The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • 10 Ondo brands recreate 80s in stunning retro collaboration

    10 Ondo brands recreate 80s in stunning retro collaboration

    Ten creative brands based in Ondo City recently joined forces to recreate the magic of the 1980s in a nostalgic visual project that celebrates African culture, fashion, and style.

    From the Afrocentric hairstyles to the vintage outfits, the picture tone, and the carefully chosen locations, the collaboration captures the spirit of an era known for its bold expression and originality.

    The project brings together the talents of World Guinness Record Attempter, Ejibunu Caroline, Mercy Ejibunu-Fadoju, Kuteyi Olusola Malcolm, Orisabunmi Olasegha, Frances O. Akinkuoye,  Oyefeso Janet, Mofiyinfoluwa Oguntunsin, Fasuyi Oluwaremilekun Cyril, Peter Omikunle, and Olakanye Olanrewaju.

    Read Also: I’d have been a Maths teacher if music didn’t work – Tems

    The participating brands include Carolaura Hair, Helidiiam Couture, Kayomakeovers, Peteromikunle, Accessories by Apefolaji, Wajuloyaa Photography, Itbobfilms, Fiyinshoots, The BTS Factory, and Elementola Events.

    Together, they revived the essence of 80s fashion and art, reminding the world of the beauty of African creativity when tradition meets modern storytelling.

    According to Caroline Ejibunu, this is the first of a collection of collaborations between young Nigerians behind leading brands in Ondo.

  • Steady Boi makes major move with new single ‘Oil & Gas’ 

    Steady Boi makes major move with new single ‘Oil & Gas’ 

    Nigerian music artist, Okedere Benjamin Adebare, popularly known as Steady Boi, is officially stepping into the spotlight with the release of his explosive new single, “Oil & Gas (TAPIPI Dance),” dropping November 28, 2025.

    The single comes in affiliation with JAYO Records and is proudly distributed by Virgin Music South Africa, marking a major career moment for the fast-emerging talent.

    Built on heavy Afrobeat rhythms and charged with luxury street energy, “Oil & Gas” is a bold, high-octane anthem crafted for dreamers, hustlers, and anyone striving for a breakthrough. With its pulsating groove and confident delivery, Steady Boi channels the ambition, hunger, and resilience of a generation pushing for elevation against all odds.

    More than just a dance record, “Oil & Gas” captures the mindset of turning pressure into progress, scarcity into abundance. It represents the belief that success is not distant, but imminent, one move, one opportunity, one “strike of oil” away.

    Speaking on the new single, Steady Boi says, “This one is for the grinders. For everyone who knows they’re sitting on something valuable like oil and they’re pushing till it finally flows.”

    With his raw tone, sharp cadence, and magnetic presence, Steady Boi positions himself as one of the most compelling new voices rising from Nigeria’s evolving Afrobeat landscape. “Oil & Gas” sets the stage for his forthcoming body of work, introducing a fresh sonic identity that blends street credibility with refined artistry.

    The release marks the beginning of Steady Boi’s next chapter, building momentum toward his upcoming body of work. The single highlights his fresh, intentional sound that blends street credibility with refined artistry, a signature he’s fast becoming known for.

  • I’d have been a Maths teacher if music didn’t work – Tems

    I’d have been a Maths teacher if music didn’t work – Tems

    Afrobeats singer Tems has opened up about her alternative career paths if music hadn’t worked out.

    During an interactive session with fans on X, she revealed she’d have been an accountant or a mathematics teacher.

    “If music didn’t work, what else do you think you would be doing today?,” a fan asked.

    Tems responded, “I might have been an accountant or a mathematics teacher.”

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    Before rising to fame, Tems worked as a digital marketer, a job she left in January 2018 to focus on her music career.

    Just a few months later, she released her debut single ‘Mr Rebel’ in July 2018, which gained traction in Nigeria.

    Tems’ breakthrough came with her feature on Wizkid’s 2020 single ‘Essence’, which peaked at number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart after the remix with Justin Bieber.

  • Why I have always wanted to be a musician – Liquorose

    Why I have always wanted to be a musician – Liquorose

    Dancer and reality TV star Liquorose has disclosed her enduring passion for music, stating that she had always aspired to be a musician.

    In an interview with media personality, VJ Adams, Liquorose revealed that she was actively pursuing a music career prior to her participation in the Big Brother Naija show.

    She said, “I love music too much. I’ve always wanted to be a musician. Yeah, I’ve been recording. There was a time when I was always in the studio before I went for BBNaija show. I was very hungry with music.”

    Liquorose further stated that while she currently feels comfortable about acting, she still has a strong desire for music.

    Read Also: Liquorose, Prince Nelson win best dressed at 2025 AMVCA cultural day

    She added, “I know that feeling because I’m a poet and I write. If the music isn’t sounding like that, I know I could do better. And I work with writers as well now and stuff. I wanted to ignore music because I’m like I love acting.

    “Acting is like my safest place right now. I’m comfortable, I can act till like I’m 80 or 70 years old. But the urge to make music remains strong. But you see music, there’s a side of me that people have not seen. And it’s my music side.

    “And one thing I need people to know is that the sound won’t just be for you to dance. It’s going to touch you. I can do dancehall, I can rap if I want to, because I write poems. I can’t sing like Beyoncé, but I can hold my own.”

  • Family fiesta: HOD Comedian champions unity, love and positive values at Lagos show

    Family fiesta: HOD Comedian champions unity, love and positive values at Lagos show

    Comedian Emmanuel Inyang, popularly known as HOD Comedian, has taken a bold step beyond the stage, using humour and entertainment to promote family values as he successfully hosted the maiden edition of Family Fiesta in Lagos.

    Held at the Entrance Event Centre on Ago Palace Way, the colourful gathering pulled in well over 1,000 parents and children, transforming the venue into a lively mix of laughter, bonding, and shared experiences. But beyond its entertainment value, Family Fiesta stood out for its core message: reinforcing unity, love, and positive childhood memories in a fast-paced society where families often struggle to find quality bonding time.

    Designed as a one-of-a-kind family lifestyle experience, the event blended games, interactive sessions, comedy, dance and inspiring engagements, ensuring that both adults and children found meaningful moments to connect. HOD Comedian said the concept was created to “bring parents and children together in an atmosphere of joy, strengthen relationships, and remind families that shared experiences are the foundation of wholesome society.”

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    The maiden edition drew the presence of notable personalities, including Kaffy, the award-winning dancer and Guinness World Record holder; comedians Deeone, Bow Joint, Phronesis, and Lolo Mbakara; as well as popular health advocate Aproko Doctor. Their appearances added colour to the already vibrant atmosphere and underscored the significance of the initiative.

    Parents at the event praised HOD Comedian for creating a platform that celebrates the importance of family bonding. Many described the experience as refreshing, especially for children who had the chance to learn, play and create memories outside the usual home routine.

    With the success recorded at its debut, indications suggest that Family Fiesta could become a regular feature on Lagos’ social calendar, offering families an opportunity to reconnect and rediscover the simple joys of togetherness.

    For HOD Comedian, the vision is clear: to use creativity and entertainment to rebuild values that strengthen homes – and ultimately, society.

  • Chadian model Dillah Acelle crowned Africa’s Next Super Model 2025

    Chadian model Dillah Acelle crowned Africa’s Next Super Model 2025

    Africa’s fashion spotlight shone brightly on Broadwalk Mall on Saturday, November 22, 2025, as Chadian model Dillah Acelle was crowned Africa’s Next Super Model 2025. 

    The 22-year-old triumphed over 15 other finalists from across the continent, earning praise from judges for her poise, confidence, and commanding runway presence. 

    Her victory marks a landmark moment not only for her career but also for the representation of Chadian talent on the global fashion stage.

    The Africa Next Super Models competition is a continent-wide project, running close to two decades and inspired by Nigeria’s fashion entrepreneurs, Joan Okorodudu, who is one of Africa’s most endearing fashion talent experts on the continent driving global vision to put African models on the world stage. 

    The winner of the 2025 edition, a Chadian, Dillah Acelle, delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing gratitude and offering inspiration to aspiring young models. “I’m so excited to have won this competition. This is not just a win for me, but for every young girl who aspires to break into the fashion world. I hope my journey inspires them and shows that anything is possible with hard work, confidence, and perseverance,” she said. 

    “This win is for every dreamer, every girl who dares to aim high.” Her words echoed the spirit of determination and hope that Africa’s Next Super Model aims to cultivate.

    For her victory, Acelle received a USD 5,000 cheque presented by Studio 24’s Chris Oputa, along with opportunities for international exposure and collaborations with luxury fashion brands. 

    The finale was co-hosted by media personality Nailantei Kenga and BBC senior reporter Ata Ahli, adding distinguished flair to the evening’s celebrations. Key figures from Kenya’s creative sector also attended, including Collins Okoth from the Kenya Film Commission and Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya, both of whom applauded the competition’s contribution to Africa’s creative economy.

    The event welcomed international supporters, including Cornell McBride Sr., President of McBride Research Laboratories (Design Essentials), who attended for the second consecutive year. 

    His presence continued to highlight the brand’s commitment to uplifting African talent. Adding cultural vibrance to the night, Daima Mkenya Africa—founded by Zahra Balewah Moi—showcased a patriotic fabric collection inspired by the Kenyan flag, merging fashion with national pride.

    Kenyan model Lilian Amoni also impressed judges, securing a spot among the top six finalists, while the calibre of talent across the Top 16 reaffirmed Africa’s growing influence globally. The finalists, unveiled the previous day on Friday, November 21, were selected from 34 contestants spanning Kenya, Chad, Congo, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and more. Judges focused on their runway presence, personality, and potential to excel professionally.

    During the unveiling, the competition paid heartfelt tribute to Joan Okorodudu, founder of Africa’s Next Super Model and CEO of Isis Models. Africa’s Next Super Model would not be what it is today without her vision and pioneering work. While she missed this year’s event due to the sad passing of her husband, Air Vice-Marshall Terry Okorodudu, her legacy remains deeply woven into the platform’s success. A special tribute in her honour is planned as part of the celebration of her impact on African modelling.

    Throughout the evening, industry leaders emphasized the importance of nurturing talent across the continent. Matteo Puglisi, CEO of Select Models Management, praised the exceptional standard of this year’s contestants and highlighted the professional qualities that set the finalists apart. Cornell McBride Sr. reinforced Design Essentials’ commitment to supporting Africa’s creative industries through training, resources, and international exposure.

    The founder of Africa’s Next Supermodel, Joan Okorodudu who was unable to physical participate at the show this year, having lost her husband retired Air Vice Marshal Terry Okorodudu recently, to whom she was married for over three decades, said that in spite her grieving she was happy the show went well with support pouring in from all sides to make the event grand as she followed the activities on her screen. 

    The 2025 grand finale reinforced Africa’s Next Super Model as a transformative platform for emerging African models. With its blend of creativity, cultural expression, and international opportunity, the competition continues to serve as a Launchpad for global careers. As Africa’s fashion influence expands, the rise of talents like Dillah Acelle signals a powerful new chapter for the continent on the world stage.

  • I have never denied Davido access to Imade – Sophia Momodu

    I have never denied Davido access to Imade – Sophia Momodu

    Sophia Momodu, first baby mama of Afrobeats superstar Davido, has addressed a series of online posts targeted at her daughter, Imade Adeleke, describing it as deliberate falsehoods about the child’s well-being.

    In a detailed post on Snapchat, Sophia explained that she has never denied her 10-year-old access to her father, adding that she prioritised her safety and structured schedules.

    She stated that Imade is a happy, healthy, and well-rounded child, and anyone who has met her in person can confirm this.

    According to her, she has been Imade’s primary caregiver for the past five years and has personally covered nearly all of the child’s expenses.

    She added that the only exception has been school fees, which Davido’s father, Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, has covered for the last three years.

    She claimed that she has never received formal child support from Davido, yet Imade lacks nothing and is growing up in a stable, loving environment.

    Sophia also revealed that she recently waived all outstanding child support payments and relinquished any future claims, taking on complete financial responsibility for Imade.

    She wrote: “Social media has become an integral part of our lives, and unfortunately, it has also become a platform for spreading false narratives. On a recent Sunday morning, I woke up to numerous posts that were intentionally targeted at my lovely daughter and trying to portray a false image of her well being. As a fiercely protective mother, my initial reaction was emotional, but I knew that I had to stand up for my child.

    “It’s important to note that my daughter is a happy, healthy, and well rounded child. Anyone who has met her in person can attest to this.

    “To further emphasize my commitment to my daughter’s well being, I have been her primary caregiver for the past five years. I have handled all of her expenses except for school fees, which her paternal grandparent has kindly covered for the past three years. I have not received child support from her father, but our child knows no lack. She is growing in a healthy environment and is very happy.

    “In an effort to reaffirm my commitment to her happiness, I recently waived all outstanding child support payments and relinquished future claims. This decision has left me fully responsible for our child’s financial needs, which is a welcomed development by both parties.

    “Family is important to me, and I believe that it’s essential for my child to have a relationship with both parents. Just as I had with my late father, who I had cherished memories of, I have never denied her father access or a relationship. Instead, I prioritize her safety and structured schedules.

    “I am grateful that my daughter has a loving relationship with both parents.

    “Moving forward, I kindly request that my innocent child be left out of false narratives and stories. Let’s channel our energy towards things that are more profitable and healthy”.

    However, Davido has not issued any public response to the post.

  • How I navigated fame after BBNaija – CeeC

    How I navigated fame after BBNaija – CeeC

    Media personality CeeC has spoken about her journey since leaving the Big Brother Naija house, sharing her experiences and challenges as a reality TV star.

    In a recent interview on Echo Room podcast, she revealed her initial goal was to experience the show and return to her law career.

    “For me, I just wanted to go into the house, experience it, and take whatever lessons I could. I was even willing to go back to practicing law,” she explained.

    CeeC expressed gratitude for the support system that helped her navigate the sudden fame.

    Read Also: Simi hails Adekunle Gold’s ‘mind-blowing’ London show

    “When we came out, it was like, ‘What now? Celebrity.’ I was meeting people I used to watch on TV, it was so different. I’m grateful I had the right people around me to help manage the fame and everything that came with it,” she added.

    She also discussed the challenge of being defined by her Big Brother experience, stating, “I don’t know if there will ever be a time when I can be seen as more than a BBNaija star. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing because the platform gave us so much.

    However, she acknowledged the platform gave her opportunities and she’s focused on moving forward.

  • Peggy Ovire rejects Taye Arimoro’s N100m demand, calls claims ‘false’

    Peggy Ovire rejects Taye Arimoro’s N100m demand, calls claims ‘false’

    Actress Peggy Ovire has issued a statement through her legal team, rejecting actor Taye Arimoro’s N100 million demand and denying his allegations of assault.

    According to Peggy’s lawyers, Taye’s claims are “misleading, selective, and materially false,” and he is twisting the events that transpired.

    The response alleges that Taye was asked to return to set but instead got into a heated confrontation, assaulting the Production Manager and head-butting Peggy’s driver, leaving him injured.

    According to Peggy via the statement, witnesses reportedly gave statements to the police confirming Taye’s aggressive behavior.

    Peggy’s team claims Taye tried to flee the scene, and any restraint was to prevent his escape before police arrived.

    They maintain Peggy never assaulted Taye, and the only physical contact was when she “pushed him lightly” after he allegedly tried to deflate her tyres.

    The letter dismissed Taye’s claims of mob action, broken jaw, harassment, or violence as fabricated, stating the matter is under investigation by the police and Actors Guild of Nigeria.

    Peggy’s team rejected the N100 million demand, warning they may pursue petitions for assault, defamation, and interference with production.

    Peggy captioned the post on Instagram, writing, “My silence should not be taken for weakness… the truth will unfold.”

  • Simi hails Adekunle Gold’s ‘mind-blowing’ London show

    Simi hails Adekunle Gold’s ‘mind-blowing’ London show

    Singer Simi has expressed pride in husband Adekunle Gold’s recent London show, describing it as “mind-blowing”.

    In an Instagram post, Simi lauded Adekunle Gold as an exceptional artist, husband, and father, commending his talent, persistence, and consistency.

    The singer’s message highlighted Adekunle Gold’s hard work and dedication to his craft, stating he deserves all the success coming his way.

    Simi vowed to support him unwaveringly, saying, “I will always and forever stand 10 toes behind him”.

    Adekunle Gold’s London performance has earned him accolades, with Simi affirming his status as a unique artist with no competition.

    Read Also: How I navigated fame after BBNaija – CeeC

    She urged him to keep shining, reminding him his talent and hard work are his validation.

    Simi wrote: “I’m so proud of my man. He works so hard and deserves all the greatest things in life. I will always and forever stand 10 toes behind him – So help me God! He’s One of One. King Business!!! Greatest Showman!!! I’m in awe of his talent. His persistence. His consistency. His Aura.

    “Whatever great thing you think of him – he’s more. He’s my baby!! Incredible man, artist, husband, father! I’m blessed to know and experience him. He’s the best man I know.

    “@adekunlegold I know that you know, but know again, that you’re exactly who you think you are, and then some, and then more. Watching you on stage brought tears of pride to my eyes. You’re a Champion. You’re my Champ. I love you. Congratulations on a mind-blowing show. I look forward to more by the grace of God!

    “Don’t forget that no matter how loud naysayers may be, you have no competition. You are on a lane all by yourself. Your validation is your talent, your hard work, and your sauce. You are your own validation. Keep on winning, Baby, Baba Deja!!”.