Entertainment
AFRIMA hosting rights: African Union writes Nigeria, South Africa
The African Union Commission (AUC) has officially invited the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to take advantage of the hosting rights benefits of the next 2 editions of the prestigious annual All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA.
In a letter bearing reference number HHS/CUL/16/170.23 and signed by the AUC’s Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, Her Excellency, Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, the AU said the call aligns with its policies for the strategic transformation of Africa through social integration, as outlined in AU Agenda 2063, the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance, and the AU Plan for Action on Cultural and Creative Industry.
The AU describes AFRIMA as a global platform for celebrating and developing Africa’s diverse musical talents and cultural heritage, highlighting the significant opportunities hosting the prestigious awards presents for the selected host country
“Since 2014, the African Union has been partnering and working successfully with AFRIMA to develop, celebrate and promote African music globally for integration/inclusivity, economic prosperity and world peace via its seven core pillars: (1) Music Awards, (2) Music Festivals; (3) AFRIMA creative Academy; (4) Talent Discovery and Promotions; (5) Music Business Hub; (6) Advocacy; (7) Advisory and Policy Debates,” the letter reads.
“AFRIMA is the biggest and longest-running music award and platform in Africa, with a huge global appeal, diaspora audience, and youthful fans. The main event events of AFRIMA are usually broadcast live to over 84 countries around the world after a continental and global roadshow, with thousands of music artists, actors, celebrities, members of the diplomatic corps, professionals in the creative space, tourists, media and fans from all over the world converging on the host country.”
A letter received by the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, on behalf of the Nigerian government, a copy of which was seen by our correspondent, reads, “Nigeria, as a beacon in African music with huge young population, should it accept to host AFRIMA, stands a promising chance in elevating the country’s positive global presence, bolstering artistic, tourism and economic growth, fostering cultural exchange and job creation, and reinforcing a positive perception of our continent’s rich cultural heritage on a global scale.”
The successful last edition of AFRIMA was hosted and partnered by the government of the Republic of Senegal in the city of Dakar. The hosting rights of AFRIMA are usually bestowed on a country that shows capacity and commitment to meet the requirements and conditions.
The Acting Director for Social Development, Culture, and Sports Division, African Union Commission, Ms. Angela Martins confirmed the invitation and request to bid for the hosting rights extended to the two countries.
She said that AFRIMA provides a unique opportunity for the host country to showcase its rich cultural heritage, develop its music sector, promote tourism, and stimulate economic growth.
“This call to action comes as part of the AU’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange, unity, and economic development across the African continent. We urge the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to seize this opportunity to strengthen intra-African collaboration (in line with AFCTA) within the music industry and enhance their international visibility positively.
“AFRIMA serves as a premier platform for African artists in Africa and diaspora to showcase their talent, gain international exposure, and connect with audiences worldwide,” she said.
She added that as the bidding process is itching towards its deadline, the African Union remains committed to providing support and guidance to ensure a successful hosting of AFRIMA.
She also reiterated the AUC’s readiness to work closely with the selected host country to maximize the impact of the event on the African music industry, tourism, general economic growth, and socio-cultural landscape.
Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde clarifies viral reports claiming she fled Los Angeles due to wildfires, confirming she has been in Nigeria since December 2024
Famous Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has addressed viral reports suggesting she fled Los Angeles to Nigeria to escape the ongoing wildfires.
In a statement posted on her Instagram, Omotola clarified that the reports were inaccurate.
The actress had shared on January 9, 2025, that she had arrived in Nigeria, stating:
“Touchdown Abuja. When my American fans follow me back to Nigeria. I had to evacuate in 20 minutes. Please, guys, stay safe out there. If you have family in LA, check on them.”
This post led to widespread speculation that Omotola had been forced to leave LA due to the devastating wildfires ravaging California.
The fires, which have displaced over 137,000 people and claimed more than 30 lives, including Hollywood actress Dalyce Curry, have had a significant impact on many.
However, Omotola swiftly dispelled these claims in a statement shared on Instagram. She reassured her followers:
“I want to take a moment to address the incredible outpouring of concern and support I have received regarding the fires in Los Angeles. To set the record straight: My family and I are safe.
However, I have seen reports suggesting that I had to leave the U.S. because of the fire. This is inaccurate. I have been in Nigeria since December 2024, and I’m still here presently. While I deeply cherish my connection to LA, these fires were not the reason for my travel.”
The wildfires have affected numerous A-list celebrities, including actors, singers, and other public figures, adding to the widespread concern over the crisis.
Omotola’s clarification serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying information, especially in the age of social media, where viral reports can often distort the truth.
Tiwa Savage addresses fans’ safety concerns following a viral video of her swimming with sharks, highlighting the ironic dangers of the music industry in a follow-up Instagram post
Nigerian music icon Tiwa Savage has responded to the growing safety concerns after a viral video of her swimming with sharks made rounds on social media.
Also read: Tiwa Savage reveals divine reason behind delay in career breakthrough
The Afrobeat star shared an underwater clip on her Instagram story, where she appeared unfazed while swimming in close proximity to the intimidating marine creatures, donning an oxygen mask.
In the video, Tiwa expressed excitement about fulfilling one of her long-held bucket list items. She instructed the cameraman to capture the sea floor as she calmly swam beside the sharks, explaining how thrilled she was to finally check this experience off her list.
Despite her composed demeanor, the video quickly sparked a wave of concern among fans, with many fearing the risks of being so close to such powerful predators.
In a follow-up Instagram story, Tiwa took a light-hearted but pointed jab at her concerned fans, saying, “Everyone worried about me swimming with sharks but the ones in this music industry are more [expletive] dangerous.”
This comment underscored her belief that the real dangers in her life often come from the unpredictable and sometimes perilous dynamics within the music industry itself.
Seun Oloketuyi has been appointed to the advisory board of the Kaduna International Film Festival, aiming to promote Nigerian talent globally.
Seun Oloketuyi, renowned for his influential contributions to Nollywood and the broader African creative sector, has been appointed as a member of the advisory board for the Kaduna International Film Festival (KDIFF).
This prestigious appointment highlights Oloketuyi’s ongoing dedication to the growth of Nigeria’s film industry and his commitment to empowering the next generation of creative talent across Africa.
Also read: Nollywood Film Festival set to honour industry veterans, stakeholders
Founded in 2018, the Kaduna International Film Festival has quickly become a major cultural platform, not only promoting the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria but also serving as a powerful catalyst for tourism, youth empowerment, and peace-building efforts in northern Nigeria.
As the region’s first international film festival, KDIFF plays a pivotal role in bridging the gaps within the local film and creative industries, facilitating growth and inclusion at a national level.
In his new role, Oloketuyi, who also serves as the founder of the Best of Nollywood Awards and chairman of the Advisory Board for the Bon Awards, expressed his enthusiasm and commitment to supporting the festival’s objectives.
He outlined his determination to leverage his extensive experience to further KDIFF’s mission of highlighting Nigeria’s dynamic creative scene while empowering young filmmakers and artists to showcase their work globally.
“I am deeply honoured by the opportunity to contribute to the Kaduna International Film Festival,” Oloketuyi remarked in his statement.
“I look forward to working alongside the KDIFF leadership to advance the growth of the Nigerian film industry and to create a platform where our nation’s finest creative minds can shine.”
Oloketuyi’s involvement in the festival aligns with his long-standing passion for fostering Nigerian talent and expanding the reach of Nollywood and African cinema worldwide.
His appointment will no doubt strengthen the festival’s ability to attract international attention and provide Nigerian filmmakers with a platform to compete on a global stage.
This collaboration underscores the significance of the Kaduna International Film Festival as a key player in Nigeria’s creative industry.
With the support of experts like Oloketuyi, the festival aims to continue making strides in promoting Nigerian and African cinema, advancing cultural exchange, and contributing to the development of the regional film industry.
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