The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Nigeria’s creative industry gets first live tracker to drive investment

    Nigeria’s creative industry gets first live tracker to drive investment

    For decades, Nigeria’s creative economy thrived on raw talent but lacked the infrastructure, coordination and reliable data to measure its true worth. Now, with the launch of a new digital tool, the Creative Industry Ecosystem Value Chain Illustrative Tracker, industry experts believe a turning point has arrived.

    Developed under the Nigeria Creative Economy Innovation and Growth Project (NCEGII) in partnership with the UK–Nigeria Tech Hub and Tech4Dev, the tracker maps how value is created and distributed across four industries: music, film, fashion and content creation.

    Alongside the tracker, a 150-page report titled ‘State of Creative Innovation Ecosystem in Nigeria Report 2025’ was also released to provide insights and opportunities for growth and global expansion.

    “The creative economy currently employs over 1.2 million young people in Nigeria, making it the second-largest employer of labour after agriculture. We recognised the importance of understanding the available data but discovered that there wasn’t much out there,” said Oladiwura Oladepo, co-founder and executive director of Tech4Dev.

    She explained that the tracker and report fill a critical data gap, mapping challenges, opportunities and recommendations based on input from over 1,700 respondents.

    “To truly grasp the skills potential within the industry, we initiated a research project aimed at uncovering opportunities and identifying the challenges facing the creative economy. The goal was to generate data that creatives, government and investors can use to better understand the industry, inform decision-making and know where to channel resources for greater impact.

    “We are also launching a first-of-its-kind live tracker, which will evolve as new data becomes available. Anyone can access this platform to gain insights into the creative economy. The initiative was funded by the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) with support from state-level creative economy ministries and associations,” Oladepo said.

    Michael John, senior partner at Avaara Partners and former Country Manager of Tech4Dev, described the tool as a first-of-its-kind approach to mapping Nigeria’s creative economy from a value chain standpoint.

    According to him, the platform will build investor confidence and spotlight gaps for potential co-investments.

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    “A lot of research had been done in the past, but none has actually taken the standpoint of the value chain, which means understanding how value is created, from creation/conceptualisation to production, to distribution, getting it into the hands of consumers and exhibition,” John said.

    Adding that, “Understanding how an ecosystem works to create value is what builds confidence. It sheds light on opportunities, risks, and the true potential of any investment. Nobody invests in what they don’t understand, at least not seasoned investors.

    “If I knew what to check, I would feel more secure and confident knowing that I’ve done the necessary due diligence before committing capital. At a macro level, if I know there is an infrastructure gap, can I co-invest with institutions like the Bank of Industry or the CBN? Can I enter a PPP agreement to build a creative hub, for instance and define a clear model for how to recoup my investment over three to five years from the creators using that space?” he said.

    Industry leaders, including Michael Odionga of the Music Publishers Association of Nigeria, called for collaboration by industry stakeholders and players.

    “Let us not work in silos anymore. This initiative is a chance for us all to come together and grow. Let everybody be on board so that we can actually get something out of this,” he urged.

    For Oyinkansola Akintola-Bello, Director of the UK–Nigeria Tech Hub, highlighted the global reach of the initiative, “The tracker will boost growth, innovation and jobs, while linking Nigeria’s creative industries to a broader digital economy ecosystem in partner countries like Kenya, South Africa, Indonesia, and Brazil,” she said.

    “The tracker identifies gaps and opportunities for growth, investment, and innovation which will enable policymakers to develop targeted interventions, investors to identify areas for growth, and industry stakeholders to capitalise on emerging opportunities.”

  • Bayo Adedeji partners Samuel Olatunji to unveil Biglion Pictures

    Bayo Adedeji partners Samuel Olatunji to unveil Biglion Pictures

    Bayo Adedeji and Samuel Bigsam Olatunji have partnered to unveil Biglion Pictures on YouTube in a bold move set to reshape the landscape of digital Nollywood.

    Adedeji, Group CEO of Wakanow and Bigsam have joined forces to launch BigLion Pictures, an electrifying new YouTube channel set to debut on September 25, 2025.

    With the name derived from their nicknames, Big from Bigsam, Lion from Bayo Lion, BigLion Pictures is a channel designed to raise the bar in the industry according to Mr. Adedeji.

    According to Bayo Lion, ‘BigLion Pictures isn’t just another content platform, it is a fusion of vision, power, storytelling, and execution. Designed to deliver premium, must-watch Nollywood content every single Thursday, the channel will showcase unforgettable stories, iconic performances, and world-class production quality that is poised to raise the bar in Nigerian entertainment’.

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    “We’re not coming to compete—we’re coming to set the standard,” said Bayo Adedeji. “BigLion Pictures is where excellence meets consistency. It’s about giving Nollywood fans stories they deserve—bold, beautiful, and binge-worthy.”

    “Our stories will make you laugh, cry, reflect, and remember,” added Bigsam. “This is not just content. This is culture. This is soul. This is Nigeria; raw and refined, loud and beautiful.”

    According to Bigsam, our niche will be “New Nollywood drops every Thursday, no breaks, no dull moments. High-definition, cinematic-quality storytelling shot and produced for a global audience. A rotating ensemble of A-list actors, breakout stars, and hidden gems. Powerful plots rooted in Nigerian life, family, love, betrayal, ambition, humour, and survival.”

    In addition to its primary offering of original Nollywood content, BigLion Pictures is also expanding into the dynamic world of visual storytelling for brands and businesses. The company will be delving into high-end marketing productions, corporate advertising, branded content creation, and line production services.

  • Oluyinka Omilani brings African stories to life on the big screen

    Oluyinka Omilani brings African stories to life on the big screen

    In a significant development in the Nigerian film industry, Oluyinka Omilani, a director and producer, is set to release his latest movie, ‘Eegunleti.’

    Currently in post-production, ‘Eegunleti’ promises to be a cinematic masterpiece that showcases Omilani’s creative prowess.

    ‘Eegunleti,’ originally shot on celluloid in 1986, is a classic film that has been reimagined for modern audiences.

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    The new version, directed by Oluyinka Omilani and co- produced with Wale Muraina aims to captivate a new generation of film lovers while staying true to its African roots.

    Omilani’s passion for African storytelling and culture is evident in his body of work, which includes films like ‘Just Before I Do,’ ‘Fate,’ and ‘Sellout.’

    The forthcoming film boasts an impressive cast like Lateef Adedimeji, Uzor Arukwe, Dada Omowunmi, Atlanta Bridget, Beverly Osu, Dele Odule, Femi Adebayo, Akin Lewis, Hafiz Oyetoro, Yinka Quadri, Femi Branch, Pa Moses Omilani amongst others. Shot in Nigeria and Scotland, ‘Eegunleti’ promises to be a visually stunning production that highlights the beauty and diversity of African culture.

  • My wife Mide is opposite of her movie roles, says Afeez Abiodun

    My wife Mide is opposite of her movie roles, says Afeez Abiodun

    Nollywood filmmaker and actor, Afeez Abiodun, has said that his wife, actress Mide Martins, is completely different from the fiery characters she often portrays on screen.

    Abiodun, who has been married to Mide for nearly two decades, noted that while audiences may see her act as a tough and confrontational woman in movies, she is in reality calm and non-violent.

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    “She’s the opposite of what people see on TV,” he said in a recent interview. “I have never had any reason to separate her from fighting anyone on set. She would rather get into her car and drive off than engage in any fight.”

    He further compared her to their colleague, actress Wunmi Toriola, whom he described as closer in real life to the no-nonsense roles she plays in films.

    “Wunmi’s character is a bit similar to her role in movies,” he said. “If you don’t look for her trouble she won’t fight you, but if you trespass, she will act exactly as you see in movies.”

  • Lanko: my father disowned me because of acting

    Lanko: my father disowned me because of acting

    Veteran actor, Adeola Shoremi, popularly known as Lanko, has revealed that his father disowned him for eight years because of his decision to go into acting.

    The thespian, who has featured in several Yoruba productions, recalled that his father strongly opposed his career choice and cut ties with him. According to him, the rift lasted until an emotional twist of fate brought them back together.

    “My father disowned me as a son for good eight years,” Lanko said. “One time, he fell sick and was admitted at the General Hospital in Ikeja for fifteen days without being attended to. His wife called me while I was hosting an event in Ketu. Thank God for my popularity, when I got to the hospital and entered the emergency hall, noise erupted from people who were hailing me. The doctor came out to know what had gone wrong and when he saw me, he also greeted me. I told him my dad was admitted there and they attended to him immediately.”

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    He explained that the incident softened his father’s heart and became a turning point in their relationship. “When I went back to my father, I met him crying. I asked why he was crying and he said he never thought a day like that would come, that I would be the one to come to his rescue,” he recounted.

    Lanko, who described the experience as one of the biggest challenges of his career, said it taught him the value of staying true to one’s passion despite opposition.

  • ‘Why I combine traditional songs with Fuji’

    ‘Why I combine traditional songs with Fuji’

    Fuji musician, Alhaji Ganiu Taiwo Ajani aka Taye Cellular is set to hold a double celebration – to celebrate his 30th year on stage and his 45th birthday anniversary.

    Taye Cellular, an indigene of Eruwa-Ibarapa in Oyo State, has become a force to reckon with on the Fuji music scene.

    The award winning entertainer has over nine albums to his credit, including ‘Mawojue,’ ‘Oloju Ede,’ ‘African Tour,’ and ‘Popularity.’

    His journey to stardom began with the All Stars project, which brought him into the limelight.

    Talking about his musical style, the ebony singer revealed that his passion for culture and tradition inspired his style of Fuji.

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    In his words, he said “I choose traditional Fuji music because of the love for the art and my passion for the genre since my childhood. My passion for the genre is second to none and it also has to do with my  cultural heritage.”

    Continuing, Taye Cellular said, “Over the years, I have drawn inspiration from veteran artists deeply rooted in projecting Yoruba culture and have carved a niche for myself as a cultural icon through music.”

    Taye Cellular has taken his brand of music across the Southwest region and has performed at some of the most prominent cultural festivals including the World Sango Festival, the Egungun Festival in Osun-Osogbo, the Odun Aje Agbaye Festival, and the Olojo Festival in Ile-Ife, among others.

    Speaking about his status as a devoted Muslim, Taye Cellular said his religion doesn’t conflict with his job as a traditional musician.

    Cellular also confirmed the release of his much-anticipated new album, ‘Money Matter,’ which will further cement his authority in the Fuji music scene.

  • AFRIMA releases nominations as Lagos prepares to host Africa for 2025 edition

    AFRIMA releases nominations as Lagos prepares to host Africa for 2025 edition

    It was a dazzling evening of elegance, warmth, and celebration as the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, hosted its 2025 Patron’s Dinner with the International Jury in Lagos, Nigeria.

    The gathering brought together policymakers, stakeholders in Africa’s creative economy, music executives, artists, media representatives, and AFRIMA’s international jurors from 14 countries who are responsible for ensuring the credibility of Africa’s global music awards.

    The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) on Wednesday evening unveiled the nominees for its 2025 edition, with Nigerian superstars dominating the list.

    Burna Boy and Davido lead the pack with five nominations each, including coveted spots in the ‘Album of the Year’ and ‘Song of the Year’ categories.

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    South Africa’s DJ Maphorisa matched them with five nods, including ‘Best African DJ’ and ‘Album of the Year’. Morocco’s rap star El Grande Toto also secured five nominations.

    Fast-rising street-pop sensation Shallipopi secured four nominations, including ‘Artiste of the Year’ and ‘Song of the Year’ for his hit ‘Laho’, while Rema secured three nominations.

    The event was hosted by AFRIMA Patron, Dr. Bisi Onasanya, Chairman of The Address Homes.

    This year’s jury session has brought together jurors from across the five regions of Africa and the diaspora in Lagos, Nigeria. For over a week, they worked tirelessly to select nominees from a total of 10,717 entries received for AFRIMA 2025. The AFRIMA 2025 Nominees List will be announced to the public on August 24, following the conclusion of the adjudication process.Barrister Hannatu Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, who led a strong cast of dignitaries to the event, praised AFRIMA’s global impact.

    “AFRIMA is a testimony of how the creative sector in Nigeria has developed to a global standard, even without strong government backup. We are proud of what AFRIMA stands for and the impact it has made in Africa and on a global scale, projecting our identity, culture, language, and music. As a government, we will continue to support initiatives like this not just because it celebrates art but because it strengthens the economy and unites us,” she said.

    Representing the Lagos State Government, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, assured stakeholders, artistes, and fans across Africa that the State is fully prepared to welcome the continent and the rest of the world.

    Benson-Awoyinka, who was joined at the event by the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy,  Gbenga Omotosho, said, “I think we are in the right place at the right time. For us in Lagos, hosting AFRIMA 2025 is not just another event; it is a big honour. People say we are the culture and entertainment capital of Africa, and we are ready to welcome the whole continent and the world to our city for this great event.  We thank the Federal Government, our partners, and all those supporting AFRIMA for trusting Lagos to host again.”

    In collaboration with the African Union Commission, AFRIMA 2025 is being organised alongside the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Official Host City, Lagos State.

    For the Patron, Dr. Onasanya, who was accompanied to the event by his wife, Mrs Olufunke Onasanya, families and friends and business mogul, Chief Musa Danjuma and Dayo Adeola, the focus is on creating a sustainable legacy and delivering the best AFRIMA yet.

    “Tonight, we proudly recognise the incredible work of our jury members and say a big thank you to them. This year, we are excited to welcome Africa to AFRIMA. Africa and the rest of the world will see an amazing show in Lagos because we are confident of organising a successful event. I sincerely thank the Federal Government of Nigeria and our Official Host City, Lagos State, for their tremendous support, as well as our sponsors and every stakeholder who believes in AFRIMA. The last edition was fantastic, but I assure you that AFRIMA 2025 will be the best”

    One of the jury members, Guy Neza, an Ivorian who is representing West Africa on the panel, said, “It has been an amazing journey for me to be part of this journey. Africa is full of amazing talent, and it makes me happy to see our music and creativity receiving the recognition they deserve, as AFRIMA is the continent’s biggest music entity. Every artist who sends in their work is helping our creative industry grow stronger.  With the quality of music we have screened, I can confidently say that the future of the industry is promising.”

    AFRIMA President and  Founder, Mike Dada, thanked the jury, patrons, and creative stakeholders for their role in sustaining AFRIMA’s growth and success.

    “I am truly grateful for the support from every corner of our creative industry; from the Federal Government of Nigeria, our Official Host City, Lagos State Government and Governor Babajide Sanwoolu, our Patron, to the media, to the artists, producers, and record executives. It is inspiring to see us working hand in hand with one shared goal to elevate Africa’s global music. We said at the beginning of this journey that we would not joke with the credibility of this awards; we insisted that any artist who will be nominated or win award must submit their work to qualify and this patron’s dinner is our way of honouring the AFRIMA jury, who dedicate their time to carefully select the finest talents from thousands of entries for nomination in their rightful categories,” he said.

    Guests were also treated to a soulful performance by fast-rising star Qing Madi.  Adding to the sparkle of the night were appearances from music stars Ice Prince Zamani, Orezi, Praiz, and DJ Nana, among others.

    The roll call of high-profile dignitaries included Lai Mohammed, former Minister of Information and Culture; media moguls Kenny Ogungbe, Dayo Adeneye and Id Ogungbe; respected journalists Mayor Akinpelu, Ayo Aminu, Mojeed Jamiu, Azu Arinze; Founder of AFFRIF, Chioma Ude, media and Entertainment personalities Olisa Adibua, Ali Baba, Sunday Are, Ehiz and Uti Nwachukwu, among others; alongside other notable figures from the arts, culture, and media space.

    The AFRIMA 2025 celebration is set to take place from November 25 to 30 in Lagos. The week-long show will include a variety of events, such as the Welcome Soiree, the AFRIMA Music Village, the African Music Business Summit, a Host City Tour, the Nominees Party, and the main awards ceremony. This ceremony will be broadcast live to over 84 countries.

  • Nickelodeon viewers expect fun, adventures in September episode

    Nickelodeon viewers expect fun, adventures in September episode

    Nickelodeon viewers are expecting fun, brand-new adventures and fan-fave chaos during the September edition.

    In a statement by Nickelodeon, the company said viewers are to also expect magical and superhero showdowns, and something epic for every family to enjoy together within the month.

    The programme for the month include Nick (Global); The Fairly Odd Parents (A New Wish)

    Where Hazel Wells, a 10-year-old girl who has recently moved to the city of Dimmadelphia because of her father’s new job.

    “It is the first time she has been without her older brother, leaving her feeling lonely and unsure of herself. All that changes when her pink-and-green-haired neighbours next door reveal themselves as no ordinary neighbours! Catch the brand-new show from Monday, 1 September, to Friday, 12 September, at 14:45 WAT on Nickelodeon, DStv Channel 305, and GOtv Channel 87,” the statement read.

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    “Viewers can also watch Phoebe, Max, Chloe, Billy, Nora, Hank, and Barb Thunderman for the ultimate Thunderman binge-athon, packed with super-powered adventures, sibling rivalries, and heroic fun. They are encouraged not to miss the action, adventure, and comical surprises.

    For the Wylde Park (New Series), viewers are expected to watch Half-siblings Jack and Lily adjust to living together while helping at their family’s pet business. They explore culture, identity, and new family dynamics with support from parents and grandmother

    The Nick Jr. include Dora, where viewers are to join Dora and her best friend Boots as they journey through an enchanted rainforest where surprises wait around every corner and anything can happen—and usually does.

    “This time, the adventures are bigger, bolder, and more magical than ever. Don’t miss out, tune in for the new episodes airing all weekdays from Monday, 1 September to Friday, 12 September.

    “With new high-flying, action-packed missions, new pup pals, and even bigger adventures within Adventure Bay, the PAW Patrol is back and they are bringing with them PAW-some heat!

    Now airing on weekdays, this is PAW Patrol like you’ve never seen it before—bigger, braver, and bursting with fun.

    “Also, Tim Rex in Space (New Series) will require viewers to watch T-Rex Tim, his big brother Tommy, little sister Tia and Triceratops bestie Kai tackle kid-shaped problems with dinosized solutions in space.”

  • Why black character heroes are needed for Africa, says Ajebo

    Why black character heroes are needed for Africa, says Ajebo

    House of Ajebo Animation Studios has officially relaunched its beloved Nigerian children’s learning animation series,  ‘Jeni & Keni’, with a fresh new 3D look and a renewed mission to place African identity, culture, and values at the heart of global family entertainment.

    The relaunch, which took place on Saturday, August 16, unveiled the upgraded  ‘Jeni & Keni’ series featuring brighter visuals, bigger adventures, and high-quality 3D animation that rivals international standards.

    Speaking on the relaunch, Founder and Creative Director, Erem Emeka Nehemiah aka Ajebo D’ Comedian said: “With the new  ‘Jeni & Keni’ in 3D, kids around the world can enjoy high-quality animations that compete on the global stage. We are not just creating quality educational materials—we are exporting our sound, our culture, and showing the world the beauty of Africa.

    “If we make black characters heroes, put African outfits on global platforms, and let kids hear our sound from an early age, they grow up proud to be Africans. And even the world will see us differently.”

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    The journey of  ‘Jeni & Keni’, he said, began over two years ago, with the goal of creating content that generations of African children could grow up watching with pride.

    “At its core, the series targets children between ages 0–6, weaving together culture, education, music, and entertainment to shape young minds during their formative years,” Erem added.

    Also speaking, House of Ajebo’s co-founder, Uchenna Erem said that the relaunch comes at a time when Afrobeats and African creative industries are making waves globally.

    “The series embodies African family entertainment at its finest—encouraging imagination while preserving the unique values, humour, and warmth of African traditions. We believe in the power of fun learning for kids, and  ‘Jeni & Keni’ delivers that with a unique African flair. Every episode is crafted to entertain while teaching timeless values that children can carry with them,” she said.

    She further emphasised the importance of fun learning rooted in African values while highlighting how the animation series responds to a cultural gap in children’s entertainment.

    “It’s disheartening to see children dancing to songs that are meant for adults. We’ve created music within  ‘Jeni & Keni’ that has the Afrobeat bounce but is age-appropriate, fun, and safe for kids. They can dance, laugh, and learn while celebrating their culture,” the co-founder added.

  • Falz sparks marriage speculation with instagram post

    Falz sparks marriage speculation with instagram post

    Rapper and actor Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz has set social media abuzz after hinting at marriage in a cryptic Instagram post.

    Falz on Thursday, captioned the post and shared stunning pictures with a lady hinting at an introduction ceremony.

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    “It’s been a long time coming, and having to do this with you is one of the best decisions of my life. First of all, introduction.”

    The post has since triggered reactions from fans and colleagues, speculating about the identity of his potential bride and others suggesting it could be an introduction ceremony, while others congratulated him in advance.

    Falz, known for blending wit and activism, left the post open-ended.