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NEC 10th Edition: UBA Foundation Calls for Entries, Introduces Digital Submission Portal for Students

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…Increases prize money by over 33% 

UBA Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has today commenced the 2020 edition of its annual National Essay Competition in Nigeria with a call for entries.

Now in its tenth year, the National Essay Competition (NEC) is part of UBA Foundation’s education initiative which is aimed at promoting the reading culture and encouraging healthy and intellectual competition amongst secondary school students in Nigeria and across Africa. 

This year’s edition, which is the 10th since inception, has been modified to ensure ease of access and increased participation of senior secondary school students from the comfort of their homes through the introduction of a digital submission portal. 

Taking into consideration the effects the Covid-19 pandemic has had on lives and incomes across board, the UBA Foundation has also increased the prize money for the 2020 edition of the NEC by 33 per cent as the first prize winner will get an educational grant of  N2.5m, up from N2m in 2019. The second and third prize winners will now receive N2m and N1.5m educational grants respectively, from N1.5m and N1m which were awarded in the previous year’s competition. 

The Chief Executive Officer, UBA Foundation, Mrs. Bola Atta stated that with the newly introduced digital submission portal, more students in secondary schools across the country will have the opportunity to scan and send in their entries and compete to win educational grants for study at any university of their choice on the African continent.

She said, “As a Foundation, which is the CSR arm of the United Bank for Africa – a fully digitalised bank, we are driven by the mantra to always innovate and adapt to our constantly changing environment. This year, we thought hard about how to ease the pains that everyone is feeling. Students have not been able to go to school and there has been a lot of anxiety in families trying to ensure that educational gaps do not emerge.  It is imperative for us at the UBA Foundation that our impact programmes do not wane. We also need to design them to be as inclusive as possible so that those students who don’t have easy access to computers can still participate in the competition with a chance to win grants towards their tertiary edification.’ 

Atta explained that the choice of topic for this year’s edition is one that helps promote creative and analytical thinking in students whilst helping them become problem solvers. The essay topic selected is Do you think that the lock – down during the Covid-19 pandemic was an essential measure in spite of the hardship it has brought economically? What would you have done differently and why?”

All entrants are to hand write their essays and upload scanned copies of their handwritten entries as well as ID on the digital portal at www.ubagroup.com/national-essay-competitionbefore October 2,2020. They may also drop off the handwritten essays at their nearest UBA business office for onward submission to the UBA Foundation.

The judges who are made up of esteemed professors from reputable Nigerian Universitieswill receive all the essays on a digital drive, evaluate them and select the top 12 finalists all of who will take home consolation prizes including personal computers. 

The finale of the NEC this year will be conducted virtually as the initiative rolls out across 19 more countries in Africa.

UBA Foundation embodies the UBA Group’s CSR objectives and seeks to impact positively on societies through several laudable projects and initiatives. The Foundation has donated hundreds of thousands of books to students across Africa under the ‘Read Africa’ initiative aimed at encouraging and promoting the reading culture in African youths.

Students can apply for the National Essay Competition 2020 at: www.ubagroup.com/national-essay-competition;

Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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Rising Afro-Fusion Star “Mac Sarzy” Announces Debut EP Where I Come From – Drops March 28, 2025

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Rising Afro-Fusion Star “Mac Sarzy” Announces Debut EP Where I Come From – Drops March 28, 2025

Rising Afro-Fusion Star “Mac Sarzy” Announces Debut EP Where I Come From – Drops March 28, 2025

By – MR. Bright .M. Braimah

 

Lagos, Nigeria – March 28, 2025_ – Nigerian Afro-fusion artist, Mac Sarzy, is set to release his highly anticipated debut EP, “Where I Come From,” on March 28, 2025. The six-track project is a personal and cultural statement, blending Afrobeats, Afro-pop, and soul to create a compelling narrative of identity, resilience, gratitude, and success.

Rising Afro-Fusion Star “Mac Sarzy” Announces Debut EP Where I Come From – Drops March 28, 2025

“Where I Come From” is more than just music — it’s an expression of Mac Sarzy’s journey, influences, and growth as an artist. “The dream is free, but the hustle is sold separately. The struggle you’re in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow,” says Mac Sarzy. Each track on the EP is infused with deep storytelling, rich melodies, and rhythmic grooves that paint a vivid picture of his experiences and the African cultural heritage that shapes his sound.

 

Tracklist :

1. Where I Come From (Prod. Karspal Beat)

2. Peace of Mind (Prod. Skillbeat)

3. Ola Oluwa (Prod. Karspal Beat)

4. Eko (Feat. Segunzyno & Uk Zee, Prod. Karspal Beat)

5. Almost There (Feat. Irawo & Boi Jovi, Prod. Karspal Beat)

6. Afro Sax Riddim (Bonus Track, Prod. Karspal Beat)

With a background as a producer and multi-instrumentalist, Mac Sarzy has carved a distinct niche in the Afro-fusion space. His signature style combines vibrant instrumentals with emotionally resonant lyrics, reflecting the depth of his artistry. Songs like “Ola Oluwa” celebrate divine blessings, while “Eko” captures the essence of Lagos, and “Almost There” speaks to perseverance and ambition.

 

“Where I Come From” will be available on all major streaming platforms, bringing listeners an immersive musical experience that showcases Mac Sarzy’s authenticity and sonic evolution.

Connect with Mac Sarzy :

Instagram : @Macsarzy_

Twitter : @MacSarzy

WhatsApp Channel : Mac Sarzy

For press inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact:

Media & Brand Management : Swagz On Street

Email Address : Macsarzy@gmail.com

Phone Number : +2348159944899

“Where I Come From” is more than just an EP — it’s a celebration of heritage, ambition, and artistry. Get ready to stream and experience Mac Sarzy’s sonic journey on March 28, 2025!

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Eazie Boi, The Voice of A United Continent/Eazie Boi, The Voice of A Socialist Society

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Eazie Boi, The Voice of A United Continent/Eazie Boi, The Voice of A Socialist Society

 

Raymond Israel, popularly known as Eazie Boi, is a dynamic professional Ib-based music recording artist… A songwriter, singer and rapper…Eazie Boi is an indigene of the state of Akwa Ibom… He’s released heartwarming singles like No Para, Oshey, Dispare, Burning Bridge, Endsarz Symphony. He just wanted to thank he’s Fans audience around the world for their support from day one. He is currently working on new projects combining his commitment to Pan-African network and a socialist government breeding consciousness into Afro-beats and hip-hop music.

 

He places himself in the lineage of pan-African singers like Paul Robeson, Miriam Makeba and the all time greats legendary Fela Kuti. His vision of a united continent and a socialist society is an awareness of the importance of pan-African solidarity of the continent and the diaspora.

For the vocalist, Africa is rich in its diversity and its unity around the philosophical concept Ubuntu. He likes to recall the strength of the Kemits and of the young African today who wishes to take charge of her future.
This commitment begins with his EndSarz symphony, a text committed to calling for an end to police brutality. ENdSars is this social movement of protest against the political violence carried out by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, a unit of the Nigerian police. This mass protest movement calls for an end to oppression and police brutality in Nigeria. Eazie Boi then embraced socialist ideas. In his leaflet, he calls for socialist revolution in his country, Nigeria, which has problems with brutality, corruption and massacres. He then became the spokesperson for an entire generation of young Nigerians wishing to improve their living conditions.

He wants to make it known that he is working hard and will release his debut EP album in 2025. Although the release date has not yet been set, it will be communicated via his social media account.
Facebook Page:- Eazie Nation
Instagram account:- iam_eazieboi
X:- iam_eazieboi

 

His style of music and his musical genre are a panel of his talents. Although he is gifted in rapping and singing, his preferred style remains afro-beats. He is part of the lineage of current Naija artists who assert themselves as African and Afrobeat remains his favorite genre.
Rap remains a means of expression on political and social issues in Africa but also in the world. Singing is another cool way for Eazie Boi to express his feelings and communicate his ideas to the world.

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Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards 2025: Full List of Nominees Sparks Intense Reactions

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Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards 2025: Full List of Nominees Sparks Intense Reactions

Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards 2025: Full List of Nominees Sparks Intense Reactions

The highly anticipated nominations for the 2025 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) have been unveiled, setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested battle among Africa’s finest in film, television, and digital content. With projects released between January 1 and December 31, 2024, the selection showcases an impressive array of talent and storytelling prowess across various categories.

Among the standout contenders, Lisabi: The Uprising, Skeleton Coast, House of Ga’a, and Freedom Way have emerged as dominant forces, securing multiple nominations, including Best Movie and Best Director.

Top Acting Categories

The Best Lead Actor category is stacked with some of Nollywood’s finest, featuring Gideon Okeke (Tokunbo), Stan Nze (Suspicion), Femi Adebayo (Seven Doors), and Adedimeji Lateef (Lisabi: The Uprising). These seasoned actors will battle it out for the prestigious award, each having delivered powerful performances that left audiences in awe.

On the other hand, the Best Lead Actress category sees a stellar lineup, including Chioma Chukwuka (Seven Doors), Bimbo Ademoye (Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre), and Uche Montana (Thinline), all of whom have been recognized for their compelling roles in some of the year’s most talked-about films.

Fan-Favorite Categories and Industry Buzz

The digital space is also well represented, with the Best Digital Content Creator category featuring talents like Iyo Prosper Adokiye, Maryam Apakagi-Greene, and Elozonam Ogbolu. As social media continues to play a major role in content creation, this category is expected to be one of the most closely watched.

In addition, the Best Multichoice Talent Factory Movie category highlights emerging talents from across Africa, reinforcing the AMVCA’s commitment to nurturing young filmmakers. Titles such as Gone (West Africa), Everything Light Touches (West Africa), and The Immersive Alarm (East Africa) made the cut.

Biggest Showdowns and Surprises

The Best Director category is another highlight, with Robert O Peters (Skeleton Coast), Norman Maake (Inkabi), Bolanle Austen-Peters (House of Ga’a), and Femi Adebayo (Seven Doors) competing for the prestigious accolade. With each director bringing a unique touch to their respective films, this category is expected to be highly competitive.

Meanwhile, the Best Movie category features an exciting mix of epic blockbusters and critically acclaimed productions, including Lisabi: The Uprising, Skeleton Coast, Suspicion, Inkabi, House of Ga’a, Freedom Way, and Christmas in Lagos.

Full List of Nominees

Best Digital Content Creator

  • Iyo Prosper Adokiye
  • Maryam Apakagi-Greene
  • Elozonam Ogbolu, Hoviare Freedom, Chiamaka Uzokwe
  • Jide Pounds Ibitoye
  • Ariyiikedimples, Brain Jotter

Best Movie

  • Lisabi: The Uprising
  • Skeleton Coast
  • Suspicion
  • Inkabi
  • House of Ga’a
  • Freedom Way
  • Christmas in Lagos
  • Farmer’s Bride

Best Director

  • Robert O Peters – Skeleton Coast
  • Norman Maake – Inkabi
  • Bolanle Austen-Peters – House of Ga’a
  • Awam Amkpa – The Man Died
  • Daniel Emeka Oriahi – The Weekend
  • Femi Adebayo, Adebayo Tijani, Tope Adebayo – Seven Doors

Best Lead Actor

  • Gideon Okeke – Tokunbo
  • Bucci Franklin – The Weekend
  • Femi Branch – House of Ga’a
  • Thapelo Makoena – Skeleton Coast
  • Bimbo Manuel – Princess On A Hill
  • Stan Nze – Suspicion
  • Femi Adebayo – Seven Doors
  • Adedimeji Lateef – Lisabi: The Uprising

Best Lead Actress

  • Chioma Chukwuka – Seven Doors
  • Gbugbemi Ejeye – Farmer’s Bride
  • Uzoamaka Onuoha – Agemo
  • Uche Montana – Thinline
  • Uzoamaka Aniunoh – Phoenix Fury
  • Hilda Dokubo – The Uprising: Wives On Strike 3
  • Bimbo Ademoye – Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre

(Additional nominees for other categories omitted for brevity.)

What’s Next?

The 2025 AMVCA promises to be a night of glitz, glamour, and well-deserved recognition for the best in African entertainment. With some categories too close to call, fans and industry insiders are eagerly anticipating the final results.

Voting lines are now open, and the audience is encouraged to support their favorite nominees. As the countdown to the awards night begins, the excitement continues to build, with predictions and debates already dominating social media discussions.

Who will take home the prestigious AMVCA trophies? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—this year’s edition will go down as one of the most competitive and talked-about in the history of the awards.

 

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