Entertainment
GOV. Dapo ABIODUN’S SPEECH AT THE 2019 OJUDE OBA FESTIVAL
ADDRESS DELIVERED BY THE GOVERNOR OF OGUN STATE,
HIS EXCELLENCY, PRINCE DAPO ABIODUN, MFR
AT THE 2019 OJUDE OBA FESTIVAL,
HELD ON TUESDAY, 13TH AUGUST, 2019
Protocols,
The Ojude Oba festival has metamorphosised from being an homage paying visit to the Awujale by the Ijebu Ode Muslim community led by Balogun Odueyungbo Kuku (the second Balogun of Ijebu Ode) to becoming a unifying traditional festival among the Ijebusand the entire people of Ogun State. The Ojude Oba festival has grown to become a major communal activity that brings about the general development not only to the Ijebu community, but to the entire Ogun State. As a Government, we are most delighted to be part of the 2019 Ojude Oba festival.
2.On this note, and on behalf of the Government and the good people of Ogun State, let me congratulate our revered Kabiyesi, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona CFR, Ogbagba II, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, on the commemoration of the 2019 Ojude Oba festival. Kabiyesi, your fatherly role in preserving the pomp and pageantry as well as the style and substance of this great event is worthy of commendation. I commend the High Chiefs and the generality of Ijebu people, particularly the entire members of the Ojude Oba Planning Committee for hosting yet another well-planned and highly successful Ojude Oba festival.
3.Distinguished ladies and gentleman, let me observe that the choice of the theme for this year Ojude Oba festival: “the Uniqueness of Ijebu Nation” could not have been more apt, considering the fact that Ijebuland occupies a very important place in the development agenda of Ogun State. The Ijebus are known to be successful merchants and entrepreneurs. Ijebu is home to many renowned sons and daughters of Ogun State who have made their marks in different walks of life, notably among whom are; Chief Adeola Odutola, Chief Okunowo, Chief Bayo Kuku, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Otunba Subomi Balogun, ObaOtudeko, Prof Akin Mabogunje, Chief Mike Adenuga, Baba Okuboyejo, Prof. Oyinade Olurin, Prof. Beatrice Aboyade, and many others too numerous to mention, here. In the area of culture and tourism, Ijebuland is home to very interesting artefacts and historic sites as well as unique traditions and customs of which the Ojude Oba Festival is one. In addition, Ijebu Kingdom is endowed with numerous and long-standing tourist attractions, such as the Birikisu Sugbo Shrine, Yemoji Natural Pool, Iwasi Eco-tourism Centre, Iwopin Water front, Ebute Oni Tourist Beach, the magnificent Awujale Palace and so on.
4.Kabiyesi, eminent personalities, here gathered, it is no gainsaying that the Ojude Oba festival has grown to become one of the most popular socio-cultural event in the entire South–West region of Nigeria and indeed a global tourist attraction. It showcases the cooperation and collaborative tendencies of the rich Yoruba culture. Our Administration will continue to support this great festival as we are desirous of sustaining and promoting culture, tourism and the lessons of the positive development that would be engendered through our collective efforts.
5.Permit me to note that the lesson of collaborative effort, which the yearly commemoration of the Ojude Oba festival promotes, is significant to the successful implementation of our Administration’s “Building our Future Together” agenda. As an Administration, we understand the fact that no meaningful development can occur without the collaborative efforts of all and sundry. We understand that, for any development to take place, the people have an important role to play by contributing meaningfully and positively. We therefore seek the support and cooperation of our people at all times in our quest to build a solid foundation for the future of our dear State.
6.Let me use this medium to thank the good people of Ogun State for their belief and trust in our Administration, particularly, for entrusting the fate of Ogun State on us. We promise that we will not betray the mandate our people bestowed on us in the last gubernatorial election. I am assuring all the people of Ogun State, and all those who have made our dear State their home that we will not disappoint you. You will enjoy the deserved dividends of democracy. We are unreservedly committed to giving Ogun Sate a focused and qualitative governance and to create the enabling environment for a Public-Private sector Partnership, which is fundamental to the creation of an enduring economic development and individual prosperity of the people of Ogun State. We pledge to be participatory, transparent, accountable, inclusive, fair, just, equitable and obey the rule of law.
7.We are not unaware of unsolicited comments from some uninformed quarters that we have only focused ourselves with setting up and inaugurating Committees. Let me state that as a responsible government, we need to know where we are coming from for us to be able to know where we are heading. So, we need to ensure that whatever we do is not just done, but done well without allowing for distractions from any quarters. Let me also state that the committees are made up of people with integrity and requisite professional backgrounds, who are ready to contribute their quotas to the successful implementation of our “Building our Future Together” agenda.
8.As a responsible government of Ogun State, we will continue to support all enterprises that will bring further development to Ogun State and our people, irrespective of gender or religious affiliations. Our Administration is irrevocably committed to ensure equity, fairness and justice. We will be fair and firm in the allocation of resources and provide enabling environment for our people to maximize their potentials.
9.We understand the importance of basic infrastructure to economic development. I must say that, amongst other efforts, all hands are already on deck to ensure that many of the roads across our dear State are rehabilitated, constructed and reconstructed as the case may be. OurAdministration and Federal Government are working out agreement on the reconstruction of the three major roads crying for assistance: Ijebu Ode-Epe Road; Abeokuta-Sango-Lagos Road; and, Sagamu-Ogijo-Ikorodu Road. Indeed, we are finalising the details of the completion of the uncompleted portion of the Epe – Ijebu Ode road. Ogun State being a gateway to Nigeria, with shared borders with Benin Republic as well as some States in Nigeria, we understand the need for collaboration. As part of the collaborative effort with the others, we have reached an advanced stage with Lagos State on the establishment of Lagos-Ogun Joint Development Commission, which will serve as a platform for collaborative development programmes.
10.Before I end this address, let me assure our people of a continued secured environment for individuals and businesses. The recent cases of kidnap that happened in our dear State are just a test of our resolve and strong commitment to continue to ensure the security of lives and properties of our people. With our sincere gratitude to our President, President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, and the security agencies and their leadership, all the victims of the incidents of 23rd and 24th July, 2019; and, 1st August, 2019, along Lagos-Ibadan expressway and Sagamu-Benin-Ore expressway, respectively, have been rescued unhurt while suspects have been arrested and are undergoing interrogation. I want to once again, use this occasion to sound a note of warning to criminals and their accomplices that no part of Ogun State will be a safe haven for them. We shall fish them out and hand them over to the swift hand of justice.
11.Therefore, let me enjoin you all to celebrate with moderation and enjoy the euphoria of this great Ojude Oba festival. I enjoin us all tobe security conscious as security is the business of all. I, once again, congratulate our Kabiyesi, the Awujale of Ijebuland; and, other Obashere present. I also commend the organisers of this grand event for their initiative and for being instrumental to various developmentprogrammes of Ijebuland. I appreciate all those who have, in one way or another, contributed to the success of this event. May God continue to crown your efforts with success. Amen. To all those that are visiting, I wish you journey mercies back.
12.Kabiyesi, A ku Odun, Aku Iyedun, A seyi samodun o. Amin.
Igbega ipinle Ogun, ajose gbogbo wa ni o!
13.I thank you all for listening and God bless.
Prince Dapo Abiodun, MFR
Governor of Ogun State, Nigeria.
Tuesday, 13th August, 2019
Entertainment
Nollywood Actress and Philanthropist Amb. Princess Chelsea R.C. Nwodo Appointed as Chief of Staff to AGN National President*
*Nollywood Actress and Philanthropist Amb. Princess Chelsea R.C. Nwodo Appointed as Chief of Staff to AGN National President*
Abuja, Nigeria – The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) announces the appointment of Amb. Princess Chelsea R.C. Nwodo as the new Chief of Staff to National President, ALHAJI SANUSI ABUBAKAR YAKUBU. This strategic move underscores the Guild’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to fostering a more efficient and effective leadership structure.
Amb. Nwodo brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role, having served as a National Deputy Secretary (Emeritus) and demonstrating exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of the Guild’s vision and mission. A respected member of the Nigerian entertainment industry, she is also known for her dedication to promoting actor welfare and advancing the Guild’s interests.
*A Proven Track Record*
Amb. Nwodo’s appointment is a testament to her outstanding contributions to AGN and her commitment to serving the Nigerian film industry. Her philanthropic efforts and advocacy for social causes have made a positive impact on Nigerian communities, She’s also the CEO of CHELSEA NWODO’S FOUNDATION a foundation known for its unique cultural expression and alliance with many state government including Delta state government and so on.
*About the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN)*
The AGN is the governing body for professional actors in Nigeria’s Nollywood film industry, established in 1998 with over one million members across the six geopolitical zones of the federation. The Guild promotes actor’s welfare, protects their rights, and advances the Nigerian film industry.
Entertainment
From Drill to Deen: Central Cee’s Conversion and the Power of Faith in Modern Hip-Hop
From Drill to Deen: Central Cee’s Conversion and the Power of Faith in Modern Hip-Hop
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
“The British rap star’s public declaration of Islam sparks global reactions and renews debate about spirituality, identity, and influence in contemporary music.”
British rap superstar Central Cee has publicly announced that he has converted to Islam, a revelation that has rapidly spread across global media and social platforms, drawing reactions from fans, cultural commentators and religious observers alike. The development marks a deeply personal shift for one of the most influential voices in modern UK drill, and it highlights the growing intersection between faith, identity and popular culture.
Central Cee, whose real name is Oakley Neil Caesar-Su, disclosed the decision during a recent livestream, where he stated that he had taken the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith that formally marks a person’s conversion to Islam.
According to multiple reports published on February 6, 2026, the rapper confirmed the conversion publicly, saying he had changed his name and embraced Islam, with friends present during the broadcast congratulating him.
The announcement quickly became a trending global topic, with thousands of fans flooding social media with messages of support and congratulation.
What happened, when, where and how
The confirmed facts are straightforward.
What happened: Central Cee announced his conversion to Islam.
Who: The British rapper, born Oakley Neil Caesar-Su.
When: The announcement surfaced publicly on or around February 6, 2026.
Where: The declaration was made during a livestream, widely circulated online.
How: He confirmed he had taken the Shahada and embraced Islam, with friends present during the session.
Before this announcement, Central Cee had never publicly declared adherence to any specific religion, though fans had long speculated about his spiritual leanings.
Background: the rise of a global rap force
Born on June 4, 1998, in London, Central Cee rose from the streets of Shepherd’s Bush to become one of the most commercially successful British rappers of his generation.
He achieved mainstream recognition with his 2020 single Day in the Life and later dominated charts with hits such as Doja and Sprinter, accumulating billions of streams worldwide.
By the mid-2020s, he had become a defining figure in UK drill, blending street narratives with a polished, globally accessible sound.
Reactions and significance
The news of his conversion triggered widespread reaction across continents. Many fans congratulated him, using phrases such as “Welcome to Islam, brother,” reflecting the celebratory tone among supporters.
Others expressed curiosity about whether the decision would influence his music, public image, or future lyrical direction.
Cultural analysts note that religion has long played a quiet but significant role in hip-hop. From Malcolm X’s influence on American rap consciousness to the presence of Muslim artists in both US and UK scenes, faith has often shaped artistic identity.
British sociologist Dr. Reza Pankhurst, writing on religion and youth culture, has argued that for many urban artists, faith offers “a language of discipline, moral structure and belonging in environments often defined by instability.”
Similarly, American scholar Dr. Sherman Jackson has noted that Islam’s appeal among musicians and athletes lies partly in its “emphasis on personal responsibility, spiritual dignity, and community.”
While these are broader observations about religious influence in culture, they help explain why high-profile conversions often resonate far beyond the personal sphere.
Why the announcement matters
Central Cee is not merely another celebrity; he is one of the most commercially powerful voices in British rap, with global reach across Europe, Africa, Asia and North America. His decisions, therefore, carry symbolic weight.
When artists of such stature publicly embrace a faith, it often triggers three parallel conversations:
First, identity: Fans begin to examine how the artist’s beliefs align with their lyrics and public persona.
Second, influence: Younger audiences may view the decision as aspirational or spiritually significant.
Third, authenticity: Critics and supporters alike debate whether faith will reshape the artist’s artistic content.
British cultural commentator Kehinde Andrews has previously observed that hip-hop is “not just music but a social language through which young people negotiate power, race, faith and identity.”
In that sense, Central Cee’s announcement becomes part of a larger cultural dialogue not merely a personal declaration.
The question of a new name
Some reports indicate that the rapper mentioned changing his name after taking the Shahada, though details remain inconsistent across sources.
While certain online reports suggested possible new names, there is no universally confirmed official new name from the artist at the time of reporting.
This remains an evolving aspect of the story, and responsible reporting requires caution until a formal statement is released through verified channels.
The broader context: faith and hip-hop
Central Cee joins a growing list of artists who have publicly embraced Islam. Over the decades, figures such as Yasiin Bey (Mos Def), Lupe Fiasco, Ice Cube, and Q-Tip have either converted to Islam or drawn heavily from Islamic teachings in their music.
In the UK, Muslim identity has long been intertwined with the grime and drill scenes, reflecting the multicultural realities of cities like London, Birmingham and Manchester.
Cultural historian Tricia Rose, one of the foremost scholars of hip-hop, once wrote that the genre “has always been a site of spiritual searching, moral struggle and social commentary.”
In that context, a public conversion is not an anomaly but part of a longstanding tradition of artists seeking meaning beyond fame and commercial success.
What remains unclear
Despite the viral spread of the story, certain details are still evolving:
The exact location of the livestream has not been formally confirmed.
The identity of the individuals present during the Shahada has not been publicly verified.
Any official legal name change has not been documented in confirmed public records.
Responsible journalism requires distinguishing between verified facts and social-media speculation.
Final assessment
Central Cee’s conversion to Islam is a deeply personal decision that has nonetheless sparked global conversation. Announced during a livestream in early February 2026, the declaration places one of Britain’s most influential rappers at the centre of a broader discussion about faith, culture and celebrity influence.
In an era where artists are often defined solely by streaming numbers and chart positions, his announcement underscores a different narrative: the search for meaning, identity, and spiritual grounding in the midst of global fame.
As the late scholar James Cone once wrote, “Spiritual transformation is the most radical form of social change, because it begins inside the human soul.”
Whether Central Cee’s journey will reshape his music or remain a private source of guidance is a question only time can answer. What is certain, however, is that his decision has already stirred conversations that extend far beyond the world of rap.
Entertainment
Remembering Afeez Adeshina “Destiny Boy” : A Life of Promise, Music, And Quiet Impact ~ 1ST ELEVEN9JA TV
Remembering Afeez Adeshina “Destiny Boy” : A Life of Promise, Music, And Quiet Impact ~ 1ST ELEVEN9JA TV
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
The Nigerian music scene is mourning the loss of Afeez Adeshina Ayinde, popularly known as Destiny Boy, whose passing has left a deep sense of grief among family, friends, and fans. Though his life was brief, his story is one marked by determination, creativity, and a steady rise driven by passion rather than noise. Destiny Boy passed away on January 17, 2026, at the age of 22, cutting short a journey that many believed was only just beginning.
Early Life And Background :
Afeez Adeshina was born on june 24, 2003, into the Adeshina family of Odo Rori Compound, Ayetoro Yewa, Ogun State, Nigeria. He was the son of Mr. Adeshina Kamorudeen and Mrs. Saidat Adeshina, raised within a close-knit family environment that shaped his values and character.
From an early age, Afeez was known for his calm demeanor and respectful nature. Those who grew up around him often describe him as gentle, focused, and quietly ambitious. Music became an outlet through which he expressed himself, long before public recognition followed. What began as interest and experimentation gradually turned into purpose.
Music Career And Creative Journey :
Known professionally as Destiny Boy, Afeez carved out his place in music through persistence rather than spectacle. He was deeply passionate about his craft and committed to growth, often collaborating and featuring in songs and music videos across Nigeria and beyond.
While he may not have been the loudest voice in the room, Destiny Boy earned respect for his work ethic and humility. He approached music with seriousness, seeing it not just as entertainment but as a path to building something meaningful. Colleagues and collaborators consistently describe him as hardworking, disciplined, and eager to learn — traits that set him apart in an industry often defined by fast success and fleeting attention.
His presence in multiple projects across different platforms reflected a steady upward movement. For many young creatives, Destiny Boy represented the quiet grind: showing up, improving, and letting the work speak.
Family Life And Personal Milestones :
Beyond music, Afeez embraced responsibility early in life. He got married to Oluwatoyin Adeshina, and their union was blessed with a son, Adeshina Usman Obatide, born on November 12, 2024. Becoming a husband and father added new depth to his life, grounding him further and reshaping his priorities.
Those close to him speak of his devotion to family and his desire to build a stable future. Balancing personal life with creative ambition was not always easy, but Afeez carried these responsibilities with maturity well beyond his years.
His Passing :
The news of Destiny Boy’s death on January 17, 2026, came as a shock to many. At just 22 years old, his passing raised a collective sense of loss — not only for what he had achieved, but for the potential that remained unrealized.
While details surrounding his death have been kept private, the impact has been deeply felt across his immediate community and within creative circles. Tributes have highlighted not only his music but his character: kind-hearted, respectful, and sincere.
Burial Arrangements :
The Adeshina family has announced that Afeez Adeshina Ayinde (Destiny Boy) will be laid to rest on:
Friday, January 23, 2026 :
Time : 2:00 PM
Venue : His father’s residence, Odo Rori Compound, Ayetoro Yewa, Ogun State
Family members, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers are expected to gather to pay their final respects and celebrate a life that, though short, left a meaningful imprint.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers :
Destiny Boy’s story is not one measured by chart positions or awards, but by consistency, humility, and quiet influence. He represented a generation of young Nigerian creatives navigating ambition, responsibility, and identity in real time.
In remembering Afeez Adeshina, many will recall a young man who showed up for his craft, valued his family, and treated people with respect. His journey serves as a reminder that impact is not always loud — sometimes, it is built patiently, one step at a time.
As he is laid to rest, his music, memories, and the lives he touched remain.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
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