NIGGA RAW returns with new videos

That NIGGA RAW, unarguably Nigeria’s most flavoured Rap and Hip-Hop artiste will be storming the Shell Hall of the Muson Centre, Lagos, on March 7, 2009, for the launch/unveiling of his latest musical videos. Raw, is also considered Nigeria’s foremost and most talented indigenous rapper and renowned for his creative integration of mother tongue into rap music.
The Abia ambassador is no doubt attracting a lot of attention with his current album entitled: Everything Remains Raw. The loaded work is also enjoying massive rotation on the airwaves, especially in Eastern Nigeria, where Raw’s fans base is unprecedented.
Meanwhile, captains of industry, professionals from both the public and private sectors, the media, recording agents and members of the music world are expected to grace the sensational event featuring music from Raw’s exciting new album. The album is released on his independent label Raw Deal in partnership with Eastside Entertainment.
The forthcoming video CD contains mind blowing songs like: Ko Gbadun, Strong and Mighty, In love with an Angel, Ara ga agba ndi ara, Do am so and My name. They have also assured that the music videos will have guests leaving the performance and still asking for more!
Raw is undoubtedly one of the best rap artistes in the country and his album truly has platinum potential! With over 2 million copies already sold. The videos were shot in Nigeria and South Africa with the best of equipment and production team,” said his management consultant.


“Once again, Nigga Raw is taking the lead and watching others in the rear view mirror,” says Mary Ikoku, CEO of Integrated Quest. Nigga Raws decision to launch his new video to the public in partnership with Eastside Entertainment gives his teeming fans across the country greater access to the works. The crew’s reputation for fan-friendliness is well deserved. It’s an inspiration to those of us who are passionate about building a pool of creative work that can be readily shared by the world.”
Raw is currently touring major cities in Nigeria, after his recent tour of Europe for the promotion of the forthcoming video albums.




Nollywood NGO donates to Motherless Babies

Goodwill Dynamics Nigeria, a new NGO currently being powered by Mr. Charles Abazie, a popular Nollywood producer and actor recently visited and donated gift items to the Heart of Gold Children Hospices, in Surulere, Lagos.
Explaining the rationale behind the visit, Mr. Abazie maintained that it was in line with President Umaru Yar’Adua’s seven-point Agenda, adding also that its the vision of the NGO, to reach out to children on the streets, rehabilitating and providing shelter for them.

Lilan Bach, Nollywood actress, is a member of Nollywood NGO

“The pathetic situation of most Nigerian youths, especially those engaged in demeaning activities like: streets begging, hawking, prostitution, pick pockets and other vices, gave birth to this NGO,” Abazie disclosed.
Several Nollywood stars also witnessed the visit, which tock place on Valentine’s Day.
Meanwhile, notable Nollywood names such as: Rachael Oniga, Ngozi Ezeonu, Lilian Bach, Ngozi Orji, Vivian Ejike among others are all members of the newly formed NGO.


Iroegbu goes in search of the Child Soldier

Africa Movie Academy Awards winning director Dickson Iroegbu is set to roll tapes soon for his first ever-international movie project. Entitled Child Soldier, the movie is estimated to gulp over $ 2 million. And surprisingly, Iroegbu and his team have vowed to raise the staggering amount of money as soon as practicable.



On why he is tinkering with the idea of such a gigantic project, Iroegbu, reminded us that according to statistics made available by UNICEF, over 300, 000 children under 18, are currently being exploited in over 30 armed conflict zones world wide, hence the need for the project.
“Amnesty International estimates that child soldiers are children robbed of their childhood and exposed to terrible dangers as well as psychological and physical sufferings. It is in the light of this glaring reality that we embarked on this laudable and achievable project.
Besides, it’s a socially relevant issue and we know that this movie has a global concern. We also know that it would attract global interest and involvement from diverse quarters”, he posited.
Speaking further Iroegbu and his team stated that their vision is to use Child Soldier, to redefine and reposition Nollywood film production standards. And in order to achieve the above and further raise the bar, they intend shooting on 35mm with other state-of-the-art equipment.
They would also employ the services of international film crew alongside the use of global standard production practice as well as exhibitions and marketing. Iroegbu, is optimistic that partnering with them would open up doors of opportunities for intending partners and their brands and products.


Sechi records floats ultra-modern studio


Pic-Stereoman with Boss of Sechi

Poised at taking its musical acts and productions to the next level Sechi Records, recently launched and declared open for business, its ultra-modern and hi-tech multi studios.
Located in the Festac area of Lagos, the multi-million Naira, studio is already brimming with artistes looking for the best equipment and professionals to work with.
According to the boss of Sechi Entertainment, Ambrose Ndukwu, his company decided to float the studio, in order to assist Nigerian musicians raise the bar of their careers, especially the up and coming ones.
Youthful Ndukwu, whose label discovered and nurtured Ekwe Stereoman among other acts, further disclosed that he would soon be venturing into Nollywood with some quality scripts.
“Basically, what we do at Sechi Entertainment is to discover and nurture raw talents for global exposures and success. The new studio will surely go a long way in assisting most Nigerian musicians, especially the up and coming talents, who are abound in this country.”


Cola–man’s letter to Africa

Cola-Man began his musical odyssey professionally in ’96, immediately after his secondary school education with De-Shandies group. However, his sojourn to Europe in 2003, was the icing on the cake for his now booming career.
Currently based in Austria, the Dancehall/ Reggae crooner recently breezed into town to promote his latest and first solo album.
Entitled “Letter To Africa”, the work is gradually winning the hearts of music buffs, and fast becoming an anthem on the airwaves.
Cola-Man (born Michael Igboanugo), has brought his strong vocal strength and maturity of songs to bear on the work and as well as several of his shows in Austria and around Europe.
He has also competed and won in several foreign music competitions, thus registering his name and style of music on the global scene.
Some videos of the work are ready and would be hitting the airwaves soon. The act has also promised to promote the new album wholly in Nigeria and Europe, where he hopes to launch his Afro-Euro tour soon.

Proudly Africa set to wow viewers

TV buffs are in for another good time this 2009, as Proudly Africa Nigeria, the leading content provider for television stations is poised to wow them and make this 2009 more interesting, fun filled and rewarding to them.
Also, as part their promise to viewers, they would be hitting the airwaves soon with a well scripted and suspense filled soap, entitled: Circle Of Three. Sultry actress Bimbo Akintola painstakingly produced it. It also aims at correcting the pressure usually mounted on women in their 30’s, to marry. Shedding more light on the project, Miss Akintola, disclosed that woman are treated in this part of the world like items placed on the shelves with an expiry date as regards the issue of marriage, thus the project would definitely help to erase the wrong impression. Other big acts in the soap include: Kate Henshaw-Nuttal, Ireti Doyle and a host of other talented thespians. It currently airs on AIT network.
Other new productions from Proudly Africa that are now on air include: Sistas, from Royal Roots and shot in Accra, Ghana,
Celebration of an Icon, Blaise, a music oriented programme with bias for tourism and
Crack house, a production of laughther incorporated. It is a comedy programme with bias for entertainment and beautifully packaged by Gbenga Adeyinka.


RoofTop Mc’s ready for Shout Tour Jam




All is now set for the maiden edition of the Shout Tour Jam featuring the popular rap music duo, Rooftop MCs of the “Lagimo” fame, as the lead acts alongside other performers and comedians with several side attractions.
According to the organizers, the itinerant music gig would be touring three universities in the South West region with dance repertoire, green carpet moments, photo sessions, album signing sessions, a music symposium and an interactive session with the RoofTop MCs.
The coming event is being powered by Davidhouse Multimedia Limited, and its already gathering momentum.
“The objective of the Shout Tour Jam with the RoofTop MCs, is to provide quality entertainment for the students of Nigeria tertiary institutions, extend the fans base of the Rooftop MCs, advocate against cultism and related vices, and boost the presence of the sponsors brands. The tour would feature shows/concerts by the RoofTop MCs at the Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan, on April 9, the Main Auditorium, Redeemers’ University, Ibafo, Ogun State on May 7, and the Arts Theatre, University of Lagos, Akoka, on June 4, 2009, respectively.”

Entertainers unite for Aba Made concert

Eastern-based comedian Uche Ogbuagu better known as Mr. Talkinson, recently gathered his other colleagues in the music, movie and comedy sectors for the second edition of his wave making Aba Made show.



The well-attended concert, which held penultimate Sunday evening, at Binez Hotel, Aba, Abia State is still serenading the entire city. It would be recalled that in 2008, the maiden edition held amid glamour and accolades with several Nollywood stars, musicians, comedians and celebrities in attendance. In fact, the highpoint of the event was when the late Oliver de Coque mounted the stage to thrill the guests.
In the words of hilarious Ogbuagu, he decided to come up with the concept, at a time when entertainment had reached its lowest ebb in Aba and Abia State in general. "What we saw was far beyond our expectation. It was a total re-awakening", he said.
Continuing, Ogbuagu further disclosed that the recently held second edition came with a bang and even bigger and better than the maiden edition. He further added that the VCD and DVD of the first outing are already in the markets, and that the latest edition would soon follow suit.
He also paid tributes to the High life legend, late De Coque, whose exit took place last year, lamenting that his sad death, remains the greatest shock of his life.
Among the popular entertainers that thrilled alongside Ogbuagu at the concert were: Nkem Owoh, Okey Bakassi, KOK, Bob Manuel Udokwu and many others.


Florence Okafor gets busy

At just 18, youthful Florence Okafor is quietly making waves and climbing the ladder of success with her debut effort as a gospel artiste. The soul-lifting album of the angelic voice singer is entitled Ahurum-Gi-Naya, and currently an anthem on the nation’s airwaves.
The born again beauty, also combines modeling with her burgeoning music career. Currently in search of a good label and management team, the Arochukwu, Abia State indigene, is also optimistic that she would succeed by preaching the gospel through her music. And indeed, she is already doing that at the Grace Prevailing Ministries, Lagos, where she worships.
Miss Okafor, is also working towards a concert in the next couple of months and hopes to complete the remaining videos in her current effort soon. Gathered that she is already being compared with some of the nation’s leading female gospel acts, based on her vocal strength, maturity of songs and apt delivery. Keep a date with us for more on this emerging gospel diva on the move.



Nollywood stars gather for Vivian Ejike

It was the constellation of Nollywood stars and celebrities over the weekend, at the grand birthday bash of Amanda, the daughter of top producer, Vivian Ejike.
Ejike Asiegbu, the national president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), chaired the soiree, which held at the Fun Factory, Lekki, Lagos, amid glitz and grandeur. Amiable Asiegbu, who stormed the venue with his entire family, thoroughly enjoyed himself and threw banters here and there before leaving.
Top director, Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, who just returned from the Sun Dance Film festival, in the US, was there with his entire family and kept clicking with his camera. Leading female filmmaker and the host’s business partner Emem Isong, was also there with her entire family and friends.
Victuals flowed freely at the party and most of the invited guests spent quality time with Amanda, the 6 year-old celebrant and even lavished her with gifts; before leaving for their respective homes.

When the Heart Lies ready for shelves

Pic-Co-producers Ejike and Isong

After a well-applauded and attended world premieres in Lagos and Abuja respectively, When the Heart Lies, the big budget project movie buffs have been waiting for, is finally poised to hit the Nigerian, US, Europe and the rest of African markets with a bang.
The star-studded movie with screen goddess-Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde as lead, is being marketed globally by Nollywood Distribution Company Limited, in collaboration with other leading video/film outlets.


Paul Plays stars in the movie

Other leading thespians that added verve and vim to the heart wrenching and suspense filled movie directed by Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen include: Enebeli Elebuwa, Uche Jombo, Desmond Elliot, Omoni Oboli, Lola Shokeye and a host of others.
Interestingly, Pop star and music producer, Paul Play Dairo, also starred in the well-scripted flick from the stable of Purple Pine Production, with offices in Nigeria, the US and UK.
According to Vivian Ejike, the producer of the movie, the story revolves around four good friends linked together by a dirty past.
“The lead act, Kaiyra, a darling of music fans has a secret. In fact, a secret borne out of a chance meeting with some friends at the airport sixteen years ago, therefore, everyone connected to her past must be avoided like a plaque. For this dirty secret to remain buried forever, Kaiyra, must always avoid her erstwhile pals. Meanwhile, on the other hand, Angel, a rising music star, poised to rule the scene and also idolizes Kaiyra, has a regret. She vowed never to forgive the heartless woman that sired and dumped her in a public toilet many years ago. However, she would do anything to meet her idol, Kaiyra”.
These and many more intrigues, according to pretty Ejike, stands the newest flick out in the midst of many.
In the words of the former top banker, who just returned from the US and UK, where she went to promote When The Heart Lies, its now available on VCD and DVD, and can compete favourably anywhere in the world based on its quality production and the standard film-making equipment used.


NFVCB closes illegal distribution outfit

In its continued efforts towards sanitizing and regulating the nation’s motion picture industry, the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), recently locked up the office of Rolax Nigeria Limited, an unregistered and unlicensed film marketing and distribution outfit, situated in Lagos.
According to the Head of Monitoring of the South West Zone of the Board, Mrs. Bola Athar, the decision was reached after the surveillance unit discovered that Rolax Nigeria Limited had not acquired any of the Board’s licenses. The Board has three categories of licenses: National, Regional and Retail.

Pic-Mba, honcho of NFVCB

The Emeka-Mba led Board, which is the apex regulatory body in the film and video industry in Nigeria, had in December 2008 at an elaborate ceremony in Lagos issued licenses to distributors that had met its registration procedures. The implication of the development Athar noted was that any film marketer/distributor who had not obtained a license can no longer
operate as a film distributor in the country.
Athar, further regretted that some film marketers had continued to thwart the laudable efforts of the Board towards sanitizing the distribution sector of the industry. Citing the case of Rolax Nigeria Limited, she stated that the company is currently marketing a film entitled, “Oko Fulani”, adding that “Oko Fulani” was never presented for censorship by Rolax Nigeria Limited. “Available records from the Board show that Rolax Nigeria Limited did not present ‘Oko Fulani’ for censorship and classification with us. Hence, it is surprising that the company is now marketing ‘Oko Fulani’. Accompanied by officers from Area ‘A’ Police Command, Lion Building, Lagos, the team stormed Rolax’s office located at Agege Motor Road, to find it already locked. In spite of this, the team, which had a warrant of arrest for the Chief Executive of Rolax Films Mr. Razaq Olabode had no option but to further lock-up the shop and placed the Board’s
seal-up sign on the door.



RGK comes with love from Ghana

Nigerian born, but Ghana based Ruth Gbenga Kadiri, who goes by the stage name-RGK, is currently in town to promote her debut effort as a budding Pop and Hip -hop artiste. Her nine-tracker album entitled Life Is A Trick, was produced in Ghana and currently enjoying massive airplays and reviews on the airwaves. In a chat with us, the widely traveled singer, who went into professional music two years ago, further revealed that plans are already on ground for the official launch of the work in major cities of Ghana. The Edo State born act, said the Nigerian launch would immediately follow suit, adding that she is already discussing with promoters and artiste managers, on the possibility of a nationwide launch/tour.
The act who is also a professional dancer hinted that she and her crew are already on locations in both Nigeria and Ghana lensing the remaining musical videos of the album. “ We are looking at the possibility of releasing the full album and the videos simultaneously in both Ghana and Nigeria. The only snag is that we are still looking for reliable marketers, distributors and promoters. Because everything is ready”, she enthused.
RGK, who was hugely influenced by the songbirds duo of Whitney Houston and Maria Carey, said she relocated to Ghana, based on the advice of her foreign management team, and till date has not regretted the move. She however, hopes to be shuttling between both Nigeria and Ghana.


O’Jez music signs Osadebe junior


pic-Late Osadebe

An exclusive gist reaching us has it that the management of O’Jez music ably led by Mr. Anayo Joseph Odobeatu, has signed emerging highlife musician Prince Chijioke Mbanefo. Mbanefo, famously known as Osadebe junior, is the cousin of the late highlife legend, Chief Stephen Osita Osidebe. Mbanefo with two albums to his credit, was also a prominent member of the defunct Osadebe band, till the death of the legend. He also played with Osadebe’s son, Obiajulu, until his recent demise. Mbanefo, 31, immediately went solo with most members of the Osdadebe band and sings exactly like his late mentor, whom many usually mistake him for, due to their voice similarities.
“I have been with Osadebe since ’99 and learning the ropes until his painful death. And my first album was a tribute to him. I hope to do more good works now that I have joined O’Jez music, because highlife music must not die.”

Stars ready for Bukky Wright’s premiere

All is now set for the grand premiere of star actress, Bukky Wright’s latest movie. Entitled: Omotara Johnson, the anticipated evening of laughter and networking, holds elaborately on Sunday, February 15, 2008, at the Matinos Events Hall, Ikeja, Lagos. Among the stars that sizzled in the heart-wrenching flick include: Chidi Mokeme, Adebayo Salami, Femi Brainard, Akin Lewis, Toyin Alausa and several others. Directed by the duo of Muyideen Sasilu and Wale Ilebiyi, it was filmed on various locations within and outside Lagos. According to Miss Wright, who wrote, produced and acted in the thriller, the story dwells on love and the ultimate prize tied to the four-lettered word. She further revealed that the flick is her gift to all lovers and their loved ones in this season of Valentine, promising that she would continue to show love and appreciations to her teeming fans globally. The movie is expected to go on tour of some selected cinemas within and
outside Nigeria, immediately after the premiere, before being released.


AMAA begins screening of movies

Peace Fibresima, huncho of AMAA

The organizers of the annual Africa Movie Academy Awards-AMAA, has commenced the screening of movies for this year’s edition. It would be recalled that the body of judges had earlier called for entries from Nigerian and African filmmakers with movies that have good stories and quality productions. The current stage of the screening exercise separately done by some renowned theatre arts lecturers and proven movie journalists selected from a few media houses, including The Sun, was completed over the weekend. At the rigorous exercise, movies from all parts of Africa were thoroughly screened in the areas that would be keenly contested at the awards proper.
The most recent exercise, which lasted for three days, is expected to continue in the next couple of weeks. AMAA is also expecting the arrival of some foreign judges, for the comprehensive screening of all the movies submitted. The academy of AMAA would make the final list and categories public at the end of the screening exercise. The glamourous event holds on Saturday, April 4, in Yenogoa, Bayelsa State, South-south, Nigeria, amid glitz and grandeur.



Tony One Week completes Igbo movie

Top actor, filmmaker and musician Tony One Week Muonagor has finally broken the jinx of the long absence of Igbo language movies in Nollywood. He recently completed production on the first Igbo movie after over a decade hiatus. The Igboawawa Foundation, a brainchild of Muonagor and some of his friends are powering the star-studded and yet- to-be titled flick, which was shot in Asaba, the capital of Delta State. Leading Igbo names in the movie, include: Emeka Ike, Chiege Alisigwe, Amechi Muonagor, Sam Loco-Efe, Dan Oluigbo, Ngozi Nwaneto and a host of others. In the words of Abuja based Muonagor: “ It is an Igbo cause aimed at sustaining our language, for this generation and those yet unborn”. Gathered that when the postproduction is completed, the big budget movie would be premiered and screened round the world.


Dauda joins Father’s league… Adim mourns

Dauda and wife at their wedding, December last year


The patter of tiny feet has enveloped the household of top comedian cum actor, Kingsley Ogbonna, famously known as Dauda.
The entertainer who got wedded in the last days of 2008, to his heartthrob, was blessed with a beautiful baby girl, a fortnight ago. Elated Dauda, squealed to us that mother and child are okay and doing wonderfully well. Meanwhile, in another development, leading movie director and the current national vice president of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), Adim Williams, is sad and mourning. His immediate younger sister lost her darling husband, a fortnight ago, thus throwing their entire family into mourning. He was aged 45, and would be buried soon.


Sweeter than sex woos youths for Val

This Val, youths and teenagers who are desirous for change in their environment and lifestyles would be thoroughly entertained with a special Valentine’s Day programme tagged: "Sweeter Than Sex," from the stable of Adorables Communications.
The programme, according to the organizers had been successfully staged in various secondary schools, across Lagos State, in the last couple of years with support from some NGOs and well-meaning individuals.
Shedding more light on the forthcoming event, its prime mover, youthful Miss Precious Promise Ilalokhoin, who is also the author of The Secret Life of a Teenager and publisher of Adorables magazine, hinted that several resource persons would be speaking to youths at the event. She further added that topics such as: Teenage Development and Care, Sexual Health among others would be hugely discussed at the gathering, which promises to be fun and didactic.
The event, already a topic among youths, holds at the Alafia Hall,Iju, Lagos, this Friday, at 9.am.
“Aside using the event to celebrate Valentine's Day, it is also being organized to help equip teenagers with knowledge on HIV/AIDS, dangers of pre-marital/early sexual practices. We are also using it to boost their personal self-esteem. We are also grateful to all those that had supported us in the past”, she enthused.


Steps of Nature serenades campuses

For Miss Ohiwerei Anthonia, it has not been easy combining studies, unionism and entertainment in school. But despite all these challenges, the slim built dancer and creator of Steps of Nature dance troupe, at the Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State, has been waxing stronger and winning accolades and fans across the nation’s campuses. “It has been somehow tough combining school, unionism and dancing but I thank God for His quick intervention in my life and the grace to carry on,” said the vice president of her school’s Students Union. Agbani, as she is fondly called hails from Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State, and currently a final year student of the Department of Microbiology. She is also a rising actress cum comedienne with many stage appearances. Her dance troupe, has been entertaining students across campuses for over six years, and her dream is to storm and shine on the foreign scene.
She is also of the view that the entertainment industry has improved immensely and hopes to use that as a platform to achieve her set objectives, adding that her hope is to excel in the future.
”My role model is Onyeka Onwenu. Let’s promote our culture by celebrating the beauty of our land because our nation is our pride.”

Catwalk Hollywood to hold in Abuja

Oluchi Onweagba, Nigerian international catwalk queen


Good news filtering in from President Obama’s country, has it that River Naija Productions Incorporated in collaboration with the Nigerian Chamber of Commerce, both based in the US have announced their intention of hosting the maiden edition of the Catwalk HOLLYWOOD in Abuja, this 2009. Also, a Made in Africa Fashion and Beauty Expo has been slated to take place at the event. According to the organizers, the event proper begins from May 28 through May 31.
“Catwalk HOLLYWOOD Abuja 2009, will be kicked off with a welcoming celebration ceremony; followed by a Made in Africa Fashion and Beauty Expo featuring apparels, accessories, cosmetics, and other beauty related products made all over Africa for the International market. Next will be the highly anticipated Catwalk HOLLYWOOD Super Fashion Show Gala, which is the first fashion event of its kind aimed at discovering African Models, Fashion Designers, and Recording Artists for an International Panel, of world renowned Model/Talent agents, fashion buyers, and famed music executives.” The creators of Catwalk HOLLYWOOD are also promising one of the most star studded fashion events of the year. With massive radio and television campaigns scheduled to air this week and registration drives taking place all over the country at different outlets, the search to discover the next Superstar of the Catwalk is definitely going to be big.

Pasuma storms Dubai on Val's eve

Pic-Wasiu Alabi Pasuma


Orobokibo exponent and sensational Fuji music artiste, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma will be storming Dubai, in the United Arab Emirate, for a three-day historic performance. The show being packaged by Onirobo Promotions owned by Akande Sulaimon, a Nigerian born showbiz promoter based in the oil rich country, has been slated for February 10 through 13, 2009. Pasuma Wonder’s tour is expected to climax on the eve of Saint Valentine’s Day, before jetting back to base. The forthcoming trip would be the act’s second visit to the Arab State, to thrill his teeming fans. It would be recalled that he was there to titillate Fuji music lovers last year. The promoter of the music extravaganza further revealed that his organization packaged the show to foster unity among Nigerians residing or visiting Dubai for the Val celebrations.



Mandy Ojugbana, Habeeba join Brila FM

The Larry Izamoje-led Brila FM is bent on further raising the bars of professional broadcasting in this New Year to satisfy its listeners and clients alike. The music and sports station on 88.9 dial, recently brought on board new On Air Personalities (OAPs), from the United Kingdom to enrich an already impressive list.

Larry Izamoje, CEO, Brilla FM

Top on the list is versatile, half-caste Mandy Brown Ojugbana, who apart from being an experienced and lively broadcaster is also a musician of repute with the hit number “Taxi Driver” to her name. A graduate of the London Academy of Media, Film & TV, she is also a professional writer.
Brought up in Newcastle, England, the pretty and hippy presenter was raised by an Igbo father and English mother and did not set her foot on Nigeria until she clocked 9. Happily married with kids, she professes strong affection for sports, a reason she says accounts for her presence in Brila FM’s new compact team.
Ojugbana presents the Super Morning Show on the station between 9.40 am and 1pm, Monday through Friday, and has cultivated an impressive follower ship on radio, helped by her frank and objective analysis of issues, in and outside sports.
Also on the rich list is the British-accented Habeeba Mojisola Adebowale, simply called Habeeba. Born in the United Kingdom, Habeeba has made her mark in broadcasting as far as Nigeria is concerned, having worked for two other top-notch stations in Nigeria before berthing at Brila FM.
Born in Tottenham, England, Habeeba spent her childhood traveling, and seeing the world.
She presents the Super Morning Show from 6am to 12pm Monday through Friday.
Gathered that the rationale for bringing in the two new OAPs is the deep-seated desire of the management of the Music & Sport station to meet the expectations of its teeming listeners and advertisers as it regards current, social and market trends.




Neville D shines again

Nefty Records has concluded plans to release into the market, Songs Of Deliverance, the new studio album from the international performer and music icon Neville D. It would be recalled that Neville D made headlines 10 years ago with his debut album – Calling my name, and after having such a successful music career working with the likes of Israel Houghton, Judith Sephuma, and of very recent, Allou April and Lionel Petersen. Neville D, returns with a soulful, mature but yet very vibrant and youthful album for his teeming fans globally.
"What is different about this album for me was working with different artistes, as opposed to my previous works; where I was working alone," he declares. Neville D collaborated with Jayde Brammer, Jeremy (JK) Koeries, Hiram Koopman, Lionel Petersen and Helena Smith in this latest effort, Songs of Deliverance. The 11-tracker album showcases Neville's versatility as an artiste with an eclectic touch and background. Neville D has shared stages with the likes of Deborah Cox, Joe, Keith Sweat, and Africa's queen of gospel Rebecca Malope. He is a businessman – sole owner of Nefty records, he's also a speaker and a worship leader in addition to being an accomplished singer, songwriter and producer.



Between Madam Kofo and Obama



Unknown to many, especially her teeming fans, versatile actress and entertainer Abiola Atanda, famously known as Madam Kofo, was among the few privileged Nollywood thespians that witnessed live in Washington, the historic inauguration of President Barack Obama of the US. The actress also known for her famous head tie has not stopped regaling her colleagues and pals with tales of how she watched Obama made history from a vintage position. An insider, later squealed to us that her Head tie, caused heavy traffic at the inauguration, until she was begged and cajoled to “lower it”, for those behind her to catch a proper glimpse of Obama.




Princess goes into moviemaking



One of the most visible, vocal and talented Comediennes of the Federal Republic, Princess has decided to join the league of producers in Nollywood.
She is currently on location lensing a star-studded movie in this New Year. The romantic thriller being directed by youthful Daniel Ademinokhai, has the trio of Uche Jombo, Bimbo Akintola and Desmond Elliot, as the lead acts. According to the busty entertainer, she decided to go into filmmaking this 2009, because of her love for Nollywood and versatility. She also intends going on a nationwide tour with the movie, immediately after its premiere in the next quarter of the year. Though, no title yet, but we would definitely keep you posted as soon as the movie gets a real title.

Stephanie Okereke’s Hollywood movie ready

Through The Glass, the Hollywood movie shot by top actress Stephanie Okereke in the US, last year, will be hitting shelves globally in this New Year. In an exclusive chat with us, pretty Miss Okereke, who acted and also made her directorial debut in the big budget movie, said plans are on to release the work soon. The actress who just breezed in from a movie location in Abuja, said a world premiere would precede the formal release of the heart-wrenching flick on VCD and DVD, adding that her foreign partners are already drawing up the global media campaign and hype for the bestseller. She further promised to reveal more on the movie and her plans for the New Year in the next couple of weeks.



Osoba, Johnson, others shine @ Nollywood award


Pic-Mercy Johnson

Funke Akindele, Kunle Afolayan, Mercy Johnson and others were among the stars that sparkled and sizzled at the recently held Best of Nollywood Awards and Dinner, which held on Sunday, January 18, 2009, at the Whitehouse Hotels and Conference Centre, Ikeja, Lagos.

Kunle Afolayan


The event was chaired by the former governor of Ogun State Aremo Segun Osoba and was well attended by some of the leading names in Nollywood, the media and brand consultants.
Speaking at the ceremony Mr. Seun Oloketuyi publisher of Best of Nollywood magazine and the prime mover of the awards explained that the magazine decided to start the awards in order to celebrate those who have distinguished themselves in the industry and thus motivate other practitioners, adding that it would be a yearly event.
Also speaking, Aremo Osoba declared that Nollywood is set to become the country’s next foreign exchange earner, once it is well managed and further enjoined the practitioners to keep doing their best.
Winners at the event include: Kunle Afolayan who won in the Best Actor category, Mercy Johnson, carted home the Best Actress trophy, while monster hit movie, Jenifa, won the Movie of the Year. Some recognition awards were also given at the event.



Victor Osuagwu’s New Year packages



Victor Osuagwu

Few weeks after returning from Imo State, where he thrilled his teeming fans endlessly in several Yuletide shows, top comic actor and entertainer Victor Osuagwu, is still waxing stronger and expanding his coast in this New Year.
Gathered he would soon debut with a TV comedy show that would be completely different from what is currently available on the airwaves. Aside that, Osuagwu, intends doing a follow up album on his long awaited second coming as a versatile comic-crooner.
Meanwhile, since the beginning of the year, he has been busy shuttling between Lagos and Abuja endorsing the latest brands and products of the new entertainment outfit he is currently signed on to. So, when next you run into the happily married father of four, tell him to include you in his mega deals for 2009.



Acho dumps petro-dollar for music



Many, especially his friends, colleagues and family members are yet to fathom why Acho, a trained Petroleum Engineer, dumped his thriving job for a career in the music industry. The fast emerging Pop artiste, who recently inked a licensing & recording deal with Got Beats Records, has also been nominated for this year’s Kora Awards.
Acho started singing at the tender age of 13 and successfully recorded his first demo, Dark Morning, at 14. He is a singer, songwriter, & music composer in the genres of Pop, R&B Ballad, Soul and Caribbean Rhythms.
He has written over 80 songs and recorded over 25. Acho has also worked with notable producers within and outside our shores. Great acts and performers like: Elton John, Mc Anthony, Kelvin Lyttle and Craig David, hugely influenced his career.
He has performed with some Nigerian artistes including: Tu face, Faze, Ruggedman, African China and a host of others. Acho has also had reviews from A&R executives of major labels worldwide. One of the songs in his debut album, “The only one”, has been nominated for the 2008 All African Kora awards in the Best African Artiste in the Caribbean category. "My goal is to bring out the best in music with my smooth, soothing voice and uncanny writing abilities," he enthused



Celebs root for D’ Heaven’s nite club

Celebrities in the music, movie and comedy sectors as well as upwardly mobile fun seekers are currently beseeching D’Heaven’s, the Festac, Lagos based niteclub, for relaxation, fun and social networking. Ably managed by Chief Chijioke Awalite and his dedicated team, the upscale hangout, is unarguably one of the most patronized by night crawlers, especially celebs. The club, which operates from Wednesday to Sunday, is gradually becoming a reference point in the nite clubbing business, due to its unique services and high level of patronage. On several visits, we have spotted countless number of celebs and society big boys and babes catching undiluted fun. We would definitely keep you posted on the activities of this wave making joint.

Oliver De Coque resurrects in new album

Pic-Late Oliver De Coque

Though, dead and buried, the million of fans of the late Highlife icon, Sunday Oliver Akanite globally known as Oliver De Coque are currently feeling his “spiritual impact and presence” in a new work entitled “Oliver Tributes”
Packaged and released by Olumo Records, the latest work, which is currently on sales nationwide and the foreign scenes, was painstakingly put together by the rejuvenated Expo ’76, Ogene Super Sound Band, ably led by sonorous –voiced Ebere Amaefule.
According to the boss of Olumo Records, the videos of the nostalgic album are on the way and would be elaborately launched.
“Sincerely speaking, my good friend and brother Oliver De Coque truly resurrected in this album. Aside paying him everlasting tributes, the new group also carried on from where De Coque stopped. Since we released the album, people have been calling us and asking if De Coque, has resurrected. The truth is that the good band he left behind, has decided to keep his memories alive with the new work and many more to come” disclosed the Olumo boss.
He further revealed that the new band would soon be embarking on a foreign tour, aimed at exposing them as the new band members of the Ogene Super Sound.
Amaefule, the new bandleader has also promised to continue from where De Coque stopped, adding that his boss and mentor might be dead, but his Ogene brand of highlife music lives on and will never die with its originator’s demise.

Scrim joins Cowrie music

Pic-Orits Wiliki honcho of Cowrie Muzik

Cowrie Muzik international owned by popular musician Orits Williki, has landed the sole right of releasing in Nigeria and Africa, the debut album of Scrim, the Australian based Nigerian born act.
Entitled Beyond My Control, Scrim, also featured the veteran duo of Chaka Demus and Pliers, in one of the tracks – Daughter of the Night, a dance hall song against prostitution.
Meanwhile, the videos of Beyond My Control and Daughter of the Night, are ready and enjoying massive rotation on both national and international stations.
Born Daniel Ituo Okoduwa in Benin, Edo State Scrim, who is also the boss of Scrim Entertainment, and possibly the biggest Nigerian act residing in Australia, is also a household name within and outside the African community on that continent.
Over the years, the handsome crooner has immensely helped in the development of African music in that part of the world.
Late last year, Scrim, who sings purely Soul-Rock, successfully organized the first Afro-Australian Music Awards, which saw Tuface Idibia, emerging the Best African Act. The singer has also performed with and further helped in promoting musicians like: late Lucky Dube, Awilo, Tuface Idibia, Oyaba, Chaka Demus and Pliers in Australia and the surrounding Islands.
According to Pupa Orits Williki, Scrim’s musical strength, vocal style, maturity of songs, writing skills and his youthfulness endeared him to Cowrie Music.
“We look forward to a new dawn in this great musical exchange” added elated Williki.
In the words of equally elated Scrim, “Today, the biggest act on Scrim Entertainment Australia, which is me, has landed in Nigeria for a musical exchange with Cowrie Music. Its borne out of the nostalgic reminiscences of yore, when Williki pricked my young creative mind. All that has now metamorphosed into a great musical exchanged”, he explained.
With this new deal, henceforth, Scrim Entertainment now has the sole right to release Williki’s latest works, “Lift Him Up Higher and Faya Burn,” in Australia, New Zealand and other parts of Europe.
Aside the two videos that are already on air, Cowrie Muzik, has also promised to release the full album, a 17 tracker, in the next couple of weeks.

Comedian D' Don needs your help

This is certainly not the best of times for fast rising comedian D’Don. His immediate elder brother, Iruvwe Morris, is currently fighting to stay alive, after being diagnosed with a chronic Renal Disease.
According to the medical report from the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos, which was made available to us by the embattled comedian, during a Fund-Drive/Awareness visit to The Sun, it stated that the patient has been having frequent relapse and thus needs urgent kidney transplant, to stay alive.
The report signed by Dr. M. A. Amisu, for the Consultant Nephrologist, further disclosed that the patient is currently on anti-hypertensive – Meditriol, Calcium Carbonate and Erythropoietin.
“Morris is a known chronic renal disease patient in End –Stage-Renal Disease secondary to Hypertensive Nepbro-Sclerosis. He has had several Hamodialysis, conservatively but will benefit from kidney transplant as a definitive treatment.”
Painfully, D’Don and his entire family members are still running helter-skelter trying to raise the N6 million needed for a successful transplant outside our shores.
Meanwhile, the family coughs out N35, 000 every two days for Morris’ dialysis at a Specialist hospital in Oshodi, Lagos.

D’ Lectura prepares for Val show

Emerging comedian and creator of Lafta 101 music /comedy concert Emmanuel Adigwe better known as D’Lectura, is cooking something big and refreshing for his fans this Valentine’s period.
In a brief chat with us, the diminutive and talented rib-cracker, disclosed that he is planning something special for those residing in his Akute, Ogun State neighbourhood, promising that it would be the bomb.
Tagged: Couples Day Out, the evening of romance, comedy and good music holds of Sunday, February 15, with several of his colleagues indicating interest to perform.

Tinubu endorses Diamond Awards for Comedy

Pic-Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu


The organizers of the annual Diamond Awards for Comedy recently got a huge endorsement from Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu, the immediate past governor of Lagos State. Amiable Tinubu, recently accepted to be the Grand Patron of the Miss Ladi Gombe-led innovative awards, and was presented with an acceptance award, recently by the organizers.
With his new position, Tinubu, will now be having inputs into the organization of the event in subsequent editions. He will also be advising and supporting the organizers where and when necessary. Speaking on the significance of the honour bestowed on Tinubu, Miss Gombe, the prime mover and initiator of the awards, explained that the ex governor was picked because of his immense contributions to the growth and development of arts, culture and entertainment in Nigeria and Africa in general. “Asiwaju is a gold fish and has no hiding place, even after leaving office his image and contributions still loom large. Even the organizers of Kora Awards located and made him their patron, after Nelson Mandela vacated the post, for me that was a big honour. And after a thorough search and consultations, we all agreed that he is the best candidate for the post of our grand patron at Diamond awards. And we are also grateful that he accepted the offer wholeheartedly,
meaning that he will bring his wealth of experience and exposure to bear on our future events. We cannot thank him enough for all the love and support”.
Meanwhile, Miss Gombe, also from Gombe State further revealed that the presentation of cash and other mouth-watering prizes to all the winners of the debut edition of the comedy awards would hold soon. She further stated that the elaborate event would be chaired by Tinubu and graced by eminent Nigerians as well as celebrities and dignitaries. “We are ready for the presentations, its going to be grand and the date and venue would be made public soon. We have also started plans for the next edition”.

Nigga Raw rules them all

Pic-Nigga Raw

Wave-making Hip-Hop/Rap apostle Nigga Raw, is currently the toast of music lovers, especially those based in the Eastern part of the country. In fact, Raw’s latest effort sensationally entitled “Everything remains raw” and released on Eastside Records, is now an anthem among music buffs, including the young and elderly. At the recently held Ichu Afo music concert organized by the Imo State government, Raw was the toast of
the tumultuous crowd and held them spellbound for the over one hour he was on stage, with his free-flowing songs.
Surprisingly too, a capacity filled stadium attended his birthday bash/ concert at the Aba township stadium last year.
Most of his fans are thrilled by the fact that he constantly does his stuff well by mixing Hip-Hop with Igbo flavoured Rap and lyrics. As a proof of his increasing popularity and acceptance, the tradition ruler of his community in Abia State, recently honoured him alongside other illustrious sons and daughters at an elaborate ceremony.
Throughout last year, all the big shows featuring him were sold –out thus making him the hottest and biggest star from to East of the Niger.
Raw, who now cruises about town in a glittering Touareg SUV, we reliably gathered is currently holed up in the studios putting finishing touches to his forthcoming album. Dear readers, can’t you see that this Nigga is truly “strong and mighty…”

Lurrenz returns, set for collabos

Image-Lawrezz

Swedish based Nigerian born Afro Hip-Hop crooner Lurrenz recently breezed into town from his base looking cool and fresh.
Gathered authoritatively that the singer who is also a Nollywood enthusiast would be embarking on several collaboration efforts with most of his colleagues in the music industry. When completed, the works would feature prominently in his forthcoming album, to be produced by ID Cabasa.
Lurrenz, whose last single, “African Woman” did very well on the airwaves, further hinted that it was also an anthem in Europe, especially in his base at Sweden.
Lurrenz further divulged that he had plans of lensing most of the videos in the forthcoming album here, before jetting out.
“I’ m in town to continue work on my latest album. I started the production in Europe, but want to finish it here, because of the collabos I intend having with some of our artistes who are also reigning over there. I also intend shooting part of the videos here, because I’ m fully back to prove myself and worth”, he enthused.