The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Funke Akindele’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ hits N1.7bn in cinemas

    Funke Akindele’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ hits N1.7bn in cinemas

    Multi-award winning actress and producer Funke Akindele has made history with her latest film, “Behind The Scenes,” which has become the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of 2025, earning N1.767billion mark in almost four weeks.

    Recall that the film’s distributor, FilmOne Entertainment, had earlier announced that “Behind The Scenes” broke five opening-weekend records, including the highest single-day gross on Boxing Day, with N129.5 million.

    Now reacting to the latest achievement, the distributor wrote: “Celebrating yet another incredible milestone and we’re so sure we wouldn’t have done this without you and your love.

    “Behind The Scenes hits a whopping N1.77B also standing as the Number 1 film of the weekend. Thank you to everyone for the love and support so far”.

    Akindele’s impressive track record at the box office has solidified her position as a powerhouse in the industry.

    This is her third film to gross over N1 billion, following “A Tribe Called Judah” and “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” which became Nollywood’s biggest opening weekend of all time and the highest-grossing Nollywood film ever, respectively.

    The film’s success can be attributed to its advanced screening on December 10 and 11, which generated significant buzz among audiences, paving the way for its nationwide release on December 12.

    “Behind The Scenes” boasts an all-star cast, including Scarlet Gomez, Iyabo Ojo, Destiny Etiko, Tobi Bakre, and Uche Montana, among others.

  • Toyin Abraham’s ‘Oversabi Aunty’ hits N711 million in 18 days

    Toyin Abraham’s ‘Oversabi Aunty’ hits N711 million in 18 days

    Actress Toyin Abraham‘s directorial debut, “Oversabi Aunty,” has achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming fourth hightest grossing Nollywood film of all time in West Africa with a box office earnings of over N711million in 18 days.

    The film distributor, FilmOne wrote on Instagram: “West Africa, you showed up and showed out in an Oversabi way. Thank you for the love.

    “In just 18 days, Oversabi Aunty grossed N711.5M, making it the 4th Highest Nollywood Film of all time in West Africa. Thank you to everyone for the love and support so far. This win is for all of us.”

    The film tells the story of a well-meaning but overly involved aunty who tries to fix everyone’s problems, leading to hilarious misunderstandings and touching revelations.

    The film’s advanced screening on December 18 generated significant buzz among audiences, paving the way for its nationwide release on December 19.

    The film boasts an all-star cast, including Mike Ezuruonye, Efe Irele, and Enioluwa Adeoluwa, among others.

    Abraham expressed her gratitude to fans, thanking them for their love and support.

    In a post on social media, Abraham wrote, “I may not have the perfect words, but my heart is full. Thank You, Lord and thank you to every single person watching and supporting Oversabi Aunty.I am deeply grateful. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

  • Paul Enenche: I don’t use Church funds for personal expenses

    Paul Enenche: I don’t use Church funds for personal expenses

    Pastor Paul Enenche of Dunamis International Gospel Centre has denied using church funds for personal gain, stating that he has never accessed the church’s financial accounts or used proceeds from church materials for personal items.

    Speaking during a church service, he emphasised that his needs are met through divine provision, not church resources.

    Enenche explained that proceeds from his books, CDs, and other materials are not used for personal expenses, including clothing or accessories.

    He stressed that church offerings are reserved for ministry purposes only.

    The cleric urged believers to prioritise spiritual growth, service to God, and commitment to the church, rather than focusing on material possessions or public perceptions.

    He encouraged Christians to live with purpose, aligning their lives with values that reflect faith, sacrifice, and dedication to the kingdom of God.

    Read Also: Deborah Paul Enenche opens up on her weight gain struggle

    In his sermon, Enenche said, “Many people don’t know our secret. Some people will think, oh, this suit is wearing now is church money. This trouser is church money. This watch is, ah, church money. That is the mumuciousness of sense. The church’s checkbook has not been in our possession from day one till now. The CD that is sold in this church. I have not used one naira of it to buy a tie. Seed of destiny, monthly devotion, I write it.

    “Not one naira of it has been used to buy socks. How many more church offerings? If the one that you can say is legitimately yours. God, the things we need, he supplies.

    “He supplies them like that, directly. I gave about 200, and something suits me in one day. Let’s stop living for things. Let’s stop. Let’s start living for God. Let’s start living in reality. Let’s start living for what matters. Let’s start living for the kingdom. And you will come to the point where they think that people are looking for. They die after you. They rush after you.”

  • Peller to return to school over inability to speak fluent English

    Peller to return to school over inability to speak fluent English

    TikToker Peller has expressed regret over his inability to speak fluent English, acknowledging it as a barrier to confident communication.

    The social media personality, who is ready to pursue education, made the admission during a recent live-stream session with fellow content creator Enzo.

    When asked to formally introduce himself in English, Peller declined, stating, “In English? E no go go.”

    The conversation took a light-hearted turn when Enzo teased Peller about an impending meeting with popular internet personality, Speed, prompting Peller to reiterate his concerns about his English skills.

    “So you’re telling me that if Speed comes, you are not going to talk to him? Because he just called me now that he’s coming tomorrow,” Enzo said.

    Read Also: I’m focusing on myself in 2026, no more girls – Peller vows 

    “I no go even see am. My English is very bad, but I dey go university soon to study Arts,” Peller replied.

    Peller’s revelation has sparked widespread discussion online, with many praising his decision to pursue higher education despite his success as a social media influencer.

    The 20-year-old’s decision to return to school comes on the heels of his reported breakup with his girlfriend, Jarvis, and has been seen as a step towards personal growth and self-improvement.

  • Harvesters church to pay N50,000 monthly to unemployed workers for three months

    Harvesters church to pay N50,000 monthly to unemployed workers for three months

    The Senior Pastor of Harvesters International Church, Bolaji Idowu, has announced plans to provide financial assistance to its unemployed workers who serve in the church.

    Idowu, while speaking to his congregation, revealed that the church will pay N50,000 monthly for three months to help affected workers stabilise while searching for new jobs.

    He said, “All those who serve in church who are in between jobs, watch what I said. You know, they’re in between jobs. You used to have a job, but you lost a job. For the next three months, we’ll be giving you N50,000 every month to help them till they get their next job.”

    Read Also: Harvesters Church pastors, police officers risk jail over land takeover

    The initiative targets leaders serving in various church capacities who have lost their jobs.

    “So all of those leaders that serve in the church that I just mentioned, you know, we’re giving N50,000 just to help them stabilise. One of the things the church should do is to be there for one another, hallelujah, to help them stabilise,” he added.

    To access the support, eligible workers are required to register with the church administration.

    Pastor Idowu assured that extensive interviews would not be necessary due to the trust established through their service.

    He said, “If you’re that kind of person, in that category, you want to see your pastor and your church administration and register. We’re not going to do so many interviews because for you to serve, we trust the fact that you’re honest.”

    The announcement was met with applause from the congregation.

  • Dakore Egbuson-Akande breaks silence on father’s death

    Dakore Egbuson-Akande breaks silence on father’s death

    Actress Dakore Egbuson-Akande has spoken out following the death of her father, expressing her grief and gratitude on social media.

    In an Instagram post, she said she was “totally heartbroken” yet relieved that he’s free from pain.

    Dakore thanked her father for the memories, laughter, and legacy of excellence he instilled in her and her siblings.

    She also highlighted his love for music and sense of style, adding that despite their complex family dynamics, he’s “immensely loved and missed beyond comprehension”.

    She wrote: “My Darling #dakorians Dearest Papa passed away on the 1st of January 2026. Daddy, may your soul rest in perfect peace and power.

    “I’m so totally heartbroken yet glad that you’re free from pain. I’m grateful for the memories and the laughter, your legacy of excellence that you instilled in my siblings and me, your love for music, and your sense of style!

    “Despite the complexity of our family, you are immensely loved and missed beyond comprehension.

    “I love you forever and till infinity and beyond. Dakorians. Pls say a word of prayer for my Dad and our family at this very difficult time as we grieve this devastating loss”.

    The actress’s brother, Timini Egbuson, announced their father’s passing, promising to continue making him proud. 

  • Why I stopped accepting ‘thug’ roles – Actress Bimbo Thomas

    Why I stopped accepting ‘thug’ roles – Actress Bimbo Thomas

    Actress Bimbo Thomas has opened up about the decision to move away from playing “thug” roles after gaining widespread recognition for her performance in Funke Akindele’s film Omo Ghetto.

    In an interview with Chude Jideonwo, Thomas revealed that she made the choice to showcase her versatility and prove that she could play diverse roles beyond her iconic street-tough character.

    The actress explained that she didn’t want to be typecast, a common phenomenon in the industry where actors get fixed in one image.

    According to her, she had more to offer and wanted to demonstrate her range, even if it meant slowing down her career temporarily.

    Thomas acknowledged that the decision wasn’t easy, as it led to reduced work, financial losses, and even affected some friendships.

    According to her: “Yes, I did stop. You know, as a thespian, I really wanted to showcase myself, my versatility and other sides of myself apart from what God has used Funke Akindele to do. In this part of the world, actors get stereotyped and typecast, and I knew I had more to offer than being boxed into one role.

    “Looking back, the decision may not have been right at the time because I was not yet fully established. But I was also afraid that if I became too well-known for that image, it would be harder to diversify later. If I had started producing then, things might have been different.

    “That choice slowed things down for me. Then I had a baby and needed to focus on my child. Thankfully, endorsements came in; otherwise, it would have been tough. I paid a price for that decision. I lost roles, I lost money, and even some friendships.”

  • Asake, Young Jonn, Focalistic spotted filming “2 Factor” music video

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

    Afrobeats heavyweights Asake, Young Jonn, and South African amapiano star Focalistic were captured behind the scenes shooting the official, music video for their hit collaboration “2 Factor.”

    Viral clips across social media on January 5, 2026, show the trio in high spirits on location, dancing, vibing, and performing
    choreography amid colorful sets and crew activity.

    The track, released in late November 2025 as part of Young Jonn’s album Blue Disco, has been a street anthem blending Nigerian afrobeats with Focalistic’s signature amapiano flair.

    Read Also: Grand Tycoon, Davido, Asake, emerge Africa’s Top 50 visibility leaders

    Fans are buzzing with excitement, anticipating a visuals-packed video that matches the song’s infectious energy and party vibes.No official release date has been announced yet, but teasers suggest it’s coming soon.

    The collaboration continues to bridge Naija and Mzansi sounds, following the song’s rapid rise on charts and playlists.

  • How a church cancelled my performance over ‘shredded jeans’ outfit – Eben

    How a church cancelled my performance over ‘shredded jeans’ outfit – Eben

    Gospel singer Eben has opened up about being withdrawn from a church performance due to his appearance in shredded denim jeans on his album cover.

    Speaking in an interview with Chude Jideonwo, the singer expressed shock and disappointment, stating that all arrangements for the event had been finalised before the church committee objected to his outfit, deeming it unsuitable for a Christian minister.

    Eben explained that the jeans were not revealing or inappropriate, but the church committee felt it didn’t align with their expectations.

    Read Also: Gospel artistes Eben, Adenuga, Adegoke ignite worship at RCCG ‘Praiz Extraordinaire 2.0’

    “They had already invited me for their convention, and everything was arranged. Then they saw my album artwork where I wore a shredded denim jean.”

    “The organiser called me, very upset, and mentioned that the committee felt they could not accept me as a minister due to the type of jeans I was wearing. They said it wasn’t suitable for a Christian,” Eben shared.

    He had served in ministry for over 20 years and reflected on how people sometimes prioritise appearances over faith or message.

    Eben urged churches to prioritise genuine worship and spiritual guidance over clothing choices, saying true ministry is about leading people to God, not judging how someone dresses.

  • How armed robbers attacked me, Funke Akindele during Omo Ghetto filming – Bimbo Thomas

    How armed robbers attacked me, Funke Akindele during Omo Ghetto filming – Bimbo Thomas

    Actress Bimbo Thomas has recounted a harrowing experience where armed robbers invaded a hotel housing the cast and crew of Omo Ghetto Part Two during filming in Ebute Metta, Lagos.

    The attackers, who seemed to be targeting filmmaker Funke Akindele, broke into the hotel late at night, terrifying the actresses.

    Thomas, in an interview with Chude Jideonwo, said filming the thuggery-themed movie attracted frequent disruptions from hoodlums in the area.

    “We were filming in Ebute Metta, and boys would always come on set to disturb us because it’s a thuggery movie, and they felt we were depicting their everyday life.

    “It’s my hood. I grew up in Ebute Metta, so I thought they would accord me that respect, but we still had to bring security so we could shoot freely,” she added.

    Thomas said the ordeal began around midnight with loud bangs and shouts of “Ole! Ole!” as the attackers tried to force their way in.

    According to Bimbo, she, Akindele, and others hid in the bathroom, praying and trying to conceal Akindele’s identity.

    “We didn’t know what to do. We were praying. Funke is a prayer warrior, so we all started praying,” she said.

    In a desperate attempt to protect Akindele, Thomas said they tried to hide her.

    “I told them, ‘She’s the face here.’ We tried to put Funke under the bed, but it didn’t work, so we moved to the bathroom,” she said.

    The attackers eventually broke in and took Akindele away, forcing her to sing and dance.

    Thomas described the scene as “deeply disturbing,” saying she thought they would all be killed.

    “When they came back the second time, it was clear they were looking for Funke. They kept calling her name.

    Read Also: 974 Nigerians awaits deportation from Canada

    “I thought they would just take what they wanted and leave us, but they told her to put on her clothes and dragged her downstairs to her car.

    “I came downstairs and heard her singing Emi Omo Ghetto. I didn’t understand what was happening. They asked her to sing and dance, and she did,” Thomas said.

    The attackers were later chased away by security forces, and some were reportedly arrested or killed.

    Thomas linked the attack to an earlier incident on set where some locals were arrested and made to apologise.

    “Some boys disturbing us were arrested and made to record apology videos. Even though we had settled the area before filming, that incident offended them,” she said.

    She thanked God for their survival, saying she was ready to defend Akindele to the end.

    “I was thankful. At that moment, I was ready to attack one of them without thinking of the consequences. I could have been killed.

    “When Funke later asked why I didn’t give her up to them, I told her, ‘If they were going to kill you, they would have killed us together. We thank God. Truly, we thank God,” she added.