Nollywood, Africa’s largest film industry, is witnessing a new wave of transformation as industry professionals seek to refine their expertise and elevate the sector to global standards. In a major development, Tayo Folorunsho, a renowned edutainment entrepreneur and filmmaker, has successfully completed a professional program at the prestigious KAP Film and Television Institute in Lagos.

As the Founder of The Big Break Moment Africa. Folorunsho has been instrumental in bridging education and entertainment, empowering young creatives, and shaping the future of Nollywood. His latest academic pursuit signals a shift towards business-driven filmmaking, which is crucial for Nollywood’s sustainability and competitiveness on the global stage.

Speaking on his motivation for enrolling at KAP, Folorunsho emphasized the need for filmmakers to go beyond creativity and embrace the business aspects of filmmaking.

“I was desirous of knowing the rudimentary part of the business aspect of filmmaking, beyond just creativity. Nollywood is expanding, and for it to remain competitive globally, we need to understand the financial and structural backbone of the industry. I got that knowledge here at KAP, and I am thoroughly impressed,” he stated.

With Nollywood ranking as the second-largest film industry in the world by output, industry stakeholders are increasingly focusing on enhancing production quality, securing better distribution models, and maximizing revenue streams. Folorunsho’s training at KAP has provided him with the tools to navigate the evolving landscape of global entertainment, positioning him as a key player in Nollywood’s next growth phase.

“This is a milestone for me. It has prepared me to be an all-around movie executive, not just a filmmaker. The experience at KAP has provided me with an A-to-Z understanding of movie-making, positioning me to contribute meaningfully to Nollywood’s future,” he added.

Folorunsho’s graduation reflects a growing trend in Nollywood, where professionals are seeking formal education to refine their craft and improve the industry’s global reputation. With streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime increasing their investment in Nollywood content, there is a greater demand for well-structured, high-quality productions that meet international standards.

As Nollywood expands its influence beyond Africa, the industry must adopt sound business models, better intellectual property protection, and strategic partnerships to maximize its potential. Folorunsho, through his works, The Big Break Moment Africa, is at the forefront of this new movement, inspiring and mentoring emerging creatives.

With his newfound expertise, Folorunsho is expected to spearhead innovative film projects, edutainment initiatives, and strategic collaborations that will shape Nollywood’s future. His approach to filmmaking—one that blends creativity with business intelligence—sets a new standard for how Nollywood professionals should position themselves in a rapidly evolving industry.

As the Nigerian film industry continues to gain recognition on the global stage, leaders like Tayo Folorunsho are proving that education, innovation, and strategic business knowledge are essential to Nollywood’s long-term success. His recent achievement is not just a personal milestone but a testament to Nollywood’s ongoing transformation into a world-class entertainment powerhouse.

 

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

The Nigerian entertainment industry, particularly Nollywood, has grown into one of the largest and most influential movie industries globally. Since Kenneth Nnebue’s pioneering film Living in Bondage, Nollywood has attracted significant international investments, including from Netflix, the global streaming giant. However, recent rumors about Netflix pulling out of Nigeria have raised concerns and sparked debates about the sustainability and challenges of doing business in the Nigerian film industry.

Netflix’s Impact on Nollywood

Netflix’s entry into Nigeria began on a high note, marked by its acquisition of Genevieve Nnaji’s Lionheart, the first Nigerian film to stream on the platform. This milestone opened doors for several collaborations, enabling top producers to showcase compelling Nigerian stories to a global audience. Netflix not only streamed these movies but also invested millions in their production.

However, insiders allege that these investments were mismanaged. According to filmmaker Daddy Dabz, “Netflix funded projects upfront, but some producers diverted funds, allocating only a fraction to actual production, which led to substandard movies with poor storytelling and quality.” These issues reportedly affected Netflix’s ratings and led the company to revise its operating model in Nigeria.

Shifting Strategies and Terms

In response to these challenges, Netflix has reportedly stopped directly funding movie productions in Nigeria. Instead, filmmakers must now independently fund their projects, which Netflix will only purchase if they meet the platform’s standards. This new model emphasizes accountability and aims to enhance content quality.

Nollywood comedian Basketmouth shed light on the issue, claiming, “Many producers misused funds, prioritizing personal luxury over movie quality. Netflix is tired of this and has decided to let filmmakers prove themselves before investing.”

Is Netflix Truly Leaving Nigeria?

Contrary to circulating rumors, Netflix has not entirely exited the Nigerian market. Users can still access their accounts and stream movies. What has changed is the company’s investment strategy. While some critics view this shift as an indirect exit, others argue it is a necessary step to hold the industry accountable.

Comparisons have been drawn to companies like GSK, which maintained product availability in Nigeria despite halting direct operations. Similarly, Netflix’s new terms mean the platform remains active but will no longer fund local projects upfront.

Industry Reactions

Nollywood stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions. Filmmaker ‘Nosa of Nollywood’ attributed Netflix’s reduced involvement to “greed and dishonesty” among Nigerian producers. “Netflix left because funds meant for production were often misappropriated, leaving crew members and actors underpaid,” she lamented.

Murtala Muhammed Balogun added, “Netflix’s decision isn’t a problem. It’s about ensuring filmmakers produce quality content before selling it to the platform.”

Meanwhile, Ndubueze Odum humorously noted the public’s reaction, saying, “Netflix leaving Nigeria means no more ‘Netflix and Chill.’ But seriously, their reduced investment will hurt Nollywood’s global exposure and job creation.”

The Way Forward for Nollywood

Netflix has reaffirmed its commitment to telling Nigerian stories, but the onus now lies on Nollywood producers to adapt to the new terms. As alternative platforms like Amazon Prime Video gain traction, Nigerian filmmakers must improve transparency and production quality to attract international partnerships.

The rumored Netflix “exit” highlights deeper systemic issues within Nollywood that must be addressed to ensure the industry’s sustainability and global competitiveness.

Final Thoughts

For now, Netflix remains a key player in Nigeria, albeit with a revised operational approach. This Christmas, Nigerian audiences can still expect blockbuster releases on the platform, but the broader industry must embrace accountability to thrive in this new era of filmmaking.

 

 

 

In the world of academia and the arts, where creativity meets education, few individuals have made an impact as significant as Dr. Ifeyinwa  – Iyke Uzondu. A seasoned lecturer in the Department of Creative Arts at Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Dr. Uzondu’s career reflects her dedication to the craft of theatre and her commitment to molding the next generation of creatives. In this exclusive interview, she shares with us her incredible journey into academia, her love for theatre, and the challenges she’s faced along the way.

Interviewer: Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Could you share your journey into academia and what inspired you to pursue a career in education?

To be honest, I never initially intended to become a lecturer because I found the profession quite challenging. But in Nigeria, sometimes we don’t have many options. In 2009, I was in dire need of a job, and when I heard about an opening at Alvan Ikoku, my husband encouraged me to apply. By God’s grace, I got the job. Despite my initial hesitation, I decided to face the challenges head-on. The journey so far has been both smooth and fulfilling. I’ve always loved theatre—after all, that was what I studied during my first degree. My husband has been a great source of support throughout these years, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

As a lecturer at Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, how do you balance your academic responsibilities with your passion for acting and theatre?

The beauty of theatre is that it is inherently academic. It requires research, teaching, and practical engagement. Theoretical knowledge and practice go hand in hand, so for me, it doesn’t feel like I’m balancing two separate entities. Passion and creativity are the two main ingredients for success in theatre, and with those, I’ve been able to manage my academic and creative responsibilities seamlessly. It’s been an amazing experience.

What sparked your interest in theatre, and how has it shaped your career both in and outside the classroom?

By nature, I am a flexible character, and I never allow difficult situations to overwhelm me. However, I was a very shy person growing up, and theatre wasn’t originally part of my plans. I actually wanted to study Law, but due to a low JAMB score, I ended up in the Theatre Arts department at Imo State University. I decided to make it work for me, and although it wasn’t my dream initially, it became a path I embraced wholeheartedly.

Could you tell us about some of the notable acting or theatre projects you’ve been involved in, particularly in Imo State?

When I first started teaching at Alvan Ikoku College of Education, we were just a handful of pioneer lecturers with a small class of students. Since we were few in number, we decided to actively teach the students by performing ourselves. Each time we had command performances, we would act while the students learned from watching us. My area of specialty was in costume, makeup, and acting, and I’ve been involved in numerous productions, both within and outside Imo State. It was a wonderful way to build the department and encourage hands-on learning.

What are your thoughts on the current state of theatre and performing arts in Imo State? Do you think it’s receiving adequate support and recognition?

Unfortunately, there’s been a decline in theatre patronage in recent years, largely due to the rise of digital technologies. People are more drawn to media platforms because they are more accessible and convenient. I’m currently writing an article on the decrease in live theatre performances and the rise of media presentations. The trend must be followed to remain relevant, but it’s sad to see theatre losing its place. Not just in Imo State, but globally, theatre and performing arts aren’t receiving the attention they deserve.

How do you incorporate theatre into your teaching methods, and have these approaches enhanced student engagement and learning?

Theatre is a powerful teaching tool because acting is doing. When students engage in acting, they activate their senses and learn in a way that sticks. I’ve found that this method makes the learning process more engaging and compelling for students, and it’s been a key part of my approach as a lecturer.

What challenges have you faced while pursuing both an academic and acting career, and how have you overcome them?

One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced is financial support. As a lecturer, you’re expected to publish regularly, and you must advance academically to keep your job. I started my career with just a BA in Theatre Arts, and over the years, I’ve earned my PhD. But the journey has been financially demanding. I’ve been able to overcome these challenges with God’s help, as well as by staying focused on my goals and dreams.

In your experience, what are the major challenges facing theatre development in Imo State, and what solutions would you suggest to promote growth in the sector?

The biggest challenge is patronage. Due to economic difficulties and insecurity, people now turn to media for entertainment, which has greatly diminished interest in live theatre. For theatre to grow again, we need to address these underlying issues—economic stability and security. Without tackling these, it will be hard to rekindle the public’s interest in theatre.

What role do you think theatre plays in addressing social issues in Nigeria, and have you been involved in productions that tackle such themes?

Theatre has always been a reflection of society, and it plays an important role in addressing social issues. Through my work, particularly in playwriting and academic articles, I’ve raised many concerns about the state of our society. Theatre, when done right, has the power to inform, educate, and inspire change.

Looking forward, what are your aspirations for your academic career and acting? Do you have any upcoming projects or initiatives in theatre that you’re excited about?

I’m particularly excited about continuing to explore playwriting. I have several published works and many more manuscripts waiting to be completed. There are also a number of local and international conferences I plan to attend, and I’m looking forward to exploring new areas and expanding my horizons by God’s grace. There’s still so much to accomplish, and I’m excited about the future.

End of Interview

 

 

 

I started my career with just a BA in Theatre Arts, and over the years, I’ve earned my PhD. But the journey has been financially demanding. I’ve been able to overcome these challenges with God’s help, as well as by staying focused on my goals and dreams.

 

 

 

In a monumental development for the Nigerian music industry, the Enugu born musician of Anambra desecnt, Flavour Nabania, the celebrated highlife singer, has secured a groundbreaking deal with American rapper and business mogul, 50 Cent. The agreement, reportedly worth over ₦1 billion, will see Flavour’s hit track, *”Game Changer”*, featured prominently in *PowerBook Ghost* Season 4, Episode 9. The song is set to play during a wedding scene, marking a historic collaboration between a Nigerian artist and one of Hollywood’s most successful television franchises.

The staggering payout of over ₦1 billion makes this one of the most lucrative deals ever signed by a Nigerian musician for a Hollywood production, further cementing Flavour’s status as an international powerhouse. This achievement not only shines a spotlight on Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage but also underscores the growing influence of Afrobeat and highlife-inspired music in the global entertainment scene.

In addition to the musical feature, a Nigerian designer has been tapped to create custom outfits for the wedding scene, offering an exceptional opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s fashion prowess on a global stage. This marks a significant moment for both the Nigerian music and fashion industries, as the country’s talent continues to make waves beyond its borders.

Flavour, known for his deep connection to his Igbo cultural roots, has remained true to his highlife-inspired sound, even as global trends sway other artists toward Western musical influences. This dedication to his heritage has paid off, as it not only translates into international recognition but also guarantees him lifelong performance royalties. The deal underscores his ability to balance his identity with mainstream success, further expanding his global influence.

This collaboration with 50 Cent and *PowerBook Ghost* sets a new benchmark for Nigerian artists seeking to make their mark in international productions. While many musicians experiment with foreign sounds in pursuit of global appeal, Flavour’s commitment to authenticity continues to propel him to new heights, inspiring a generation of artists to stay grounded in their roots while achieving worldwide acclaim.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

The Nigerian music industry has long been shaped by the dynamic duo, P-Square, comprising brothers Peter and Paul Okoye. Their contributions to the industry are undeniable, but recent developments have cast a shadow over their legacy. The brothers, who once dominated the African music scene, are now embroiled in a public dispute centered around issues of ownership and recognition within the group.

Peter Okoye, one half of the P-Square duo, recently broke his silence in a lengthy letter addressing his brother, Paul. In the letter, Peter expressed his frustration with what he perceives as Paul’s continuous attempts to discredit his contributions to the group they both created.

“My dear brother Paul,” Peter began, “Just like I have told you several times, I am not in any competition with you or anybody else. However, seeing you grant countless interviews where you constantly discredit my efforts in the group that we both created and built together really speaks volumes.”

Peter went on to refute Paul’s claims that he was responsible for 99% of P-Square’s songs, highlighting his role in writing and performing several of the group’s hits, including “EjeaJo,” “Get Squared,” “Bizzy Body,” and “Personally.” He expressed disappointment that Paul seemed to overlook these contributions, instead focusing on moments of perceived failure.

“What made us special was the magic that came from our combined effort – us two! P-Square was a force, and the fans fell in love with P-Square because of our uniqueness and unity,” Peter emphasized, lamenting the current state of affairs that has turned the group into what he described as a “laughingstock.”

Peter’s letter also touched on the internal dynamics of the group, accusing Paul of marginalizing him and aligning with their brother Jude to assert dominance within P-Square. He questioned the necessity of their ongoing feud and urged Paul to consider the bigger picture: the legacy of P-Square and the fans who supported them.

The letter concluded with a message of peace, despite the evident tension. “I genuinely wish you nothing but the best, bro!” Peter wrote, adding that he hopes to focus on his solo music career without further distractions.

As the public awaits further developments, including Peter’s promised address on the ongoing EFCC matter, the future of P-Square remains uncertain. Fans can only hope that the brothers can find a way to reconcile and restore the unity that once made them one of Africa’s most beloved music groups.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

In a strategic move to enhance its brand visibility and strengthen its corporate profile, Profilled World Homes and Properties Limited has officially announced the appointment of Uzee Usman as their new brand ambassador. The unveiling ceremony took place at the company’s headquarters in the presence of the media, business partners, and key stakeholders.

Dr. Promise Egwim, the Managing Director and CEO of Profilled World Homes, who is also a respected realtor and a leading authority in the Nigerian real estate sector, spoke during the event. “Today, we are pleased to unveil Uzee Usman as our corporate brand ambassador. This decision aligns with our strategic objectives for the year. We have carefully considered Uzee and believe he embodies the qualities we seek in a representative,” said Dr. Egwim.

He further expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “We believe this marks the beginning of a fruitful relationship. We are confident that Uzee will represent our brand positively, particularly in increasing awareness of our achievements within the corporate industry among Nigerians.”

Responding to his new role, Uzee Usman expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “I am honored to be part of this association, and I strongly believe this is the start of a great working relationship. As the brand ambassador, I will endeavor to project Profilled World Homes in a positive light and ensure that Nigerians recognize the significant impact the company is making in the industry,” he remarked.

Uzee Usman Adeyemi, born on November 11, 1986, is a celebrated Nigerian actor, film producer, and multimedia personality. Known for his acclaimed films such as “Voiceless”, “Mustapha”, “Anikulapo”, “Oga Abuja”, and “A Tribe Called Judah”, Usman’s unique ability to merge Nollywood and Kannywood has earned him numerous global awards and recognition. In addition to his extensive work in the entertainment industry, Usman holds two degrees in Political Science and English Language from the University of Abuja and an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Media & Communications Studies from Iheris University, Togo. He also studied Special Effects in South Africa.

The signing ceremony, marking the commencement of this exciting partnership, took place on August 1, 2024. Uzee Usman is expected to leverage his large fan base and social media influence to further elevate the Profilled World Homes brand across Nigeria and beyond.

 

Renowned skit maker Brain Jotter recently gifted legendary musician Mike Ejeagha a substantial sum of money, running into millions, after reviving Ejeagha’s 40-year-old music in a skit. This act has ignited a debate among netizens regarding copyright and intellectual property laws, with many questioning whether royalties should be paid to Pa Mike.

Offering his perspective, legendary Nollywood actor and movie producer Patrick Doyle shared his expert opinion on the issue:

“The duration of the sound clip used in Brain Jotter’s skit is less than the required length to qualify for royalty sharing under current intellectual property protocols. Essentially, this is an audio-visual work conceived by Brain Jotter.”

Doyle continued, “Whatever Brain Jotter gifted the old man in appreciation for his audio clip is simply that, a gift. The good news is the audio-visual work has revived interest in the old man’s works. He can now begin to earn from the renewed interest in his repertoire.”

By
Anthony Emeka Nwosu
CONN8 MEDIA SOLUTIONS NG
Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos

 

In a bid to tackle the financial hurdles hindering the rise of emerging artists, particularly in Nigeria’s Eastern region, a prominent figure, Gaius Chibueze, popularly known as Bitcoin Chief, has taken a remarkable step. Recognizing the pivotal role of studio expenses in stifling talent, Chibueze has unveiled a state-of-the-art music studio in Enugu, offering recording and mastering services entirely free of charge.

The initiative comes as a response to the prevalent challenge faced by budding musicians, where the high costs associated with studio sessions and production often serve as a barrier to entry into the global music scene. With Nigeria boasting a burgeoning entertainment industry that commands international acclaim, the inability of talented individuals to access essential resources has remained a persistent issue.

Chibueze, an astute entrepreneur known for his ventures in the Bitcoin market, aims to address this disparity by providing a platform that nurtures creativity without financial constraints. His newly established studio, named “EASTSIDE MUSIC,” welcomes artists from across the Southeast region to unleash their musical prowess without worrying about financial burdens.

Speaking about his philanthropic endeavor, Chibueze emphasized the significance of giving back to society and empowering aspiring musicians to realize their dreams. He expressed his commitment to not only offering free recording facilities but also investing in the promotion and distribution of exceptional musical works.

“I have opened a Free Music Recording Studio in Enugu State for Southeast based Artists,” Chibueze announced. “Come Record your Songs free and if I like the Song/ Album I will invest $10-$100k into your Promo & Distribution!”

The studio’s launch marks a significant milestone in the Nigerian music industry, heralding a new era of accessibility and inclusivity for aspiring artists. With Chibueze’s visionary initiative, talented individuals now have a platform to amplify their voices and showcase their artistry on a global scale, fueling the country’s cultural export and reinforcing its position as a powerhouse in the global music landscape.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

Recently, Ramsey Nouah,a popular legengary thespian/actor celebrated his birthday but as a popular individual, lots are being said about hus acting prowess and Mavis took this to a new level. In a thought-provoking commentary on the acting talents within the Nigerian film industry, Mavis Ishanqueen has ignited discussions surrounding the performances of renowned actor Ramsey Nouah.

In her recent piece reflecting on the achievements of Majid Michel, Ishanqueen candidly discussed what she perceives as a potential limitation in Nouah’s acting repertoire – his accent. She highlighted how this aspect may have constrained his ability to fully immerse himself in certain roles, thus sparking accusations of shading from some quarters.

Clarifying her stance, Ishanqueen emphasized that her intention was not to cast aspersions but to provide constructive criticism. She emphasized the importance of offering feedback that fosters growth and improvement, a sentiment often overlooked in artistic evaluations.

Drawing from Nouah’s background, Ishanqueen shed light on his upbringing in Lagos, where despite being born to a Lebanese father and Nigerian mother, but Contrary to prevailing opinions, Ishanqueen challenged the notion that Nouah was superior to Michel in terms of acting prowess. She argued that true mastery of the craft lies in the ability to convincingly embody a diverse range of characters, a feat she believes Nouah fell short of achieving due to typecasting.

Expressing concern over the Nigerian film industry’s tendency to prioritize commercial success over artistic merit, Ishanqueen cautioned against perpetuating stagnant storylines and applauding mediocrity. She called for a reevaluation of standards and a commitment to nurturing talent that pushes boundaries and challenges conventions.

In closing, Ishanqueen reaffirmed her commitment to promoting excellence within the industry, despite the controversy her analysis may have sparked. She urged stakeholders to embrace constructive criticism as a catalyst for positive change and innovation, ensuring that Nigerian cinema continues to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide.

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

 

Drawing from Nouah’s background, Ishanqueen shed light on his upbringing in Lagos, where despite being born to a Lebanese father and Nigerian mother, but Contrary to prevailing opinions, Ishanqueen challenged the notion that Nouah was superior to Michel in terms of acting prowess. She argued that true mastery of the craft lies in the ability to convincingly embody a diverse range of characters, a feat she believes Nouah fell short of achieving due to typecasting.

 

In a recent announcement, Showmax, a streaming service owned by MultiChoice and NBCUniversal, is set to release a compelling documentary series titled “Freemen,” shedding light on the Igbo Apprenticeship System (IAS). The documentary, a Nigerian Original production, is expected to premiere on 12 February 2024.

Ndubuisi Ekekwe, a prominent figure from Ovim village and recognized as an academic Nollywooder, extended his congratulations to Showmax and the entire Freemen team. Ekekwe expressed gratitude for the recognition of his work in the Harvard Business Review, highlighting the acknowledgment of his Ovim village roots. In response, he thanked his editors at Harvard for their support, emphasizing the growing influence of the African model of stakeholder capitalism.

“The documentary features prominent Igbo businessmen such as Dr. Cosmas Maduka, popularly known as Coscharis, Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana), Ndubuisi Ekekwe, Okey Japan, and other notable entrepreneurs,” Ekekwe stated. He emphasized the significance of the Igbo Nation’s approach to building individuals not only through craftsmanship but also through knowledge.Obi Cubana, Ndubuisi Ekekwe, Coscharis, etc Appear on Freemen, a Showmax  Documentary on the Igbo Apprenticeship System - Tekedia

Ekekwe argued that the Igbo Apprenticeship System is a validated and tested developmental framework, citing its role in the remarkable economic recovery of the Igbo people after the civil war. He pointed out that households, starting with a mere 20 Nigerian pounds, experienced unprecedented growth, with investments quickly transforming into mansions, companies, dynamic diasporas, and homeland success stories.

Showmax’s upcoming documentary series, “Freemen,” aims to explore the Igbo Apprenticeship System in a seven-part groundbreaking presentation. The series promises to captivate audiences with its in-depth look at the unique economic and cultural aspects of the Igba Boi, also known as the Igbo Apprenticeship System.

The release of “Freemen” marks a significant milestone in showcasing the Igbo culture and its entrepreneurial spirit. As the documentary premieres on 12 February 2024, viewers can anticipate a compelling journey through the Igbo Apprenticeship System, offering insights into its historical significance and the remarkable success stories of those who participated in this unique economic framework.

 

 

…the Igbo Apprenticeship System in a seven-part groundbreaking presentation. The series promises to captivate audiences with its in-depth look at the unique economic and cultural aspects of the Igba Boi, also known as the Igbo Apprenticeship System.