Netizens react to turbulence in Regina Daniels, Ned Nwoko marriage
Reactions from Social media users have continued to flood online platforms over recent reports of issues between Nollywood actress Regina Daniels and her husband, Ned Nwoko. The couple stunned everyone when they took to social media to level damaging accusations against each other. While the 25-year-old actress accused her husband of repeatedly assaulting her and claimed she could no longer endure the alleged abuse, the 64-year-old lawmaker said his wife was addicted to drugs and alcohol. However, amid the allegations, many social media users and celebrities have taken to various platforms to express concern, outrage and disbelief over the issue. Some social media users expressed dismay why the couple decided to bring their marriage issue online, others, especially fans of the actress, called for an investigation into the disturbing claims of domestic violence. An instagram user with the name @sumtincomedy posted: “Before people start using this as an opportunity to mock her or attack her choice of marriage, let’s be clear. “This issue isn’t about polygamy. It’s about domestic violence. That’s a human problem, not a marital-structure problem. Adie Effanga wrote ;“How we can turn back the hands of time Regina would have gotten real peace n love with soma.” User @iamakasregister wrote “Consistently flaunting public displays of affection does not define true love or a fulfilling relationship. “! The idea that crying ina Lamborghini symbolizes a happy marriage is simply misguided.” @queenamara said, “No woman deserves to be treated like this. Money or not, this is heartbreaking.” @mimiposh commented, “If this is true, Ned should be arrested. Enough of using power to silence women.” @comrade Deji Adeyanju reacted, “Mist poor and broke Nigerian girls with expensive taste have no option but to tolerate shit from me, she will go back to him on her knees” @Theo Abu tweeted, “Regina is sticker with that man for life. She cannot leave that man. The lifestyle that man introduced her to cannot be maintained by Asaba movies” @smplyjessie said, “Funniest thing is that if she had waited and continued her hustling, she would have definitely gotten married to a young billionaire”. @ feetalhospital wrote,“Marriage is meant to be for better & for worse. Let’s keep them in our prayers” Another Instagram user @hol_ie256 wrote “Never make a mockery of someone’s bad situation. Just pray that she’s safe wherever she is coz the lord watches behindscenes.” @kceegains said, “Ferrari wey you suppose cry inside you don break am” @OBlezzings, Stated,“When I said polygamy ends in tears, some people said I was talking nonsense.” @iamFmajor wrote “People are mocking her for leaving him, but what’s the point of luxury if you’re living in fear?”
Nigeria launches 12-member Council for Creative Technology Features
A critical milestone will be attained today, as the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), announces the launch of the Council for Creative Technology Futures (CCTF). A statement made available to Nigerian Anchor in Abuja describes the launch as a groundbreaking national initiative designed to place Nigeria at the forefront of global innovation where culture meets code. In the statement pushed out by Dr. Dennis Olofu Head, Media National Council for Arts and Culture the launch enjoys full approval from the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (FMACTCE). He states that the launch represents a bold step towards the realisation of a Nigeria creative economy projected to surpass $25 billion by 2025. Membership Dr. Olofu stated that membership of the council shall be pro bono and composed to reflect national service ethos and a shared commitment to a digitally empowered creative sector. It was further stated that in its first phase, the Council will establish foundational frameworks and deliverables, paving the way forward for the cci and the creator economy, Strategic partnerships will be developed with the British Council, University for the creative arts United kingdom, UNESCO, Google, Meta, AfDB, Giz, European Union, Netflix, and other key development and technology partners—mobilizing investment, technical expertise, and global exposure for Nigeria’s creative-tech future. The members of the council are: Charles Emembolu – TechQuest, Talent Development (Chairman), Misan Harriman – Director & Photographer, Dayo Elegbe – Sponge Group, Digital Marketing, Bizzle Oshikoya – The Plug, Music & Talent Management and Kemi Awodein – MD, Chapel Hill Denham. Others are, Osas Peter – Founder, BlackAt, Malik Afegbua – AI Storytelling & Creative Visual Futurism, Sandra Oyewole – IP Lawyer, Olajide Oyewole & Co., Judith Okonkwo – Imisi 3D, AR & New Technology Leader, Dr. Dahiru Sani – Founder, Kaduna Business School and Dr. Chinedu Odoala – Head, NCAC Secretariat Dr. Olofu asserts that Nigeria continues to shape global narratives across music, film, fashion, gaming, and digital content as the CCTF plays the role of “ a highlevel policy, strategy, and implementation platform for harnessing emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR), Web3, and blockchain across over 49 creative industry sectors.’ Quoting Obi Asika, the Director General of NCAC Dr.Olofu wrote “This Council is about merging culture and code, storytelling and smart contracts, heritage and innovation.” The Director General was also quoted as saying, “We are not just reacting to global change we are leading it from Africa.” “The launch of the Council for Creative Technology Futures is a milestone,” Asika added. “We are building the foundation for Nigeria’s creative future where our stories, music, art, and innovation are protected, monetized, and celebrated globally.” Mandates of the CCTF The core mandate of the Council for Creative Economy Features comprises guiding Nigeria’s creative industries into a digitally empowered future that drives job creation and economic growth, as well as equipping creators with global tools, platforms, and market access. Its mandate also entails enhancing Nigeria’s position as a cultural and technological powerhouse. It was also stated that the CCTF will deliver the National Creative-Tech Framework & Roadmap (2025–2030), aligning with the National AI Strategy, Executive Order 005, the Digital Economy Policy (2020–2030), and NCAC-led programs such as ICE Hubs and Discover Naija. The council will also take memorandum from stakeholders and collaborate closely with NCAC sister agencies in culture and tourism and memorandum from interested stakeholders’ angle. It will also advance global advocacy to elevate Nigeria’s creative sector on international platforms and look for the best-in-class solutions to drive economic growth.
GroundZero reality show: Lessons learnt
Mr Emmanuel Agbaeze, organiser of the recently concluded GroundZero reality show, has highlighted the powerful business lessons embedded within the competition. Mr Joel Ojigbani emerged as the winner of GroundZero, a reality television show where contestants were expected to build a business from the scratch without capital. The show, which was hosted by Frank Edoho, ended with a thrilling victory as contestant Ojigbani hit the ₦1 million target and bagged the ₦5 million grand prize. Agbaeze, in a statement on Thursday in Lagos, noted that the show offered real-world insights into entrepreneurship, especially in a challenging environment like Nigeria. According to Agbaeze, Ground Zero was designed to test the resilience, creativity, and adaptability of its contestants by placing them in unfamiliar environments with no capital, contacts, or safety nets. “At the heart of Ground Zero was the theme of resourcefulness and bootstrapping as the contestants, Adaeze and Joel, were thrust into a “start-with-nothing” scenario, compelling them to find innovative ways to generate income and build resources. “This kind of challenge is a reflection of what many Nigerian entrepreneurs go through as you have to be creative and make the most of the little you have,” he said. Agbaeze noted that the show acted a a survival tool for etworking and sales as the contestants had to demonstrate their interpersonal skills and sales acumen. “Joel, one of the contestant, had to launch a mobile videography business with no startup funds, initially charging N5,000 per project but through strategic networking and relationship-building, he scaled his services to earn up to N80,000 monthly per client. “This underscores the importance of building relationships and exploring alternative methods to acquire resources in the early stages of business,” Agbaeze added. He noted that the contestants faced daily tasks that tested their problem solving abilities as there were certain scenarios that represented hurdles that entrepreneurs encounter. He added that the show ensured that the sales, negotiation and financial targets were met as this would aid in spotting opportunities and building sustainability. “The show set a clear financial goal for the contestants which is to earn N1 million within the 30-day timeframe so by achieving this target required not only strong sales and negotiation skills but also a strategic mindset. “Setting a clear financial goal and working toward it is fundamental in business and Joel demonstrated that with focus and strategy, even an ambitious target can be met. Agbaeze concluded by noting that while Ground Zero is a reality TV show designed for entertainment, it also serves as a powerful learning platform. “The show presents a unique look at the entrepreneurial mindset through the contestants’ journeys as we gain real insight into resourcefulness, adaptability, financial literacy and the importance of a strong hustle,” he said.
DINA, film seeking urgent protection for girl-child, premières
A compelling new film, DINA, which is set to ignite conversations on the urgent need to protect adolescent girls from sexual violence and exploitation will be premiered on March 21. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the film, written and produced by Wilson Ukhurebor, and directed by South African cinematographer MG Legend, exposes the harsh realities young girls face. The movie with the theme, “What Society Does to Us”, serves as a wake-up call for stronger protective policies, increased awareness and community-driven interventions to safeguard vulnerable girls across Nigeria. It also calls for immediate action from stakeholders, including families, communities, and policymakers. DINA, which was endorsed by the Lagos State Ministry of Youths and Social Development, and supported by the International Child Safety Report Initiative, aligns with ongoing national and global efforts to combat gender-based violence. The film challenges society to confront the cultural and systemic failures that leave young girls unprotected, urging collective responsibility in securing their future. NAN also reports that DINA will be screened at select locations in Lagos, including a private screening for the media on March 21, and public screening for organised students and key stakeholders. The movie will also be showcased in 10 cinemas across the state, ensuring that educators, students and policymakers engage with its critical message.
Funke Akindele wins “Best Director of 2024” with “Everybody Loves Jennifer”
The Nigerian movie industry is unrelenting as it continues to blaze the trail in the footsteps of some of the best global traditions in the sector, all to the material fortunes of the practitioners. Just yesterday, Nigerian Actress Funke Akindele and Tunde Olaoye were declared the highest-grossing film directors for the year 2024. This is for the film “Everybody Loves Jennifer” which had raked in N1.6 billion across cinemas in Nigeria. This was revealed by Filmone on its Instagram page, @filmoneng, on Wednesday. Adebayo Tijani emerged as the second highest-grossing film director for “Beast of Two Worlds: Ajakaju”, “Alakada Bad and Boujee”, and “Farmer’s Bride”. READ ALSO: Global collaboration vital for sustainable growth – President Tinubu Also, Kayode Kasum became the third highest-grossing director for 2024 for “Ajosepe”, “All’s Fair in Love”, and “What About Us”. Odunlade Adekola made the fourth highest-grossing director for “Beast of Two Worlds: Ajakaju” and “Lakatabu” while Adeoluwa Owu clinched the fifth-highest-grossing director for “Queen Lateefah” and “When Love Strikes”. Toka McBaror emerged as the sixth highest-grossing director for “The Waiter”, and Jack Opukeme made the seventh for “Farmer’s Bride”. READ ALSO: Bafarawa leaves PDP to focus on youth empowerment initiative Bolanle Austen-Peters clinched the eighth highest-grossing director for “Funmilayo Ransome Kuti”, while Biodun Stephen made the ninth for “Muri & Ko”. Omoni Oboli emerged as the tenth highest-grossing director for “Wives on Strike: The Uprising”.
Valentine Chukwuma emerges highest grossing Nollywood film editor in 2024
Award winning film editor, Valentine Chukwuma has emerged the highest grossing Nollywood film editor in 2024, alongside Israel Odunsi. This is for the film: “Everybody Loves Jennifer”. Filmone, a film distribution company revealed this through its instagram page @filmoneng, on Monday. Sanjo Adegoke came as the second highest grossing Nollywood film editor in 2024 with the films: “Beast of Two Worlds:Ajakaju” and “Lakatabu”. While Adekunle Oyetunde emerged third highest grossing Nollywood editor for the films “Queen Lateefah” and “Thinline”; Idris Razak clinched the fourth highest grossing Nollywood editor for “Ajosepo” and “What About Us”. Awa Holmes made the fifth highest grossing Nollywood editor for “Alakada Bad and Boujee” and “Wives on Strike: The Uprising”. READ ALSO: Fans Berate Nollywood Movies for Low Quality Films on Youtube and Repetitive Casting Adeyemi Shomade bagged the sixth highest grossing Nollywood editor for “Farmer’s Bride”, “All’s Fair in Love” and “Aburo”. Victoria Akujobi emerged the seventh highest grossing Nollywood editor for “Beast of Two Worlds: Ajakaju” and “Criminal”. Kayode Aransiola bagged the eighth highest grossing Nollywood editor for “Farmer’s Bride” and “All’s Fair in Love”. Kelvin Testers and Gabiu Amidu came as the ninth highest grossing Nollywood editor in 2024 for “Alakada Bad and Boujee”. READ ALSO: Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Goes into TV Drama Production For the tenth highest grossing Nollywood editor, Susan Ukalor clinched the position with “Muri & KO Saving Onome” and “3 Working Days”. Filmone wrote on its Instagram page “Celebrating the unsung heroes who transform raw footage into cinematic masterpieces. “These are the visionaries who shape the films we love, blending creativity, dedication, and brilliance.”
Fans Berate Nollywood for low-quality movies on YouTube, repetitive casting
A wave of criticism has swept across social media platforms, with fans and Nollywood movie lovers accusing producers of repetitive casting and low-quality Youtube movies. A News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) report indicates that some fans had taken to social media on Thursday to express their frustration, arguing that the industry prioritises quantity over quality. A popular social media personality, Lizzy Adebayo, sparked the debate on Instagram, lamenting the monotony and lack of inspiration in recent Nollywood productions on YouTube. She criticised movie producers for relying on the same actors in nearly every movie, failing to improve production standards or utilise better resources. “Watching Nollywood movies on YouTube is wasting my Wi-Fi and data money,” she complained. Adebayo specifically mentioned actors like Ruth Kadiri and Destiny Etiko; Sam Morris and Sonia Uche; Etinosa and Nosa Rex; and Timini and Bimbo Ademoye, who frequently collaborate in the same movies. She also expressed disappointment in the decline of Nollywood, comparing it unfavourably to the epic productions of the past. “There are no more moral lessons, no more new stories,” she said. READ ALSO: SEVEN NOLLYWOOD ACTRESSES WHO ARE LONGER ACTING BUT STILL RELEVANT IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY Also, Muyiwa Okpa (@MuyiwaOkpa22), on X reacted to the criticism, saying, “Where is the lie? Same storyline, same actors, same setting… all rubbish! “They don’t want to spend money but they want to make money. I choose Hollywood any day, any time. “Yoruba movies are something else; the storylines are mostly diabolic, they curse a lot. I stopped watching them.” Lynos Akali (@LynosAkali) on X added, “Best censored, educative, and thrilling Nigerian movies are on Netflix and Amazon. “These movies must be of high quality and standard before being accepted.” Similarly, Gaza (@Gaza), on X, said, “Two-hour movie and they’ll finish it in one apartment with only four people. What a shame!” However, some fans did not agree with the criticism. Ony Factory (@OnyFactory), on X, countered, saying, “Producers don’t just wake up and produce; they do research to see what the audience wants to watch. “YouTube is free, so, do you want producers to spend millions and then give it to you for free?” READ ALSO: Peter Obi Visits Babangida in Minna He advised critics to subscribe to Netflix, noting that billions of dollars had been invested to support producers. “Making great movies isn’t cheap. You need money to produce high-quality films, even if you want to write great stories. “People should not just criticise others without trying it themselves. If it’s easy, come and do it. “Get in and let’s see what you can do,” he said.
MC Shakara Opens Up on Handling Online Critics
Comedian Kenneth Agberia, known as MC Shakara, has revealed how he deals with online criticism. In an interview, he shared his approach of focusing on positivity and offering apologies when necessary. He also mentioned that his followers often come to his defense before he even responds. Talking about his upcoming show Shakara and the Geng, MC Shakara disclosed that the theme for this year’s edition will be “Tales of a Bachelor,” based on his personal experiences. The show will offer a humorous perspective on both the perks and challenges of bachelorhood. When it comes to selecting talent for the show, MC Shakara emphasized his goal to deliver a top-tier experience. He brings in both new voices and familiar faces, such as Jephthah Bowoto (Akpororo), who is known for his deep, engaging humor. MC Shakara also reflected on his comedy style, which focuses on everyday relatable situations. While social media trends influence his content, he strives to connect with younger audiences like Gen Z and Millennials. Beyond comedy, MC Shakara is branching into acting and skit creation. He expressed openness to pursuing other ventures, such as acting, whenever the opportunity arises.
I thought I was going to die – Ufuoma McDermott struggles with kidney disease
Renowned Nollywood actress and producer Ufuoma McDermott has opened up about her battle with Stage 4 kidney disease, sharing how her reliance on painkillers to cope with chronic pain led to a severe health crisis. In an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, McDermott recounted how her health issues began after the tragic death of her younger brother, who also suffered from kidney disease. McDermott stated that initially she was diagnosed with Stage 3 kidney disease, which then progressed to Stage 4 due to delays in seeking medical attention. She said in part, “When I tell people I can afford to put on weight, I don’t want to die. I have little children. “I had pushed my body, and I was borderline stage 4. Last year was a very trying time in my life where I thought I was going to die. I have battled chronic kidney disease for about 12 years now. “But I was negotiating with the doctor about my life; she said I need you to go home, I need your blood pressure to drop, and take my medications.”
Nollywood actor Agbako dies at 101
Legendary actor, Pa Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, popularly known as Agbako, has passed away at 101. It was gathered that he died in the early hours of Thursday after experiencing some fatigue and taking a brief nap. Bolaji Amusan, the President of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), announced Agbako’s passing via his Instagram handle on Thursday, October 31. He wrote: “TAMPAN Global announces the passing of Pa Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, fondly known as AGBAKO. “Details of the burial arrangements will be shared at a later time. Good night father, 25/02/1923 to 31/10/2024.”