Entertainment
GOV. Dapo ABIODUN’S SPEECH AT THE 2019 OJUDE OBA FESTIVAL
Published
6 years agoon

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
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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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IS ENGAGING IN NOLLYWOOD CINEMA RELEASES A LOSER’S GAME?
Published
1 week agoon
May 18, 2025
***Where Omotola Got It Wrong And Why 95 Percent of Nigerian Theatrical Movies Are Not Profitable
****Plus 7 Powerful Strategies To Make Your Movies Pay!
By Dr. Ope Banwo – Founder, Nollyflix360 and AiFlix360
When Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, one of Nollywood’s most revered legends, recently shared her frustrations on the crushing charges and taxes swallowing up movie revenue in Nigerian cinemas, it sparked a firestorm—and rightly so. She lamented how exhibitors, distributors, government taxes, and agents take so much from box office sales that next to nothing remains for the actual filmmaker who birthed the vision, raised the funds, and took the risk.
Omosexy, you are absolutely right. Your frustration is shared by thousands of passionate producers in Nigeria who have to beg, borrow, and bleed to get their films to the big screen—only to end up with crumbs.
But here’s the kicker…
Nigerian producers may actually be better off than their American counterparts!
The truth is that Hollywood filmmakers may be having it worse than Nollywood in the area of Net Profits From Box Office Ticket Sales. It’s hard to believe, but the stats prove this, In the U.S.—the holy land of Hollywood—filmmakers often earn LESS than five percent or ten per cent of their box office gross, after:
• 50–55 percent is taken by cinema chains (Regal, AMC, Cinemark),
• 15–35 percent goes to the distributor.
• Massive marketing costs (P&A) which are recouped FIRST by marketers,
• Agents, lawyers, taxes, and guilds also take their cuts.
What’s left for the producer? Often, nothing. Even in billion-dollar franchises, most creative originators don’t profit directly from ticket sales.
So my dear Legendary Omo Sexy (I still think the battle for Female GOAT of Nollywood is between you and Genevieve). Box Office bleeding through crazy charges and taxes is not just a Nollywood problem—it’s a global system skewed against creators. The theaters, the Distributors; the Govt; the Marketers; the Advertisers; the Lawyers are all like bloodsuckers who must take their sip of your box office before you get your turn at the trough at which time virtually nothing is left.
That’s a fact whether you are making movies in Nollywood, Bollywood, Hollywood or Cannywood. The Box office in every ‘wood’ is similarly infested.
But here’s the truth that few want to admit: Cinema release is not a profit engine—it’s a promotional platform (the profit comes elsewhere beyond box office tickets).
You don’t go to cinemas to make money. You go to build brand equity, attract streaming deals, court international buyers, and signal quality. The real money? It’s in what comes BEFORE and AFTER the premiere cinema run.
Unfortunately this is the area of the movie business most Nollywood filmmakers still struggle with
Why 95 Percent Of Nollywood Theatrical Movies Are Not Profitable
1. Poor financial planning: Before or after the cinema run, most producers focus only on production, ignoring monetization.
2. Over dependence on box office- They falsely believe cinema income is the main revenue. I remember my shock at getting my final cheque after the successful box office run of my Ghetto Dreamz movie about the musician Dagrin in 2012. I went into a depression.
3. Ignorance of revenue stack – No strategy for digital, merchandizing, diaspora, brand sponsorship or licensing income.
4. Weak marketing – Few invest in serious PR or target audience building. Most make a cinema movie for say N100 Million but spend N5million only in marketing and wonder what happened.
5. Lack of business education – Many guilds focus on politics, not profitability or movie business education for their followers
7 Proven Strategies to Increase Film Profitability in Nollywood
I am not an expert on movie monetization (I confess that I myself is still trying to figure it out and mostly still in research stage because execution is harder than theory) but here are some ways I have come to learn that entrepreneurial filmmakers can monetize their movies.
1. Pre-sell Streaming Rights – Before you even release the movie, shop it to Netflix, Showmax, Prime Video, ROK, IrokoTV and more. Some films make their entire profit upfront.
2. Package TV Licensing Deals – Sell rights to Africa Magic, ROK on DSTV, and even NTA or AIT. These platforms pay per title or per broadcast cycle. A good film can earn multiple repeat fees.
3. Build a YouTube Monetization Engine –
Own your own channel, build an audience, and earn via AdSense + brand partnerships. Many filmmakers earn more monthly on YouTube than from box office.
4. Secure Brand Sponsorships & Product Placements – Plan your story to include brands, products, and shout-outs that fit organically. Charge N500K to N5M per placement depending on reach and genre.
5. Monetize the Diaspora – Create limited screening tours in London, Houston, Johannesburg, etc. Many diaspora communities are hungry for quality Nigerian stories—and they will pay.
6. Leverage Film Festivals & International Grants – Submit to AFRIFF, TIFF, Berlinale, Sundance, ZIFF, and win grants, awards, and distribution contracts. Festivals increase global visibility and perceived value.
7. Repurpose Content into Other Formats – Turn your film into merch (T-shirts, mugs), novels, web series, or behind-the-scenes content. Monetize across multiple verticals and platforms.
What we need now is to start experimenting with some of these options and more and figure out what works and what’s jsit theory for us
It’s time Nollywood Guilds and Associations—DGN, AMP, ANTP, AGN, MOPPAN—wake up and do their real job:
Train your members to profit from their creativity—not just win awards and titles!
Instead of endless AGMs and power tussles, let’s see more
• Monetization masterclasses
• Partnership brokerage with streaming platforms
• Legal workshops on licensing and IP protection
• Structured mentorship on multi-channel film revenue.
If our industry bodies continue to chase prestige without profit, the industry will keep losing its best talents to burnout, bankruptcy, or migration.
Final Word: The Cinema Is a Stage—Not the Bank
Omotola is right to call attention to the seemingly unfair deductions, but let’s also flip the script. No smart entrepreneur relies on a single revenue stream—and movie producers shouldn’t either. Box office is not the magic bullet for profitability.
Let our filmmakers learn to think beyond the big screen, plan multiple exits, and monetize their brilliance through every avenue possible.
Nollywood is not really a loser’s game—unless you play it with your eyes closed and refuse to broaden your knowledge about the business side of movie making
Ope Banwo
Mayor Of Fadeyi
CEO, Stingomania Entertainement
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May 11th : Fuji Star, Adekunle Marckenson Stages An All White London Welcome Back Party
Published
4 weeks agoon
April 30, 2025
May 11th : Fuji Star, Adekunle Marckenson Stages An All White London Welcome Back Party
The most epic celebration of the year is coming as Dr. Kunle Marckenson returns to Nigeria after a successful Tours in London! De Crown Music International And Yommyright Entertainment International, in conjunction with Arems Entertainment, are thrilled to present his homecoming party and a vibrant welcome dance party.
Dr. Kunle Marckenson spent over two months in London, from January 23rd to March 29th, 2025, and he is now back in Nigeria, ready to share his experiences and announce his forthcoming album.
Join us on Sunday, May 11th, 2025, at 2pm prompt, at The City Pulse Lounge, beside Blue Roof Television in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State, for an unforgettable experience. The all-white dress code party will feature an incredible lineup of artistes, including K-Shanana, Okiki Bright, Queen Tosin Eniba, Harmony Opee Gaji, Alhaji Sikiru Lemon, Amb. Abiodun Ejire Patira and Shola Melody, all sharing the stage with the guest of honor, Dr. Kunle Marckenson. The party will go all night, with great music and dancing.
This welcome dance party is a celebration of Dr. Kunle Marckenson’s successful UK tours and a chance for him to connect with his fans and share his experiences. With their combined talents, this party promises to be an electric celebration of music and good times. You’ll be surrounded by friends, family, and fellow music lovers, all united in their love for great music and good times. So mark your calendars for May 11th and get ready to party like never before. Don’t miss out on the ultimate welcome dance party of the year. See you there!
This event is proudly supported by FUMAN & top media partners like ARIYA 24/7 TV, City Pulse TV, Ghaj-Bash, OJUTOLE TV, Aroye TV, Owutu TV, Event Diaries & Lifestyle, Alore TV, Sahara Weekly & Others.
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ENTERTAINMENT: A Star is Born: Harcher’s Stunning 2025 Headies Appearance Leaves Fans Amazed By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Published
4 weeks agoon
April 28, 2025
ENTERTAINMENT: A Star is Born: Harcher’s Stunning 2025 Headies Appearance Leaves Fans Amazed
By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
LAGOS, Nigeria — The 17th edition of the prestigious Headies Awards held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, may have celebrated Nigeria’s biggest music stars, but the night also marked a special turning point for a fast-rising name in the industry: Harcher.
Although he was not among this year’s official nominees, Harcher, signed under Bullion Records, stole a significant slice of the spotlight with his charismatic red carpet appearance — thrilling fans both at the venue and those watching from home.
The Headies, hosted by Nollywood’s darling Nancy Isime, delivered a night packed with electrifying performances, emotional tributes, and major wins for stars like Chike, Rema, and the late Mohbad. However, when Harcher stepped onto the red carpet and caught the attention of popular media personality Enioluwa Adeoluwa, it ignited a wave of excitement that would ripple beyond the event hall.
Dressed sharply and exuding confidence, Harcher spoke passionately about his dreams during a heartfelt interview with Enioluwa.
“I’ve always dreamed of collaborating with legends like Wizkid, Davido, Olamide, and Burna Boy,” Harcher said, flashing a humble yet hopeful smile as cameras clicked and fans cheered.
He also took a moment to praise the Headies organizers for their role in promoting Nigerian music globally.
“The Headies have done so much for Nigerian entertainment,” Harcher said. “It’s amazing to see how our music is now celebrated all over the world because of platforms like this.”
In that moment, fans at home couldn’t contain their excitement — many took quick screenshots of Harcher’s TV appearance, proudly sharing the images across social media with captions like, “Our star is next!” Those present at the venue also seized the opportunity, swarming around Harcher for photographs after his interview, capturing memories with an artist they believe is destined for greatness.
Bullion Records’ Brightest Prospect
Harcher’s journey with Bullion Records has been marked by steady growth, blending Afrobeat rhythms with the grit of Hip-hop to craft relatable, energetic anthems that resonate with Nigeria’s youth. With every release, he has gained momentum — and Sunday night proved that the industry is beginning to take notice too.
Bullion Records, known for nurturing new talents, has high hopes for Harcher, a sentiment echoed by fans who flooded the label’s hotline — the popular “Bullion Records Hot Number” — with congratulatory messages after the red carpet interview aired.
“This is just the beginning for Harcher,” a Bullion Records fan club member said during a live Twitter Space. “Today he’s being interviewed among legends, tomorrow he’ll be winning awards right on that same stage!”
The Power of the Headies Next Rated Dream
The Headies’ Next Rated category has historically been a launching pad for future megastars like Wizkid (2011), Davido (2012), Rema (2019), and Tems (2021). While the 2025 Next Rated Award went to Odumodublvck, fans are already tipping Harcher as a front-runner for future editions.
Winning Next Rated not only brings industry recognition but also car prizes, endorsements, and international exposure — a reward that many believe is within Harcher’s reach sooner than later.
A Night of Celebration for Music
The Headies 2025 celebrated outstanding talent across Africa. Chike’s ‘Egwu’ featuring the late Mohbad was a major winner, scooping the Viewers’ Choice Award and Best Music Video. Rema’s ‘Heis’ bagged Album of the Year, while Tems won Best Recording of the Year with “Burning.” Special recognition awards went to influential figures like Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Alex Okosi, and Amaju Pinnick.
Even with all these major wins, Harcher’s simple presence, filled with passion and gratitude, managed to capture hearts — a testimony to his growing influence.
Looking Ahead
As the lights dimmed at the Energy Centre where the Headies was held, and fans filed out into the Lagos night, one thing was clear: Harcher’s time is coming. His fans — the ones who screenshotted him from their living rooms and those who took selfies with him live at the event — will be the ones to proudly say, “We saw it first.”
The 2025 Headies may have officially crowned its winners, but for Harcher and his ever-growing fanbase, it was the night a new star officially stepped into the spotlight.
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