celebrity radar - gossips

ONOCHIE: THE AMAZON DESTINED FOR THE TOP By Idowu Ajanaku

Published

3 years ago

November 28, 2022

ONOCHIE: THE AMAZON DESTINED FOR THE TOP By Idowu Ajanaku

Love or hate her persona of courage and candour, there is no denying the fact that in the leadership equation, here in Nigeria and elsewhere in every democratic dispensation, loyalty and commitment to service pay. Those factors come of course, with character, hard work and being passionate to a cause one firmly believes in.

That may perhaps, explain why the name, LaurettaOnochiesends shivers down the spine of her traducers, all because she has stood solid and strong with her abiding loyalty to the President Muhammad Buhari’scause to promote integrity, quality service delivery and gender equity especially in the political spectrum.

In essence, that would also explain why the leadership of Project Niger Delta, PND, has commended President Muhammadu Buhari for heeding the calls of the good people of the Niger Delta. That is precisely so in the recent nomination of men and women of proven integrity to constitute the substantive board of the controversy-riddled Niger Delta Development Commission,NDDC. Good enough, this falls in tandem with the Act setting up the CommissionNiger-Delta Development Commission (Establishment etc) Act 6 of 2000 as part of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.

It would be noted that in spite of the barrage of verbal attacks that have trailed her commitment to sanitizing the New Media, which she has been spearheading as the Senior Special Assistant to Mister President she has remained resolute. She has therefore, acted as a beacon bearer against the dark background of unproven innuendoes and insinuations, even from some of her own Niger Delta people.

On the other hand, some others, like members of PND recognize her worth. What that implies or the point it proves is that President Buhari has made this rare appointment beyond loyalty, to competence. The confidence he has exhibited in Onochie, the graduate of Harvard University, University of Greenwich, University of Benin, University of Calabar, will surely go a long way for her to prove her mettle again.

In fact, as the PND group rightly noted, the inauguration of the substantive board of the commission was long overdue. Onochie’s appointment has therefore, revived the hopes of the people of the oil-rich region that the lost glory of the commission will be restored under her able watch.

Interestingly, Onochie, once approved by the Senate is coming as the fifth chairman of the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the first woman to do so. That is history in the making.

Her appointment is coming some three years after the last chairman of the board, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba was dropped by the president on January 25, 2019. The senator was appointed in 2016.

It is also on record thatOnochie was a national commissioner nominee of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) but was rejected because her state, Delta had already produced a commissioner in the electoral body.

In retrospect, the NDDC was established in 2000 by the administration of former President OlusegunObasanjo, to fast-track the development of the oil rich Niger Delta region.

The past chairmen of the NDDC board were Chief OnyemaUgochukwu from Abia State and Air vice Marshal Larry Koinyan (rtd) from Bayelsa as well as Senators Ewa-Henshaw and Victor Ndoma-Egba, all from Cross River State.

In a letter addressed to the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, Buhari also announced the nomination of 15 others as NDDC board members.

It would be recalled that in September 2008, President UmaruYar’Adua(of blessed memory) announced the formation of a Niger Delta Affairs Ministry. The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) became a parastatal under the ministry.

One of the statutory functions of the commission is for human capacity development- to train and educate the youths of the Niger Delta region. The objective is to curb militancy and the attendant destruction of lives and property, whilealso developing important infrastructure to promote diversification and productivity of the region’s economy.

Similar to PND, the Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has praised the decision of President Muhammadu Buhari to appoint LaurettaOnochie as chairman of the NDDC board.

Also appointed as acting executive director, Finance and Administration of NDDC is Chris Amadi, while Samuel Adjogbe, an engineer, becomes acting executive director, projects.

According to MOSIEND president, Kennedy Tonjo West, because Onochie has worked closely with Buhari, he has no doubt that Onochie will implement the president’s vision for the Niger Delta.

West said: “I think this is the first time we are having a woman as chairman of the board. It is a novel idea. But first, she is an SA (special assistant) to the President and she is doing her job. And the kind of job as an SA, she will definitely do what her boss says.

“If you have put that as a yardstick, then, I am quite sure that was what had endeared her to her boss for being thorough and resolute when it comes to her job.

“Coming back as a chairman, she is a Niger Deltan, she has equal right like every other person that should be nominated. I think the National Assembly should expedite action in giving her the pass to come and serve.”

In a similar vein, the National Coordinator of PND, Comrade PrincewillEbebi in a statement in Yenagoa, the group is convinced that with LaurettaOnochie and Chief Samuel Ogbuku as Chairman and Managing Director respectively, the narratives of the board will change for good.

Ebebi said: “We believed that having duo as the Chairman and Managing Director, the Niger Delta will witness the needed transformation especially now that the pains and agonies running through the heart of people after the calamitous flood disaster that has destroyed the livelihood of the people.

“We charge them to bring their wealth of knowledge to bear in the lives of our people and change the narrative of the current dwindling status of the oil-rich region. We congratulate Mrs. LaurettaOnochie and Chief Dr Samuel Ogbuku and others for their well-deserved appointment to move the Niger Delta forward”.

Though some may view her current nomination for the NDDC headship as a form of compensation for her travails since she was turned down by the Senate for the INEC job, people should not lose sight of the fact that had she betrayed the cause she stood by, the pendulum of the appointment would have swung otherwise. That reminds us of Benjamin Disraeli’s statement that: “The secret of success is constancy of purpose”.

Ajanaku, a journalist writes from Lagos .

celebrity radar - gossips

Laffmattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka & Friends Returns In 2026, As Canada Joins Tour ‎

Published

8 hours ago

February 24, 2026

Sahara Weekly

‎Laffmattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka & Friends Returns In 2026, As Canada Joins Tour
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‎Nigeria’s longest-running and most consistent comedy tour, LaffMattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka & Friends, has officially announced its 2026 tour themed “Next Chapter.” The upcoming edition marks a major milestone as the brand celebrates its 15th edition with a bold expansion that includes Canada for the first time.
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‎The Next Chapter edition represents a clear evolution from previous years — signaling growth, global reach, and a renewed creative vision. While past editions focused on taking premium comedy experiences across Nigerian cities, the 2026 tour elevates the brand with international exposure, upgraded production, and stronger engagement with audiences at home and in the diaspora.
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‎Speaking on the significance of the new theme, organizers describe the 15th edition as more than a celebration of longevity, but a statement of intent — positioning LaffMattazz as a global Nigerian entertainment export.
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‎CONFIRMED TOUR CITIES & VENUES
‎•Ibadan – Jogor Center (Easter Sunday, April 5th, 2026)
‎•Akure – The Dome International Culture & Event Center
‎•Abeokuta – OOPL Marquee
‎•Lagos – Balmoral Convention Center
‎•Canada – Multi-city tour (dates to be announced)
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‎Audiences can expect a rich blend of comedy, music, and surprise guest appearances — delivered with the signature “& Friends” experience that has defined the tour for over a decade.
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‎With the Next Chapter, LaffMattazz reinforces its legacy while opening new doors for African comedy on the global stage.
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celebrity radar - gossips

Kevin David Kaydee Releases Inspiring Single “Oluwa Settle Me”

Published

2 days ago

February 23, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Kevin David Kaydee Releases Inspiring Single “Oluwa Settle Me”

Rising music artist Kevin David Kaydee has released a powerful new single titled Oluwa Settle Me, a soulful Afro-inspired anthem that blends heartfelt prayer with modern rhythm.

“Oluwa Settle Me” captures the everyday cry of many believers seeking breakthrough, peace, and divine favour. With emotionally rich melodies and uplifting instrumentation, the song expresses a sincere plea to God for complete answers to life’s pressing questions—career, destiny, relationships, and spiritual fulfilment.

Drawing from Afrocentric sounds and contemporary gospel influences, the track stands out for its simplicity, sincerity, and spiritual depth. Kevin David Kaydee delivers the message with passion, creating a worshipful atmosphere that resonates across age groups and cultures.

The song’s message of hope and dependence on God positions it as more than just music,it is a prayer set to melody. By fusing spirituality with modern lifestyle rhythms, “Oluwa Settle Me” reflects the growing wave of gospel music that speaks directly to real-life struggles while pointing listeners back to faith.

As gospel music continues to evolve across Africa and beyond, Kevin David Kaydee’s latest release reinforces music as a powerful tool for encouragement, reflection, and spiritual connection.

“Oluwa Settle Me” is now gaining attention among gospel music lovers for its relatable message and soulful sound, marking another significant step in the artist’s growing musical journey.

https://ditto.fm/oluwa-settle-me

celebrity radar - gossips

Another Feather for Nollywood Icon Fidelis Duker

Published

3 days ago

February 21, 2026

Sahara Weekly

**Another Feather for Nollywood Icon Fidelis Duker

*Lagos, Nigeria* — In a remarkable celebration of artistic achievement, renowned Nollywood figure Fidelis Duker received yet another prestigious accolade last weekend, solidifying his role as a key player in the growth of the Nigerian and African film industries. The award was presented in a ceremony held at Duker’s Lagos office by esteemed film and theatre director, Mr. Alex Eyengho, founder of the Warri International Film Festival, alongside Marketing and Strategy Director, Mrs. Matel Eyengho.

The recent recognition builds upon Duker’s previous achievement at last year’s ECOFEST in Dakar, where he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. This latest accolade is a testament to his unwavering dedication and substantial contributions to the cinematic landscape.

“I am truly humbled by this recognition,” Duker expressed during the event. In his speech, Alex Eyengho lauded Duker’s pioneering efforts in establishing significant film festivals in Nigeria, particularly the Abuja International Film Festival, which has played a vital role in promoting local talent and storytelling.

Eyengho emphasized, “Fidelis has not only paved the way for emerging filmmakers but has also helped elevate Nigerian cinema on the global stage. His creative vision and commitment inspire all of us in the industry.”

As Duker reflects on this honor, he acknowledges the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving success. “This acknowledgment reaffirms to my team and me that our work is being observed, and it motivates us to continue contributing to the development of our sector,” he stated.

With numerous projects on the horizon, Duker remains a relentless advocate for the growth and recognition of African cinema. His latest recognition is yet another testament to the vibrant and evolving landscape of Nollywood, as industry leaders like him continue to inspire future generations.

As the film industry anticipates the next phase of development, Duker’s continued influence signals a promising future for filmmakers in Nigeria and across the continent.