After a very successful outing last year at the AMP Week, the organizers have decided to re-brand, rename and completely change the concept of this year’s event. They have therefore, come up with what will henceforth be known as the AMP/Eko International Film Festival, in collaboration with the Lagos State government. According to Mr. Paul Obazele, the national president of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), the body powering and packaging the festival, “Film, The Catalyst For Change: Positive,” has been chosen as the theme of this year’s event.
Speaking further on the objectives of the festival, Obazele, argued that it would definitely bring about behavioural change, with respect to motion picture issues: “Especially, the micro issues in motion picture, distributing and marketing. It will also help to effectively communicate film values and its impact on our tradition. It will assist immensely in the dissemination of information on emerging and new technologies that would ensure effective piracy management. It will also be a medium for operators in the film industry to promote their products and services. Lastly, this festival will create employment opportunities for the youths”, he posited.
While shedding more light on the motivating factors behind the coming festival, the Chairman of its Business Committee section, Mr. Fred Amata, maintained that the absence of any such festival that promotes the culture and values of the people of Lagos, to the outside world, through Nollywood, was one of the reasons for their coming on board. He further added that the growing awareness about Nollywood and its effect on the image of Nigeria to the outside world was another motivating factor. “You cannot rule out the importance of film, in the re-branding of Nigeria. Again, the prevalence of HIV infection, unhygienic practices and moral decadence among youths, can be reduced through films, which is a vehicle for communication and change,” explained Amata, a leading actor/filmmaker in Nollywood.
Also speaking, Mr. Emeka Ossai, a top actor and the Chairman of the Media Committee of the festival, disclosed that it would run for four days.
“National theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, has been chosen as the venue of this year’s festival. It begins on November 24 and ends on 27. We chose Lagos because of its strategic position. I can assure you that it will be comparable to other international film festivals globally. It will involve issues of interest, spotlights, interviews, presentations, movie screenings, awards and many more. Although, the language of communication is English and may be, Yoruba, so as to reach majority of the audience that will be attending”, Ossai stated.
Meanwhile, all the notable guilds in Nollywood, including the Movie Reporters Guild of Nigeria (MORGON), have all endorsed and pledged their support for the coming festival, which is currently serenading Tinsel town.
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Tuesday, October 27, 2009
More support for MTN Nigerian Music Fest
To further raise the stakes for the forthcoming MTN Nigerian Music Festival, Terra Kulture, a Nigerian cultural outfit that promotes the richness and diversity of Nigerian languages, arts and culture has thrown its weight behind the event.
The company, widely regarded as the home of exotic antiques and entertainment, will be adding pep and spice to the event when it hosts music icons to an evening of royal retreat as a prelude to the epoch festival billed for November 21, 2009, at the Ocean View Plaza, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Terra Kulture is a good company in promoting Nigeria’s musical heritage through the MTN Nigerian Music Festival, a celebration of Nigeria’s blockbuster songs and their crooners of over five decades. Apart from MTN Nigeria, the title sponsor, the other sponsor is Skye Bank Plc.
Legendary Nigerian music ambassadors including, Sir Victor Uwaifo and Pa Fatai Rolling Dollar, as well as Christy Essien Igbokwe, Sir Shina Peters, Weird MC, Obesere, Faze and Olu Maintain would be hosted to an evening of exclusive dinner, dance and wine at the Terra Kulture. Also gracing the event are representatives of MTN Nigeria, Skye Bank, Ruyi Communications Limited, media professionals and a few other participants of the MTN Nigerian Music Fest project.
Current chart bursting artistes, namely MI, Wande Coal, Terry G and J Martins have also been signed on to perform at the festival in Lagos. Also included on the list of ground-shakers for the day is Evi Edna-Ogoli, the sonorous singer and popular act in the 1980s and 1990s. She flies in from France to join other artistes to celebrate their own works.
Also, Island Limousine, a car hire company, has also indicated interest to partner with Ruyi Communications to make the show glitzy and memorable. The company is dedicating two Hummer limousines to convey performing artistes from their hotels to Ocean View Plaza, venue of the Lagos edition of the MTN Nigerian Music Festival.
As the date draws nearer, MTN Nigerian Music Fest gets bigger and better with various individuals, artistes and corporate entities jostling to be part of it. Tickets are available at selected Skye Bank branches in Lagos and MTN Nigerian Music Fest train located at strategic neighbourhoods around the city. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.nigerianmusicfest.com.
The company, widely regarded as the home of exotic antiques and entertainment, will be adding pep and spice to the event when it hosts music icons to an evening of royal retreat as a prelude to the epoch festival billed for November 21, 2009, at the Ocean View Plaza, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Terra Kulture is a good company in promoting Nigeria’s musical heritage through the MTN Nigerian Music Festival, a celebration of Nigeria’s blockbuster songs and their crooners of over five decades. Apart from MTN Nigeria, the title sponsor, the other sponsor is Skye Bank Plc.
Legendary Nigerian music ambassadors including, Sir Victor Uwaifo and Pa Fatai Rolling Dollar, as well as Christy Essien Igbokwe, Sir Shina Peters, Weird MC, Obesere, Faze and Olu Maintain would be hosted to an evening of exclusive dinner, dance and wine at the Terra Kulture. Also gracing the event are representatives of MTN Nigeria, Skye Bank, Ruyi Communications Limited, media professionals and a few other participants of the MTN Nigerian Music Fest project.
Current chart bursting artistes, namely MI, Wande Coal, Terry G and J Martins have also been signed on to perform at the festival in Lagos. Also included on the list of ground-shakers for the day is Evi Edna-Ogoli, the sonorous singer and popular act in the 1980s and 1990s. She flies in from France to join other artistes to celebrate their own works.
Also, Island Limousine, a car hire company, has also indicated interest to partner with Ruyi Communications to make the show glitzy and memorable. The company is dedicating two Hummer limousines to convey performing artistes from their hotels to Ocean View Plaza, venue of the Lagos edition of the MTN Nigerian Music Festival.
As the date draws nearer, MTN Nigerian Music Fest gets bigger and better with various individuals, artistes and corporate entities jostling to be part of it. Tickets are available at selected Skye Bank branches in Lagos and MTN Nigerian Music Fest train located at strategic neighbourhoods around the city. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.nigerianmusicfest.com.
MC Pato ready to rule
Barely four years in the comedy world, Patrick IK Onyekaba better known as MC Pato, has been consistently carving a niche for himself. Although, he originally trained as a medical laboratory scientist, little wonder he calls himself the passionate humorist. Pato is also an entertainer par excellence; a motivational speaker; an educationist, a poet and a ‘compulsive’ comedian with a quixotic sense of humour, renowned motivational speakers and top-rated comedians have endorsed him as The Motivational Comedian of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (MCFRN).
According to Pato, he’s “the sage that uses his page to cage the rage and outrage of the populace in psychological bondage including, those at old age despite the shortage of minimum wage; that’s why I’m comedy’s total package”.
He has anchored and performed at several big events and has also featured on TV/radio programmes like: Laugh Patterns; Music Africa Comedy Slot, Laffmatazz, Laff Café and a host of others.
As a budding actor, he has also done cameo roles in movies such as: My Guy 2 and Midnite Blues
According to Pato, he’s “the sage that uses his page to cage the rage and outrage of the populace in psychological bondage including, those at old age despite the shortage of minimum wage; that’s why I’m comedy’s total package”.
He has anchored and performed at several big events and has also featured on TV/radio programmes like: Laugh Patterns; Music Africa Comedy Slot, Laffmatazz, Laff Café and a host of others.
As a budding actor, he has also done cameo roles in movies such as: My Guy 2 and Midnite Blues
Queen Bebra rocks with new album
No doubt, she’s got a sonorous voice that comes with a deft and powerful delivery each time she romances the microphone. Miss Blessing, otherwise known as Queen Bebra has come a long way in music and all this experience, she has brought to bear in her debut album, entitled; Lubulubu.
Queen Bebra who hails from Imo State is under the management of Truetalent Africa Records, the record label that discovered and produced Buga, a few years ago.
An Economic graduate of the Lagos State University, Queen Bebra has grown even more ambitious than her contemporaries, sponsors and teeming supporters would ever imagined; so much that she’s been in high demand at both local and international concerts before the release of her debut album.
She‘s not alien to stardom, she’s the lead female voice in Buga’s album and Wale Tekoma’s Expensive Boy album released under Truetalent Africa Records, Lagos.
Her debut album, which will hit the market in few weeks from now, caters for everyone and its laden with hip hop fusion. Tracks like “Lubulubu”, “Mama Africa”, ”D Guy is Mine” featuring Yinka Davis and “Enu won L’efa, are all good for listening pleasures.
Her record and management company, Truetalent, is widely represented in Nigeria, Dublin, Atlanta and London
Queen Bebra who hails from Imo State is under the management of Truetalent Africa Records, the record label that discovered and produced Buga, a few years ago.
An Economic graduate of the Lagos State University, Queen Bebra has grown even more ambitious than her contemporaries, sponsors and teeming supporters would ever imagined; so much that she’s been in high demand at both local and international concerts before the release of her debut album.
She‘s not alien to stardom, she’s the lead female voice in Buga’s album and Wale Tekoma’s Expensive Boy album released under Truetalent Africa Records, Lagos.
Her debut album, which will hit the market in few weeks from now, caters for everyone and its laden with hip hop fusion. Tracks like “Lubulubu”, “Mama Africa”, ”D Guy is Mine” featuring Yinka Davis and “Enu won L’efa, are all good for listening pleasures.
Her record and management company, Truetalent, is widely represented in Nigeria, Dublin, Atlanta and London
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Vivian Ejike hits location again
With the rate at which she’s currently going, leading female filmmaker and the CEO of Purple Pine productions, Vivian Ejike will definitely cart home the award for the busiest female film producer at the end of the year. Just few months, after completing work on her yet to be released big budget movie-Silent Scandal, workaholic Ejike and her crew have gone back to set, lensing another thriller. In fact, the effervescent filmmaker who’s currently lensing at some choice locations within the Lagos metropolis disclosed that the flick would definitely raise the bar within and outside Nollywood. Her good pal, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, is the lead act; while Ngozi Ezeonu and some popular thespians from neighbouring Ghana also made the intimidating cast list. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, the multiple award winning film director with over 200 movies to his credit, is the one calling the shots. According to pretty Ejike, a former top banker, the production is expected to come to an end this weekend, with an after party for the cast and crewmembers. The new movie, which is expected to hit shelves nationwide, before the end of the year, is yet to be entitled. Keep a date with us for an update on the flick.
Emem Isong to premiere two Nollywood blockbusters
Respected and frontline female filmmaker, Emem Isong, has concluded plans to premiere two scintillating and electrifying Nollywood movies, same day, under one star-studded roof.
Sensationally entitled: Guilty Pleasures and Nollywood Hustlers respectively, Isong jointly shot both big budget productions with the acting duo of Desmond Elliot and Uche Jombo.
While the duo of Desmond Elliot and Daniel Ademinokan co-directed Guilty Pleasures, dreadlocks donning Moses Inwang, directed Nollywood Hustlers.
According to Isong, whose Royal Arts Academy is packaging and promoting the two-in-one premiere; it is expected to hold soon in both Lagos and Abuja respectively amid razzmatazz and glitz.
“Its definitely going to be great on the D-Day. Imagine two box office movies sensationally billed to premiere same day, under one roof with all the Nollywood stars and many more in attendance. In fact, we have already dubbed it: Nollywood Superstars, One Big Premiere.” Isong, whose Royal Arts Academy is expected to kick off soon, further promised that the acting school, would definitely bridge the gap between stars and emerging stars in Nollywood.
“This academy, which will serve as a proper training ground for intending actors and actresses in Nollywood, is taking off soon. We have concluded all arrangements. Nigerians, especially the entertainment community will be very proud of us when it becomes fully operational very soon”, Isong assured.
Leading the pack of stars that thrilled endlessly in Nollywood Hustler, a hilarious comic movie was: Uche Jombo. She was ably supported by other great thespians like: Ejike Asiegbu, Ramsey Noah, Monalisa Chinda, Charles Inojie, Susan Peters and a host of others.
For Guilty Pleasures, which is thematically centred on love and betrayal, the trio of Ramsey Noah, Nse Ikpe Etim and Majid Macheal, spearheaded the thespians onslaught.
Others include: Mercy Johnson, Omoni Oboli, Rukky Sanda and several other emerging starlets.
Sensationally entitled: Guilty Pleasures and Nollywood Hustlers respectively, Isong jointly shot both big budget productions with the acting duo of Desmond Elliot and Uche Jombo.
While the duo of Desmond Elliot and Daniel Ademinokan co-directed Guilty Pleasures, dreadlocks donning Moses Inwang, directed Nollywood Hustlers.
According to Isong, whose Royal Arts Academy is packaging and promoting the two-in-one premiere; it is expected to hold soon in both Lagos and Abuja respectively amid razzmatazz and glitz.
“Its definitely going to be great on the D-Day. Imagine two box office movies sensationally billed to premiere same day, under one roof with all the Nollywood stars and many more in attendance. In fact, we have already dubbed it: Nollywood Superstars, One Big Premiere.” Isong, whose Royal Arts Academy is expected to kick off soon, further promised that the acting school, would definitely bridge the gap between stars and emerging stars in Nollywood.
“This academy, which will serve as a proper training ground for intending actors and actresses in Nollywood, is taking off soon. We have concluded all arrangements. Nigerians, especially the entertainment community will be very proud of us when it becomes fully operational very soon”, Isong assured.
Leading the pack of stars that thrilled endlessly in Nollywood Hustler, a hilarious comic movie was: Uche Jombo. She was ably supported by other great thespians like: Ejike Asiegbu, Ramsey Noah, Monalisa Chinda, Charles Inojie, Susan Peters and a host of others.
For Guilty Pleasures, which is thematically centred on love and betrayal, the trio of Ramsey Noah, Nse Ikpe Etim and Majid Macheal, spearheaded the thespians onslaught.
Others include: Mercy Johnson, Omoni Oboli, Rukky Sanda and several other emerging starlets.
Orange Drugs splashes millions on pageant
All is now set for this year’s Miss Delta Soap beauty pageant powered by Orange Drugs group. According to the organizers, the lucky damsels who won the March, April, May and June contests also will be presented with their cash prizes on Wednesday, October 14, 2009.The cash presentation will take place at Orange drugs headquarters’ at Ilupeju, Lagos. The beauty event, which kicked off on July 1, 2008, has generated positive accolades from beautiful young girls who saw it as an opportunity to display their good skins that have been enhanced by Delta Soap. Expectations are already high for the cash presentation, which will be the last before the grand finale of the prestigious Miss Delta Soap 2009, Competition.
The Miss Delta Soap Queen Beauty pageant has been on for so many years with the aim of promoting Delta soap brands and most importantly, assisting young ladies to enhance their beauty with the soap. Delta Soap Girl of the month attracts a prize of N150, 000, while the first runner up goes home with N100,000 and the second runner-up collects N50, 000. The star prize for the grand finale is a BMW 3 series (2009 model), N2.5 million (cash), 10,000 USD, shopping trip over seas, first runner up will get N1.5million, second runner will smile home with N1.0Million, the third runner up in the competition will win N500,000 while the fourth runner up will get a consolation cash of N250,000.
The Miss Delta Soap Queen Beauty pageant has been on for so many years with the aim of promoting Delta soap brands and most importantly, assisting young ladies to enhance their beauty with the soap. Delta Soap Girl of the month attracts a prize of N150, 000, while the first runner up goes home with N100,000 and the second runner-up collects N50, 000. The star prize for the grand finale is a BMW 3 series (2009 model), N2.5 million (cash), 10,000 USD, shopping trip over seas, first runner up will get N1.5million, second runner will smile home with N1.0Million, the third runner up in the competition will win N500,000 while the fourth runner up will get a consolation cash of N250,000.
Catherine Ruelle, cinema guru, to storm IONIFF
To further raise the bar of film festivals in Nigeria and make it compete favourably with others globally, the organizers of IONIFF, holding in Port Harcourt, has concluded plans to fly in one of the world’s most celebrated cinema experts based in Paris, France, Catherine Ruelle, as Artistic Director. Ruelle, producer of “Golden Camera” a programme on Cannes Festival TV, which portrays and interviews young filmmakers from all over the world, is billed to bring her wealth of experience to IONIFF, Port Harcourt 09, holding in the Rivers State capital from December 9 to 12, 2009.
Ruelle, who has been working in various capacities as President, Organizer or Committee Member of International Film Festivals in Paris, Cannes, Milan, and Geneva since 1979, has expressed her delight to be part of a festival that celebrates Nollywood which is a film industry she considers to be phenomenal given its growth over the years.
According to the organizers of IONIFF Port Harcourt 09, she’s coming to Nigeria with her wealth of experience at the international level to share with participants particularly Nollywood while at the same time learning from Nollywood on how best to tell the Nigerian story.
Valentine Charles, one of the organizers of the festival, said she was chosen because of her experience in film festivals especially as it pertains to the Black films. This deduction she said was drawn from the fact that in 1980, Ruelle, co-organized the first ever festival in Europe to celebrate Independent Black American Filmmakers and in 1984, founded the Association Racines, which produced its first edition of Racines International Film Festival at Centre Georges Pompidou, the most prestigious cultural centre in the French capital.
“As a result of her interest in black filmmaking, she became a part of the organization of Noir, Black, Negra, an artistic composition of film screenings, tales, music events and creation of an African village at Cannes Festival. In line with her black cinema knowledge, she created a special category called Raices Negras/ Black Roots at the French cinema festival in Cuba in 1999 and 2000.”
Valentine said Ruelle, also co-founded in partnership with the renowned Senegalese director Mahama Traore the special Djibril Diop Mambety prize at Cannes Festival and in 2008, was appointed Artistic Director of a Midsummer’s Night Dream Digital Film Festival in Paris till date. “This lady of creativity has also co-authored some great works such as UNESCO report about African cinema, a book about Brazilian Cinema, Cuban Cinema to name a few.”
Ruelle, who has been working in various capacities as President, Organizer or Committee Member of International Film Festivals in Paris, Cannes, Milan, and Geneva since 1979, has expressed her delight to be part of a festival that celebrates Nollywood which is a film industry she considers to be phenomenal given its growth over the years.
According to the organizers of IONIFF Port Harcourt 09, she’s coming to Nigeria with her wealth of experience at the international level to share with participants particularly Nollywood while at the same time learning from Nollywood on how best to tell the Nigerian story.
Valentine Charles, one of the organizers of the festival, said she was chosen because of her experience in film festivals especially as it pertains to the Black films. This deduction she said was drawn from the fact that in 1980, Ruelle, co-organized the first ever festival in Europe to celebrate Independent Black American Filmmakers and in 1984, founded the Association Racines, which produced its first edition of Racines International Film Festival at Centre Georges Pompidou, the most prestigious cultural centre in the French capital.
“As a result of her interest in black filmmaking, she became a part of the organization of Noir, Black, Negra, an artistic composition of film screenings, tales, music events and creation of an African village at Cannes Festival. In line with her black cinema knowledge, she created a special category called Raices Negras/ Black Roots at the French cinema festival in Cuba in 1999 and 2000.”
Valentine said Ruelle, also co-founded in partnership with the renowned Senegalese director Mahama Traore the special Djibril Diop Mambety prize at Cannes Festival and in 2008, was appointed Artistic Director of a Midsummer’s Night Dream Digital Film Festival in Paris till date. “This lady of creativity has also co-authored some great works such as UNESCO report about African cinema, a book about Brazilian Cinema, Cuban Cinema to name a few.”
WWTBAM gallops into season 6
Imagine how time flies! Who Wants To Be A Millionaire (WWTBAM), the MTN Nigeria sponsored TV game show has clocked six. And to further make it one of the leading shows on air, the organizers have pledged to add more excitement and informative questions to the new edition.
While addressing the audience at a dinner organised to launch the sixth season of the TV Show, the General Manager, Consumer Marketing, MTN Nigeria, MTN Kola Oyeyemi said that the organization is set to make several improvements that were bound to make the show highly educative and thrilling.
“I can assure viewers and followers of the Who Wants To Be A Millionaire TV Show that this season will be much more interesting because several improvements have been made to ensure that they enjoy every aspect of the show and there are more ways by which interested followers of the show can participate and win”
Speaking on what to expect in the new season, Mr. Oyeyemi noted that as the new season of the show commences, more emphasis would be on empowering Nigerians financially and intellectually. This he explained, would make positive impact on the lives of not just the winners but also scores of their family members and friends, which is a way of moving the customers ahead”.
Over the years, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire TV Show has largely achieved the ancillary objective of educating the viewing masses in a very entertaining manner. Its consistence over the period has made it a major attraction to audience, who look forward to it as a medium for self-appraisal educationally and knowledge acquisition.
While sponsorship by MTN Nigeria took effect in 2006, the TV show started showing in Nigeria in 2004, and Nigeria is the 104th country to host the internationally acclaimed programme. With the involvement of MTN, the show was repackaged and re-launched. And as part of the new package, the maximum prize per edition was increased from five million Naira to ten million Naira, which recently, was won by Mr. Aroma Ufodike
While addressing the audience at a dinner organised to launch the sixth season of the TV Show, the General Manager, Consumer Marketing, MTN Nigeria, MTN Kola Oyeyemi said that the organization is set to make several improvements that were bound to make the show highly educative and thrilling.
“I can assure viewers and followers of the Who Wants To Be A Millionaire TV Show that this season will be much more interesting because several improvements have been made to ensure that they enjoy every aspect of the show and there are more ways by which interested followers of the show can participate and win”
Speaking on what to expect in the new season, Mr. Oyeyemi noted that as the new season of the show commences, more emphasis would be on empowering Nigerians financially and intellectually. This he explained, would make positive impact on the lives of not just the winners but also scores of their family members and friends, which is a way of moving the customers ahead”.
Over the years, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire TV Show has largely achieved the ancillary objective of educating the viewing masses in a very entertaining manner. Its consistence over the period has made it a major attraction to audience, who look forward to it as a medium for self-appraisal educationally and knowledge acquisition.
While sponsorship by MTN Nigeria took effect in 2006, the TV show started showing in Nigeria in 2004, and Nigeria is the 104th country to host the internationally acclaimed programme. With the involvement of MTN, the show was repackaged and re-launched. And as part of the new package, the maximum prize per edition was increased from five million Naira to ten million Naira, which recently, was won by Mr. Aroma Ufodike
Monday, October 5, 2009
PF winner, Mike Anyasodo still celebrating
Few days after winning the grand prize in the keenly contested season two of the annual Project Fame West Africa Music Talent Hunt Reality Show, Mike Anyasodo, the self-acclaimed “Swagger Master”, is still celebrating, rejoicing and partying with pals and well wishers.
The talented singer won the show during the grand finale, which held amid thrills and ovations on Sunday, September 27, 2009 at the Ultima Studio, by polling more votes from viewers across West Africa. He beat other finalists like: Nicholas Builgar, Tomiwa Sangonuga, Krimi Johnson and Madonna Robinson to walk home with the prize money of N2.5 million, a Toyota RAV 4 and a one year recording contract.
Builgar, the Liberian born first runner-up, won N1.5million and a Toyota Corolla, Sangonuga, the second runner-up, smiled home with N1million and a Toyota Yaris, while Johnson, the third runner-up got N1million.
Anyasodo, whose excitement knew no bound after being declared winner of the show, expressed delight at emerging the overall winner of the life changing hunt. While still basking in the euphoria of emerging victorious, he publicly declared that winning the show was the greatest thing that has happened to him.
The 26-year-old undergraduate of Ambose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, has been a very strong contender in the Project Fame Academy, and his talent and vocal dexterity had experienced a remarkable fine-tuning under the guidance and coaching of the Academy’s instructors. It would be recalled that the second season of the MTN Project Fame West Africa started with the opening Gala show on July 19, 2009, with 15 talented contestants selected from various regional auditions across West Africa, and admitted into the academy, where they were camped for 10 weeks and groomed in the various aspects of musical performances and other elements of stardom.
They were later reduced to five finalists following the several weekly live contests, which saw the eviction of 10 contestants.
The grand finale was filled with various exciting activities, including musical performances from popular artistes like: DJ Zeez, winner of the maiden edition of MTN Project Fame West Africa, Iyanya Mbuk, as well as stunning performances by the 15 contestants.
The talented singer won the show during the grand finale, which held amid thrills and ovations on Sunday, September 27, 2009 at the Ultima Studio, by polling more votes from viewers across West Africa. He beat other finalists like: Nicholas Builgar, Tomiwa Sangonuga, Krimi Johnson and Madonna Robinson to walk home with the prize money of N2.5 million, a Toyota RAV 4 and a one year recording contract.
Builgar, the Liberian born first runner-up, won N1.5million and a Toyota Corolla, Sangonuga, the second runner-up, smiled home with N1million and a Toyota Yaris, while Johnson, the third runner-up got N1million.
Anyasodo, whose excitement knew no bound after being declared winner of the show, expressed delight at emerging the overall winner of the life changing hunt. While still basking in the euphoria of emerging victorious, he publicly declared that winning the show was the greatest thing that has happened to him.
The 26-year-old undergraduate of Ambose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, has been a very strong contender in the Project Fame Academy, and his talent and vocal dexterity had experienced a remarkable fine-tuning under the guidance and coaching of the Academy’s instructors. It would be recalled that the second season of the MTN Project Fame West Africa started with the opening Gala show on July 19, 2009, with 15 talented contestants selected from various regional auditions across West Africa, and admitted into the academy, where they were camped for 10 weeks and groomed in the various aspects of musical performances and other elements of stardom.
They were later reduced to five finalists following the several weekly live contests, which saw the eviction of 10 contestants.
The grand finale was filled with various exciting activities, including musical performances from popular artistes like: DJ Zeez, winner of the maiden edition of MTN Project Fame West Africa, Iyanya Mbuk, as well as stunning performances by the 15 contestants.
Vickie thrills with Your Love
After several months of sleepless nights in the studios, Victoria Ladi Ekwu, better known as Vickie, is finally set to wow music buffs with her new gospel music video. Sensationally entitled “Your Love”, the inspirational work of praise is gradually and consistently penetrating the airwaves. The gospel artiste with a difference, unknown to many of her fans, is also an accountant. With an unquestionable love for music, Vickie started singing from a very young age, having been part of several church choirs, before going into music professionally. Currently a member of the House On The Rock choir in Lagos, her full album entitled 'Dance' has soul-lifting songs from different genres. The work further reflects her love for the African culture and tradition, which are evident in most of her forthcoming music videos.Other songs in the album include: Na wonder, dance, you are awesome, and Naija people.
New voice for Naija musicians
To further give voice to the fight against piracy and other unwholesome practices in the nation’s music industry, the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), recently appointed Miss Anjolaoluwa Ajayi, its Public Affairs Officer. Miss Ajayi who hails from Ekiti State is a graduate of linguistics and has had significant experience in radio and TV broadcasting.
In her new position, Miss Ajayi will play a significant role in ensuring that there is a cordial and professional relationship at all times between COSON, its licensees, the members of the society, the regulatory agencies and the general public. Miss Ajayi who has already assumed duties says that she is excited by the opportunity to be part of the COSON team that is set to reposition collective administration of copyright in Nigeria. She has appealed for the support of the media and creators of music all over Nigeria.
Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), the long awaited broad based national collective management organization for musical works and sound recordings, finally began operations on Thursday, September 24, 2009. At a midday event which held at Blue Pearl Hall, Toyin Street Ikeja, members of Performing & Mechanical Rights Society (PMRS), Nigeria’s first ever government approved collective management organization voted to collapse their society into COSON and to provide their structure for the take off of the new organization. Present at the occasion were many of the big wigs of the Nigerian Music Industry including Nigeria’s Queen of Soul, Onyeka Onwenu , Nigeria ’s oldest living active composer and performer, Fatai Rolling Dollar, Chief GAD Tabansi of Tabansi Publishing and Tabansi Records. Also present was celebrated music producer, Mr. Laolu Akins and representatives of evergreen song stars, Sir Victor Uwaifo (MON) and Evangelist Ebenezer Obey (MFR). The event was one of the major steps taken to actualize the resolve of the recently formed, Nigerian Music Industry Coalition to reposition the music industry, reduce bickering and ensure that the structures are working effectively and efficiently so that there is better return on investment for all stakeholders. Prior to the event, the Nigerian Music Industry Coalition had consulted widely and met with the regulatory agencies and the major organization of users after which the decision was taken that the industry must do whatever is possible to ensure the emergence of one strong collective management organization in which all right owners have a stake. It was as a result of these consultations that the decision was taken that urgent steps be made to bring about the formation of Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), which had long been agreed to by every major stakeholder organization in the industry.
In her new position, Miss Ajayi will play a significant role in ensuring that there is a cordial and professional relationship at all times between COSON, its licensees, the members of the society, the regulatory agencies and the general public. Miss Ajayi who has already assumed duties says that she is excited by the opportunity to be part of the COSON team that is set to reposition collective administration of copyright in Nigeria. She has appealed for the support of the media and creators of music all over Nigeria.
Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), the long awaited broad based national collective management organization for musical works and sound recordings, finally began operations on Thursday, September 24, 2009. At a midday event which held at Blue Pearl Hall, Toyin Street Ikeja, members of Performing & Mechanical Rights Society (PMRS), Nigeria’s first ever government approved collective management organization voted to collapse their society into COSON and to provide their structure for the take off of the new organization. Present at the occasion were many of the big wigs of the Nigerian Music Industry including Nigeria’s Queen of Soul, Onyeka Onwenu , Nigeria ’s oldest living active composer and performer, Fatai Rolling Dollar, Chief GAD Tabansi of Tabansi Publishing and Tabansi Records. Also present was celebrated music producer, Mr. Laolu Akins and representatives of evergreen song stars, Sir Victor Uwaifo (MON) and Evangelist Ebenezer Obey (MFR). The event was one of the major steps taken to actualize the resolve of the recently formed, Nigerian Music Industry Coalition to reposition the music industry, reduce bickering and ensure that the structures are working effectively and efficiently so that there is better return on investment for all stakeholders. Prior to the event, the Nigerian Music Industry Coalition had consulted widely and met with the regulatory agencies and the major organization of users after which the decision was taken that the industry must do whatever is possible to ensure the emergence of one strong collective management organization in which all right owners have a stake. It was as a result of these consultations that the decision was taken that urgent steps be made to bring about the formation of Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), which had long been agreed to by every major stakeholder organization in the industry.
Spring music unveils Idol
Idol, the fast emerging and versatile crooner has signed an enticing recording/management deal with Spring Production, owners of Spring Music. According to Mr. Justice Cletus, the honcho of the outfit with offices in Nigeria and Ghana, they are poised to help the up and coming act reposition and repackage his budding career. Cletus, who also doubles as Idol’s Artiste Manager, said the act is a very young and talented afro pop artiste with the exclusivity of composing very inspiring and motivating lyrics. In his maiden album dubbed, “Jump 4 Money” which would be launched soon in Lagos, he further revealed that the act has tracks like: Degbeme girls (promo track), Jump 4 money, Survival, Make me cry, Westside pool, and My daddy, which he performed at the funeral event of late chief Gani Fawehinmi, in Ondo state. Idol, we further learnt sings in genres like: R&B, Hip-Pop and Dance hall, to suit his discerning fans. A fusion of pure African melodies, rhythms and instruments were blended to make his songs exceptional from the usual trends available to music lovers within our society. Since the last few weeks both radio and television stations in Nigeria have been entertaining listeners and viewers alike with Idol’s promo single entitled: “Degbeme Girls”. Degbeme girls’ video is simply thrilling and second to none. Shot at different countries with diverse nationals from countries like: US, UK, India, Japan, Nigeria, Ghana, Benin Republic, Cote d’ Ivoire, Mali, Togo, Congo and others, some pundits have tagged this effort, “united nations video”. Interestingly, Idol has already shot seven musical videos out of his 12-tracker album. Degbeme girls is one of his sensational hip-pop tracks, celebrating the modern day lady; in-vogue with fashion, stylish in there every day’s activities and brilliant / smart in using the feminine strength at achieving their goals and desires in life. Idol also featured artistes like: P-Sean (Ghana), Ifeanyi Onyeabor and 2Cool, Spring music’s latest signed on artiste. Spring Music Productions Limited, is an all inclusive entertainment outfit that is best in offering services like: audio-visual productions, artiste / events management, publishing, advertising and products servicing. Jeremiah Chibuzor Njoku, better known as Idol in showbiz, hails from Aninri LGA of Enugu State. He was born on March 3, 1985.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Segun Arinze is new actors president
After several months of intense nationwide campaigns, top actor and leading entertainer, Segun Aina Padonou Arinze, finally emerged the new national president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), in a keenly contested general election.
The delegates’ election, which held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Tuesday, September 22, 2009, and was attended by 22 State Chapters, with over 250 delegates, saw Arinze, defeating another leading actor, Charles Awurum, to coast home to victory.
Reliably gathered that Arinze, polled a total of 93 votes, while Awurum, got 43. Other national officers who were elected at the very peaceful and well organized election were the duo of Chuma Onwudiwe and Abubakar Yakubu. They won the posts of Secretary General and Public Relations Officer, respectively. In the spirit of AGN and sportsmanship, Awurum, publicly conceded victory and congratulated Arinze, on his new job and office. According to Awurum, a former national officer of the AGN, “I lost in a very fair and transparent election, to a very dear brother and colleague.” In his words: “ I want to use this medium to say a very big congrats to my able president, Segun Arinze, for a well deserved victory. I wish him the best throughout his tenure in office, as the president of our great guild-AGN. I shall do everything within my powers to assist him take AGN, to the highest height. God bless AGN, our new president and Nigeria”. In a brief chat with us, elated Arinze, said he would carry everybody along for a bigger and better AGN. The new Executives were immediately sworn in amid celebrations and merriment.
The delegates’ election, which held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Tuesday, September 22, 2009, and was attended by 22 State Chapters, with over 250 delegates, saw Arinze, defeating another leading actor, Charles Awurum, to coast home to victory.
Reliably gathered that Arinze, polled a total of 93 votes, while Awurum, got 43. Other national officers who were elected at the very peaceful and well organized election were the duo of Chuma Onwudiwe and Abubakar Yakubu. They won the posts of Secretary General and Public Relations Officer, respectively. In the spirit of AGN and sportsmanship, Awurum, publicly conceded victory and congratulated Arinze, on his new job and office. According to Awurum, a former national officer of the AGN, “I lost in a very fair and transparent election, to a very dear brother and colleague.” In his words: “ I want to use this medium to say a very big congrats to my able president, Segun Arinze, for a well deserved victory. I wish him the best throughout his tenure in office, as the president of our great guild-AGN. I shall do everything within my powers to assist him take AGN, to the highest height. God bless AGN, our new president and Nigeria”. In a brief chat with us, elated Arinze, said he would carry everybody along for a bigger and better AGN. The new Executives were immediately sworn in amid celebrations and merriment.
Is Afikuyomi’s Sunborn yacht jinxed?
Observers, especially Lagosians and keen followers of events in the Centre of Excellence, are highly perturbed and even angry that the Sunborn Yacht Hotel, a brainchild of Senator Tokunboh Afikuyomi, the State’s Tourism Commissioner, is yet to take off, after a year plus.
They want Afikuyomi to immediately explain to Lagosians why the multi-million dollar yacht, is still wasting away at the Marina waterfront, close to Bonny Camp, since it was acquired, to further help boost tourism potentials in the State.
Most of those that spoke with Updates, are querying the rationale behind the flagrant use of tax payers money to invest in an elephant project, when such huge amount could have been better utilized in some other meaningful and people –oriented projects.
In fact, some have even alleged that Afikuyomi and his team happily went to buy a dilapidated and abandoned yacht with taxpayers’ funds, for solely selfish reasons.
Shockingly, another set of angry Lagosians, are calling on the State Government to quickly set up a panel of inquiry to look into the ‘misadventure’ called Sunborn Yacht Hotel. Their argument is premised on the fact that Lagosians are tired of waiting for the take off of the floating boat hotel. In fact, another pack of disappointed Lagosians want Afikuyomi to immediately return the embattled yacht from where it was bought, so that the millions already expended could be brought back and divested into other areas of the economy. Well, we are still patiently waiting for the day; the troubled and embattled yacht would eventually become operational, so that Afikuyomi and his team can shut up, all these irritants and critics forever. Just hope we aren’t waiting for Godot!
They want Afikuyomi to immediately explain to Lagosians why the multi-million dollar yacht, is still wasting away at the Marina waterfront, close to Bonny Camp, since it was acquired, to further help boost tourism potentials in the State.
Most of those that spoke with Updates, are querying the rationale behind the flagrant use of tax payers money to invest in an elephant project, when such huge amount could have been better utilized in some other meaningful and people –oriented projects.
In fact, some have even alleged that Afikuyomi and his team happily went to buy a dilapidated and abandoned yacht with taxpayers’ funds, for solely selfish reasons.
Shockingly, another set of angry Lagosians, are calling on the State Government to quickly set up a panel of inquiry to look into the ‘misadventure’ called Sunborn Yacht Hotel. Their argument is premised on the fact that Lagosians are tired of waiting for the take off of the floating boat hotel. In fact, another pack of disappointed Lagosians want Afikuyomi to immediately return the embattled yacht from where it was bought, so that the millions already expended could be brought back and divested into other areas of the economy. Well, we are still patiently waiting for the day; the troubled and embattled yacht would eventually become operational, so that Afikuyomi and his team can shut up, all these irritants and critics forever. Just hope we aren’t waiting for Godot!
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