Entertainment
Mr Ibu celebrated in Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, four other countries – Manager
Dominic Nwuzoru, the manager of Late Nollywood actor John Okafor, a.k.a. Mr Ibu, has stated that the late comedian was even more popular in countries such as Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Gambia, Gabon, and Botswana when he was alive.
He added that Mr. Ibu always carried the Nigerian flag as a symbol of his love for his country and that he advanced peace and unity throughout Africa with his comedy.
He disclosed this in an interview with the Press on Sunday in Abuja.
According to him, the late comic received numerous accolades and recognitions from authorities and communities throughout Africa during his lifetime.
Nwuzoru stated that the late actor used his artistry to project Nigeria in a positive light around the world, particularly in countries where bad rumors about Nigeria had been circulated.
He said:
“I remember vividly, how two warring tribes in Ghana came together for the first time because of John’s performance and he ended up reconciling them,” Nwuzoru said.
“He was thereafter given a Chieftaincy title as the ‘Malangula I of Tamale Land’, meaning the peacemaker, and I was named the ‘Ngulala’, meaning the mouthpiece of the peacemaker.
“When we went to Botswana, he held the Nigerian flag when we landed to show how proud and patriotic he was because they were hearing a lot of negative things about Nigeria then.
“He was a man I would say made Africans laugh and was held in high esteem like a people’s leader across Africa.”
“Mr Ibu, as John was popularly known, was not just an actor, but Nollywood ambassador that used his talent and humour to promote peace, happiness and unity among Africans.
“I signed John in 2004, and then our relationship grew beyond that of business to become that of friendship as we have become so close till his death.
“The deal started with first two years, and I did not bother him with the aspects of Nigerian movies, so he could deal with anyone on Nigerian movies.
“But for anything concerning international showbiz, I have to discuss with the promoters on the basic access requirements and then we would move.
“There was no airport, especially in Africa, where crowd of fans would not gather to welcome John, and that was how I realised his popularity outside the shores of Nigeria.
“I can tell you that he was even more celebrated in countries like Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Gambia, Garbon, Botswana and he always held the Nigerian flag showing his love for his country,”
Then, John was one of the positive things other countries wanted to hear about Nigeria and everybody looked forward to meet him, including presidents of nations.
“For example, even a two-year-old child in Ghana knows Mr Ibu, and one thing about him was his friendliness and originality, as everything he does is just himself and does not copy anyone.
“Foreigners fell in love with Nigeria through John and wanted to visit the country because of him, as we got calls from even the Caribbean.”
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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