Multichoice’s Fashion Protégé, described as the first fashion TV reality show in Nigeria, will begin airing on Thursdayon Africa Magic Entertainment.

It is a five-episode reality television series aimed at encouraging budding designers, fashionistas and fashion enthusiasts to take their art up a notch and be recognized for their talent.

The event showcases the journey of the contestants who were shortlisted from a pool of hundreds, and chronicles their struggles as they strive to put their stamps on the fashion map.

The General Manager of Marketing, Mr. Martin Mabutho, explained the rationale behind embarking on the project. “Since inception, we have been focused on contributing to the country’s socio-economic landscape through the creation of original African content that is uniquely African. With Fashion Protégé, we have gone a step further by contributing to the development of the fashion industry in Nigeria.

 “Nigerians are highly fashionable people and have earned a reputation for being stylish. It is that vibrancy we hope to showcase. We also believe in nurturing the young and creating a platform for them to grow. Although Fashion Protégé is not about searching for the next supermodel, you will recall that we started MNET Face of Africa here in 1998 and we worked with a lot of amazing fashion designers from Nigeria. It is because of the commitment to growing this sector that The British Council joined us in the project and sponsored one of the grand prizes, a trip to the London Fashion Weekend. The other prizes are N1m cash prize, spotlights Feature on BellaNaija, Feature in a top Fashion Magazine, a Look book by Top Photographer and 1 year free subscription on DStv. Other prizes are N250,000 cash prize, one year DStv subscription for the runner up, and Dstv mobile devices.”

Popular actor, Chinedu Ikedieze, aka Aki, had a tough time fielding questions from school children at the ongoing World Book Capital event in Port Harcourt, capital of Rivers State.

During the ‘Celebrities Read to Children’ segment of the event, at the Royal Banquet Hall of Hotel Presidential on Tuesday, one of the pupils in attendance, a youngster of about eight years, sent the guests rocking with laughter when he asked, “Why is Aki so short?”

But barely concealing his embarrassment, Aki patiently explained to the pupil that he was created that way. “If you look around, you will see that some people are tall and others are short, even shorter than I am. I am short because God has created me this way,” he said.

Meeting the actor for the first time, some of the pupils were so excited they literally pelted him with more questions. They wanted to know his actual age, if his alter-ego – Osita Iheme aka Pawpaw – was his blood brother and how he got the pseudonym, Aki.

To the youngster who wanted to know his age, he said, “I am a full adult. All I can say is that I am above 20 years. I am in my 30s. When I was as young as you, one of my favourite actors was an American known as Gary Coleman. He was so short that I used to think he was a boy. I never knew he was a man.”

Regarding his relationship with Pawpaw, Aki told his young ‘tormentors’ that fate brought them together. “I am from Abia State and he is a native of Imo State. We never knew each other before until fate brought us together through Nollywood,” he said.

The actor advised another pupil, who wanted to know how he could become a Nollywood actor, to get good education first. He said, “The door to Nollywood is wide open and ready to admit anybody. But you need to go to school first.

If you go to school, you will have a solid foundation. Most young people that are just going into Nollywood are not aware that they have to give 70 per cent of their time to education and only 20 per cent to acting. Education will help you become good actors and actresses.”

Aki concluded his short ‘sermon’ by adding that despite dividing his time between his studies as a Mass Communications student of the Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu and acting in Nollywood movies, he had managed to graduate with good grades.

Also, Nollywood actress, Patience Ozokwor, stunned the audience when she revealed that she had eight children. She said that while four of them were her biological children, the rest were adopted. “But I have become so used to them that I don’t regard them as my adopted children,” she added, referring to the latter.

When asked why she always played the part of the ‘wicked’ woman in the movies, she replied, “I can’t get tired of answering this same question all the time. Well, I think it is because producers and directors discovered that I play such roles very well. Incidentally my fans seem to enjoy seeing me play the role of a bad woman,” she said.

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Seasoned actress and broadcaster, Feyikemi Olayinka, will be at the centre of a colloquium in Lagos on Friday.

The colloquium slated for the Lagos Television Ground in Agidingbi Ikeja, will mark her 40th birthday and the inauguration of her non-governmental organisation, Mothers Support Mother Tongue.

In a chat with our correspondent, Adeyinka, who broke into limelight when she played the role of Asake in O Le Ku, a film adapted by Tunde Kelani, from Akinwumi Isola’s Yoruba novel that goes by the same title, notes that she is exploring the occasion to call attention to the need to expose children to the beauty of Yoruba language.

She says, “I thank God that, at 40, God has been very kind and faithful to me. I feel good – as the saying goes. But even as one is growing up physically, mentally and spiritually, there is an aspect that I still feel concerned about. That is in the area of our tradition, art and culture. There is the need for us to make concrete moves not only to preserve it but also to promote it and get our children to be grounded in it.

“I don’t believe that any parents should consider themselves successful enough when they have failed to impact enduring cultural values in their children. So, this is what I want to re-dedicate my life to preaching and practising culture, and that is why we are inaugurating Mother Tongues and having the colloquium.”

The co-anchor of Owuro Lawa on LTV adds that while the Publisher of Alaroye, Mr. Alao Adedayo, will be the rappoteur, speakers will include  experts such as  Dr. Kemi Aboderin, Prince Adelegan Adegbola and Mrs. Funke Ajayi-Gbadebo.

Founder of Abuja-based Nigerian Unity Museum and Trade Tourism Village, Dr. Akin Olowokere, has concluded plans to host the Unity Pageant and Awards.

According to a statement from the museum, the Akure indigene and Chairman of Zion Services Limited strongly believes that every Nigerian has a responsibility to work towards sustaining the unity of the country, especially at this critical moment of our nationhood.

It adds that this is the philosophy that inspired the pageant to be held in Abuja, to mark the next independence anniversary.

“First, he conceived the Nigerian Unity Museum and Trade Tourism Village — a village within the Federal Capital Territory, where residents and visitors would have a means to interact and interface with as many communities and states in Nigeria as possible,” the statement adds. “The project designed as a mini Nigeria has already received the endorsement of many agencies of government preparatory to its take-off. Upon completion, the facility will avail Nigerians the opportunity to showcase the tourism, commercial and cultural essence of the country.”

While the National Unity Award will honour and celebrate deserving Nigerians and corporate organisations for their effort in preserving the unity of the country, the pageant is planned as an event to showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

Anytime a Nigerian artiste hitherto known for slow-pace songs switches to performing up-tempo songs or commercial music – as is widely called in the country – the conclusion is usually that he or she ‘does not want to die of hunger.’

And that is the opinion held by some critics when Nigerian RnB singer, Praise Adejo , popularly known as Praiz, changed the ‘gear’ of his music with his single, ‘Mercy’.

But the MTN ambassador who rose to fame from the first season of the hit reality show, MTN Project Fame West Africa, where he was a runner-up, says it is nothing but a wrong notion.

“My deviation from my slow songs to fast-tempo ones is to showcase my versatility. ‘Mercy’ was inspired by a lady, whose name is Mercy. And she would do stuffs that can make a grown man go gaga (laughs), like making me go crazy. It is a follow-up to the track Sweet Potato. It is the same lady,” He explains.

While the artiste describes the reception of the track as incredible and surprising, he insists that his style of music is simple.

“I am an RnB artiste no doubt, but I have been able to prove my versatility to everyone that I am undoubtedly good at everything I choose to do.”

Over time, only the lucky ones appear to break even faster. But the singer says he also had his low time, saying, “The period immediately after Project Fame was a difficult period in my career because people forgot about me.”

Various examples abound in many parts of the world, Nigeria inclusive, where many reality TV runner-ups end up outshining their winners when they eventually begin pursuing their music careers.

This notion appears to hold true for Praiz, as his decision to move down to Lagos from his Kogi State base to contest in the Project Fame reality show is really paying off.

“I found out that I could do music professionally after the Project Fame. They might not have called me the first at the Project Fame, but I think I was a winner. Probably, if I had won the first prize, I would have been kind of relaxed. Not winning gave me the challenge to go the extra mile to become who I wanted to be and by God’s grace, I’m living my dream right now.”

For now, the singer who hopes to work alongside 2face Idibia and John Legend in the near future eagerly awaits the release of his debut music offering.

He says, “It drops in June and promises to be an exciting and mind-blowing album. I’m actually excited about it. It is going to tell people that Nigerians can do world-class music

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Double Wahala’ singer, Oritsefemi, is expected to entertain children on May 27, when Nnenne and friends will host them for the Children’s Day programme.

The event tagged Nnenna and Friend’s Children’s Day Show will hold at the National Theatre, Lagos.

The organisers said that Oshadipe Twins and N-Stars; MC Prince, MC Shakara, Aje Baba young Desmond Osarobe will add comic peps to the show.

Others to perform are the Universal Crew and Papa Ajasco and Company.

The first winner in ‘Just Like A Photo’, a new online contest aimed at promoting the art of photography among Nigerian youths, has emerged. She is Miss Roseline Ogunbiyi, an undergraduate of the University of Ilorin.

Ogunbiyi beat several other contestants to clinch the first spot in the month of April. With this victory, she is qualified to participate in the grand finale of the competition in December.

The online photo contest, which is the first of its kind ever to be held in Nigeria, formally kicked off on April 7 and it is expected to continue till the end of October, 2014.

Organised by Sharpshoots Media, the contest is jointly sponsored by Whitedove Entertainment Limited and Pixar Technologies Limited. The contestants, who must be between the ages of 18 and 40, will be required to select a photograph of their choice and upload it on a dedicated Facebook page.

The organisers of the contest also intend to use it to launch a campaign against certain undesirable social habits among the youth. In an interview with our correspondent, the general manager of Sharpshoots Media, Mr. Goke Olorunnihi, notes that one of the objectives of the contest is encourage the youth to shun nude pictures and to “develop a healthy interest in genuine photography”.

Ogunbiyi’s winning entry was selected through votes cast online by members of the public. Awed by the outcome of the competition in April, she says, “All I did was to upload my picture on the website, www.jeslikea4to.com and on May 1st, I received a message which informed me that I won the competition for the month of April and automatically qualified for the grand finale.”

Describing the voting process, Olorunnihi says, “Members of the public actually did the selection. They voted on the Facebook page dedicated to the contest and on our website. Then the photograph with the highest number of ‘likes’ on the Facebook page automatically qualified for the grand finale to be held at the end of this season.”

With this, she will join six other winners to compete for the top spot, which attracts a cash prize of N500,000, as well as lots of other goodies.

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The MUSON Centre, Lagos will, today (May 21) host a good number of pupils who will participate in the 2014 edition of the Macmillan Annual Youth Cultural Day.

According to the Chairman of the Macmillan Literary Events Committee, Mrs. Francesca Emmanuel, the theme of the feast is “My Country, My Pride,” conceived in the spirit of the state of the nation. She said six schools will participate at the event.

Emmanuel said, “The six schools were carefully chosen from the three senatorial districts of Lagos State on the basis of ownership, religion and gender to give a wide coverage of the mix. It might be true that we have not been reaping the dividends of our immense natural wealth and the democracy that the move to civilian government was supposed to have ushered in, yet we do not have to give up. There are still some green shoots to show that there is hope for the country. And these shoots are symbolically, the young ones.”

According to her, Nigeria has maintained a strong and expanding economy in the midst of different oppositions is enough reason for celebration, especially as it celebrates its centenary.

Emmanuel said, “The country has produced many resourceful, intelligent and talented sons and daughters, who have exhibited strong passion to take the world to great heights. Every day, these men and women all over the world keep contributing immensely to global development.

   “Thus, we want to use this medium to assure all Nigerians that there is no country like Nigeria and that we have to think Nigeria and be proud of Nigeria. Nigerian youths therefore should show love and respect to the country and to one another.

   “We should stop the destruction of lives and wasting of our talents. We should rather come together to realise and harness our diversity and potential for the development of our nation.”

Nollywood actress, Mercy Johnson, speaks with JAYNE AUGOYE on her marriage and acting career

Any conversation that Nollywood star Mercy Johnson will have with you nowadays can hardly be complete without her making intermittent reference to her husband of three years, Odianosen Okogie. Mention his name and her face instantly lights up. Besides her exploits in Nollywood, she professes finding fulfilment in her marriage even though the road to the union was fraught with obstacles that made news.

At a time many celebrity marriages are collapsing, the Kogi-State born thespian is eager to share what she describes as her winning formula.

She says, “It is simply commitment, having a great husband and being submissive as a woman. And I must add knowing how to deal with your differences with love. Motherhood is just the best thing to have happened to me and in no way would I say it has slowed me or my career down.

“I thank God I am a mother because it has given me the opportunity to understand what being a mother is all about and I am extremely glad about that. Motherhood and acting are different responsibilities which I learn to manage well, thanks to God and my husband.”

Before now, Johnson’s figure was the talk of the town and envy of many. She was known for provocative and revealing outfits, with her robust breasts especially threatening to jump out of dresses. In this manner, her photographs were generously displayed on posters and jackets of movies in which she starred. But all that appears to be in the past because she is “now a new creature.”

“Marriage is influencing my dress sense in a more positive way. As I always say my husband is my greatest critic but when it comes to my profession, he understands and has made me grow better than I used to. Sometimes when I look back and see the dresses I wore I laugh real hard and thank God for a blessed and understanding friend, manager and hubby.”

Quite unlike some of her fellow actors, including Genevieve Nnaji and Rita Dominic, who had to play several minor roles before getting their big Mercy’s first attempt in The Maid shot her into limelight. That was in 2004. Since then, she has been having a great time starring in many films.

Ironically, however, she has yet to clinch any ‘juicy’ ambassadorial or endorsement deals, which the likes of Genevieve currently enjoy. She says this does not bother her, though.

“First of all I always remain grateful that I am appreciated and recommended by showbiz personalities and Nigerians. That for me is the biggest endorsement. The other one will come. Keep your fingers crossed. I am humbled, grateful and uplifted and full of gratitude to everyone who ‘Googled’ Mercy Johnson at all times.”

On an endorsement deal she was rumoured to be discussing with the Bank of Industry, she says, “They (BOI) wanted a meeting on a collaborative effort. We honoured the meeting and that was all.”

For now, all that matters to Mercy is how best to expand the activities of her NGO, The Mercy Johnson Foundation for Children and Widows.

She says, “We have been in existence for years but you hardly hear much about it because I chose to make it that way. It does not call for so much noise because it’s another part of my life I do not joke with. Maybe soon, depending on plans, a lot will be heard about the foundation.”

Having starred in over 100 movies, one would expect Mercy to consider shooting her first feature film. In defence, the dark-skinned star says, “Firstly, there is time for everything. Sit, relax and watch me as an executive producer soon.”

Asked to confirm if she was indeed the highest paid Nollywood actress, she simply responded saying, “No comment o, before someone misquotes what I said. I am what I am by the grace of God.”

On another rumour that she is having some spat with some of her colleagues, she notes that she has no problem with anyone.

“I am not fighting with anybody. Last time it was rumoured that Chike Ike and I had issues while we were on set together. We had to take to Twitter to deny it. Tomorrow it will be another person. I am a peaceful person and I believe most of the people in Nollywood are also peaceful.”

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The installation ceremony of the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre of Black and African Arts and Civilisation, Prof. Tunde Babawale, attracts scholars to Inisa, in Osun State Akeem Lasisi writes

Scores of leading scholars, traditional rulers and culture promoters thronged Inisa, a rusty town in Osun State, on Saturday. It was in honour of the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation, Prof. Tunde Babawale, who was installed as the Bobagunwa of the town.

His wife, Mrs. Adetola Babawale, was also installed as the Yeye Bobagunwa at the event that marked the 36th anniversary of the coronation of the Olunisa of Inisa, Oba Joseph Oyedele.

Among the guests were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Duro Oni; Professors Olu Obafemi, Solomon Akingboye, Omoniyi Adewuyi, Ademola Omojola, Dele Orimogunje, Derin Ologbenla, Ademola Dasilva, Akin Alao, Iyiola Oni, Dvid Aremu, Ojo Olunleke and Akin Alao.

Others were Dr. Femi Omidire, Laja Odukoya, Adeola Faleye, Akin Onipede, Alabi Soneye and Ademola Azeez.

Setting the tone for the sea of tributes that marked the ceremony, the Chairman of the Inisa Descendants Union, Mr. John Olanipekun, recalled Babawale’s exploits at various institutions where he has worked – including the University of Lagos and CBAAC. He noted that, among other achievements, he had moved CBAAC from a relatively unknown institution to global acclaim.

“Babawale has been everywhere, but he has not forgotten home,” Olanipekun added.

While the Akirun of Ikirun, Oba Rauf Adedeji; the Orangun of Oke Ila, Oba Dokun Abolarinwa; and Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Rasheed Olabomi, were also present, veteran movie producers Tunde Kelani and Remi Ibitola, veteran drummer Muraina Oyelani and other artists also rose to honour the Babawales.

One after the other, the monarchs saluted him and called on other accomplished people to emulate him in terms of his commitment to the development of his roots. According to Oba Oyedele, who radiated joy as the world swirled round him and his people, Babawale is an Omoluabi – the Yoruba’s ideal son.

He said, “He is one of the pillars holding Inisa. Like other members of the Inisa Youth Initiative, he is always working for the progress of the land.”

The Aragbiji noted that the fact that the people that Babawale had worked with at different times rallied round him at the ceremony said much about his character. Saying that he (Kabiyesi) was once one of his students, the monarch said Babawale is a brilliant, hardworking and responsible family man from whom youths have a lot to learn.

The Orangun congratulated the Olu of Inisa and the people of the town, saying they were blessed with many icons.

Oba Abolarinwa said, “Today is a special day of joy. What we are witnessing should remind us that most Yoruba towns have icons. But many have a lot to learn from Babawale and his co-townsmen who have been contributing to the growth of the land. There is a lot to do for the development of our towns. Government alone cannot do everything. Our sons and daughters must look back and give back to the society. Education without contributing to the development on one’s land is useless.”

The occasion presented an opportunity for the Akirun to show a bit of the artist in him. In his remarks, he not only cracked some jokes, he also used a song to illustrate each point he made, making the guests to reward him with robust applause.

He noted that no matter how widely a person is recognised and honoured abroad, one must strive to be relevant at home.

“Babawale is a son of all Yoruba kings. He is one of our own icons. It is good that he is being honoured at home today because home recognition is important,” the Akirun said.

In his response, the CBAAC boss said that while he was glad that his people had considered him worthy of the honour, the development had further inspired him to do more.

He said, “I believe that everyone has the responsibility to genuinely contribute to the liberation and growth of his town, country and the world at large.”

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afro beat musician and a former member of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s Egypt 80 band, Duro Ikujenyo, thought he had known all about his native Yoruba culture and tradition until he had a chance encounter with the famous goddess of fertility, Osun, opened his eyes.

“I didn’t know much about Osun until I observed some friends of mine from Brazil and Cuba writing songs about Osun. I felt ashamed that foreigners could show so much reverence for a deity that originated from my own homeland. I must confess that I hardly knew enough about the religion and history of my people. A lot of things had changed. So I decided to learn more about Osun,” he says, in a recent interview with our correspondent.

Ikujenyo says he was privileged to attend a past edition of the Osun Osogbo Festival. During the festival, there was an exhibition on the Trans-Atlantic slave trade in a small village close to Ijesha and he was there.

After the event, he gained a fresh insight into the real meaning of slavery. He continues, “I realised that the slave trade was not just what most people thought it was. Its scope and dimension was much bigger than I had imagined.”

After the Osun-Oshogbo Festival, he was moved to record a new album, a tribute to Osun the Yoruba goddess of fertility extolling her virtues and qualities.

Ikujenyo believes that Osun is closely connected with the future of Africa. He describes the deity as playing a pivotal role in a much-desired cultural re-awakening in the continent. “This is the essence of what I have done in my new album,” he says.

The product of his adventure is a six-track album titled Pe Osun, produced under the Gold Records label.

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The Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka will on May 29, declare open a two-week exhibition of photographs and other memorabilia in memory of the late music impresario, Steven Omodele Rhodes, aka Steve Rhodes. Rhodes died six years ago on May 29, 2008.

According to a statement, the opening ceremony to be graced by other eminent people will begin at 4pm at the museum gallery of Freedom Park, Lagos.

“Designed especially to celebrate Rhodes, contributions to the Nigerian (and African) music and artistic heritage, the exhibition will showcase a rich and resourceful collection of photographic recordings of his over six decades of illustrious career,” the statement adds.

The commemorative event, which will also feature screening of Metamorphosis: The Music of Steve Rhodes, produced and directed by Femi Odugbemi, is organised by the Steve Rhodes Foundation and the Steve Rhodes Memorial Anniversary Committee led by art patron, Mrs. Francesca Emanuel.

After waiting for almost two years, ailing Nollywood movie producer and national President of the Script Writers Guild of Nigeria, Chike Bryan, who was diagnosed with chronic renal failure in 2013, may travel to India for a kidney transplant soon.

Bryan’s close friend and current secretary of the SWGN, Stanley Okoronkwo, made this known in a telephone interview with our correspondent on Tuesday.

Okoronkwo also confirmed that the committee set up to raise funds for Bryan’s treatment received a donation of N10m from President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday, barely two days after it was announced by the president of the

Actors Guild of Nigeria, Ibinanabo Fiberisima, at the 2014 AMAA awards in Yenagoa, capital of Bayelsa State.

“The money was received by the SWGN on behalf of Mr. Bryan and in the presence of the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the AGN, Prince Ifeanyi Dike, the Vice Chairman, Emmanuel Ogugua and President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria, Fidelis Eweta, among others. Now we are making arrangement to fly Bryan to India for intensive medical care as soon as possible,” Okoronkwo said.

Before the donation by President Jonathan, Bryan had been undergoing weekly dialysis at the Igando General Hospital, Lagos. His condition was said to have worsened a few months after he was diagnosed with a kidney ailment, thereby prompting his friends, associates and the SWGN to seek financial support from the public.

Unfortunately, in spite of their efforts to raise money to fund the treatment of his ailment, preferably in India, not much progress was recorded. At a point, the SWGN had to appeal to the Lagos State Government, whose intervention also saved the lives of Bryan’s colleagues, Ngozi Nwosu and Kayode Dosunmu, for assistance.

“Our letter to Governor Babatunde Fashola, in which we requested financial assistance, did yield some results. Chike was referred to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital for assessment of his case. He was assessed and diagnosed with a kidney ailment. But we were still waiting for further response from the state government, with regard to funding, when the Presidency intervened,” Okoronkwo said.

Following the donation, it was celebration time for members of the SWGN on Monday. Before now, the guild had borne the responsibility for paying the bills for the tests and medical assessment that Bryan had undergone at LASUTH.

Although the initial attempts at searching for a suitable hospital in India was temporarily stalled for lack of funds, Okoronkwo gave an assurance that the lapse would be sorted out soon.

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Chocolate City artiste, Ice Prince, talks about fame and music, JAYNE AUGOYE writes

Over time, the ostentatious lifestyle of the average Nigerian artiste has been a source of concern to many music fans. Considering the unstable nature of ‘superstardom,’ it is a common belief that many who fail to plan suffer for it. As such, there appears to be an unending debate over how these artistes manage fame and control their finances.

For 27-year-old Panshak Zamani, also known as Ice Prince or Chocolate City Golden Boy, who lives like a true superstar, there are clearly no limits to how false stories are peddled around many Nigerian artistes.

Ice Prince is the proud owner of a Bentley GT, a Range Rover Sport Utility Vehicle, among others. Laying to rest some speculations that his Bentley was bought with a loan facility from a bank, the 2013 BET Awards winner says, “No, it is not true! It was paid for! Bought it in Abuja from Sir Kefiano! He has got all brands of vehicles! “

On how he handles his earnings and fame, Ice Prince gives a word of advice to fellow celebrities, “As an artiste, it is good to have real life mentors and people that handle your finances. It is better to put yourself on a salary instead of just blowing the money as it comes and life will be easier.

“You need to also understand that the life of an artiste is usually very expensive. So, One needs to be cautious. It is quite a new experience to have fame and all that. Sometimes it’s a problem managing all of them. But one thing that keeps me focused is that I always remember where I’m coming from, no matter where I am. While there is always pressure to keep up with trends, I believe that it pays more to be yourself and be real to the world around you.”

Despite the fact that he became famous as a hip hop artiste, the singer chooses to be referred to as a musician that raps.

“I really do all kinds of things with my music and I like to dream bigger than just a rapper. I know how to use my voice to sing, chant and do stuff that is not necessarily rap. So I like to be seen more in that light of a guy who can expresses himself with his voice however he feels more comfortable.”

One area which strikes a chord in his heart is what is left of his hometown, Jos. He becomes emotional when asked to speak about his views on the current crisis that has engulfed the once peaceful city.

“It’s really sad because growing up in Jos was like the best thing that ever happened to all of us from that part of the country. It used to be the most peaceful place on earth. It provided us an enabling environment to express ourselves and grow into what we are. So, it is really sad to see what is going on right before us.”

On his relationship with his son, the single father of one says, “My son is a blessing and I’m grateful to God for giving me him. I have a cordial relationship with the mother of his son. We are good, just trying to bring the boy up.”

The singer, who once admitted that he dropped out of the University of Jos where he was studying Zoology because of financial constraint, says he plans to go back to school some day.

“I intend to one day get some real education and study something else apart from what I know now, which is music. But truly, I can’t say when I’m going back to school yet. I pray I get the chance to do so one day. I’ll love to study History,” he says.

Apart from music, he is also involved in some projects. He says, “I am working with a few artistes at the moment under my #SuperCoolCat outfit. This is not a label but a collection of young people with the same dream working together.

“There’s a girl called Ruth Cobhamz who I can’t wait for the world to listen to; an amazing rapper called Stunt and a few producers, such as Sammy Gyang, Chopstix, City monster GRU and TMXO, who just produced my newest track with Joell Ortiz and MI.”

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Forget the tough postures that celebrated actress, Patience Ozokwor, normally exudes in various films. She is also a normal human being who can be touched, hurt and weep like a little child.

She demonstrated this at the AMAA show when Anyiam-Osigwe was paying a tribute to the late acclaimed producer, Amaka Igwe. As Igwe’s photographs zoomed to face on screen, and as Anyiam-Osigwe saluted the deceased poetically, Ozokwor wept profusely, reminding all that the ‘Nollywood’s baddest witch’ is a human being, after all.

The 10th edition of the African Movie Academy Awards springs surprises and promises of greater exploits, AKEEM LASISI writes

At a night South African film makers rattled their counterparts from other parts of the continent, it was again another time to celebrate and reflect on the state of the industry last Saturday when the African Movie Academy Awards was held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Being the 10th anniversary edition, the feast was characterised by glamour and promises of better times ahead.

But unlike what was more or less the norm at inception, not many Nigerian film makers won laurels. Instead, two South African Films, Of Good Report and The Forgotten Kingdom, won in vital categories. For instance, the AMAA Award for Best Film, Best Director (Jamil X.T Quebeka), Best Actor in a Leading Role (Mothusi Magano) and Achievement in a Screenplay were all won by Of Good Report.

The Forgotten Kingdom won the AMAA Award for Achievement in Cinematography and Award for Achievement in Sound.

But what appeared to be a saving grace for Nollywood came from veterans Clarion Chukwura and Patience Ozokwor, who respectively won the Best Actress in a Leading Role and Best Actress in a Supporting Role. This is based on the role they respectively play in Apaye and After the Proposal.

Other winners include A Mile from Home (Nigeria) – Achievement in Visual Effect; Onye Ozi (Nigeria) – Achievement in Soundtrack;   Accident – Bayelsa State Government-Endowed Award for Best Nigerian Film; Lebohang Ntsane – Best Child Actor in Forgotten Kingdom; Petronella Tshuma – Best Young/Promising Actor Petronella (Of Good Report) and Kingston Paradise (Jamaica) – Best Diaspora Feature Film.

At the event partly sponsored by Globacom, Sterling Bank and other organisations, and co-anchored by celebrated actor, Segun Arinze, the jury headed by media executive and seasoned entertainment writer, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, explained the process they follow to ensure that it is the best works and practitioners that emerge as winners. On the jury are curator of the Berlin International Film Festival Dorathea Wenner; and other experts that include Berni Goldblat, Shaibu Husseini, Ayuko Babu, Prof. Hyginus Ekwuazi and Asantewa Olatunji. Other are June Givanni, Keith Shiri and John Akomfrah

One thing that has largely worked for AMAA, observers say, is the commitment and integrity of its judges. Over the years, it has been difficult to fault their decisions, especially with the way films they anoint eventually go out to assert themselves on international platforms. Ayorinde hinted at this when he noted that the process the exercise follows every year practically makes it impossible for anyone to tamper with standards.

According to him, transparency is guaranteed because everyone has a sense of responsibility towards the development of African cinema.

He said, “Ten years into the life of this great brand that celebrates African cinema is a milestone. Criteria have not changed but responsibility has expanded. AMAA awards now have impacts on careers of winners.”

Of its 10 years, Bayelsa has hosted AMAA eight times. The state government says it is ready to do more for the industry. The Deputy Governor, Gboribiogha Jonah, who represented Governor Seriake Dickson, said, “AMAA is a veritable platform to showcase our tourism and culture. Ten years in the life of AMAA deserves commendation. The success story of AMAA and Bayelsa is that of socio-economic growth.”

Also, the Director-General of the State Tourism Board, Mrs. Ebizi Ndiomu-Brown, said the partnership had been mutually benefitting and Bayelsa was ready to keep it alive.

She added, “To think that AMAA is 10 is quite gratifying. AMAA has provided opportunity to groom our talented youths and some of them are already practising.”

From the US, veteran actor Danny Glover was home again to reiterate his belief in AMAA. According to him, the project goes beyond films. It is linked to the Diaspora’s relationship with Africa which, he noted, meant a lot to him.

He said, “We believe in this country. People in the Diaspora believe in Nigeria. We believe in Africa.”

For AMAA founder, Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, it was the climax of a dream she had nurtured spiritedly for 10 years. At the time she was conceiving the dream, the film industry needed a major platform through which practitioners could gauge their steps. While AMAA thus gained wide acceptance accordingly, there were challenges it had to grapple with, especially since it had to cope with some unpredictable instincts that artists habitually demonstrate.

Besides, it took extra effort by Anyiam-Osigwe and her co-pilots to convince stakeholders that AMAA is not just a Nigerian affair but a pan-African project. It was thus a very emotional woman that addressed the audience at the event where popular musicians such as Flavour, J Martins, Bezz and Edge performed.

It was also an auspicious occasion to pay tributes to deceased film maker, Amaka Igwe, who will be buried later this month. Anyiam-Osigwe described her as a creative genius who had over 10,000 contents.

She added, “She built a set for over a year. She had just finished training and eaten when she had asthma attack. But doctors at the hospital she was taken to were on strike; and then our sister died.”

Another major winner, however, is Bob Manuel-Udokwu, who bagged a recognition award. He invoked the orator in him as he expressed appreciation for the honour, saying he would continue to give his best as a an actor

He stated, “I have been doing this all my life and I will never stop. Before my time the story of my people was told by those who never stepped their toes on the shores of Africa. But we are the ones to tell our own story. We are the ones to change the mindset of Africa.”

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Nigerian older artistes did not find things easy at the MTV Africa Music Awards held in South Africa on Saturday, JAYNE AUGOYE writes

It is no longer news that a wind of change is currently blowing across the music industry in Nigeria. A new order championed by young, vibrant and talented artistes has emerged.

Today, young acts are giving the older and established stars a run for their money. These new-wave superstars rub shoulders with the same artistes whom they once looked up to or chose as role models.

Apart from competing with the ‘old guards’ in terms of income and expenditure, they are often nominated for major music awards in similar categories. In many instances, they are carting away these juicy awards.

This fact was reinforced on Saturday, June 7, in far away South Africa, when young Nigerian talents Davido, Clarence Peters, Flavour and Tiwa Savage grabbed a total of six awards at the MTV Africa Music Awards, held at the

Durban International Convention Centre, KwaZulu-Natal.

Stealing the shine of fellow nominees, including Psquare and South African acts, Mafikizulo, Mi Casa and Uhuru, Nigeria’s rave of the moment, Davido, was crowned ‘The Artiste of the Year’, thus making him Africa’s biggest artiste at the moment.

The 20-year-old, who is clearly a leading light in African pop culture today, also walked away with the Best Male Award at the event. The chap who had the most nominations — alongside Mafikizolo — beat his arch-rival, Wizkid, who had two nominations; South Africa’s Donald, Angola’s Anselmo Ralph and Tanzania’s Diamond to the award.

These feats have set tongues wagging among their fans. On online music portal, notjustok.com, most of the comments went in the same direction: that Davido seems to be overshadowing Wizkid.

One says, “Wizkid no longer gets award because he still dresses, dances and sings like a kid. He doesn’t want to grow up. Davido sings more mature songs and has more mature videos than Wizkid.”

Another reader who simply identifies himself as True also writes, “Wizkid should go back to his drawing board and learn how to make good songs without using same lyrics all over again.”

For Mavin Records first lady Tiwa Savage, it was a glorious outing as the newly-wedded star edged out fellow Nigerian singer, Chidinma, and Ghana’s Efya to win the award for ‘Best Female Act‘.

The singer who tactically released her controversial vaguely, nude music video, Wanted, during the build-up to the award ceremony, succeeded in attracting media buzz for herself. The criticisms she got notwithstanding, the Eminando crooner, whose debut album Once Upon a Time was released in 2013, is fast becoming a formidable force in the international music scene.

Hip-life singer, Flavour, beat legendary singer, 2face idibia, whom some critics say is simply riding on his accumulated glory; Congolese star artiste, Fally Ipupa; and South Africa’s Dr Malinda and Zakes Bantwini to win the Best Live Act award at the glamorous ceremony.

African Pop giants, Psquare, were the biggest losers at the 2014 MAMA, losing in three categories. They lost out in the ‘Best Group’, ‘Song of the Year‘(both won by Mafikizolo) and ‘Artiste of the Year’ (won by Davido) categories. The pop duo, who were absent at the show, are working on their sixth album.

In this year’s newly introduced lifestyle award categories, Kenyan actress, Lupita Nyong’o, took home the award for Personality of the Year. She beat Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and Chimamanda Adichie, to the crest. The inaugural MTV Base Leadership Award was won by Tanzanian entrepreneur Ashish J Thakar.

Nigerian video director Clarence Peters won two awards – Transform Today by Absolut, and Best Video. The publicity-shy director dedicated the award to his mother, veteran actress, Clarion Chukura, who incidentally won big at the just concluded Africa Movie Academy Awards.

The show was hosted by Hollywood actor and comedian Marlon Wayans and featured performances from artistes such as Miguel, Trey Songz, Flavour N’abania, French Montana, Tiwa Savage, Davido, Mafikizolo, Ice Prince, Dr SID, Fally Ipupa, Don Jazzy, DJ Clock and D’Banj.

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An Ibadan, Oyo State-based twin fuji act, Twinzobia, won N750,000 last Sunday when they emerged winner of the 2014 edition of the Goldberg Fuji T’o Bam contest.

At the finale held at the Trans Amusement Park in the city that produced fuji exponent, the late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, Abas Akande Obesere, Osupa Saheed, among others, Twinzobia defeated five other finalists in a feast of loud words and sound.

The show, where Osupa also performed, ended a month of thrills and emotions that saw many new talents competed for breakthrough.

According to the organisers, Okiki Akeem from Osogbo, Osun State won the N350, 000 first runners up prize, while Temitope Ajani went home with N200,000 as the second runner up.

The other four contestants that took part in the finals were, Temitope Ajani, Olajide Akanni aka Banana and Muhideen Adisa.

A statement from the organisers add, “The night kicked off with each of the contestants taking turns to display fuji theatrics to the admiration of the judges and the audience that thronged the venue of the event. The high point of the event was the impressive performance by King Saheed Osupa, aka Saridon P, who thrilled the fans with his hit songs.”

King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1), Alhaji Taye Adebisi aka Taye Currency, current Goldberg Ambassador, Nurudeen Atanda , and other fuji stars also performed.

On the significance of the competition, the Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Walter Drenth, had, during the preliminary stages, expressed satisfaction over the huge turn-out of fuji lovers and artistes.

He said, “Goldberg is a quality lager beer that celebrates consumers and their traditional values. Fuji music enjoys huge followership across Nigeria which has led the brand to provide the Fuji To Bam as one of the platforms to promotes talents.”

Friends, families, Nollywood thespians and fans on Monday evening thronged the New Haven Event Centre, Enugu, for the service of songs that heralded the final journey of the late Nollywood icon, Amaka Igwe.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the “Night of Tributes’’ was well attended by notable Nollywood stars like Richard Mofe-Damijo, Ego Boyo and Kunle Bamtefa.

Others include Patrick Doyle, Adewunmi Ogunsanya, Iretiola Doyle, Wangi Mba Uzuokwu, Ejike Asiegbu, Abike Dabiri Erewa, Keppy Ekpeyong-Bassey, Tunde Kelani, Wunmi Obe, Henrietta Kosoko, Waje and Onyeka Onwenu.

Here are some of the quotes from the remarks made by the numerous speakers at the event.

“There must be a huge vacancy in heaven that no one could fill but Amaka Igwe” – Chris Ihidero.

“We mourn her, yes, but we also celebrate her” – Gloria Ene

“Like Johnny Walker, she kept pressing on even in the face of discouragement” – Mrs Thelma Utigwe Oti.

“I am mourning your absence not your present location, I will see you again but not very soon” – Ruby Igwe.

“If she’s probably shooting a movie in heaven, it will be titled “The Heavenly House of Serenity” – Dr Bola Oyeleye.

“Precious is the death of Amaka, she was a saint” – Mrs Bernard-Oti,

“Amaka’s legacy will never die” – Mr Dewunmi Ogunsanya

“Her legacy lives on, and Africa Magic will make sure that what she did produce will be highlighted and she will be celebrated always” – Wangi Mba Uzoukwu.

“After working with Amaka I didn’t feel like working with another producer again” – Kunle Bamtefa.

“She brought out the talent in me, she’s my sister and my friend” – Mrs Ego Boyo.

Former President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, Bolaji Rosiji, intensifies charity work, AKEEM LASISI writes

Veteran Actress Tina Mba and reggae star Oritz Wiliki were among the dignitaries that rose to celebrate with the founder of the Gaurapad Foundation, Mr. Bolaji Rosiji, on Saturday, when the charity arm rewarded leading representatives of its business outfit.

Amidst motivational speeches and kudos to Rosiji, the representatives and marketers that came from different parts of the country, where Gaurapad Charity has outlets, danced and networked among themselves. These are part of a retreat holding at its Idi Iroko, Lagos office.

While Gaurapad started as a charity organisation, it has since branched into the production of wellness and lifestyle products in a move that Rosiji, who is a former President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, notes, will help the group to reach more people across the world.

The goal of the retreat is to help the members to improve on their services to humanity, he adds. They will receive training so as to impact others in their localities, with Rosiji adding that Gaurapad Charities has lifted spirits, touched hearts, and demonstrated that citizen activism and service can be a powerful agent of change in the world.

Rosiji says, “This group carries a huge responsibility even though it is a labour of love. Through this programme, powerful life-saving therapies have been made accessible to the common man.”

The former PMAN boss and United Nations Ambassador for Peace believes that the modern world, despite all its blessings, is unequal, unstable and unsustainable. He is of the view that the mission of this century is to move one’s neighbourhood, nation and the world toward integrated communities of shared opportunities, shared responsibilities and shared sense of genuine belonging.

“Amidst all the wealth in the country, there are people who are hungry, homeless, jobless, ill and ignored. This fundamental belief is what gave birth to Gaurapad Charities. The foundation is simply a platform for thousands of unemployed, widows, students and professional networkers to establish their own independent sources of income, The Gaurapad wellness range is the means,” he tells the participants at the event holding at the Maryland office of Gaurapad.

He also says in an interview with our correspondent, “Apart from what we have been trying to do to develop our entertainment and tourism sectors, the Gurapad Foundation has been reaching out to children and youths through school programmes that include school feeding and annual education summit. Now, we are expanding. God has given us a platform to bring all of these together and to reach more people. Our target is to reach a billion people in the nearest future and the development of the Gaurapad products will help us to achieve this.”

He adds that last year, the foundation had 10 centres across the country, but these have increased to 39, saying Gaurapad’s philosophy of charity was based on ‘If it is not too much, it is not enough.’

“It is a pan-Nigerian thing. We will soon cover the entire country. Yet, we are going global. Anything we can do to alleviate poverty, violence and other vices, we shall do.”

Speaking at the event, Wiliki and Mba saluted Rosiji and his people, saying they were contributing to the development of humanity.

Wiliki says, “Bolaji has a generous heart and he is concerned about the emancipation of the people.”

At the event were Gaurapad managers George Sakalis, Mrs. Mike Denis and Dr. Daniel Famutimi.