Benin City recently witnessed one of the most unforgettable nights in its history, as Rema’s highly anticipated homecoming concert at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium went down in spectacular fashion.

With a sold-out crowd, a star-studded lineup, and the most international beer, Heineken, taking centre stage as sponsor, the night was nothing short of iconic..

From the moment you stepped into the stadium, Heineken’s influence was unmistakable. The brand didn’t just sponsor the event; it elevated the entire experience.

The stadium was painted in Heineken’s signature green glow, creating an atmosphere that was both vibrant and sophisticated. Heineken bars were strategically placed around the venue, ensuring that every fan had easy access to a cold, refreshing Heineken while enjoying the night’s festivities.

When Rema finally took the stage, the crowd’s energy reached a fever pitch. Opening with his hit “Azaman,” the young superstar immediately connected with his hometown audience, who had been eagerly waiting for this moment. As he moved through his impressive catalogue of hits, including “Dumebi,” “Lady,” and “Ozeba,” the audience was completely captivated, singing along to every word.

As Rema performed, he was joined on stage by a lineup of heavy-hitters that sent the crowd into a frenzy. Odumodu Blvck brought his unique vibe, Don Jazzy made an appearance that underscored Mavin Records’ enduring influence, and Ladipoe, Crayon, and Magixx all delivered electrifying performances that kept the energy at an all-time high.

Throughout the night, Heineken was more than just a sponsor – it was a key part of the experience. The refreshing taste of Heineken was the perfect complement to the high-energy performances, and fans were able to enjoy their drinks in style.

For those lucky enough to be there, the combination of Rema’s electrifying performance, surprise guest appearances, and Heineken’s premium touch created a night that was truly magical.

The 30th of August 2024 will be remembered as a milestone event in Benin City’s cultural history, where music and a world-class brand like Heineken came together to create something truly special.

Mohammed Shosanya

Acting icon Joke Silva, former director general of the Nigeria Stock Exchange Oscar Onyema, former president of the National Institute of Public Relations, Nkechi Alli-Balogun, amongst others paid tribute to the legendary singer, actor and journalist, Onyeka Onwenu as she was laid to rest in Lagos,last Friday.

“We were at the party together; we were on the same table. At some point while she was performing when she was going around the room, she came to me. You know, I’m a super armchair dancer. I don’t like getting up to dance, but I love dancing on my chair, and she was performing, and I was enjoying her performance and was dancing to it. So she just came round the room to where I sat and pulled me up, and we had a bit of a twirl”, Silva said, as she remembered dancing with Onwenu just before she slumped and died in what has become her iconic last performance.

“She had to fight for everything she had.” said Alli-Balogun. “Onyeka is one lady that has worked so hard in her life. Nothing came easy. She worked hard, loved hard, fought hard, and related hard. Through it all, she triumphed. Never compromising her personal reputation. I mean, no matter what the gains will be, the first thing Onyeka would think of is, what would people think about me? What exactly am I going to get from this? How is it going to impact me as a person?”.

Her friend and stylist Maureen Onigbanjo spoke about Onyeka’s commitment to her family and their privacy: “She became an ardent client who turned a friend and a sister. A few years after we met, I had my first son, and she was there for me. She brought me flowers, and she was also there on his first birthday, and she brought me flowers.”

The tribute documentary aired during the Service of Songs at her church headquarters, Fountain of Life in Ilupeju, Lagos.

It was produced by Chude Jideonwo, host of #WithChude which also featured Onwenu for her first major interview following the release of her biography ‘My father’s daughter’ in 2021.
Jideonwo called her “literally Nigeria’s greatest female voice and one of its greatest voices ever” as part of a series of tribute posts over a 5-day period following her passing.

Onwenu was buried a month after her passing in the Ebony Vaults, Ikoyi, Cemetery – at an event witnessed by former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, among others. The burial followed her wishes in a viral article to be interred “quickly, quietly and privately.”

Mohammed Shosanya

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku has advocated the need for the immortalisation of past Niger Delta leaders through historical literature.

Ogbuku spoke in a goodwill message at the 16th memorial anniversary and launch of the Chief Melford Okilo endowment fund held in Port Harcourt,a statement from Seledi Thompson-Wakama,Director, Corporate Affairs said.

According to him,the best way to commemorate the first civilian Governor of Rivers State, late Okilo, would be through literature, which was more enduring than the yearly memorials or lectures.

Through literature, future generations will learn from Okilo’s selfless political career and philosophies, Ogbuku said, adding that :“Immortalising Melford Okilo is not all about celebrating memorial or delivering lectures.For those of us who are academics, let us write literature about Okilo—his good works, his sacrifices, his philosophy, his principles, so that the younger generation will also be guided by the philosophy and principles of Chief Melford Okilo.”

Ogbuku affirmed that Okilo served selflessly without thinking of how to amass wealth, submitting that the former governor taught humanity the lessons of sacrifice.

He added: “Okilo was a true nationalist whose humble and selfless sacrifice led to the Ijaw nation producing the first president from the Niger Delta.”

He urged political leaders to emulate the virtues of Okilo in their political career, adding that “we must be selfless and work towards what will benefit our people.”

Ogbuku,who is Okilo’s kinsman from Ogbia Kingdom in Bayelsa State, suggested that a standard library should be built to immortalise the late political icon.

He promised that the Commission would partner with the organisers of the Okilo memorial anniversary to support the programme and the library project when it takes off.

Speaking,the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, described Okilo as a politician with great vision, who governed the old Rivers State with frugality and transparency.

The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the state government, Dr Tammy Danagogo, said that Okilo was an embodiment of patience, humility and selflessness.

He stated: “The history of the Niger Delta and indeed,Rivers and Bayelsa states will be grossly inadequate without the mention of his selfless service to the region.

“As the first civilian governor of Rivers State, he recorded many firsts; Including establishing a state university, an independent power project, development clusters, payment of bursary to students, as well as being an advocate for resource control.”

The representative of former President Goodluck Jonathan, Dr. Godknows Igali, described Chief Melford Okilo, as a true nationalist.
He observed that Okilo struggled and abandoned his own comfort for the good of the ordinary people, adding that he exuded love for his people and fought against injustice.

He advised political leaders to always do things that would unite people, and not divide them, to write their names in history when they leave the stage.

Mohammed Shosanya

The Federal Government has inaugurated technical committee for the implementation of the King Jaja of Opobo Cultural and Historical Centre in Opobo, Rivers State.

The inauguration was conducted by the Minister of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Bar. Hannatu Musa Musawa, in her office in Abuja.

Inaugurating the committee,Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa underscored the importance of the project in preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

“This project signifies a milestone in our collective resolve to elevate Nigeria’s Art and Culture. One of the Ministry’s core mandates is to immortalize past heroes by promoting national heritage and values.

“Today’s event demonstrates our readiness to collaborate with any entity that seeks to honor individuals whose contributions have significantly shaped our cultural identity,” she said.

The Minister explained that the project is designed as a historic tribute to cultural renaissance and a clarion call for cultural preservation.

“It aligns with Nigeria’s vision to leverage the Art, Culture, and Tourism sectors for job creation and GDP growth. Cultural and Historical Centres foster peace, unity, and national cohesion, benefiting both Nigerians and the international community,” she noted.

She urged the Technical Committee members to view their selection as a national duty.

“You are expected to serve as a liaison between the Federal Government, the State Government, and the Host Community. Your tasks include developing a Work Plan, strategizing the project’s implementation, and proposing essential terms of reference for its success,” she instructed.

Leading the Rivers State delegation, His Royal Majesty King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Jeki V, Treaty King, Natural Ruler, the Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, expressed his appreciation to the Federal Government.

“This initiative is a fulfillment of a long-standing desire to immortalize King Jaja of Opobo for his contributions to the emancipation of black people and the independence of Nigeria. This project is a significant and unprecedented step by the Federal Government to honor King Jaja’s legacy.

“King Jaja highlighted the local community’s long-standing advocacy for the project and its alignment with the state government’s vision. “This project has been a dream for over seven years, and we are delighted to see it finally take off with the support of the Federal and State Governments,” he added.

Speaking,Hon.Awaji-Inombek Abiante, member representing Andoni/Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency of Rivers State,commended the Federal Government for taking significant steps to immortalize King Jaja of Opobo.

Abiante emphasized that the initiative will enhance exposure to and immortalize the legacy of King Jaja through in-depth research, showcasing the heritage of the people to the world. He noted that both the local community and Nigerians, in general, stand to benefit significantly from the project.

“As a servant of the people, achieving success in a mission brings immense joy and satisfaction. This project has been in the works for seven years, and despite initial setbacks due to differing visions, we are thrilled that a Minister has now embraced our vision. Today marks the beginning of realizing our intentions, expanding even beyond our initial conception. We are glad,” Abiante stated.

He further highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the project, including job creation, tourism development, and the promotion of the blue economy.

According to him, “This initiative will transform the region into a tourism hub in Rivers State and the South-South. With our aquatic splendour, neighbouring areas with elephants, wide beaches beside the Atlantic Ocean, and other resources, the potential is immense,” he added.

Chima Ajjoku

To dream simply refers to the ability to imagine and think about something you would like to happen. There are (2) kinds of dreams, they one you have at night while asleep and the one you have day time with your consciousness. The dream I am concerned about is the second and not the first.

That is why “T.E. Lawrence stated: “All men dream: but not equally. Those who dream by night ….wake in the day to find that it was vanity; but the dreamers of the day are very dangerous men for they may act their dream with open eyes,to make it possible “.

WHY YOU MUST DREAM:

It is important for you to have a dream because of the following reasons:
1. It helps you to stay focused.
2. It gives you a reason for living (purpose)
3. You can only become what you dream of.
4. It gives you hope
5. It propels and sustains you.
6. It brings out your potentials.

You must realize that ” you as are not permitted to feature in a future you cannot picture.” It is therefore important for you to have a dream. Let me equally say that your dream should be big and outstanding, not just ordinary. It is infact a dream in the first place because it is unique and outstanding; otherwise you would just be another mediocre.

There are (4) stages to getting results with your dream. They are:
STAGE 1: Have a dream.
STAGE 2: Plan and strategize
STAGE 3: Move to execute it.
STAGE 4: You get the desired results.

Mohammed Shosanya

A non-profit social group, Club Seventies Epe, has implored Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State consider improving the annual Kayo-Kayo Festival in Epe community for global attraction.

Kayo-Kayo Festival is an annual religious and cultural festival observed in commemoration of the arrival of King Kosoko and his warlords to Eko-Epe in 1851.

Yusuf Yunus, President of the club, said upscaling the festival was necessary in order to attract tourists and strengthen the economy of the community.

He noted that the age-long festival had not gained enough visibility due to the limited scope of the celebration.

He advised the state government to engage professionals in the area of festival organisation to further develop programmes for the event, to make it more attractive and entertaining.

“Kayo-Kayo festival can be better packaged to attract tourists”,he said.

He advised Sanwo-Olu to put this on the front burner, get professionals to redesign programmes for the yearly festival.

“More interesting programmes should be inculcated, also, publicity should be improved on, we observed that adequate awareness is usually not created prior to the commencement of the festival.

“We are concerned because we know what the festival can fetch us. When the festival is properly organised, it will provide opportunities for local artisans, vendors and performers to showcase their talents and generate income.

“We want the festival to become a more vibrant and attractive celebration of Epe’s rich culture,” he said.

According to Yusuf, expanding the Kayo-Kayo festival can attract numerous benefits, including, cultural exchange, community development, cultural preservation, global recognition, economic empowerment and unity.

He said in order to improve the festival, government could look into incorporating various music genres, dance styles and cultural acts peculiar with the community, to cater to different tastes.

“Government can also create a marketplace for local artisans to showcase and sell their handmade crafts, textiles and souvenirs.There could also be a platform for cultural workshops where interactive sessions for attendees could be created to learn traditional Epe dances,music and art forms.

With this, a deliberate attempt is made for cultural integration and exchange.

“The festival could also leverage the social media, online advertising and influencer partnerships to reach a broader audience,” he said.

Mohammed Shosanya

The maiden Egungun-Amala-Fuji Festival, will hold in Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State.

The state Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, gave the hint during the celebration of Asa Day organized by Ibadan Grammar School, Molete, Ibadan.

He disclosed that the festival is aimed at revitalizing and promoting the rich masquerade traditions of the state.

According to him, the festival, scheduled for July 11 at Race Course Amphitheater, Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, promises to be a unique blend of traditional masquerade performances, indigenous cuisine and sterling presentations by several Fuji artistes.

He noted that the festival, which is the first of its kind, would showcase the vibrancy of Yoruba culture while bridging traditional practices with modern entertainment.

He emphasised the commitment of the Seyi Makinde administration to changing the negative perceptions surrounding masquerade culture, which have been influenced by safety concerns.

He said, “Oyo State is the father of culture, we need to promote our culture and change the negative colouration given to our traditions by foreigners.”

Dr. Olatunbosun urged widespread participation, encouraging residents to bring their children to witness the celebration of Yoruba cultural heritage, adding that the event would attract international attention.

The Commissioner commended Ibadan Grammar School for organising the Asa Day event, calling on other schools to follow suit in preserving Yoruba culture.

He advised parents and teachers, particularly Yoruba language instructors, to uphold cultural practices through their dress and language use.

The Asa Day celebration featured various cultural performances by students, including drama, dance, and traditional songs.

Mohammed Shosanya

Chinze Ojobo,a contemporary Nigerian artist has used her thought provoking work to call for action against climate change crisis.

She captivated art enthusiasts and collectors with her groundbreaking exhibition at the prestigious Thames Side Studios in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, London.

Chinze,a Fine and Applied Arts graduate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka,exhibited her profound artistic talent through various mediums, including acrylic on carved wood, acrylic on canvas, acrylic on Ankara cloth, and found objects.

Her diverse range of works showcased her versatility and creativity as an artist.

The exhibition,which held recently was a resounding success, drawing art lovers from all walks of life. Chinze’s open studio allowed visitors to witness her latest creations firsthand, providing an immersive experience that left a lasting impression.

Under the theme “Melting Boundaries,” Chinze’s exhibition emphasized the pressing challenges of climate change, particularly the alarming rise in displaced populations in Africa and around the world due to desert encroachment, flooding, and the hazardous effects of global carbon emissions.

She advised society to unite and address these urgent environmental issues through her art.

Her thought-provoking paintings served as a visual narrative, capturing the devastating consequences of climate change and the human struggle against its relentless force.

With a deep understanding of the power of art to convey messages, Chinze’s creations evoked emotions, pushing viewers to contemplate the urgency of the climate crisis and the need for immediate action.

She emphasised the import of raising awareness about climate change and its impact on vulnerable communities, calling for a concerted effort from individuals, governments and organisations to address the pressing issues of global warming, deforestation and carbon emissions.

Art critics commended the exhibition and commended Chinze’s ability to merge artistic expression with social commentary.

Her work was a catalyst for change, encouraging viewers to reflect on their role in preserving the environment and taking steps towards a sustainable future.

As Ojobo’s exhibition came to a close, it left an indelible mark on the art world and the collective consciousness of those who had the privilege of experiencing it.

Through her poignant and evocative creations, Chinze Ojobo succeeded in reminding us of our responsibility to protect our planet and create a better world for future generations.

Chinze has showcased her works in various cities worldwide, including the New York Art Expo, London, Paris, Jo’burg, Plovdiv, Bulgaria, Los Angeles, Washington, DC, Lagos and Abuja.

Mohammed Shosanya

Pursuant to the custody dispute allegations that popular musical talent, Davido Adeleke is seeking custody of his daughter, Imade due to access denial by her mother, Sophia Momodu’s lawyer, (Punuka attorneys & solicitors and BIMPE AJEGBOMOGUN & CO) has insisted that she has never denied Davido access to their daughter.

Sophia has never denied David access to Imade, only access to physical intimacy with her, which he has taken issue with, the firm said.

Reacting to a media report,titled; “David Adeleke Seeking Custody of the Daughter,” Sophia Momodu through her legal representatives in an official statement made available to journalists maintained that it was rather Davido who has not made attempt to play his fatherly role to Imade; “David is in a publicly known relationship, and Sophia wishes him well.

“She has always sought civility and peace and wants to move forward in her life free from harassment and verbal abuse.

Sophia Momodu refrains from further comment as the matter has escalated into a legal dispute. Despite facing threats and claims of immunity from Nigerian law, she maintains faith in the justice system and fully cooperates with the legal process.

“She hopes that the injustices and hardships faced by herself and Imade will be exposed and justice served, with all necessary documentation provided.
Through this challenging situation, Sophia remains hopeful for a positive outcome where David actively participates in every relevant facet of their daughter’s life as she has always desired it to be.”

The statement clarifed further:
” David has not seen Imade since July 2022 by his own choice. Sophia has never denied him the opportunity to see his daughter. He has not reached out on special occasions such as her birthday or Christmas for the past two years, which has left Imade distressed and questioning why her father has cut contact with her. Despite this, David posts images of Imade on social media to falsely portray himself as a supportive and active father.”

She accused the singer of financial neglect.

” Since July 2022, David has not fulfilled his financial responsibilities towards Imade, leaving her school fees unpaid. Imade’s school contacted him multiple times regarding the fees for the 2021/2022 school term and January 2023, with no response. Legal counsel was sought in February 2023, resulting in David’s father, Mr. Adedeji Adeleke, eventually paying the outstanding fees.

“Regardless of this neglect Sophia strongly maintains that the most important support David can provide to Imade is his presence and emotional support.”

The statement noted that Sophia has been bearing sole financial responsibility for Imande and that efforts initiated by her for a peaceful co-parenting has proved abortive. .

“Since July 2022, Sophia has solely and willingly shouldered expenses including rent, living and travel costs, healthcare, and all other expenses related to Imade.

” Two years ago, Sophia initiated efforts through her legal team to establish a formal co-parenting arrangement with David, but to no avail as he and his lawyers have consistently refused to cooperate toward a mutually agreeable resolution. Instead, they have attempted to discredit and isolate Sophia and Imade using David’s social influence and network.”

It recalled that David Adeleke and Sophia Momodu were in a relationship from 2014-2017 and 2020-2022 and that during this time, David provided financial support for their daughter, Imade, covering school fees, rent, and other living expenses, including the cars mentioned in the article.

“Sophia ended the relationship with David in July 2022. Since then, David repeatedly threatened to make Sophia’s life difficult if she does not make herself available to him sexually.”

She urged journalists to verify stories before reporting skewed and unbalanced information to the public.”

Mohammed Shosanya

The Abuja edition of the ‘Life In My City Art Festival’ Abuja Region Exhibition,has opened at the Thought Pyramid Art Centre Abuja with the theme ‘ Humanism’

A seven- month- old baby, Akuchinyere Bliss Enyeribe is among the artists taking part in the event which is an annual celebration of creativity featuring young talents in the Nigerian art landscape.

Akuchinyere showcased three of her works through her mother which are made up of paintings on the paper with different colours and impressions with the title ‘ The Art of Giving ‘

The event will feature festivals, lectures, engaging workshops for school children and art teachers as well as workshops for children with disabilities.

The Regional exhibitions will take place in fourteen ( 14 ) selected cities nationwide, providing artists from all regions with an opportunity to showcase their work .

The Grand finale of the event will be held on 19th – 26th October 2024 in Enugu, Enugu State and will showcase the work of 100 artists selected from the regional exhibitions with each artist sponsored to participate in the event.

Addressing journalists during the opening ceremony the LIMCAF Art Director, Ayo Adewunmi said the festival will feature 75 creative works of young artists who will be competing in the National competition involving artists from 15 regions of the county.

According to him, “ We think that there is a need to have opportunity for the younger generation and what we can do is to think of how we can help our younger Nigerian artists.

Asked about the criteria to be used by the local judges in making selection Adewunmi said “ The use certain criteria which includes; thematic relevance, technical proficiency, the art work, basic principles of art and the quality of production.

Those are the things the local jurists will look at and unfortunately we have limited space for each region. Abuja for instance may have more thank nine ( 9 ) entries out of these 75 . So is very and they consider the spread of the various area of art. You have mixed media, photography, digital art , so they consider that in their selection.
Adewunmi lamented the low patronage of the visual art in the country saying is not getting support that is required.

“ When you see a product like ‘Life In My City’ that is already making waves you need to support it and give it global relevance. We said let us encourage the artists to look at their environment and make statement concerning what is happening there even though we have thematic concept every year . But before now the idea is to talk about life in your city , village and environment. We expect them to look into their environment and interpret visually”.

The Director General National Council For Art and Culture, Mr. Obi Asika who was represented by Chris Obada commended the courage and resilience of the organizers of LIMCAF and determination of young people who took Art off the shelf and put it in the street.

He also pledged to prioritize the relationship between the council and the other stakeholders with the view to promoting art in the country.

According to Asika,”I wish to welcome everyone again to this event and I must say that I am very impressed with the ambience as provided by our regular host and foremost art hangout, the Thought Pyramid Art Centre. Well done.

“ When I received the invitation to this event, I asked for a brief concerning LIFE IN MY CITY and what I received had a huge imprint on me. Looking through the prism of my vision of charting a new course both in art administration and practice, I saw in LIMCAF courage, determination and resilience of young people who took Art off the shelf and put it in the streets, thereby enlivening art talents and berthing one of the most consistent creative converges that this sector has witnessed in the period of a little less than two decades.

“ On a worrisome note, the organisers of this event in their letter of invitation have termed the contribution of the National Gallery of Art to them in their 17 years of existence as “scanty” and for an agency whose primary responsibility is to oversee the development of our nation’s creative resource, that is not acceptable.

“ But let it be told that there is a new sheriff in town with a smoking gun and a listening ear for everyone. Please be informed that as Director General, I have begun to pull down barriers and diffuse negative energies that have hitherto affected relationships between the National Gallery of art and its critical stakeholders. So, impressions like this are becoming a thing of the past.

“ In closing, let me say that LIMCAF has done well as engine room of creative interchange and I consider it as great inspiration especially in an era when very many art programmes are depending on government handouts. Looking closely, I see areas of synergy between them and the National Gallery of Art and I am using this opportunity to invite them for cross fertilization of ideas for the benefit of the Visual Art sector.

“ Also, I am determined to expand the contents of our national Collection, therefore I am looking forward to the climax and award night of this gathering in October, 2024. Please come with me there again, and thank you for listening”

No fewer than 637 entries were received from around the regions including Lagos, Ogun, Ibadan, Abeokuta , Jos PortHarcourt , Abuja, Zaria and Enugu.

Also at the event was Martin Ilo , board member of LIMCAF, Cultural Affairs Officer US Embassy, Brian Neuberty , Associate Curator Thought Pyramid Art Centre , Ogbonnaya Eke and other art enthusiasts.