TV girl, Toke Makinwa is fast becoming a style icon

Toke Makinwa, who recently bought herself a new ride, Range Rover Sport 2017, is definitely living the life just like a movie star. The TV host and author was in South Africa last week for another media tour, and all we see is how she keeps slaying! But the story is not about her media tour, which of course, was successful. Rather it's about the new statement she's making with her dress sense. The TV girl leaves one drooling on her Instagram page as he stares at her well contoured face, captivating photos and her new season designer dresses at her Wardrobe. She's indeed enjoying what life has bestowed upon her. And many are whispering that if she had known that her marriage failure would open varied doors for her, she probably would not have shed so much tears when it crashed like a pack of cards. She returned to the country weekend, with a hug and gratitude to her South African fans who showed her love, while her media tour lasted. “I'm extremely humbled by your kindness and I hope you all took something away from our night of conversation. It was all a dream. Thank you South Africa for opening your arms and hearts to me. Thank you for sharing your stories with me too. #OnBecominginSA was such a blessing! Back home and straight to work,” she wrote on her Instagram page. One can’t help but admire and envy the woman she has become since the publication of ‘On Becoming’.

TY Bello shares new stunning photos of actress Chika Ike

Nollywood actress Chika Ike looks extremely ravishing in her brand new portraits  released on Friday, June 30, by the celebrity photographer and singer, TY Bello.

The photo shoot which took place months ago was an interesting experience.  TY Bello recounts  how challenging it was, working with Chika despite her experience in the art of shooting top celebs.

The singer, who brought the Agege Bread-seller-turned-supermodel,Olajumoke Orisaguna to the limelight revealed that she stressed herself to make Chika Ike’s photos some of the most beautiful works she had ever done, hence the challenge.

From the photos we have seen, the photographer once again outdid herself, making Chika not just beautiful but angelic with a child-like kind of beauty and of course with the TY Bello signature!

Mother of poor Utibe who sang Davido’s “IF ” is dead

Poor Utibe who was said to have sang Davido’s “IF” song which went viral on the internet has just  lost his mum .

Utibe, from Akwa Ibom State also lost his father to the cold pangs of death few years back. 

The mother was said to have suffered some health related issues before her demise and most unfortunate that death snatched her just when fate was about to smile on her. She was not able to live in the house that Davido built for the family.

Her demise was reportedly announced  a close associate and Instagram user who has been monitoring the family

According to Shamrock, “Rest in peace UTIBES MUM.. U struggled to live, u where always telling me u want to start business I told u to recover first, now I got a call u are gone so soon, if life was to be sold I will buy some more years for u…I tried to battle with ur health, but my best wasn’t good enough, Who will look after utibe and the two younger sisters.. Who will live in the huz we are building for u… I just wish u slept in that huz even for a second.. My heart is heavy. But GOD knows best. Rip ma’am.” We hope that Davido will adopt him... 

DISCOP expands to Lagos, East Africa

BASIC LEAD, the organizers of the region-centric DISCOP markets has unveiled plans to encourage more business with and between the rapidly growing countries under DISCOP’s watch and representing 75% of the world’s population.

Two new DISCOP markets, according to Patrick ZUCHOWICKI, founder of DISCOP,  will be added by the end of 2019: one in Zanzibar (2018), centered on East Africa’s fast-rising independent film, television and digital content production sectors; and one in Lagos (2019) centered on Nigeria, one of the world’s most promising entertainment single-market ecosystems alongside China, India and Indonesia.

DISCOP markets exists since 1991. At first, they helped companies in the entertainment industry explore opportunities in former Soviet Union Republics. With markets in Abidjan, Dubai and Johannesburg, they now help these companies and many other more buy, sell and coproduce multi-platform content in 115 fast expanding countries where new technologies, modern infrastructures and rising disposable income fuel growth.

“Movies and TV programs have always been part of the fabric of the countries we cover with DISCOP. What is changing is the ability for broadcasters, pay-tv platforms, mobile operators and on-demand video services to monetize the consumption of entertainment content, and for local producers to feed an immense appetite for homegrown entertainment.” Says Patrick ZUCHOWICKI. He adds: “These countries will represent in the next five years 35% of global wholesale licensing revenues derived primarily from intra-regional trade. By than and with five DISCOP markets a year, we expect to draw 6,000 delegates, three times more than we do now.”

DISCOP Zanzibar and DISCOP Lagos will have their own personality, format and agenda. Cross-cultural bridges will be built between these two new markets and the ones in Abidjan, Dubai and Johannesburg. Identical research, promotional, meetings organization and travel planning services will be provided to all delegates.

DISCOP Zanzibar is partnering with the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), that is about to celebrate its 20th edition. The inaugural DISCOP Zanzibar will take place during ZIFF 2018, creating the ultimate film, television, digital event in East Africa. ZIFF Festival Director, Fabrizio Colombo, explains further, “As ZIFF celebrates its 20th anniversary, we could not be more excited to partner with DISCOP, the most respected name in African content markets. This partnership is an important milestone for the development of the East African multi-platform entertainment content production industries, and will be instrumental in driving this often-neglected market forward. DISCOP Zanzibar will be a unique event, as unique as the island of Zanzibar itself."

Abuja agog as Sen. Hope Uzodinma marries off his twin daughters

Abuja will be agog this Saturday, as politician and multimillionaire businessman, Senator Hope Uzodinma (Imo West) anchors the double barrelled wedding of his twin daughters, Sandra and Sophie.

Uzodinma, who chairs the Senate Committee on Customs and Excise, is putting every effort worthy of a very joyful father, and leaving no stone unturned, to assure a fitting and memorable wedding for his darling daughters. The wedding is expected to be a roll call of Who is Who in Nigeria.

The invitations started going out weeks ago to his numerous friends and well- wishers. Accordingly, the joyful news has spread everywhere of a rare event in the household of Senator Hope Uzodinma (Imo West) and indeed on the Abuja social calendar.

The nuptial rites will take place at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama Abuja while reception follows immediately at the International Conferences Centre, adjacent to Radio House, in the Business District, off Area 10 Garki, Abuja.

Senator Uzodinma will give away two precious apples of his eyes and heart to two young men of great hope. Sandra ‘Zizi’ will avowher “I dos” to Ade SalakoAdewoye of Jagun, Imisa, Osun State, while her younger twin, Sophie Nkem will pledge the same to David Onovo of Amaigbo, Enugu State.

By this auspicious event, Senator Uzodinma and his twin daughters have set a social record of sorts. The same-day wedding of twins is not a common occurrence in our land or anywhere else for that matter. The distinguished senator might be the only legislator to have tendered a double barrelled wedding bill to the people and his peers in the National Assembly. However, a startling peculiarity appears to mark the political career of Senator Uzodinma. An uncanny convergence of dates occurred in 2015, when he won his last judicial battle for the validation of his election on December 12, his birthday. On that same day, a son was born to him. And so, there he was with a triple celebration on his hands. Victory at the courts, his birthday and birth of a son with whom he shares the same birthday: Just like Sandra and Sophie who now have a wedding anniversary, alongside a birthday in common. It goes without saying that the crème de la crème of society in Abuja and indeed Nigeria, shall witness an occasion to titillate the gossip columns and celebrity journals for days to come.

Dance queen, Kaffy is a year older

Nigeria’s Guinness Book Record breaker, Kafayat Oluwatosin Shafau popularly known as Kaffy the dance queen is a year older, on Friday, June 30. 

The choreographer, dance instructor and fitness coach took to her IG page to share beautiful album photos to celebrate this great and memorable day as she wrote in appreciation to God,”

” Happy birthday to me, I thank God for every part of my life, for every struggle, every battle, every victory, every joy, every pain. I am alive today to testify and Glorify the Lord. Another new chapter just begun.”

Ali Baba celebrates as his twin sons bag academic award

Ace-comedian, Ali Baba is celebrating at the moment.His twin sons, Ejiro and Tejiri have just bagged an award. 

The duo recently graduated from their pre-degree programme with an award which has brought so much joy to their father. Overwhelmed by happiness, the humour merchant  took to his Instagram page to blush about how expensive their gowns are which is equivalent to his school fees in the university.

Maheeda slams men who want her to be their sugar mummy

Maheeda is back in the news. The controversial Nigerian singer cum nudist has slammed men who want her to be their sugar mummy. She cries out on her social media page. “May God deliver me from osho free men sliding into my dm if na to pop champagne for club now you go see them showing off carry woman go house even ober na case. wait gun no legal for naija ni? Lmao I don craz.

“Then the other group of guys want me as sugar mummy. How is your banana putting food on my table see make una leave my dm ohhh what’s that? Sugar mummy ni sugar mummy ko ? I no go masturbate instead? She wrote.

In fresh suit, kidnapper Evans demands N300m damages

The billionaire kidnapper, Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, otherwise known as Evans, on Thursday filed another suit against the Inspector General of Police, and three others at a Federal High Court in Lagos.

In the new suit, Evans is claiming N300 million as general and exemplary damages against the police for “illegal detention and unconstitutional media trial”.

Joined as respondents in his new originating motion are the Nigeria Police Force, the commissioner of police Lagos State and the special anti-robbery squad, Lagos State Police Command.

Earlier on June 28, Evans had filed an ex-parte application before the same court, seeking an order directing the respondents to charge him to court.

He had also sought an order directing the respondents to release him unconditionally where no charge is preferred against him.

According to an affidavit deposed by his father, Stephen Onwuamadike, the applicant argued that he has been subjected to media trial without any court order by the respondents.

Mr. Onwuamadike further argued that the media trial and news orchestrated by the respondents have continued to generate reactions in both print and electronic media without his son being afforded fair hearing before a court of law.

The applicant, therefore, argued that his continued detention by the respondents since June 10, without a charge, or release on bail, is an infringement on his fundamental rights.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Evans new suit marked FHC/L/CS/1012/ 2017, the applicant is seeking a declaration that his continued detention since June 10 without arraignment, violates his fundamental rights as guaranteed under the 1999 constitution.

Evans is therefore seeking a declaration that his parade on June 11 before journalists in Lagos, at the Lagos police command headquarters in Ikeja, without any court order, is unconstitutional and illegal.

He is consequently seeking an order compelling the respondents to immediately arraign him before a law court, or release him from custody immediately.

The suspect is also seeking an order of perpetual injunction, restraining the respondents from further arresting, detaining, harassing, investigating or inviting him in relation to the facts of his case.

Evans and six of his co-conspirators were arrested earlier in June, after officers stormed the kidnappers’ den and engaged in a gun battle which lasted several hours.

The gang primarily kidnapped victims in Lagos State but have also kidnapped prominent Nigerians from other parts of the country.

Pastor jailed 13 years after raping church member’s daughter

An Abeokuta High Court sitting in Isabo, on Friday sentenced a cleric, Johnson Adeleke, to five years imprisonment for raping a 14 year-old member of his church.

Mr. Adeleke, the pastor of a new generation church in Abeokuta, was docked on one-count charge of rape contrary to Section 258 (1) of the Criminal Code Law of Ogun 2006.

In her ruling, the judge, Olatokunbo Majekodunmi, held that from the evidence before her, the convict was guilty of the charge of rape preferred against him.

Mr. Majekodunmi held that the cleric had intercourse with the victim, now 27 years, when she was 14 years.

“The convict John Adeleke was the pastor of the church the victim and her parents attend.

“In the year 2004, Adeleke proposed marriage to the victim and informed her parents that God revealed to him that the victim is his wife; the claim was disregarded by her parents.

“The convict attended night vigil at the home of the victim and used the opportunity to have sexual intercourse with her.

“The convict disvirgined his victim and threatened to kill her if she informs anybody.

In his testimony, Mr. Adeleke admitted that he had carnal knowledge of the victim when she was 19 years, not 14 years, as claimed by the prosecution.

He also admitted that the victim was in secondary school and a virgin during the period.

His counsel, Adebiyi Ogundeyi, pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy.

The judge sentenced Mr. Adeleke to five years imprisonment without an option of fine.

(NAN)

Govt gives Nollywood additional N420m

The Federal Government says it has released N420.2 million to the Nigeria film industry popularly known as Nollywood to improve and support aspiring film makers.

According to a statement issued by the Deputy Director of Information, Federal Ministry of Finance, Patricia Deworitshe, on Friday in Abuja, the money, which is the second payment to the sector, will help 105 film distributors.

It would be recalled that the past administration had earlier introduced the “Project Act Nollywood’’, with three primary components aimed at developing the movie industry.

The components are the Film Production Fund (FPF), Capacity Building Fund (CBF) and Innovative Distribution Fund (IDF).

The FPF and CBF have been fully implemented, while the IDF, which is the third component of the project, is on-going. The IDF covers online, National, Regional and community categories of Nollywood Film distribution and exhibition.

The objectives of IDF are to improve the distribution network of Nigerian Audio-Visual contents, cut down on piracy, create jobs, and protect Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) within the Nigerian Entertainment Industry.

TAFF 2017: Dallas taken over by African film makers *Kelechi Eke speaks about the filmfest

The beautiful city of Dallas, the United States is once again graced with the creative spirit of African film. The African Film Festival which kicked off yesterday, Thursday, June 29, would showcase talent from around the globe in its second annual showing. Created and produced by Kelechi Eke, a Nigerian born filmmaker now living in North Texas, the African Film Festival is positioning itself to be the premier source for cinema focusing on African experiences and storytelling not only in North Texas but in the world.

Eke, who lives in Plano saw a void in the film industry as many non-white filmmakers have seen, but decided to do something about it. Pooling his resources together and coming out of pocket for all costs, Eke decided he was going to be the force that moved the needle in the direction of expanding African presence within the movie world.

In an interview with Dallas Weekly, Eke narrated the idea behind the festival. “I started the African Film Festival to give more presence and awareness of motion pictures to non-African communities. Our work is very popular amongst ourselves, and to an extent the international level especially the Caribbean.” Kelechi says, “We also wanted a way for Americans who desire to watch African films.” Kelechi knows the power of the American media, and understands that opening up a market that is virtually untapped is the best way to begin the popularizing of African based films.

Knowing the struggle of the average filmmaker and more so the African filmmaker, Eke devised a small base and began to seek out media support locally to aid in his efforts. He was successful in his first attempts to produce the film festival, but saw immediately where he could improve and expand. The African Film Festival is a “For Us By Us” type model according to Eke. He stands as an advocate for his colleagues and knowing the struggle first hand, he is creative in his approach to presenting his festival.

“It’s like being a coach after being a player. You understand first hand what the players go through. It’s a little different [you know]. You understand that emotional and psychological toll this can take on a person. That’s what sets the African Film Festival apart. I understand what is lacking from a filmmaker perspective.”

This year he created the celebration of the trailer of the day. Of the 40 films presented each had a day of celebration and promotion, in which the synopsis and trailer were highlighted and pushed out to the community creating buzz for not only the individual films, but setting the festival apart by promoting each film with the same enthusiasm and reverence. Getting the word out via social media and mainstream media, Eke is not one to limit himself to any one mindset on how he and the festival can continue to grow and become more successful.

“No one seems to have that kind of time, but I will make that time. I know the importance of promoting an artist’s work. That’s what sets us apart. “ Kelechi explains.

One unique aspect of the African Film Festival is its inclusive attitude. Filmmakers from around the world who may not be continental African born, but wish to honor African culture or tell a story unique to Africa are welcome to present and discuss their works. Kelechi came to realize how powerful this community is and could become by watching some of the well-made films by non-African filmmakers and seeing an opportunity to show the respect that can be shown to African films by non-African people throughout the world.

“You’d be surprised to know that some of our films were made by non-Africans. While we do support and encourage African filmmakers, there are American filmmakers, Spanish, Indian, and others that go into Africa and help us tell our stories. Such films are also well celebrated at the African film Festival. That is quite a unique feature we have.” Kelechi says very proudly.

Although the African Film Festival is a wonderful event, it is not without its challenges. As Kelechi says while chuckling slightly, “Budget, Budget, Budget…”. Kelechi himself provides funding for the festival. He has secured some sponsorship and partnerships but he is not delusional about the costs and expenses of not only making a film, but producing a film festival.

“If you give the average African filmmaker just a fraction of the budget of a Hollywood [movie], you can get very high quality films. If you give the average Hollywood budget to African filmmakers you can make about eight high level films.” Kelechi says very matter-of-factly. He confidently speaks about the talent level of African filmmakers and keeps in mind the other issues facing cinema creatives, “Piracy is a big problem,” he continues, “When filmmakers despite all the financial struggles manage to get their work out there, there still is no safe way to protect their work. Unlike here in the U.S., which has royalties, they have distribution companies buy your film and pay you royalties. With African films they usually buy your film out right, and the filmmakers are happy just to sell it because of the lack of finances. Being able to establish this type of a platform, which will potentially invite distributers who will see great need for these films and acquire them from the filmmakers and give them lifetime royalties, like it is done in [this country]. We want to establish that mindset, for them to know it’s actually possible.”

Kelechi created the African Film Festival to show the quality of work that is coming out of Africa. In order to show and prove that sponsorship of such an event is worth it, he is executing his vision with vigor and integrity. When you see what is happening at the African Film Festival it appears as if a team of people are working to make it work. It’s really just one. Kelechi understands that African ingenuity is the backbone of the African filmmakers and the lifeblood of the African Film Festival.

“The African Film Festival I want to become is that ‘Go-to’ festival that is the big Oscar qualifying festival for African films. We want to set it apart, and position it to where it can gain the confidence of the seasoned filmmaker. And in our second year I think we are on that path.” Kelechi explains. This year he even secured a film about the judiciary system in Uganda produced by Angela Basset.

The African Film Festival will be screening 40 films from June 30 - July 3, 2017.

Etisalat Nigeria Chairman, Hakeem Bello-Osagie, resigns

Hakeem Bello-Osagie,

The Chairman of Etisalat Nigeria Limited, Hakeem Bello-Osagie, has resigned his position.

The resignation takes immediate effect.

A statement obtained by PREMIUM TIMES confirmed the development, saying the decision followed “the approval of a restructuring plan for the telecommunications firm.”

Mr. Bello-Osagie, the one-time Chairman of the United Bank for Africa, UBA, was the surviving shareholder in the embattled mobile operator currently embroiled in a $1.2 billion (about N377.4 billion) loan repayment crisis with a consortium of 13 Nigerian banks.

He was the promoter of Emerging Markets Telecommunications Services, EMTS, which controlled 15 per cent of the equity holding of the company

His resignation followed the withdrawal, two weeks ago, of the company’s major shareholder, Emirates Telecommunications Group Company, which announced the decision to quit effective June 15, 2017.

Breaking: Appeals C'ttee cancels election into Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN, board

The election of Ibrahim Gusau as the President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria has been annulled.

The annulment was announced on Friday in Abuja, by the National Sports Federations Elections Petitions Appeal Committee during a media briefing.

The committee having looked at the petition sent in by Charles Eyo, who was meant to contest from the north-east but was disqualified to clear the way for Gusau to contest unopposed, was upheld.

A bye-election has, therefore, been fixed for July 7 in Abuja.

Also, Brown Ebewele and Rosa Collins have both been reinstated into the new AFN board as both individuals won their appeals for unjust disqualification.

Ebewele won the coaches and technical directors elections but his name was substituted with Gad Onoegbu. On her part Rosa Collins who won the National Women in Sports, NAWIS, election but was surprisingly replaced by Gloria Obajimi has now been returned as the rightful representative on the AFN board.

Charley Boy unveils Oracle of O’Island reality show

In what could best be described as a round peg in a round hole, iconic Nigerian artiste, Charles Oputa a.k.a Charley Boy, has been named the Oracle of O's Island, a new adventure reality show which premiered on TV screens nationwide last Monday.

WG's investigation revealed that 21 contestants were randomly selected from different walks of life and kept on an island. For 40 days, they will battle to outshine each other, and survive on lean resources.

A statement by the organizer said, “O’s Island takes reality TV show to a whole new dimension. A whooping $10,000 is up for grabs by the last man standing.’’

The show which was created by ace Nigerian film maker Otu Njama III and produced by Njamatv, premiered on Africa Magic Urban and will air on same station daily for the next 40 days.

'When Nollywood stars stormed Kigali for AMAA nominees party'

It was a long night of fun, camaraderie, swashbuckling last Saturday night, in Kigali, Rwanda, when Africa Movie Academy Awards,AMAA, hosted Rwadan celebrities, business executives and their Nigerian counterparts during the 2017 AMAA nominees party in the East Africa country.

The nominees party is a precursor to the main awards which will hold in Lagos on Saturday, July 15, 2017 at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre and it's being officially hosted by the Lagos State Government as part of a year-long celebration of Lagos at 50.

The party which took place under a well decorated marquee at Camp Kigali was opened by Arthur Nkusi, a Rwadan stand-up comedian who wowed the ecstatic audience of revellers with his rib-cracking jokes after which he called The Maestros, a Nigerian live band from the stable of Bolanle Austen Peters creative enterprise.

The crowd gyrated, sang along and danced to many popular hit songs from Nigerian pop stars performed by the band. It was a pulsating night of celebration of the nominees into all the categories of the continental awards.

The nominees were announced earlier in Kigali on May 15, by the Academy Jurors. According to the founder of the awards, Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, the nomination party was a celebration of the progress and breakthrough that African film makers and those in diaspora have made from when AMAA started in year 2005. Adding, she said that AMAA team also chose Kigali for the event to further promote the cultural, social and economic ties between Nigeria and Rwanda.

“In the spirit of African unity and oneness of the people of Africa we came to Kigali for this event and it has been amazing the kind of support we got from the government of Rwanda and the relevant government agencies. We got support from Rwanda Development Board and RwandAir. I cannot continue to say the level of cooperation and massive support we got from Frank Murangwa, CEO of Rwanda Convention Bureau and Belise Kariza, Rwanda Chief Tourism Officer who pulled in corporate sponsorship from MTN and other companies.

“We thank Raddison Blu and Convention Centre for the support and Grand Legacy Hotel. Coming to Kigali has been a great and humbling experience for us at AMAA and it further confirms we Africans as brothers and sisters. I want to say thank you Rwanda and thank you to President Paul Kagame for the great work he is doing to transform this country.”

In his address, Mr. Murangwa, Chief Executive of RCB underscored the importance of the event to the tourism development of his country and friendship between Nigeria and Rwanda.

He noted that the event has what cooperation between African countries can achieve for the continent and her people adding that his government looks forward to hosting the main AMAA awards whenever the organizers want.

Ugandan music star, Ykee Banda also proved his status as a regional pop music star with his sterling performance. He sang his hit songs such as Nipe, featuring Urban Boys, Byonkola and Munakampala among other songs which Rwandans sang along with him with the accompanying dance steps. Much earlier during the day before the party started, the Nigerian delegation which include Joke Silva, Olu Jacobs, Paul Obazele, Tony Anih, Doris Simon, Chinedu Ikezie {Aki}, Bolanle Austen Peters, Tonye Princewill, businessman and Executive Producer of the film 76, Izu Ojukwu, Osita Iheme { Paw Paw}, Ghanian Lydia Forson, Chidi Nwokebia, Obodozie Valentine, Okezie Chibuike among others had a Rwanda Tourism Agency organized Luxury Bus City tour around Kigali.

Etisalat Prize for Literature announces 2018 Call for Entries …bolsters prize with new judges

Nigerian writer, Jowhor Ile

Following the successful completion of the fourth edition of its flagship pan-African literary prize, Nigeria’s most innovative telecommunications company, Etisalat, has announced a call for entries for the 2018 Etisalat Prize for Literature. The opening date for the submissions is 3rd July 2017 and the closing deadline is 18th September 2017.

The Etisalat Prize for Literature is the first pan-African literary prize that celebrates African writers of a debut published book of fiction.

The recently concluded Etisalat Prize for Literature award ceremony was held on 20 May 2017 in Lagos, where Jowhor Ile emerged the winner for his debut novel, And After Many Days. Jowhor is the first Nigerian to win the Prize, which was launched in 2013. Past winners include the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Fiston Mwanza Mujila (2015), South Africa’s Songeziwe Mahlangu (2014) and Zimbabwe’s NoViolet Bulawayo (2013).

Chief Executive Officer of Etisalat Nigeria, Matthew Willsher, said the company was delighted to flag off the fifth year of the Etisalat Prize for Literature, which has become a leading platform for the discovery and promotion of African literary talent.

“We are glad to announce the call for entries that marks the beginning of the submission and selection process for the 2018 Etisalat Prize. It underlines our firm commitment to and continued support for the development of African literature,” he said.

He disclosed that the new panel of judges will comprise: Harry Garuba (chair), Doreen Baingana and Siphiwo Mahala.

Willsher added, “Over the years, we have seen the Etisalat Prize for Literature impact on the African literary space by encouraging creative writers and publishers to help tell compelling stories about the African continent, and it is our conviction that the judging panel - made up of very experienced writers, academics, literary critics and editors - will be devoted to upholding the legacy and reputation of the Prize.”

Willsher also recognized the patrons as custodians and advocates who ensure that the key values of creativity, quality, excellence and integrity continue to be the hallmarks of the Etisalat Prize for Literature. The distinguished patrons of the Etisalat Prize are: Ama Ata Aidoo, Dele Olojede, Ellah Wakatama Allfrey OBE, Margaret Busby OBE, Sarah Ladipo Manyika and Zakes Mda.

The judging panel will initially select a longlist of nine titles, and following a second round of screening will announce a shortlist of three finalists, ahead of the 2018 grand finale/award ceremony.

Outlining the criteria for entry, Willsher said that books submitted must have been published in the previous 24 months from the date of the call for entries. Such books should contain no fewer than 30,000 words and must be the author’s first published fiction book. The author must be an African citizen, but may reside anywhere in the world.

Furthermore, all entries must be submitted by incorporated publishing houses that have existed for six years or more, with registered ISBN or the equivalent, and the publishers must have published a minimum of three authors. A publisher may enter a maximum of three titles. Seven copies of each title entered must accompany the application form, along with an acceptance of the publicity terms of the Etisalat Prize http://prize.etisalat.com.ng/terms.php .

The winner receives £15,000, an engraved Montblanc Meisterstück pen, and an Etisalat-sponsored fellowship at the University of East Anglia, where he or she will be mentored by Professor Giles Foden, author of The Last King of Scotland'. The winner and the two runners-up also participate in a multi-city book tour sponsored by Etisalat. Etisalat purchases 1,000 copies of each of the shortlisted titles for distribution to schools, libraries and book clubs across the African continent.

Alongside the Prize for Literature is the Flash Fiction Award, an online-based competition open to all African writers of unpublished short stories of no more than 300 words. The winner of the Flash Fiction Award receives £1,000 and a high-end device, while the two runners-up for the Flash Fiction Award receive £500 each in addition to high-end devices.

Baileys Nigeria stages first ever Baking fest

On the 26th June, the lush green grounds of Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island began to fill up at about 10am as guests trooped in to witness the first ever baking festival in Nigeria. The Baileys Bakefest was developed to showcase and demonstrate the versatility of the world’s no. 1 crème liqueur, Baileys. Everyone deserves a little bit of sweetness from time to time and Baileys Nigeria was in the mood to give Nigerians a treat like none before. 

It was a day of fun, games and most importantly, Baileys-infused everything. Guests were treated to food supplied by over 40 of the finest treat vendors in Nigeria. The fun and excitement was endless with games like the evergreen tic-tac-toe and darts to table tennis and table soccer. Baileys also provided free cocktails to the indulgence-seeking crowd.King of the chop knuckle, Chuey Chu and the original oga madam, Lolo 1, also put on a show as they dished out rib-cracking goodness. Noble Igwe, Ufuoma McDermott, KunleRemi and Kaylah Oniwo made up four surprise celebrity cocktailers chosen to prepare their signature Baileys-infused cocktail with Kunle Remi’s Baileys In A Rush winning amid other delicious creations.

It's time to restructure Nigeria, declares Babangida

Former Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), has lent his voice to the now strident call for the restructuring of the country to achieve true federalism, devolution of power and creation of state police.According to him, the Nigerian federation, as currently structured, is in need of reforms that will emphasise the individual strength and advantages of the component units so that governments can really work to improve the lives of Nigerians. 

Babangida, a major player in the country’s power politics, was involved in all the major putsches that threw up military regimes from 1976 . He ruled the country maximally between August 27, 1985 and August 26, 1993 after annulling the June 12 presidential election of that year that was reputed to be the freest and fairest in the nation’s history.

According to The Guardian Newspaper, the former militart leader gave the advice on restructuring in his Eid-el-Fitri message to Muslims yesterday. With this call coming from the former military leader who undoubtedly is one of those considered as conservatives in their sticking to the status quo, which they in fact helped to foist on the country, the demand for true federalism is gaining traction.

As a soldier during the civil war and one of those who held the country together and who even charted a course of democracy, even though not generally seen as a sincere venture, Babangida is a strong voice whose call is capable of drawing out other ex-military chiefs to take a stand in the ongoing debate.

While seeking a departure from the norm and calling for a reform that will put the country on the same pedestal with advanced democracies, he said: “If we have repeatedly done certain things and not getting the desired results, we need to change tactics and approach, and renew our commitment. It is our collective responsibilities to engender a reform that would be realistic and in sync with modern best practices.“For example, restructuring has become a national appeal as we speak, whose time has come. I will strongly advocate devolution of powers to the extent that more responsibilities be given to the states while the Federal Government is vested with the responsibility to oversee our foreign policy, defence, and economy.

“Even the idea of having federal roads in towns and cities has become outdated and urgently needs revisiting. That means we need to tinker with our constitution to accommodate new thoughts that will strengthen our nationality.

“Restructuring and devolution of powers will certainly not provide all the answers to our developmental challenges; it will help to reposition our mindset as we generate new ideas and initiatives that would make our union worthwhile.

“The talk to have the country restructured means that Nigerians are agreed on our unity in diversity; but that we should strengthen our structures to make the union more functional based on our comparative advantages.

“Added to this desire is the need to commence the process of having state police across the federation. This idea was contained in my manifesto in 2010 when I attempted to contest the presidential elections.

“The initial fear that state governors will misuse the officers and men of the state police has become increasingly eliminated with renewed vigour in citizens’ participation in, and confidence to interrogate  power

“We cannot be detained by those fears and allow civilisation to leave us behind. We must as a people with one destiny and common agenda take decisions for the sake of posterity in our shared commitment to launch our country on the path of development and growth.

“Policing has become so sophisticated that we cannot continue to operate our old methods and expect different results. I also want to appeal to the Nigeria media to be more circumspect in their news reportage.”

See Juliet Ibrahim's new look

Ghanaian actress, Juliet Ibrahim is rocking a new looks. She's done with the colour black for her hairstyle. The beautiful actress is seen sporting a cool new look. She cut her hair and dyed it green.And you have no choice than to admire her ever radiating beauty. 

I don't feel skeptical whenever I want to release a new song—Kiss Daniel

G-Worldwide Entertainment pop-superstar and multiple awards-winner, Kiss Daniel who is about to embark on an European summer tour starting from July 1st through August 5, has expressed the kind of feelings that thrills him anytime he wants to release a new song.

Speaking with Goldmyne.tv, the singer said, he does not feel skeptical whenever he is about to release his song because he has passed that level already. If the work is good then there is no need to be afraid.

“You don grow pass that level to dey fear to drop something. If you know the material is good then you don’t have to be scared. Drop it and let God do his work” he said.

Union Bank storms Rivers State, unveils upgraded branches, Elite Lounge

L-R Joe Mbulu, Transformation Director Union Bank and the guests in  Kingway branch

Union Bank has once again expressed its commitment to providing simpler, smarter banking services to its teeming customers with the unveiling of 3 more upgraded branches across Rivers State.

The unveiling ceremonies of the branches located in Bori, Kingsway Road and Aba Road areas of the State were part of a two-day line up of activities which also included a networking and empowerment event for young professionals and entrepreneurs as well as a gala event to host customers in celebration of the bank’s 100th year anniversary.

Speaking at the anniversary gala event to customers, stakeholders and government dignitaries which included the Chief of Staff to Government House, Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke who represented the Governor of Rivers State, the Chief Executive Officer of Union Bank, Emeka Emuwa said, “We are very proud of our 100-year-old heritage as this is not a feat easily achieved. We are however also looking forward and preparing for the next 100 years.”

“At Union Bank, we are very passionate about our customers and we are committed to ensuring they have access to the best banking service possible. This has prompted us to equip our branches with state-of-the-art infrastructure. Our mobile and internet banking applications are also one of the best in the country as we strive to ensure our customers experience service excellence across the country,” he concluded.

Also speaking during the launch of the upgraded branches, Joe Mbulu, Transformation Director, Union Bank explained that the overhauling of these branches was as a result of the bank’s firm commitment to ensuring its customers have access to the best and most effective banking solutions. According to him: “We are providing the simpler and smarter way to bank through these improvements. It isn’t just a tagline for us, it is a promise - one which we will continue to keep.”

  The Bank also launched an Elite Lounge at the Kingsway Road branch in Port Harcourt. The Elite Lounge will provide value added banking benefits and a range of personalized banking services to Elite Banking customers of the bank. Elite Banking customers also enjoy other benefits of the banking segment which includes having a dedicated Elite Associate/Relationship Manager dedicated to them, access to exclusive Elite Lounges as well as Priority Pass cards which grant customers access to 850 airport VIP lounges around the world.

  Union Bank continues to leverage on its 100 year old heritage and wealth of experience to deliver simpler and smarter banking services to its esteemed customers.

An evening of literary flavours

One immediate reaction summed up the Guest Writer Session of June 24 at the Aso Hall of Nanet Suites. In the words of Francisca Shekwoaga, " it was an amazing evening".

Indeed from the opening chords of the first musical interlude, and the presentation on Contemporary Ecuadorean Literature by Ambassador Leopoldo Verdesoto, it was obvious this was going to be an evening of delighful literary flavours.

Zaynab Alkali added much flavour talking through aspects of her new novel INVISIBLE BORDERS, while Edith Yassin read a short story, "When I Liked Soccer " by Raul Perez Torres, the Ecuadorean Minister for Culture.

Then there was the raffle draw for books and the cutting of the AWF 9th Anniversary.

Not to forget the four awards given to Zaynab Alkali (Certifiucate of Excellence), Leopoldo Verdesoto (Appreciation), Emeka Oparah (Excellence) and Dave Adzer (Appreciation).

And then the icing on the cake, as the Ambassador announced that the Embassy would sponsor a collection of short stories featuring Nigerian and Ecuadorian writers, to be co-edited by Zaynab Alkali and Ric Segreda.

Event over and people were still milling around as though to rewind and do it all over again. That would have to be on July 29, when the next Guest Writer Session holds. See you then.

Words: Emman Usman Shehu

Obaseki orders employment of 4,200 youths

In line with his promise to create at least 200,000 jobs within 4 years, the Governor of Edo state, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has ordered the employment of 4,200 youths across the state under the Edo state public works programme from July 1st, this year.

In a statement endorsed by the governor’s Chief of Staff, it was also revealed that Governor Obaseki had directed the engagement and training of 50 civil engineers to supervise the public works programme, and that the successful applicants were sourced from the database of unemployed youths developed by the government for the Edo Jobs initiative.

According to the Chief of Staff, “The new employed beneficiaries will work across the state on 45 inner roads selected under this special window. The governor also promised to engage another set of 4,200 in August 2017 under another window that will see the state government constructing and maintaining another set of 55 roads, culminating in almost 100 kilometres across the state.”

He further enjoined the workers to be dedicated for the period of their engagement with the state government, as it would eventually amount to experience gathering and capacity building.

Meanwhile, to complement jobs originating from road construction, the state government also finalised arrangements to train young electrical and electronic engineers under a special arrangement with Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC).

The programme, it emerged, would build the capacity of young men and women on the practical side of electrical engineering in line with the ‘Electrify Edo project’, which kicked off with the signing of a power purchase agreement between the government and, at different times, Siemens AG and Ossiomo Power limited, few months ago.

Recession! MTN terminates popular TV show,'Who wants to be a millionnaire”

Popular and most watched Nigerian game TV show, 'Who wants to be a millionnaire' anchored by Frank Edoho has been terminated by multinational mobile telecommunications company,MTN.

The show which has been running on Nigerian TV stations  since October 8, 2004, has produced a lot of millionnaires like Osazuwa Osahon Daniels – 5 million Naira (Year 2009),Aroma Ufodike Chimuanya – 10 million Naira (Year 2009),Babatunde Oni Oladipo – 5 million Naira (Year 2010),Nnaemeka Ubaekwena – 5 million Naira (Year 2012) among others.

It has really blessed a lot of lives that every one looks forward to the next episode.

Well the show host, Frank Edoho confirmed the report as he tweeted; “Sadly,we are going on a break cos our sponsor pulled out.But we thank@mtnng for being with us all these years,please thank them for us”

Although the app version of the show will continue to run, a lot of fans are not happy that the show would finally  be off the screen.

16 killed in Maiduguri bombing — Police

One of the victims receiving attention 

Police in Borno State have confirmed that at least 16 persons comprising seven suicide bombers and nine innocent victims died after Boko Haram insurgents attacked Maiduguri on Sunday night.

PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported that the University of Maiduguri was part of the locations attacked by the bombers who crept into the city during the curfew hours as Muslims celebrated Sallah.

Borno State police commissioner, Damian Chukwu, told journalists at a press conference that most of the attackers were teenage girls who were wired with deadly explosives.

The CP said some 13 other persons were also injured as a result of the bomb attacks.

“At the University of Maiduguri, one of the suicide bombers that attacked the office of the Security operatives there died while three university security personnel on duty got injured; of which one of them identified as Becky Edubi later died while being attended to at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH),” he said.

Mr. Damian further said four female suicide bombers also infiltrated Zannari community and detonated their explosives at two residential buildings.

“The twin explosives killed eight people and injured 11 others in the buildings. But the third suicide bomber amongst the suspects only killed herself, by detonating the IED strapped to her body without hitting any target,” he said.

“The fourth female suicide bomber, identity not known, was arrested with injuries on her body but she eventually died same night (Sunday) as a result of injuries she sustained.”

He said another attack was also recorded in the early hours of the dawn when another set two female suicide bombers attacked yet another location within the precinct of the University f of Maiduguri.

“In another development at about 4.08am, to be precise, two female suicide bombers detonated their IEDs within the premises of University.

“One of the suspects, detonated her explosives near the University’s Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition Centre, and killed herself, without any casualties, while the second person detonated the explosives behind the Works Department complex, and equally killed herself, with no other casualties.”

He said the police have mobilized its Explosives Ordnance Department to clear the attacked location and ensured that normalcy was restored.

The CP said the attackers may have been those prevented from gaining access to the Eid Prayer grounds as a result of security.

He said the police has since provided credible information to the military on where the Boko Haram insurgents manufacture and couple their explosives, and that an operation has been launched to fish out those behind such.

Kidnap kingpin, Evans was ‘arrested for robbery in 2006’

The arrested kidnap kingpin, Chukwudi Onuamadike, alias Evans, was arrested in 2006 for armed robbery where seven members of his gang died while sharing their loot in Lagos State.

A police source revealed this, on Sunday as investigations on Evans past activities deepened, the News Agency of Nigeria reports.

NAN reported that Evans and his robbery gang, in 2006 attacked a commercial bank in Lagos and went somewhere around the National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, to share the loot.

NAN says while sharing the loot, the robbers had a disagreement and shot one another. Seven members of the gang died instantly.

“The then Divisional Police Officer of Iponri Police Station, Yahaya Bello, now a deputy commissioner of police, said there was a serious incident involving some persons who shot at one another. He said about three of them had been arrested.

“One of the members of the gang arrested then was Chukwudi Onuamadike, popularly known as Evans. If you look at his chest, I cannot remember whether it is the right or left side, there is a scar. It was as a result of the gunshot from his gang members that day.

“He bled and there was no way he could run away before the police came. The case was transferred to the Lagos State Anti-Robbery Squad. We investigated and discovered that they were armed robbers.

“Evans led the team. We also went to Mbidi Police Station, Imo State, to carry out an investigation on them. We were able to arrest two other members of the gang. We then had five of them in police custody.

“There was a policewoman at the Band Section of the Police College, Lagos. She was known as Tina, a Superintendent of Police. She insisted that we should drop the case and that Onuamadike (Evans) was her brother.

“But when she was unable to achieve her aim, she travelled to Imo State. Not long after, we got a message from the Imo State Police Command that they had been searching for Evans and asked us to transfer the case to them so they could continue from where we stopped.

“Since that time, we did not hear anything. We heard he was later released there,” the source said.

The source noted that after he saw Evans pictures, he knew that he was the man they arrested alongside members of his gang in 2006, stressing, however, that Evans was not bearing the alias, Evans, at the time.

“We identified him only as Chukwudi. Some of the persons we worked together on the case also called me to draw my attention to the fact that he was the one arrested.

“He couldn’t have been the only person released. The request was that we should transfer the case to them. We sent him and two members of his gang to the command. There is a hotel in Okota area where they used to meet to share their loot.

“The owner of the hotel was their friend. There was a time they robbed three banks in Alaba International Market in 2005. They also looted shops there. One of the owners of the shop complained to the police and we carried out an investigation.

“We discovered that some of the items stolen in the man’s shop were digital cameras. We traced the cameras to the hotel and into the office of the hotel owner. It was then that ‘big men’ started calling from everywhere that we should drop the charges against them.

“The owner of the hotel was later killed by the robbers, following a disagreement. His body was dumped by the roadside in one of the states in the East sometimes ago,” the source told police investigators.

The source expressed fear that if Evans was not properly investigated and prosecuted he can form a terrorist group being a hardened criminal; in view of the fact that he collects any ransom demanded to the last Kobo before releasing such victims.

“The best way to handle his case is for the police to do their work. They should do a proper investigation. If it will take four months to investigate him, they should do so. He has links in South Africa, Ghana, etc.

“I know him. Bank robbery and hijacking of bullion vans was easy for him and his gang members. He did not hesitate to shoot any member of his gang suspected of foul play,” the source noted.

NAN further gathered from the Inspector-General of Police Intelligence Response Team that Evans confirmed all the incidents alleged by the police source. (NAN)

Luxury! See where Beyonce is nursing her newborns

New mom-of-twins Beyoncé is nursing her newborns in a $400,000-a-month Malibu mansion overlooking the Pacific, DailyMail.com can reveal

Mail Online reports that Beyoncé's mom Tina Knowles arrived at the compound on Sunday to see her new grand babies

The lavish hideaway - La Villa Contenta - has extensive 6.3 acre grounds, which contain a rose garden with more than 1,000 flower bushes, a landscaped desert area and a tennis court complete with a viewing deck

The 35-year-old songstress gave birth to a boy and a girl early last week at Los Angeles' UCLA Hospital, where the children were reportedly delivered by Cesarean section on June 12

The family is believed to be staying until the end of August

The main swimming area has 20ft glass ceilings, a hand-painted gesso mural, an onyx fireplace and elaborate shell-encrusted chandeliers

The property, which is also listed on industry site Malibu Locations, has been featured in HBO's True Blood, where it stood in for the mansion of Queen Sophie-Anne, the Vampire Queen of Louisiana.

Boasting ‘unobstructed views’ of the Pacific Ocean, 14 bathrooms, 10 bedrooms and a 25ft infinity pool, this is the lavish Malibu hideaway that Beyoncé and her newborn twins currently call home.

Beyoncé is renting the $400,000-a-month mansion known as La Villa Contenta until the end of August and moved in on Wednesday after leaving hospital with her newborns, believed to be a boy and a girl.

On Sunday, her mother Tina Knowles Lawson, 63, was spotted arriving at the luxurious house to visit the twins – pulling up in a black Porsche SUV and wearing her trademark gold bracelets.

The grandmother-of-four was also reportedly present when the children were delivered on June 12 at Los Angeles’ UCLA Medical Center.

Her daughter and the new babies then spent just over a week at the hospital before being allowed to leave.

The day before, new father Jay-Z, 47, was pictured arriving to see his wife and children at the Westwood campus, shortly after enjoying a gym class in nearby West Hollywood.

Set on a bluff overlooking the sea, La Villa Contenta has extensive 6.3 acre grounds, which contain a rose garden with more than 1,000 flower bushes, a landscaped desert area and a tennis court complete with a viewing deck.

Other buildings on the estate, which is listed for sale at $54.5m, include a 'natatorium' – or pool house – 'inspired by grand European follies', a large office building and a staff housing complex.

According to the property listing, furnishings inside the main villa include a 'museum-quality' Chippendale mirror and 18th century chandeliers carved from amethyst and rock crystal.

Next to the front door is a 2,500-year-old lion's head bust that was discovered at the base of Mount Vesuvius in Italy.

Beyoncé, 35, is understood to be renting the $400,000-a-month mansion until the end of August and moved in on Wednesday after leaving hospital with the babies, thought to be a boy and a girl.

The Crazy in Love singer has spent much of the last week holed up inside Los Angeles' UCLA Hospital, where the children were reportedly delivered by caesarean section on June 12.

Husband Jay-Z, 47, was pictured arriving to visit the trio in hospital on Monday evening, descending on the Westwood campus with his entourage following a gym class in nearby West Hollywood.

'How can a national leader address Nigerians in sectional language ” – Reno Omokri reacts to President Buhari’s voice note

Following the voice message made by President Mohammadu Buhari in Hausa language, wishing Nigerians especially the Muslim faithful a happy Eid-El-Fitr celebration, Pastor Reno Omokri has questioned this act.

Reno along with other Nigerians who were not comfortable with this discriminatory message wonder if he was actually addressing the Hausa’s or Nigerians.

In his words,” In a country whose official language is English, President Muhammadu Buhari broadcasts his Sallah message in Hausa! Would Trump (whose origin is German) address America in German? “So what about all those Nigerians who can’t speak Hausa? Ideally, the President should have spoken in English first, then if he feels like it, he may also speak in Hausa.

“The way he has now spoken only in Hausa makes it seem as if he is only concerned with those who gave him 97% of the votes while those who have him 5% can take a hike!”

“How would the rest of the country have felt if President Olusegun Obasanjo had released a Christmas broadcast to Nigerians in Yoruba or if President Goodluck Jonathan had done so in Ogbia?

“How can a NATIONAL leader address Nigerians in a SECTIONAL language?”

” Nigeria has never had a leader as divisive as Buhari! There is no difference between President Buhari and Nnamdi Kanu.

” President Buhari is the President of all Nigeria. He is not the President of only those who can speak Hausa! This is an outrage!

” President Yar’Adua also spoke to the BBC News by phone. He is Fulani, like President Buhari. Yet he spoke in English because he was President of all of us.