By Angela Atabo

The African Heritage Awards (AHA) 2024 earlier scheduled to hold in Johannesburg, South Africa, has been relocated to Lagos.

A statement issued on Wednesday by Mr Moses Siasia, Chairman, Heritage Times, organisers of the awards, said that the event location was changed due to unavoidable bottlenecks.

Siasia said the event has now been scheduled to hold at the Lagos Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos on April 13, 2024 (same date as earlier scheduled).

“The choice of Lagos for the AHA 2024 is strategic, being that Lagos is the entertainment hub of Africa, and the vibrant city is known for its high appetite for global events.

“Lagos has the pedigree to give the prestigious event a pan-African footprint, in line with the objectives of the organisers.

“The event is a gathering strategically organised to celebrate and recognise outstanding global accomplishments of Africans within the continent and in the Diaspora, in areas of Business, Politics, Philanthropy, Entertainment & Arts, Culture, Science & Technology, and Social Innovation.”

Siasia said that the recognition and awards have become imperative to sustainably foster the African culture of excellence, promote Afrocentrism, and create an ecosystem that would further retell the true African story towards the advancement of the continent’s full potential.

The organisers of the award had listed those nominated to include African-American billionaire Philanthropist, Robert F. Smith, Chairman/CEO of Vista Equity Partners, Texas, United States and HE, Dr George Weah, former President of Liberia.

Others are HE, John Dramani Mahama, former President of Ghana and HE, Mama Rachael Ruto, First Lady of the Republic of Kenya & Founder of Mama Doing Good Organisation and Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

Victoire Tomegah Dogbe, Prime Minister of Togo and Mrs Folorunsho Alakija, Managing Director of the Rose of Sharon Group and Executive Vice Chairman of Famfa Oil Limited are among those to honour, among others.

The inaugural edition of the event was held on April 1, 2023 in Kigali, Rwanda.

This year’s AHA will be chaired by HE, Sir Seretse Khama Ian Khama, former President of Botswana, and will be attended by former Heads of States and Captains of Industries across Africa. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

By Taiye Olayemi

Nigerian singer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has announced the donation of N300 million to orphanages across the country through his David Adeleke Foundation (DAF).

The Foundation was founded in 2022 to assist the less-privileged and has successfully raised and disbursed funds to improve the lives of many children in the country.

Davido made the announcement via his verified Instagram handle, on Tuesday.

“I and my foundation pledge the sum of 300 million Naira to orphanages around Nigeria, as my yearly contribution to the Nation…as my yearly contribution to the Nation ❤️ details of disbursement tomorrow🇳🇬,” he wrote.

In November 2021, Davido donated N250 million to 292 orphanages, in commemoration of his 29th birthday.

In July 2023, the musician was also reported to have donated N237 million to over 400 orphanages in Nigeria. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Chidi Opara

A writer Chika Obodozie, has presented a book titled ‘Shackles of Love’ to members of the public, to mark the 2024 Valentine’s Day celebration.

Obodozie told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday that the book showcased how Africans brought their acts to America.

He said the book highlighted the cost of true love and the price those who dare to fall in love, pay to earn it.

He said that the book can be obtained in major bookshops in America, UK, Nigeria and other western countries.

“One can also visit Amazon.com to download the book which is really fascinating to read,” Obodozie said.

According to Obodozie, the book is set against the backdrop of Southern California during one of the worst heat waves of the 20th century, where lives meet, and you can never tell if you are on the set of a movie or in real time.

“In a very fascinating world where nothing is left to chance, there are no free lunches and those who dare to love, pay the price.”

Obodozie also said the book had a Hollywood setting in a world built on illusion, fantasy and passion as well as a world where everything and everyone had a price.

“From the tender and innocent LaKita and Precious, to the man-eater “Gift” who vainly seeks to heal a lifetime of hurt by making men pay for what others give for free,” he said.

The book portrayed a life of flamboyance, luxurious living and a loose affiliation of millionaires on the prowl for tender flesh, a little affection, and lot of attention but sadly, love is not an option.

The book tried in essence to deal with the gains and futility of love and life. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

By Joshua Olomu

Ace filmmaker and co-founder of Fenmore Studious, Allen Agozie,  has urged teeming unemployed youths to embrace opportunities that abound in the Nigerian film industry in order to become self-employed.

Agozie made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of the maiden edition of the Fenmore Film Festival on Saturday in Abuja.

The one-day film fiesta, organised by Fenmore Studious in collaboration with the French Institute, had in attendance industry stakeholders, young filmmakers and film enthusiasts drawn from different parts of the country.

He said that as Nigerian youths grappled with unemployment, the film industry was a viable option that could create jobs and make people self-employed if only the youths could tap into it.

Agozie said that a lot of opportunities were available both before and behind the camera for creative and talented young Nigerians whole may want to venture into the motion picture industry.

“There are opportunities for every passionate and talented youth out there in the industry; from acting to cinematography, script writing, costume design and many more.

“A lot of Hollywood films are being made with millions and millions of dollars and that is because they think it is an industry worth investing in, and Nollywood actually has the same potential.

“So, what we really need to do is to start telling our own stories very well, genuine stories that a lot of people will be interested to take and make bigger on larger scale.

“That is   when the money and employment will come; and   the industry is definitely worth investing in your time, talent and money.’’

Agozie  said that  as  Nigeria faced  economic challenges and sought to diversify its revenue mainstay , its rich  culture and creative sector  was a veritable alternative, if well harnessed.

He e urged government at all levels to make the sector attractive to creative young Nigerians by providing necessary support in form of funding and capacity building.

According to him, the film festive is an initiative to offer young filmmakers   a platform to showcase their talents and creativity.

“As a production company, Fenmore  Studio decided to organise this film festival  in collaboration with the French Institute to celebrate  short films and young filmmakers who are  trying to tell our stories..

“The aim of  Fenmore Film Festival is to  give them a platform to showcase their works and encourage them that they can be genuine and tell original humane stories.

“The theme of the festival is ‘Contemporary African Narratives’, which is  about  the new ways of telling African story, and we want to tell our young filmmakers that they can  change the nation through film.

“We selected and exhibited eight films that we believe shows exactly what it means for young filmmakers in this generation to tell the same story that have been told before about society.

“We hope that anyone that attended this festival fall in love with the films, and with this happening in Abuja, youth will join this community of young filmmaker,” he said.

NAN reports that  some of the short films screened at the festival include ‘Swimming in a Sea of Trauma’, `You Matter to Me’, `Boy Meets Girl’, ’Cementary of Doves’, ’Rare Fish’, ’Hanky Panky’,  ‘A Quiet Monday’ among others.(NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

By Angela Atabo

Igbo leaders have inaugurated a National Burial Committee, headed by Dr Okwesilieze Nwodo, for the burial of late Chukwuwemeka Ezeife, a former governor of Anambra, amidst calls for return of peace to the South-East region.

Inaugurating the committee in Abuja on Friday, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, called on Igbo people to unite and move the South East Region forward just like Ezeife was doing before his death.

Kalu said that Ezeife was a man of peace who did not believe in violence or using social vices to protest injustice.

He called on those using violence to disrupt the development of the Eastern region to stop and embrace the Igbo spirit of oneness, a major legacy Ezeife stood for.

“Ezeife was a great man who sacrificed for the Igbo tribe.

“He believed in a South East of peace and unity.

“He did not stand for the killing and destruction as is currently the case in the region.

“He believed in dialogue and the spirit of oneness.

“So we will use his burial to tell Nigerians that Igbo people are united,” he said.

Kalu pledged that those in the National Assembly would solidly support the committee.

“Whenever you need us, we are available. We will not abandon you,” he said.

The Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Chief Edozie Ezeugwa, described late Ezeife as a warrior with extraordinary heart for the people advocating for the poor.

Ezeugwa called on citizens to live their lives in service to humanity bearing in mind that one day they would leave the earth and would be remembered by how they lived.

“Ezeife touched so many lives and left a good legacy. His death is a reminder that someday we will all go,” he said.

Dr Ifedi Okwenna, Secretary and Head of Secretariat, National Burial Committee (NBC), presenting members of the committee, said they were drawn from all walks-of-life.

Okwenna also said that Ezeife was a man of peace who cohabited with people from different regions, parties, religion and tribe.

“As you can see today, the life he lived is reflected in the calibre of people in this committee.

“We have people from different parties and so many friends and families because he was a man given to brotherhood and love,” he said.

Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, former governor of Enugu State, said that the committee would give Ezeife the kind of burial he deserved.

Nwodo said that the committee would make a statement with Ezeife’s burial to portray the spirit of oneness among Igbo people.

“This is the Igbo spirit we want to celebrate; we want to show Nigerians that Igbo people are united.

“We are determined, we have the vision and we know that the statement we want to make would be achieved and you will all be proud to be Igbo people,” he said.

Nwodo assured of the committee’s commitment to make the burial a success by delivering quality service.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the inauguration ceremony was attended by people from different political parties across Nigeria. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chidinma Agu/Vincent Obi

By Kazeem Akande

The legendary Yoruba movie, ‘TI OLUWA NILE’, written by veteran actor and producer, Alhaji Kareem Adepoju, popularly known as “Baba Wande”, is set to be adapted into stage, titled: ASIYANBI: TI OLUWA NI ILE’.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ‘TI OLUWA NILE’ was originally penned in 1987 by Baba Wande, and transformed into a cinematic gem in 1993 through collaboration between the esteemed writer and Mainframe Production, under the skilled direction of Tunde Kelani.

‘ASIYANBI: TI OLUWA NI ILE’ is in support of ‘AROBA GROOVE’, an international cultural organisation, signaling a new chapter in the legacy of the cinematic masterpiece.

Akindeji Ibitayo, the Project Coordinator and Supervisory Producer in Aroba Groove, said at a news conference on Friday in Lagos that the stage play was about retelling stories and histories in a compelling and exciting style particularly of African origin.

“We took a deep look at the history of the country, the colonisation, independence, tribulations, challenges, our growth and evolution over the years and we came to a conclusion that Nigeria is really a God’s own country.

“So, what project can we use to portray this, here comes TI OLUWA NILE but in a different format.

“Coincidentally, Nigeria’s  recent democracy will be hitting a landmark period of 25 continuous years.

“What better time can the project fall into, and for characters such as Asiyanbi who are desecrating and flouting the laws and orders of the land, this is a project to let them know that there will be serious and grave consequences.

“Nigerians and the world in general should watch out for this,” he said.

Also, Dotun Taylor, Executive Producer of the project, said that the 30-year-old movie having captivated audiences as one of Nollywood’s most-watched and top-selling story in history, has left an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers.

“Now, with the upcoming stage production presented by AROBA GROOVE, the timeless story is set to be reimagined and brought to life in a fresh and dynamic theatrical experience,” he said.

According to him, the film intricately weaves a tale of intrigue, betrayal, and societal complexities, drawing viewers into a world where greed collides with tradition, and justice is sought through supernatural intervention.

The executive director said that the narrative follows the gripping saga of two individuals who conspire with a corrupt chief to illegally sell ancestral land to a petroleum company for personal gain.

Their deceit met with fierce resistance from the community and the intervention of the oracle, embodying the land’s sacred deities.

As the true ownership of the land is revealed and consequences unfold, the chief finds himself entangled in a web of challenges that test his fate and traditional standing, leading to a climactic showdown that will determine his ultimate destiny.

Taylor noted that with its cinematic debut, ‘TI OLUWA NILE’ garnered widespread acclaim and adoration, solidifying its status as a blockbuster and a cultural touchstone in Nollywood history.

According to Taylor, ‘ASIYANBI TI OLUWA NI ILE’ is prepared to take centre stage, emphasising the enduring relevance and resonance of the timeless story, underscoring its enduring impact on audiences across generations.

“Featuring a talented cast of Nollywood actors of Yoruba descent, the stage play promises to deliver a riveting and immersive experience that honours the legacy of ‘TI OLUWA NILE’, while pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

“AROBA GROOVE’s visionary approach to reimagining this classic tale in a new artistic form underscores their commitment to fostering creativity and cultural enrichment.

“It set the stage for an unforgettable theatrical journey that will captivate audiences far and wide,” Taylor said.

In his remarks, Adepoju said he was grateful to be part of the historic project.

“This is a historic project, though I am the owner of the story, I must confess to you that I am more than grateful to be part of this project.

“If I am not mistaken and with my experience, this is the first time in this country that I am witnessing a story that has been adapted to a film been re-adapted to a stage play.

“I have not seen or heard it before in this sphere. I give progenitors and producers of this project kudos for their ingenuity.

“I am happy to be part of it in my lifetime, and I am fully in support,” the actor said.

Director of the project, Ropo Ewenla, that the movie is full of creativities, promotes cultural heritage and investigative in nature.

“I was a bit shocked when I was first contacted about the project, though I understand creativity is limitless.

“But this took me unaware sincerely, and since we have been on it, it has really been an exciting experience with the level of creativity, quality of team, cast and crew put together by the producers, I can assure Nigerians and the world that it’s TI OLUWA NILE redefined.

“It’s an experience that I believe everyone must witness and being the inaugural director of such a project makes me proud,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Ekemini Ladejobi
Nollywood Actress Blessing Obasi, says marrying late is not a decision she willingly embarked on.

She said that it was a process of self discovery, resilience and defying societal expectations.

Blessing was reacting to a “discussion show” on the difficulties and challenges single women in their 30s encounter.

She wrote on her Instagram account: “I know, I had to jump on this conversation because, after several years of feeling like an outsider in a world that often equates a woman’s worth with her marital status.

“I’ve finally stepped into a chapter that I crafted on my own terms.

“Getting married at an older age isn’t just a choice; it is a journey of self discovery, resilience, and breaking free from societal norms that tried to dictate my happiness,” she said.

She said that the pressure and stigma were like unwelcome shadows, whispering doubts and casting long, lonely nights.

“But in those moments of solitude, I found strength. I learned that love isn’t a race, nor is marriage a trophy for early achievement.

“It’s about finding someone who understands the chapters of your past and wants to write the future ones with you.

“So, here I am, not a bride of youthful naivety, but a woman adorned in the wisdom of her years, ready to embark on a shared journey of love, respect, and partnership, ” she said.

She encouraged those still waiting and expecting not to be discouraged but trust their processes.

“And, to those still walking their path, remember: your life, your pace, your story. Embrace it,” Obasi said.

Blessing who is also a movie producer, is married to Stan Nze and Actor. (NAN)
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Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi