Tonto Dikeh Visits National Hospital Abuja, Prays With Patients and Supports Families

Tonto Dikeh Visits National Hospital Abuja, Prays With Patients and Supports Families

Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has paid a visit to the National Hospital Abuja, where she spent time praying with patients and supporting families in need.

The actress shared moments from the visit on her Instagram page. She was seen laying hands on patients, speaking with them, and giving out gifts. She also offered cash support to some families to help with hospital bills.

Dikeh said the visit was more than a routine stop. She explained that it was a chance to show love and bring hope to people going through hard times.

“Today, we stepped into the children’s and women’s wards at the National Hospital, Abuja, not just to visit, but to carry light.

“The hospital management warmly received us, and we are grateful for their openness and kindness.

“But nothing prepared me for the sight of those precious children fighting battles too heavy for their little bodies. The pain in that ward was visible… tangible. At some point, I couldn’t bring myself to walk away from the children’s ward. My heart was overwhelmed with compassion and deep empathy.

“We didn’t just pray, we acted in love. We shared gifts with the children and women, and we were also able to support a few families financially toward their hospital bills. It may not have been everything, but it was something. And sometimes, “something” becomes the miracle someone prayed for.

“We called on EL-ROI, the God Who Sees. The One who sees every tear. The One who understands unspoken pain. And I know Heaven responded. Nothing missing. Nothing broken.

“Today reminded me: We are called to be light in dark places. EL-ROI sees them. And He has answered”.

She also used the moment to appreciate her spiritual parents, Jerry Eze and Eno Jerry, for teaching her the value of service and compassion.

“And to my father and mother, @realjerryeze @enojerry22, thank you for raising us to impact lives and not just be spectators. What you have poured into us is bearing fruit in places that matter,” she added.

The visit focused on patients in the children’s and women’s wards, where Dikeh said she was deeply moved by what she saw. She thanked the hospital management for welcoming her and her team

Tonto Dikeh’s visit to the National Hospital in Abuja highlighted the struggles many families face in medical wards. Through prayers, gifts, and financial help, she sought to bring comfort and support to those in need.

Her message was clear. Small acts of kindness can make a real difference in difficult moments.

Funke Akindele Says She’s Not in Competition, Focused on Telling African Stories

Funke Akindele Says She’s Not in Competition, Focused on Telling African Stories

Award-winning actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has made it clear that she is not trying to compete with anyone in the film industry. Instead, she says her focus is on telling real African stories that connect with audiences at home and abroad.

She spoke at an awards event hosted by the National Film and Video Censors Board, where she shared her thoughts about her work and what drives her.

“I’m not competing. It’s not a competition. I just want to tell African stories, you know, our own Nigerian stories. I want us to feel accepted, loved.

“I want them to watch our movies, learn, see what we go through, you know, hear our stories directly from a Nigerian, an African. That’s all I want to do. So this year, you will love it. But let’s keep our fingers crossed. I’m not going to spill it”.

When asked about possible sequels and new projects, Akindele chose not to reveal too much. However, she assured fans that they would be happy with what she has planned.

“I don’t want to spill it yet. Let’s keep our fingers crossed, but you will love it. You will love it. I don’t pressure myself, I must say. No, I don’t put pressure on myself. I just keep taking it day at a time, doing my thing”.

Her latest film, Behind The Scenes, recently grossed N2.7 billion at the box office. The film has now become the highest-grossing Nollywood movie to date, marking another major milestone in her career.

Akindele said her growth as a filmmaker comes from listening and learning. She explained that constructive criticism and trying new storytelling styles have helped her improve over time.

“Yes, it says a lot about recreating the story pattern, moving away from the normal thing you do. I listen to constructive criticisms; I really listen to them. I’m a good storyteller, and I want to be the best at it.

I learn a lot from my competitors, from mentors out there. I watch a lot of movies, I read books, and I listen to stories to grow my craft. It’s very important, so I must say it took me a lot of hard work on Behind the Scenes.

“I just sat down, like I was supposed to produce A Tribe Called Judah part two, and the spirit of God kept saying you have to move out of it… go and do something different, and here I am with it, so it’s a good one for me,” she said.

Her comments show a filmmaker who is focused on growth, creativity, and staying true to her roots.

Funke Akindele’s message is simple. She is not chasing competition. She wants to tell African stories in her own way and help audiences see life through a Nigerian lens.

With the success of Behind The Scenes and hints of new projects ahead, fans can expect more films that reflect her passion for storytelling.

Rema Reveals He Smokes, Drinks and Prays Before Going on Stage

Rema Reveals He Smokes, Drinks and Prays Before Going on Stage

Nigerian Afrobeats star Rema has shared details about what he does before stepping on stage. The singer revealed that he drinks alcohol, smokes cigarettes, and prays as part of his routine before performing.

Rema made the disclosure during an interview with Dazed on the sidelines of Milan Fashion Week. The music star was in Italy where he walked the runway for the fashion brand Diesel.

Speaking about how he prepares for shows, Rema said, “A little Tequila, a little cigarette, pray, tap in with the team and make sure everything is on cue,” Rema said, highlighting the importance of being mentally and physically prepared for his shows.

He explained that performing in front of a crowd is more demanding than walking on the runway. According to him, live shows require focus, strong breath control, and constant connection with fans.

“Performing has a lot to do with your breath work, and you have to keep the crowd going.”

Beyond his stage routine, the singer also spoke about what he has been listening to lately. He revealed that Sudanese cultural live music has caught his attention.

“I have been listening to a lot of Sudanese cultural live music,” he added.

While discussing his habits, Rema admitted that smoking cigarettes is his biggest vice.

The interview gave fans a rare look into how the Afrobeats star prepares for major appearances, both in music and fashion.

Rema’s comments show how seriously he takes his performances. From prayer to team checks and personal rituals, he says everything must be in place before he faces a crowd.

As his global profile continues to grow, fans can expect to see more of him not only on stage but also at major fashion events around the world.

How Nollywood Broke the Billion-Naira Box Office Barrier

How Nollywood Broke the Billion-Naira Box Office Barrier

Nollywood has stepped into a new chapter. For the first time in its history, Nigerian films are crossing the billion-naira mark at the box office. What was once an industry known for home videos is now producing cinema blockbusters that pull huge crowds and record massive ticket sales.

The turning point came in January 2024 when Funke Akindele announced that her film, “A Tribe Called Judah,” had earned over N1 billion in Nigerian cinemas. The news sparked celebration across social media. Fans praised her achievement and many called it a proud moment for the industry.

By the end of its cinema run, “A Tribe Called Judah” reportedly made more than N1.06 billion. Not long after, Akindele returned with “Everybody Loves Jennifer,” which raised the bar again by earning N1.8 billion. In January 2026, she pushed the record further with “Behind The Scenes,” which reportedly generated N2 billion within two months.

Her success did more than boost her personal profile. It raised the ambitions of other filmmakers. Actress and producer Toyin Abraham followed with “Oversabi Aunty,” which grossed N863.2 million in just one month, placing it among the highest-earning Nigerian films in West Africa.

Other titles have also delivered strong results. These include “The Wedding Party,” “Chief Daddy,” “King of Thieves,” “Brotherhood,” “Merry Men,” “A Trip to Jamaica,” “Jagun Jagun,” “To Kill a Monkey,” “King of Boys,” “My Mother is a Witch,” and “Omo Ghetto: The Saga.” Together, they show how far Nollywood has come in commercial terms.

Still, the big numbers have sparked debate. Some observers question whether box office figures reflect true profit or simply serve as strong marketing tools in a competitive market. As more money flows into cinema releases, calls for transparency and proper reporting have grown louder.

From Mobile Screens to Modern Cinemas

Nollywood’s journey did not happen overnight. While many trace the industry’s rise to the video boom of the early 1990s, cinema culture in Nigeria goes back much further.

In the 1920s, colonial filmmakers screened motion pictures for local audiences using mobile cinemas that traveled from town to town. By the late 1930s and 1940s, Lagos had become a cinema hub with popular venues such as Rex, Regal, Royal, Capitol, Odeon, and Glover Hall. These locations built a culture of watching films in public spaces long before Nollywood became a global brand.

Today, cinema releases are the clearest sign of commercial success. Higher ticket prices and strong marketing campaigns have helped create blockbuster fandoms. The shift from small video productions to billion-naira cinema hits shows how Nigerian filmmaking has evolved.

The Money Behind the Numbers

While billion-naira figures grab headlines, they do not tell the full story. Box office revenue is shared among cinema owners, distributors, and producers. The final amount that reaches a producer depends on agreements made before release.

Filmmaker and actress Efe Irele explained that gross earnings should not be confused with profit. “High grosses show that people loved the film and kept coming to watch,” he said. “But it’s important to remember that the gross isn’t what producers take home. It is a measure of audience engagement. Some people watch multiple times. Some buy entire rows of tickets for staff or friends. These figures indicate that Nollywood is breaking barriers and is worth investing in.”

He further described how earnings are divided. “In Nigeria, cinema revenue is layered. Cinemas typically take a percentage of ticket sales, and distributors also take their cut for handling logistics and marketing. What remains after these deductions is the producer’s net revenue. The exact split depends on pre-agreed terms, and you need a competent team to manage this. Marketing can make or break a film. You can have an amazing story, but if no one knows about it, people won’t come. Smart promotion turns curiosity into ticket sales. Just look at what Toyin Abraham and I achieved with Oversabi Aunty.”

On the issue of trust and accountability, he added, “Clear reporting, digital tracking, and open communication between cinemas, distributors, and producers build trust. When everyone sees the numbers, filmmakers can make smarter decisions and investors feel confident.”

Filmmaker Biodun Stephen also weighed in. “The billion-naira conversation is inspiring, but it is incomplete. It shows what Nollywood can achieve. Yet, we need to understand the business structure. Sometimes cinemas make more, but creators also earn from streaming platforms like YouTube. That side of revenue is rarely discussed.”

From the cinema side, Filmhouse Group says there are systems in place to ensure accuracy. Winifred Wessels, Head of Marketing at the company, explained how revenue is tracked. “Every transaction, online or at the box office, is recorded in real-time, giving immediate visibility into admissions and revenue. Beyond internal systems, the industry relies on Comscore, a global media measurement platform. It aggregates data from participating cinemas nationwide, offering transparency and consistency in box office reporting. Publicly reported figures are typically drawn from Comscore, the most widely accepted source in Nigeria.”

Dr Shaibu Huseini, Director General of the Nigeria Film and Video Censors Board, also confirmed the credibility of the figures. “The figures correspond with actual admissions, and ticket prices—N7,000 at the time of release—validate the revenue claims. We rely on Comscore as the official source and carry out occasional checks to verify reports from cinemas,” he said.

Despite these systems, some filmmakers admit they do not always know the exact percentage that reaches them. In some cases, distributors and legal teams handle financial details, leaving producers to focus on recovering their investments.

Nollywood’s journey to billion-naira box office success marks a major shift in the industry’s history. From mobile cinemas in the early 1900s to modern multiplex releases, Nigerian filmmaking has grown into a powerful commercial force.

While debates about profit sharing and transparency continue, one thing is clear. Nollywood has entered a new era where ambition, strategy, and creativity are driving record-breaking results. As the industry evolves, attention will likely turn to stronger reporting systems and new revenue streams that shape its future.

Eniola Badmus Vows Legal Action Over Fresh Prostitution Allegation on X

Eniola Badmus Vows Legal Action Over Fresh Prostitution Allegation on X

Eniola Badmus has threatened to take legal action after being accused on X of running a prostitution network involving young women, film executives, and politicians.

The Nollywood actress, who also serves as Special Assistant to the Speaker of the House of Representatives on Social Events and Public Hearings, reacted strongly to the allegation shared on Thursday by an X user identified as #Femzydr1.

In a post that quickly gained attention, the user claimed that the actress was acting as a private pimp within the Nigerian movie industry. He further alleged that she used her connections to link young girls with top directors, movie executives, and powerful politicians. The post also suggested that her political appointment was a reward for these alleged activities.

He wrote, “Popular Yoruba Actress Eniola Badmus is reportedly a private pimp in Nigeria and in the movie industry, linking young girls up with top directors, movie executives, and Nigerian politicians. She surely gained entry into the political scene through this network, and many young girls have been exploited & used for different purposes by politicians through her connections.

Actress Eniola Badmus threatens lawsuit over prostitution allegation. Credit: X | Eniola Badmus”

Badmus did not delay in responding. On her verified X account, she described the claims as false and warned that authorities would get involved.

“This is the attention you’ve been craving for, so let’s get into it. This is a false accusation and the authorities will step in. Let it be known that we do not forgive in this zone,” the actress wrote.

This is not the first time the actress has faced such claims.

In 2023, a TikTok user named Nwakaego Okoye made a viral video in which she labelled Badmus a “professional pimp.” She alleged that the actress connected young women, especially those who had undergone cosmetic surgery, to top politicians across Nigeria.

The matter led to her arrest and she was charged before Justice Nicholas Oweibo of the Federal High Court in Lagos. She was later sentenced to three years imprisonment, with an option of a N150,000 fine instead of jail time.

Following the latest controversy, the X user behind the fresh allegation has now apologised publicly.

“I sincerely apologize to Ms. Eniola Badmus, her family, friends, fans, and everyone affected by my recent tweet. The post accusing her of exploitation, linking young girls to movie and political figures, and pimping was wrong, irresponsible, and made without evidence. I deeply regret spreading such damaging and false information,” the user wrote.

Eniola Badmus has made it clear that she will not ignore what she describes as false and damaging claims. With the accuser already issuing a public apology, it remains to be seen whether further legal steps will follow.

For now, the actress appears determined to protect her name and reputation.

Ray Emodi Announces Exit from Nollywood to Focus on Dance Music Career

Ray Emodi Announces Exit from Nollywood to Focus on Dance Music Career

Nollywood actor Ray Emodi has revealed that he is stepping away from acting to focus on building a music career. The actor shared the news during a recent interview, saying his next chapter will be centered on making music for the dance floor.

Emodi, who has featured in several Nigerian films, said the decision did not come lightly. He thanked his supporters in the movie industry but explained that music has now taken a stronger place in his heart.

“I love every Nollywood fan, but I’m going to make music for the dance floor. We’re working on my EP. However, my family doesn’t support,” he said candidly.

Over the years, Emodi has earned praise for his performances and has grown into one of the industry’s promising actors. His choice to leave acting marks a major shift in his career.

Despite not having the backing of his family, he made it clear that he is determined to follow his passion. He said his focus will be on creating songs that energise listeners and get people moving.

His move also highlights a wider pattern in Nigeria’s entertainment space, where many creatives are exploring more than one talent. Actors, musicians and performers are increasingly branching out into different fields as they grow their careers.

Ray Emodi’s decision signals a new direction for the actor as he prepares to release his EP and step fully into the music scene. While he leaves behind a successful acting path, he appears ready to embrace the challenge of building a name in music. Fans will now be watching closely to see how this next phase unfolds.

Regina Daniels Gifts Younger Sister Mercedes-Benz SUV on 20th Birthday

Regina Daniels Gifts Younger Sister Mercedes-Benz SUV on 20th Birthday

Nollywood actress Regina Daniels has marked her younger sister’s 20th birthday with a lavish surprise. She presented Destiny Daniels with a brand new black Mercedes-Benz SUV said to be worth millions of naira.

The celebration took place at their family home. Regina chose to honour the milestone birthday with a gift that quickly drew attention both offline and online.

The surprise comes just days after Regina made headlines for gifting her mother, Rita Daniels, two cars. One of her mother’s vehicles had been damaged in an accident, while another was reportedly taken by an unknown person.

Regina, who was previously married to billionaire senator Ned Nwoko, also recently bought herself a pre owned 2024 GAC Trumpchi M8 SUV. Her recent purchases show a pattern of celebrating family members in a big way.

The birthday moment was captured by Regina’s elder brother, Sammy West. He shared a video on Instagram showing the emotional scene as Destiny was led to the car.

The black SUV was decorated with a bright red bow and a ribbon that read “Congratulations.” As Destiny approached the vehicle, family members gathered around her in excitement.

The video showed her opening the driver’s door and stepping inside. She admired the neat interior as cheers filled the air. Overcome with joy, she expressed gratitude to her sister while relatives celebrated around her.

Since the video surfaced online, many fans have reacted warmly. Several people praised Regina for showing love and support to her family in such a memorable way.

Regina Daniels’ gift to her sister has once again placed her in the spotlight. The grand birthday surprise highlights her close bond with her family.

As reactions continue to pour in, fans will be watching to see what the actress does next in her string of headline making gestures.

Tiwa Savage Partners With Berklee to Train 100 Young Nigerian Music Creators in Lagos

Tiwa Savage Partners With Berklee to Train 100 Young Nigerian Music Creators in Lagos

Award winning Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage is taking a bold step to shape the future of African music. The global Afrobeats star has launched the Tiwa Savage Music Foundation and announced a partnership with Berklee College of Music to train 100 emerging Nigerian music creators in Lagos.

The new initiative, titled the Berklee in Nigeria: Tiwa Savage Intensive Music Program, will bring Berklee faculty members to Lagos from April 23 to April 26, 2026. Over four days, 100 selected participants will receive fully funded training in key areas of music creation and the business behind it.

This will be the first Berklee College of Music event held in West Africa. It also marks a major moment for a region that is seeing fast growth in the global music industry.

Speaking to CNN, Savage explained the vision behind the project.

“Afrobeats has captured the world’s attention, but attention alone is not enough to sustain an industry. Talent is universal — but access is not,” the singer told CNN.

The program blends classroom learning with practical experience. Participants will study music production, songwriting, sound engineering, harmony, and ear training. Ear training helps musicians identify pitches, chords, and melodies by sound. The training will also cover music publishing, copyright, and parts of entertainment law.

Savage believes even a short program can make a big impact.

“You’d be surprised how much you can learn in four days,” Savage said in an exclusive interview with CNN. “It gives you a taste of what’s possible and exposes you to parts of music you may not even realize you’re drawn to”

The training will end with live ensemble performances. Outstanding participants may be considered for future scholarships to study at Berklee in Boston, Massachusetts, or take online courses. This means the program is not just a one time opportunity, but a possible pathway to long term education and global careers.

Savage said the foundation grew from both experience and urgency. She noted that tuition at leading international music schools can cost between 40,000 and 60,000 dollars per year, excluding living expenses. For many young creatives in Nigeria and across Africa, that cost is out of reach. By fully funding the Lagos program, the foundation aims to close that gap.

“It’s been something I’ve wanted to do for years,” she said It’s been something I’ve wanted to do for years,” she said “That experience changed how I saw music,” she said. “It made me realize that talent alone isn’t enough. Structure, education, and exposure are what allow creatives to compete globally.”

The Tiwa Savage Music Foundation is not focused only on singers. It also supports producers, composers, engineers, and music business professionals. Savage stressed that these roles are key to building a strong creative economy.

“The music industry is a value chain,” she said. “You can be the most talented artist in the world, but without the people who create, capture, protect, and monetize music, there is no industry. If we want African music to last five, 10, 20 years from now, we have to invest in the entire ecosystem.”

The timing of this initiative is important. According to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, recorded music revenues in Sub Saharan Africa passed 110 million dollars in 2024. Afrobeats streams on Spotify have grown by more than 500 percent in the past five years. Nigeria remains one of Africa’s biggest music export markets. The country also has one of the youngest populations in the world, with a median age of about 18.

Despite this growth, Savage warned that without proper education and institutional support, African creators may remain visible but financially vulnerable.

“We have the world’s attention now,” she said. “But education is what turns visibility into empowerment. It gives creatives the tools to move from being just talent to becoming leaders, innovators, and stakeholders in the global industry.

Looking ahead, the foundation plans to award scholarships for Nigerian students to study at Berklee in Boston. Savage also hopes to one day establish a permanent music school in Nigeria.

“That’s the bigger vision,” Savage said. “To build something that outlives me— something that creates structure, opportunity, and ownership for future generations of African creatives.”

Applications for the Berklee in Nigeria: Tiwa Savage Intensive Music Program open on February 24, 2026, and close on March 20, 2026. The program is fully funded, and selected participants will not pay tuition.

Tiwa Savage’s new partnership with Berklee College of Music signals a strong commitment to the future of African music. By offering free, high level training to 100 young creators, the initiative aims to turn talent into lasting opportunity.

With applications set to open soon, many young Nigerian creatives will be watching closely as this new chapter unfolds.

Faithia Williams Resumes Promotion of Efunroye: The Unicorn After Mother’s Death

Faithia Williams Resumes Promotion of Efunroye: The Unicorn After Mother’s Death

Nollywood actress Faithia Williams has returned to promoting her upcoming movie, *Efunroye: The Unicorn*, just weeks after losing her mother.

The film is set to premiere on May 1, 2026. It tells the story of a powerful historical figure, with Williams playing a major role in the production.

According to reports by The Nation, the actress lost her mother on Saturday, February 7, 2026. The sad news came only two days after she marked her 55th birthday.

In a heartfelt post on social media, Williams opened up about her pain. She shared how the days since her mother’s passing have been filled with sorrow and reflection.

She wrote, “My mother is gone… and I haven’t even laid her to rest yet. Every day since her passing has felt heavy. The calls. The condolences. The quiet moments when it finally sinks in. Grief does not wait for you to be ready; it just sits on your chest.

“I could have stayed away. I could have mourned in silence. But I chose to rise, for my mother, for my legacy, for this story Grief has a way of silencing you. It makes the lights feel too bright. The noise is too loud. The world is too demanding. But in the middle of my pain, I heard something stronger than sorrow, purpose.

“I am Faithia Williams Balogun, and this project is a purpose wrapped in frames and films. EFUNROYE: THE UNICORN is my first cinematic debut. A dream I carried for years. A story I fought to tell. A legacy I am determined to honour.

Before Lagos became an empire…Before power was negotiated in palaces…Power had a name. EFUNROYE.

The Unicorn. Merchant. Legend. Kingmaker.

“I am grieving. I am hurting. But I am also standing. Because life does not pause. Purpose does not disappear. And strength sometimes shows up when you least expect it.”

The actress explained that although she is still mourning, she decided to move forward with promoting the film. She described the project as more than just a movie, calling it a legacy she wants to honour.

*Efunroye: The Unicorn* is expected to draw attention for its focus on history and power before Lagos rose to prominence. Williams said the story is one she has carried for years and fought hard to bring to life.

Despite her personal loss, Faithia Williams has chosen to stand strong and continue promoting her film. As the premiere date approaches, many will be watching to see how *Efunroye: The Unicorn* is received. For the actress, the project now carries even deeper meaning as she honours her late mother.

Toyin Abraham Praises Mike Ezurounye, Calls Him “A Master Of The Game”

Toyin Abraham Praises Mike Ezurounye, Calls Him “A Master Of The Game”

Nollywood actress and producer Toyin Abraham has openly celebrated her colleague Mike Ezurounye, describing him as “a master of the game” after working together on her upcoming cinema movie.

In a detailed post shared on her Instagram page, Abraham spoke about inviting Ezurounye to feature in her 2025 cinema project, *Oversabi Aunty*. According to her, he immediately showed interest in the script and agreed to be part of the film.

She praised his dedication and talent, noting that he has a strong record of delivering powerful performances in every role he takes on.

“Mr Mike @mikeezu, when I called you for Oversabi Aunty and sent you the script, you loved it. Honestly, I can’t even say you murdered the role, because in every role you’ve ever played, you always murder it. You are truly a master of the game!

Working with you was such a beautiful experience. I’m not even going to lie, you didn’t stress me at all, and you were incredibly supportive throughout production. For cinema runs, I’d often see you post that you were heading out for a meet-and-greet.

Thank you so much, Mr Mike Ezuruonye. Thank you for doing this with me.Thank you for bringing your character to life.

When I told you what I wanted, a mixture of English, Yoruba, and Igbo, you said, “Toyin?” I said yes, and you replied, “Say no more.” And you delivered beyond what I imagined for the character.
Thank you so much. I can’t wait to work with you again in the near future.
Guys, please follow Mr Mike Ezuruonye and thank him. He’s such a beautiful soul and a genuinely good man.”

Abraham also highlighted how supportive Ezurounye was during production. She said he did not cause any stress and remained committed, even showing up for cinema meet and greet events to support the movie.

The actress further shared a light moment between them. She explained that when she told him she wanted his character to blend English, Yoruba, and Igbo, he responded with confidence and delivered beyond her expectations.

Her message reflects the strong working relationship between both actors and hints at possible future collaborations.

Toyin Abraham’s public praise for Mike Ezurounye shows her deep appreciation for his professionalism and talent. As *Oversabi Aunty* prepares for its cinema run in 2025, fans can expect to see the result of their collaboration on the big screen.