Category: Entertainment

  • Drumming requires discipline, says Tony Sticks

    Drumming requires discipline, says Tony Sticks

    Adebayo Anthony aka Tony Sticks, a performing percussionist, is changing the game with his act and set to carve a niche for himself in the highly competitive entertainment industry by continuously showcasing his dexterity and mastery of the drums.

    Explaining his foray into the entertainment industry and what inspired his choice of career, Tony Sticks said, “My inspiration came from within myself — from a spiritual connection I felt through rhythm as a Celestial band member. The sound of the drums always felt like a heartbeat to me, something divine that could move people emotionally and spiritually. That inner fire and purpose inspired me to turn my passion into a professional career.”

    Continuing, he said, “I started learning drum playing in the Celestial Church band, where I watched and listened closely to experienced drummers. From there, I practiced consistently, experimenting with rhythms and styles. I also learned by playing at live events and rehearsals, which helped me understand timing, coordination, and stage presence.”

    Speaking about the challenges he faced when starting out, the master drummer said, “One of my biggest challenges was limited access to proper instruments and exposure when I first started. I had to make the most out of what was available, often practicing with improvised setups. “Another challenge was being underestimated — people didn’t always take drumming seriously as a career path. But through persistence and faith, I proved my dedication and built my craft,” Tony Sticks stated.

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    He further shed light on qualities of a good showbiz personality in the Entertainment industry, “A good showbiz personality must have confidence, originality, humility, and respect for others. Consistency, charisma, and a good attitude toward teamwork are also vital to sustaining a lasting career in entertainment.”

    He also shared the myth about his career, stating that many people think drummers just make noise or that it’s easy to play whereas in reality, drumming requires discipline, timing, creativity, and physical endurance. It’s a skill that combines both emotion and technique.

    Speaking about his visions for his career and long-term goals, Tony Sticks reveals that, “I aim to build a brand as a respected percussionist, collaborate with top artists, and represent African rhythms on global stages. I also hope to mentor young drummers and create platforms where upcoming talents can express themselves.”

  • Japada: New TV show celebrates reverse migration

    Japada: New TV show celebrates reverse migration

    TMPL Motion Pictures, a subsidiary of creative powerhouse, The Temple Company has announced the launch of an exciting new TV show, ‘Japada.’

    The new TV show explores the inspiring journeys of Nigerian returnees from abroad.

    The show celebrates their achievements and promotes a sense of national pride at a time Nigeria is challenged with brain drain and other adverse economic effects of mass migration.

    Hosted by the multi-talented media personality, actor and brand influencer, Mimi Onalaja, the show kicked off on primetime Television nationwide on Friday, October 3, 2025.

    The weekly airing schedule includes Fridays on NTA 2 Lagos from 7:30pm to 8pm on, Sundays on TVC News from 12:30pm to 1pm and Mondays on NTA Network from 5:30pm to 6pm.

    The host takes a deep-dive into the reverse-migration journey of the guests illustrating the transformative impact of their global experiences on national growth and development. It also spotlights intimate stories, challenges, and triumphs of passionate citizens representing an inclusive demography of guests that appeals to a diverse audience.

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    The inspiring guests are drawn from different sectors such as healthcare, entrepreneurship, information and technology, arts and social advocacy. Among the guests are the duo of Prof Kofo Ogunyakin and Dr Yemi Johnson who returned from the United Kingdom and United States to establish First Cardiology Consultants, the foremost heart care facility in Nigeria.

    In separate episodes, multiple award-winning actresses, Shaffy Bello and Osas Ighodaro also sat with the charismatic show host, Mimi Onalaja to speak about leaving their allure of greener pastures to make their mark in the Nigerian movie industry.

    Speaking about the show, Kolawole Fashola, Supervising Producer, said “Japada is an inspired idea. The production of the TV show was essential, and the story was eagerly awaiting its telling. We at The Temple Company and our subsidiary, TMPL Motion Pictures, took on this project as a national assignment to kick-start conversations about nation-building, especially among young people. We hope to spark optimism and encourage a collective effort toward building a better Nigeria.”

  • NECLive 2025: Funmi Iyanda, Steve Babaeko, Jide Taiwo to lead speaker lineup

    NECLive 2025: Funmi Iyanda, Steve Babaeko, Jide Taiwo to lead speaker lineup

    The complete lineup for NECLive 2025 has been unveiled, revealing an unprecedented gathering of Nigeria’s most influential creative industry leaders set to converge at the Landmark Event Centre on Friday, November 28 2025.

    MultiChoice Nigeria CEO John Ugbe, X3M Ideas founder Steve Babaeko, and FilmHouse Group co-founder and Group CEO Kene Okwuosa headline a roster of over 40 industry titans who will lead conversations on “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise” at West Africa’s largest creative industry conference.

    This year’s edition, organised by Nigerian Entertainment Today and Africa Creative Foundation, brings together an unparalleled mix of media executives, filmmakers, music leaders, tech innovators, government officials, and investment experts—all tasked with charting the future of Africa’s $4.2 billion creative economy.

    Among the key voices are broadcasting icon Funmi Iyanda, CcHUB Managing Director Ojoma Ochai, filmmaker and educator Chris Ihidero, and media entrepreneurs Yinka Obebe, Fisayo Fosudo, Jide Taiwo and David Adeleke, alongside rising filmmaker Nora Awolowo. They’ll be joined by creative industry trailblazers including Moses Babatope, Chichi Nwoko, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Audu Maikori, and Colette Otusheso, with music and entertainment figures such as Timi Dakolo, KieKie, and Gaise Baba bringing star power to the stage.

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    Other notable names include Obi Asika, Qudus Onikeku, Yolanda Okereke, Moliehi Molekoa, Iretomiwa Akintunde-Johnson, Njideka Akabogu and Yinka Ijabiyi, each offering unique perspectives on the intersection of culture, commerce, and creativity, with sessions moderated by Folu Storms, Hero Daniels, Seyitan Atigarin, Kolapo Olapoju, and Tomiwo Ojo.

    “This lineup represents the full ecosystem of Nigeria’s creative economy,” said Ayeni Adekunle, NECLive Founder and Convener. “From the CEOs making multi-billion naira decisions to filmmakers breaking box office records, from the tech innovators building platforms to the traditional custodians preserving culture—everyone shaping our industry’s future will be in the room.”

    Comedian and Master of Ceremony, Tee A returns for a record eighth time to host NECLive alongside award-winning TV personality Bolanle Olukanni.

    Over nine editions, NECLive has hosted more than 500 industry experts, attracted over 100,000 participants, reached audiences exceeding 100 million people across 50 countries, and facilitated over 1,000 deals and partnerships.

    NECLive 2025 will be held on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

  • Nathaniel Bassey, Dunsin Oyekan, others headline Night of Mercy mega concert

    Nathaniel Bassey, Dunsin Oyekan, others headline Night of Mercy mega concert

    Frontline gospel singers, Nathaniel Bassey, Dunsin Oyekan, Bidemi Olaoba, Efe Nathan, Simisola Agbebi, and Lady Prudence are billed to perform at the 16th edition of Night of Mercy Gospel Concert at the Onikan Stadium, Lagos State or 16th Edition, Promises Night of Worship and Divine Intervention.

    Speaking during a media briefing held on Monday at the Solution Arena, Onipanu , Lagos, the brains behind the event, Dr. Amos Fenwa, Senior Pastor, Holyghost Christian Centre, Lagos, said the concert is an interdenominational mega concert for soul winning purpose.

    “The annual Night of Mercy Gospel Concert is set to return to the Stadium in Lagos on Friday, November 14, 2025, for a powerful night of worship, prayer, and evangelism. The interdenominational event will be held from 9:00 p.m. till dawn at the 10,000-capacity Mobolaji Johnson Arena, also known as Onikan Stadium.

    “Organized for the 16th consecutive year, the concert series was founded with a divine mandate to bring the gospel beyond the church walls and share the love of Christ with unbelievers and those in need of solace. The first Night of Mercy was held 16 years ago at the National Stadium in Surulere. In 2020 because the pandemic, we restricted the hosting to our church premises up till last year but now we are back to a stadium.’’

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    “In view of the current global and national turmoil including economic challenges, security concerns, and mass unemployment, the Night of Mercy initiative provides spiritual succor by offering an opportunity for salvation and life transformation through the gospel.

    “We trust God to enable us to win a thousand souls at the Night of Mercy Programme this year whose lives will begin to change in a positive direction,” said Fenwa. “When this happens, over time, the nation will have less trouble and enjoy more peace.”

    ‘’The Night of Mercy provides a platform to praise and worship God, a practice believed to bring divine intervention. This year’s event features a powerful lineup of gospel ministers, including Nathaniel Bassey, Dunsin Oyekan, Bidemi Olaoba, Efe Nathan, Simisola Agbebi, and Lady Prudence. As thousands gather to worship, attendees can expect to experience diverse miracles and divine interventions in their lives.

    “The event will also include special prayers for Nigeria and its leaders. The night’s driving force remains the twin goals of worship and soul-winning, which the organizers describe as “the greatest actions that touch the heart of God.”

    The clergyman noted that past editions of the concert were witnessed by high profile guests, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and the wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, adding that invitations have also been extended to several state governors for this year’s event.

    “I am using this opportunity to invite the body of Christ and others outside the church to come for a life-touching night on Friday, November 14, 2025, and I want to assure you that full security arrangements have been put in place,” Fenwa added.

  • AMAN: Why we are celebrating at 30, by Enebeli

    AMAN: Why we are celebrating at 30, by Enebeli

    President of Artiste Managers Association in Nigeria, AMAN, Collins Ifeanyi Onwuneme Ajereh Enebeli a.k.a. Mavin Grandpa Worldwide (MGW) has given reasons why the association is rolling out the drums to celebrate its 30th anniversary of existence in grand style.

    The show tagged ‘AMAN @ 30 Awards’ is billed for the Grand Ballroom of Eko Hotels and suites on Wednesday November 26, 2025.

    “We can’t afford to keep quiet about this milestone” Mavin Grandpa noted with a tinge of pride in a recent encounter.

    “An association that has lasted through three decades in Nigeria is not a baby” he continues.

    A quick pointer to the fact that AMAN is serious about its 30th anniversary is that in 2023, the first edition of the AMAN awards held at the Fantasia Hall, Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria while this year, 2025, the Artiste Managers Association In Nigeria (AMAN) award will hold at the Grand Ball room of Eko Hotels. This is no doubt an upgrade. We see this as a milestone worth celebrating. And heavily too according to our limits.

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    “As part of our celebration, a careful meritorious selection of credible, influential, distinguished and impactful  Nigerians have been listed for the prestigious AMAN awards which is a major highlight of the event of the evening.

    “The AMAN awards is designed to recognize, appreciate, and reward hard work and excellence within the creative industries in Nigeria, Africa and beyond.”

    Mavin Grandpa Worldwide hinted excitedly, “the beauty of AMAN awards 2025 event is that it is a double barrel celebration of AMAN@30 and the 2nd edition of the AMAN awards. What is more, we have surprises for our guests..including a longer award list made possible by the board of Governors for the AMAN Awards.

  • Bella Shmurda says producing my album cost over $100K

    Bella Shmurda says producing my album cost over $100K

    Popular singer, Bella Shmurda, has opened up about the huge financial investment that goes into creating and promoting quality music, saying that producing his last album alone cost over $100,000.

    Speaking passionately from the standpoint of a creative, the ‘Cash App’ singer shed light on the real cost of artistry, stressing that musicians are not overcharging but rather investing heavily to meet global standards.

    “I will say this from the perspective of a creative person,” Bella began. “Producing my album alone cost over $100,000. Then there are still expenses for promotion, which also run into millions. So, we are not overcharging.”

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    He further explained that the high standards in today’s entertainment world extend beyond studio production to lifestyle and image management.

    “The cloth I’m putting on here now, I can’t wear it again after now because the people have already seen it on me,” he said, hinting at the pressure to constantly reinvent and maintain a fresh public image.

    Bella, who leads the Dagbana Republik movement, also spoke glowingly about his new signee, Fola, who is currently gaining attention in the music scene.

    “Fola is signed under Dagbana Republik,” he said. “I have known him for over four years now, and I just woke up one day and told my team it is time to support this guy fully in our own little way. We are happy with his success so far.”

  • Countdown begins to 3rd Wale Olomu Memorial awards and roundtable

    Countdown begins to 3rd Wale Olomu Memorial awards and roundtable

    Preparations are in full swing for the third edition of the Wale Olomu Memorial Awards and Roundtable (WOMA-R) – the annual celebration honouring the life and legacy of the late Wale Olomu, veteran journalist and pioneering entertainment editor.

    At a recent meeting of the WOMA-R Steering Committee chaired by Tokunbo Ojekunle, members reaffirmed their dedication to sustaining the Awards’ founding mission of recognising 

    excellence in entertainment journalism and celebrating creative trailblazers whose works have defined Nigeria’s modern entertainment industry.

    The Committee announced the 2025 Awards theme: “Unsung Legends Who Shaped Today’s Glory.” 

    Complementing the awards, this year’s Roundtable will focus on the theme: “The Impact of Entertainment Reporting on Musical Careers: Our Views.” Both events will hold on Saturdays, 13 and 20 December, 2025, as a live two-hour broadcast on TopRadio 90.9 FM.

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    As in previous editions, the Roundtable will bring together respected voices bridging generations of entertainers and journalists. Those being considered for the discussion include Sunny Neji, Paul Play Dairo, Wunmi Obe, Olumide Iyanda, and The Jide Taiwo.

    The Chairman also confirmed the appointment of two new advisers to the Steering Committee – Akinwale Oluwaleimu as Technical Adviser and Yinka Agboola as Public Affairs Adviser.

     Past recipients of WOMA honours include Salawa Abeni, Bayo Adepetun, and Gloria Rhodes (Lifetime Achievement Awards); and Collins Enebeli, Femi Ojetunde, Nelson Brown, Oluwaleimu, Amos McRoy, Edi Lawani, Tunde Kolawole, Olisa Adibua, Femi “Kwame” Aderibigbe, among others (Special Recognition Awards).

  • Skit making saved, changed my life, says Patience Yisa (Pepe)

    Skit making saved, changed my life, says Patience Yisa (Pepe)

    With over 1.4 million followers on Facebook, almost a million on Tiktok and Instagram and close to 100,000 subscribers on Youtube, popular actress and skit maker, Patience Yisa aka Pepe has opened up why she took a break from acting and concentrated her talent on skit making.

    She said: “Nothing really has been happening apart from me trying to diversify. I started as an actress and fell in love with skit making. Who doesn’t want to shoot skit for less than 30 minutes and make money from it? As you know, skit making makes faster money than movies. Apart from the passion, you would also like to make money. Nobody wants to follow passion and be broke at the end of the day.

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    “When I saw an opportunity in skit making, I decided to take it up. I am back into the industry. As a matter of fact, I have shot two movies back to back. One which is ‘Lost Blood’ is currently enjoying rave reviews on Youtube. From now on expect to see more from me. I only took a break to do skit making.

    “To be honest it is one of the most lucrative ventures to do as an entertainer. Skit making saved and changed my life. Almost everybody does skits now; Mercy Johnson, Destiny Etiko, Don Jazzy, etc. As you are making money from artist fees, you are also making money from your social media platforms.

    “The platform is big for everybody. Gone are the days when before you make it in Nollywood you have to go through executive producers, producers and all that. The industry has grown so big and with the invention of these new platforms, nobody wants to depend on anyone to promote them anymore. Youtube at the end of the day is our retirement plan.”

  • BBNAIJA S10: Faith gets Innoson car despite disqualification

    BBNAIJA S10: Faith gets Innoson car despite disqualification

    Former Big Brother Naija housemate Faith has received his brand-new Innoson electric car worth N38 million despite being disqualified from the show.

    He won the car in a task before his exit on October 2, 2025, after a clash with fellow housemate Sultana.

    The show’s organiser’s confirmed that Faith would retain the car since he earned it before his disqualification.

    Faith was visibly excited when he inspected the car, asking about its battery level and checking the display showing the battery status.

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    The General Manager, Sales Operations at Innoson Vehicles, Obum Osigwe, shared a video of Faith picking up his new car on TikTok, captioning it “Faith finally picks up his Innoson vehicle. Congratulations”.

    Some fans and critics initially doubted Faith would receive the prize due to his disqualification, but the show’s organisers have upheld the rules, allowing him to keep the car.

    This win marks Faith’s second major prize of the season, following his earlier success in the SuperKomando challenge.

  • Eno celebrates Davido’s tour visit to Akwa Ibom

    Eno celebrates Davido’s tour visit to Akwa Ibom

    Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Eno has expressed pride in hosting music superstar Davido, who selected the state as the first Nigerian stop on his global 5ive Alive tour.

    Eno highlighted the significance of the visit, noting that Davido commended Akwa Ibom’s world-class facilities, peaceful environment and warm hospitality.

    Eno wrote on X: “Last night, we hosted music icon @davido here in Akwa Ibom, and he made history by choosing our State as the first stop in Nigeria for his global tour.

    “He said Akwa Ibom stood out because of our world-class facilities, peace, and hospitality, describing everything about our State as beautiful”.

    The Governor emphasised that Davido’s decision underscores Akwa Ibom’s growing reputation as a youth-friendly and tourism-driven destination.

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    He commended the artist for recognising the state’s efforts to create an enabling environment for young people.

    “I appreciate Davido for recognising our efforts to make Akwa Ibom a youth-friendly and tourism-driven State. His success story inspires our young people to believe that with commitment and consistency, their dreams are possible,” he added.

    Eno reiterated Akwa Ibom’s readiness to welcome not only entertainment events but also investment and economic opportunities, positioning the state as a hub for growth and development.

    “Akwa Ibom is open, peaceful, and ready, not just for entertainment, but for investment and growth,” he stated.