The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Kween Melissa joins Spice FM

    Kween Melissa joins Spice FM

    Radio host and music marketing executive, Nnamdi Melissa aka Kween Melissa, has joined Spice FM as part of a new phase in her evolving media and entertainment career.

    Melissa, formerly a presenter at Vybz FM, is known for her focus on music, artist development, and commentary on Nigeria’s changing soundscape.

    She is expected to continue her music-centered show at her new station, while also deepening her work in the music business through her marketing agency, Lucid Promotions.

    Read Also: Terry G speaks on fading recognition for Nigerian legends

    Beyond her presence on radio, Melissa has established herself as an A&R executive and music promoter, often credited for identifying emerging talent and managing promotional campaigns that resonate with digital audiences.

    Her agency, Lucid Promotions, has gained visibility for offering services such as editorial playlist pitching across major platforms, radio and TV placement, influencer engagement, social media advertising, and offline campaigns including billboards. The agency has supported both independent and label-backed artists across Nigeria and abroad.

    “Lucid Promotions was born out of a desire to help artists not only get heard but get heard by the right people,” Melissa said. “The industry is changing fast, and we want to be at the forefront—telling real stories, building organic reach, and creating campaigns that connect emotionally and strategically.”

  • Actors cherish respect, says Adekanye

    Actors cherish respect, says Adekanye

    Oluwafemi Adekanye who goes by the stage name, Big Z is one of the young actors of the Yoruba sector of the Nigerian movie industry.

    In a recent chat, the talented actor who is a graduate of Performing Arts from the University of Ilorin, disclosed that the Yoruba film arm of Nollywood actors and actresses cherish respect.

    He said, “I was lucky enough to get accepted easily in the industry because I have what it takes as an actor in terms of good physique, stage presence and most importantly respect because the Yoruba movie industry is based on respect and I gave respect to everyone I met there regardless of whether I am older than you or not. So it was easy for them to accept me.”

    Big Z’s quest and passion for entertainment, especially movie production has been his driving force despite all the challenges he encountered while starting out in the industry. Aside from acting, he is also a director and a script writer.

    Read Also: 2025  AFCON: NFF unveils ‘Mission X’ campaign for Super Falcons

    Speaking about his foray into the make believe world, the challenges and resistance he faced while starting out, “One of the challenges I faced when I started was not being able to speak Yoruba properly. But over time I was able to polish my Yoruba. Now I can speak it properly. Another challenge that I faced was trying to convince the directors of my acting skills because they didn’t know what I’m capable of doing at the time. Another one was because I speak more English and some of the directors and the production managers felt I may not be able to speak properly, but I was able to prove them wrong. And lastly, I had issues traveling across the state then to act because I was not mobile (no car) so it was difficult for me moving from one place to the other but now things are different”.

    Biz Z has featured in quite a number of movie productions including Dear Future Me, Itura, Venge, Ajoche, Till The Dust Settles, Love Intentional, AFESONA, Ibasepo, Adehun (Agreement), Ile Aiwo, Baba Kekere, Ife Airotele, Nifemi, Elege, Baddie of Lele, Ire Ife, Asoni, Temisan, Alaya Pupo, Different Stroke For Different Folks, Oba Koshoro, Ife Oju, My Perfect Man, Cracks, Against Creation, and Quick Sand, etc.

  • Burna Boy, Davido, Tems to headline Afro Nation Portugal

    Burna Boy, Davido, Tems to headline Afro Nation Portugal

    Afrobeats heavyweights Burna Boy, Tems, and Davido have been unveiled as headliners for the fifth edition of Afro Nation.

    The festival, scheduled to take place from 9 to 11 July 2025 at Portimão, Portugal.

    Other global talents joining the trio of Nigerian stars include Chris Brown, Mary J. Blige, Amaarae, Booba and many more.

    According to the festival’s organisers, The Malachite Group (TMG) each edition of the Afro Nation aimed to capture the magic of the moment.

    “Our fifth anniversary will be a massive celebration, packed with surprises and not-to-be-missed events. We can’t wait to bring the community together again on the beach… Together we move.”

    For Burna Boy, a two-time Grammy nominee and one of Africa’s most exported music icons, the upcoming appearance marks his second time gracing the Afro Nation stage, following his 2019 performance during the festival’s debut edition.

    Read Also: Nigerian unity, citizen participation in governance paramount, says Speaker Abbas

    Tems is billed to make her Afro Nation debut, a long-anticipated performance that underscores her meteoric rise in the international music scene.

    Davido, a festival mainstay, returns to a stage that has cemented its reputation as a cultural bridge between Africa and the world.

    Past editions of the music festival have featured headliners including ‘Made in Nigeria’ singer, Wizkid, Megan Thee Stallion, and Lil Baby, cementing Afro Nation’s status as the premier festival for African diasporic music.

    With a star-studded lineup and an ever-expanding audience, Afro Nation Portugal continues to play a pivotal role in amplifying African voices on the world stage.

    Afro Nation was founded in 2019 to unite the African diaspora in a celebration of dance, food, fashion, music.

  • Terry G speaks on fading recognition for Nigerian legends

    Terry G speaks on fading recognition for Nigerian legends

    Singer and producer Terry G has expressed concern over how veteran entertainers are treated in Nigeria, saying society is often too quick to dismiss those who once shaped the industry.

    In a recent reflection shared online, the ‘Akpako Master’ questioned the mindset that brands accomplished artists as outdated once they’re no longer in the spotlight.

    “I hear people say, ‘Your time don pass!’ — and it sounds like brain damage,” he said. “In the West, legends are respected for life. No one calls Jay-Z or Beyoncé outdated. Their impact is honoured.”

    Read Also: Makinde greets Muslims on Hijrah 1447, urges prayers for Oyo, Nigeria

    Terry G, known for his unconventional style and energetic performances in the 2000s, criticised the tendency in Nigeria and other parts of Africa to discard cultural icons rather than preserve their legacy.

    “But here in Africa, especially Nigeria, we’re quick to discard our own. That’s why we believe our ancestors were evil, while Western ancestors are seen as gods. It’s time to break free from that mindset,” he added.

    He also noted that sustaining relevance requires intentional effort and continuous value creation, regardless of past achievements.

    “If you don’t keep adding value to yourself and those around you, your worth will fade no matter how great you once were,” he said.

    He concluded with a call for a cultural shift: “We must do better.”

  • British singer Becca Diamond eyes breakthrough in Afrobeat

    British singer Becca Diamond eyes breakthrough in Afrobeat

    UK-based singer, Rebecca Ward aka Becca Diamond, is making a bold entry into the Afrobeat music space, with aspirations to bridge cultural boundaries and redefine what it means to belong in the genre.

    The Wirral-born artist, who holds a degree in psychology and is a certified Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) coach, says her growing interest in Afrobeat is rooted in her admiration for African culture and a desire to contribute authentically to its global soundscape.

    “I love African culture. It’s so rich, so powerful. The values, the energy, the rhythm—there’s nothing like it,” she said. “Afrobeat is amazing, and I want to challenge myself by stepping into something new, something many have tried and failed. I want to be the white girl who broke the limits, who opened the door for others to follow.”

    Read Also: The fictional reality of AI and 2027 general elections in Nigeria

    Becca’s musical journey began early. Raised in Birkenhead, Wirral, she recalls first performing in local pubs at the age of seven alongside her father, a guitarist and singer. “My dad used to sing and play in pubs, and my mum also sang when she was my age,” she said. “Music runs deep in my family, and those early moments planted the seed.”

    In addition to her music career, Becca Diamond holds certifications in law and mindfulness, adding a distinct layer of introspection and discipline to her artistic identity. She says her academic background complements her creative journey, helping her maintain self-awareness and emotional depth in her music.

    While she is yet to release her debut single, the British artist says her upcoming Afrobeat-inspired work aims to connect cultures through sound and storytelling.

  • BBNaija Reunion: Chinwe, Zion, Rhuthee, DJ Flo bring all the drama

    BBNaija Reunion: Chinwe, Zion, Rhuthee, DJ Flo bring all the drama

    Almost a year after leaving the Big Brother Naija house, the cast of Big Brother Naija: No Loose Guard reunited with host Ebuka Obi-Uchendu last night for a reunion show filled with drama, revelations, and relationship updates.

    One of the most talked-about moments came when Chinwe and Zion, known as “Zinwe,” addressed the state of their relationship.

    The pair entered the show as a couple but experienced multiple fights during the season.

    Read Also: Nigerian unity, citizen participation in governance paramount, says Speaker Abbas

    Zion avoided confirming his relationship status, saying, “They can say that,” when asked if he was single. Chinwe, however, was frank, revealing they broke up in December after a series of disagreements, including a night when Zion asked her to pay a club bill and later ignored her calls. Although they briefly reconciled in February, the relationship fell apart again when Zion asked Chinwe for money and then ghosted her. Chinwe expressed frustration, saying Zion had never taken her out and that she often paid for their outings.

    Another highlight was the fallout between Rhuthee and DJ Flo, who entered the house as the pair “Floruish.” Their friendship soured after DJ Flo criticised Rhuthee’s gameplay and questioned her loyalty during conflicts in the house. When asked if they were still friends, DJ Flo was clear: “No, we are not… We had a fallout.” She recounted how Rhuthee accused her of not standing by her, despite their long friendship.

  • Ex-Beauty Queen May Ekayoda champions hope for vulnerable people

    Ex-Beauty Queen May Ekayoda champions hope for vulnerable people

    May Ekayoda, former Face of Delta Beauty Queen 2014/2015, has transformed her pageant platform into a powerful force for good.

    The Nigerian-Canadian certified Interior Designer, entrepreneur, and humanitarian, is championing hope with her initiative M.E.H.O.P.E, May Ekayoda Helping Orphans & Protecting the Elderly.

    The nonprofit organization, according to Ekayoda, is dedicated to uplifting society’s most vulnerable.

    Long before the official launch of M.E.H.O.P.E, Ekayoda was already deeply involved in humanitarian work.

    During her reign as a beauty queen, she led numerous outreach initiatives focused on orphans, women, and the elderly, causes she describes as deeply personal.

    Her passion for service was born from personal experience. Growing up, she witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by widows, single mothers, orphans, and elderly women in her community. These early encounters left a lasting impact and planted the seeds for a lifelong commitment to advocacy and care.

    Read Also: Nigerian unity, citizen participation in governance paramount, says Speaker Abbas

    What began as informal acts of kindness eventually evolved into a structured mission. M.E.H.O.P.E was established as a platform to provide consistent support and empowerment for those often overlooked by society.

    “MEHOPE is more than an organization, it’s a safe haven for the forgotten,” said Ekayoda. “When we empower women, protect children, and support our elderly, we create stronger, more resilient communities.”

    Under her leadership, M.E.H.O.P.E has launched a series of impactful programs that provide essential resources, emotional support, and advocacy services. The nonprofit continues to grow, fueled by Ekayoda’s unwavering belief in the power of compassion and collective action.

    Through her work, May Ekayoda is not only honoring her roots but also forging a path forward, one where dignity, empathy, and hope take center stage.

  • Boniface, Onyeka, Ndidi launch new podcast

    Boniface, Onyeka, Ndidi launch new podcast

    Three Nigerian football stars Victor Boniface, Frank Onyeka, and Wilfred Ndidi are set to launch a new podcast cum talk show today, Saturday, June 28, 2025.

    The talk show has been christened ‘The Culture League’ and will be produced by Webek Studios in collaboration with Kini Media Group.

    According to Esse Akwawa, CEO of Webek Studios, the new talk showcum podcast isn’t the regular.

    “The Culture League is more than just a talk show; it’s a reflection of our culture and our generation,” says Esse Akwawa, CEO of Webek Studios. “We wanted to build a space where footballers, artists, and creatives can speak freely, connect across industries, and inspire the next wave of Nigerian talent.”

    Read Also: Meet Grace Morenike, first female chairman of Nigerian Legion

    Akwawa further said the podcast cum talk show promises to uniquely blend the worlds of football, music, fashion, and film with a refreshing mix of conversation and entertainment.

    Scheduled to be a weekly series, the show will feature a diverse range of guests, including Basketmouth, Bovi, Odumodublvck, Osas Ighodaro, Falz, and VJ Adams, who will engage in candid conversations about their lives, experiences, and perspectives.

  • We are prepared to lead global partnerships, says Okwuosa

    We are prepared to lead global partnerships, says Okwuosa

    Kene Okwuosa, Group CEO of Filmhouse Group, has revealed the group’s preparedness to lead the charge in global partnerships.

    Okwuosa made this known while speaking at a cultural diplomacy and cross-continental collaboration forum recently.

    “We are prepared to lead the charge in global partnerships that unlock the immense potential of Africa’s creative economy,” he said.

    Read Also: Ayo Maff’s debut album ‘Prince of the Street’ tops Nigerian Apple Music chart

    At the forum, which was a partnership between the Office of the Vice President of Nigeria and Filmhouse Group, was a high-level Brazilian delegation that visited the Filmhouse Cinemas – IMAX, Lekki, Lagos as part of a broader cultural and economic mission aimed at strengthening bilateral ties through the creative industries.

    “This visit is more than symbolic, it’s a catalyst,” said Okwuosa. “Nigeria and Brazil are cultural siblings with shared roots and creative energies. At The Filmhouse Group, we believe storytelling is a bridge – one that can unite nations, spark economic growth, and shift global perceptions. We are committed to building enduring partnerships that elevate African stories and open doors for co-production, distribution, and investments across the Atlantic.”

  • Lagos Jazz Festival honours Lombard

    Lagos Jazz Festival honours Lombard

    One of Africa’s greatest cultural visionaries, late Rashid Lombard will be honoured in a special tribute showcasing jam session at the Lagos International Jazz Festival (LIJF) organized by Inspiro Productions.

    The concert will hold at LIVE Lounge, 15 Idejo Street, Off Adeola Odeku, Victoria Island, Lagos, by 5 PM on Sunday, June 29. Lagos will celebrate his life the way he would have wanted.

    It will be a night of music and memories. Lombard’s relationship with Lagos and Nigeria’s jazz community was built through mentorship.

    The evening will feature an array of Nigerian musical heavyweights, including Bright Gain, Wale Adeyemi, Victor Ademofe, Gloria Ibru, Herbert Kunle Ajayi (HKA), Agba Joshua, Kue Bounce, Elfreda Nana, Samuel Ayunke, Jesse Bangz, A Stringz, Zosu, Michael Gbenga, Mikifa, and many more spectacular performers.

    Lombard, a renowned South African photographer, cultural activist, apartheid-era freedom fighter, and founder of the globally acclaimed Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), passed away on June 4, 2025, at the age of 74.

    Armed with his camera, Lombard chronicled South Africa’s turbulent struggle against apartheid, courageously documenting both the brutal realities of oppression and the indomitable spirit of marginalized communities. His iconic photographs remain a powerful visual archive of South Africa’s journey to freedom.

    Read Also: Nigeria, Saudi Arabia sign landmark customs cooperation agreement

    Yet beyond photojournalism, his most enduring legacy was the creation of Africa’s grandest gathering — the Cape Town International Jazz Festival. Founded in 2000 as a partnership with the North Sea Jazz Festival, CTIJF blossomed into one of the world’s largest and most prestigious jazz events, annually drawing nearly 40,000 attendees from around the globe.

    Lombard’s vision provided a global stage for African musicians, fostered cultural exchange, launched careers, and empowered countless young artists through education, master classes, and outreach. Since his passing, tributes have poured in from across continents. Jazz artists, festival organizers, and political leaders have paid homage to his remarkable contributions.

    South African President Cyril Ramaphosa hailed him as a ‘cultural icon who not only documented our history of struggle but made history in his own right.

     Rashid’s fearless depiction of apartheid’s inhumanity, coupled with his entrepreneurial brilliance in founding the Cape Town Jazz Festival, placed South Africa firmly on the global jazz map.’  ‘He achieved a remarkable feat with his love for the diversity and vibrancy of our nation. We reflect on his life with gratitude and joy, for the liberation and cultural legacy he leaves behind.

    Lagos jazz community-led by Ayoola Sadare CEO of Inspiro Productions and organizer of the Lagos International Jazz Festival, joins the international celebration of Lombard’s extraordinary life.

    “The jazz world, especially jazz in Africa, has lost a giant. My boss, mentor, friend, father… Mr. Rashid Lombard. For a man of his stature, he was truly great. Too great. They don’t make them like him anymore,” Sadare reflected on his legacy.

    “This year, 2025 marks 20 years since I first met him at his festival in Cape Town introduced by veteran journalist Nseobong Okon-Ekong, who had before then been a guest at his festival. His vision became the spark and model for what I do today.