By Joshua Olomu

The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), an umbrella body for professional screen actors in the Nigerian film industry, known as Nollywood, has unveiled its national office in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that filmmakers and actors drawn across the country, government functionaries, members of the diplomatic community and other stakeholders were present at the inauguration in Abuja.

Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, while unveiling the new office, lauded the current leadership of the AGN for starting and completing the project.

According to the minister, represented by Mrs Ugochi Akudo-Nwosu, Director of Entertainment and Creative Economy Department of the ministry, the project is historic and pivotal to the growth of the industry.

“This milestone is a testament to the growth of the AGN and the reflection of the vibrant potential of Nigeria’s creative economy, and today we celebrate the vision, resilience and collective effort of the sector.

“The creative economy is the new oil well of our great nation, as it provides a strategic platform to tell our stories, preserve our heritage and project Nigeria’s soft power across the globe.

“Nollywood as the world’s second largest film industry is a shining example of what Nigerians can achieve when talent meets opportunities,” she said.

According to her, actors as the face of the industry play a vital role in shaping perceptions, inspiring change and driving economic growth.

“This new office symbolises more than just a physical space, it represents a hub for creativity, collaboration and innovation.

“It is a home where actors can strategise, engage and continue to elevate the standards of the profession.

“Abuja, our nation’s capital, is more than just the political heartbeat of Nigeria. It is a city of unity, diversity and untapped potential.

“While Lagos has long been regarded as the entertainment hub of Nigeria, Abuja possesses the unique opportunity to become the complementary and competitive destination for Nigeria’s Arts, Culture and Creative Economy,” she said.

She noted that the opening of the AGN’s national office in the FCT would fast-track efforts to make the territory a creative and entertainment hub.

According to her, the ministry is working towards repositioning Abuja as a global entertainment hub, to boost tourism, create jobs and enhance Nigeria’s soft power diplomacy as part of the ‘Destination 2030’ plan.

Earlier in his speech, Dr Emeka Rollas, the AGN National President, said the project was part of efforts to create a conducive environment for actors across the country to easily access the guild’s services.

He, therefore, urged the FCT leadership to identify with the guild, especially in nurturing teeming youths in the territory who are interested in the film industry.

“As the largest association in the culture sector in Africa, we are determined to take our place of pride at the forefront of the evolution of the sector.

“To achieve this onerous task, it became imperative that we must put in place the necessary infrastructures to help carry out this enormous task effectively.

“Today’s ceremony is yet another milestone that attests to the phenomenal transformation that the present leadership of the guild has continued to unveil.

“The key objective is to create a conducive environment to help create access to our services and enhance our capacity towards provision of more welfare packages for members.

“It is our firm belief that these projects will enhance the image and capacity of the guild to provide all necessary support to members.

“It must be noted that for any organisation to flourish, it requires a vibrant and dynamic leadership taking into cognisance our position as cultural ambassadors and influencers.

“In order to ensure continuous efficient and effective mandate delivery, we will provide cutting-edge services to build a seamless association which will be people centred and technology driven.

“We are focused on motivating members towards self- development, sustainable career growth and job satisfaction,” he said.

In his remarks, Sen. Ned Nwoko, Chairman, Board of Patrons for the AGN, expressed delight at how Nollywood has evolved into a global brand over the years.

According to him, the Nigerian motion picture industry is a goldmine that can turn the economy fortune of the nation, if given the right support.

“They have grown on their own from inception to where they are now, So they need support, and we must develop the sector into the formal economy.

“They need to be supported and regulated just like other professional bodies in Nigeria are regulated and supported by the government compulsorily.

“Look, practically every Nigerian is involved in Nollywood as some people are financiers, others are producers and many are actors, among others,” he said.

Some Nollywood actors who spoke with NAN on the sidelines expressed fulfilment towards the project, describing the new edifice as a unifying point for all actors across the country.

Highpoint of the event was the unveiling of the prototype of the AGN Galleria, a proposed multi-purpose creative hub in the FCT, and the launching of the ‘AGN Super AP’ for membership enrolment. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

JOSH/IAA

By Deborah Coker

Sen. Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta) has pledged N200 million towards a talent hunt initiative aimed at discovering and nurturing young Nigerian artists.

Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District and husband to Nollywood actress Regina Daniels, made the announcement at the Actors Guild Office Opening and inauguration of its multi-purpose Super App in Abuja.

The lawmaker, who is the Chairman, Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) Board of Patrons, said that there was the need for the movie industry in Nigeria to invest in more quality TV series and not just for the sake of it.

According to him, this is a huge opportunity for discovering and nurturing young talents.

He noted that the UK, America, Australia and other countries had iconic series that have lasted for decades because of what they represented.

“If you look at the UK, America, Australia, and other countries, you will find iconic series that have lasted for decades because of what they represent.

“A well produced series can serve generations continuously.

“I want to use this moment to emphasise that this is something we must begin, and quickly. To kick start the process and support talent discovery, I am committing N200 million.

“This fund is for our young creatives to take advantage of and build something truly remarkable.

“You have done well as an industry, but I also believe that beyond institutional support, you deserve individual backing from those of us who believe in your potential. I am truly proud of what Nollywood has become,” he said.

Nwoko, who was the chairman of the occasion at the event, also revealed that he was sponsoring a bill for an Act for the Establishment of Actors Guild of Nigeria, adding that this is with a view to bring it in line with other professional bodies like NBA, NMA, NUT among others.

He further said that whenever he spoke about the creation of Anioma State, after mentioning that the nine local government areas were oil and gas producing, the next thing he highlights is that Asaba is the home of Nollywood.

“Many of you are deeply passionate about your craft.

“You are known globally. What you need now is just a little more support to push the quality of your productions to the level of your peers in the UK, America and beyond,” the lawmaker added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

By Deborah Ifeanyi

Star-studded Nollywood action drama “Freedom Way,” is set to hit cinemas across the country on July 18, its producers have said.

Blessing Uzzi, writer and producer of the highly anticipated film, made the disclosure in a post on her Instagram page.

The film is directed by Afolabi Olalekan, with rich ensemble cast which include Debo Adedayo (‘Mr Macaroni’), Femi Jacobs, whose performances earned the film Best Film and Best Writing at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).

Other cast include Mike Afolarin, Bimbo Akintola, and Teniola Aladese, among others, contributing to the film’s compelling narrative.

“Freedom Way” plot sheds light on pressing issues facing Nigerians, such as corruption, police brutality, political oppression, and economic insecurity, and their impact on the youth.

The story revolves around nine strangers grappling with personal struggles as harsh government policies disrupt their lives, forcing moral ‘dilemmas for survival’.

The film made its global premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and went on to win the Special Jury Award at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).

It has also screened at the New York African Film Festival and the Red Sea International Film Festival, establishing it as a standout African film of the year.

After captivating audiences at various international film festivals, the much-anticipated “Freedom Way” is now set to make its homecoming release in Nigerian cinemas on July 18. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

By Joan Odafe

Nigerian gospel artiste, Mike Abdul, has released a new single titled ‘Fuji Rush’, a creative fusion of traditional Fuji sounds with contemporary gospel themes and pop influences.

Abdul said the song marks another creative milestone in his two-decade-long music career.

Abdul, who was also a former member of Midnight Crew, a gospel music group, is known for his energetic performances and genre-blending compositions.

He described the project as gospel music “wearing agbada”, a metaphor for its cultural flair and broad appeal.

“The single departs from the purely traditional format of Fuji while retaining its core cultural elements, with a rich blend of heavy percussion, string and horn progression.

“It’s Fuji at its core but with elements of pop and other genres woven in.

“What’s interesting is how gospel is now pushing the boundaries of Fuji, which traditionally wasn’t seen as gospel-friendly.

“That shift is exciting. Rap has done it. Afrobeat has done it. Fuji Rush is doing it,” he said.

Abdul said the song carried a deeper message aimed at connecting with the streets and reshaping how gospel music is perceived among younger, culturally rooted audiences.

Abdul, who is also the Founder of Spaghetti Records, pledged his commitment to producing music that resonates culturally with diverse audiences without losing the message of the gospel of Jesus.

“This isn’t about keeping gospel in a corner, it’s about going into the culture, speaking the language of the streets and flipping the script so they can be saved.

“That’s the energy Fuji Rush is bringing to the narrative,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Joshua Olomu

Veteran showbiz maestro, Charles Oputa, popularly known as CharlyBoy, says he has no regret for ‘walking his own path’, including his involvement in activism, as he clocks 75.

The all-time social activist stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.

The Septuagenarian, who initially aspired to become a priest, left the seminary after one year.

Oputa said he was a complete opposite of what his late father represented because he was eager to chart his own path.

According to the ‘Areafada, as CharlyBoy is fondly called by his admirers, he opted for music and embraced the streets, dashing the high hopes of his father for him.

He said while his father was a legal luminary, he rebelled against parental interference in his career path with a determination to fight for the oppressed, a decision he paid dearly for, but never regretted.

CharlyBoy recounted how he rejected the plum job at Mobil Oil and Gas that was for him by his influential father on his return from the US after his studies.

According to him, rejecting that job, however, triggered the anger and a beef that lingered between father and son for years.

“I only wanted to break out of my father’s shadow.

“I have no regret whatsoever, as life’s experience have built me into a stronger and fulfilled man,’’ he said.

CharlyBoy said he has no regrets because even if there was something bad that happened, there was a lesson to learn from it.

“I came from a very good home; my father wasn’t a rich man at all, though he wasn’t a poor man also. He just lived according to his means, on his salary.

“I thank God for the upbringing; I thank God for all the moral codes that were handed down by my father to me, which has made me to understand the essence of life itself.

“I am not a money man, I am not all about money; I am simple, humble, and I am contented above everything, these are the qualities handed down by my father.

“Today is my birthday and I just thank God that he still kept me alive and I will say that I have no regret looking back at my journey.

“I am spending my birthday on my bed, I am not going anywhere, no party, but taking phone calls and all the messages that are coming, and just chilling,” he said.

The maverick activist said plans were underway to unveil his memoir “999”, an intriguing story of his life’s journey so far.

He said the book was a tell-it-all tale of how he fought personal wars, rebelled against and disowned his parents and married four times before he turned 36.

NAN reports that Charles Oputa, born on June 19, 1950, is the son of renowned former Supreme Court Justice, Chukwudifu Oputa.

He is a foremost singer-songwriter, television presenter, actor and producer, and he is known for his alternative lifestyle, political views, and media productions.

He was the host of the popular “The Charly Boy Show’, a 2011 judge for the talent hunt show ‘Nigeria Idol’, and a former president of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria.

He has been married to African-American singer and former fashion designer Diane for over 40 years, with children.

The “Areafada” is known as an advocate of the masses as he has fought for the rights of ordinary Nigerians and had on several occasions been tortured by security operatives for standing up to authorities.

In the mid-nineties CharlyBoy fought for the rights of military pensioners during the Detachable military dispensation, by marching to the defence headquarters in Abuja to demand payment of their pension arrears.

In 2017, Charly Boy led ‘Our Mumu Don Do’ movement, and participated in a daily sit out protest alongside other activists.

The movement was to call on President Muhammadu Buhari then to resume office or resign after the President had spent over 60 days outside the country on a health visit to the UK. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Joseph Edeh

By Ezra Musa

An NGO, Search for Common Ground, has premiered a film in Kaduna, as part of efforts to promote religious tolerance, using art as a tool for advocacy.

The film titled ‘Bridging the Abyss’ is part of the organisation’s project on the Promotion and Protection of Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB), supported by the Government of the Netherlands.

Speaking at the event, Mr Godwin Okoku, Head of Programme Implementation, said the initiative was to strengthen structures that safeguard citizens’ right to freedom of religion.

“The FoRB project is designed to prevent discrimination and ensure that individuals are not targeted or marginalised because of their religious beliefs or identity,” he explained.

Okoku said the project was being implemented across several states and had successfully addressed over 33 reported cases of FoRB violations.

“The effort was achieved in partnership with the Natiinal Human Rights Commission and the National Orientation Agency.

“We do not claim to solve every case, but we work closely with traditional institutions, religious leaders, and civil society to resolve conflicts and promote dialogue,” he added.

Okoku further revealed that the organisation coordinates a Community of Practice for FoRB, a platform that brings together Christian, Muslim, and traditional leaders to promote peaceful coexistence.

Also speaking, Ms Katlong Dasat, Senior Media Officer for the project, said the initiative uses storytelling and film to promote human rights and religious inclusion among young people.

“Art is a powerful advocacy tool. Through films like Bridging the Abyss, we are helping young people understand their right to believe, or not believe, without fear or discrimination,” she said.

Dasat emphasised that the FoRB project is not religious in nature, but rooted in human rights and social justice principles.

She said, “Nigeria is a multi-religious country. We must acknowledge not only Christianity and Islam but also other beliefs, including African Traditional Religion, Buddhism, and Atheism.

“Freedom of religion or belief is guaranteed by our constitution. It is a right, not a privilege.”

Dasat added that the organisation had also trained media practitioners on responsible reporting to avoid sensational headlines that may incite division.

“We are engaging the media to promote content that encourages national unity and religious tolerance,” she added.

Miss Miracle Elefe, a student of the Federal Polytechnic, Kaduna, said the programme had encouraged her to reflect on the role of young Nigerians in promoting unity.

“From what I learnt today, putting our differences aside will help us build a better nation. We may have different beliefs, but that should not divide us.”

Mr Isaac Ibuka, a student of the Federal Cooperative College, Kaduna, described the programme as an eye-opener.

“Human rights are not earned they are ours by virtue of being human. One important takeaway for me is that religions were made for humans, not the other way around,” he said.

The event featured a panel session and interfaith dialogues focused on building a society where freedom of belief is respected and protected. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Aisha Ahmed/Bashir Rabe Mani