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.
The video shows a woman resembling Eke engaging in a sexual act, but Eke firmly refutes the claim, pointing out differences in appearance and condemning the video as a fantasy created by her detractors.
Former Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) winner Mercy Eke has strongly denied any involvement in a viral video circulating online.
The video features a woman who bears a resemblance to Eke, engaging in a sexual act while using an adult toy. However, Eke has made it clear that the woman in the video is not her.
Also read: Victoria reveals wildest sexual experience in Big Brother Naija
Taking to Instagram, the reality TV star condemned the video and outlined specific differences in appearance between herself and the woman.
She noted that she does not wear long nails, piercings, or the specific type of socks seen in the video. Eke stated that these distinctions prove the woman is not her, calling the circulating footage a product of “evil fantasies” aimed at tarnishing her image.
Eke posted, “The video y’all are circulating can never be me. I do not wear long nails. No piercing. I don’t wear such socks, that girl does not look like me. Sorry to disappoint y’all evil fantasies. I don’t do such nonsense. Not my MO.”
Fans and supporters have rallied around Eke, praising her for addressing the situation directly and denouncing the spread of the false video.
Entertainment
Mohbad’s father demanded immediate burial after receiving N2 million – personal assistant
Mohbad’s personal assistant, Adeyemo Boluwatife, testified at the coroner’s inquest that the late singer’s father, Joseph Aloba, demanded his immediate burial after receiving N2 million from Davido. This was revealed during a hearing in Ikorodu regarding the circumstances of Mohbad’s death.
Adeyemo Boluwatife, the personal assistant to the late Nigerian singer Mohbad, has testified at the coroner’s inquest in Ikorodu, Lagos State, claiming that Mohbad’s father, Joseph Aloba, requested an immediate burial after receiving N2 million from Davido.
Adeyemo made this statement while appearing before the inquest, which was set up to investigate the cause of the singer’s sudden death on September 12, 2023.
Adeyemo revealed that after Mohbad’s death, his father was insistent on burying him quickly, despite the ongoing calls for justice and an autopsy.
He added that Aloba’s decision came after Davido sent N2 million, of which N1 million was transferred by Adeyemo to Aloba and the remaining sum was given to Mohbad’s younger brother, Adura.
The funds were used to cover hospital expenses and ambulance fees.
The inquest was set up by the Lagos State Government after Mohbad’s death raised suspicions across the nation. His body was exhumed for an autopsy on September 21, 2023, amid widespread demands for justice.
During the court proceedings, Adeyemo also disclosed that law enforcement officials took custody of Mohbad’s phone following his death.
This testimony has added further complexity to the unfolding investigation into Mohbad’s mysterious death, which has already ignited debates and calls for transparency in the case.
Islamic singer Ibraheem Labaeka resigns from his role as Special Assistant to Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, citing discomfort with being paid for doing nothing. Labaeka’s resignation letter, now viral on social media, explains his decision to prioritise purpose and impact over the position.
Popular Islamic singer Ibraheem Labaeka has resigned from his position as Special Assistant to Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
In a resignation letter dated September 12, 2024, Labaeka expressed his discomfort with being compensated for a role in which he felt his contributions were unnecessary.
Labaeka stated that his conscience could not allow him to continue in a job that lacked purpose and impact.
He highlighted that public service should be based on trust, and he could no longer accept a salary without fulfilling his responsibilities meaningfully.
The letter, which has garnered widespread attention on social media, reflects Labaeka’s dissatisfaction with the position.
He expressed appreciation to Governor AbdulRazaq for the opportunity but reiterated that he could not stay in a role that went against his principles.
Mercy Eke denies involvement in viral explicit video
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Mohbad’s father demanded immediate burial after receiving N2 million – personal assistant
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