The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Natasha celebrates 46th birthday, expresses gratitude to God 

    Natasha celebrates 46th birthday, expresses gratitude to God 

    Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, is celebrating her 46th birthday with reflections on her life’s journey and gratitude for God’s blessings.

    In a message shared on Instagram, she thanked God for His guidance and strength over the years, offering prayers for continued wisdom, protection, and purpose in the years ahead.

    “Dear God, As I turn 46 today, I thank You for grace, strength, and growth. Bless my journey ahead with wisdom, courage, and compassion. Keep my family, friends, constituents and all well-wishers safe and may You keep my path aligned with purpose. Amen”, she wrote.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan on Monday also gave back to her alma mater, Federal Government College Idoani, with projects including a 2000-seat auditorium, staff quarters, and solar-powered facilities, motivated by gratitude for her formative years there.

    “I’m honoured to facilitate the following projects, which shall be completed next year by the grace of God: 2000-seat capacity auditorium, 500-seat capacity multipurpose hall, 10 staff quarters, 300 solar street lights, 50,000 litres solar-powered water system,” she said.

    She stated that FGC Idoani nurtured her character, discipline, and leadership, making her contributions an act of gratitude, not politics.

    “FGC Idoani nurtured my character, discipline, and leadership; thus, giving back to my alma mater isn’t politics, it’s gratitude,” Akpoti-Uduaghan explained.

  • Wizkid’s son Champz reveals inspirations behind debut EP

    Wizkid’s son Champz reveals inspirations behind debut EP

    Champz, the 14-year-old son of global superstar, Wizkid, has opened up about the musical influences shaping his breakthrough project, Champion’s Arrival.

    In a recent interview with Glitch Africa, Champz mentioned UK rappers and Afro-fusion artists J Hus, Asko, Nines, and Clavish as key inspirations behind his debut EP.

    The young rapper’s sound blends Afro-swing and UK drill styles, characterised by gritty flows and street-rooted narratives.

    Champion’s Arrival has broken records, reaching Number one on Apple Music Nigeria’s top albums chart within five hours of release and amassing over a million streams in 24 hours. 

  • May Edochie celebrates daughter Danielle’s graduation

    May Edochie celebrates daughter Danielle’s graduation

    May Edochie, the estranged wife of actor Yul Edochie, has penned a heartfelt message to her daughter, Danielle Edochie, in celebration of her university graduation.

    In an Instagram post, May expressed immense pride in the intelligent and beautiful young woman Danielle has grown into, praising her strong mind and resilience as qualities that will continue to propel her forward.

    She credited Danielle’s hard work, determination, and passion for guiding her to this milestone, adding that these same attributes will shape a bright and successful future for her.

    She wrote, “Graduation party loading…..Pls join me in celebration. God did it. I’m meant to write an epistle cos, against all odds, it came to pass, but I’ll keep it simple.

    “To my one and only darling daughter and my first child: As one chapter has just closed, a new one is open, filled with possibilities waiting for you to shape them. I’m incredibly proud of the beautiful and intelligent young woman you have become, with a mind of your own that cannot be negatively influenced.

    “I’m convinced that your hard work, resilience, and passion brought you this far, and they are the same qualities that will take you anywhere your dream is heading.

    “I’m super excited for everything your future holds as designed by the Almighty. This milestone is only the beginning of the wonderful and amazing things that await you. The world is yours, @d3forareason. Go make a statement.

    “I pray that God, in His infinite mercy and compassion, directs your path in life and continues to shield you from all evil. Amen.”

  • Burna Boy set to release visuals for ‘Love’

    Burna Boy set to release visuals for ‘Love’

    Burna Boy announces release of “LOVE” music video

    Grammy-winning singer Burna Boy has announced that the music video for his song LOVE will premiere today at 5 p.m. WAT.

    He shared a 22-second preview featuring nostalgic family moments, warm embraces, and fans holding signs expressing their love and support.

    The teaser followed his December 7 performance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where he debuted LOVE from his Grammy-nominated album No Sign of Weakness. 

    This appearance marks his fourth on the show, the most by any Nigerian artist.

    LOVE is also nominated for Best African Music Performance in 2026, a recognition that aligns with the song’s themes of family, resilience, and emotional strength.

  • Shank Comics apologises for old post praising Diddy’s mindset

    Shank Comics apologises for old post praising Diddy’s mindset

    Skitmaker Shank Comics has apologised for an old social media post in which he appeared to praise the mindset of music mogul Diddy.

    The resurfaced post triggered heavy backlash online, with many accusing him of being insensitive in light of the serious allegations currently facing the entertainer.

    In a clarification, Shank explained that the post was a misguided attempt to reference a movie villain, admitting it was careless and irresponsible.

    He stressed that he does not admire, support, or defend Diddy in any form, especially given the disturbing allegations levelled against him.

    Shank added that victims deserve justice and vowed to use his platform more responsibly going forward.

    He further noted that the allegations against Diddy are completely unacceptable and have no place in the entertainment industry or society at large.

    He wrote, “To clarify any misunderstanding: My post about Diddy was a misguided attempt at referencing a villain in a “movie” and it was irresponsible. To be absolutely clear, I do not admire, support, or defend him in any way.

    “The allegations against him are horrific, and he deserves every consequence that comes from them. What he’s been accused of (and convicted of) is unacceptable and has no place in our industry or anywhere else. Victims deserve justice.I’m committed to doing better and using my platform responsibly.”

  • My family inspired me into music, says Rave

    My family inspired me into music, says Rave

    • …set to Drop Album December 12

    Afrobeats singer Pwafukadi Sunday, popularly known as Rave, says his family’s deep-rooted love for music laid the foundation for his journey into the industry, adding that the genre has a bright future because it is being driven by highly creative young talents.

    Rave, who has been making music for more than 10 years, hails from Adamawa State and grew up in a household of eight where music was a constant presence.

    A statement from his media office noted that several of his siblings were active in church music groups, a setting he said naturally shaped his musical path.

    “My family’s love for music inspired me. I grew up in a house full of music lovers… being the last child in such a musical atmosphere naturally pushed me into making music,” he said.

    Speaking on the global rise of Afrobeats, he added: “The future of Afrobeats is bright. It is in the hands of great music creatives who are ready to work and push the culture to all corners of the world.”

    Though he has been singing for over a decade, Rave began officially releasing music three years ago, debuting with the track “Jah.”

    He said his distinct sound, voice, and melodies—particularly his infusion of Arewa rhythms—set him apart in the industry.

    Rave is preparing to release his debut EP, “PWAFUKADI,” which is also his tribal name, meaning “God has honoured him.” The nine-track project, due out on December 12, 2025, draws from culture, personal experiences, and his growth as an artist.

    “A lot has happened, and I communicated those experiences through the songs so listeners can have a picture of my journey,” he said.

    Producers on the EP include ShifuPro, Elmore, Stranger, Marius, and Keys To The City, whom he described as talented and easy to collaborate with.

    Read Also: Tuggar blames structural weakness for unconstitutional changes of govt, others

    Signed to Login Records, an Abuja-based label, Rave said it is his dream to feature Asake, noting that the singer inspires him and reminds him of himself. He also hopes for collaborations with Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy.

    Reflecting on his career lessons, Rave highlighted the value of character: “Humility will take you further than your talent can. Talent is essential, but humility brings favour—something every rising artist truly needs.”

    He also urged the government to increase support for the entertainment industry through competitions and talent hunts that create opportunities for emerging musicians.

    Rave began his education at Emmanuel Standard Academy, Yola, before moving on to St. Mary’s C.R.I., Yola, and later the Nigerian Army University, Biu.

    He left the university in his third year to pursue music full-time.

  • Dayo Amusa emerges national vice president of Actors Guild of Nigeria

    Dayo Amusa emerges national vice president of Actors Guild of Nigeria

    Celebrated and talented Nollywood actress, Dayo Amusa, has been elected the National Vice President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN).

    The election was a remarkable success at the just-concluded AGN national election in Benin City, Edo State.

    Speaking after the announcement, Dayo Amusa said, “My emergence as the AGN National Vice President is a testament to my unwavering dedication, leadership qualities, and longstanding commitment to the growth and integrity of the Actors Guild of Nigeria.

    These were contained in a press statement signed on her behalf by her media office dated Monday, December 8, 2025.

    “This achievement reflects the trust and confidence reposed in me by members of the guild, and I am certain that my creativity and administrative excellence will bring renewed strength to the Secretariat and elevate the guild’s operational standards.

    “As I take on this important national role, my tenure will be marked by transparency, innovation, and impactful service that will inspire both current and future members of the Actors Guild of Nigeria.”

    Dayo Amusa, who has featured in numerous movies and produced several others, including the popular Yoruba film “Dewunmi Iberu,” stated that she would use her office to promote the interests of Nigerian actors and actresses.

    She emphasised that the time has come for the Nigerian movie industry to take its rightful pride of place in national development.

    Read Also: Tuggar blames structural weakness for unconstitutional changes of govt, others

    She currently serves as the Vice President of the Ijebu Pride Network.

    The Ijebu Pride Network is an initiative that brings together Ijebu’s brightest stars in the entertainment industry, celebrating the rich culture, pomp, and pageantry of Ijebuland in Ogun State, while promoting the heritage and ancestry of both Ijebuland and Remoland.

    The idea was conceived by Bashorun Femi Branch, who serves as President, with Dayo Amusa as Vice President.

    Widely regarded as a successful actress, Dayo Amusa has consistently used her talent to inspire many Nigerians, including upcoming actors and actresses; one of the reasons she remains a respected household name across the country.

  • Kenzy Udosen hails Facebook’s role in inspiring new class of young creators

    Kenzy Udosen hails Facebook’s role in inspiring new class of young creators

    Content creator Kenzy Udosen has commended Facebook for its contribution to the rise of a new generation of young creators, describing the platform as a space that fosters discovery, creativity, and meaningful community engagement.

    Facebook, which continues to attract millions of young adults daily, has increasingly become a hub for exploring shared interests and connecting with like-minded individuals.

    Udosen, who began creating content in 2019 and joined Facebook a year later, said the platform played a pivotal role in expanding his audience. “Facebook has quite a vast number of users, and I needed to tap into that, rightfully so, because to date, I have the largest number of followers on Facebook,” he said.

    He attributed part of his growth to several creator-focused tools introduced by Meta, noting that the Professional Dashboard has helped him measure performance and adjust his strategy. He also highlighted the Meta Business Suite for enabling him to manage high engagement levels, including responding to numerous messages and fan interactions. According to him, Facebook’s in-app editing tools have equally supported quick and engaging content production.

    Udosen emphasised that beyond the features, Facebook stands out for its strong sense of community. “On Facebook, the interactions feel more like a living room conversation than a passing comment on the street. My followers don’t just like a post, they live inside it,” he said, adding that the platform encourages deeper conversations, debates, and cultural exchanges.

    He also described Facebook’s Stars feature—through which fans can support creators financially—as one of the most rewarding aspects of his experience. Fans purchase Stars and send them during live sessions or reels, with each Star converting into earnings. Udosen said the support he received through Stars reinforced Facebook’s value as a platform where creators can grow and earn.

    Read Also: Tuggar blames structural weakness for unconstitutional changes of govt, others

    Speaking on maintaining authenticity, Udosen likened his creative approach to cooking jollof rice. “The base remains the same, but you can tweak the spices to suit the moment,” he said, explaining that while he incorporates trends, his signature style, humour, cultural storytelling, and the familiar African/Nigerian mother persona remain unchanged.

    He advised young creators to prioritise originality and consistency. “Know your voice before you chase views. Engage like a human, not a broadcast station. Study your analytics and adapt without losing your identity,” he said.

    Udosen’s journey reflects Facebook’s evolving role as a platform where creators build communities, strengthen their craft, and achieve meaningful growth. As young adults continue to leverage its tools and reach, Facebook remains a significant driver of creative expression and digital opportunity.

  • FULL LIST: Golden Globes unveils nominees for 2026

    FULL LIST: Golden Globes unveils nominees for 2026

    The 2026 Golden Globes nominations have been announced, marking the beginning of Hollywood’s awards season.

    The biggest and best films, shows, and stars from the past year are up for consideration, with winners to be revealed on January 11.

    This is a key milestone in the lead-up to the Oscars in March.

    The nominations showcase a diverse range of talent, with “One Battle After Another” leading the pack with nine nominations, followed closely by “Sentimental Value” with eight and “Sinners” with seven.

    Notable film nominees include “Frankenstein”, “Hamnet”, and “It Was Just an Accident”, while top TV contenders include “The Diplomat”, “The Pitt”, and “The White Lotus”.

    The biggest and best films, shows, and stars from the past year have been named on the shortlists for Golden Globes glory, as this year’s Hollywood award season gets underway in earnest.

    The Golden Globe nominations were announced on Monday, with the winners to be revealed on 11 January, which is all part of the build-up to the Oscars in March.

    Here are the Golden Globe shortlists:

    Film categories

    Best film – drama

    Frankenstein

    Hamnet

    It Was Just an Accident

    The Secret Agent

    Sentimental Value

    Sinners

    Best film – musical or comedy

    Blue Moon

    Bugonia

    Marty Supreme

    No Other Choice

    Nouvelle Vague

    One Battle After Another

    Best non-English language film

    It Was Just an Accident

    No Other Choice

    The Secret Agent

    Sentimental Value

    Sirât

    The Voice of Hind Rajab

    Best animated film

    Arco

    Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle

    Elio

    KPop Demon Hunters

    Little Amélie or the Character of Rain

    Zootopia 2

    Best female actor – drama

    Jessie Buckley – Hamnet

    Jennifer Lawrence – Die, My Love

    Renate Reinsve – Sentimental Value

    Julia Roberts – After the Hunt

    Tessa Thompson – Hedda

    Eva Victor – Sorry, Baby

    Best male actor – drama

    Joel Edgerton – Train Dreams

    Oscar Isaac – Frankenstein

    Dwayne Johnson – The Smashing Machine

    Michael B Jordan – Sinners

    Wagner Moura – The Secret Agent

    Jeremy Allen White – Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere

    Best female actor – musical or comedy

    Rose Byrne – If I Had Legs I’d Kick You

    Cynthia Erivo – Wicked: For Good

    Kate Hudson – Song Sung Blue

    Chase Infiniti – One Battle After Another

    Amanda Seyfried – The Testament of Ann Lee

    Emma Stone – Bugonia

    Best male actor – musical or comedy

    Timothée Chalamet – Marty Supreme

    George Clooney – Jay Kelly

    Leonardo DiCaprio – One Battle After Another

    Ethan Hawke – Blue Moon

    Lee Byung-Hun – No Other Choice

    Jesse Plemons – Bugonia

    Best supporting female actor

    Emily Blunt – The Smashing Machine

    Elle Fanning – Sentimental Value

    Ariana Grande – Wicked: For Good

    Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas – Sentimental Value

    Amy Madigan – Weapons

    Teyana Taylor – One Battle After Another

    Best supporting male actor

    Benicio Del Toro – One Battle After Another

    Jacob Elordi – Frankenstein

    Paul Mescal – Hamnet

    Sean Penn – One Battle After Another

    Adam Sandler – Jay Kelly

    Stellan Skarsgård – Sentimental Value

    Cinematic and box office achievement

    Avatar: Fire and Ash

    F1

    KPop Demon Hunters

    Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

    Sinners

    Weapons

    Wicked: For Good

    Zootopia 2

    Best director

    Paul Thomas Anderson – One Battle After Another

    Ryan Coogler – Sinners

    Guillermo del Toro – Frankenstein

    Jafar Panahi – It Was Just an Accident

    Joachim Trier – Sentimental Value

    Chloe Zhao – Hamnet

    Best screenplay

    Paul Thomas Anderson – One Battle After Another

    Ronald Bronstein, Josh Safdie – Marty Supreme

    Ryan Coogler – Sinners

    Jafar Panahi – It Was Just an Accident

    Eskil Vogt, Joachim Trier – Sentimental Value

    Chloé Zhao, Maggie O’Farrell – Hamnet

    Best original song

    Miley Cyrus, Andrew Wyatt, Mark Ronson, Simon Franglen – Avatar: Fire and Ash; Dream as One

    Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seo, Park Hong Jun, Kim Eun-jae (EJAE), Mark Sonnenblick – KPop Demon Hunters; Golden

    Raphael Saadiq, Ludwig Göransson – Sinners; I Lied to You

    Stephen Schwartz – Wicked: For Good; No Place Like Home

    Stephen Schwartz – Wicked: For Good; The Girl in the Bubble

    Nick Cave, Bryce Dessner – Train Dreams; Train Dreams

    Best original score

    Alexandre Desplat – Frankenstein

    Ludwig Göransson – Sinners

    Jonny Greenwood – One Battle After Another

    Kanding Ray – Sirāt

    Max Richter – Hamnet

    Hans Zimmer – F1

    TV & podcast categories

    Best series – drama

    The Diplomat

    The Pitt

    Pluribus

    Severance

    Slow Horses

    The White Lotus

    Best series – comedy or musical

    Abbott Elementary

    The Bear

    Hacks

    Nobody Wants This

    Only Murders in the Building

    The Studio

    Best limited series

    Adolescence

    All Her Fault

    The Beast In Me

    Black Mirror

    Dying for Sex

    The Girlfriend

    Best female actor – drama

    Kathy Bates – Matlock

    Britt Lower – Severance

    Helen Mirren – Mobland

    Bella Ramsey – The Last of Us

    Keri Russell – The Diplomat

    Rhea Seehorn – Pluribus

    Best male actor – drama

    Sterling K Brown – Paradise

    Diego Luna – Andor

    Gary Oldman – Slow Horses

    Mark Ruffalo – Task

    Adam Scott – Severance

    Noah Wyle – The Pitt

    Best female actor – comedy or musical

    Kristen Bell – Nobody Wants This

    Ayo Edebiri – The Bear

    Selena Gomez – Only Murders in the Building

    Natasha Lyonne – Poker Face

    Jenna Ortega – Wednesday

    Jean Smart – Hacks

    Best male actor – comedy or musical

    Adam Brody – Nobody Wants This

    Steve Martin – Only Murders in the Building

    Glen Powell – Chad Powers

    Seth Rogen – The Studio

    Martin Short – Only Murders in the Building

    Jeremy Allen White – The Bear

    Best female actor – limited series

    Claire Danes – The Beast in Me

    Rashida Jones – Black Mirror

    Amanda Seyfried – Long Bright River

    Sarah Snook – All Her Fault

    Michelle Williams – Dying for Sex

    Robin Wright – The Girlfriend

    Best male actor – limited series

    Jacob Elordi – The Narrow Road to the Deep North

    Paul Giamatti – Black Mirror

    Stephen Graham – Adolescence

    Charlie Hunnam – Monster: The Ed Gein Story

    Jude Law – Black Rabbit

    Matthew Rhys – The Beast in Me

    Best supporting female actor

    Carrie Coon – The White Lotus

    Erin Doherty – Adolescence

    Hannah Einbinder – Hacks

    Catherine O’Hara – The Studio

    Parker Posey – The White Lotus

    Aimee-Lou Wood – The White Lotus

    Best supporting male actor

    Owen Cooper – Adolescence

    Billy Crudup – The Morning Show

    Walton Goggins – The White Lotus

    Jason Isaacs – The White Lotus

    Tramell Tillman – Severance

    Ashley Walters – Adolescence

    Best stand-up comedy performance

    Bill Maher – Is Anyone Else Seeing This?

    Brett Goldstein – The Second Best Night of Your Life

    Kevin Hart – Acting My Age

    Kumail Nanjiani – Night Thoughts

    Ricky Gervais – Mortality

    Sarah Silverman – Sarah Silverman: PostMortem

    Best podcast

    Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

    Call Her Daddy

    Good Hang with Amy Poehler

    The Mel Robbins Podcast

    SmartLess

    Up First from NPR

  • I won’t go hungry as TikTok restricts night-time live streams in Nigeria – Peller

    I won’t go hungry as TikTok restricts night-time live streams in Nigeria – Peller

    TikToker Peller has downplayed concerns over the temporary ban on TikTok live streams in Nigeria, stating that his diverse income streams and strong brand partnerships will not be affected.

    The Nation earlier reported that TikTok temporarily restricted access to its LIVE feature for users in Nigeria during late-night hours, issuing an in-app notice to creators as part of what it described as an ongoing safety investigation.

    In a video posted on his TikTok page, Peller expressed surprise at critics expecting him to struggle financially, citing his numerous brand ambassadorships and endorsements worth at least N40 million each.

    He emphasised that his digital presence extends beyond TikTok, with long-term partnerships and endorsements ensuring his financial stability.

    “People are expecting me to be crying after TikTok banned live in Nigeria, thinking I’ll go hungry. I’m an ambassador to numerous brands, and none of my endorsements is less than N40 million,” he said.

    Peller highlighted TikTok’s role in empowering Nigerian youth, enabling rapid audience growth and income generation.

    He warned that restricting nighttime livestreams could disrupt engagement and income for creators, arguing that critics overlook the platform’s economic impact on emerging talents.

    “Many people will grow up on TikTok. You can’t grow on Instagram the same way. Before you make it there, you will post plenty… TikTok is easier to grow on,” he said.

    The content creator stressed his commitment to giving back to fans, often redistributing gifts received during live streams through giveaways.

    Peller urged authorities and platform managers to consider the ban’s economic implications, emphasising TikTok’s accessibility and opportunities for young Nigerians.