•Okoroji advises on songs that unite

From music of yesteryear to contemporary songs across different genres, and talks that center on sound and beats, radio and television stations in the country, yesterday, joined the rest of the world to celebrate the World Music Day.

Although music has existed for as long as mankind has found its voice, choosing a day to celebrate the phenomenon is believed to have been originated from France in 1982.

Tagged ‘Fete de la Musique’, the feast of music which marks the beginning of summer solstice, and is celebrated every June 21, has now spread to over 120 nations around the world.

Although there is no known public gathering to mark the day in Nigeria, in Europe and America, musicians from all genres and all ages, amateurs and experienced performers, gathered to perform for free at various public places.

Some Nigerians who took to the social media to express concerns about why the day was no so celebrated in Nigeria blamed it on the current crisis in the Performing Musicians and Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN).

Meanwhile, Chairman of a Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), a Collective Management Organisation (CMO) for music and sound recording in Nigeria, Chief Tony Okoroji, felicitated with musicians on the day.

In his message, the former President of PMAN said “those of us who have been given the special gift to spread joy to mankind with our beautiful art of music must recognize that what we have is a rare privilege. At a time when many across the world are under tremendous stress and strife stares so much of mankind in the face, we must compellingly speak the language of music, the language of love, a language that knows no boarders and use our special gift to reduce hate, bring people together and put a smile on the faces of God’s children”

Okoroji who recently released the song, “Happy Music” used the opportunity of the World Music Day to remind World musicians across Nigeria to understand that they have an important role to play in providing a soothing balm on the frayed nerves of many in the Nigerian nation and pouring cold water on the dangerous fire of hate being lit by some across the country. Chief Okoroji pledges that as Nigerian musicians deploy themselves as agents of peace across the country, COSON would continuously watch their backs.

The post Nigerian media celebrate World Music Day appeared first on The Nation Nigeria.

•As show gets winner this weekend

With the grand finale of Africa’s gospel talent show, God’s Children Great Talent (GCGT7), scheduled to hold on June 24 at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos, organisers have unveiled 10 contestants who will slog it out closing ceremony of the show, billed for a live television broadcast.

The finalists are Esther Benyeogo, Nengi Jaja, Paul Bafunso, Sophia Albert, Emmanuel Osahor, Peter Anderson, Olawonuola Kehinde, Joseph Odi, Deborah Oladipupo and Goodluck Ajirireloja.

The show gets more tensed as the contestants canvass for public votes to support their chance of winning the grand prize of N250 million management deal; N10 million cash and a brand new car.

Before the finalists were selected by the judges, the audience witnessed semi-final performances by 20 contestants, as each showed their skill of dancing, singing, spoken word, dexterity with the instruments.

Each lucky contestant was selected by a combination of live audience votes and the distinguished GCGT7 judges.

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Hollywood actress Fathia Balogun is lending her voice to the girl power initiative, with ‘Connection’, a flick featuring some of the best in the movie industry.

Directed by Desmond Elliot which, according to the actress, will educate mothers on the need to build a close relationship with their daughters, is part of my annual project on empowering the girl-child, by focusing on negligence by some mothers towards their daughters.

Billed for a first premiere in the U.K, ‘Connection’ stars Kate Henshaw, Odunade Adekola, Iyabo Ojo, Kemi Afolabi, Muyiwa Ademola and Chinenye Nnebe among others.

Balogun who is said to have also joined the list of beauticians among Nigerian thespians, launched her brand of beauty products – ‘House of Faiteer’ recently.

The post Fathia Balogun shoots advocacy movie appeared first on The Nation Nigeria.

It is a fact of life that it sometimes takes a setback or misfortune to wake someone up to the realisation of their full potential. While some wallow in a pool of their own tears of self-pity after any little defeat, others take it in their strides and quickly move on to greater things.

Funke Fowler, daughter of the boss of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Tunde Fowler, is firmly in the latter camp. Having been subjected to the heartache occasioned by a failed marriage at such a young age, rather than spend precious time lamenting her fate like many of her peers, she took the setback on the chin and has since moved on.

It will be recalled that Funke and Abby Kuku, son of the late Ogbeni Oja Bayo Kuku, got married in 2011 in a talk-of-the-town transcontinental wedding whose splendour left many mouths agape. But no sooner had they returned from honeymoon than a crisis occurred, culminating in Funke walking out of the marriage two years later.

Undaunted by the ‘we-told-you-so’ gestures from friends and acquaintances, Funke threw her mind and soul into her Ashton business and has been reaping the rewards ever since. Her high-end Leila Fowler Boutique has become the fashion destination for trendy socialites.

The post Funke Fowler gets busy appeared first on The Nation Nigeria.

FOLLOWING a successful Nigerian premiere, ’10 Days in Sun City’, the latest film by comedian Ayo Makun, aka AY, has started showing in cinemas across the country.

The release was heralded by a star-studded red carpet premiere which took place at the Bamoral Marquee located at the prestigious Federal Palace Hotel.

The star-studded movie which was supported by Sun International, Sun City, South Africa Tourism, Peak Milk and Naira Bet features talented actors from Nollywood, Hollywood and the South African movie industry including AY, Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), Adesua Etomi, Mercy Johnson, Falz the Bahd Guy, Miguel Nunez Jr., Thenjiwe Moseley, Amanda Du Pont, Celeste Ntuli to name a few.

The steamy action-packed romantic comedy which was produced by Corporate World Entertainment Limited was written by Keni Ogunlola and directed by award-winning director, Adze Ugah.

Urging movie enthusiasts to brace up for a thrilling experience in the cinemas, producer of the flick, AY, described ’10 Days in Sun City’ as a no holds barred movie loaded with excitement. He enjoined all lovers of the AY brand to check out the movie and share the word so others could also go and see it.

The comedian’s previous movies include ’30 Days in Atlanta’ and ‘A Trip to Jamaica’.

The post ‘10 DAYS IN SUN CITY’ OPENS IN CINEMAS appeared first on The Nation Nigeria.

It is a fact of life that it sometimes takes a setback or misfortune to wake someone up to the realisation of their full potential. While some wallow in a pool of their own tears of self-pity after any little defeat, others take it in their strides and quickly move on to greater things.

Funke Fowler, daughter of the boss of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Tunde Fowler, is firmly in the latter camp. Having been subjected to the heartache occasioned by a failed marriage at such a young age, rather than spend precious time lamenting her fate like many of her peers, she took the setback on the chin and has since moved on.

It will be recalled that Funke and Abby Kuku, son of the late Ogbeni Oja Bayo Kuku, got married in 2011 in a talk-of-the-town transcontinental wedding whose splendour left many mouths agape. But no sooner had they returned from honeymoon than a crisis occurred, culminating in Funke walking out of the marriage two years later.

Undaunted by the ‘we-told-you-so’ gestures from friends and acquaintances, Funke threw her mind and soul into her Ashton business and has been reaping the rewards ever since. Her high-end Leila Fowler Boutique has become the fashion destination for trendy socialites.

The post Who is after Senator Ita-Giwa? appeared first on The Nation Nigeria.

Chairman of Elizade Motors, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, turned 79 a few days ago and celebrated the occasion with a grand birthday soiree organised by family members. Mr. Toyota, as he is fondly called, was in his elements at the occasion, radiating energy and effervescence at the grand age.

The golden boy of Ondo State is regarded as the face of Toyota in Nigeria as his company, Elizade Motors, has the sole right to distribute Toyota vehicles in the country. High society was on hand to witness the golf tournament held in honour of the founder of Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, at Smokin Hills Golf Resort in his Ilara-Mokin hometown.

The two-day event witnessed spectacular display of golf on the 18-hole course by amateur golfers. That was followed by a gala night of colour and merriment. Ondo State governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, was the guest of honour at the occasion.

Chief Ade-Ojo was born on June 14, 1938 in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State. He is one of the country’s foremost businessmen with interests in automobile, shipping, insurance and telecoms, among others.

The post Michael Ade-Ojo celebrates another beautiful year appeared first on The Nation Nigeria.

PLANNING is what it is: the process of developing strategies for something; a systematic approach to an objective.

To borrow from Wikipedia; “Planning (also called forethought) is the process of thinking about and organizing the activities required to achieve a desired goal.

While Nigeria may also lay claim to this process, in trying to achieve a transition from analogue to digital broadcasting, otherwise called Digital Switch-Over (DSO), our weakness has always revealed that what we call plans are not planning in the real sense of the word.

Most of our leaders went through the Boys Scout organisation in their yore, but little about that is reflected in their approach to leadership today. This is because while doing the so-called planning, the word, prepare or preparation; a basic of the Boys Scout motto, is not an active ingredient in their understanding of a plan process.

In other words, our method is such that plans and objectives flow concurrently, making it seem like the birth place of ‘Fire Brigade Approach’ is Nigeria.

For some other countries, the journey towards the preparation for digital switchover started in June 17, 2006, which Nigeria joined the rest of the world in signing international and regional agreement to conclude digital migration by June 17, 2012. However, actual preparation may have started in Nigeria in 2015, after the country woke up to the reality of missing the first deadline. This is why even in 2017; we are still grappling with a switchover date.

For a world integration project like the much-talked-about switch-over from analogue to digital broadcasting, sensitive governments have evolved proactive and systematic line of actions to ensure that they are not caught napping when possible interference from neighbouring countries hit them. They have also ensured that the citizens enjoy the choice of clearer picture, ample channels and the succor of subsidy on the Set Top Box (STB); the conservative device that will provide signal to the existing television sets after switch-over.

Between 2009 and 2012, nothing happened to advance the process of migration because government was said to have kept the recommendations of a Presidential Advisory Committee (PAC) it inaugurated in 2007, and did not release the white paper for digital switch-over.

When that was eventually done, a new date of June 17, 2015 was fixed. Again, that was truncated because the Federal Government did not release funds meant for the process to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). And while a country like Niger seeks to understudy whatever successes Nigeria may have achieved in the process so far, we have missed target again – for the third time.

The leapfrogging tendencies of a country like Nigeria becomes worrisome considering the fact that a global agenda of this nature is not just a complex transition, but one which seeks common understanding, diplomacy and cooperation of neighbouring countries within the continent.

Evidently, migration to digital broadcast transmission technology has begun, with countries like France, United States, United Kingdom, Sweden and New Zealand already advanced in their migration programmes, even as Finland and Mauritius have already switched off from analogue.

While South Africa, which began the process years back, may not have overcome the complexity of the transition, there is no overemphasizing why Nigeria; the supposed giant of Africa is still lagging behind.

Analysts have reasoned that for a smooth transition, the government of a country must consider the fact that the STB will take a long while to be manufactured. And although the price of the decoder has dropped ever since a higher version dubbed DT2 entered the market, it is also pertinent to consider the eligibility for a subsidized decoder based on the number of TV Households (as it is the thought in some countries). This may be a challenge in a country like Nigeria that is still struggling with population data and, to justify government’s claim, where TV licenses are not paid for.

The post ANOTHER FAILED DATE WITH JUNE 17 appeared first on The Nation Nigeria.

GHANAIAN actress Juliet Ibrahim has called on people to help spread the news for the World Kidney Cancer Q&A Day.

With Kidney disease awareness being represented by the colour green, Ibrahim, who is a global kidney cancer ambassador, used her star power to get her colleagues, friends and fans to take a selfie, wearing “Green Lipstick” or “A green Top’ or a Touch of Green and post the picture via Instagram and other social media.

In response, people from different walks of life including male celebrities, used Green Lipstick and posted the pictures to show their support.

“As you all know, I am passionate about prevention of Kidney Cancer and Kidney related diseases in our society,” she stated on Instagram, saying she is joining the world campaign to create more awareness on what is tagged ‘Kidney Cancer Day’.

June 22, 2017 marked the first World Kidney Cancer Q&A Day; a day where the global kidney cancer community of patients, caregivers, family, health care professionals and patient organisations raise awareness and funds to tackle kidney cancer.

According to the organisers, the actress was selected for her humanitarian efforts in giving hope to kidney cancer patients throughout Africa.

The post MALE CELEBS WEAR LIPSTICK FOR KIDNEY CANCER DAY appeared first on The Nation Nigeria.

Big boy of high society and prominent player in the oil and gas sector, Prince Akinfemi Akinruntan, a.k.a. Femi Obat, will be celebrating his 40th birthday next month. However, those who are expecting him to throw a lavish party will have to swallow the bitter pills of disappointment. The stylish man behind Obat Oil will be celebrating his birthday with the people.

The popular Ondo dude will hold a four-day event to mark his birthday whereby the people of Ondo will have access to free health services for the four days. Having decided that his money is better spent impacting the lives of the people, Femi Obat plans to make those four days one in which anyone with health concerns can get a check-up and be treated free of charge.

The four-day event has been set for 16th to 19th July at the Obamakin Osangangan Civic Centre, Olugbo of Ugbo Palace, Ode Ugbo, Ondo State. It will be presided over by a team of professional doctors who will be paid from Femi Obat’s private pocket.

However, Femi’s party-loving friends will not lose out as there will still be a grand birthday dinner later that week in honour of the handsome young dude.

The post All set for Femi Obat’s 40th birthday appeared first on The Nation Nigeria.

Armed with a Masters degree, budding actress, Lynda Dozie took the bold step about a year ago when she made a foray into the challenging world that is the Nigerian movie industry. She speaks with ADENIYI ADEWOYIN about why she ditched her certificates for the make-believe world, relationship and other issues.  

WHAT inspired you into acting?

From a tender age, I have always loved interpreting all the movie characters I watched in movies while growing up. That, I can say inspired me to go into acting.

When did you decide you wanted to be an actor?

At the age of 9, I knew I wanted to be an actress. So I spent a whole lot of my time at that age writing stories and forcing my siblings to act it out with me. That was how it all started for me. Professionally however, I would say I have spent about a year in the Nigerian movie industry.

As a Master’s degree holder in Business Management, did you have any misgivings dumping your certificate for acting?

Being a master’s degree holder for me was never a challenge. I always loved acting and for what we love, we never address it as stress. So I wanted to have a degree and be well educated before chasing my passion for acting. You know, like they say, passion is just not enough, you need to be well educated too.

Didn’t your parents think you were about losing your mind to have taken such decision?

Yes, my father still thinks I have lost my mind. The rest of my family members are indifferent, although sometimes they can be very encouraging.

With just one year in the industry, you have worked with veteran actors. How did you pull that off?

Working with veteran actors makes me feel excited, but it has really helped shape my career and keep me more focused. Most importantly, I’ve learnt a lot from watching them interpret their movie characters while on set.

Who do you regard as your role models in the industry?

My role models in the industry are those I grew up watching on TV at a tender age. Genevieve Nnaji and Stephanie Linus were my major career influencers so I would call them my role models any day.

How do you intend to make your impact in the industry?

It’s not a competition but I know with God, hard work and persistence, I will get my chance in Nollywood.

Do you regard other female actors as threat to your acting career?

No they are not; the sky is big enough for everyone to fly.

Nudity is a major strategy used by aspiring acts to get known. Are you looking in that direction also?

No I’m not!

Does that mean you can or cannot act nude?

Acting nude is a no for me. I’m not even considering it.

Stardom sometimes robs people of their love life. Are you in any relationship right now?

No, I’m not in any relationship yet.

What’s your kind of man?

I like a God-fearing, kind man, who has regards for me; someone who supports my passion and career as an actor.

What interests you most about acting?

Acting itself is interesting but for me the ability to interpret a character in so many ways is exquisite.

What else do you do aside acting?

I am a scriptwriter and I also market an online event store. It’s quite new though, but soon you would hear more about it.

What are the things you are putting in place to ensure that the movie roles don’t stop coming?

I’m working very hard on myself, taking acting classes online, attending film festivals, acting workshops, making contacts and connecting with filmmakers and producers so I can get first hand hints on audition notices and forthcoming film productions. Basically, I’m improving on myself while waiting for that one big chance to pop up.

You recently released some new pictures under a new management. What is your relationship under this management?

Yes, I recently signed on to Tribe Man Agency, a talent management agency based here in Lagos. Tribe Man Agency for me was the best choice I made this year, because the ability for people to take care of my career, like I’m their blood relative is rare these days. So I’m happy I have a management that is fighting hard to guide my career to the limelight.

Which producers would you like to work with?

Emen Isong, Kunle Afolayan, Obi Emelonye, Eric Aighimen, Judith Audu, ROK Studios, Tope Oshin and many more.

How will you describe Nollywood presently?

Nollywood is evolving at this stage but let’s not forget that this is one industry that has been ranked as the second highest employer of labour from the GDP analysis and it houses loads of talented people.

Where do you see yourself in the next three years?

In the next three years, I will be shooting for the stars (Laughs)! I see myself as being one of the most sought-after actresses worldwide. That is what I envision for myself in three years, God help me!

The post MY FATHER THINKS I’VE LOST MY MIND FOR VENTURING INTO ACTING – LYNDA DOZIE appeared first on The Nation Nigeria.

NIGERIAN artistes have dominated African acts at this year’s BET Awards scheduled to hold on June 27 in the United States.

The acts – Wizkid, Tekno, Mr Eazi, Davido and Stonebwoy – will compete with AKA, Nasty C and Babes Wodumo for the Best International Act: Africa category. Also, “Amazulu” hitmaker Amanda Black and Tanzanian performer Ray Vanny are nominated for Viewer’s Choice Award “Best International Act”, in conjunction with performers from the UK, South Korea, Canada, Australia and Jamaica.

Singer and humanitarian Yvonne Chaka Chaka and social activist Ilwad Elman would also awarded with International Global Good Star and Power Awards.

The show which will be aired on BET (DStv Channel 129) and hosted by stand-up comedian Leslie Jones, will have stars such as Mary J. Blige, Maxwell, Xscape and El Debarge along with some of hip hop’s hottest talent including A$AP Rocky, French Montana, Gucci Mane, Swae Lee, Khalid and SZA and Kamasi Washington perform.

And Beyoncé dominates this year’s nominations with a total of seven including ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist,’ ‘Best Collaboration’ with Kendrick Lamar for “Freedom,” ‘Video of the Year,’ and ‘Album of the Year’ for Lemonade. Bruno Mars follows with five nods including ‘Album of the Year,’ ‘Best Male R&B/Pop Artist,’ and ‘Video of the Year’ for “24K Magic.”  Other nominees include Solange, nominated for four awards and who is up against sister Beyoncé for ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist.’ Chance the Rapper and Migos receive four nominations as well, Chance the Rapper nominated for ‘Best Male Hip-Hop Artist’ and ‘Best New Artist’ and Migos for ‘Best Group’ and ‘Best Collaboration’ for their #1 hit “Bad and Boujee” with Lil Uzi Vert Award.

BET Networks also revealed iconic R&B group New Edition will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award while multi-Grammy Award winning hip-hop artist and singer-songwriter, Chance the Rapper, will receive the evening’s Humanitarian Award presented by Walmart.

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Fast rising Nigerian comedians Oladipupo Daniel and Ogunsina Ayodeji Samuel, popularly known as Stillringing, have made a name for themselves with their special brand of comedy. In this interview with OREOLUWA FILANI, they talk about the spontaneous nature of their performances, their source of inspiration, career, among other issues

HOW did Stillringing meet?

We met at news gathering called the Talented News Group (TSG). Daniel actually came as a motivational speaker. There was a quote he wrote in the paper, a John Mason quote. He copied the man’s quote, so he came there to share it to the less privileged ones wey no sabi. So, fortunately, I met him, and I said ‘this thing is not your own.’ So, he said ‘yes, how do you know?’ I said ‘I know who owns it because in Nigeria, to think this kind thing dey hard small.’ That was how we met. We tutored each other and collaborated together. So we were actually friends before we got the inspiration to start this brand of comedy. That was about 12 years ago.

Did you feel there was a synergy between you?

Even the blind can see that we have a synergy (laughs). You know the difference between Terry-G and Korede Bello? It’s not the Jollof rice hair, not the roasted hair. It’s the aggression. Everyone has their own way of approaching their audience. We know if we should hold mic, you should expect nothing but that energy, that chemistry, that drama. If you see Akpororo, the difference between Akpororo and Basketmouth is the drama and the craze.

How do you source your materials?

The inspiration we have is from God. Some people have criticised us by saying things like; ‘Egbon this thing you are doing, you guys will go to hell.’ Yet some men of God will see this thing and say; ‘I bless God for your talent, for you to sit down with the bible and be able to bring out something like this, for you to look at the industry, to look at the sector, and mimic something like this, you guys are creative.’ Some people see it as mimicking, while some see it as blasphemy or a bastardisation of God`s word. So it’s different strokes for different folks. But the materials are not from one source.

You know, ideas just drop, or maybe something is ringing at the moment, you say aje ku iya ni o je and you just say `who can battle with the Lord?’ Because anyone that battles with the Lord, o ma je iya noni. So we just pick news from all the happenings in the Bible, we add them up and our materials are set.

How long do Stillringing practice before performance?

We practice some, while others are spontaneous. As it comes, na so we dey give the audience. You know if you want to feel Stillringing, then you have to listen to them live on show, live on radio, TV, and you will see they are not rehearsed. You should also probably see some of our social media skits, so you will be convinced that we don’t really rehearse. For a million naira show, we rehearse well to avoid repetition of jokes. I can rehearse one hour and deliver for your event.

Do you have a bank of jokes?

As a comedian, your work can come at any time, you can have impromptu jobs. And you know this audience, especially in Lagos, when a joke has gone so stale, they will flog you with koboko (cane). What we do is we have works that are always on ground. The ones we have not set on any platform, so we try to cook it and it will make sense. At any point that we are called, we know that we’ve got to deliver new stuff.

So, we just pick out of the ones we have written down. Our diary is full, because this thing is mental. It is our intellectual property; so we can’t do spontaneous repeatedly. We have to prepare, we have to think about some and write them down.

How did you come up with the name Stillringing?

We went for an event, and then we were still struggling to come up with a name while we were still ministering. I will call it that because it was at a Church then. We were still thinking about a name, so after a performance, a lady approached us and said ‘guy, una just wan kill me.’ She came backstage, and she was just praising us. She kept saying ‘still ringing. I can’t just imagine the thing is still ringing.’ We noticed she kept using the phrase still ringing and till today if we approach the lady to tell her she invented the name, we are sure she will disagree.

The post STILLRINGING: We’ve been threatened with hell fire appeared first on The Nation Nigeria.

…the hard life in Naija.

Everyone has a story to tell. Every day, we meet people from different works of life; whether a lawyer or a classroom teacher; a Managing Director or a gate man; a banker or bus conductor…the list is endless.

However, regardless of our sundry careers, professions or work, what ultimately define us is the quality and strength of our attitudes of mind. Quite frankly, we have heard the almost banal and clichéd statement that – “as our faces are different, so are our challenges, desires, and aspirations”.

Well, it is true because a lot of us go to work and our business places, all adorned in fine clothing and perfumes; the smiles from our faces can literally light up an entire street…that’s how we roll. However, behind our colourful garbs and ‘keyboard’ smiles lies some of our frustrations, challenges, and sometimes warm tears that literally deluge our pillows when we go to sleep at night (at least for those who are fortunate enough to have a place to lay their heads).

Check out these inspiring stories of some top celebrities (not exhaustive) – how they literally went through the gutters of life to sitting and dinning with presidents, kings, and princes of our time.

PATORANKING:

He is arguably Nigeria’s number one reggae/dancehall artist at the moment. From being the face and ambassador of several top brands and organisations to returning as a judge in the ongoing musical competition – The Voice Nigeria, Patoranking has shown not only his versatility but also the fruit of hardwork. Now you see all the glitz and glamour that surrounds and exudes from him, and you wish your life could like his. However, before you quickly latch upon the glory you see, please let’s take a plunge into his STORY.

Before coming to lime light, he was a brick layer. If you are yet to grasp what that means…this is it: He didn’t just do brick laying, he also carried “kponkpon”. Kponkpon is the pan used to carry sand from one place to another within a building or construction site.

To further strengthen his hustle, and to raise funds to support his family (being the first born) and his musical career, he sold rat poison (maybe something like “ota piapia”) on the street. Nobody wey no fit to make am!

JOSEPH BENJAMIN:

Obviously a darling in the movie industry and a golden child in event anchoring and public speaking, Joseph Benjamin is definitely one of the high-flyers in the entertainment stratosphere. As they say, looks can be very deceptive; his looks more often than not do not betray some of the travails and harsh realities he had to grapple with while working on his dream some years back.

In his own words, “I’ve moved from being a bus conductor, security guard, waiter, worked in a Bakery, sold shoes at Balogun; then moved into IT before acting.”

The above is a lesson to all of us, please treat everyone you meet well regardless of their present circumstance because you might just be having the next President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria polishing your shoes. Don’t just be a respecter of persons, be a respectful person.

LINDA IKEJI:

Arguably Nigeria’s number one “miss independence”…in Neyo’s voice, her obvious talent, persistence, and business ingenuity leaves many in utter awe. Apart from having a pretty face and a coca cola figure, the entrepreneur/blogger extraordinaire has genius working in-betwixt her ears. However, like every human being, she has a story…please check this out.

From being admitted into a course she didn’t want (English) at the University of Lagos, to struggling in newsrooms as a writer, to modeling, and finally selling beer as a waiter in hotels, Linda has shown the strength of the woman to surmount the sundry challenges that life throws on a daily. In her own words, “I’d leave lectures, go to a hotel and sell beer from 1 pm till 10 pm. I did this for a few months. It wasn’t easy but I had to survive”. Today the story is different…CHEERS TO ALL THE HUSTLERS!

Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde:

Omotola has obviously gone beyond the threshold of taxonomies among the top actresses in Nigeria to becoming a living legend in the Entertainment Industry. From her fetal stages in the acting business to where she is now, Omotola have continued to leave indelible prints not only in Nigeria, but also in the consciousness of the global space. In 2003, she made the Times Magazine list of Most Influential People in the world; this is no small feat. Some Presidents of countries never reach such heights.

Howbeit, Omotola has her story too; she has been through the heated crucible of life, and like gold she has passed through fire to emerge fine and refined. Check out her story:

After losing the breadwinner of her family, herself, her mom, and her two siblings literally had to beg on the street just to survive another day. They would sit on pavements of some rich Nigerians hoping to get handouts to carry on the day; but were disappointed severally. She was almost tempted to go into prostitution, but her doggedness and streaks of serendipity embraced her.

John Okafor:

Popularly referred to as Mr. Ibu for his role in the movie titled – Mr. Ibu, in 2004, John Okafor is one of Nigeria’s most talented comic characters. His humorous and jocular acting is one that is characterised by stupidity, hilarious imbecility and a sharp disconnection from reality. However, in case you did not know, he once sold firewood, was a butcher, and a hair dresser.

“When I lost my father, breeze pulled down our house and we became tenants in our own village. We were eight in number; five men and three women. We were given a room in our maternal home; there we all slept at night as if we were in a cell. One leg here, the other leg there”, he recalls.

In fact, the interesting part of his story was that his family was the poorest in his hometown in Enugu State. Life and living was truly tough for him…today as they say…the rest his HIStory!

Wiz Kid:

Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, better known by his stage name Wiz kid, is definitely Nigeria’s finest and hottest entertainment export. Born on 16 July 1990, Wizzy quickly embraced his musical destiny at age 11. Formerly known as Lil’ Prinz, his early career wasn’t as smooth as you might think.

Unlike some artists that were born with “golden spoons”, and had billions in their accounts even before venturing into music, wizzy was not that fortunate. He literally became a studio rat; he ate and slept in popular studios in pursuit of his dreams…these were his days in Surulere and Ojuelegba. He never relied on hand outs from patronage or parentage.

He has shared stages with a lot of Nigeria’s finest artist, and has entered global relevance with collaboration with renowned artists like Drake.

Today regardless of what you think of him, the name Wiz Kid will forever resound in the annals of Nigerian history.

Finally, are you still complaining and grouching about your current situation, please pick and dust yourself, have a dream, and work hard at it like your life depends on it…because it does.

So many people leave this teraqueous globe we call earth, and their next door neighbours do not even have the faintest idea that someone just left because their level of consciousness and contribution is very microscopic. Please decide today to change the narrative of your life and re-edit your story.

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•Introduces new management staff

Indications emerged recently that, soon, actors and filmmakers will begin to enjoy an organized form of royalties from there works, like their counterparts in the music and sound recording profession.

Making the promise at the second Annual General Meeting of Audio-Visual Rights Society (AVRS) of Nigeria, which held at the NAN Hall, National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, penultimate Wednesday,

Chairman of the Society, Mr. Bond Emeruwa urged members to exercise more patience, as the Society which was only licensed two years ago, will soon gain stability, after which within the next six months, monies will be shared to duly registered members.

“What is inarguable before us today is that AVRS since obtaining certificate of approval from the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) in October 2014 is yet to collect royalties from users of cinematograph films in the country,” Emeruwa explained, adding that this is not a shortcoming on the part of the management, but a phase which a new society must go through.

According to Emeruwa, “Setting up a Collective Management Organisation (CMO) anywhere in the world requires passing through seminal procedures during which careful steps and essential decisions are made for seamless operation afterwards.  It is even more peculiar in the case of AVRS as we are one of the very few Audio-Visual Copyright management organisations in the world.  What this means is that there is little or no precedence to follow. We have had to invent the wheel every step of the way. The existing copyright laws in some cases have also made it a little difficult for us to move forward at the desired pace. These are being worked out with the assistance of the Nigerian Copyright Commission and will soon be resolved,” he assured.

On how soon the collection of royalties will begin, Emeruwa informed members that the society is on the verge of consummating collection agreements with the Hotels and Personal Employers Association of Nigeria (HOPESEA). He said that demand notices, invoices and follow-up notices have been sent to over one thousand hotels and other right users in the last one year.

These, according to the AVRS boss include, Lagos State Barbing-Hairdressing And Cosmetology Association (LABHCA); Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON); Luxury Bus Owners Association of Nigeria (LUBON) and other similar associations with whom earnest talks have commenced.

Allaying fears of members on the much anticipated sharing of royalties, the Chairman said, “We have no doubt, and soundly reassure you that we shall begin to collect in the very near future, and come the end of this year, we shall all have cause to smile.”

One of the high points of the event was the introduction of the new management staff of AVRS, led by the General Manager/CEO, Mrs. Olubunmi Fawole. Others on the team include Mrs. Bukola Adeyemi (Accountant), Samuel Osaze (Licensing Officer), Barrister Temilade Akinwolere (Licensing Officer), Elizabeth Idoko (Front Desk) and Godwin Okafor (Driver).

Members, during the AOB session, seemed to have let worrying matters rest, in view of the expected teething problems.

However, notable among the questions raised and answers proffered were on the exit of erstwhile General Manager, Mr. Victor Nwokocha, and the reason another election of new Board members was not conducted.

Representing the Director General of the NCC, Head of Lagos Office, Mr. Obi Ezeilo, added his voice to the latter, saying the election deferment was on the advice of the NCC, to allow the society stabilise before changing officers.

Other AVRS board members at the event include, former Chairman, Mahmood Ali-Balogun, Prince Jide Kosoko, Aina Kushoro, Chief Paddie Okao, Fidelis Duker, Tony Anih, Okey Ogunjiofor, Paul Okoli, and Nobert Ajaegbu.

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Richie Akpikpi, a Sweden-based Nigerian, is back to Nigeria after 17 years, to produce a movie titled Culprit.

The Edo state born who studied Civil Engineering at the University of Florence, Italy before going to Sweden to pursue his career in construction is teaming up with experienced Nollywood director, Saheed Apanpa, who has done movies like Dark Closet, Last Date, Dagger and All for the Money, on the project.

Culprit is an action thriller about a character called Cain. Cain is heart broken when the love of his life, Abby, tells him she can no longer see him because her parents do not approve of their relationship. She meets Tejiri, a rich spoilt kid and they begin a relationship. Her parents approves of Tejiri because his family is in their social circle and tribe.

Tejiri is every girl’s dream husband and every parent’s dream son-In-law but it is only his girlfriend that knows his vices and when she can no longer tolerate his excesses, they start having issues.

He drops her off in the middle of the bridge without her phone. Luckily for her, Cain shows up right on time and rescues her and they begin a relationship again. Suddenly, a lot of deaths begin to occur around Abby. She loses her dog, her dad and then her mother. She is next in line when she surprisingly discovers who the real killer is and is shocked to find out his motive.

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Budding highlife singer, Pardon C seems to be making wave with his brand of music. The artiste recent released a highlife laced track, Bele Bele, featuring legendary Ugandan singer Jose Chameleon.

Pardon C, who is based in the United States, is the brother of beauty entrepreneur, Thelma Okoro, CEO of ONYC Hairs.

Speaking on his love for Highlife music, Pardon C says that he intends to carry on the torch lit by musical greats.

“Highlife music is a creative form of expression and it is highly relected in the new track, Bele Bele,” he said.

“I grew up listening to Highlife music so when I decided to pursue the arts, it was the right place for me to explore.”

Pardon C recently clinched a mouth-watering ambassadorial deal with Nsquare Boutique, a leading fashion line owned by a Cameroonian Winkler Boma, who was born in Cameroon and raised in Germany. The outfit, which ash been described as world class, derives its name –Nsquare was from Winkler’s sons’ names ‘Nathan’ and ‘Nevaeh’.

Having been operating underground for over a year, the CEO, Wrinkler Boma says the goal of the outfit is to “make difference with fashion and change people’s life by offering them affordable suits for both men and little boys that is comfortable.”

Excited about the new deal, the budding artiste says that it is proof that he is gaining acceptance in Africa. He said that with the new deal, he will explore not just the Cameroonian and Nigerian markets, while giving Nsquare Boutique a global face.

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Bread seller turned celebrity, Olajumoke Orisaguna, has shown appreciation of her cindrella story as she launched her reality show, Olajumoke Sauce, on Sunday on Qtaby’s Cruise N Chillz4.

On the show, she will share untold stories of her transformation from a bread seller to a super model.

In a video Olajumoke shared on her Instagram account, she is seen speaking a smattering of English and her native Yoruba, effusively listing and thanking her supporters since 2016.

“Thanky you ooo,” she said, taking a bow.

“Thank you for supporting Olajumoke all the time.”

The 26 year old mother of two children then switched into Yoruba, praying for God blessings and prosperity for her supporters.

“With my language, people love me ooo,” as she excitedly strectched her concluding sentences, saying, “Thank you, thank you so muchhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. God bless you, God bless you. Thank you. Thank youuuuuuuuuu”

Actress Shan Goerge, Singer Timi Dakolo, Denrele and Big Brother Naija stars such as Soma, Uriel and Ese were in attendance.

Olajumoke jumped into stardom after she photobombed a photo session by TY Bello on rapper Tinnie Tempa. TY thought she had the potential of a model and posted her picture online to find her as series of events transformed her from rags to riches.

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Nollywood actress Lilian Esoro has been selected as one of the ambassadors for this year’s edition of the annual Ghana Movie Award (GMA).

“I’m honored to be named one of the Ambassadors this year. I’m hoping we can make a change together,” the actress who was in Ghana on June 24, for the GMA nomination party which took place at the Ibis Hotel, said on Instagram.

“There is so much we can achieve together in oneness.”

Other celebrities in attendance were Lilian Esoro, Nigerian actress, Nadia Buari, Nikki Samonas, Maame Dokono, Lydia Forson and Gloria Sarfo.

In its third year, Golden Movies Awards is an annual award that celebrates outstanding achievement in African television and film.

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Model and singer, Angela Chioma John, better known as Annjay has hit the Nigerian music scene with yet another banger titled ‘Man No Be God.’ This is coming after the success recorded with the song, ‘Do Me Right.’

According to the songstress who is also into fashion, ‘Man No Be God’ is a dancehall song produced by notable producer, 2flexing. It was mixed and mastered by Symkings.

With ‘Man No Be God,’ Annjay, who is based in Lagos, explains that her mission is to elevate the status of women in the African music scene to the next level.

“I call it a reality song because I have come to realize that I humans are not God. A lot of people would die because of the greed of others. Humans don’t forgive easily. Everybody’s destiny is different. God is above everything and he can change someone’s destiny in a second,” she said.

In the track, the songstress dedicates her life to God, which admitting that without His presence she is nobody. She also wonders what would have become of her if she depends on man with all his failings as against an infallible God.

“I have released a couple of singles. Among them are Gbakodoro, Fly High, Fall in Love, and Do Me Right. They are all doing well by the grace of God. When I see myself singing to thousands of people, it makes me feel fulfilled. Singing as a career is beautiful but one needs to take things easy because once you are there, a lot of things might get into your head that could make you lose focus. So, I am staying grounded to make sure I remain the person I used to be,” she revealed.

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