Entertainment
Nollywood Stars Shine Bright: Happy Julian And Others Named Cultural Ambassadors
In a glittering ceremony at the 2023 Nollywood New Yam Festival in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), actress Happy Julian-Uchendu, popularly known as Happy Julian, was bestowed with the prestigious title of International Ambassador for African Culture.
The event, which took place in Abuja, also saw Mrs. Noni Okocha, Chief Executive Officer of the “I am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative,” being recognized as an International Ambassador for African Culture.
Numerous other distinguished individuals were honored with cultural titles at the festival.
Rekiya Ibrahim-Atta was bestowed with the title of “Akpugo” of African Culture, and Hon. Bamidele Salam was acclaimed as the National Ambassador of African Culture, among others.
These recognitions aim to celebrate their contributions to the industry and the promotion of African culture and values.
Mr. Agility Onwurah, National Coordinator of the Festival and Chief Executive Officer of Agile 247.Com, expressed his congratulations to the awardees.
He emphasized the vital role Nollywood plays in promoting and preserving African culture.
In an age of globalization and Western influence, Nollywood serves as a cultural mirror, reflecting and upholding the essence of African identity.
The festival serves as a platform for celebrities to connect with their culture and inspire their fans, particularly the younger generation, to embrace and cherish their cultural heritage.
Actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has announced a postponement of the anticipated YouTube release of her hit film, Omo Ghetto: The Saga, due to unforeseen circumstances.
Initially set to debut on May 10, the film’s release has been rescheduled to a later date, which is yet to be disclosed.
In a statement to her fans, Akindele reassured her audience that the project remains active and expressed gratitude for their ongoing patience and support.
She committed to providing a new release date in the near future.
“Postponed, not cancelled! We’re rescheduling the #Omoghettothesaga upload due to unforeseen circumstances. We apologize for any inconvenience; we sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding. A new date will be announced soon! Stay tuned, and thank you for your continued support,” she stated.
Omo Ghetto: The Saga is a gangster comedy film that premiered in cinemas on December 25, 2020, setting box office records with a gross of over ₦636.1 million.
The film boasts an ensemble cast, including Chioma Akpotha, Eniola Badmus, and Bimbo Thomas, and features a soundtrack titled “Askamaya Anthem,” performed by the lead actresses.
Afrobeat superstar Ayra Starr has earned the prestigious Platinum Certification in the United Kingdom for her hit single “Rush”, for surpassing 600,000 units in combined sales and streams.
The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) officially recognise “Rush” with a platinum plaque, making the “Sability” crooner first Nigerian female artist to achieve this remarkable feat in the UK.
The hit song marked Ayra Starr’s debut on the UK Official Top 100, cementing her growing status as one of the most sought-after African music artiste in recent times.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Grammy-nominated singer had earlier earned impressive accolades for ‘Rush’, including a Diamond Certification in France in 2023.
“Rush”was released in Sept, 2022, and quickly gained viral success, charting in the top ten across several countries such as France, Lebanon, and South Africa.
The track’s massive popularity also contributed to Ayra Starr’s first Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 66th annual Grammy Awards.
In addition to her recent UK achievement, “Rush” has also earned platinum status in Canada and New Zealand, and 3times Platinum in Nigeria, demonstrating its widespread acclaim and commercial success. (NAN)
Award-winning singer Tems has won the Best Recording of the Year award at the 17th Headies awards for her captivating single “Burning”.
The song, featured on her 18-track album “Born in the Wild”, showcases her exceptional artistry and musical prowess.
Tems was up against stiff competition, beating out fellow nominees Seyi Vibez, Burna Boy, Ayra Starr ft Giveon, Sarz, and Lojay.
The award, one of the most prestigious in Nigerian music, was announced and received by Tems’ mother.
Since its inception in 2006 as the Hip Hop World Awards, The Headies has grown into the most respected music award platform in Nigeria, celebrating the country’s biggest talents year after year.