By Taiye Olayemi

The City of Boston, Massachusetts, USA, has declared March 2 as “Burna Boy Day”, in recognition of the Nigerian artiste’s performances and advocacy works.

This was disclosed in a letter signed by Ruthzee Louijeune, the Boston City Councilor.

The letter reads: “Singer and songwriter Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, known professionally as “Burna Boy, was born and raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria and is now a global cultural icon who has helped introduce and popularise afrobeats to the entire world.

“For too long, mainstream narratives have marginalised African voices and overlooked the richness of the continent’s cultural heritage, with Buma Boy’s rise to prominence highlighting a shift in this paradigm.

“Burna Boy proudly embraces his Nigerian and African identity, infusing it with contemporary sounds to create music that resonates with audiences worldwide, thereby challenging stereotypes about African artistry and opening doors for aspiring artistes from similar backgrounds.

“Through his performances and advocacy work, Burna Boy amplifies the voices of marginalised communities and advocates for their recognition and rights.

”Using his platform not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire, starting conversations about social justice, equity, and representation.

“Nigeria is the largest source of African immigration in the Unitcd States and Massachusets is one of the top 10 states with the highest Nigerian-born population, according to the American Community Survey.

“Boston’s commitment to recognising and celebrating culture and diversity is evident in the range of cultural events, festivals, and community initiatives that showcase the city’s multicultural landscape.

“Burna Boy’s legacy serves as a reminder of possibility, reminding us to continue amplifying voices that have long been silenced or overlooked.

“NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That March 2, 2024 is designated Burna Boy Day in the City of Boston.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Burna Boy is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and record producer, who won Best Global Music Album for “Twice As Tall” at the premiere ceremony of the 63rd GRAMMY Awards.

In October 2022, Burna Boy was awarded the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic  (MON) for his achievements in music, and in 2023, Rolling Stone ranked him number 197 on its list of the 200 greatest singers of all time.

Also, in 2023, he won The Headies Afrobeats Single of the Year category and also the Song of the Year for “Last Last”. (NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Taiye Olayemi

The Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa, says the 617 million dollar investment in Digital Economy and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) fund will spur cultural and economic expansion.

Musawa said this during the launch of iDICE and the maiden edition of Omniverse summit, in Lagos on Tuesday.

She said that the fund signifies a remarkable opportunity to propel economic growth and development within Nigeria’s burgeoning digital and creative economy.

The minister said that the fund would also engender inclusivity.

“Today marks a momentous occasion as I proudly announce the groundbreaking of $617 million Investment in Digital Economy and Creative Enterprises Fund, also known as the iDICE fund.

“This fund represents a beacon of hope and opportunity for our creative community, offering unprecedented access to startup capital and resources essential for nurturing talent and fostering innovation.

“The iDICE fund epitomises the administration of President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to empowering our creatives and entrepreneurs, fueling economic growth, and driving
socio-economic transformation across Nigeria.

“It is meant for cultural and economic expansion as well as inclusivity, to cut down all barrier.

“In line with the ministry’s comprehensive 8-point plan agenda, it lays the foundation for sustainable financing, skills development and market access within the digital and creative ecosystem,” she said.

Musawa said that provision for the intervention fund for the art was currently being looked into as the iDICE fund was not a substitute to this.

Commenting on the Omniverse summit, Musawa said it presents a unique platform to network with industry leaders and gain insights from experts.

She said the platform also gives room for individuals to contribute to the development of policies and initiatives that would drive African innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship forward.

She explained that collaborations and engagement among industry players and policymakers were paramount in unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s creative economy.

“I urge everyone to actively engage, foster collaboration and forge bonds that will not only drive our economy but also reshape the creative landscape of our nation.

“The ministry is organising numerous working sessions, serving as invaluable
platforms for stakeholders to converge, exchange ideas, and co-create strategies to propel the industry forward.

“It is time we harness the full potential of our cultural influence.

“The iDICE fund coupled with amazing platforms such as the Omniverse summit that has convened our integrated ecosystem here today, will serve as a catalyst, providing support and access to burgeoning global markets,” she said.

Speaking further on how the funds could be accessed by Nigerians, Mr Ife Adebayo, National Programme Coordinator, IDICE fund, said it would be diabursed by Adventure Capital Ltd.

Adebayo noted that the funding banks were: African Development Bank, the Islamic Development Bank, Agence Française de Développement and the Bank of Industry (BOI).

Earlier, Obi Asika, Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture and convener of the summit, explained that the forum was created for the purpose of collaboration and networking which were highly needed in advancing any industry.

Also, Mr Charles Emembolu, Co-Convener, Omniverse summit, who explained the essence of the gathering, urged everyone to collaborate, invest and participate in a digital revolution that transcends borders.

Emembolu, who is the Chairman, Advisory Board of the Innovation Support Network (ISN), said Nigeria’s digital landscape had become ripe with opportunities.

“As we look back at the last 25 years, we see a nation that has overcome challenges, embraced innovations and produced world-class unicorns.

“Now, the stage is set for even greater achievements. At this inaugural event, the Omniverse offers the perfect opportunity to experience our digital innovation ecosystem, build partnerships and break silos.

“This event has been brought to you by 18 ecosystem players who have volunteered time including weekends to bring us all together.

“My gratitude goes to them all, to our sponsors partners and support system, locally and globally,” he said.

Meanwhile, Weert Börner, German Consul General in Lagos, assured Africans of German Government’s commitment toward fostering mutually beneficial partnerships with Africa through programmes of its Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). (NAN) (nannews.ng)
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Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Taiye Olayemi

Alhaji Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the 14th Emir of Kano, is expected to lead discussions on the role of the creative industry at an economic summit to be held in London in May.

Also on the panel of discussants are Chief Segun Awolowo, former Executive Secretary, Nigerian Export Promotion Council, and Abike Dabiri, Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).

A statement by Joseph Edgar, Chairman, Duke of Shomolu Foundation, organisers of the event, indicated that Jammie Simmons of Access Bank Uk, and Prince Bimbo Olashore, would be on the panel.

Other discussants include industry experts like Koyinsola Ajayi and Kola Adesina.

Edgar further stated that the event, scheduled to hold at Pullman Hotel in London, would focus on “the pivotal role of the creative industry in driving our emerging economic renaissance”.

“The burgeoning contributions of the creative industry, valued at over N3 trillion, continue to garner acclaim, underscoring the imperative to establish robust fiscal frameworks to effectively harness its vast benefits, particularly in revenue generation.

“Other benefits of the industry include job creation, infrastructure development, tourism, and hospitality.”

He said that the event would feature a unique trade expo showcasing Nigerian and Afro-focused businesses, offering a platform for the exhibition of their goods and services.

According to Edgar, the vision behind the economic summit is to set the stage for an annual gathering aimed at fostering robust dialogue on how the industry can continue to play a pivotal role in the ongoing renaissance of the Nigerian economy.

He emphasised that the summit would provide a unique opportunity for networking and forging economic alliances among key stakeholders.

He said that the summit would be managed by the internationally respected Itohan Barlow, on behalf of the Shomolu Foundation.

“The summit promises to be a landmark event driving forward the discourse on the transformative power of the creative industry,” he added.

Edgar, in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said that he expected the event to create massive awareness on the potential of the creative industry.

“We expect a large event; tickets are already being sold. Investors, economists and theatre goers are already itching to be part of this activity,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

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