The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Amaland set to partner Oyo govt for Faaji Dec. festival

    Amaland set to partner Oyo govt for Faaji Dec. festival

    Amaland is set to partner the Oyo State Government to host ‘Faaji December Cultural and Entertainment Festival’.

    The event is an annual event that is always held between December 1 and January 2 in Ibadan.

    The company said the festival was borne out of the need to create alternative celebration and vibrant environments besides that of Lagos.

    Speaking with reporters in Ibadan, the convener of the festival, Seun Adeniyi, said many people didn’t know enjoyment and relaxation started in Ibadan, adding that Amaland was bringing back festivity and vibes to Ibadan. He said: “A lot of people may not know that Ibadan is the headquarters, the origin of Amala, the food everybody loves in Nigeria and around the world. Also, Fuji music started in Ibadan.

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    “We are bringing this true, historic phenomenon back to Ibadan. For people outside Ibadan, everywhere in Nigeria, West Africa, even in the diaspora coming to Nigeria for Christmas, end of the year, will visit Ibadan to have a taste of the original Amala and original Fuji music.

    “Also, we are organising a fashion show that talks about Yoruba culture, because the culture is already influencing fashion in the world. Music from Nigeria, especially Yoruba music, is also influencing music genre in the world.’’

    Adeniyi says adequate security is guaranteed for every participant, as every ticket comes with insurance for everybody attending the event.

  • AFRIMA: Diamond showcase portal berths ahead of 9th edition

    AFRIMA: Diamond showcase portal berths ahead of 9th edition

    Ahead of the 9th Edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) scheduled to hold in Lagos, Nigeria, the journey to discover and celebrate Africa’s future music stars has begun.

    The organisers of AFRIMA have opened an application portal for its Diamond Showcase, the award institution’s platform for rising music talents.

    According to a statement from the organisers, the 9th AFRIMA Diamond Showcase is designed to give undiscovered African artists a real chance to present their music to a wider audience and take a major step toward mainstream success.

    “The Showcase welcomes singers, rappers, DJs, producers, and instrumentalists from all parts of the continent to apply and take their place on one of Africa’s most respected music stages,” the statement read in part.

    Janatte Haddadi, Regional Manager, Northern Africa for AFRIMA, described the Showcase as a rare and valuable opportunity for young creatives who are ready to grow. She explained that AFRIMA is committed to finding, mentoring, and promoting new African music stars who often remain unnoticed in their communities even though they have strong talent.

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    Haddadi further announced that applications will run from November 18 to December 8, 2025, while encouraging all interested artists to apply early through the awards ceremony’s website and Instagram pages.

    “To apply, artists must submit a 45-second performance video. The AFRIMA Jury will then review all entries and select the top 15 finalists, known as “The Diamonds,” who will be invited to Lagos for the live Showcase.

    “We want to find the brightest diamonds in the rough across Africa. There are young artists in small towns, big cities, and everywhere in between who are doing amazing things with their music. Many of them have never had the chance to stand before the people who can help shape their careers. The Diamond Showcase is here to bridge that gap,” Haddadi said.

    The selected finalists will be hosted in Lagos, Nigeria, from January 6 to 7, 2026, with performances each evening from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The Showcase is part of the activities leading up to the 9th AFRIMA Awards.

    Those selected will receive an all-expense-paid trip to Lagos, special AFRIMA gifts, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to perform in front of top music executives, major media platforms, and key industry leaders.

    Haddadi urged young talents not to waste the opportunity. “If you believe in your gift, this is the time to act,” she said. “Don’t wait. Don’t hold back. Submit your entry. Africa is ready to meet its next big talents, and we are ready to support your first major step.”

    The 9th AFRIMA Awards will take place in Lagos, Nigeria, from January 7 to 11, 2026, with events including the Africa Music Business Summit, the Diamond Showcase, the Music Village Concert, the Nominees Party, the Red Carpet, and the grand Awards Night. In partnership with the African Union and Lagos State (Official Host City), the ceremony will be broadcast live to more than 84 countries globally.

  • NFVCB hosts 23 film practitioners to milestone agebirthday celebrations, honours Bolanle Austen Peters

    NFVCB hosts 23 film practitioners to milestone agebirthday celebrations, honours Bolanle Austen Peters

    The fifth edition of the Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Nigeria Digital Content Regulation Conference recently held between Tuesday, November 18, 2025 and Wednesday, November 19, 2025 in Lagos, Nigeria.

    The fifth edition and the second since the emergence of Dr Shaibu Husseini as the executive director of the National Films and Videos Censors Board, held amidst pomp and glee inside the expansive Shell Hall of the Muson Centre between 9am and 6pm for the two days duration.

    The conference had a long list of Nigerian film and television practitioners, actors, producers, directors, scriptwriters and many others in attendance.

    The 2025 edition of the conference kicked off with the theme: From Volume to Value: The future of the Nigerian motion picture industry in the digital age while filmmaker and culture cum art connoisseur, Bolanle Austen Peters gave the keynote speech.

    Though the minister for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musawa was absent at the event, she was represented by actor cum Director General of the Nigerian Film Corporation, Dr. Ali Nuhu.

    Some of the popular faces in attendance for the two-day event include Dr Shaibu Husseini, wife of Ooni of Ife, Olori Temitope Enita Ogunwusi, members of the late Peace Anyiam-Osiwe, Dr Raymond Anyiam Osigwe, George Anyiam-Osigwe, Kennedy Anyiam-Osigwe, Bolanle Austen-Peters, Stephanie Linus, Chief Emeka Ossia, Mahmood Alli-Balogun, Saidi Balogun, Alhaji Abdulrasaq Abdullahi, Makinde Adeniran, Femi Durojaiye, Uzodima Okpechi, Yinka Ogun, Moses Babatope, Patrick Lee, Zulumoke Oyibo, Emmanuel Kalu Uduma, Blessing Agofure, John Ukpa, Bunmi Ajakaiye, Imade Bibowei- Osuobeni, Amb Blessing Ebiegieson, and Misola Iyun amongst several others.

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    One of the highlights of day one of the two day event was when filmmaker and art/culture connoisseur, Bolanle Austen Peters was honoured by the NFVCB for her immense contribution to the growth of the Nigerian film industry. BAP, as she’s fondly called, couldn’t hold back her joy as she received the award plaque and a large portrait amidst cheers and accolades from the teeming audience. She expressed joy and gladness with the honour and promises to continue to do more in taking the film industry to greater heights.

    Other award winners include Joy Odiete, Femi Odugbemi, Funke Akindele, Cinemax, Filmone, Moses Babatope, Chioma Ude, and rave film, ‘Gingerrr.’

    The first day also had panel sessions that delved deep into the growth, challenges and pathway to securing a more rewarding and globally accepted film industry.

    The first panel session which dealt on the theme from volume to value: future of the motion picture industry in a digital age, had panellists including Dr Busola Tejumola, Stephanie Linus, and Femi Odugbemi. The session was moderated by Steve Ayorinde. Three other sessions took place on the first day of the conference before it came to an end.

    The second day kicked off with  a presentation by Dr Shaibu Husseini after which the anchors, Isabella Adeniji and Sam Uche Anyamele.

    Not long after a bit of introductions, the first session of the day kicked off after a keynote speech by the CEO, Inkblot Studios, Naz Onuzo.

    The first panel session was moderated by Judith Audu and had panelists discussing the ‘Growing the Film Audience At Home And Abroad.’ Six panelist on the session cuts across Cinema operators, streaming platform heads as well as film distributors and they include Cassandra Ojuigo Onwualu, Patrick Lee (Chief Operating Officer, Viva Cinemas), Imade Osoubeni (Co-founder & Senior VP,Circuits), Emmanuel Kalu Uduma (Multidisciplinary Creative, CEO Smartmedia, and Funmi Onuma (General Manager, West Africa, Silverbird Cinemas).

    The MD of Blue Pictures Entertainment, Joy Efe Odiete, was scheduled to be on the panel but was unable to make it.

    The session was followed by a fireside chat with Barrister Ope Banwo on Movie/Content Monetization: and was moderated by Theophilus Elama.

    Another panel discussion continued with discussants dwelling on ‘Breaking Down Barriers: The Future of Gender Equitable Film Narratives.’

    With a keynote remark by the Managing Director, Co-Creation Hub, Lagos, the session was moderated by Associate Professor Anwulika Agina of Media Studies, Pan-Atlantic University.

    The panelists include Co-Founder Inkblot Productions, Zulumoke Oyibo, screenwriters, Yinka Ogun, Bunmi Ajakaiye, Kemi Adesoye,  writer and producer, Chichi Nworah.

    The session generated so much engagement from the attendees before it was rounded off for the next session which had Chidi Nwokobia, Blessing Agofure, Abdulrazaq, Femi Durojaiye, Ijeoma Richards, and Moses Babatope as panelists. The session was moderated by Adetutu Laditan.

    There were three other sessions afterwards before the highlight of day two, which also resulted in the closing ceremony.

    A total of 23 film practitioners, who turned 50 and 60 respectively were honoured and treated to a glamorous reception at the Shell Hall of the Muson Centre by the management of the NFVCB led by the executive Director, Dr Shaibu Husseini. The practitioners include Taiwo Adeleye,  Saeed Mohammed, Ronnie Dikko, Seyi Siwoku, Aquila Njamah, Bond Emoruwa, Chimdi Chiama, Segun Arinze, AMB. Ngozi Ezeonu, Hafiz Bello, Lillian Ama-Aluko, Dr. Ahmad Sarari, Francis Onwochei, Princess Teju Agunlejika, Adebayo Tijani, Sir Kingsley Ogoro, Hon Desmond Elliot, Ali Baba,  Rita Dominic, Sam Dede, Eucharia  Anunobi, Chief Jude Chukwuka and Chief Steve Gukas.

  • Toka McBaror to lead film practitioners to Afric International Film Festival

    Toka McBaror to lead film practitioners to Afric International Film Festival

    Award winning Nigerian filmmaker, Toka Mcbaror is set to lead African film practitioners to the maiden edition of the Afric International Film Festival scheduled for 2026.

    McBaror confirmed this at a recent gathering when he was unveiled as the program coordinator of the film festival.

    Founded by Nwakpa Wisdom Isaac and Ojini Eberechi, aims to showcase a vibrant celebration of African culture, creativity and community.

    According to McBaror, the AIFF will bring together visionary filmmakers, industry professionals and passionate audiences for an unparalleled cinematic experience.

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    On his part, Nwakpa Wisdom stressed that AIFF is poised to build bridges between filmmakers, audiences, investors, and distributors across Africa and the diaspora while creating meaningful pathways for artistic growth, education, funding, and collaboration.

    “”For Afric International Film Festival, attendees can look forward to a rich inspiring and immersive festival experience that combines cinema, culture, and global networking opportunities. Whether you are a film maker, industry executive, student, or film lover, AIFF will offer you something specially crafted for you. We will be having masterclasses and won’t be biting more than we can chew in acceptance of films.”

    Nwakpa also confirmed that the first edition will take place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State in early 2026.

  • Music industry can test you in ways you don’t expect, says Spaceboy Mercury

    Music industry can test you in ways you don’t expect, says Spaceboy Mercury

    For Gbolahan Lawal, popularly known as Spaceboy Mercury, the journey in the world of music has been nothing short of extraordinary.

    The Nigerian-born sound engineer, music producer, songwriter, and artist has navigated the highs and lows of the music business with one thing fueling his fire – passion.

    When asked if he ever thought of giving up, Mercury was honest to say: “I would be lying if I said I’ve never been in a situation where I didn’t know what to do. The industry can test you in ways you don’t expect. But every time I get to that point, I remind myself why I started, because I love this. That love is what keeps me going.”

    From Shomolu, Lagos, where his story began, to South Africa, where he is currently based under the management of MCE Entertainment, Mercury’s path has been shaped by resilience, relentless work, and an unshakable belief in his talent.

    His fingerprints are on some of the most memorable sounds in African music over the past decade, proving he’s not just behind the boards but at the heart of the culture.

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    Spaceboy Mercury’s discography reads like a playlist of modern African hits, spanning multiple genres and generations. He’s crafted records for the likes of 2Baba, Olamide, Vector, Bella Shmurda, Davido, BNXN, Fireboy DML, Ayo Maff, and more. Each track showcases his versatility and ability to fuse emotion with rhythm.

    Some of his standout works include: Mama di mama (Coca Cola ad song) – 2Baba (2018); Vector’s Vibe – Vector (2019); Choko Milo – Olamide (2019); You Don’t Know – Vector & Erigga (2022); Expensive Love – Wadude ft. Bella Shmurda (2022); Easy on Me – Logo Olori & Davido (2024); 2 Dollar and 8 Days – Ayo Maff (2024); Pain Me – L.A.X ft. Pheelz & Fireboy DML (2025); Oshimiri – Ayo Maff ft. BNXN (2025) and Allen Avenue – Guap ft. OdumoduBlvck (2025).

  • Son of Iron premieres amidst pomp and glee at VIVA cinema

    Son of Iron premieres amidst pomp and glee at VIVA cinema

    The much-anticipated Nollywood action-drama, ‘Son of Iron,’ debuted in spectacular fashion as industry heavyweights, celebrities, and fans gathered for its grand premiere on November 14 at the VIVA Cinema, Jara Mall, Ikeja.

    ‘Son of Iron’ follows the gripping story of Kunle Ogundele, a gifted teenager from a Lagos suburb with an extraordinary ability to repair broken toys and electronics.

    The movie also promises to explore the relationship between a grandfather and his grandson, opening a conversation about the importance of learning about your ancestors and the lives of the people before you.

    ‘Son of Iron’ not only tells the tale of a young man who faces his deepest fears, but also of one who has to reconcile his dreams with the path set out for him by his father.

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    Despite his natural brilliance and growing passion for technical work, Kunle struggles under the weight of his father’s expectations.

    His father, Rotimi Ogundele, a man haunted by an unfulfilled dream of becoming a lawyer, pressures Kunle to pursue the legal profession — a path inspired by Rotimi’s deep admiration for his former mentor, Barrister John Fakutiju.

    The film explores the emotional clash between parental aspirations and a child’s authentic purpose, weaving a narrative of identity, destiny, and the courage to embrace one’s unique gifts.

    Directed by Tunde Olaoye, the movie brings together an exceptional cast, including Amb. Ralph Niyi, Deborah Anugwa, Aykardo Agbor, Biola Adebayo, Debo “Mr Macaroni” Adedayo, Jide Kosoko, Jude Chukwuka, Kolade Oyedipe, Miracle Gabriel, Saeed Muhammed, Sola Sobowale, Tina Mba, Awoyemi “Arugba,” and Abiola Adebayo.

  • Lateef Adedimeji emerges Nigerian Muslim celebrity of the year

    Lateef Adedimeji emerges Nigerian Muslim celebrity of the year

    Decorated Nollywood actor Lateef Adedimeji has been named Muslim Celebrity of the Year for the #MNAwards2025 by Muslim News Nigeria, celebrating his professional excellence and unwavering commitment to Islamic values in the entertainment industry.

    The announcement was made by the Publisher of the newspaper, Alhaji Rasheed Abubakar on Friday, November 14.

    Abubakar noted that Adedimeji stood out among his peers for meeting the criteria set for the Award, which recognises Muslims making impactful contributions to society in their respective professions/careers while staying true and committed to their faith.

    Adedimeji’s fame has soared in the last four years, with major roles in notable biopics such as Ayinla (2021), Jagun Jagun (2023) and the recently released Lisabi 1&2 (2024/2025), which earned accolades at the 2025 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) and 2025 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA).

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    Despite his rising profile, the actor has remained steadfast in his callings while observing a relatively decent lifestyle and openly identifies as a Muslim, reflecting Islamic values, both on and off screen.

    As a Muslim, Adedimeji consistently projects a good image of Islam in the public sphere with the frequent use of Islamic greetings, supplications, and messages on his social media platforms, where he commands the respect of millions of followers and commands the following of million of fans.

    On social media, he regularly posts Islamic reminders, quotes from the Qur’an and Hadith, and encourages followers to pray, fast, and seek knowledge. His page becomes especially active with Islamic content on Fridays, during Ramadan and Dhul Hijjah, the month of Hajj, and publicly celebrates Islamic festivals, encouraging other celebrities and as well as fans to stay connected to their faith.

    One strong example of Lateef Adedimeji’s commitment to charitable causes and Islamic awareness is his active participation in Islamic youth events, humanitarian campaigns, and da’wah-driven initiatives across Nigeria.

    “Congratulations to our brother, Lateef Adedimeji, for this well-deserved Award,” the Publisher said, “It is a reminder that whatever we do, Allah sees us, even if we do not see Him. Likewise, people are watching us, even when we don’t realise it.”

    He added that the honour is not only a recognition of Lateef’s admirable conduct but a responsibility to continue to serve as a role model, guided by Islamic principles.

    “This Award should serve as motivation for other Muslim celebrities to proudly uphold the faith and abundantly display their Islamic identity,” he said. “As Allah tells us in the Qur’an, Muslims are the best community raised for mankind – to enjoin good and forbid evil. May this Award inspire more Muslims in the entertainment industry to live by that.”

  • We want people to feel Africa through fashion, says Route25.55

    We want people to feel Africa through fashion, says Route25.55

    Two Nigerian enterpreneurs with thriving careers in luxury marketing and global event production have launched a new fashion platform aimed at positioning African luxury designers on the international stage, beginning with Dubai.

    The founders, Kike Tewe and Miss Kehinde Otitoju, daughter of Sir Kayode Otitoju, a  former Commissioner for Information in Ekiti State, said their brand, Route25.55, was born out of a shared passion for elevating high-end Sub-Saharan African fashion and solving long-standing challenges that have limited its global reach.

    Unlike traditional pop-up stores, Route25.55 operates as an “experiential concept space”, a model the founders say immerses visitors in a full sensory journey through African culture, from fashion to textures, scents, sounds, and even tastes.

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    “We want people to feel Africa, not just view it on racks. Our goal is to bring the continent’s creativity to life in a way that is memorable and multisensory.” said Miss Otitoju.

    The initiative comes at a pivotal moment for African fashion, which continues to draw global attention.

    The recent appearance of Grammy-winning singer and style icon Ciara on the runway at Lagos Fashion Week further amplified worldwide interest in the continent’s fashion ecosystem.

    “That moment showed the world that African fashion is not just emerging, it is here. We felt it was the perfect time to introduce Route25.55.” Tewe noted.

    But beyond cultural celebration, the platform was created to tackle practical challenges that African designers face in entering global retail markets. Chief among them are prohibitive shipping costs, which often match or exceed the price of the garments, and the minimal African representation in major luxury retail spaces across the UAE such as Bloomingdale’s and Galeries Lafayette.

    The founders say they are eager to deepen conversations around African creativity, global retail equity, and cultural exchange. They have expressed interest in speaking with Arise News for a feature or interview. “It would be an honour to share how Route25.55 is connecting cultures and opening new pathways for African fashion on the global stage,” Miss Otitoju said.

  • Don Jazzy celebrates Co-founder Potrix, credits him for Bammby’s rapid growth

    Don Jazzy celebrates Co-founder Potrix, credits him for Bammby’s rapid growth

    Music producer and tech entrepreneur, Don Jazzy, has celebrated his Bammby Dating App co-founder, Opata Efungwu, popularly known as Potrix, describing him as a key force behind the app’s growing success.

    The Mavin Records boss sent the birthday message via Instagram, urging fans to pray for and extend good wishes to his partner.

    “Shout out to @potrix102 my @bammby.dating Co Founder. It’s his birthday today. Guys please help me say a prayer for him and wish him a very happy birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRO. More blessings,” he wrote.

    The message comes as Bammby records a significant milestone barely a year after its launch. The dating app has surpassed 300,000 users, placing it among the fastest-growing relationship platforms in Nigeria.

    Don Jazzy has repeatedly voiced confidence in the platform. In a recent video, he joked that Bammby’s only “problem” is that “the entire Nigeria will soon be on it,” underscoring its rising appeal among young people.

    Built on strict security and authenticity standards, Bammby positions itself as a safe alternative in an online environment riddled with catfishing, impersonation and love scams. The app deploys anti-catfishing measures and a behavioural matching system that studies user patterns to connect more compatible pairs, rather than pairing users at random.

    This focus on safety and intentional connections has helped strengthen its credibility among young Africans.

    Potrix, described by insiders as the “technical brain” behind the platform, has years of experience building digital products across various industries. Beyond Bammby, he leads a technology company that develops mobile apps, enterprise software and e-commerce systems. His technical expertise complements Don Jazzy’s strong public influence in what has become a balanced and effective partnership.

    Don Jazzy’s birthday tribute reflects not only camaraderie but the teamwork driving Bammby’s steady rise in Nigeria’s tech space. With its growing user base and increasing online buzz, the app is positioning itself as one of the country’s emerging digital success stories.

    Fans have continued to flood social media with birthday wishes for Potrix, commending both founders for their role in shaping one of Nigeria’s notable new tech products.

  • Mactee returns with new ‘Dundee Dance’ wave

    Mactee returns with new ‘Dundee Dance’ wave

    Nigerian born U.S-based artist Mac-Anthony Abirika is back with a fresh burst of energy as he prepares to release his new single “Dundee Dance” on November 21. 

    The song introduces a vibrant new sound and a lively dance that reflects his story of persistence, growth, and creative rebirth.

    Mac-Anthony’s love for music started early in Lagos, where classic records on his father’s turntable shaped his passion. As a teenager, he formed a three man band and played a major role in crafting the group’s sound. 

    They had a few years together before splitting, he took the bold step of going solo, which led to record deals, international tours, and moments where it felt like success was right in reach.

    Then came the setbacks. Slow moving contracts, fading momentum, and long quiet stretches that tested his belief in himself and the goal.

    “It was a dark time,” he recalls. “I could see the light from a mile away, but instead of basking in it, everything around me went dim. I couldn’t picture myself working a 9-to-5, all I wanted was to sing, to be a legend, to build something that gives hope to people who need a hand, no matter who they are.”

    His turning point came in 2020 during the pandemic with the release of “Manna,” a soulful anthem that went viral and reignited his journey. More singles followed, including “Body,” his first nationwide music video, and the. EP “Pit to Palace,” an eight track project built on pain, faith, and survival. The hit “Golgotha,” featuring Magnito, added another defining moment to his catalog.

    Now he steps into an another realm with “Dundee Dance.” A sound on a different wave level, upbeat, and packed with positive energy, introducing a fresh dance that celebrates movement and freedom.

    “I have learned that if you keep knocking, the door will open one day,” he says.

    Beyond music, Mactee is the co founder of Mark and Briks LLC, a fast growing company involved in fashion, real estate, and talent development. His goal is to inspire and create opportunities for others through every platform he builds.

    With “Dundee Dance” and more releases already lined up, Mactee stands as proof that faith and determination can turn any pit into a palace.