The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Dami Foreign apologises to Tiwa Savage over controversial tweets

    Dami Foreign apologises to Tiwa Savage over controversial tweets

    Social media influencer Dami Foreign has issued a public apology to afrobeats star Tiwa Savage following backlash over his earlier comments about the singer’s son.

    The controversy began when Dami posted a video of Tiwa and her son, captioned: “Omo, why’s Tiwa Savage’s son frowning?”

    The post drew swift criticism and prompted a direct response from the singer. On X, Savage warned the influencer against making further references to her child, stating, “I dare you to post anything about my child again, and this will move beyond Twitter.”

    Read Also: Tiwa Savage slams X user over ‘repeated’ online harassment, threatens action

    Hours later, Dami Foreign acknowledged the singer’s right to be upset and expressed regret for any offense caused.

    He emphasised that his remarks were not intended to be malicious and apologised for the public upset his post generated.

    “Dear @TiwaSavage, I’m sorry if you got offended by some of the tweets I made about you. You must be very angry and hurt for you to have called me out.  I want you to know that I don’t mean bad or de@th for you or your son.

    “There are lots of positive tweets I’ve made about you that you’ve probably never seen, I promise, it’s all love from this side. I sincerely apologise,” he wrote.

  • NITDA, Futuremap partner on tech growth, film studio for Kannywood

    NITDA, Futuremap partner on tech growth, film studio for Kannywood

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is set to collaborate with FutureMap Foundation to transform Northern Nigeria’s creative and digital industry by providing technology capacity building and establishing a world-class film studio.

    The ambitious public-private initiative is designed to align the Northern region’s creative operations with global best practices, leveraging the power of the digital economy to drive national growth.

    Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, announced the intervention during a high-level roundtable with tech innovators and Kannywood stakeholders at the PRNigeria Centre for Research and Development in Kano.

    Inuwa noted that filmmakers often wield more power in shaping public perception and behavioral change than political actors. He urged producers to move beyond profit-seeking and create content that inspires the next generation of tech builders.

    The Director-General pledged that the agency would provide advanced infrastructure through a modern studio, incubation centers for emerging technologies, and training to enhance content quality.

    Professional Film Directors Association’s President, Nasiru B. Muhammad, said the industry has struggled with an “unfriendly operational environment.” He requested NITDA’s assistance in developing AI-driven translation and subtitling software to help Kannywood films break into international markets.

    Read Also: NITDA: 28m social media accounts deactivated this year

    Two inventions showcased at the event caught the DG’s attention: PRev, a media intelligence software developed by Shuaib S. Agaka for news monitoring, and SchoolTra, an educational technology platform by Abdullahi Sani Mahuta designed for managing student records.

    Inuwa commended the developers, urging them to collaborate with other experts to increase products’ visibility and marketability on a national scale. The agency’s intervention is part of a strategy to grow the creative industry with technology and strengthen the country’s digital economy.

    The roundtable underscored the NITDA-PRNigeria Centre’s long-standing partnership. Yushau A. Shuaib, CEO of Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), said the centre has trained over 2,500 journalists and students from universities, polytechnics, and secondary schools in digital skills since 2021.

    As part of the 2026 roadmap, Shuaib announced plans to expand these training programs to focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications. By integrating these high-tech tools into the creative and media sectors, NITDA aims to solidify Nigeria’s position as a leader in the African digital landscape.

    Stakeholders agreed on practical steps to reinforce innovation ecosystems, expand digital skills, support startups, and deepen collaboration between government, academia, and industry. They also committed to positioning the Northern region as a competitive hub for technology and future‑ready talent.

  • I need clarity before apologising to Davido for past ‘beef’ – Phyna

    I need clarity before apologising to Davido for past ‘beef’ – Phyna

    Reality TV star Phyna has expressed her desire to make amends with singer Davido, nearly two years after their online disagreement.

    The controversy began in October 2023 when Davido liked a social media post describing Phyna’s fans as “useless”.

    Phyna had publicly questioned Davido’s motives, leading to a heated exchange.

    Davido claimed he was unaware of Phyna’s identity, further escalating the situation.

    In a recent Twitch livestream, Phyna stated her willingness to apologise publicly to Davido and rebuild their relationship.

    Phyna emphasised her desire for clarity, stating she wants Davido to share his perspective before she extends an apology, allowing both parties to address the issue and move forward.

    She said, “If I have the opportunity to stream with Davido, I will take it. Yea he senior me, he choke pass me normal. I’m going to tender apology to him, but before rendering the apology, we need to understand where that our quarrel really dey come from.

    “Like baba Ibeji needs to really tell me that na by mistake him take like that comment wey cause problem. Then he will now explain his side of the issue because you see that I don’t know you wey baba Ibeji talk, e fit be like say na we take am the wrong way”.

  • How I survived a near-death experience – Actor Yomi Gold

    How I survived a near-death experience – Actor Yomi Gold

    Actor Yomi Gold has spoken about a recent health scare that left him unconscious and hospitalised.

    He shared a video showing the moment he was wheeled into a hospital bed, explaining that the incident was triggered by a sudden and severe headache.

    Gold said prompt medical intervention in Marrakech was crucial in saving his life, while expressing gratitude to God and to those who stood by him during the ordeal.

    Read Also: Asake, Young Jonn, Focalistic spotted filming “2 Factor” music video

    Captioning the video on Instagram, he wrote: “Life truly lives in the seconds. Today reminded me how fragile our breath is and how quickly everything can change. A sudden headache nearly took me out, but by God’s mercy and the swift help of the emergency team in Marrakech, I am here resting and recovering.”

    “I give thanks to God for preservation, for life, and for everyone He used to reach out, pray, and check on me. May we never take health, time, or one another for granted. Every moment is grace”.

  • Music producer earns industry recognition for technical skill, global reach

    Music producer earns industry recognition for technical skill, global reach

    Fast-rising music producer Funmilayo Grace Adeolu, professionally known as GracieA, is drawing industry recognition for her technical expertise, disciplined production approach and a steadily expanding body of work across local and international markets.

    With more than 30 documented production credits, she has established a reputation built on consistency and advanced technical competence. 

    Industry observers note her strong command of modern Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), a skill set that firmly places her within the professional tier of contemporary producers operating in an increasingly dynamic sound economy.

    Her creative journey spans Nigeria and the United Kingdom, a cross-border experience that has enhanced her adaptability and growing relevance within diverse music communities. 

    Exposure to multiple creative environments has enabled her to collaborate across genres and artistic cultures, positioning her as a producer equipped to meet the demands of a globalised industry.

    GracieA’s catalogue reflects measured growth, deliberate project selection and a clear emphasis on quality over volume—an approach increasingly valued by artists and collaborators seeking reliable and focused creative partnerships.

    As her audience and professional footprint continue to expand, she is gaining recognition not only for individual productions but also for the structure and direction of her career. 

    Industry analysts cited her methodical progression as a model for how modern producers can build sustainable careers while maintaining creative integrity.

  • Pere Egbi slams critics calling for Osimhen’s removal from AFCON tournament

    Pere Egbi slams critics calling for Osimhen’s removal from AFCON tournament

    Media personality Pere Egbi has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the on-pitch disagreement between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, calling for restraint and urging fans to stop demanding Osimhen’s removal from the team.

    The incident occurred on Monday during Nigeria’s knockout match against Mozambique, despite Lookman having provided the assists for Osimhen’s two goals earlier in the game.

    Video footage of the encounter showed Osimhen charging towards Lookman, who remained composed throughout the exchange.

    Reacting to the backlash, Egbi stressed that the Super Eagles could not afford to lose Osimhen, describing the Napoli striker as a crucial asset to the national team.

    He also criticised those calling for sanctions, questioning their understanding of football and underscoring Osimhen’s value to Nigeria’s campaign.

    Read Also: Tacha backs Osimhen after AFCON on-pitch drama

    Egbi warned that failure to resolve the disagreement could undermine the team’s cohesion and negatively affect Nigeria’s chances of winning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    Egbi wrote on X: “Are people so clueless to actually demand that Osimhen be dropped? Really???? Come on. That’s a reach! Dem drop am now, una get im replacement anywhere????? Wf!!! Na we wan use our hand commot ourself from this AFCON. Imagine players reading these bants online.”

    He also addressed rumors about Osimhen’s supposed “bad attitude” being the reason Chelsea didn’t sign him, dismissing the claims as baseless and pointing out that Osimhen had turned down Chelsea in the past.

    “Lol, so Chelsea came for him and he turned them down, but world people are out here saying the guy’s attitude is bad that’s why no club wants him. Una do well o, Nigerians. Una go soon vex these boys, dem go start to play rubbish now, and then everybody go rest”, he added.

  • Actor Charles Born marks one year in Nollywood

    Actor Charles Born marks one year in Nollywood

    Actor Charles Born has reflected on his career path as he celebrates one year anniversary in Nollywood.

    Born, via Instagram, expressed gratitude for the opportunities that have propelled his career forward.

    He recounted his humble beginnings, transitioning from a radio career to pursue acting, facing initial struggles and rejections.

    Charles said despite the challenges, he persevered, taking a leap of faith to focus on acting full-time and his decision has yielded impressive results, with over 40 films credited to his name within a year.

    He credited his growth to his support system, including his manager and the Nollywood community.

    “It is with tears in my eye that I type this, but not tears of sadness but tears of gratitude. I was having a conversation with my manager @celestine_queen and I mentioned how it’s officially my 1 year anniversary in Nollywood and she goes “it’s a lie you are just one year in nollywood”? And in that moment I understood in real time what God has done for me. Two years ago I moved from full time radio to part time to see if I could chase this acting thing but one year after that NOTHING!

    Read Also: Waje taught me life-changing lessons – Actor Charles Born

    “Even though I was still doing part time radio. I did everything they said do, auditions, DM directors, shoot monologues but all I was met with was silence then in 2024 I decided to chase it fully and so I resigned completely from radio very broke with only 13k in my acc. And I year after we are here!OVER 40 FILMS! If u told me in 2023 that one day you would google me and “Nigerian Actor” would pop up I would have laughed you to scorn but look at God (slide 2).

    To every single person who gave me a chance THANK YOU if I begin to list I won’t finish! But this boy is grateful.

    “Have I gotten to the peak? NO! have I gotten that dream role? NO! but I grateful for the journey, the growth, the opportunities,the lessons and above all grateful for the gift of time. So to every dreamer don’t stop dreaming, chasing and believing because in the words of @realwarripikin “na who give up loose”, he wrote.

  • Tacha backs Osimhen after AFCON on-pitch drama

    Tacha backs Osimhen after AFCON on-pitch drama

    Media personality Tacha has defended Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen following his on-pitch confrontation with teammate Ademola Lookman during Nigeria’s 4-0 victory over Mozambique in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Monday.

    The incident occurred during the match despite Lookman having assisted one of Osimhen’s goals earlier in the game.

    Video footage showed Osimhen charging toward Lookman, while the latter maintained his composure throughout the exchange.

    Reacting via X platform, Tacha stated that Nigerians are targeting Osimhen because “they have seen Osimhen finish”.

    Read Also: Osimhen: Onyedika Nigeria’s most underrated player

    She compared Osimhen to Cristiano Ronaldo, questioning whether critics would apply the same standard to the football legend if he displayed similar behavior.

    Tacha said: “Nigerians and see finish!! Y’all realize Victor Osimhen is our own Christiano Ronaldo??

    “If Ronaldo did same thing we won’t have this much uproar but of course it’s Osimhen na.. make coach just Bench Osimhen for the next match i WON Check something. Baba was on to a hat-trick! you expect him not to shout!? make una dey calm down! most of orna no just like am plain and simple. SAME passion is the reason he’s one of the best attacker in world!! So Abeg shift”.

  • DJ Cuppy takes break from social media for spiritual retreat

    DJ Cuppy takes break from social media for spiritual retreat

    Media personality Florence Otedola popularly known as DJ Cuppy has announced she will be stepping away from social media for a 21-day biblical fast.

    In an Instagram story post, Cuppy said she’s taking time to reset and spend quiet time with God, and a need for space to reflect and handle personal matters privately.

    According to her, she’s taking a break to focus on her spiritual journey, starting 2026 with a period of reflection and prayer.

    Read Also: Returning to normal life after Temi Otedola’s wedding tough – DJ Cuppy

    Cuppy assured fans she’s fine, asking them not to panic, and will return after the break, refreshed and reconnected.

    She wrote: “Never done this before. I’ll be offline and taking a social media break for a little while… I’m starting 2026 with a 21 day biblical fast and after the last few weeks I realised I needed it more than ever.

    “I need time for myself and time being hidden with God. I have a few personal things I need to process quietly but please do not worry about me I am okay. I know I usually post on Instagram every day so this feels strange even for me. I will be back. Just taking a moment to reset and reconnect.”

  • Tiwa Savage slams X user over ‘repeated’ online harassment, threatens action

    Tiwa Savage slams X user over ‘repeated’ online harassment, threatens action

    Afrobeats singer Tiwa Savage has threatened to take actions against an X influencer, Dami Foreign over alleged social media attacks on her and son, Jamil.

    Savage, on Tuesday, slammed Dami Foreign for crossing a line while also accusing him of a long-standing agenda to bring her down and expressed outrage over his comments about her 10-year-old child.

    In a series of posts, Savage called out Dami Foreign for his repeated attacks, including a past comment wishing her harm.

    The singer emphasised that Dami Foreign’s obsession with her is evident, but his relevance is lacking. 

    Read Also: I lost lucrative deal after refusing to travel with company executive – Tiwa Savage

    She wrote: “@TheDamiForeign I dare you to post anything about my child again and THIS WILL MOVE BEYOND TWITTER. @TheDamiForeign you see that I never cared about your paid agenda to bring me down and you’ve been doing it for a long time.

    “You talking about my child is crossing the line. Dami with my FULL CHEST e no go better for you. You even posted that you wanted me to die young…. Back to sender. @TheDamiForeign the obsession with me is loud but your relevance is missing”.