The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Peggy Ovire rejects Taye Arimoro’s N100m demand, calls claims ‘false’

    Peggy Ovire rejects Taye Arimoro’s N100m demand, calls claims ‘false’

    Actress Peggy Ovire has issued a statement through her legal team, rejecting actor Taye Arimoro’s N100 million demand and denying his allegations of assault.

    According to Peggy’s lawyers, Taye’s claims are “misleading, selective, and materially false,” and he is twisting the events that transpired.

    The response alleges that Taye was asked to return to set but instead got into a heated confrontation, assaulting the Production Manager and head-butting Peggy’s driver, leaving him injured.

    According to Peggy via the statement, witnesses reportedly gave statements to the police confirming Taye’s aggressive behavior.

    Peggy’s team claims Taye tried to flee the scene, and any restraint was to prevent his escape before police arrived.

    They maintain Peggy never assaulted Taye, and the only physical contact was when she “pushed him lightly” after he allegedly tried to deflate her tyres.

    The letter dismissed Taye’s claims of mob action, broken jaw, harassment, or violence as fabricated, stating the matter is under investigation by the police and Actors Guild of Nigeria.

    Peggy’s team rejected the N100 million demand, warning they may pursue petitions for assault, defamation, and interference with production.

    Peggy captioned the post on Instagram, writing, “My silence should not be taken for weakness… the truth will unfold.”

  • Talent managers driving careers of DJ Brightstar, Davido, Wizkid other superstars

    Talent managers driving careers of DJ Brightstar, Davido, Wizkid other superstars

    Nigeria’s entertainment industry continues to thrive on the backbone of strategic talent management, a sector that has quietly shaped the rise of many music stars and DJs. 

    While performers command the spotlight, their managers build the machinery that drives visibility, bookings, and long-term career direction. For DJs such as Brightstar, these managers are not just partners, they are pivotal growth drivers.

    1. Louiza Williams: Strategic Force Behind G-Worldwide Acts

    Louiza Williams, a Cross River–born talent manager and film producer, has earned her place among the country’s most respected industry executives. 

    Known for her role in developing artistes under the G-Worldwide imprint including Kizz Daniel and Sugarboy she brings a blend of creativity and corporate structure to the ecosystem.

    Now managing DJ Brightstar, Louiza has been instrumental in extending his footprint across Nigeria, East Africa, and parts of Europe. 

    Her experience in both music and film has helped refine Brightstar’s brand positioning and performance strategy.

    “She doesn’t just manage talent; she nurtures legacy,” Brightstar said, crediting her guidance for helping him reach new audiences.

    Brightstar also contributes to the visibility of G-Worldwide acts by featuring their songs — such as Woju, Mama, Laye, Raba, Buga, and Cough — in his mixes and live sets, boosting their presence on dance floors and digital circuits.

    2. Asa Asika: Driving Davido’s Global Influence

    Asa Asika, co-founder of The Plug Entertainment, stands as one of Nigeria’s most recognisable talent managers. His work with Davido has been central to the singer’s global penetration and sustained relevance in the Afrobeats movement.

    Asika’s track record with names like Naeto C, Sasha P and Ikechukwu underscores his reputation for identifying potential and building scalable brands. DJ Brightstar frequently amplifies music from Asika’s artistes particularly Davido’s hits Fall and If , which remain staples in clubs, festivals, and party mixes.

    3. Sunday Are: Industry Veteran and Culture Builder

    Sunday Are, CEO of List Entertainment and long-time manager of Wizkid, is widely regarded as one of the pillars of modern Nigerian music management. His work with artistes like Lagbaja, 2Baba and Omawumi reflects decades of influence across genres and generations.

    Although DJ Brightstar is not directly connected to him, Wizkid’s catalogue curated under Are’s guidance remains a frequent feature in Brightstar’s performances worldwide.

    4. DJs and Managers: Built on Collaboration

    In today’s industry, the relationship between DJs and talent managers goes beyond music promotion. Managers provide access to new releases, partnerships, and brand alignment opportunities, while DJs serve as frontline amplifiers, pushing songs to audiences across events, airwaves, and streaming platforms.

    For DJ Brightstar, the synergy with managers like Louiza Williams and indirect collaborations through artistes under Asa Asika and Sunday Are has strengthened his brand across local and international spaces.

    As Afrobeats continues its global expansion, these cross-industry partnerships remain central to breaking boundaries and shaping the next generation of talent.

  • Ayra Starr confirms relocation to New York City

    Ayra Starr confirms relocation to New York City

    Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has confirmed her relocation to New York City to boost her global career.

    The 23-year-old singer has been a resident of the American city for less than two months, citing its familiar energy and large African community as key attractions.

    She revealed the news during a recent video interview, stating that the city’s resemblance to Lagos, her hometown, made the transition seamless.

    According to her, New York reminds her of Lagos, with its similar energy, speed, and cultural rhythm, admitting to finding comfort in the city’s African diaspora community.

    She also noted that there’s a huge Nigerian presence, making it feel like home.

    “New York reminds me so much of Lagos. So it feels like home. There are a lot of Nigerians here. There’s a huge African diaspora here, so it feels like home,” she said

  • Nkechi Blessing decries envy, lack of genuine support in society

    Nkechi Blessing decries envy, lack of genuine support in society

    Actress Nkechi Blessing has expressed her frustration over what she described as the scarcity of real support and the prevalence of envy in today’s society.

    In an Instagram post, she expressed concern that many people seem more interested in undermining others than in working together and achieving collective success.

    She stressed the need for mutual uplift, noting that supporting others requires no hatred or jealousy.

    “Some are collaborating and still winning, while some want to use competition to wound themselves, another set sit down for corner dey hit chest say another human being no go succeed.

    “For this life, wey nothing dey inside? For this life wey you fit sleep no wake up? Why you come hold am so strong? No genuine support again, if you chop I chop na so d life go take sweet. It costs absolutely nothing to lift the next person without hate or envy”, she wrote in pidgin.

  • I had no blueprint, I built my own structure – Wizkid claims

    I had no blueprint, I built my own structure – Wizkid claims

    Award-winning singer Wizkid has sparked controversy with his claim that he had “no blueprint” for his ascent to stardom.

    The comment, featured in his HBO documentary Long Live Lagos, has been perceived by many as overlooking the significant role played by Banky W, the ace singer whose imprint Wizkid emerged from.

    “There was no blueprint for me. I had to build a structure for myself,” he claimed.

    Critics argued that Wizkid’s statement not only diminished Banky W’s impact on his career but also disregarded the contributions of Nigerian music legends who paved the way for the new generation of artists.

    Wizkid also acknowledged the influence of Nigerian music icon Fela Kuti, stating that “Fela Kuti was instrumental to why I believe I could really make music”.

    However, social media has been buzzing with mixed reactions following Wizkid’s “no blueprint” to his success.

    Franko_Nero accused Wizkid of being ungrateful, saying he wouldn’t be where he is without Banky W’s support.

    “I still vividly remember the day that Bankole [Banky W] announced on a show that he wanted to introduce a boy wonder, a germ in the making. Today, this ungrateful child is claiming otherwise. If Banky knew that today would come, I am sure he would have chased him far away”, he wrote.

    Arhcent echoed this sentiment, feeling Wizkid is erasing the role of Banky W and EME in his career.

    “This guy is erasing the role Banky W and EME played in his career. The person Banky picked from school for the studio is saying, “I had to build a structure for myself.’ God sees all.”

    Others, like the Duke of Isoko, defended Wizkid’s right to claim his own success, pointing out that he brought a unique style to the table.

    “If he never built a structure, Banky probably wouldn’t have noticed him. This dude came out with his own style of music, dressing sense, etc., but I understand that English is a problem in this place.”

    Sir Dickson urged calm, interpreting Wizkid’s comment as referring to his music style, not Banky W’s impact.

    “People are debating this with reference to Banky’s impact on his life. There is no real context to that. I believe he was speaking about his style of music. He reinvented himself. Wiz has never denied Banky’s impact, nor can he. Let’s calm down”, he wrote.

  • Why I left church for three years – Ariyiike Dimples

    Why I left church for three years – Ariyiike Dimples

    Actress and media personality, Ariyiike Owolagba popularly known as Ariyiike Dimples, has opened up on the experience that led her to stop attending church for three years.

    In an interview on the ‘Open Up’ podcast, she revealed that an elderly woman at her community church questioned her fashion sense, telling her she would go to hell for wearing a pencil skirt.

    According to Ariyiike, she felt wrongly judged and shocked by the woman’s reaction, leading her to quit attending church.

    Ariyiike Dimples emphasised that despite this experience, she is still a practicing Christian, but prefers to worship elsewhere.

    She highlighted the need for churches to simplify their approach and make young people feel welcome without judgment.

    She said, “In my community church, you see only elderly people. You barely see the young ones. The young ones have gone to other churches. It was too serious. Yes, you can have your doctrines, but there is a way you can simplify it for young people and take them in without judging them.

    “The reason I stopped going to church was because I wore a pencil skirt to church and an elderly woman said I will go to hell fire. I was shocked and felt wrongly judged so I stopped going to church for 3 years. And thankfully, I was already out of my parents’ house.

    “The woman reported me to my dad. I had to take picture of the skirt and send to my mum to prove that I wasn’t dressing indecently. But my dad believed in the ideology of a community raising a child. So, I chose to avoid the community church so that they won’t see me.”

  • I’m laid back, not shy, Olamide clarifies misconception

    I’m laid back, not shy, Olamide clarifies misconception

    Rapper Olamide has addressed the misconception surrounding his personality, clarifying that he’s often misunderstood as being shy when, in fact, he’s just laid back.

    In a recent interview on Ada’s Room podcast, Baddo shed light on the difference between the two, explaining that shyness implies a lack of confidence and charisma, whereas his laid-back nature is a deliberate choice to prioritise his energy.

    “One thing I wish people could understood about me is I am not shy, I am just laid back,” he said.

    The host asked: “What is the difference between shy and laid back?”

    Olamide responded: “Shy is when you don’t have the confidence and the charisma to stand people or look them in the eye or have conversations with them.

    “But being laid back is you just don’t want to be bothered. People think I am shy but I am not.”

  • ÀKÀTÈ: Ino Moses unveils a new age of Edo cinema culture

    ÀKÀTÈ: Ino Moses unveils a new age of Edo cinema culture

    The Edo film landscape is experiencing a cultural and cinematic rebirth as _ÀKÀTÈ_, directed by celebrated filmmaker Ino Moses, continues to make waves across Nigerian cinemas.

    The film, which boasts one of the most culturally blended casts in recent years, is being hailed as a defining moment for Edo‑based filmmaking and a catalyst for the growing cinema culture within the state.

    Speaking on the vision behind the movie, Moses described _ÀKÀTÈ_ as “a creative bridge between the mainstream Nollywood veterans and the rising Edo creative force,” noting that the production intentionally brought together Nollywood legends, Edo‑based actors, viral content creators, and national stand‑up comedy giants — all united to tell an authentic Edo story with global appeal. “We wanted a film that feels like home, looks like home, and sounds like home,” he said. “_ÀKÀTÈ_ is not just a movie; it is a movement — a revitalization of the Edo creative identity.

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    Working with such a star‑studded cast allowed us to merge experience, raw talent, culture, and humor into one powerful narrative.”

    The film’s diverse ensemble includes mainstream Nollywood icons such as Charles Inojie, Edo‑born film stars like King Zina, and a lineup of popular comedic and content‑creation personalities who bring contemporary relatability to the project.

    “One of our biggest goals was to show the world the strength and talent we have here in Edo,” he said.

  • Black Fab unveils new album  ‘I Like Am’

    Black Fab unveils new album  ‘I Like Am’

    Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Black Fab has returned with “I Like Am”, a house-infused, feel-good track crafted for Lagos living rooms, rooftop speakers and late-night party scenes.

    The song draws inspiration from his favourite kind of downtime—relaxing at home with endless house playlists, slipping into a calm creative zone and absorbing the raw, pulsating energy of Lagos house parties. It is this blend of serenity, rhythm and communal vibe that fuels “I Like Am.”

    In the past year, Black Fab has emerged as a strong cultural voice for the Igala people, weaving his heritage into Afrobeats through records like “Ukpokpu,” the vibrant “Egwu,” and his 2025 project Big Masquerade, which houses fan favourites such as “Ready” (feat. Ycee) and “Oyoyo” (feat. TML Vibez).

    Read Also: DJ Brightstar set to stage Christmas youth tournament in Akwa Ibom

    With “I Like Am,” he takes a deliberate step toward a broader global audience. The production leans heavily into house and dance textures, offering a more club-ready sound, while the lyrics favour universally resonant melodies and phrases—yet still rooted in the authenticity of his identity.

    This time, there are no star-studded features—and by choice. Black Fab says he is “still waxing it with my own family,” keeping collaborations close-knit and organic, allowing the natural chemistry within his core team to shape the record.

    For listeners, Black Fab wants three takeaways: “His music is limitless. I Like Am” is a gift to the world—present and future. Everyone should find their own chakra and be a blessing.

    “I Like Am” marks the next chapter in Black Fab’s evolution—from Igala storyteller to a rising force on global dancefloors.

  • DJ Brightstar set to stage Christmas youth tournament in Akwa Ibom

    DJ Brightstar set to stage Christmas youth tournament in Akwa Ibom

    Popular disc jockey, DJ Brightstar, is set to host a Christmas Youth Tournament in Akwa Ibom this December as part of his ongoing efforts to support youth development in his home communities.

    The initiative follows a series of football competitions he organised earlier in the year for young people in Ikot Eyen Imoh and Ikot Ubo Akama. The events, held during the Easter period, drew youths, community leaders and local supporters who described the tournaments as an opportunity for engagement and unity.

    Brightstar said the positive feedback from the earlier editions tagged “Superstar DJ Brightstar Easter Youth Tournament,” encouraged him to expand the project. According to him, the Chairman of his local government area (Ikot Abasi L.G.A) had also reached out through his father to commend the gesture.

    “This is just the beginning,” he said. “Giving back to my people is a mission I take seriously. Football is a tool to unite, inspire and build confidence in our youth.”

    He added that the December edition will feature more structured activities aimed at preparing young people for future opportunities both within and outside sports.

    Known for his presence on Inspiration FM, Yanga FM, Base FM, Max FM Lagos and Diamond 88.5 FM Osun State, DJ Brightstar continues to combine his work in entertainment with community-focused initiatives.