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Category: Entertainment

  • Travel Expert Warns Rising Costs Threaten Detty December

    Travel Expert Warns Rising Costs Threaten Detty December

    Mr. Gbenga Onitilo, Chief Executive Officer of TravelDen, has cautioned that unchecked price hikes could erode the appeal of Nigeria’s popular Detty December festivities.

    Speaking with journalists in Lagos on Thursday, Onitilo said many visitors were already voicing frustrations over inflated costs, warning that the trend could dampen enthusiasm for the holiday season and hurt the tourism sector.

    He described the current pricing landscape as “unsustainable,” noting that some hotels, event organisers, and service providers were charging between three and six times their usual rates.

    “Accommodation, entertainment, and hospitality services have gone overboard. We are gradually creating an environment that discourages returning Nigerians and international visitors,” he said.

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    Onitilo explained that Detty December gained momentum in 2024 through social media, which showcased Nigeria’s rich nightlife, food culture, concerts, and tourism experiences. The season, he added, became a homecoming highlight for Nigerians in the diaspora eager to reconnect with local culture.

    However, he lamented that some operators now set prices targeting foreign currency spenders, neglecting affordability—a key element of Nigeria’s festive tradition.

    “If this continues, many Nigerians will choose other destinations with structured, reasonably priced holiday experiences,” Onitilo warned, citing Ghana and Rwanda as examples of countries with better-regulated festive economies.

    He urged government intervention to stabilise pricing through regulation, stakeholder engagement, and possible subventions to protect the seasonal economy.

    “This year, many stakeholders prepared well, but we have taken pricing out of order,” he said. “Bars, restaurants, and hotels are pushing limits unnecessarily.”

    Onitilo emphasised that sustaining Detty December would require collaboration, fair pricing, and long-term planning to keep Nigeria competitive and attractive to both local and international holidaymakers.

  • Netizens react to turbulence in Regina Daniels, Ned Nwoko marriage

    Netizens react to turbulence in Regina Daniels, Ned Nwoko marriage

    Reactions from Social media users have continued to flood  online platforms over recent reports of  issues  between Nollywood actress Regina Daniels and her husband, Ned Nwoko.

    The couple stunned everyone when they took to social media to level damaging accusations against each other.

    While the 25-year-old actress accused her husband of repeatedly assaulting her and claimed she could no longer endure the alleged abuse, the 64-year-old lawmaker said his wife was addicted to drugs and alcohol.

    However, amid the allegations, many social media users and celebrities have taken to various platforms to express concern, outrage and disbelief over the issue.

    Regina’s Video bathroom video of Ned sparked backlash

    Some social media users expressed dismay why the couple decided to bring their marriage issue online, others, especially fans of the actress, called for an investigation into the disturbing claims of domestic violence.

    An instagram user with the name @sumtincomedy posted: “Before people start using this as an opportunity to mock her or attack her choice of marriage, let’s be clear.

    “This issue isn’t about polygamy. It’s about domestic violence. That’s a human problem, not a marital-structure problem.

    Adie Effanga wrote ;“How we can turn back the hands of time Regina would have gotten real peace n love with soma.”

    User @iamakasregister wrote “Consistently flaunting public displays of affection does not define true love or a fulfilling relationship.

    “! The idea that crying ina Lamborghini symbolizes a happy marriage is simply misguided.”

    @queenamara said, “No woman deserves to be treated like this. Money or not, this is heartbreaking.”

    @mimiposh commented, “If this is true, Ned should be arrested. Enough of using power to silence women.”

    @comrade Deji Adeyanju reacted, “Mist poor and broke Nigerian girls with expensive taste have no option but to tolerate shit from me, she will go back to him on her knees”

    @Theo Abu tweeted, “Regina is sticker with that man for life. She cannot leave that man. The lifestyle that man introduced her to cannot be maintained by Asaba movies”

    @smplyjessie said, “Funniest thing is that if she had waited and continued her hustling, she would have definitely gotten married to a young billionaire”.

    @ feetalhospital wrote,“Marriage is meant to be for better & for worse. Let’s keep them in our prayers”

    Another Instagram user @hol_ie256 wrote “Never make a mockery of someone’s bad situation. Just pray that she’s safe wherever she is coz the lord watches behindscenes.”

    @kceegains said, “Ferrari wey you suppose cry inside you don break am”

    @OBlezzings, Stated,“When I said polygamy ends in tears, some people said I was talking nonsense.”

    @iamFmajor wrote “People are mocking her for leaving him, but what’s the point of luxury if you’re living in fear?”

  • ‘Real Warri Pikin’ becomes brand ambassador for Purna Gummies

    ‘Real Warri Pikin’ becomes brand ambassador for Purna Gummies

    Popular comedian and wellness advocate Anita Asuoha, popularly known as Real Warri Pikin, has become brand ambassador for Purna Gummies.

    Purna Gummies is a  leading supplement and nutritional support brand.

    The ace artiste was unveiled at an official ceremony on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Unveiling of the star artiste  as Purna’s ambassador reaffirms the brand’s  premium NAFDAC approved gummy in the supplement industry.

    The gravid artiste specially represent’s Purna’s  Mama Bear,  a prenatal and postnatal supplement designed to support the health and well-being of mums and mums-to-be.

    Introducing  the new brand ambassador, Dr Everest Okpara, Chairman, Purna Gummies Nigeria Limited, said the artiste’s charisma, acceptability and commitment to healthy living depict what the brand represents.

    “She is a remarkable woman, that each time she mounts the podium, her audience, her fans,  begin to get inspired because of her words.

    “It’s our pleasure to have her on board as Brand Ambassador of Purna Gummies Nigeria Limited, representing the brands of Purna Gummies.

    “Purna Gummies have a range of products at the moment, including the Mama Bear , which she  represents, and  we are still working towards producing multiple line of products.

     “At Purna,  our mission is to get Nigerians  vitamised by providing safe, effective and NAFDAC approved Purna gummies,” he said.

    In speech, Real Warri Pikin said she decided to become the ambassador of the Purna because of its commitment to the provision effective and convenient nutritional support for Nigerians.

    She  lauded the company’s commitment to maternal health, with the introduction of Mama Bear brand, a tasty, chewable gummies packed with essential nutrients to help meet the unique needs of pregnancy and motherhood.

     “I am committed to wellness and that is why I’m delighted to be part of this partnership.

    “Of course Purna gummies have different products and I’m representing the Mama Bear Gummies for pregnant women and  lactating mothers.

    “It is very important when you’re pregnant, you take your prenatal, and then your postnatal  care seriously, and it’s Mama Bear Gummies or nothing for me,” she said.

    Earlier , Mrs Roseline Okpara, Customer Care Representative of the company, said : “Real Warri Pikin  represents the brand in every sense of it.

    “As you can see, she’s healthy, she’s looking good, and also her unborn child, and I’m super excited.

    “As a woman, she represents the Purna Mama Bear  to encourage pregnant women to make sure that they stick to it because it will go a long way for both   mother’s and baby’s wellness,” she said.

  • “Osamede,” a Nollywood  historical hits  cinemas, Oct. 17

    “Osamede,” a Nollywood  historical hits  cinemas, Oct. 17

    “Osamede”, a historical epic film by Ivie Okujaye, is set for cinema release nationwide on Oct. 17.

    The ace filmmaker and actress made the announcement in a post on her verified Instagram page.

    The post reads: “The beauty of culture lies in what our ancestors left us!”

    “Osamede comes from the heart of the Benin Kingdom, a story about a young woman who dares to change everything, drawing strength from the legacy of her people”.

    “#Osamede The movie is coming to cinemas nationwide Oct. 17, “she said.

    Produced by Lilian Olubi under Gold lilies Global services, “Osamede” is directed by AMVCA winning filmmaker James Omokwe.

    It features ace Nollywood stars, including Ivie Okujaye in the lead role, alongside Lexan Aisosa Peters, William Benson and  Tosin Adeyemi.

    Others are  Etinosa Idemudia and veteran filmmaker Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, among others.

    Shot in Benin City, reflecting traditions of the ancient Benin empire,‘Osamede’ explores themes of resilience, identity, female empowerment, and historical legacy.

    The plot tells the story of Osamede, an orphaned girl who discovers she holds the mystical power of the Aruosa stone, a sacred object believed to have been bestowed by ‘Osanobua’.

    The epic film is set against the backdrop of the 1897 British invasion of the Benin kingdom, bending themes of resistance, betrayal, and supernatural destiny.

    ‘Osamede’ had its world premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Market on May 17, at the Pavillion Afriques section of the festival.

    It has also screened at the Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF), where it was extoled for its attempt to reclaim African mythology while retelling a pivotal moment in Nigerian history.

    With its October release, ‘Osamede’ is expected to spark renewed conversation around the representation of African history in cinema and the global rise of Nollywood’s storytelling power. 

  • Spotify unveils video celebrating Afrobeats’ dynamic evolution

    Spotify unveils video celebrating Afrobeats’ dynamic evolution

    Tech group, Spotify has  released a captivating new video that chronicles the vibrant evolution of Afrobeats, tracing its transformative journey from the 2000s to the 2020s.

    The video also highlights the cultural impact of Afrobeats on the global music stage.

    In a statement on Saturday, Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, said Afrobeats, a genre known for its constant reinvention, has evolved through decades of innovation.

    According to Okumu, the genre blends influences from street pop, Fuji, Amapiano, drill, and even prayer chants.

    READ ALSO: Celebrity Chef, Hilda Baci sets another world record

    “Today, Afrobeats continues to push boundaries with fearless experimentation, cementing its status as a global musical phenomenon.

    “The animated short film showcases Afrobeats’ rise from local Nigerian dance floors to international stages, spotlighting the artistes, movements, and pivotal moments that have shaped its trajectory.”

    According to her, the video serves as a tribute to the creativity and resilience that have made Afrobeats a cultural export and the heartbeat of a generation.

    Okumu ememphasised the genre’s significance, stating, “The story of Afrobeats is one of constant innovation and incredible growth.

    “This animated video honours it while showcasing its limitless potential, celebrating the artistes and fans who have shaped its legacy.

    “Music fans can watch the full video on Spotify’s platform to explore the rich evolution of Afrobeats and its enduring influence on global music.” 

  • Celebrity Chef, Hilda Baci sets another world record

    Celebrity Chef, Hilda Baci sets another world record

    – Hailed by Tinubu’s wife

    Nigerian chef Hilda Baci has secured another place in the Guinness World Records after cooking the largest pot of jollof rice and serving the dish in Lagos.

    Baci first gained international attention in May 2023 with her 100-hour cook-a-thon in Lagos.

    Baci, in partnership with Gino Nigeria, achieved the second feat  on Sept. 13, where she cooked 4,000 kilogrammes, about 200 bags of Basmati rice in a 22,619-litre pot, measuring six metres wide and six metres tall in a procedure that lasted about nine hours.

    The Guinness World Records confirmed the achievement on Monday in a post on X: “New record: Largest serving of Nigerian style Jollof rice – 8,780 kg (19,356 lb 9 oz) achieved by Hilda Baci and Gino in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria.”

    Acknowledging the feat, Nigeria’s First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, congratulated Ms Baci, for setting another Guinness World Record for cooking the largest serving of Nigerian-style Jollof Rice.

    Mrs Tinubu in her congratulatory message issued in Abuja on Tuesday, acknowledged that Hilda Baci’s achievement was rare, and  had brought her to international limelight.

    She further prayed for greater accomplishments for Hilda Baci and other Nigerian youth who dared to dream.

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    According to the First Lady, “Your passion, resilience and creativity in showcasing your craft as a Celebrity Chef of one of Nigeria’s most loved dishes on the global stage is inspiring.

    “Your art of culinary techniques has not only brought pride to our dear nation, but has gained national and global recognition.

    “Through this feat, you have shown what young Nigerian women can accomplish with hard work, determination and power of innovation.

    The 28-year-old chef had initially planned to cook 5,000 kilogrammes, 250 bags of rice but reduced it to 200 bags due to weighing challenges.

    Guinness rules required strict, precise measurement of ingredients and output, with organisers ensuring no food was wasted.

  • Nigeria launches 12-member Council for Creative Technology Features

    A critical milestone will be attained today, as the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), announces the launch of the Council for Creative Technology Futures (CCTF).

    A statement made available to Nigerian Anchor in Abuja describes the launch as a groundbreaking national initiative designed to place Nigeria at the forefront of global innovation where culture meets code.

    In the statement pushed out by Dr. Dennis Olofu Head, Media National Council for Arts and Culture the launch enjoys full approval from the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (FMACTCE).

    He states that the launch represents a bold step towards the realisation of a Nigeria creative economy projected to surpass $25 billion by 2025.

    Membership

    Dr. Olofu stated that membership of the council shall be pro bono and composed to reflect national service ethos and a shared commitment to a digitally empowered creative sector.

    It was further stated that in its first phase, the Council will establish foundational frameworks and deliverables, paving the way forward for the cci and the creator economy, Strategic partnerships will be developed with the British Council, University for the creative arts United kingdom, UNESCO, Google, Meta, AfDB, Giz,

    European Union, Netflix, and other key development and technology partners—mobilizing investment, technical expertise, and global exposure for Nigeria’s creative-tech future.

    The members of the council are: Charles Emembolu – TechQuest, Talent Development (Chairman), Misan Harriman – Director & Photographer, Dayo Elegbe – Sponge Group, Digital Marketing, Bizzle Oshikoya – The Plug, Music & Talent Management and Kemi Awodein – MD, Chapel Hill Denham.

    Others are, Osas Peter – Founder, BlackAt, Malik Afegbua – AI Storytelling & Creative Visual Futurism, Sandra Oyewole – IP Lawyer, Olajide Oyewole & Co., Judith Okonkwo – Imisi 3D, AR & New Technology Leader, Dr. Dahiru Sani – Founder, Kaduna Business School and Dr. Chinedu Odoala – Head, NCAC Secretariat

    Dr. Olofu asserts that Nigeria continues to shape global narratives across music, film, fashion, gaming, and digital content as the CCTF plays the role of “ a highlevel policy, strategy, and implementation platform for harnessing emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR), Web3, and blockchain across over 49 creative industry sectors.’

    Quoting Obi Asika, the Director General of NCAC Dr.Olofu wrote “This Council is about merging culture and code, storytelling and smart contracts, heritage and innovation.”

    The Director General was also quoted as saying, “We are not just reacting to global change we are leading it from Africa.”

    “The launch of the Council for Creative Technology Futures is a milestone,” Asika added. “We are building the foundation for Nigeria’s creative future where our stories, music, art, and innovation are protected, monetized, and celebrated globally.”

    Mandates of the CCTF

    The core mandate of the Council for Creative Economy Features comprises guiding  Nigeria’s creative industries into a digitally empowered future that drives job creation and economic growth, as well as equipping creators with global tools, platforms, and market access.

    Its mandate also entails enhancing Nigeria’s position as a cultural and technological powerhouse.

    It was also stated that the CCTF will deliver the National Creative-Tech Framework & Roadmap (2025–2030), aligning with the National AI Strategy, Executive Order 005, the Digital Economy Policy (2020–2030), and NCAC-led programs such as ICE Hubs and Discover Naija.

    The council will also take memorandum from stakeholders and collaborate closely with NCAC sister agencies in culture and tourism and memorandum from interested stakeholders’ angle.

    It will also advance global advocacy to elevate Nigeria’s creative sector on international platforms and look for the best-in-class solutions to drive economic growth.

  • GroundZero reality show: Lessons learnt

    GroundZero reality show: Lessons learnt

    Mr Emmanuel Agbaeze, organiser of the recently concluded GroundZero reality show, has highlighted the powerful business lessons embedded within the competition.

    Mr Joel Ojigbani emerged as the winner of GroundZero, a reality television show where contestants were expected to build a business from the scratch without capital.

    The show, which was hosted by Frank Edoho, ended with a thrilling victory as contestant Ojigbani hit the ₦1 million target and bagged the ₦5 million grand prize.

    Agbaeze, in a statement on Thursday in Lagos, noted that the show offered real-world insights into entrepreneurship, especially in a challenging environment like Nigeria.

    According to Agbaeze, Ground Zero was designed to test the resilience, creativity, and adaptability of its contestants by placing them in unfamiliar environments with no capital, contacts, or safety nets.

    “At the heart of Ground Zero was the theme of resourcefulness and bootstrapping as the contestants, Adaeze and Joel, were thrust into a “start-with-nothing” scenario, compelling them to find innovative ways to generate income and build resources.

    “This kind of challenge is a reflection of what many Nigerian entrepreneurs go through as you have to be creative and make the most of the little you have,” he said.

    Agbaeze noted that the show acted a a survival tool for  etworking and sales as the contestants had to demonstrate their interpersonal skills and sales acumen.

    “Joel, one of the contestant, had to launch a mobile videography business with no startup funds, initially charging N5,000 per project but through strategic networking and relationship-building, he scaled his services to earn up to N80,000 monthly per client.

    “This underscores the importance of building relationships and exploring alternative methods to acquire resources in the early stages of business,” Agbaeze added.

    He noted that the contestants faced daily tasks that tested their problem solving abilities as there were certain scenarios that represented hurdles that entrepreneurs encounter.

    He added that the show ensured that the sales, negotiation and financial targets were met as this would aid in spotting opportunities and building sustainability.

    “The show set a clear financial goal for the contestants which is to earn N1 million within the 30-day timeframe so by achieving this target required not only strong sales and negotiation skills but also a strategic mindset.

    “Setting a clear financial goal and working toward it is fundamental in business and Joel demonstrated that with focus and strategy, even an ambitious target can be met.

    Agbaeze concluded by noting that while Ground Zero is a reality TV show designed for entertainment, it also serves as a powerful learning platform.

    “The show presents a unique look at the entrepreneurial mindset through the contestants’ journeys as we gain real insight into resourcefulness, adaptability, financial literacy and the importance of a strong hustle,” he said. 

  • DINA, film seeking urgent protection for girl-child, premières

    DINA, film seeking urgent protection for girl-child, premières

    A compelling new film, DINA, which is set to ignite conversations on the urgent need to protect adolescent girls from sexual violence and exploitation will be premiered on March 21.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the film, written and produced by Wilson Ukhurebor, and directed by South African cinematographer MG Legend, exposes the harsh realities young girls face.

    The movie with the theme, “What Society Does to Us”, serves as a wake-up call for stronger protective policies, increased awareness and community-driven interventions to safeguard vulnerable girls across Nigeria.

    It also calls for immediate action from stakeholders, including families, communities, and policymakers.

    DINA, which was endorsed by the Lagos State Ministry of Youths and Social Development, and supported by the International Child Safety Report Initiative, aligns with ongoing national and global efforts to combat gender-based violence.

    The film challenges society to confront the cultural and systemic failures that leave young girls unprotected, urging collective responsibility in securing their future.

    NAN also reports that DINA will be screened at select locations in Lagos, including a private screening for the media on March 21, and public screening for organised students and key stakeholders.

    The movie will also be showcased in 10 cinemas across the state, ensuring that educators, students and policymakers engage with its critical message.

  • Another first for Lagos as Gov. unveils Africa’s first AI feature film

    Another first for Lagos as Gov. unveils Africa’s first AI feature film

    Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has unveiled Africa’s first feature film on Artificial Intelligence, titled Makemation, on Sunday.

    Speaking at the unveiling in Marina, Sanwo-Olu said the AI film, produced by human development expert, Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, will make its cinematic debut in Lagos on Friday, Apr. 18.

    He praised the producer and cast, assuring creatives of his willingness to collaborate on transformative ideas that project and develop the state’s creative industry.

    Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in essential infrastructure that will enable the creative sector to thrive.

    “This production highlights the power of collaboration. We need more partnerships like this. Our role is to enable and create platforms for you to excel.

    “This is the most innovative industry. See this government as a partner in shaping the future we all desire,” he said.

    Producer Akerele-Ogunsiji said the film explores themes such as STEM education, digital skills, financial literacy, and gender equality.

    She noted that Makemation, starring Richard Mofe-Damijo, Tony Umez, Shaffy Bello, Ibrahim Chatta, Toyin Afolayan, and Ali Nuhu, examines the intersection of real life and AI.

    The film also explores AI’s transformative power and its impact on the fourth industrial revolution, she explained.

    “Viewers will see young people designing bras that detect breast cancer. We must move beyond consuming innovation and start building our own.

    “Nigerian films should showcase our indigenous innovations. This film is for the future. Success isn’t reserved for a select few,” she said.

    Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, highlighted the government’s efforts to empower creatives over the past six years.

    She said the ministry has trained nearly 20,000 young Nigerians in filmmaking, content creation, and other creative fields through strategic partnerships.

    Institutions such as EbonyLife Academy, Gidi Creatives, AMA Creative Academy, and Delyork Academy have collaborated on these initiatives, she added.

    She stressed that technology is key to the industry’s future, with Lagos positioning itself as a leader in digital innovation.

    “Our visit to San Francisco to engage with tech entrepreneur Ghazi Shami was a strategic step toward fostering strong digital partnerships.

    “We aim to build a globally competitive workforce ready to dominate the creative economy,” she added.

    She noted that the government has provided grants to filmmakers to support high-quality productions capable of competing internationally.

    “By investing in local storytelling, we ensure our narratives reach global audiences while creating jobs within the industry,” she said.

    Ali Nuhu, Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation, commended Sanwo-Olu’s support for filmmakers.

    “As part of the cast, I am excited about this project. The governor’s support is commendable.

    “We now need the media’s backing to create buzz around this innovation,” he said.

    Microsoft’s Country Manager, Olatomiwa Williams, stressed the need to equip young Nigerians with responsible AI skills.

    She advocated for collaborations between tech hubs, government, schools, and private organisations to expand AI education.

    “This initiative is inspiring. With government support, we must focus on educating Nigerians on responsible AI use,” she said.

    Livespot360 Co-Founder, Oluwadamilare Art Alade, highlighted AI’s role in preserving cultural heritage.

    Makemation features Nollywood stars, tech experts, public officials, and social media talents in an unconventional mix.

    The four-quadrant family drama blends pop culture, research, and AI into an engaging, high-tension, and comedic masterpiece.