The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • WOMA 2025 Finale: Awardees, family reaffirm legacy, commitment to Nigeria’s creative future

    WOMA 2025 Finale: Awardees, family reaffirm legacy, commitment to Nigeria’s creative future

    The 2025 edition of the Wale Olomu Memorial Awards (WOMA) reached a poignant and reflective conclusion on Saturday, December 20, 2025, with a live radio finale broadcast on TopRadio 90.9 FM.

    The programme marked the final instalment in a series of media engagements by the WOMA 2025 Steering Committee, celebrating excellence while honouring the enduring legacy of the late entertainment journalist and talent advocate, Wale Olomu.

    Anchored by media professional Femi Akintunde-Johnson (FAJ), the finale featured deeply personal reflections on Wale Olomu’s life, values, and lasting impact on Nigeria’s entertainment ecosystem.

    In an emotional remembrance, Adebisi Taibat Yusuf, Wale Olomu’s fiancée before his untimely death, described him as more than a life partner. “He was my fiancé, my brother, my friend. He was a good person to his family members,” she said. Reflecting on what he might have become, Yusuf noted that Wale would have embraced the evolving entertainment industry with pride,

    given his passion and belief in its future.

    She also spoke of the difficult journey of healing, which took her abroad to rebuild her life, while affirming that his memory remains forever in her heart.

    Adding a family perspective, Dr. Dayo Olomu, Wale’s younger brother, thanked the WOMA platform for sustaining his legacy.

    He reiterated that Wale Olomu stood firmly for the discovery, encouragement, and promotion of new talents – an ethos that continues to define the awards.

    The broadcast also featured acceptance remarks from recipients of the 2025 Special Recognition Awards.

    Sam Uquah expressed surprise and gratitude that his work had been noticed.

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    Mercy Adishi recalled her close personal friendship with Wale Olomu, describing the honour as deeply meaningful.

    Efe Omorogbe described the award as special and humbling, while Seyi Allen thanked the Steering Committee for the recognition.

    Two Lifetime Achievement honourees were also announced – veteran Afro-fusion superstars of the 70s, music producers and longtime exponents of sustaining indigenous Nigerian music, Blackman Akeeb Kareem (79) and Emma Ogosi (83).

    The WOMA 2025 Steering Committee stated that the radio finale encapsulated the core mission of the awards: remembrance with purpose, recognition with integrity, and a forward-looking commitment to Nigeria’s creative industries. The committee reaffirmed that WOMA will continue to spotlight excellence, nurture emerging voices, and preserve the values that Wale Olomu embodied.

  • Our New Year plans, resolutions by celebrities

    Our New Year plans, resolutions by celebrities

    As the New Year begins, celebrities across Nigeria’s entertainment industry are reflecting on the past year while sharing their resolutions and messages of gratitude with fans. Some have taken the moment to thank God for life and to offer prayers for a more rewarding year ahead. Reports OLAITAN GANIU.

    Nollywood actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham-Ajeyemi revealed that one of her major resolutions for the New Year is to avoid distractions and focus on her personal and professional growth.

    The 43-year-old actress described 2026 as a year of discipline and progress.

    “Happy New Year, my amazing family. Thank you for standing by me, riding with me and supporting the Toyin Abraham-Ajeyemi brand through it all. I’m deeply grateful,” she said.

    “This year, it’s no distractions,  just focus, growth and more strength. Let’s go harder in 2026.”

    Afrobeats star David ‘Davido’ Adeleke described 2026 as the best year of his life.

    “The best year with my loving wife,” the popstar said on the New Year eve.

    For Nollywood actress Destiny Etiko, the New Year message was rooted in gratitude.

    Etiko thanked God for seeing her through 2025 and expressed optimism for the year ahead

    “A lot of people couldn’t make it but we made it. It’s going to be our best year”,” she prayed.

    Veteran actress Ireti Doyle struck a spiritual tone with her New Year message.

    “We move by faith and not by sight,” she enthused.

    Meanwhile, 28-year-old movie star Mo’Bimpe was more direct about her personal boundaries going forward.

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    Reflecting on her experiences, the wife of actor Lateef Adedimeji revealed that she cut-off ungrateful people in the past year.

    “My goals in 2025, I dumped ungrateful people. In 2026 entitled people will join the wagon. I am ready with God. 2026 goals,” the ‘Iyawo Alhaji’ star said.

    For Nollywood actress, Moyo Lawal she was leaving the worst behind and embracing a fresh start.

    “Happy New Year everyone, thank you so much. The worst has already happened to me. I’m flipping the switch and looking forward to an entirely new character and adventure,” she said appreciating her fans over the controversial year.

    TikToker Peller described his entry into 2026 as a second chance after surviving a life-threatening incident in 2025.

    Expressing gratitude to God, he noted that he was thankful to be alive to see the New Year.

    “Thank you God for life. I almost didn’t see 2026,” he said.

  • I’m focusing on myself in 2026, no more girls – Peller vows 

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

    TikToker Peller has announced plans to abstain from romantic relationships in 2026, citing a need to prioritise personal growth and peace of mind.

    The decision followed his recent breakup with fellow content creator Jarvis and a tumultuous period marked by hospitalisation and arrest.

    Read Also: Peller apologises to Jarvis’ family after breakup

    In a livestream on TikTok, Peller explained that his decision is aimed at allowing him to focus on himself and navigate the challenges of life without the complexities of a romantic relationship.

    “Jarvis and I have broken up and we are friends now, she said I should just varnish for now. I’ve apologized to her family members. This 2026 I want to focus and enjoy my life, I don’t want any girl around me again,” he said.

  • Layi Wasabi praises Davido as ‘most supportive friend’

    Layi Wasabi praises Davido as ‘most supportive friend’

    Content creator and skitmaker Layi Wasabi has expressed gratitude to Davido and the Adeleke family for their unwavering support for his career.

    Layi, in an interview with Chude Jideonwo, revealed that Davido has been his most supportive friend since before he gained fame.

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    “Davido is my most supportive friend, even before my fame. Davido’s family has always shown me support,” he said.

    He added that Davido’s family has always shown him support, and he also praised Tunji Adeleke and his family for being a constant source of motivation. 

    “Tunji Adeleke is also my close friend. The whole family is lovely and supportive. They have supported me right from the very beginning. Big shout out to Davido and the Adelekes,” Layi added.

  • Dunsin Oyekan releases ‘AMEN’ featuring Pastor Adeboye

    Dunsin Oyekan releases ‘AMEN’ featuring Pastor Adeboye

    Renowned gospel singer Dunsin Oyekan has released his first single of the year, “AMEN,” featuring the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye.

    The song, which is now available on all digital streaming platforms worldwide, is a collaboration that has generated significant excitement among gospel music enthusiasts.

    Read Also: Adeboye releases 2026 prophecies, foresees reduction in hunger, economic revival

    The official music video is scheduled for release by 6pm on Friday.

    In a social media post, Oyekan shared a lighthearted moment from the recording session, where Pastor Adeboye asked if his contribution was satisfactory.

    “I remember Daddy asking me if what he did on the song was good enough”, he asked.

    Oyekan replied, “Daddy, even if you coughed in it, it’s a blessing already.”

  • Folorunsho Adeola pays tribute to Allwell Ademola at 40th birthday party

    Folorunsho Adeola pays tribute to Allwell Ademola at 40th birthday party

    Actress Folorunsho Adeola has paid a tribute to her late colleague Allwell Ademola, who passed away on December 27th after suffering a heart attack.

    Adeola, who celebrated her 40th birthday recently, honoured Ademola with a moment of silence during the party, with guests standing in respect as her MC led the solemn moment.

    In a post on her Instagram page, Adeola described Ademola as a kind-hearted and genuine individual who had supported her during her early career days. 

    She wrote, “Dear ENIOBANKE, You matter deeply. Your kindness leaves a lasting impression on hearts, your words still echo, and your memories never fade. You love sincerely, you give genuinely, and you show up in ways many never do.

    “You were there for me in my early career days, always pushing me forward. I show you love while you are here, and I never stop appreciating you. I let you know how much you mean to me, always.

    “Though you are no longer here in the way I wish, you live on in our stories, in our prayers, and in the quiet moments when we remember you and smile through the tears. Rest well, my big baby.”

  • Peller appeals for N11m in crowdfunding to fix crashed Mercedes Benz SUV

    Peller appeals for N11m in crowdfunding to fix crashed Mercedes Benz SUV

    Popular TikTok star Peller has revealed that his N100 million Mercedes Benz SUV, damaged in ‘deliberate’ road accident, would cost a whopping N11 million to be fixed.

    The streamer made the disclosure during a live session on TikTok, where he opened up about the accident, which occurred after his breakup with his lover Jarvis.

    Read Also: Peller apologises to Jarvis’ family after breakup

    “They told me that fixing my car would cost 11 million naira,” Peller said in the video.

    Peller, who took a break from social media, returned to address the incident, stating that he was yet to fix his car due to the hefty repair bill.

    In his bid to get help, he solicited financially from his followers, asking TikTokers joining his live session to assist him financially.

    The accident, which landed Peller in the hospital, had sparked concerns among fans and well-wishers.

  • Fans hail Kenny Blaq after selling out Onikan stadium for Reckless Festival

    Fans hail Kenny Blaq after selling out Onikan stadium for Reckless Festival

    History was made recently as fans crowned Kennyblaq “The Greatest Showman” after he sold out the Mobolaji Johnson Arena (formerly Onikan Stadium) for the second time with his blockbuster ‘Reckless Musicomedy Festival,’ drawing over 20,000 ecstatic fans to the venue.

    The back-to-back sell-out firmly cements Kennyblaq’s dominance as one of Nigeria’s most powerful live performers. From the moment he stepped on stage, the arena erupted as he delivered a masterclass performance that seamlessly blended comedy, music, sound effects, and crowd interaction—proving once again why fans and industry peers alike continue to hail him as a generational entertainer.

    The festival enjoyed massive support from the Nigerian comedy industry, with a heavyweight lineup of comedians including Destalker, Josh2Funny, Remote, Ajele, Larry J, SLK, Phronesis, MC Bob, Shortcut, and many other rib-cracking comedians.

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    Music lovers were also treated to an explosive lineup as legendary DJ Jimmy Jatt delivered a blazing hot set, supported by thrilling DJ performances from the Maze x Mxtreme crew, DJ Smallz, and DJ Wayward. Live music performances from Nasboi, Akpororo, Segun Johnson, Bidemi Olaoba, African China, Terry G, and several of Nigeria’s finest musical acts kept the stadium rocking till the very end.

    Elevating the energy even further were electrifying hype performances by Toby Shang, Do2dtun, Emmyblaq, Voltage of Hype, Whiteman Poco, Slimcase, and other crowd favorites who transformed the arena into a full-blown rave.

  • Grand Tycoon, Davido, Asake, emerge Africa’s Top 50 visibility leaders

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

    Renowned journalist, poet, spoken word artist and author, Tofarati Ige, aka Grand Tycoon, has been named among the prestigious list of “50 African Personalities and Brands Who Have Mastered the Art of Visibility” by Visibility 50 Africa (2025), a continental recognition celebrating individuals and brands that have successfully built influence, relevance and impact through strategic visibility.

    A multi-talented creative force, Grand Tycoon has distinguished himself across journalism, literature and performance arts. An award-winning journalist by profession and a poet by passion, he is widely known for his sharp storytelling, lyrical depth and ability to connect culture with contemporary narratives. His work continues to resonate across Africa’s media, performance and literary landscapes.

    In 2025, Tofarati recorded standout performances at major cultural and creative platforms, including Gbenga Adeyinka’s Laffmattazz Lagos Edition and Asiri’s “I Don’t Need Your Opinion” comedy show, further cementing his reputation as a compelling spoken word artist and performer. Beyond the stage, he plays a significant role in shaping conversations around culture and lifestyle as a Lifestyle Editor, where his editorial voice amplifies African stories with authenticity and nuance.

    As an author, Tofarati Ige has also made his mark with acclaimed literary works, including Town Crier and Oriki, a collection of evocative praise poetry that draws from African oral traditions while engaging modern themes. His writing reflects a deep commitment to preserving cultural identity while pushing creative boundaries.

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    The Visibility 50 Africa initiative celebrates African personalities and brands that have mastered the art of staying visible, relevant and impactful in an increasingly competitive and digital-driven world. Being named among the honorees places Tofarati Ige in the company of influential leaders, creatives and innovators across various industries on the continent.

    Reacting to the recognition, Ige described it as both humbling and affirming. He added, “It reminds me that visibility, when rooted in purpose, becomes responsibility. I see this recognition not as a destination, but as a call to do more—tell truer stories, amplify African voices, and build platforms where culture, creativity and truth can thrive. In 2026, my focus is on deepening impact through more intentional storytelling, expanding my literary and performance work across Africa, and creating spaces that empower the next generation of creatives to be seen, heard and valued.”

    Other personalities on the list include Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Funke Akindele, Ayra Starr, Joshua Selman, Nathaniel Bassey, GehGeh, Bimbo Ademoye and Chimamanda Adichie.

  • Eluem opens up on upcoming single The One

    Eluem opens up on upcoming single The One

    Afrobeats singer Prince Eluem Ogom aka Eluem has spoken about his forthcoming single, ‘The One,’ scheduled for release on January 6, 2026.

    Eluem describes it as a personal reflection on love, clarity and emotional timing.

    The singer, who has been quietly building momentum in recent months, said the record leans more on feeling than spectacle, even as early promotion around the song has begun to gain attention online.

    According to Eluem, ‘The One’ was inspired by moments of certainty that often arrive after confusion in relationships.

    “It’s not about chasing love or proving anything,” he said. “It’s about recognising when something feels right and being honest enough to accept it. I wanted the song to sound calm, sincere and familiar, like a conversation people already know.”

    Produced by Beatout Central, the track blends mid-tempo Afrobeats rhythms with melodic vocals, keeping the focus on emotion rather than heavy production. Additional production credits on the project include Wavy Martins and Mixfire, who worked across arrangement and sound refinement.

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    Eluem noted that the collaborative process helped shape the tone of the song.

    “We didn’t rush it,” he said. “Everyone involved understood that this record needed space. Sometimes the simplest sound carries the strongest meaning.”

    Eleum reveals that the single would be accompanied by a promotional video.

    While love remains a familiar subject within Afrobeats, Eluem believes The One approaches it from a more reflective angle.

    “A lot of love songs talk about excitement or heartbreak,” he said. “This one sits in between. It’s about maturity, about knowing what you want and being at peace with it.”