Fountain of Praise, a Christian oriented organization that is heavily involved in Christian worship, music production, concerts, music workshops, entertainment, philanthropy and social entrepreneurship recently empowered orphans and specially challenged children and organizations catering for their daily needs.
It formally presented cheques and gift items to lucky beneficiaries from the proceeds of its 2009 edition of Worship for Change concert, an annual gospel music fiesta that began in 2006. The very colourful event was witnessed by the media and some dignitaries drawn from different walks of life.
While making the presentations to the six beneficiaries drawn from the Leprosy Mission Nigeria, Society for the Safety of the Insane and the Destitute, Jakin NGO, Temitayo Awosika Health Foundation and the Ikorodu and Badagry sickle cell clubs respectively, Pastor Wale Adenuga , said he was optimistic the gifts would help the inmates of the above homes live more fulfilling lives.
Speaking further, Adenuga, who’s the head honcho of Fountain of Praise maintained that their goal was basically to use their influence in partnership with individuals and organizations, who believe strongly in their vision of empowering orphans and specially challenged children to live more fulfilling lives in the society.
“Hopelessness does not reside far from each of us. We see it in the eyes of both the young and old. While we cannot solve every problem, we have got to do something about the ones we can,” Adenuga explained.
Amazingly, since inception in 2006, they had organized five star-studded and well attended concerts and also raised almost N10million collectively from these events.
Past beneficiaries include: Downs Syndrome Association of Nigeria, Hearts of Gold Children Hospice, Arrows of God Orphanage, Patrick’s Speech and Language Centre and Hepzibah Orphanage.
For the current beneficiaries, a cheque of N550,000, was presented to the Leprosy Mission Nigeria, while the Society for the Safety of the Insane and the Destitute and JAKIN NGO, got cheques of N450,000 and half a million respectively. The Temitayo Awosika Health Foundation got a surprise N443, 000, worth of drugs. The life changing organization also used the sums of N167,000 and N212,000, respectively to buy drugs for the Ikorodu and Badagry Sickle cell Clubs.
The dazed beneficiaries separately thanked the organization immensely, for remembering and donating generously to their needs.
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Monday, March 29, 2010
Home in Exile now showing @ the Cinemas
Home in Exile, the big budget film directed by Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen has berthed at the Cinemas nationwide, after a very colourful and well-attended premiere. Speaking on the success of the premiere and why he decided to storm cinemas with the film, Imasuen, with over 100 Nollywood movies to his credit, as a director, said the premiere was a pointer to the fact that Nollywood has fully bounced back. He further explained that by hitting the cinemas, movie buffs will have the opportunity of watching and applauding a true Nigerian story based on hard work and perseverance.
“Home in Exile, was shot last year and premiered first at the Odeon Cinema, London. The world premiere was graced by both Nollywood and Hollywood stars. We just had another well attended and star-studded premiere in Nigeria recently. The essence of the premiere was to allow Nigerians see this movie and know that there is no place like home. It’s our own little way of helping to rebrand and reposition the battered image of Nigeria. Parents and their children, especially those living abroad, have a lot to learn from this interesting movie”, he posited.
Speaking further, Imasuen declared that the film is now showing at major upscale cinemas nationwide. “We are already showing at Silverbird and Genesis Deluxe Cinemas nationwide and the response from the movie loving public has been exceptional. This is a new era and we are following global best practices inherent in the film world. We want to change a lot of bad practices in Nollywood with Home in Exile and that we have already started this 2010. We are redefining standards in Nollywood that I can assure you”.
Produced by Lancewealth Image in collaboration with JJ Barry Entertainment, Home in Exile, a heart wrenching story of the excruciating pains and untold hardship and harassments that Nigerians living abroad go through as well as the challenges they face at home, aptly tells the true Nigerian story. Notable Nollywood stars in the movie include: Justus Esiri, Desmond Elliot, Uche Jombo, Chimwetalu Agu and several others.
“Home in Exile, was shot last year and premiered first at the Odeon Cinema, London. The world premiere was graced by both Nollywood and Hollywood stars. We just had another well attended and star-studded premiere in Nigeria recently. The essence of the premiere was to allow Nigerians see this movie and know that there is no place like home. It’s our own little way of helping to rebrand and reposition the battered image of Nigeria. Parents and their children, especially those living abroad, have a lot to learn from this interesting movie”, he posited.
Speaking further, Imasuen declared that the film is now showing at major upscale cinemas nationwide. “We are already showing at Silverbird and Genesis Deluxe Cinemas nationwide and the response from the movie loving public has been exceptional. This is a new era and we are following global best practices inherent in the film world. We want to change a lot of bad practices in Nollywood with Home in Exile and that we have already started this 2010. We are redefining standards in Nollywood that I can assure you”.
Produced by Lancewealth Image in collaboration with JJ Barry Entertainment, Home in Exile, a heart wrenching story of the excruciating pains and untold hardship and harassments that Nigerians living abroad go through as well as the challenges they face at home, aptly tells the true Nigerian story. Notable Nollywood stars in the movie include: Justus Esiri, Desmond Elliot, Uche Jombo, Chimwetalu Agu and several others.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Nigerian born Sophie Okonedo thrills in South African movie, Skin
Sophie Okonedo, the Nigerian born international film star is currently making waves in South Africa with her latest feature length film, Skin.
Okonedo, 41, alongside the heart-wrenching movie, have been enjoying rave reviews from critics and pundits since the film hit South African cinemas over the weekend.
The biopic film vividly captures the traumatic and agonizing story of Sandra Laing, which was beautiful interpreted by Okonedo on various locations in South Africa.
According to Anthony Fabian, the director of Skin, Okonedo was chosen for the role ahead of other equally good stars because she truly fits into the character of Laing, with her colour and curly black hair.
“The Story of Sandra Laing is a true life incident that was so bizarre. The child of a white Afrikaner couple, Laing was born with a dark skin and curly hair, the result of a polygenic inheritance, or a throwback to distant black ancestry. Kicked out of her all white boarding school, she was reclassified coloured and then, after a widely publicised court battle, she was reclassified white again. While struggling to fit in with African society, Laing, the teenager eloped with a black man, thus leaving behind her white family and troubled identity.”
Laing eventually began what Fabian, painfully described as a “journey into colour.”
Speaking recently on Skin, in an interview with the Mail and Guardian newspapers of South Africa, Fabian, argued that what makes the story so powerful and unique was the bizarreness of the genetic element, adding that it highlights the irrationality of racism.
Surprisingly, Fabian first heard of the touching story in 2000, when Laing was being interviewed on BBC4.
Soon afterwards, Fabian met Laing and was deeply moved and concerned after hearing her story and interacting with her at close range.
Apart from Okonedo, whose father is a Nigerian and mother, a Jewish settler in London, the rest of the cast are South Africans. Even, the crew was mostly South Africans too.
Sensational Skin, which is Hollywood bound in the next couple of weeks, covers more than 30 years and, in telling Laing’s personal story, it also tells the greater story about apartheid.
With Okonedo, the Golden Globe winner and Oscar nominee on board, Skin has consistently received positive reviews within and outside South Africa and might even open the floodgates for more international awards for the sassy star, including the elusive Oscar.
Aside Skin, Okonedo, a single mother of one, had also starred in several other globally acclaimed hit films like: Hotel Rwanda, The Jackal, Dirty Pretty Things, Sweet Revenge, Tsunami and a host of others.
Sophie Okonedo, the Nigerian born international film star is currently making waves in South Africa with her latest feature length film, Skin.
Okonedo, 41, alongside the heart-wrenching movie, have been enjoying rave reviews from critics and pundits since the film hit South African cinemas over the weekend.
The biopic film vividly captures the traumatic and agonizing story of Sandra Laing, which was beautiful interpreted by Okonedo on various locations in South Africa.
According to Anthony Fabian, the director of Skin, Okonedo was chosen for the role ahead of other equally good stars because she truly fits into the character of Laing, with her colour and curly black hair.
“The Story of Sandra Laing is a true life incident that was so bizarre. The child of a white Afrikaner couple, Laing was born with a dark skin and curly hair, the result of a polygenic inheritance, or a throwback to distant black ancestry. Kicked out of her all white boarding school, she was reclassified coloured and then, after a widely publicised court battle, she was reclassified white again. While struggling to fit in with African society, Laing, the teenager eloped with a black man, thus leaving behind her white family and troubled identity.”
Laing eventually began what Fabian, painfully described as a “journey into colour.”
Speaking recently on Skin, in an interview with the Mail and Guardian newspapers of South Africa, Fabian, argued that what makes the story so powerful and unique was the bizarreness of the genetic element, adding that it highlights the irrationality of racism.
Surprisingly, Fabian first heard of the touching story in 2000, when Laing was being interviewed on BBC4.
Soon afterwards, Fabian met Laing and was deeply moved and concerned after hearing her story and interacting with her at close range.
Apart from Okonedo, whose father is a Nigerian and mother, a Jewish settler in London, the rest of the cast are South Africans. Even, the crew was mostly South Africans too.
Sensational Skin, which is Hollywood bound in the next couple of weeks, covers more than 30 years and, in telling Laing’s personal story, it also tells the greater story about apartheid.
With Okonedo, the Golden Globe winner and Oscar nominee on board, Skin has consistently received positive reviews within and outside South Africa and might even open the floodgates for more international awards for the sassy star, including the elusive Oscar.
Aside Skin, Okonedo, a single mother of one, had also starred in several other globally acclaimed hit films like: Hotel Rwanda, The Jackal, Dirty Pretty Things, Sweet Revenge, Tsunami and a host of others.
Nigerian outfit, Godfather, rules South Africa’s showbiz scene
Godfather Productions, which is owned by Nigerian born Mike Uchenna Ogoke, is unarguably the best and biggest entertainment company owned by a single individual, in the whole of Johannesburg, South Africa.
In a chat with us at Woodmead, Sandton, Johannesburg, Ogoke, who has lived in
South Africa for 14 years and is happily married to a pretty South African woman, for over a decade now, said he single handedly took entertainment to the next level in Mandela’s country.
As a reputable and well-sought-after entertainment guru, Ogoke has directed over 160 music videos for both Nigerian and South African leading musicians.
Although, his first music video for a Nigerian artiste living in South Africa, was in 2005, when he masterfully directed the work of Stella Igwe. However, his big break came a few years later when he directed the monster hit music video, “Do Me”, for P-Square, ever since, he has not looked back.
His intimidating credit list include: Faze, Tuface, D’banj, X-Project, Styl Plus, Bigiano, Nigga Raw, Weird Mc, Sasha, Inyanya and Tony Tetuila.
Other popular acts on his hit list are: KC Presh, Azadus, MI, Naeto C, J-Martins, John Ogar and a host of others.
Ogoke, equally directed the costliest video in the annals of South African music for HHP, the country’s leading Hip-Hop singer. The work gulped a whopping 100,000 Dollars.
Ogoke, who is highly respected in South Africa, also consults and works for Channel O, MTV and other blue chip companies over there.
Currently the in-house music video director for P-Square, aside “Do Me”, he equally directed other hit numbers like: Danger, Ifunanya, Roll It, No One Like You and several other of their videos. Ogoke and his crew equally did the lovely videos of D’banj’s, Booty Call, Wanna Be Close to You and Fall in Love.
As a thorough-bred-professional, Ogoke, whose work does not come cheap, shoots on both digital and celluloid formats, depending on the one an artiste can afford.
He came to Nigerian for the very first time last year with his full crew, to lense ten music videos at a stretch, for X-project, on the invitation of Sam Kargbo, the group’s label owner. He’s also setting up a multi million Naira music/movie studio in Nigeria; and hopes to declare it open in the next couple of months.
Ogoke, who likes investing heavily in hi-tech equipment, as a parting shot, disclosed to us that several Nigerian acts still owe his outfit, over 100,000 Dollars, for the quality jobs, he did for them. He however, refused to mention the names of the debtors.
Mr. Ibu, the most popular Nollywood film in South Africa
Our dear Nollywood has no doubt become a global phenomenon. Despite the several criticisms and bashings from some armchair critics, Nollywood keeps breaking new grounds outside our shores.
While in South Africa, all the places Showbiz Bits visited, movie buffs kept asking questions about Nollywood. The bulk of these movie buffs, were constantly demanding for the copies of Mr. Ibu, a comic Nollywood film starring John Okafor and some other popular names.
They happily squealed that the hilarious movie makes them laugh a lot, after which they tend to forget their sorrows and troubled moments. Whoa!
In fact, a South African couple painfully narrated to us, how some hoodlums broke into their home and carted away the Mr. Ibu DVD, they bought the very month it was released. “Ever since, it’s been difficult getting another original copy of the exhilarating flick," they said.
Moreover, the trio of John Okafor aka Mr. Ibu, alongside Osita Iheme and Chinedu Ikedieze, better known as Aki and Pawpaw, are unarguably the most popular and well-loved Nollywood stars in South Africa.
During our brief visit, several of their fans and admirers, mostly females, kept asking about them. One even confessed that she would not mind sharing a bed with the famous trio and possibly having babies for them separately. Can you beat that?
Adaora thrills on SABC
One of the most cheering news we unearthed while in South Africa, was that a yet-to-be-released Nollywood epic, Adaora, was the first Nigerian movie to be aired on SABC; the apex broadcast station in Zuma’s country.
Adaora, starring big names like: Stephanie Okereke, Zack Orji, Rachael Oniga alongside some popular South African stars was shot over there, by Godfather productions in 2002.
Upon completion, SABC immediately bought the movie’s right for three-years and serialised it on air for 36 months, to the admiration of movie loving South Africans.
The movie also won several awards in South Africa, while on air and equally enjoyed rave reviews from major print and electronic media over there.
Commenting on why such a successful movie is yet to be released in Nigeria, Ogoke, who produced and directed it for Godfather productions, disclosed that plans are on to release it in Nigeria this 2010.
The movie was also aired in some neighboring Southern African countries, thus further helping to spread the message of Nollywood around African and the rest of the world.
A world premiere is expected to help usher in the release of the movie in Nigeria soon.
P-Square, Tuface, D’banj, Naeto C reign supreme
Aside being in love with the Nigerian movie scene, which is globally known as Nollywood, the entertainment loving people of South Africa are also in love with our music and music stars.
In Johannesburg, the locals do not joke with the songs of P-Square, Tuface, D’banj and Naeto C. In fact, for most of them, P-Square’s “Do Me” is a daily anthem, while Danger, the duo’s latest release, is fast catching up with the locals and wannabes.
Even their radio and TV stations are not left out in this love and frenzy for Nigerian music.
And we gathered that each time these stars come to South African to shoot their videos, a large number of the indigenes usually troop out to catch a glimpse of them while on set.
And as a proof that they are daily becoming too famous in South Africa, the labels managing these acts have equally set up corporate offices over there. Storm Records, Mo’Hits and North Side records, now have offices in Johannesburg.
Interestingly, Godfather productions, is the one helping these labels to network and monitor activities in South Africa.
The recent opening of Storm’s office over there was hugely attended by both Nigerian and their South African counterparts.
So, when next you visit this beautiful country, which is ready to host the FIFA World Cup between June and July, 2010, and see any of their indigenes singing some popular Naija hit numbers, do not be dazed.
They are fast catching the bug and buzz of Naija entertainment scene
Godfather Productions, which is owned by Nigerian born Mike Uchenna Ogoke, is unarguably the best and biggest entertainment company owned by a single individual, in the whole of Johannesburg, South Africa.
In a chat with us at Woodmead, Sandton, Johannesburg, Ogoke, who has lived in
South Africa for 14 years and is happily married to a pretty South African woman, for over a decade now, said he single handedly took entertainment to the next level in Mandela’s country.
As a reputable and well-sought-after entertainment guru, Ogoke has directed over 160 music videos for both Nigerian and South African leading musicians.
Although, his first music video for a Nigerian artiste living in South Africa, was in 2005, when he masterfully directed the work of Stella Igwe. However, his big break came a few years later when he directed the monster hit music video, “Do Me”, for P-Square, ever since, he has not looked back.
His intimidating credit list include: Faze, Tuface, D’banj, X-Project, Styl Plus, Bigiano, Nigga Raw, Weird Mc, Sasha, Inyanya and Tony Tetuila.
Other popular acts on his hit list are: KC Presh, Azadus, MI, Naeto C, J-Martins, John Ogar and a host of others.
Ogoke, equally directed the costliest video in the annals of South African music for HHP, the country’s leading Hip-Hop singer. The work gulped a whopping 100,000 Dollars.
Ogoke, who is highly respected in South Africa, also consults and works for Channel O, MTV and other blue chip companies over there.
Currently the in-house music video director for P-Square, aside “Do Me”, he equally directed other hit numbers like: Danger, Ifunanya, Roll It, No One Like You and several other of their videos. Ogoke and his crew equally did the lovely videos of D’banj’s, Booty Call, Wanna Be Close to You and Fall in Love.
As a thorough-bred-professional, Ogoke, whose work does not come cheap, shoots on both digital and celluloid formats, depending on the one an artiste can afford.
He came to Nigerian for the very first time last year with his full crew, to lense ten music videos at a stretch, for X-project, on the invitation of Sam Kargbo, the group’s label owner. He’s also setting up a multi million Naira music/movie studio in Nigeria; and hopes to declare it open in the next couple of months.
Ogoke, who likes investing heavily in hi-tech equipment, as a parting shot, disclosed to us that several Nigerian acts still owe his outfit, over 100,000 Dollars, for the quality jobs, he did for them. He however, refused to mention the names of the debtors.
Mr. Ibu, the most popular Nollywood film in South Africa
Our dear Nollywood has no doubt become a global phenomenon. Despite the several criticisms and bashings from some armchair critics, Nollywood keeps breaking new grounds outside our shores.
While in South Africa, all the places Showbiz Bits visited, movie buffs kept asking questions about Nollywood. The bulk of these movie buffs, were constantly demanding for the copies of Mr. Ibu, a comic Nollywood film starring John Okafor and some other popular names.
They happily squealed that the hilarious movie makes them laugh a lot, after which they tend to forget their sorrows and troubled moments. Whoa!
In fact, a South African couple painfully narrated to us, how some hoodlums broke into their home and carted away the Mr. Ibu DVD, they bought the very month it was released. “Ever since, it’s been difficult getting another original copy of the exhilarating flick," they said.
Moreover, the trio of John Okafor aka Mr. Ibu, alongside Osita Iheme and Chinedu Ikedieze, better known as Aki and Pawpaw, are unarguably the most popular and well-loved Nollywood stars in South Africa.
During our brief visit, several of their fans and admirers, mostly females, kept asking about them. One even confessed that she would not mind sharing a bed with the famous trio and possibly having babies for them separately. Can you beat that?
Adaora thrills on SABC
One of the most cheering news we unearthed while in South Africa, was that a yet-to-be-released Nollywood epic, Adaora, was the first Nigerian movie to be aired on SABC; the apex broadcast station in Zuma’s country.
Adaora, starring big names like: Stephanie Okereke, Zack Orji, Rachael Oniga alongside some popular South African stars was shot over there, by Godfather productions in 2002.
Upon completion, SABC immediately bought the movie’s right for three-years and serialised it on air for 36 months, to the admiration of movie loving South Africans.
The movie also won several awards in South Africa, while on air and equally enjoyed rave reviews from major print and electronic media over there.
Commenting on why such a successful movie is yet to be released in Nigeria, Ogoke, who produced and directed it for Godfather productions, disclosed that plans are on to release it in Nigeria this 2010.
The movie was also aired in some neighboring Southern African countries, thus further helping to spread the message of Nollywood around African and the rest of the world.
A world premiere is expected to help usher in the release of the movie in Nigeria soon.
P-Square, Tuface, D’banj, Naeto C reign supreme
Aside being in love with the Nigerian movie scene, which is globally known as Nollywood, the entertainment loving people of South Africa are also in love with our music and music stars.
In Johannesburg, the locals do not joke with the songs of P-Square, Tuface, D’banj and Naeto C. In fact, for most of them, P-Square’s “Do Me” is a daily anthem, while Danger, the duo’s latest release, is fast catching up with the locals and wannabes.
Even their radio and TV stations are not left out in this love and frenzy for Nigerian music.
And we gathered that each time these stars come to South African to shoot their videos, a large number of the indigenes usually troop out to catch a glimpse of them while on set.
And as a proof that they are daily becoming too famous in South Africa, the labels managing these acts have equally set up corporate offices over there. Storm Records, Mo’Hits and North Side records, now have offices in Johannesburg.
Interestingly, Godfather productions, is the one helping these labels to network and monitor activities in South Africa.
The recent opening of Storm’s office over there was hugely attended by both Nigerian and their South African counterparts.
So, when next you visit this beautiful country, which is ready to host the FIFA World Cup between June and July, 2010, and see any of their indigenes singing some popular Naija hit numbers, do not be dazed.
They are fast catching the bug and buzz of Naija entertainment scene
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Asa set to rock @ Naira.Com’s concert
This definitely cheering news for the teeming fans of Nigerian born international songbird, Asa. Naira.com, a transactional portal powered by Chams.net is sensationally poised to bring the delectable crooner home for her first show this 2010.
According to the organizers, the event is fittingly tagged: Asa on the Green, and its being packaged in collaboration with Quirk & Glee. It holds at the upscale and fast growing entertainment fun spot, Coral Reef, located at 10A Ikoya Avenue, off McPherson road, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Friday, January 22, 2010.
For those willing to attend the anticipated evening of good music laced with fun, relaxation and networking, tickets for the show can be purchased online at www.naira.com, at affordable prices.
Interestingly, early birds will get autographed and original copies of Asa’s Live in Paris CD/DVD, alongside free tickets.
”The night will begin with a cocktail reception from 7 to 8pm, after which soul singers, Bez and Dipo, who represent the future of Nigerian soul and R n B would kick start the event proper,” hinted one of the organizers.
Naira.com, which was launched in December 2009, is a one-stop transactional portal where you can buy an endless variety of items as well as concert bookings or air tickets. You can also order food and pay for airtime and other
services rendered.
According to the organizers, the event is fittingly tagged: Asa on the Green, and its being packaged in collaboration with Quirk & Glee. It holds at the upscale and fast growing entertainment fun spot, Coral Reef, located at 10A Ikoya Avenue, off McPherson road, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Friday, January 22, 2010.
For those willing to attend the anticipated evening of good music laced with fun, relaxation and networking, tickets for the show can be purchased online at www.naira.com, at affordable prices.
Interestingly, early birds will get autographed and original copies of Asa’s Live in Paris CD/DVD, alongside free tickets.
”The night will begin with a cocktail reception from 7 to 8pm, after which soul singers, Bez and Dipo, who represent the future of Nigerian soul and R n B would kick start the event proper,” hinted one of the organizers.
Naira.com, which was launched in December 2009, is a one-stop transactional portal where you can buy an endless variety of items as well as concert bookings or air tickets. You can also order food and pay for airtime and other
services rendered.
Viewers await You Can’t Spell Jack on TV
Nigerian viewers are eagerly awaiting the arrival of You Can’t Spell Jack (YCSJ), the newest game show on TV this 2010, with so much excitement and happiness. As one of the big things happening on TV this New Year, a lucky and intelligent participant can win N30 million, on the show. Unlike most game shows in Nigeria today, YCSJ is wholly conceived and produced by Nigerians. Precisely, the arresting TV game show was conceived and developed by Eloka Anyafulu, the Chief Executive of Ski-Hi Production Company Nig Ltd, and is being produced by Nollywood icon and multiple award winning journalist, Zik Zulu Okafor, the Managing Director of Zulu Films.
However, You Can’t Spell Jack would have remained a mere grand idea but for the intervention of fast growing micro finance organization, Satelite Micro Finance Bank Limited, under the headship of a seasoned banker, Tony Ubogu.
According to the MD/CEO of Satelite Micro Finance Bank, his organization was attracted and convinced to invest in the game show because it is a wholly Nigerian brand founded on professionalism and excellence, ideals that his organization shares.
Ubogu, a founding management staff of Bank PHB, adds that the idea that YSCJ can change the life of people with even small incomes by turning them into millionaires appealed to his organization because they thrive on little earnings that grow over time just like they started with only a branch in Ikota, near Victoria Garden City (VGC) Lagos and in 18 months have increased to eight branches.
According to the creator of YCSJ, Eloka, he was inspired to develop the game show because of his desire to encourage learning among Nigerians, especially the youths and also because of the dearth of wholly Nigerian TV game shows in our local television stations. The show he adds is all about spelling and aimed at helping to test and task our intellectual capacity while making people millionaires as a participant stands a chance to win N30 million.
The former president of the Association of Movie Producers, Zik Zulu Okafor added that there are other fantastic monetary prizes to be won by participants. “The purpose, for us, is to produce a most exciting and professional programme while at the same time making people millionaires”.
YCSJ is a family oriented TV game show designed for families to sit together, watch and have fun as they participate in the game. It is both entertaining and educative.
Ubogu assures prospective participants and viewers that Satelite Micro Finance Bank Ltd is financially equipped and well positioned to meet all the financial obligations of YCSJ. He states matter of factly, that his organization is a responsible corporate citizen that will always play by the rules. He stressed further that his firm believes strongly in empowering ordinary people and helping small businesses to grow, even as he is convinced that YCSJ will empower many Nigerians. “That’s why we embraced this partnership. That’s why we are happy to do this business because we know we will realize our philosophy of helping people and little businesses to take a leap”, Ubogu concluded.
You Can’t Spell Jack is an incredible TV game show, full of suspense and ecstatic moments.
The programme is scheduled to make its debut on NTA network and Silverbird television in April (Second quarter), 2010.
However, You Can’t Spell Jack would have remained a mere grand idea but for the intervention of fast growing micro finance organization, Satelite Micro Finance Bank Limited, under the headship of a seasoned banker, Tony Ubogu.
According to the MD/CEO of Satelite Micro Finance Bank, his organization was attracted and convinced to invest in the game show because it is a wholly Nigerian brand founded on professionalism and excellence, ideals that his organization shares.
Ubogu, a founding management staff of Bank PHB, adds that the idea that YSCJ can change the life of people with even small incomes by turning them into millionaires appealed to his organization because they thrive on little earnings that grow over time just like they started with only a branch in Ikota, near Victoria Garden City (VGC) Lagos and in 18 months have increased to eight branches.
According to the creator of YCSJ, Eloka, he was inspired to develop the game show because of his desire to encourage learning among Nigerians, especially the youths and also because of the dearth of wholly Nigerian TV game shows in our local television stations. The show he adds is all about spelling and aimed at helping to test and task our intellectual capacity while making people millionaires as a participant stands a chance to win N30 million.
The former president of the Association of Movie Producers, Zik Zulu Okafor added that there are other fantastic monetary prizes to be won by participants. “The purpose, for us, is to produce a most exciting and professional programme while at the same time making people millionaires”.
YCSJ is a family oriented TV game show designed for families to sit together, watch and have fun as they participate in the game. It is both entertaining and educative.
Ubogu assures prospective participants and viewers that Satelite Micro Finance Bank Ltd is financially equipped and well positioned to meet all the financial obligations of YCSJ. He states matter of factly, that his organization is a responsible corporate citizen that will always play by the rules. He stressed further that his firm believes strongly in empowering ordinary people and helping small businesses to grow, even as he is convinced that YCSJ will empower many Nigerians. “That’s why we embraced this partnership. That’s why we are happy to do this business because we know we will realize our philosophy of helping people and little businesses to take a leap”, Ubogu concluded.
You Can’t Spell Jack is an incredible TV game show, full of suspense and ecstatic moments.
The programme is scheduled to make its debut on NTA network and Silverbird television in April (Second quarter), 2010.
Silent Scandals rocks shelves
Effervescent female filmmaker and the honcho of Purple Pine Productions, Vivian Ejike, has hit the national and international movie scenes with her long awaited blockbuster-Silent Scandals.
The heart-wrenching flick, according to cerebral Miss Ejike, was recently released on VCD and DVD in Nigeria, US and the rest of Africa, and its currently topping the charts.
While leading us into the synopsis of the big budget movie, Ejike revealed thus: “Jessy, a pretty, young and very successful but uptight lady struggles with life as a career woman and single mother to a wild and free-spirited teenage daughter. Just as she learns to enjoy the new but fragile peace with her daughter who finally sobers up, a dark shadow rears its ugly head, threatening to destroy everything in its path. Jessy suddenly finds herself locked in the battle of her life...a silent battle against her daughter... for a common purpose. She must fight with everything she has, to protect the things that matter most to her.”
Speaking further, pretty Ejike, disclosed that Silent Scandals, was painstakingly shot with hi-tech production equipment and thoroughly manned by tested professionals from within and outside Nigeria.
The movie, which was directed by a Nigerian filmmaker based in Los Angeles, US, also featured a live Fashion Show by award winning designer, Zizi Cardow and her leggy models.
Aside writing, producing and financing the movie, Miss Ejike, with over 13 years experience in Nollywood, also screen played the fast selling flick.
Silent Scandals; is being distributed and marketed globally by Nollywood Distributions Company Limited, in collaboration with other major video outlets and marts globally. It stars the best of Nollywood and Gollywood [Ghana movie industry] like: Genevieve Nnaji, Majid Michel, Uche Jombo, Ebele Okaro and a host of others. It was shot in choice locations in and around Lagos metropolis.
Fans and movie buffs should be ready for the thrill of their lives as Vivian Ejike is poised to rewrite the story of movie making in Nigeria. In less than two weeks of release, Silent Scandals, has sold over 100,000 copies and its still selling”, Ejike gushes.
The heart-wrenching flick, according to cerebral Miss Ejike, was recently released on VCD and DVD in Nigeria, US and the rest of Africa, and its currently topping the charts.
While leading us into the synopsis of the big budget movie, Ejike revealed thus: “Jessy, a pretty, young and very successful but uptight lady struggles with life as a career woman and single mother to a wild and free-spirited teenage daughter. Just as she learns to enjoy the new but fragile peace with her daughter who finally sobers up, a dark shadow rears its ugly head, threatening to destroy everything in its path. Jessy suddenly finds herself locked in the battle of her life...a silent battle against her daughter... for a common purpose. She must fight with everything she has, to protect the things that matter most to her.”
Speaking further, pretty Ejike, disclosed that Silent Scandals, was painstakingly shot with hi-tech production equipment and thoroughly manned by tested professionals from within and outside Nigeria.
The movie, which was directed by a Nigerian filmmaker based in Los Angeles, US, also featured a live Fashion Show by award winning designer, Zizi Cardow and her leggy models.
Aside writing, producing and financing the movie, Miss Ejike, with over 13 years experience in Nollywood, also screen played the fast selling flick.
Silent Scandals; is being distributed and marketed globally by Nollywood Distributions Company Limited, in collaboration with other major video outlets and marts globally. It stars the best of Nollywood and Gollywood [Ghana movie industry] like: Genevieve Nnaji, Majid Michel, Uche Jombo, Ebele Okaro and a host of others. It was shot in choice locations in and around Lagos metropolis.
Fans and movie buffs should be ready for the thrill of their lives as Vivian Ejike is poised to rewrite the story of movie making in Nigeria. In less than two weeks of release, Silent Scandals, has sold over 100,000 copies and its still selling”, Ejike gushes.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Who owns Yori -Yori?
After a long silence, Amobi Clem Igwebuike, better known as Bistop, the sidelined and former leader of wave making Yori-yori crooners, Bracket, has finally opened up on how he was betrayed by his colleagues and record label owner.
According to Bistop, who’s currently promoting his latest single, Celebrate, he was unjustly kicked out, after helping to nurture and groom the group-Bracket, which he founded and led until he was schemed out early last year.
In a chat with us recently, embittered Bistop, from Anambra State, maintained his supposed brothers betrayed him, after ten solid years of a very strong relationship. “A lot has been said about my willingly quitting the group, it pains because my colleagues never painted the real picture of how I was dumped and betrayed to the world. How can I just quit like that after toiling day and night to nurture and build the group Bracket? I wrote and arranged the beats of virtually all the songs, including the Yori-yori track and other tracks in the album. But painfully, I was schemed out when we were about to release the album, which is our second, as a group. Till date, my colleagues and the boss of our label, Ape Planet, Nwachukwu Mamah, one of the sons of Ifesinachi Mass Transit boss, have not told me why they meted out this wicked act to me. They later told me our record label owner dumped me because I was too outspoken. I don’t know when fighting for one’s right has become a crime?”
Speaking further, Bistop, who is currently promoting his new work round the country, disclosed that he personally took the group to Ape Planet, to sign them on and eventually release their debut album – Happy Day. “I’m not saying all these now to elicit pity, but I want to set the records straight by telling Nigerians how I was badly treated by my supposed brothers. I nearly died, but it took the grace of God for me to be alive till this moment and talking to you. Truth is that I have been to hell and back”.
“Imagine, I went to the market to buy my own work and sweat, when they eventually released the album and to my shock, no credit was given to me and that further killed my spirit. But thank God, I have moved on.”
Bistop, a final year student of Electrical Electronics at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, further disclosed that the current stage names of the Bracket duo (Smash and Vast), was given to them by him, at the early stage of their careers.
On what he wants from the group and Ape Planet, Bistop, who maintained he’s yet to recover fully from the psychological/mental trauma and torture, insisted that he wants to be adequately compensated for all his efforts while with the group, adding that he has moved on with his blossoming solo career and life.
I’m now out to celebrate, just like my single says, the worst is over. We look forward to hearing from Bracket and Ape Planet, whom we could not reach before filing this report.
According to Bistop, who’s currently promoting his latest single, Celebrate, he was unjustly kicked out, after helping to nurture and groom the group-Bracket, which he founded and led until he was schemed out early last year.
In a chat with us recently, embittered Bistop, from Anambra State, maintained his supposed brothers betrayed him, after ten solid years of a very strong relationship. “A lot has been said about my willingly quitting the group, it pains because my colleagues never painted the real picture of how I was dumped and betrayed to the world. How can I just quit like that after toiling day and night to nurture and build the group Bracket? I wrote and arranged the beats of virtually all the songs, including the Yori-yori track and other tracks in the album. But painfully, I was schemed out when we were about to release the album, which is our second, as a group. Till date, my colleagues and the boss of our label, Ape Planet, Nwachukwu Mamah, one of the sons of Ifesinachi Mass Transit boss, have not told me why they meted out this wicked act to me. They later told me our record label owner dumped me because I was too outspoken. I don’t know when fighting for one’s right has become a crime?”
Speaking further, Bistop, who is currently promoting his new work round the country, disclosed that he personally took the group to Ape Planet, to sign them on and eventually release their debut album – Happy Day. “I’m not saying all these now to elicit pity, but I want to set the records straight by telling Nigerians how I was badly treated by my supposed brothers. I nearly died, but it took the grace of God for me to be alive till this moment and talking to you. Truth is that I have been to hell and back”.
“Imagine, I went to the market to buy my own work and sweat, when they eventually released the album and to my shock, no credit was given to me and that further killed my spirit. But thank God, I have moved on.”
Bistop, a final year student of Electrical Electronics at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, further disclosed that the current stage names of the Bracket duo (Smash and Vast), was given to them by him, at the early stage of their careers.
On what he wants from the group and Ape Planet, Bistop, who maintained he’s yet to recover fully from the psychological/mental trauma and torture, insisted that he wants to be adequately compensated for all his efforts while with the group, adding that he has moved on with his blossoming solo career and life.
I’m now out to celebrate, just like my single says, the worst is over. We look forward to hearing from Bracket and Ape Planet, whom we could not reach before filing this report.
Nollywood boycotts ION film festival
The recently held ION international film festival in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, suffered a heavy setback, due to massive boycott, from virtually all the major guilds in Nollywood, the Nigerian motion picture industry.
We reliably gathered that aside boycotting the festival, which they openly described as “a huge insult on Nollywood and its professionals”, these major guilds are also angry and disappointed with network giant Zain, for investing millions in the festival without regard and concern for Nollywood and its growth.
And as a prove of their seething anger, these guilds, according to a reliable source, are secretly sensitizing and mobilizing their members to begin a mass boycott on anything that has to do with Zain.
In the words of one of the major players in Nollywood, who spoke with us on the condition of anonymity, “we are currently mobilizing our members in all the guilds in Nollywood to stop using the Zain network. Since they can give a nomadic festival that is not resident here in Nigeria millions of Naira, to organize a colourless film festival that was of no importance to Nollywood and the entire Nigerian motion picture industry, we will also boycott and blacklist them. Zain, should tell us one major thing they have done for Nollywood? Each time, we take our proposals to them for sponsorships, its usually cock and bull stories. We have AMAA, the Abuja and Lagos international film festivals and the recently held AMP/Eko international film festival, which one did they support? Its appalling the way they treat us here. Collectively, our members are almost a million and the bulk of us use Zain, right now, we want to mobilize them to stop using or patronizing Zain, because we have gained nothing from them as professional bodies working for the growth of the nation through Nollywood. Enough is enough.
Now that we have boycotted the festival, Zain should now tell us the importance of their sponsorship?” While speaking with us, another angry top player in Nollywood queried the rationale behind spending so much millions on ION, which has no structure or any major development plan for the Nigerian motion picture industry.
“In fact, Gov. Rotimi Amaechi should tell us his reasons for wasting several millions of Rivers State tax payers money on the so called festival? How many Rivers State born filmmakers has he empowered and how many true Nollywood projects has he supported or hosted in Rivers State. All the billions he wasted on this festival would have been used to kick start a film village project in Rivers State, which at the end of the day will be beneficial to both Nollywood and the State. We see all these people as those stunting the growth of Nollywood”.
Aside the conspicuous absence of the leaders and key officers of guilds such as the: Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Association of Movie Producers (AMP), several leading practitioners and stakeholders in Nollywood also shunned the festival, thus making it a poorly attended event. Meanwhile, a joint press conference to address the issue of ION, the boycott and Zain’s apathy towards Nollywood and its core practitioners holds very soon, at a yet to be fixed venue.
We reliably gathered that aside boycotting the festival, which they openly described as “a huge insult on Nollywood and its professionals”, these major guilds are also angry and disappointed with network giant Zain, for investing millions in the festival without regard and concern for Nollywood and its growth.
And as a prove of their seething anger, these guilds, according to a reliable source, are secretly sensitizing and mobilizing their members to begin a mass boycott on anything that has to do with Zain.
In the words of one of the major players in Nollywood, who spoke with us on the condition of anonymity, “we are currently mobilizing our members in all the guilds in Nollywood to stop using the Zain network. Since they can give a nomadic festival that is not resident here in Nigeria millions of Naira, to organize a colourless film festival that was of no importance to Nollywood and the entire Nigerian motion picture industry, we will also boycott and blacklist them. Zain, should tell us one major thing they have done for Nollywood? Each time, we take our proposals to them for sponsorships, its usually cock and bull stories. We have AMAA, the Abuja and Lagos international film festivals and the recently held AMP/Eko international film festival, which one did they support? Its appalling the way they treat us here. Collectively, our members are almost a million and the bulk of us use Zain, right now, we want to mobilize them to stop using or patronizing Zain, because we have gained nothing from them as professional bodies working for the growth of the nation through Nollywood. Enough is enough.
Now that we have boycotted the festival, Zain should now tell us the importance of their sponsorship?” While speaking with us, another angry top player in Nollywood queried the rationale behind spending so much millions on ION, which has no structure or any major development plan for the Nigerian motion picture industry.
“In fact, Gov. Rotimi Amaechi should tell us his reasons for wasting several millions of Rivers State tax payers money on the so called festival? How many Rivers State born filmmakers has he empowered and how many true Nollywood projects has he supported or hosted in Rivers State. All the billions he wasted on this festival would have been used to kick start a film village project in Rivers State, which at the end of the day will be beneficial to both Nollywood and the State. We see all these people as those stunting the growth of Nollywood”.
Aside the conspicuous absence of the leaders and key officers of guilds such as the: Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Association of Movie Producers (AMP), several leading practitioners and stakeholders in Nollywood also shunned the festival, thus making it a poorly attended event. Meanwhile, a joint press conference to address the issue of ION, the boycott and Zain’s apathy towards Nollywood and its core practitioners holds very soon, at a yet to be fixed venue.
Film and Broadcast Academy berths
After a very long wait, a government-approved institute that will professionally train and empower both aspiring movie and media practitioners has berthed in Ozoro, Delta State, with so much promises and prospects for intending students.
Approved by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and known as The Film and Broadcast Academy (FABA), it sits on over 30 hectares of land and is expected to begin academic and vocationally work fully in January 2010, with over 2000 students.
According to Chief Charles Akeni, the Chairman of FABA, applications are invited from qualified candidates for admission to read the new practical oriented NBTC driven two-year National Innovation Diploma (NID) and the National Vocational Certificate (NVC), courses beginning from the maiden academic session, early 2010.
“FABA is basically set up to train movie practitioners and media people. Already in place are: schools of Performing and Media Arts, Film and TV Production, Arts and Design, Business Studies and Computer and Information Technology,” Akeni explained.
On how the academy would be funded, Akeni, a PR expert and the former PR Manager, Shell, explained that they had already mapped out over 30 streams of income, adding that it is a private enterprise that would be funded privately.
Elaborating more on the importance of FABA in helping to mould future film and media experts for the nation, its Vice President and renowned filmmaker, Zeb Ejiro, argued that the school, which is already being applauded within and outside Nollywood, would groom and nurture young men and women into super stars as well as help groom them in other arts and entertainment related endeavours. He further called on all, especially his colleagues to support FABA and its laudable initiatives, most especially, those aspiring to get its valued certificates.
While hailing the FABA team for coming up with such a great idea, filmmaker and the national president of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Mr. Bond Emeruwa, opined that the academy would further propagate the ideals of Nollywood as well as help give voice and direction to millions of Nigerians aspiring to be part of the nation’s money spinning entertainment industry. “On behalf of DGN, we sincerely commend FABA for this wonderful achievement,” he submitted.
Also speaking, Mr. Paul Obazele, the president of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), maintained that FABA, would definitely help to redefine standards in Nollywood, adding that he looks forward to more of such meaningful initiatives and collaborations within and outside Nollywood.
Among the Nollywood stars present at the unveiling, who also extolled the good ideals of FABA, include: Sunny MC Don, Fidelis Duker, Mike Nliam, Emeka Rollas, Frank Dallas, Peter Red Ejiro and a host of others. For more info on how to register; visit: www. fabaportal.com.ng
Approved by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and known as The Film and Broadcast Academy (FABA), it sits on over 30 hectares of land and is expected to begin academic and vocationally work fully in January 2010, with over 2000 students.
According to Chief Charles Akeni, the Chairman of FABA, applications are invited from qualified candidates for admission to read the new practical oriented NBTC driven two-year National Innovation Diploma (NID) and the National Vocational Certificate (NVC), courses beginning from the maiden academic session, early 2010.
“FABA is basically set up to train movie practitioners and media people. Already in place are: schools of Performing and Media Arts, Film and TV Production, Arts and Design, Business Studies and Computer and Information Technology,” Akeni explained.
On how the academy would be funded, Akeni, a PR expert and the former PR Manager, Shell, explained that they had already mapped out over 30 streams of income, adding that it is a private enterprise that would be funded privately.
Elaborating more on the importance of FABA in helping to mould future film and media experts for the nation, its Vice President and renowned filmmaker, Zeb Ejiro, argued that the school, which is already being applauded within and outside Nollywood, would groom and nurture young men and women into super stars as well as help groom them in other arts and entertainment related endeavours. He further called on all, especially his colleagues to support FABA and its laudable initiatives, most especially, those aspiring to get its valued certificates.
While hailing the FABA team for coming up with such a great idea, filmmaker and the national president of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Mr. Bond Emeruwa, opined that the academy would further propagate the ideals of Nollywood as well as help give voice and direction to millions of Nigerians aspiring to be part of the nation’s money spinning entertainment industry. “On behalf of DGN, we sincerely commend FABA for this wonderful achievement,” he submitted.
Also speaking, Mr. Paul Obazele, the president of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), maintained that FABA, would definitely help to redefine standards in Nollywood, adding that he looks forward to more of such meaningful initiatives and collaborations within and outside Nollywood.
Among the Nollywood stars present at the unveiling, who also extolled the good ideals of FABA, include: Sunny MC Don, Fidelis Duker, Mike Nliam, Emeka Rollas, Frank Dallas, Peter Red Ejiro and a host of others. For more info on how to register; visit: www. fabaportal.com.ng
Uche Ogbuagu returns, gets busy
Eastern-based leading comedian cum entertainer extraordinaire, Uche Ogbuagu, recently breezed in from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where he successfully organized the first edition of Dubai Must Laugh comedy and music concert.
The well-attended show, which was powered under the auspices of Ogbuagu’s Talkinson Entertainment Ideas, also featured comic star, Nkem Owoh, veteran entertainer, Chika Okpala (Zebrudaya), alongside several Aba, Abia State based rising comedians.
While in Dubai, the trio of Ogbuagu, Owoh and Okpala were honoured with special recognition awards, for their immense contributions to the development and growth of entertainment in Nigeria and the African continent.
While Ogbuagu, from Ikeduru, Imo State got a well-deserved plaque as the Best Standup Entertainer; the duo of Owoh and Okpala was honoured with the Best TV Comedian and Living Legend awards respectively.
Speaking on the significance of the show as well as the awards, exhilarated Ogbuagu who recently stormed Lagos, for an entertainment related engagement, disclosed that both were well deserved and also came at the appropriate time.
“Our Dubai Must Laugh outing was very successful, and we thank God and our sponsors for its success. The entire Dubai was agog; in fact, the city witnessed the finest form of entertainment, throughout our stay. We are looking forward to next year’s outing with so much enthusiasm. As for the awards, especially mine, it was well deserved and really overwhelmed me. We can’t thank them enough for deeming it fit to honour us with the great awards. It’s a pointer to the fact that even those outside our shores are also appreciating us alongside the great works we are doing for this great country, as her arts and entertainment ambassadors. I have been honoured with several awards, but this one is very dear to my heart and entire career,” he gushed.
Speaking further, Ogbuagu, the honcho of Ideal Ideas and Ideal Media Point as well as the organizer of the annual Aba Made comedy and music concert, maintained that the time has come for entertainers to unite and export comedy beyond our borders, adding that it would further create room for healthy rivalry in the industry.
The Mass Communication graduate who is widely traveled, and works very closely with the Abia State Government, said he has concluded arrangements to bring Governor Theodore Orji, to the third edition of Aba Made, in 2010, saying that the amiable Governor has assured him of his esteemed presence.
Interestingly too, hilarious Ogbuagu, is due to officially open and dedicate his recently completed country home, situated in his Akabo area of Imo State, this Xmas.
He promised to make the event grand and memorable for all those coming to felicitate with him and his household.
The well-attended show, which was powered under the auspices of Ogbuagu’s Talkinson Entertainment Ideas, also featured comic star, Nkem Owoh, veteran entertainer, Chika Okpala (Zebrudaya), alongside several Aba, Abia State based rising comedians.
While in Dubai, the trio of Ogbuagu, Owoh and Okpala were honoured with special recognition awards, for their immense contributions to the development and growth of entertainment in Nigeria and the African continent.
While Ogbuagu, from Ikeduru, Imo State got a well-deserved plaque as the Best Standup Entertainer; the duo of Owoh and Okpala was honoured with the Best TV Comedian and Living Legend awards respectively.
Speaking on the significance of the show as well as the awards, exhilarated Ogbuagu who recently stormed Lagos, for an entertainment related engagement, disclosed that both were well deserved and also came at the appropriate time.
“Our Dubai Must Laugh outing was very successful, and we thank God and our sponsors for its success. The entire Dubai was agog; in fact, the city witnessed the finest form of entertainment, throughout our stay. We are looking forward to next year’s outing with so much enthusiasm. As for the awards, especially mine, it was well deserved and really overwhelmed me. We can’t thank them enough for deeming it fit to honour us with the great awards. It’s a pointer to the fact that even those outside our shores are also appreciating us alongside the great works we are doing for this great country, as her arts and entertainment ambassadors. I have been honoured with several awards, but this one is very dear to my heart and entire career,” he gushed.
Speaking further, Ogbuagu, the honcho of Ideal Ideas and Ideal Media Point as well as the organizer of the annual Aba Made comedy and music concert, maintained that the time has come for entertainers to unite and export comedy beyond our borders, adding that it would further create room for healthy rivalry in the industry.
The Mass Communication graduate who is widely traveled, and works very closely with the Abia State Government, said he has concluded arrangements to bring Governor Theodore Orji, to the third edition of Aba Made, in 2010, saying that the amiable Governor has assured him of his esteemed presence.
Interestingly too, hilarious Ogbuagu, is due to officially open and dedicate his recently completed country home, situated in his Akabo area of Imo State, this Xmas.
He promised to make the event grand and memorable for all those coming to felicitate with him and his household.
You Can’t Spell Jack ready for TV
A riveting new game show on TV is poised to wow viewers and financially empower lucky participants on a weekly basis.
Tagged: You Can’t Spell Jack (YCSJ), its creator and co-producer Mr. Eloka Anyafulu, disclosed that the laudable project was inspired by his desire to encourage learning among Nigerians, especially the youths.
Speaking at the recent unveiling, visibly elated Anyafulu, said “YCSJ, has been designed in such a way that viewers as well as participants will find it very interesting, exciting, entertaining and above all, very educational too. It’s a TV game show that took me years to conceive and conceptualize. My joy is that it’s a proudly and wholly Nigerian initiative. We intend exporting it to other parts of the globe, because of its unique nature, thus further helping to rebrand our great nation”.
Speaking further, Mr. Zik Zulu-Okafor, the co-producer of the game show, which is billed to hit network TV stations in early April 2010, promised that participants would win big money on the show when it eventually begins.
Okafor, a foremost filmmaker in Nollywood, further assured that YCSJ had been designed to run successfully the moment it takes off, adding that they were very capable of sustaining the programme on air, as well as redeeming prize money to lucky winners without hiccups. “YCSJ, is a totally different TV game show created by Nigerians, for Nigerians too. I can assure you that by the time we take off fully in the first quarter of next year, the whole Nigeria especially core TV viewers will be very proud of us. A whole lot of research has gone into this project and we have a very strong, reliable and highly focused team working on this project. It will further encourage learning on air as well as help families and their loved ones to properly relax, while watching it,” he posited.
Commenting on why his fast growing financial institution decided to solely sponsor the forthcoming show, Mr. Tony Ubogu, the CEO, Satelite Micro Finance Bank Limited, maintained that they saw a whole lots of potentials in the project, adding that he’s outfit would further help to empower millions of Nigerians by investing in the game show.
When prodded further on how strong his company is financially, towards powering the game show, especially in cases of multiple high-end winnings, Ubogu, confidentially assured that they took all these areas into considerations before accepting to embark on the sponsorship journey “At Satelite microfinance bank, we believe so much in empowering people, so when these great and intelligent young men approached us to sponsor this laudable project, we agreed to do it after going through its content with our board. For us, it’s a partnership and friendship that will last long and benefit both parties immensely.”
At the colourful unveiling, which held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, all those present unanimously hailed the producers for a job well done, after watching the pilot episode, which the producers, stated was just a tip of the iceberg.
Tagged: You Can’t Spell Jack (YCSJ), its creator and co-producer Mr. Eloka Anyafulu, disclosed that the laudable project was inspired by his desire to encourage learning among Nigerians, especially the youths.
Speaking at the recent unveiling, visibly elated Anyafulu, said “YCSJ, has been designed in such a way that viewers as well as participants will find it very interesting, exciting, entertaining and above all, very educational too. It’s a TV game show that took me years to conceive and conceptualize. My joy is that it’s a proudly and wholly Nigerian initiative. We intend exporting it to other parts of the globe, because of its unique nature, thus further helping to rebrand our great nation”.
Speaking further, Mr. Zik Zulu-Okafor, the co-producer of the game show, which is billed to hit network TV stations in early April 2010, promised that participants would win big money on the show when it eventually begins.
Okafor, a foremost filmmaker in Nollywood, further assured that YCSJ had been designed to run successfully the moment it takes off, adding that they were very capable of sustaining the programme on air, as well as redeeming prize money to lucky winners without hiccups. “YCSJ, is a totally different TV game show created by Nigerians, for Nigerians too. I can assure you that by the time we take off fully in the first quarter of next year, the whole Nigeria especially core TV viewers will be very proud of us. A whole lot of research has gone into this project and we have a very strong, reliable and highly focused team working on this project. It will further encourage learning on air as well as help families and their loved ones to properly relax, while watching it,” he posited.
Commenting on why his fast growing financial institution decided to solely sponsor the forthcoming show, Mr. Tony Ubogu, the CEO, Satelite Micro Finance Bank Limited, maintained that they saw a whole lots of potentials in the project, adding that he’s outfit would further help to empower millions of Nigerians by investing in the game show.
When prodded further on how strong his company is financially, towards powering the game show, especially in cases of multiple high-end winnings, Ubogu, confidentially assured that they took all these areas into considerations before accepting to embark on the sponsorship journey “At Satelite microfinance bank, we believe so much in empowering people, so when these great and intelligent young men approached us to sponsor this laudable project, we agreed to do it after going through its content with our board. For us, it’s a partnership and friendship that will last long and benefit both parties immensely.”
At the colourful unveiling, which held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, all those present unanimously hailed the producers for a job well done, after watching the pilot episode, which the producers, stated was just a tip of the iceberg.
Silent Scandals premieres amid glitz and grandeur
For all the Nollywood stars, celebrities and other VIPs that gracefully attended the world premiere of Silent Scandals, the big budget movie, penultimate Sunday, at the upscale Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos, one fact they unanimously agreed, was that it was painstakingly put together.
In fact, pretty Vivian Ejike and her very courteous team, paid attention to details while putting the glamorous and one stop premiere that wowed all, together.
Aside the expansive and beautifully decorated hall, purple, the colour of the lovely and memorable event, was conspicuously visible within and outside the venue.
Invited guests, who were splendidly garbed, also obeyed the dress code, by adding a touch of purple to their trendy attires.
Cocktails, canapés and champagnes flowed ceaselessly at the colourful premiere professionally anchored by leading actor and entertainer, Basorge Tariah Jar. Tariah, the honcho of Solid Stars Records, kept the guests reeling in unending laughter with his rich and mature jokes. He was later joined on stage by emerging comedienne, Helen Paul, who cracked many ribs with her bagful of jokes and jibes.
Diva Omawunmi and still recuperating Pop star, Paul Play Dairo, further propelled the fun-filled event to another level, with their electrifying performances, which were well-applauded by all. Obviously, the highpoint of the evening; was the fashion show put together by Zizi Cardow, where all the stars in the movie, cat-walked to the admiration of the thrilled guests.
In her brief welcome address, Vivian Ejike, thanked all for coming, promising that the evening would be a memorable one. And it was.
She further explained that Silent Scandals addresses the issues of love; loyalty and societal pressure as it negatively affects the lives of various individuals. “This movie is a true family drama, which critically mirrors the above issues as they affect the lives of everyday character in our society today”.
Also present at the premiere to support and felicitate with one of their own are: the national presidents of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Association of Movie Producers and the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Segun Arinze, Paul Obazele and Bond Emeruwa respectively.
The duo of Genevieve Nnaji, and Ghanaian import, Michel Majid, led the pack of stars in the riveting movie, due to begin daily showings at the Silverbird cinemas nationwide soon. Other acts include: Uche Jombo, Ebele Okaro, Christy Okonkwo and a host of others.
It would be recalled that the movie had earlier premiered in Ghana, to a packed audience, which included the who-is–who in that country’s entertainment circuit. According to an excited guest who graced the Lagos event. “This is the movie premiere of the year”.
In fact, pretty Vivian Ejike and her very courteous team, paid attention to details while putting the glamorous and one stop premiere that wowed all, together.
Aside the expansive and beautifully decorated hall, purple, the colour of the lovely and memorable event, was conspicuously visible within and outside the venue.
Invited guests, who were splendidly garbed, also obeyed the dress code, by adding a touch of purple to their trendy attires.
Cocktails, canapés and champagnes flowed ceaselessly at the colourful premiere professionally anchored by leading actor and entertainer, Basorge Tariah Jar. Tariah, the honcho of Solid Stars Records, kept the guests reeling in unending laughter with his rich and mature jokes. He was later joined on stage by emerging comedienne, Helen Paul, who cracked many ribs with her bagful of jokes and jibes.
Diva Omawunmi and still recuperating Pop star, Paul Play Dairo, further propelled the fun-filled event to another level, with their electrifying performances, which were well-applauded by all. Obviously, the highpoint of the evening; was the fashion show put together by Zizi Cardow, where all the stars in the movie, cat-walked to the admiration of the thrilled guests.
In her brief welcome address, Vivian Ejike, thanked all for coming, promising that the evening would be a memorable one. And it was.
She further explained that Silent Scandals addresses the issues of love; loyalty and societal pressure as it negatively affects the lives of various individuals. “This movie is a true family drama, which critically mirrors the above issues as they affect the lives of everyday character in our society today”.
Also present at the premiere to support and felicitate with one of their own are: the national presidents of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Association of Movie Producers and the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Segun Arinze, Paul Obazele and Bond Emeruwa respectively.
The duo of Genevieve Nnaji, and Ghanaian import, Michel Majid, led the pack of stars in the riveting movie, due to begin daily showings at the Silverbird cinemas nationwide soon. Other acts include: Uche Jombo, Ebele Okaro, Christy Okonkwo and a host of others.
It would be recalled that the movie had earlier premiered in Ghana, to a packed audience, which included the who-is–who in that country’s entertainment circuit. According to an excited guest who graced the Lagos event. “This is the movie premiere of the year”.
Brila FM takes the lead again
Celebration has not ceased at Brila FM, the sports and entertainment radio station. In fact, its owner and renowned sportscaster, Larry Izamoje, is very, very happy and proudly leading the celebration train.
Three of his ‘boys’ did him proud at the recently held Facebook Sports Presenters Awards.
Babafemi Raji, the presenter of the popular sports programme, Sports Machine on 88.9 Brila FM, was adjudged The Presenter of the Year. The young man, who joined Brila FM about a year ago and has sensationally copied Mr. Izamoje’s style of presentation very well, polled a total of 4007 votes, to smile home with the ultimate crown.
Osondu Ngwude, also of Brila FM, the presenter of Tomtom Players Scorecard, came third, with 2203 votes, at the tension-soaked event.
Interestingly, Bimbo Adeola, who clinched the second position, with a total of 2996 votes, also used to be with Brila FM until 2008, when he left.
We gathered that it’s been non-stop celebration at Brila FM, since the announcement was made public. The chairman of the pacesetting company, Mr. Larry Izamoje, was very up beat when we called him.
According to him, “we thank God for everything. Brila FM has come to stay and we will keep improving and improvising new ideas that will meet the demands of our teeming and daily increasing listeners."
Three of his ‘boys’ did him proud at the recently held Facebook Sports Presenters Awards.
Babafemi Raji, the presenter of the popular sports programme, Sports Machine on 88.9 Brila FM, was adjudged The Presenter of the Year. The young man, who joined Brila FM about a year ago and has sensationally copied Mr. Izamoje’s style of presentation very well, polled a total of 4007 votes, to smile home with the ultimate crown.
Osondu Ngwude, also of Brila FM, the presenter of Tomtom Players Scorecard, came third, with 2203 votes, at the tension-soaked event.
Interestingly, Bimbo Adeola, who clinched the second position, with a total of 2996 votes, also used to be with Brila FM until 2008, when he left.
We gathered that it’s been non-stop celebration at Brila FM, since the announcement was made public. The chairman of the pacesetting company, Mr. Larry Izamoje, was very up beat when we called him.
According to him, “we thank God for everything. Brila FM has come to stay and we will keep improving and improvising new ideas that will meet the demands of our teeming and daily increasing listeners."
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