Entertainment
LAGOS MARATHON: EAST AFRICANS RETAIN STAR PRIZES AS AMBODE PROMISES BIGGER 2019 EDITION
…We’ll Employ Top Class Coaches To Train Nigerian Runners, Says Gov, Dalung
Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Saturday unveiled plans to invest in training of Nigerian athletes to compete with elite athletes all over the world for the grand prize of the annual Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.
Speaking at this year’s edition of the tournament held at Eko Atlantic City (EAC), Victoria Island, Governor Ambode said he was tired of handing over the star prizes of the marathon to athletes from East Africa, assuring that concerted efforts would be made to reverse the trend and prepare Nigerians to compete favourably for the prizes.

“My promise to Nigeria is this; I’m tired of giving this award to the East Africans and so Lagos State is going to commit professional coaches and then we will go to Jos and then come back in two years’ time to give them (East Africans) fight for their money,” the Governor said.
He commended all the athletes and organizers who contributed to the successful hosting of the third edition of the tournament, assuring that efforts would be made to make the fourth edition which will take place on February 9, 2019 bigger and better.
“I just want to say a big thank you to all the participants and also the organizers. We have done Lagos proud again and we have done Nigeria proud again. This is the third edition and we are getting bigger, we are getting finer and this is what this is all about. We have had over a hundred thousand participants and we have broken all the records of last year and we are very excited about this.
“Yes, this is the bronze level; the intention is to take it to the gold level in the next two years and I know we can do it. This is more about the energy of Lagos. Beyond the fact that we are able to show the aesthetics and the improvement we have done in the last two and a half years, Lagos is getting better and then Lagos is getting more enjoyable.
“I know we are going to do this again next year and so come Saturday 9th February, 2019, we are going to have a bigger marathon and bigger prizes,” Governor Ambode said.
Besides, the Governor expressed excitement at the introduction of a 10km race dedicated solely for Nigerians, assuring that prizes in the category would be made to be at par with the main marathon in subsequent editions.
Also speaking, Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung commended the State Government, organisers and sponsors of the Marathon, assuring that the Federal Government would partner with the State to prepare Nigerian athletes to compete at the top level with their foreign counterparts.
He also announced additional cash reward for Nigerian athletes who finished top in the male and female categories as well as young athletes.
Kenyan born French athlete, Kiprotich Abraham breast the tape in two hours, 13 minutes, four seconds to emerge winner of the third edition of Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on Saturday, carting away the grand prize of $50,000.
Abraham’s time set a new Lagos Marathon record, three minutes better than the record set by his fellow compatriot, Abraham Kiptum in the second edition of the 42km annual tourney held last year.
Kenyan duo of Ronny Kipkoech Kiboss and Benjamin Bitok came second and third finishing in two hours, 13 minutes and 26 seconds and two hours, 13 minutes and 29 seconds, winning $40,000 and $30,000 USD respectively.
In the female category, it was a clean sweep by Ethiopia as the trio of Alemenesh Herpha Guta, Tigst Girma Getayechew and Ayelu Abebe Hordofa came first, second and third to win $50,000, $40,000 and $30,000 USD respectively.
Iliya Pam was the first Nigerian to finish the 42km race in two hours, 40 minutes, 16 seconds to win N3million, while Sharubutu Philbus came second in two hours, 54 minutes and 16 seconds to win N2million and Kefas Williams also got on the medals table finishing third in a time of two hours, 58 minutes, 16 seconds to win the third prize of N1million.
There were also prizes for Nigerians in the newly introduced 10km race, which saw Sajo Ismaila (male) and Ona Salay (female) drive home a brand new saloon car each and other mouth watering prizes.
The 42km race started at the National Stadium, Surulere by 6:30am and ended at the Eko Atlantic City in Victoria Island, while the 10km race also began from Osborne and terminated also at the Eko Atlantic City with over 100,000 athletes battling for the various prize monies.
Dignitaries who graced the marathon include Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung;, his counterpart in Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; representative of Chief of Army Staff, Major General David Amadu; General Officer Commanding 81 Division, Major General, Enobong Okon Udoh; President of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick; ex-Super Eagles International, Austin Jay Jay Okocha;British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Paul Arkwright, among others.
Entertainment
Top Music Producer, Gbenga Leo Marks 45 Years in Music with Lagos Celebration
Top Music Producer, Gbenga Leo Marks 45 Years in Music with Lagos Celebration
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
Otunba Gbenga, popularly known as Leo Taiwo, will be celebrated for his 45-year journey in the music industry at a special event scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2026, in Lagos.
The event, set to hold at the Radio Lagos Marquee Hall in Agidingbi, Ikeja, is expected to bring together friends, family, and associates to honour a career defined by longevity and consistent contribution to Nigeria’s Fuji music scene.
Though not widely in the public spotlight, Leo Taiwo is regarded within industry circles as a respected figure whose work has spanned decades. His role as a music producer and collaborator has positioned him among the quiet contributors who have supported the growth and continuity of Fuji music over the years.
The celebration is slated to begin at 2 p.m., with guests expected to observe a white dress code. Attendance will be by access card, with caps and gele serving as entry identifiers.
Fuji star King Sule Alao Malaika is billed to lead the music for the occasion, while popular hosts Ifankaleluyah and Tokunbo Marvins will anchor proceedings.
The choice of venue underscores the cultural relevance of the event. Radio Lagos has long been associated with the promotion of indigenous music, making it a fitting location for a milestone rooted in tradition and legacy.
Reaching 45 years in any creative industry is a notable achievement. In a genre that has evolved across generations, such longevity reflects both resilience and sustained relevance.
As preparations continue, the event is shaping up to be not just a celebration of one man’s journey, but also a moment to acknowledge the enduring community behind Fuji music.
Entertainment
BREAKING NEWS: Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy
*BREAKING NEWS
*Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy*
Lagos, Nigeria – In a stunning display of talent, leadership, and philanthropy, Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo has been crowned winner of the prestigious NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 award. This remarkable achievement cements her status as a powerhouse in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Amb. Chelsea Nwodo, the newly crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026, has extended her heartfelt gratitude to all who supported her in this remarkable achievement.
“I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude to announce that I have been crowned the winner of the prestigious NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 award,” Amb. Nwodo said. “I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who voted for me, including my loving family members and TOSA to NAGA , I am honored to be part of this prestigious award and I appreciate the recognition.”
Amb. Nwodo, a multifaceted personality, has proven herself as an acclaimed actress, dedicated philanthropist, and visionary business leader. Her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing Nollywood has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers.
As CEO of the Chelsea Nwodo Foundation, she drives transformative initiatives empowering women and children, fostering growth and opportunity. Her leadership skills extends to Chy-kas Travels and Tour, showcasing her entrepreneurial acumen.
Recently appointed Chief of Staff to the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abubakar Yakubu, Amb. Nwodo’s exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing Nollywood is undeniable.
Amb. Nwodo’s philanthropy resonates deeply. Her impactful “Operation Feed 5000 Street Children” program, in partnership with Regal Connect Foundation-Ghana, delivered food, shelter, and skills training to vulnerable children in Ghana, attracting high-profile support.
Her NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 win celebrates not just her achievements but her dedication to uplifting others, making her a beacon of hope across industries. This recognition solidifies her position as a role model and influencer, inspiring a new generation of artists and entrepreneurs.
The NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA award is a testament to Amb. Nwodo’s hard work, talent, and commitment to excellence. Her win is a proud moment for Nigeria and the African continent, showcasing the best of Nollywood’s talent and philanthropy.
Entertainment
Faaji Unlimited : Omo-Opeki Announces ‘Step Up,’ ‘Multi Talented,’ And ‘God’s Mercy’ — A Historic 3-in-1 Fuji Album Set For April 8 Release
Faaji Unlimited : Omo-Opeki Announces ‘Step Up,’ ‘Multi Talented,’ And ‘God’s Mercy’ — A Historic 3-in-1 Fuji Album Set For April 8 Release
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
Alhaja Queen Isimot Abake Abiola, widely known as Omo-Opeki, is stepping into a defining moment in her career with the official announcement of her ambitious 3-in-1 Fuji album. Titled Step Up, Multi Talented, and God’s Mercy, the project is scheduled for release on April 8 — a date that also marks her birthday.
More than a strategic rollout, the timing signals intention. It frames the project as both a personal milestone and a cultural statement, positioning the veteran Fuji act at the center of a conversation that extends beyond music.
A Three-Part Statement of Growth, Identity, and Gratitude :
By unveiling the titles of the three albums, Omo-Opeki transforms what was once a bold concept into a fully realized artistic vision.
Each title carries its own thematic weight:
• Step Up suggests progression — a conscious elevation into a new phase of artistry and influence
• Multi Talented highlights range, reinforcing her versatility within a genre that rewards depth and endurance.
• God’s Mercy reflects gratitude, pointing to the spiritual and personal journey that underpins her career.
Together, the albums form a layered narrative. Rather than a single body of work, the 3-in-1 structure allows for a broader exploration of identity, sound, and storytelling — a format that aligns naturally with Fuji’s tradition of extended compositions and expressive delivery.
April 8 : More Than A Release Date :
Choosing April 8 as the release date adds a deeper layer of symbolism to the project. Birthdays often represent renewal, reflection, and forward momentum — themes that mirror the essence of the album titles themselves.
For Omo-Opeki, the alignment of her birthday with such a significant release suggests more than coincidence. It positions the moment as a personal and professional convergence — one that celebrates longevity while signaling evolution.
In an industry where timing can shape perception, anchoring a major release to a date of personal significance strengthens the narrative around it. It becomes not just a drop, but a moment of declaration.
Rewriting the Narrative for Women in Fuji :
Fuji music, deeply rooted in Yoruba Islamic and Apala traditions, has long been shaped by male dominance in both performance and large-scale releases. While female artists have contributed significantly to its growth, landmark projects of this magnitude have rarely been associated with women.
Omo-Opeki’s 3-in-1 album challenges that precedent.
Executing a multi-volume release demands more than creative output. It requires strategic planning, financial commitment, audience loyalty, and the confidence to carry such weight within a traditional space. By taking on this scale, she is not only expanding her own catalog but also redefining what is possible for female Fuji musicians.
Leadership Beyond The Studio :
Beyond her work as a recording artist, Omo-Opeki serves as the President of the Elite Women Musician Association of Nigeria (EWMAN). Her role within the organization reflects a broader commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and structural support for women in the music industry.
This dual position — as both artist and leader — strengthens the significance of her upcoming release. It reinforces her credibility not just as a performer, but as a figure actively shaping opportunities for others.
Balancing creative output with industry leadership is no small feat. Yet, it adds weight to the moment, positioning the album as part of a larger narrative around representation and access.
A Strategic Moment For Fuji in a Global Era :
The announcement arrives at a time when Afrobeats continues to dominate global conversations, often overshadowing indigenous genres. In this context, bold releases within traditional spaces carry added importance.
A project of this scale does more than spotlight an individual artist — it draws attention back to the genre itself.
By delivering a 3-in-1 album with clear thematic direction and symbolic timing, Omo-Opeki is contributing to a renewed visibility for Fuji. It becomes a reminder that the genre remains dynamic, evolving, and capable of commanding attention on its own terms.
A Defining Chapter in Motion :
With Step Up, Multi Talented, and God’s Mercy, Omo-Opeki is not just releasing music — she is curating a moment that blends personal significance, artistic ambition, and cultural impact.
April 8 will mark more than a birthday. It will stand as a milestone in her journey and, potentially, a turning point in the narrative surrounding female artists in Fuji music.
As the date approaches, anticipation continues to build. But beyond expectation lies something more enduring — the sense that this release is not just about what is coming next, but about what it makes possible going forward.
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