Ghanaian President, Nana Akufo-Addo excited ...as organizers unveil AFRIMA 2018 calendar in Accra

Ghana Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Catherine Afeku  

The International Committee of AFRIMA, in partnership with African Union and the government of Ghana have declared that the calendar for the 2018 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) will be unveiled on Monday, May 21, 2018, at a world media event and music conference scheduled for Accra, Ghana.

Part of the agenda for the calendar unveiling is a courtesy visit to the President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, who is excited to receive African delegates and music stars scheduled to attend the epoch-making event.

The delegation will include Head of Culture, African Union, Mrs. Angela Martins; President/Executive Producer, AFRIMA, Mr. Mike Dada; Director, Brand Communications, AFRIMA; Ms. Matlou Tsotetsi; AFRIMA Regional Director; Western Africa, Mr. Don Obilor, the Ghanaian-UK AFRIMA Juror, (representing UK-Diaspora) and BBC-1 show host, Ms. Rita Ray and the AFRIMA Country Director, Ghana, Mr. Francis Doku.

Ghana’s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Catherine Afeku, said the prestigious awards shares President Nana Akufo-Addo’s objective to develop sustainable tourism, hinged on Ghanaian arts and culture. “Arts and culture, as a sector, remains one of Africa’s greatest strengths. As well as being a source of values, identity and a sense of belonging, the creative industries have become a driver of economic growth and job creation. In agreeing to host the AFRIMA 2018 calendar unveiling, the Government of Ghana is motivated by the need to harness the potential of the creative sector of Ghana to promote national and regional tourism. We congratulate the African Union for lending its weight behind this laudable effort”, she said.

Orits Wiliki, Tony Okoroji settle rift at Ras Kimono's birthday bash

The age-long feud between reggae star, Orits Wiliki and Chief Tony Okoroji appears to have been resolved after all. The duo have been locked in a battle over who is licensed to collect right of musical works for many years now. But recently, at the birthday bash of one of Nigeria's reggae legends, Ras Kimono, once bitter enemies at the instance of veteran broadcaster, Bisi Olatilo had a handshake and embraced each other as a sign of peace. It was the highpoint of the birthday bash, which had a a number of artistes in the showbiz industry performing for the Rubba Dub Master who also marked his 34 years on stage and his guests.

Present at the occasion, which held at Time Square Event Centre, Ikeja were Daddy Showkey, Alariwo of Africa, Prince Bisi Olatilo, Chief Tony Okoroji, Sir Shina Peters, Funsho Adeolu. Others were Dede Mabiaku, Eddy Remedy, Dede Mabiaku, Lekan Ogunbanwo, Kenny Saint Best, Koffi, Agatha Amata and Orits Wiliki. While the event lasted, everyone had something to say about the rub-a-dub master who was in high spirits as encomiums were showered on him. The occasion was spiced up by the likes of Koffi Da Guru who cracked up everyone with funny jokes.

President Buhari condoles Christians on passing of CAN Gen. Sec, Rev Musa Asaka

President Muhammadu Buhari joins the national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Christian community in Nigeria in mourning the passing of the General Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev (Dr) Musa Asake.

The President, while commiserating with the family of the late Reverend, prays that God Almighty will comfort all those who mourn the departed, and grant his soul eternal rest.

CNN meets Toke Makinwa, to learn about her journey to success

Nigerian radio host and television personality Toke Makinwa has explained why acknowledging her personal “brand” was a crucial element in her journey to success. She gave the explanation while speaking on this week’s episode of African Voices, CNN. 

Born in Lagos, Makinwa grew up with her siblings after both of her parents died when she was eight years old. She reflects on her father’s ambitions for her: “When my dad was alive, he thought I was going to be a lawyer because I couldn’t keep quiet. I was a bubbly, very chatty child. But I was never really interested in law. I have a lot of respect for lawyers but I’m a creative.”

After gaining some experience on a local radio station and graduating from University, Makinwa explains how she initially faced much rejection, but didn’t let this stop her from her goal of working in the entertainment industry: “When I started auditioning, the light and the fire in me was born and I knew I wanted to do this for the rest of my life. I remember the amount of auditions I’d go to and wouldn’t get a call back. But with every ‘no’, I used it to fuel my passion. ‘No’ doesn’t mean it’s not going to happen, it just means it’s ‘not yet’. [Rejection] fuelled me to keep auditioning and get comfortable in front of the camera. Eventually there was one big ‘yes’ that opened the door to so many other things.”

Makinwa credits her faith for helping her to remain focused and positive and the start of her career: “I feel like my [Christian] faith has helped me on this journey. I mean I don’t know where I would be without my faith. There were times where prayer was all I had, and knowing that this was what I wanted to do. You know, it may not have been clear at the beginning but somehow every single thing I’ve done has always been interrelated. It’s always led to something.”

Today, Makinwa presents a late morning radio show on Rhythm 93.7 and a television show on Ebony Live TV. Having made a name for herself all over Africa, Makinwa is now a social media influencer on top of her day jobs: “One thing I realised in 2017 was the power of my brand. I started realising that people would be influenced by certain things I’d wear and post. So I have some collaborations with some designers and they would sell out! It’s a very humbling process…”

Makinwa outlines her “brand” identity and why she wants to inspire her fans: “I’d say my brand is very aspirational. I appeal to a lot of young people out there… I only have one mission statement: ‘you can’. Regardless of where you started from, regardless of where you find yourself, as long as you have a dream and have a passion for what you do, you can.”

Recently adding another string to her bow, Makinwa became an author in 2016 after releasing her first book, a memoir titled On Becoming. She explains to the programme why she wanted to tell her story: “For many years, as women we’re being told you have to be a certain type of way as a woman and so many people are ashamed of things. You know once you face your fear and shame that shame, there’s nothing else that you cannot take on. As long as you know who you are and are focused on where you’re going, you’ll always find your way.”

Cinematographers are not celebrated, says Fayo

Popular cinematographer, Olusegun Fayo Ogedegbe a.k.a Fayo has lamented that the Nigerian film industry does not give cinematographers the respects they deserve compared to their counterparts.

Fayo, who revealed that his journey into cinematography was borne out of ‘love and passion’, posited that for Nollywood to grow, cinematographers have to be given their due recognition.

He also talked the breakthrough he has recorded in the industry, saying “It’s been God all the ways. According to him, “When I look back from early 2001 when I started with handmade equipment at Movie Land Studios, today my works have been nominated in many award platforms across the globe even though I haven't won any yet.”

To his credit, Fayo was sponsored to Mumbai, India on a two weeks short course on cinematography as a beneficiary in 2014 Project ACT Nollywood initiated by the Goodluck Jonathan administration.

His training at Whistling Woods International, Mumbai, he recounted inspired his recent works including ‘Just Not Married’, directed by Patrick Uduak, ‘Resident Permit’, directed by Afe Olumowe, ‘What Men Want’ and ‘Homely’ both directed by Akin Harrison.

“Whistling Woods International gave me another thousand ways on how creative technically I should be and also following the rules of cinematography as a filmmaker and the secrets of cinematography as well. I just launched my company, Vigor101 Media which focuses on filmmaking, documentaries, TV content, photography among others. By God's grace, I will be working on my first ever short film titled ‘The Venoms’ as well as ‘The Good Fight’,” he hinted.

He also revealed that Vigor101 Media has been responsible for some of the rave making events like Chief Lucky Igbinedion’s 60th birthday coverage, 2Face Idibia’s ‘A Million Voices for Peace’ campaign, the triple tour with 2Baba and American singer, Bridget Kelly. Vigor101 Media, he said, will soon be officially launching Vigor101 TV Channel and Vigor101 Media Academy.

AGN Crisis: Ibinabo denies being invited to past presidents meeting *Insists being authentic president of the guild

Embattled former president of Actors Guild of Nigeria, Ibinabo Fiberesima has denied that she was never invited by Mr. Emeka Rollas when the past presidents of the guild had a close-door meeting with him, in Lagos.

The meeting, which held last week, at Lounge 50, in Surulere and exclusively reported by HVP had about five past presidents of the guild in attendance. They were Chief Lari Williams, the first president of the guild, Zack Orji, Ejike Asiegbu, Emmanuel Agugua and Segun Arinze who handed over to Ibinabo as AGN president.

Ibinabo, according to Emeka Rollas, was duly informed about the meeting. But in a statement she released during the week, the ex-beauty has denied being invited to the meeting. She insisted, however, that she's still the authentic president of the guild.

The statement reads thus: “The attention of the National Executive Council of the Actors Guild of Nigeria has been drawn to a false allegation on our National President, Ibinabo Fiberesima that she turned down the invitation to attend the Meeting of the Past Presidents of the Guild.

We want to state categorically that the allegation is totally untrue, cocuted to malign and tarnish the name and image of our National President.”

“The National President was never invited nor contacted by the conveners of the so called meeting.

Even though she is still incumbent, authentic elected National President, she would have used the opportunity to brief her colleagues on the position of the Guild and the act of illegality currently being perpuated by a section of the members led by Emeka Rollas.”

“The present Exco is still in the Appeal court battling the judgment of March 16, 2015 by the Federal High Court which declared us illegal at the tail end of our first tenure. We respect law and order thus we have not conducted a fresh election.”

“Ibinabo is not desirous of remaining as AGN President forever just as the case in the appeal court will not last forever too, therefore the National Executive shall midwife a credible election as soon as all the pending court cases are resolved.”

“For the records, Emeka Rollas is on suspension for his fraudulent practices as National Secretary under the Government of National Unity led by Segun Arinze. He was indicted by the probe panel therefore he cannot parade himself as the President of the Guild.”

“The Actors Guild of Nigeria, is governed by a written constitution and we shall continue to be guided by law and order. We cannot be intimidated by illegality and impunity as being demonstrated by some misguided and disgruntled elements that threaten the peaceful existence of the Actors Guild of Nigeria.”

Minister of State for Petroleum son Kach joins Ubi Franklin’s Record Label

Rising hip-hop star and son of Minister of State for Petroleum, Ibe Kachikwu, Uche Kachikwu,

who's known as Kach, has joined Made Men Music Group (MMMG), a record label co-owned by Ubi Franklin.

The self-acclaimed Afrotrap pioneer was welcomed to MMMG by Franklin via a post on his Instagram post on Thursday, May 10, with the caption:

“I am a rare species, not a stereotype. Dear Friends welcome @kachofficial To Made Men Music Group. @mademenmusicgroup1

Franklin now co-owns MMMG with show promoter, Paul ‘PaulO’ Okoye, after parting ways with Iyanya Mbuk, an artist and former co-owner, who joined Mavin Records.

Kach  tweeted: "To The World!!! So happy to join the Triple MG family.

I will be online for the next hour answering my fans questions on this new journey.

Please use the hashtag #TripleMGunveilsKACH"

Kach is the son of Ibe Kachikwu, the minister of State for Petroleum Resources and the immediate past Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

He is well known for his single ‘Dino’ – where Kogi West senator Dino Melaye made an appearance in the video. Kachi will be joining a team of talented artists including Tekno, Selebobo, Ellyman and Rogerlino already signed to the record label.

Lipton yellow label tea gives Nigerian widows ‘Reason To Smile’

Becoming a widow in Nigeria is often followed by a fall into extreme poverty – a situation usually aggravated by widespread practice of property grabbing and sometimes, physical abuse. Consequently, they are subjected to food insecurity due to poverty or unemployment, failure to find basic and school necessities for their children, lack of shelter, difficulty in accessing working capital for small-scale businesses, and victimization by harmful cultural practices.

In many traditional settings, the death of a husband can put women at the risk of social segregation and the loss of the security and social status their partners would have provided. They are immediately banished to the fringe of society and suffer different forms of stigma and discrimination.

For any nation or society interested in fostering progressive development, it is important that citizens create a social climate conducive for collective achievement. Apart from the need to adopt a friendly culture that dignifies victims and recognizes their pain, widows need support systems that provide opportunities to reintegrate into society after the loss of their spouses.

If we are going to achieve this, everyone needs to understand that widows are extremely disadvantaged. In a country where culture and tradition are used as tool to oppress disadvantaged women, we have a collective responsibility to overcome these barriers with practical solutions to alleviate their poverty and helplessness. Either as a corporate imperative or individual responsibility, actions and decisions have to be taken to rehabilitate widows disenfranchised by poverty and unemployment.

Consider Lipton’s ‘Reason To Smile’, an initiative by Unilever Plc.’s leading tea brand which is aimed at supporting 1,000 Nigerian widows with necessary care packs and seed fund to start a business. Expected to be executed in states across Nigeria, the Lipton ‘Reasons to Smile’ campaign is also giving all concerned Nigerians the opportunity to get involved with one Lipton pack at a time, give widows a reason to smile and lighten their burden.

In many Nigerian communities where a lot of women are housewives, fully dependent on their husbands, it becomes a great challenge when such families lose their breadwinner and find it difficult to cater for themselves and their children. These women need to be given a helping hand – a lifeline to create a better future for themselves and their communities in general.

The challenges that widows in our communities and cities experience daily affects everyone. They are our mothers, sisters, friends, neighbours and more. They remain one of the most marginalized persons, a depressing reality that has dealt a blow to compassion and decorum in our society. The least we can do is to care for them and also provide them with opportunities for solutions – which is the objective of the Lipton brand.

Widows need be celebrated and encouraged. They are an integral part of our society and deserve as much respect and dignity as anyone else. As women and mothers, they are active members of the Nigerian society who contribute to national development. We cannot allow them to be victimized and subjected to untold hardships just because they lost a loved one, Lipton is saying we have the power to lighten their burden and put smiles on their faces.

AWF launches festival website

Abuja Writers Forum (AWF) has launched a new website for the Abuja Literary Festival which will hold from June 28- 30, 2018.

The website will provide regular updates about the festival as panelists and authors are confirmed in the coming days. There will also be insightful articles and interviews. It will also provide information during the festival.

The website can be accessed at www.abujaliterrayfestival.org. Meanwhile two Embassies have confirmed interest in the Festival by offering to support some of the segments. The Ecuadorian Embassy will partner in the International Art and Photo Exhibition with the display of the Ecuador/Nigeria Photo-book being one of the proposed highlights.

The American Embassy is providing assistance for the digital media training for the five -day drama workshop.

This development underscores the growing partnership between the Ecuadorian Embassy and the Abuja Writers Forum. In 2017, the Embassy sponsored a short story contest for young Ecuadorian and Nigerian writers. A selection from the winning entries was eventually published as a bilingual (Spanish/English) collection of short stories,Pais Casabe (Casava Lands).

The collection has been achieved some feats as it is the first time Ecuadorian writers are being published collectively in English and vice versa for their Nigerian counterparts translated to Spanish. It has also been adopted as a major resource by the African descendants in Ecuador.

The Future Project set to hold The Nigeria Symposium

The Future Project (TFP) is set to hold the fourth edition of The Nigeria Symposium for Young and Emerging Leaders on May 31, 2018 at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

Themed ‘Shaping New Narratives’, the Symposium will bring together leaders and influential personalities in politics, business, advocacy, media, and more – to engage and discuss issues of governance, public policies, and civic engagement.

As an annual knowledge-exchange and mentorship event between present and emerging leaders in government and the public sector to facilitate learning and youth inclusiveness, the event provides a platform for young Nigerians to engage public officials on democratic institutions and national development.

In a statement released by The Future Project, chief operating officer, Bukonla Adebakin, spoke on its drive to change negative narratives about Nigeria while highlighting the role of the Nigerian youth in demanding for better governance and improvement in the system of leadership.

“In strengthening leadership and citizen participation, it is important that we provide platforms to aid true transformation and establish democratic values while developing active and empowered citizens. With the theme ‘Shaping New Narrative’, we intend to highlight the crucial role of citizens in imperatives of open governance,” Adebakin said.

The Future Project has a mandate to build empowered citizens across Africa through inclusive enterprise and active citizenship.

Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, others rock ‘StillBroke’ as Clothing line set to launch

Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Annie Idibia, and Lilian Esoro have been captured rocking the first of its kind collection of designer underwear ‘Still Broke’ which is set to launch on the 13th of May, 2018.

The company released a statement via social media; describing the clothing line as unique, affirming customers will enjoy the comfortability of the fabric which rivals some of the world’s best underwear brands.

The manufacturers of the underwear went on to promise fans that the products are very stylish and affordable.

As subtly described by the CEO Michael Uyi Agho, popularly referred to as Godson; the brand’s name ‘Still Broke’ promotes positivity; instilling a sense of hard work and responsibility in its wearer. He went on to describe the sole theme of the brand as a tool to evoke appreciation of ones means of living, emphasising on the need to keep working hard despite recording success.

‘Still Broke’ has in its collection; an array of tracksuit bottoms, sports bras, briefs, among others, which customers can choose from.

Inside sources reveal the launch will have some of the industry’s biggest names in attendance; ranging from socialites to personalities.