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Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen: An Icon among the Best

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-Shaba, Omonaijablog

The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained in sudden flight but, they while their companions slept, they were toiling upwards in the night

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

The aphorism indicated above aptly captures the successful trajectory of Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen in carving a nitch for himself in the very interesting mellieu of the Nigerian Movie Industry.

It is not a surprise that Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen is being honoured as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 60th Independence Anniversary, by the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Nigerian Film and Video Censor Board (NFVB), in an award tagged 60 Icons that have shaped the Nigerian Film and Video Industry.

It is an Award well deserved as Lancelot Imasuen is the only Edo Person alive on the list The other Edo lite ,the very impressive Sam Loco Efe has ascended to the great beyond .

Nollywood has had its share of the best and within the best Lancelot is among the best of the best.

So It was a Hollywood Director that came to Lagos to observe the process of making a Nigerian Movie .Seeing the cut and nail nuances at display he simply said “Not Hollywood- Nollywood”.That is the etymology of word “Nollywood,”.But for Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen ,making one blockbuster movie to another has made him acquire an unravilled image of distinction and excellence ,for which he is aptly dubbed “De Guv’nor”.

It is said that madness is doing a thing the same way and expecting a different result. And for Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen ,his selling point is departing from the established norm in making Nollywood Movies.

Some times, when you depart from the norm ,you transcend to excellence. It was not a surprise ,that Lancelot Imasuen has to his credit, perhaps the most acclaimed Epic in Nigerian History Invasion 1897, where my mentor ,the Debonair Pastor Mike Osakpolo Omoregbee-the CEO of Standard Schools, Benin City played the Lead role of Oba Ovoranmen Nogbaise.

Personality Profile of Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen

Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen
Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, popularly known as De Guv’nor is a Nigerian film producer, director, and scriptwriter with over 25 years of experience. He is the CEO of Lancelot Imasuen Media Network (LIMN), a public speaker, and founding member of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN).

Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen was born on the 20th of June 1971, to the family of Chief and Mrs Godwin Imasuen. He hails from Urhokuosa town of Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria. He had his primary education at Oguola Primary School, while his Secondary education was at Eghosa Grammar School, Benin City, Nigeria.

After his Secondary education, Lancelot proceeded to the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), where he studied Theatre Arts. As a child, Lancelot already had passion for the arts, and this was evident in his involvement in his secondary school’s drama society, and the literary and debating society.

He was also involved in the productions of his church drama group. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen is married to Aimua Imasuen, and they are blessed with three lovely children.

Lancelot joined a professional theatre company called Earthpot Kulture in Benin at a young age. His career as a director started with Evangel Theatre, a TV Gospel Drama Series, at age 19.

From 1988-1991 when Lancelot relocated to Lagos, he worked as a casual staff of the Bendel Broadcasting Service (BBS). In 1994, he got a job as the Production Assistant of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).

Lancelot rose to the limelight at the age of 26, with the film ‘Yesterday’.

Thus far, Lancelot has been featured and interviewed by CNN, BBC, America Public Radio, South Korean Broadcasting Service, Japan Broadcasting Corporation, Canadian Broadcasting Service, Nigerian Television Authority, African Independent Television, Channels Television, Silver Bird Television, African Journal Online, Washington Post, Guardian of Ottawa and several other International Broadcasting Network. He was the first African filmmaker to be a guest on CNN (Screening Room) in 2009.

Lancelot Oduwa Imasuwen is currently the Honorary Academic Chair on Filmmaking, Theatre and Mass Communication of the Department of Mass Communication, Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Nigeria.

Filmography
Yesterday – 1997
The Soul That Sinneth – 1999
The Last Burial – 2000
Issakaba – 2000
Private Sin – 2003
Enslaved – 2004
Moment of Truth – 2005
Family Battle – 2005
Games Women Play – 2005
Behind Closed Doors – 2005
Games Men Play – 2006
Yahoo Millionaire – 2007
Sister’s Love – 2008
Nollywood Babylon – 2008
Entanglement – 2009
Reloaded – 2009
Home in Exile – 2010
Bent Arrows – 2010
A Private Storm – 2010
Adesuwa – 2012,
Udeme Mmi – 2012
Lonely Heart – 2013
Invasion 1897 – 2014
ABC’s of Death 2 – 2014
The Insider – 2015
Enslaved – 2015
ATM (Authentic Tentative Marriage) – 2016
Darima’s Dilemma – 2017
Love Upon the Hills – 2017
Based on Principle – 2017
Idahosa – 2017
Shadows in the Dark – 2017
Crushed – 2018
Love Birds – 2018
Benin Fruit Seller (Documentary) – 2018
Wede – 2018
Rant Queens – 2019
The Wrong One – 2019
Sacrosanct – 2019
The Fall of Nekighidi (Stage Play) – 2019
Love or Quest – 2019

As A Public Speaker,
He delivered a lecture at Howard University Washington DC.
Lancelot delivered lectures at the Igbinedion University Okada, Nigeria, Ambrose Ali University Ekpoma, Nigeria, Benson Idahosa University, and Kwara State University.
He delivered a seminar paper on Piracy in Nollywood on the 27th of March 2011. The seminar was organized by the African students of Columbia University, Washington DC.
Guest speaker at the African series of African/Caribbean Society of the St. Andrews University, Scotland during the African student’s event.

Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen Awards And Nominations
Recipient of the Prestigious University of Port Harcourt Alumnus Award
Africa Movie Academy Award nominee for Best Director – 2006
Nominee for Best Feature Film at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) – 2010
Nominated at the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Director – 2012
Nollywood Movie Award nominee for Best Director – 2012
Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Nigerian Film – 2012
Nominated at the Nollywood Movie Award for Best Director – 2013
Audience Choice Award nominee at the Chicago International Film Festival – 2014
See Also: Biography, movies, and net worth of Omoni Oboli, an enterprising actress

City People Movie Award for Movie Director of the Year (English) – 2015
Best Comedy Film at the Abuja International Film Festival – 2016
City People Movie Special Recognition Award – 2018
Award of Excellence at the Edo Talent Awards – 2018
Best Film Award at the Lekki International Film Festival – 2019
National Council for Arts and Culture Awards for propagating the Benin Cultural Heritage – 2019.
The Creative Industry Group’s Distinguished Veterans Recognition Award – 2019.

This expose’ will be inchoate if I do not give one of the Immortal Sayings of Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen ,which is not only inspiring but reassuring :

Locate your dream, then light up your passion, let the light burn as you keep doing what is right that you believe in and trust in your efforts. I tell you, one day, your candle will light up the world and time will celebrate you

Lancelot Imasuen is indeed a gift to this Generation.

Congratulations sir !

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Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy By Alhaji Arems

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Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star's Storytelling Legacy By Alhaji Arems

Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy

By Alhaji Arems

 

In the vibrant world of Fuji music, where the artistry of storytelling and cultural commentary thrive, Saheed Osupa has carved out a unique role as both an artist and an influencer of thought. Recently, his name has been lighting up social media discussions and generating significant buzz—not just because of his music but because of the depth of his words. Osupa’s trending status is rooted in his ability to subtly address pressing issues, particularly those surrounding the ongoing tension between fellow Fuji musicians Taye Currency and Pasuma Wonder.

 

 

Osupa’s recent contributions to this situation have not been straightforward; rather, he has adopted an artistic approach, using parables and proverbs—sometimes through complex storytelling—to impart wisdom. These nuanced messages, often hidden within his lyrics, resonate with fans who appreciate the clever way he brings age-old Yoruba wisdom into contemporary issues. One notable example involves a story about an animal (traditionally symbolizing patience and resilience) that many believe reflects Osupa’s thoughts on rivalry and pride. Through this parable, he seems to suggest the importance of self-reflection and restraint, especially in the heat of conflict.

Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star's Storytelling Legacy

By Alhaji Arems

In a genre that values not only musicality but also the power of words, Osupa has long been seen as a master of *itan*, or storytelling. His recent songs echo the traditional Yoruba way of imparting wisdom through tales that serve as lessons. This is a skill that few artists have mastered, making his approach particularly impactful in today’s fast-paced digital world, where nuanced messages can often be overlooked.

Beyond the Taye Currency-Pasuma Wonder issue, Osupa’s trending status is also due to his reputation as a voice of reason and maturity in Fuji music. As a genre that is often vibrant and full of competitive spirit, Fuji has its share of rivalries. Yet, Osupa has often stood out by promoting unity and peaceful dialogue among Fuji artists. By sharing these reflective stories in his music, he adds layers of meaning that fans continue to unpack and discuss, drawing new audiences who appreciate both the artistry and wisdom behind his words.

The charm of Saheed Osupa lies in his timeless approach. In a world where trends are fleeting, he reminds fans of the importance of timeless values, urging reflection, humility, and understanding. As fans interpret and share his latest stories, Osupa’s message continues to resonate widely—proof that, in Fuji, the power of words can be as influential as the beat of the drum.

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

 

Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade, born on January 1, 1989, in Ebute Metta, Lagos, is an accomplished Nigerian actor, producer, and filmmaker with a deep passion for Yoruba cinema. Originally from Abeokuta, Ogun State, he is the first child in his family. Sholagbade began his education at Kadara Primary School and continued at Sojomen Talabi High School, Akute, and Nawairudeen Secondary School, Ebute Metta. He later earned an Ordinary Narional Diploma in Business Administration from the Lagos State Polytechnic. Pursuing his passion for acting, he trained at Odunfa Caucus, where he graduated in 2010.

Sholagbade launched his acting career in 2005, making a name for himself in Yoruba-language films. His portfolio includes roles in popular films like Olowo Ghetto, Alaimo, Ebun Mi, Esi, Gold and Treasure, Liam, Emilomo Babaolowo, Oko Aunty Mi, Broken Bond (Tude), and Last Born. In addition to acting, he has also produced several films, further cementing his influence in the industry.

Beyond the entertainment world, Sholagbade is a versatile professional with experience in railway engineering, IT support, and site management in the UK. He is also a farmer and general merchant, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and diverse skill set.

Throughout his career, Sholagbade has collaborated with top figures in Yoruba cinema, such as Yinka Quadri, Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, Funke Akindele, Femi Adebayo, Odun Adekola, Oga Bello, Baba Wande, Jide Kosoko, Funsho Adeolu, Fathia William Balogun, Saidi Balogun, Wunmi Toriola, and Mide Martins.

Sholagbade’s hobbies include traveling, business, football, filmmaking, and meeting new people, reflecting his dynamic and outgoing personality.

Sholagbade’s talent and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous accolades, including: Best Actor Yoruba – BON Awards, 2024, Best Supporting Actor– Afro Nollywood Awards, UK, 2019, Best Supporting Actor– Heritage Awards, Atlanta, USA, Best Supporting Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards, Best New Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards.

With his achievements and versatility, Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade remains a notable force in the Nigerian film industry and a proud ambassador of Yoruba cinema worldwide.

What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

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Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

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Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

 

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups against Terrorism in Nigeria has congratulated Major-General Olufemi Oluyede on his appointment as the acting Chief of Army Staff, (Ag COAS, Nigerian Army).

Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

The Convener of the Coalition, Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi, in a statement, said General Oluyede has the responsibility to consolidate the success achieved by the Nigerian Army under General Taoreed Lagbaja.

President Bola Tinubu had on Wednesday, October 30, appointed Oluyede as acting COAS pending the return of the indisposed substantive Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja.

The Coalition said his appointment is a welcome development. It said: “Major-General Olufemi Oluyede is well qualified for the position. He was a member of the 39th regular course and commissioned as an officer in 1987. Aged 56, he was promoted to the rank of Major-General in September 2020. A professional and top-notch security expert, he brings a lot of hope and inspiration to younger officers as acting chief of Army Staff.

“His appointment is the way to go. As the acting Chief of Army Staff, Oluyede has the responsibility to lead an army that will administratively manage the institution, consolidate on the success achieved by General Lagbaja and his team to mop up remnants of insurgents, bandits and the ragtag criminal elements in the North, and dismantle the ethnic militias in the Southeast to bring peace in the country.

“The 56-year-old Oluyede shares a long history with General Lagbaja, with a track record and excellent service to the nation. Both are members of the 39th Regular Course and were commissioned as officers in 1987.

“Oluyede’s meritorious career began as a Platoon commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, advancing to Company commander at 177 Guards Battalion and later Staff Officer at the Guards Brigade and commandant of Amphibious Training School.

“Oluyede has been part of many notable operations, including the ECOMOG Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in the Northeast, where he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade.

“He has received honours, including the Corps Medal of Honour, and Grand Service Star, all recognition for passing the Staff Course and membership in the National Institute, and his dedication and achievements in service.”

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