Category: Entertainment

Premiere

By Joshua Olomu

Abuja, June 8, 2024(NAN) The season two of  ‘Beyond  the Veil’, a TV series  that depicts everyday life of northern Nigerian women, has premiered in the Federal Capital Territory(FCT).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that filmmakers, industry stakeholders, as well as the cast and crew of the film,  were present at the screening on Friday night in Abuja.

“Beyond the Veil” brings to the fore everyday life of liberal Northern Nigerian women, highlighting social issues such as polygamy, drug abuse, gender based violence, forbidden relationships and unstable family dynamics.

The story follows the lives of five resilient northern Nigerian women as they navigate the ups and downs of modern life, careers, friendships, romances and the occasional clash of cultures.

The series, which showcase the richness and diversity of the northern culture, follows the lives of five women living in Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja as they navigate work, love, family and friendship.

The star-studded ‘Beyond the Veil’ is created by award-winning filmmaker Nadine Ibrahim and Sifa Asani- Gowon and is produced by Naila Media.

The film directed by Ibrahim features seasoned stars including ace actress Jemima Osunde, Maryam Booth, Norah Ego, Ummi  Ahmed ,  Ame Aiyejina and Rikadawa  Mohammed.

Others include Blessing Uzoro, Caleb Richards, Sani Muazu, Nadia Dutch, Andrew Bunting,Yakubu Mohammed and Temitope Olowoniyan, among others.

The series Director told NAN on the sideline that the project represents an opportunity to showcase a different version of the Northern Nigerian woman.

“Beyond the Veil” is a show inspired by the urge to depict Northern Nigerian women in a new and liberating way; one that is bold, empowered, and unapologetically authentic.

“It is about us sharing a fresh narrative and show the world that a northern woman comes in different spaces

“The story follows the lives of five young women living in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria and the show builds a refreshing narrative around them but does not shy away from exploring the realities they face.

“All the women face ongoing challenges, some of which are layered and continued from the first season, many of which reach a climax and achieve some closure.

“The recurring themes of friendship, love, healing, and even pain remain in it, and   they  must push past and grow through all these, making choices that hurt and step bravely into the unknown.

“As a director, this project marks a significant milestone in my creative journey and it has allowed me to push boundaries, challenge conventions, and evolve artistically and personally,” she said

Also, the co-creator of the show,  Asani- Gowon said the ‘Beyond the Veil’ story was well accepted by Nigerians as it reflected realities Nigerian women face.

“For the first season, the overall reactions were really good, although I was  a little nervous about it, because I did not  know how people would take it.

“However, the overall response was so great, and I think that made it even more positive for me, especially the overall northern Nigeria response to the show and now we are unveiling season two,” she said.

Ishaya Bako, Executive Producer of the film, said the story was a clear reflection of  everyday realities that women have to cope with in this part of the world.

Bako, renowned for directing award-winning documentaries like “Fueling Poverty”, “Silent Tears,” and “UP NEPA” said the series was a continuous story.

“Our culture in Nigeria is very vast and rich so we should always tell stories that are vibrant and diverse to reflect issues that affect us,” he said.

NAN reports that the first season of ‘Beyond the Veil’ was released on Amazon’s Prime Video in March   2023(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

JOSH/JPE

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Edited by Joseph Edeh

Lagos, June 8, 2024 (NAN) MultiChoice Nigeria says it will appeal Friday’s ruling of the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal in Abuja, which awarded a N150 million fine against it for challenging the court’s jurisdiction.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the tribunal had fined MultiChoice Nigeria the sum of N150 million for disobeying its order.

The order had restrained the pay-TV company from increasing its monthly subscription pending the determination of the suit brought before it by an Abuja-based lawyer, Festus Onifade.

The tribunal also ordered the pay-TV company to provide its Nigerian customers with a one-month free subscription to its DStv and GOtv packages.

In a statement, MultiChoice reacted as it said that it disagreed with the ruling and would file an appeal against it.

The statement read in part: “MultiChoice Nigeria is aware of the recent ruling by the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal regarding its jurisdiction to entertain a price regulation matter.

“We disagree with the ruling, and will therefore file an appeal against the said ruling.

Anniversary

By Taiye Olayemi

Lagos, June 8, 2024 (NAN) It was a night of glitz and glamour on Friday as Nigerian singer and rapper, Oladapo Oyebanjo, popularly known as “D’banj”,  celebrated his 20 years of musical excellence in a sophisticated ceremony.

D’banj got the attention of bigwigs in the Nollywood and Nigerian music scene as he took the celebration held at Vaniti Lagos, Victoria Island,  to another level entirely.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the  event witnessed guests and fans mime along while D’banj’s songs from 2004 were played to their delight.

Among the celebrities that turned up at the event are : Clarence Peters, legendary music video director; Nollywood actress, Funke Akindele; Afrobeats Musician, Femi Kuti; Timaya; ID Cabasa; Kenny Ogungbe; Bisola Aiyeola and Mr Macaroni.

Others include: Ini Edo, Tobi Bakre, Ruggedman as well as Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture and many others.

Dbanj arrived the venue for the celebration in a black outfit complemented with a mini gray-coloured jacket, as a cultural troupe welcomed him with his 2006  debut musical track, “Mobolowowon”.

His wife, Lineo Didi, and his parents also graced the occasion adorning beautiful outfits.

Music Executive and Founder of Kennyis Music, Kenny Ogungbe, congratulated D’banj while acknowledging his resilience and hardwork.

He said: “Congratulations to D’banj for being on stage for 20 years, he started with Mobolowowon and then Tongolo with so much energy and so many songs after that,  and he is still standing very strong, very energetic and still a great entertainer.

“The solid energy behind his performances is something one cannot compare to anything. So, congratulations to him. May God keep on blessing him and he will grow to 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 years on stage.

“Look at Sunny Ade, he is still there, we pray for same energy for him in Jesus’ name.”

Also, actress Funke Akindele commended D’banj’s good heart and generosity as she recalled how the “Koko Master” encouraged her to make her 2009 film, “Jennifer” into an episodic play.

Akindele said D’banj assisted her with a lump sum to go ahead and produce more episodes of Jennifer, adding that this was the push that gave birth to “The Return of Jennifer”.

“And till date, the brand is still relevant. Christmas 2024, we are coming up with “Everybody Loves Jennifer”.

“So, this gentleman here, God used him to speak to me to have the Jennifer brand. I want to celebrate you D’banj, you were always there for me. I pray you will always be a force to reckon with. Congratulations D’banj.”

Still celebrating the Koko Master’s musical greatness, Ayo Animashaun, Founder of Hip TV,  who presented a special gift to D’banj, said,  “I like to say thank you so much for all you have done for the Nigerian music industry and thank you for all you do now and what you are going to do in the future. Thank you.”

Other guests also took turns to pour out encomiums on D’banj.

D’banj is best known for his song “Oliver Twist”, an uptempo dance fusion of afrobeats and electronic dance music that topped the African charts in 2011 and was a top 10 hit in the UK singles chart in 2012, reaching number two on the UK R&B chart.

He has won several music awards, including the awards for Best African Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards 2007; Artiste of the Year at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2009

He also won Best International Act Africa at the 2011 BET Awards; Best-selling African Artiste at the 2014 World Music Awards, and Evolution Award at the 2015 MTV Africa Musical Awards. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

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Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Marriage

By Priscilla Osaje

Abuja, June 7,2024(NAN) Big Brother Naija Reality TV star and chef, Uriel Oputa, popularly known as Uriel says critics questioning her single status should back-off  as marriage is not for everyone.

Uriel who is also an entrepreneur and chef,  took to her Instagram @urielmusicstar to address the issue said, marriage is not an achievement, the reason why she does not feel any pressure from the family or the public.

According to her, she does not need validation from social media to prove that she is married or not.

She added that posting her partner or relationship status on social media was a prohibition for her.

“Marriage isn’t for everyone. If you think marriage is an achievement, that’s on you. How do you know I’m not married? Do you think everyone needs validation from social media?”, Uriel wrote.

She went ahead to reiterate that she would never post about her partner or relationship status on social media.

“I would never post my marriage or my partner’s full face here. Age-shaming and marriage-shaming is so 2018. Let’s maintain this energy and save the lives of young men and women”.

On the topic of trolls who bully people on social media, Uriel reassured them that she is bully-proof.

“Bullying doesn’t work with me. I went to an all-white school and I was the blackest kid that ever liveth”.

Meanwhile, the social media influencer has earlier expressed her taught and feelings on the topic of trolls, as well as those that were good in bullying others on social media, reassuring them that she happens to be a bully-proof.

She became famous after appearing in Big Brother Naija season 2 in 2017, and ever since then, she has built a successful career in various fields.(NAN)(WWW.nannews.ng)

PO/EAL

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Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Record

By Joshua Olomu

Abuja, June 6, 2024 (NAN) Fast-rising gospel artiste, Bidemi Olaoba, has joined Grace and Truth Nation (GNT) Nation, a record label co-founded by Pastor Blessed Uzochikwa and his wife, gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.

Uzochikwa, GNT Nation President, in a statement said the gospel singer’s arrival marks a significant milestone in the record’s commitment to advance the gospel of Christ through the transformative power of gospel music.

“We are thrilled to announce that Bidemi Olaoba, a celebrated and anointed gospel artiste, has officially joined the GNT family.

“Known for his unwavering dedication to the promotion of God’s kingdom, Bidemi Olaoba embodies the spirit and mission of GNT: raising the flag of Jesus Christ across the world.

“Bidemi Olaoba is a name synonymous with spiritual fervor and musical excellence. His powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and profound lyrical depth have captivated audiences and inspired countless souls.

“With a ministry deeply rooted in grace ,Bidemi has committed his talents to glorifying God and spreading the message of hope, love, and salvation through his music,” he said.

Also, Olaoba said: “Our mission to spread the Kingdom work globally has reached new heights.

“I am excited to announce the unveiling of my new projects with the Great GNT family. God is about to manifest powerfully. Stay tuned and get ready!”

The  sensational singer  who recently held ‘In His Presence’ concert at the University of Lagos is a prophetic worship and praise Minister.

The artiste recently sparked buzz on social media when he said he can never  perform in a white garment church during a live TV show.

According to him, the reason he will never accept performing in any white garment church is because of the use of candles, perfumes, and some other spiritual materials during prayers and services.

He, however, apologised, stating that he believes in the universality of the gospel and expressed regret for any misunderstanding caused by his previous remarks. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

JOSH/EMAF
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Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

Fireboy DML releases visuals for hit single ‘Everyday’

Single

By Priscilla Osaje

Abuja, June 6, 2024 (NAN) Nigerian singer and songwriter, Adedamola Adefolahan popularly known as Fireboy DML, has started the new month with a music video for his hit single ‘Everyday’.

The renowned singer, who took his social media platforms to announce the release of his hit song, attributed the glory to God for making it possible for him to achieve such feat.

He urged his fans and lovers of music to seat tight and enjoy every bit of the song they talked on waving relationship, adding that his best is yet to come.

‘Everyday’ out now! produced by @iamblaisebeatz lyric video out on youtube, make una no chop mouth directed by the one and only @oluthewave enjoy this album def my best yet! Glory to God,” he wrote.

The music video, which is directed by ace Nigerian video director, TG Omori featured singer Bloody Civilian as the lead vixen.

In the newly-released video, Fireboy DML and Bloody Civilian portrayed what appeared to be a relationship that has some turbulence, which they late work things out at the end.

The track is the Nigerian singer’s first release of 2024, and arrives just after his coachella debut.

The song that is about love and longing, the beat for “Everyday” embraced traditional African sounds, underpinned by shakers and a saxophone.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

PO/JPE

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Edited by Joseph Edeh

Iddo community celebrates Elegba Ejiwa Festival in Lagos

Festival

By Taiye Olayemi

Lagos June 5, 2024 (NAN) The Iddo Community in Lagos Mainland on Wednesday celebrated its annual Elegba Ejiwa Festival to ward off evil from the land.

The celebration witnessed a combination of cultural and spiritual activities from seven coastal communities namely Ido, Oniru, Ikate-Elegushi, Ojora, Ilashe, Irede and Ilado.

Community members, especially traditionalists, from these areas came out in their numbers with colourful and spontaneous dance and musical performances.

Chief Ismail Folaji, the Olorogun-Ide of Lagos, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the final ceremony of the seven-day festival that it  was meant to encourage peaceful co-existence within the community.

Folaji, who is the chief organiser of the ceremony, added that the festival was to promote sanctity of traditions and ensure prosperity in the land.

According to Folaji, the festival is also to celebrate the remembrance of the ancient traditional ruler of the community known as Olofin Atekoya.

He said, according to history, the legend’s story resonated as a beacon of leadership, courage and strength.

“This festival is the time set aside to offer prayers for peace and prosperity for Iddo community and its indigenes, the state and the entire nation.

“It also serves as a form of reunion for the sons and daughters of Olofin, home and abroad.

“Elegba Ejiwa is an age-long festival that dates back to the 15th century.

“We are encouraged to continue this festival annually because we have received beautiful feedbacks whereby our people are making progress and living in peace.

“This, for us, promotes tourism because we have our friends from Ogun, Osun and other states coming to celebrate with us,” the chief said.

Correcting the wrong perception about the festival, especially those who believed human blood was usually used for the annual sacrifice during the ceremony, Folaji said this was not true.

He said blood from domestic animals were used and not human blood.

The chief noted that the celebration of the festival would now be done in turns by the other six coastal areas of Oniru, Ikate-Elegushi, Ojora, Ilashe, Irede and Ilado, starting with Oniru.

He said that the Elegba Ejiwa Festival had been improved on as it was now being celebrated for seven days instead of the former three days. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

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Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Mrs Henrietta Obioma-Igwe, Manager, Programme and Development of NNPC Foundation, planting trees with the assistance of Mr Kenneth Adeoni, the Principal, Badagry Senior Secondary School, to mark World Environment Day in Badagry

Planting

By Raji Rasak/ Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

Badagry (Lagos State), June 5, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Foundation on Wednesday sensitised students of Badagry Senior Secondary School on tree planting to mark the World Environment Day.

Speaking at the programme, Mrs Henrietta Obioma-Igwe, Manager, Programme and Development of the foundation, said tree planting and conservation efforts were key to maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment.

World Environment Day is celebrated every year on June 5, and aims at raising awareness and celebrating environmental action, with a focus this year on land restoration, desertification and drought resilience.

“Tree planting minimises or prevents the environmental challenges impacting on our environment and survival.

“Trees provide shade, cool the air through transpiration, and block winds, regulating local climates.

“Trees produce oxygen, which is essential for human and animal life.

“Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to prevent climate change,” she said.

She said that the foundation had chosen Badagry because it is a border community, adding that the town is a point of contact to anybody coming into the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that during the programme the foundation planted 70 trees in Badagry Senior Secondary School.

Mr Kenneth Adeoni, Principal of the school, expressed delight at the sensitisation brought to the students.

“Now, we are happy because the sensitisation is for the children who are the leaders of tomorrow.

“This has gone a long way to let them understand that we need to protect our environment for tomorrow.

“The sensitisation has gone a long way to let them understand that we need to protect our environment with the issues of climate,” he said.

The principal urged Nigerians to protect their environment by planting trees.

“To protect our environment, we need to plant tress consistently and for the fact that we have planted trees, we also need to nurture them very well.

“This sensitisation will help the students to understand environment through tree planting,” he said.

He commended the foundation for its consistency in piloting the programme, adding that the programme is impacting in the lives of the students.

Adeoni promised to ensure all the 70 trees planted in the school are all well nurtured.

Also speaking, Miss Mautin Tunde, Assistant Chief Education Officer, District 5, said the major challenge facing the world was climate change.

“The only solution to this is by planting trees.

“I will implore the teachers and students of the school to ensure they sustain the trees NNPC foundation planted here today.

“I will urge them to sustain and nurture them to grow because this is the only way to save lives,” she said.

A student, Olanrewaju Olawoyin, said the programme had taught him that planting trees was of utmost benefit to mankind. (NAN)

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Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Film Corporation urges trainees to protect Nigeria’s heritages

Protection

By Priscilla Osaje

Abuja, June 5, 2024(NAN)  Dr Ali Nuhu, the  Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), has urged trainees of audio magnetic preservation and digitisation, to protect and preserve Nigeria’s heritage.

Nuhu said this in a statement by Mr Brian Etuk, Director, Public Relations Officer of NFC on Wednesday in Abuja.

He  said that the training holding in Jos, is aimed at empowering personnel of  the National Film Video and Sound Archive (NFVSA).

According to him, it is imperative to ensure that the nation’s audio-visual heritage collections are protected and preserved.

The NFC boss said that the handlers of the preservation and protection processes of the NFVSA, were to undergo training, retraining, capacity building and be availed the opportunity to participate in associated skills development programmes.

“NFC is determined to leverage on other domestic and foreign collaborative partnerships to ensure that NFVSA is adequately positioned to drive the nation’s journey towards the full digitisation of its audio-visual collections.

“Nigeria cannot afford to lose any of the historical records in the audio-visual format, currently being secured at the NFVSA in Jos,” he said.

He added that especially now with its recent designation as a national repository, which has further expanded its operations with huge responsibility burden.

“The NFVSA “requires high and medium cost preservation and digitisation equipment as well as skilled expertise and manpower,“he said.

Nuhu charged the trainees, mainly personnel of the NFVSA, staff of other relevant departments of the NFC and  resource persons of the National Film Institute (NFI) among others,  to utilise the opportunity offered to horn their skills and competences.

He  urged them to consequently justify the huge resources being deployed for the training workshop.

“The training workshop was one in the series of skills and manpower development programmes of the NFC for the NFVSA.

“The training aimed at ensuring that its operational module aligns with Federal Governments policy on cultural heritage preservation and sustainability.

” I thanked all partners of the training workshop and assured of the preparedness of the NFC through the NFVSA, to secure Nigeria’s audio-visual heritage in its custody,” he added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that NFC’s two-week audio magnetic preservation and digitisation Training Workshop, commenced on June 1 to end on June 15.

NAN reports that training was facilitated by Jonathan Larcher, a Professor of visual arts and anthropology, University Paris Nantarre, France.

It is also with the support of Goethe University Frankfurt and Arsenal Institute for Film & Video Art Berlin.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

PO/JPE

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Edited by Joseph Edeh