Showbiz
Gospel Music Saved me from Depression—Philadelphia Kes
Philadelphia Ekesiena, popularly known as Philadelphia Kes, is a gospel musician committed to changing the gospel music with her brand. The Delta State-born artiste, in this interview with selected journalists in Lagos, speaks about her career and her works.
How did you discover your passion for music?
I literally grew up in the church, joined the children’s choir and became one of the best at the time. While in high school, I still kept at it, even during university days, when I knew music was my thing and I decided to do it for real. I love good music, fashion, intellectual conversations and honest people. When I’m not singing, I’m checking out new fashion styles, trends and all. I have five siblings and I’m the third of six children.
Can you recall your earliest musical memory? Was there a time when you thought of doing something different?
As a child, I did music for fun, I didn’t think of becoming a professional musician, but I kept sharpening my skill. It was when I went to the university to study and become an economist that I realised that my love for music is beyond just doing it for fun and that I’d like to do it full time. So, my undying love for music inspired my decision to go into it fully.
What are your greatest challenges?
It has not been easy putting out good music. I mean the whole process of producing, engineering and promoting. Having to keep up with the financial commitments has been a major challenge, but somehow, God has proved Himself through a divine backing. I am not bothered about the challenges anymore because I know it won’t last as I have a focus and a bigger vision. I see whatever I have passed through and still passing through as a stage and event to prepare me for the bigger stage. I am delighted for the grace and patience I have exercised so far. This has made the gospel more interesting for me.
What other things do you do aside music?
As I said earlier, I’m very good in clothing, fashion generally such that I have plans to set up a fashion outfit soonest.
Who are your role models?
I love Maranda Curtis and I want to be like her when I grow up. I also love Efe Nathan, her vocal strength is one which I covet. So, I keep working hard every day to be an endeared vessel.
What is your plan to impact lives and the industry in general?
I have a greater vision for my career and contributing my quota in the music fold. I want to establish my own or co-own a record label to promote up-and-coming artistes, especially to relieve them from unnecessary stress any rising artiste could go through as well as to make music making become easier and fun-filled.
What informed your decision to choose gospel music?
I grew up in church and gospel music is everything I have known as a child up till now even though I’m a wide listener and I listen to diverse genres. So, yes, the love for gospel came naturally. It is not as if I feel in love with it, but it is a divine call that I cannot hesitate to adhere to. I have no regret for the will of God, it has not only transformed my life, but has also made me a channel from God to His creatures.
What is your assessment of gospel music in Nigeria?
Gospel music in Nigeria is still growing, it has got a lot of potential even across the West Africa and the entire world. What we have so far are a lot of very talented gospel artistes, but we still need much help in the area of awareness, promotion, distribution and production. Though many media oganisations have supported the industry greatly, we need more exposure. I will say the industry is coming up and we’ve got room for improvement. I just want to advise fellow artistes and stakeholders not to relent in their effort to take the industry to a greater height.
The gospel music industry seems to be overcrowded. How do you intend to stand out?
I have a sound I’m set to project. I want to be as original as possible. With that, I’m sure I’ll stand out and in turn break even.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself proclaiming the name of Jesus around the world and anywhere my feet step on. I’m sold out to making Jesus famous through my songs as that’s the whole essence of salvation.
What inspired your new work entitled He Came Through?
There was a time in my life where depression, regular mood swings were the order of the day. Then my cousin came up with the song and we wrote it together. That was how I was able to really express myself through the lyrics of the song. It took about five years to produce the song because we had the song since my university days and decided to revamp it four years after graduation.
How do you intend to make a complete album?
Yes, of course, a couple of other songs are cooking already and I have some other songs too. Plans are underway to have a complete album.
Are you not scared that gospel music could only bring you fame and not sustainable income?
I am never scared. As a child of God, we are not meant to be. I have plans for show business and the more technical side of the industry. Being famous for the RIGHT reason is good and I am sure sustainable income will come with the territory God willing.
Are you in a relationship? Take us into your family life?
I am currently not in a relationship as I just want to concentrate on my career for now. I have a very loving and supportive family. Growing up, my parents noticed that I was always humming and sometimes singing to songs so they encouraged me and I developed it with the help of vocal trainers and other professionals.
What’s your view of the reception of Nigerian gospel music globally?
Gospel music is gaining popularity and positive attention to Nigeria. A few Nigerian artistes are already representing us well and there is room for more artistes. Many artistes are now working with reputable record labels who can help improve and promote their work positively. We are making progress and by the way, thanks to media outlets like yourselves for the love and support you continue to shower on us.
Has anyone ever shared a testimony about the impact of your music/voice in their lives?
To the glory of God, several people have shared with me and I hope the song is a source of inspiration, healing and motivation for people. As for the voice, I get that quite often as I am a member of the choir in my church, This Present House, and I cannot thank Pastor Tony Rapu enough for his leadership, direction and teaching.
Showbiz
Mena Sodje, Daniel Abua Frontline Africa Magic’s New Romantic Drama Employee of the Year
Africa Magic has announced the premiere of Employee of the Year, a compelling three-part romantic drama set to air from Thursday, February 12, to Saturday, February 14, 2026, on Africa Magic Showcase (DStv Channel 151, GOtv Channel 8).
Led by Mena Sodje in a standout performance as Nana, the movie features a strong supporting cast, including Daniel Abua, Doris Okorie, Nnamdi Agbo, Yemi Solade, and other notable actors. Together, they bring depth and emotional nuance to a story rooted in the high-pressure world of real estate, where power, loyalty, and desire often collide.
Employee of the Year follows Nana, a junior realtor struggling to rise above obscurity, whose life takes a dramatic turn when she uncovers a dangerous plot to burn down her company. Her bravery earns her recognition as an unlikely hero, but the victory is short-lived when she discovers that the conspiracy runs far deeper than she imagined.
As the story intensifies, Nana learns the true mastermind behind the scheme, who then presents her with a chilling offer: her dream promotion in exchange for carrying out the very crime she once stopped. Caught between ambition and conscience, Nana must confront the cost of success and decide what kind of future she is willing to build.
With its mix of romance, suspense, and corporate drama, Employee of the Year explores the moral compromises often hidden behind professional success. The three-part movie will air exclusively on Africa Magic Showcase (DStv Channel 15, GOtv Channel 81) from February 12 –14, 2026.
Be sure to also take advantage of the ongoing We Got You offer, where you pay for your current package and DStv/GOtv upgrades you to the next higher package at no extra cost. The offer runs till February 28th, 2026.
Showbiz
The Little Moments That Matter: Movies Parents and Kids Can Watch Together
Let’s talk about something not often discussed enough between African parents and their kids.
Not love, we already know there’s love. “Bonding”.
In many African households, love is loud in sacrifice but quiet in expression. Parents provide, protect, and work tirelessly. But sitting down, relaxing, and simply being present together doesn’t always come naturally.
If you grew up in an African home, you already understand this.
When mum or dad comes back from work, the atmosphere shifts. The TV volume drops. Someone suddenly remembers plates in the sink. Another person starts sweeping a spot that’s been clean since morning. Everyone just… behaves.
Not because there isn’t love, but because closeness often comes with formality. There’s respect. There’s discipline. But that soft, easy familiarity between parents and kids can be rare.
So we grow up sharing the same house but living in different worlds. Parents tired from work. Kids busy with school, chores, or their phones.
And yet, years later, what we remember isn’t the rules or the lectures. It’s the small moments. The random laughter. The evenings when everyone relaxed and forgot to be strict for a while.
Sometimes, bonding doesn’t need a big conversation or a “family meeting.”
Sometimes, it’s as simple as watching a movie together.
Just, “Come and sit down, let’s watch this.”
That small invitation can change the mood of the whole house. Conversations start. Jokes fly. Someone explains the plot too much. Someone else steals the remote. And before you know it, everyone is actually together.
The right movie helps.
Something light and stress-free like Mr. Bean’s Holiday on Movie Room Africa (GOtv Channel 51), where Bean’s clumsy adventure across France delivers effortless laughter for both kids and parents.
Or The LEGO Movie on M-Net Movies 3 (GOtv Channel 43), following Emmet, an ordinary LEGO figure thrown into an extraordinary adventure. Fast, funny, and packed with clever humour adults enjoy just as much.
For louder nights filled with commentary and laughter, A Madea Funeral on M-Net Movies 3 (GOtv Channel 43) brings family drama, secrets, and Madea’s unforgettable honesty. And for the same chaotic fun with a spooky twist, A Madea Halloween on Movie Room Africa (GOtv Channel 51) keeps everyone half-laughing, half-shouting at the screen.
On quieter evenings, Dolphin Tale on M-Net Movies 3 (GOtv Channel 43) offers something softer. The true story of a rescued dolphin and a young boy’s bond with her leaves the room quiet at the end, but in the best way.
The beauty is that these stories are already there on GOtv. No planning. No pressure. Just press play and sit together.
They’re not “serious bonding activities.” They’re just movies. And sometimes, that’s enough.
Because one day, your kids won’t remember the chores or how strict the rules were.
They’ll remember moments like, “Remember when we watched that movie together and couldn’t stop laughing?”
And that’s what stays.
Right now, subscribers can enjoy all these and more with the We Got You offer, available until 28 February 2026. Pay for your current package and get upgraded to the next package at no extra cost, giving you access to more channels, more shows, more moments together.
To subscribe, upgrade, or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. You can also stream anytime with the GOtv Stream App.
Showbiz
No One Is Safe: Six New Singles Storm the Love Pad In the Heartbeat Show
Episode 4 of Heartbeat kicked off with the drama still simmering from the last episode. Latifah held all the cards, literally, and shocked everyone by choosing Ken to spend the night in the Love Nest, going back to familiar ground instead of exploring someone new. a move that instantly set the tone for the night.
The Love Dip Game followed, flipping the house upside down once again. Matching numbers meant new overnight partners, leading to unexpected pairings: Igwe with Shekinah, Kena with Toria, Alvin with Chidera, and Hilda with Henri.
The biggest shock of the night was Kena and Chidera getting separated despite being emotionally“locked in”y. Kena assured everyone it wouldn’t affect their bond, but later that night, after tucking Chidera into bed, he was spotted hopping onto Hilda’s bed, leaving the house buzzing. Some singles quietly opted to sleep alone, choosing peace of mind over drama.
Morning brought no relief. Some woke up smiling, but others were drowning in emotions. Toria broke down, exhausted and overwhelmed, while Chidera offered comfort. Kena and Shekinah questioned how couples already “locked in” could even be split. Ken appeared unsure of what he wanted, Igwe was back to his charming ways with Shekinah, and Toria watched every move, convinced their connection wasn’t real. Meanwhile, Ken and Latifah kept the chemistry alive in the Love Nest, and Igwe eventually tried to make peace with Toria, only to sneak in some playful taunting afterwards.
Just when things felt tense enough, the energy in the Love Pad shifted, new singles arrived, and sparks immediately began to fly.
Meet the new singles.
Jane: She is an artist and businesswoman, confident and ambitious. She’s here to make her mark, stand out, and see which connections ignite the most chemistry.
Bosah: Describes himself as cool, calm, collected, and a man of many layers. He avoids manipulative women and hopes to impress through thoughtful conversation and genuine interactions. His type? Light-skinned women who can communicate.
Timi: Describeshimself as the cool guy, mysterious about his love life; he is here to find love while testing others. Tall, dark-skinned, slim women with pretty faces are his type, while insensitivity is a dealbreaker. He plans to vibe naturally and let connections flow.
Sharon Ray: The fashionista, fun, funny, and sarcastic one. Cheaters are a no-go for her, and she plans to make her impression by being unapologetically herself. Her ideal match? Tall, clean men.
Victory: He brings calm, mature energy. Petite, kind, gentle women who can hold constructive conversations catch his eye, while self-centred ladies are a no-go. He’s all about exploring chemistry quietly and naturally.
Ceeoni: Described herself as an icebreaker, witty, fun, and energetic. She loves intelligent, refined men, can’t stand “dirty” behaviour, and is ready to warm her way into someone’s heart while keeping things playful.
The new singles wasted no time in turning heads. Latifah joked that Victory feels like “Ken Pro Max”, and she has an eye for him. Victory admitted interest in Shekinah, Latifah, and Toria, and Toria already sensed Ceeoni might stir up trouble.
To keep things spicy, the singles played a daring card game where each picked a challenge and had to follow it, and things got wild fast. Latifah mimicked the person she finds most annoying (Henri), Toria called out Igwe and Shekinah’s “fake” connection, Shekinah kissed Igwe, Bosa kissed Latifah, Kena seductively fed Chidera, and Ceeoni boldly sat on Ken’s lap, whispering in his ear. Jealousy, tension, and unexpected sparks flew everywhere.
As the night wound down, Latifah and Ken tried to navigate the sudden surge of attention from both old and new singles. Meanwhile, one of the newcomers, Jane, openly declared that she wants Kena, no matter who he’s paired with or locked in with.
By the end of Episode 4, old bonds were shaky, new attractions were forming, and the Love Pad felt more crowded and complicated than ever. With fresh faces, high emotions, and hearts in motion, anything can happen next. Who will find real connection, who will flirt their way into trouble, and who will get left behind?
Tune in to Episode 5 to find out.
Catch Heartbeat every Sunday at 9 pm on Africa Magic Showcase, GOtv Channel 8.
Subscribers can also enjoy all these and even more value with the We Got You offer, available until 28th February 2026. When you pay for your current package, you’re automatically upgraded to the next package at no extra cost, giving you access to more channels, more shows, and even more ways to unwind.
To upgrade, subscribe, or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, stream anytime on the GOtv Stream App.
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