Connect with us

Showbiz

Poets Hail Nigerian Breweries for Lagos International Poetry Festival

Published

on

By Dipo Olowookere

Poets from around the world have commended Nigerian Breweries Plc for its sponsorship of the Lagos International Poetry Festival (LIPFEST 2017).

The commendation was made on Saturday, November 4, 2017, during the closing ceremony of the festival, which held at Freedom Park, Lagos where various poets wrapped up the festival with amazing performances.

A renowned Nigerian poet, Dike Chukwumerije, said that Nigerian Breweries has done well by promoting the arts, especially poetry as it integrated Lagos with the rest of the world through the Lagos International Poetry Festival.

“It is a commendable act for Nigerian Breweries to support this initiative. The company has helped to build bridges and links between Lagos – the city of culture – and other cities around the world through literature and poetry,” he said. He further stated that the company has enabled a platform that would expose Nigerian poets to various styles and art forms in the country and around the world.

Yomi Sode, a British-Nigerian poet, said that because poetry is an art form that needs expression in diverse ways to be able to mirror society, poets should be encouraged and platforms that would help discover more poets should be created. “The Lagos International Poetry Festival is a giant stride in this direction and thanks to Nigerian Breweries for making this happen,” he said.

Corporate Affairs Adviser of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Kufre Ekanem, explained that the company sponsored the poetry festival because it is in line with its commitment to youth empowerment and talent development in the country. He further stated that it is a strand in the fabric of the company’s philosophy of “Winning with Nigeria.”

“We recognise that the arts play an important role in strengthening the cultural values of our society, and we believe that we can help to contribute to the breeding of young, emerging talents and create a shared performance space for poets from Nigeria and across the world,” he disclosed.

The closing event on Saturday saw various poets from around the world render verses and spoken word performances that inspired, educated and intrigued lovers of poetry who graced the occasion.

The 2017 LIPFEST, the third in the series, included panel discussions, workshops, performances, events and school visits in its line-up of events.

Efe Paul Azino, Founder/Director, Lagos International Poetry Festival, said that Nigerian Breweries’ support reflects the character of the company in its huge investment in the intellectual life of Nigeria and Nigerians. “Nigerian Breweries should be lauded for its immense support of initiatives that add value to people,” he said.

Nigerian Breweries Plc is a significant sponsor of a broad spectrum of initiatives which cover diverse areas in health, water, education, talent development and youth empowerment across the country. The company has sponsored the Lagos International Poetry Festival since its inception in 2015.

Dipo Olowookere is a journalist based in Nigeria that has passion for reporting business news stories. At his leisure time, he watches football and supports 3SC of Ibadan. Mr Olowookere can be reached via dipo.olowookere@businesspost.ng

Showbiz

Watch, Laugh, Bond: The Best Shows for Every Occasion

Published

on

TV isn’t just about what you watch, it’s about who you watch it with. We can’t deny that there is something special about watching TV with people you care about. The random side comments, someone laughing before the funny part even lands, or that one person who starts asking questions in the middle of the show.

It is the little things that make watch parties fun and GOtv makes it even easier to enjoy these moments. Whether you’re cuddled up with your partner, hanging with your siblings, or catching up on drama with your long-distance best-friend, here is how to make every viewing moment feel perfect.

A Night in with your partner

You and your partner might have had a long day and you both want something chill. Well, that is the perfect time to grab a blanket, order your favourite food or warm something quick, and press play on ‘Forgiveness’ on Africa Magic Showcase (Ch. 8). It’s one of those emotional stories that spark real conversations like the kind where someone suddenly asks, “Would you still love me if I did that?” You’ll laugh, get a little teary, and pause at least once to argue about who was wrong. It’s not just a movie night, but also a perfect time to bond with your partner.

Family Movie Night

There is nothing more wholesome than having the whole family gather in front of the screen. A perfect choice for family movie night is Anna Ferrah’s Story on Saturday at 8:00 PM on Africa Magic Family (Ch. 7). It’s packed with emotions and lessons thateveryone in the family can learn from. It is also the kind of entertainment that will make everyone more intentional about the bond in the family, including your dad who swears he doesn’t like TV.

Movie Night With The Crew

Friends are over, the snacks are ready, and all that’s missing is the perfect show to bring all the vibes. My Flatmates on Africa Magic Family (Ch. 7) is exactly what you need– pure comedy, full of drama in the best way. It would almost feel like you’re watching your own friend group on screen and this is a great way to unwind with your crew and initiate the playful banter.

Virtual watch party for long distance best friends

You and your best friend might be living in different cities, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still binge-watch something together. Plan a virtual watch party and both tune into The Reunion of the Real Housewives of Lagos on Africa Magic Showcase (Ch. 8) on April 13. You already know how it goes, one of you will text first saying “Omg, did you see that part?”. The best part about watching something as juicy as a reunion for RHOL is that you’re not just watching, but you and your best friend would probably have a topic to talk about throughout the week and might even turn the virtual watch party to a tradition for reality shows.

Solo Movie Night

Sometimes, the best nights are the ones you spend alone, just you, your favorite snack, and a good movie. If you are feeling like kicking back and letting the world pause for a bit, it’s the perfect time to watch Ill Fated on Africa Magic Showcase (Ch.8). Elfreda, a freshman at the University of Lagos, befriends her troubled neighbour Femi, unaware he’s a victim of illegal research. Their relationship grows, despite danger. It is packed with intrigue and thrill. The unfolding story will keep you glued to the screen, with no need to talk to anyone. It is just you, yourself, and a deeply emotive story with no interruptions.

So, no matter the occasion, GOtv has the perfect shows to keep you entertained. In order not to miss out, quickly renew your subscription or upgrade your package today via the MyGOtv app or dial *288#. And if you are out and about, you can still catch your favoriteshows anytime, anywhere with the GOtv Stream App

Continue Reading

Showbiz

Omowunmi Esther Oyeleke Offers Fresh Rendition of Nigerian Old-School Gospel Songs

Published

on

Omowunmi Esther Oyeleke

By Michael Kolawole

Nigerian old-school gospel songs never grow old. They remain fresh and uplifting, especially when reimagined through new renditions. 

Omowunmi Esther Oyeleke breathes new life into these timeless melodies, offering a praise medley that stays true to their lyrics while infusing them with renewed joy and reverence.

Her Old-School Praise Medley takes listeners on a soul-stirring journey through some of Nigeria’s most beloved gospel songs. With her silvery voice and light, cheerful instrumentals, Omowunmi celebrates the greatness of God, leading listeners in both praise and worship.

She begins with a song deeply ingrained into the routine of morning devotions in many Nigerian Christian homes: “This Is The Day.” The lyrics, derived from Psalms 118:24, set the tone for gratitude and celebration. “This is the day / this is the day that the Lord has made / that the Lord has made,” she sings, adding, “I will rejoice / I will rejoice, and be glad in him.” Her backup singers gently re-echo the lyrics, creating a layered effect that emphasizes collective worship.

From there, she seamlessly transitions into “I Love the Man of Galilee,” another staple in Nigerian gospel music. With effortless grace, she cruises through songs like “Praise The Lord, O Sing, O Sing” and “I Will Enter His Gates With Thanksgiving In My Heart,” her voice soaring with reverence as she revels in God’s mercy and greatness.

At the 10:51 mark, the atmosphere shifts as she moves into a worship session. The instrumentals soften, becoming more soulful in deference to God. “We worship you, Jesus,” she begins, her voice rich with emotion. She gives all the glory to God, urging listeners to do the same. “Come on, open your mouth and bless the name of the Lord,” she exhorts, inviting participation in the sacred moment.

Despite its unedited nature, the production effectively delivers heartfelt messages of praise and worship. Rather than feeling raw or unfinished, the organic sound enhances the authenticity of the experience, making listeners feel as though they are in the midst of a live church service.

Omowunmi’s deep connection to gospel music is rooted in her upbringing. Born into a Christian home filled with the sounds of gospel hits from radios and stacked CDs, she spent hours poring over songbooks, copying lyrics by hand. Her passion for music was evident from a young age, leading her from the confines of her home to school assemblies, classrooms, and playgrounds, where she shared her voice with anyone who would listen.

That passion eventually found a home in the RCCG choir, Victory Parish, Surulere, where she was a tiny girl among adult singers. Initially met with scepticism, she quickly won hearts with her powerful voice. Today, she leads worship at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Edinburgh Tabernacle, UK, touching and transforming lives through her music ministry.

Even as her mission has taken her far from home, it has always brought her back to her roots—the place where her love for gospel music began.

Through every season, Omowunmi reminds us that each day is a gift from God—one to be embraced with joy and worship.

Michael Kolawole is a screenwriter, playwright, and cultural journalist/critic

Continue Reading

Showbiz

The Real Housewives of Lagos Season Finale: One Last Showdown You Can’t Afford to Miss on Showmax

Published

on

The Real Housewives of Lagos

After weeks of jaw-dropping moments, shifting alliances, and designer showdowns, The Real Housewives of Lagos is heading for its Season 3 finale, and if you thought you’d seen it all, think again.

From luxury vacations that turned into battlefields to friendships that cracked under pressure, this season has been nothing short of explosive. Dabota and Carolyna’s face-off over an ex-husband? Diiadem, finding her voice in the group? Sophia is learning the hard way that, in this circle, alliances are fluid. Every moment has been reality TV gold.

But with the season wrapping up, the big question remains: Who will walk away “victorious”, and who’s leaving with grudges that will spill over into the next season?

The season that gave us everything

RHOLagos Season 3 took things up a notch, bringing in new faces and deeper conflicts; fans even saw reconciliation and restitution. While fans expected the usual mix of luxury and drama, this season proved that high society is unpredictable.

Dabota:

Dabota didn’t come to play. From the moment she joined, her presence shook the group. But her differences with Carolyna made things even messier, leading to one of the season’s biggest showdowns.

Carolyna:

Throughout the season, Carolyna held her own in confrontations, but in a surprising turn, she offered an apology to Laura for their past conflicts. Whether it was genuine closure or just another layer to their complicated history, fans had plenty to say about the unexpected moment.

Mariam:

Mariam never held back. Always armed with a sharp comeback, she kept the group on their toes. Her ability to say things exactly as they are? Unmatched.

Sophia:

Sophia had a rocky first season, joining the group late. She struggled to find her footing while navigating the group’s existing dynamics. But if one thing’s for sure, she blended in and blended in well.

Diiadem:

Diiadem gave us everything this season. From her sweet friendship with Dabota to being spoiled by her man, she embodied the soft life while still knowing how to hold her own.

Laura:

 Laura remained unpredictable. One moment, she was trying to keep the peace, and the next, she found herself in the middle of the drama, whether by choice or not.

With the final episode just around the corner, anything can happen. Who will reconcile? Who will leave with unresolved tension? And more importantly, who’s already plotting for next season?

More Housewives, more drama

The Real Housewives franchise isn’t slowing down anytime soon, and if you’ve been living for the drama, lavish lifestyles, and unpredictable friendships on The Real Housewives of Lagos, then you’re in for even more tea with The Real Housewives of Durban and The Real Housewives of Potomac

The Real Housewives of Durban S5

Trailer: https://youtu.be/Vurk5FNpKyE

One of the 10 most-streamed titles on Showmax in 2024, The Real Housewives of Durban is back for its fifth season, and trust, the drama is only getting bigger.

This season, OG Housewives Nonku Williams and Sorisha Naidoo return, cementing their place as Africa’s longest-serving Housewives. They’re joined by Jojo Robinson (who has been in the mix since Season 2) and Angel Ndlela, who made a splash in Season 4.

But what’s a new season without fresh faces? This time, the dynamic shifts with the introduction of newcomers Ayanda, Kwanele and Lo – and they are shaking things up already. Expect more glamour, shifting alliances, and some unmissable confrontations. New episodes land on Fridays.

The Real Housewives of Potomac S9

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGN09IlVRxs

Across the Atlantic, The Real Housewives of Potomac is delivering drama like never before. Nominated for the 2025 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Reality, this season is packed with jaw-dropping moments.

From Karen Huger’s legal troubles to Gizelle Bryant’s dating life and Dr Wendy Osefo’s unforgettable 40th birthday, the ladies of Potomac are serving up scandal, shade, and sisterhood in equal measure.

This season also welcomes two new Housewives: Stacey Rusch, a former QVC host navigating life as a single mom in the middle of a divorce, and Keiarna Stewart, a successful entrepreneur with her own opinions about the group – and she’s not afraid to voice them.

Catch up on all the drama on Showmax. Take advantage of the Showmax Shikini Deal you can stream for just N1,000 on mobile or N2,000 on multiple devices. Sign up now at www.showmax.com/deals and start watching. This deal lasts until March 31st.

Continue Reading

Trending