma film festival

    The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has acknowledged the receipt of 3,120 submissions for this year’s Zuma International Film Festival (ZUFF).

    NFC said it received submissions from Nigeria, Iran, India, the United States (U.S.A.), Spain, and France ahead of the 14th edition of the film festival scheduled to hold from December 1 to 5 in Abuja.

    The corporation announced the submissions while addressing reporters during the unveiling of ZUFF logo and the theme: Digital Renaissance: Embracing the Future yesterday in Abuja.

    At the pre-event media briefing, NFC’s Managing Director/Chief Executive, Dr. Ali Nuhu said: “The Zuma International Film Festival is more than an event. It is a movement that promotes Nigeria’s cultural and creative economy. The festival creates jobs, empowers the youth and fosters collaborations across borders. “This year, we highlight the transformative power of digital technology in filmmaking with over 3,120 film submissions from countries, including Nigeria, Iran, India, the U.S.A., Spain, and France.”

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    The NFC boss announced that renowned filmmaker and actress, Stephanie Okereke Linus, would be a member of the jury along with other distinguished film experts.

    Art and Tourism Minister Hanatu Musawa said the film festival is a pivotal moment for the creative ecosystem. 

    She said: “Vice President Kashim Shettima will deliver the keynote lecture at this year’s Zuma International NFC Annual Film Festival.

    “The lecture, titled: Digital Ecosystem Redefining African Cinema, will explore how digital solutions are transforming the film industry by driving job creation, wealth generation, and regional trade. It aims to position Nigeria not just as Africa’s creative hub but also as a global cultural force.

    “This is a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s creative and cultural industries.

    “The world is increasingly captivated by our talent and our stories, and the Vice President’s lecture will address the crucial role of the digital ecosystem in revitalising African cinema.

    “The Nigerian government is creating an enabling environment through supportive policies, international agreements, and digital platforms.”

    The minister expressed gratitude to Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, and the Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, for their continued collaboration with the NFC in hosting the Zuma International Film Festival.

    “Abuja is becoming the cultural and creative heart of the country,” she said.

  • Kunle Afolayan unveils returning, new cast for Anikulapo series

    Kunle Afolayan unveils returning, new cast for Anikulapo series

    Renowned Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has unveiled some of the returning and new actors set to star in the much-anticipated new season of the Netflix original series ‘Anikulapo.’

    The announcement Came after Netflix officially confirmed the renewal of the series, which has garnered widespread acclaim for its captivating portrayal of Nigerian history and culture.

    The new season, directed by Afolayan, is set to explore more complex aspects of Nigerian history, including the slave trade.

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    The storyline will extend beyond the Oyo Empire, incorporating international elements with actors from Portugal, Ghana, and Nigeria.

    Filming for the season has taken place in Oyo State and Ghana, ensuring authenticity and grounding the narrative in places rich with cultural heritage.

    Kunle Afolayan expressed his excitement about the renewal of the series, stating, “We are thrilled that Netflix has renewed.”

  • No one can stop me anymore, says Humblesmith

    No one can stop me anymore, says Humblesmith

    Nigerian Afro-Bongo sensation and songwriter Humblesmith has said that no one can stop him anymore.

    In an interview, Humblesmith opened up about the challenges he faced in the music industry, admitting that there were times when he almost disappeared from the scene entirely.

    “There were moments when I felt like I was being silenced,” he confessed. “It wasn’t just about the lack of music or releases—it was deeper. There were people and forces that wanted to see me give up. They tried to push me out, but I stayed grounded because I knew my purpose.”

    The singer went on to reflect on how those difficult times only made him stronger, building the resilience that has carried him to this triumphant return.

    “I had to go through that period to understand the power within me,” Humblesmith explained. “Now, I’m not afraid of any obstacles. I’ve seen what the lowest point looks like, and I’ve come out stronger. I’m ready to crush anything or anyone that tries to stop me again.”

    Humblesmith, who recently wrapped up a tour of some African countries while putting finishing touches on his upcoming album, has released a new single, ‘Sochi’.

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    The new track, dubbed ‘the song of the year,’ is poised to introduce his forthcoming body of work.

    Known for hits like ‘Osinachi,’ Humblesmith has been a dominant force in the Nigerian music scene for nearly a decade and is geared up for what he believes will be another defining moment in his career.

     “It took me some time to decide which track to drop from my upcoming project,” he shared during a recent interview.

    “But my spirit is connected with ‘Sochi’. I trust my fans and music lovers will ride this wave with me.”

    Speaking about the meaning behind the track, Humblesmith explained that ‘Sochi’ is deeply personal, highlighting his reliance on God as the source of his strength and resilience.

    “This song is a reflection of my journey, and how I’ve overcome the obstacles in my path. Some forces tried to silence me, tried to push me out of the industry, but here I am, stronger than ever. The movement has started, and nothing can stop me now.

    “This song is more than just a vibe for me. It’s my statement to the world that I am back, and I’m not going anywhere. No more distractions, no more setbacks.

    It’s time to move, and nothing can stand in my