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Category: Entertainment

  • Ayra Starr leads Spotify’s 2025 impact list

    Ayra Starr leads Spotify’s 2025 impact list

    Spotify has announced Nigerian singer Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, known as Ayra Starr, as the leading artiste in its Global Impact List for 2025.

    Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, shared the news in a statement on Tuesday.

    Okumu revealed Ayra Starr’s dominance on Spotify’s Global Impact List, leading 30 Nigerian songs and connecting with audiences worldwide.

    The top 10 list includes Ayra Starr, Rauw Alejandro, and Rvssian’s “Santa”; Tems’s “Love MeJeJe”; Burna Boy, Coldplay, Elyanna, Little Simz, and TINI’s “WE PRAY”; and more.

    Other songs featured are Ayra Starr and Giveon’s “Last Heartbreak Song”; 21Savage, Burna Boy, and Metro Boomin’s “Justlike Me”; Tems and Tyla’s “No.1”; and others.

    Okumu highlighted Nigerian artistes breaking boundaries, saying Spotify is proud to amplify their global reach.

    She explained that Nigerian music’s influence has gone global, with Ayra Starr leading the charge in Spotify’s 2025 Global Impact List.

    The list showcases 30 Nigerian songs with the strongest international connections this year, reflecting Nigeria’s growing global influence.

    Okumu called Ayra Starr a chart-topping force, reshaping the global music scene with her international success.

    Ayra’s hits top Nigerian charts, with her music becoming global anthems that resonate worldwide.

    “As a Spotify RADAR and EQUAL alumna, Ayra Starr was Nigeria’s most-streamed female artiste in 2024,” Okumu said.

    While only two of her tracks, “Last Heartbreak Song” and “Bad Vibes”, are on the Global Impact List, Ayra’s collaborations like “Santa” highlight her wide-reaching influence.

    The success of “Santa”, featuring Rvssian and Rauw Alejandro, showcases Ayra’s ability to connect across diverse markets.

    Ayra Starr’s six entries on the list, including “Commas”, “GOOD FEELiNGS”, and “Hypé”, show her versatility and global appeal.

    Her album The Year I Turned 21 was one of the top 10 most-streamed albums of the year, cementing her global presence.

    Okumu emphasised the power of collaboration in amplifying Nigerian music’s global impact, noting 22 of the 30 songs are collaborations.

    She explained that collaborations are essential for Nigerian artistes aiming for international success, with 19 involving artistes from other countries.

    Songs like “Santa”, “WE PRAY (TINI Version)”, and “Another Vibe” demonstrate the power of such cross-continental partnerships.

  • Funke Akindele wins “Best Director of 2024” with “Everybody Loves Jennifer”

    Funke Akindele wins “Best Director of 2024” with “Everybody Loves Jennifer”

    The Nigerian movie industry is unrelenting as it continues to blaze the trail in the footsteps of some of the best global traditions in the sector, all to the material fortunes of the practitioners.

    Just yesterday, Nigerian Actress Funke Akindele and Tunde Olaoye were declared the highest-grossing film directors for the year 2024.

    This is for the film “Everybody Loves Jennifer” which had raked in N1.6 billion across cinemas in Nigeria.

    This was revealed by Filmone on its Instagram page, @filmoneng, on Wednesday.

    Adebayo Tijani emerged as the second highest-grossing film director for “Beast of Two Worlds: Ajakaju”, “Alakada Bad and Boujee”, and “Farmer’s Bride”.

    READ ALSO: Global collaboration vital for sustainable growth – President Tinubu

    Also, Kayode Kasum became the third highest-grossing director for 2024 for “Ajosepe”, “All’s Fair in Love”, and “What About Us”.

    Odunlade Adekola made the fourth highest-grossing director for “Beast of Two Worlds: Ajakaju” and “Lakatabu” while Adeoluwa Owu clinched the fifth-highest-grossing director for “Queen Lateefah” and “When Love Strikes”.

    Toka McBaror emerged as the sixth highest-grossing director for “The Waiter”, and Jack Opukeme made the seventh for “Farmer’s Bride”.

    READ ALSO: Bafarawa leaves PDP to focus on youth empowerment initiative

    Bolanle Austen-Peters clinched the eighth highest-grossing director for “Funmilayo Ransome Kuti”, while Biodun Stephen made the ninth for “Muri & Ko”.

    Omoni Oboli emerged as the tenth highest-grossing director for “Wives on Strike: The Uprising”. 

  • Valentine Chukwuma emerges highest grossing Nollywood film editor in 2024

    Valentine Chukwuma emerges highest grossing Nollywood film editor in 2024

    Award winning film editor, Valentine Chukwuma has emerged the highest grossing Nollywood film editor in 2024, alongside Israel Odunsi.

    This is for the film: “Everybody Loves Jennifer”.

    Filmone, a film distribution company revealed this through its instagram page @filmoneng, on Monday.

    Sanjo Adegoke came as the second highest grossing Nollywood film editor in 2024 with the films: “Beast of Two Worlds:Ajakaju” and “Lakatabu”.

    All the winners

    While Adekunle Oyetunde emerged third highest grossing Nollywood editor for the films “Queen Lateefah” and “Thinline”; Idris Razak clinched the fourth highest grossing Nollywood editor for “Ajosepo” and “What About Us”.

    Awa Holmes made the fifth highest grossing Nollywood editor for “Alakada Bad and Boujee” and “Wives on Strike: The Uprising”.

    READ ALSO: Fans Berate Nollywood Movies for Low Quality Films on Youtube and Repetitive Casting

    Adeyemi Shomade bagged the sixth highest grossing Nollywood editor for “Farmer’s Bride”, “All’s Fair in Love” and “Aburo”.

    Victoria Akujobi emerged the seventh highest grossing Nollywood editor for “Beast of Two Worlds: Ajakaju” and “Criminal”.

    Kayode Aransiola bagged the eighth highest grossing Nollywood editor for “Farmer’s Bride” and “All’s Fair in Love”.

    Kelvin Testers and Gabiu Amidu came as the ninth highest grossing Nollywood editor in 2024 for “Alakada Bad and Boujee”.

    READ ALSO: Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Goes into TV Drama Production

    For the tenth highest grossing Nollywood editor, Susan Ukalor clinched the position with “Muri & KO Saving Onome” and “3 Working Days”.

    Filmone wrote on its Instagram page “Celebrating the unsung heroes who transform raw footage into cinematic masterpieces.

    “These are the visionaries who shape the films we love, blending creativity, dedication, and brilliance.”

  • CBAAC hails D-G for repositioning centre, promoting culture

    CBAAC hails D-G for repositioning centre, promoting culture

    The Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) has praised its Director-General, Aisha Adamu-Augie, for her efforts in promoting arts and culture.

    In a statement on Saturday by Mr Manji Diyal, Senior Special Assistant to the Director-General, said the centre’s staff commemorated her one year in office.

    He said they also acknowledged her remarkable leadership qualities.

    Diyal said that the D-G had implemented various initiatives aimed at promoting African arts and culture, both locally and internationally.

    According to him, Adamu-Augie’s efforts in repositioning the centre had yielded significant results, with CBAAC becoming a hub for cultural exchange and enrichment.

    He said the D-G had upheld strengthening of cultural ties between Nigeria and China.

    He added that this led to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the centre’s full participation at the 2024 United Nations Chinese Language Day celebration.

    On cultural diplomacy and art promotion, Diyal said Adamu-Augie had curated many inspiring arts exhibition.

    They included showcasing female-inspired works by female artists with the Female Artists Association of Nigeria to support the International Association of Women Police (IAWP).

    “Under Aisha Adamu-Augie’s leadership, CBAAC’s commitment to fostering international cultural exchange, promoting artistic innovation, and celebrating Africa’s rich cultural legacy have been up-scaled.

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    “CBAAC’s commitment to promoting Black and African cultural heritage was taken to another level when the centre celebrated the achievements and contributions of people of African descent during the black history month.

    “The D-G successfully hosted the 2024 Day of the African Child, with the theme `Bridging Heritage and Innovation: Unleashing the Creative Potential of the African Child through Technology and Cultural Education’.

    “This showcased the D-G’s efforts in promoting cultural education, innovation, and technology to empower the next generation of African leaders,” he said.

    Diyal said, CBAAC under Adamu-Augie’s leadership, also endorsed and supported the production of ‘The Noble Warrior’ (Eniogun).

    The play, a captivating piece written by Cash Onadele, Aiye-ko-ooto, in honour of 90th birthday anniversary of Prof. Wole Soyinka.

    Diyal noted that within one year of Adamu-Augie’s leadership, the centre endorsed the Yauri Rigata Cultural event, scheduled to take place in February in Kebbi.

    He said this was a collaborative effort to showcase some salient aspects of the African culture through cultural festivals.

    According to him, the center has explored collaborative opportunities in job creation, digitalisation, partnerships and capacity building.

    Diyal said, in 2025, the D-G would focus on an initiative called Pan-African Skills Development Programme (PAID).

    He said PAID was designed to empower young Africans, between age 18 and 35, with traditional skills and knowledge sourced from various regions across Africa.

    “The Centre plans to curate a variety of activities ultimately leading to the golden jubilee of FESTAC ’77 in 2027, beginning from 2025.

    “The initiative seeks to create a comprehensive series of monthly cultural, creative, and visual arts events,” he said.

    Adamu-Augie was appointed by President Bola Tinubu as the Director-General of CBAAC on Jan. 11, 2024.

  • Fans Berate Nollywood for low-quality movies on YouTube, repetitive casting

    Fans Berate Nollywood for low-quality movies on YouTube, repetitive casting

    A wave of criticism has swept across social media platforms, with fans and Nollywood movie lovers accusing producers of repetitive casting and low-quality Youtube movies.

    A News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) report indicates that some fans had taken to social media on Thursday to express their frustration, arguing that the industry prioritises quantity over quality.

    A popular social media personality, Lizzy Adebayo, sparked the debate on Instagram, lamenting the monotony and lack of inspiration in recent Nollywood productions on YouTube.

    She criticised movie producers for relying on the same actors in nearly every movie, failing to improve production standards or utilise better resources.

    “Watching Nollywood movies on YouTube is wasting my Wi-Fi and data money,” she complained.

    Adebayo specifically mentioned actors like Ruth Kadiri and Destiny Etiko; Sam Morris and Sonia Uche; Etinosa and Nosa Rex; and Timini and Bimbo Ademoye, who frequently collaborate in the same movies.

    She also expressed disappointment in the decline of Nollywood, comparing it unfavourably to the epic productions of the past.

    “There are no more moral lessons, no more new stories,” she said.

    READ ALSO: SEVEN NOLLYWOOD ACTRESSES WHO ARE LONGER ACTING BUT STILL RELEVANT IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY

    Also, Muyiwa Okpa (@MuyiwaOkpa22),  on X reacted to the criticism, saying, “Where is the lie? Same storyline, same actors, same setting… all rubbish!

    “They don’t want to spend money but they want to make money. I choose Hollywood any day, any time.

    “Yoruba movies are something else; the storylines are mostly diabolic, they curse a lot. I stopped watching them.”

    Lynos Akali (@LynosAkali) on X added, “Best censored, educative, and thrilling Nigerian movies are on Netflix and Amazon.

    “These movies must be of high quality and standard before being accepted.”

    Similarly, Gaza (@Gaza), on X, said, “Two-hour movie and they’ll finish it in one apartment with only four people. What a shame!”

    However, some fans did not agree with the criticism.

    Ony Factory (@OnyFactory), on X, countered, saying, “Producers don’t just wake up and produce; they do research to see what the audience wants to watch.

    “YouTube is free, so, do you want producers to spend millions and then give it to you for free?”

    READ ALSO: Peter Obi Visits Babangida in Minna

    He advised critics to subscribe to Netflix, noting that billions of dollars had been invested to support producers.

    “Making great movies isn’t cheap. You need money to produce high-quality films, even if you want to write great stories.

    “People should not just criticise others without trying it themselves. If it’s easy, come and do it.

    “Get in and let’s see what you can do,” he said. 

  • Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals goes into TV drama production

    Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals goes into TV drama production

    Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development says the ministry is set to premier a television drama series on mining, titled ‘Hidden Riches,’ on Jan. 25.

    The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, made the disclosure in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, on Tuesday in Abuja.

    Alake said that the series will showcase the potential and complexities of Nigeria’s mining sector to shore up its development.

    A statement by Segun Tomori, Media Assistant to the minister says the debut is “Produced by Take 7 Media and directed by Bem Pever and Nwamaka Chikezie, the series will officially make its debut on January 25, 2025, from 8:05 pm to 8:30 pm.

    READ ALSO: Grow Nigeria First, Advocates Trade Minister, Oduwole

    “It will be aired weekly, every Saturday on the Network Service of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA),” he said.

    He stated that the series would feature a stellar cast, including Sydney Diala, Lara Owoeye-Wise, Iveren Antiev, and Alex Jibrin, among others.

    According to the minister, the series is set to unravel the complex dynamics of politics, power, and ambition surrounding the nation’s vast mineral wealth.

    He emphasised the importance of the series in highlighting the potential of Nigeria’s mining sector as a key driver of economic transformation.

    “The gripping storyline follows the interconnected lives of miners, politicians, activists, and everyday citizens as they navigate challenges and opportunities in harnessing the hidden treasures beneath the nation’s soil.

    ‘Through its powerful narrative, “Hidden Riches” highlights the transformative potential of solid minerals as a vital alternative for sustainable economic growth and resource management,” he said.

    READ ALSO: A New Terror Group Emerges in Sokoto

    The minister explained that the series aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to diversify Nigeria’s economy.

    He stated that the series’ compelling narrative would raise awareness of the opportunities within the solid minerals sector, thus encouraging citizens to engage in building a sustainable future.

    Public policy analysts however, express reservations about the pertinence of a minister of solid minerals development delving in drama production, especially at a time the nation searches earnestly for way out of difficult economic challenges.

  • Bayelsa Leads the Charge in NAFEST 2024 themed “Connected Culture”

    Bayelsa Leads the Charge in NAFEST 2024 themed “Connected Culture”

    The 36th edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) concluded in Abuja, with Bayelsa State emerging as the top performer. 

    This year’s event, which spanned an entire week, brought together people from all corners of Nigeria to honor the nation’s diverse traditions under the theme “Connected Culture.”

    NAFEST 2024 served as a vibrant display of Nigeria’s cultural wealth, offering a blend of competitive and non-competitive events that allowed participants to showcase their unique talents. 

    It featured activities that ranged from storytelling and traditional board games like Ayo to indigenous sports such as Traditional Wrestling and Dambe Boxing.

    Obi Asika, Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture
    Mr. Asika Presenting Award to the Overall Best Troupe

     

    Other exciting events included Archery, musical performances through Sing-Off Naija, and energetic dance competitions in Dance-Off Naija.

    One of the standout competitions was the Jollof Wars, where top chefs battled to prepare Nigeria’s beloved dish. Additionally, students participated in educational contests like the Children’s Essay Writing Competition and the Culture Quiz, further promoting the understanding of Nigeria’s heritage among the younger generation.

     Events that focused on the use of indigenous materials in modern design also attracted attention, showcasing the fusion of tradition with contemporary creativity.

    While the competitive events brought out impressive displays of skill, NAFEST also featured non-competitive showcases that brought a sense of unity and celebration to the occasion. 

    These included a grand opening and closing ceremony, performances of local theater productions like Ibe Ji Mma, and discussions in forums such as the Creative Economy Town Hall, which encouraged artistic entrepreneurship. Free skills training sessions were also held, offering opportunities for young Nigerians to enhance their craft.

    Bayelsa’s performance stood out with wins in the Children’s Arts & Crafts and Archery events. Ekiti State shone in the Swag Show and Essay Competition, while Taraba claimed top honors in the Culture Quiz.

     Other notable performers included Lagos, which secured the third position overall, and Nasarawa, which triumphed in both the Jollof Wars and Dance-Off. Ekiti earned second place, showcasing a wealth of talent across the board.

    In his remarks, Obi Asika, the Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, commended the festival for promoting national unity and cultural pride.

     NAFEST, he noted, serves as a vital platform for cultural exchange and growth, strengthening connections among Nigeria’s diverse peoples.

    The festival not only highlighted the artistic talents of Nigerians but also contributed to the growth of local tourism, business, and entrepreneurship. The Arts and Crafts Cultural Market provided artisans a space to showcase their work, further encouraging economic development. 

  • Miss Universe 2024: Nigeria emerges 1st Runner-up

    Miss Universe 2024: Nigeria emerges 1st Runner-up

    Miss Chidinma Adetshina has placed Nigeria on the global beauty stage having emerged as the first runner up in the Miss Universe Beauty Pageant.

    Miss Adetshina was controversilly forced to withdraw Miss Universe South Africa, which would offered her the platform to participate in Miss Universe Pageant due to nationality crisis.

    Chidinma, 23, was born to a Nigerian father in South Africa.

    As she put it, she withdrew from representing South Africa “for the safety and wellbeing of my family and I.”

    After her withdrawal, Nigeria quickly.granted Chidinma the ticket to take part in the Miss Universe Beauty Pageant.

    Chidinma was announced second after Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig came first in the beauty contest that took place at Arena CDMX in Mexico City.

    READ ALSO: Winner Emerges in Ondo 2024 Governorship election as INEC announces results of 15 LGAs

  • MC Shakara Opens Up on Handling Online Critics

    MC Shakara Opens Up on Handling Online Critics

    Comedian Kenneth Agberia, known as MC Shakara, has revealed how he deals with online criticism. 

    In an interview, he shared his approach of focusing on positivity and offering apologies when necessary. He also mentioned that his followers often come to his defense before he even responds.

    Talking about his upcoming show Shakara and the Geng, MC Shakara disclosed that the theme for this year’s edition will be “Tales of a Bachelor,” based on his personal experiences. 

    The show will offer a humorous perspective on both the perks and challenges of bachelorhood. 

    When it comes to selecting talent for the show, MC Shakara emphasized his goal to deliver a top-tier experience. 

    He brings in both new voices and familiar faces, such as Jephthah Bowoto (Akpororo), who is known for his deep, engaging humor. 

    MC Shakara also reflected on his comedy style, which focuses on everyday relatable situations. 

    While social media trends influence his content, he strives to connect with younger audiences like Gen Z and Millennials. 

    Beyond comedy, MC Shakara is branching into acting and skit creation. He expressed openness to pursuing other ventures, such as acting, whenever the opportunity arises.

  • I thought I was going to die – Ufuoma McDermott struggles with kidney disease

    I thought I was going to die – Ufuoma McDermott struggles with kidney disease

    Renowned Nollywood actress and producer Ufuoma McDermott has opened up about her battle with Stage 4 kidney disease, sharing how her reliance on painkillers to cope with chronic pain led to a severe health crisis.

    In an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, McDermott recounted how her health issues began after the tragic death of her younger brother, who also suffered from kidney disease. 

    McDermott stated that initially she was diagnosed with Stage 3 kidney disease, which then progressed to Stage 4 due to delays in seeking medical attention.

    She said in part, “When I tell people I can afford to put on weight, I don’t want to die. I have little children.

    “I had pushed my body, and I was borderline stage 4. Last year was a very trying time in my life where I thought I was going to die. I have battled chronic kidney disease for about 12 years now.

    “But I was negotiating with the doctor about my life; she said I need you to go home, I need your blood pressure to drop, and take my medications.”