The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • How marketer cheated me on my first film project – Keji Yusuf

    How marketer cheated me on my first film project – Keji Yusuf

    Veteran Nollywood actress Keji Yusuf has recounted how she made a significant financial loss on her first self-produced movie, describing the experience as a painful introduction to the business of filmmaking.

    Yusuf, who shared the experience while reflecting on her journey in the industry, said the challenges began at the point of distribution — a long-standing issue for many independent filmmakers.

    “I didn’t make money with my first produced movie,” she said. “Back then, there were lots of challenges in movie distribution, so someone advised me to become an independent marketer. I agreed because I felt that selling the film myself would be better.”

    According to her, just when she had taken steps to market the film independently, the Nigerian Film and Video Censors Board introduced a new regulation that disrupted her plans.

    “I had dubbed 10,000 copies of the movie and also printed posters and flyers. Then suddenly, they said the Censors Board had come up with another rule which at that time wasn’t favorable to me,” she explained.

    In search of a solution, a fellow actress introduced her to a marketer based in Alakuko, Lagos. Yusuf said they reached an agreement including her request to first sell the foreign rights of the film before mass distribution began.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Steps to secure a US visa sponsorship from Nigeria

    However, she later discovered that the marketer had gone ahead to release the movie without her consent and even altered the ownership credits.

    “One day, while watching TV at home, I heard the soundtrack of my movie in an advert,” she said. “This marketer had changed the cover photo, designed another jacket, and even made himself the executive producer. He used my picture very small behind some other actors — on a film I funded completely and had finished before giving him to the market.”

    Yusuf said the situation was eventually brought to the attention of a senior colleague who intervened and insisted that the marketer remit proceeds from the movie sales.

    “In the end, I made only N500,000 from the movie, and I spent over N2.5 million to produce it,” she revealed.

  • Why actor-producers are powerful – Okoroji

    Why actor-producers are powerful – Okoroji

    Filmmaker, Chima Okoroji has shed light on the changing landscape of Nollywood, where actors – producers have become dominant forces.

    According to Okoroji better known as Chimex, actor-producers, who have gained popularity and influence through their acting careers, now wield significant control over film productions.

    This shift in dynamics highlights the challenges faced by traditional producers in Nollywood and the evolving nature of the industry.

    In Chimex words: “There are two types of producers in Nollywood: producers and actor-producers. The latter, created by viewers who have made them stars, wield significant influence over producers. As a result, producers are often at the mercy of actor-producers, who dictate how productions should be run. Actor-producers have become so powerful that they produce their own movies and also produce films for their fellow actor-producers, leaving traditional producers waiting.

    Read Also: Festival on Nigeria’s creative energy, cultural heritage for Dec 3-7

    “After keeping producers waiting for months, actor-producers often develop a dismissive attitude towards them. Consequently, many producers have been forced out of the market. They attempt to create new talent, but viewers’ preference for familiar faces makes this challenging. This is the harsh reality of the industry. To remain relevant, some producers have begun featuring in their own movies to establish themselves as actors.”

  • Don Jazzy pledges N20 million for laptop initiative

    Don Jazzy pledges N20 million for laptop initiative

    Music mogul Don Jazzy has responded to X user, Ayilola Ayotomiwa’s initiative to empower 10,000 youths with laptops, pledging N20 million in support. 

    Ayotomiwa had written: “I’m reaching out to share a dream that was born right here among young, hopeful Nigerians ,The Tech Access Project ,an initiative dedicated to empowering 10,000 youths with 10,000 laptops.

    “Our vision is simple but deeply powerful: to give young Nigerians, especially those passionate about tech, design, music production, and digital entrepreneurship, the tools they need to build their future.

    “We’re reaching out to partners and supporters like you to help make laptops accessible ,through sponsorships, subsidized partnerships, or simply amplifying the message. With your influence and guidance, we can open doors for thousands of Nigerian youths to learn, create, and earn from their talents.

    “We would be deeply honoured to have your support, mentorship, or collaboration on this journey of digital empowerment”.

    Don Jazzy commended the initiative, describing it as “commendable,” but expressed that 10,000 laptops was a significant undertaking considering his modest contribution. 

    He encouraged other well-meaning Nigerians to join in achieving the goal.

    “Bro I hail o. Your initiative is commendable. But sir 10000 laptops is not beans. At this time I can only afford to support with 20 million Naira and a repost. Hopefully some other well meaning Nigerians can help achieve the goal”, he wrote. 

    The initiative, dubbed “The Tech Access Project,” aims to provide laptops to young Nigerians passionate about tech, design, music production, and digital entrepreneurship, to help them bring their ideas to life.

  • Mary Njoku pens emotional note to Regina Daniels amid marital crisis

    Mary Njoku pens emotional note to Regina Daniels amid marital crisis

    Actress Mary Njoku has called for support for Regina Daniels amid her marital crisis. 

    In an Instagram post, Mary Njoku revealed that watching Regina’s video brought tears to her eyes, as she reflected on how the entire nation practically watched Regina grow from a child into the woman she is today.

    Njoku expressed her heartbreak seeing Regina cry out for help on social media and prayed that no woman should ever have to suffer in silence. 

    As a mother of two daughters, Njoku said she couldn’t imagine her children going through similar experiences and prayed that God would raise an army to speak up for them if they ever needed help.

    The actress urged Nigerian women to stand in solidarity with one another, emphasising that when a marriage ends, real men should understand that their ex-wives are still the mothers of their children. 

    She said: “Dear Regina, Watching your video this morning brought tears to my eyes. I practically watched you grow.

    “In fact, all of Nigeria did. From a child into the woman you are today. And seeing that woman cry out for help on social media truly breaks my heart I’ve read some of the comments online, and I’m appalled. As a mother of two daughters, I can’t imagine my daughters ever going through something like this. I pray that if they ever have to come online to cry for help (God forbid), and I’m not here, God will raise an army to speak up for them. Because this world can be wicked.

    “Dear Nigerian women, it could be any of us tomorrow. I don’t know what transpired in that marriage. And honestly, I don’t care to. What I do know is this: when a marriage ends, real men understand that even if she stops being your wife, she never stops being the mother of your children”.

    Mary Njoku concluded by wishing Regina strength during these trying times and assured her of her thoughts and prayers.

    She added: “My thoughts and prayers are with you, @regina.daniels, as you go through these trying times. No woman should ever have to suffer just because she chooses not to remain in a marriage. Stay strong”.

  • EnergyBank redefines Afro-fusion with ‘The Quiet Resilience’

    EnergyBank redefines Afro-fusion with ‘The Quiet Resilience’

    Afro-Disiac sensation, EnergyBank, is set to make a powerful comeback with his new six-track project titled The Quiet Resilience, a soulful body of work that celebrates endurance, growth, and inner strength.

    Scheduled for release on November 13, 2025, the project blends heartfelt storytelling with genre-bending production that cements his place among the new global voices shaping modern African music.

    The Quiet Resilience offers a journey through emotion and reflection, weaving together elements of Afrobeats, R&B, hip-hop, and highlife into one cohesive experience. Across six richly layered tracks—“Kum Kum,” “Oldtaker,” “Jumanji,” “9/5,” “Next One,” and “End of Discussion”—EnergyBank showcases his versatility, taking listeners through moments of intensity, introspection, and revelation.

    Born in Lagos with roots in Anambra, EnergyBank’s sound embodies the rhythm of Nigerian life while embracing a cosmopolitan flair. Influenced by the likes of Craig David, Usher, and 2Pac Shakur, he channels their emotional depth and lyrical sincerity into his own Afro-fusion identity.

    Since his breakout collaboration with Fiokee on the highlife gem Ife Adigo in 2019, the artist has continued to evolve, delivering songs such as Dead President and ChopLife that highlight his ability to turn lived experiences into anthems of hope and resilience.

    Read Also: Shaffy Bello gets 2025 AMAA award nomination for ‘Best Actress’

    EnergyBank’s time in the United Arab Emirates between 2019 and 2022 also shaped his artistry, exposing him to diverse global sounds—from Russian folk and Arabic pop to Italian opera. These influences, fused with African rhythm and storytelling, give The Quiet Resilience a cross-cultural depth that speaks to listeners around the world.

    “This album is about strength in silence—about standing tall even when the world goes quiet,” EnergyBank said. “It’s my way of saying that resilience isn’t always loud; sometimes, it’s just you, your thoughts, and your faith in the next chapter.”

    Described as a “soulful Afro-Disiac masterpiece,” The Quiet Resilience will be available on all major digital platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, Boomplay, YouTube Music, and Deezer.

    EnergyBank is a multi-genre Afro-fusion artist whose sound captures the pulse of contemporary Africa—raw, soulful, and boundary-breaking. Rooted in heritage yet global in reach, his music celebrates the timeless power of rhythm, reflection, and resilience.

  • Actress laments N10,000 cup of tea in Lagos restaurant 

    Actress laments N10,000 cup of tea in Lagos restaurant 

    Actress and producer Zainab Balogun has expressed shock after paying N10,000 for a single cup of green tea at a Lagos restaurant.

    According to Zainab on Instagram, she visited the establishment with a friend but opted to order only tea since she wasn’t hungry.

    She stated that the tea was served in a pot with a large cup, and she enjoyed it without checking the price.

    Read Also: Shaffy Bello gets 2025 AMAA award nomination for ‘Best Actress’

    She said: “My mouth dropped so much I was hoping the people sitting next to me didn’t see that flies were catching my mouth.

    “What do you mean you boiled water, put two tea bags, and it was ₦10,000?

    “I obviously could not argue with them because I drank their tea. There’s no way to give it back. I had to pay”.

    However, her eyes widened in shock when the bill was presented, showing N10,000 for the simple beverage.

    The actress joked about regretting not taking photos to make the experience worth the cost, saying, “I should have joined another lady doing a photo shoot. You must use your money and the space well.”

    Zainab concluded that the incident had taught her a lesson, vowing to be more cautious about eating out and opting to make her own tea at home instead.

    “But I didn’t, and that’s how I paid ₦10,000 for tea in Lagos. There’s tea at home. This will not happen again”, she added.

  • Diiadem calls out Biola Adebayo over alleged rudeness

    Diiadem calls out Biola Adebayo over alleged rudeness

    Beauty entrepreneur Adeola Adeyemi popularly known as Diiadem has accused actress Biola Adebayo of being rude and condescending during a movie set encounter around 2009/2010.

    According to Diiadem, Biola allegedly asked her to clean her shoes in a demeaning tone, leaving a lasting negative impression.

    “She was super nasty to me, it’s not even about cleaning someone’s shoes—it’s about how you talk to people. It costs nothing to treat people with kindness,” she said.

    Diiadem claimed seeing Biola’s content  on her inability to afford colleagues’ expensive aso ebi, triggered painful memories until she shared her story, seeking closure.

    However, Biola’s reaction was reportedly dismissive, laughing at Diiadem’s comment.

    Read Also: Shaffy Bello gets 2025 AMAA award nomination for ‘Best Actress’

    “I saw that she laughed at my comment on InstaBlog. Everything is not about cruise. Sometimes, be accountable. If I were in her shoes, I’d reach out and apologise.”

    Diiadem emphasised the importance of accountability and apologising for one’s actions, stating she sought no attention but to address an old hurt.

    “I don’t chase clout. I just wanted to speak my truth. What she did back then was wrong, and the least she could do now is take responsibility,” she concluded.

    Biola Adebayo has yet to fully respond to the allegations.

  • Shaffy Bello gets 2025 AMAA award nomination for ‘Best Actress’

    Shaffy Bello gets 2025 AMAA award nomination for ‘Best Actress’

    Actress Shaffy Bello has earned a nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role at the 2025 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) for her compelling performance in “The Masked King”.

    This prestigious recognition is proof to her exceptional talent and dedication to the craft.

    Bello, on Instagram, celebrated this milestone, expressing her heartfelt gratitude for the nomination.

    With humility and grace, she attributed her achievement to “God’s grace”, showcasing her appreciation for the opportunities she’s received.

    Read Also: Diiadem calls out Biola Adebayo over alleged rudeness

    “The Evidence of God’s Grace. Thank you @amaawards_ for the recognition. I do not take it for granted. I am deeply grateful. Congratulations to ALL the nominees. We’ve already WON. See you on the 9th.” she captioned her post, congratulating her fellow nominees and acknowledging the honor of being recognised among such a talented pool of actresses.

    The 21st AMAA ceremony, scheduled to take place on November 9 in Lagos, promises to be an unforgettable celebration of cinematic excellence.

  • I won’t lose myself for being an entertainer – Ruth Kadiri

    I won’t lose myself for being an entertainer – Ruth Kadiri

    Actress and producer Ruth Kadiri has emphasised the importance of staying true to oneself in the entertainment industry.

    In an interview with Jay On Air, Kadiri revealed that her priority is maintaining personal happiness and fulfillment, rather than seeking external validation.

    She said: “The last thing I want to do as a person is to lose myself in the process of being an entertainer. I need to be able to keep the wealth of happiness, of fulfillment for myself whilst growing and building what I want to build. And I’m not going to let anybody sway me”.

    With a career spanning over two decades, Kadiri has established herself as a multifaceted talent, having worked behind the scenes as a writer and producer on several notable projects.

    “Okay, so I haven’t been counting. I’ve been into entertainment for a very long time.

    “Even when I was in Unilag, I was already into entertainment. So there are so many aspects of it for me. I started behind the scenes as a writer.

    Read Also: Shaffy Bello gets 2025 AMAA award nomination for ‘Best Actress’

    “Beautiful movies were shot in Ghana. Amazing hits were written by me”, she said. 

    According to her, trusting her instincts and having a clear vision for her work has been key to her success.

    “It wasn’t as easy. People were already making films on YouTube. It wasn’t something that I was so aware of.

    “I didn’t understand the business. I didn’t understand how it was. And it wasn’t so appealing at that time.

    “But when I wanted to do it, I knew how my own was going to go. Most times when I want to do something, I know when it’s going to succeed. I don’t know how I know, but I know”, she added.

    Kadiri noted that she often finds herself misunderstood by others, particularly when it comes to her long-term goals.

    She said: “I would say, because people don’t understand the long-term goals. And you also probably, if you have energy to explain, you do. If you don’t, you just keep it short.

    “With the tools and the opportunities like YouTube and lots of platforms, I expect entertainers to be going crazy and wild and creating things and stuff like that. All those things we wrote in our journals, we are not doing it anymore”.

  • Angela Okorie ends feud, backs Regina Daniels amid marital woes

    Angela Okorie ends feud, backs Regina Daniels amid marital woes

    Actress and singer Angela Okorie has offered support to Regina Daniels amid her marital crisis, putting aside their past differences.

    In an Instagram post, Angela condemned the use of influence to oppress others, emphasising that those elevated by God should uplift and inspire, rather than control or dominate.

    She expressed empathy for Regina’s struggles, stating that it breaks her heart to see her go through such difficult times.

    Despite their past online spat, which led to a heated exchange, Angela chose to focus on forgiveness and love.

    She revealed that she had let go of the pain and anger, opting instead for peace and compassion.

    Angela’s words were laced with motherly affection as she referred to Regina as “my daughter” and expressed her unwavering love and support. 

    She wrote: “GOD’s power stands above all, greater than human strength or any authority. When God elevates us to a place of influence, it is not for control or oppression, but to uplift, inspire, and make a lasting positive impact on others.

    Read Also: Tearful Regina Daniels breaks down over family struggles, marital issues

    “Dear Gina, despite the hurt, misunderstandings. and distance that have come between us, I have chosen peace. It breaks my heart to see you go through difficult times, but my love for you remains steadfast.

    “I hold no bitterness toward you. I continue to pray for your safety, happiness, and peace of mind. No matter what has happened, my love as a mother will never change. You are, and will always be, my daughter, the one l have loved, watched blossom, and prayed for.

    “Life teaches us lessons through both joy and hardship. Sometimes those lessons come through pain, but they also bring wisdom and strength. Through  everything, I have chosen love over bitterness, forgiveness over anger. and peace over pride.

    “To my Legit fans and supporters, l want you all to know that forgiveness is freedom. I have let go of the pain and hand everything over to God, the only true and righteous Judge. I trust His divine justice and perfect timing.

    “I stand today not in anger, but in love. Not as a critic, but as a mother who prays earnestly for restoration and healing. May God bring peace, love, and unity where there has been division. May His light guide our paths, and may every wounded heart find healing in His grace.”