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Category: Entertainment

  • I’m poised to put Nigerian cuisines on global map- Hilda Baci

    I’m poised to put Nigerian cuisines on global map- Hilda Baci
    Hilda Bassey was honoured by NIHOTOUR in Abuja on Saturday.

    World Guinness Record holder in the longest cooking marathon, Hilda Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci has pledged to continue to work towards putting Nigeria on the global culinary map.

    Baci gave the assurance during the Nigerian Gastronomy Festival Gala Night organised by National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), in Abuja.

    According to her, with encouragement from the government, Nigeria will be taking over the global culinary industry.

    She said the food industry, if properly developed, could spin as much revenue for the nation as the oil industry.

    Bassey commended NIHOTOUR’s efforts in encouraging individuals to upgrade their cooking skills.

    “Like I always say, the food industry is like the oil industry.

    “Nigeria is definitely going to be the destination for food tourism, give it another five years, we are already on our way to greatness.

    “With everything happening now, giving an opportunity to people to express themselves with food and hospitality, it is a beautiful development in taking us to that enviable height.

    “In my own little or big way, I will keep putting in the effort to put Nigerian cuisines on the map to drive more positive attention to Nigeria as a whole, just let people know what we have and are capable of,” she said.

    Baci officially broke the record for the longest cooking marathon (individual), with a time of 93 hours and 11 minutes.

    The 26-year-old Nigerian chef began on May 11 and continued through to May 15, cooking over 100 pots of food during her four-day kitchen stint.

    Baci attempted to set a record of 100 hours, however, almost seven hours were deducted from her final total because she mistakenly took extra minutes for one of her rest breaks early on in the attempt. 

  • May & Baker unveils ‘Nino’ as brand ambassador for Easadol

    Easadol, a premium painkiller brand manufactured by May & Baker Nigeria Plc, on Saturday, announced the appointment of popular Nollywood actor Bolanle Ninalowo, a.k.a “Nino” “Makanaki”, as its Brand Ambassador.

    The partnership with the accomplished actor, model, and philanthropist was officially unveiled in Ikeja to mark an exciting chapter for both Easadol and the renowned actor.

    Easadol has consistently provided effective pain relief to millions of Nigerians for almost a decade helping to manage headaches, mild to moderate pains, and feverish conditions.

    It has become a trusted name in the healthcare industry, addressing various types of pain and discomfort.

    Expressing his excitement about the partnership, Ninalowo said, “I am honored to join forces with Easadol, a brand that shares my values of excellence and improving lives.

    “As someone who understands the importance of physical and emotional well-being, I am committed to promoting Easadol’s mission of providing reliable and fast pain relief to Nigerians across the nation”.

    The Executive Director, Sales, and Marketing, May & Baker, Mr Valentine Okelu, said the firm was happy to have Ninalowo as the face of Easadol.

    He said the actor’s popularity, authenticity, and dedication to his craft made him the perfect choice to represent the brand.

    “With Ninalowo’s involvement, we aim to reach new heights in creating awareness about Easadol’s benefits and ensuring that more Nigerians can experience the fast relief it offers,” he said.

    He said the partnership, brokered by Outdoors and Billboards Nig. Ltd, signified a shared commitment to improving the well-being, helping people overcome pain to embrace a more comfortable and fulfilling life.

    Easadol is a premium painkiller brand manufactured by May & Baker Nigeria PLC, renowned for its commitment to provide millions of Nigerians with fast relief from headache, mild to moderate pains and feverish conditions.

    With a wide range of products including Easadol Regular, Easadol Suspension, and Easadol Plus addressing various types of pain, Easadol has been a trusted name in Nigeria’s healthcare industry since its inception.

    The brand ambassador, Bolanle “Nino” “Makanaki” Ninalowo, is a Nigerian actor, model, and philanthropist, known for his exceptional talent and impactful performances.

    With numerous critically acclaimed performances to his credit, Ninalowo has won the hearts of millions, establishing himself as one of Nigeria’s most beloved and influential personalities.

    As the new Brand Ambassador, Ninalowo will lend his credibility, charisma, and passion to raise awareness about the benefits and effectiveness of Easadol in managing pain and enabling Nigerians to live their lives to the fullest.

  • Why I produced ‘Koloba Koloba’ – Adewale Ayuba 

    Legendary Fuji artiste, Adewale Ayuba has said he produced his single, “Koloba Koloba”, to sensitise Nigerians on the need to be patriotic and respect practitioners in the entertainment industry.

    Ayuba disclosed this on in his Instagram post which he tagged: “A few words from me to you. Also for those who have been wondering why I sang Koloba Koloba”.

    The ‘Bonsue Fuji’ crooner, who spoke on being original as Nigerians, added that “talents come from God.

    ”The only person that can assist you; that can give you grace to do things well is God.

    “Secondly, be original. You are born in Nigeria has nothing with the thought that God has short changed you by not being born in America or London.

    “Life is not like that, God has a purpose for you, so be original. Your name is Adewale Ayuba, a Nigerian name, don’t change your name to “Ayubs”, so that you can funkify it.

    “Koloba Koloba is also a warning for people to know that being a musician does not make you an irresponsible person.

    “Like me now, I am Adewale Ayuba but when I get to the stage, I am a different person, you can call me Mr Johnson, Mr Koloba Koloba or whatever. That is performance, it is an act; it has nothing to do with my home or marriage.

    “So, I just want a lot of respect from people to individuals in the entertainment industry.”

    Ayuba produced “Koloba Koloba” in 2021 and also released an album, “Sibi Mi”, in 2022. 

  • Maiden Social Media Awards to hold Sept 17

    The maiden edition of Social Media Awards (SMA), an event to honour individuals and organisations that have used the social media in innovative and impactful ways is scheduled to hold in Lagos on September 17.

    Mr. Emmanuel Nwafor, Chief Executive Officer of Alternative Adverts Limited and convener of the awards disclosed this at a news conference on Tuesday in Lagos.

    According to Nwafor, having bagged the trademark and copyright for the award since 2018, he has decided to begin the awards ceremony.

    He said the nomination process would commence June 14 and close June 30, as he encouraged the public to nominate individuals or organisations for the awards.

    According to him, winners of the awards will be determined through online voting which would hold from July 1 to August 31.

    “We are excited to announce the 2023 Social Media Awards, celebrating the amazing work being done across various social media platforms.

    “A lot has happened in about three years from 2020 ENDSARS to the 2023 general elections, and social media has been the battleground. It is time to call the results of who did what and who deserves the awards.

    “The website for nominations and voting is www.sma.ng. It is going to be the most transparent and credible awards in Nigeria.

    “This award will be given to individuals, brands, organisations or campaigns that have demonstrated excellence in social media strategy, content creation, audience engagement or community building.

    “By recognisng excellence in social media, these awards serve as a means of highlighting best practices, inspiring others to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible in the field,” he said.

    Nwafor said with close observation of trends on the various social media spaces, the platform had proven to be a veritable tool for positive transformation and must be upheld.

    He said with the rise of social media platforms, it had become an increasingly important aspect of modern communication, marketing, and culture.

    “This award is a movement to enhance excellence. This has come to unleash hidden or undiscovered potential to inspire a continuous higher realm of creativity and innovation.

    “It will also serve as initiative to recognise leaders in the industry and create a platform for business networking opportunity among Nigerians.

    “Some of the award categories to feature in this maiden edition are most innovative use of social media, most popular skit on social media, social media influencer of the year, best entertainment video content, and more.

    “Winners of some of the categories would be walking away with some juicy prizes to encourage them,” he said.

    Nwafor called on interested corporate organisations and individuals to come on board and sponsor the awards programme. 

  • Flamzy releases video for new single ‘Ene’

    Fast-rising Nigerian gospel artiste, Igho Gabriel Junior, also known as ‘Flamzy’ has released a video for his new single titled ‘Ene’.

    Flamzy in an interview in Abuja said the song ‘Ene’ is a special love song that captured the journey of his true love to his heartthrob.

    According to the Benue-born artiste, the music video with the posture of the true nature of love and loyalty is currently trending across all social media platforms.

    He said the video for the single ‘Ene’ which could be seen at https://youtu.be/a8zxOZ5h1lE is a must-watch.

    His extraordinary feats in the music world are impacted with grace for unusual exploits.

    Flamzy came to the limelight in 2013, when he released his first song titled: Takarawa” where he featured Solomon Lange.

    He has worked with many gospel artistes like Chris Morgan, Dr Grey and Solomon Lange among others.

    “This shows God’s blueprint in both past and present release with the power to reverberate music lovers’ spirit, and mind and build faith consistent with the word of God.

    “Flamzy can also be followed on his social media handles: Facebook @ Flamzy Igoh and on Instagram @ flamzy_igoh,” he said. 

  • TAMPAN seeks FG’s collaboration in creating film villages

    The Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners’ Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) has called on the Federal Government to render more support to the creative industry by establishing film villages across the states to ensure ease of shooting movies by filmmakers.

    Bolaji Amusan, National President of TAMPAN, made the call on Sunday in Lagos.

    Amusan said to upscale the entertainment industry in Nigeria, film villages were needed where actors could use as their permanent movie locations.

    He said this would not only protect actors from harassments by hoodlums and street urchins but also position actors to work better.

    “We call on President Bola Tinubu to support us as actors, we want film villages to be built across states to make our work as actors easier.

    “The film villages will be used as our movie locations where we can design and redesign to soothe our productions.

    “We have suffered a series of harassments from street urchins who just come to siphon money from us while shooting our films.

    “When we have designated film villages known by all, the activities of these individuals will be checked out rightly and we will be able to produce more.

    “This is what is obtainable in other climes, ours should not be an exception,” he said.

    Amusan urged the new administration to provide accessible soft loans with minimal interest rates as well as grants for actors, to improve the quality of Nigerian movies.

    He further pleaded that legislation should be made to combat the age-long problem of piracy.

    He noted that it was high time Nigeria took a cue from other developing nations to put in place the needed infrastructure for the entertainment industry to thrive.

    He said the consistent problem of power outages must also be addressed as this is needed for the seamless running of film productions.

    ”It is unfortunate that the immediate past government did not support the creative industry at all, except the governor of Lagos state, Governor Babajide Sanwolu, who helped in building the industry in so many ways.

    “We want access to airports, seaports, and other federal government properties or establishments so as to make it easier for us to ply our trade.

    “We also need support in the area of actors’ training, this will help in improving the quality of movies we churn out,” he said. 

  • Stephanie Linus among jurors in 2023 Tribeca Film Festival

    Stephanie speaks to the press about he role at the event

    Nigerian Actress and filmmaker, Stephanie Linus has been selected as one of the jurors for the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival in New York, which kicked off Wednesday, June 7, 2023.  

    She is distinguished as one of the five-jury members of the Documentary feature completion alongside Mark Duplass, Adam Goldberg, Alexandra Pelosi, and Ryan White. These jury members will select winning projects in film, immersive, games, and audio storytelling sections for its 2023 edition.

    The festival kicked off Wednesday, June 7, with the documentary ‘Kiss the Future’ a stirring testament to art’s enduring ability to cast light even in the darkest of circumstances.

    Kiss the Future follows an underground community that worked and was created through the nearly four-year-long siege of Sarajevo. The 2023 program features 109 films from 27 filmmakers across 36 countries.

    The festival was founded by Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal, and Craig Hatkoff, 21 years ago.

    “It is such an exciting festival with many voices amplified, especially women’s voices. It has given a platform for both new and seasoned filmmakers to showcase their works. I am having a great time reviewing the shortlisted films and recommending winners for the 2023 Tribeca Festival,” Stephanie Linus said.

    Stephanie Okereke at the Festival

    The Nigerian actress and filmmaker is known for her critically acclaimed and award-winning works, both in front and behind the camera, which includes her revolutionary film, Dry, which tackles themes that pertains to the girl-child and women’s rights.

    The philanthropist and filmmaker is part of a collection of actors, writers, directors, producers, and cultural leaders that includes Oscar winner, Brendan Fraser, Zazie Beetz, Chloe Grace-Moretz, Chance the Rapper, just to mention a few.

    The festival will close June 18, 2023, with the 30th anniversary screening of Robert De Niro’s directorial debut, A Bronx Tale, and a post-screening conversation.

  • PHOTOS: Burna Boy performs at UEFA Champions League final in Istanbul

    PHOTOS: Burna Boy performs at UEFA Champions League final in Istanbul

    Nigerian afrobeat sensation, Burna Boy performed on stage before the start of the UEFA Champions League final football match between Inter Milan and Manchester City at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul, on Saturday.

  • ‘Battle on Buka Street’ to launch on Prime Video June 16

    Nigeria’s highest-grossing movie, ‘Battle on Buka Street’, is set to launch on Prime Video on June 16. Amazon revealed this in a statement in Lagos.

    According to the statement, the box office sensation from Funke Akindele will launch exclusively on Prime Video.

    “Nigeria’s highest-grossing film, ‘Battle on Buka Street’, is set to launch exclusively on Prime Video on June 16.

    “A certified Box Office hit, directed by Funke Akindele and Tobi Makinde, boasts a unique storyline, impressive cinematography, and exceptional acting from veteran and young Nollywood stars.

    “‘Battle on Buka Street’ achieved record-breaking success as the highest-grossing film across cinemas nationwide in 2022 and will debut on Prime Video to continue that remarkable run as more people will be able to watch the movie,” the statement said.

    The statement revealed that the movie possessed an unmatched prowess of storytelling exhibited by the directors.

    “Battle on Buka Street provides a great balance of emotions, love, family life and humour.

    “Directed by the dynamic duo behind Jenifa’s Diary and The Vendor, this film is further testament of their unmatched prowess when it comes to storytelling.

    “Based on Kanayo Maduka, played by Nkem Owoh, who resides on Buka Street with his three vibrant and opinionated wives, this movie weaves a compelling drama on the themes of polygamy, emotion, resilience and comedy.

    “Featuring a stellar cast including Funke Akindele, Mercy Johnson, Sola Sobowale, Bimbo Ademoye, Tina Mba, Femi Jacobs and Kevin Ikeduba.

    “Battle on Buka Street provides a great balance of emotions, love, family life, and humour,” it said.

    The statement said that Prime Video was about to enhance its Nollywood offering in Africa and across the world, having made an outstanding statement with King of Thieves, Gangs of Lagos, and Bad Comments, among others.

    “Amazon original series such as Citadel, The Power, The Wheel of Time, The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel, The Grand Tour, The Lord of the Rings, and The Rings of Power also continue to delight Nigerians on the streaming platform,” it said.

     

  • Assault: Why police released Seun Kuti on bail

    Afrobeat musician, Seun Kuti has been released on Tuesday night on bail, from the detention of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Lagos.

    The development was confirmed by his attorney, on Tuesday night.

    Nigerian Anchor gathered that his release was based on the fulfilling of his bail conditions which were perfected since last Thursday but the Police still kept the afrobeat singer until Tuesday.

    “Yes, Ṣeun Kuti has just was released minutes ago.

    “His bail conditions have been perfected since last Thursday, but the police asked for an extension of his remand until today (Tuesday),” his lawyer is quoted as saying.

    The Chief Magistrate, Adeola Olatunbosun, had extended Kuti’s remand until Tuesday, May 23 following an application by the police.

    Court records show that a Sabo-Yaba Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos State last week Thursday granted an application by the police for an extension of remand of Seun Kuti until Tuesday (today), to enable the police to conclude its investigation, and for the advice of the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecution.

    The police had told the court that the two days remand extension that was earlier granted was not enough for it to conclude its investigation.

    Responding to the police’ application, the magistrate said, “I will grant the extension. Matter adjourned to May 23, 2023, for DPP’s advice,” the document exclusively obtained by our correspondent on Monday revealed.

    Meanwhile, legal counsel to the musician, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN, told The PUNCH that his client’s (Seun Kuti’s) bail conditions had been met last Thursday.

    However, our correspondent gathered that police lawyers went to court on Thursday to get a remand extension without notifying the musician’s legal counsel.

    “The police lawyers came to court on Thursday without informing Seun’s lawyers. When the matter was called for mention, a young lawyer who was in court, pleaded with the magistrate to stand down the matter for about five minutes for Seun Kuti’s legal counsel, Olumide-Fusika, SAN, who had rushed down from Ikeja, to arrive.

    “But the magistrate refused, and extended Seun’s detention till Monday,” a source privy to the development revealed to our correspondent on Thursday.

    Our correspondent gathered that the lead counsel to the police, Simon Lough, SAN, moved the application, noting that the extension was to allow further investigation into the case.

    Kuti is charged with assaulting a police officer during an altercation on Saturday, May 13, on the Third Mainland Bridge, in Lagos.

    The police charged him with slapping an inspector after he drove dangerously on the bridge, and deliberately blocked a moving police vehicle.

    Kuti was arraigned last Tuesday, during which the Chief Magistrate earlier ordered his remand for 48 hours, and held that the defendant be admitted to bail in the sum of N1 million with two sureties in like sum, at the end of the 48-hour remand.

    However, following a second arraignment last Thursday, the magistrate adjourned the case until May 23 for mention and directed the prosecutor to duplicate the case file and forward a copy to the state director of public prosecutions for advice.

    Reacting to the development during an interview with our correspondent, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN, noted that the musician’s bail conditions had been met, while insinuating that the court’s decision for the four days remand extension would, however, be respected.

    Olumide-Fusika said, “There’s no comment on the four-day extension. It’s a court decision, we’ll wait and see.

    “However, Ṣeun Kuti’s bail conditions have been met from our side. But since there’s a court decision extending for four days, the presiding magistrate did not sign off until after then.”