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Africa Film Academy: Epe Class Premiers Long Walk To Forever

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4 years ago

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Africa Film Academy

Africa Film Academy: Epe Class Premiers Long Walk To Forever

Africa Film Academy
The excited faces and applause at the Lagos Theatre, Epe, Lagos could pass for the performance of A-list acts on the big screen. However, the noise were those of family members, friends, parents and classmates of the Epe class of the film project of students of Africa Film Academy (AFA) – Film in a box -premiering their 10 minutes short film; Long Walk To Forever.

The initiative by Peace Anyiam Osigwe in conjunction with the Lagos state government in building capacity in the entertainment industry in three local governments of Alimosho, Badagry and Epe is yielding positive results.

 

 

According to Enwai, the coordinator of the Epe project, the students had a four-week theory before embarking on the practical aspect of the project.

She said: The purpose of the premiere is towards actualizing their project for Africa Film Academy (AFA). We came in and had a workshop with the students in different departments like acting, directing, scriptwriting, cinematography. AFA in conjunction with Lagos State put together a workshop for the indigenes of Epe, creative , people who are interested in joining the entertainment industry. We had facilitators coming to take the students on acting, directing, scriptwriting , cinematography and then CDGN craft like costume design, makeup, production design, and set design.

 

 

Unfortunately here in Epe, we have more of the makeup creatives. They finished with their workshop and the students out together a short film to showcase what they have learnt. We are hoping this would help the students move on from here into something bigger. Lagos state has been good with grants and the rest. We are hoping they get some money and continue from where they have started but basically what happens is that after the workshop , they are broken into companies and each company is going to continue from where they stopped. They put together stuff and hopefully, they would be empowered. We wish for the best for them. We have a mentoring session that hasn’t ended should they have any question, project or anything that they need help with.”

For Habeeb Seidu, Head, Strategy and Training, it was an amazing experience having 220 students participate in Epe alone which cuts across other areas like sound, editing and same for the film director, Olaoluwa Owoduni, indigene a graduate of Business Administration who described his experience as joyful. He plans to make good use of the knowledge he has gathered to climb to the next level.

 

 

The Producer, Toba Obafemi informed that the major cast were 14 but all the 25 students of the class including crew members were given roles.

Peter Chukwuemeka DG, the Executive producer who in his personal capacity has produced a flick is also grateful for the Lagos state for the opportunity and vowed to continue in production, directing and acting.

 

 

Though she agreed that her role was challenging and even got to a point of frustration, the lead actress, Nimot Hassan, weathered the storm and currently preparing for greater challenges in acting.
From this smile, one can observe that loverboy lead actor, Olayinka Rotinwa gave a good account of himself on screen.

Assistant director, Oluwaseyi Jimoh said that that it was not his first time in directing but he is happy to be part of the project.

 

 

Dickson Omolara Florence, who played the role of the bride’s mother debunked her role as not her actual person off screen as she said that she is a gentle and kind woman.

Adding his voice to the many thanks showered on the Lagos state government as well as giving an overview of the project, Dean of the faculty, veteran actor, Keppy Ekpeyong –Bassey said: “What we do is to recruit interested participants in about Nine (9) departments of filmmaking. We have the mandate to capacity build the three local government areas; Alimosho, Badagry and Epe. And we have been doing this six (6) months at a stretch, we have done it for some time, we have recruited some of the best brains as facilitators in the industry and the good part of it is that they are not just from the academia, we are having working practitioners also sharing experiences. We bring in people like Jide kosoko, probably Saidi Balogun, to share their experiences and encourage the participants at all levels.

 

 

Today, the students in Epe have produced their first short film. They put a premiere together and that is what they are screening. They are now more motivated now than ever because they have seen themselves for the first time on the big screen. They are hearing the applause from their classmates, parents, friends who they invited and they are realising that they can do it. The important thing is not size of building capacity, it is the fact that it is translative and already they are producing films.

And the next level after this first short film which is like a class project, it is like that in each of the local governments where we are building capacity. We break the students into four companies randomly, everybody is mixed up with all participants and they are challenged to produce films. So, we have repertoire of short films which they have produced and all the things that would be uploaded shortly and you would see what these people have done in a short time is unbelievable. What that means is not that they are the best at teaching, it is the fact that they are hungry. The participants are rather enthusiastic and they also demonstrate a lot of passion and they are translating it. We are really excited about the Lagos state government. This is about the only government that is investing heavily in entertainment. Averagely we have 250 students in each of our local government. In this present exercise, we have built capacity in over 750 people. During the exercise because of the long duration, we give them a meal a day and we found out that some of them are not really as healthy as they look, so there is a medical team that comes in and check their sugar levels, heart beats and subsequently advise them on what to do.

 

 

The scope our curriculum goes beyond the focal areas , so we included project management , mental health issues, personal hygiene, branding – those key areas to give them a more rounded feel about real life and help them key into that and take off. For instance, we started from Alimosho and since then, they have been producing their own films and sending us what they have done. We broke them into companies so that we can keep supervising what they do.

Lagos state has also volunteered to give them loans and grants, all they have to do is, come together of the companies which we have created for them and pitch, then they will consider their pitch and give them grants or loans. It doesn’t just stop now, it is a continuous exercise for them. This is a success story for me. I am waiting to see more. This vision of AFA is a Peace Anyaiam Osigwe initiative; the rest of us are just executing on her behalf.”

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

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Top Music Producer, Gbenga Leo Marks 45 Years in Music with Lagos Celebration

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2 weeks ago

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April 10, 2026

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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.

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BREAKING NEWS: Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy

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2 weeks ago

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April 8, 2026

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*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.

 

BREAKING NEWS *Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy*

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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 

Published

3 weeks ago

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April 5, 2026

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 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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