The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Dr. Teal hosts Owambe party in Lagos

    Dr. Teal hosts Owambe party in Lagos

    It was colour, culture and community spirit at the weekend as Dr. Teal’s Nigeria hosted its maiden Owambe Party at The Monarch Event Centre, Lekki, drawing partners, customers and beauty enthusiasts into a night of wellness-themed celebration.

    The venue buzzed with Lagos energy as guests arrived in beautifully curated aso ebi, lighting up the hall with colorful fabrics and signature party glamour. A standby DJ and live band kept the atmosphere upbeat to get the guests on their feet.

    The event, organisers say, was conceived as a cultural bridge between wellness and Nigeria’s celebrated party tradition, especially as the year winds down.

    Speaking at the event, Vivian Odofin-Daniel, Strategy Director, Dr. Teal’s Nigeria, said the Owambe experience was designed to remind Nigerians that wellness should be accessible to everyone.

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    “We are here because wellness should not be a luxury. Every Nigerian deserves wellness as a lifestyle,” she said. “This year has been tough for people and for businesses. We wanted a safe space for our community to relax, take stock, feel grateful and prepare to shine this holiday season.

    “Nigerians are a community of celebrations. So we wanted something they could culturally relate to. Not everyone wants to club or debate, but almost everyone has experienced communal celebration. That’s why this Owambe connects.”

    Managing Director and CEO of Perfect Trust Beauty and Wellness, Chinedu Okoye, said the brand deliberately chose an Owambe theme to show appreciation and reconnect with its core community.

    “We wanted to reach out, celebrate them and re-energise them because without our customers, we are not who we are,” Okoye said.

    “Wellness is about the state of the mind. Sometimes you need events that help people relax, feel good and know they are valued.”

    He noted that the company sees customer wellness as both a business priority and a social responsibility.

    Addressing concerns about product counterfeiting, Okoye said the company works closely with regulatory agencies to curb fake versions in the market, while also sensitising consumers.

    “It’s a big challenge, but we continue to guide our community to buy from official partners, our Instagram page and website so they get full value,” he said.

    On adopting adire-inspired aso ebi for the event, he explained that the brand always embraces the cultural nuances of every market.

    “Dr. Teal’s is global, but every region has its culture. In Nigeria, our culture is community-based. We’ll keep giving back not only through events like this but by developing individuals and supporting businesses.”

  • Effiom Trombone Bassey: New torchbearer of Efik highlife

    Effiom Trombone Bassey: New torchbearer of Efik highlife

    For decades, Efik highlife has stood as one of Nigeria’s most elegant musical traditions, a genre that blends storytelling, indigenous rhythms, and coastal cultural identity into a sound that is both nostalgic and timeless. Yet in a rapidly changing musical landscape dominated by Afrobeats, hip-hop, and global fusion, few artists have taken on the responsibility of preserving and modernizing the Efik highlife tradition.

    Among the new generation of culture-bearers, one name has risen with unmistakable clarity: Effiom Trombone Bassey.

    Effiom’s musical identity is inseparable from his mastery of the trombone. His instrumental voice—warm, expressive, and deeply rooted in classic highlife horn arrangements, sets him apart from the contemporary crowd. Where many young artists lean heavily into digital production, Effiom centers his music around live instrumentation. The trumpet, in his hands, becomes more than a musical tool; it becomes a storyteller.

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    His melodic lines mirror the cadence of Efik folklore, while his rhythmic patterns draw from traditional dances such as Ekombi and Ndòk.

    Effiom’s rise did not happen overnight. Born into a culturally grounded environment, he grew up surrounded by the sounds of older highlife legends, church brass ensembles, and the music of Cross River’s festivals. These early influences shaped his deep sense of musical purpose.

    Through his compositions, he documents the Efik language, proverbs, social narratives, and communal values, transforming highlife into both a celebration and a time capsule.

    His live performances are particularly renowned for their energy and authenticity.

  • Naeto C opens up on stepping back from music, plans new release

    Naeto C opens up on stepping back from music, plans new release

    Rapper Naeto Chukwu aka Naeto C has explained the reasons behind his long break from active music, saying the decision was driven by a desire for a different kind of life beyond the demands of the entertainment industry.

    Speaking in a recent interview, the veteran hip-hop act said his priorities began to change as he thought more deeply about his future and family life.

    “I think I wanted something different when I thought about my future and the kind of life I wanted. I got married in 2012, I had my first child in 2013 so looking back at it I don’t really think I would get the kind of life I wanted if I continued to focus on music,” he said.

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    Naeto C noted that his journey into music was not originally fueled by an ambition for fame, but by a genuine love for the art, which eventually connected with listeners.

    “It was a lot and I was part of those who got into music not because I wanted to be a musician but because I liked music so much and fortunately I was able to make songs that people liked. I was never that sort of kid that you could predict his future that he would definitely be famous or into show business,” he added.

    Despite the hiatus, the rapper hinted that music is still very much part of his plans, revealing that he has been trying to return to the studio, albeit with challenges.

    “I wanted to release a song this year but I couldn’t so maybe next year. The funny thing is that every time I want to go to the studio something crazy will happen in my life,” he said.

  • D’banj, 9ice, Shina Peters to headline Rewind Concert

    D’banj, 9ice, Shina Peters to headline Rewind Concert

    Veteran disc jockey Jimmy Jatt and media platform Yaw Naija TV are set to host the ‘Rewind Flashback Concert’ on December 30, 2025, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos.

    The concert, themed, ‘The Legends Are Back,’ is expected to bring together several artistes whose music dominated Nigeria’s airwaves in the late 90s and 2000s, a period many regard as a defining era in the country’s pop culture history.

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    Leading the lineup are D’banj, 9ice and Juju music icon Shina Peters. Other artistes billed for the event include African China, Dr Sid, Cynthia Morgan, Bigiano, Black Reverendz, Style Plus, DJ Zeez, J Martins, Zulezoo, Inferno, Danfo Driver, Kas, Marvellous Benji, Ayangba and Lexy Doo.

    Industry watchers say the concert reflects a growing interest in catalogue music and legacy acts, as audiences continue to show strong demand for live performances built around familiar sounds and shared memories.

    With DJ Jimmy Jatt on the turntables, the organisers are expected to curate performances that cut across genres such as hip hop, Afrobeats, reggae, dancehall and Juju, highlighting the diversity that shaped Nigerian music in earlier decades.

  • Ajida Cruz: Redefining African fashion through art

    Ajida Cruz: Redefining African fashion through art

    Ajida Cruz Apparel is a contemporary Nigerian fashion house founded by Ilo-Okeke Chukwunonyelum, a visionary designer and fine artist whose work exists at the intersection of art, culture, and identity. Since its inception, the brand has remained committed to redefining what it means to wear confidence—transforming fabric into narrative and fashion into an immersive experience.

    Rooted in creativity and meticulous craftsmanship, Ajida Cruz Apparel approaches design as storytelling. Each piece is thoughtfully constructed to embody self-expression, individuality, and sophistication, reflecting the belief that clothing is not merely worn, but experienced.

    Chukwunonyelum is a graduate of Fine and Applied Arts from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Since 2016, he has been an influential voice in contemporary African fashion, developing a distinctive aesthetic informed by artistic experimentation, cultural symbolism, and modern tailoring. His work presents a unique visual language that bridges fine art and fashion, resonating with audiences who value originality and purpose.

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    Over the years, Ajida Cruz Apparel has collaborated with clients across private and public sectors. Notably, the brand designed exclusive corporate and factory uniforms for OK Foods Nigeria Limited. In addition, under the Willie Obiano administration, Chukwunonyelum facilitated a youth skill acquisition initiative in Anambra State—demonstrating his commitment to creative empowerment and capacity building within Nigeria’s fashion ecosystem.

    Today, Ajida Cruz Apparel continues to evolve beyond a fashion label into a platform for authenticity, artistry, and social impact. The brand’s upcoming solo exhibition marks a bold new chapter, unveiling innovative works that merge fine art and fashion through compelling explorations of color, texture, and meaning.

    At Ajida Cruz Apparel, every design is a canvas, and every wearer becomes part of a story—one defined by confidence, culture, and creativity.

  • Actress Mosunmola Adeleye set to release ‘Orisa Oko’

    Actress Mosunmola Adeleye set to release ‘Orisa Oko’

    Nollywood actress and film producer Mosunmola Adeleye is set to release her highly anticipated movie, ‘Orisa Oko’, on January 5, 2026.

    The blockbuster production boasts an impressive cast including Mr Latin, Taiwo Hassan (Ogogo), Niyi Johnson, Jumoke George, Owolabi Ajasa and other talents.

    Speaking on the inspiration behind the project, Adeleye said ‘Orisa Oko’ would introduce fresh storytelling techniques and innovative production elements aimed at elevating Nollywood’s standards.

    “I want people to understand that being a Christian or Muslim does not mean you cannot embrace traditional religion, because we are all serving the same God,” she said.

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    She further explained that the film addresses deep-rooted spiritual challenges often misunderstood or ignored due to religious affiliations.

    “There are people facing serious problems that are spiritual in nature, and sometimes traditional methods are the solution. However, many are confused because they are Christians or Muslims, and this confusion is affecting us as a nation,” Adeleye added.

    Describing the project as a ‘tri-modern’ production, the actress said the film was designed to change the dynamics of movie production within the Nigerian film industry.

    Over the years, Adeleye has produced and featured in several films, including ‘Omolangidi’, ‘Ebimiko’, ‘Onise’, ‘Alaanu Kansoso’, ‘Tanimola’, and ‘Omoge Yahoo’, among others.

  • TAF inducts Ajai-Lycett, Africa Umoja, Akin Lewis into hall of fame

    TAF inducts Ajai-Lycett, Africa Umoja, Akin Lewis into hall of fame

    The curtains have officially fallen on the 2025 TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF), concluding a two-day whirlwind of cultural brilliance that culminated in a glitzy Awards Nite at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja.

    The festival, which kicked off at Shodex Gardens, Ilupeju on the 9th of December, 2025, solidified its status as the continent’s premier theatrical gathering, blending veteran honors with contemporary competitive excellence.

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    The highlight of the evening was the induction of three titans into the TAF Hall of Fame with Lifetime Achievement Awards. The legendary Dame Taiwo Ajai-Lycett (OON) who was ably represented by another veteran actor Dr. Akin Lewis, and the world-renowned South African dance troupe Africa Umoja were honored for their decades of contribution to the global arts landscape.

    In the corporate and leadership categories, TAF recognized those fueling the creative economy includig First @ Arts By First Bank, MTN Foundation: 2025 THEATREMANIAC of the Year, Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, Hon. Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode.

    The cynosure of the night was undoubtedly the command performance of ‘Grain In the Wind 4.0’featuring powerhouse performances by Dr. Sam Uche Anyamele fta.,Titilola Aboyade-Cole (UK), Dr. Ochuko Odesa, Faloni Moyosore and Paul Uwagbai, the play left the audience in awe. The production’s technical depth and emotional resonance served as a fitting tribute to the festival’s theme of African unity and resilience.

  • Zusk2dbeng storms Ibadan for ‘Nightlife Experience 6.0’

    Zusk2dbeng storms Ibadan for ‘Nightlife Experience 6.0’

    Afrobeat sensation Zusk2dbeng turned the city of Ibadan into a pulsating arena on Saturday night.

    Zusk2dbeng stormed the ancient city to deliver a headline performance at DJ Snidzy’s Nightlife Experience 6.0 at the Liberty  Stadium.

    With over 3,000 fans chanting every lyric, the artist proved why he is being hailed as the city’s newest musical phenomenon.

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    The performance was the culmination of a whirlwind, every moment on that stage felt intentional, unusual, and unforgettable,

    Prior to his performance, Zusk2dbeng teased his up and coming Christmas single ‘Big God,’ during his media tour . The track is slated for official release on December 25, 2025.

    The artist also said, “Ibadan gave me my first stage, and tonight we gave the city a night it will never forget.”

    Speaking on his forthcoming single, he said “Big God is a thank you song, dedicated to everyone who rode the wave with me. This song is just the beginning of what we’re building together.” 

  • Eko Drive IV ignites Lagos with spectacular show

    Eko Drive IV ignites Lagos with spectacular show

    Amid music, dance and fun, the fourth edition of the Eko Drive Exhibition tagged, ‘Eko Drive IV‘ delivered another memorable chapter in Lagos’ fast-growing automobile culture.

     Held at the Alliance Française de Lagos, Ikoyi, the highly anticipated event attracted a vibrant mix of car lovers, premium automobile owners, bikers, creatives and lifestyle enthusiasts, reinforcing Eko Drive’s position as a defining platform within the automotive lifestyle space.

     This year’s edition showcased a carefully curated collection of classic automobiles, custom built, electric vehicles, modern luxury and high-performance vehicles, all displayed within a creative environment that encouraged interaction, storytelling and appreciation of automotive design.

     Guests were not only drawn to the engineering behind the vehicles, but also to the culture, history and individuality they represent, a philosophy that has become central to the Eko Drive experience.

     Speaking on the vision behind the event, Founder and Project Manager, Ademide Osunsina, described the growing community as the heartbeat of Eko Drive.

     “Having a community of automobile enthusiasts, premium luxury car owners and power bike riders gather to explore cars and engage each other continues to drive our passion. The joy comes from seeing owners trust us with their prized rides year after year, and the excitement when they passionately share their stories shows that this community is truly thriving,” Osunsina said.

    Also speaking, Co-Founder and Event Coordinator, Sanjo Morgan, noted that Eko Drive has evolved beyond an exhibition into a respected automotive-culture movement.

     “What we set out to do was to unite car lovers, promote safety and shine a spotlight on Nigeria’s automotive potential. This fourth edition affirms the acceptance of our vision and shows that Eko Drive’s influence on the growing car culture is now undeniable,” Morgan stated.

     One of the major highlights of the event was a thrilling demonstration by an Electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G 580 with EQ Technology), which performed a dramatic 360-degree ‘G-Turn’ (Tank Turn), drawing loud applause and excitement from the crowd.

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     According to Co-Founder and Creative Director, Imran Claud-Ennin, Eko Drive remains committed to expanding the boundaries of automotive storytelling.

     “Eko Drive will continue its mission of uniting car lovers and lifestyle enthusiasts, creating a platform where automotive culture intersects with community, creativity and visual lifestyle expression,” he said.

     Since its inception, Eko Drive has continued to gain recognition for seamlessly blending automobile exhibitions with art, lifestyle and community engagement, carving out a unique identity within Lagos’ creative ecosystem.

     The strong turnout at this year’s event, alongside the presence of cultural icon Charles ‘Charley Boy’ Oputa, popularly known as the Area Father, further underscored Eko Drive’s rising status as a key fixture on Lagos’ lifestyle and culture calendar.

  • Peller apologises to Nigerians after failed suicide attempt

    Peller apologises to Nigerians after failed suicide attempt

    Popular TikToker Peller has broken his silence following his recent arrest and detention by the Lagos State Police Command over an attempted suicide and reckless driving.

    In a video message, Peller apologised to Nigerians, saying, “I am sorry, Nigerians. Please, I’m sorry. I will never do that again. I’m very sorry, please. For now, I am on medication. Once I am done with my medication, I will be online.”

    Peller’s actions were linked to his recent breakup with his girlfriend, Jarvis.

    Jarvis had announced the end of their relationship, citing Peller’s struggles with emotional regulation as a major factor.

    The police also confirmed Peller’s arrest a few days ago, stating that his actions constituted a deliberate attempt to commit suicide and endangered the lives of other innocent people.

    Read Also: Police detain Peller over attempted suicide

    The incident occurred on Sunday, December 14, 2025, when Peller was seen driving recklessly and live-streaming the incident on social media, leading to a serious road crash on the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos.

    The police have transferred the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation, and Peller will face charges in court.

    The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, has warned social media influencers and content creators to avoid promoting reckless behavior online, stating that lawlessness will not be tolerated.