The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Sunny Messiah’s Paternity Leave takes comedy show to a new height

    Sunny Messiah’s Paternity Leave takes comedy show to a new height

    Nigerian comedian and Master of Ceremonies Sunday Onyenachiya aka Sunny Messiah took comedy to a new height after delivering a masterful, emotionally grounded, and irresistibly witty performance recently before a sold-out audience at the Alliance Française de Lagos/ Mike Adenuga Centre, Okoyi, Lagos.

    Sunny Messiah recorded an enviable feat with his debut stand-up special, ‘Sunny Messiah Paternity Leave,’ which was also filmed for historic intent.

    Brimming with sharp, intelligent humour and delivered in Sunny’s trademark articulate

    English, ‘Paternity Leave’ took audiences on an unforgettable journey through fatherhood,

    marriage, family chaos, and modern Nigerian adulthood. His performance elicited continuous laughter, knowing nods, and roaring applause from an audience filled with fans, cultural influencers, media partners, and industry insiders.

    In his words, “Paternity Leave is my story. Story of love, stress, the joy, and the tiny madness that comes with raising a family. I wanted to bring those moments to life in a way people could relate to, no matter their background. And if someone laughed hard enough to find healing, hope, or even the courage to step into marriage or parenthood, then I’m grateful. That’s the power of laughter.”

    The night also featured electric performances from rising comedic talents including

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    ChimeFrancis, Iykomo, Dexmond, Funny Urch, Saint Envi, AkanLaff, with a standout bass solo from HenryFretz and musical performance by P’Madox.

    Ebuka Mic anchored the evening with seamless energy while a surprise appearance by Senator thrilled the audience and added yet another highlight to an already memorable night.

    The special was made possible with support from Atorj Technology Limited, Sew Smooth

    Clothing Limited, Martinz Nnaji Jr’s Film Kitchen, Tetrarch Nigeria Limited, Ivon Melda, PixxelColors Agency, Eventual Entertainment, and Reel Fruits, reflecting the growing synergy between Nigerian comedy and the broader creative economy.

    Post-production for ‘Sunny Messiah Paternity Leave’ is underway, and details regarding the release platform and premiere date will be announced soon, with plans already underway for Sunny Messiah to host another comedy special next year.

  • Ofada Rice Festival sets Lagos agog

    Ofada Rice Festival sets Lagos agog

    All is set for the seventh edition of the popular Ofada Rice Day Festival.

    Slated for Lagos the event themed, ‘Ofada Rising: Celebrating Innovation, Identity and Nigeria’s Culinary Future,’ will feature cultural and artistic showcases, innovation hubs, farmer and producer conversations, food exhibitions and tastings, culinary competitions, panel discussions with industry experts and the global unveiling of Ofadabration Canada 2025.

    Intimating the public about the occasion, slated for Sunday 7 at Muri Okunola park, Lagos, convener – Ofada Rice Day Festival and Creative Director – OfadaBoy, Tobi Fletcher said: “My connection to Ofada rice runs deeper than business. I come from a lineage of first-generation rice farmers, and my great-grandfather was the first Ofada rice farmer. It is a legacy built on sacrifice, innovation, and tradition. This work today is a continuation of that story, a responsibility I carry with pride.

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    “With close to 20 years in the hospitality and food service sector, I have seen the evolution of Nigerian cuisine, the challenges, the breakthroughs, and the incredible potential of our local foods. That experience guides the work we do with OfadaBoy and the Ofada Rice Day Festival.

    “Ofada has risen from a small village staple to a national treasure and an emerging global culinary identity. Its rise represents the rise of Nigerian farmers, the rise of homegrown food businesses, the rise of cultural pride, the rise of innovation in our food system. Ofada is no longer just rice. It is a movement.”

    Fletcher, who is also the President of the Association of Professional Food Service Providers (APFSPN) added that the event which is in partnership with Oyinda Fletcher (Co-Partner) will in the long run will immensely benefit the country. And it will be shaped by supporting local farmers and processors, building culinary tourism, promoting Nigerian food globally, standardizing food service practices, empowering chefs and food entrepreneurs and creating stronger platforms for innovation.

    At the core of the Ofada Rice Day Festival is a commitment to empowering local food sellers, market women, small-scale vendors, cooks, and rising food entrepreneurs.

  • AGN suspends Taye Arimoro over on-set altercation with Peggy Ovire 

    AGN suspends Taye Arimoro over on-set altercation with Peggy Ovire 

    Actor Taye Arimoro has been suspended indefinitely from all film productions in Nigeria following a violent incident with Pegyy Ovire on the set of the movie Pieces of Love on 12 November 2025.

    The decision, announced jointly by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), and the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), came after a coordinated investigation found Arimoro to be the primary aggressor in the altercation.

    According to the official statement signed by AGN National President Dr. Emeka Rollas, DGN President Mr. Uche Agbo, and AMP President Amb. Dr. Queen Blessing Ebigieson, Arimoro physically assaulted the production manager and a driver during filming.

    He later went live on social media, broadcasting what the guilds described as a “false and misleading” account of the incident that wrongly implicated producer Peggy Ovire, who was not present at the start of the confrontation.

    “The Director, Production Manager, and crew were not culpable in any wrongdoing,” the statement read in part

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    In addition to the indefinite industry-wide ban, Arimoro has been ordered to, issue a public apology on the same platform he used for the controversial live video, addressed to the production manager, Peggy Ovire, and the director, Frederick Atigogo; release a corrective video stating the accurate sequence of events; return under strict supervision to complete his remaining two scenes in Pieces of Love; comply with any further disciplinary measures from the guilds.

    Producer Peggy Ovire, while cleared of initiating the violence, was reprimanded for escalating the situation by pursuing Arimoro outside the filming compound.

    She has been directed by the board to tender written apologies to the guilds and the estate management, and to submit binding undertakings on improved set management and the future conduct of her driver.

    The three guilds used the ruling to declare zero tolerance for violence, intimidation, or professional misconduct on any Nollywood set and confirmed that a unified national On-Set Conduct and Safety Code is now in development.

  • Lere Paimo alive, not dead, says ANTP

    Lere Paimo alive, not dead, says ANTP

    The Association of Nigeria Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP) has dismissed circulating rumours claiming that renowned Yoruba actor and cultural icon Olalere OsunPaimo, popularly known as Lere Paimo, has passed away.

    In a statement released on Saturday, the association’s National Public Relations Officer, Adejonwo Oluwafemi, confirmed that the veteran actor is alive and in good health, citing direct confirmation from his wife.

    The ANTP expressed concern over the spread of false information on social media and urged the public to verify news before sharing it.

     “We would like to inform the public that reports circulating on Facebook about the passing of Chief Olalere OsunPaimo (MFR) are false.

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    “We have confirmed with Baba Eda Onile Ola’s wife that he is alive and in good health.

    “Please disregard these false reports and be aware that they are being spread by unscrupulous individuals.”

    Lere Paimo, affectionately known as Baba Eda Onile Ola, is a respected figure in the Nigerian theatre and film industry.

    The ANTP appreciated the public’s concern and assures fans that the actor is doing well.

    “We urge everyone to verify information before sharing to avoid spreading misinformation,” the statement said.

  • African stories through theatre can provoke dialogue across cultures, says Akin Lewis

    African stories through theatre can provoke dialogue across cultures, says Akin Lewis

    Ahead of the second edition of TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF) 2025, veteran Nollywood actor, Dr Akin Lewis has opined that African stories told through theatre can provoke dialogue across cultures.

    According to Lewis, who is also the Chairman, Board of Trustee (BOT), TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF), “with the theme for the 2025 edition of the festival, we believe that African stories, told through the captivating medium of theatre, hold universal appeal and possess the power to connect, inspire, and provoke dialogue across cultures. This emphasizes the belief in the universal relevance and emotional power of African theatrical narratives. We are proud to be part of the TAF 2025 initiative that is bringing conversations, performances and recognition to the Industry.”

    The 2025 edition is scheduled to be held between Tuesday, December 9, 2025 and Wednesday December 10, 2025 at Shodex Gardens, Ilupeju, and Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria with the theme ‘Beyond Borders: Celebrating the Global Reach of African Theatre.’

    Activities towards a successful festival are gathering momentum across Africa with numerous speakers and panelists scheduled to speak during the event.

    Participants are to join thought leaders, erudite speakers, changemakers and industry stakeholders from across the Creative/theatre/arts value chain at TAF 2025.

    Confirmed speakers and guests expected  includes but not limited to Mrs. Taiwo Ajai-Lycett (OON), Ebo Whyte (Founder, Roverman Productions, Ghana), Mr. Soro Badrissa (Puppeteer and Founding Artistic Director of the Compagnie Ivoire Marionnettes), the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire), Marc Berbant (Director, Alliance Francaise), Dr. Akin Lewis, Norbert Young, Francis Onwochei, Adeniran Makinde (NANTAP President), Dr. Titilayo Adebayo (Lecturer, Creatives Arts, UNILAG), Kingsley Omoefe (Nollywood Director), Lydia Gifty Hagan (Ghana), Aishat Mamela Rafamhelea (South Africa), Paul Uwagbai,  Segun Adefila (Crown Troupe of Afrika), Ben Chidiaka, Titilayo Aboyade-Cole, Zani Chiumia Challe (Malawi), Claude Mwamba (GM,

    Transperfect Nigeria), Ehi Omokhuale, Oluwanishola Oladele Adenuga (Founder, Live Theatre, Lagos), Jacinta MacJob (Script Writer), Helen Sosu-Ezirim (Founder, TSUP), Julius Olaoluwa Oyekanmi (MD, QUIDBOT By Finnova), AJ Dagga Tolar, Olubanke Adeleke CEO, Dressrite Kiddies).

    Other guests include Lagos lawmaker, Hon.Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode, Mr. Olayiwola Awakan,DG Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Hon. Muyiwa Jimoh, Otunba Olu Adenodi, Mr. Olusola Adekoya ( MD, Shodex Gardens), Dr. D.F Salau (Chairman, UIAA, Lagos Branch), Prof. Akin Abayomi (Commissioner for Health, Lagos State), HRM Oba Salibu Hakeem Agbaosi (Alaguda Aguda), Oba Suleiman Owolabi (Ogun-Oloko, Ade Ori Okin I, Oniwaya of Iwaya) etc.

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    TAF 2025 will herald activities such as Street Theatre, Stakeholders RoundTable, Veteran Fireside Conversation Spotlight, Generation Next Theatre (GNT), Healthy Arts Initiative, Arts/Products/Service Exhibition, Command Performance, Induction into TAF Hall of Fame, Gala and Awards Nite.

    In the words of Alayande Stephen, the CEO/Co-Founder, TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF), “The ‘Beyond Borders : Celebrating the Global Reach of African Theatre’ theme is more than just a tagline, it’s a testament to the undeniable influence and expanding footprint of African theatre globally. This further highlights our core mission which includes showcasing African theatre’s international impact. With TAF 2025, we will experience groundbreaking performances, thought-provoking narratives, and the brilliance of African artistry, transcending continents and captivating hearts. Join us as we honor the visionaries and elevate the voices that connect us all at TAF 2025.”

  • Lagos to host 96-hour non-stop DJ Marathon, targets new world record

    Lagos to host 96-hour non-stop DJ Marathon, targets new world record

    Lagos is preparing to host what organisers describe as Africa’s biggest and longest beach festival, as 100 DJs converge for a 96-hour non-stop DJ Marathon Festival scheduled to run from December 29, 2025 to January 2, 2026.

    The event, designed as a four-day, round-the-clock music rally, aims to set a new global record for the longest continuous DJ performance, surpassing the current 55-hour benchmark.

    Speaking ahead of the festival, CEO of Afroxela and convener of the marathon, Buchi Henry Mbagwu, said the idea was inspired by the global curiosity surrounding Lagos’ famed “Detty December” nightlife.

    According to him, the concept was born during an international festival in Portugal, where attendees from Switzerland, Denmark, Norway, France and Portugal expressed eagerness to experience Lagos’ party culture firsthand.

    “They had heard about Detty December and wanted to know why Lagos is regarded as the city that never stops partying. That was the lightbulb moment,” Mbagwu said.

    He explained that the team resolved to create an event that captured the essence of Lagos nightlife while showcasing the people who power parties across the world, the Djs.

    “DJs are always the party starters. Whether at weddings, corporate events or concerts, they set the tone. We wanted a festival dedicated entirely to Djs,” he noted.

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    Mbagwu revealed that the marathon will feature 100 DJs taking turns every hour in a seamless relay.

    “This is about endurance, celebration and the Lagos spirit. For 96 straight hours, there will be no stop, no pause, just sound,” he said.

    The marathon will run across the New Year crossover, intentionally timed to set the record just as Nigeria enters 2026.

    Mbagwu said the timing was deliberate: “By December 27, people are winding down from Christmas and waiting for the New Year. Globally, New Year’s Eve is huge, Dubai, New York, everywhere. So we chose a period when people are naturally looking for the biggest party.”

  • Presh storms the Nigerian Music scene with a banger

    Presh storms the Nigerian Music scene with a banger

    As Nigerian music continues to dominate the global stage, many Nigerians in the diaspora are reconnecting with their roots, using music to promote and represent Nigeria and African culture worldwide.

    One of such talents is Precious Ebie Onungwe, popularly known as Presh. The young and vibrant Canada-based Nigerian, who has built a successful career as a petrochemical engineer, has stepped away from engineering to return home and pursue his lifelong passion for music.

    Now an upcoming artist with a debut single already out and an album set for release before the end of the year, Presh shared insights on what fans should expect from his forthcoming project.

    According to him, the Nigerian music industry is highly competitive, filled with stars who have already established their presence. To stand out, Presh believes in building the right team, trusted professionals ranging from producers to cinematographers, alongside a solid promotional strategy.

    Speaking on his choice of producer, he said: “I chose D-Tuns because he is well-known, trusted, and has produced many of Nigeria’s top hip-hop artists. With his experience and my God-given musical talent, we can create something that will resonate globally, not just in Nigeria.”

    Presh revealed that his deep love for African culture is the driving force behind his decision to fully embrace music.

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    “Being proud of the African in me is my biggest motivation. I love our culture, beliefs, food, and language, and I want to showcase that on a global stage. I don’t rely on drinking, smoking, or any form of enhancement for inspiration. If you ever see me drinking something, it’s water.”

    He also announced an upcoming collaboration with Mr. Real, with the music video scheduled for shooting immediately after the audio is completed. Describing his sound, he said:

    “My music is pure Africaness. I want listeners to feel Africa in everything I create, my sound, my style, and my way of life.”

  • Nigeria is probably the biggest creative empire in Africa, says Missdemz

    Nigeria is probably the biggest creative empire in Africa, says Missdemz

    Lifestyle and entertainment content creator, Oluwademilade Abimbola aka Missdemz has opined that Nigeria is the biggest creative empire in Africa.

    Missdemz, who is also a YouTuber, a creative director, and an entrepreneur, made this known in a recent chat.

    She said, “I think Nigeria is probably the biggest creative empire in Africa.  We are constantly paving the way forward, and I feel the talents that are here are underdiscovered. I believe that is going to be a lot better in the future. I am taking the risk of staying here now, so it’s time to reap the fruit of our labor; I would already be here.”

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    While discussing why she relocated to Lagos, Nigeria from the United Kingdom, Missdemz said in two weeks, she saw Nigeria and in one year, she had seen so much potential.

    In her words, “Honestly, I came to Nigeria for two weeks in April. I was meant to go to Jamaica for my birthday, but one of my friends said I should come to Nigeria, and then I came. In those two weeks, I was out every day, I went to parties back-to-back, and I met people. It was amazing. I was shown the highlights of Nigeria in those two weeks, and I had to extend my stay with an additional week. It left a good taste in my mouth when I got back to London and I was depressed.”

  • BON Awards: Hamzat, Meranda to lead book reading ahead of 16th edition

    BON Awards: Hamzat, Meranda to lead book reading ahead of 16th edition

    Wife of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, will lead a distinguished line-up of political figures and Nollywood veterans to a special public reading ahead of the 16th edition of the Best Of Nollywood awards.

    The event, according to the organisers of the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards, will be held on Tuesday, December 2, and will feature the reading of Tomi Falade’s book, a play entitled ‘Olobun: Matriarch Of Ondo, Mother Of Legacy’.

    Mrs. Hamzat will be joined by the State Secretary to the Government, Mrs. Hundeyin; the Deputy Speaker of LAHA, Hon. Moji Meranda Ojora; the Commissioner for Tourism, Mrs. Toke Benson Awoyinka; and the SA Housing, Hon. Barakat Bakare.

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    Adding creative star power, they will be accompanied by former BON Awards winners, including Omowunmi Dada, Keppy Ekpeyoung, Segun Arinze, and Stan Eze.

    Olobun is a compelling historical play by Tomi Falade that explores the dramatic origins of a major Yoruba Kingdom, and is predominantly set during the tumultuous 15th-century Oyo Empire.

    The story revolves around the birth of twins to Alaafin Oluaso, the abolition of killing twin babies, and how a woman rose to a place of power in Yoruba Land.

    Ultimately, the book serves as a journalistic and dramatic account of the journey that culminates in the founding of the great Ondo Kingdom, presenting the character Olobun as the living proof of a powerful legacy born from destiny.

  • Yvonne Jegede celebrates 20 years in Nollywood, set to support 5,000 children’s education

    Yvonne Jegede celebrates 20 years in Nollywood, set to support 5,000 children’s education

    Nollywood actress, Yvonne Jegede will roll out drums to celebrate 20 years in the movie industry.

    The popular actress is full of gratitude looking back at the remarkable milestone.

    “The emotions I feel when I reflect is just fulfillment, gratitude and love, some of the people that got into the industry the same time with me are no longer here, so I’m grateful for the grace that has brought me this far and kept me relevant ‘ she revealed in an interview.

    Her biggest evolution, she said has been the fact that she now know that she has the ability to shed off. ‘’There are so many layers to me and with each layer, I get better.’

    The anniversary, though  worth celebrating, feels like a rebirth for the actress. ”It’s really a rebirth because the last 20yrs seemed to have been a period of self discovery, especially because I started quite early. 20yrs later I have discovered a lot of potentials that I am yet to explore and I am now ready to show that part of me to the world, every rebirth comes with new vision and renewed gusto’ she gushed

    In celebrating the milestone, Jegede will launch two major brands, her foundation and her investment company.

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    ‘My mission is to ensure that actors and creatives in general learn to invest in their future, we need to stop the trend of celebrities living in fame and dying in poverty or calling for public help whenever they have health needs or when life throws them the slightest curve ball.

    She continued: A big part of what I do is related to the 18 children that I have adopted and I have been responsible for their education for a long time now, it was important to respect their privacy and just watch them blossom. I am so proud of them and I get emotional when they call me mummy.

    I also support single parents and I have been supporting other causes. I think it is now time to put some structure around it so that I can reach out to more children and make bigger impact with the help of a team and partners, instead of doing it all by myself.Our vision is to help 5000 children get education in the next five years, empower 100 single parents with businesses within the next two years.

    I am also embarking on sensitizing local communities about sickle cell anemia