celebrity radar - gossips

AFC MAKES CASE FOR AFRICAN CINEMA AT AFRIFF

Published

8 years ago

November 15, 2016

After a glamorous opening of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) at the new Filmhouse-IMAX, Lekki, Lagos, the real business of the one-week festival began on Monday with film screenings, industry sessions, master classes and other programmes, taking place simultaneously at the Silverbird Galleria, Victoria Island; Genesis Deluxe and Filmhouse-IMAX, Lekki; Maryland Mall, Ikeka and Afrinolly Space, Oregun Lagos.

For nearly four hours, the African Film Consortium (AFC) held sway at The Palms, with filmmakers from different African countries and the Diaspora, who converged to rub minds on the future of cinema business in Africa.Tagged “The Brand and Its Stakeholders”, the session, in conjunction with AFRIFF, was led by Mr. Mykel Parish, President of the AFC, and had moderators like veteran actor Richard Mofe Damijo and Brand Expert, Charles O’Tudor.At the event, practitioners identified funding as one of the problems confronting filmmakers in Nigeria and African entertainment scene at large.

Mr. Musi Waa, the founding president of the Cameroonian film industry noted that there exists a better collaborative effort among Nigerians filmmakers, given reason Nollywood is most influential when it comes to African entertainment. Discussing the issue of funding, he said “I think funding should be assessed on a global level. The major issue is that it is mostly restricted by national policies. Everyone should be able to share the same opportunities and platforms to allow creativity to be fully maximised. Due to challenges in the distribution channels, we should encourage local distribution and not put all our efforts into online distribution.”

Andy Boyo, a patron of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), Nigeria and a patron the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) says the key issue in Nigeria is trust; “creativity will go nowhere without trust,. I seek to see a unified African film industry which I have tagged ‘Afrowood’, a collaborative effort that surpasses borders and cultural limitations.” He had previously initiated a Nollywood cinema idea which had mostly met with failure because of government interference and disbelief in the local brands.

An entertainment lawyer, Isioma Idigbe, advised filmmakers to leverage on intellectual property in order to assess funding, and to approach the production of film as a business through proper acquisition and subsequent security of intellectual property. “The industry can only be sustainable when the stakeholders and financial organizations can create a system where investment in film is seen as a viable business idea.” she concluded.The convener, Mr. Mykel Parish was optimistic the symposia would take African cinema to the next level.

AFRIFF opened on Sunday with Nate Parker’s The Birth of a Nation, a film produced by American studio, 20th Century Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed who attended the ceremony at the new Filmhouse-IMAX in Lekki, said government is doing everything possible to turn to Nollywood for a new foreign exchange earner.

“Mr. President has shown his weight in the creative industry and has promised to do everything that’ll make it possible to transit from a creative industry to a creative economy. To this end, we are already in talks with the state governments and investors to build us studio facilities that equal those in Mexico, India and the U.S, to make filmmaking easier and increase the quality of our films.”

AFRIFF is a week-long programme that runs from November 13 to 19, showcasing about 155 world-standard feature, short and documentary films. Its schedule also encompasses talent development classes, industry workshops and creative discussions.

Sports

Oleksandr Usyk Defeats Tyson Fury Again, Solidifies Legacy Among Boxing Greats

Published

7 hours ago

December 22, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Oleksandr Usyk Defeats Tyson Fury Again, Solidifies Legacy Among Boxing Greats

Ukrainian boxing sensation Oleksandr Usyk retained his heavyweight championship titles and cemented his place in boxing history with a unanimous decision victory over Britain’s Tyson Fury in their rematch on Saturday night.

The judges scored the bout 116-112 in Usyk’s favor across the board, marking his second consecutive win over Fury. This victory extended Usyk’s flawless professional record to 23-0, with 14 knockouts, adding another chapter to a career already highlighted by Olympic gold and an undisputed cruiserweight championship.

A Masterclass Performance

Usyk, 37, showcased his signature precision and relentless pace, repeatedly catching Fury with clean left hooks and dominating the latter stages of the fight. Fury, at 6ft 9in (206cm) and weighing a career-high 281 pounds, attempted to impose his physicality but was unable to break Usyk’s composure.

The fight, held in Saudi Arabia, saw Usyk wearing traditional Cossack attire during his entrance, while Fury entered the arena dressed in a festive Santa-inspired robe to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You.”

The early rounds were competitive, with Fury landing powerful jabs and body shots. However, Usyk’s endurance and tactical brilliance began to shine in the middle rounds. The Ukrainian landed sharp combinations and dictated the tempo, including a stunning uppercut in the final round that left little doubt about the outcome.

“I thought I’ve won both fights,” Fury said post-match, sporting a bruised right eye. “But I’ll always believe until the day I die that I won that fight.”

A Legacy Sealed

Usyk’s victory solidified his standing as one of the greatest heavyweights in history. Already the first undisputed heavyweight of the four-belt era, Usyk joins the ranks of legends like Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, and Mike Tyson.

The bout, reported to have a prize purse of $190 million, also underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global sports. Usyk, who served briefly as a soldier during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, celebrated his victory by hoisting a symbolic sabre belonging to Ukrainian nationalist hero Ivan Mazepa.

Fury’s Uncertain Future

The defeat leaves Fury’s future in doubt. Once unbeaten across 35 fights, Fury now stands at 34-2-1. His attempt to reclaim glory after a brief retirement in 2022 has been marred by back-to-back losses to Usyk.

Usyk, on the other hand, continues to add to his already remarkable resume, leaving fans and critics alike in awe of his technical skill, resilience, and determination. As the heavyweight division looks ahead, Usyk’s reign appears unshakable, and his place among boxing’s all-time greats is firmly secured.

celebrity radar - gossips

Testimony Jaga Redefines Gospel Music with Fuji Rhapsody

Published

19 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Testimony Jaga Redefines Gospel Music with Fuji Rhapsody

Renowned gospel artist Testimony Jaga has set a new standard in the genre with the release of his highly anticipated album, Fuji Rhapsody. This innovative project masterfully blends the electrifying rhythms of Fuji music with uplifting gospel messages, offering a unique and transformative musical experience.

With a runtime of approximately one hour, Fuji Rhapsody takes listeners on a continuous, spiritually enriching journey, brimming with energy and inspiration. The album is available for streaming on popular platforms, including Spotify, iTunes, Audiomack, Boomplay, and more.

Whether you’re a fan of vibrant Fuji beats or seeking soul-stirring gospel tunes, Fuji Rhapsody is an album that promises to inspire and uplift. Press play and let its powerful melodies rejuvenate your spirit today!

Stream Fuji Rhapsody Here:

https://hypeddit.com/testimony-jaga/fuji-rapsody

celebrity radar - gossips

Governor Monday Okpebholo C.O.N Celebrates His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa, on His Birthday – December 21

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Sahara Weekly

His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo C.O.N Celebrates His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa, on His Birthday – December 21

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo C.O.N., has extended warm birthday wishes to His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the state and his unwavering support during the Governor’s electoral victory.

In a heartfelt message, Governor Okpebholo expressed his profound admiration for Bishop Amasihohu, acknowledging his steadfast leadership, spiritual guidance, and commitment to the well-being of the people of Edo State.

“I am delighted to celebrate Bishop Desmond Osazuwa on his special day,” the Governor stated. “His tireless prayers and invaluable support during my election campaign played a significant role in our collective success. His dedication to the spiritual and physical growth of Edo State is a testament to his purposeful leadership and unwavering faith.”

Reflecting on the Bishop’s years of service, the Governor added, “On behalf of my family and the entire Edo State, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Bishop Desmond Amasihohu on his birthday. He is a true son of Edo, whose contributions continue to enrich our lives. Today, we celebrate not just his birthday but also his enduring impact on our state and beyond.”

Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of honoring individuals who dedicate their lives to service. “Recognizing Bishop Desmond Osazuwa aligns with our shared values of inclusivity, unity, and gratitude. His contributions to the spiritual and social fabric of Edo State are invaluable, and we are truly blessed to have him among us.”

Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu has spent decades spreading the gospel and transforming lives both within Edo State and across the globe. His birthday celebration drew dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers who gathered to honor his life and legacy.

The occasion stands as a powerful reminder of the values of faith, service, and unity that guide the Governor’s vision for a stronger Edo State.

“Happy birthday, my Bishop,” Governor Okpebholo concluded. “Your wisdom and contributions to the development of our state are deeply appreciated. May the Lord Almighty bless you with good health, strength, and continued prosperity.”