Category: Entertainment

The first thing one would notice immediately siting Oloruntimilehin Abosede Bukola popularly known as Kiitan Bukola is obviously her tattoo which is neatly drawn on her thighs and that’s due to her fondness of wearing shorts. The actress and movie producer spoke to THE NATION’s ADENIYI ADEWOYIN about the emotional story behind her tattoos, her sojourn into the movie industry among other gist.

Why the choice of this tattoo? Is there something you are trying to express with it?

Not really though. I think I drew a tattoo out of love back then. I was in love with my ex. My ex loved tattoos and I had this because of him. Although we eventually went our separate ways so I changed the name to my name when we broke up. We are cool as friends and now he’s married. The Tattoo is a rose. I drew it there because it’s a hidden place, you only see it when I wear shorts. I’m a lover of shorts. Most times I like to wear biker shorts, sneakers and I’m good to go.

How did you handle the break up?

One thing about life, always expect the unexpected. Be able to face challenges every day. Although I’m a lover girl, when when I realise it’s not working, I don’t stress about it, I just let it go.

Let’s talk about your career, how has it been?

To me, it’s been fun, a bit challenging but not really challenging. I’ve come to learn a lot about life and people. We learn every day. We meet different people from different backgrounds, and we have to cope with them. I learn things more every minute, it’s been a journey that I love, but at the same time, it’s scary but I love it, it’s sweet.

How did you start acting?

It’s in-built from the days of church when I was still young, primary school, secondary school and later on when I grew older. I featured in a movie before I traveled to South Africa for school, and when I came back, I started acting again.

There’s a popular notion that you must produce your own movie to be known if not getting a script can be challenging, is it true?

I wouldn’t say it’s just Nollywood. You know in this life, you have to raise your hand for people to carry you. Whatever you want to do, get somewhere so people can help you. If you aren’t growing or standing from where you are seated, no one would support you.

Career wise, how has social media helped you and how do you cope with the negative side?

Not everyone would like you, the very moment you realise that, you are at peace. Even if you’re trolling me, I block, restrict and move on. About 80% of my followers like me, I don’t give a hoot about the rest who don’t, they don’t count.

How do you handle what people say about you?

People would always talk, even someone you just helped would still definitely talk. Always expect that. Don’t care about what people say, just keep moving forward. At a point, sincerely, I felt bad when they spoke about me because I felt I didn’t do badly to them but moving forward I realised I can’t please people, so just make yourself happy. No matter what you want to do in life, just do you the world will adjust.

Have you considered acting in English speaking movies?

I have done that. I have done like six or seven. I have done like two Netflix jobs. I was in ‘Citation’ but I wasn’t popular then so people didn’t know my face.

How many movies would you say you’ve featured including the ones you have produced?

I have lost counts of them

There’s a popular belief that Yoruba movies take just two days to produce, what would you say about that?

I’ve not been in movies produced in that time range. One thing I know about movie production is that you need good planning. Even if you produce for a year and you have a good script, without proper planning, no good cast or proper location, you are just wasting your time. Movie production depends on your planning. You have to plan ahead and when you plan ahead, you can achieve anything.

It has also been said that in the Yoruba wing of Nollywood actors don’t like to pay each other for services?

I won’t say it’s in the industry alone, even outside the industry, it’s give and take. If I don’t pay you, I don’t expect you to pay me. The first thing you need to understand is that this is business, this is where you are getting your money from to pay bills so even you yourself, make sure you are paying people so you can be paid.

What would you regard as the worst location experience?

I don’t think I can remember. The truth is if I’m going outside Lagos, I have hotels and places I can stay in. I always plan myself ahead. I get myself prepared for whatever would happen ahead.

Are you based in Ibadan?

I used to be before I moved to Lagos

How was life in Ibadan?

It’s calm and peaceful, although there are not enough companies for people to work and make money but to me, Ibadan is a nice place to stay.

How has your experience been with men in Lagos?

All men are men. I’ve always been in and out of Lagos even before I moved to Ibadan and travelled to South Africa. I grew up in the midst of guys so I know guys. I don’t really make friends with girls, I’m not used to it. At one point, some people felt I was a tomboy but I’m not. From the onset, most of my female friends see me as a competition so I try to stay on my lane and not have issues with friends. I don’t want to argue or say anything that would hurt you so I just stay with the guys.

Why do you think they see you as a competition though? Is it because of your academics, beauty or what?

I’m a child of grace, I’d say thank you to God for that. I don’t know why the competition happens but I know that people appreciate me and I appreciate them. I don’t know how God works.

What do you look out for in a relationship?

In relationships, I want to be happy, I want to have a happy home and good father for my children. Not necessarily money.

Are you in a relationship now?

I’m single and not searching. I have given up on love for now but I can change my mind tomorrow.

What happened about your previous engagement?

In this life, two people can’t walk without disagreement. It’s left to you guys if you can amend it or not but the very moment you can’t, just let it go.

How did you cope with the whole engagement drama?

I was able to pull through because I was the one who left the relationship. I didn’t serve him, he was not in the relationship the way I was, so, when I realised it wasn’t working for me the way I wanted, I pulled out. I couldn’t force it.

There’s a belief that successful actresses are into runs (escorts and prostitution), what’s your take on that?

Personally, before I came into the industry, I had been making my money. I went to South Africa, I was also working with my sister who had a salon and I’ve been making my money from day one. I used to have a big supermarket in Ibadan. I make my money myself. So, not everyone is into runs (escort).

What’s your take on the notion that Yoruba actors feel inferior to their English counterparts?

If you feel inferior, you have low self-esteem. I can’t feel inferior. I’m not hungry. It’s when you have low self-esteem, don’t have charisma or carriage you’d feel inferior.

Communication scholar, critic and culture journalist Dr. Shaibu Husseini has described his recent appointment as an international voting member of the prestigious Golden Globe award as the highest imprimatur for his career.

Shaibu who spoke at a quiet reception organised in his honour by members of the Lagos Circle of Film Critic said his invitation to be a significant part of the Golden Globe awards is deeply meaningful to him as it affords him the opportunity to play a pivotal role in deciding nominees and winners of the 81st edition of the Golden Globes.

‘I am humbled by the privilege and responsibility to be appointed as an international voting member of the Golden Globe. I thank the President of the HFPA organisers of the Golden Globe award for the recognition. The appointment into the elite class of international voters is deeply meaningful to me. For me, it represents the highest imprimatur for a critic and I feel privileged to be able to support and celebrate the world’s best talent in television and film production and I promise to as I have always done to other assignments of this nature, tackle this with much joy and commitment’’ Shaibu said.

Earlier, Secretary General of the LCFC Yemi Oladeinde congratulated Shaibu on his appointment saying that the LCFC was not surprised at the appointment considering that Shaibu has exhibited a rare and unique talent and conviction in enriching both screen and stage as a critic and programmer.

In a letter of appointment dated April 10, Helen Hoehne, President of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) organisers of the award said the HFPA was thrilled to have Shaibu as an international voting member for the 81 st Annual Golden Globe Awards.

 ‘’We are thrilled you accepted our invitation to vote on the 81st Annual Golden Globe Awards, which will take place on Sunday, January 7, 2024. As part of the largest and most diverse voting body in our history, your participation commemorates a milestone in our organisation, which stretches back to its humble beginnings in 1943. I am very happy to welcome you on board.”

The music industry has received a positive boost with the introduction of Eagle Sign CM record label boss, Chidiebere Sunday aka Chris Millions.

Though Millions, who has signed two music acts on his label, is not a novice in the industry, his story could be akin to that of a prophet who ran away from his calling.

He had his first record label in 2013 and shut it down only to return to the music scene with the launch of Eagle Sign CM  in 2022.

Narrating his story, Millions says: “As I was growing up, my dad sent me to go and live with a doctor because he wanted me to become a doctor as well. Dad took me away from my other siblings and I was always on my own in that house. It was a very big house, so, I sang and listened to music. That is where the passion came from at a very tender age. From there I started growing it and started going to the studio in 2008 with the likes of Peruzzi and Moko Beats was our producer then at Egbeda. But professionally, I think I went into the music industry in 2013.” Continuing, he said, “I launched my first record label then and I was singing at the same time but then I decided to promote the first artists I signed then. The record label then was Sopay Entertainment and we went into business without so much experience before we shut everything down. I left the music scene and went into other businesses that included auto spare parts and importation of home appliances until 2020. I found out that I wasn’t really happy as a person. I found out what was missing was music and I had to go and pick it. I went back, bought studio equipment and started from where I stopped. I have seen that music is really what I was called for.”

Nigerian music sensation Jaywon has been garnering rave reviews for his new song ‘See Finish.’ The song, which is produced by Vstix, is a catchy and upbeat track that showcases Jaywon’s vocal prowess and lyrical depth.

Shedding light on the message of the song, the ‘Aje’ singer said: “The message of the song is simple, trust nobody but God. It used to be that the problem shared is half way solved, these days, a problem shared na see finish. ‘See Finish’ is a song about the complexities of relationships and how familiarity can sometimes lead to a lack of appreciation. That is the message behind the song. It’s already becoming fans’ favourite. The message is relatable,” he said.

On his proudest moment as an artist, the versatile singer said “Being able to make music that resonates with people continues to be my proudest moment as an artist. It’s one of the legacies I want to leave behind. This is what makes my music amazing.”

The eighth season of the Nigerian Idol is set to premiere on Sunday, April 23, 2023.

MultiChoice Nigeria and Africa Magic, organisers of the reality show, had earlier unveiled the new season on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at a media event in Lagos.

The show, which will air in phases until the live shows begin on May 28, will premiere this Sunday with clips from the auditions.

After a fantastic seventh season last year that saw Progress Chukwuyem emerge as the winner, the judges are back to select another incredible lineup of singers for the live show.

The three judges for season seven, Simi, D’banj, and Obi Asika are returning for season eight while IK Osakioduwa returns as the host for a third season.

Dr Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels at MultiChoice said this year’s competition promises to be fiercer than the former.

“MultiChoice is committed to bringing another season deserving of every vote cast. We have taken the time to scour the nation for talents to showcase this season, starting from April 23rd. MultiChoice’s commitment to continue providing premium entertainment remains unwavering, and we urge you all to join us on this journey of discovery. ”

Timi Dakolo, Mercy Chinwo, and Omawumi are megastars that have emerged from its staggering platform.

Buabo, a trado-modern film has been released on the Youtube channel, Yorubahood.
The movie debuted on the platform on April 14 and features Yomi Fash Lanso, Femi Adebayo, Laide Bakare, and others.
According to Kehinde Olowo Salami, the movie’s producer, ‘Buabo’ (meaning festival of cleansing) is centred on religious tolerance, Yoruba culture, and the consequences of failing to abide by traditional practices.
Explaining the reasons behind the production, the actress cum producer said that the story was put together to promote Yoruba culture to the world.
“It’s to showcase the beauty of Igbobini culture and tradition to the world,” she said.
Continuing, she said, “Apoi is the language spoken in Igbobini located at Ese Oke Local Govt Area, Ondo State. Igbobini is one of the few villages where the rich traditional Yoruba ancestral belief systems are still practised and primordial rules sustained with evidence of its potency.”
Salami noted that there are bound to be repercussions when a tradition becomes soiled, abused, and witness to abomination.

As nominations for the ninth edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) rolled in last week, several actors, actresses, directors, and other practitioners have expressed excitement over the recognition.

Top on the list of film and TV stars, who have expressed their thoughts on the nominations include Tobi Bakre, Ini Dima Okojie, Chidi Mokeme and many others.

Expressing his appreciation, the ‘Brotherhood’ and ‘Gangs of Lagos’ star, Tobi Bakre said, “Thank you Africa Magic for the nomination in the category ‘Best Actor in a Drama/TV Series. E dey sweet me make I no lie. Big shout out to all of you (other nominees). Years counting now, and the support is still massive.”

Dazzling Ini Dima Okojie couldn’t contain her emotions when she received her first-ever AMVCA nomination for her portrayal of the character Ramat in the TV series, ‘Flawsome.’ “My very first AMVCA nomination. It’s been nine beautiful years of grinding and giving my best to a job I’m absolutely passionate about. God is good. Thank you, guys, for always supporting your girl. I still can’t believe I’m nominated.”

‘Shanty Town’ villain, Chidi Mokeme also couldn’t hide his excitement as he congratulated the cast and crew of the Netflix original saying, “Congratulations to the Shanty Town family.”

For ‘Wura’ star, Scarlet Gomez, who was nominated for Best Actress for her role in the Showmax original, the nomination is shocking. “How do I even begin? Where do I start? You see GOD ehn! This shock plenty ooo. We are just getting started. Hard work pays off, don’t let them tell you otherwise!”

Daniel Etim Effiong, who was nominated for Best Actor for his role in ‘Kofa,’ also shared his emotions on the nomination saying, “KOFA what a journey! Now it’s unto you my wonderful online family…let’s go vote!”

In the same vein, Elozonam of the BBNaija fame, who  also received a nomination, said, “So we got nominated. Shout out to Kie Kie who brought the energy to this piece. Edakun, go and vote! Congrats to everyone who got nominated in this category.”

A happy Chichi Nworah, who sits as executive producer for ‘Shanty Town’ couldn’t hide her excitement saying, “Recognition for one’s creative work comes with a great feeling. It feels good that Shanty Town bagged ten nominations. This shows the depth of work, sleepless nights, talents, creativity, and other resources put together to produce the masterpiece. ‘Shanty Town’ is part of my journey to tell a local story with global artistry. With ‘Shanty Town,’ I tried to create a departure from the norm. And we are happy with the results coming out. Creating a project like Shanty Town took a lot of money, and it stretched my co-executives and me, but seeing the positive global acceptance turned that stretch into joy.”

Fuji music star Aare Sir Shina Akanni has sent his condolences to one of his colleagues, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma over the passing away of his beloved mother, Alhaja Kuburat Odetola.

Akanni, who is currently in the United States of America, commiserated with Pasuma through a phone call as well as video calls.

It was gathered that Akanni, who was absent for the Fidau ceremony and other lined up burial activities, paid tribute to the deceased while praying to Allah to grant the late Alhaja Kuburat Odetola Aljannah Fidaus.

Akanni, who is billed for music performances in different parts of the U.S, kicked off the shows on Friday with Shina Akanni live in Maryland. He promised to return to Nigeria in June after rounding off a few other lined up shows.