9jaNollywoodstars

The two actors involved are playing out a plot in movie real life.The two actors were in Baltimore,United States of America some months back to shoot a movie and later confronted by Phillip,a United States resident and a good friend of Emeka Ike of sleeping with his wife,Ruth which Emeka denied putting the blame on Jim Iyke and accusing him of framing him up.

Phillip and Emeka Ike have been friends for over fifteen years and Phillip claims to have supported Emeka during his rise to fame and to have even given him some funds to shoot a movie in the past which he claims Emeka never did.He also claims that Emeka has been sneaking into the U.S every now and then to sleep with his wife.

Emeka on the other hand agrees that someone has been sleeping on Phillips bed but not him but Jim Iyke.He claims that when Ruth came into the country sometime last year,Jim Iyke harassed her so much that her husband begged Emeka to talk to him.He also claims that Jim is out to bring him down and says Phillip is a crook involved in Visa scams in the U.S and obviously jealous because he just purchased a Touareg and opened his own Secondary School.

The whole scandal broke out when Emeka called Phillip from his hotel room and told Phillip (who was in Huston on business) that Jim was having an affair with his wife. In anger,Phillip called Jim and Jim told him in annoyance that if he really wanted to know what was going on,,he should take the next flight and come see for himself. Phillip did just that and met Jim with his girlfriend and his wife with Emeka.He was so furious that he caused a ruckus that the police had to get him out of the hotel, telling him if he had any issues he should go to court.

Phillip has reported the situation to the Acting Guild of Nigeria who shouldn’t have any say on the personal life of actors but give advice.Jim Iyke isn’t saying much as he said God has vindicated him.

The woman in the mist of the controversy says what Jim said about Emeka is not true and that Emeka is innocent in the whole mess.She claim Jim Iyke started heading on her since 2005 and she refused his advances and reported him to her husband,Philips Ehiagwina.Jim Iyke tried to talk her out of telling her husband but she insisted,he got upset and decided to set Emeka up because Emeka is the only person she confided in and when she was invited to Maryland to feature in a movie Emeka was there and she always confided in him and asked questions.Emeka and his wife Emma have been her friends for over 11 years now,she visit them whenever she visit Nigeria.

She claimed that Jim made lofty promises to her to win her heart and never expected her to say no so when she did,he tried to convince her telling her that the man she claim to love so much and brought to the United States has been cheating on her with everything in skirts (Philips Ehiagwina)an Edo man she met in Nigeria in 1998 and sacrificed all to ensure he has a good life.Jim told her all that her husband was and is still doing to her in my absence,she later confirmed all to be true.one of her husband’s mistresses,Nkiru who lives in Houston,Texas set him up after she found out that my husband betrayed me and lied to me.She set him up with an audio coverage and got every prove,he confessed about playing me for a green card on tape.

At the moment her husband has a case with the United States Immigration and the FBI is also on this case.it is very unfair that Jim Iyke who knows the truth but afraid to face it could be so callous by accusing an innocent person like Emeka Ike who has been nothing but a big brother to her since she know him.She says her husband met her as a virgin and took her virginity on a night of our honeymoon and now painting a bad picture of her simply because she reported his green card fraud to FBI since he didnt confide in her and never saw coming but will fight to the end.

Nigerian and Cameroonian artists have joined their voices through the film “The Blues Kingdom” to say No! to female genital mutilation (FGM), breast ironing, child trafficking and other barbaric acts so recurrent in our society. “The Blues Kingdom”, a co-production between Cameroonian and Nigerian artists is directed by the popular Nigerian artist, Zack Orji and produced by a youthful Cameroonian, Gilbert Agbor Ebot.

The film was produce to reinforce the fight against barbaric traditional values that are still being upheld in many regions in Cameroon and Nigeria. Ayum Joe (Zack Orji), after several years in the United States, decides to go home with his family to Toncoron (Mamfe, South West Province), his land of birth. It is meant to be a holiday; but it turns out to be a nightmare when the Mfor (traditional head) of Toncoron chose Anna, Joe’s daughter as his queen-to-be. As a prerequisite, the queen-to-be must undergo circumcision and also perform the “Monikim” dance; two practices, the Ayums consider inhuman and unthinkable. Ayum Joe and his family fight frantically to rescue Anna from the shackles of traditional practices they consider as barbaric. It is only after a military intervention from the government that such practices end in the area.

Gilbert Agbor says reason why they work with Nigerian artists is because the film industry in Nigeria is well advanced as they are the third in the world after Bollywood and Hollywood in India and United States respectively.

Nollywood, boasts of many actors and actresses that have been quite outstanding in their contributions to the development of the industry. But, apart from their acting prowess, these screen stars have one habit or the other that are second nature to them. This week, NollywoodReel takes you into the intimate world of these stars, with focus on their passion for smoking cigarette


•Toun Oni: She made her debut in acting with a stage drama entitled Be Mighty, Be Mine, written by the late Wale Ogunyemi. An outstanding role model to a lot of upcoming actresses, she tends to feature more in soap operas than movies and her most prominent soap is Fuji House of Commotion, a production of Amaka Igwe. Toun Oni’s career dates back to the 70s and though not one of the biggest stars around financially, she is undoubtedly a respected figure in the industry. She is hooked onto tobacco.

•Olu Jacobs: Uncle Olu Jacobs, as he is fondly called, is one of the biggest actors Nollywood can boast of right now. This is not only because he has become a legend in the industry, but because he is creative and he is a godfather to the younger generation of actors. Married to a veteran actress, Joke Silva-Jacobs, he owns a production outfit called Lufodo Productions. He also smokes cigarette passionately. Joke, who also smoked cigarette stopped the habit recently.

•Ayo Mogaji: This is a very talented and versatile actress, who is also a role model to a lot of upcoming actresses. Ayo Mogaji, who has lost count of the number of Yoruba flicks she has featured in, is a chain smoker. She is also a movie producer. Married to white-bearded Mr. Dabo, a fellow actor, her favourite

•Hanks Anuku: Hanks is inarguably the best action-driven actor in Nollywood. No wonder, some people see him as the baddest boy of the industry. This huge-frame actor, who has acted in a lot of English and Yoruba films including Ogidan, once told NollywoodReel that most ladies are scared of him, probably because of his physique or the wild roles he plays in movies. He is addicted to cigarette.

•Sam Loco-Efe: Talk of somebody, who has really paid his dues in the movie industry, then you are certainly talking about Uncle Sam Loco. Unlike every other actor, Sam started his acting career from the grassroots many years ago. But thank God, the sacrifices he made in the industry then did not go in vain as he is now reaping the fruits of his hard labour. Part of what he loves doing on a daily basis, however, is smoking.

•Rita Dominic: There is no way one will talk of most consistent and successful Nollywood stars without mentioning her name. The unassuming actress has suddenly caught the smoking bug. Although she prefers not to make much noise about her smoking habit, her choice of cigarette is London (Menthol), commonly called White London.

•Bayo Bankole: If you are meeting this Obafemi Awolowo University graduate for the first time, you will agree that smoking is part and parcel of him. Hardly will you meet Bayo, who was the former Boy Alinco in Wale Adenuga’s TV comedy serial, Papa Ajasco, without a stick of cigarette and a bottle of lager beer in his hand. He has also proved his dexterity with roles he has acted in other movies.

•Iyabo Ojo: This mother of two is no push over among the Yoruba actresses. Aside acting, she has also produced some movies that are doing well in the market. She is regarded as one of the wildest actresses because she is a club freak and she loves smoking too.

•Clem Ohameze: Clem, an honourable in the making, come 2007, has become a household name in the movie circuit. His contribution to the development of Nollywood is immeasurable. But when you talk of actors who have passion for cigarette, his name will definitely not be left out.

•Stella Idika: Is obviously one of the most promising actresses in the industry right now. Her roles in movies like Empire, Soldier Boy, Woman In Me and Descendants of Jezebel, show that the sky is her starting point. But those close to her said a day hardly passes without Stella lighting a cigarette.

Stella Damasus-Aboderin:
The widow of Jaiyejeje Aboderin is on the long-list of actresses that are trailed by controversies.Since the death of her husband who was the leader of the defunct Synergy Musical Group,Stella had been in and out of controversies.Although not confirmed,gist-bearers still allege that she had a swell-time dating gospel artiste and ace sound track performer,Sammy Okposo for a long time.Apart from that, there are indications that she's set to sign the dotted lines with model and Gulder Ultimate Search II contestant,Lanre Oluborode.However,the most disturbing of all the controversies was that occassioned by a movie in which she featured barely six months before the death of her husband.The controversy,it was gathered portrayed a wrong impression about to her in-laws.

Jim Iyke:
One of the most loved Nollywood actors popularly perceived as a sex-symbol,he has a spectacular way of delivering his roles especially when it has to do with love or emotion.Despite this versatility,he has disappointed his teeming fans several times by getting enmeshed in some avoidable controversies.Apart from the rumour that he was dating Halima,daughter of former vice-president and actress Rita Dominic,Jim was also banned alongside Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and Genevieve Nnaji by the movie marketers in 2005.There was a time he was reported to have engaged a commercial taxi driver in a brawl under Ojuelegba bridge.He also engaged Victor Obodo,a journalist working with the now rested Fame weekly magazine in fisticuffs and currently involve in Adultery scandal.

Opeyemi Ayeola:
Until she exchanged marital vows with her UK-based boyfriend,Olayiwola Babatunde, star actress,Opeyemi Ayeola had been enmeshed in controversies.The pretty actress of the Accountancy graduate’s status is believed to have attained the peak of her career through the help of some successful practitioners in the movie industry.
The controversy over her alleged affair with celebrated Corporate Pictures boss, Rasaq Abdullahi,however became rife when she disclosed to a soft sell magazine that she regretted dating Abdullahi.She is currently facing a tough-time from her in-laws because of the Interview she granted on her relationship with a promoter.

Bisi Ibidapo-Obe:
The light complexion, beautifully endowed actress is always in and out of controversies on men issue.Not toolong ago,Bisi was said to be romantically linked with revolutionary rap artiste,Ruggedman.

Fathia Balogun:
Apart from the fact that she is the estranged wife of Saheed Balogun,she is yet to extricate herself from some controversies trailing her breakup with the actor.According to what gist-bearers,Fathia’s sudden seperation from Saheed may not be unconnected with an alleged romance between her and Rasaq Abdullahi,he boss of Corporate Pictures.Even her newly produced film is said to have been shot amid controversy.Meanwhile,it is being alleged in some quarters that Fathia’s current residence was acquired through the help of Rasaq Abdullahi.

Baba Suwe: Having received many laurels through his comic roles in movies,Babatunde Omodina a.k.a Baba Suwe needs no formal introduction in Nollywood, as he is always in the news.The Igbogbo-Ife-Ikorodu-born comedian has not only earned fame through his style of comedy but has also ruled the comedy genre of moviedom for many years. However, despite his success in the make-believe industry, the current National Treasurer of the Association of Nigeria Theatre-Art Practitioners (ANTP)has always received bad press here in Nigeria each time he travelled out of the country.He has travelled far and wide in Europe and has a hectic task denying his involvement in the illegal business and alleged arrest as reported in the media.The vile and unsubstanciated rumour still persists because Baba Suwe often eulogises suspected notorious drug barons in his movies.

Empress Njamah:
She started her acting career in Nollywood with the movie,Girl's Hostel and now she is ranked among the most talented actresses in the industry.This beautiful gal in her 20s, has obviously had her fair share of controversies in the industry. She has been romantically linked with one man or the other at different times and allegation of fast fingers.

Cossy Orjiakor:
Although Cossy seems to have kept a very low profile lately, she was inarguably the most controversial actress,following her seductive roles in Abass Akande Obesere’s musical video,Apple Juice among others-that was the genesis of her controversies.
Apart from being romantically linked with the likes of Ola Kukoyi and Obesere,this University of Lagos graduate was also alleged to be suffering from breast cancer. However,the naturally endowed Cossy recently moved to her Lekki home and has found a new love in music.

Eucharia Anunobi:
Since this talented actress featured in the flick,Glamour Girls,she has always been enmeshed in controversies.Even with the recent disappearance of her husband from home,Eucharia has gradually learnt to move on with her life.

Hanks Anuku:
This is a fantastic actor with a spectacular sense of interpreting roles,especially when it has to do with interpreting his roles in action movies.He is being perceived as one of the most dangerous guys while acting roles in Nollywood,he has been enmeshed in many controversies.Many believe he is naturally erratic.

Iyabo Ojo:
No doubt,Iyabo is quite talented and towers above some of her peers in the Yoruba movie industry and if she continues like that,the sky may actually be her starting point but she needs to avoid some unnecessary controversies that have been trailing her on runs.She is one of the actresses who loves night clubbing with a passion and the mother of two has also been widely reported in the media that she date Muka Ray and Kunle Afolayan.

Ernest Asuzu:
The name Ernest Asuzu surely needs no further introduction among Nigerians.Not only because he is an actor of note but because since last year, he has constantly been in the news. And this cannot be unconnected with the fact that he was suffering from a mental disorder and just released from prison.

Genevieve Nnaji:
One of the controversies that this star actress has encountered in her career is about her alleged relationship with a former Vice President.The former Face of Lux, who has lost count of movies she has acted in was also rumoured to have dated actor Pat Attah.

Yewande Akinwande:
Popularly known as Yetunde Wunmi,this Yoruba actress has always been in the limelight but her arrest at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport by officials of the National Drug and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for drug trafficking made her one of the controversial movie stars in Nigeria

Celebrity Takes2 is the first of its kind in Nigeria though the concept is as old as the club organising it...10 years plus!Its the only program in Nigeria’s illustrious Television history to ever feature such a unique and wide spread crop of achievers in various fields...pitting against themselves in dance competition!sponsored by Skye Bank but organized by Spirit of David

As the show enters week two with pulsating drumbeats synchronizing with the rhythm of sound,the opening movements of an energetic dance full of flair and verve,the fantastic presentation by musician Sound Sultan and instructor Lilian Yeri for the first stage of Spirit of David’s ongoing dance competition.Viwers were entranced by the introductory episode of the show but the second was even more intriguing!

Ten couples showcase one-minute dance routines appraised by a live audience and a panel of three judges; who are seasoned performers in their own right.

Lilian Yeri and Sound Sultan, dressed in traditional African costumes, thrilled everyone with their rhythmic interpretation of Jeremiah Gyang’s Na Barka.

The next couple was even more astounding! It was a delight seeing Pasuma Wonder, Nigeria’s Otunba of Fuji music, do the Rhumba with his partner, Funke Iroko.The couple was resplendent in complementary white costumes which dazzled as Pasuma whirled and twirled,gracefully lifting his partner in a slow,intense dance which ended as gracefully as it began.It was a dance which made up for what it lacked in message and content with a display of Waltz technique unusual for a beginner like Pasuma.Obviously, he had an outstanding instructor!

Omotola ‘Omosexy’ Jalade-Ekeinde was another star of the evening who benefited tremendously from having a good dance instructor.She and Buddy Ageda chose a fast-paced,cheerful dance using steps typical of the hip hop movement and the catchy rhythm of a techno song to entertain the ecstatic audience.From the opening ‘moonwalk’ slide showing fantastic footwork to the crisp articulation of his break dance moves,Buddy outshone Omotola who capitalised on the danceability of their song to maintain an interactive flow with her partner.Though most of her moves were out of synchrony with the music and appeared to be initiated by her partner, Omotola’s earnestness, her self-expression, and the vibrancy of her dance made their performance most refreshing.

Fashion designer Zizi Cardow and her partner Ice, were more intense.Theirs was a passionate ballroom dance. Zizi was dressed in a black-tie affair, dazzling gown with a sequined bodice. It was a beautiful dance. Zizi posed as model for Ice’s on-stage painting, her portrait on a canvas which caught the spotlights as the words ...”If I were a painting...” filled the opening strains of their classical selection. It was an intense, passionate dance with a vivid concept and clearly executed unison movement, Zizi maintaining eye contact in graceful moves with her partner who sang throughout the dance.It was breathtakingly beautiful.


The performance of Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria 2007, Omawunmi Akinnifesi and Wale Sodade were also dazzling.Their fantastic presentation began when Omawunmi clad in white began intricate contortions to the engaging music of their contemporary dance piece which showed Omawunmi seeking a loved one, (her partner Wale) being found by him and enduring periods of separation with eventual reconciliation in a sophisticated dance comprising elements of ballet, hip hop and Afro-Caribbean dance forms.

Their performance was astonishing for its accuracy and flow, with fantastic gestures and flying leaps which kept the audience riveted to their seats; a remarkable presentation with a clear theme of love and friendship.

A sensational Nollywood actress haunted by many scandals,every step of the sexy eyeball’s march through moviedom seems to have been trailed by one controversy or the other.Born to a Nigerian father and a Cameroonian mother,Empress exploded into the showbiz industry in the mid 90’s with the movie ‘Girls Hostel’where she played a major role (Tunika),her profile has steadily risen from the upcoming actress to ‘Nollywood”star and has remained relevant,holding her turf,scandals or no scandal.

She comes from a family of artistes,her elder brothers-John and Aquila have made a mark in the industry as well.They are five in number and three of them are into acting.Her brothers were into it before her-She went out with her brothers one day to a rehearsal in Surulere and the girl that was supposed to play a particular role did not come and was asked to stand in for her.After,the director called her and asked if she was interested in acting but said yes and got the role.Her foray into the Nigerian home video was first met with stiff opposition by her Mother who had some reservations about all her children taking a particular line of career but when she saw the movie she did,she liked it and felt she had what it takes to be a good actress and she encouraged her to go into it.

The dark skinned delectable actress currently combines acting with a degree programme at the Olabisi Onabanjo University,Ogun State where she is studying English.She love wearing simple clothes that would make my skin breathe,not to reveal her skin,cleavage or show her flat tummy but her love to wear things that she is very comfortable with.She love to dance as a form of exercise.With stardom comes fame and money but Empress does not see herself being in the Nigerian movie industry for life.

Nollywood actress Shan George has joined the fray of reality television producers as she begins a tour of Nigeria to choose the best Nigerian in T 36,a tourism based reality television show which comprises of contestants from every state of the nation.Speaking with media people on her plans for the reality show,Shan says T36 will be a far cry from all the others we have seen in Nigeria since the issue became a fad.In her words,“The contestants would take a tour around the nation’s thirty-six states (including FCT) in eight weeks.

Their mission is to learn as much as possible the History, beliefs, and general way of life of the Nigeria people.The contestants would visit specific locations of Political, cultural, economic, and tourism relevance.At the end of a visit to each geopolitical zone, Contestants would be subjected to oral test, where two contestants with the lowest scores would be eliminated.Its organized by SHANDEL PRODUCTION an outfit that is run by Shan George,the show would kick-off in Lagos and end in Abuja for the grand finale after a complete tour of the six geo-political zones.

The programme is designed to rekindle national consciousness and stir a whole new band of patriots to the Nigerian dream. The show will go a long way to prove the general Nigerian thought right. The thought that ‘we are better together’.
The team’s primary function is to amongst others, expose and celebrate known tourism locations as well as uncover the unknown ones.

These actress are not only beautiful,they have what it takes to be the best in their chosen profession.Most of them would have made good wives but not all of them are so lucky to keep their homes.Any time they get into relationships with the hope of consummating the affairs,disappointment usually keep them still searching for "Mr Right.Though they have love children as a result of such unions but prefer to keep these children out of public knowledge for their own interest.

Shan George:
This light-skin actress came out hot when she started out in the movie industry. Before her entry into the industry, Shan George was living in her home town. There, she had a forced marriage at a much younger age of 17. The marriage did not last. That marriage produced two grown up boys who are now schooling abroad. After that she tried to go into two other relationships, which did not last

Ann Njamanze:
Before the fatal accident that almost claimed her life, Ann was a prominent actress in the movie industry. She lost her visible presence due to the accident, which restricted her to the sick bed for a long time.Then her celebrated relationship with fellow actor Segun Arinze was cemented with the birth of her daughter Morenike. The union didn’t however survive the test of time. Today Ann Njaminze has moved on with her life. It was even heard that she had another baby not too long ago for the new man in her life


Ibinabo Fiberesima:
The beautiful actress has her own share of failed relationship. Her affairs with Phillip Trimnell and top singer Daniel Wilson were widely celebrated.Not too long ago she got into trouble when her car rammed into a doctor’s car, killing him in the process. Today, it was reported that Ibinabo and fellow actor Fred Amata are planning to hook each other in wedlock.But time will tell if Ibinabo, who already has two children from two different fathers, would be lucky this time.

Alex Lopex:
Unlike most actresses who find it hard to openly identify with their children, Alex Lopex’s case is different. At any given time, she’s ready to tell anyone that she has a son, Joshua, whom she had for her lover. Although, the relationship did not last, however, Lopex is ever grateful for the joy of motherhood that the relationship afforded her.

Fathia Balogun:
Just like Fathia Balogun’s relationship with her first husband, Tunde Anchor, the marriage between the Edo State born actress and fellow actor Saheed Balogun is said to be over. Before meeting Saheed Balogun, Fathia has a son in London for her former husband Tunde. The son lives with the father in London.

Genevieve Nnaji:
Before the sanction imposed on some foremost artistes including Genevieve, she was one of the most sought-after actresses in the country. Genevieve, a gifted model and beautiful actress attained an enviable height in the industry.At the age of 16, she was put into the family way by one of her boyfriends who lived around her former Egbeda residence in Lagos. That pregnancy resulted in the birth of her baby girl who is about nine years old now.

Regina Askia:
These days, Regina has faded out of reckoning in the movie world. She was every producer’s delight. Producers and marketers can’t afford not to feature her pictures in their jackets and posters. And the reason was because she is an ex-beauty queen. Regina’s relationship with a French businessman produced her daughter, Stephanie, who is now into modelling in the United States.After the relationship with the Frenchman collapsed, Regina went into another marriage with an American identified simply as Ruby, which produced children. But just like the Frenchman’s, the relationship has packed up.

Elfreda Rowland:
Elfreda Rowland is a very daring actress, who could act naughty roles in movies. A happy-go-lucky lady who likes to catch her fun, that’s why if she’s not on location, she’s rocking around town. Elfreda has a girl from a relationship she had in the past; the father of the girl lives abroad.

Ronke Ojo (Oshodi Oke):
Ronke, a busty actress, who got the nickname Oshodi Oke from the title of a movie she starred in as a lead actress, is one of the hottest Yoruba actresses in the movie industry. About three years ago, she got pregnant and no body seems to know who was responsible for it.The pregnancy was linked to many people including a marketer and a London based socialite Wale. But Ronke came out to tell the world that the father of her daughter lives in Canada and that put paid to the controversy.

Mariam Apollo:
Pretty Apollo was widely believed would become the better-half of fine boy actor Ramsey Nouah because both of them were very close then. But Ramsey left her for his wife when the marriage issue came up. Before her celebrated relationship with Ramsey Nouah, Mariam Apollo had a baby for her former lover.

Iyabo Ojo:
Pretty Iyabo Ojo, one of the top Yoruba actresses in the country, also has two kids, a boy and a girl from a marriage she went into when she could hardly differentiate her right from her left. Today, she has been linked to another Yoruba actor Muka Ray and also to Kunle Afolayan.

Clarion Chukwurah:
Clarion Chukwurah is one of the veterans in the movie industry. This University of Ife Theatre Arts graduate started acting in the early 80s. While on the set of the movie Owolagba in the 80s, Clarion had a fling with juju star Sir Shina Peters (SSP) that resulted in a baby. Today, the god of love has not been fair to the beautiful lady, just like her marriage to Mike, Abiola’s brother, she recently lost another marriage she had with a London big boy Femi Egyptian

Bimbo Oshin:
It all started like a rumour that Yoruba actress Bimbo Oshin was involved in a love relationship with the boss of Dudu Heritage, Ola Ibinronke. It eventually came out to be the truth when she got pregnant for the American-based promoter. The relationship went through turbulence because of the wife of the American promoter. The relationship produced a boy named Michael.

Bose Joseph:
This crossover actress had a baby out of wedlock. The baby girl, Opemipo, is now a toast of many movie producers both in English and Yoruba. Opemipo’s father rejected her pregnancy and took off for the UK. Now that this child has become a star, he now wants to claim her paternity. Just like the first pregnancy, Bose had another man who refused to take responsibility for her second pregnancy. And now she has two kids for different fathers out of wedlock.

Obot Etuk:
Obot Etuk is one of the most respected in interpreting movie roles but this is not the same with her life style. She was celebrated for her love affairs with younger colleague Ernest Azuzu. Despite the age difference, several times, the actor would beat her to the surprise of most people. Today, Obot has three kids out of wedlock

Babara Udoh:
Babara Udoh came into prominence through her role in the famous movie The Glamour girls. Although before that time she was a regular face in most soap then. Babara has not been too frequent in movie production these days and people have been wondering what the problem might be.Babara Udoh is one of the actresses that have babies out of wedlock.

Sandra Achum:
Sandra Achum today has two children from two fathers. The first came and the father was unknown so also is the case with her second child.The reason for keeping her relationship from the pages of paper may be due to the loss of her proposed marriage years back which most soft sell magazines feasted on.

Edith Jane Azu:
Today, she has given her life to Christ but only that she is happily married, but as long as she lives she will never forget how she became a baby mother at the age of 16.

Toyin Raji:
Toyin Raji is an ex-beauty queen that also got into the movie world. But before she could exhibit her God-given talent for a long time in the movie world, she left when she became pregnant. She solely nurtured the baby on her own.

Ndidi Obi:
she is better known as Nneka the pretty serpent because of her role in that movie. Ndidi left the movie industry when she was put in the family way by a business man. And ever since, little or nothing has been heard about the lady who once held her fans spell bound with the way she interpreted roles.

The motion picture industry in Nigeria, otherwise known as Nollywood added a new feather to its cap with the establishment of Project Nollywood. The new production outfit is fashioned after top-notch production company Dream Works SKG, owned by Steven Spielberg, Jeffery Katzenberg and David Gaffen, all leading moviemakers in Hollywood. And as a formidable movie company charged with the vision of producing quality Nollywood movies, the quartet behind the outfit, namely: Chico Ejiro, Fidelis Duker, Charles Novia and Fred Amata, recently received the support of Ecobank Plc, which promised to finance four chartbusters by the group.

The movies which are expected to hit shelves soon in Nigeria and other African countries include, Caught In The Middle, a romantic comedy, 100 Days In The Jungle, an action packed adventure, Senseless, a gripping drama full of suspense and Letter To A Stranger, a fascinating yet intriguing romantic drama. Speaking on their historic partnership with Ecobank at a parley, Duker said it was in line with the bank’s renewed vision of investing heavily in the entertainment sector and its firm belief in the fast growing Nollywood, already ranked third globally and first on the African continent.

These movies will give birth to a multi-million naira distribution network solely financed by Ecobank with over 2,000 staff strength employed who would be ready to market these movies across the length and breadth of Nigeria and beyond. It is projected that within the first six months of release, the movies will hit over five million copies thus making up for Nigeria which promises to take about 70 percent. While shedding more light on the partnership, Ejiro hinted that Ecobank equally approved and funded the business plan for Project Nollywood, aside making available millions of naira for the production and worldwide distribution of the four movies. Ecobank believes that only banks can jumpstart the potentials of Nollywood, as can be seen from the multi-billion dollar Hollywood in America, which is massively backed by American banks. Ecobank have pledged to continue to support Nollywood as well as other areas of the entertainment industry.

Also, Novia, another producer, said it was the first time in the annals of the Nigerian motion picture that four top producers would agree to come together and form a vibrant entertainment company. He re-stated that theirs is a company with the sole aim of producing quality Nollywood movies that would give maximum entertainment and enjoyment. The four movies would be elaborately premiered and launched before being released into the markets both nationally and internationally. They are proud to be associated with this epoch-making venture and want more of such from other corporate bodies.

The National film & Video Censors Board (NFVCB) in partnership with Nollywood Foundation, Inc; Best of Nigeria Expo UK, and the Heart of Africa project of the Federal Ministry of Information & communications is holding the maiden Nigeria in the Movies (NIM) international road shows in London from the 18th to 20th, October 2007. The theme is “Global impacts of the Nigerian Film industry”

The Business forum is aimed at creating necessary linkages between Nollywood stakeholders and European counterparts, particularly experts in regulatory and enforcement, sales agents, distributors, financiers, investors and general film business. The success stories of the emergence of Nollywood as the third largest movie industry globally will be presented, Nollywood practitioners will be exposed to core lines of international best practices to further build their confidence and commit them to engaging in standards that are able to compete in global markets.

The event will also feature a special “Pitching Session” which will be arranged by Nollywood Foundation. The Nollywood Foundation, Inc. (NF) is a US based not-for-profit organization committed to supporting the Nigerian film industry in becoming a leader in the international film community, thereby introducing international audiences to the richness of Nigerian and African film and culture.

During the pitching session, five Nigerian producers/directors would have the opportunity to make presentations on their “live” projects to a select panel of sales agents, financiers and distributors organized by renowned film maker and media consultant Ms Parminder Vir OBE who is also a Nollywood Foundation Advisory Board Member. While there is no guarantee of funding, as the final decisions will be that of the panelists, this will give selected film makers an unusual opportunity to pitch their ideas to an international panel of decision makers interested in Nigerian Film.

About ten years ago, most of them were either not there at all or mere newbies in the industry. Today, however, they call the shots and command the big bucks to boot.


FunkeAkindele

Most Nollywood fans started seeing her in I Need To Know, a television series about teenage sexuality funded by some international agencies.
Later, she broke into Nollywood appearing in both Yoruba and English language movies. Today, she has already notched up several appearances such that one would think she has been there all these years.


BukkyWright

She studied Economics at the University of Lagos, but somehow found herself in the movie world. Her first time out was on the set of Fidelis Duker's Images; and since then, she has not looked back.When Tunde Kelani came with Saworo Ide, she was effectively in the limelight and followed it up with appearances in Wale Adenuga's Super Story series as Abike in Oh

father oh! Daughter. She has also tried her hands at producing her own movies, with flicks like Owo Ale (debut movie), 7’oclock, Agbeke, Temi Ni Nkem and Dugbe Dugbe to Nbo. If she is not on set, she is into some buying and selling


GraceAmah

She wanted to read Law at the University of Ibadan, but something would chip in to change her path altogether introducing her into acting which would later become a passion. She dumped Law. She first appeared on a a television series: One Bad Apple. Then came Day of Atonement, Elastic limit, Cinderella, Atlanta, Love, Paradise and soon she can't keep track of the number again.


UcheJombo

Her father warned her not to go into acting, but she disobeyed and went headlong into it. Then she got her first movie role in Visa To Hell. Since then, many other roles have followed. Today, she is making waves and money.


BimboAkintola

This University of Ibadan Theatre Arts graduate first starred in Out of Bounds, Mourning After. Her movie roles cut across both the English and Yoruba sectors.
Today, as a result of her background in Theatre Arts, she still has the chance to act on stage. Money-wise, she is also one of the highest paid female actresses around.


Eucharia Anunobi

‘U.K’ as friends and colleagues fondly call her, started off as a model; fashion and photography when she was an English Language undergraduate at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.She came into the movie Industry when she acted in Nneka the Pretty Serpent (Part II) as a goddess and later had her break when she starred in Glamour Girls(Part II).


Carol Ekanem
Since she cut her teeth in acting when she featured in Chico Ejiro’s Deadly Kiss, Carol Uduak Abasi Ekanem has never looked back. Born to a British mother and a Nigerian father, Carol went into acting not only for the fame and glamour, but to use her talent to impact on her society. Though blessed with ravishing beauty, Caroline is not one of those Nollywood actresses who allow the glamour of screen acting to get into their heads.


Jummai Joseph
In Nollywood today, soft-spoken actress, Jummai Joseph stands out as one of the most beautiful and successful actresses. A product of Kogi State University where she read Mass Communication, aside acting and producing, this second daughter of a serving police officer is also the C.E.O. of Kleen Image Pictures, a complete production outfit. I’m child number two from a family of eight. We are four at par. I’m from the Igala-speaking area of Kogi State. Mum is a successful trader, while dad is a police officer working and residing in Abuja. So many of them. Disguise, Shadows, Ogidan, Ale Ariwo, Camouflage, Blood Money, Oracle, Faces, Culprit and few others.



Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde

She is another actress who has proved that she is also one of the best around. She hit the limelight with her role in "Mortal Inheritance" years back and also proved her worth in Kingsley Ogoro's movie, "Prostitute",.She is from a family of five (5); Mrs & Mrs Shola Jalade (both late) and two brothers Tayo and Bolaji Jalade. She attended Christland Nursery School, Opebi, Lagos and Oxford Children School Santos Layout. She then proceeded to Kaduna for her Secondary education at Command Secondary School. She is currently undertaking a HND course in Estate Management at Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos.

Prior to 1984, film lovers in Nigeria had to be contended with going to cinema houses.The tide changed remarkably when in 1984 Alade Aromire produced the first made in Nigeria home video titled ‘Ekun.’ Though far from being a commercial success, the production of ‘Ekun’ on VHS format opened a new chapter in the evolution of home video film industry in the country.

It was in1996 that home video made its biggest impact in Nigeria. It was the year Kenneth Nnebue produced “Living in Bondage,” a soar-away commercial success.Thereafter,he has produced other equally successful home video like Bondage, True Confessions, Dirty Deal, Glamour Girls, and Rituals etc.It did not only mark the turning point for the Nigerian film industry but also opened the floodgate of investment, entertainment and employment. The rush to cash in on the glamour inherent in these films which fascinated viewers made other movie makers to join in.

At this early stage of the development of the home video industry, the trend was for the marketers to converge in the Surulere Area of Lagos where most of the pioneers of the industry operate. They includes: Zeb Ejiro and his brothers Chico and Peter, Kenneth Nnebue (Nek Video), Opa Williams and several others.The modus operandi was for the marketers to pay money to the producers who will hire the scriptwriters, the actors and assemble his production crew. The marketers’ surfaces gain to pay the balance of the production in case of outright sales or to negotiate the terms of release of the flick with the movie maker.
In those days, the marketers limited themselves to finding ways to distribute and market the films they were interested in and nothing more. These were the days when films such as Tears for love, Flesh and Blood, Goodbye Tomorrow, Glamour Girls and the rest were made. Such was the success story of the Nigerian move industry a.ka. Nollywood. The artistes became familiar faces in several parts of Africa and beyond. Nigerian films were hailed for their richness in cultural background, costumes, humour and their distinct difference from that of Hollywood of America and Bollywood of India which the world had been used to films, which fascinated viewers, made other movie makers to join in.


At this early stage of the development of the home video industry, the trend was for the marketers to converge in the Surulere Area of Lagos where most of the pioneers of the industry then operated. They include: Zeb Ejiro and his brothers Chico and Peter, Kenneth Nnebue (Nek Video), Opa Williams and several others. Then, the modus operandi was for the marketers to pay money to the producers who will hire the scriptwriters, the actors and assemble his production crew. The marketers’ surfaces gain to pay the balance of the production in case of outright sales or to negotiate the terms of release of the flick with the movie maker.
In those days, the marketers limited themselves to finding ways to distribute and market the films they were interested in and nothing more. These were the days when films such as Tears for love, Flesh and Blood, Goodbye Tomorrow, Glamour Girls and the rest were made. Such was the success story of the Nigerian move industry a.ka. Nollywood. The artistes became familiar faces in several parts of Africa and beyond. Nigerian films were hailed for their richness in cultural background, costumes, humour and their distinct difference from that of Hollywood of America and Bollywood of India which the world had been used to.


This was before the marketers hijacked the industry. It all started with Kenneth Nnebue, the pioneer producer to venture into the market at Idumota with his dual role as producer and marketer. The marketers at Idumota also believed that they could handle the roles and now took up the title of executive producer, which gave them the opportunity to dictate to the movie makers. Initially, they started by choosing the kind of stories they wanted and cajoling the producers to use certain locations. In no space of time, they started dictating the actors and actresses they wanted on films. Before any body could guess their next move, some of them even became directors and established their offices among the film makers themselves.
While the real professionals were yet to fathom that move, the marketers began to dictate who must get roles and who should not get roles. Six years ago the marketers struck with a ban on Hilda Dokubo and Ejike Asiegbu, the offence of the duo was that they were too critical of the marketers. The ban was however, a clandestine affair as they (the marketers) were still afraid to assume such powers. By 2004, the situation changed completely with the marketers not only dictating who should act in films but also which films should be released into the market and which ones should not. It was that same year that the marketers exercised the biggest power of all when they banned 10 top Nollywood stars alleging indiscipline, very high fees and other sundry matters
The banned artistes included Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD), Chief Pete Edochie, Nkem Owoh, Ramsey Noah, Genevieve Nnaji, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde and Stella Damasus. Others were Jim Iyke, Kenneth Okonkwo and Emeka Ike. After one year, the marketers known as the ‘Awka mafias’ with an office in Awka, Anambra State asked the affected stars to appear before them and apologise for their ‘sins.” Nkem Owoh, Kenneth Okonkwo, Pete Edochie, Ransey Noah, Emeka Ike, Jim Iyke reportedly complied with their orders and were unbanned while RMD, Genevieve, Omotola Stella Damasus refused.



Among the marketers that hold sway and call the shots in Nollywood is Ossy Affasson. He is currently the most powerful in the market as the president of the marketers association, Cosmas Ndule, the boss of Contech Films, Ojiofor Ezeanyechie, the boss of O.J. Productions and Sunday Nnajiude. Others include the Amaco Brothers, Gabriel and Damian, the two brothers who are very influential in the movie business, Dozie Eriobu, the boss of Infinity Merchants, Okwytex, Azuka Odunukwe, the boss of Ulzee Nig Ltd and Bonag, run by the most successful couple ever to venture into movie marketing.

The control of the movie industry by the makers and the ban on the top artistes has its good and bad sides. The good aspect of it is that it has given some of them opportunity to venture into other areas, particularly music, among whom are Nkem Owoh, Genevieve Nnaji, Stella Damasus, Omotola Jalade Ekinde etc, while Jim Iyke has ventured into a foundation that has to do with facial deformities and they are all doing well in their new fields of endeavour.The bad aspect of this hijack of the movie industry by the marketers has to do with the absence of strict implementation of controls, the use of greenhorns, repetitions and fallen standard of production. It is now a case of square pegs in round holes. It is a development that must be checked by the regulatory bodies to save the industry

The Yoruba movie industry like other genre of the Nigerian movie industry is witnessing a turn-around that is sure to place the industry in good stead in the larger movie industry. Some years back, no Yoruba movie was complete or good enough if the faces of some top artistes were missing. Then, a comedy movie without the face of Babatunde Omidina (Baba Suwe) and epic without Lere Paimo (Eda Onileola) was most likely to end up in the trash bin.In the same way, serious movies without the faces of Bayo Salami (Oga Bello), Yinka Quadri, Taiwo Hassan, amongst several others was considered unmarketable. Yes, give it to them. They were about the best in the trade and they gave their best churning out one blockbuster after another.The ladies too were not left out. Women like Mama Rainbow, Lanre Hassan (Iya Awero), Orisabunmi were top of the list for choice roles.

However, the tide has changed. Today, we have a new set of artistes who wow their fans with superlative performances that is gradually easing away the memories of the older artistes from the consciousness of the movie watching public.Top of the list of the new kids on the block are younger men like Yomi Fashlanso, Funsho Adeolu, Muyiwa Ademola Saheed Balogun, Bolaji Amusan (Baba Latin), Yemi Solade, to list a few. The ladies have an even longer list. Few among them are Opeyemi Ayeola, Lola Alao, Foluke Daramola and Bukky Wright.However, one particular feature of these young men and women is the level of their education. Most, if not all are university or polytechnic graduates. The consensus among movie aficionados is that education has played a major role in the emergence of these new kids on the block.

Yemi Solade:
With a good physique and a command of both Yoruba and English languages, Yemi has proved that he is indeed an all-round actor. Also, his ability to interpret roles has won him hordes of fans. A good example is Yemi’s role as a Ghanaian immigrant in “Madam Dearest”.Yemi Solade’s other hit appearances include N150 million and Awenibaku.

Mr. Latin:
This Abeokuta, Ogun State-based comedian has almost taken the shine off the other Yoruba movie comedians. His ability to make you laugh without necessarily going to the extreme has endeared him to many.Other reason his fans claim they love him is his subtle manner of interpreting difficult roles. Mr. Latin is sure going to make you laugh any day. A pip into his role in the flick entitled: ‘Sondoko” tells the story of a good interpreter of roles.Among Latin’s several other good flicks are Imported Lomo, Pink Lady, Obaj’oba lo and Sondoko.

Yomi Fashlanso:
Yomi has several things in common with Yemi Solade. Young, handsome and good command of both English and Yoruba languages put him in good stead for movie roles.He belongs to the new class of emerging force in the Yoruba movie industry that is crying for positive change.This force, though not known to many, is gradually bringing its idea of a good industry to bear on the industry. Olokada Iboji.

Muyiwa Ademola:
Muyiwa Ademola belongs to the class of the younger generation of Yoruba artistes that are gradually taking over both production and acting aspects of the industry from the older generation.With a good feature that makes him one of the toasts of the industry’s young ladies, Muyiwa has been able to merge his knowledge of production into good role interpretation. His emergence on the scene few years ago received a good stamp with a five star performance in movies like Ori, Ile amongst several others.

Saheed Balogun:
Saheed Balogun remains one of the few young men who has been able to blend together roles in both modern and epic movies. Saheed’s performance in a soap opera few years ago, his ability to drum and dance has proved that he is an all-round artiste.Married to a fellow artiste, Saheed’s good command of ancient Yoruba dialect means he fits in squarely into epic movies. Handsome and educated, Saheed has acted in roles that are too numerous to mention. He has acted the role of thug, drunkard, cultist, and banker to mention a few.He belongs to ranks of the younger generation that are presently dictating the pace in the industry. Among Saheed’s hit movies are Omo Alhaja, Mafikangbakan and Oju Ina.

Funso Adeolu:
Funso’s story is not in any way different from that of the other emerging young forces in the industry. His good command of the English language has come handy in movies with modern theme.

Bukky Wright:
Bukky, with little doubt, is presently on top of her world. From the time she burst into limelight with A-list performance in Saworoide and Agogo Eewo, this petit lady has churned out goods movies to the delight of her fans.To prove her mettle as an all-round artiste, Bukky’s role in television soap, Super Story was the icing on the cake of a solid career. She has used her petit stature to several good advantages, with roles as student, young girl etc.

Opeyemi Ayeola:
Yemi is no doubt the leader of the pack among the younger female artiest, judging by the number of roles she has played in recent movies. One particular attribute of this young lady is her total dedication and ability to interpret roles.Though still single, Opeyemi, most times has acted as wife and mother in Madam Dearest and Iyawo Panda deserves accolades from movie buffs.In Madam Dearest, she proved beyond any reasonable doubt that she belongs to the A-list of actresses in the Yoruba movie industry. Few of her works include Iyawo Panda, Ige Adubi.

Foluke Daramola:
As a graduate of International Relations, Foluke, from the onset was equipped for a life in the soap box. She is one of the few Yoruba artistes who started out with the English genre before crossing over to Yoruba.Today, Foluke is getting popular by the day. Her roles in movies like Lehin Odun Mewa, Final Year mean the mother of one has a bright future in the industry.

Lola Alao:
Heavily endowed Lola is one of the new faces in the Yoruba movie world. Her profile has remained on a steady rise since emerging on the scene few years ago. This new found status is no doubt rubbing off on her personality.

Loy Nabeta is a Ugandan and a Nollywood freak.He observedthat though our movie scenes are commendably African in the true sense but in maintaining this basic element, they don’t do any justice to the person who has an early wakeup call e.g the typically African wailing and falling over when someone dies.


I’m aware it will be hard, after writing this, for me to shake off accusations of being the poster child for successful Western cultural imperialism but one has to take the risk.I watched my first Nigerian movie in 1997. I was very impressionable then - for I was 10 years younger. And if my memory serves me, it was the hit movie (a hit in Nigeria, that is) titled Sakobi, which I think was also the name of its dazzling heroine. The movie, which was essentially about the wages of greed, featured a lot in the way of the supernatural, specifically the predominance of cults in Nigerian life. Although I thought it was generally an impressive piece of work, it also impacted on me in such a way that when I visited Nigeria later that year for two months, I found myself caught in an uncharacteristic paranoia that had me constantly looking over my shoulder, wanting to run from even my own shadow. I could never go out of the house alone!



I had thought I would go back to the shop to borrow some more Nigerian movies but I somehow never got round to doing so. Since then, however, back home in Uganda the Nigerian cinema bug has all but conquered everyone in its path - be they pastors, house girls, housewives or corporate types. Nigerian movies are a big deal and smart TV station proprietors are making the most of this seemingly insatiable demand.In fact, in Uganda today, when someone says they loved last night’s Ekinigeria (literally meaning, “Nigerian”) you are supposed to understand they enjoyed last night’s movie - and not the date with Olusegun or some Nigerian dude they just met. In Tanzania too, I have also found that there is no escaping the Ekinigeria bug. It is big. And these are just two countries. Would it surprise anyone that the Nigerian movie industry, now dubbed Nollywood, is a $600m enterprise (as of 2005)? I guess not.


What I find surprising though, is why - and I can’t think of a better way to put this - after sustained exposure over a long period of time to endlessly superior (Western) cinema, Africa is suddenly eagerly gobbling up such crassness, such directionless, tasteless, utterly embarrassing and annoying stuff that is now being strutted as “African cinema”? Seriously.Brainwashed brat? Guilty as charged. And while we are on the subject, switch on your TV for a moment and sass out the phoney American accents oozing from your favourite Nollywood stars and then tell me who is the fraud. Do they really have to speak that way? In my opinion, the Edge of Paradise, a Nigerian soap on M-Net, is about the only Nollywood product that has survived this vice - and that is why it’s the one thing I may allow myself to be caught indulging in as far as “African cinema” goes. That, and the Super Story series.
Oh yeah, some people will no doubt argue that it is not only Africans who are enjoying Nollywood. True. But the fact that people are watching doesn’t mean they are necessarily liking what they see. I suspect some viewers just want to see how far seemingly normal, decent looking African adults can go in clowning themselves today in the name of making movies. (Perhaps these viewers are understandably fed up with the chaotic politics and constant slaughter they find on the television news channels).

Virgin Nigeria theme for this year Nollywood Award is ‘Globalization of Nollywood – Opportunities for the Diaspora‘ and slated for October 27, 2007.The Virgin Nigeria – Afro Hollywood conference and 12th awards is a celebration of excellence in film, arts and entertainment.

The event offers an excellent vehicle for international corporate communication especially as Nollywood has established a bond between the Carribeans and the British Africans.This will be the third consecutive year, Virgin Nigeria Airways will be flying the Nollywood stars to receive the continents most valuable award in London, according to Virgin Nigeria Country Manager UK Stuart Bailey, “ We’ll continue to support Nollywood as we are a World Class Airline from the heart of Africa”. Meanwhile, the scramble for nomination among film practitioners has commenced for the most prestigious film and arts awards in the continent. A list of Nollywood stars and the best of African cinema actors and actresses representing South Africa, Ghana, as well as a host of other celebrities have attended in the past and also will be attending this glamorous awards evening now in its 12th successive year.

The 12th annual African Film & Arts Awards a.k.a Afro Hollywood 2007 will be held on the 27th of October 2007 at the London Hilton Metropolis between 6pm and 2am. Afro Hollywood Awards is the most prestigious and pioneering of Awards that have contributed very substantially to building the international profile of Africans, especially Nigeria’s growing collection of, film stars.This year, Afro Hollywood proposes to introduce an intellectual content into its annual recognition program by having a day of presentations at a film conference. The conference would then be capped with an awards ceremony in the evening. Over the years, Afro Hollywood has served the purpose of promoting and advancing the dynamic growth of Africa’s Film and Arts in Europe, especially in the United Kingdom.

‘African Voice Newspapers, Britain’s leading newspaper for Africans in Britain and BEN Television organisers of the event has announced 48 artistes nominated for this year’s prestigious awards. The list includes film practitioners, culture administrators and art patrons across the continent.The annual awards in its 12th year will release the names of the 18 Nollywood winners at a media event in Nigeria on the 30th September 2007. Also some British filmmakers will be visiting Nigeria to use the opportunity to explore areas of collaboration with Nigerian filmmakers.

The annual Africa Film and Arts Awards will celebrates it twelfth edition on Saturday October 27th, with some corporate organisations and top African Banks such as UBA REMIT, Fidelity Bank Plc confirming interest to attend the conference and awards aimed at targeting the Diaspora.Nollywood is the fastest growing Nigerian film industry that has united the Diaspora community through the high quality of entertainment and the popularity of their cast and crew. Therefore, it serves very well as an effective marketing tool for companies seeking to deepen relations and gain greater exposure for their products with the African Diaspora.

According to Mike Abiola, founder & CEO of Afro Hollywood “Starting the week commencing 9th of September in the UK, Ben TV our broadcast partner have commence transmission of last year's event and continuously for 8 weeks till the D - Day which is the 27th October. The event will have a 30mins airtime 3.30pm – 4.00 pm on Sundays tagged - The Afro Hollywood Show - showing highlights from the past 11 editions of the annual event. Also, African Voice Newspapers will give readers a full insight and continuous update.High flying professionals in events packaging both in the UK and Nigeria such as Aneka Johnson of Miss Black Britain, Christian Udechukwu of Business in Africa Events, the MD of CMC Connect Yomi Badejo-Okusanya and Actress Golda John Afro Hollywood UK event co ordinator have thrown their weight behind this year’s event to make sure it meets the needs of our corporate sponsors.

Afro Hollywood expects to use this year’s event to attract more investors and further encourage British – Nigerian collaboration.The Awards 2007 is supported by the British Film Institute (BFI), Nigeria Film Corporation (NFC) and Nigeria Film Video and Censors Board.Minaj Broadcasting International is the broadcast partner in Nigeria