Behold the 50 most influential entertainers in Nigeria

Davido

In this special profiling monitored by SHOWBIZPLUSng, we bring you the authentic list of the 50 most influential entertainers currently rocking the Nigerian showbiz circuit and the many reasons you cannot do without them.

Davido (Musician) Africa’s king of hip hop

2014 has been the best year for Davido and his music career.

The Osun State-born singer, who has never gone a year without a hit, started 2014 with the release of his hit song “Aye”. Since then Davido has gone on to sweep all the available awards in sight within and outside Africa.

Just few weeks after emerging “Artiste of the Year” at the MTV Africa Music Awards, the singer also grabbed the “Best African Artistes” at the BET Awards, thus joining the likes of Tuface, Dbanj and Wizkid as winners of the prestigious awards.

More hits are still expected from Davido in the coming months and next year, as his sophomore album is eagerly being expected by music fans and pundits alike.

 

Phyno (Musician) - New face of indigenous rap

Phyno is one man that has sensationally changed the face of indigenous rap in Nigeria with his hot Igbo lyrics. Eccentric Phyno has completely taken indigenous rap to a whole new level with few years of hitting the music scene. The Anambra State-born music star with several wave-making collabos, is making his second consecutive appearance on the E-50 list based on his outstanding performance.   

After stunning the music scene with his hit single “Ghost Mode” which features Olamide, the rapper later released his debut album “No Guts No Glory” to critical acclaim.

Phyno has now become one of Nigeria’s highest selling rappers and it looks like he just got started. Though he lost out on both awards, he however grabbed two nominations at the just concluded MTV Africa Music Awards. 

 

Tiwa Savage (Musician) -Sexy queen of Pop

Last year, she made the Express 50 Most Influential as the emerging diva in the Nigerian music industry; this year, she returns again as the only bonafide diva in the music scene. That is how far the Lagos State-born singer has grown since she came into the scene in 2010 with “Kele Kele Love”.

Tiwa Savage has become a standard with which we rate females in the Nigerian music industry. After signing a mega endorsement deal with MTN, she was listed as the only female Nigerian artiste on the 2014 Star Music Trek artiste roll call and also recently won the “Best Female” award at the MTV Africa Music Awards.

Don Jazzy (Music Producer/Musician) The Don of music

He remains the only producer who has featured on the Express 50 list since inception. Don Jazzy deserves it all.

After overseeing the success of one of Nigeria’s biggest music exponents, D’banj, Don Baba, as he’s fondly called has continued in his strides as one of Nigeria’s best and influential music producers.

After splitting with his ex-partner D’banj, many doubted his ability to continue producing hit songs and discovering raw talents. But the Delta State-born producer has surprised many with the latest artistes assemble on his own record label, Mavin Records.

Home to Tiwa Savage, Dr Sid, D’ Prince, Coredo Bello and DiJa, Don Jazzy’s Mavin Record is currently sending electric waves all over the country with their hit anthem, “Dorro Bucci”.

Don Jazzy is also the producer with the most endorsement deals in the Nigerian music scene, if not the whole of Africa. He serves as an ambassador to MTN, Loya Milk, and Samsumg. How influential can one be?

 

Psquare (Musician) – Africa’s greatest Pop twins

Peter and Paul Okoye, the famous pop twins globally known as PSquare are also constant features on the Express 50 List. Though they didn’t release any album during the year under review, Peter and Paul are still one of Nigeria’s music heavy weights.

In the year under review, the duo chose to sort out their personal lives as they both got married to their baby mamas. Two grand traditional weddings were held by the singers and a white wedding planned to hold on the same day, is still expected to come.

Psquare also thrilled on the music scene. With two hit singles (Alingo and Taste the Money (Testimony) the Anambra State-born pop duo are still able to command one of the biggest appearance and performance fees in the Nigerian music industry.

During their recent visit to America, the twins collaborated with respected international rap star, T.I and their sixth album has been scheduled for release in a few months time. There is no stopping the Psquare twins!

Tuface Idibia (Musician) –The game changer

In the year under review, Nigeria’s biggest pop star, Tuface Idibia, had an unusual quiet year musically. This however never meant he was not going to keep his place in the Express 50 list.

Tuface’s achievement in the Nigerian music industry, demeanor, longevity and personality has made him a legend in the industry. The forthcoming release of his sixth album will be a perfect reminder of how brilliant Tubaba evolves as a game changer in the industry.

Burna Boy (Musician) The unconventional star

Burna Boy’s arrival on the Nigerian music scene was welcomed by music buffs and fans alike as he brought in a new sound in the one dimensioned music industry with his unconventional style.

Two mixtapes and a debut album later, Burna Boy continues to impress and churn out exciting projects that has made him stand out and unique among his peers.

The recent endorsement by telecom giant, Glo as a brand ambassador was a real testament of how far the singer has come in the industry and how influential he has become within his few years of arrival.

Olamide (Musician)-Indigenous lyricist extraordinaire

After Dagrin died in April 2010, the Yourba rap genre was crying for a true ambassador and replacement.

Olamide’s debut “Rapsodi” didn’t exactly light up and excite Yoruba rap enthusiasts but showed lots of promises. Fast forward to 2014 and Olamide has not only succeeded in stepping into the shoes of Dagrin, he has also created a path that every up and coming Yoruba rapper wishes to follow.   

After releasing two albums within the spate of a year, the Ogun State-born rapper has also been rewarded with mouthwatering endorsement deals. On July 17, 2013, Olamide became the first Nigerian to sign an endorsement deal with Cîroc. On October 24, 2013, Olamide signed another multi-million Naira deal with Guinness. In November 2013, he became an ambassador for Etisalat alongside Ice Prince.

Wizkid (Musician) Crown prince of pop

Even without an album in the year under review, Ayo Balogun otherwise known as Wizkid has remained unstoppable, churning out hit after hit. Wizkid last year performed at the BBC Hackney concert alongside other international stars and also toured with UK rapper Tinie Tempah.

On his recent visit to the US, the singer has been pictured with Chris Brown, Tyga, Justin Bieber, and reported to have recorded with the music super stars.

His much delayed sophomore is already the most anticipated album in Nigeria right now.

Flavour (Musician) African’s golden boy of hip life

Chinedu Okoli famously known as Flavour still remains one of Nigeria’s greatest exports to the rest of Africa. Flavour N’abania is known for his ability to sing fluently in Igbo language. In the last four years, the Anambra State-born musician has made himself a force to reckon with in the music industry and that also continued in the year under review.

His current and biggest album till date “Blessed” which was released in 2012 had singles which rocked the Nigerian music industry in the year under review. And the endorsement deals have not stopped pouring in.

Flavour has been endorsed with ambassadorship roles by big brands like Onga and Globacom. 

 

Patoranking (Musician) New kid on the block

Born Patrick Nnamemeka Okorie, Patoranking is no doubt one of the biggest revelations of the music industry in the year under review. The reggae-dancehall singer and songwriter who started his musical career doing underground collaborations with artistes such as XProject, Konga, Slam and Reggie Rockstone got fame when he  released his 'Alubarika' song under Timaya’s Dem Mama Records. In February 2014, he signed a record deal with Foston Musik and released "Girlie O", a single that further cemented his name in the hearts of music lovers.

Chidinma (Musician) New princess of hip-hop

Staying consistent on her game, singer Chidinma has been able to prove her mettle as the princess of hip-hop in Nigeria. Ever since she rose to stardom after winning the third season of MTN's Project Fame West Africa, the singer has been able to stand out among female musicians in the country. A brand ambassador for MTN Nigeria, the music video for her "Emi Ni Baller" single became the first female effort to peak at number one on the MTV Base Official Naija Top 10 chart this year. Chidinma, her self-titled debut studio album, was released through the music platform Spinlet. It was supported by the singles "Jankoliko", "Carry You Go", "Kedike", and "Run Dia Mouth". The album features guest appearances from Sound Sultan, Tha Suspect, Olamide, and Muna. Chidinma also won the "Best Female Act, West Africa" category at the last Kora Awards.

Clarence Peters (music video director)-The man with the Midas touch

One of the biggest winners of MTV Africa Music Awards this year, Clarence Peters is a music video director, filmmaker and cinematographer with a difference. The dreadlocks-donning dude was ranked number two on Channel O's Top 10 Most Visionary Music Video Directors list recently. The son of legendary musician Shina Peters and star actress Clarion Chukwura  who is the founder and CEO of Capital Dream Pictures, a production company that specializes in the realms of the performing arts, new media art, film, television, radio, and video has made a mark in the few years he stormed the industry with his craft. Peters has also shot a good number of documentaries, TV commercials, short films, and TV features. In April 2014, Absolut Vodka honoured Peters for his creativity with an award.

Kcee (Musician) Progressing on solo effort

Limpopo Master, Kcee belongs to the class of musicians who after breaking up from their music group has successfully proved their worth. After the split with his partner, Presh, Kcee broke new grounds with songs like “Pull Over” featuring Wizkid, “Okoso” and “Limpopo” which video was shot in Spain. Till date, the videos are all rocking the airwaves.

Harrysong (Musician) Emerging vocalist

If there is any singer who makes the crowd ask for more, then it's Harrysong. This young and very creative artiste has successfully made himself known in the industry after he did the well applauded Mandela Tribute song.  The Afro-Hip-Hop-dancehall singer is proficient with drums, including the konga, piano and flute, as well as playing the base and the acoustic guitars. He is also a vocal trainer who writes and produces for himself and others.

DJ Jimmy Jatt (Disc Jockey) Senior Prefect of entertainment

Formerly known as Master J, DJ Jimmy Jatt came into the music industry as a rapper with lot of demos but after a fruitless search for a record label to support him, he started ‘deejaying’ with the support of his brothers. Today, he is playing a major role in Nigeria by grooming new talents. Jatt has helped nurture the careers of many deejays ,among them Waxxy, Syl-D, Funky J, Mix Master Tee, Osar, Hotega, Tony Blaise, XGee and several others. In fact, no major musical event in Nigeria in the last 12 months held without his imprimatur, including his recently held annual Jimmy’s Jump Off. He recently celebrated his 25 years on stage.

DJ Exclusive (Disc Jockey) Deejay with a class

DJ Xclusive is undoubtedly one of the most prominent and highly rated DJs in the country at the moment. With his latest collaborations with artistes like Olamide, Wizkid, Timaya and D'Prince, the DJ has over the last seven years fused the individual musical identities of Urban Funky house, Urban Chart, Rnb, Hip-Hop, Pop and Soca into his own creative and now inimitable hybrid sound. Walking into a party with “DJ Xclusive” behind the turntable is bound to get your body moving. He has established his reputation as a diverse, enthusiastic, and energetic DJ. He spends nearly every waking hour listening to music, listening for what the next hot thing will be and always perfecting his craft.

DJ Chascolee (Disc Jockey) Darling of radio listeners

Head DJ, Events and PR with Rainbow FM, DJ Chascolee is the official and in house disc jockey at Rainbow 94.1FM. His resume speaks volume as Chascolee has worked in about 90% of the clubs in Lagos and garnered massive experience over the years. The list below are some of the clubs in Lagos he had previously worked with. Options, Picolomodo, Page, Ad grotto, Metro park, Y-not, Lakase, Insomnia, D place, Bacchus, Planet One, Black Pearl, Jamzbase, Movida, M8 club, Moore club, Club Vegas, Octopos, Saga 8, Troy club, Industry nite, Shaunz lounge, GQ Lounge, X Factor, De chills lounge, Entice lounge, D place by papas among others.

The truth is that it is always a pleasure listening to Chascolee, especially in traffic, for his selections and mixes have ways of soothing frayed nerves.

DJ Cuppy (Disc Jockey) Emerging queen of turn tables

Femi Otedola's daughter, DJ Cuppy is one of the most popular Nigerian DJs, even though she is based in the UK. The billionaire's daughter was the official DJ at the recently held 2014 MAMAs in South Africa and all acknowledged she did a fine job. The Tourism ambassador for Nigeria is also the face of the Federal Republic's 'Fascinating Nigeria' campaign.

Kwam 1 (Musician) Nigeria's King of Fuji

If you are a keen follower of Fuji music, you would notice that the ace musician has got so much love for Nigeria. Popularly called KI the Ultimate, the Fuji legend has been on the scene singing and mentoring new entrants for over three decades now. The successful Fuji crooner that has toured the world, using Fuji to promote Nigeria, has many of his children following in his footsteps.

Pasuma (Musician) Fuji’s Show Man

Pasuma Wonder as he is fondly called is one Fuji musician that has continued to expand his horizon. Wasiu Alabi Ajibola is an actor, Fuji musician and also a Hip-Hop crooner. Having done collaborations with Wizkid, Dammy Krane, Davido and many Hip-Hop crooners, the singer has made himself a force to reckon with in the entertainment scene. He recently dropped three hot hip hop singles, thus earning a spot on our 50 List.

Ice Prince (Musician) The global Aboki

Popularly called Function Nigga, Ice Prince has got so much love across Africa at the moment. He has hosted Africa Channel O Awards, BET Awards and many. The Hip-Hop recording artiste and actor who rose to fame after releasing "Oleku", one of Nigeria's most remixed songs of all time has won the heart of many music lovers.

He is a true Aboki, whose global appeal is second to none.

 D’Banj (Musician) Spreading the gospel of Koko

Since the release of his self-confessed song Oliver Twist, D’banj leaves no one in doubt about the fact that he has truly come to stay in the industry. After ruling the Nigerian and African music scenes, he began his systematic quest to dominate the world, at the cost of exterminating the Mo’ Hits label and losing his long-time producer-friend, Don Jazzy. Nevertheless, the Koko Master, who is fast spreading his Koko gospel round the globe, has continued on his upward trajectory. At the moment, he is on top as one of the leading global proponents of the upswing Afro beats music. 

 Ozzybosco (Musician) Africa’s youngest super star

OzzyBosco is unarguably Africa’s youngest entertainer; the seven-year-old singer has shown that Africa has got real talents. He has been awarded for his music efforts so far at various platforms with over 100 awards. The young singer who has collaborated with the likes of Olamide and Flavour in his very short career is definitely one of the few super stars that have gotten a lot of attention as an entertainer especially among kids. He is a Tigo and LAWMA ambassador.

 

Oritse Femi (Musician) Comeback king

Have you heard of Double Wahala, a song that has been sending the entire country and Nigerians in Diaspora into a frenzy? Yes, that song was by Oritse Femi, the man who once sang Mercies of the Lord, another hit and disappeared into thin air. Well, the amazing singer is back and has re-claimed his lost space in the music industry. He now performs at virtually every show in the country.  Oritse Femi has changed the face of Afro hip hop with his second coming.

Yemi Alade (Musician) Emerging diva

“That Yourba Igbo Girl” is gradually taking her place in the Nigerian music industry. After showing so many promises early in her career, Yemi Alade has finally started lighting up the scene with her latest work.

Her biggest song till date, Johnny has become an anthem in the country, while the French remix has become a massive hit in countries such as: Togo and Benin republics.

Timaya (Musician) Nigeria’s king of dance hall

Popularly called Egberi Papa, singer Timaya, truly, could pass as one of the most controversial musicians in Nigeria, but he has got real talent. With his latest releases this year which has kept the club scene agog, Timaya has indeed proved the stuff he is made of.  His career began in 2006 with the release of "Dem Mama", which was met with rave reviews and also appeared on his debut album, True Story released the following year. His second album Gift and Grace was released in 2008. The album was also well-received critically. Timaya gained further visibility and international prominence through his third studio album De Rebirth, and its lead single ‘Plantain Boy’.

Sean Tizzle (Musician) Nigeria’s emerging pop sensation

If you need to enquire about Sean Tizzle’s popularity, all you need to do is visit the next bus stop around your community. A single visit would confirm the fact that the musician is a huge hit maker as your ears would almost get blocked by the blaring speaker of the new hip hop sensation’s hits. The singer’s upbeat songs and dynamic lyrics set him apart. His latest album, The Journey confirms this further. The singer was also one of the biggest winners of the 2014 Headies.

Yaw (OAP) King of Pidgin Radio

Every morning in Lagos, his voice booms from inside the studios of Wazobia FM located on Etim Inyang Street, Victoria Island, Lagos with amazing decibels. The influence of Steve Onu or Yaw's daily effort goes far and wide. Thus it was unsurprising that his endorsement contract was renewed this year as celebrity ambassador for telecommunications giant, MTN.

Toke Makinwa (OAP) Red Carpet Queen

Partying is a favourite pastime for many but it becomes more interesting when you are being paid just to party. Welcome to the world of celebrity On-Air-Personality (OAP), Toke Makinwa. The Rhythm FM OAP's influence recently earned her a lucrative endorsement deal with seasoning company, Maggi. She recently crossed over to TV and now anchors Trending, an exclusive celebs interviews programme on Hip on TV, which airs on DStv

Toolz (OAP) Queen of Nigerian Radio

She relocated to Lagos from United Kingdom in 2008 very reluctantly. Six years on, success has not come to Tolu Oniru with any tad of reluctance. Popularly known as Toolz, the well-endowed Beat FM OAP continues her dominance as the most sought-after show anchor cum compere with a part-time job as host of the popular Ndani TV's The Juice with Toolz sponsored by GTbank.

IK Osakioduwa (OAP) Big Brother of entertainment

He is the longest-serving host of the soar-away reality show tagged Big Brother Africa (BBA). Rhythm FM's OAP, IK Osakioduwa is one of the most sought-after event comperes and show hosts around. The lanky showbiz personality who added a portfolio as host of Mnet Studio 53 Extra has carved a niche for himself with his dynamism thus earning a very visible spot on our exclusive list of 50 Most Influential.

Bovi (Comedian) Crown Prince of Slapstick

Bovi Ugbomah continues to establish himself as one of the most creatively consistent stand-up comedians on the scene. That is aside his fast-growing reputation as the beautiful bride of corporate Nigeria and a favourite of Nigerian billionaires.

Lipton Yellow Label recognized the talents of the comedian with a lucrative endorsement deal as the host of nationally syndicated radio show known as Wake Up to Lipton. The host of Man on Fire live comedy show has enjoyed a smooth relationship with Diamond Bank, Globacom, Unilever Nigeria and Dangote Group among others.

AY (Comedian) Africa’s emerging showbiz mogul

As far as popularity is concerned, Ayo Makun is to Nigerians what Governor-Elect, Ayodele Fayose is to the people of Ekiti State. The successful showbiz mogul knows the humour button that unlocks the hearts of Nigerians. Every year, revelers and high society pour in from all corners to watch his AY Live Comedy Show. To further demonstrate his versatility and confidence, the talented comedian branched into filmmaking with the shoot of a yet-to-be-released comedy movie in the US. He is unarguably Africa’s emerging showbiz mogul.

Elenu (Comedian) Humour’s next big thing

He cut his teeth many years ago on the stage of AY’s Comedy Open Mic. Since then, Akinlami Babatunde Julius famously known as Elenu has gone ahead to establish his own identity and moved outside the shadow of his mentor and host of AY Live, Ayodele Makun. The last one year has seen the self-styled 'well-fed comedian of the Federal Republic' registering his presence among numerous fans of comedy within and outside the shores of Nigeria.

Gbenga Adeyinka (Comedian) Nigeria’s busiest rib cracker

Multi-talented comedian and revered anchor, Gbenga Adeyinka has remained relevant despite the fierce competitions from a host of fast-rising comedians. The comedy power house has his fingers in many pies including publishing, events and TV production.

Among many feats, Gbenga Adeyinka has continued to retain his place as official host of many Nigerian Breweries sponsored events and concerts, thus earning the tag of Nigeria’s busiest comedian.

Seyi Law (Comedian) The humour ambassador

To show that Seyi Law is a strong force to reckon with in the industry, he was recently picked as the anchor for two events hosted by Nigerian billionaires, Femi Otedola and Mike Adenuga. This further goes to show the influence of Oluwaseyitan Alatile otherwise known as Seyi Law.

Known for his originality, the host of Lagos Must Laugh and London Must Laugh has been linked with corporate brands such as Samsung and OLX among others. Seyi Law expanded his business interests with the launch of Xcess Lounge in Ikorodu, Lagos, recently.

Linda Ikeji (Blogger) Nigeria’s blogging queen

With thousands of fans mostly Nigerians hooked onto her blog daily, Linda Ikeji is now a house hold name. Her self-titled blog provides celebrity gist and gossip that most times puts her head on collision with celebs.

Advertisers and corporate Nigeria have also recognized the enormous influence possessed by the model-turned-blogger and constantly reach out to her to showcase their goods and services.

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde (Actress) Nollywood’s ambassador plenipotentiary

Last year, Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde well known as Omo Sexy was honoured in Time Magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people in the world alongside Michelle Obama, Beyonce and Kate Middleton.

Again in 2014, she was present at the TIME 100 Gala night held at Jazz, Lincoln Centre, New York City, NY.

Omotola who is not just a beautiful and well endowed woman but also a great achiever recently marked her 18th wedding anniversary to the love of her life, Capt. Matthew Ekeinde and they are blessed with four lovely children.

Since her Nollywood film debut in 1995, Jalade-Ekeinde has appeared in over 300 films, selling millions of video copies. She is the first African celebrity to receive over 1 million likes on her Facebook page.

Few weeks ago, the Ondo State-born chieftaincy holder bagged several products endorsements including that of Pampers range of baby diapers. She is truly the global ambassador of Nollywood.

OC Ukeje (Actor) New Face of Nollywood

Aside carting away 2013 AMVCA’s Best Actor of the year, Okechukwu Ukeje also has to his credits other movie related awards including ‘Best Actor Award’ at the Nollywood Movies Awards where he was rewarded with a brand new Nissan car.

With a unique combination of good looks, acting prowess and great voice, Ukeje has set himself apart as an effervescent actor to reckon with. He stands tall as the new face of Nollywood, large fan base, cult-like followership, and off course, the anticipated recognitions from industry stakeholders. No wonder he is the first actor to be named Man of the Year by Nigeria’s most authoritative voice on entertainment news- Entertainment Express in 2013.

Ukeje might not have starred in over 50 movies, but the few he has done are outstanding. Half Of A Yellow Sun, Two Brides And A Baby, Hood Rush, Alan Poza, Comrade, Confusion Na Wa, The Awakening, Black November ,and Gone Too Far are some of his hit movies.

Tope Tedela (Actor) New kid on the block

Nollywood actor, Temitope Christopher, popularly known as Tope Tedela was a relatively unknown face in Nollywood until he beat several established names in the industry to emerge as the Best Actor in a drama at the 2014 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA). That seemingly became the turning point for the Mass Communications graduate of the University of Lagos.

The handsome young man is an avid guitarist and an occasional model, he enjoys reading, writing, playing the piano and board games.

Tope Tedela is an Actor/Voice-Over Artist and a Broadcaster. He is a Nigerian from Ekiti State.

His foray into professional acting began when he was cast as Julian on popular TV Drama: Edge of Paradise while still in school. After a hiatus to complete his degree, he returned and now acts full time, On stage, he has been part of several performances including Ola Rotimi's Man Talk, Woman Talk and he has since gained a lot of on screen credit both for movies and TV. He is no doubt the new kid on the block as he looks forward to receiving the first ever Express Star Awards as Nollywood’s Rising Ambassador courtesy of Entertainment Express and Sunday Express on July 27, 2014.

Clarion Chukwura (Actress) Nollwood's ageless gem

During her two years break from Nollywood, ageless beauty and veteran actress, Clarion Chukwurah was busy touring three countries following her position as a special UN peace envoy.

Upon her very noticeable return, she bagged a prestigious award in recognition of her contribution towards the development of the Nigerian film industry; Legends of Nollywood’s award, for her outstanding role in Mirror in the Sun.

Aside many other awards in her archive, few weeks ago, the proud mother of award winner, Clarence Peters also smiled home with another notable award.

Clarion won the Best Actress in a Leading Role award at the 10th edition of the Africa Movie Academy Awards for her marvelous performance in the movie, Apaye.

She has also been in the news lately for her verbal war with the President of Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Ibinabo Fiberesima. She is indeed, a precious and ageless gem in Nollywood.

Ibinabo Fiberesima (Actress) Transformer of Nollywood

Despite all the controversies surrounding her as President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Ibinabo Fiberesima still stands unshaken and intends to run for a second term.

The single mother of three whose controversial visit to the President’s Villa has been raising eyebrows has never relented in taking care of ailing members of her guild.

Recently, Ibinabo rescued ailing Nollywood practitioner, Mr. Romanus Amuta (Natty) and President of the Script Writers Guild of Nigeria, Mr. Chike Bryan with N10m, among other life changing initiatives she has brought to the troubled guild and its members.

Under her leadership, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has also given the association a piece of land which they intend to erect their national head office in Abuja.

Stephanie Okereke Linus (Actress) Entertainer with the heart of gold

Stephanie Okereke Linus is forever looking young and stylish. The Nollywood actress who has proven that there is much more to being a celebrity than fancy clothes and money has been offering succour and constantly showing love to troubled women.

She has been raising awareness and spreading the word on the dangers of Vesico Vaginal Fistula, otherwise known as VVF. She kicked off her project in Ogoja, Cross River State as part of efforts to finance 22 women through surgery and work through recovery for VVF.

Happily married Mrs. Linus, who schooled in Calabar where she heard and witnessed various cases, has become an advocate for change and awareness under the umbrella of her NGO, Extended Hands.

On March 1, the authentic Dutch wax brand Vlisco launched her second Vlisco Women’s Month campaign with the beautiful and leggy actress being chosen as the face of the project. She has not stopped affecting lives positively with her heart of gold.

Genevieve Nnaji (Actress) Nollywood’s sweet heart

She is the celebrity crush of different male personalities in showbiz. Genevieve has taken her art to an international level and has acted in such movies like Mirror Boy, Ije, Tango With Me and Half of a Yellow Sun. She does not see herself lowering her standards to accept any how scripts all in the name of acting in Nollywood.

Genevieve Nnaji, the undisputable darling and sweet heart of Nollywood is the new brand ambassador for telecommunications company - Etisalat Nigeria. The deal is reportedly worth N100 Million. She is also the new face of Amstel Malta.

Rita Dominic (Actress) Nollywood’s fashionista extraordinaire

Just at the beginning of the year, delectable Nollywood actress, Rita Dominic joined the league of celebrities who have grabbed mouth watering endorsement deals.

The award winning actress and movie producer was unveiled as the new face of Keystone Bank. Aside her endorsements and acting skills, the superstar is well known for her unbeatable dress sense and poise.

The Imo State-born Nollywood goddess also won Sunday Express Fashion Icon of the year 2013. She is a star to beat and copy on the red carpet, any day, any time.

Liz Anjorin (Actress) Making bold statements through acting

Yoruba actress/producer, Liz Anjorin, (Aishat) who won the Yoruba Movie Personality Award at the City People Entertainment Awards made headlines based on her controversial conversion from Christianity to Islam many months ago.

The mother of one was also rumoured to be planning a quiet wedding with the new man in her life.

Her two blockbusters, Madam Kofo and The First Lady are still being talked about by movie buffs and pundits. The sexy thespian recently marked the second anniversary of her foundation, ‘Lizzy Anjorin Foundation’.

Mercy Aigbe (Actress) Breaking new grounds

Mercy Aigbe-Gentry is a talented screen diva, who never fails to exude beauty and style on red carpets. For her crafty skills of interpreting scripts, Mrs. Gentry won the award for the Best Indigenous Language Movie/Series (Yoruba) at the AMVCA 2014.

Breaking her own records, the Yoruba movie star, recently got her first major role in an English Language speaking movie. This was possible courtesy of Lancelot Imasuen's new flick -‘The Other Side of a Coin’.

Biyi Bandele (Movie Director) Filmmaker extraordinaire

The director of Half of a Yellow Sun, Biyi Bandele also made our exclusive list for his creative interpretation and adaptation of Chimamanda's best selling novel into a blockbuster movie.

ENTERTAINMENT EXPRESS