Entertainment
AFFC lauds Heritage Bank on youth, entertainment devt
AFFC lauds Heritage Bank on youth, entertainment devt
African Freestyle Football (AFFC) Championship 2019 in collaboration with World Freestyle Football Association (WFFA) have commended Heritage Bank Plc for its pivotal role in enhancing youth development and engendering the Nigeria’s entertainment space on the world’s stage.
The 2019 African Freestyle Football Championship ended on a high note, with defending champion Abdul Titi Kone of Cote d’Ivoire emerging as the African Champion once again. This event marked the 2nd edition of the African Championship and the 3rd annual edition of the Nigerian Championship hosted by Feet ‘n’ Tricks International Limited. The final was a repeat of the 2018 championship, as Kone again defeated Egypt’s Yousef Mohamad just as he did in last year’s final while Ashley Mhkize of South Africa placed third.
In the female category, Evelyn Okafor (Nigeria), Hadhara Charles (Tanzania) and Augustina Unamba (Nigeria) placed first, second and third respectively.
This year’s edition accommodated at least 30 African countries that participated at the championship.
The Chairman of AFFC, Valentine Ozigbo, who commended bank for being at the forefront of promoting freestyle football for the past two years, said Heritage Bank is “always very innovative and supportive to the cause of entertainment and youth development.
According to him, these achievements would have been impossible without the extensive support of the official bankers (Heritage Bank) for the championship for two years running.
Speaking further, Ozigbo hinted, “since inception, Feet ‘n’ Tricks has been committed to promoting freestyle football talent to stardom and we haven’t relented. Through this platform, we have seen talented freestylers get a head start in life, travel to exciting places and represent our beloved continent doing what they know how to do best.”
The MD/CEO, Heritage Bank, Ifie Sekibo, said the bank has strong desire towards developing and positioning youths to become world-class citizens equipped and ready to be absorbed into an increasing competitive professional skills and endeavours.
Sekibo, who was represented by an Executive Director, Jude Monye advised the youths who were participants to adopt strong positive character to enable them take advantage of the platform being presented to them.
“One of the reasons why we chose, as an organization, to support the freestyle championship is to enhance youth development in sport and entertainment, which will empower them play vital roles in the socio-economic development of the country and help curb the high level of unemployment,” he stressed.
According to Sekibo, the drive to support youths seeks to create, preserve and transfer wealth across generations.
It is against the backdrop of the competition that Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Amaju Pinnick, promised to give more support to the entertaining part of football.
“We need to encourage this entertaining part of football because what they are doing here is great. Freestyle is quite interesting, and I am happy with what I have seen so far.
“With this project, a goal has been achieved. I also want more ladies to come out and do freestyle football because it is highly entertaining and competitive.
“I will see to how we can give more support to freestyle football in the future,”he said.
Congratulating the Feet n Tricks team, Daniel Wood, Co-founder and Head of Global Partnerships, World Freestyle Football Association (WFFA) said, “Feet n Tricks have proven that they can produce world class events and we are so excited to be extending our partnership. We are fully committed to creating opportunities for young people and this event is to be the focus point for our sport in the continent of Africa.” //End.//
Fela Ibidapo, Divisional Head, Corporate Communications

Entertainment
Top Music Producer, Gbenga Leo Marks 45 Years in Music with Lagos Celebration
Top Music Producer, Gbenga Leo Marks 45 Years in Music with Lagos Celebration
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
Otunba Gbenga, popularly known as Leo Taiwo, will be celebrated for his 45-year journey in the music industry at a special event scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2026, in Lagos.
The event, set to hold at the Radio Lagos Marquee Hall in Agidingbi, Ikeja, is expected to bring together friends, family, and associates to honour a career defined by longevity and consistent contribution to Nigeria’s Fuji music scene.
Though not widely in the public spotlight, Leo Taiwo is regarded within industry circles as a respected figure whose work has spanned decades. His role as a music producer and collaborator has positioned him among the quiet contributors who have supported the growth and continuity of Fuji music over the years.
The celebration is slated to begin at 2 p.m., with guests expected to observe a white dress code. Attendance will be by access card, with caps and gele serving as entry identifiers.
Fuji star King Sule Alao Malaika is billed to lead the music for the occasion, while popular hosts Ifankaleluyah and Tokunbo Marvins will anchor proceedings.
The choice of venue underscores the cultural relevance of the event. Radio Lagos has long been associated with the promotion of indigenous music, making it a fitting location for a milestone rooted in tradition and legacy.
Reaching 45 years in any creative industry is a notable achievement. In a genre that has evolved across generations, such longevity reflects both resilience and sustained relevance.
As preparations continue, the event is shaping up to be not just a celebration of one man’s journey, but also a moment to acknowledge the enduring community behind Fuji music.
Entertainment
BREAKING NEWS: Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy
*BREAKING NEWS
*Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy*
Lagos, Nigeria – In a stunning display of talent, leadership, and philanthropy, Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo has been crowned winner of the prestigious NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 award. This remarkable achievement cements her status as a powerhouse in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Amb. Chelsea Nwodo, the newly crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026, has extended her heartfelt gratitude to all who supported her in this remarkable achievement.
“I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude to announce that I have been crowned the winner of the prestigious NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 award,” Amb. Nwodo said. “I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who voted for me, including my loving family members and TOSA to NAGA , I am honored to be part of this prestigious award and I appreciate the recognition.”
Amb. Nwodo, a multifaceted personality, has proven herself as an acclaimed actress, dedicated philanthropist, and visionary business leader. Her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing Nollywood has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers.
As CEO of the Chelsea Nwodo Foundation, she drives transformative initiatives empowering women and children, fostering growth and opportunity. Her leadership skills extends to Chy-kas Travels and Tour, showcasing her entrepreneurial acumen.
Recently appointed Chief of Staff to the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abubakar Yakubu, Amb. Nwodo’s exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing Nollywood is undeniable.
Amb. Nwodo’s philanthropy resonates deeply. Her impactful “Operation Feed 5000 Street Children” program, in partnership with Regal Connect Foundation-Ghana, delivered food, shelter, and skills training to vulnerable children in Ghana, attracting high-profile support.
Her NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 win celebrates not just her achievements but her dedication to uplifting others, making her a beacon of hope across industries. This recognition solidifies her position as a role model and influencer, inspiring a new generation of artists and entrepreneurs.
The NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA award is a testament to Amb. Nwodo’s hard work, talent, and commitment to excellence. Her win is a proud moment for Nigeria and the African continent, showcasing the best of Nollywood’s talent and philanthropy.
Entertainment
Faaji Unlimited : Omo-Opeki Announces ‘Step Up,’ ‘Multi Talented,’ And ‘God’s Mercy’ — A Historic 3-in-1 Fuji Album Set For April 8 Release
Faaji Unlimited : Omo-Opeki Announces ‘Step Up,’ ‘Multi Talented,’ And ‘God’s Mercy’ — A Historic 3-in-1 Fuji Album Set For April 8 Release
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
Alhaja Queen Isimot Abake Abiola, widely known as Omo-Opeki, is stepping into a defining moment in her career with the official announcement of her ambitious 3-in-1 Fuji album. Titled Step Up, Multi Talented, and God’s Mercy, the project is scheduled for release on April 8 — a date that also marks her birthday.
More than a strategic rollout, the timing signals intention. It frames the project as both a personal milestone and a cultural statement, positioning the veteran Fuji act at the center of a conversation that extends beyond music.
A Three-Part Statement of Growth, Identity, and Gratitude :
By unveiling the titles of the three albums, Omo-Opeki transforms what was once a bold concept into a fully realized artistic vision.
Each title carries its own thematic weight:
• Step Up suggests progression — a conscious elevation into a new phase of artistry and influence
• Multi Talented highlights range, reinforcing her versatility within a genre that rewards depth and endurance.
• God’s Mercy reflects gratitude, pointing to the spiritual and personal journey that underpins her career.
Together, the albums form a layered narrative. Rather than a single body of work, the 3-in-1 structure allows for a broader exploration of identity, sound, and storytelling — a format that aligns naturally with Fuji’s tradition of extended compositions and expressive delivery.
April 8 : More Than A Release Date :
Choosing April 8 as the release date adds a deeper layer of symbolism to the project. Birthdays often represent renewal, reflection, and forward momentum — themes that mirror the essence of the album titles themselves.
For Omo-Opeki, the alignment of her birthday with such a significant release suggests more than coincidence. It positions the moment as a personal and professional convergence — one that celebrates longevity while signaling evolution.
In an industry where timing can shape perception, anchoring a major release to a date of personal significance strengthens the narrative around it. It becomes not just a drop, but a moment of declaration.
Rewriting the Narrative for Women in Fuji :
Fuji music, deeply rooted in Yoruba Islamic and Apala traditions, has long been shaped by male dominance in both performance and large-scale releases. While female artists have contributed significantly to its growth, landmark projects of this magnitude have rarely been associated with women.
Omo-Opeki’s 3-in-1 album challenges that precedent.
Executing a multi-volume release demands more than creative output. It requires strategic planning, financial commitment, audience loyalty, and the confidence to carry such weight within a traditional space. By taking on this scale, she is not only expanding her own catalog but also redefining what is possible for female Fuji musicians.
Leadership Beyond The Studio :
Beyond her work as a recording artist, Omo-Opeki serves as the President of the Elite Women Musician Association of Nigeria (EWMAN). Her role within the organization reflects a broader commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and structural support for women in the music industry.
This dual position — as both artist and leader — strengthens the significance of her upcoming release. It reinforces her credibility not just as a performer, but as a figure actively shaping opportunities for others.
Balancing creative output with industry leadership is no small feat. Yet, it adds weight to the moment, positioning the album as part of a larger narrative around representation and access.
A Strategic Moment For Fuji in a Global Era :
The announcement arrives at a time when Afrobeats continues to dominate global conversations, often overshadowing indigenous genres. In this context, bold releases within traditional spaces carry added importance.
A project of this scale does more than spotlight an individual artist — it draws attention back to the genre itself.
By delivering a 3-in-1 album with clear thematic direction and symbolic timing, Omo-Opeki is contributing to a renewed visibility for Fuji. It becomes a reminder that the genre remains dynamic, evolving, and capable of commanding attention on its own terms.
A Defining Chapter in Motion :
With Step Up, Multi Talented, and God’s Mercy, Omo-Opeki is not just releasing music — she is curating a moment that blends personal significance, artistic ambition, and cultural impact.
April 8 will mark more than a birthday. It will stand as a milestone in her journey and, potentially, a turning point in the narrative surrounding female artists in Fuji music.
As the date approaches, anticipation continues to build. But beyond expectation lies something more enduring — the sense that this release is not just about what is coming next, but about what it makes possible going forward.
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