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

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.

‘Our Husband’ & ‘The Yard’ Will Have You Screaming at Your TV!

You know that feeling when you’re watching a show and suddenly, your jaw drops, your hands fly to your head, and you’re shouting, “Ewooo! What just happened?” Yeah, that’s exactly what GOtv’s new shows, Our Husband and The Yard, are about to do to you.

These aren’t your regular, predictable storylines. We’re talking about cheating scandals that will make you side-eye your neighbour, power struggles that feel like real-life politics, and betrayals so deep you won’t know who to trust anymore.

If you love premium drama, then get ready, because these two shows will have you hooked from the first episode!

OUR HUSBAND – When a Man’s Secrets Bring Two Women Together in the Worst Way

A woman finds out her husband is cheating. Not through rumours or suspicious text messages, but in the most shocking way possible. Just as she’s processing the betrayal, boom! He drops dead. Now, instead of mourning in peace, she’s forced to deal with his side chick and a scandal that could destroy them both.

Zara Nnamani thought she had the perfect marriage, until reality slapped her harder than Lagos traffic. Tiny, on the other hand, just wanted to enjoy the soft life, not get caught up in wahala. But fate has other plans. With secrets flying around like gbas gbos, family members lurking with their own agendas, and a mysterious death that raises too many questions, these women must form an uneasy alliance to protect themselves.

Can two women who were never supposed to meet actually survive each other? Or will betrayal strike again?

With spicy drama, shocking twists, and characters that will have you torn between love and frustration, Our Husband is the perfect show to sip cold zobo and gist about with your friends. Don’t miss it on Africa Magic Showcase, GOtv Channel 8, premiering March 31st, and airing every Monday to Wednesday at 8:30 PM.

THE YARD – When Power Corrupts, Who Will Survive?

You know those bus park fights where conductors shout, “Oga, no try am! I go show you today!” Now imagine that on a bigger scale, with real power, real consequences, and people who will do anything to stay on top.

Tega, a hustling bus driver, just wants to survive, but life keeps showing him shege. His father dies, leaving him with debts and no way out. Meanwhile, Odafe Junior, the privileged son of Chief Odafe, is tired of living in his father’s shadow. His father rules Ajakoro bus park with an iron fist, but Odafe Junior wants nothing to do with that kind of power.

But guess what? Whether he likes it or not, power is coming for him.

Tega and Odafe Junior are on opposite sides of life, but when they realize they both want justice, they form a dangerous alliance to take down Chief Odafe. The only problem? Power is like sweet and once you taste it, you might never let go. As Tega rises, will he become the very thing he once hated?

With shocking betrayals, unexpected alliances, and a storyline that will keep you at the edge of your seat, The Yard is not just a regular show.

Set your reminders, grab your popcorn, and get ready to be entertained like never before. GOtv is bringing premium drama, and you do NOT want to be left out!

Catch The Yard on Africa Magic Showcase, GOtv Channel 8, premiering March 31st, and airing every Monday to Friday at 8:00 PM.

Do not just hear about it, experience it. Step up now to unlock a world of exciting and entertaining programs. To upgrade, subscribe, or reconnect, simply download the MyGOtv app or dial *288#. To catch up and for on-the-go viewing, don’t forget to download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.