The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Mdundo commits to Nigerian music acts with MTN, Glo support

    Mdundo commits to Nigerian music acts with MTN, Glo support

    One of Africa’s leading music distribution platforms, Mdundo, has continued to reshape the music landscape by empowering artists to distribute, promote, and monetize their work.

    With over 39 million monthly active users across multiple African countries, the platform remains at the forefront of Africa’s digital music revolution.

    In January 2025, Mdundo commenced its bi-annual royalty payout season, benefiting hundreds of thousands of rights holders across the continent, including thousands of Nigerian artists. Since launch, more than 300,000 artists have earned royalties through the platform, a milestone that underscores Mdundo’s commitment to building a sustainable music ecosystem for African creators.

    Martin Nielsen, CEO of Mdundo, expressed pride in the platform’s progress:

    “Our mission is to offer African artists a sustainable platform to grow. By delivering consistent income, we are contributing not just to the success of individual artists but also to the long-term development of the African music industry.”

    A key driver of this growth in Nigeria has been Mdundo’s strong partnerships with MTN Nigeria and Globacom. Through subscription-based services and innovative product integrations, these collaborations have expanded music access for millions of Nigerians while creating meaningful revenue streams for local artists.

    Read Also: MTN Nigeria seeks partnership

    Sowari Akosionu, Chief Marketing Officer at Mdundo, emphasized the role of telecom partners:

    “Our collaborations with MTN Nigeria and Glo have been instrumental in opening up wider access to music and, in turn, boosting artists’ earnings. Together, we’re strengthening the Nigerian music ecosystem.”

    Mdundo’s catalog combines international hits with hyperlocal Nigerian content, from mainstream Afrobeats to indigenous genres such as Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo music. This localized approach deepens connections with listeners, boosts visibility for regional artists, and generates new income opportunities for rights-holders.

    Looking ahead, Mdundo targets royalty distributions of $1.2 million by 2026, supported by projected revenues of $1.7M – $2.2M. Growth will be fueled by expanded subscription services, deeper telco integrations, and the global reach of its Progressive Web App (PWA). With its artist-first focus, Mdundo is paving the way for a more inclusive and profitable future for African music.

  • Heavy drinking ages people faster, says Nasty C

    Heavy drinking ages people faster, says Nasty C

    South African rapper Nasty C has shared his struggles with alcohol addiction, revealing that he once consumed alcohol daily in the studio, at restaurants, and even during performances.

    In an interview with British-Nigerian media personality Madame Joyce, he admitted that his high tolerance often made him the last person standing, but it also prevented him from recognising when things were going wrong.

    He explained that his decision to cut down on drinking was motivated by a desire to maintain his youthful appearance.

    According to him, South Africans use the term “phuza face” to describe someone who looks much older than their actual age due to excessive drinking, with many believing alcohol can make a person look up to 10 years older.

    Read Also: Afrobeats, Amapiano better than Hip-hop – South Africa’s Nasty C

    Nasty C said, “I was addicted to alcohol. I was drinking every night. Every time I go to the studio, restaurant, I drink. Every time I perform, I drink.

    “Also, my tolerance when it comes to alcohol was very high, too. When I drink alcohol with friends, I would be the last one to be intoxicated. And I feel it’s a bad thing because you never know when something is going wrong until it’s too late. I got off the vodka a little bit, but I was drinking everything else. Whisky, cognac, tequila, rum – I was drinking everything.

    “I gave up alcohol because I don’t want to get a ‘phuza face.’ There’s a thing in South Africa we call a ‘phuza face’ – when you age really quickly because you drink a lot of alcohol, when you start looking 10 years older than you actually are.”

  • Ignore criticisms from those without focus, direction – Adekunle Gold advises fans

    Ignore criticisms from those without focus, direction – Adekunle Gold advises fans

    Singer Adekunle Gold has said that people without clear direction in life are often the loudest critics of others.

    He advised that when faced with negativity or criticism from such individuals, the best response is to keep moving forward and not waste valuable energy on them.

    Read Also: Adekunle Gold returns with ‘FUJI’ album October

    “It’s always the ones not doing anything meaningful with their lives that have the most to say about you. When they come for you, keep it moving; they’re not worth your energy,” he said.

  • Pastor Adefarasin unveils 20th edition of ‘The Experience’

    Pastor Adefarasin unveils 20th edition of ‘The Experience’

    Founder and Senior Pastor of House On The Rock Church, Paul Adefarasin, has announced the 20th edition of ‘The Experience’, the globally renowned free all-night Gospel music concert.

    Marking two decades of Jesus-centered praise, prayer, and global witness, Adefarasin urged fans to join in prayers as preparations intensify.

    He revealed that this year’s edition will be unique, with a major Kingdom project set to be unveiled alongside the concert.

    To commemorate the milestone, an album featuring some of the world’s most celebrated gospel artists is also in the works.

    He wrote on Instagram, “Friends, the countdown to The Experience 20 has begun—twenty years of Jesus-centred praise, prayer and global witness. Please pray with us and for us as we prepare.

    Read Also: Police clear Pastor Adefarasin over viral gun video

    “This year, we’re also birthing a major Kingdom project. Get ready. Watch the announcement in the video. To God be the glory. TE20 is important to use, it is 20 years, we’re putting together an album”.

    The Experience has grown into one of the world’s largest gospel concerts, attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees and millions of online viewers.

    Past events have featured notable gospel artists, and this year’s edition is expected to be an unforgettable experience of soul-stirring music and spiritual connection.

  • Nkechi Blessing slams critics over viral gym photo

    Nkechi Blessing slams critics over viral gym photo

    Actress Nkechi Blessing has fired back at critics after an unflattering photo of her at the gym surfaced online.

    She said her focus at the gym is staying fit and healthy, not impressing anyone with her looks.

    “I went to the gym to stay fit and healthy, not for a fashion show or runway. How am I supposed to look for a gym after a long day, abeg? It’s well. Una go soon intensify una attack cus na never see anything!” she wrote on Instagram.

    Nkechi explained that while she initially wanted to respond harshly, the supportive comments she received encouraged her to take a calmer approach.

    She added that she has left the person who took and shared the photo to God, trusting in divine judgment rather than retaliation.

    Read Also: Nkechi Blessing: I’ve never dated a man wealthier than me

    “I wanted to react, then I read the comments. You really cannot disgrace a woman’s clothes with so much grace. And to you who took that picture, I leave you in the hands of God; He will judge you accordingly”, she wrote.

    She added, “Nkechi is trying to stay healthy and fit in the gym is a topic. Lmao. With my big belly with pride. Una go dey alright for real.”

  • 2Baba celebrates 50th birthday, 25 years in music

    2Baba celebrates 50th birthday, 25 years in music

    Global singer 2Baba Idibia on Thursday penned down a heartfelt message as he celebrates his 50th birthday and 25 years in the music industry.

    In an Instagram post, he expressed gratitude to God, family, colleagues, and fans for their love and support.

    2baba described his journey as “nothing short of amazing” and acknowledged the contributions of his loved ones, including his mother, children, wife, and entire family.

    He also thanked his fans, referring to them as his “African queens and kings,” for their inspiration and support.

    Although 2baba has postponed his official celebration, he assured fans that it hasn’t been cancelled, stating that he’ll merge his 50th birthday and industry milestone into one unforgettable experience.

    The singer’s wife, Natasha, also celebrated him with a sweet note, describing him as the “love of her life.”

    With 25 years in the industry, 2baba has established himself as a legendary figure in Nigerian music.

    His milestone has garnered attention from fans and fellow artists, and he’s reflected on the journey, honoring the memories of those who started with him but are no longer present.

    His statement reads, “Today, I give thanks to Almighty God for the gift of life and the grace to celebrate my golden jubilee, 50 years on earth, and also a historic milestone of 25 years in the music industry. This journey has been nothing short of amazing, and I do not take it for granted. Many who started this path with me are no longer here, and I honour their memories as I celebrate this moment.

    Read Also: 2Baba hails Burna Boy as Nigeria’s number one artist

    “I stand today as 2Baba because of the love, prayers, and support of so many. To my dear mother, my beautiful children, my wife, the mothers of my children, my siblings, and my entire family, you are my backbone.

    “This milestone is not mine alone; it belongs to all of us who have walked this journey together. My African queens and kings, you have carried me, inspired me, and kept me going through the highs and lows.

    “While I have so much more to say, I will reserve my deepest words and celebrations for the day we gather. This year’s celebration has been postponed, not cancelled, because I want to do it differently, to merge my 50th birthday and my 25 years in the industry into one unforgettable experience.

    “Until then, keep the fire burning. The best is yet to come. One love always, 2Baba.”

  • BBNAIJA S10: Imisi most misunderstood housemate – Faith

    BBNAIJA S10: Imisi most misunderstood housemate – Faith

    Big Brother Naija Season 10 contestant, Faith, has described fellow housemate Imisi as the most misunderstood person in the house.

    Speaking during a special diary session, Faith praised Imisi’s talent and unique style but said her mode of communication often leads to misinterpretations.

    “I think Imisi is the most misunderstood housemate. She is very talented, hyper-talented, and very swaggish, but you have to pay attention to see it. I think the misunderstanding comes from how she communicates who she is,” Faith said.

    Read Also: BBNAIJA: Imisi is a threat to my success – Faith

    Despite their similarities, Faith admitted he does not like Imisi but clarified he has no hatred for her.

    Their relationship has been rocky, marked by a heated clash over kerosene during the “Barest Minimum” week, and Faith once accused Imisi of being a threat to his game. Attempts at reconciliation, including Faith’s offer of an apology, were met with silence from Imisi.

  • Marrying an unbeliever is self-destruction – Eucharia Anunobi

    Marrying an unbeliever is self-destruction – Eucharia Anunobi

    Veteran actress and preacher Eucharia Anunobi has cautioned Christians against marrying unbelievers, emphasising that spirituality is the foundation of marriage.

    In a video shared on her Instagram page, Anunobi questioned why believers would choose to partner with someone who doesn’t share their faith, likening it to “buying a weapon to destroy yourself.”

    She warned that relationships with unbelievers can lead to misery, stating, “Those kisses, those hugs, those caresses with an unbeliever… There will be a Waterloo.”

    Anunobi stressed that carnality can never replace spirituality and that an unbelieving partner could eventually become a source of trouble for a believer.

    She urged Christians to prioritise their faith and seek partners who share their spiritual values, rather than being swayed by physical attraction or fleeting emotions.

    Read Also: Eucharia Anunobi decries poor communication habits in digital age

    She said, “How can you, as a woman or a man of God, a believer, operating a ministry, consider marrying an unbeliever. Someone is spiritually impotent, spiritually imbecile?

    You have brought the weapon to destroy yourself, being a believer marrying an unbeliever.

    “Those kisses, those hugs, those caresses with an unbeliever. There will be a Waterloo. Some of you are already engaging in activities in the other room and are a Waterloo. Some of you are already engaging in activities in the other room, and yet you are in ministry.

    “You think being with an unbeliever will make your marriage sweet? You will be most miserable.”

  • Marriage is most powerful partnership in life – DJ Cuppy

    Marriage is most powerful partnership in life – DJ Cuppy

    DJ Cuppy has shared her reflections on marriage, describing it as a powerful partnership and a sacred contract with God as the witness.

    She made the remarks while celebrating her sister Temi Otedola’s wedding to Afrobeats star Mr. Eazi, stressing that marriage is not outdated but rather capable of drawing couples closer to their purpose while building love, family, and legacy.

    “Call me old school, but I see marriage as the most powerful partnership in life. Maybe even the most important contract you will ever sign… with God Himself as the witness,” Cuppy wrote on X.

    Read Also: DJ Cuppy shares playful Bitcoin request from father Femi Otedola

    Temi and Mr. Eazi’s love story culminated in a lavish three-part wedding celebration across Monaco, Dubai, and Iceland. Their journey began with an engagement announcement in April 2022 and has since been spotlighted in Vogue, which featured 99 photos capturing their romance that started in London in 2017.

    Following the wedding, Temi adopted her husband’s surname and is now known as Temiloluwa Ajibade.

  • Governor’s aide criticises Davido over choice of footwear at Warri wedding

    Governor’s aide criticises Davido over choice of footwear at Warri wedding

    Ossai Ovie Success, an aide to Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, has sparked online reactions after criticising Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, for his choice of footwear at a high-profile wedding in Warri.

    Davido was among the notable guests at the September 13 wedding of billionaire Chief Dr. Michael Edematie-Ikuku’s daughter, Tosan Ejiro, and her husband, Samuel Adebayo Tayo.

    Other attendees included actors Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki) and Osita Iheme (Pawpaw), singer Simi, and comedians Bovi and Gordons.

    Read Also: Davido set to represent Nigeria at Coachella 2026

    Ossai, in a Facebook post, expressed disappointment that Davido performed in a pair of slippers, describing it as prideful, disrespectful, and unbecoming for such an occasion.