Business

‘I have found love now’ – Actress cum singer, OGOMA OBI

Published

8 years ago

April 5, 2017

Beautiful actress cum singer, Ogoma Obi, better addressed as Princess, is one entertainer that can’t stop thanking God for His mercies on her. And the reason is not farfetched. The Oru, Imo born thespian survived an auto crash miraculously in 2015. The incident has since drawn her closer to God, and that’s the real reason she now came out with a new album, Ekeneya (Thanking God for Everything).

She spoke on this and other issues revolving around her life and career when she granted an interview a couple of days back in Ogba, Lagos.

What’s going on now in your life and career?

I thank God, it’s been good so far. My acting career is going on fine. I just returned from Asaba for a movie on cultism in the university, the effects and how to curb cultism and all that. And presently as a musician, I just released two singles – contemporary gospel, Ekeneya and The Promise. And I am warming up to shoot a video for Ekenaya where I featured K-Light.

What informed the titled and what’s the meaning of Ekeneya?

Ekeneya means Thank God for everything about my life, career and family. It’s just about everything that has been happening in my life. I just need to tell my story of how I overcame everything that has happened and how God has brought me this far.

With a heart filled with gratitude, that’s what actually informed the title, Ekeneya. And if you listen to it, you will see how far God has taken me to and how much it took me to be where I am today. So, I am very grateful to God about everything around me life and career.

When exactly are you commencing work on the video?

I think by next week, I should be shooting the video. So, I am appealing to my fans to wait for the video to drop. That’s where they will see how and why I am praising God, telling my own story myself.

This one sounds like a gospel music but the other time we had a chat with you, it’s like you’re doing secular music. Why gospel now?

No, it’s not secular, I do gospel, inspirational and love songs. I do song that can be played at weddings, birthdays and all that. Even in the gospel album, I have some songs people can play at a wedding, birthday and other ceremonies.

You’re a singer and an actress, how do you jiggle the two?

The two are both demanding. But there’s one beautiful thing about entertainment, you still have a lot of time in your hands. Like I took a back seat from music for some time and went into acting. And once you go music, you don’t go back. It’s my first love and it keeps beckoning.

And when those songs came into my heart, I got a conviction that it’s about time I tell the story. For me, gospel track in my album is not just music, it’s a testimony. You are telling a story. So, I am just giving a testimony, my own testimony of what God has done for me all this while.

To me, telling it in the church alone is not enough. I feel every hear should hear my testimony. That’s what informed releasing the album.

What’s special about the testimony you’re hammering on?

My God! What’s special about it is awesome. I went through an auto crash. My car was damaged beyond repair but I came out alive. I couldn’t say this was how it happened like that, but I know it’s God. Also, my elder sister was diagnosed of last stage of cancer, but today she’s still alive hale and hearty. She also just released an album, telling her own story too. It’s all a miracle that no man can comprehend.

My sister’s cancer was so terrible that she couldn’t even walk, she was bedridden throughout. But if you see her now and they tell she suffered cancer, you won’t believe it. That’s how merciful the God we worship is. I can’t just hold back. I need to shout, I need to tell the story of God’s miracle in the family. That’s why I came out with the album.

When exactly did the accident happen and where?

It happened in 2015 on Ikorodu Road, Lagos. It’s a terrible one but God saved me. It’s beyond my knowledge how I came out uninjured. I never knew I could come out of it. It was those that witnessed it that told me the story because I was unconscious for hours. But I thank God, the whole thing has become history.

What’s the situation of the car now?

The car was a write-off. There was nothing to repair about it.

So, since, you have been jumping okada and public buses or you have replaced the car?

(Laughs) That happened for a while but I have replaced the car. I thank God for that.

What’s the experience like doing without a car for that while?

It’s okay. That’s part of life experience. I don’t really see it as a bad thing. One of the good things in boarding public buses is that it makes you look fit. I could realize that when I was cruising around in my car, I was adding weight.

But for the period I didn’t have a car, I looked fit. Though, it’s a bit tiring for some time, I have no reason to complain. Life can’t be 100 percent straight. There must be a bend somehow.

Let’s talk about your acting career. You have not really featured in movies recently, why? Or your music career is taking you off acting?

Not really. It’s just because there are some scripts I get that I don’t like. For example, all these internet movies. I mean movies that have some nude scenes or some kind of roles that are not godly, I turn them down. That’s why you don’t see me in so many movies recently. There’re some things you need to walk away from because of your image.

Your career as an actress has just spanned about four years and you have carved a niche for yourself. What would you say is working for you?

First, I will say God. Then, I think I am good at what I do. And I am very calm. I like to take corrections. I learn from others who’re better than me. I am a good listener. There are lots of people that don’t like to be corrected even when they’re going wrong. They just like repeating the same mistakes over and over in every role. And with that, you can’t move an inch as an actor.

Where do we see Ogoma in the next five years, career wise?

Oh God! Eyes have not seen yet, ears have not heard neither has it been conceived into the heart of any man what God has prepared for me. And I will tell you in the next few years, I am going to be celebrated all over. By God’s grace, I am going up conquer the whole world, getting everybody joining me and testifying, to what God has done in my life.

No doubt, you must be close to 40 now…

(Cuts in) No, I am just in my mid 30s, I am not up to 40 yet o.

But you’re yet to settle down. Is that not giving you any sleepless night?

As a child of God, I think about it. I had a broken engagement and I took some times off. It wasn’t his fault nor mine fully. We both had a fair share of fault that led to the premature break-up. But I am someone that learns from my mistakes.

So, I learnt from it. And I know in the next few months or before the year runs out, I will settle down by God’s grace.

That means you’re not searching?

Yes, I am not searching. That I believe but I am still praying.

That means you have found a new man you’re committing into the hands of God?

Yes, there’s a man in my life. I am not searching at all.

You’re addressed as a princess, is it because of your sexy looks?

Not really, but I am a princess truly. My father was a king of my town, now late. He was the king of Obolo in Oru Local government area, Imo State, the late Eze B. E. Obi. He was also one time chairman of Oru local government and he was one of the people that created Oru Local government.

So, if people call me princess, it’s not because of my looks but because I am from a royal family.

Business

NIHOTOUR Calls on Hospitality, Tourism, Travel, Allied Sector Professionals for Mandated Registration

Published

9 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Sahara Weekly

NIHOTOUR Calls on Hospitality, Tourism, Travel, Allied Sector Professionals for Mandated Registration

The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), the regulatory and standardization authority in the sector, has invited professionals in the hospitality, tourism,travel and allied sectors to register as mandated by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (Establishment) Act 2022.

A statement signed by Aare (Dr.) Abisoye Fagade, FIMC, Director-General/CEO
The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism reads:

“Enjoy FREE registration from December 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025! This is your chance to register as a professional or practitioner at no cost.

“Don’t miss this opportunity to solidify your presence in Nigeria’s thriving tourism industry. Visit www.nihotour.gov.ng now!

“Hurry—free registration closes on January 15, 2025. Take the first step toward advancing your career in tourism today!”

Business

EGC Homes Unveils Goodness and Mercy Estate, Brand Ambassador

Published

13 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Sahara Weekly

EGC Homes Unveils Goodness and Mercy Estate, Brand Ambassador

EGC Homes, a notable player in the real estate and property development sector, has made waves in the Nigerian market with its recent announcement of the launch of Goodness and Mercy Estate in Ogun, alongside other strategic initiatives.

The company emphasized its commitment to collaborating with the government to alleviate the housing deficit in Nigeria while prioritizing the well-being of residents.

In an interview with THECONSCIENCE NG, Oladapo Jimoh, the Managing Director of EGC Homes and Properties, expressed the brand’s long-term vision to bridge the housing gap and simplify the journey to homeownership.

He stated, “Current data estimates Nigeria’s housing deficit to be around 28 million units by 2024. This figure is among the largest globally and poses significant challenges, contributing to homelessness and various social issues.”

“National statistics indicate that our country faces a pressing need for approximately 700,000 new homes each year to address this deficit. As urbanization continues, these challenges are particularly evident in major cities, where affordable housing becomes increasingly scarce, forcing many into slums and informal settlements.”

The World Bank projects that Nigeria’s urban population could exceed 200 million by 2050, highlighting a potential social crisis as the lack of affordable housing leads to the rise of slums, especially in urban areas.

“As a forward-thinking and solutions-oriented company, we are dedicated to addressing these critical housing issues in partnership with the government.”

Following its successful launch in Lagos, EGC Homes has rapidly expanded its operations, acquiring a significant land bank across the southwestern region of Nigeria and enhancing its marketing strategies to effectively connect with customers.

The firm is committed to providing Nigerians with exceptional value, peace of mind, and simplifying the processes of land acquisition and homeownership.

“Our mission is to make life easier for Nigerians while assisting the government in tackling the housing deficit.”

Recently, the company introduced its premier property, the Goodness and Mercy Estate, located in Arepo and Sagamu Interchange in Ogun State, with more projects on the horizon. Its flexible payment plans and affordable property prices aim to cater to a wide audience.

Additionally, EGC Homes has appointed Titilayo Adebayo-Omotosho as its social media brand ambassador to promote the unique offerings of EGC Homes and Properties Limited to Nigerians both at home and abroad.

In her remarks, she highlighted her commitment to the vision of EGC Homes, stating, “I believe every Nigerian deserves a decent roof over their head. This aligns perfectly with the mission of EGC Homes and Properties, which is why I chose to represent the brand, promoting its exceptional estates and home packages to Nigerians and those aspiring to own homes here.”

Business

Optiva Capital Partners and Loft & Keys LCC Forge Strategic Partnership to Drive $500m Investments in Nigeria

Published

16 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Sahara Weekly

L-R Dr. Jane Kimemia, CEO, Optiva Capital Partners and Chief Austin Ugochukwu Albert, Chairman, Loft & Keys LLC during the partnership agreement signing between Optiva Capital partners and Loft & keys LLC at Optiva's headquarters in Lagos

Optiva Capital Partners and Loft & Keys LCC Forge Strategic Partnership to Drive $500m Investments in Nigeria

Optiva Capital Partners, Africa’s leading wealth management and retention company, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Loft & Keys LLC, a renowned real estate and investment company with dominant presence in Nigeria and the Middle East.

The ceremony which took place over the weekend at Optiva Capital’s Corporate Headquarters, aims to boost investment in Nigeria’s hospitality and healthcare sectors on the one hand, as well as provide Nigerian investors with opportunities to invest in real estate in the UAE, particularly in Dubai.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Jane Kimemia, CEO, Optiva Capital Partners, emphasized the transformative potential of this partnership, “With Loft & Keys’ deep understanding of the Nigerian market and established networks in the Middle East, we are poised to bring $500 million in investments into Nigeria’s hospitality and healthcare industries. These funds will be strategically spread across Lagos, Abuja (FCT), Delta, and Enugu.”

The investment in hospitality will serve as a catalyst for economic growth in Nigeria. Beyond creating employment opportunities, it will spur infrastructure development, enhance regional tourism appeal, and foster business ecosystems in Lagos, the Federal Capital Territory, Enugu, and Delta. Similarly, the healthcare focus will address critical gaps in medical infrastructure, improve access to quality care, and promote health innovation—key pillars for national development.

The partnership According to Dr Kimemia also extends to Nigerian investors seeking opportunities in the UAE. With Loft & Keys’ expertise and extensive networks in Dubai and other Middle Eastern hubs, the collaboration will unlock access to one of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets.
Speaking about the partnership, Chief Austin Ugochukwu Albert, Chairman, Loft & Keys LLC, said “Optiva Capital Partners stands as Africa’s leading wealth retention company, a position that is firmly established and without question. This partnership with Loft & Keys will further solidify their dominance and create even greater opportunities for growth. As Dr. Jane Kimemia has rightly emphasized, Loft & Keys, with our extensive expertise in the Middle East, is a trusted and experienced partner”. We have a strong presence in the UAE and are actively expanding into Saudi Arabia and Qatar in the near future. Together with Optiva Capital Partners, we are committed to capturing significant market opportunities in these regions. I am confident that this partnership will foster substantial growth that will be mutually rewarding for both parties.

Dubai, a city widely known for its opulence and rapid development, is reportedly operating at only 30% of its projected capacity, presenting a significant growth opportunity for investors. According to industry experts, this untapped potential creates a unique window for investors to capitalize on the city’s future expansion and development.
The partnership aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 17 as two formidable brands, Optiva Capital Partners and Loft & Keys are committed to leveraging their collective strengths to drive impactful investments that benefit clients and communities alike.

About Optiva Capital Partners
Optiva Capital Partners is a premier wealth management and retention firm offering bespoke solutions in four areas of specialization – investment immigration, investment advisory, insurance, and international real estate.
About Loft & Keys LLC
Loft & Keys is an internationally recognized real estate and investment company with a robust presence in Nigeria and the UAE. The firm is dedicated to connecting investors with high-value opportunities in dynamic markets.