Enyiocha, Elendu find life partners

Pic-Emeka Enyiocha, quitting Bachelorhood

Whao! The long list of bachelors and spinsters plying their trades in Nollywood is gradually decreasing. Well, meet the latest husband and wife in tinsel town. First on the list is Eastern Nigerian based actress, Uche Elendu. She has found true love in the arms of Walter Nku, and they recently tied the knot, the traditional way, in Isiukwuato, Abia State, on October 26, 2008, at Elendu’s family home. Interestingly too, in the same Isiukwuato axis, top actor and Nollywood hunk, Emeka Enyiocha, has finally found true and everlasting love in the cozy arms of a yet to be named lady. And their traditional wedding holds this November 1, at the lucky girl’s family home. Already, colleagues of both stars in Nollywood, have continued to make the double nuptials, the talk of the town.

Tony One Week set to rock Abuja

Abuja, the nation’s seat of power and government is currently poised to play host to Gyration master Tony One Week and pals, on the occasion of his tenth anniversary, as a complete and successful entertainer. Tagged: Tony One Week @ Ten, the grand finale of the two-day extravaganza, holding between November 15 and 16, climaxes at the upscale Transcorp Hilton Hotel. According to One Week, now permanently based in Abuja with his family, the event opens on November 15, at the Old Parade Ground, with several artistes performing in a show put together for him by Nigerian Breweries Plc. “The main show where ten comedians, musicians and Nollywood stars, would separately thrill the fun loving people of Abuja, especially my teeming fans, holds the next day at the Transcorp. We are also expecting several dignitaries from both the public and private sectors at the event”, disclosed the act, who is currently in the studios fine-tuning his latest effort.
Meanwhile, info at our disposal has it that One Week’s colleagues in Lagos, have concluded plans to further light up the event with their intimidating presence.

Censors board, NFC, AMAA, others shine @ Abuja film festival

Pic-Duker, Festival Director

No doubt, the fifth edition of the Abuja international film festival, has come and gone, however, what remains unarguable, is the fact that some corporate entities, in both the public and private sectors, added glitz and panache to the four-day event with their intimidating presence and support. Leading the pack of government parastatals with giant stands at the market section of the festival, was the Emeka Mba-led National Film and Videos Censors Board (NFVCB).
In fact, their stands and colourful banners, especially those announcing the newly introduced Framework Distribution Policy, were truly a sight to behold. Mr. Afolabi Adesanya and his entourage from the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), Peace Anyiam-Osigwe and her team from AMA Awards, as well as other corporate bodies, participated actively at the festival.
However, aside participating, the above bodies, also supported the festival with good will messages. Tagged: The Future of Nollywood, this year’s theme, according to Mr. Fidelis Duker, the Festival Director, was imperative because the future of Nollywood depends on all practitioners. “I am also of the view that they must show a genuine resolve, to chart a new course that will guarantee a bright future for the industry…”he posited.

Green and White groove still reverberates

Almost a week after, the Independence Day soiree jointly put together by Encomium, the Magazine and Awards Company in collaboration with Prime Time Entertainment, is still generating positive remarks and issues, especially among newsmakers within and outside our shores.
Aside the array of music and comedy stars that thrilled non-stop at the razzmatazz and fun filled evening of high net worth gathering, Nollywood stars, also added panache and poise with their presence. Of course, assorted foods and choice liquors flowed endlessly at the Harp Lager Beer powered prom.
Speaking on the significance of the star studded and gracefully attended ball, tagged; The Green and White Groove, Mr. Kunle Bakare, the amiable honcho of Encomium and style aficionado, explained that the essence was to celebrate Nigeria at 48. “If at this age, we cannot celebrate ourselves, nobody can do that for us. And by doing this, we are also showcasing the good aspects of our nation
to the world. This country belongs to all of us, and if we don’t help to reposition it, nobody will do that for us…” he explained.
Meanwhile, other elated guests that bared their minds to us, thanked the organizers, for staging a world-class birthday bash for Nigeria at Independence. They also looked forward to another scintillating and memorable outing next year.

Editors Note-Pix later

Joke Silva shines @ Project Fame

Pic-Silva is head, Fame Academy

Viewers, especially the teeming fans of veteran actress Joke Silva, are hailing her role as the Principal of the on going MTN sponsored Project Fame Academy. Most of the viewers who bared their minds to us, further praised the organizers of the wave-making event, for selecting Silva, as the head of the academy. In their views, her wealth of experience, as an accomplished entertainer, would further impact positively on the 15 housemates currently vying for honour and glory at the academy. “Joke is neither bossy nor arrogant, she treats the housemates like a true and loving mother, and has also boosted their confidence with advice and counseling. And this is what the housemates need, not a bossy and arrogant principal that would not bring out the best in his/her students. She should keep it up and also ensures that only the best gets the crown”, hinted one of her fans, in an sms sent to us.

Taribo West breezes into celebs hangout, O’jez

Pic-West in National team colours

Though, his intention was to quietly breeze into O’Jez, the highbrow celebrity joint tucked inside the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, incognito, but the sudden and heavy down pour, blew open the cover of ex international and Super Eagles defender, pastor Taribo West. West, who came in with few pals, was sighted and hailed by many while moving to the upper lounge of the hangout, in order to avoid being soaked by the rain.
Swathed in a coloured blazers suit, with his traditional wild hair style conspicuously missing, the Rivers State born ace footballer, no doubt, thoroughly enjoyed himself, before zooming off with his entourage.
We also spotted dandy politico and former governor of Ekiti State, Ayo Fayose. As usual, he sauntered in with his regular retinue of aides, and they all had a blast before leaving.

Stakeholders endorse Nollywood summit

Pic-John Odey, Information Minister

The postponed international summit of the Movie Reporters’ Guild of Nigeria, MORGON, tagged Nollywood Our Nollywood, will now hold elaborately on Thursday, November 20, 2008 at the prestigious Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja, Lagos, with several dignitaries as Guests Speakers.
The General Secretary of the body, Mr. Chibueze Okereke, in a recent press statement explained that the Nollywood summit is among other plans being put in place by MORGON to reposition the thriving nation’s movie industry globally called Nollywood.
“MORGON was established in the first place to assist in the repositioning process of Nollywood, after the postponement of the earlier date, which was as a result of some technical hitches, the executives recently came together and agreed on the new date.”
Okereke, further described movie reporters and Nollywood practitioners as “partners in progress,” adding that the forthcoming event would be the biggest in Nollywood.
Among dignitaries already billed to deliver topical papers at the historic summit are: Mr. John Odey, the Minister of Information and Communication, Mr. Afolabi Adesanya, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation, Mr. Emeka Mba, the Director General of the National Film and Video Censors Board and renowned businessman, politician and academic Prof. Pat Utomi. Coming from the UK to also deliver thought provoking papers at the summit are the duo of Kene Mkparu, the first black General Manager of Odeon chain of Cinemas and Magnus Mbanu, a BBC trained film maker alongside Marc Wishengrad, a leading Hollywood filmmaker, coming from the US. Meanwhile, Mr, Andrien Gbinigie, the CEO of Atlantic Overseas and the Life Patron of MORGON, would be the Special Guest of Honour, at the grand gathering.
President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, popular actor Ejike Asiegbu, alongside the Nigerian Film Corporation and the National Film and Video Censors Board, in separate letters to MORGON, have all endorsed the forthcoming event, which is currently the talk of the town in tinsel town.

Imo film festival set to take off

Having contributed so much to the growth of Nollywood, as a scriptwriter and director, youthful Chimaobim Okoroji, is now set and ready to host the first ever Imo International Film Festival, early 2009. And in order to ensure a hitch free outing, Okoroji, a proud son of Imo State and his crew at Amgrove Production, are already working round the clock.
Highlighting the importance of the forthcoming festival, Okoroji, argued that it would impact positively on the socio-cultural landscape of Imo and the nation in general.
He further stated that it would provide employment, assist in the reduction of youth restiveness and above all, enhance tourism potentials in the state. Shedding more light, Okoroji, who is also the Festival Director, said lectures, seminars, exhibitions, marketing initiatives, screenings, arts and craft, would all be part of the activities lined up for the event.

Pic-Ohakim


“There will be the shoot and unveiling of a world class documentary on Imo State and its very rich and robust cultural heritage. All these are geared towards unlocking the huge investments potentials in Imo State, in the areas of arts, tourism and culture.”
Meanwhile, Okoroji, is also calling on both the public and private sectors to support and buy into this global project, holding at the Concorde Hotel, Owerri.

Mokeme, Edozieh, X-Project, others storm US

Pic-Oby Edozieh

As you are reading this, some notable names in Nollywood are already on a two weeks tour of the US.
Headlining the trip, which would see these stars traversing several states in the US are the duo of Chidi ‘GQ’ Mokeme and Oby Edozieh. Others on the bill are; Yemi Fash-Lanso, X-Project, Remi Abiola Saidi Balogun, Murphy Afolabi and Muyiwa Ademola.
The singing trio of X- Project, is the only musician on the trip, being powered by Otunba Tai Balofin, the honcho of New Deal international.
In a brief chat with us, prior to their departure aboard Delta Airlines, Miss Edozieh, disclosed that they were traveling to unveil the new Nigerian Hall of Fame in the US, after which, they would embark on a musical/movie tour. “We are kick starting this tour from New York, immediately after the unveiling of the Hall of Fame, we would also have an autograph signing sessions with our teeming fans”, Edozieh enthused.
Also speaking, Mr. Mokeme, further added that the trip would afford them the opportunity of telling the true story of Nollywood to the world.

Naijas’ angry over Uti’s eviction from BBA

Pic-Uti Nwachukwu

A cross section of Nigerians, especially the diehard Uti fans, are currently not happy with the last weekend eviction of Uti, the only Nigerian at the on going Big Brother Africa reality TV show contest.
Aside their seething anger laced with disappointments, these fans are also alleging high-wired blackmail and orchestrated set up, by the event’s organizers. In one of their numerous sms, that was made available to us, the embittered group operating under the aegis of: www.utifans, are calling for a nationwide protest and boycott of the programme on cable TV.
“Is it fair to call this show Big Brother Africa, when Southern African countries out numbers their West African counterparts, yet, we are the highest sponsors of the show, is it fair?”, asked Chinny Ahaneku, an angry fan.

Ohakim rocks the Coliseum, appoints Bakassi aide

Pic-Gov Ohakim

Imo governor, Ikedi Ohakim, was formally hosted at the Niteshift Coliseum’s high profile Grand House Reception, over the weekend alongside his amiable wife. A large entourage accompanied the honcho of Imo state, to the colourful and star-studded gathering, and they include: commissioners, top dignitaries and a retinue of aides. As usual, the tough talking helmsman, who obviously had fun at the event, fielded questions from both the patrons of the upscale hang out, as well as members of the public.
And to prove that he is abreast with developments in his domain, Ohakim, painstakingly and confidently answered all questions with corresponding facts and figures. He even took a swipe at those he described as enemies of the state and further promised to carry on with his good works, without fear or favour. Ohakim, who was swathed in white and black attire, was also inducted into the club, as a Platinum card carrying member.

Pic-Comedian Bakassi

The governor, who did the celebrity steps with his wife, on the well - lit dance floor, to the consternation of all, openly announced the immediate appointment of top comedian and entertainer, OKB, formerly known as Okey Bakassi, as his Executive Assistant, on Entertainment Matters.
Meanwhile, in his brief remarks, Ken Calebs Olumese, the Guvnor of the Niteshift Coliseum, thanked Ohakim for coming and further urged him, not to relent in his good works for the people of Imo State, especially now that he has become the club’s ambassador.

Spider, new network soap hits the airwaves

Pic-Actor, Femi Branch stars in Spy

Lovers of quality TV soaps, who have been yearning for some thing different on the saturated airwaves, should get ready for Spider, a new, exciting and refreshingly different soap opera on network TV stations. From the reputable stable of Apreel Ventures limited, the star studded make believe work of art, is expected to come on air in the next couple of weeks, starting with DAAR Communications, owners and operators of AIT.
Painstakingly directed by the trio of Pat Oghre, Kingsley Omo-Efe and Charles Inojie, the production, according to its producer and executive producer, Ariyike Oladipo, is a complete family programme, written and produced to entertain, educate, inform and to further help the family to relax. “Aside being a complete family programme that has been designed to come on air thrice in a week on different network stations, Spider, will also be a reference point on TV. We already have 52 arresting and suspense filled episodes ready for lovers of quality soaps on air to view.” Oladipo hinted.
Speaking further, Lakemfa Jones, the Production Manager of the big budget work, also disclosed that the soap tells the story of four very successful persons from diverse backgrounds and how an unending web of betrayal, seduction, deception, rivalry, intrigues and revenge tore them apart. Among the leading names that sparkled in the soap are:Akin Lewis, Femi Branch, Ronnie Dikko, Memuna Abaji, Thelma Okoduwa, Dare Fasasi, Chinyere Nwabueze, Jaiye Kuti and a host of others.

Faze rules with Originality

Pic-Faze
Since 1995, when he hit the nation’s music scene like a thunder, Oji Chibuzor Richard, famously known as Faze, has not stopped dazzling and churning out hit numbers. In fact, after the successes recorded with the release of Faze Alone and Independent, his two previous works, he recently launched his third and latest effort, on his own label. Entitled Originality, the new work that is gradually penetrating the airwaves and repositioning Faze, as a force to reckon with, is loaded with songs like: Originality, Leaders of Tomorrow, Hold You, I’m in love, Story of my life and several others. At the well attended and very colourful unveiling, which held over the weekend at Planet One, Maryland, Lagos, Faze and several of his colleagues’ thrilled fans with good music. However, the conspicuous absence of Tuface Idibia, his erstwhile pal and singing partner, raised an unanswered question at the party, especially among their crew.

At Vivian Ejike’s old school soiree

As part of the activities marking Nigeria’s Independence, leading female film producer and former top banker Vivian Ejike, organized a one stop party that was graced by virtually all the big names in Nollywood.
The high-octane soiree, which held over the weekend at the upscale Oceanview restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos, had choice foods and wines flowing endlessly from all the corners of the jam-packed hall. And several Nollywood stars present alongside their Island counterparts, thoroughly enjoyed themselves with good old-school music, on the dance floor. The prom, which lasted till the wee hours of the following morning, also featured wacky attires from some of the guests. Speaking on why she organized the classy bash, pretty Ejike, whose latest flick, When the heart lies, is due for a nationwide release soon, had this to say: “Since life is short and definitely needs some spicing up, I just felt it should be nice for us to come together and groove, especially at Independence…”she enthused.

Editors note-Pics coming soon

Project Fame academy opens with 15 finalists

Whao! The big and long awaited stage is now set for the lucky 15 finalists that recently made it to the keenly contested academy of the MTN sponsored Project Fame West Africa, to slug it out for the ultimate crown and its attendant pecks.
The 15 raw talents were recently short listed at a very colourful and razzmatazz-filled show, put together to officially announce their final auditioning and the commencement of their 10 weeks stay in the academy.

Pic-Femi Aderibigbe aka Kwame is one of the judges

According to the organizers and judges, 12 out of the 18 contestants secured automatic entry into the house, based on their outstanding previous performances in all the auditioning and the final heat show, which preceded the gala nite.
While the other six, were placed on probation and made to perform in the presence of a live audience, in order to vie for the last three slots.
At the end of their wondrous performances, the judges, made up of: Kwame, TeeY and Bibi Brew, carefully chose, Joseph Ankra, Hernette and Bisola, to the admiration of the cheering crowd.
Gongo Aso crooner, 9ice, and rising comedian, Omo Baba, further lit up the show with their electrifying acts alongside the celebrated Spirit Of David dance crew. The other finalists that made it to the academy include: Mbok Nyangya, Dorcas Yeboah, Supreye, Caroline Agbonlahor, Joseph Sarfu and Praise Adejo. The remaining lucky housemates are: Wilmot Banmore, Benedicta Ebute, Ijeoma Adeze, Onyemaechi Offor, Brenda Williams and Betty.
A lifetime fortune, which includes a Toyota Rav4 SUV and the sum of 2.5 million Naira, awaits the ultimate winner. Other mouthwatering Xtracool packages would also be dished out to the other runners up.
Meanwhile, top Nollywood actress, Joke Silva, has been appointed the Principal of the academy. She is expected to tutor the contestants on the various aspects of stardom and how to manage it effectively.