The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Why ‘japa’ is not necessary if you’re earning well in Nigeria, by Ms DSF

    Why ‘japa’ is not necessary if you’re earning well in Nigeria, by Ms DSF

    Media personality Dorcas Shola Fapson, popularly known as Ms DSF, has cautioned Nigerians earning a decent salary at home to think carefully before moving abroad for work, saying overseas jobs are not always as rewarding as they seem.

    Speaking on a podcast with Jay On Air, Ms DSF pointed out that many people assume working in the UK automatically means earning more, but the high cost of living, including rent and transport, can make it hard to save.

    She shared her father’s struggle when he first moved abroad, working multiple jobs to support his family but barely earning enough.

    Read Also: Funke Akindele appeals to UK fans to protect ‘Behind The Scenes’ from piracy

    Ms DSF advised Nigerians to weigh the challenges and rewards carefully before deciding to leave the country for work, saying a good salary in Nigeria might actually offer better opportunities and comfort than an unfamiliar, unenjoyable job abroad.

    She said, “People think you’re abroad and you’re making pounds. They could be abroad doing a cleaner job, making however much per hour. You probably have better opportunities here in Nigeria.

    “Do you know how much rent is in the UK? Do you know how much public transport there is? Before you even make your salary, let’s say you’re doing cleaner work or driving a taxi.

    “When my dad first went, he was a taxi driver. Imagine what he was making while trying to take care of his whole family, me, my brother, all my siblings, and my mum. He was working 9 to 5, then 5 to 9… taxi driver, security, accountant, just to make a little money.

    “I get it, like if you make it in the UK, it’s great because pounds are stronger and it’s nice to make pounds, but it’s not like that you really have to hustle to build your way up.”

  • Queen Mercy addresses misconception amid marriage collapse

    Queen Mercy addresses misconception amid marriage collapse

    Reality TV star Queen Mercy has responded to the backlash trailing her recent marriage crisis with David Oyekanmi, rejecting allegations that she is a prostitute and expressing frustration over the online attacks.

    In a statement shared on Instagram, the former beauty queen criticised those spreading rumours about her, questioning how she could have been labelled a prostitute over events that occurred before she became known.

    The Big Brother Naija ex-star also addressed claims that she flaunted her marriage to spite her baby daddy, Lord Lamba, insisting she was simply excited about her union and had no ulterior motive.

    Queen Mercy maintained that she is proud of who she is and will not allow others to define her.

    She wrote, “USA mommy @glogele.fashion, please don’t be upset. The last time I was in the United States was in 2017/2018, back when I was still a pageant girl. I stayed at my aunt’s house in Houston, @mermer_dolly, for a few weeks before going to Florida for my pageant. I wasn’t even famous then, ma.

    Read Also: Why I refused to sign Flavour years ago – Kcee

    “So where exactly did your “USA people” see me and decide I was a prostitute????? I know my family will be upset that I’m responding. I’m sorry, family.

    “Back to what I’m saying: there’s no name I haven’t been called since I left BBN. In fact, the question people ask the most is, “Didn’t you watch Queen in BBN? Wetin I do for bbn??? Dear bbn @bigbronaija, if all stars are coming anytime soon. I’m all in. Talk all you want to talk. If my crime is going to a reality TV show that most of you want to be on, but will never have the opportunity to, my dear hug transformer.

    “I heard someone saying I was posting to pepper my baby daddy. Did you ever see me post my baby daddy??? When I posted my marriage, I was excited, like every other bride. I posted with no bad intentions, contrary to what people are claiming now. If he didn’t post, I would’ve shared my marriage pictures and moved on without anyone even knowing who my baby daddy was. So how exactly was I posting to pepper him??????

    “Some said the Queen isn’t ready for marriage, she still wants to be in the street. Some said the kind of movies Queen act? A married woman, for that matter. Etc. I can count how many movies I’ve featured in. Mommy Toyin’s movie @toyin_abraham, my boss @babarex0’s movie, and a few others.

    And I can tell you all, I’ve never acted in a deep kissing role or an over romantic scene. Pls, if you’ve a movie, I overkissed. pls, y’all bring it. Me sef want to watch the movie. It’s easy to point fingers at me because I’m in the spotlight.

    “Some said I twerk on TikTok, my dear, dancing makes me happy. So twerking makes me a bad person???? Biko, let me head to TikTok and drop another then.

    “Say whatever you want. Because in 2026, I am blocking all the noses in advance. Being a “good girl” didn’t pay. F*ck love. I’m Queen. I’m Gemini. I talk my truth without fear of no one. I don’t have time to fake it or pretend”.

  • Why I refused to sign Flavour years ago – Kcee

    Why I refused to sign Flavour years ago – Kcee

    Singer Kcee has shed light on his long-rumoured rift with fellow artiste Flavour, revealing that he once declined an opportunity to sign the highlife star early in his career because he did not see enough potential at the time.

    Speaking during an interview on Yanga FM Lagos, Kcee said that the perceived tension between them may stem from what he described as a superiority complex, noting that his humility and unwillingness to boast about his achievements are often misunderstood.

    The “Limpopo” crooner insisted that his consistency and dedication to his craft would eventually dispel any doubts about his talent. He added that he had been in the music industry long before Flavour and had already attained success prior to Flavour’s move to Lagos.

    “Till now, I don’t understand the reason for his beef with me, especially that incident where he alleged that someone was copying him. The truth is that when some people had written you off, hoping that you would be stagnant, and you work hard and get to a level they don’t expect you to reach, that was what happened.

    Read Also: Omah Lay headlines inaugural motherland festival Dec 20 in Lagos

    “I came into the music industry before Flavour. Soso Soberekon brought him to me years ago to sign to my record label. I was already driving exotic cars and balling before he came to Lagos. I told Soso I can’t sign Flavour because I didn’t see potential in him at that time. It wasn’t because I have something against him.

    “I don’t think that was why he is holding a grudge against me. But time shall tell. A lot of my colleagues underrate my talent, and my humility also contributed to that. Because I don’t brag. I don’t need it. But as I always say, time will always prove them wrong. My work always proves every doubter wrong. Some of those who doubted me in the past have come to apologise to me and admitted that they were wrong about me,” Kcee said.

  • Omah Lay headlines inaugural motherland festival Dec 20 in Lagos 

    Omah Lay headlines inaugural motherland festival Dec 20 in Lagos 

    Afro-fusion superstar Omah Lay is set to excite fans at the inaugural motherland festival — one of the buzziest and most innovative festivals in Lagos. 

    Across December 18-20th, Motherland Festival will bring together the world’s brightest minds, creative visionaries, and cultural ambassadors for an unforgettable experience. 

    Omah Lay earned his first Grammy nomination for his collab with Davido “With You” and the smash hit was just announced as Nigeria’s most streamed song by Spotify.

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

    The co-founders of Motherland Festival said, “We’re excited that Omah Lay chose the Motherland stage as his only Lagos show this December. 

    “Fans from around the world will get their chance to celebrate the huge year he’s had in the centre of Afro-fusion and Afrobeats. Alongside the Seyi Vibez, The Cavemen, Odumodu Blvck, Qing Madi, Mavo, DJ Obi, and more, Omah Lay will be giving our attendees a show they’ll never forget.”

    The Festival is proudly sponsored by First Bank and will take place on the Motherland Grounds, beside Oriental Hotel.

  • Funke Akindele appeals to UK fans to protect ‘Behind The Scenes’ from piracy

    Funke Akindele appeals to UK fans to protect ‘Behind The Scenes’ from piracy

    Actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has appealed to her fans in the United Kingdom to refrain from sharing clips of her new film, “Behind the Scenes”, online.

    The movie, which premiered on December 4, at Odeon Cinemas in Greenwich, UK generated significant buzz.

    Following the success, Akindele has expressed worry that unauthorised sharing of clips could jeopardise ticket sales ahead of the Nigerian release on December 12.

    In a video message, Akindele urged fans to respect the filmmakers’ efforts and avoid piracy, saying, “UK fans that have watched Behind the scenes, please stop posting online, you’re not helping or promoting.

    “Please don’t record, we spent over a billion on that project, don’t let me run into debt, please stop posting the recordings, it is piracy”.

    Fans have rallied behind the actress, echoing her call to avoid piracy and wait for the official release.

  • I’m a singer, not a gospel artist – Sola Allyson

    I’m a singer, not a gospel artist – Sola Allyson

    Popular singer Sola Allyson has clarified that she is a singer, not a gospel artist, as widely believed.

    In an interview with Oyinmomo TV, Allyson explained that she had never referred to herself as a gospel artist and didn’t mention Jesus in her songs because He didn’t ask for publicity.

    She said, “I don’t sing religious songs. As I am like this, I don’t call myself a gospel artist. My name is Sola Allyson. I am a singer.”

    The ‘Eji Owuro’ crooner also opened up about her marital arrangement, revealing that she is married but doesn’t live with her husband rather they live with each other.

    She said, “I am married but not living with my husband. He stays in my house and I also stay in his house. That’s the love that people older than us didn’t let us know is hard. They make it seem like once you love each other, you will live happily ever after”.

    She emphasised a partnership approach to her marriage, stressing that she and her partner married each other, rather than her being owned by her husband.

    “Saying I am in my husband’s house is different from saying I married my husband. My husband and I married each other; we are in one another’s life.

    “Saying I am in my husband’s house gives men a sense of ownership. I am not doing competition with anyone”.

    Allyson also spoke on feminism and highlighted the importance of equality, stating that women should have the same choices as men. 

    “Feminism is not saying men are not good people. What feminism is, before anger came into it because of how women were treated, was that the choice that men have to do whatever they wish should also be given to women,” she added.

  • Ice Prince Zamani raises alarm over marriage pressures

    Ice Prince Zamani raises alarm over marriage pressures

    Renowned rapper Ice Prince Zamani has expressed his concern about the institution of marriage, citing concerns pressures and responsibilities that come with it.

    In a social media post, Ice Prince urged single men, particularly those approaching 40, to take a hard look at their lives before committing to marriage.

    He cited the example of a friend who recently got married, but is already struggling to cope with the demands of married life.

    He wrote, “These days na everyday dem dey scare us about this marriage union of a thing… My guy wey just marry 2024 no dey answer wife call again and wants out

    “Yo Single fellas approaching 40, Wagwan ?! Pls what’s the update these days ?! what we doing ?!”

    He added, “My brother check yourself properly before you tell person daughter or another man sister say ‘you want to be the head coach in her life oo’

    “Cleanse yourself first, look yourself well and tell yourself the truth first my brother.”

  • Why I supported Tinubu in 2023 – Bimbo Akintola

    Why I supported Tinubu in 2023 – Bimbo Akintola

    Actress Bimbo Akintola has opened up about her unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing bullying as the driving force behind her endorsement.

    In a recent interview on With Chude, Akintola revealed that her support for Tinubu was fueled by an opposition’s supporter who bullied her over her choice of candidate.

    The actress urged Nigerians to respect differing political opinions, emphasising that everyone has the right to his/her own views.

    The actress also condemned the treatment of veteran actress Joke Silva, who faced harsh criticism for her support of Tinubu.

    She wrote, “I supported President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the last election because somebody annoyed me with their bullying.

    “Nigerians are annoying. Don’t bully other people. We have our rights to differences of opinion. You don’t like this man [Tinubu], cool, you have the right not to like him. You prefer this person, good for you. But don’t bully others.

    “They bullied aunty Joke to the point that someone wrote something that was so inhumane. So, I made a video and said, ‘I’m also supporting Tinubu, kill me, let me see if you can change my mind.’

    “We need to stop bullying. We need to agree that we can never agree with everybody. That’s what makes us great and beautiful. If we are all the same, it would be a boring life. Till tomorrow, you might not agree that he was the best person for the job, but at that point, that was who I wanted, that was who I voted for. You can’t take my voice away from me; it’s mine,” she expressed.

  • Nollywood set to thrill audiences with five major releases this festive season

    Nollywood set to thrill audiences with five major releases this festive season

    As the year winds down, Nollywood is gearing up to captivate audiences with a rich blend of films that promise entertainment, drama, and laughter.

    Here are five highly anticipated movies to watch out for:

    1. King of Boys 3: The Beginning of the End, directed by Kemi Adetiba, is set to hit cinemas on December 25, continuing the story of Eniola Salami, a powerful and complex character navigating the cutthroat world of politics and personal vendettas. 

    2. Behind The Scenes: A drama directed by Funke Akindele and Tunde Olaoye, opens on December 12, exploring the emotional costs of ambition and public expectation. The film promises to deliver a thought-provoking narrative, delving into the lives of those in the spotlight and the consequences of their actions.

    3. This Is Not a Nollywood Movie: A meta-comedy directed by Wale Ojo, hits cinemas on December 5, following a struggling filmmaker’s wild comeback attempt. With its unique blend of humor and wit, this film is sure to entertain audiences and leave them laughing.

    4. Colours of Fire: A fantasy drama directed by Niyi Akinmolayan, opens on December 24, telling the story of two rivals whose affair causes chaos within an empire. With its epic scope and dramatic twists, this film is set to be a major hit with audiences.

    5. Oversabi Aunty: A comedy by Toyin Abraham, is set to release on December 19. The title, inspired by her viral moments at Priscilla Ojo’s wedding, is a clever marketing move that’s already generating buzz. By embracing the “Oversabi Aunty” label, Toyin is showcasing her sense of humor and willingness to poke fun at herself. The film’s release is highly anticipated, and it’s likely to be a hit with audiences eager to see Toyin Abraham’s comedic take on the “oversabi aunty” persona.

  • Wizkid’s son, Champz, makes history with one million Spotify listeners

    Wizkid’s son, Champz, makes history with one million Spotify listeners

    Boluwatife Balogun, popularly known as Champz, the 14-year-old son of music icon Wizkid, has made history as the youngest Nigerian artist to surpass one million monthly listeners on Spotify.

    The young rapper’s achievement comes on the heels of his debut EP, “Champion’s Arrival,” which dropped recently and has been making waves in the music industry.

    The five-track project, which blends rap, afro-swing, and Afrobeats, has caught the attention of listeners worldwide, debuting at No. 1 on Apple Music Nigeria’s Top Albums chart.

    The EP has charted in 16 countries on Apple Music and reached No. 71 on the UK Apple Music Top Albums chart.

    The young artist’s mother, Sola Ogudu, expressed her gratitude to fans for supporting her son’s musical journey, while Wizkid praised Champz’s talent and expressed love for the EP.