The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • I won’t lose myself for being an entertainer – Ruth Kadiri

    I won’t lose myself for being an entertainer – Ruth Kadiri

    Actress and producer Ruth Kadiri has emphasised the importance of staying true to oneself in the entertainment industry.

    In an interview with Jay On Air, Kadiri revealed that her priority is maintaining personal happiness and fulfillment, rather than seeking external validation.

    She said: “The last thing I want to do as a person is to lose myself in the process of being an entertainer. I need to be able to keep the wealth of happiness, of fulfillment for myself whilst growing and building what I want to build. And I’m not going to let anybody sway me”.

    With a career spanning over two decades, Kadiri has established herself as a multifaceted talent, having worked behind the scenes as a writer and producer on several notable projects.

    “Okay, so I haven’t been counting. I’ve been into entertainment for a very long time.

    “Even when I was in Unilag, I was already into entertainment. So there are so many aspects of it for me. I started behind the scenes as a writer.

    Read Also: Shaffy Bello gets 2025 AMAA award nomination for ‘Best Actress’

    “Beautiful movies were shot in Ghana. Amazing hits were written by me”, she said. 

    According to her, trusting her instincts and having a clear vision for her work has been key to her success.

    “It wasn’t as easy. People were already making films on YouTube. It wasn’t something that I was so aware of.

    “I didn’t understand the business. I didn’t understand how it was. And it wasn’t so appealing at that time.

    “But when I wanted to do it, I knew how my own was going to go. Most times when I want to do something, I know when it’s going to succeed. I don’t know how I know, but I know”, she added.

    Kadiri noted that she often finds herself misunderstood by others, particularly when it comes to her long-term goals.

    She said: “I would say, because people don’t understand the long-term goals. And you also probably, if you have energy to explain, you do. If you don’t, you just keep it short.

    “With the tools and the opportunities like YouTube and lots of platforms, I expect entertainers to be going crazy and wild and creating things and stuff like that. All those things we wrote in our journals, we are not doing it anymore”.

  • Angela Okorie ends feud, backs Regina Daniels amid marital woes

    Angela Okorie ends feud, backs Regina Daniels amid marital woes

    Actress and singer Angela Okorie has offered support to Regina Daniels amid her marital crisis, putting aside their past differences.

    In an Instagram post, Angela condemned the use of influence to oppress others, emphasising that those elevated by God should uplift and inspire, rather than control or dominate.

    She expressed empathy for Regina’s struggles, stating that it breaks her heart to see her go through such difficult times.

    Despite their past online spat, which led to a heated exchange, Angela chose to focus on forgiveness and love.

    She revealed that she had let go of the pain and anger, opting instead for peace and compassion.

    Angela’s words were laced with motherly affection as she referred to Regina as “my daughter” and expressed her unwavering love and support. 

    She wrote: “GOD’s power stands above all, greater than human strength or any authority. When God elevates us to a place of influence, it is not for control or oppression, but to uplift, inspire, and make a lasting positive impact on others.

    Read Also: Tearful Regina Daniels breaks down over family struggles, marital issues

    “Dear Gina, despite the hurt, misunderstandings. and distance that have come between us, I have chosen peace. It breaks my heart to see you go through difficult times, but my love for you remains steadfast.

    “I hold no bitterness toward you. I continue to pray for your safety, happiness, and peace of mind. No matter what has happened, my love as a mother will never change. You are, and will always be, my daughter, the one l have loved, watched blossom, and prayed for.

    “Life teaches us lessons through both joy and hardship. Sometimes those lessons come through pain, but they also bring wisdom and strength. Through  everything, I have chosen love over bitterness, forgiveness over anger. and peace over pride.

    “To my Legit fans and supporters, l want you all to know that forgiveness is freedom. I have let go of the pain and hand everything over to God, the only true and righteous Judge. I trust His divine justice and perfect timing.

    “I stand today not in anger, but in love. Not as a critic, but as a mother who prays earnestly for restoration and healing. May God bring peace, love, and unity where there has been division. May His light guide our paths, and may every wounded heart find healing in His grace.” 

  • Tearful Regina Daniels breaks down over family struggles, marital issues

    Tearful Regina Daniels breaks down over family struggles, marital issues

    Actress Regina Daniels has broken down in tears over ongoing family struggles.

    In an emotional video on her Instagram Story, she expressed frustration and despair, stating that she was struggling emotionally and mentally.

    “I tried. I feel like I’m going crazy, I’m losing my mind, and it’s not making any sense. I’m really crying in front of everybody,” Daniels said in the emotional clip.

    She said her current struggle is centered around her brother Sammy’s detention for days.

    Daniels’ parents, who were estranged, have also reunited to secure Sammy’s release.

    “Two concluded sworn enemies reuniting with no negative ulterior motive other than their daughter’s happiness,” she wrote.

    Read Also: Mercy Aigbe sends message to Regina Daniels amid marital woes

    Daniels had hinted at experiencing domestic violence, a charge Senator Ned Nwoko denied, claiming she needed rehabilitation for substance abuse.

    In the recent video, Daniels hinted at returning to her husband, stating that she didn’t know what she was begging for. 

    “But please, what am I even begging for? I don’t know. Do you guys think it’s easy? Every time I wake up, I say one thing — oh my brother, today I hear good news, he’s about to be free, then tomorrow I hear another thing. Like, what’s the problem? But I’ve tried. I have to go. I will go back,” she said.

    Fellow actress Mercy Johnson has shown support by searching for Sammy, Daniels’ brother.

    Despite the challenges, Daniels expressed gratitude for her parents’ reunion, which she believes was for her happiness. 

  • De Kronicles of Kris Talker spreads laughter, healing in Maiduguri

    De Kronicles of Kris Talker spreads laughter, healing in Maiduguri

    In Maiduguri, laughter made a powerful comeback as hundreds gathered for De Kronicles of Kris Talker (Laugh and Live) — a comedy show aimed at healing through humor and community.

    Held on November 2, 2025, at the Forshamz Event Centre, the show drew over 600 attendees who enjoyed an evening of jokes, storytelling, and live performances. 

    Some of Nigeria’s top comedians — including Mc Pashun, Loud Voice, Job Legend, and other “Comedy Gladiators” — delivered side-splitting performances that kept the audience roaring with laughter.

    Read Also: Korede Bello, Jimmy Jatt, Daayuur headline BlastOff with Turbo D

    But De Kronicles of Kris Talker 2.0 was more than just entertainment. It was a conscious effort to rebuild community spirit and provide emotional relief to residents of Maiduguri, a region still recovering from years of insurgency.

    According to the organizers, the goal was simple yet profound: “to help people laugh again and remind them of the power of joy, even in hard times.”

    For many attendees, the night served as more than just a comedy show — it was a form of therapy. 

    Through laughter, connection, and shared joy, De Kronicles of Kris Talker reaffirmed the vital role of art and humor in helping communities heal and rediscover hope.

  • Korede Bello, Jimmy Jatt, Daayuur headline BlastOff with Turbo D

    Korede Bello, Jimmy Jatt, Daayuur headline BlastOff with Turbo D

    Kuronbeun Entertainment, a brainchild of entertainment personality who doubles as a top DJ, Betiku Oluwatobi Austin aka DJ Turbo D, has enlisted leading Nigerian music acts like Korede Bello, DJ Jimmy Jatt and Daayuur  for a star packed event tagged ‘BlastOff with Turbo D.’

    A rep for Kuronbeun Entertainment explained that ‘BlastOff with Turbo D’ is a kind of event that celebrates the global festive season (Detty December) and other festivities while creating a premium space for entertainment, networking, and cultural connection.

    “It will give the audience an experience, groove, and vibes that will set the tone for the festive season. It’s designed to allow everyone to express Detty December in the true spirit of music, culture, and celebration,” the representative for Kuronbeun ent said.

    Read Also: Korede Bello: Living well matters more than living long

    ‘BlastOff with Turbo D,’ is an annual event designed to usher fun seekers into a festive mood and is expected to feature live performances by DJs, comedians, and musicians.

    Part of the package intended to ensure a fun-filled outing include thrilling competitions and raffle draws.

    Also lined up to treat the audience to a great time include Jazman Olofin, Aphrodija, Terry G, LKT, DJ Bombastic, Famous, Open Teeth, Deeone, Hypeman Twix, and others.  The event is scheduled to be held at GameLand, Lekki, Lagos, on November 30, 2025.

  • I’m single due to men’s deceit, says Sarah Sweet

    I’m single due to men’s deceit, says Sarah Sweet

    Nollywood actress, Sarah Oghenekaro Akatugba aka Sarah Sweet has responded to many who have been pestering her about her marital status.

    In her response,  Sarah Sweet said: “I am not single because I don’t have people asking me out, I am single because I am really tired of men’s deceit, disrespect and inability to be responsible.”

    In addition, the well-endowed actress, who doubles as a chef, says she prioritises loyalty, trust, and mutual support in her relationships.

    “I am not single because I don’t have people asking me out, I am single because I am really tired of men’s deceit, disrespect and inability to be responsible. We have a lot of people out there who do not know what it means to call other people your friend. They do not understand the true meaning of friendship. Friendship is someone you know to a certain level that you can vouch for, not acquaintance and colleague. I am very big on loyalty.

    Read Also: Sarah Martins admits roadside cooking error, slams KAI for seizing food

    “If I call you a friend, I am a hundred and ten per cent out for you. I don’t envy; I don’t backbite. I expect the same energy from whoever I consider my friend. Friendship and loyalty are very important to me. You cannot be my friend and you are not loyal. For me to call you my friend is a lot to me. I am called the Queen of one hundred and ten per cent because I add extra ten per cent in everything I do. If you have to be my husband you have to come correct.”

    Sarah explained that her appearance in the Empire Mansion Season 2 reality show further amplified her passion for philanthropy.

    Her experience in the mansion deepened her understanding of the impact one can have on their community. She has always believed in giving back, especially to the less privileged. Now, she focuses on empowering young girls through education and skills acquisition.

  • Stephanie Linus’ Dry reignites conversation on gender violence amid justice for ochanya movement

    Stephanie Linus’ Dry reignites conversation on gender violence amid justice for ochanya movement

    Stephanie Linus’ film, ‘Dry,’ has resurfaced as a compelling cultural reflection of the ongoing crisis as Nigeria confronts the realities of child abuse and gender-based violence through the renewed #JusticeForOchanya movement.

    ‘Dry’ is finding fresh resonance among audiences demanding justice, accountability, and reform.

    A searing social drama, ‘Dry’ tells the parallel stories of Dr. Zara, a successful African doctor grappling with a painful past, and Halima, a 13-year-old forced into marriage with a 60-year-old man in a rural community.

    The film captures the devastating cycle of child marriage, rape, and obstetric fistula (VVF), realities that continue to affect young girls across Nigeria.

    In light of the renewed outcry for justice following Ochanya Ogbanje’s story, a 13-year-old who died in 2018 after suffering years of sexual abuse, ‘Dry’ serves as both an artistic and social statement.

    The film’s narrative parallels the collective call to end child marriage, protect survivors, and strengthen accountability for perpetrators of abuse.

    Read Also: Korede Bello: Living well matters more than living long

    “Dry was created to spark conversation and empathy, but most importantly, to drive change,” said Stephanie Linus, the film’s director and executive producer. “The #JusticeForOchanya movement reminds us that these stories are not fiction for many Nigerian girls. We must continue to use every platform, including film, to demand justice and ensure such tragedies never happen again.”

    Since its release, ‘Dry’ has received critical acclaim, winning AMVCA Award for Best Overall Movie in Africa, the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Nigerian Film and Best Young Actor, Won Programmer’s Award Narrative Feature at the Pan African Film Festival (PAFF), Best Protagonist at the Bentonville Film Festival among other honours.

    The film’s renewed attention in 2025 emphasises the power of storytelling as a tool for advocacy and societal change.

  • Esther Igbekele takes music ministry global

    Esther Igbekele takes music ministry global

    Renowned gospel music sensation, Evangelist Esther Igbekele, has continued to soar on the international stage in 2025, marking one of the most successful years of her illustrious career.

    The dynamic singer, popularly known as the Duchess of Gospel Music, embarked on an international movement to promote her brand and music, thrilling audiences across several countries.

    In September 2025, Esther Igbekele embarked on a U.S. tour, performing in Baltimore (Maryland), New Jersey, and New York. Though the tour was initially scheduled to commence earlier in the year, some shows were rescheduled for 2026, as part of plans for mega concerts and church anniversaries.

    Shortly after her American engagements, the gospel icon proceeded to Italy, where she joined the Celestial Church of Christ, Ileri Oluwa Parish, Brescia, in celebrating the church’s 30th Adult Harvest in October 2025.

    Read Also: Korede Bello: Living well matters more than living long

    Adding another feather to her cap, Esther Igbekele was also a key performer at the London Praise 2025 Concert, held at the Gaumont Palace, United Kingdom, also in October. Her soul-lifting performance drew widespread admiration from gospel music lovers and worshippers across Europe.

    As the year draws to a close, Esther Igbekele shows no signs of slowing down as she is set to appear in several notable events before the end of the year in the U.K. and Nigeria.

    With her ongoing global engagements and international recognition, Esther Igbekele continues to affirm her place as one of Africa’s most influential gospel ambassadors.

  • Davido: Oyo govt backs 5ive Concert in Ibadan

    Davido: Oyo govt backs 5ive Concert in Ibadan

    Grammy nominee and Afrobeats superstar Davido will continue his much-anticipated ‘5ive Concert’ tour of Nigeria in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital on Sunday, November 9, 2025.

    In a confirmation by the organisers, the Oyo state government has thrown its weight behind the concert with the aim of boosting the state’s tourism potential.

    The mega show, which has kept the ancient city of Ibadan bubbling with excitement and is expected to draw over 20,000 music lovers from across the Southwest to the Liberty Stadium venue of the concert.

    With promises to be a night of glitz, thrills, and high-octane performances, fans are already in countdown mode as the global hitmaker prepares to light up the stage with his chart-topping songs.

    Read Also: Korede Bello: Living well matters more than living long

    Adding spice to the evening, Davido will share the stage with some of Ibadan’s most talented homegrown acts, including Keanzo, Fabulous Pizzy, Dele Omo Woli, and Sade Blaq, who are all set to thrill the crowd with energetic performances.

    According to the organisers, the concert is not just about entertainment but also about promoting local talent and projecting Ibadan as a vibrant entertainment destination.

    In a statement, the organisers noted that the government’s involvement underscores its growing support for the creative industry as a driver of youth engagement and tourism.

    Already, the city’s hospitality sector is feeling the buzz as thousands of fans troop in from all parts of the southwest for the concert.

  • OT KinG returns with Congratulations

    OT KinG returns with Congratulations

    Songster, OT KinG, is back with a new single entitled Congratulations after a brief hiatus.

    The raw and melodic anthem from OT KinG embodies the hustle, hunger, and heart of the streets.

    True to his style, OT KinG blends streetwise storytelling with emotional depth, balancing confidence with vulnerability over bouncy and infectious production.

    In the song, the singer reflects on resilience, blessings, and the pressure to keep rising despite the odds.

    Congratulations feels both personal and powerful – a record built for dreamers who’ve fought their way up.

    Read Also: Korede Bello: Living well matters more than living long

    A spokesperson from the singer’s record label says the new single is a testament to OT KinG’s growth, showcasing his ability to craft relatable lyrics that capture the essence of street life while inspiring others to push forward.

    With ‘Congratulations’, OT KinG delivers a catchy, soulful, and authentic track that’s proudly rooted in the streets that shaped him.

    “The song is a celebration of perseverance, a nod to his journey, and a message of hope for those grinding to make it out. It’s OT KinG’s unique voice and perspective that make Congratulations a compelling listen, offering a glimpse into his world and the experiences that have defined him.

    The track’s energy is palpable, with OT KinG’s emotive delivery and vivid storytelling painting a picture of struggle, triumph, and gratitude. Congratulations is more than just a song – it’s an an hem for anyone who’s had to fight for their place, and a testament to OT KinG’s unwavering dedication to his craft,” OT KinG’s rep says.