Showbiz
Heritage Bank, US, NCMM Move to Make Creative Industry Alternative to Crude Oil
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Heritage Bank Plc is fast stimulating economic diversification through support for the Nigerian creative industry towards sustainable, persistent growth as alternative to crude oil.
The MD/CEO of the bank, Ifie Sekibo yesterday stated this at the Exhibition Gallery of National Museum Benin by the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) in collaboration with the Edo State Government, and the Smithsonian Institute, United States of America, which Heritage Bank was the lead sponsors.
The exhibition focused on photographic works of Chief Solomon Alonge, photographer to Royal Court of Benin kingdom during the reign of Oba Akenzua II.
Represented by the Executive Director, Jude Monye, affirmed, “the art and culture industry has become one of the major contributors to so many countries gross domestic products (GDP) and Heritage Bank is committed to supporting it because it is part of Nigeria’s heritage.”
According to him, Heritage Bank has continued to make efforts in supporting ideologies like this, using arts as a tool to promote cultural awareness and to help younger Nigerians form a strong sense of National identity.
He assured that the bank would always be driven by cultural heritage in delivering distinctive financial services to create, preserve and transfer wealth.
In his presentation, Minister of Information and Culture, Mr Lai Mohammed, called on states to emulate Edo in collaborating with the federal government to promote culture, tourism and the arts.
The minister, who was represented by Director General, National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Yusuf Usman, said synergy amongst corporate bodies, states and the federal government would guarantee diversification of Nigeria’s economy whilst showcasing its rich culture.
He commended Heritage Bank, Smithsonian Institute, US Embassy and others for the exceptional supports in making a huge success of the Exhibition Gallery at the National Museum Benin by the NCMM.
Edo State, Gov Godwin Obaseki, while appreciating the Smithsonian Institution, said the exhibition would add to state’s quest to develop tourism as it makes a connection between past and present.
The governor said art was assuming a wider national importance and the possibility of it being developed as a self-sustaining alternative to oil revenue was now being appreciated across the country.
Earlier, US Ambassador to Nigeria Mr. Stuart Symington described the occasion as historic to both Nigeria and America.
The Director Emerita, Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art, USA, Dr. Johnnetta Cole, said that the exhibition was first in Africa and to showcase the rich culture of Benin kingdom.
The Oba of Benin, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewure II, said Benin artworks are largely rituals, some are used for recording history, to place on record events that happened in different periods in Benin History.
A representative of the Oba, the Iyase of Benin Kingdom, Chief Sam Igbe, said the Benin artworks gained prominence in Europe in 1897 after the Kingdom was attacked by the British soldiers, who later took the artworks to Europe.
The high point of the event was the launching of the book “Fragile Legacies,” the photographs of Solomon Osagie Alonge, and a tour of the exhibition area by governor Obaseki.
Showbiz
AMVCA Young Filmmakers Day: Where African Talent Meets Opportunity
As African storytelling continues to reach new audiences around the world, a new generation of filmmakers is stepping up with bold ideas, fresh perspectives, and stories that feel anything but ordinary. Helping to drive this momentum is the MultiChoice Talent Factory, which is setting the stage for Young Filmmakers Day ahead of its Awards Night on May 6.
This special gathering is more than a pre-awards celebration. It serves as a bridge connecting aspiring filmmakers with the industry experts who are actively shaping Africa’s creative economy. The focus is clear: create a space where talent meets opportunity, and where ideas are not only shared but refined into careers.
A Space for Audacious Storytelling
With the theme “Audacious Storytelling & Attracting The Right Opportunities,” the event is positioned as a call to action for young creatives across the continent. It reflects a growing shift in African storytelling, one that encourages risk-taking, originality, and authenticity.
From script development to production insights, participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with industry professionals, gaining practical guidance on how to navigate an increasingly competitive film landscape. The conversations are expected to move beyond inspiration into how stories are shaped, funded, and positioned for both local and global audiences.
Building the Next Generation of African Filmmakers
What makes Young Filmmakers Day significant is its intentional focus on access. For many emerging creatives, breaking into the film industry is not just about talent; it is about connection. This initiative seeks to close that gap by placing young storytellers in the same room as decision-makers, mentors, and established creators.
Backed by Canal+ through its investment in creative development across Africa, the program reinforces a long-term vision: to strengthen the continent’s storytelling pipeline and ensure African narratives continue to evolve on global platforms.
How to Participate
Aspiring filmmakers interested in attending are encouraged to register by sending an email to [email protected]. Slots are limited to reinforce the exclusivity and value of direct engagement with industry leaders.
Showbiz
Reality TV as a Reflection of Everyday Human Behaviour
Most people don’t take reality TV seriously, and honestly, it’s not hard to see why. From the outside, it looks like nothing more than fights, chaos, and unnecessary drama. For many, it’s just noise and entertainment with zero substance and absolutely no lessons to take away.
But that’s only if you’re watching on the surface.
Beyond the arguments and plot twists, reality TV is really just human behaviour on display, raw, unfiltered, and often under pressure. And when you pay closer attention, real lessons are hiding in plain sight. Not just about other people, but about yourself too, your reactions, your boundaries, your patience, and your emotional triggers.
Here are a few life lessons reality TV quietly teaches:
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Tolerance Isn’t Just a Buzzword
Reality shows throw together people from different backgrounds, personalities, and belief systems. Naturally, clashes happen. But it also highlights something important: not everyone will think, act, or respond like you, and that’s okay. Learning to coexist without constant conflict is a real-life skill a lot of people are still figuring out.
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Patience Will Save You From Unnecessary Chaos
Some of the biggest blow-ups on reality TV happen because someone reacts too quickly, no pause, no reflection, just emotion. Watching it unfold makes one thing clear: a little patience can prevent a lot of regret. Sometimes, not responding immediately is the smarter move.
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Self-Awareness Is Everything
It’s easy to judge contestants when you’re watching from your couch. “Why would they say that?” “Why are they acting like this?” But if you’re honest, you start to see bits of yourself, too. The impulsiveness, the defensiveness, the need to be understood. Reality TV can be an unexpected mirror if you let it.
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Not Everyone Is Your Friend (And That’s Okay)
Alliances form quickly on reality TV, but they break just as fast. Some people are with you for convenience, not loyalty. It sounds harsh, but it’s real. Not every connection in your life is meant to be deep or long-term. Learning to accept that and not take it personally is a quiet form of growth.
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Confidence Can Take You Further Than Perfection
You’ll often see contestants who aren’t the most skilled still go far simply because they believe in themselves. Meanwhile, more “qualified” people doubt themselves into silence or hesitation. Reality TV constantly shows that confidence opens doors. You don’t have to be perfect to stand out; you just have to show up as you belong.
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The Way You Handle Pressure Defines You
Anyone can seem composed when things are going well. The real test is pressure, deadlines, competition, conflict, and uncertainty. Reality TV compresses all of that into intense moments, and you see clearly who crumbles, who adapts, and who thrives. It’s a reminder that growth often happens in uncomfortable situations, not easy ones.
At the end of the day, reality TV isn’t really about the drama; it’s about people being placed in situations that strip away filters and force real reactions. And once you see it that way, it becomes less about entertainment and more about observation.
So, even if it doesn’t look like it at first glance, shows like The Real Housewives of Lagos, The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Love & Hip Hop, and other lifestyle reality series often watched on platforms like GOtv aren’t just about the chaos on screen. They quietly reflect everyday human behaviour and sometimes even offer a bit of self-reflection in the process.
To upgrade, subscribe, or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.
Showbiz
Nollywood Star Lateef Adedimeji Announces Birth of Triplet Boys
By Dipo Olowookere
Popular Nigerian actor, Lateef Adedimeji, has announced the birth of three boys by his actress wife, Adebimpe Oyebade, also known as MoBimpe.
In a video shared on social media on Friday, the Airtel Nigeria ambassador said his wife had given birth to the triplets before now but had kept the news close to his chest.
“I’ve been quiet… not absent.
“I was building, protecting, and embracing the greatest blessing of my life.
“God gave me more than I prayed for: a woman who became a mother of three, and three kings to call my own.
My world. My responsibility. My legacy. Alhamdulilah,” he wrote on X, formerly Twitter, this morning.
At a colourful wedding on December 18, 2021, in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Lateef married his wife, with fans expecting them to announce this news.
I’ve been quiet… not absent.
I was building, protecting, and embracing the greatest blessing of my life.
God gave me more than I prayed for
a woman who became a mother of three, and three kings to call my own 👑👑👑My world. My responsibility. My legacy.
Alhamdulilah! ✨ pic.twitter.com/ZQRXrrG9wO
— Adedimeji Lateef (@TheDimejiLateef) May 1, 2026
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