Saturday 20 July 2013

My Vision For The Yoruba Movie Industry—Laface

The organizer of the glamorous Yoruba Movie Academy Awards (YMAA) has revealed his vision for the booming Yoruba film industry, which has before now been relegated. Tunde Osinibisi also known as Laface, said, “as a firm believer in the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba race it becomes imperative for me to contribute my own quota towards the continuous growth of the Yoruba Movie industry.”

Speaking further, the talented show promoter disclosed that, “It is a known fact that today's Nollywood started with what was known back in the early days as the Alarinjo (the travelling theatre) with the likes of Hubert Ogunde, Kola Ogunmola, Duro Ladipo amongst others but along the line the Yoruba Movie Industry could not keep up with the pace of what is today's Nollywood, hence a major vacuum was created due to branding, marketing, positioning, technical Input etc.

“To be sincere there has been a marked improvement in the last couple of years and is indeed very evident in recent film releases and researches conducted by media buying agencies, research agencies, television affiliates etc but as always there is room for major improvement in critical areas.

“Nollywood over the years as also not only improved technically but also in terms of branding and marketing as evident in the level of brand endorsements that it is attracting on a yearly basis, there is no reason on earth why the Yoruba Movie Industry cannot be at this level and even higher with the right steps taking in the right direction, it has become imperative as believers in the Yoruba Movie Industry dream that we have to take the bull by the horn in projecting the Yoruba culture and race globally in line with the Yoruba agenda.

“There is an urgent need to engage the government of the day through constructive dialogue and creative avenues where both parties can see the inherent need for synergy in socio economic development, youth empowerment and job creation across board, with the major entertainment virus piracy always on the front burner.
“Hence, my vision is to positively project the Yoruba Movie Industry brand by channeling and packaging the right activities and projects aimed at projecting and facilitating the growth of the Yoruba Movie Industry of our dreams in my time, a major motivating factor is the need for change and the vision to leave behind a lasting legacy that will be remembered long after my human existence, a clarion call for all well meaning Yorubas in particular and Nigerians in general to no longer sit on the fence but look for avenues where they can contribute their quota professionally towards the development of the Yoruba Movie Industry.”

He concluded that, “one of such great brand evolving projects is the YORUBA MOVIE ACADEMY AWARDS, a celebration of creativity in the Yoruba Movie Industry like never before, the overwhelmingly successful first edition of YMAA was held in Abeokuta the Ogun State capital while the 2013 edition is billed for Ibadan the capital of Oyo State.

“Another landmark project is the first ever YORUBA FILM FESTIVAL an annual event aimed at promoting positive and desirable film culture, an exhibition, business and creative workshop for stakeholders, critics, enthusiasts and investors on Yoruba films will follow later in the year 2013.

“Yoruba Movie Awards 2013 will celebrate and honour creativity in 16 award categories and 5 honourary categories amidst style, glamour and paparazzi as the Yoruba Movie Industry practitioners and top line guests and celebrities celebrate the biggest day in the Yoruba Movie Industry calendar.
“A major attraction at YMAA 2013 is the rich cultural welcome of nominees and special guests on the Traditional Yoruba carpet.

“YMA Awards uniquely aims to determine the final Award winners in each category by combining public votes via the internet voting link, public vote road shows and a technical jury panel. The immensely popular voting process has been ongoing for the past one month, To vote for your favorite actors and actresses log on to www.ymaawards.com, you can follow us on twitter @ymovieawards and like us on facebook.

Laface, who is the executive producer of YMAA, further stated that the much anticipated YMA Awards 2013 event date will be announced in due course.

Even If I Get Married At 58, Fine!- Actress Uche Obodo Explodes

Marriage has become a very serious matter of discussion amongst the unmarried Nollywood actresses these days. While those who are in it are managing or trying to get out of it, one that has not even have a taste of what that institution is all about, the pretty but stretch-marked Uche Obodo has confessed that, she is no longer bothered about marriage issue, even if it's age 58 that she gets a man of her dream, she will wait.

Hear her, 'I want to be married someday. I am looking upon God for that. There is no rush in marriage; if you rush in, you rush out. And I do not even want to rush out of my future marriage. There is nothing like age in marriage. Maturity is what counts. It is fine with me. Even if I get married at 58, fine".

You have heard it all, over to you!

Femi Otedola's 21 yr-old daughter debuts with 'I love my country'

Born in 1992 and formerly known as DJ Cupcake, Florence 'Cuppy' Otedola, daughter of Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola began by playing the Piano after which she ventured into beat-making and thereafter DJing in the UK.

She calls this new sound Neo-Afrobeats, a genre of music, which blends Electric House with Afro-beats.

Listen to her debut single titled 'I love my country' which she says was written by Wole Soyinka.

AGN Gives N.5m To Lagos Chapter Boss, Victor Osuagwu

The national body of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) led by Ibinabo Fiberesima has given the sum of N500,000 to the Lagos State chapter of the guild, headed by its chairman, Victor Osuagwu, who is a popular comic actor.

The presentation was done on Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the national secretariat of AGN in Surulere, Lagos.

Speaking on the donation, Ibinabo said, “this fund is not a gift, but money from the recent revalidation exercise of AGN members. It belongs to the Lagos State chapter because after revalidation, members of AGN, who revalidated were majorly from Lagos State chapter.

“The national had an amount from the revalidation process while the state chapter also had. So, that is the cheque we presented to the Chairman of the Lagos Chapter of AGN, Victor Osuagwu and his executives.”

ENIOLA BADMUS'S OUTFIT TO THE CITY PEOPLES AWARD HIT OR MISS?



ENIOLA BADMUS'S OUTFIT TO THE CITY PEOPLES AWARD HIT OR MISS?




Marketers Want To Sleep With Me

Top Yoruba movie actress and producer, Bisi Ibidapo- Obe spoke with KAYODE APONMADE on motherhood, her relationship with former lawmaker, Dino Melaye and how she braved the challenges of her career

When did your romance with acting start?

Right from my primary school, I always participate in anything entertainment. I fell in love with acting right from school. So, after school I decided to take it professionally and since then I have no regrets. I was brought into acting by the late Bimpe Adekola (Ireti). She was the one that motivated me into acting. Whenever I watched her movies, I always like her performance, so I said to myself that I would love to be like that. So I went to see Gbenga Adewusi, who introduced me to Araosan, who later took me to Odunfa where I met Taiwo Hassan, Yinka Quadri and Abbey Lanre. I was so happy; it was like meeting Michael Jackson. So they accepted me and I received my training under them.

For how long have you been in the profession?

About 21 years now.

So how has it been since then?

It has been rough and tough. At the same time, it has been full of fun. There is no job without its own challenges, but so far, it has been fun. This is what I have passion for, so I have had no regret at all. I went through series of challenges but since I don't see myself doing any other thing except acting, I trudged on. The experience has been good and nice.

How many movies have you produced on your own?

I have produced just three movies; Oyin Ade, Omo Jesu and Igboran San.

Why just three films?

I didn't start producing my own movies until 2004. If you know me very well, I am not that kind of person that jumps into movie production simply because others are doing it. I received very good training, that is the reason I was able to come out with good films. I can't be producing films every other day because my films gulp lots of money unlike those who spend peanuts on their movies. I take my time to produce.

Are you working on any movie for now?

Yes, I am working on a movie.

You are now a mother. How do you feel?

In fact, this is the greatest thing to have happened to me. I am exceedingly happy to be a mother. I am so grateful to God that He has counted me among mothers. This is what I have wished for all my life. Motherhood is sweet!

How did you feel when the father of your daughter rejected the pregnancy?

It was shocking and I felt bad but it was nothing to me. During that period, I didn't allow it to bother me too much. My primary aim then was to have a safe delivery and to God's glory I was able to have that. The scandal was too much then, but I didn't allow it to affect me.

Did you ever consider abortion as an option then?

Never! I rebuke that in Jesus name. This is what I have craved for. This is what many rich men and women cannot afford to buy with money and God now blessed me with such gift. It never crossed my mind because I considered her (the baby) a gift from God. Why should I abort the baby? You needed to see me then. I flaunted the pregnancy anywhere and everywhere. Although attempts were made by some people to get it terminated but the God that I worship did not allow this to happen.

Who are those people?

I wouldn't want to talk about them. But I was attacked physically and spiritually. But thank God as He proved Himself to them.

Right now the baby is here, what is the relationship between you and Dino Melaye?

Relationship? Seriously, I wouldn't want to talk about it. What is more important is that the baby is alive and I pray to God to give me long life to take good care of her. As I said earlier, she is a gift from God.

Since you don't care about the baby's father, how do you intend to raise the girl all alone?

Every mother has good plans for her child, but I don't think you expect me to start revealing that on the pages of newspapers. I have good plans for her but this is between me and God. He has never disappointed me and I am sure He will not do that now. He has proved to me how mighty and wonderful He is.

When do we expect you back in the industry?

I will be back on location soon.

Prior to your maternity break, you were lying low, was it deliberate or what?

Yes, it was. It was after my last movie, Igboran San. I was busy moving round the world with the movie. I was in the UK, Canada, US. I was also in many states of Nigeria to premier the movie. So, this has kept me away. I just felt that I can't be thinking of promoting my own film and be moving from one location to another. That was the reason.

How have you been able to deal with bad press, and which one would you consider the worst?

The worst so far was the story by a soft sell magazine that I slept with a waiter in a hotel in the United States while I was on a visit to see my boyfriend. That story jolted me because as at that time of writing the story, I was still here in Lagos. In fact, I haven't obtained my US visa then, so I wondered the source of that story. Even my boyfriend too came to Nigeria to check my international passport, thinking that I came to the US without his knowledge.

Given your experience with Dino Melaye, do you still believe in love?

Why not? The fact that a man breaks your heart does not mean that you shouldn't pick up the pieces and move on with your life. It won't stop me from giving my heart to another man. I only need to be careful with the kind of man that I will open my heart to.

What would you say life has taught you?

The recent experience has taught me the greatest lesson of my life. It has taught me that not everyone that calls themselves your friends are really your friends. It has taught me to be wary of people. It has taught me that human beings could be deceptive. I can go on and on.

Did you experience the issue of sexual harassment while growing in the industry?

Sexual harassment is not peculiar to our industry alone, we have it everywhere. But I will tell you that I never experienced such during my training with the Odunfa caucus. We have thorough professionals in that caucus who have no time for such frivolities. Don't get me wrong; I am not saying they don't 'toast' ladies, but it is left for you to accept or not. They will never force you or consider it before giving you roles. I get my roles on merit not by sleeping around with producers. But I did experience this with some movie marketers who insisted that they must sleep with me before giving me money for production. But I called their bluff

Mercy Johnson Finds New Lover

There is no other way to describe a secret love affair with a married spouse other than it being called infidelity. But for the relationship between two Nollywood acts, Mercy Johnson and Ken Erics, it is just for the love of what they love doing, acting.

In this new but on-going movie with a story of love and determination, the both lovebirds could not but accept the fact that the story line entails that they must see each other as lovers.

On the side of Ken Erics, it was a case of fighting till the end, under pressure and much risk. As one would ask, "what's the prize?" Just to return the love of his heart, Mercy Johnson.

The movie is directed by Ugezu J. Ugezu, and stars: Walter Anga and Chinwe Owoh. It is produced by Outstrip Movies.

OMOTOLA Stylishly Lands In Bayelsa For MBGN 2013

OMOTOLA touched down last night for the most talked about pageant in Nigeria, MGBN 2013 (Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria) which holds tonight in Bayelsa. The Actress is rumoured to be on the panel of judges

Photo by: Daniel Sync/ Sync PHOTOS



Cracks In St Janet's Marriage…Husband Relocates To US

Cracks In St Janet's Marriage…Husband Relocates To US

In June when the lewd singer, St Janet Ajilore changed her status message
from being married to 'Complicated' it wasn't too much of a problem for
industry watchers to suspect that there was crack in her marriage. But
recent event proved them wrong as after that change of status, the two
were found again at each other's arms.

As you are reading this now, the sensational artiste, St Janet, who is
having a running battle with another female singer in Ikprodu who recently
got involved with Police over the death of a girl, has not set her eyes on
her husband for the past two months; we learnt, the husband, Olukayode
Iyun has been away in the United State of America where he's said to have
taken up the service of a sound engineer for some studios and artistes.
Prior to his trip, St. Janet and hubby were battling with many issues at
home and the band's management. Olukayode has since stopped managing his
wife and attending shows with her, a responsibility that has since been
taken up by one Alhaji SkyWay.

Sources close to the couple feared that they if they continued to keep
each other at arm's length for so long, the union would naturally break.
St. Janet and husband, according to sources have grown apart partly
because of various marital allegations and differences. To worsen it the
reports that Olukayode allegedly had a carnal knowledge of St. Janet's
love child definitely put a wedge between them. Though both have come out
to clear the air on the matter but the fact that it happened has not
brought any relief to the singer, our source insisted.


Tuesday 16 July 2013

Wizkid Inspired Me -Inyanya

From all indications, first winner of the popular annual reality show, MTN Project Fame, Inyanya, would be older than sensational pop star, Wizkid, but the former has disclosed that he got inspired by the latter to keep his head high in the music industry and achieved the success he has today.

Wizkid gained fame with his 'Holla At Ur Boy' song, which introduced him to the consciousness of many people. Soon after, he became a household name and started headlining big shows in and outside the country.

For Iyanya, just when many thought he would become a household name in Nigeria after he won the maiden edition of the MTN sponsored music talent show, the Calabar-born singer struggled for few years until luck smiled at him and he burst into fame with his hit track 'Kukere'.

Speaking recently on a TV show, the singer disclosed that Wizkid inspired him in the music industry.

He explained that when he thought of giving up because of the cold reception for his RnB single entitled 'True Love,' which he released after winning the competition, the success Wizkid's 'Holla At Ur Boy' made and the subsequent singles released by the 23-year-old made him to say to himself that if Wizkid could do it, he could, which gave rise to his 'Kukere' hit track.

Rita Dominic Is City People's 'Face Of Nollywood' Winner

Sultry actress, Rita Dominic is now City People's 'Face of Nollywood' winner. The Imo State-born actress edged out the likes of Genevieve Nnaji, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Funke Akindele and Uche Jombo to grab the award.

Rita, in her usual style, was looking stunning in the black outfit she wore to the glamorous event. She stole the hearts of fashionistats at the occasion with the design of her dress.

As we gathered, paparazzis had a good time capturing the sexy screen diva with their lenses, which Rita gladly welcomed and admired.

I Forgave DJ Tee Because He Begged Me After He Stabbed Me--TLi Soji Boi

In 2012, popular music video director, DJ Tee was in the news for allegedly stabbing an up and coming artiste, TLi Soji Boi in ikeja, Lagos, during a music video shoot. Though the award-winning video director denied the allegation, the victim recently told First Weekly Magazine that DJ Tee later became sober and sent some people to beg him (the victim) on his behalf, which he had no choice than to agree to.

TLi Soji Boi recounted his near-death ordeal to First Weekly and how he had to forgive DJ Tee, who some allege to be a hot-tempered man, after much plea. Excerpt.

Can we know you better
I am Osungade Tolani Alvin with TLi Soji Boi as stage name and I am from Osun State.
What's the meaning of your stage name
It means To Last Internally (TLi), while Soji Boi means a sharp boy in Yoruba Language. So, it means my music will last inside you internally.

Can you tell us about your educational background
I went to Lagos Spring International School for my primary education and proceeded to Stars Comprehensive College in Ibadan for my secondary education, but finished at Florish College, Lagos after I had also attended Caleb Secondary School and Ejide Comprehensive High School in Lagos, when I moved to Lagos from Ibadan. I recently finished a diploma programme from the University of Lagos. I am presently concentrating on my career.

Would you want to be like 2Face
(General laughter) No, but musically, I want to be like 2Face. I m definitely going to further my education and study Theatre Arts abroad, but that will be after I have built a solid foundation for my music career.

Why are you not merging both
It is possible to do that, but it needs planning. I am being careful not to clash the two. I don't want to get to a situation where I will have to forgo one for the other in the future. The truth is that we up and coming artistes are busier than the A-list artistes because we are always in the studio trying hard to record songs that will put us in the limelight.

What genre of music do you do
I do Afro beat as well as Hip-Hop and rap, but I am very versatile.

Why do you think up and coming artistes grow wings after gaining fame
I believe their personalities may have caused such. I think they have already programmed their minds to do that, while coming up. A humble person will remain so even after getting fame. External influences shouldn't affect someone when he gains fame. It is basically your decision.

Are you presently signed under any label
Yes, I am presently with Dorc Records and I have about three singles on air. The first one is 'Acada', which I am shooting a video for soon. The second one is 'Gbona' and the third one is 'YISU' (Young Inspired Strong and Undefeated) which is very educative.

How do you get your inspirations
My inspirations come from God, family, the society and my pains.

Who are your role models
I look up to 2Face, Don Jazzy, MI, Wizkid, Flavour and Iyanya. I love the way they advised me when, when I met them.

How do you intend to handle fame
I already know how to handle fame because I became famous last year (2012), when I was stabbed by that popular music video director (DJ Tee). The incident gave me an idea of how to have fame. But in the areaof wealth, I don't know how it feels to be a billionaire; I will handle it when I get to that bridge. I am already planning towards that.

Unfortunately, I will take you back to that 2012 incident, how was the experience like
It wasn't easy because the press were after me to get my own side of the story even when I was in the hospital and was in a near-death situation. The doctors were great and treated me and got me back to life because I was already struggling to breathe.

What is the situation now on the issue
It is cool now, I decided not to make noise on the issue since DJ Tee apologized and I have forgiven him because he was remorseful. He even paid part of my physio-therapy bills. I did the physio for six months. He promised to guarantee my protection.

Do you now have bodyguards
No, I don't believe in moving about with bodyguards. There used to be a time I hardly go out without people coming to meet me to ask about the incident. I had to stop going out at a time.

Do you have plans to make him shoot any of your music video
No, but I am not blocking any such opportunity if it comes. I just see him as a brother and friend. The incident only brought us together. It is my joy to let the world know that I have forgiven him.

What did you take away from the incident
I learnt that anybody can make mistake, though I am not saying he (DJ Tee) made a mistake by stabbing me. Also, I learnt that anything can happen to anybody.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years
I hope to have become a big artiste and win the Grammys for Nigeria, I am too sure of that.

What message do you have for your fans
I just want to thank them for supporting me. I also want to thank my parents who have really supported me. I am also thanking my sisters (Bolaji and Anu), my brother (Mr Ideal), my friends and my label for supporting me. My advice to everybody is to stay away from drugs.

Culled from First Weekly Magazine.



Soji

Why do you think up and coming artistes grow wings after gaining fame

I believe their personalities may have caused such. I think they have already programmed their minds to do that, while coming up. A humble person will remain so even after getting fame. External influences shouldn't affect someone when he gains fame. It is basically your decision.

Are you presently signed under any label

Yes, I am presently with Dorc Records and I have about three singles on air. The first one is 'Acada', which I am shooting a video for soon. The second one is 'Gbona' and the third one is 'YISU' (Young Inspired Strong and Undefeated) which is very educative.

How do you get your inspirations

My inspirations come from God, family, the society and my pains.

Who are your role models

I look up to 2Face, Don Jazzy, MI, Wizkid, Flavour and Iyanya. I love the way they advised me when, when I met them.

How do you intend to handle fame

I already know how to handle fame because I became famous last year (2012), when I was stabbed by that popular music video director (DJ Tee). The incident gave me an idea of how to have fame. But in the areaof wealth, I don't know how it feels to be a billionaire; I will handle it when I get to that bridge. I am already planning towards that.

Unfortunately, I will take you back to that 2012 incident, how was the experience like

It wasn't easy because the press were after me to get my own side of the story even when I was in the hospital and was in a near-death situation. The doctors were great and treated me and got me back to life because I was already struggling to breathe.

Why do you think up and coming artistes grow wings after gaining fame

I believe their personalities may have caused such. I think they have already programmed their minds to do that, while coming up. A humble person will remain so even after getting fame. External influences shouldn't affect someone when he gains fame. It is basically your decision.

Are you presently signed under any label

Yes, I am presently with Dorc Records and I have about three singles on air. The first one is 'Acada', which I am shooting a video for soon. The second one is 'Gbona' and the third one is 'YISU' (Young Inspired Strong and Undefeated) which is very educative.

How do you get your inspirations

My inspirations come from God, family, the society and my pains.

Who are your role models

I look up to 2Face, Don Jazzy, MI, Wizkid, Flavour and Iyanya. I love the way they advised me when, when I met them.

How do you intend to handle fame

I already know how to handle fame because I became famous last year (2012), when I was stabbed by that popular music video director (DJ Tee). The incident gave me an idea of how to have fame. But in the areaof wealth, I don't know how it feels to be a billionaire; I will handle it when I get to that bridge. I am already planning towards that.

Unfortunately, I will take you back to that 2012 incident, how was the experience like

It wasn't easy because the press were after me to get my own side of the story even when I was in the hospital and was in a near-death situation. The doctors were great and treated me and got me back to life because I was already struggling to breathe.


DJ Tee

What is the situation now on the issue

It is cool now, I decided not to make noise on the issue since DJ Tee apologized and I have forgiven him because he was remorseful. He even paid part of my physio-therapy bills. I did the physio for six months. He promised to guarantee my protection.

Do you now have bodyguards

No, I don't believe in moving about with bodyguards. There used to be a time I hardly go out without people coming to meet me to ask about the incident. I had to stop going out at a time.

Do you have plans to make him shoot any of your music video

No, but I am not blocking any such opportunity if it comes. I just see him as a brother and friend. The incident only brought us together. It is my joy to let the world know that I have forgiven him.

What did you take away from the incident

I learnt that anybody can make mistake, though I am not saying he (DJ Tee) made a mistake by stabbing me. Also, I learnt that anything can happen to anybody.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years

I hope to have become a big artiste and win the Grammys for Nigeria, I am too sure of that.

What message do you have for your fans

I just want to thank them for supporting me. I also want to thank my parents who have really supported me. I am also thanking my sisters (Bolaji and Anu), my brother (Mr Ideal), my friends and my label for supporting me. My advice to everybody is to stay away from drugs.

Culled from First Weekly Magazine.


Exclusive: Kcee…Finally Reveals the Meaning of 'Limpopo'

Kcee to Drop Hot New Single with Timaya

So the rumors were right after all! Limpopo King, KCee will soon be dropping a stunning new single with his 'partner on the streets', The Egberi Papa 1 of Bayelsa, Timaya.

Kcee confirmed this with Timaya during an exclusive 'meet and greet' hosted by top Anambra OAP JJ at popular Blaze FM Nnewi

The 'meet and greet' which was the highlight of the day for fans came hours before the highly anticipated Star Music Trek concert which held at Beverly Hills Resort Nnewi and drew thousands of fans from Nnewi, Enugu, Awka, Owerri, Asaba and other surrounding cities.

And, for his teeming fans who have spent pleasurable hours trying to decode the mystery of 'Limpopo', the stylish artiste finally revealed the meaning during the live chat, “Limpopo just means 'Lets have fun', he said. “It's a 'feel good song' and I really appreciate how my fans have so quickly taken to it.”

The artiste also used the opportunity to clear the air on various issues relating to his work and his growth in the music industry as well as commend the organizers of 'The Trek' for the popular platform.

“It's been an awesome time, connecting with fans and playing great music. I'm really excited and can't wait for the next leg of the show in Asaba.”







Timaya Blasts OAP on Air!

The Egberi Papa 1 of Bayelsa might like his music fast paced and energetic but when he talks, he wants you to listen, and listen carefully.

So, while trying to explain the finer points of his argument during a live programme at Blaze FM Nnewi , he was rushed off a question one time too many-the artiste wasn't having any part of it!

Timaya made sure to make his feelings known right on air!

“Why do you journalists (OAPs) always cut people off”, he demanded, “You ask one question and won't allow people to 'land' before asking another?

Suitably chastised, his host JJ, graciously allowed the artiste to have the 'mic', leading to fifteen hilarious minutes as the jovial artiste and Kcee, took their fans on a quick rundown of StarMusic Trek's 10 city 10 week concert currently touring round the country.

Timaya and Kcee made a brief stop at top radio station BlazeFM, before heading to Beverly Hills Resort Nnewi to perform at the 6th leg of the on going Star Music Trek nationwide concert.





Sonnie Badu Ventures Into Real Estate

The world renowned gospel singer turned business man has yet again proven that he is not only "the golden voice" as many refer to him, but also a business man with The Midas touch as everything he touches turns to gold.

The international award winning minister recently ventured into real estate with Badu Homes. Having been involved at the forefront of the property industry for 9 years in London and gaining experience in the properties business, minister Badu believes his latest venture will without a doubt be a success.

Minister Badu is said to be building the luxurious homes in different areas and uniquely naming them after various musical instruments. The Badu Homes in PHASE 1 are called the "KORA COMPLEX", consisting of Plush and luxurious five and three bedroom homes with beautiful landscapes and spacious rooms, to give families a feeling of comfort and serenity.

"BADU HOMES is primarily set up to help meet real estate needs in Ghana, and at the same time create jobs for some of the many unemployed people in the country,the youth being our main focus. BADU HOMES gives an array of options to both our existing and prospective clients to pick from our Developments located in Oyarifa , doodowa, Prampram , Aburi and other areas. I believe that God has blessed me with an endless flow of business ideas and all are doing very well by the grace of God. I am grateful" said Sonnie Badu

The gospel minister says there is more to come from him and he is hoping to inspire many people to live their dreams to the glory of God.

Artiste, Davido and Jude Okoye flaunt dollar bills (PHOTOS)

Nigerian artistes are certainly making no pretence about how the music industry is more than paying their bills.

A few days after Jude Okoye, Psquare's brother was seen with a wads of dollar bills, music superstar, Davido has also been seen flaunting some bundle of hard currency.

Work hard and get paid still remains the name of the game.



Baba Suwe Heads To Supreme Court To Claim N25m

Popular Yoruba comic actor, Babatunde Omidina otherwise known as Baba Suwe, has headed to the Supreme Court to claim N25million as compensation from the National Drugs Law and Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

An Appeal Court in Lagos had quashed an earlier judgement by a High Court which awarded the said sum to Baba Suwe over the violation of the actor's fundamental human rights, after the anti-drugs agency held him for about three weeks in their custody on the suspicion of ingesting substance believed to be narcotic.

Baba Suwe's counsel, Bamidele Aturu filed a notice of appeal at the Supreme Court on Friday challenging the decision of the Appeal Court to quash the judgment of the High Court in Lagos

Celebration Of Success: Funke Akindele Sets To Host Media Friends

Jenifa as Funke Akindele is fondly called is set to shake the media industry soon. The sultry actress and Glo Ambassador, as information flying here and there has it that, she is putting up a press parley that will have a pool of media practitioners under one roof. The purpose of this, according to whispers, is to boost her image and continue to enjoy media support and hypes that has kept and sustained her in the business and has made her stay afloat of the game in Nollywood.

Mrs. Funke Oloyode is one of the actresses in Nollywood that has the largest numbers of endorsement. The most recent is the multimillion naira Vitaform mattress endosement. Stay glued to this page as you will be constantly updated of the when and where of this media gathering that will be hosted by the sultry actress to take media /celebrity parley to another ground breaking level.

Madam Kofo And Her Love For Photos

The name 'Madam Kofo' is not new in the entertainment and social circle. Her trademark 'ceiling fan' head gear stands her out in any event she attends, which even gave her a Glo deal, though she is no more an ambassador of the telecoms giant.

One thing many may not know about this society woman is her love for photographs. Those who know this talented actress and the darling of many informed Nigeriafilms.com that 'Madam Kofo' loves the camera very much that she can pose for photographs at events for as long as the memory card of photo-journalists can take.

Trust 'mama', as some people prefer to call her, she draws others to join her in taking photographs with her.

Monday 15 July 2013

BREAKING NEWS: PICTURE - Al Mustapha Visits TB Joshua Immediately After Release

AL MUSTAPHA RELEASED: HIS FIRST PORT OF CALL

After many years in prison, he was finally released on Friday, 12th July, 2013.

From the prison, the first port of call was T.B. Joshua's place. Efforts to get in touch with Prophet T.B. Joshua to know what his visit was all about was like a blind man trying to put a thread through the eye of a needle. What a hard situation!

At last, we were able to get a few words from Prophet T.B. Joshua.

Q: Can you tell us the purpose of Mustapha's visit to you?

A: I got to know him many years ago when a petition was addressed to General Bamaiyi who was the then Chairman of the NDLEA. As you know, several efforts had been made by my detractors to bring me and my ministry down. One of those efforts was that petition. I was arrested for investigation and it was later discovered that it was a tissue of lies.

I spent nine days with them for investigation and they found the whole thing to be a fabrication. From there, I was taken to Aso Rock (City of Power) to see the president. It was there that I met Mustapha.

I was able to reveal to them who I am by telling them what was to come as a prophet. One of those things I mentioned to them and to Mustapha in particular, was what he went through, though he did not believe me then. That was why when it came to pass, I was the first person he remembered. I told him that he would spend several years in prison and would be finally released which no one else had ever told him.

That is why you see him coming here as his first port of call. Where there is no vision, people perish.

I am surprised you are asking me why he is coming here first. When you look into your archives as journalists, you will find many stories in the past about my visit to Aso Rock, (City of Power) while Bamaiyi was Chairman of NDLEA. Many magazines and newspapers published my visions and prophecies on the government and the presidency.

When you know your picture of tomorrow, it will impart a strength to endure your present difficulty. When you know what you are passing through now will not last long, you will endure it. This is vision; this is prophecy. This can only come by revelation. This is what the Bible means by, “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18). I will leave you here.

Halima Babingida is a freelance Nigerian journalist who followed Al-Mustapha as he left prison and traced him to T.B. Joshua's ministry where she managed to get this exclusive interview and picture for Nigeriafilms.com

My life, struggles and triumphs – Shan George

Like every other Nollywood actress, Shan George has had her fair share of scandals. She has been accused of going into marriage and coming out of it over three times, dating younger men and decorating her body with countless tattoos. What's true and what' s not? In this interview, the half caste actress shares her painful story with Showtime Celebrity. This is Shan George beyond the scandals.

You have some reservations about the kind of questions journalists ask you during interviews?

Well, people always want to know more about my personal life, my relationships and all those stuff that the soft-sell magazines like to exaggerate. I just think that serious publications should be interested in asking relevant questions.

So, if you were the one interviewing yourself, what would be your first question?

I would ask myself how long it actually took me to get to where I am today; the challenges along the way and how I've been able to overcome them. It took me about 15 years to get to this point. However, one major challenge I have always faced as an actress has to do with not being at home all the time and playing roles in movies that are opposed to my character.


Let's assume you were born in a Christian home and you imbibe what you were taught from when you were a kid. All of a sudden, because of your profession, you are called to be a Buddhist or a mermaid. You are talking about being something you have never experienced. I have never seen a mermaid or transformed into a mermaid before, but I've acted as one. You have to try and figure out how they talk, walk, smile and so on.

Another challenge is when you go to the extent of interpreting whatever role you're given to play in movies. People who watch the movie tend to associate you with that character. I'll never forget an experience I had at Alade market, in Lagos, a few years ago. I went there to buy some things like every other person, but suddenly, some people started throwing rotten tomatoes at me.

Many others were calling me unprintable names; a loose woman, husband snatcher. All because I played such roles in movies. I'm not like that in real life. I remember I acted a prostitute in the movie, Outcast. After the film was released into the market, I got a call from a guy based in Italy who told me that he just watched the movie, and he thought I was really hot. He said he would want to enjoy such a gesture like the guys in the movies any time he storms Nigeria.

There are so many other challenges. You are seen playing roles where you are really rich with several big cars and houses at your disposal. People assume you're like that in real life, but it's not always true. Everywhere you go, people expect you to settle 'agberos' and drop something, but it doesn't work like that. That is the reason some practitioners tend to spend money they don't have just to meet the expectations of their fans.

Have you ever lost a sense of identity because of the different roles you play in movies?

Acting is a job. As soon as I'm done with interpreting my role, I become myself again. I have never had the experience of being confused about my own identity. I know that many of my colleagues actually get cut off from reality; they want to be like what people expect them to be or spend the kind of money people expect them to spend. And so, they have to do one or two things that they ordinarily wouldn't have done.But you can't really get to know someone by watching that person on the screen.

So, what's the real Shan George like?

I think everyone should know that Shan George is an ordinary person who was born and brought up in the village, grew up like every other village girl and I was privileged to be part of the movie industry at a time I found myself in it. I have been favoured by God in the industry. When you talk about a typical village life, I have experienced it and when you talk about living in a castle, I have also enjoyed the privilege.

To be candid, the most interesting life is the village life. In the village, there are no fences, no gates, and no walls in between houses. We collectively go to the same farm, and fetch water from the same stream. It was a communal existence. I still travel home once in a while to identify with my roots. I am from Ediba in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State.

What was growing up like?

It was quite enjoyable. It's just that I wish I knew my father. I'm the only child of my mother, and my father was a whiteman. My mum is a very wonderful person, but I guess there is always going to be that part of me that keeps wondering who my father is. I tried several years to trace his whereabouts to no avail. While in search of him, I once travelled to where he used to work then, Turner's Asbestos in Enugu.

The company consulted their files and brought out his old address in Manchester. Consequently, I travelled to Manchester in search of the man that fathered me. But my mission was not accomplished. I even had to cross-check phone books and called about 100 phone numbers, all in the bid to trace his whereabouts. One question I asked each time I called any of the numbers was whether any member of his family ever visited Africa or Nigeria in particular. I gave up hope of meeting my father at the age of 35.

What is your take on Nollywood today?

I always tell people not to try to compare Hollywood toNollywood. It is like comparing an old man to a baby. Nigeria itself is a young country and Nollywood is much younger, and so the extent at which we have grown is quite far. Right now, we are growing rapidly and producing movies that are shown abroad. We are doing advanced movies but the only place we are lacking today is in the area of distribution. We have very good movies but we don't have people to distribute them. I know a lot of people who went to school to study Marketing and they are not practising their profession. The industry has grown rapidly but the marketing aspect of the business still needs a boost.

Don't you think piracy is the reason for this shortcoming?

Let us be realistic, there are even American movies that are being pirated. Piracy is something I believe cannot function where you have a big community in dire need of it. It's just like when you want to release a movie for over 150 million people and you only printed about 20, 000 copies. Don't you think that people living in remote areas would want to watch the same movie?

It is natural that pirates will help them get as many copies of the film as they require by any means. For example, I once travelled to Kano and saw a movie that was just released into the market, I was tempted to buy it. The funny thing was that the movie was recorded in a plain CD and they used a marker to write the name of the movie. I concluded that these sellers didn't see the original CD for people to buy. I believe if the original products are readily available, the menace of piracy will reduce drastically.

shan-george-new1Which do you prefer, being behind the camera or in front of it?

I produced my first movie in 1998 while I was in my final year in the University of Lagos. I studied Mass Communication and I have been writing and producing since then till now. There are different feelings actually. Standing in front of the camera, you are something else; while working behind the camera, you are being yourself. And aside being yourself, working behind the camera involves a lot of work because you have to organise everybody, everything and you are like the head of the family. I love producing more than acting because producing gives me the opportunity to have a platform for new actors. It also gives me the opportunity to write my own story and get it across to the audience.

What's your advice for those who want to get into the movie industry?

The first advice I will give you is to acquire good education. Education is the foundation upon which you are going to build your future. Secondly, be committed; work hard and be ready to give it your best shot. You never can tell, one thing can just take you to the top. And as a person, you have to agree that you want to do this job and also agree to grow gradually so that you will not get frustrated along the line.

Would you like to address some of the scandals that have trailed your acting career over the years?

It is really crazy. A lot of these things are not true. For example, I have two grown up sons. Anytime people see me pose for shots with younger men, they conclude that as old as I am, I like young boys and that's not true at all. It is very depressing sometimes. You need the grace of God to hear things about yourself that are not true and still be strong and get going.

Have there been times when you nearly broke down because of what people were saying about you?

It happened many years ago when I was still a toddler in the industry. I remember driving some years back and I saw vendors selling a particular magazine with my photograph and a caption that read: “Even Pastors love my boobs.” That day was so sad for me. I couldn't even believe that I was the one they were writing about.

What about the multiple marriage scandals; is there any truth to them?

There was a time someone called to congratulate me on my new marriage. I was shocked. My first marriage was when I was 16, and I don't count that because I was a child and I had no say in the matter. The ideal thing is that as an adult, you meet someone you like and you get married to him. What happens most times is that I act a movie where I get married, the pictures go viral online and everyone says I am married again.

And I am amazed because I wonder, people who read this, don't they calculate the years? I married once and my two kids are for my first husband. I read on some blogs that I had a child out of wedlock and I have been hiding it. But I wonder if I got married at the age of 16, at what age did I have that child? I was so young when I walked out of my first marriage to pursue my education. Later on, as an adult, I got married again, but we aren't really together anymore. Marriage can be complicated.

What was it like being married at such a young age?

Being married at the age of 16 was just like a child still living with her parents. It was more like an obligation. I don't really want to talk about it because of my children.

What is your relationship status now?

I have someone who is very nice and important to me. So, I guess you can call that a romantic relationship. I have always known this guy and he has been there for me.

Would you like to get married again?

Of course, I would.

How do you manage to look so good at 43?

Because the job is very stressful, I don't really add much weight. But because I'm slim doesn't mean that I'm fit. I can be very lazy about exercise. However, I am very careful about what I eat; that's why am not very fat.

What are your sons like?

My first son is an Economist; he is still in the UK and has refused to come back home. My second son actually is into music. He read Music Engineering and Production in London and now, he is in Nigeria trying to pursue a career in music.

What is it with you and tattoos?

Tattoos are a way for me to express myself. People wear clothes, fix their hair or nails; but for me, I love tattoos, that's who I am. I have just two permanent tattoos, but sometimes I wear artificial tattoos depending on my mood.

Apart from movies what else are you interested in?

I used to own a boutique but am not fashionable. I don't know how to sew, but I can draw and create designs. I have passion for putting smiles on the faces of people around me. I would love to be in a place where everybody is cared for. Not one person having all that others will worship. I am working on the release of my new movie, “Finding Good luck.” I am hoping to release it on DVD. It is in the cinemas already and this is a movie that has got to do with the image of the Nigeria Police and how people generally relate with the average policeman and how it should be at the end of the day. I hope the movie will better the lives of some people.

I Have Passion For Teaching Not LawAdewale Adeogun

Hon. Adewale Adeogun is the present Education Secretary of Ajeromi- Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State. He is one of the Education Secretaries in Lagos State that has ingenious, creative and motivational mindset of taken Ajegunle primary schools from its grubby state to the Promised Land coupled with his youth exuberance. He is also a sports administrator, motivational and philanthropic teacher with the 21st century knowledge, computer scientist, public affairs analyst, Muslim scholar, a politician and productive achiever of vision and others. In this comprehensive interview with Godday Odidi,he explains why he has passion for teaching not law and other sundry issues.

Excerpts:
Can we meet you sir?
I am Hon. Adewale Adeogun and the present Education Secretary of Ajeromi- Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State. I was born in 1965 at Abeokuta in Ogun State. I had both my primary education in Ogun and Lagos States.I had a successful educational background that gave me leverage among my peer groups. I discovered early that my passion was teaching which prompted me to enroll at the college of education and others to make my teaching profession come to fruitful manifestation without hesitation. I had one of the best results then.

When did you become Ajeromi- Ifelodun Education Secretary?

Though, 2004 I had interest in the position of the Education Secretary but our noble political party asked me to wait until 2009 when I was appointed as the education Secretary in the local government. Many assumed that the position was only met for antiquated people until they came into realization that they needed to try a younger generation like me.

In fact, when I came on board, I realized that many things were absolutely wrong in Ajegunle primary schools. I started putting things in order and equally changed the mindset of teachers in Ajegunle that teachers' rewards are on earth not heaven. All the Ajegunle primary schools are working now.

To the extent that Ajegunle primary schools are into Agriculture especially fish farming unlike in those days where pupils were taught Agriculture but cannot felt it or know where garri comes from but today they practice farming without hesitation. We have school gardens too. Our teachers are being trained and retrained for 21st century teaching practice of the world.

We now have creative school sports competition and while there is huge enrolment of pupils into Ajeromi- Ifelodun primary schools. In fact Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola has done so well in making Ajegunle primary schools first among equal in Nigeria. There is strong academic discipline among teachers and pupils.

Gone are the days where teachers trade in their classrooms and pupils come to school late. We have laws for defiant pupils in the school. Some years back, we could not know the level of academic brilliance of our primary six pupils but now we can determine their academic prowess into the secondary schools of their choice if admitted.

What is your relationship between you and the two local government chairmen in Ajeromi- Ifelodun?

I have strong cordial relationship with the two local government chairmen but Alhaji Ajifat Ajidagba has done so well in education, health and road constructions. If you go to Ifelodun primary schools, you will see Ajifat's name in all the exercise books that indicates that he has passion for primary education and Hon. Kamal Bayewu has also done well too. Ajifat has built gargantuan libraries for primary schools in Ifelodun and others. He is a leader to be emulated together with Hon. Kamal Bayewu.

Is Education secretary by election or appointment?

The post of education secretary is by appointment not election but usually every five years.

What is the secret of your many awards on regular basis?

In fact I have two awards waiting for me now, one is national award from Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu, though it is political but the other one is Commoners newspaper award at 20.Hardworking is the secret of my many awards. I told you early on that my passion for teaching made me pursued my career to the apex. In every profession that you have vision for, you must have focus in life.

Every morning, I visit at least two or three primary schools to ring their bells and conduct school Assemblies with them before coming to my office that is a leader by example. I inculcated punctuality in all the schools through the lay down rules and regulations of education in Lagos state not me. I am appointed to make Ajegunle pupils to fulfil their divine destinies in life.

We have received several awards both local and state levels when I newly came on board, Ajeromi-Ifelodun primary schools were number 18 in Lagos State but to God be the glory we are at number 2 in Lagos State. We have won many quiz competitions and others. Ajegunle primary schools are meant to rule the world and nothing else.

Can you say as a teacher, you are fulfilled?

I am still young in the profession. I am yet to be fulfilled by grace of God. I can blow by own trumpet. My work will speak for me. But my educational legacy is vital to me than any other thing in life. Teachers now afford good homes and other financial benefits of life. Lagos State teachers' salaries are being paid on time. No teacher can complain anymore. That is a motivation from our able dynamic governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola

You always give free JAMB and GCE forms to indigent students, Is it your personal resource? Yes of course, it is a way of contributing my widow mite support to the society especially the indigent students in Ajegunle. Education is the best legacy anybody or parent can give to his or her child in life. Some of us are excelling today because of the level of education our parents gave us.

What is your advice for young teachers coming new into the profession?

Every young teacher must have passion for his or her profession. Teaching is not meant for lazy people but people with vision to accomplish in life.

Spotlight On Myproject Nollywood: Exclusive Cover

The primary objective of myProject Nollywood is Re-inventing Nollywood and Entertainment..one project at a time.

Last weekend, I had the chance to put on the Spotlight, Victor Akeze, Founder of myprojectnollyowood.com and we both agreed on one thing, it's time to showcase Africa especially Nigerian entertainment industry and bring it to a level where they can compete with the other two bigger industries like Hollywood and Bollywood.

Together with his Co-Founder Matthias Okala, they have built a unique platform to fund and collaborate on everything entertainment for Africans all over the world.

myProject Nollywood is truly a unique undertaking from someone whose taste and passion for movies, and most especially, a good story is undoubtedly the sole reason he started this project and to allow people like me and you, fund projects we want to see hit the big and small screens. Don't be fooled, this project isn't just about movies, it about entertainment in general which includes supporting music, theatre art, stand-up comedy and you name it.

In a nutshell, myProject Nollywood is an idea and talent incubator that provides support to passionate, up and coming entertainers. The platform invites cinematic, stage production and other scripted entertainment ideas. Through crowd funding and crowd sourcing myProject Nollywood takes your idea from inception to production.

Unlike other crowdfunding or crowdsourcing websites, myProject Nollywood has decided to cut themselves a particular niche by concentrating on everything entertainment.

On myProject Nollywood, aspiring or credited actors, actresses, musicians, directors, producers, sound editors, make-up artists etc or anyone who's got a beautiful location to share for video shoots, concerts, stand-up entertainment can use my platform as their ideal Launchpad to kick start their dream project and share it will the world for funding or collaboration.

Their business model has been kept very simple; post your project - written or/and video for funding, reward those who have shown support. Or source the right talent needed for project collaboration all within their platform and together as a team, pitch your project for funding as well as connect to production partners Production Houses, Producers, Directors and Distributors.

The key take away from what this new company is trying to do is not necessarily re-inventing the wheel, but instead, felt that time has come for a change. They are using their platform with the power of the crowd to re-invent an industry that is lacking quality and enough bite to say, yes, we are the third biggest industry in the world.

myProject Nollywood will be working closely with top performing arts colleges, universities, international film organisations to achieve its goal.

For PR and Talent Management contact me on
chica.michelle@myprojectnollywood.com
Follow myProject Nollywood on
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Myproject-Nollywood/585399364805948?ref=stream

Twitter - https://twitter.com/myprojectnolly

Akpabio's N50m Gift Tears Nollywood Apart

Nollywood is never tired of dishing out real life 'movies' when it comes to the issue of sharing the 'national cake'. If members of the Actors' Guild of Nigeria (AGN) are not fighting today, maybe some producers would be somewhere arguing about which group truly represents the interest of filmmakers in Nigeria.

While the industry is yet to settle the differences caused by President Jonathan's N3 billion intervention fund, another big fight might be presently rearing its ugly head.

At the Presidential Dinner held for Nollywood stakeholders in March 2013, Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa-Ibom State promised the industry the sum of N50 million, which he recently redeemed.

At the presentation done some days ago, the head of Association of Movie Producers (AMP) led other guilds in the motion picture world to the cheque presentation ceremony. Yakubu Abubakar (AGN Secretary), Andy Amenechi (DGN President), Stephanie Okereke-Linus (actress) and others, were present at the occasion.

However, days after the cheque was presented, there are rumour that some members of the film industry are at loggerheads over the sharing formula for the largesse. A source in the industry, who spoke with Nigeriafilms.com, alleged that there are plans to shut out some people out of the largesse.

“You see, there is a ploy by few people in the industry to corner this money given to the whole industry by Governor Akpabio,” the source alleged. "The money was given to everybody in the movie industry, but we will resist any attempt to play 'Maradona' to the N50 million,” the source added.

However, Zik Zulu, who led Nollywood to receive the cheque from the governor told Nigeriafilms.com that it is expected for some people to be making false speculations about the money. “This is the first time this kind of a thing is happening in the industry, it is expected to have different rumours going about on the matter,” Zulu said when contacted on phone.

He also added that, “the money would be used for what we were told to use it for.” When asked what the money was meant for, the AMP boss said, “it is meant for award for excellence in the name of President Jonathan like a 'Goodluck Jonathan award for excellence in filmmaking' and all that. That is what we would use it for.”

Continuing, Zulu said, “we would look at the existing awards in the industry or set up a completely new one jointly agreed by all the bodies in the industry.” He also revealed that, “we are yet to get the money but we will surely get it because it has been approved by the Governor. What we had was the formal presentation.”

In the same vein, the Secretary of AGN, Abubakar Yakubu, told Nigeriafilms.com that no decision has been reached yet by the stakeholders as to the sharing formula for the money and wondered why some people would be causing trouble over the matter.

He told us when contacted on phone that at the first meeting held by the stakeholders in the movie industry, deliberations were only made on the matter. He corroborated Zulu's stand that the money would be used for the purpose it was given out for adding that, “we would also look at endowment for the various members of Nollywood guilds.”


Akpabio presenting sourvenir to Mr Zik Zulu Okafor, Natinal President, Association of Movie Producers during a courtesy call at the Governor's Office, Uyo

FRENCH TRAIN DERAILMENT PREDICTED BY TB JOSHUA

As news hit international media on Friday 12th July 2013 that at least six people had died in a tragic train derailment in France, a YouTube video has been released stating that the accident was predicted many months earlier by a Nigerian tele-evangelist.

“I see a train in a French-speaking nation running off the rail,” were the exact words of the controversial Nigerian cleric T.B. Joshua.

The pastor of the Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN) which is based in Lagos, is also claimed to have predicted other events that eventually came to pass. These include the death of former Malawi President Bingu wa Mutharika last year and Nigeria's national football team's recent victory at the African Cup of Nations.

In the current prediction broadcast live via The SCOAN's religious television station Emmanuel TV, T.B Joshua is said to have told his congregation on Sunday 13th May 2012 that he saw a train derailing in a French-speaking country.

He further said that countries being prophesied to ought to liaise with his ministry to seek for clarifications on such volatile issues that would involve loss of human lives with a view to averting such catastrophe.

Coincidentally, the international media is reporting that at least seven people were killed and scores of others were injured Friday when the train carrying 370 people derailed in Bretigny-sur-Orge, just south of Paris. President Francois Hollande is said to have arrived on the scene Friday evening.

It was still unknown what caused the derailment of the regional train that left the Paris Austerlitz station Friday afternoon, said Guillaume Pepy, president of SNCF, the French national railway company. Experts have begun an investigation at the scene and fire fighters battled for several hours to rescue victims trapped inside.

Pastor Joshua, touted as one of Africa's 50 most influential figures, is reportedly friends with political leaders such as Zimbabwean Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangarai and Malawian president Joyce Banda, who have visited his church in Nigeria for spiritual assistance.

He recently received commendation from the International Labour Organisation (ILO), a United Nations Agency, and the MBA Tour, an international event linking prospective students with top level educational institutions, for his extensive charitable projects, especially relating to job creation and skills development for young people.

We were able to gain access to the prophet's profile including this and several other prophecies touching on international affairs via his social media page http://www.facebook.com/tbjministries/ which has a followership of almost a million around the world.

Femi is a freelance journalist

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS FROM TUSH MAGAZINE PHOTO-SHOOT FOR TUSH MAGAZINE ISSUE #5

EME Rap Soldier, SKALES and Sensational Singer, SEYI SHAY recently had a series of photo session for urban youth lifestyle magazine - TUSH MAGAZINE.

Tush Magazine which is a youth-centered magazine poised at celebrating Nigeria youths to the world has had:

Charity (MBGN ECOWAS 2010) and MONEMSIS, ICE PRINCE and EVA, HAKYM D'DREAM and JERRILYN, YUNG6IX and YEMI ALADE on its Issue 1, Issue 2, Issue 3 and Issue 4 respectively.

Quoting Anslem Jon, Editor of Tush Magazine "Tush Magazine was borne out with a mission of celebrating Nigeria youths, A young individual positively improving on his/her career definitely needs to be celebrated." Right from our issue 1, we had always had both a male and female individual grace our covers and that's because a perfect life worth celebrating has to involve both a male and female. Trust us this Issue would keep you loving Tush Magazine the more as we are exploring more creativity on it".

He also thanked individuals, brands and companies supporting and accepting TUSH MAGAZINE as a brand.

To get your Profile, Events or place an AD in this issue or in subsequent issues, please contact us on: 08134246086, 08172959348, tushpeepz@gmail.com or BB PIN: 26FED427

CREDITS:
PHOTOGRAPHY- LARA
MAKE UP- AWELE MAKEOVERS
COSTUMES: T.I NATHAN (SKALES) & IAMISIGO (SEYI SHAY)

STYLIST: LOC APPAREL (SKALES) & BUBU (SEYI SHAY)
SET/LOCATION: LA'ROYAL CONCEPT PHOTO STUDIO, LAGOS.


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