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Category: Entertainment

  • Artist urges FG to support sector with more grants

    Nigerian Visual Artist, Promise Ebegbulem with some of her recent works
    Grant
    By Taiye Olayemi
    Lagos June 22, 2024 (NAN) Nigerian visual artist, Promise Ebegbulem, on Saturday urged the Federal Government to create more avenues for artists to access grants, to enable them thrive in their chosen profession.
    Ebegbulem made the call while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
    According to her, this is important because the few available platforms for grants are not easily accessible for many artists.
    She said to encourage more individuals to embrace the profession, government must be deliberate in encouraging the existing artists.
    According to her, this encouragement can be in way of providing opportunities for artists to access grants and establishing more public art galleries for constant exhibition.
    “Investing in arts education from an early age, providing grants for art projects and establishing more public galleries and art spaces can significantly boost the industry.
    “Creating platforms for artists to showcase their work internationally can elevate the perception of Nigerian art on a global stage.
    “By doing so, we can inspire younger generations to pursue their artistic passions and contribute to the cultural and creative economy.
    “It is crucial for the government to recognise the arts as a vital component of cultural identity and economic development.”
    Speaking on her challenges, the artist said she had to contend with limited access to funds and inadequate exhibition spaces.
    According to her, there is also the issue of inconsistent support, which makes it difficult for artists to sustain a career in the arts.
    “It is also disheartening to observe lack of public appreciation for contemporary arts.
    “To improve the industry, the government can establish more art grants and scholarships, develop infrastructure for art exhibitions and workshops, and create policies that protect and promote the intellectual property rights of artists.
    “Fostering partnerships between local artists and international art institutions can open up new opportunities for collaboration and growth,” she said.
    Ebegbulem, who has been practising for over nine years said she had participated in more than seven public exhibitions where she shared her reflections on human nature and cultural values.
    She said her journey, sparked by a profound personal challenge, led her to create captivating paintings that resonate with deep cultural, real life experience and emotional layers.
    Ebegbulem said growing as an artist, she drew inspiration from artistic legends like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Ben Enwonwu.
    Speaking on her recent work entitled “Reflections of Humanity”, Ebegbulem said she tried to make people realise the essence of engaging in self-reflection.
    “Reflections of Humanity” is a mixed-media installation that combines traditional painting techniques with contemporary digital elements.
    “The piece explores the importance of self-reflection, acknowledging Nigerians’ shared human experience, and celebrating cultural diversity.
    “I was inspired by the current global happenings, where there seems to be a growing disconnect between people and their cultural roots.
    “With this work, I aim to encourage viewers to pause, reflect on their own lives, culture and recognise the potential for greatness and unity within our human diversity.
    “There will be a solo exhibition of this work in August,” she said.
    Ebegbulem, who described herself as a self-taught contemporary visual artist from Imo, said she is currently a certified Artificial Intelligence Scientist and aspiring to do more. (NAN) (nannews.ng)
    PTB/FAA
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    Edited by Folasade Adeniran

  • Don’t be ashamed, speak up when traumatised, therapist advises

     

    Lara Kudayisi, Founder of Lara Kudayisi International, with Teddy Don-Momoh, co-founder of Lara Kudayisi International during a media briefing in Lagos, on Friday.

     

     

    Trauma

    By Taiye Olayemi

    Lagos June 21, 2024 (NAN) Lara Kudayisi, a relationship expert and therapist, has advised individuals undergoing any form of trauma to speak up and seek help.

    Kudayisi, Founder of Lara Kudayisi International, gave the advice at a news conference ahead of the maiden edition of “Finding Love After Trauma Fiesta” (FLAT), on Friday in Lagos.

    According to her, keeping quiet while going through trauma can be risky.

    She said to encourage the culture of speaking up promptly, ‘Finding Love After Trauma Fiesta’ would be hosted to help traumatised individuals in the society to recover.

    Kudayisi said the programme was targeted at singles, married and divorced individuals who are trying to recover from one form of trauma or the other.

    She said the programme slated to hold on June 29, at Muson Centre in Lagos, would be an avenue to address sensitive issues, particularly marital and relationship trauma.

    According to her, certified relationship therapists will be engaged during the fiesta to offer professional help.

    She said that the fiesta would feature panel sessions where individuals who had healed from traumatised relationships share their experiences for others to learn and recover as well.

    She said that the programme would also provide an avenue for people to understand the essence of maintaining sound mental health in relationships.

    “FLAT is meant to bring traumatised individuals to their safe spaces. We are looking at the singles, married and the divorced for this maiden edition.

    “From this programme, people will get to learn effective communication techniques to enhance their connections with others.

    “People will also learn strategies for navigating challenges and conflicts in a healthy and constructive way as well as gain inspiration from real-life success stories.

    “We will have Omowunmi Akinnifesi; Sandra Eze; Morayo and Femi Afolabi-Brown; Chiamaka Obuekwe; Oladotun Ojuolape and many others speak on the panel.

    “This is going to be a celebration of love, learning and connection for all; we want to debunk the narrative that being single means going into prostitution, ” she said.

    Speaking on the entertainment segment of the fiesta, Teddy Don-Momoh, co-founder of Lara Kudayisi International, said the programme would not only feature healing and therapy sessions.

    Don-Momoh said there would also be comedy session, musical performances, dance session, games and networking session. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

    PTB/FAA

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    Edited by Folasade Adeniran

  • Nollywood: Expert urges NFVCB to focus on classification  not ‘censorship’

     

     

    Expert

     

    By Joshua Olomu

    Abuja, June 19, 2024(NAN) Samuel Andrews, a US-based Nigerian  Professor of Intellectual Property Law, has urged the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to focus more on classification of movies rather than censorship or banning.

    The expert, who  made the call in statement on Wednesday in Abuja, said ‘classification’ was in line  with global best practices.

    According to Andrew, an avid researcher  and writer on Nollywood, film regulatory bodies in other countries use  classification, aimed at  providing  prior information to prospective consumers as to the nature of media a content.

    He noted that ‘censorship’ or ‘ban’ was draconic and seems to militarise the industry practitioners and stifle creativity.

    “The Media reports recently in Nigeria that the government through the National Film and Video Censor Board  issued a directive to censor and ban certain categories of creative content is worrisome.

    “Does censoring or banning a movie  really work, effective or just political muscle-flexing?”

    “Cultural sensitivities have become a quasi-public policy of the National Film and Video Censor Board in its regulatory activities. NFVCB cites ‘

    “ Filmmaking is both a constitutional and statutory right of Nigerians, and it is also an internationally guaranteed right, which is stipulated by multiple international treaties of which Nigeria is a signatory to most.

     

    “Most content shown by Nollywood are realities of Nigerian culture, folklore and history, so why criminalise, illegalise or shame our culture?

     

    “The emergence and ingenuity of Nollywood are linked to the creativity and originality of the interpretation of Nigeria’s indigenous culture and folklore.

     

    “I am not stating that Nigerian culture or history is enmeshed solely in criminality or gruesome killings of her people.

     

    “However, if it happens, which is a fact, what is wrong or illegal in showing these events on cinematographic platforms or sharing these stories via songs,”he said.

    The IP scholar noted that Nollywood remains one of the relevant productive sectors in Nigeria and it has  continued to enrich Nigeria’s economy and boosts apositive reputation for Nigeria in the comity of nations.

    He therefore called for reforms in the statutory and operational framework of the censors board  to ensure a more effective approach to regulation of artistic and literary works.

    “The Nigerian government should revert to its drawing board and approach this issue more smartly based on the current global standards of classification of movies.

    “Banning goods or products that have recreational or entertainment benefits to its citizens generally does not work.

    “Sensible and effective national policy to regulate citizens’ conduct should not  be expanded to include arbitrary abuse of power or infringement of the citizen’s creative rights legally protected as private property by the constitution.

    “When laws or rules become anti-citizen, the essence of societal ordering becomes complicated.

    “In modern or contemporary governance, the formal and institutional arms of government conduct empirical and deep consultations with the people especially, those who may be fundamentally affected by a new law/rule.

    “This is to allow for filtration, analyzation and feedback on the overall significance of a new law/rule,” he said.

    Andrew argued that since it was near impossible to adequately regulate contents on digital platforms, a more realistic approach should be adopted for a win-win industry.

    He said censorship or outright banning of films could lead to   unintended consequences that will be the catalyst for the emergence of waves of the black-market in the Nigerian film industry.

    “According to studies and research, banning online content lacked the intended impact on piracy, is an obnoxious affliction on Nigeria’s socio-economic objectives) of audiovisual content.

    “In a digital era of creative production with ubiquitous distribution platforms powered by digital technology, how can NFVCB effectively enforce its  ban or censorship?

    “Can NFVCB ban the existence of smoking? So, why engage in the impossible; the focus of the NFVCB should be on the effective and realistic regulation of films not banning or censoring.

    “The desired outcome of the NFVCB properly implementing its duties should be to propel Nollywood’s creatives to spur Nigeria’s dire national economic situation towards growth,” he said.

    NFVCB is a Federal Government agency that regulates the films and video industry in Nigeria and is empowered by law to classify all films and videos, whether imported or produced locally.

    It is also the duty of the board to register all films and videos outlet across the country and to keep a register of such outlets among other functions.

    The Censors Board issues a Certificate of censorship on all films and video works censored by its Committee and in the certificate the classification of the film or video is indicated.

    Some of its classification symbols and ratings include; ‘G’ to indicate for general exhibition; ‘PG’ to indicate intended for children under parental guidance; “C” to indicate intended particularly for children.

    Others are  ’12’ to indicate not recommended for children under 12 years, and ‘12A’ means that no one under 12 years may enter a cinema unless accompanied by an adult.

    It also has ’15’ to indicate not recommended to persons under 15 years and ’18’ to indicate for mature audiences (NAN) (nannews.ng)

    JOSH/EAL

    Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

     

     

     

     

  • FirstBank reiterates boosting economy via creative arts

    Arts

     

    By Ibukun Emiola

     

    Ibadan, June 18, 2024 (NAN) First Bank of Nigeria (FBN) says Nigeria can boost its economy by promoting and exporting its creative arts to the world, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

     

     

     

    FBN Group Head, Public Sector West, Dr Timothy Arowoogun, said this in Ibadan on Tuesday at the recreation of a stage play, “Oke Langbodo”, at the Wole Soyinka Theatre, University of Ibadan (UI).

     

    According to Arowoogun, the bank believes anything linked with creative arts is a big business to be supported.

     

    “As a bank, we have aligned ourselves with creative arts in Nigeria and Africa because FirstBank is a global institution and we believe that we can sponsor the industry.

     

    “It is like the Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs), which is one of our core areas of support.

     

    “In Nigeria, without supporting the real sector, which creative arts, we believe, is part of it, we can’t go anywhere,” he said.

     

    He said to bring down the rising foreign exchange, Nigeria needed to build and support its SMEs to export goods and services thereby limiting the level of importation.

     

    Similarly, FBN Head of Media, External Relations and Sustainability, Ismail Omamegbe, said the bank would continue to sponsor components of the creative industry to promote SMEs.

     

    “A platform of arts is not peculiar to Yoruba folklore but it could be Igbo or Yoruba; it has to be able to drive unity and coming together.

     

    “It has to typify or exemplify what Nigeria stands for,” he said.

     

    Otunba Ayodeji Osibogun, the Executive Producer of the stage play and Chief Executive Director, Creazioni Network, said FirstBank, under its First@Arts initiative, partnered with his company to produce the play.

     

    “Oke Langbodo is a Yoruba folklore that has been adapted into various forms of literature, including plays, novels, and poems.

     

    “The story is often seen as a metaphor for life’s journey, with Langbodo representing the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity.

     

    “Oke Langbodo was initially created in 1977 and it’s being reproduced by Creazioni Communications with the theme that addresses human existence,” he said.

     

    He stressed the importance of youth involvement in everything being done in the country, especially as displayed by the bank in bringing the production to the Department of Theatre Arts, UI.

     

    According to him, the initiative will ensure that tomorrow’s artists are involved and ready to replace the Nollywood actors and actresses.

     

    “We are talking about moving people from the movie to the theatre, so who is going to run the theatre?

     

    “So, FirstBank and Odu’a are already thinking about tomorrow, that is why we are here,” Osibogun said.

     

    Meanwhile, the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun, reiterated the importance of promoting culture and supporting the development of creative industry in the state.

     

    NAN reports that Oke Langbodo, a legendary tale of courage and resilience, was inspired by the timeless classic, “Ogboju Ode ninu Igbo Irunmole” by D.O Fagunwa.

     

    It was reimagined in English as “Forest of a Thousand Demons” by Prof. Wole Soyinka and brought to life on stage by Wale Ogunyemi during Festac 77 as “Lagbodo”.

     

    Oke Langbodo was recreated as a collusion of ancient legends with modern technology of immense digital and technological experiential possibilities. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

     

    IBK/MAS

     

    Edited by Moses Solanke

  • FG to list Ojude Oba as UNESCO approved festival

    FG to list Ojude Oba as UNESCO approved festival

    Festival

    By Joy Akinsanya

    Abeokuta, June 18, 2024 (NAN) The Federal Government says it has plans to list the annual Ojude Oba Festival as one of the festivals backed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

    The Minister of Culture, Arts and Creative Economy,  Hannatu Musa- Musawa, said this on Tuesday, at the 2024 edition of the festival at Awujale’s pavilion, Ijebu-Ode.

    The festival has as its theme “Ojude Oba: Unity and Harmony, Our Gift”.

    The minister, represented by the Director of Cultural Agencies and Heritage, Dr Ben Ugo Anama, noted that the annual festival was in tune with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    She said the mandate of the ministry was to make revenue generation from tourism to be over $100 billion by 2030.

    The minister described the annual festival as a platform for fostering the unity of the country as well as one of the country’s tourism potentialities.

    Musa- Musawa said it could be tapped into to diversify the economy from oil and generate more resources in the nation.

    She noted that in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the ministry would always collaborate with stakeholders to promote, preserve and protect the rich cultural heritage of our nation.

    The minister added that the ministry would ensure it reached its enviable height according to the vision for the ministry tagged “Destination 2030”.

    “This vision considers the potentialities in arts, culture and creative economy, in terms of its ability to create economic expansion.

    “Our ambitious goals are predicated on this drive, which is capable of yielding billions and increase the Gross Domestic Product by year 2030,” she said.

    She said that the Presidential Renewed Hope Agenda, especially for the ministry demonstrated unwavering commitment to diversify the economy and move away from the country’s over dependence on oil revenue.

    Musa-Musawa rejoiced with the sons and daughters of Ijebuland over the success of the festival and the good image it had given the country over the years.

    She said that she had observed that the festival had not received any elements of UNESCO approval as one of its approved festivals.

    The Minister said that the status of a festival like Ojude-Oba, with its profound impact on the tourism sector, deserved to be listed by the international body.

    She, however, vowed to activate all the processes to get this done without further delay.

    Also Speaking at the event, Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, hailed Ojude-Oba and described it as a festival that had given Ijebuland and the people of Ogun a distinct identity.

    Abiodun said that the festival had also become a catalyst for the development of Ijebuland and this underscored the essence of preserving the rich cultural heritage.

    The governor, while rejoicing with the sons and daughters of Ijebuland over this year’s celebration, promised to partner with the Federal Government to develop the festival and make it a global tourist attraction and destination.

    He added that the theme of the celebration was quite apt, as unity and harmony remained the bedrock of any thriving society.

    He called for a more united force to lift the country out of its present woes.

    NAN reports that the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, the chief host of the event, was also on seat to receive over 100 age grade groups of males and females (Regberegbes), decked in attractive and impressive attire.

    They came around to pay annual homage to the traditional ruler.

    The horse riders, who were from the warrior families in Ijebuland, were also on hand to thrill the fun seekers to various acrobatic displays with their horses. (NAN)(nannews.ng)
    IOJ/DE/IFY

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    Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Ifeyinwa Omowole

  • Music practitioner, Femi Esho, dies at 77

    Late Femi Esho, Chairman, Evergreen Musical Company
    Music practitioner, Femi Esho, dies at 77
    Death
    By Taiye Olayemi
    Lagos, June 18, 2024 (NAN) Chief Femi Esho, Chairman of Evergreen Musical Company, is dead, aged 77.
    The deceased’s daughter, Bimbo Esho, in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos said the music practitioner died on Monday after a brief illness.
    She said: “We announce the passing unto glory of our patriarch, Mr Samuel Babafemi Esho, popularly known and referred to as “Baba Esho”, Baba Musician, etc.
    “Baba Esho departed to greater glory on Monday 17th June 2024 after a brief illness at the age of 77.
    “Baba Esho until his demise was the Chairman of the Evergreen Musical Company as well as the Founder of the Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation.
    “Baba Esho was a mentor  and “encyclopedia” to many ‘Highlife music aficionados.
    “He will be remembered as one who gave so much of himself to see to the “immortality” of the musical works of Nigerian Highlife, Juju, Sakara, Apala, Afrobeat and a crop of other Nigerian/African genre of indigenous music.” (NAN) (nannews.ng)
    PTB/FAA
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    Edited by Folasade Adeniran

  • AGN holds candlelight service for late Nollywood veterans Mr Ibu, others in FCT

     

    Candlelight

     

    By Joshua Olomu

     

    Abuja, June 18, 2024(NAN)  The Actors Guild of Nigeria(AGN)has organised a candlelight procession to pay tribute to  late Nollywood  actors John Okafor, popularly known as ‘Mr Ibu’, Amaechi Muonagor and Zulu Adigwe.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the thespians, alongside fans and friends of the late veterans gathered for the procession   at the Unity Fountain on Monday  night in Abuja.

    The procession was led by Emeka Rollas, National President of the AGN ,alongside veteran actors Kenneth Okonkwo, Zack Orji, Sidney Idiala, among others.

    In a heartfelt display of respect and emotions, the attendees took turns to pay tribute to the fallen heroes for their contributions to the Nigerian film industry.

    Mercy  Salma, FCT mayor of AGN, said the event was to  show   appreciation and honour for the  life and times of the late actors.

    “These are Nollywood veterans that put smiles in the faces of Nigerians during their lifetime, so we should celebrate their legacies and memories.

    “They have both the young and the old Nigerians, and even across Africa and beyond as their fans.”

    “So this procession is to show that we love them and appreciate their sacrifices and contributions to our industry and nation at large,” she said.

    In his speech, Emeka Rollas said the procession was to demonstrate the solidarity that exist in the actors guild and to reflect on the moments they shared with the late thespians.

    According to the AGN helmsman, the candlelight service was also an occasion for actors to reflect on  how they  want to be remembered at the end of their works.

    “This is a season of sorrow for us at the AGN, our hearts are filled with grief over the loss of our three veteran members.

    “But as the saying goes, when someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.

    “The Late John Okafor, Amaechi Monaugor and Zulu Adigwe lived life that exemplified brilliance and  inspired emulation.

    “They also lived a life that burned so that others’ paths were lit, and they made impact on the society through their profession.

    “Today we are here to honour them, not only by profoundly feeling and expressing our loss, but also to remember their amazing personalities.

    “They all played  unique and special roles in all of our lives and the acting profession and they  were loyal colleagues and special friends to many of us.

    “Today,  we honour these men as we recall special moments ,they were living proof of how fine a person can be, caring hearts to their friends and colleagues, loving and devoted father to their children.

    They gave their all in their acting careers as they worked with passion, integrity and energy and our hearts and prayers are with their families at this most difficult time,” he said.

    On his part, Kenneth Okonkw,  foremost Nollywood actor said their commitment to their profession were part of what made the Nigerian film industry a toast of fans.

    According to him, they  were driven by passion  to join the industry that  was why they rose to their peak and made indelible marks.

    He  urged young artistes to focus on value delivery  and shun the rush for  quick monetary  gains for them to make their marks in the industry.

    “As one of the pioneer actors in the industry, I was  connected personally to each of them that came to Nollywood at that time, and I can tell you that they were all driven by passion  for acting.

    “Wherever they are today, we should appreciate what  they have contributed towards they growth and  development of our industry,” he said.

    NAN reports that the high point of the event was  prayers for the repose of the departed souls and for Nollywood industry, and as well as prayers for Nigeria. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    JOSH/JPE

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    Edited by Joseph Edeh

  • Cannes Lions: Unik Ernest to host culturin afterparty, 5 all-star events

    By Philip Yatai

    Event

    Lagos, June 17, 2024 (NAN) A business strategist and cultural architect, Unik Ernest, will host the Culturin Afterparty Series during the 2024 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.

    The event will be held from June 17 to 21, at Elva Cannes, France, a statement by Mr Osita Oparaugo, founder and Chief Executive Officer, GetBundi Education Technology, said on Monday in Lagos.

    The statement said that Earnest would curate five all-star events, starting with a special Cannes Lions Welcome Party on Monday, June 17 to be hosted by Chief Executive Officer, United Masters, Steve Stoute.

    It said that expected attendees would include NBA stars Kevin Durant, Draymond Green, Chad ‘Ochocinco’ Johnson and Shannon Sharpe, who would toast to the creatives and enjoy the best of the French Riviera.

    It added that the welcome party would be followed by a Hip Hop Throwback Party with 300 Entertainment CEO, Kevin Liles and a special guest DJ on June 18.

    The statement also said that a designer and celebrity stylist, Jason Rembert, would host an Afrobeat/Amapiano Experience on June 19, and as the sun sets over the Mediterranean on June 20.

    “The Culturin Afterparty will host their first annual Rose Day, a quintessential Cannes experience.

    “The Annual Fête de la Musique and a special birthday celebration for Unik Ernest will close out this one-of-a-kind nightly series on June 21st.

    “This exclusive party series will serve as a preview to what culturin founder, Unik Ernest, and his team, will be able to do for clients and countries across the globe.

    “A formal launch for this bespoke media and travel company will take place in New York City this Fall to coincide with New York Fashion Week.”

    The statement quoted Ernest as saying that “the world needs more beautiful stories, and culturin will harness the power of storytelling, technology and cultural insights to amplify local cultures on a global stage”.

    It described Ernest as a personality who seamlessly blends cultural diplomacy and hospitality to forge genuine connection with artists and brands, governments and corporations.

    This, the statement said, he was doing through impactful partnerships in the public, private and philanthropic sectors.

    “Unik Ernest is a Haitian born, Manhattan-based nightlife guru and business leader.

    “Over the past 20 years, Unik has used his ability to capture attention and generate buzz in his work with the world’s largest brands.

    “As an event architect, he has engineered one-of-a-kind parties, promotions and special events for Nike, Valentino, JetBlue and NBC Universal.

    “With his company Lokee Worldwide Productions, he created events during Sundance, The Cannes Film Festival and the Grammy Awards,” the statement said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    FDY/ETS

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  • Muslim faithful dress elegantly in celebration of Sallah

    Some Muslim faithful posing for a picture at the praying ground located at Magodo Phase 2.

     

    Eid-el Kabir

    By Oladele Eniola
    Lagos, June 16, 2024 (NAN) Muslim faithful on Sunday were elegantly dressed as they marked the Eid-el Kabir celebration.
    A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) who went around some parts of Lagos to monitor the celebration observed that muslims were beautifully dressed as many households were seen celebrating the day.
    At the prayer ground located at Magodo Phase 2, elderly women and girls were dressed in the attire popularly known as Abaya, while the men adorned beautiful sewn jalabiyas, and posed for pictures after the prayers.
    The whole atmosphere was filled with joy, laughter and happiness despite the economic hardship in the country.
    Mr Qudus Awotayo, a father of two, urged everyone to pray for the country to overcome the current hardship facing the masses.
    “I’m always grateful to Almighty Allah for granting us life to see this day and celebrate it because in all of what is happening, we must be thankful for the gift of life.
    “I use this opportunity to pray for the country so that Allah can grant us solutions to the issues we are facing as a country,”  he said.
    Oluwaseyitan Afeez who came along with her friend to the prayer ground, said she was grateful for the holiday noting that it was a time for reflection and revaluation.
    “People should use this time to reflect and reevaluate themselves in order to be better and impact the people around them.
    “We need to learn to be of good influence to people around us as this will have a positive effect.”
    At the praying ground at Ile-Zik, in Ikeja, muslim faithful gathered around as they prayed for peace and unity in  the country.
    Mr Debo Oyedeji, who was with his wife and children, urged muslims to help one another as the period should be used to make positive impacts.
    “People must take it on themselves to help one another during this period and in other times because we must imbibe the spirit of giving.
    “We are obliged to lift others and by doing that, we will be blessed in several ways that cannot be imagined or explained.” he said.
    Mr Afeez Oguntayo, said he would use the holiday to rest and have lone time.
    Also, some households were seen celebrating the holiday as they entertained guests with foods and drinks.

    A visit to Magodo, Ikeja, Yaba, Ogudu G.R.A and other environs showed people celebrating and dancing to music. (NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)

    ENI/NCI/FAA
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    Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna/Folasade Adeniran
    Slaughtering of a cow by a household in preparation for celebration of Eid-el Kabir at Ogudu G.R.A

  • X-mob dancers thrill music lovers in Abuja

     

    X-mob dancers thrill music lovers in Abuja

    Concert

    Priscilla Osaje

    Abuja, June 16, 2024(NAN) The winner of 2024 ‘K-pop Festival’  ‘X-mob dancers’, on Saturday in Abuja thrilled fans and music lovers  with their splendid dancing performance at the K-pop Hurray Concert Reloaded.

    The K-pop Hurray Concert Reloaded, titled:  ‘The Stars’ Edition’, featured performances of various dancing group winners of 2023 and 2024 K-pop festival in Lagos Nigeria.

    K-pop Hurray Concert Reloaded, organised by Korea cultural Center in Nigeria (KCCN), is a talent show created to give young talented Nigerians the opportunity to showcase their talents and promote Korean K-pop music.

    The X-mob crew which comprised of six talented dancers, defeated other dancing groups like `Femmeforce’, ‘B-Stars’ , ‘Tryumphant X’, among others‘ to cart home a cash prize of N100,000, at ‘The Stars’ Edition’.

    Mr Raphael Madufor, ecstatic leader of X-mob, said words were not sufficient to express his joy for emerging as winners at the  K-pop festival competition, and also winning with such a cash in the concert of ‘Stars’ Edition’.

    Madufor said his group was united by passion for the Korea culture, which was why they danced to all kinds of dance such as K-pop, Afrobeat among others.

    “We are happy to fit into the Korea general dance, when we decided to give it a go and then emerged as winners at the K-pop festival.

    ” I feel happy, I feel great, doing the song that made us to emerge as winners in this ‘Stars’ Edition’,” he said.

    He urged upcoming dancers to sink into Korea culture, noting that K-pop is a different dance style where you have a  blend with dance expression and feeling.

    “Sincerely speaking, other general dance can hardly give you such combination of dance as the  K-pop.

    “With K-pop you should be ready to dance , express and sing at the same time.

    “I want to use this opportunity to appreciate my crew for the tireless efforts they put in for us to always be winners,” Madufor said.

     

    Mr Kim Changki, Director KCCN, said the aim of the event was to promote Korean culture, as well as everything regarding Korea in Nigeria.

    According to him, KCCN want to introduce K-pop festival every year in Abuja and Lagos  to select one team among other teams.

    ” The K-pop fans in Abuja want to see the K-pop dance team in Abuja for the promotion of K-pop community.

    ” The K-pop music lovers should try their best in studying Korea culture and belonging to the K-pop community,” he said.

    He urged young prospective talented Nigerian singers and dancers to be ambitious in the pursuit of their dreams.

    Ms Jennifer Ezeonyeasi, the Cultural Events and  Communications Officer of the  KCCN, said the event was a reloaded K-pop concert.

    According to her, the aim of the reloaded event was to bring together the winners of the K-pop festival competition in Lagos back to Abuja  to preform.

    “Bringing them together will enable us to be sure of having a close knit community of K-pop performers.

    “We do not want a situation where or after they won, then it just end there without bringing the K-pop community together,” she said .

    NAN areports that the 2024 singing winner of K-pop performance, Victory Mbagwu won  N100,000 after her amazing performance.

    Miss Precious Ayeni and two others won cash prizes of N10, 000 each after winning the dance challenge.

     

    The K-pop is known as Korea popular music, which comes in form of popular music originating in South Korea as part of South Korean culture.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    PO/CHOM/JPE

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    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Joseph Edeh