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How Armed-Robbers almost killed Toyin Aimakhu’s Ex-Husband, Niyi Johnson in my presence – Cinematographer, BABATUNDE TAIWO reveals

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Obatunde Taiwo, an award winning cinematographer popularly called 9ice Tee, in this interview, speaks about his love for the profession, his relationship with thespians, and his experiences, especially how he narrowly escaped death when armed robbers struck when he was on location with his colleagues…

He was awarded as the Promising cinematographer/Direction of the year at the Achiever Arts academic awards 2016

Excerpts:

Tell us about your career?

I’m a cinematographer and I love film making. I’ve passed through a lot of things: I was once an actor, was a production manager, in continuity…a lot of things, but I’m very happy now because my dream has always been to be a cinematographer.

How has it been since you started?

It’s almost 10 years now, and seven of the have been rewarding. I’m being paid well and I always get this joy whenever I’m being paid because it’s my stress.

What led you into cinematography?

A lot of things led me into it. Since I was a kid, I’ve had a passion for film. I watch a lot of films and I have teachers all over the world. I always go online to check out new things; stay updated.

In the movie industry, who are those you’ve worked with?

I’ve worked with lot of people, I can’t count them. The likes of Abbey Lanre, Olaiya, Odunlade Adekola, Damola Olatunji, and many more.

Who are those you still wish to work with?

I wish to work with people overseas, white men, and after that, I’ll try to do a standard film in Nigeria, because I don’t really like how things are in Nigeria.

Can you take us through your education background?

I’m an S.S.C.E holder but the joyful thing is those people with higher qualification still come to me for help. I thank God.

Were your parents supportive of your career?

My father was the first person that gave me the courage. He was still alive then and he gave me the courage to act, though not to be a cinematographer. It wasn’t until I started that I realised that cinematography is my field. Two years after I delved into it, my father died. Then my mother gave me trouble. She was always complaining that I wasn’t being well-paid me well because sometimes I would spend one month and come back home empty-handed; so she was so angry. She abused me a lot and people started seeing me as a thief because they didn’t know the kind of job I was doing. You know, I don’t feature in movies, because we are behind the scene, so I faced a lot of challenges.

Since you started, what is the worst experience you’ve had?

Ahh! It just happened this year. In February, we were shooting in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Niyi Johnson was on set and I was the cinematographer. Suddenly, armed robbers attacked us and took all our equipment. They almost killed Niyi Johnson. Incidentally, a week before that time, I had a dream that had to do with gunshot, so as they came in, my mind flashed back to the dream. But I thank God I wasn’t shot, though they collected everything we had. The gang leader ordered one of his boys to kill Niyi Johnson because he was looking at them eyeball to eyeball. Everybody was terrified and it was just a miracle that they didn’t kill him. It could have been disastrous.

 

 

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PUBLIC NOTICE*: Revalidation of UNIPGC Organizational Status 

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PUBLIC NOTICE*: Revalidation of UNIPGC Organizational Status 

*PUBLIC NOTICE*: Revalidation of UNIPGC Organizational Status 

 

To prevent any misunderstanding regarding our affiliation with the United Nations, we hereby provide a formal clarification on the status and identity of the United International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC), formerly known as IPGC.

 

UNIPGC is an independent Civil Society Organization and Non-Governmental Organization with continental chapters registered in the United States, Germany, Canada, and several countries across Africa. The organization is committed to promoting the values and principles of the United Nations, particularly in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), as well as advocating for good governance globally.

 

In furtherance of its mandate, UNIPGC has established partnerships with reputable diplomatic civil society organizations, including the United Nations Association of Nigeria and the United Nations Association of Ghana. These collaborations are aimed at strengthening its engagement with initiatives aligned with United Nations ideals.

 

Additionally, UNIPGC has entered into diplomatic relations with the International Organization for Economic Development (IOED), an Intergovernmental Organization (IGO), to enhance its capacity for international cooperation and diplomatic engagement.

PUBLIC NOTICE*: Revalidation of UNIPGC Organizational Status 

We wish to clearly state that UNIPGC is **not** an entity, agency, or organ of the United Nations.

 

Members of the public and media practitioners are respectfully advised to refer to the organization by its full and correct name: **United International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC)**, and not as the United Nations.

 

Thank you.

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Laffmattazz Announces Strategic Partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited for 2026 International Tour

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Laffmattazz Announces Strategic Partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited for 2026 International Tour

 

 

 

Laffmattazz, one of Nigeria’s foremost comedy and live entertainment brands, is pleased to announce its official partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited for the highly anticipated Laffmattazz 2026 International Tour, themed “Next Chapter: A New Season of Laughter.”

 

Now in its 15th year, Laffmattazz—the brainchild of renowned Nigerian comedian Gbenga Adeyinka (Gbenga Adeyinka 1st)—has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its seamless fusion of comedy, music, and live stage performances.

 

The 2026 tour, which kicked off on Easter Sunday, April 5th, 2026 at the Jogor Centre, Ibadan, marks a significant milestone in the brand’s journey. Building on over a decade of success across Nigeria, this year’s edition signals a bold expansion into the international market, with a multi-city run in Canada, alongside major stops in Akure, Abeokuta, and Lagos.

 

This strategic partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited underscores a shared commitment to excellence and innovation. It is also aligned with FirstBank’s First@Arts initiative—a significant and ongoing program dedicated to supporting the creative arts, entertainment, and cultural sectors. Through this initiative, FirstBank provides financing, advisory services, and actively fosters a sustainable value chain for artists and creative entrepreneurs, while supporting key industry platforms such as the Nigerian Entertainment Conference.

 

Speaking on the collaboration, the Laffmattazz team stated:

 

“We are delighted to welcome First Bank of Nigeria Limited as a strategic partner for the Laffmattazz 2026 International Tour. As we mark 15 remarkable years of Laffmattazz, this partnership reinforces our vision to take premium Nigerian entertainment beyond borders, while delivering even bigger, better, and more memorable experiences for our audiences.”

 

As a key partner, First Bank will enrich the tour through innovative customer engagement initiatives, experiential activations, and exclusive fan experiences across all tour locations.

 

With its distinctive blend of humor, culture, and live entertainment, the Laffmattazz 2026 Tour is poised to connect audiences across cities and continents, bringing laughter to thousands of fans worldwide.

 

 

About Laffmattazz

 

Laffmattazz is a premier Nigerian comedy and entertainment brand, now in its 15th year, renowned for its vibrant live shows and nationwide tours. Founded by Gbenga Adeyinka 1st, the brand continues to deliver high-quality experiences that celebrate creativity, culture, and laughter.

 

About First Bank of Nigeria Limited

 

First Bank of Nigeria Limited is Nigeria’s oldest financial institution, widely respected for its legacy of trust, innovation, and customer-centric financial solutions that support economic growth and development. Through its First@Arts initiative, the Bank continues to play a pivotal role in empowering the creative industry and driving sustainable growth across the sector.

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MREIF is Better: FirstBank’s Mortgage Loan Is the Game-Changer for Home Ownership in Nigeria

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FirstBank Set to Launch Tailored Financial Services for Blind and Physically Challenged Customers  

MREIF is Better: FirstBank’s Mortgage Loan Is the Game-Changer for Home Ownership in Nigeria

 

 

 

Anyone who has tried to get a loan to buy a house in Nigeria knows the drill: endless forms, property valuation, and eventual down payment of a minimum 25% or more on the property. Sometimes, interest rates could go as high as 30% per annum, while the typical loan limit is N50 million.

 

 

 

Now, FirstBank is making homeownership more attractive.

 

 

 

FirstBank, in partnership with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), has introduced the MREIF Home Loan. MREIF loan is a game-changer, offering a single-digit interest rate of 9.75% per annum, with a loan amount of up to ₦100 million and a repayment period of up to 20 years. This is perfect for salaried individuals, including Nigerians in the diaspora, looking to purchase homes in approved locations.

 

The MREIF loan stands out with its lower interest rate, higher loan amount, and flexible equity contribution as low as 10%. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking affordable homeownership.

 

 

 

You are one quick decision away from being a landlord.

 

 

 

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy a home, FirstBank’s MREIF Home Loan is the smartest route to owning property in Nigeria today. Visit the FirstBank website https://www.firstbanknigeria.com/personal/loans/mreif-home-loan/ to get started.

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