Showbiz
Afreximbank-Backed CCInc Invests in Nigerian Feature Film Clarissa
By Adedapo Adesanya
The intellectual property investment subsidiary backed by Afreximbank’s Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA), CANEX Creations Incorporated (CCInc), has announced an investment in the feature film Clarissa, a Nigerian-produced drama directed by twin filmmakers, Arie and Chuko Esiri.
A contemporary reimagining of Virginia Woolf’s novel, relocated to Lagos, Clarissa was shot on 35mm in Lagos and Delta States. The film follows society woman Clarissa as she prepares to host a party at her home, only to encounter once-intimate friends from her youth. Over the course of a single night, memories of intricate relationships, passionate love, hidden desires, and lost aspirations give rise to a bittersweet reckoning.
The film has been acquired for worldwide distribution by NEON, which will oversee theatrical release in the United States and international markets, with NEON International handling foreign sales.
Clarissa features an acclaimed ensemble cast including Sophie Okonedo (Academy Award and Emmy Award nominee), David Oyelowo (Golden Globe and BAFTA nominee), Emmy Award winner Ayo Edebiri, alongside India Amarteifio (Bridgerton), Toheeb Jimoh (Ted Lasso), Nikki Amuka-Bird (Knock at the Cabin), and a broader cast of distinguished performers.
The film is written, directed, and produced by Arie and Chuko Esiri, whose debut feature Eyimofe (This Is My Desire) premiered at the Berlinale, won multiple African Movie Academy Awards, and was subsequently released by Janus Films before being selected for the Criterion Collection, a rare distinction that signals enduring artistic significance.
The Esiri brothers produce Clarissa alongside Theresa Park (Per Capita Productions) and Nicholas Weinstock (Invention Studios), with co-producers Nina Gold and Thomas Bassett. Executive producers include Sophie Okonedo, Dolly Omodolapo Kola-Balogun, Osahon Okunbo, and Jason Reif.
Commenting on the investment, Mr Osahon Akpata, Chief Executive Officer of CCInc. said, “Clarissa exemplifies the type of globally resonant, IP-driven storytelling that CANEX Creations Inc (CCInc) was established to support. The film combines literary heritage, world-class filmmaking, and African production capacity, while remaining firmly rooted on the continent. Its acquisition by NEON validates both the creative ambition of the filmmakers and the viability of Africa-backed financing structures for internationally scalable film content.”
Reflecting on the film’s creative vision, Mr Chuko Esiri, writer, director and producer, said, “From the beginning, it was important to us that Clarissa be both rooted and resourced on the continent where it is set. Having African institutions back a film of this scale reflects a growing confidence that our stories can be produced from within.
“Clarissa is a story centred on time and memory, and in bringing it to life, we chose to shoot on 35mm in the hope it will first feel, then stand next to the great films of modern cinema”.
Production financing for filming in Nigeria was provided entirely by Africa-based institutions, led by CCInc. alongside MBO Capital, underscoring the growing capacity of African capital to support globally competitive film projects.
The acquisition was negotiated by NEON’s Kate Gondwe, with UTA Independent Film Group representing the filmmakers.
According to a statement, CCInc. said Clarissa marks its continued commitment to investing in high-quality Global Africa intellectual property with clear pathways to international markets, in line with its mandate to catalyse export-ready creative assets across film, television, music, fashion, and other IP-intensive sectors.
Africa’s biggest reality television show, Big Brother Naija, returns for its highly anticipated Season 11 on Sunday, 26 July 2026 on DStv and GOtv.
The launch show will air from 7 pm on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family channels, with the 24-hour show on DStv channel 198 and GOtv channel 49. BBNaija fans can also watch the show live via DStv and GOtv Stream.
This season’s winner will walk away with a record ₦160 million grand prize, which includes a cash sum of N100 million and a brand-new SUV. The prize is the highest in the show’s history, raising the stakes for what is expected to be another landmark season.
Speaking on the new season, Atinuke Babatunde, Executive Head, Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice, said:
“Big Brother Naija has consistently redefined entertainment in Africa by bringing together authentic storytelling, compelling personalities and moments that resonate with millions of viewers. Season 11 builds on that legacy with even bigger stakes, fresh twists and an exciting mix of housemates that will keep audiences engaged from premiere night through to the finale”.
The new season also ushers in an exciting lineup of brand partners, with betPawa, the home of Africa’s biggest winners, joining the Big Brother Naija family as the Headline Sponsor.
Commenting on the partnership, Borah Omary Ndanyungu, Head of Local Marketing & CSR, betPawa, said: “At betPawa, we believe in creating unforgettable experiences that bring people together through the things they are passionate about. Big Brother Naija is one of Africa’s most celebrated entertainment properties, and we are proud to come on board as Headline Sponsor for Season 11. We look forward to rewarding fans, deepening engagement throughout the season and delivering exciting experiences that complement the energy and excitement of the show.”
Guinness returns as the Gold Sponsor, while Minimie comes on board as an Associate Sponsor, reinforcing continued confidence from leading brands in one of Africa’s most influential entertainment platforms.
On the season’s partnerships, Babatunde commented: “We are delighted to welcome betPawa as our Headline Sponsor alongside Guinness and Minimie, whose partnership reflects the enduring value and impact of the Big Brother Naija platform.”
Since its return in 2017, Big Brother Naija has evolved beyond a reality TV show into a cultural phenomenon, creating household names, creating jobs across the creative economy, and shaping popular culture.
With Ebuka Obi-Uchendu returning as the show’s host, viewers can expect a season filled with unexpected twists, dynamic tasks, strategic gameplay, entertaining challenges and the authentic interactions that have made Big Brother Naija one of Africa’s most-watched reality TV show franchises.
Season 11 premieres on Sunday, 26 July 2026, with viewers able to follow every moment of the action throughout the season on DStv, GOtv, DStv Stream and GOtv Stream. Eligible subscribers can vote through the MyDStv and MyGOtv self-service apps, upgrade their packages for additional voting benefits, and enjoy uninterrupted access throughout the season by subscribing or renewing for multiple months.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The first dedicated talent management training institution in Nigeria, TGM Academy, is set to commence operations in September 2026.
This institution is the brainchild of one of Nigeria’s leading public relations and strategic communications agencies, That Good Media (TGM).
The firm has expertise in talent management, influencer sourcing, personal branding, media relations and reputation management.
According to a statement from the company, TGM Academy will equip aspiring and practising talent managers with the knowledge, skills and industry exposure required to support the growth of Nigeria’s rapidly expanding creative economy.
The academy was established to professionalise talent management as a viable career path while developing a new generation of globally competitive managers capable of strengthening Nigeria’s creative ecosystem.
While talent management has become increasingly important in helping creatives access international opportunities, build sustainable careers and create long-term
commercial value, the profession has lacked structured education, recognised standards and dedicated capacity-building platforms.
Ahead of the launch in about two months, TGM is organising a Talent Management Leadership Roundtable on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Abora Suites of Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the French Consulate, and Megowa, a digital platform connecting Nollywood talent with industry opportunities, training and resources across the African creative landscape.
Expected at the event are senior talent managers, entertainment executives, brand leaders, diplomats, cultural institutions, media executives, creatives and key decision makers whose work is shaping the future of Nigeria’s creative economy.
The roundtable themed Talent Management as Critical Infrastructure for Cultural Exchange and the Creative Economy will examine the evolving role of
talent management as a strategic enabler of commercial growth, international collaboration and cultural exchange.
It will create a platform for honest conversations around the future of talent management and its role in driving the creative economy, as participants will explore how professional management contributes to the long-term success of creatives, what brands expect before entering partnerships, how managers can build trusted relationships with corporate organisations, and how diplomatic missions and international cultural institutions engage with the creative sector through cultural exchange programmes, festivals and international collaborations.
The discussions will also examine the structures, competencies and ethical standards required for Nigerian talent managers to compete successfully within global markets, with insights generated during the roundtable to directly inform the curriculum, partnerships and learning framework of TGM Academy ahead of its official launch.
The wait is almost over. On July 26, Big Brother Naija returns for its eleventh season, bringing with it a brand-new theme, fresh housemates and another chapter of the reality show that continues to dominate conversations across Africa.
While fans are still guessing who will make it into Biggie’s House, one thing is already clear: this season is raising the stakes.
Everything Is For The Taking
This year’s theme, Everything Is For The Taking, sets the tone for what promises to be one of the most competitive seasons yet. It suggests a game where every task, every alliance and every decision could make the difference between staying in the House and walking away with the grand prize.
For the new housemates, nothing will come easy. They’ll have to earn every opportunity, win over viewers and navigate the twists that have become a hallmark of the BBNaija experience.
A New Set of Housemates, Endless Possibilities
As always, the identities of the new housemates remain under wraps, but that has only added to the excitement.
Every BBNaija season introduces a unique mix of personalities. Some become fan favourites almost overnight, others surprise everyone with their strategy, while a few create unforgettable moments that keep social media buzzing throughout the season.
Who will become this year’s breakout star? Fans will soon find out.
Big Brands Return for Season 11
Season 11 will once again feature some of Nigeria’s biggest brands, with betPawa as the headline sponsor, House of Guinness as the gold sponsor and Minimie as the associate sponsor.
Their continued partnership reflects the cultural impact and wide audience the show continues to attract year after year.
The Countdown Begins
With the premiere just around the corner, anticipation is building for another season of drama, competition, unexpected twists and unforgettable moments.
Whether you’re tuning in for the games, the relationships, the strategy or the entertainment, BBNaija Season 11 promises another exciting ride.
The countdown has officially begun, and if the theme is anything to go by, this season will remind everyone that in Biggie’s House, everything truly is for the taking.
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