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AFRIMA 2018: African Union, Ghana partner for Calendar Unveiling

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The 2018 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) annual calendar of programmes
will be unveiled on Monday, May 21, 2018 by the African Union Commission
(AUC) in collaboration with Government of the Republic of Ghana, and the
International Committee of AFRIMA during a world media event and music
conference scheduled for Accra, the capital city of Ghana.
Part of the agenda for the Calendar Unveiling of the fifth annual
edition of AFRIMA is a Courtesy Visit to His Excellency, the President
of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who is set to receive African
delegates and music stars attending the event from around Africa
including the Head of Culture, African Union, Mrs. Angela Martins;
President/Executive Producer, AFRIMA, Mr. Mike Dada; Director, Brand
Communications, AFRIMA; Ms. Matlou Tsotetsi; AFRIMA Regional Director;
Western Africa, Mr. Don Obilor, the Ghanaian-UK AFRIMA Juror,
(representing UK-Diaspora) and BBC-1 show host, Ms. Rita Ray and the
AFRIMA Country Director, Ghana, Mr. Francis Doku.
Also participating at the event are past AFRIMA nominees and winners,
music professionals and executives, creative/culture industry policy
makers, members of the media industry and other award-winning recording
artistes living in Ghana and in other African countries.
Commenting on the event in line with government’s objective to develop
sustainable tourism pivoted on Ghanaian arts and culture, Ghana’s
Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Catherine Afeku, said:
“Arts and culture, as a sector, remains one of Africa’s greatest
strengths. As well as being a source of values, identity and a sense of
belonging, the creative industries have become a driver of economic
growth and job creation. In agreeing to host the AFRIMA 2018 Calendar
Unveiling, the Government of Ghana is motivated by the need to harness
the potential of the creative sector of Ghana to promote national and
regional tourism. We congratulate the African Union for lending its
weight behind this laudable effort”.
Hon. Afeku added, “The Government of Ghana recognizes the potential of
the Creative Industries to shape and reinforce the country’s economic
growth. Studies show that by the end of the first decade of this
millennium, cultural activities contributed to 1.53% of the Gross
Domestic Product (GDP) of our country.  Zeroing in on music industry, it
is reported with some justifiable pride that that sector alone adds
approximately GH¢100 million to GDP”.
Speaking on the collaborative work by the African Union and the
International Committee of AFRIMA to create inventive solutions to
achieving the AU Charter for African Cultural Renaissance and the Plan
of Action on Cultural and Creative Industries, the Acting Director for
Social Affairs, African Union Commission, Madam Mariama Cisse revealed
that partnerships with member AU states such as Ghana further galvanise
the achievement of the AU policy on Africa transformation through social
integration.
In her statement, the Acting Director for Social Affairs, African Union,
said: “The hosting by the Republic of Ghana of this unveiling event is
very important given that previous events were hosted by the Federal
Republic of Nigeria and it is crucial that the initiative rotates in the
AU Member States to ensure broader popularization and enhance its
Pan-African nature. We thus express our gratitude to the Government of
the Republic of Ghana for hosting the event and call upon all musical
artists to participate in the initiative by submitting their works once
the call for submissions is open”.
AFRIMA, Africa’s biggest music awards property, will roll out the 2018
calendar under the theme “Africa is Music”. The calendar features
back-to-back events traversing several countries in the five regions of
Africa. Some of these planned events include music/culture conferences;
country visits to converse with critical music/culture industry
stakeholders and high-octane music concerts tagged “Turn Up Africa”
which objective is to connect fans and followers of African music with
their favourite Africa music stars of the traditional and contemporary
genres.
In partnership with the African Union, the All Africa Music Awards is a
music property that recognises and rewards the work and talent of a
myriad of African artists from the old to the new generation of
musicians. Through its conference, AFRIMA also stimulates conversations
among Africans and between Africa and the rest of the world about the
potential of the creative arts for real humanising enterprise on the
continent, contributing significantly to social cohesion, national,
regional and continental integration as well as sustainable development
in Africa. The award show is usually broadcast to over eighty countries
around the world

Entertainment

Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

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Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

 

 

Popular Islamic singer and entertainer, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri, has continued to receive prayers and accolades from fans, friends and well-wishers as she celebrates her birthday today.

The celebrated artiste, known for her inspiring Islamic songs and captivating stage presence, described music as a divine calling and a special gift from God meant to announce her greatness to the world.

Speaking on her journey in the entertainment industry, Kifaya said her unique voice and wisdom helped her gain quick recognition among music lovers and industry stakeholders.

According to her, “My beautiful voice coupled with great wisdom have made my versatility in the entertainment industry quick to be noticed by all and sundry.”

The singer, whose maiden album titled Alaseyori brought her into the limelight years ago, also ventured into fashion and the sales of imported shoes and bags alongside her music career.

As part of efforts to expand her reach in the industry, the Islamic music star disclosed that her songs are available on several digital streaming platforms, including Audiomack and other online play stores.

Having spent over 15 years in the music industry, Kifaya said her versatility has also earned her ambassadorial deals for different brands.

Despite the challenges encountered on her path to success, the singer expressed gratitude to God for sustaining her through difficult times.

“I have got reasons to appreciate God. Though I have passed through a lot, today I have opportunities to thank God,” she said.

Meanwhile, admirers have continued to describe the celebrant as a symbol of grace, faith and excellence, praying for greater achievements, sound health, peace of mind and abundant blessings in her new age.

The birthday celebration has also generated reactions across social media platforms, where fans and associates continue to celebrate her impact in the Islamic entertainment space and wish her many more fruitful years filled with happiness and prosperity.

 

Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

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Ileya Tonic : King Saheed Osupa Announces New 2-in-1 Album, Acapella & Metamorphosis

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Ileya Tonic : King Saheed Osupa Announces New 2-in-1 Album, Acapella & Metamorphosis

By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)

 

 

Veteran Fuji musician King Saheed Osupa is set to release a new 2-in-1 album titled Acapella & Metamorphosis on May 26, 2026.

The announcement was revealed through promotional materials shared across the singer’s official social media pages, where anticipation has already started building among longtime fans of the Fuji icon. The artwork for the project presents Osupa in a calm and regal setting, matching the mature image he has maintained throughout his career.

While full details about the tracklist and featured artists are yet to be officially released, the title of the project has already sparked conversations online. “Metamorphosis” suggests a new phase or evolution, while “Acapella” hints at a more raw or expressive musical direction. Together, both titles point toward a project that may combine classic Fuji elements with a refreshed sound and message.

Over the years, Osupa has remained one of the most respected voices in Fuji music, known for his deep lyrical style, cultural storytelling, and loyal fanbase across Nigeria and beyond. Even as the music industry continues to evolve, the singer has maintained strong relevance, especially among audiences who appreciate traditional Yoruba-rooted sounds blended with contemporary production.

The decision to release a 2-in-1 album also stands out at a time when many artists are focusing on shorter projects and singles. For established acts like Osupa, larger releases often serve as a statement of longevity, consistency, and artistic confidence.

Fans have continued to react positively to the announcement online, with many already counting down to the release date. The project is expected to arrive on major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, Boomplay, YouTube Music, TIDAL, and Deezer.

With the official release now scheduled for May 26, listeners will be watching closely to see what King Saheed Osupa delivers on Acapella & Metamorphosis and whether the project marks another defining moment in his long-running career.

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Aesha Mikaelson Returns as Producer: Actress Aishy Announces Powerful Screen Comeback With IJA ORU

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Aesha Mikaelson Returns as Producer: Actress Aishy Announces Powerful Screen Comeback With IJA ORU

 

After years away from the spotlight, Nigerian actress, producer, and media personality Aesha Mikaelson is making a highly anticipated return to the screen with a bold new identity, a renewed creative vision, and a powerful upcoming movie project titled IJA ORU — a project she is also producing.

 

Previously known in the entertainment industry as Aishy, whose real name is Aisat Iyabode Asamu, the actress built recognition through multiple media appearances and interviews across prominent Nigerian publications. Over the years, she became known for her charisma, screen presence, and growing influence within Nollywood and youth entertainment culture.

 

Now reintroduced professionally as Aesha Mikaelson, she is entering a new phase of her career — one that reflects growth, reinvention, and artistic maturity, marked not only by her return in front of the camera but also by her expanded role behind the scenes as a producer.

 

Her comeback project, IJA ORU, is scheduled to premiere on May 22 via Yetunde Barnabas TV on YouTube, marking what many insiders describe as one of the most symbolic independent returns currently building momentum in Nigeria’s digital film space.

 

Produced by Aesha Mikaelson under Quila Visuals Production, the movie blends mystery, spiritual tension, emotion, and psychological storytelling — themes that continue to resonate strongly with modern African audiences. Her dual role as both lead talent and producer underscores her evolution from performer to creative force shaping her own narratives.

 

Speaking on her return, Aesha Mikaelson described the project as more than just another film release.

 

“This is not just a comeback. It is a rebirth — creatively and personally. I took time away from the spotlight to grow, reflect and rebuild my vision as an actress, producer, and storyteller.”

 

Before her hiatus, Aishy gained public attention through several interviews and entertainment features discussing her career journey, personal growth, and experiences in the entertainment industry. Her media presence appeared in outlets including Vanguard Media Limited, Tribune Online, BusinessDay, TMY News, and The Nation Newspaper.

 

Industry observers say the rebrand to Aesha Mikaelson — paired with her step into producing — reflects a broader shift happening among modern Nigerian creatives, moving from conventional celebrity culture into more intentional brand positioning, ownership of creative output, and cinematic storytelling.

 

The visuals surrounding IJA ORU have already generated growing online conversations, particularly for their dark symbolic aesthetic and emotionally charged presentation. Fans and supporters across social media platforms have also welcomed the actress back, describing her return as “long overdue.”

 

The release further highlights the growing influence of YouTube-driven Nollywood distribution, where independent creators and producers like Aesha Mikaelson are increasingly building global audiences beyond traditional cinema systems.

 

With IJA ORU now approaching release, many believe Aesha Mikaelson’s return — this time as both star and producer — could mark the beginning of a major new chapter in her career.

 

For followers who remember the actress as Aishy, the comeback represents nostalgia. For newer audiences discovering her for the first time, it may become the start of a powerful new screen identity led by a creator now firmly in command of her own story.

 

IJA ORU premieres May 22 on Yetunde Barnabas TV via YouTube.

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