Connect with us


REDTV a dynamic online lifestyle channel, supported by United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, that puts the spotlight on Africa with a distinct global appeal, has announced its sponsorship of the Runway Jazz Festival as part of events lined up for the commemoration of Lagos @ 50.

The Runway Jazz Festival scheduled to commence on April 29 and close on the April 30th, is organised by Sweet Sound Production in conjunction with Lagos State Government. The event, a fusion of world class Jazz performances and fashion, coincides with the international Jazz Day themed “Promoting Peace, Unity and Dialogue through Art”.

Speaking at the press conference held in Lagos at the weekend, Obinna Okerekeocha, Creative Director, Red TV, said the partnership will afford REDTV’s teeming viewers and lovers of contemporary Jazz the opportunity to experience a world class Jazz concert in Lagos. Headlining Runway Jazz 2017, according to Okerekeocha are two Grammy awards winners; American Saxophonist, Najee and UK Singer-songwriter, Joss Stone. Others billed to perform at the event to be held in Eko Hotel Convention Centre are some of Nigeria’s finest entertainers including Waje, Yinka Davies, Dede, Heavywind, Tosin Alao, Xerona Duke and host band, Sweet Sound.

The two day event will kick-off with the Music & Business Masterclass on Saturday April 29 and the Runway Jazz Concert on Sunday April 30, 2017

“With haute couture from Jewel by Lisa, and a runway show that captures the evolution of Lagos over the last 5 decades, Runway Jazz is the biggest and most unique music and fashion event to hit the Naija entertainment scene,” Okerekeocha said

Also speaking at the press conference held at the Tony Elumelu Amphitheatre in UBA House, the Executive Producer, Mr Afolabi Oke, said “the Runway Jazz activities this year have been heightened and elevated by two strategic partnerships. The first is with the Berklee College of Music, Boston, USA, which will present a music and Business Masterclass, facilitated by Professor George W. Russell Jr, Chairman of the Harmony Department. The second is the Lagos State Government; as we team up to celebrate the remarkable anniversary of Lagos State, Lagos@ 50.”

On the theme for the event “Promoting Peace, Unity and Dialogue through Art”, he noted that “At a time when there is so much turmoil, with socio-cultural imbalances, and political unrest across nations, there is no better way to unite the people than through a medium that pushes forward an agenda that promotes peace, unity, acceptance of diversity and intercultural dialogue- Music.”

Ace Musician, Dede Mabiaku and one of the star performers from Nigeria added that the Runway Jazz was birthed to engage music and art enthusiast and Jazz aficionados, giving stylish expression to art and culture through music and fashion. According to him, the focus on Jazz music really broadens its appeal, particularly in Nigeria and across Africa, and introduces an innovative franchise into the Nigerian entertainment scene. He further assured that this year’s event will be the biggest in its history as he promised to perform great songs from Afrobeat King, Late Fela Kuti.

Also present at the press conference were Heavywind, Tosin Alao, Xerona Duke and host band, Sweet Sound.

ENTERTAINMENT

Remembering Jakande: Seun Oloketuyi To Immortalize Lagos Former Governor In Biopic

Published

on

In a country where history was once removed from the school curriculum and where the legends of yesteryear are often reduced to blurry black-and-white photos in dusty archives, one man has taken it upon himself to be the nation’s visual historian.
Seun Oloketuyi, the brain behind the prestigious Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards, has earned a new, more heavy-duty title: The King of Biopics. Having already immortalised the lives of political gladiators and traditional icons, Oloketuyi is set to lens his most ambitious project yet—a biopic on the legendary Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, titled ‘Baba Kekere’.
To understand why this film is a national necessity, one must understand the man. Lateef Jakande (1929–2021) was not just the first civilian governor of Lagos State; he was the architect of modern Lagos.
Nicknamed ‘Baba Kekere’ (the junior version of his mentor, Chief Obafemi Awolowo), Jakande’s four-year tenure (1979–1983) remains a golden era of governance. He built over 30,000 low-cost housing units, established the Lagos State University (LASU), and provided free education that birthed the professionals leading Nigeria today. He lived in his private house, drove his private car, and prioritised the ‘greatest good for the greatest number’.
For Oloketuyi, the motivation is as much about patriotism as it is about production. “Our young people do not have a sense of history,” Oloketuyi says with a hint of concern. “After every biopic we do, people call me to confirm some of the things they saw in the film. Our history is being eroded because we are not documenting it. It is time to start doing that.”
Oloketuyi’s filmography is becoming a library of Nigerian power. He has already delivered ‘Last Man Standing’ (chronicling President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Lagos years), ‘Yahaya the White Lion’ (on former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello), and the stories of Chief Michael Koleosho in Babalaje. In addition, his biopic on the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, and Lamidi Adedibu, the ‘Strongman of Ibadan Politics’, are soon to be released. With two more biopics in the pipeline, he is systematically ensuring that the Nigerian story is told by Nigerians, for Nigerians.
Oloketuyi is also not just looking at the past; he is investing in the future of the lens. In a strategic collaboration with Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, he is spearheading a Nollywood Talent Development Training program.
The initiative is powered by the Executive Chairman of the LCDA, Hon. Seyi Lawal Jakande, the son of Jakande, who carries the legacy of the late Baba Kekere. It aims to train 100 talented youths from the local government area.
This isn’t just another workshop; it’s a career pipeline. Oloketuyi is giving young Lagosians the technical skills to tell their own stories, ensuring that the next generation of filmmakers has the tools to document the history that is happening right now.
For aspiring actors and filmmakers within the Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, the window of opportunity is narrow. The application deadline is March 5th.
As Oloketuyi prepares to bring ‘Baba Kekere’ to life on the silver screen, he isn’t just making a movie. He is building a bridge between the discipline of the past and the potential of the future. In the hands of the ‘King of Biopics’, Nigeria’s history is no longer a forgotten chapter—it’s a blockbuster in the making.

Continue Reading

ENTERTAINMENT

Two Crew Members Found Dead Inside Car On Movie Set In Lekki, Police Arrest Suspect

Published

on

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a suspect in connection with the deaths of two Nollywood production crew members found lifeless inside a parked vehicle at a movie location in Lekki, Lagos.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abimbola Adebisi, told newsmen on Monday that the suspect was a member of the production team who allegedly delivered food to the deceased before they were discovered unresponsive.

“One suspect has been arrested. The suspect was the one who delivered food to the victims in the vehicle. Investigation is still ongoing,” she said.

The victims — lighting director Ekemini “GeeTee” Imeh and his associate, Ayodeji Walter Odediran — were found dead on Saturday, February 7, within the premises of Evercare Hospital Lekki, which was being used as a filming location.

According to a police source, the two crew members arrived early at the set to install lighting equipment ahead of shooting. After completing the setup, they reportedly entered a tinted Nissan vehicle parked within the premises to rest while awaiting further production activities for a film said to be directed by former Big Brother Naija housemate, Boma.

“At about 11am, a production staff member delivered breakfast to them inside the vehicle. The air-conditioning was on, and both men appeared relaxed at the time. Subsequent calls to their phones went unanswered. After filming wrapped up around 8pm, they were found lifeless in the vehicle,” the source said.

The source added that both men were reportedly foaming at the mouth, with one showing blood stains around the nose and lips.

Another police source disclosed that the matter was initially reported at the Maroko Police Station, while CCTV footage from the premises is being reviewed as part of ongoing investigations.

“The bodies have been deposited in a morgue for autopsy and toxicology examinations,” the source added.

Adebisi confirmed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further probe, noting that investigators are working to determine the exact cause of death.

Until his death, Imeh was the Chief Executive Officer of a lighting company and was known for his work on major productions, including King of Boys, as well as music videos for artistes such as Davido.

The incident comes days after gospel artiste Matthew Ogundele, popularly known as Segun Praise, and three of his crew members were found dead inside a music studio in the Abraham Adesanya area of Ajah, Lagos State.

Continue Reading

ENTERTAINMENT

LUXE 35 Hosts Exclusive Valentine Evening Experience In Lagos

Published

on

LUXE 35, the exquisite new bar and lounge located at 35 Oyemekun Street, Ogba, Lagos, will host a Special Valentine Evening on February 14, promising guests an unforgettable celebration of love, ambience, and premium hospitality.

The newest lifestyle destinations, LUXE 35 sets a new benchmark for leisure and relaxation. The facility features a state-of-the-art relaxation environment, thoughtfully designed interiors, and a refined bar and lounge experience curated for comfort and sophistication.

Guests will enjoy luxurious, ultra-modern rooms tailored to deliver both style and serenity. The culinary experience will be equally exceptional, with an array of well-prepared meals and expertly crafted drinks served throughout the evening.

The Grill Station will offer an assortment of finger-licking chops and premium selections, freshly prepared to delight every palate, elevate the atmosphere, live music performances, and a resident DJ will provide vibrant entertainment at the poolside, creating the perfect blend of romance and celebration.

LUXE 35 invites couples, friends, and fun-seekers to experience a Valentine’s celebration defined by elegance, flavour, and rhythm.

For reservations and enquiries, guests are encouraged to visit the venue directly at 35 Oyemekun Street, Ogba, Lagos.

Continue Reading

Most Popular


Warning: Undefined array key "slug" in /home/porsch10/public_html/wp-includes/class-wp-theme-json.php on line 2117

Warning: Undefined array key "slug" in /home/porsch10/public_html/wp-includes/class-wp-theme-json.php on line 2117

Warning: Undefined array key "slug" in /home/porsch10/public_html/wp-includes/class-wp-theme-json.php on line 2117