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  • Football only Nigeria’s unifier, says Bovi

    Football only Nigeria’s unifier, says Bovi

    Popular comedian, Bovi Ugboma, has spoken out about the Super Eagles’ semi-final exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, emphasising that football is Nigeria’s sole unifying force.

    In a viral video message, Bovi stated that football brings Nigerians together, unlike religion and politics, which often divide.

    “If there’s anything that unites Nigeria as a nation, it’s football. Mark my words, it’s football,” the entertainer declared.

    He added: “Religion stops this country from burning because we are very religious people. Politics divides this nation because self-interest comes into play. But football is the only thing that brings Muslims and Christians, North, South-East, and West together.”

    He addressed players, particularly Samuel Chukwueze, urging them to approach games with focus and dedication, likening them to assassins who must eliminate opponents.

    “You have to treat it like you are an assassin. I’ve never seen in my life where an assassin has an opportunity to kill somebody and chooses to go like this or like this while chewing gum. Chukwueze, I forgive him from the bottom of my heart, but you need to understand that the weight of the nation lies in your hand,” Bovi stressed.

    Bovi warned players against prioritising individual glory over team success, citing past mistakes.

    “If you go for glory before victory, more often than not, you will mess up. More often than not, you become the victim, Don’t let that ember come alive. We let an advantage sleep.

    “I’m not blaming only Chukwueze. In 1994, those are my heroes, but guess what? They messed up at the most critical moment with two minutes to go. Nevertheless, they are still our heroes because it was literally our first time at the World Cup,” he said.

    He also cautioned against social media distractions, citing Argentina’s disciplined approach in 2018.

    “Social media will be messing you guys up real bad, not just from this tournament but previous tournaments. You get carried away by the praise. Guess what? They don’t like you. They like what you do. Don’t let the comments, don’t let the likes fool you. The tide can change anytime,” he warned.

    “When Argentina had to play us, no member of the Argentine team was on social media. We were on social media posting all kinds of things. Stop going on social media during tournaments”, he added.

    The comedian emphasised that representing Nigeria is beyond football, and players have the power to unite the country.

    He urged them to rise above administrative challenges and be heroes.

    “Dear Super Eagles and intending Super Eagles players, have this at the back of your mind when you are playing for Nigeria: regardless of how the NFF treats you, if you choose to say I will play for Nigeria, understand that you have the potential, the power to unite Nigeria.

    “You guys have chances to be heroes, to write your name in history and never be forgotten. Don’t continue to mess this up. It’s very important. You guys are our potential heroes.

     “When you wear the Nigerian jersey, it’s beyond football, beyond your salary, beyond your rights. You already know that your system is messed up when it comes to some of these things. You already know. So if you’re not ready to die, don’t play”, he concluded.

    The Nation reports that Nigeria’s Super Eagles on Wednesday lost 4–2 in a penalty shootout to host nation Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a tense 0–0 draw at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

  • FULL LIST: Ebuka, Bovi, Juliet Ibrahim, others, honoured at MIPAD 2025

    FULL LIST: Ebuka, Bovi, Juliet Ibrahim, others, honoured at MIPAD 2025

    The Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) 2025 Awards and Dinner Night celebrated African excellence, recognising outstanding individuals and institutions across entertainment, media, business, governance, and culture.

    Held at The Library, Lagos, the event highlighted Lagos’ growing reputation as a global hub for African achievement and diaspora engagement.

    Some notable winners included Davido, who was named Artist of the Year, while comedian Bovi Ugboma received Comedian of the Year.

    Arise News anchor Ojy Okpe was celebrated as News Anchor of the Year, and music icon D’banj won Music Platform of the Year for C.R.E.A.M.

    Ebuka Obi-Uchendu was honoured as Media Personality of the Year, and actress Juliet Ibrahim was awarded Actor of the Year (Female).

    Other standout winners included Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who was celebrated as Author of the Year, and Funke Akindele’s blockbuster Everybody Loves Jenifa, which won Blockbuster Movie of the Year.

    Omoni Oboli’s Love in Every Word 1 & 2 was named Movie of the Year, reflecting the growing global influence of African storytelling.

    The ceremony also honoured the MIPAD Class of 2025, as well as past Nigerian recipients who were unable to attend their recognition ceremonies in New York, rounding off a memorable evening dedicated to African excellence, global impact, and diaspora connection.

    Below is the full list of winners:

    ● Activist of the Year: Opeyemi Adamolekun

    ● Actor of the Year (Female): Juliet Ibrahim

    ● Actor of the Year (Male) Deyemi OKANLAWON

    ● Advertising & Marketing Agency of the Year: DKK

    ● Afrobeat Artist of the Year: Mádé Kuti

    ● AI Advocate (Female): Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho

    ● AI Advocate (Male): Obinna Okerekeocha

    ● Airline of the Year (Africa): Air Peace

    ● Animation Studio of the Year: Ferdy (“Ladi) Adimefe

    ● Art Festival of the Year: ART X Lagos by Tokini Peterside-Schwebig

    ● Artist of the Year: Davido

    ● Author of the Year: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

    ● Auto Company of the Year: NORD Automobiles

    ● Bank Executive OF THE YEAR: Bolaji Lawal

    ● Bankable Media Brand of the Year: The Accelerate Media Group by Colette Osibo

    ● Blockbuster Movie of the Year: Everybody Loves Jenifa (Funke Akindele)

    ● Brand Ambassador of the Year (Female): Beauty Tukura

    ● Brand Ambassador of the Year (Male): Farooq Oreagba

    ● Brand of the Year (Africa): Martell

    ● Business Man of the Year: Ahonsi Unuigbe

    ● Business Woman of the Year: Owen Omogiafo OON

    ● CEO of the Year: Karl Toriola

    ● Chef of the Year: Chef Tolu Eros

    ● Children’s Book of The Year: Zaqonomics; Financial Literacy for Kids by Zaq Isa

    ● Comedian of the Year: Bovi Ugboma

    ● Comedy OG of the Year: Ali Baba

    ● Commercial Director of the Year: Ikechukwu Agu

    ● Commissioner of the Year (Female): Hon. Toke Benson-Awoyinka

    ● Commissioner of the Year (Male): Hon. Dapo Okubadejo

    ● Content Creator of the Year: Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, Kie Kie

    ● COO of the Year: “Yewande Adewusi, Alitheia Capital

    ● Creative Director of the Year: Osaru Alile

    ● Crypto Executive of the Year: Jeremiah Mayowa (Jeroid)

    ● Design Festival of the Year: Titi Ogufere

    ● Director General of The year-Female: Aisha Augie

    ● Director General of The year-Male: Obi Asika

    ● Director of the Year (Film): Wale Ojo

    ● DJ of the Year : DJ Obi (Obinna Ajuonuma)

    ● Doctor of the Year (Male): Dr. Julius Kunle Oni, M.D. FAOA

    ● Emerging Leader (Under 40): Nduka Nduka-Eze and Nnamdi Nduka-Eze – Motherland Hub

    ● Energy Executive of the Year (Female): Rolake Akinkugbe -Filani

    ● Energy Executive of the Year (Male): Ainojie Alex Irune (PhD)

    ● Entertainment Executive of the Year: Fela Oke

    ● ESG & Climate Personality Of The Year: “Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos on Climate Change and Circular Economy

    ● Event Planner of the Year: Oaken Events by Ayiri Oladunmoye

    ● Exhibition of the Year: Fela Exhibition

    ● Film Festival Of The Year: Chioma Ude, Africa International Film Festival, AFRIFF

    ● Fintech Company of the Year: Moniepoint by Tosin Eniolorunda, Group CEO

    ● FMCG Executive of the Year: Seleem Adegunwa

    ● Foreign Diplomat of the Year: Jonny Baxter

    ● Foundation of the Year: Lady Mary Dinah

    ● Future Leader of the Year: Toni Fola-Alade

    ● Global Africa Man of the Year: Prof. Benedict Oramah

    ● Global Africa Woman of the Year: Lady Dentaa Amoateng MBE

    ● Government Agency of the Year – Federal: SMEDAN Charles Odii, Director General

    ● Government Agency of the Year -State: Adetoun Popoola (Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency)

    ● Governor of the Year: Executive Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu

    ● Guinness Record Holder of the Year (Female): Hilda Baci

    ● Guinness Record Holder of the Year (Male): Tunde Onakoya

    ● Hospitality Brand of the Year: Paul Onwuanibe, CEO at Landmark Africa

    ● Influencer of the Year: Chinyere Adogu

    ● Intel Executive of the Year: Tanwa Ashiru (Bulwark Intelligence)

    ● Investor of the Year: Iyinoluwa Aboyeji

    ● Law Firm of the Year: Aluko & Oyebode (ALN)

    ● Leading Woman of The year: Abosede George-Ogan

    ● Lifestyle Festival of The Year: ISIMI Lagos Festival by Olawale Ayilara

    ● Lifestyle Personality of The Year: Uche Pedro, Bella Naija

    ● Literary Festival of The Year: AKE Art & Book Festival by Lola Shoneyin

    ● Luxury Personality of the Year (Female): Jennifer Obayuwana,Executive Director, Polo Limited

    ● Luxury Personality of the Year (Male): Alexander Amosu

    ● Man of the Year: Adewale Tinubu

    ● Managing Director of the Year: Alex Okosi

    ● Media Executive of the Year: Stephanie Busari

    ● Media House of the Year: RED Media

    ● Media Personality of the Year: Ebuka Obi-Uchendu

    ● Mental Health Advocate Of The Year: Dr. Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri (Dr. May)

    ● Minister of The Year: Honorable Minister, Hannatu Musawa

    ● Movie of the Year: Omoni Oboli, Love in Every Word 1&2

    ● Movie of the Year (blockbuster): Everybody Loves Jenifa

    ● Music Executive of the Year: Samuel “Samo” Onyemelukwe

    ● Music Platform of the Year: Dbanj (C.R.E.A.M.)

    ● News Anchor of the Year: Ojy Okpe

    ● Payment Executive of the Year: Mike Ogbalu iii FCIB

    ● Peak Performer of the Year: Dr. Abiola Salami

    ● Photographer of the Year: Kelechi Amadi Obi

    ● Podcast of the Year: MENtality, Ebuka & Banky W

    ● Policy Advocate of the year: Oswald Osaretin Guobadia

    ● Power Couple of the Year (Business): Mr Mark & Mrs Phillipa Okoye

    ● Power Couple of the Year (Change Makers): Mr Tokunbo & Mrs Omoyemi Akerele

    ● Power Couple of the Year (Entertainment): Mr Dare & Mrs Deola Art Alade

    ● Power Couple of the Year (Faith): Banky Wellington & Adesua Etomi-Wellington

    ● Power Couple of the Year (Politics): Mr Seyi & Mrs Layal Tinubu

    ● PR Executive of the Year: Dr. Bukky George-Taylor

    ● Pressman of the Year: Kayode Okikiolu

    ● Public Servant of the Year: Dr. Jumoke Oduwole

    ● Real Estate Developer of the Year: Rendeavour’s Alaro City & Managing Director Yomi Ademola

    ● Resort of the Year: Koko Beach

    ● SA of the Year (State): Idris Aregbe

    ● Solid Mineral Personality of The Year (Female): Nere Emiko

    ● Solid Mineral Personality of The Year (Male): Segun Lawson, Chief Executive Officer at Thor Explorations Ltd

    ● SSA of the Year (Federal): O’tega Ogra

    ● Tech Executive of the Year (Female): Olatomiwa Williams

    ● Theatre Festival of the Year: Bolanle Austen Peters

    ● Therapist of the Year: Murielle Jean-Michel

    ● Travel Executive of the Year: Adenike Macaulay

    ● TV Executive of the Year: Dr. Busola Tejumola

    ● Unicorn of the Year: Gbenga Agboola

    ● VC of The Year: Danladi Verheijen, Verod

    ● Venture Fund of The Year: Ventures Platform Fund, by Dr. Dotun Olowoporoku & Kola Aina

    ● Venue of the Year: The Library

    ● Waterways Champion of the Year: Oluwadamilola Emmanuel

    ● Wellness Executive of the Year: Joycee Awosika, Oriki Group

    ● Woman of the Year: Olori Atuwatse III

  • Bovi speaks on life, love, temptation

    Bovi speaks on life, love, temptation

    Stand-up comedian Bovi Ugboma has shared a heartfelt and introspective note on his Instagram page, revealing his struggles with self-control and the complexities of human nature.

    He humorously admitted to losing his temper despite trying to count to ten and take deep breaths.

    Bovi also reflected on the duality of human nature, describing himself as a blend of good and evil, pain and pleasure.

    In his note, Bovi touched on the idea that society shapes people’s identities, and that they are often a mix of contradictions.

    He questioned his own purpose and identity, wondering who he is and what he was made for.

    With his signature humour, Bovi used metaphors to describe the relationship between our spirits and bodies, comparing our bodies to Uber rides or Airbnbs.

    He wrote, “I counted one to ten and took deep breaths. But I still lost my temper!

    “I resisted temptation. But temptation refused to resist me.

    Read Also: How I ended generational curse in my family, by Comedian Bovi

    “I try to practice what I preach, but what I preach is an acquired taste.

    “Society shaped me versus innate born me. The winner is scrambled me. One moment, silk. Next moment rough

    “Who am I? What was I made for? Half body, half spirit. Hybrid of good and evil, a blend of pain and pleasure?

    “In my religion, I pray. In my culture, I gyrate. What’s the odour of the blessings? And why do the curses scent?

    “Maybe I compare too much. Maybe all I’ve been searching for is within; good, bad, black, white, rivers, oceans, and deserts; can each exist without the other?

    “Now you see? There’s two or three of everything posing as opposites. But one of only me posing as many

    “Ah, I see. We are spirits. Our bodies are Uber rides. Oh no! Our bodies are Airbnbs!!! Lov, Bov”.

  • Bovi pays emotional tribute to late director Kayode Peters

    Bovi pays emotional tribute to late director Kayode Peters

    Stand-up comedian Bovi has penned a heartfelt tribute to late film director Kayode Peters, who recently passed away in Canada, honouring his influence and legacy in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

    In an emotional note, Bovi credited Peters’ popular sitcom Flatmates as the catalyst that sparked his passion for comedy and showbiz.

    According to Bovi, the groundbreaking series played a pivotal role in shaping his decision to pursue a career in entertainment.

    Reflecting on their first encounter, Bovi said he was struck by Peters’ humility despite his vast accomplishments in the industry.

    However, he revealed that their relationship didn’t begin smoothly, saying that Peters initially turned down his request for mentorship.

    He wrote, “Long before the internet became an endless distraction, when phones were simply for calling and texting, I’d spend my weekend afternoons watching all the sitcoms. The standout one was flatmates. I was new in Lagos, a journey I had embarked on without the permission of my parents, but with the blind fate of my burning desire to be an entertainer. After enjoying flatmates, I’d watch the end credits, and that’s how I noticed Kayode Peters. Attached to his name was the title of creator and writer. But something else caught my attention.

    Read Also: Comedian Bovi loses father

    “The executive producer was El-shaddai. When I’d later get to meet KP, as he was fondly called, I realised he was so humble, he refused to give himself the credit of being executive producer. Looking back now, that wasn’t humility. It was a deep heart of gratitude. Something that served as a reminder for him that it was all God. It was his way of saying thank you

    “Flatmates heavily influenced my decision and courage to start my own show, extended family. That’s why in the extended family, I opted not to put my name as executive producer in the credits. I was so scared that I might be seen as proud because KP didn’t take his credits. Why should I?

    “But our relationship had a rocky start. I had searched for KP’s number and put a call through. “My name is Bovi, and I’m a fan of your show. I’m creating my own sitcom and I’d like to meet you to get some tips on how to go about it”, I had said to kp in our first-ever call. “I’m on set working now. I wouldn’t have the time. “It can be during your lunch break if you don’t mind. I promise not to take your time,” I pressed. He said he’d let me know when he has the time. The time never came. I also never waited. I pushed on and created the show. At the time, my only motivation for doing things was perceived offence. I had felt slighted that he turned down the request of a stranger, so I bore an artificial grudge and used it as fuel!

  • Comedian Bovi loses father

    Comedian Bovi loses father

    Stand-up comedian and actor, Bovi Ugboma, has announced the sad passing of his father, Dr. Edward Sagini Ugboma.

    Bovi revealed this on his Instagram page on February 13, 2025.

    The father of three expressed gratitude for the condolences and support he has received and announced that funeral rites will be announced soon.

    He wrote: “We, the Ugboma family, wish to announce the peaceful passing of our father, grandfather, and uncle, Dr. Edward Sagini Ugboma (PhD) on this day, the 13th of February 2025.

    Read Also: Bovi responds to criticism over views on corporal punishment

    “He is survived by his children; Judy, Edna, Bovi, Zino, Tano, Tome, and Jiji, many grandchildren, and loving relatives.

    “We are grateful for all the calls and messages in this period of mourning and gratitude. Funeral rites will be announced soon.”

  • Why I relocated my kids abroad, by Bovi

    Why I relocated my kids abroad, by Bovi

    Stand-up comedian and actor Bovi has explained why he relocated his family abroad.

    In a recent episode of the ‘Uncolored’ podcast, he explained that his children have been living in the UK for two years now, citing the prevalence of alleged bullying in some Nigerian schools.

    Bovi recalled his experience attending boarding school in Nigeria, which made him street-smart.

    However, he refused to send his children to boarding school in Nigeria due to the prevalent bullying culture.

    “My kids don’t live in the country [Nigeria] anymore. They have been in the UK for two years now. It started by accident, my first son has been there since 2021 in a boarding house.

    “I went to boarding school in Nigeria and it made me street-smart. So I decided that my kid needs to go boarding but not in Nigeria because the educational system has accepted bullying”, he said.

    On mass migration, Bovi attributed it to the lack of enabling environments in Nigeria.

    He cited the example of doctors leaving the country, stating that while new doctors are being trained, the working conditions in Nigeria are not conducive for them to stay.

    Bovi emphasised that it’s not just about money but also about working in an environment that values and supports professionals.

    He highlighted the stark contrast between working conditions in Nigeria and those in Western countries, where doctors and other professionals can work with dignity and decent infrastructure.

    According to him: “The saving grace of the country is that we’ve not gone into war or food shortage. We’ve also not had natural disasters.

    Read Also: Bovi responds to criticism over views on corporal punishment

    “So we can lose 500 doctors in one year but there are about 200 new doctors coming on board. It’s like using balm aid on a big wound. That’s why it has not blown up in our faces.

    “If the government wants to stem the tide, they check what the West is doing. Why are doctors comfortable going to work in other countries? It’s not just the money. If you are passionate about something but when you get to work there’s light and an enabling encouragement, you don’t get to fight to go to work or go back home.

    “It may not be perfect but at least that decency is not lost. Patients have died in Nigeria because of lack of blood or power failure during operation. If you are a medical doctor, would you like to work under that kind of condition? The answer is no.”

  • Bovi responds to criticism over views on corporal punishment

    Bovi responds to criticism over views on corporal punishment

    Stand-up comedian Bovi has responded to the backlash he received after sharing his views on corporal punishment.

    Appearing on The Honest Bunch podcast, Bovi clarified: “I don’t advocate for beating children. You should let children be. When you hit a kid, are you really trying to correct them or are you frustrated?” 

    In a recent post on X, Bovi acknowledged that his words may have triggered angry reactions, particularly with his phrase “for the fun of it.”

    Bovi emphasised that he doesn’t advocate for beating children and respects differing opinions.

    He stated that parents who choose to physically discipline their children can “enjoy” doing so.

    Bovi shared a personal anecdote about his own upbringing, revealing that his father never physically beat him, and he “turned out almost okay.”

    Read Also: Bovi, Flavour, Chike, Timi Dakolo, Wande Coal wow at Nana Gambo’s 50th birthday

    “I don go trigger angry people because of the phrase I used. “For the fun of it”. Make una no vex. In trying to color my point, I’ve offended a shallow mob. You don’t have to agree with me. If you have children you want to beat, enjoy. My papa no physically beat me and I turned out almost ok”, he wrote.

    He also opened up about his child’s struggles with speech impediment and communication problems, expressing frustration at the criticism he received.

    He added: “My child had a speech impediment and a communication problem that’s only just starting to improve.  F#ck all of you”.

  • Why parents shouldn’t beat children, by Bovi 

    Why parents shouldn’t beat children, by Bovi 

    Stand-up comedian Bovi Ugboma has spoken out against the use of physical punishment as a means of correcting children.

    During a recent episode of The Honest Bunch podcast, Bovi emphasized that children should never be subjected to physical punishment, regardless of their misbehaviour.

    He questioned the effectiveness of such methods, asking, “When you hit a kid, are you really trying to correct them or are you frustrated?”

    Read Also: Bovi, Flavour, Chike, Timi Dakolo, Wande Coal wow at Nana Gambo’s 50th birthday

    “I don’t advocate for beating children. You should let children be. When you hit a kid, are you really trying to correct them or are you frustrated?” he said.

    He advocated for alternative methods of correction that prioritise empathy and understanding.

  • Bovi advocates financial independence for women

    Bovi advocates financial independence for women

    Stand-up comedian Bovi Ugboma has weighed in on the roles of husbands and wives in families, emphasising the importance of financial independence for women.

    Bovi elaborated on the need for economical power for women during an interview session on TVC. 

    Reacting to Kanayo O. Kanayo’s statement on men’s financial responsibility, Bovi acknowledged cultural expectations while stressing the need for women’s empowerment.

    Bovi’s perspective highlights the significance of mutual respect and understanding in marriage, encouraging women to pursue their ambitions and become financially independent.

    As a married man with three children, Bovi’s views reflect his own experiences and values.

    He said: “You have to understand that even those of us who are providing, our egos are easily bruised, not to talk of you sitting at home and expecting her to provide,” he said.

    “And it is the spiral effect that is the issue. If you want to sit at home. If you want to do 50/50 with your wife, do it in peace. But understand that there are effects for your wives providing for you.

    Read Also: Bovi blasts Catholic priest for assaulting altar boy

    “Generally speaking, man is the provider. However, if the passion of a woman has pushed her to a level she can provide, you must recognise that power in the woman.

    “I like a man who provides. That is what is cultural. If your woman is ambitious, then you have to find the middle ground. I provide everything in my home.

    “Personally, a man should provide for his family. I also believe in today’s world, a woman should be encouraged to chase her dream.

    “And if those dreams make her economically powerful then it is welcome. If a man dies what happens to the woman when she is not economically powerful? And if a man chooses to misbehave and say leave my house, what happens to the woman?”

  • Bovi blasts Catholic priest for assaulting altar boy

    Bovi blasts Catholic priest for assaulting altar boy

    Stand-up comedian Bovi has spoken out against a Catholic Priest who slapped an altar boy for failing to steady a microphone during a wedding proceeding. 

    The incident, captured on video, sparked outrage and led to the priest’s apology. 

    Bovi expressed outrage on Instagram, citing the alarming rate of unchecked abuse in Nigeria. 

    He criticised the priest’s description of the incident as “normal correction” and “minor correction.”

    He questioned the priest’s ability to control himself behind closed doors and urged law enforcement to take action.

    Bovi wrote: “I’ve been trying to ignore this video like it never happened but after watching the apology video this morning, I’m more livid and miffed at the rate at which most forms of abuse go unchecked in Nigeria.

    “In the poorly staged apology video, the priest described his actions as a “normal correction” and “a minor correction.” He was even encouraged by another apology from an adult, who I couldn’t tell who he was exactly, that he would have blamed the priest if he hadn’t done that.

    Read Also: Bovi Out of Order goes to Benin on Oct 1

    “He hit a defenseless child. He humiliated that child. He harmed that child’s confidence. He hit the head of the child for a very flimsy reason. Now imagine when that child does something really wrong.

    “A priest who couldn’t control himself in public. Take a moment to think about what he’s capable of doing behind closed doors. If we think this is normal behavior, then we are all abnormal.

    “Knocking a kid in the head unprovoked is a violent and criminal act. @nigerianpolice why haven’t you invited this man? If you fight for one child, you will be saving very many others. We must prevent and put out small fires before we all get consumed.

    “In a society where a virgin priest who preaches the teachings of Jesus uses physical harm to convey his unprocessed emotions, there is bound to be doom. We’re probably in hell already”.