The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • I arrested lady who took my unauthorised gym picture – Nkechi Blessing

    I arrested lady who took my unauthorised gym picture – Nkechi Blessing

    Actress Nkechi Blessing has revealed that she arrested the lady who took an unauthorised picture of her with the intention to body shame and invade her privacy.

    She revealed that a photo of her working out at the gym was taken without her consent and circulated online, sparking mixed reactions.

    Speaking on the Honest Bunch podcast, Nkechi Blessing broke down in tears, expressing her hurt and frustration.

    She criticised individuals who undergo cosmetic procedures yet mock women with natural bodies, questioning their judgment.

    According to her, she took decisive action, tracing the woman responsible for the photo and having her arrested.

    Read Also: Nkechi Blessing decries envy, lack of genuine support in society

    However, she accused the gym management of initially withholding information that could have helped identify the culprit.

    She added, “I later found the girl that took my picture at the gym and got her arrested, even though the gym hid the information from me.”

    Nkechi Blessing emphasised her confidence in her natural body, stating, “This is my body, this is how I’ve always been. I have a six-year-old son. You get BBL and you dey take picture of my natural body, are you stupid?”

  • How being tagged ‘arrogant’ shaped my brand – CeeC

    How being tagged ‘arrogant’ shaped my brand – CeeC

    Reality TV star CeeC explained how fans judged and misunderstood her, saying many mistook her confidence for arrogance.

    During a chat on the Echo Room podcast, she said that living in Nigeria can be challenging, adding that people often accept negative labels without knowing the person.

    CeeC stated that this has affected her brand, with some people assuming she’s arrogant before even meeting her.

    However, she stated that meeting her in person changes people’s perceptions, and she tries to give people a better understanding of who she is whenever they meet.

    She said, “As I said, usually in Nigeria, where a lot of people follow the bad work. Like if somebody says Oh, this person is bad, people don’t even wait to experience you. They just, oh yeah, they say she’s a bad person.

    Read Also: How I navigated fame after BBNaija – CeeC

    “So people don’t actually get to know you. So yeah, a lot of people see my confidence as being arrogant.

    “But I would say something that you cannot meet me in person or experience me as a person, and go home and say I’m arrogant. You would definitely have a change of mindset about me.

    “So it has cost me a lot, because I hear some people say, oh, that one, she’s just arrogant. You don’t even know me, but that’s what you, you know, like.

    “So it has, but one thing that I’ve tried to do is I make sure that when you meet me, when you give me the grace to get to know me, you will not go home feeling that way.”

  • I have achieved beyond my dreams – Tems

    I have achieved beyond my dreams – Tems

    Grammy-winning singer Tems has expressed gratitude for her remarkable success in the music industry, stating that she has achieved more than she ever imagined.

    In a recent interactive session with fans on X, Tems spoke on her accomplishments, revealing she has surpassed her goals.

    According to her, she is looking forward to future plans, crediting her success to her journey from having a 9-5 job to becoming a renowned artist.

    A fan asked, “What are you currently looking forward to? Also would you say you’ve achieved all of your dreams prior to stardom?”

    Tems replied, “I’m looking forward to whatever the Lord has in store and honestly I’ve achieved beyond my dreams from when I had a 9-5.”

    Read Also: ‘Closed automation systems erode competitiveness’

    The singer’s rise to fame began in 2018, when she quit her job as a digital marketer to pursue music full-time.

    Her breakthrough came with Wizkid’s hit single Essence, which peaked at number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

    Since then, Tems has made history, becoming the first female Afrobeats artist to win a Grammy Award, and later winning the Best African Music Performance award at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards.

  • Don Jazzy unveils new Mavin artist LOVN

    Don Jazzy unveils new Mavin artist LOVN

    Music producer Don Jazzy has welcomed another artist, LOVN to the Mavin Global family.

    The announcement was made via Don Jazzy’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, where he praised LOVN’s talent, resilience, and consistency.

    According to Don Jazzy, LOVN is a product of the Mavin Academy, a breeding ground for future Afrobeats superstars.

    LOVN’s journey to stardom has been marked by appearances on talent shows such as Access The Stars and The Voice Nigeria.

    Don Jazzy commended LOVN for his perseverance and dedication to his craft, stating that his consistency and work ethic are qualities that will take him far in the music industry.

    Don Jazzy wrote, “Like I told you guys 2 weeks ago. The Mavin academy is filled with so many future afrobeats superstars.

    “Anytime I get the opportunity to talk to upcoming artists, I never fail to emphasize on the importance of actively showcasing your talent on social media platforms to be able to cut through all the various forms of content readily available for consumption.

    “LOVN is a typical example of a super talented artist that is ever ready to step up and put in the work. (You can go and verify) He has been on multiple talent shows like. AccessTheStars and even TheVoice over the years and has never stopped showing up. It is time for The Supreme Mavin Dynasty to take it from here. Pls help me welcome @ThisLovn to Mavin Global.”

  • Sabinus reveals how his father initially rejected his comedy career

    Sabinus reveals how his father initially rejected his comedy career

    Comedian Emmanuel Ejekwu, popularly known as Sabinus, has opened up about how his father initially opposed his decision to pursue a career in comedy.

    Speaking in an interview with VJ Adams, Sabinus said his father wanted him to become a lawyer. 

    He said after he was unable to secure admission to study law, he went on to study Linguistics and Communication Studies at the University of Port Harcourt.

    He revealed that it was during his university days that he discovered his talent for comedy and began creating skits.

    According to him, his father was furious when he found out, insisting that comedy was a “stupid business.”

    Sabinus said, “At first, my dad never wanted me to be what I am today, he wanted me to be a lawyer. I tried my best but I couldn’t secure a law admission. So, I had to settle for Linguistics and Communication Studies at Uniport.

    “It was on the campus that I saw skit making and I decided to try it out. Money wasn’t coming.

    “After I graduated, my dad never knew I was a comedian because I was hiding it. It was one more year after school that he started seeing me on comedy show posters.

    “My sisters confirmed to him that I was into comedy. He was very furious. He fumed, ‘Which comedy? Stupid business. Look at the boy I sent to become a lawyer.’”

  • Actor Taye Arimoro reacts to AGN suspension over alleged on-set assault

    Actor Taye Arimoro reacts to AGN suspension over alleged on-set assault

    Actor Taye Arimoro has reacted to his indefinite suspension by the industry’s top guilds, labelling their statement as “inaccurate” and vowing to contest the ruling legally.

    The controversy surrounds an alleged physical assault on the set of “Pieces of Love” involving producer Peggy Ovire.

    Arimoro claimed he was attacked after trying to leave the set when his scheduled call time elapsed.

    He alleged that Ovire blocked his vehicle, leading to detention and assault by her team.

    Arimoro is demanding N100 million compensation from Ovire, dismissing her account as “grossly misleading”.

    Ovire, however, stated that Arimoro was the aggressor.

    Following their investigation, the joint body of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), and the Association of Movie Producers (AMP) mandated Arimoro to, issue a public apology to Ovire and the director, release a corrective video stating the actual sequence of events and completed the remaining scenes under supervised conditions.

    Arimoro assured that his legal team is addressing the claims, promising a comprehensive response. 

    “To be honest, the statement given doesn’t capture the facts of the matter in any way, shape, or form!”

    “My management and legal team are aware of this, and I will provide a comprehensive response tomorrow. My legal team is also proceeding with the necessary action to address these unfounded claims,” he wrote.

  • AGN suspends Taye Arimoro over on-set altercation with Peggy Ovire 

    AGN suspends Taye Arimoro over on-set altercation with Peggy Ovire 

    Actor Taye Arimoro has been suspended indefinitely from all film productions in Nigeria following a violent incident with Pegyy Ovire on the set of the movie Pieces of Love on 12 November 2025.

    The decision, announced jointly by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), and the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), came after a coordinated investigation found Arimoro to be the primary aggressor in the altercation.

    According to the official statement signed by AGN National President Dr. Emeka Rollas, DGN President Mr. Uche Agbo, and AMP President Amb. Dr. Queen Blessing Ebigieson, Arimoro physically assaulted the production manager and a driver during filming.

    He later went live on social media, broadcasting what the guilds described as a “false and misleading” account of the incident that wrongly implicated producer Peggy Ovire, who was not present at the start of the confrontation.

    “The Director, Production Manager, and crew were not culpable in any wrongdoing,” the statement read in part

    Read Also: Egypt FA await Liverpool, over availability of Salah for Nigeria friendly

    In addition to the indefinite industry-wide ban, Arimoro has been ordered to, issue a public apology on the same platform he used for the controversial live video, addressed to the production manager, Peggy Ovire, and the director, Frederick Atigogo; release a corrective video stating the accurate sequence of events; return under strict supervision to complete his remaining two scenes in Pieces of Love; comply with any further disciplinary measures from the guilds.

    Producer Peggy Ovire, while cleared of initiating the violence, was reprimanded for escalating the situation by pursuing Arimoro outside the filming compound.

    She has been directed by the board to tender written apologies to the guilds and the estate management, and to submit binding undertakings on improved set management and the future conduct of her driver.

    The three guilds used the ruling to declare zero tolerance for violence, intimidation, or professional misconduct on any Nollywood set and confirmed that a unified national On-Set Conduct and Safety Code is now in development.

  • Lere Paimo alive, not dead, says ANTP

    Lere Paimo alive, not dead, says ANTP

    The Association of Nigeria Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP) has dismissed circulating rumours claiming that renowned Yoruba actor and cultural icon Olalere OsunPaimo, popularly known as Lere Paimo, has passed away.

    In a statement released on Saturday, the association’s National Public Relations Officer, Adejonwo Oluwafemi, confirmed that the veteran actor is alive and in good health, citing direct confirmation from his wife.

    The ANTP expressed concern over the spread of false information on social media and urged the public to verify news before sharing it.

     “We would like to inform the public that reports circulating on Facebook about the passing of Chief Olalere OsunPaimo (MFR) are false.

    Read Also: Egypt FA await Liverpool, over availability of Salah for Nigeria friendly

    “We have confirmed with Baba Eda Onile Ola’s wife that he is alive and in good health.

    “Please disregard these false reports and be aware that they are being spread by unscrupulous individuals.”

    Lere Paimo, affectionately known as Baba Eda Onile Ola, is a respected figure in the Nigerian theatre and film industry.

    The ANTP appreciated the public’s concern and assures fans that the actor is doing well.

    “We urge everyone to verify information before sharing to avoid spreading misinformation,” the statement said.

  • African stories through theatre can provoke dialogue across cultures, says Akin Lewis

    African stories through theatre can provoke dialogue across cultures, says Akin Lewis

    Ahead of the second edition of TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF) 2025, veteran Nollywood actor, Dr Akin Lewis has opined that African stories told through theatre can provoke dialogue across cultures.

    According to Lewis, who is also the Chairman, Board of Trustee (BOT), TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF), “with the theme for the 2025 edition of the festival, we believe that African stories, told through the captivating medium of theatre, hold universal appeal and possess the power to connect, inspire, and provoke dialogue across cultures. This emphasizes the belief in the universal relevance and emotional power of African theatrical narratives. We are proud to be part of the TAF 2025 initiative that is bringing conversations, performances and recognition to the Industry.”

    The 2025 edition is scheduled to be held between Tuesday, December 9, 2025 and Wednesday December 10, 2025 at Shodex Gardens, Ilupeju, and Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria with the theme ‘Beyond Borders: Celebrating the Global Reach of African Theatre.’

    Activities towards a successful festival are gathering momentum across Africa with numerous speakers and panelists scheduled to speak during the event.

    Participants are to join thought leaders, erudite speakers, changemakers and industry stakeholders from across the Creative/theatre/arts value chain at TAF 2025.

    Confirmed speakers and guests expected  includes but not limited to Mrs. Taiwo Ajai-Lycett (OON), Ebo Whyte (Founder, Roverman Productions, Ghana), Mr. Soro Badrissa (Puppeteer and Founding Artistic Director of the Compagnie Ivoire Marionnettes), the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire), Marc Berbant (Director, Alliance Francaise), Dr. Akin Lewis, Norbert Young, Francis Onwochei, Adeniran Makinde (NANTAP President), Dr. Titilayo Adebayo (Lecturer, Creatives Arts, UNILAG), Kingsley Omoefe (Nollywood Director), Lydia Gifty Hagan (Ghana), Aishat Mamela Rafamhelea (South Africa), Paul Uwagbai,  Segun Adefila (Crown Troupe of Afrika), Ben Chidiaka, Titilayo Aboyade-Cole, Zani Chiumia Challe (Malawi), Claude Mwamba (GM,

    Transperfect Nigeria), Ehi Omokhuale, Oluwanishola Oladele Adenuga (Founder, Live Theatre, Lagos), Jacinta MacJob (Script Writer), Helen Sosu-Ezirim (Founder, TSUP), Julius Olaoluwa Oyekanmi (MD, QUIDBOT By Finnova), AJ Dagga Tolar, Olubanke Adeleke CEO, Dressrite Kiddies).

    Other guests include Lagos lawmaker, Hon.Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode, Mr. Olayiwola Awakan,DG Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Hon. Muyiwa Jimoh, Otunba Olu Adenodi, Mr. Olusola Adekoya ( MD, Shodex Gardens), Dr. D.F Salau (Chairman, UIAA, Lagos Branch), Prof. Akin Abayomi (Commissioner for Health, Lagos State), HRM Oba Salibu Hakeem Agbaosi (Alaguda Aguda), Oba Suleiman Owolabi (Ogun-Oloko, Ade Ori Okin I, Oniwaya of Iwaya) etc.

    Read Also: Nigeria’s security crisis and the case for seasoned leadership

    TAF 2025 will herald activities such as Street Theatre, Stakeholders RoundTable, Veteran Fireside Conversation Spotlight, Generation Next Theatre (GNT), Healthy Arts Initiative, Arts/Products/Service Exhibition, Command Performance, Induction into TAF Hall of Fame, Gala and Awards Nite.

    In the words of Alayande Stephen, the CEO/Co-Founder, TheatreMania Africa Festival (TAF), “The ‘Beyond Borders : Celebrating the Global Reach of African Theatre’ theme is more than just a tagline, it’s a testament to the undeniable influence and expanding footprint of African theatre globally. This further highlights our core mission which includes showcasing African theatre’s international impact. With TAF 2025, we will experience groundbreaking performances, thought-provoking narratives, and the brilliance of African artistry, transcending continents and captivating hearts. Join us as we honor the visionaries and elevate the voices that connect us all at TAF 2025.”

  • Lagos to host 96-hour non-stop DJ Marathon, targets new world record

    Lagos to host 96-hour non-stop DJ Marathon, targets new world record

    Lagos is preparing to host what organisers describe as Africa’s biggest and longest beach festival, as 100 DJs converge for a 96-hour non-stop DJ Marathon Festival scheduled to run from December 29, 2025 to January 2, 2026.

    The event, designed as a four-day, round-the-clock music rally, aims to set a new global record for the longest continuous DJ performance, surpassing the current 55-hour benchmark.

    Speaking ahead of the festival, CEO of Afroxela and convener of the marathon, Buchi Henry Mbagwu, said the idea was inspired by the global curiosity surrounding Lagos’ famed “Detty December” nightlife.

    According to him, the concept was born during an international festival in Portugal, where attendees from Switzerland, Denmark, Norway, France and Portugal expressed eagerness to experience Lagos’ party culture firsthand.

    “They had heard about Detty December and wanted to know why Lagos is regarded as the city that never stops partying. That was the lightbulb moment,” Mbagwu said.

    He explained that the team resolved to create an event that captured the essence of Lagos nightlife while showcasing the people who power parties across the world, the Djs.

    “DJs are always the party starters. Whether at weddings, corporate events or concerts, they set the tone. We wanted a festival dedicated entirely to Djs,” he noted.

    Read Also: Experts demand security overhaul in Nigeria 

    Mbagwu revealed that the marathon will feature 100 DJs taking turns every hour in a seamless relay.

    “This is about endurance, celebration and the Lagos spirit. For 96 straight hours, there will be no stop, no pause, just sound,” he said.

    The marathon will run across the New Year crossover, intentionally timed to set the record just as Nigeria enters 2026.

    Mbagwu said the timing was deliberate: “By December 27, people are winding down from Christmas and waiting for the New Year. Globally, New Year’s Eve is huge, Dubai, New York, everywhere. So we chose a period when people are naturally looking for the biggest party.”