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Category: Entertainment

  • Drama as singer Portable, 2nd baby mama drag each other on social media

    *You’re a ‘Deadbeat’ Father- Babymama; You’re a ‘Prostitute’- Portable replies

    Popular Nigerian singer, Portable, has fired back at his second baby mama, Keji, following her accusations regarding their child’s welfare.

    During a live session, Keji accused Portable of not providing financial support for their son for over four months, branding him a ‘deadbeat father.’

    She also mentioned his past marriage and alleged assault on his ex-wife, Bewaji.

    In response, Portable retaliated by making allegations of his own. He claimed that Keji was involved in prostitution when he impregnated her, stating that he had even provided her with accommodation by renting a house.

    Portable further explained that he asked her to leave his house due to her frequent video calls with male acquaintances, some of whom he believed were involved in online fraud (Yahoo boys).

    After their separation, Portable claimed that Keji secretly advised his wife against him. Regarding the accusations of being an irresponsible father, he argued that the financial support he provided for their son was being redirected by Keji to fund a lavish lifestyle reminiscent of a slay queen.

    In a taunting manner, Portable sang and mocked Keji, highlighting that she hadn’t entered a new marriage since their separation, attributing it to her perceived promiscuous lifestyle.

    This exchange between the two parents has garnered significant attention on social media.

  • Why I’m divorcing my wife, actor Ninalowo reveals

    Nollywood actor Bolanle Ninalowo has announced the end of his marriage to his wife, Bunmi.

    He made the announcement in an Instagram post at the weekend.

    He said they have decided to proceed with an irreconcilable marriage dissolution and urged Nigerians to respect their privacy.

    Ninalowo wrote: “Finally, I accept the reality of the end to a road! A sad reality that gives room & hope for a brighter and more fulfilling future! A reality that is SAD for my loving and adorable children but necessary for a peaceful and lovable future.

    “A sad reality I prayed, nurtured and worked tirelessly hard never to experience for the sake of all. A sad reality I now have to accept as I realize that my kids are much grown with a better sense of understanding and knowledge of my pain & struggles regarding them!

    “A sad reality that screams that I won’t live or be around forever and must take care of my health & mental state for the goodness of all.

    “May God help me and reward me with all I truly deserve or punish me for all I have done wrong if that be the case. In the end, we will all live with the consequences of our actions. Sad but real and true! Now I have to do and be better for the sake of the same children I fought so hard never to be separated from.

    “The journey thus far only makes me stronger as I come to terms with what I truly need and deserve for all my relentless hard work & efforts in life. Heartbroken but not shattered yet, I stand tall as I break this sad but true news to the same world that adores my beautiful family & I.

    “My wife & I have decided to go our separate ways and headed for an irreconcilable marriage dissolution.

    “Please respect our privacy and pray for us during this process as we heal and move on with our independent lives while jointly taking care of what we love most, Our children! God bless all.”

  • 2023 Miss Nigeria USA Pageant holds September 3

    2023 Miss Nigeria USA Pageant holds September 3

    The Miss Nigeria USA Organisation has called on the Nigerians in the Diaspora to participate in the forthcoming 2023 edition of the beauty pageant slated for Sept. 3, at Houston in Texas, United States.

    The President of the organisation, Joy Fakhoury, in a statement made available to journalists in New York, said that the event would showcase beauty, talent and purpose.

    “The upcoming Miss Nigeria USA 2023 Pageant is poised to be an enchanting and empowering event, spotlighting grace, beauty, and talent while promoting humanitarian endeavours.

    “The pageant which will be held at the prestigious Match Theatre, Houston, promises to transcend traditional notions of beauty contests by emphasising character, intelligence, compassion, and charisma in addition to physical appearance,’’ Fakhoury said.

    Themed “BEAUTY WITH A PURPOSE,” the Miss Nigeria USA 2023 Pageant underscores the significance of inclusion and the individual narratives that define each contestant’s shine.

    Participants from different states will not only showcase their extraordinary qualities and aspirations but also the depths of their personalities and commitment to excellence.

    The US-based contestants will represent their Nigerian states while enhancing their native country’s knowledge and promoting their cultural values, creating a breed of leaders and goal-oriented individuals.

    “The contestants will be provided with the opportunity to improve their social skills, improve confidence level, poise, communication skills, personality development, goal setting, career planning, health and fitness.

    “They will also participate in cultural celebrations, parades and fashion shows throughout their pageant experience.

    “The title is earned through hard work and dedication, demonstration of self-confidence, intelligence, beauty and elegance,’’ Fakhoury said.

    Currently, five contestants have won the title since the inception of the pageant; Frances Udukwu (2014), Olutosin Araromi (2015), Lola Adeoye (2016), Idara Inokon (2017), Funmike Lagoke (2019)

    The event will hold in the city of Houston in Texas after four years break of Covid-19 pandemic.

    In addition, she said beyond the glamour, participants in the Miss Nigeria USA 2023 Pageant would engage in philanthropic initiatives through the non-profit organisation “Miss Nigeria USA (MNUSA) Cares.”

    “Contestants will partake in charitable activities in Nigeria and beyond, volunteering, engaging with communities, and undergoing skill training.

    “Tickets for the Miss Nigeria USA 2023 Pageant are now available, offering a chance for people from all backgrounds to participate in the celebration of culture, talent, and beauty,” she said.

    To secure a spot at this prestigious event, she urged interested people to visit http://Mnusa2023.eventbrite.com.

    Founded in 2014, the Miss Nigeria USA was established with the aim of celebrating the Nigerian woman while appreciating the beauty, talent, skills and other unique attributes and goals she exhibits.

    The organiser plans to achieve its goal through the Miss Nigeria USA Pageant Event where contestants will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their physical, cultural and intellectual attributes.

    The Miss Nigeria USA Pageant is also a humanitarian pageant providing a unique opportunity for these beauty queens to not just showcase their beauty to the world but also make a positive impact in their communities by supporting causes and platforms that they are passionate about.

  • Kiddwaya kicked out of ‘BBNaija All Stars’ as 4 fresh contestants join

    In a surprising twist on the ongoing Big Brother Naija ‘All Stars’ edition, Kiddwaya, a prominent housemate, has been evicted from the competition. Simultaneously, the show welcomed the entry of four new contestants, marking a pivotal moment in the reality series.

    The announcement of Kiddwaya’s eviction was made by the show’s charismatic host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, during the live Sunday eviction episode. It was revealed that both Kiddwaya and Tolanibaj had garnered the least number of votes for the week, leaving their fate hanging in the balance.

    During the same episode, Saskay, Elozonam, and Vee, who constituted the week’s jury, came together to save Tolanibaj from elimination, leading to Kiddwaya’s departure from the house. Kiddwaya’s eviction was determined by a slim margin, with him receiving 1.95 percent of the votes and Tolanibaj securing 2.03 percent.

    In his post-eviction remarks, Kiddwaya expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of the dynamic house, describing the experience as “crazy.” He acknowledged his intention to forge new friendships and conveyed optimism about his upcoming projects. Kiddwaya assured his fans of upcoming ventures that would keep them engaged and entertained.

    Following the eviction, the competition took an unexpected turn as Big Brother introduced four fresh contestants into the house. Prince Nelson, Kim Oprah, Lucy, and Omatshola, all of whom were past participants from previous editions, joined the existing housemates. This infusion of new blood is anticipated to bring fresh dynamics and increased excitement to the show.

    Ebuka Obi-Uchendu had hinted earlier in the eviction episode that the introduction of ex-housemates into the current season was on the horizon. He highlighted that the newly introduced contestants would have the opportunity to partake in various house activities, including the head of house challenge and wager tasks. However, these entrants will not be eligible to compete for the ultimate cash prize, setting a unique and intriguing tone for the coming episodes.

  • Viewers slam BBNaija ‘All Stars’ eviction style

    *Accuse jury of being biased

    Viewers of the ‘All Stars’ edition of the Big Brother Naija reality show are expressing their discontent with the new jury-based eviction style, stating that it does not accurately reflect viewers’ choices.

    The dissatisfaction emerged on various social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), prompting viewers to question the decision to deviate from the traditional voting system.

    In previous editions, housemates were nominated for possible eviction through voting by viewers, after which they visited the Diary Room to nominate a fellow housemate.

    However, this year’s ‘All Stars’ edition introduced a different approach, involving a jury composed of three former housemates who deliberate to decide which contestant to save or evict.

    During the first eviction, which included Bisola, Dorathy, and Mike on the jury, Princess was evicted based on the jury’s decision after Seyi received the lowest votes. The second eviction, featuring Laycon, Teddy A, and Diane on the jury, led to Uriel’s eviction, with Seyi again receiving the lowest votes.

    While some viewers criticized the jury’s involvement in the eviction process, accusing them of bias, others questioned their familiarity with the show based on their decisions. Some individuals expressed frustration, believing that the jury’s choices were overriding the viewers’ votes and impacting the overall fairness of the competition.

    The social media backlash was marked by hashtags like #letourvotescount, with viewers urging the organizers to reconsider the jury’s role in the eviction process.

    Critics argued that the current approach does not align with the spirit of an ‘All Stars’ season and suggested reverting to a voting-based system to ensure transparency and fairness.

    Despite the criticism, the show’s dynamics remain a topic of fervent discussion, with viewers divided over the perceived merits and drawbacks of the new eviction style.

    As the debate continues, the Big Brother Naija ‘All Stars’ edition presents a unique challenge for the show’s organizers to strike a balance between innovation and maintaining the trust of their dedicated audience.

  • Nigerian musicians rake in N11bn revenue from Spotify

    Nigerian musicians rake in N11bn revenue from Spotify

    Nigerian musicians rake in N11bn revenue from Spotify in 2022

    Streaming giant Spotify has unveiled that Nigerian musicians enjoyed a substantial revenue of over N11 billion from the platform in the year 2022.

    In a statement released in Lagos on Thursday, Ms Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy, Spotify’s Managing Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted the transparency initiative by the company through its annual report named Loud & Clear, aimed at sharing insights into the music industry’s financial landscape and Spotify’s royalty disbursements.

    Muhutu-Remy emphasized the importance of providing artists with a comprehensive understanding of music streaming economics.

    She stated, “In the course of 2022, Nigerian artists collectively garnered an impressive sum of over N11 billion exclusively from Spotify. The overall revenue for the Nigerian music industry witnessed a remarkable growth of 63 percent between 2021 and 2022.”

    She further detailed, “The specific revenue generated by Nigerian artists solely from Spotify displayed a remarkable 74 percent growth during the same period. Notably, the count of Nigerian artists earning over N5 million and N10 million in Spotify royalties has risen by almost 25 percent in 2022.”

    Muhutu-Remy made clear that these figures exclusively represent Spotify earnings, excluding contributions from other platforms, live performances, merchandise, and concert tickets.

    Underscoring Spotify’s commitment to empowering African creators, Muhutu-Remy revealed the platform’s dedication to connecting these artists with its 550 million active users.

    Beyond revealing Nigerian artists’ revenue, the statement also featured fresh insights into the top-exported Afrobeats albums, artistes, tracks, and female Afrobeats tracks. Muhutu-Remy highlighted the global reach of Afrobeats, citing top streaming cities as London, Paris, Abuja, Nairobi, Amsterdam, and Accra.

    “Our unwavering pledge at Spotify is to ensure that professional musicians can sustain a livelihood through their craft. The disclosure of the 2022 earnings of Nigerian artists on our platform reflects our commitment to transparency and our mission to enable artists to thrive on their artistic pursuits,” Muhutu-Remy asserted.

    She elaborated on the factors behind Afrobeats’ remarkable surge, pointing to international collaborations, the amplifying effect of social media, the ascent of music streaming, and the influence of the African diaspora.

    Citing a survey commissioned by Spotify and conducted by Kuvora, Muhutu-Remy mentioned that 28 percent of fans identified international collaborations as a pivotal driver in Afrobeats’ expansion.

  • Emmys 2023 postponed to January 2024 amid Hollywood strikes

    In a significant turn of events, the 2023 Emmys Awards ceremony, which was highly anticipated by the television industry, is now facing a postponement to January 2024.

    The reason behind this delay lies in the ongoing Hollywood strikes, with studios unwilling to meet the demands put forth by actors and writers.

    Reports indicate that vendors involved in organizing the event have already been informed about the imminent date change, though an exact date for the rescheduled ceremony has not been disclosed yet.

    Fox, the broadcasting network responsible for the telecast, is expected to make an official announcement regarding the rescheduling soon.

    Variety, a prominent entertainment publication, first broke the news on Thursday, while the Los Angeles Times, citing an unnamed source familiar with the plans, revealed that Fox is considering moving the telecast date to January next year.

    However, this potential date is contingent on a resolution being reached between the studios and the guilds before that time.

    Initially, the Emmys – the most prestigious honors in the television industry – were planned to be televised on the 18th of September.

    But with the strikes ongoing and negotiations stalling, the telecast had to be pushed back.

    If the Emmys do end up being postponed, it will be a historical moment, the first time since 2001 when the ceremony was delayed due to the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and subsequent military actions, leading to a November broadcast that year.

    Hollywood actors initiated the strike earlier in the month following the breakdown of talks with the studios.

    They joined forces with film and television writers who have been on picket lines since May, exacerbating the disruptions faced by numerous shows and movies in the industry.

    The recent announcement of Emmy nominations, featuring top contenders like “Succession,” “The Last of Us,” “The White Lotus,” and “Ted Lasso,” was made just two weeks prior to the declaration of the dual work stoppage. This development casts a shadow of uncertainty over the outcome of the awards and the potential impact on the nominated productions.

    Moreover, the strikes are also expected to affect the Creative Arts Emmys, which recognize outstanding artistic and technical achievements in television.

    Originally scheduled to take place on the 9th and 10th of September, these awards now face potential changes due to the ongoing labor disputes.

    The industry is now closely watching for any developments and hoping for a resolution that will restore stability and harmony within the television community.

  • BBNaija ‘All Stars’ season premieres with 20 ex-housemates

    The much anticipated BBNaija ‘All-Stars’ edition premiered on Sunday with housemates from past editions returning for another round of entertainment in the Big Brother house.

    Mercy Eke and Whitemoney, winners of the ‘Pepper Dem’ and Shine Ya Eye’ editions respectively,  as well as  18 other ex-housemates from the seven previous editions of Big Brother Naija, were ushered into the house by  Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, the host.

    The housemates took turns to reveal their aims of coming back on the show.

    Cee-C from the “Double Wahala” season, a lawyer and filmmaker, returning on the show after five years, said “The viewers will get to see Cee-C Promax this time, I am hoping that the viewers will see me and who I am.

    “I am here to get the money, I will stay focused, no distractions this time.”

    Kiddwaya from the ‘Lockdown’ edition, who described himself as a socialite and strategist, said he had an unfinished business with the Big Brother reality show.

    He said, “I am back to win the money, and this will be done by being myself, you know I am down to earth and real.”

    Mercy Eke, the winner of the “Pepper Dem” season, dressed in a spectacular outfit, said, “This time, it will be 2.0, there is no competition, I am winning, I have done it before and I am doing it again.”

    Also, Whitemoney, winner of the “Shine Ya Eye” season, said he was back on the show “to catch a cruise.”

    Uriel, from the “See Gobe” season, said she was on the search for a husband and planned to bring positive energy, good vibes, and real drama into the show.

    Pere, fondly called “the general”, from the “Shine Ya Eye’ season, said, “I believe right now, I know how to play the game better, I will be exhuming the aura that defines me.”

    Soma from the “See Gobe” season said, “A lot about me has changed, I am more outspoken now. Everything is going to be different here, the energy and the vibes.”

    Princess from the “Double Wahala” season said, “I hope to be allowed to play the game myself this time.”

    Angel, ex-housemate from the “Shine Ya Eye’ season, said she was coming on the show again to make more meaningful friendships and relationships.

    “I will be entertaining and I will be myself again this time,” Angel said.

    Alex from the “Double Wahala” season said,  “I want people to see the revised version of me, the last time in the house I was the fans’ favourite at the party but now, I am for the money.”

    Neo, an ex-housemate in the “Lockdown edition”, said, “I am here for the money first, I want grace to catapult me to where I should be.”

    Seyi from the “Peper Dem” season said he was back to enjoy himself and have a good time.

    Ex-housemate Ilebaye from the “Level Up” edition said,  “I think I am going to make use of the opportunity better than I did last year, I am happy to be back and here to win the money.

    “I am going to be me, I hope to continue from where I stopped.”

    Ike, from the “Pepper Dem” season, on his part said, “I want to really show people my personality, there are so many misconceptions about me on social media that I love to have fun all the time but there is something in me that wants to succeed.

    “I am here to show the fans of the show what they missed last time, this time I will be too focused and I need the money badly.”

    Also from the “Peper Dem” season, Venita, said, “I am here to win the money and catch fun and I will be doing that with style and glamour.”

    From the immediate past edition, “Level Up” season, Adekunle said he would be introducing the bad boys’ dance to the fans of the show.

    He described the dance as a charming, sexy, and flirty one.

    Audacious Tolanibaj from the “Lockdown” season, described herself as a free-spirited and carefree fellow.

    “I will be bringing sugar and real vibes. I am full of surprises and whoever brings pepper, I am going to pepper,” she said.

    Cross, “Shine Ya Eye” edition ex-housemate, said,   “I am winning this time and I am going to have fun”.

    Doyin, a Medical Radiographer, from the “Level Up” edition, said, “This time I am here to play my game.

    When asked why she came back on the show, she said, “Ebuka I like money and the opportunities that come with the show.

    Frodd, ex-housemate of the “Pepper Dem” edition, who recently got married and welcomed a baby, said, “I want to be known as the king of content this time, though it was with mixed feelings coming on board, I had to pray and consult my madam, she gave her blessings,” he said.

    The winner of the show will walk away with N120 million and other spectacular prizes.

    The highlight of the premiere was performances by Nigerian musicians, Kcee and Wande Coal.

    Earlier, before the commencement of the show, Biggie disclosed to Ebuka in the diary room that for the “All Stars” edition, there will be an eviction jury, while urging fans of the show to keep tabs on development. 

  • I’ll continue to make music, says Nigerian Idol Season 8 winner

    The Nigerian Idol Season 8 winner, Victory Gbakara, has said that going forward, he would continue to make music.

    Gbakara, who said this during an interview on the sidelines of the grand finale ceremony in Lagos, added that for him, it felt great to be the winner of the musical competition.

    “I feel great; I feel very good being the winner of this competition. I will be going for thanksgiving in the church and after this am going to be making music.

    “To my fans, I want to say thank you, this is possible because of you and am grateful for giving me the opportunity to make this and for believing in my dreams and making my dreams possible.

    “To MultiChoice, I say a profound thank you; I am humbled and grateful. I pray that we have more deals coming in to work together.

    “I can’t just wait to be part of the MultiChoice family deeper and deeper as time goes on,” he said.

    He advised everyone aspiring to achieve remarkable success to pray always concerning their dream, believe that the dream would be a reality, and work hard for it to come to pass.

    Gbakara was announced winner of the show after eight highly competitive weeks which commenced on DStv and GOtv on April 23.

    The 25-year-old lawyer has walked away with N‎35m cash, a brand new SUV, one Bigi Refrigerator, and a year’s contract for the supply of Bigi soft drinks.

    He also went home with an all-expenses-paid trip courtesy of Tecno, a music record deal by a reputable label that will include a video shoot, one year supply of WAW detergent, and a fully installed DStv Explora with one year of Premium subscription.

    Speaking on the grand finale, the Head of Content and West Africa Channels, Multichoice, Dr Busola Tejumola said: “At Multichoice, we are very intentional about what our content can do for our audience and the community at large.

    “Beyond its entertainment value, Nigerian Idol is a catalyst for economic growth toward enriching lives and we are happy to be a part of Victory Gbakara’s journey.”

    Nigerian Idol Season 8 was sponsored by Bigi Drinks and Tecno Mobile.

  • Simi, Fave, Johnny Drille, Progress to perform in Nigerian Idol finale

    As the Season 8 edition of the Nigerian Idol comes to a wrap on Sunday, four Nigerian artistes: Simi, Fave, Johnny Drille, and season 7 winner, Progress, have been scheduled to perform.

    Info Digital Africa, a media consultant to MultiChoice Nigeria, disclosed this in a statement issued in Lagos.

    The grand finale will be aired on Africa Magic Family, Urban, and Showcase at 7.00 p.m WAT.

    “Sunday’s live show will feature performances from some of Nigeria’s finest artistes, including Simi, Fave, Johnny Drille, and Progress.

    “These stars have lit up the charts with several smash hits, and they will be expected to set the stage on fire as Nigerian Idol Season 8 wraps up in style.

    “After seven weeks of electrifying live performances and nonstop excitement, the season’s grand finale will take place on Sunday, July 16, 2023, from 7 pm.

    “Precious Mac and Victory Gbakara are the last two contestants standing, and both have impressed during the course of the season, but only one of them can be crowned the winner.

    “The online polls have closed, and by the end of Sunday night, the viewing public will find out who goes home with the grand prize, which adds up to ₦100 million,” the statement read.

    It further said the winner of Nigerian Idol Season 8 would walk away with N100m worth of prizes which would include N30m cash prize and other gifts.