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Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen Celebrates Nollywood Greats with ISFF Awards Endowment

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Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen Celebrates Nollywood Greats with ISFF Awards Endowment

 

 

Veteran film and television greats, both living and those who have passed on but made indelible marks on the Nigerian film industry, also known as Nollywood, are up for celebration at the International Students’ Film Festival, dedicated to training young ones to be the future of Nigeria’s cinema industry.

 

 

With a keen eye to celebrate these all-time veterans of cinema, Edo-born filmmaker, Amb. (Dr.) Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen (aka D’Guvernor), has instituted film awards system to honour and celebrate the living and some fallen heroes of Nollywood whose works continue to resonate with audiences.
The second edition of International Students’ Film Festival (ISFF), a campus-based travelling film festival, is scheduled to take place at the Department of Film and Multimedia Studies, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, from September 16 – 20, 2024 where the living and late legends will be honoured with awards named after them. Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State, hosted the festival’s first edition in 2023.

 

Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen Celebrates Nollywood Greats with ISFF Awards Endowment

Nollywood ace screenwriter Emem Isong has Emem Isong Misodi Award for Best Screenplay named after her, just as Iyen Agbonifo has Iyen Agbonifo Award or Best Costume category named after her, Cleopatra Starret has Cleopatra Starrets Award for Best Make-Up named after her and Sir, Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion Award for Best film on Culture also named after him. Also, four fallen heroes of the industry are up for honour with awards dedicated to their names. They are Raymond Aleogho Dokpesi of African Independent Television (AIT) for pioneering a television platform for showcasing films and soap operas, Chico Ejiro for his prodigious output as a filmmaker, Sadiq Daba and Enebeli Elebuwa for their pioneering roles as astute actors and Capt. Hosa Okunbo for his role as film financier and major entertainment supporter

Meanwhile, the long awaited nomination list for the students’ film festival, in collaboration with Nollywood National Conference, has been released. The ISFF 2024 jury, led by Dr. Charles Okwuowulu (DGN), a filmmaker and a senior lecturer with both Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Nkwo, Ebonyi State and Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State, observed that there was an avalanche of films coming from professionals rather than the students, noting that his jury team took time to ensure that only student projects were shortlisted for the awards.

While applauding Amb. Imasuen for initiating the International Students’ Film Festival as a training ground for aspiring filmmakers, Dr. Okwuowulu charged students in tertiary institutions both in Nigeria and across the globe to take advantage of this wonderful training/learning platform created by Amb. Imasuen who has made his mark in the Nigerian creative economy. Dr. Okwuowulu said he worked with other six distinguished jurors such as Dr. Gloria Ernest-Samuel, an Associate Professor of Media Studies at Imo State University, Owerri, Dr. Finest Uwaoma of University of Maiduguri, Dr. Richard Illoma of Rivers State University, Dr. Folakemi Ogungbe of Pan Atlantic University, Promise Soyenka (DGN) of the University of Port Harcourt and Joseph Osademe of African Independent Television (AIT) to arrive at the nomination list.

While congratulating the nominees, Festival Director, Mr. Michael Chinda, assured the general public that alliwas set to have a great film harvest in Port Harcourt, and called on all art lovers to be part of the unique film festival that has as theme ‘Unique UNIPORT 2024’. He commended the jurors who he said worked independently towards ensuring that the best films emerged as nominees.

The students’ films nominated for the nine award categories include Le Kadji, Dazed and Adaeze for Best Screenplay; Budge, Adaeze and Score for Iyen Agbonifo Award for Best Costume; Adeaze, Score and Dazed for Cleopatra Award for Best Make-Up; Obiora (Dominic Nweze as Obiora), Budge (Shedrach Sunday as Zazo) and Solitude (Ibinabo Fortune as Kelvin) for Enebeli Elebuwa Memorial Award for Best Actor (male) while for Female actor category, there are Adaeze (Jane Chidindu as Adaeze), Are You Human? (Ekienabor Sarah) and Score (Trinity Ugonabo as Nelo). Also, there’s Sadiq Daba Memorial Award for Best Short Film that has Dazed, Budge and Solitude, Capt. Hosa Okunbo Memorial Award for Best Feature Film with The Pirates, Praeda and Once Upon a Time at Ruth’s as nominees; Chico Ejiro Memorial Award for Best Director and has Budge, Dazed and Solitude as nominations; Raymond Aleogho Dokpesi Memorial Award for Documentary with 40 Years a Memory, The Rise and Ndito-Ufen as nominated films.

Amb. Imasuen said the motivation for setting up the student-based festival is to lend credence to his passion of empowering young people with skills in the industry where he has made a name for himself. He said he doesn’t want empowerment to be a mere slogan, but something that can be made real in the lives of young people who are willing to learn the rudiments of filmmaking. Secondly, he said the award component of the festival is designed as a celebration of both the living and practitioners who are fallen heroes and heroines of the industry, and to point the minds of young people towards emulating their achievements with a view to surpassing them in their craft.

“As the awards indicate, the names of the honourees are attached to them – some are alive and still working while some have passed on,” Amb. Imasuen said. “So this is to celebrate my colleagues who are still alive and to immortalise those who are dead, because we are giving the awards to young minds; this will stay with them and elicit curiosity in their minds to want to know more about these people, whether alive or dead, and be better educated about the industry they are coming into. The idea is to inspire these young filmmakers to be greater than the names attached to the awards given to them.

“So it’s a deliberate decision by me for Nollywood to honour these great men and women who have contributed and are still contributing so much to the growth of our industry by imprinting their names in the minds of these young, aspiring filmmakers, as worthy examples to follow as they come into Nollywood. They now have industry role models to shape their cinematic craft from start. Well, artists don’t die anyway. Those still alive also make good examples for them, too as lifelong mentors.
“But do people have to die before they are honoured? So this is my own way of letting the living know we respect them for their craft and to let the families of our fallen heroes know that we hold them dearly in our heart for the gift of their craft and the resources they gave us while they lived. This is why it’s significant that the awards for these young ones be named after these industry greats, so we don’t forget, for their memories to live on in our hearts for as long as possible, for their labour not to be in vain.”

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Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

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Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

 

 

Popular Islamic singer and entertainer, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri, has continued to receive prayers and accolades from fans, friends and well-wishers as she celebrates her birthday today.

The celebrated artiste, known for her inspiring Islamic songs and captivating stage presence, described music as a divine calling and a special gift from God meant to announce her greatness to the world.

Speaking on her journey in the entertainment industry, Kifaya said her unique voice and wisdom helped her gain quick recognition among music lovers and industry stakeholders.

According to her, “My beautiful voice coupled with great wisdom have made my versatility in the entertainment industry quick to be noticed by all and sundry.”

The singer, whose maiden album titled Alaseyori brought her into the limelight years ago, also ventured into fashion and the sales of imported shoes and bags alongside her music career.

As part of efforts to expand her reach in the industry, the Islamic music star disclosed that her songs are available on several digital streaming platforms, including Audiomack and other online play stores.

Having spent over 15 years in the music industry, Kifaya said her versatility has also earned her ambassadorial deals for different brands.

Despite the challenges encountered on her path to success, the singer expressed gratitude to God for sustaining her through difficult times.

“I have got reasons to appreciate God. Though I have passed through a lot, today I have opportunities to thank God,” she said.

Meanwhile, admirers have continued to describe the celebrant as a symbol of grace, faith and excellence, praying for greater achievements, sound health, peace of mind and abundant blessings in her new age.

The birthday celebration has also generated reactions across social media platforms, where fans and associates continue to celebrate her impact in the Islamic entertainment space and wish her many more fruitful years filled with happiness and prosperity.

 

Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

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Ileya Tonic : King Saheed Osupa Announces New 2-in-1 Album, Acapella & Metamorphosis

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Ileya Tonic : King Saheed Osupa Announces New 2-in-1 Album, Acapella & Metamorphosis

By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)

 

 

Veteran Fuji musician King Saheed Osupa is set to release a new 2-in-1 album titled Acapella & Metamorphosis on May 26, 2026.

The announcement was revealed through promotional materials shared across the singer’s official social media pages, where anticipation has already started building among longtime fans of the Fuji icon. The artwork for the project presents Osupa in a calm and regal setting, matching the mature image he has maintained throughout his career.

While full details about the tracklist and featured artists are yet to be officially released, the title of the project has already sparked conversations online. “Metamorphosis” suggests a new phase or evolution, while “Acapella” hints at a more raw or expressive musical direction. Together, both titles point toward a project that may combine classic Fuji elements with a refreshed sound and message.

Over the years, Osupa has remained one of the most respected voices in Fuji music, known for his deep lyrical style, cultural storytelling, and loyal fanbase across Nigeria and beyond. Even as the music industry continues to evolve, the singer has maintained strong relevance, especially among audiences who appreciate traditional Yoruba-rooted sounds blended with contemporary production.

The decision to release a 2-in-1 album also stands out at a time when many artists are focusing on shorter projects and singles. For established acts like Osupa, larger releases often serve as a statement of longevity, consistency, and artistic confidence.

Fans have continued to react positively to the announcement online, with many already counting down to the release date. The project is expected to arrive on major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, Boomplay, YouTube Music, TIDAL, and Deezer.

With the official release now scheduled for May 26, listeners will be watching closely to see what King Saheed Osupa delivers on Acapella & Metamorphosis and whether the project marks another defining moment in his long-running career.

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Aesha Mikaelson Returns as Producer: Actress Aishy Announces Powerful Screen Comeback With IJA ORU

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Aesha Mikaelson Returns as Producer: Actress Aishy Announces Powerful Screen Comeback With IJA ORU

 

After years away from the spotlight, Nigerian actress, producer, and media personality Aesha Mikaelson is making a highly anticipated return to the screen with a bold new identity, a renewed creative vision, and a powerful upcoming movie project titled IJA ORU — a project she is also producing.

 

Previously known in the entertainment industry as Aishy, whose real name is Aisat Iyabode Asamu, the actress built recognition through multiple media appearances and interviews across prominent Nigerian publications. Over the years, she became known for her charisma, screen presence, and growing influence within Nollywood and youth entertainment culture.

 

Now reintroduced professionally as Aesha Mikaelson, she is entering a new phase of her career — one that reflects growth, reinvention, and artistic maturity, marked not only by her return in front of the camera but also by her expanded role behind the scenes as a producer.

 

Her comeback project, IJA ORU, is scheduled to premiere on May 22 via Yetunde Barnabas TV on YouTube, marking what many insiders describe as one of the most symbolic independent returns currently building momentum in Nigeria’s digital film space.

 

Produced by Aesha Mikaelson under Quila Visuals Production, the movie blends mystery, spiritual tension, emotion, and psychological storytelling — themes that continue to resonate strongly with modern African audiences. Her dual role as both lead talent and producer underscores her evolution from performer to creative force shaping her own narratives.

 

Speaking on her return, Aesha Mikaelson described the project as more than just another film release.

 

“This is not just a comeback. It is a rebirth — creatively and personally. I took time away from the spotlight to grow, reflect and rebuild my vision as an actress, producer, and storyteller.”

 

Before her hiatus, Aishy gained public attention through several interviews and entertainment features discussing her career journey, personal growth, and experiences in the entertainment industry. Her media presence appeared in outlets including Vanguard Media Limited, Tribune Online, BusinessDay, TMY News, and The Nation Newspaper.

 

Industry observers say the rebrand to Aesha Mikaelson — paired with her step into producing — reflects a broader shift happening among modern Nigerian creatives, moving from conventional celebrity culture into more intentional brand positioning, ownership of creative output, and cinematic storytelling.

 

The visuals surrounding IJA ORU have already generated growing online conversations, particularly for their dark symbolic aesthetic and emotionally charged presentation. Fans and supporters across social media platforms have also welcomed the actress back, describing her return as “long overdue.”

 

The release further highlights the growing influence of YouTube-driven Nollywood distribution, where independent creators and producers like Aesha Mikaelson are increasingly building global audiences beyond traditional cinema systems.

 

With IJA ORU now approaching release, many believe Aesha Mikaelson’s return — this time as both star and producer — could mark the beginning of a major new chapter in her career.

 

For followers who remember the actress as Aishy, the comeback represents nostalgia. For newer audiences discovering her for the first time, it may become the start of a powerful new screen identity led by a creator now firmly in command of her own story.

 

IJA ORU premieres May 22 on Yetunde Barnabas TV via YouTube.

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