The Federal Government is positioning the Country’s Carnival Industry to tap from the Global Carnival Market, estimated at $5bn.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima said this on Wednesday during a Meeting with a Delegation from the Abuja International Carnival at the Presidential Villa.

Shettima noted that beyond promoting the Nation’s Rich Cultural Heritage, the Nigerian Carnival Industry also has enormous potential to drive National Unity, Cohesion and empower the Youths.

The Vice-President also underscored the immense potential of the $5bn Global Carnival Market to assist in Nigeria’s Economic Growth Agenda.

”The Value of the Global Carnival Market is estimated at $5bn. This underscores its potential to assist us in our Economic Growth Agenda.

“Beyond promoting our rich Cultural Heritage, It is a driver for National Unity and Cohesion. We also have to look at the potential for Economic Value Addition,” he said.

Shettima pledged the support of President Bola Tinubu Administration to Youth Enterprises in the Creative Industry.

He pointed to the success of major Carnival Events around the World such as the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, which he said, attracts as many as 200 million Visitors Annually.

Shettima also cited an example of the Calabar Carnival, which has become intertwined with the Cultural Heritage of the Efik/Ibibio People.

”The Abuja Carnival used to be an even bigger Event. I urge you to fast-track all efforts toward holding this Event,” VP Shettima charged the Abuja International Carnival Delegation.

He also highlighted the Government’s Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Project, a $618m Initiative aimed at supporting the Digital and Creative Industries, including the Carnival Sector.

Chief Executive Officer of the Abuja International Carnival, Kehinde Adegbite, expressed gratitude for the Vice President’s support.

He outlined Plans to partner with the Ministry of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy to revitalise the Carnival.

“We met with the Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, who is Creative-driven and agreed that we partner with the Ministry for the Project.

”The Carnival brings Unity, empowers the Youths, and helps discover Talents,” he said.

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Kellyrae of the former Doublekay Duo in the Big Brother Naija “No Loose Guard” Season has emerged Winner of the Show.

He was announced Winner by Host of the Show, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, during the Grand Finale of the Show on Sunday night in Lagos.

The Winner was presented with N60m Cash Prize and a new SUV.

Kellyrae, a 33-year-old Professional Singer from Delta, who came into the show with his Wife, Kassia, is a Graduate of Delta State University.

The eight Housemates who made it to the finals are Kellyrae, Sooj, Anita, Nelly, Onyeka, Wanni, Victoria and Ozee.

Sooj, the first Finalist to be evicted , said “I am thankful for the journey so far, I feel like a Winner and a Champion regardless of the situation; I am coming for any and everything; I’m taking the World by storm.”

This was followed by Anita, a Model, who expressed her desire to be engaged on the International Runway.

She said, “I am excited and grateful right now, I wanted to win the Prize but I am here till the last day; I am happy. I will be taking my Modelling Business to the next level.”

Ozee said: “It’s not about the Final Winner but the fact that I made it to the end. This Platform is like a Social Experiment where I have learnt about myself. I have a lot am working on. Just look out for me, this is just the beginning.”

Nelly, who got auditioned nine times before her final success to the Show, said, “I am very happy. I will be growing my Restaurant Brand. You People should expect something big. I can’t wait to work with all the Brands that love me.”

Victoria, the fifth Finalist to leave the House, said she would be going back to her Business as a Travel Consultant and would remain open to more Collaborations from Brands.

For Onyeka, she spoke on her interest in Singing, Dancing, Acting and Directing.

The Reality Television Show began July 28 with 28 Housemates.

The Show witnessed lots of twists, drama, controversies, steeze and romance, as the Housemates came in Pairs of 14.

The Pairs are: Chekas, Zinwe, Mbadiwe Twins, WanniXHandi, Aces, Nelita, Double Kay, Shatoria, Radicals, Floruish, Tami, Ndinne, Beta and Streeze.

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First Bank of Nigeria (FBN) says it is harnessing strength and skills of the Nation’s Youths through Arts by creating Mass Employment, promoting Economic Development and preserving Nigeria’s Rich Cultural Heritage.

Oluseyi Oyefeso, the FBN’s Executive Director, Retail Banking, South Directorate, said this during a Stage Play, “Kúrunmí” sponsored by the Bank, on Sunday night in Lagos.

Kúrunmí was written by Late Nigerian Playwright, Ola Rotimi.

It is a Theatrical Production that delves into the Rich History of the Oyo Kingdom, and is part of First@arts Initiative.

The Stage Play was produced by Gboyega Akosile, who is also Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State.

Kúrunmí, directed by Muyideen Oladipupo (Lala), told the Story of a Fearless Leader in the Ancient Yoruba Kingdom of Oyo.

Speaking with Journalists, Oyefeso said that the Play told a Major Story which documented for posterity, the Culture and Conflict between the Ancient Egbas, the Ibadans, and the Oyo People.

According to him, FBN is there to make sure we preserve the Culture of Nigeria,

He said that First@arts covered almost everything around Arts, including Stage Plays, Cinematography, Artworks, Documenting History, Documenting the Society, among others, to preserve the Culture and the History of Nigerian People.

The Executive Director said that the Large Stage Cast was a fraction compared to huge numbers that worked behind the Scene, thereby creating Jobs and contributing to Nigeria’s Economic Growth.

“That is what we need to be thinking about in Nigeria. How do we productively engage our Young Ones, to putting them to Productive Use?

“You can see the energy that those Young Folks display. You can see the Choreography, amazing Dance Steps.

“So, we have to find a way to keep them engaged for the positive use. In a way, FBN is using the Arts to promote Job Creation and develop the Economy,” he said.

Oyefeso urged People in the Creative Sector with good Proposals to present them to FBN for Free Sponsorship.

Gboyega Akosile, the Producer, thanked FBN for the Partnership.

Akosile, who is also Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to Sanwo-Olu, also appreciated the Governor for supporting his Vision to birth Kúrunmí.

He said that his Vision was to promote Arts, and Kúrunmí gave him the satisfaction of using the Large Dedicated Cast who diligently worked for five months to bring the Idea to fruition.

The Director, Lala, said that the story would help the Younger Generation to connect to their Roots, adding that, White Actors were included to aid understanding of Colonialists Involvement.

“Theatre is dying and we need People to support and revive it, so, we are happy with what First Bank is doing because 85 per cent of our Cast are Youths,” he said. 

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By Ruth Malagu

The Nigerian Music Scene is about to witness a Showstopper who is a complete Musician in the real sense of the word. Unlike most pretenders claiming to be Musician across Nigeria, Olajire Ajiboye, better known by his stage name "JIRE," had from his early childhood carved a niche for himself, defining his pathway to the Music Industry.

His decision to settle for Music as a Career did not situate him well with his Parents especially his father, who though is a dandy lover of Music, wanted more for a Son he so much cherish and love dearly. But Music he must play and a Musician he must become. At every given opportunity, he hums, sings beats on any instrument he lays his hands upon to ‘disturb the peace’ of the Household. He was the Music Maker and Sound Creator in the Family. He has a good listening hear and love all kinds of Music. No wonder his style cuts across all the Genres of Music known to mankind.

He was born on July 2nd, 1999, in Lagos, Nigeria with origin in Oro in Kwara State. Early in life, he was deeply influenced by the vibrant Musical Traditions of his Homeland, a trait he picked from his Father, Otunba Abiodun Ajiboye who is deeply steeped in Culture and Tradition. This inspired his early interest in Music.

Jire saw Music as a powerful tool for self-expression and connection. His formative years were marked by a profound engagement with various Musical Genres, which sets the stage for his future Career in Music. His passion for Music led him into studying it at the Babcock University where he further horned his skills and In 2016, Jire made his debut in the Industry, swiftly capturing the attention of Audiences and Critics alike. His originality and depth, earned him fame and recognition as he nurtured a promising Career.

As he develops in the Music Industry, Jire’s several Achievements underscore his fast growing prominence as he was in 2016 nominated for Best New Act at the Scream Awards. This early recognition marked his growing talent. This was followed by high profile performances at notable Events to promote his growing reputation as an electrifying Live Performer.

These Gigs include repeated appearances at the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), a Pre Event celebrating African Musical Excellence, the Lagos State Marathon, a Public Event showcasing Local Talents, Lagos Fiesta, a popular Music and Culture Festival, Ovation Carol, a renowned Christmas Celebration featuring top Artists, and Miss Tourism Nigeria, a Platform highlighting Artistic and Cultural Achievements. The development increased his fan base astronomically while cementing his versatility and appeal across several Audiences.

And as he continues to climb the Ladder, Jire’s professionalism, commitment as well as dedication are increasingly becoming prominent in all aspects of his Work while he progresses in his craft to inspire and engage numerous Audiences.

The future for Jire is big and bright as he is ready for a major breakthrough with the release of his forthcoming Work under ACI Records. It promises to be a showstopper in every sense of the word as the Musical World awaits ‘JIRE – THE NEXT BIG THING’

Additional Materials Provided by Jire Ajiboye

Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) Presidential Candidate in the 2023 Polls, has described Onyeka Onwenu’s death as devastating, saying, “she left us with a striking song in her last performance on Earth, ‘One Love Keep Us Together’.”

Reacting to the death of the Legendary Musical Icon via his X Handle, Obi narrated the situation surrounding Onwenu’s death.

“I watched as Doctors battled to save her life in vain yesterday after her elegant performance on stage.

“Yesterday provided a totally devastating moment for me as I witnessed a tragic Event that will forever be etched in my memory.

“I was present at the Event where the Iconic Song Star, Onyeka Onwenu performed a couple of her songs ending up with her famous song, ‘One Love Keep Us Together’.

“It was a beautiful performance, but little did we know it would be her final bow.

“Just about a few minutes after her performance, she sat down and drank some water and immediately collapsed, and was rushed to the Hospital.

”I followed her to the Hospital, I watched in pain as the Doctors and Medical Staff fought tirelessly and battled to save her life doing everything possible to bring her back to life but eventually came out with the sad news that she was gone.”

Obi said in spite the Medical Practitioners’ valiant efforts, Onwenu sadly passed away after over two hours of intense struggle.

“My heart goes out to her Children, Family, Friends, and Loved Ones during this difficult time.

“May we find the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss. Onyeka Onwenu was a National Treasure, a Shining Star who inspired Generations with her Music, Activism, and strong dedication to the Arts.

“Her passing is a tremendous loss for the entire Nation, and she will be deeply missed.

“I want to thank everyone who accompanied her to the Hospital yesterday. Special thanks to Mr and Mrs John Momoh, Mr and Mrs Okonkwo and Mr Okpara, who were with her during her last moments.

“Governor Alex Otti joined in also and Mr Femi Ajayi, who equally returned to the Hospital this morning when we had to finalise everything about her passing.

“May her soul rest in peace, and may her Legacy continue to inspire and unite us all.

“My condolences to her Family, the Entertainment Industry, and the Nation at large. May we find solace in the Memories we shared with her and the impact she had on our Lives,” he said.

Onyeka Onwenu died on Tuesday after performing at a Birthday Party in Lagos. 

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Nigeria’s Music Legend, Onyeka Onwenu, popularly dubbed the “Elegant Stallion”, has died at the age of 72.

Onwenu reportedly collapsed after performing at the 80th Birthday party of Stella Okolie, Chief Executive Officer of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, on Tuesday.

She was said to have been rushed to Reddington Hospital, where she reportedly passed away.

A Source, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said, “It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the Birthday of Stella Okoli of Emzor Pharmaceuticals tonight. After performing, she slumped. She was taken to Reddington Hospital but couldn’t make it.”

Onwenu was born in 1952, in Obosi, Anambra State.

She began her Music Career in the 1980s and released her Debut Album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981.

She has since released numerous Albums and Singles, including the hit song, “One Love”.

Onwenu has also acted in several Nollywood Films and won numerous Awards for her contributions to Music and Film.

In addition to her Entertainment Career, Onwenu had also been involved in Politics in addition to being an accomplished Journalist.

She was appointed as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later became the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.

She was awarded the National Honours of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011. 

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Nigerian Afrobeat Megastar, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has addressed the ongoing Child Custody Dispute with Sophia Momodu, Mother of his first Daughter, saying, all he asked for is  Joint Parenting.

The Matter is currently a Subject of Litigation before the Court.

Davido also expressed displeasure over Sophia’s usual reference to the death of his Son, who died in 2022.

Davido, in an Instagram Story wrote: “Your constantly bringing up the death of my Child at any point you can to just remind us of this tragedy that haunts us everyday of our Lives.

“Imade will grow up to see I fought for her .. as for now u can have her P.S she won’t be a Child forever.. enjoy Imade Aurora Adeleke ! Your Father loves you!

“All I ask for is JOINT CUSTODY !! And nothing else! But cus it’s ‘Davido’ yall wanna act like yall can’t read. Smh .. I’m off this! Yall be blessed and I pray this never happens to you.

“Joint Custody – Both parents will have access to the Child. Sole Custody – Only a Single Parent will have access to the Child .”

Meanwhile, Momodu, told a Lagos State High Court sitting in Sabo, Yaba, not to grant the Child’s Custody to the Musician.

She told the Court on Friday that the Applicant was not fit to be granted Custody of their daughter because he is always not available and does not possess the ability to dutifully care for her.

She stated this in a Counter-Affidavit she filed in opposition to Davido’s Suit seeking Custody.

Contrary to Davido’s claim that he had consistently fulfilled his Financial Obligations toward his daughter, Momodu told the Court that the Child was almost sent away from School because the Artiste refused to pay her Tuition Fees.

According to her, while their Relationship lasted, Davido never showed true commitment or love toward their Daughter.

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Veteran Nollywood Actor, Amaechi Muonagor, has died after a prolonged illness, at the age of 62.

This was disclosed by a Social Commentator, Morris Monye, via his X Handle on Sunday.

Muonagor was said to have suffered Kidney failure and was on Dialysis.

The sudden news of his demise comes just few days after a Viral Video where he solicited  Funds to help him have a Kidney Transplant.

Monye wrote, “Deeply heartbroken by the news of Amaechi Muonagor’s passing.

“He was a talented Nollywood Actor whose presence on our Screens was truly masterful.

“We watched with concern as he battled Health Issues, offering whatever support we could to help him seek treatment in India.

“This tragic loss highlights the need for better Healthcare in our Country.”

Muonagor, a Native of Idemili, in Anambra, was born August 20, 1962.

He was an Actor and Producer. In 2016, he was nominated for AMVCA 2017 Best Actor in a Comedy.

In 1989, after his Youth Service, Muonagor started working for the News Agency of Nigeria. He left his Job a few years later for an Acting Role in his first Movie as Akunatakasi in Taboo 1, a Nigerian Movie. 

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With an unwavering commitment to providing Investment Opportunities to African Artistes through Tours, Live Music Events, Concerts and Talent Management, a new Pan-African Platform, BridgeAfric, has been launched in Lagos, Nigeria.

The exciting grand Event took place at the prestigious Alliance Francais in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, with the European launch scheduled for January 31, 2024, in the enchanting city of Paris, France.

The Event, moderated by Ma et Mota (twins) from Senegal and OTB from Nigeria, brought together Music Professionals, top-tier Corporate Executives, African Artistes, Music and Entertainment Stakeholders, Celebrities, Corporate Executives, and Local and International Media across the African Continent to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the Creative Industry and to explore ways to support its growth.

The BridgeAfric President, Victoria Nkong, who is also one of AFRIMA’s Associate Producers, described BridgeAfric’s birth as a Revolutionary Initiative that would bring Stakeholders together to share Ideas and build Networks that can drive the development of Africa's Creative Industry.

She said BridgeAfric is here to support African Talents and market, promote, and distribute African Music in Territories where a majority of Music Consumers have and previously haven’t interacted with African Music resulting in African Artists drawing in Countless new Fans every day.

Beyond the beat, she noted that BridgeAfric provides Platform for Artists to make money, showcase their Music and reach a wider Audience, while also offering a range of Business Opportunities, such as Ticket Sales, Sponsorships, and Merchandising.

An elated Nkong noted, “Given the vastness of the African Continent and challenges enumerated, our objective is to facilitate Collaborations and Partnerships among African Artists and between African Artists and Western Superstars and Brands, continually exposing them to new Audiences through Touring, Showcasing, Ticketing Sales and Talent Management.”

Speaking on the BridgeAfric’s Logo, she said it showcases the African Map with dots that indicate connecting the different African Countries not only within Africa but between Africa and the World.

She however noted that the Logo is still a work in progress as the complete Work would be unveiled at the Paris Launch early next year.

While unveiling the BridgeAfric’s Logo, AFRIMA’s Executive President, Mike Dada, who is also the Patron, described Nkong as a very selfless, loyal and committed Individual who has always excelled in whatever she does.

The AFRIMA President advised Music and Creative Industry Stakeholders to come together in order to consolidate the successes so far. He emphasised the importance of Collaboration among different Players in the Industry, including Artists, Producers, Distributors, and Policymakers.

Earlier, during an exciting Panel Session titled ‘Collaboration As A Tool for Developing Africa’s Creative Industry, featuring Ayo Animashaun, Wendy Harawa from Malawi, Dare Art Alade, Sam Oyemelukwe, St. John Freeman and TG Imorin, the Panelists, sharing their concerns about the Industry, highlighted the need for Partnerships that would help to promote African Creativity, improve access to Markets, and create a conducive Environment for Innovation and Growth.

In his own submission, Ayo Animashaun, Media Entrepreneur, CEO, Smooth Promotions and Executive Producer, The Headies, berated those he described as reaping off Artistes as he submitted that any Industry that’s not supported by the Government will suffer great consequences.

To Dare Art Alade, a Nigerian Multi-Platinum Afro R&B singer, Songwriter and Record Producer, popularly known as Darey, “We must collaborate with the Corporate Organisations.  Our Artistes are vibrant, they are kind of open. But most Artistes don’t understand how to make money back. They just want to enjoy themselves and perform on the biggest Stages.”

Wendy, an Artiste, Promoter and Talent Manager from Malawi, described the BridgeAfric as a Platform meant to bridge the gap among African Artistes. She said, “I believe BridgeAfric is the Bridge we have been waiting for. when you collaborate, you increase your Network and Fan Base.”

In his own submission, former Lagos state Commissioner for Information and Culture, Steve Ayorinde described the BridgeAfric Initiative as a welcome development as he noted that while AFRIMA has always been coming out with very rich Discourses at its Annual Business Music Summit, the BridgeAfric would serve as another level of Engagement.

With Attendees buzzing with excitement about the possibilities that the new Platform could bring to the African Business Landscape, it was clear that BridgeAfric had made a significant impact with its Launch in Lagos, and the future looked bright for the Platform.

Spicing up the evening with electric Performances were talented French-Congolese, Hiro; Tanya (Burkina Faso) Eltee (Nigeria), Lulu (Malawi); and DJ Humility (Nigeria) among others. They brought energy and excitement to the Stage with their dynamic Performances.

Top Dignitaries that graced the grand evening Event include PMAN President, Pretty Okafor, Kenny Ogungbe, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Japaul Oil & Maritime Services Plc, Akinloye Oladapo, Emeka Onwumere, Adaora Alumina Mbelu, Karishma, Harrisong, Nigerian Media Personality, Olisa Adibua, among others.

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An Assistant Secretary for U.S. Economic and Business Affairs, Ramnin Toloui, has forecast a 100 billion Dollar Revenue from Nigeria’s Creative Industry by 2030.

Toloui, who spoke during the Africa Creative Market Conference in Lagos on Monday, also said if the potential of the Industry was well harnessed, it could create up to  2.7 million Jobs by 2050.

The Conference on Intellectual Property(IP) Protection was organised by the U.S. Consulate in Lagos in partnership with Ascend Foundation Studios.

Toloui’s remarks aimed to highlight the importance of IP Protection and Enforcement Framework in fostering a Culture of Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Creative Industry.

According to him, the Nigerian Creative Sector has grown in leaps and bounds, with American Actors now interested in featuring in Nigerian Movies.

Part of this success, he said, was due to rising demand for Nigerian Content from the Global African Diaspora.  

This, Toloui said, has led to a steady rise in the Export of African content through digital streaming and International touring, and growing numbers of African-based Investors who are directing Capital towards early-stage Creator Economy Startups.

“The U.S. Government supports and is proud to see burgeoning ties in the Creative Industries between the United States and Nigeria.

“Bringing both Countries closer together and furthering Investment Opportunities in the Film and Television, Music, Arts, Sports, Gaming, and Tech Arenas.

“During the portion of the U.S.- Africa Summit that highlighted the Economic potential of the Creative Industry, we announced our intention to partner with Stakeholders across the Creative Ecosystem, Creatives and Policymakers alike, to help grow the Creative Economy.

“We have taken up this charge by focusing on a key piece of the puzzle that allows Creatives to monetise their Work and attract additional Investment:  Intellectual Property Protection,” he said.

Speaking on why the U.S., in its partnership with Nigeria, would highlight the Creative Industry, he said the Cultural Sector alone accounted for 3.1 per cent of Global Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

He added that according to the UN Conference on Trade and Development, the Creative Industry generated Annual Revenues of over $2trn and accounted for nearly 50 million Jobs Worldwide.

He said strong IP Rights Regimes established secure Legal Frameworks for Investment in – and commercialisation of – Innovation and Creativity.

This, he said, enabled Firms, including Innovative Start-Ups, to navigate the perilous process of transforming a Creative Work into a commercially viable Product and to successfully compete in the Global Marketplace.

“A strong System of IP Rights assures Inventors, Industrial Designers, and Creative Artists that their Ideas will be protected and that they can receive payment for the use of their Creations.

“Strong IP protection, therefore, creates Value and Jobs that extend well beyond the traditional boundaries of the Creative Sector. It attracts additional Investment into the Creative industry.

“This is why we are so delighted to see Nigeria continuing to invest in the growth of the Creative Industry with the newly announced Destination 2030 Initiative,” he said.

According to Toloui, the Creative Industry also employ more Young People, namely those aged 15 to 29 than any other Sector, with Women constituting nearly half of the Creative Workforce.

He noted that several U.S. Film and Entertainment Companies, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Paramount were making large Investments in the Nigerian Market and seeing strong prospects for future Investments.

“Nigeria is a Powerhouse of Creativity, and we stand in steadfast partnership with all of you in this room to support the conditions that allow Creatives to thrive.

“I want to see many more Investments and increased Commercial Ties. It serves us all to support a Sector that is creating equitable opportunity for all,” Toloui said.