The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Son of Iron premieres amidst pomp and glee at VIVA cinema

    Son of Iron premieres amidst pomp and glee at VIVA cinema

    The much-anticipated Nollywood action-drama, ‘Son of Iron,’ debuted in spectacular fashion as industry heavyweights, celebrities, and fans gathered for its grand premiere on November 14 at the VIVA Cinema, Jara Mall, Ikeja.

    ‘Son of Iron’ follows the gripping story of Kunle Ogundele, a gifted teenager from a Lagos suburb with an extraordinary ability to repair broken toys and electronics.

    The movie also promises to explore the relationship between a grandfather and his grandson, opening a conversation about the importance of learning about your ancestors and the lives of the people before you.

    ‘Son of Iron’ not only tells the tale of a young man who faces his deepest fears, but also of one who has to reconcile his dreams with the path set out for him by his father.

    Read Also: D’banj unveils Nigerian youth positively driven initiative

    Despite his natural brilliance and growing passion for technical work, Kunle struggles under the weight of his father’s expectations.

    His father, Rotimi Ogundele, a man haunted by an unfulfilled dream of becoming a lawyer, pressures Kunle to pursue the legal profession — a path inspired by Rotimi’s deep admiration for his former mentor, Barrister John Fakutiju.

    The film explores the emotional clash between parental aspirations and a child’s authentic purpose, weaving a narrative of identity, destiny, and the courage to embrace one’s unique gifts.

    Directed by Tunde Olaoye, the movie brings together an exceptional cast, including Amb. Ralph Niyi, Deborah Anugwa, Aykardo Agbor, Biola Adebayo, Debo “Mr Macaroni” Adedayo, Jide Kosoko, Jude Chukwuka, Kolade Oyedipe, Miracle Gabriel, Saeed Muhammed, Sola Sobowale, Tina Mba, Awoyemi “Arugba,” and Abiola Adebayo.

  • Lateef Adedimeji emerges Nigerian Muslim celebrity of the year

    Lateef Adedimeji emerges Nigerian Muslim celebrity of the year

    Decorated Nollywood actor Lateef Adedimeji has been named Muslim Celebrity of the Year for the #MNAwards2025 by Muslim News Nigeria, celebrating his professional excellence and unwavering commitment to Islamic values in the entertainment industry.

    The announcement was made by the Publisher of the newspaper, Alhaji Rasheed Abubakar on Friday, November 14.

    Abubakar noted that Adedimeji stood out among his peers for meeting the criteria set for the Award, which recognises Muslims making impactful contributions to society in their respective professions/careers while staying true and committed to their faith.

    Adedimeji’s fame has soared in the last four years, with major roles in notable biopics such as Ayinla (2021), Jagun Jagun (2023) and the recently released Lisabi 1&2 (2024/2025), which earned accolades at the 2025 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) and 2025 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA).

    Read Also: I lost lucrative deal after refusing to travel with company executive – Tiwa Savage

    Despite his rising profile, the actor has remained steadfast in his callings while observing a relatively decent lifestyle and openly identifies as a Muslim, reflecting Islamic values, both on and off screen.

    As a Muslim, Adedimeji consistently projects a good image of Islam in the public sphere with the frequent use of Islamic greetings, supplications, and messages on his social media platforms, where he commands the respect of millions of followers and commands the following of million of fans.

    On social media, he regularly posts Islamic reminders, quotes from the Qur’an and Hadith, and encourages followers to pray, fast, and seek knowledge. His page becomes especially active with Islamic content on Fridays, during Ramadan and Dhul Hijjah, the month of Hajj, and publicly celebrates Islamic festivals, encouraging other celebrities and as well as fans to stay connected to their faith.

    One strong example of Lateef Adedimeji’s commitment to charitable causes and Islamic awareness is his active participation in Islamic youth events, humanitarian campaigns, and da’wah-driven initiatives across Nigeria.

    “Congratulations to our brother, Lateef Adedimeji, for this well-deserved Award,” the Publisher said, “It is a reminder that whatever we do, Allah sees us, even if we do not see Him. Likewise, people are watching us, even when we don’t realise it.”

    He added that the honour is not only a recognition of Lateef’s admirable conduct but a responsibility to continue to serve as a role model, guided by Islamic principles.

    “This Award should serve as motivation for other Muslim celebrities to proudly uphold the faith and abundantly display their Islamic identity,” he said. “As Allah tells us in the Qur’an, Muslims are the best community raised for mankind – to enjoin good and forbid evil. May this Award inspire more Muslims in the entertainment industry to live by that.”

  • We want people to feel Africa through fashion, says Route25.55

    We want people to feel Africa through fashion, says Route25.55

    Two Nigerian enterpreneurs with thriving careers in luxury marketing and global event production have launched a new fashion platform aimed at positioning African luxury designers on the international stage, beginning with Dubai.

    The founders, Kike Tewe and Miss Kehinde Otitoju, daughter of Sir Kayode Otitoju, a  former Commissioner for Information in Ekiti State, said their brand, Route25.55, was born out of a shared passion for elevating high-end Sub-Saharan African fashion and solving long-standing challenges that have limited its global reach.

    Unlike traditional pop-up stores, Route25.55 operates as an “experiential concept space”, a model the founders say immerses visitors in a full sensory journey through African culture, from fashion to textures, scents, sounds, and even tastes.

    Read Also: D’banj unveils Nigerian youth positively driven initiative

    “We want people to feel Africa, not just view it on racks. Our goal is to bring the continent’s creativity to life in a way that is memorable and multisensory.” said Miss Otitoju.

    The initiative comes at a pivotal moment for African fashion, which continues to draw global attention.

    The recent appearance of Grammy-winning singer and style icon Ciara on the runway at Lagos Fashion Week further amplified worldwide interest in the continent’s fashion ecosystem.

    “That moment showed the world that African fashion is not just emerging, it is here. We felt it was the perfect time to introduce Route25.55.” Tewe noted.

    But beyond cultural celebration, the platform was created to tackle practical challenges that African designers face in entering global retail markets. Chief among them are prohibitive shipping costs, which often match or exceed the price of the garments, and the minimal African representation in major luxury retail spaces across the UAE such as Bloomingdale’s and Galeries Lafayette.

    The founders say they are eager to deepen conversations around African creativity, global retail equity, and cultural exchange. They have expressed interest in speaking with Arise News for a feature or interview. “It would be an honour to share how Route25.55 is connecting cultures and opening new pathways for African fashion on the global stage,” Miss Otitoju said.

  • D’banj unveils Nigerian youth positively driven initiative

    D’banj unveils Nigerian youth positively driven initiative

    Following Afreximbank’s recent equity acquisition of his C.R.E.A.M Platform, global entertainer and tech entrepreneur D’banj has announced a national call to all Nigerians through the launch of the Nigerian Youth Positively Driven (NYPD) initiative. The launch took place at the UN@80 celebration in Abuja, where the Creative Alliance for Peace was also unveiled.

    NYPD is a nationwide movement inviting Nigerians to document positive actions, inspiring deeds, and community impact happening around them.

    Through the NYPD portal, featured individuals can win ₦1,000,000 Grant while uploaders earn ₦250,000 grant. Rewards are issued weekly, making the platform one of the largest ongoing positive-impact reward systems in the country.

    After the C.R.E.A.M Platform rewards the NYPDians, the selected entries are transferred to the Creative Alliance for Peace for further amplification, development, and long-term impact execution.

    A major focus of the alliance is the promotion of renewable energy solutions and sustainability projects that uplift communities across Nigeria.

    READ ALSO; Senate seeks fresh solutions to rising insecurity

    D’banj describes the initiative as a national call to redirect attention from negativity and highlight the real stories shaping Nigeria’s future.

    Speaking more about the opportunity, D’banj disclosed, “When you talk about the creative industry, we all know that today, content is the biggest export that we have as a nation. Unfortunately, we don’t have enough strong alliances or platforms where the youth can effectively access support.

    “Africa is the biggest when it comes to creativity, and we have not even scratched 20%. I think it is so important to come together to have that voice. We’re moving, and the movement is called Nigerian Youths Positively Driven (NYPD). With it, we have created the alliance, and we now need the youths who are positively driven to jump on it.

  • I lost lucrative deal after refusing to travel with company executive – Tiwa Savage

    I lost lucrative deal after refusing to travel with company executive – Tiwa Savage

    Afrobeats singer Tiwa Savage has claimed that there is a pervasive nature of exploitation in the country’s music industry.

    Speaking at a panel discussion organised by Entertainment Week Africa, Savage shared personal experiences of being pressured to offer s3xual favours in exchange for career opportunities.

    According to Savage, she has been told to visit influential male executives to secure bookings and has lost endorsement deals for refusing to compromise her values.

    READ ALSO; Senate seeks fresh solutions to rising insecurity

    One such instance involved being asked to go on a holiday to Dubai with a company co-owner, which she declined, resulting in the loss of a lucrative endorsement opportunity.

    She said, “I had been told that if I didn’t go and see ‘this chairman’ personally, I would not be put on a show. I lost an endorsement because I refused to go to Dubai with a man who is one of the owners of the company.

    “That was when I realised that they don’t value my talent but my body, which I was only flaunting as part of branding. It ended up hurting me because that is all they were seeing.”

  • Nicki Minaj urges fans to support Nigerian artists amid criticisms

    Nicki Minaj urges fans to support Nigerian artists amid criticisms

    Renowned US rapper Nicki Minaj has called on fans to be more understanding and supportive of Nigerian artistes who have come under fire for their statements and actions in recent weeks.

    The criticism faced by Nigerian artistes includes accusations of arrogance and insensitivity, with some being slammed for their responses to the country’s security challenges and others for their personal remarks.

    Burna Boy, for instance, sparked outrage after jokingly stating he desires “only rich fans,” while Yemi Alade faced backlash for protesting against potential American intervention in Nigeria’s insecurity issues.

    Additionally, several celebrities were chastised for posting content unrelated to the tragic events in the country, including a deadly terrorist attack on a church in Kwara state and the kidnapping of school girls in Kebbi state.

    Reacting to these developments, Minaj took to her social media platform to plead for compassion and wisdom in criticising Nigerian artistes.

    READ ALSO; Senate seeks fresh solutions to rising insecurity

    On her X handle, she wrote, “My darlings, let’s utilize wisdom & compassion as it relates to our Nigerian artists. There are very logical reasons for most things when we look not to judge, but to comprehend.

    “That goes for every country & their artists. Let’s lift them & continue to use wisdom.”

    Minaj’s appeal comes after she recently garnered commendations from Nigerians for speaking out against the alleged jihadist violence targeting Christians in the country at a United Nations event in New York, where she emphasised the need for freedom of worship and urgent action against terrorism.

  • Don Jazzy celebrates Co-founder Potrix, credits him for Bammby’s rapid growth

    Don Jazzy celebrates Co-founder Potrix, credits him for Bammby’s rapid growth

    Music producer and tech entrepreneur, Don Jazzy, has celebrated his Bammby Dating App co-founder, Opata Efungwu, popularly known as Potrix, describing him as a key force behind the app’s growing success.

    The Mavin Records boss sent the birthday message via Instagram, urging fans to pray for and extend good wishes to his partner.

    “Shout out to @potrix102 my @bammby.dating Co Founder. It’s his birthday today. Guys please help me say a prayer for him and wish him a very happy birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRO. More blessings,” he wrote.

    The message comes as Bammby records a significant milestone barely a year after its launch. The dating app has surpassed 300,000 users, placing it among the fastest-growing relationship platforms in Nigeria.

    Don Jazzy has repeatedly voiced confidence in the platform. In a recent video, he joked that Bammby’s only “problem” is that “the entire Nigeria will soon be on it,” underscoring its rising appeal among young people.

    Built on strict security and authenticity standards, Bammby positions itself as a safe alternative in an online environment riddled with catfishing, impersonation and love scams. The app deploys anti-catfishing measures and a behavioural matching system that studies user patterns to connect more compatible pairs, rather than pairing users at random.

    This focus on safety and intentional connections has helped strengthen its credibility among young Africans.

    Potrix, described by insiders as the “technical brain” behind the platform, has years of experience building digital products across various industries. Beyond Bammby, he leads a technology company that develops mobile apps, enterprise software and e-commerce systems. His technical expertise complements Don Jazzy’s strong public influence in what has become a balanced and effective partnership.

    Don Jazzy’s birthday tribute reflects not only camaraderie but the teamwork driving Bammby’s steady rise in Nigeria’s tech space. With its growing user base and increasing online buzz, the app is positioning itself as one of the country’s emerging digital success stories.

    Fans have continued to flood social media with birthday wishes for Potrix, commending both founders for their role in shaping one of Nigeria’s notable new tech products.

  • Mactee returns with new ‘Dundee Dance’ wave

    Mactee returns with new ‘Dundee Dance’ wave

    Nigerian born U.S-based artist Mac-Anthony Abirika is back with a fresh burst of energy as he prepares to release his new single “Dundee Dance” on November 21. 

    The song introduces a vibrant new sound and a lively dance that reflects his story of persistence, growth, and creative rebirth.

    Mac-Anthony’s love for music started early in Lagos, where classic records on his father’s turntable shaped his passion. As a teenager, he formed a three man band and played a major role in crafting the group’s sound. 

    They had a few years together before splitting, he took the bold step of going solo, which led to record deals, international tours, and moments where it felt like success was right in reach.

    Then came the setbacks. Slow moving contracts, fading momentum, and long quiet stretches that tested his belief in himself and the goal.

    “It was a dark time,” he recalls. “I could see the light from a mile away, but instead of basking in it, everything around me went dim. I couldn’t picture myself working a 9-to-5, all I wanted was to sing, to be a legend, to build something that gives hope to people who need a hand, no matter who they are.”

    His turning point came in 2020 during the pandemic with the release of “Manna,” a soulful anthem that went viral and reignited his journey. More singles followed, including “Body,” his first nationwide music video, and the. EP “Pit to Palace,” an eight track project built on pain, faith, and survival. The hit “Golgotha,” featuring Magnito, added another defining moment to his catalog.

    Now he steps into an another realm with “Dundee Dance.” A sound on a different wave level, upbeat, and packed with positive energy, introducing a fresh dance that celebrates movement and freedom.

    “I have learned that if you keep knocking, the door will open one day,” he says.

    Beyond music, Mactee is the co founder of Mark and Briks LLC, a fast growing company involved in fashion, real estate, and talent development. His goal is to inspire and create opportunities for others through every platform he builds.

    With “Dundee Dance” and more releases already lined up, Mactee stands as proof that faith and determination can turn any pit into a palace.

  • Physical appearance, talent crucial in Nollywood – Yvonne Jegede

    Physical appearance, talent crucial in Nollywood – Yvonne Jegede

    Actress Yvonne Jegede has stated that looks are a significant factor in the industry but also acknowledges the importance of talents. 

    In an interview on Hip TV, Jegede stated that looks are crucial in showbiz as they attract viewers and bring in business but notes that many actors have succeeded through other means.

    “There are so many things actors can rely on. It’s not just looks. But then again, looks is very important because it’s showbiz. It’s what you show people that’s what brings business so appearance matters a lot.

    “However, a lot of people have been able to get on by doing other things. Not necessarily looks. But if you want to rely on your looks, if that’s your best foot, bring it forward. I mean, it happens in every other industry,” she said.

    Jegede also expressed satisfaction with her earnings from Nollywood, saying it pays most of her bills and appreciates how far the industry has come.

    Read Also: Yvonne Jegede condemns Pastor’s ‘insensitive’ remarks on menstruation

    “I can’t speak for everybody, but for me, Nollywood pays the bills. Not all the bills, but it does pay the bills. So, I’m very good. I’m very happy with where we are now in Nollywood compared to before,” she continued.

    She also stated that actors who have paid their dues should be fairly compensated based on their experience and milestones.

    “It depends on your milestone and it depends on the dues you’ve paid. I believe if you’ve been here long enough and you’ve paid your dues, you will definitely be paid your worth,” she added.

  • Ruger dismisses feud with Davido, declares loves

    Ruger dismisses feud with Davido, declares loves

    Afrobeats singer Ruger has denied any beef with senior colleague Davido, stating that he loves and respects him.

    The clarification comes after Davido’s fans accused Ruger of taking sides in the rivalry between Davido and Wizkid.

    “When you’re ready apologise and beg Davido publicly, your song will enter No 1,” a fan wrote.

    In a series of posts on social media, Ruger emphasised that he has no issue with Davido and believes they are on good terms.

    Read Also: Ruger returns with ‘Muhammad Ali’ November

    He questioned the need for an apology, asking “And did Davido tell you I did anything wrong to him?”

    Ruger also expressed admiration for Davido, stating that he loves him and knows that Davido feels the same way.

    He attributed the controversy to fans and emphasised that he will only believe there’s an issue if Davido addresses it publicly or directly.

    “I love Davido and i know he loves me too. People on his team still repost my sh*t. I will never believe this agenda that he doesn’t f*ck with me except he says it to my face or publicly. But if him talk am, everywhere go first blur Sha,” he wrote.