Onome Ebi Signs With Chinese Club, Henan Huishang Football Club

Bankable Super Falcons defender, Ebi Onome has been unveiled by Chinese football club, Henan Huishang Football Club after she agreed to a deal with the club.

The three time African Woman Championship (AWC) winner is making a grand return to football after working very hard to recover from an injury she sustained in December 2016 at the final game between Cameroun and Nigeria which they later won.

Brave Onome managed to play the final minutes of the game with a hand fractured fired by an exemplary spirit of patriotism that earned her the respect of all. The injury side-lined the Centre Back for more than a year. She last laced her boots for FC Minsk in the Belarusian Premier League.

Expressing her delight, the talented footballer revealed that it has been a long journey. “Thanks be to God almighty for making this possible. I’m back in football again and to say I am super excited is to put what I am feeling mildly. I want to thank everyone who has been with me on my journey to recovery and has helped to make this possible. I want to single out my management team, Temple Management Company (TMC) for being a strong support system and making sure this transition was very smooth.”

She added, “I can’t wait to play football again for my club and country. I have survived one of the biggest challenges of my career and I am in a happy place to once again do what I love best.”

Also speaking, Koye Sowemimo, Head of Sport, Temple Management Company (TMC) said, “We are super delighted for Onome. As with every Athlete you can feel the pressure of not competiting again when opportunities don’t come quick enough. But thankfully, Onome’s mental strength and support of her team kept her in good spirit and has now been duly rewarded with a new chapter in her football career. We wish her all the very best .”

Ebi Onome’s return to football is bound to boost the morale of the Nigerian Super Falcons team as she now makes herself available to represent them at the highest level.

Lagos Monarch Advocates Constitutional Role At LG For Traditional Rulers

A Lagos monarch, Oba Abdulfatai Aromire, has called for constitutional roles for traditional rulers to enable them contribute effectively to the development of the nation.

Oba Aromire made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the monthly meeting of Lagos Mainland Council of Traditional Rulers on Wednesday.

He said traditional rulers should be given constitutional role at the third tier of government to enable them work effectively with the people at the local government level.

“It is very important that traditional rulers should have roles in local government administration to work with the community to foster peace and unity,” said the Ojora of Ijora and Iganmu Land.

Oba Aromire recalled that some royal fathers were members of parliament in the First Republic during which traditional rulers contributed meaningfully to the governance of the country.

“We had real roles back in the past when some traditional rulers were members of parliament, but now the politicians have taken over our respective roles.

“If they want to have election, they come to the traditional rulers to canvass for votes and support from our grassroots people and after the election, we are no more relevant.

“We have a major role to play and so there should be a change in the composition of government to accommodate us as we represent people at the grassroots,” he said

Aromire, who is also Chairman, Lagos Mainland Council of Traditional Rulers, called on politicians to desist from using the youths for criminal activities to achieve their selfish ambition.

He also advised the youths to shun cultism and focus on productive activities for their present and future benefits

Fulani Herdsmen Strike Again, Kill 20 In Adamawa

Reports from Adamawa State say no fewer than 20 persons were killed on Tuesday in a fresh attack by militia men suspected to be Fulani herdsmen in four communities in Demsa Local government area.

The locals said the invaders attacked the communities at about 8am and set houses ablaze with property worth millions of naira destroyed, TVC reports.

Residents called on the federal government to save them from constant attack by Fulani militias.

The four affected communities have been deserted while security is said to have been drafted there.

The incident took place few days after herdsmen and farmers, at a stakeholders’ meeting promised to cohabit.

Presently the residents of the four affected communities have relocated to Borrong the headquarters of the district.

Costumier, Tessy Avan craves for more honours

Nollywood Costumier, Imuetinyan Tessy Avan, will forever be grateful to her maker following the achievements she has recorded during her five years sojourn in the industry.

The ebony beauty damsel gives kudos to her mentors in the movie industry for the opportunities she has been given to showcase her acting prowess and she's craving for more.

The Benin-born star recalls with nostalgia that her continued presence in the showbiz sector was made possible as a result of the achievements she has recorded despite the stiff competition in the industry.

In a chat with HVP, Imuetinyan stated: "My experience in Nollywood would last me a lifetime. It has been worthwhile. I must give kudos to Nollywood top shots like Amen Imasuen for his support in ensuring that I am distinguished as a brand.”

"Most of my works are done in such a manner that movie buffs will always have something positive to say about them." Imuetinyan is the brain behind the lovely costumes used in top-of-the-range blockbusters such as 'Sunburn', 'Mother's Love', 'Oghe'(a Benin language movie) and 'Iwin Doctor'. Her role model is Millicent Jack, a veteran in the business.

Adekunle Gold pays tribute to late sister in new song

Afro pop singer, Adekunle Gold yesterday, took to his Instagram page to clear the air concerning the visuals for his new song ‘Ire’, which he said was shot to eulogise his younger sister, who died in 2011, following heart complications.”

Adekunle made this revelation after fans asked the singer to clarify the ‘For Busayo’ dedication at the end of the reflective music video. The singer responded on his Instagram page @adekunlegold, where he shared a picture of himself and his late sister.

In his post, he wrote: “For Busayo” Who is Busayo? I’ve been getting this question a lot. Busayo is my sister. We lost her in 2011 to a Heart Complication. “I’m fiercely protective of my family, but I didn’t think I could skip out one of my favourite memories or people in life.

“Busayo was symbolically represented by the little girl skipping around me in the video as that is who she was in real life. She never left my side, as a matter of fact, she was my younger twin.

“ We looked alike and she could sing for the whole of Africa. In my heart, I believe I sing for the both of us; it was only right that I dedicate the video to her memory.”

According to the singer, 'Ire’ “is a symbolic summary of his life experiences and his journey to becoming Adekunle Gold.” He also assured fans that “This song will be the soundtrack of your life.”

‘Ire’, released on February 23, is a life lesson packaged in a slow tempo song and accompanied by traditional Yoruba percussion sounds.

The song was produced by Seyikeyz, the video was directed by Aje and shot in various locations around Lagos, Nigeria, including Ajah, Ajegunle, Ikorodu and Ikoyi.

The video employs melancholy storytelling and shows Adekunle Gold walking backwards whilst activities go on around him; and a little girl playing and trying to touch him.

American comedian brings 'Wong Street Journal' to Lagos Theatre Festival

Renowned American performance artist and comedian, Kristina Wong, is storming Lagos this week to participate in the Lagos Theatre Festival. The festival runs from February 27 to March 4.

Supported by the United States Consulate General Lagos, Wong will conduct master classes for performing arts students, faculty, and theatrical directors at the University of Lagos, Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, and PEFTI Film Institute.

During the festival, Wong, who is notable for her works focusing on women and economic empowerment, will perform her critically acclaimed Wong Street Journal show on Friday, March 2. The event will be hosted by United States Consul General, Mr. F. John Bray, at Terra Kulture Arts and Cultural Centre, Lagos.

Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Consulate General Lagos, Ms. Darcy Zotter, expressed optimism that Wong’s visit to Nigeria will strengthen cross-cultural understanding and collaboration between the people of Nigeria and the United States.

“The Public Affairs Sections of our Embassy in Abuja and Consulate General in Lagos sponsor programs that share the best of the U.S. arts community with Nigeria.

“We are pleased to support Kristina Wong’s participation at the 2018 Lagos Theatre Festival. She is one of the many American arts professionals who have come to Nigeria to give performances, and mentor young Nigerian artists,” Zotter said.

Wong has created five solo shows and one ensemble play that have toured throughout the United States and United Kingdom.

Her most notable touring show ––Wong Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest looked at the high rates of depression and suicide among Asian-American women and has toured to over 40 venues since 2006

Facebook partners FATE Foundation to offer month-Long Bootcamps for entrepreneurs

Facebook, in partnership with FATE Foundation, is set to hold the 2018 edition of the Aspiring Entrepreneurs Digital Program, a free four-week bootcamp for select entrepreneurs in seven cities across Nigeria. Participants will learn the fundamentals of digital marketing for business coupled with key entrepreneurship skills designed to improve their businesses.

As one of many high-profile partnerships by Facebook, the trainings are aimed at helping to develop and nurture communities, including small businesses, the tech and start-up ecosystem, youths and creatives in Nigeria.

Open to participants between the ages of 18-35 years, those selected, will be able to attend the program which will roll-out in seven cities in Nigeria:

Abuja: March 12 – April 6, 2018

Ibadan: April 16 – May 11, 2018

Port Harcourt: May 21 – June 15, 2018

Lagos: June 25 – July 20, 2018

Calabar: July 30 – August 24, 2018

Kaduna: September 3 – September 28, 2018

Enugu: October 8 – November 2, 2018

“At Facebook, our mission is clear: to give people the power to build communities and bring the world closer. With this initiative, we are shaping entrepreneurs and future business leaders to promote innovation, job readiness and digital literacy in order to ensure that we have a positive impact on Nigeria's economy and society,” commented Ebele Okobi, Facebook Public Policy Director, Africa.

The program will be broken into streams which will run four times a week (Mondays to Thursdays) over a four-week period, in the form of practical workshops and learning sessions – all with a strong digital marketing component in the curriculum.

Lectures will cover Business Model Canvas, Business Plan Development, Budgeting, Financial Management and Financial Reporting, Marketing and Pricing Strategies, People Management, Raising Financing, Business Pitching, and Digital Marketing which includes using Facebook Business Tools.

Commenting on the partnership Adenike Adeyemi, Executive Director, FATE Foundation said: “We believe programmes like this are vital to building and developing the skills of the next generation of entrepreneurs in Nigeria. At the heart of what we do is harnessing the already strong entrepreneurial culture of Nigerians, whilst providing the knowledge and support required to fully explore their innovative potential, and we look forward to working with Facebook to help achieve this.”

Graduates will also have an opportunity to receive mentorship from Fate Foundation for a year along with other program incentives.

BFA: We have kept the promise, says Lancelot ...as the Academy holds maiden graduation ceremony

Less than one year after it was established by popular film maker and director, Lancelot Imasuen in partnership with Igbinedion University, Okada, the Benin Film Academy, weekend, held its maiden graduation ceremony amidst tight activities.

The film school was officially opened on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, while lectures started on the 19^th of June.

Speaking with E-Daily, on the graduation ceremony, Lancelot ,said “it's a dream come true for him”, adding that “It gives me a great sense of fulfilment and I give God the glory.”

“On the 24^th of this month, we are going to hold our maiden graduation ceremony for the first set of students of the Benin Film Academy, numbering about 50. We said it, and it happened. We have one of the graduating students playing a major role in an upcoming movie. We promised that we will be taking the aspiring Nollywood greats from the streets to the big screen. And that's exactly what we are doing,” the celebrated film maker enthused.

Lancelot revealed that during the ceremony, all the short films produced by the graduands will be screened to the admiration of the guests at the event.

On Sunday, the film maker also premiered his latest film, “Crushed” in Benin.

Benin Film Academy, a gateway to the heart of Nollywood across the Niger/Delta and the Midle-Belt region is established to groom the new faces that will rule the big screen in the country.

Efe Prime drops ‘Blessed Be the Name’

Shortly after the release of his debut single, ‘Hallelujah’, gospel singer, Efe Atiyo, a.k.a Efe Prime has delighted his fans with yet another worship song titled ‘Blessed Be the Name.’

The mid-tempo song, which was picked as a fan-favourite via an online poll he conducted, talks about the presence of God which is deserving of worship and total devotion, bringing about blessings, glory, power, miracles

“There’s worship in the atmosphere, the presence of God is everywhere. Blessed be the name of the Lord," sings the South Africa -based Nigerian musician.

According to the singer, who is also a Senior Executive at Kwesé Entertainment, ‘Blessed Be the Name’ is dedicated to those who are holding strong to their faith, believing that a miracle is close.

“I do have a strong bias towards music that reflects intimate and passionate worship. The response towards the release of my previous single has spurred me to do more. This song communicates to people’s hearts in a way that takes all defies all the defenses we put up especially in this time and age where genuine trust is in scarce supply,” Efe said.

With over 15 years as a worship leader and choir coordinator in Christ Embassy churches in different countries, the singer says that he is on a mission to raise music ministers.

“As a first step along with my almost two decades of media experience, we are already working on other projects that will help further promote and support the gospel music industry and artistes in Nigeria and across the world,” he adds.

Protesters Shut Down Port Harcourt Power Station

The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) has called on concerned authorities to call protesters to order following the shutting down of a power station belonging to Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).

Mr John Onyi, PHED’s Manager, Corporate Communications disclosed on Friday in Port Harcourt that angry youths forcibly evicted workers from the facility.

He said the protesters later seized the facility, resulting to the current electricity blackout in many parts of Port Harcourt and environs.

According to him, the power station belongs to TCN but PHED depended on the facility to distribute electricity to customers.

“Some residents of Ogbunabali community, on Thursday stormed the 132/33kv transmission station with fetish items and forcefully switched off supply, thereby plunging some parts of Port Harcourt and Government House into darkness.

“This action by the community led to the inability of TCN to wheel out power to PHED for distribution to its customers in the affected areas.

“The protest by residents of the community over power outage is becoming a social menace.

“We appeal to community leaders to prevail on their wards and children to desist from taking laws into their own hands whenever faults occur on feeders in the community,” he appealed.

Onyi said that protesters had in 2017, shut down the same facility over demands for 24-hour power supply, employment and compensation.

He expressed regret that the residents would vent their frustration on PHED when the facility belonged to the Federal Government.

The spokesman pointed out that the company only transmitted what it received from TCN.

“PHED has no authority over the asset. It is only a source through which power is transmitted to customers,” he said.

*PM News

Nigeria gal, Sope Aluko in Black Panther

Nigerians finally get a stake in Marvel Studios with the release of one of 2018’s most anticipated movies, Black Panther.

Black Panther follows T’Challa’s return home after the death of his father in Captain America: Civil War as king of Wakanda but finds his sovereignty challenged by a long-time adversary in a conflict that has global consequences.

The movie which is expected to release in Nigeria on February 16, 2018 boasts of a 90% black cast including Sope Aluko. Married and the mother of two (2) teenage boys plays the role of Shaman, a powerful primal leader who calls upon nature spirits for aid or guidance in Black Panther.

Nigerian-born but primarily raised in the UK, Sope started out with an undergraduate degree in Engineering and a master’s degree in Marketing. While in the UK, Sope attended drama classes at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) and extended her study into dance.

After a very successful career in the corporate space, the multi-linguist (speaks 4 languages including Yoruba) returned to acting and performing. Since then, she has played recurring roles on Netflix’s “Bloodline”, NBC’s “Law & Order SVU” and guest appearances on USA Network’s “Burn Notice” “Lifetime’s “Army Wives” amongst others.

Her film credits include supporting roles in feature films like Identity Thief, Pitch Perfect 2, 96 Minutes, Grass Stains,

Black Panther stars Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan; Academy Award® winner, Lupita Nyong’o; with Academy Award® nominee, Angela Bassett; and Academy Award® winner, Forest Whitaker.

Sope is currently filming another Marvel film, set to release in late 2018 and looks forward to working in Nollywood.

Davido Set To Release New Song ‘Chioma My Lover’ Dedicated To His Girlfriend

Davido’s love for his girlfriend, Chioma keeps blossoming as the days go by. He is so gassed about her, he made song entirely for her.

The popstar has a new single on the way titled ‘Chioma my lover’, and it’s dedicated to his one and only love, Chioma Rowland.

He sings in the verse;

“You’re the one i want o, Before my liver start to fail… You’re the one i need o, Before cassava start to hail…

Girl i’ll never leave o, make water carry me dey go. My lover, finally.”

The chorus;

“I am looking for a sister, Chioma my lover o… She get the dollar, she dey wear designer o.

I am looking for my sister, Chioma my lover o, She get the dollar, Chioma my lover. She say give me assurance, Assurance”

Chioma Avril Rowland, is a 300Level student of Babcock University. According to insiders, Chioma is also besotted with Davido and his 30Billion, so much that she is willing to do anything for him including missing school and repeating a year.

Davido keeps showing us that he is serious with Chioma as we can recall when they both stepped out together for a family’s private event.

Davido who is already a father of two beautiful daughters and doesn’t fail to show that he loves his girls. From bringing his first daughter, Imade to stage at his #30BillionConcert in Lagos to showing them off on his Snapchat.

Davido welcomed his second daughter, Hailey in 2017 with his then-girlfriend, Amanda May 9, 2017.

Saidi Balogun, Patience Ozokwor and Harrysong For INDEPENDENT Awards

The Independent Newspapers Limited awards is set to take place on Saturday, February 17, 2018 at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. .

In keeping with its avowed commitment to promoting the common good and rewarding excellence in the society, the Independent Newspapers Limited, publishers of the Daily INDEPENDENT, Saturday INDEPENDENT and Sunday INDEPENDENT has nominated Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa, Executive Governor of Delta State as the INDEPENDENT 2017 Man of the Year.

Asides other governors billed to attend, Governors Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos and Nyesom Wike of Rivers State were nominated as Governor and Political Icon of the year respectively.

For his sterling role in weathering the storm of the killer herdsmen in his state recently, Samuel Ortom of Benue was nominated and would be decorated as The Governor of the Year on Security, while David Umahi of Ebonyi State emerged Governor of the Year in Agriculture.

Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of Sokoto State was equally nominated as the 2017 Grassroots Governor of the Year, while the Outstanding Deputy Governor of the Year goes to Otunba Titilayo Tomori of Osun State.

The flagship newspaper also nominated Ike Ekweremadu, Senate Vice President, and Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker Lagos State House of Assembly as the Outstanding Legislator of the Year (National) and Outstanding Legislator of the Year (State) respectively. Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, former factional Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was named the Party Leader of the Year.

Similarly, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife was nominated as the Bridge Builder In Leadership in 2017.

Foremost industrialist, Alhaji Rasak Okoya was not left out, and he has been nominated for Life Achievement Award, while Wale Babalakin, Chairman Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, clinched the Most Outstanding Aviation Terminal Operator of the Year.

The Federal Inland Revenue Service and the Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) emerged nominees as the Federal Agency of the Year and Most Outstanding State Agency of the Year respectively

Nomination as the Most Outstanding Telecommunications Company of the Year goes to Globacom Limited.

The highlight of this year’s awards is the fact that entertainers and those who dazzle on the silver screen and dominate the airwaves are not left out.

For the artiste of the year, Alterplate CEO, Harry Song was nominated as Musician of the Year, while Saidi Balogun and Patience Ozokwor emerged Actor and Actress nominees of the Year respectively.

Adey releases 'Slender' on Valentine’s Day

Temple Music talented producer cum artiste, Adegboyega Ogunlesi, popularly known as Adey has released a new hot song titled 'Slender' to his fans.

The self-produced mid-tempo jam sees Adey flirting freely with his muse, ‘Slender Baby.’

Slender is another hot follow-up to his hit song entitled ‘Oluwa Wavy’ where the talented musician collaborates with wave-making rapper, Olamide and Grammy Award nominee and Afrobeat king, Femi Kuti. The song is released by Temple Music on Wednesday, February 14, 2018 for download on local and international digital stores.

Gulfstream G500 Jet Launches in Nigeria

The all-new Gulfstream G500 business jet made its Nigerian debut this week, with Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation’s senior executives visiting Nigeria to give current and potential customers an opportunity to experience firsthand the new aircraft’s cutting-edge technology, unparalleled comfort and superior craftsmanship.

The Gulfstream G500 business jet was on display for private viewing at the ExecuJet Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on February 16 and 17.

At a networking event attended by senior leaders from diverse sectors of the Nigerian economy, Commercial Counsellor Brent Omdahl reaffirmed the strong economic ties between the United States and Nigeria.

“The U.S. Foreign Commercial Service continues to facilitate long term business relationships between companies from the United States and Nigeria. We are excited to welcome this stellar group from the Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation to share their experience and expertise with Nigerian business executives,” Omdahl said.

Private aviation is a growing industry in Nigeria, which is home to more than 20 Gulfstream business aircraft, most of them large-cabin, long-range jets capable of connecting companies and business owners with their corporate interests around the globe. The Gulfstream G500, for example, can fly 8,149 km at nine-tenths the speed of sound, easily carrying passengers from Lagos to London or Moscow. At Mach 0.85, the aircraft can travel 9,630 km, linking Lagos with Caracas or Mumbai.

Diamond Platnumz announces major breakthrough after being dumped by babymama

It was a sweet-better experience for Tanzanian singer, Abdul Naseeb Juma popularly known yesterday as Diamond Platnumz as he announced a major breakthrough few hours after he was dumped by his South African-based Ugandan baby mama, Zari Hassan.

The sensational singer and WCB music label boss announced his plans to launch his music label branch in Kenya and asked his fans to tag talented musicians they would like to be signed under the label.

“As we are about to launch @wcb_wasafi Branch in Kenya...Please help me tag all the Kenyans talented artits, you would like to be signed under @wcb_wasafi , starting with this one..... (Kama unavyofaham mwaka huu @wcb_wasafi tunafungua Tawi jipya nchini Kenya, Maalum kwajili ya kuendelea kunyanyua vijana wenzetu wenye Vipaji tokea mtaani.. tafadhali nisaidie kuwatag vijana wote wenye Vipaji kenya, akianziwa na Huyu...),” Diamond wrote on his Instagram page.

Diamond made the announcement few hours after his baby mama told the world on Valentine's Day that they have gone their separate ways.

In a post on her Instagram page, Zari who is popularly knowmn as ‘The Boss Lady’ declared that she was no longer partners with Diamond and that it would not affect the fact that they have children together. She said that she had ended their relationship and she could not compromise her respect, integrity, dignity and well-being after the multiple rumors of Diamond cheating on her.

Zari who broke the news on Valentine’s day yesterday via social media wrote:

“Understand that this is very difficult for me to do. There have been multiple rumors some with evidence floating around in all sorts of media in regards to Diamond’s constant cheating and sadly I have decided to end my relationship with Diamond, as my respect, integrity, dignity and well being cannot be compromised.”

“We are separating as partners but not as parents. This doesn’t reduce me as a self-made individual, and as a caring mother, and the boss lady you have all come to know. I will continue to build as a mogul, I will inspire the world of women to become boss ladies too.”

'I will teach my four sons to always respect women, and teach my daughter what self-respect means. Unlike many, I’ve been in the entertainment industry for 12 years, and through all my challenges I came out a victor because I am a winner, and so are all of you Zari supporters.”

Zari had three children with Ugandan tycoon Ivan Ssemwanga before he died last year, and she also has a boy and one girl with Diamond Platnumz.

I'm not drunk, I'm just interpreting my movie roles—Muonago Collins

Comic-actor, Muonago Collins popularly called Nche Security who is known for his excellent delivery of roles and striking resemblance with veteran actor, Nkem Owoh a.k.a Osuofia is not usually drunk as he portrays in movies. In real life, he presents a different picture of himself- a calm and harmless gentle man.But on movie set, he's branded as a village jester or a mischief maker who staggers at most times. However, believe it or not, Collins has carved a niche for himself as one of the hottest stars rocking the Asaba movie scene.The wave-making actor who joined the industry a few years back is renowned for his comic roles and unique style of acting which has endeared him to many movie buffs.

In a recent chat with HVP, Collins described himself as a versatile actor, explaining that he has never been drunk before. Rather, “I'm just interpreting my movie roles.” He dismissed the notion that he's stereotyped in movies, saying “I have played such roles that did not portray me as drunk in movies.”

Popularly known as Nche Security, Collins is happily married with kids. He has acted in over 50 movies since he joined the industry. Some of his movies were, “ Painful Soul”, “Mothers Tears”, “The Great Odumodu”, “Mr Ibu in Trouble”, “Only Hope”, “Oga on Top”, “Osuofia's Wedding” among others.

22 years after, Ivie Liberty drops second single

Twenty-two years after she dumped music to concentrate on her studies, Felix Liberty's daughter, Ivie has dropped her latest hot single titled, “ Zionite.”

Ivie,who released her first solo album, “Nigerian Girl” in 1996, when she was 11 years broke the good news on her Instagram page. “ I am so excited to announce to you that my new single , “Zionite” is finally out,” she wrote.

Recall that Ivie was in the country last week, where she was recording the five track- EP with her father. A London-based Nigerian fashion designer, Ivie dumped music after her father advised her to concentrate on her studies. Now, 22 years after she obeyed the voice of her father, the beautiful mother of four, who is married to Efosa Efe-Eweka, from the Benin royal family looks promising to take the place of her father in the Nigerian music scene. The beautiful fashion designer-turned singer is overjoyed, returning to her first love-music after many years of hiatus.

Abuja guest writer session features Anima Aboje, Elsie Oghenekaro

Two female writers, Amina Aboje and Elsie Oghenekaro, will take centre stage at the February 24, Guest Writer Session at Aso Hall, Nanet Suites, Abuja by 4pm. The monthly event, an intervention by the Abuja Writers Forum (AWF) which features readings, a Q and A session, live music and a raffle –draw for books is open to the public.

Born in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, Amina Aboje had her primary education in the beautiful city of Buguma, one of the many towns in the Kalabari Kingdom. She holds a first degree in Biochemistry and is currently running a post-graduate course at the Nasarawa State University, Keffi. Her interest in writing was birthed when she discovered the delight of reading as a little girl. Ms Aboje expresses herself in both poetry and prose.

Her short stories have featured in some online literary journals like Dugwe and Lunaris Review. Her poems and short stories have severally topped the Abuja Writers Forum Writing Challenge series. In 2016, she won the Mandela Day Poetry Prize. She’s also the third place winner (in the poetry category) of the maiden edition of the Communicators League writing contest.

Aboje is one among several featured in the soon to be published Best New African Poets 2017 Anthology. She is the author of Promises on Sand, a collection of poems focused on the many intricacies of life and the disturbing issue of corruption in politics.

Ms Aboje who is an independent editor, also finds pleasure in teaching poetry. She works and lives in Abuja, Nigeria.

Elsie Dennis Oghenekaro started her journey into writing in the very early nineties when she worked as a reporter for newspapers and magazines, including Abuja's first newspaper, Abuja Newsday.

She later veered off into diplomatic circles as Liaison Officer for the International Committed of the Red Cross (ICRC). Some of her duties in the Red Cross required her to use her writing skills for various high level reports. Leaving the Red Cross, she worked with the Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA) and several other organizations.

She has run her own travel business as well as other businesses. After a ten year absence from Abuja with her family, she finally came back to the city she considers home in 2012 and has since focused on her writing and literary consulting.

Under the nom -de -plum Elsie O. Dennis, she has written several books for young children as well as several novels and inspirational books. She runs a small reading NGO for urban ghettos and trains young people on how to live a more meaningful life. Her latest book is God Is Not Here.

Mrs Oghenekaro is passionate about the Nigeria project and speaks in issues concerning the girl child, women empowerment and the Nigeria of her dream. A mother of five children,her hobbies include travelling, cooking, reading, and is currently working on her MBA. She is a craftsman of the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild USA, and considers writing as her life's purpose.

Veteran Actress, Victoria Inyama Embattled In Marital Crisis

Veteran Nollywood actress, Victoria Inyama might be enmeshed in marital crisis with her now estranged husband and renowned novelist Ben Okri, popular for one of his books ‘The Famished Road’.

The mother of 3 wrote a message on facebook that has since gone viral and it is obviously about her marriage and her ”psychotic beast” husband who has refused granting her divorce while allegedly cheating on her Victoria says.

She wrote on her Facebook page, "What’s on my mind hmmmmmmmm. Happy to be alive. Healthy……. getting better…brighter….standing up for myself……regardless of d demon in human form that I have to deal with…………… legion lawyer……….. If not for God……..psychotic beast with his Never ending drama……. he wouldn’t even grant her a divorce………… and d poor bitch living with him……..May God give her sense… she’s so dumb ...miserable pair…..

“D bondage is sickening and all his legal antics. They saw the law is fair but not when he manipulates it like he does. He has a live in lover and still wouldn’t divorce me! He asaulted me yesterday and d first time, I called the police on him”.

*PM News

BBNaija: Nina speaks on kissing Miracle during shower hour

Big Brother Naija housemate, Nina has apologised for kissing fellow housemate, Miracle during a shower hour on Tuesday.

Nina, while apologising said she was trying to control herself cause she knew her boyfriend would feel bad.

It would be recalled that Housemates Nina and Miracle were caught kissing in the shower on Tuesday morning.

She said, “I know my bf will feel bad, I know he’s feeling bad at the moment. I’m begging him not to feel bad about everything happening here. I’m sorry, I’m trying to control it.

”My bf might even be crying watching me here. I’m really sorry but I’ll keep controlling it #BBNaija.

“Miracle knows I have a boyfriend, I told him. He told me he was single.”

Recall also that housemate, Bitto yesterday, got an erection by just hugging fellow housemate Nina, who was crying.

BBNaija `Double Wahala: Viewers Not Happy With `Biggie’s Voice

Some Television viewers of the ongoing Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) “Double Wahala’ reality show, have taken to twitter to register their displeasure over the `change’ of Big Brother’s a.k.a `Biggie’ voice.

They stated that the change from a deep baritone voice used in last season to this season’s calmer voice is disrupting the fun of the show.

‘Biggie’, acts as the official owner of the house as he views all the housemates, makes the rules and moderates discussions in the diary room.

A tweeter handler, @TiGerFame tweeted: “Biggie, this voice no work. You people should reconcile with whoever owns the real voice and bring him back. If he is dead invoke his spirit.”

@mbalsea said: “How can housemates take the tasks serious when Biggie’s voice is a joke?”

@iamxeenia tweeted: “Please we all hate Biggie’s voice. Can they change it for the viewers’ sake? The viewer’s opinion is more important.”

@closelywatching said: “Dear BBN organisers, I really wish you wouldn’t ignore the sincere pleas of fans to change this Biggie. It is beyond his voice.”

@cwayachirps wrote: “This voice is embarrassing and a morale killer.

“This Biggie’s voice lacks command, lacks sexy tone, and lacks everything the other Biggie had. They better get auto tune working in that studio.”

Similarly, some twitter users are advocating for DJ Bally, one of the housemates from last season, to replace the current voice.

It should be recalled that Biggie in the ‘See Gobe’ version of the BBNaija had a deep, authoritative baritone that attracted the attention of the fans during his stay in the competition.

@Festygareth wrote: “We need Bally’s voice to replace small biggie.”

@cwayachirps wrote: “Bally would have been given this ‘Biggie’ contract if there is no money to pay the former one.”

Several polls have been carried out on twitter for followers to vote if they disliked the new voice.

On Friday, over 3000 votes have been gathered from combined polls.

BBNaija ‘Double Wahala’, begun on Sunday with 20 housemates competing for 45 million Naira worth of prizes.

*PM News

Niniola Goes RnB On Us In ”Oyin”

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Niniola who rose to recognition in 2013 after finishing third runner-up on the sixth season of Project Fame West Africa has bounced back with a new RnB single titled, “Oyin,”

The black beauty who not too long ago teased us with her ”SARO” video off the album ”THIS IS ME” alongside ”MARADONA” which topped all Charts in South Africa, Niniola is out with yet another beautiful video titled ”OYIN” off ”THIS IS ME” album.

”Oyin” is a powerful RnB song away from the regular fast beat the 31 year old normally puts out there. An unrelenting lover who persisted until her lover noticed their love will be true if only he could give her a chance is what this amazing Video directed by Clarence Peters is about.

The Ekiti born singer and songwriter became famous in 2013 after finishing third runner-up on the sixth season of Project Fame West Africa. Who knows, this might just be Niniola’s breakthrough hit song. 

Phyno drops ”Isi Ego” Like It’s Hot

Chibuzor Nelson Azubuike popularly known as Phyno is starting 2018 with a bang. The ”Fada Fada” crooner and Penthauze Music boss has released his latest track titled ”Isi Ego”.

The song was produced by Penthauze Producer Iam Beats

France Condemns Killings In Cameroon, Urges Dialogue

Emmanuel-Macron, French President

France condemned on Friday attacks by suspected English-speaking separatists in Cameroon that killed three gendarmes, but urged the Cameroonian government to engage in dialogue to stop an escalation in violence.

The separatists allegedgdly killed the gendarmes on Thursday.

They took up arms over the past year in an attempt to create a nation they call Ambazonia. The insurgency represents the gravest challenge yet to the 35-year rule of Cameroon’s President Paul Biya.

France, which has significant business interests in its former colony and relies on it to fight against Islamist militants, has been careful not to overly criticize the government’s handling of the crisis.

“France condemns the new killings of law enforcement officials that took place on Thursday in Cameroon,” Foreign ministry spokeswoman Agnes Muhll told reporters in a daily briefing after three gendarmes were killed in separate clashes on Thursday in towns in the North West Region.

She said only dialogue would enable a peaceful response to the concerns of all sides and ensure the unity and integrity of the country.

“This is a message we are also passing on to the Cameroonian authorities, in close consultation with our European and international partners,” the spokeswoman added.

Violence has flared in the past week, with armed separatist factions clashing against Cameroon security forces in several towns and villages in the two English-speaking regions after Nigeria deported the leader of the self-declared state and 46 others.

The UN refugee agency condemned the handing over of the 47 people, saying most of them had submitted asylum claims and their forced return was in violation of international refugee law.

No fewer than 43,000 Cameroonians have fled as refugees to Nigeria to escape the government crackdown on the separatists, say local aid officials.

The majority are in Nigeria’s Cross River, which borders southwest Cameroon.

*Agency report 

PPA Chieftain Calls For Upgrade Of Federal Poly, Oko To University

Mr Godwin Ezeemo, a Progressive People’s Alliance (PPA) chieftain, on Friday urged the Federal Government to upgrade the status of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, to a University of Technology.

Ezeemo was the PPA Governorship Candidate in November 18, 2017, governorship election in Anambra.

He made the call, while speaking with newsmen in Oko on the sideline of the funeral service of former Vice President Alex Ekwueme at St John the Divine Anglican Church, Oko, in Orumba North Local Government Area.

He said that the upgrade of the polytechnic should be done as an honour to the late Ekwueme for his uncommon patriotism, in spite of the renaming of Federal University, Ndufu-Ikwo in Ebonyi after the Second Republic Vice-President.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo had announced the renaming of the university after Ekwueme during the funeral service, to immortalise him for his contributions to national development.

Ezeemo noted that Federal Polytechnic, Oko, was the late elder statesman’s brainchild.

According to him, Ekwueme’s efforts which brought infrastructural and educational development to the area, earned the title `Ide Aguata’.

He further commended Nigerians who came from far and near without considering tribal or ethnic differences to honour the political icon and prayed for their safe return to their respective destinations.

He described Ekwueme as a rare breed and advised Nigerians across board to emulate the exemplary life of the deceased.

He also appealed to the Nigerian leaders to be sensitive to the yearnings and aspirations of the people at all times, with a view to delivering the dividends of democracy to them.

Mixed-reactions as Varsity is renamed after late Ekwueme

The renaming of Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo (FUNAI), in Ebonyi after the late Second Republic Vice President Alex Ekwueme has generated mixed reactions from stakeholders.

Vice President Yemi Osibanjo announced the renaming of the university during the funeral service for the late elder statesman on Friday at Oko, Anambra.

Some of the stakeholders who spoke with NAN in Abakaliki, commended the Federal Government for the decision while others argued that an edifice in Anambra or Enugu where he resided or a bigger edifice could have been more befitting.

Mr Ikechukwu Ubochi, the Public Relations Officer of FUNAI, told NAN that the institution had not been officially informed about the renaming.

“We heard about the renaming over the radio and the university will react appropriately when we receive the information formally,’’ Ubochi said.

Prof. John Ekeh, the Ebonyi Commissioner for Education, commended the Federal Government decision, adding that the government and people of Ebonyi appreciate it.

“The Federal Government has honoured the Igbo nation by giving its departed worthy son, Ekwueme, an honour befitting of icons of like him.

“The decision should be a rallying point for Nigerians to believe and work for Nigeria’s unity which the departed statesman preached during his lifetime,” Ekeh said.

Supporting the position, Mr Nwachukwu Eze, the Acting Chairman, All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ebonyi, described the decision as an honour to the Igbo nation.

“The APC in Ebonyi appreciates this gesture and it shows that despite the misgivings about President Muhammdu Buhari, he is a detribalised Nigerian,” Eze said.

However, Mr Hycinth Achoja, an official of Civil Rights Organisation (CLO) in Ebonyi, argued that naming an institution or edifice in Anambra or Enugu where Ekwueme lived, could have been more befitting.

“There are several institutions and edifices in Anambra and Enugu which could have been named after Ekwueme, especially the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra, which he established,” he said.

Similarly, Mrs Juliana Ibeneme, a retired civil servant, suggested that a bigger edifice could have been designated to immortalise him.

“The late Nnamdi Azikiwe was from Anambra but the International Airport in Abuja and the Stadium in Enugu were named after him by the Federal Government.

“I would have preferred that a teaching hospital, airport or older federal university in the South-East zone was named after Ekwueme instead of a new and unheralded university such as FUNAI,” Ibeneme said.

Tonto Dikeh celebrates son as court bans her from airing reality show

Despite ordering her and her business associate, Linda Ikeji not to air King Tonto Reality TV Show until the case is settled in court by the Lagos state magistrate court, Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has continued to draw undue attention to the little boy on social media.

The actress posted a video, on her Instagram page, showing where she was kissing the lad in the name of celebrating him. She wrote, “ We spent 2 hours apart and once I walked thru the door I was celebrated with a hug so healing, so soothing from a tiny pure heart in hands..I celebrated him too by giving him kisses from the lips that prays most for him,The heart that loves him mostest,The arms that/Will always cradled him.”

It was reported that the court banned Tonto Dikeh and Linda Ikeji from airing, showing, disseminating or broadcasting, either through television, blogs or the Internet the person, name, face, image, likeness or picture of King Andre Omodayo Igo Churchill in the King Tonto Reality TV Show produced by Linda Ikeji Media pending the hearing of the originating motion in the suit.

The injunction was reportedly given on the 31st of January.

Recall that the father of the boy, Olakunle Churchill, went to court to protect him from undue indecent exposure and exploitation by the mother for personal gain and fame.

Churchill approached the court to seek for an injunction which puts a stop to the respondent from featuring King Andrea in the programme in any capacity as he is regarded a minor not fit to make decision for himself.

Justice P. A Adekomaiya of Lagos Magistrate Court has ordered the issuance of the verdict to the parties involved as Linda Ikeji Media copy was pasted at the gate of her studio.

The decision of the court is a legal victory for the applicant King Andrea filed on behalf of his father to save the kid of any embarrassment in future.

Peter Okoye set to launch clothing Line

One of popular music duo, Peter Okoye, a.k.a Mr. P, seems to have swayed into fashion business with the launch of his new clothing line named ‘Classic P Collection’.

This was gathered after the singer announced the launch of his new fashion line on his Instagram page and the announcement was well welcomed by fan

Queen Moremi Ajasoro 2018 winner gets car gift

Miss Oluwatosin Shola Shittu, winner of the 2018 winner of the prestigious Queen Moremi Ajasoro Cultural Pageant held December 3, 2017, in Lagos receives her car gift from Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.

The event held at the new Ife Grand Resort and Leisure, Ile Ife, Osun State, Sunday 28, 2018 was attended by cultural lovers from far and near who witnessed the handover ceremony performed by the Bashorun of Ikun Ekiti, Eniola Foyase with others in admiration.

Oba Ogunwusi who praised the new queen as a true cultural ambassador was well pleased that she was able to put on brave fight through the audition, boot camp training and final stage appearance to emerge the winner. He admonished her to utilize the opportunity given to her to serve humanity and the institution she is representing.

For Bashorun Eniola Fayose, Chairman of the occasion, he was very pleased to be given the opportunity by Kabieyesi to perform the handover ceremony while extolling his gaits in promoting culture. “It is a rare privilege to have a man like kabiyesi at this age and time reviving culture – a time when internet has taken over our everyday life including our culture. Almost everything is online except for people like kabiyesi who can still give facts that internet will not give. The story of Queen Moremi is refreshing and Kabiyesi has proved that our roots are intact through his understanding of the culture which he promotes vigorously. For the new queen, we wish her well on her new role and the cultural ambassador of the Queen Moremi Ajasoro institution and also believed as a true daughter of Ekiti, she will live to our expectations.”

COSON kicks against N5.9bn awarded to MCSN for copyright Infringement *Says: 'some of the works in question belong to its affiliates'

Barely a week after the Federal High Court in Lagos, awarded N5.9 billion “special damages” against Multichoice Nigeria in an eight-year-old copyright infringement legal battle between the South Africa firm and the Musical Copyright Society of Nigeria, MCSN, members of Copyright Society of Nigeria,COSON, have kicked against the judgement, describing it as “bizarre and an attempt to turn the Nigeria music industry into a gold mine, from where those who have made no investments nor contributions to the industry can cart away illicit billions of Naira while the true creators and investors in the industry languish in penury.”

Speaking on behalf of the members of the society at a world press conference on Wednesday, at COSON House in Ikeja, Chief Tony Okoroji, Chairman of COSON recalled that at the time the purported infringement took place, MCSN was not an approved collecting society and that there is a plethora of Court of Appeal decisions stating that without approval, MCSN cannot collect royalties in Nigeria. “MCSN was facing seven pending criminal cases at the Federal High Court and which the Attorney-General of the Federation, Mr. Abubakar Malami ordered the Nigerian Copyright Commission to approve in 2017, despite the protest of the NCC,” Okoroji stated.

According to Okoroji, a number of the works said to have been infringed upon are works in the repertoire controlled by COSON for which Multichoice Nigeria has obtained a legitimate license.

Okoroji added that COSON has received reactions from some of its international affiliates wondering what the hell is going on in Nigeria as some of the works for which MCSN was said to have received the award belong to these COSON affiliates and at no time did they assign the works to MCSN.

He asked for a precedent for the kind of award against Multichoice noting that if a single Nigerian company providing employment to hundreds if not thousands of Nigerian citizens can be said to liable up to the whopping sum of 6 billion Naira for copyright infringement in the broadcast of 18 songs then it would require the entire national budget of Nigeria, South Africa and Egypt to pay for the entire Multichoice content.

“If Multichoice Nigeria, a single Nigerian company providing employment to hundreds if not thousands of our citizens can be said to liable up to the whopping sum of N6 billion for copyright infringement in the broadcast of 18 songs as reported by some newspapers since no one I yet to see a copy of the judgement, then it will require the entire national budget of Nigeria, South Africa and Egypt to pay for the entire Multichoice content,”Okoroji stated.

Asked the celebrated former president of PMAN, “For a nation that continuously says that it badly wants direct foreign investment, which rational person would want to come and invest his money in Nigeria and expose himself to this kind of frightful shake down?”

Chief Tony Okoroji who is one of Africa’s most respected authorities on Intellectual Property said, “Some of us have spent practically our entire adult lives campaigning for the respect for intellectual property rights in our country. Our campaign has been for a responsible intellectual property system. Rather than help the collective management of copyright in Nigeria, the kind of shake down of Multichoice which will ruin entire companies will turn decent people against the collective management of copyright and hurt our industry and our country. After Mutichoice, who will be next?”

Speaking further, COSON called on President Muhammadu Buhari to call Mr. Abubakar Malami to order. The society also called on the National Judicial Council and the National Assembly to ensure that there is a full and transparent probe of what is happening at both the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Federal High Court.

Calling for the resignation of the Acting Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Abdul Kafarati, for his role in what the society described as ‘a frightening new assault on the Nigerian Judiciary, COSON Chairman also urged the Federal Executive Council to direct the immediate return of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) to the supervision of the Minister charged with responsibility for culture as expressly provided in Section 51 of the Nigerian Copyright Act so that the Commission can be properly deployed to the promotion of the Nigerian creative industry instead of being a tool for the pursuit of devious schemes as it is presently being deployed.

Present at the event were Sir Shina Peters, Kenny Saint Brown, reggae legend, Ras Kimono, COSON General Manager, Mr. Chinedu Chukwuji amog other members of the society.

Johnny Drille, Tiwa Savage, Cobhams, others for RHH premiere

In the midst of a record-breaking run as one of the producers of The Wedding Party 2: Destination Dubai, EbonyLife Films has announced the Lagos premiere of its latest movie, “The Royal Hibiscus Hotel.”

The event, which is scheduled to hold on Sunday, February 2018 at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, promises to be an unforgettable evening.

Tagged, ‘Festival of Music, Food and Love’, the screening will be preceded by a concert, featuring the talented Johnny Drille, Reekado Banks and Mavin Records first lady, Tiwa Savage. Other artistes on the lineup are Tolani, Veentage Band, Kaline, Falana and Cobhams Asuquo, who created the film’s score.

According to the organizers, while the event lasts, guests will be privileged to browse through the food hall, sampling a range of culinary delights, from Nigeria, across Africa and beyond. Some of Nigeria’s top chefs will be creating their signature dishes in a series of demonstrations, sure to excite foodies; while many of the world’s finest wines, spirits and liqueurs, such as Johnnie Walker and Baileys, will also be available for tasting and pairing with interesting new flavours.

Interestingly, the sights, sounds and taste of love will pervade the event, which will climax with the screening of “The Royal Hibiscus Hotel”, one of the most romantic films ever made in Nollywood. Viewers will be entranced by its depiction of love for couples of every generation.

Also, there will be one of EbonyLife’s famous after-parties, refreshed by Cîroc vodka, for those who want to keep going until the early hours.