Entertainment

EMPRESS NJAMAH REPLIES TONTO DIKE OVER TATTO PALAVER “IT’S A PITY’

Published

10 years ago

January 24, 2015

Empress Njamah is a delectable Nollywood actress. In an exclusive interview with Sahara Weekly, she opened up on life, foundation and finally responded Tonto Dikeh over comments on Tatto inscription. Excerpts…

How does it feel being a year older?

It feels great. It’s like a step further to a greater level of understanding and knowledge of life. Above all, I thank God for everything.

What are some of the things that have changed about you?

My manner of approach to life is now positive, less anxiety but more maturity.

What has been your greatest life challenge?

Being Empress Njamah at all times, that is, being myself no matter what happens, anywhere or everywhere I find me.

How old is Empress Njamah Foundation and what has kept it going?

The Foundation is nine year old and I must say it’s the “GOD” factor that has kept it going not me.

How did you come about it?

I came about the Foundation due to the overwhelming occurrence of child negligence. I was moved to do something, at least start somewhere by giving them that tiny ray of hope and I still intend to do more with the help of the Almighty.

What have been the challenges so far?

Well I must say here that it’s been really turbulent, but God is faithful and will always be. At the same time, I do not see challenges; I only see opportunities to make things better.

How did you get funds to take care of these children?

It’s not been easy though, like I mentioned earlier on, the GOD factor always miraculously weathered the storm. It’s part of how I pay my tithe. I have never gotten funds from a soul, government or friends, it has been my sweat all the way and House of Empress has been supportive too.

How do you always feel anytime you celebrate your birthday with the less privileged children?

I feel fulfilled as a person, because while growing as a child in Church, I was taught to always help those in need and by doing that it brings a ray of hope where it has been dashed, thereby bringing God’s Blessings upon you. I celebrate them all the time not just on my birthday. The foundation celebrates with the kids every month. It brings joy to me whenever I am with them. I feel loads of joy and happiness which words can’t explain.

Aside having fun and catering for them, how else do you make them happy?

ANS: I Dish out gifts to them and continuously induce that positive mentality into them! We have a lot of things we also do that makes them happy such as The Workshop. We introduce them to so many things which keep them busy. They include art and craft/matting/molding/drawings (we pay people who come to train them) the girls learn catering too, so many and if they do it right, aunt Empress picks top then give them a treat such as going to watch movies/outing/dinners and many more, it depends.

Tell us more about “House of Empress”?

Just like a house with many rooms, HOE is a firm with many departments, from the clothesline to the multi-purpose unisex saloon to the events planning section and also interior décor. We are unisex and everything is under one umbrella.

What inspired it?

Like I said the GOD factor. Everything happens for a reason! I am really not the vogue kind of person or the type who wears what’s in fashion! I am just that jean kind of person and I love dinner wears too. Back in the days, friends always ask or call me to help them combine stuff or call and ask what they should buy in terms of fashion items. I love to dress people, so I guess that is part of how the idea was conceived. Here I am doing it and till date I dress up people for events and so on!

What were the challenges of setting it up?

You know money they say answers all things. I had a bit of financial challenges and then the perfect location. It was not easy but I thank God.

What inspires your fashion?

Colors, the environments, my mood or my mother. The reason is because she was and is still a fashionista in her heydays. I guess it runs in the family.

What is your reaction to Tonto Dikeh’s recent response to your criticism of tattoos?

Believe me, it’s a pity when intellects figuratively throw the coin on the table, mischievous people convict themselves by picking it up. The Bible has all the answer to the question of tattoo! I am a product of Sunday school from childhood.

-ENITAN ABIODUN

Entertainment

Netflix Denies Leaving Nigerian Market

Published

12 hours ago

December 5, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Netflix Denies Leaving Nigerian Market

Despite reports from three publications suggesting Netflix is exiting the Nigerian market, the global streaming giant has firmly denied these claims, insisting it will continue to invest in Nigerian content.

The speculation was fueled by comments from Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, who spoke at the 2024 Zuma International Film Festival. Afolayan claimed Netflix canceled several films it had previously commissioned from unnamed filmmakers.

“Three years ago, when we signed the three-film deal with Netflix, it was really exciting,” Afolayan said. The filmmaker went on to share that despite the stellar performance of those movies globally, Netflix seemed unimpressed by their returns in Nigeria.

“Thank God we had shot seasons two and three [of Anikulapo] because all the other people that were commissioned with us at the same time were canceled.”

However, Afolayan did not explicitly state that Netflix was exiting the Nigerian market, although his remarks will rightly drive speculation that the streaming platform is retreating from the country. This speculation is not entirely unfounded—Amazon Prime, another major streaming service, exited Nigeria in January 2024 one year after a huge marketing campaign and a slate of original Nigerian productions..

In a statement to TechCabal on Wednesday, a Netflix spokesperson reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Nigeria, saying, “We are not exiting Nigeria. We will continue to invest in Nigerian stories to delight our audience.”

The spokesperson did not immediately address Afolayan’s claims about canceled projects. Still, Wednesday’s conversation and social media reactions highlight growing uncertainty around Netflix’s long-term strategy in Nigeria, where rising inflation and currency devaluation have pressured consumer spending power.

Netflix has struggled to capture a large share of Nigeria’s competitive streaming market, which is dominated by the more affordable Showmax, a service operated by Multichoice. Netflix—currently priced at ₦7,000 ($4) per month—remains a luxury for many Nigerians, especially as inflation and naira devaluation erode purchasing power.

With local players continuing to outperform in pricing, Netflix’s ability to maintain its position in the region could become increasingly challenging.

Netflix’s relationship with Nigeria dates back to 2016 when it began licensing high-profile local films. Since 2016, it has poured over $23 million into Nigeria’s film industry, backing over 250 locally licensed titles, co-productions, and original commissions. Lionheart, The Wedding Party 2, and King of Boys are some of its most recognisable titles. In 2020, the streaming service signed multi-title deals with prominent Nigerian producers like Mo Abudu’s EbonyLife Productions. In 2021, it expanded its partnership with Kunle Afolayan, signing a deal for three films, including an adaptation of Sefi Atta’s Swallow.

Entertainment

Bullion Records’ Star GyC Poised To Make A Difference With A Billion Things

Published

3 days ago

December 2, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Bullion Records’ Star GyC Poised To Make A Difference With A Billion Things

Nigerian music sensation GyC, whose real name is Fortune Kingsley, is gearing up for the highly anticipated release of his first EP album, “A Billion Things”, under Bullion Records.

The EP, set to drop on December 12, 2024, features five tracks: Mailo, Shayo, Woman, Kpang Kpang, and Kokan Aye, a collaboration with music legends 9ice and Eedris Abdul Kareem.

Speaking about GyC’s journey and the upcoming EP, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, CEO of Bullion Records, described the artist as a versatile and dynamic talent who has redefined the boundaries of African music.

“GyC is not just an artiste; he’s a maestro. His ability to blend different genres with authenticity and creativity is what sets him apart. This EP will showcase his evolution and reinforce his position as one of the most promising musical exports from Africa,” Ambassador Oguntoyinbo stated

GyC, fondly called “The Maestro,” has made a name for himself in the music industry, starting his professional career in 2002 in Calabar.

Over the years, he has garnered significant acclaim, including clinching the FME Singer and Producer of the Year awards in 2013 and 2014.

Known for his songwriting prowess and exceptional performances, GyC has collaborated with numerous A-list artists and shared stages with the likes of Wizkid, Flavour, Phyno, Mayorkun, Kizz Daniel, 2Baba, and Olamide.

Adding to the excitement around the EP, Bullion Records’ Managing Director, Mr. Femi Elegbede Ajibola, emphasized the label’s commitment to nurturing extraordinary talent
EP marks a new chapter in GyC’s career. It’s more than just a collection of songs; it’s a body of work that reflects his journey, passion, and dedication to his craft. We at Bullion Records are proud to support him as he takes his music to a global audience,” Mr. Ajibola stated.
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Bullion Records’ Star GyC Poised To Make A Difference With A Billion Things
Entertain360
By Shojobi Abisola On Dec 2, 2024

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Nigerian music sensation GyC, whose real name is Fortune Kingsley, is gearing up for the highly anticipated release of his first EP album, “A Billion Things”, under Bullion Records.

The EP, set to drop on December 12, 2024, features five tracks: Mailo, Shayo, Woman, Kpang Kpang, and Kokan Aye, a collaboration with music legends 9ice and Eedris Abdul Kareem.

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“GyC is not just an artiste; he’s a maestro. His ability to blend different genres with authenticity and creativity is what sets him apart. This EP will showcase his evolution and reinforce his position as one of the most promising musical exports from Africa,” Ambassador Oguntoyinbo stated.

GyC, fondly called “The Maestro,” has made a name for himself in the music industry, starting his professional career in 2002 in Calabar.

Over the years, he has garnered significant acclaim, including clinching the FME Singer and Producer of the Year awards in 2013 and 2014.

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Known for his songwriting prowess and exceptional performances, GyC has collaborated with numerous A-list artists and shared stages with the likes of Wizkid, Flavour, Phyno, Mayorkun, Kizz Daniel, 2Baba, and Olamide.

Adding to the excitement around the EP, Bullion Records’ Managing Director, Mr. Femi Elegbede Ajibola, emphasized the label’s commitment to nurturing extraordinary talent.

“This EP marks a new chapter in GyC’s career. It’s more than just a collection of songs; it’s a body of work that reflects his journey, passion, and dedication to his craft. We at Bullion Records are proud to support him as he takes his music to a global audience,” Mr. Ajibola stated.

GyC’s influence extends beyond music. His community-oriented initiatives, such as the annual GyC Street Carnival in Ikeja, Lagos, highlight his commitment to giving back. The carnival, which is free to the public, has become a cultural highlight, featuring performances from notable superstars.

With previous performances on international stages, including The Glo Rock & Rule Tour, the Annual Calabar Carnival, Trace in The City Concert, and Loud N Proud Live, GyC’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable. His recent tours in Kenya, Mozambique, and South Africa further solidify his global appeal.

Fans and industry watchers eagerly await the release of A Billion Things, which promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the African music scene. As the December 12 release date approaches, GyC stands ready to captivate audiences worldwide and affirm his place as a leading voice in contemporary music.

Entertainment

Aristos Band releases ‘Battalion Praise’ thanksgiving medley

Published

3 days ago

December 2, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Aristos Band releases ‘Battalion Praise’ thanksgiving medley

Aristos Band, a multiple award-winning music group, has released its much anticipated medley titled ‘Battalion Praise’.

‘Battalion Praise’ is a gospel rendition of melodious thanksgiving medley that cuts across different Nigerian tribes. It features a large ensemble of African percussions and sound that transports the listeners and audience into an atmosphere of euphoric praise to the Almighty.

The inspirational medley is currently available on all digital streaming platforms.

Aristos band was founded in 2008 by Sammy Sodeke, popularly known as “Sammy Sho” a veteran Keyboardist, Saxophonist, music producer/instructor who has played and directed music from within and outside the shores of Nigeria with vast experience in live music entertainment and music management.

BATTALION PRAISE IS available on all streaming platforms.
Full video on YouTube @aristosband
Aristos Band…The Life of The Party