The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Opulence entertainment unveils Osa’s Vantage

    Opulence entertainment unveils Osa’s Vantage

    • By Ganiyat Mumuni

    Opulence Entertainment has officially unveiled ‘Osa’s Vantage,’ a Hollywood original television series focused on the experiences and global ambitions of black professionals.

    The film was unveiled with a special event attended by industry stakeholders and cultural leaders. The guests include the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, Senator Daisy Danjuma among others.

    Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer (CEO)of Opulence Entertainment, Owen Osagie Odigie, said the series has been in development for nearly two years and is inspired by his personal journey across finance, leadership and creative storytelling.

    Odigie, a Columbia Business School graduate, who served as student body president and commencement speaker, said the idea for ‘Osa’s Vantage’ emerged from a noticeable gap in global media representation.

    “I observed a shortage of authentic stories that capture the realities of young Black professionals not just in New York or the United States, but globally,” he said.

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    Odigie, who was motivated to address this gap, said he made the decision to walk away from a career in Wall Street consulting to establish Opulence Entertainment, a company built around creativity, capital and culture.

    “This approach allows us to own and scale the project while partnering with global distributors such as Netflix, Amazon and HBO,” he explained.

    The project has attracted 14 investors from the United States, the United Kingdom and Nigeria with at least three Nigerian investors already confirmed and more expected to come on board.

    ‘Osa’s Vantage’ centers on what Odigie described as global Black ambition, a theme that shapes both the narrative focus and the operational philosophy of the series.

    “The series begins with my story, but the vision is to eventually tell the stories of Black professionals around the world,” he said.

  • Judith Audu Productions unveils cast EVI

    Judith Audu Productions unveils cast EVI

    Judith Audu Productions, in collaboration with Switch Visuals Productions, Signet Rings Productions, and NOI Productions, has announced the upcoming release of the compelling new musical film entitled ‘EVI’.

    Written and directed by Uyoyou Adia, and powered by CCHUB in partnership with Africa No Filter and the Gates Foundation, the movie explores themes of arrogance, addiction, humility, and the difficult road to self-discovery and second chances.

    ‘EVI’ tells the story of Evi-Oghene Donalds, a fiercely talented but notoriously arrogant rising star in the music industry. Her world shatters when her record label goes bankrupt, leaving her with nothing. Forced to trade the spotlight for a lounge stage and a waitressing job, Evi begins the painful process of rebuilding her life.

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    Her only hope lies with Kola Adeloye, a once-respected talent manager now battling severe alcohol and gambling addictions. Their desperate, complicated partnership becomes a journey of mutual redemption, testing the limits of loyalty when Evi’s career miraculously takes off once more.

    The film features a stellar cast, including Osas Okonyon, who takes on the titular role of Evi, Uzor Arukwe, Omowunmi Dada, Ibrahim Suleiman, Waje Iruobe, Tomiwa Tegbe, and Femi Branch, among others.

    Speaking on her role as lead actress, Okonyon said; “Stepping into the world of ‘EVI’ for my first feature role has been a transformative experience. Evi’s journey is a powerful reminder that talent is only half the story—humility and who you choose to bring along are just as important. It’s a privilege to debut with a character that has so much heart and an inspiring arc of redemption.”

    Also speaking, producer of the flick, Judith Audu, said that ‘EVI’ is more than just a story about the music industry; it’s a deep dive into the cost of arrogance and the profound value of loyalty and resilience.

    The film is set to start showing in cinemas across Nigeria on March 27, 2026.

  • How Airo Uche turned music, nature, and community into a movement

    How Airo Uche turned music, nature, and community into a movement

    Airo Uche recently hosted an experience session to unveil his latest single, ‘Apple of my eyes.’ The venue was Grillz by Waterside and the experience was one that would gently disrupt the ordinary and replace it with something richer, more intentional, and deeply human. Using music as both the anchor and the conversation starter, the event explored lifestyle, connection, and the possibility of sparking a new cultural rhythm rooted in authenticity.

    At the heart of the gathering was ‘Apple of My Eyes,’ Airo Uche’s latest single. Introduced in a space designed for natural connection, the song found its audience exactly where it belonged, among friends, families, and fans who were ready to receive it without pretense.

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    A mid-tempo love theme, ‘Apple of My Eyes’ celebrates intimacy, appreciation, and the quiet power of choosing one another every day. It speaks to couples, partners, and anyone who understands that love is both tender and deliberate.

    The song’s reception was immediate and affirming. As it played, reactions unfolded in real time, smiles, nods, shared glances, and moments of reflection. For Airo Uche and his team, this was the true value of a listening session: the chance to witness honest responses, gather unfiltered feedback, and fine-tune creative decisions before taking the music to a wider audience. The experience reinforced their confidence in the project and fueled a renewed commitment to pushing Apple of My Eyes with greater energy and purpose.

    Airo Uche describes his artistry as a constant evolution. His sound grows as he grows, shaped by everyday experiences and universal emotions. Love, he believes, has no expiration date, people fall in love and are loved every single day. His music aims to represent all times, offering something listeners can return to whenever they need comfort, joy, or reassurance.

  • Dr. Wilson Joel joins Yivera board

    Dr. Wilson Joel joins Yivera board

    Yivera Co, a global music technology and digital distribution company focused on empowering independent artists and rights holders, has appointed Nigerian music executive, Dr. Wilson Joel, to its Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director.

    The appointment took effect on December 8, 2025.

    The appointment marks a strategic move by the company as it prepares to roll out Yivera 2.0, aimed at strengthening its governance structure, expanding its global outlook and deepening its influence within the international music industry.

    Dr. Joel, popularly known as MusicMagnate, is a Nigerian-born, United States–based media entrepreneur and music business leader with over 20 years of international experience.

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    He is widely respected for his creative and executive leadership, having served for nine years as Music Director of House on the Rock’s The Experience Lagos, widely regarded as the largest gospel concert in the world.

    In his new role, Dr. Joel is expected to provide strategic direction and independent oversight to Yivera’s management, contribute to board deliberations, ensure adherence to global governance and compliance standards, and support the company’s growth through his extensive international network. He will also play a key role in championing fairness, transparency and improved compensation for African creators in the global music ecosystem.

    Announcing the appointment, Yivera’s Chief Executive Officer, Martins Okonkwo, described it as a major milestone. “Dr. Wilson Joel’s experience with global institutions such as Universal Music Group and Sony Music, combined with his creative work reaching over 40 million listeners worldwide, brings exceptional depth to our Board as we expand across Africa, North America and beyond,” he said.

    Dr. Joel’s portfolio spans music production, film scoring and live concert direction. He has contributed to Nollywood productions such as Tango with Me and Hakkunde, and produced the Nigerian National Anthem for EbonyLife Television. His honours include a Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) in Music and Management and multiple industry awards.

  • Halima Abubakar seeks help for brain tumour surgery, accommodation

    Halima Abubakar seeks help for brain tumour surgery, accommodation

    Actress Halima Abubakar has renewed her public appeal for financial assistance, saying she urgently needs funds to undergo brain tumour surgery while grappling with homelessness and mounting medical bills.

    During a recent live broadcast, the actress disclosed that she has been diagnosed with a brain tumour and was recently forced out of her residence, a development she said has left her “homeless and desperate”.

    She explained that her situation worsened after she exhausted her savings to pay for her mother’s hernia surgery, which cost N9 million in October last year.

    Abubakar said she attempted to use money earlier contributed for her medical treatment to settle her rent but was turned away by her landlady, leaving her without accommodation.

    In an emotional plea, she called on prominent individuals and the public for support, directly mentioning Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi State; social media activist VeryDarkMan; and Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, saying, “I need your help”.

    “I have just been evicted from my house. I have been diagnosed with a brain tumour. Yesterday, my caretaker came to tell me to leave the house. The money contributed for my health, which I wanted to use to pay my rent, was rejected by my landlady,” she said.

    “Do they want me to kill myself? From one situation to another, I have packed all my belongings and I have nowhere to go. I do not want to kill myself.

    “Yahaya Bello, VDM, Seyi Tinubu, everyone, I need your help. I have nobody. I cannot even reach any celebrities; none of them is answering my calls. I called Don Jazzy, but there was no response. What did I do?

    “I have a brain tumour. Nigerians, please help me. What have I done that everyone is turning their back on me? I withdrew my surgery money to pay my rent, but my landlady refused to accept it. I need help from Nigerians for money to handle many things.

    “I would not have come out to seek help if not for my mother’s hospital bill, which I paid in October. It was N9 million for her hernia surgery, and I am still owing.”

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    The actress also pushed back against allegations that she was exaggerating her condition to solicit sympathy or money, insisting that her health challenges are real.

    “Only a mad person would lie about being sick. It is embarrassing and heartbreaking that people think I am lying. I am coming out publicly to seek help because I have asked people around me and received none. I am ashamed to do this, but it is my only option,” she added.

    Providing further details of her condition, Abubakar said she now requires about N25 million to cover surgery, post-operative care, accommodation, and daily living expenses.

    “I have nothing to my name anymore except the money contributed for my surgery. I have suffered too much.

    “I need the help of my state governor. I need enough money for my surgery. My spleen needs to be removed. I need accommodation and feeding. I relocated to Abuja to be close to the hospital, Turkish Hospital. I have been on medication for a year now. I need N25 million for my health.”

    This is not the first time the actress has sought public assistance.

    In February 2025, she appealed to the Kogi State government for help, although she did not then reveal details of her illness. In 2022, Abubakar announced her withdrawal from acting, citing health-related challenges.

  • Viral teen waste seller gets education scholarship, N7m

    Viral teen waste seller gets education scholarship, N7m

    A 19-year-old Nigerian boy, Samuel, has gone viral on social media for selling plastic waste and cartons to raise money for tiling tools.

    The heartwarming story took a turn when a content creator, Bayuztv, helped Samuel, leaving him in tears.

    Samuel, who learned tiling years ago, needed tools like a cutting machine and mallet to start working professionally.

    The 19-year-old boy who kept struggling to collect waste to earn N1,000-N2,000 per bag, was surprised by the content creator with a haircut, new clothes, a meal, and some of the tools he needed.

    Samuel was also given a phone, N50,000 cash, and his mother received N1 million.

    The gesture sparked a wave of support, with fans donating N7.05 million to help Samuel and his family.

    Samuel was also awarded a scholarship covering his education up to university level, securing his future.

  • Yekini Ibrahim’s ‘Koleoso’ breaks record, hits 100 million YouTube views

    Yekini Ibrahim’s ‘Koleoso’ breaks record, hits 100 million YouTube views

    Actor and producer Yekini Ibrahim, popularly known as Iteledicon, has announced that his film “Koleoso” has surpassed 100 million views on YouTube, a first for a Nollywood title and African movie.

    In an Instagram post, Ibrahim expressed pride in his achievement, crediting his team, family, and fans for their support.

    He described the milestone as proof of hard work, consistency, and creativity.

    He wrote, “History. Record. Legacy. Koleoso hits 100million + views. In total. Officially, the first Nollywood title and the first African movie title to hit this milestone on YouTube as one title. Yes—one title. One story. One movement.

    “Hard work. Consistency. Creativity. From day zero, we won this. Let this be known that I, Ibrahim Yekini Bakare (Iteledicon), am the FIRST to pull this stunt in the history of Nollywood. Do not deny me my flower.

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    “I am proud of myself, proud of my team, proud of my family.

    “This is a strong fan base. My Koleoso family, my legends—you made this happen.

    To the cast and crew—this is our win. This is a win for Nollywood. This is a win for Africa. A win for the culture. A win for the Yorubas. A win for Nigeria.

    “This hits different. This is loud. This is magical. This is unbelievable. This is golden. Please use your calculator for clarity. Numbers don’t lie.”

  • Nicki Minaj shows off Trump’s ‘Gold Card’, fast-tracks US citizenship

    Nicki Minaj shows off Trump’s ‘Gold Card’, fast-tracks US citizenship

    Trinidad-born rapper Nicki Minaj has received a Trump Gold Card, a high-profile investor visa offering a fast-track path to US residency and citizenship.

    The card, which typically requires a $1 million contribution to the US Treasury and a $15,000 processing fee, was shared by Minaj on social media.

    She wrote on X, “Residency? Residency? The cope is coping. Finalizing that citizenship paperwork as we speak, as per MY wonderful, gracious, charming President. Thanks to the petition. I wouldn’t have done it without you. Oh, CitizenNIKA, you are the moment. Gold Trump card free of charge.”

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    Minaj, who has lived in the US since she was five, has been a lawful permanent resident but not a US citizen.

    She recently expressed support for President Donald Trump, calling herself his “number one fan” at an event promoting Trump’s government-backed investment accounts for children.

    The Trump Gold Card program has faced criticism for favouring wealthy immigrants, with some arguing it undermines the traditional immigration process.

  • Biodun Okeowo praises Funke Akindele’s resilience, leadership

    Biodun Okeowo praises Funke Akindele’s resilience, leadership

    Actress and producer Biodun Okeowo, popularly known as Omoborty, has showered praises on her senior colleague Funke Akindele, highlighting her dedication and excellence in the film industry.

    Sharing an old clip of Funke, Biodun described her as a woman who has navigated challenges, demonstrated resilience, and continues to excel.

    She commended Funke for her authentic approach to mentorship, emphasising that success is a result of hard work rather than mere accolades.

    She wrote, “This is the kind of video that deserves to go viral! No noise.

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    “A clear lecture on dedication, discipline, consistency, and pushing even when the body is tired, and the spirit feels stretched. This is real mentorship. This is experience speaking, not motivation for likes.

    “Big hail to Funke Akindele. @funkejenifaakindele A woman who has walked the road, paid her dues, fallen, risen, and still shows up fully”.

    Biodun lauded Funke as a symbol of substance, leadership, and excellence, expressing gratitude for her transparent teachings.

    “Thank you for teaching without sugarcoating and for reminding people that success is work before it is applause. This is substance, leadership, and excellence”, she added.

  • ‘Jesus redefined my story’ – Tonto Dikeh expresses pride in personal growth

    ‘Jesus redefined my story’ – Tonto Dikeh expresses pride in personal growth

    Actress Tonto Dikeh has publicly expressed pride in her personal growth and transformation, attributing it to her faith.

    In an Instagram post, Dikeh revealed she has found a new sense of purpose and identity, embracing her faith and the path it has led her on.

    She described her transformation as a process of refinement, positioning, and release for God’s glory.

    She wrote, “There is a rare power in a woman who cannot be shamed out of who she is and cannot be shaken from who she is becoming.

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    “I have never been proud of being King Tonto until Jesus took the wheel and began to redefine my story. What I once questioned, God now affirms. What I once hid, He now uses.

    “This is not self-confidence. This is God-confidence. This is not branding. This is becoming.

    “This is God, deliberately handling His vessel. Refining, positioning, and releasing her for His glory.

    “My name is King Tonto, heaven knows me as ‘the woman god anointed, marked, and entrusted with purpose. But you can call me “ADA EL-ROI”.