The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Campus Music Spotlight: Unveiling Nigeria’s next wave of Afrobeats stars

    Campus Music Spotlight: Unveiling Nigeria’s next wave of Afrobeats stars

    A seismic shift is underway in Nigerian music as Afrobeats keeps getting platforms to groom the next set of shining stars that will take over from the current crop of Afrobeat crooners.

    One of such platforms is Campus Music Spotlight (CMS), which officially launched recently.

    The new Afrobeats platform is a groundbreaking intercollegiate music competition designed to transform over 40 campuses nationwide into vibrant discovery hubs for the next generation of Afrobeats superstars.

    An initiative of Playmode Music, an unorthodox music marketing company, and ACADA Magazine, Nigeria’s most circulated free campus publication, CMS, the founders say, is far more than a talent show. According to the founders, the music platform is a national talent accelerator built to identify, nurture, and catapult young creatives from classrooms to global music stages.

    Read Also: Ebonny Musik drops unstoppable EP, fuses Afrobeat with UK urban vibes

    Through a strategic partnership with Chocolate City Music Group, contestants gain rare access to top industry gatekeepers. This partnership creates a direct talent funnel, connecting raw campus talent with real-world opportunities in one of Nigeria’s most powerful music ecosystems.

    To reward successful contestants, over N7 million in cash prizes are up for grabs, alongside brand endorsement deals and a chance to feature on the exclusive Campus Music Spotlight Compilation Album, to be engineered and distributed in collaboration with Chocolate City Music Group.

    The proposed album will shine a light on the most promising contestants, positioning CMS as a springboard for authentic new Afrobeats voices to reach both national and global audiences.

    CMS is powered by Trace TV as its official media partner, offering unrivaled editorial coverage and storytelling across television, digital, and social platforms. From live performances to interviews and behind-the-scenes moments, Trace TV ensures every story is seen, heard, and celebrated.

    The platform is also backed by Swypatune, which powers the competition as the official technology partner. Through its seamless digital infrastructure, artists can easily upload their entries, while fans across Nigeria can vote, engage, and champion their favorite campus stars in real time, creating a thrilling blend of music, technology, and community.

    A panel of 13 elite industry experts, including label executives, Grammy-winning producers, A&Rs, DSP leads, brand strategists, and entertainment lawyers, will mentor and handpick the most promising talents.

    The faculty includes Samuel Onyemelukwe, Dapo Ayo-Adeusi (Uncle Daps), Aibee Abidoye, Ifeyinwa Anyadiegwu, V-Tek, Tope Salami, Joey Akan, Chimdinma R. Maduforo (Didi), among others.

    According to Salam Damola, Project Lead for Campus Music Spotlight:

    “This project isn’t just about winning, it’s about acceleration. We’re connecting undiscovered campus artists with the biggest industry players, giving them visibility, mentorship, and platforms that can change their lives forever.”

    With record labels, global media houses, and tech innovators aligned under one vision, CMS stands as a monumental movement to mint the next wave of Afrobeats stars, rewriting how talent is discovered and developed across Nigeria.

    As the spotlight beams on campuses nationwide, one thing is clear: the next global Afrobeats superstar may be sitting in a lecture hall right now.

  • Ebonny Musik drops unstoppable EP, fuses Afrobeat with UK urban vibes

    Ebonny Musik drops unstoppable EP, fuses Afrobeat with UK urban vibes

    Nigerian-born and UK-based singer, Ebenezer Olaolu Mabinuori, popularly known as Ebonny Musik, has released a new body of work titled:  Unstoppable.

    It is a five-track Extended Play (EP) that showcases his evolution as an Afro-urban artist blending African rhythm with British sonic influences.

    The project, which features producers Christian Jude, D’tunes, Slash Beatz, and Grammy-nominated Bolaji Williams (Phazehop), is being hailed as Ebonny’s most cohesive and intentional effort yet. It delivers a seamless mix of Afrobeat energy and UK-style polish without losing its Nigerian groove.

    From start to finish, Unstoppable captures Ebonny’s confidence as an artist finding his voice. The EP opens with Feelings, a smooth, mid-tempo collaboration with D’tunes that sets a relaxed mood and highlights the singer’s emotive delivery.

    The tempo picks up on Whine 4 Me, a club-ready track built on heavy drums and catchy basslines, while the lyrics retain a playful Afrobeat charm.

    The emotional highlight of the project, however, comes with Good Days Bad Days, a soulful reflection on resilience and life’s ups and downs. The song, supported by soft percussion and acoustic guitar, has resonated strongly with fans and dominated airwaves across the country.

    READ ALSO: PDP suffering from self-inflicted injuries, says Wabara

    It has received massive rotation on top Nigerian radio stations including Vybes FM, Star FM, Wazobia FM, Lagos Traffic Radio, Cool FM, Hot FM, Fresh FM, Rockcity FM, Faaji FM, Raypower, and Smash FM, while also airing on MTV Base Naija, Trace Naija, TVC, Soundcity, ONTV, and NTA Ilorin.

    Collaborating with London-based producer Christian Jude, Ebonny experiments with smoother, R&B-infused Afrobeat on Sweetest, while One Life, the closing track, brings a celebratory tone with its uplifting message about seizing opportunities.

    The EP’s diverse production lineup adds depth without losing consistency. Jude’s sleek touch contrasts D’tunes’ warmth, while Slash Beatz adds rhythmic edge and Phazehop provides rich sonic layering. The result is a clean, balanced sound that avoids the clutter common in Afro-urban projects.

    Lyrically, Unstoppable explores familiar but heartfelt themes of love, ambition, and perseverance. The simple, relatable songwriting, particularly in Good Days Bad Days, is part of what has endeared the project to listeners.

    The EP’s structure follows a deliberate flow: opening with introspection, building toward danceable rhythms, slowing for reflection, and closing on an optimistic note. This sequencing makes the project feel complete and well-curated.

    Ebonny’s Unstoppable arrives at a time when Nigerian and diaspora artists are shaping the global Afrobeat soundscape. His UK influence is evident, yet his Nigerian roots remain firm, especially in the rhythmic and lyrical textures.

    While the EP may not radically redefine the Afro-urban genre, it delivers consistency, thoughtful production, and emotional depth. Its standout track, Good Days Bad Days, positions Ebonny as one of the emerging voices to watch.

    With Unstoppable, Ebonny Musik has made a strong statement, polished, passionate, and true to his name. The project signals an artist on the rise, one determined to grow and, as the title suggests, remain unstoppable.

  • Veteran actor Baba Gebu dies after brief illness

    Veteran actor Baba Gebu dies after brief illness

    Veteran actor Prince Oyewole Olowomojuore, popularly known as Baba Gebu, has died following an undisclosed illness.

    According to reports, Baba Gebu, a prominent figure in Yoruba-language cinema, died on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

    The news was announced by fellow actor Kunle Afod, who described the deceased as a “great legend” and a talented actor who left an indelible mark on the industry.

    READ ALSO: NMDPRA places 15% petrol tax on hold

    He wrote, “It saddens my heart as I announce the passing away of our great legend, a great actor who passed away this evening after a brief illness… BABA GEBU may your soul rest in peace …”

    With a career spanning several decades, Baba Gebu starred in numerous notable productions.

    The actor’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans, and well-wishers, who are mourning the loss of a true Nollywood icon.

  • Regina Daniels slams co-wife, Laila Charani, over lesbianism claim

    Regina Daniels slams co-wife, Laila Charani, over lesbianism claim

    Actress Regina Daniels has responded to fellow co-wife Laila Charani’s claims of drug use, lesbian affairs, and being a danger to children in the household.

    Laila earlier questioned how Regina can claim she gave her money and how she doesn’t trust her daughters alone with Daniels.

    She said she is very content with the provisions her husband, Ned Nwoko, makes for their family.

    She claimed that the reason Regina is fighting her husband is because he wants her to stop her drug and alcohol addiction.

    “You also know that my husband completely hates alcohol, drugs, and smoking. He has always been clear that he would never accept any wife who drinks, smokes, or uses drugs. The only reason you are fighting my husband is because he wants you to stop your drug and alcohol addiction. It has always been a serious matter for him, as he neither smokes nor drinks himself”, she said.

    Charani also alleged that she almost lost her marriage when Daniels introduced her to drugs 6 years ago, and it was Ned who rescued her from that dark part.

    READ ALSO: NMDPRA places 15% petrol tax on hold

    “You know too well that I almost lost my marriage when you introduced me to drugs 6 years ago, and it was my husband’s quick insistence on intervention that rescued me from that dark path. You have been a bad influence since you married into this beautiful family, giving drugs to nannies and our workers, including your younger sister Destiny”, she continued.

    She added that she doesn’t trust her daughters around her unsupervised, especially when she found out that she was sleeping with every single girl around her.

    “You infected everyone with your virus, and this is why I will not trust my daughters around you unsupervised, especially when I found out that you were sleeping with every single girl around you”, she added.

    Responding to the allegations, Regina dismissed Laila’s lengthy statement as scripted by their husband and described the claim that children should not be left unsupervised with her as “the most useless and hurtful thing to say”.

    Addressing the allegation that she “sleeps with every single girl” in the household, the mother of two neither confirmed nor denied same-s3x relationships but turned the accusation back on Laila.

    She wrote, “First off! Openly saying you can’t leave kids around me is the most useless and hurtful thing Ned ordered his retarded wife to say. I’m such a mother to so many children that it’s quite tiring. Also, saying I sleep with every single girl?

    “Truthfully, sleeping with the same gender isn’t a thing that I consider shameful, but how is the other woman so certain? lol. Is she so certain because I slept with her, too?

    “I hope she also knows that if not for polygamy disadvantages, her son and mine can’t be together because of all the atrocities we have caught him doing that I will never mention! But my son loves him, so what can I do?”

  • Veteran actor Pa Ojoge opens up on financial struggles, accuses TAMPAN of neglect

    Veteran actor Pa Ojoge opens up on financial struggles, accuses TAMPAN of neglect

    Veteran Yoruba actor Oluwasesan Adio popularly known as Pa Ojoge, has spoken out about his financial struggles, revealing he survives on N5,000 and N10,000 given to him by friends.

    “I do not have money. I rely on other people to survive. I get money from people who I have known for long. Sometimes people give me ₦5,000, others can give me ₦10,000. That is how I am taking care of my children and wife,” he said.

    Ojoge, in an interview, accused the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) of neglect, stating that the association only recognises wealthy actors, not those who are struggling.

    Pa Ojoge, known for his comedic roles, expressed his frustration, saying he’s been forced to rely on the goodwill of others to care for his family.

    He also shared that he recently lost a child, but TAMPAN didn’t acknowledge his loss, unlike that of his colleague Peju Ogunmola.

    “I lost my child before Peju Ogunmola lost hers, but TAMPAN did not post mine. They only posted Peju’s because I don’t have money. If you are broke, the industry will not recognize you,” he lamented.

    He added that a local TAMPAN chairman in Shomolu condemned the association’s selective support, calling it unfair and insensitive.

    Read Also: Broda Shaggi, Mr Macaroni join Papi Luwe for new episodes of Face2face

    “My chairman in Shomolu lambasted them that it was not supposed to be that way. The job only recognizes those that are rich, not those that are poor,” he added.

    Pa Ojoge began his acting career in the 1970s and became a household name for his humorous performances in Yoruba and English productions.

    He has appeared in numerous films and television series, including the popular sitcom Face2Face.

    Pa Ojoge’s situation has sparked concerns about the welfare and neglect of veteran actors in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. 

  • I almost committed suicide after BBNaija disqualification – Beauty Tukura

    I almost committed suicide after BBNaija disqualification – Beauty Tukura

    Former Miss Nigeria and Big Brother Naija contestant Beauty Tukura has spoken about her struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts following her disqualification from the show.

    In an interview on BeyondWithEzinne podcast, Tukura revealed she felt overwhelmed by public scrutiny and shame, leading to a dark period where she nearly took her life.

    She said: “I was depressed, I feel like my life ended. I was living in a dark room for weeks and in between, I will do therapy.

    “I cried every day. I was thinking of ending it. I almost actually committed suicide.

    “The heat was too much, and personally, I felt like nothing I said was going to make sense because all they wanted to do was crucify me like Jesus. It was very hard”.

    According to her, after disqualification, she struggled to face her parents, admitting, “I was too ashamed to see them. I didn’t know how to face them. I was in a very bad place.”

    Tukura praised her parents’ unwavering support and messages from fans worldwide, which helped her cope and focus on the positive.

    “I decided to focus on the love. Since then, I’ve always focused on the positive messages,” she said.

    The experience was a turning point for Tukura, who has since reflected on mistakes and the lessons learned.

    “That was the lowest point of my life, and I’ve decided it will stay that way. There’s no room for such mistakes anymore,” she said.

  • I married Regina Daniels at 21 not 17 – Ned Nwoko

    I married Regina Daniels at 21 not 17 – Ned Nwoko

    Senator representing Delta North Ned Nwoko has denied allegations by Regina he married her at 17. 

    In a statement on X, Nwoko explained that during his first meeting with Regina, she told him she was 21 years old and presented an Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) voter’s card as proof, showing her date of birth as October 10, 1998.

    Nwoko wrote: “It has come to my attention that false claims are being circulated by Regina, suggesting that I married her when she was 17 years old. These claims are entirely untrue and misleading.

    “For clarity, during my first meeting with Regina, I asked her age, and she told me she was 21 years old. I further asked if she had any document to support this, and she presented her inec voter’s card, which clearly shows that she was born on October 10th, 1998. I informed her that I would keep this document in my possession, and I have done so since that day”.

    Nwoko referenced an interview with Regina’s mother, which he said supports his account, and described the claims as untrue and misleading. 

    Read Also: Uche Montana denies drug claims in Regina Daniels, Ned Nwoko feud

    “I have also seen a BBC interview Her mom granted after our marriage regarding her age”.

    He urged the public to approach the allegations with caution, citing Regina’s “mental condition” related to her drug addiction.

    “According to all verifiable records, our marriage took place six years ago, which means Regina is 27 years old today. Any suggestion that I married her at 17 is false and should not be accepted by the public. 

    “The facts are verifiable and indisputable. Until this is done, I urge the public to approach all her claims with caution and discernment especially taking into account her current mental condition having started and abandoned her rehabilitation from illegal drug addiction,” he countered. 

  • How I skipped school in 2011 for an Ibadan show – Davido

    How I skipped school in 2011 for an Ibadan show – Davido

    Afrobeats superstar Davido has shared a nostalgic post about his early days as a performer.

    The Grammy-nominated artist reminisced about skipping school in 2011 to perform in Ibadan.

    Fast-forward to the present, Davido is now headlining his 5ive Alive tour across Nigeria, with Ibadan inclusive, which has been a huge success.

    The tour has seen him perform to massive crowds and collaborate with other prominent artists.

    Davido wrote on X, “In 2011, I skipped school to perform in Ibadan. Asa, Peju, B Red and Sina picked me up from Babcock, and we drove to join the Lynxxx and Friends Tour. I had no idea it was going to air on Soundcity, and when my pops saw it, I got in so much trouble.

    “14 years later, we destroyed the stadium. The 5ive Alive run across Nigeria has been one for the books.”

    Davido is using his platform to encourage his peers to invest in their homeland and give back to their roots.

    “To my peers, let’s build back home and give back to our roots. Big love to all our sponsors for backing this historic tour”, he added.

    The tour is set to continue with upcoming shows in Abuja and Lagos.

    Davido will also perform at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta on November 20th to celebrate his birthday on the 21st.

    “Abuja and Lagos up next, but next stop is ATL for my birthday, State Farm Arena on November 20th,” he concluded.

  • Folagade Banks joins Youth Minister, Afolayan, others to inspire youths at Noella foundation programme

    Folagade Banks joins Youth Minister, Afolayan, others to inspire youths at Noella foundation programme

    Popular skit maker and actor, Folagade Banks, joined the Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, ace filmmaker Kunle Afolayan and other notable figures at a youth inspiration programme organised by the Noella Foundation in Lagos state.

    The event, themed “Inspiring the Next Generation,” brought together young Nigerians from different walks of life to share experiences and learn from accomplished individuals who have made their mark in various fields.

    The Noella Foundation, founded by Seyi Tinubu — son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu — and his wife, Layal Tinubu, is a non-profit organisation committed to empowering young Nigerians through mentorship, education, and capacity-building initiatives.

    The foundation also runs several outreach programmes that focus on child welfare, youth empowerment and community development across the country.

    Speaking at the event, Folagade Banks, whose real name is Abiri Tobi Festus, shared his inspiring journey to stardom, urging Nigerian youths to pursue their passions with focus and resilience.

    READ ALSO; FG pays N18bn insurance to boost troops’ welfare

    Banks recounted how his love for acting and storytelling pushed him to take risks.

    “There were times I would travel from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, to Lagos just to shoot a scene for N20,000. It wasn’t about the money; it was about passion and purpose,” he said.

    He noted that despite the challenges and uncertainties of the early days, his consistency eventually paid off, transforming him from a skit actor known for his popular “Mama Deola” character into a versatile performer capable of interpreting diverse roles.

    “I started with Mama Deola, and many thought that was all I could do. But with time and consistency, I’ve been able to evolve into different roles — as a matron, a mother, and even beyond comedy. Consistency is what makes the difference,” he added.

    Kunle Afolayan, who also addressed the participants, emphasised the importance of storytelling and cultural preservation in today’s creative industry, urging young filmmakers to remain authentic while embracing innovation.

    The Minister for Youth Development, represented by a senior official from the ministry, commended the Noella Foundation for its continued efforts in providing platforms that inspire and empower young Nigerians to reach their full potential.

    He said such collaborations between government and private initiatives were vital in addressing youth unemployment and in promoting creativity as a tool for national development.

    The event ended with an interactive session where participants engaged with the speakers on practical ways to harness opportunities in the creative and entrepreneurial sectors.

  • Tacha thanks God after making history with double GWR

    Tacha thanks God after making history with double GWR

    Reality star and beauty influencer Symply Tacha has expressed gratitude after Guinness World Records confirmed she broke two titles in a single attempt.

    The BBNaija star became the first Nigerian to achieve two Guinness World Records in one sitting, completing 82 makeovers in 8 hours and 144 in 24 hours during a challenging event in Lagos.

    She gave full credit to God, calling the victory a divine breakthrough, and honoured her late mother, saying she felt her presence and strength throughout the ordeal.

    Tacha praised her dedicated team, along with her assistant makeup artists, for staying committed through power outages, storm damage, and intense pressure.

    She wrote on Instagram: “FIRST NIGERIAN TO BREAK 2 RECORDS AT A GO!!! ACTIVE ACTIVE ACTIVE!!! GOD DID IT!!! My Messiah DID IT!!!

    READ ALSO; FG pays N18bn insurance to boost troops’ welfare

    “My mummy in heaven!! You did it!!! I felt you holding my shoulders when my knees were shaking. I carried your strength into that room, and I didn’t stop.

    “My team. SIR J @soprinyeking, @otunbaseun, @mztrwealth, @youfounddera_ and my ASSISTANT MAKEUP ARTISTS… when the lights went out, you stayed.

    “When the pressure got loud, you listened. When I snapped, you understood the big ASSIGNMENT. You smiled, talked, cried, and hyped the f*ck outta me till the very last second. From the depth of my heart, THANK YOU. We didn’t just work! We warred.

    “To my fans!! Titans: Where would I be without you? When the world wrote me off, when I was blacklisted for being real, tough, authentic, unapologetic! You held me up. You prayed, you posted, you pushed, you defended. You made me your personal project and refused to let me quit.

    “Because you don’t stop, I will never stop. The world will never forget your name.

    “People see the headline; God and I know the trenches. The sleepless nights. The generator hums. The prayers at 3 AM. Swollen feet. Shaky hands that kept going. Witness forms, timekeepers, evidence, precision, tears wiped with the back of a gloved hand!! and then GRACE. Grace that does not lie.

    “To everyone who called, pulled up, reposted, and believed before they saw it, THANK YOU. The same God who did this for me knows the secret prayers in your heart, and He will answer you DOUBLE… double, double, double, double.

    “This is a reminder to every dreamer: Do not stop. If you don’t have haters, pray for haters because they’ll push you into purpose. While you hate, I chase destiny… and WIN. My first name is Anita, which means gracious. And grace is loud in my life.

    “First Nigerian to break two Guinness World Records in one sitting. Fastest makeup artist in the world. Birthday next month!! Best gift secured. Party loading.”