The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • How I handle ‘broke shaming’ tag from fans – M.I Abaga

    How I handle ‘broke shaming’ tag from fans – M.I Abaga

    Rapper M.I has revealed strategy for coping with the pressures of being a celebrity, particularly in regards to financial expectations from the public.

    The ‘One Naira’ hitmaker disclosed that he has made a conscious effort to accept being “broke shamed” by fans and the public, rather than allowing it to dictate his spending habits or lifestyle choices.

    According to M.I, many celebrities have fallen into financial difficulties by trying to live up to the expectations of others, rather than being true to their own financial realities.

    He emphasised that in Nigeria, where many people struggle financially, it is easy for individuals to feel pressured into projecting a certain image or lifestyle in order to avoid being judged or shamed by others.

    He also pointed out that the transient nature of wealth and fame is a reality that many celebrities often overlook, citing examples of former celebrities who were once wealthy but are now struggling financially.

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    “When I understood that people in Nigeria tend to broke shame people, I had to make a decision if I want to let that have power over me. Because if you don’t deal with that, it will have exceeding power over you.

    “If you are not comfortable with the fact that some fans can broke shame you if they see you driving a car they consider below your level, then you are going to continue adjusting to their expectations. And that is how you go broke. You go broke trying to adjust to people’s expectations.

    “One of the things that Nigerians are concerned about is their perceptions. And statistically, we are a country where most people don’t have money. It took me time to mentally prepare myself to accept being broke shamed. All our celebrities who were flying private jets 20 years ago are no longer affluent,” he expressed.

  • How I survived s3xual harassment as an upcoming – Yemi Alade

    How I survived s3xual harassment as an upcoming – Yemi Alade

    Afrobeats singer Yemi Alade has opened up on experiences with s3xual harassment during her early days as a struggling female artiste.

    In a recent podcast interview on Swift Conversations, Alade revealed that she faced rampant s3xual harassment from music executives, often during business meetings and studio sessions, which made her question her decision to pursue a career in music.

    Alade recounted instances where she was subjected to inappropriate touching and advances from older men in positions of power, including a disturbing experience where a managing director rubbed her thighs under the table during a meeting.

    Alade said: “In those beginning days, all I thought I needed was just my talent because that’s what I have. I didn’t have a bank account full of money I could use to sponsor myself.

    “I just had a talent and a zeal, and a promise that I made to myself and a promise I believed God made to me. So, I always tried to show up. I was told that I needed to work harder and so I worked harder, and it wasn’t enough. There were doors I needed to walk up to and when I walked up to the doors, they didn’t want my talent, they wanted something else.

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    “Many times from business meetings to studio sessions to even winning certain awards and you meet maybe the managing director or any other executive and they are trying to rub your thighs under the table. And I was just a teen. My grand pa is rubbing my legs and I can’t speak because I’m in shock.

    “We are having an actual business meeting. Why are you rubbing my thighs? I had to speak to myself and decided if music was what I wanted to do because the sexual harassment was becoming too rampant. But something in me told me to keep pushing my talent. So, I still showed up. If door was left open for me, I would walk in. If it was shut in my face, I would walk away.”

    She said the experiences led her to a turning point where she realised that she needed to take control of her own destiny and “stop walking through the doors” and instead “break down the walls” that stood in her way. 

  • Young Jonn postpones album release over insecurity

    Young Jonn postpones album release over insecurity

    Afrobeats artist Young Jonn has postponed his highly anticipated album “Blue Disco” due to the worsening insecurity across the country.

    The decision comes as a response to the prevailing atmosphere of fear, grief, and uncertainty that has gripped the nation.

    In his statement on X, Young Jonn expressed deep disappointment and concerns over the ongoing challenges facing Nigeria, citing the unbearable nature of the insecurity and the need for collective action from both leaders and citizens to address these issues.

    He wrote: “It’s disheartening that Nigeria is still confronted with such overwhelming challenges; the insecurity has become unbearable, and it’s very clear that the leaders and we citizens must rise to do better, even as we pray for God’s strength to guide and sustain us through these difficult times. In light of these, I’ve decided to postpone the release of my album BLUE DISCO to a later date”.

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    The album, which was slated for release on November 21, 2025, features collaborations with several prominent artists, including Wizkid, Rema, Asake, and Olamide.

    While a new release date for “Blue Disco” has not been confirmed, Young Jonn concluded with a prayer for healing and peace across Nigeria.

    “Above all, I’m praying for healing across our nation that God restores peace, unity, and hope to Nigeria”, he added.

  • Ibrahim Chatta partners WEBEK studios for Abeni

    Ibrahim Chatta partners WEBEK studios for Abeni

    Prolific Nollywood star actor, Ibrahim Yekini has partnered with WEBEK Studios to produce a new film, ‘Abeni.’

    Webek studios recently made the announcement of the completion of its first-ever feature-length film. The milestone marks a groundbreaking one for the fast-rising film and content company. 

    ‘Abeni’ is directed by filmmaker and CEO of WEBEK Studios, Esse Akwawa, while Samuel Olasehinde served as co-director and co-writer. Together, they bring a powerful blend of visionary direction, cultural depth, and emotional resonance to the screen.

    Filmed at the atmospheric Africhatta Film Village in Oyo State, renowned for its commitment to authentic Yoruba representation, ‘Abeni’ captures a world rich in heritage, tradition, and ancestral spirit.

    Inspired by a true but undocumented historical narrative passed down through generations,

    ‘Abeni’ brings to film a remarkable story that has never been formally recorded.

    The film highlights the extraordinary journey of Abeni, a young woman who defied societal expectations and pursued a path traditionally reserved for men: the sacred craft of forging. Her courage, rebellion, and resilience form the emotional core of the film, making ‘Abeni’ both an inspiring cinematic experience and an important act of cultural preservation.

    The production is further strengthened by the support of Co-Executive Producers Seun Dania and Ibrahim Chatta, whose contributions helped elevate the film’s authenticity and scale.

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    Speaking on the project, Ibrahim Chatta, said, “Being involved in ‘Abeni’ allowed me to connect deeply with a story that mirrors the strength of our ancestors. The film sheds light on a remarkable young woman whose love for forging pushed her beyond the boundaries of her time. It is a privilege to help bring this undocumented history into modern consciousness.

    Working with Webek Studios reaffirmed my belief in the power of African storytelling and the importance of preserving our truth.”

    ABENI follows the journey of a determined young girl who challenges tradition, defies gender norms, and pushes against rigid societal boundaries to master the craft she loves. Rooted in Yoruba culture and inspired by real, undocumented history, the film blends mythic elements with raw emotion to deliver a story of courage, destiny, and cultural pride.

  • Toskel plans cultural Christmas carol evening in UK

    Toskel plans cultural Christmas carol evening in UK

    As the joyous yuletide season approaches, Plymouth, a vibrant city in the South West of the United Kingdom, is preparing to be infused with the magic of Christmas through a unique Carol and Cultural Evening hosted by Toskel Community Heritage & Culture CIC. 

    Set for December 21, the event promises to be more than just a performance—a dazzling celebration of music, dance, and culture—uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds in the city and beyond to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere.

    The organisers, Kelvin and Oluwatosin Adekanmbi, founders of Toskel Travels Limited and Toskel Community Heritage and Culture CIC, are dedicated to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage and enhancing community cohesion in the UK. 

    Each year, the visionary duo bring people—Nigerians and Africans from across the UK— together through prominent events such as Nigerian Cultural Day and Independence Day celebrations, in addition to regular language classes, storytelling sessions, and creative workshops.

    “These events don’t just entertain; they build bridges, preserve traditions, and strengthen the Nigerian spirit and community lifestyle. Our aim is to create a thriving community where Nigerian heritage —traditions, languages, food and dressence— are showcased, celebrated, and preserved.

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    “Toskel Christmas Carol and Cultural Evening is an act of community building. It provides an essential space for the Nigerian diaspora in Plymouth and the wider UK to gather, celebrate their roots, and pass on their culture,” Kelvin said.

    “The event promises to infuse the vibrant, infectious spirit of Nigeria. The lineup of performers will include local choirs, musicians, and dancers, who will regale the audience with traditional Christmas carols and folk songs.

    “Crucially, it’s an open-armed invitation to the broader African diaspora and South West England communities to come and share in Nigeria and Plymouth’s rich cultural heritage, fostering a more vibrant connection,” he added.

    On the inspiration behind the initiatives, Oluwatosin Adekanmbi said, “We believed that Nigerians in the diaspora should not lose touch with their roots and that their children should grow up knowing the colours, rhythms, and values of their heritage. After relocating to the United Kingdom, we noticed that while the city of Plymouth was rich in diversity, there was a lack of platforms showcasing the beauty, creativity, and richness of Nigerian culture. So it’s that belief that birthed Toskel Travels Limited and Toskel Community Heritage and Culture CIC,” she added.

    She noted that the initiatives have grown from small gatherings to community meetings with exhibitions of Nigerian crafts and delicacies, into a movement that is impacting Plymouth and its surroundings.

    “We have been able to assist Nigerians in Plymouth to register Nigerian-businesses in the city through the Nigerians in Plymouth Enterprise Network (NIPEN), and they are doing very fantastic, empowering families and young entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into sustainable ventures,” Kelvin said.

    Meanwhile, the couple’s hard work and cultural passion has caught the attention of Plymouth City Council, which has become a major supporter of their mission. Together, they now host the annual Nigerian Cultural Day, with the most recent edition graced by over 15 well-known Nigerian celebrities and other guests from all walks of life. 

    Highlight of the event was the presence of Mayor Kathy Watkins, Lord Mayor of Plymouth and former Lord Mayor, Dr. John Mahogany, who presented awards to outstanding personalities and community leaders for their contributions to culture and unity of the city, including Richard Edoki, a Nigerian journalist based in the city; actor and filmmaker, Kunle Afod, Amoke Oluwastosin Adekanmbi, Bimbo Adebayo, among others

  • Amaland set to partner Oyo govt for Faaji Dec. festival

    Amaland set to partner Oyo govt for Faaji Dec. festival

    Amaland is set to partner the Oyo State Government to host ‘Faaji December Cultural and Entertainment Festival’.

    The event is an annual event that is always held between December 1 and January 2 in Ibadan.

    The company said the festival was borne out of the need to create alternative celebration and vibrant environments besides that of Lagos.

    Speaking with reporters in Ibadan, the convener of the festival, Seun Adeniyi, said many people didn’t know enjoyment and relaxation started in Ibadan, adding that Amaland was bringing back festivity and vibes to Ibadan. He said: “A lot of people may not know that Ibadan is the headquarters, the origin of Amala, the food everybody loves in Nigeria and around the world. Also, Fuji music started in Ibadan.

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    “We are bringing this true, historic phenomenon back to Ibadan. For people outside Ibadan, everywhere in Nigeria, West Africa, even in the diaspora coming to Nigeria for Christmas, end of the year, will visit Ibadan to have a taste of the original Amala and original Fuji music.

    “Also, we are organising a fashion show that talks about Yoruba culture, because the culture is already influencing fashion in the world. Music from Nigeria, especially Yoruba music, is also influencing music genre in the world.’’

    Adeniyi says adequate security is guaranteed for every participant, as every ticket comes with insurance for everybody attending the event.

  • AFRIMA: Diamond showcase portal berths ahead of 9th edition

    AFRIMA: Diamond showcase portal berths ahead of 9th edition

    Ahead of the 9th Edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) scheduled to hold in Lagos, Nigeria, the journey to discover and celebrate Africa’s future music stars has begun.

    The organisers of AFRIMA have opened an application portal for its Diamond Showcase, the award institution’s platform for rising music talents.

    According to a statement from the organisers, the 9th AFRIMA Diamond Showcase is designed to give undiscovered African artists a real chance to present their music to a wider audience and take a major step toward mainstream success.

    “The Showcase welcomes singers, rappers, DJs, producers, and instrumentalists from all parts of the continent to apply and take their place on one of Africa’s most respected music stages,” the statement read in part.

    Janatte Haddadi, Regional Manager, Northern Africa for AFRIMA, described the Showcase as a rare and valuable opportunity for young creatives who are ready to grow. She explained that AFRIMA is committed to finding, mentoring, and promoting new African music stars who often remain unnoticed in their communities even though they have strong talent.

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    Haddadi further announced that applications will run from November 18 to December 8, 2025, while encouraging all interested artists to apply early through the awards ceremony’s website and Instagram pages.

    “To apply, artists must submit a 45-second performance video. The AFRIMA Jury will then review all entries and select the top 15 finalists, known as “The Diamonds,” who will be invited to Lagos for the live Showcase.

    “We want to find the brightest diamonds in the rough across Africa. There are young artists in small towns, big cities, and everywhere in between who are doing amazing things with their music. Many of them have never had the chance to stand before the people who can help shape their careers. The Diamond Showcase is here to bridge that gap,” Haddadi said.

    The selected finalists will be hosted in Lagos, Nigeria, from January 6 to 7, 2026, with performances each evening from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The Showcase is part of the activities leading up to the 9th AFRIMA Awards.

    Those selected will receive an all-expense-paid trip to Lagos, special AFRIMA gifts, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to perform in front of top music executives, major media platforms, and key industry leaders.

    Haddadi urged young talents not to waste the opportunity. “If you believe in your gift, this is the time to act,” she said. “Don’t wait. Don’t hold back. Submit your entry. Africa is ready to meet its next big talents, and we are ready to support your first major step.”

    The 9th AFRIMA Awards will take place in Lagos, Nigeria, from January 7 to 11, 2026, with events including the Africa Music Business Summit, the Diamond Showcase, the Music Village Concert, the Nominees Party, the Red Carpet, and the grand Awards Night. In partnership with the African Union and Lagos State (Official Host City), the ceremony will be broadcast live to more than 84 countries globally.

  • NFVCB hosts 23 film practitioners to milestone agebirthday celebrations, honours Bolanle Austen Peters

    NFVCB hosts 23 film practitioners to milestone agebirthday celebrations, honours Bolanle Austen Peters

    The fifth edition of the Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Nigeria Digital Content Regulation Conference recently held between Tuesday, November 18, 2025 and Wednesday, November 19, 2025 in Lagos, Nigeria.

    The fifth edition and the second since the emergence of Dr Shaibu Husseini as the executive director of the National Films and Videos Censors Board, held amidst pomp and glee inside the expansive Shell Hall of the Muson Centre between 9am and 6pm for the two days duration.

    The conference had a long list of Nigerian film and television practitioners, actors, producers, directors, scriptwriters and many others in attendance.

    The 2025 edition of the conference kicked off with the theme: From Volume to Value: The future of the Nigerian motion picture industry in the digital age while filmmaker and culture cum art connoisseur, Bolanle Austen Peters gave the keynote speech.

    Though the minister for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musawa was absent at the event, she was represented by actor cum Director General of the Nigerian Film Corporation, Dr. Ali Nuhu.

    Some of the popular faces in attendance for the two-day event include Dr Shaibu Husseini, wife of Ooni of Ife, Olori Temitope Enita Ogunwusi, members of the late Peace Anyiam-Osiwe, Dr Raymond Anyiam Osigwe, George Anyiam-Osigwe, Kennedy Anyiam-Osigwe, Bolanle Austen-Peters, Stephanie Linus, Chief Emeka Ossia, Mahmood Alli-Balogun, Saidi Balogun, Alhaji Abdulrasaq Abdullahi, Makinde Adeniran, Femi Durojaiye, Uzodima Okpechi, Yinka Ogun, Moses Babatope, Patrick Lee, Zulumoke Oyibo, Emmanuel Kalu Uduma, Blessing Agofure, John Ukpa, Bunmi Ajakaiye, Imade Bibowei- Osuobeni, Amb Blessing Ebiegieson, and Misola Iyun amongst several others.

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    One of the highlights of day one of the two day event was when filmmaker and art/culture connoisseur, Bolanle Austen Peters was honoured by the NFVCB for her immense contribution to the growth of the Nigerian film industry. BAP, as she’s fondly called, couldn’t hold back her joy as she received the award plaque and a large portrait amidst cheers and accolades from the teeming audience. She expressed joy and gladness with the honour and promises to continue to do more in taking the film industry to greater heights.

    Other award winners include Joy Odiete, Femi Odugbemi, Funke Akindele, Cinemax, Filmone, Moses Babatope, Chioma Ude, and rave film, ‘Gingerrr.’

    The first day also had panel sessions that delved deep into the growth, challenges and pathway to securing a more rewarding and globally accepted film industry.

    The first panel session which dealt on the theme from volume to value: future of the motion picture industry in a digital age, had panellists including Dr Busola Tejumola, Stephanie Linus, and Femi Odugbemi. The session was moderated by Steve Ayorinde. Three other sessions took place on the first day of the conference before it came to an end.

    The second day kicked off with  a presentation by Dr Shaibu Husseini after which the anchors, Isabella Adeniji and Sam Uche Anyamele.

    Not long after a bit of introductions, the first session of the day kicked off after a keynote speech by the CEO, Inkblot Studios, Naz Onuzo.

    The first panel session was moderated by Judith Audu and had panelists discussing the ‘Growing the Film Audience At Home And Abroad.’ Six panelist on the session cuts across Cinema operators, streaming platform heads as well as film distributors and they include Cassandra Ojuigo Onwualu, Patrick Lee (Chief Operating Officer, Viva Cinemas), Imade Osoubeni (Co-founder & Senior VP,Circuits), Emmanuel Kalu Uduma (Multidisciplinary Creative, CEO Smartmedia, and Funmi Onuma (General Manager, West Africa, Silverbird Cinemas).

    The MD of Blue Pictures Entertainment, Joy Efe Odiete, was scheduled to be on the panel but was unable to make it.

    The session was followed by a fireside chat with Barrister Ope Banwo on Movie/Content Monetization: and was moderated by Theophilus Elama.

    Another panel discussion continued with discussants dwelling on ‘Breaking Down Barriers: The Future of Gender Equitable Film Narratives.’

    With a keynote remark by the Managing Director, Co-Creation Hub, Lagos, the session was moderated by Associate Professor Anwulika Agina of Media Studies, Pan-Atlantic University.

    The panelists include Co-Founder Inkblot Productions, Zulumoke Oyibo, screenwriters, Yinka Ogun, Bunmi Ajakaiye, Kemi Adesoye,  writer and producer, Chichi Nworah.

    The session generated so much engagement from the attendees before it was rounded off for the next session which had Chidi Nwokobia, Blessing Agofure, Abdulrazaq, Femi Durojaiye, Ijeoma Richards, and Moses Babatope as panelists. The session was moderated by Adetutu Laditan.

    There were three other sessions afterwards before the highlight of day two, which also resulted in the closing ceremony.

    A total of 23 film practitioners, who turned 50 and 60 respectively were honoured and treated to a glamorous reception at the Shell Hall of the Muson Centre by the management of the NFVCB led by the executive Director, Dr Shaibu Husseini. The practitioners include Taiwo Adeleye,  Saeed Mohammed, Ronnie Dikko, Seyi Siwoku, Aquila Njamah, Bond Emoruwa, Chimdi Chiama, Segun Arinze, AMB. Ngozi Ezeonu, Hafiz Bello, Lillian Ama-Aluko, Dr. Ahmad Sarari, Francis Onwochei, Princess Teju Agunlejika, Adebayo Tijani, Sir Kingsley Ogoro, Hon Desmond Elliot, Ali Baba,  Rita Dominic, Sam Dede, Eucharia  Anunobi, Chief Jude Chukwuka and Chief Steve Gukas.

  • Toka McBaror to lead film practitioners to Afric International Film Festival

    Toka McBaror to lead film practitioners to Afric International Film Festival

    Award winning Nigerian filmmaker, Toka Mcbaror is set to lead African film practitioners to the maiden edition of the Afric International Film Festival scheduled for 2026.

    McBaror confirmed this at a recent gathering when he was unveiled as the program coordinator of the film festival.

    Founded by Nwakpa Wisdom Isaac and Ojini Eberechi, aims to showcase a vibrant celebration of African culture, creativity and community.

    According to McBaror, the AIFF will bring together visionary filmmakers, industry professionals and passionate audiences for an unparalleled cinematic experience.

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    On his part, Nwakpa Wisdom stressed that AIFF is poised to build bridges between filmmakers, audiences, investors, and distributors across Africa and the diaspora while creating meaningful pathways for artistic growth, education, funding, and collaboration.

    “”For Afric International Film Festival, attendees can look forward to a rich inspiring and immersive festival experience that combines cinema, culture, and global networking opportunities. Whether you are a film maker, industry executive, student, or film lover, AIFF will offer you something specially crafted for you. We will be having masterclasses and won’t be biting more than we can chew in acceptance of films.”

    Nwakpa also confirmed that the first edition will take place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State in early 2026.

  • Music industry can test you in ways you don’t expect, says Spaceboy Mercury

    Music industry can test you in ways you don’t expect, says Spaceboy Mercury

    For Gbolahan Lawal, popularly known as Spaceboy Mercury, the journey in the world of music has been nothing short of extraordinary.

    The Nigerian-born sound engineer, music producer, songwriter, and artist has navigated the highs and lows of the music business with one thing fueling his fire – passion.

    When asked if he ever thought of giving up, Mercury was honest to say: “I would be lying if I said I’ve never been in a situation where I didn’t know what to do. The industry can test you in ways you don’t expect. But every time I get to that point, I remind myself why I started, because I love this. That love is what keeps me going.”

    From Shomolu, Lagos, where his story began, to South Africa, where he is currently based under the management of MCE Entertainment, Mercury’s path has been shaped by resilience, relentless work, and an unshakable belief in his talent.

    His fingerprints are on some of the most memorable sounds in African music over the past decade, proving he’s not just behind the boards but at the heart of the culture.

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    Spaceboy Mercury’s discography reads like a playlist of modern African hits, spanning multiple genres and generations. He’s crafted records for the likes of 2Baba, Olamide, Vector, Bella Shmurda, Davido, BNXN, Fireboy DML, Ayo Maff, and more. Each track showcases his versatility and ability to fuse emotion with rhythm.

    Some of his standout works include: Mama di mama (Coca Cola ad song) – 2Baba (2018); Vector’s Vibe – Vector (2019); Choko Milo – Olamide (2019); You Don’t Know – Vector & Erigga (2022); Expensive Love – Wadude ft. Bella Shmurda (2022); Easy on Me – Logo Olori & Davido (2024); 2 Dollar and 8 Days – Ayo Maff (2024); Pain Me – L.A.X ft. Pheelz & Fireboy DML (2025); Oshimiri – Ayo Maff ft. BNXN (2025) and Allen Avenue – Guap ft. OdumoduBlvck (2025).