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Movie Review: A Naija Christmas (2021): A Tug At Our Heart Strings

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Naija Christmas

A Naija Christmas (2021) Synopsis: Determined to carry out their mother’s one wish, three young men scramble to find wives they can bring home by Christmas, as she sets out to plan the most beautiful Christmas celebration ever.

Cast

  • Rachel Oniga: Agatha Agu (Mama)
  • Segilola Ogidan: Ajike
  • Kunle Remi: Ugo
  • Efa Iwara: Obi
  • Abayomi Alvin: Chike
  • Ade Laoye: Kaneng
  • Linda Osifo: Vera
  • Lateef Adedimeji: Tony Torpedo
  • Carol King: Deaconess Fakorede
  • Mercy Johnson Okojie: Mrs. Bliss (Sammy)
  • Onikosi Bukola Abisoye: Gym Lady (as Onikosi Abisoye)
  • Uzoamaka Aniunoh: Cassie
  • Jude Chukwuka: Prof. Zeb
  • Joseph Jaiyeoba: Javelin
  • Imoikor Joseph: Pastor
  • Temitope Olaiwola: Taxi Driver
  • Alabi Pasuma: Special Gala Artiste (as Wasiu Alabi)

Crew

  • Kunle Afolayan: Executive Producer
  • Segun Akintunde: Line Producer
  • Seun Soyinka: Producer

A Naija Christmas: Review

A Naija Christmas weaves the story of rich boy, poor girl around the story of Christmas. At the same time, it is not your regular Christmas story. Neither is it your regular rich boy, poor girl story, but an eclectic mix of romance, comedy, music, and dance. There is the smiling villain, unrequited love, and Nigerian Christmas tradition. It is the sweet story you didn’t know you needed to watch.

 A Naija Christmas

A Naija Christmas

If there is one thing Kunle Afolayan has down to a science and an art, it is tugging at our heartstrings with the right mix of Nigerian flavoured stories that have you smiling, because you recognize yourself in those stories. He also has a way of bringing together his actors, old and young, in a mix that has everyone recognizing themselves in the characters.

The acting in this movie is top-notch, and it is evidence of the skill of the director. Likewise, the cinematography gives such beautiful picture quality, you want to see it again and again.

It is heart-warming to see the late Rachel Oniga in her element, and the tribute to her is sweet. Segilola is a breath of air; she is not your helpless poor girl in a rom-com, but a strong, self-assured woman. I like the portrayal.  Kunle Remi, as usual, gives a good report of himself as the incurable playboy, but who wants something and would do anything to have it.

The contrast to him is Efa Iwara; it is interesting to see Efa portray the brilliant and clueless art person, who has puppy love for someone who won’t reciprocate. It is a departure from his usual role of the self-assured man. He has a range that I look forward to seeing more directors explore.

A Naija Christmas takes us from the idyllic Ikoyi, where everything is calm and high-class, to the bubbling Mushin, where you can be obtained if you don’t stand well. You see the beauty of Lagos at night, when it is well lit. You feel the real Naija Christmas spirit, and you want to share it with others.

NollyRated Score: 4/5 (Great Movie) 

NollyRated uses a 5-level scoring system, as follows:

  1. Poor
  2. Sub Par
  3. Okay
  4. Great
  5. Outstanding

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Rising Gospel Star Sade Ajayi set to Take the Industry by Storm

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Sade Ajayi is not only   devoted Christian but a  gospel music minister  and a lover of ministerial affairs  that has been doing music for quite some years but has now decided to raise the bar as she is set to unveil her fresh single titled Ore Ofe (Grace).

The melodious single which has an infusion of danceable praise medley is set to drop on the 15th  November 2024 across all platforms for good music lovers.

In her words, she expressed her excitement while anticipating the release of her official single

She stated that the song is a reflection of her personal walk with Christ, where she has experienced his unending grace as inscribed in the lyrics.

 

“By His grace, I have been saved through Christ who strengthens me. This truth has brought peace to my life, and I hope it resonates with everyone that will be touched by my song’’ The Ekiti State born singer said.

 

She further said explained that in the midst of life’s chaos, GRACE is a reminder of the peace and salvation we found in God’s love.

‘’It’s not just a song—it’s a message from my heart to the world as an invite to us all to return to the grace of Christ” She added.

 

 

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World Tourism Day 2024: Enugu Governor, Peter Mbah Invests billions into World Class Tourism Centres

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-Story by Joy Agamah

 

As part of the efforts to drive tourism in Enugu state, Governor Peter Mbah has invested billions of naira in the state tourism sector.

The investment is part of the broader plan to beautify the state as well as upgrading the parks and develop numerous projects in the tourism sector across the state.

The program, according to the Executive Chairman of Enugu State Tourism Board, Dame  Rita Mbah, is part of the state’s strategy to key in into this year’s world tourism day theme to promote the connection between tourism and peace

“So, by preserving our cultural and natural heritage we can reduce tension and nurture peaceful co-existence,” Mbah said.

She explained that the state government recently commenced the first stage of Enugu city beautification project from the Enugu gateway at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport.

She hinted that the state government removed the barricades at the airport gate and replaced them with modern security cameras to give tourists and visitors to the city a peaceful feeling as they arrive the state.

‘’We are also creating and improving the ambience at our airport gateway by introducing art murals which depict our cultural heritage with welcoming works of art and photos of some of our landmarks.

‘’Moving from the Airports, the capital territory is working towards ensuring that we have a welcoming view by removing unnecessary items that create eye sore. The ministry of environment is also working towards making sure that our green areas are maintained,’’ She stated.

Speaking further, Mbah said that the tourism board is almost done with the first phase of the city beautification and roundabout scheme.

‘’We are upgrading about 13 roundabouts in the first phase, planting flowers and upgrading our parks.

“We would discuss the upgrade of the parks. We are also looking at one some major projects that would enhance tourism in Enugu.

“Also, on the card are the development of the International conference centre, the development of a 5-Star Hotel, development of Hotel Presidential, and the development of a 300-bed hospital for medical tourism.”

According to her, when completed these projects have the capacity to put Enugu on the global tourism map.

‘’For example, the international conference centre would cater to many conferences within Africa and Nigeria. When people come for conferences, the 5- 5tar hotel will come in handy because of its proximity to the conference centre within the same vicinity.

“Not only that, the International conference centre also houses an amusement park; a theater; event centre and retail shops. So, the centre serves as a one stop shop for tourism activities.’’

Dame Mbah also disclosed that the state government recently awarded a contract for the development of five recreation parks across the state. They include the Edward Nnaji Park, Unity park, Ejindu Park, Ngwo Park and Eze park.

’The Edward Nnaji park will house a state of the art game arcade, amusement and water park, while the other four parks will be equipped with football pitches, five aside pitches, basketball court, lawn tennis court, quad bike arena, horse rides, kiddies recreation and fun equipment.

She also hinted that the state government is taking the annual Unity Christmas park to a whole new level.

‘’The metal fabrication for this year’s Christmas park started over a fortnight ago with over 30 indigenous welders working day and night to create a memorable Christmas fun for all.

‘’With all these projects and over 1,000 projects going on at the same time in Enugu State, I am proud to say that indeed we handed over our future to a governor that understands the assignment and he has continually proved to us that indeed tomorrow is here,’’ she added.

 

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Nightlife Icon, Olumese Hosts ‘The Coliseum Alumni’ To Lavish Soirée

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When you heard of alumni association, what readily comes to mind was the convergence of old students of an educational institution. But have you seen a group of alumni of an entertainment outfit? Well, thanks to Mr. Ken-Calebs Olumese, a nightlife icon and founder of the Niteshift Coliseum.
On Saturday 7 September, 2024, Olumese played host to scores of his old staff —who have come together under the aegis of The Coliseum Alumni— at his magnificent Ikota Royal Estate in Lekki, Lagos in continuation of his 80th birthday celebration.
The garden party was the first-ever reunion and an amazing get-together for most of these gentlemen and ladies who contributed significantly —at different time—to the phenomenal growth and whirlwind success of The Niteshift Coliseum Brand for over 30 years.
The atmosphere was electric and pomp with speeches from most of the staff who shared various heartfelt words about the man fondly called Guv’nor. They praised his leadership role, vision and generosity while many expressed gratitude for the opportunities to work, network and learn under his guidance.
As they shared memories, laughed, and talked about their lives, visibly elated Olumese felt such a sense of pride for the great things his old staff have gone on to achieve. With his voice filled with emotion, the Guv’nor, while thanking his staff and their families for their unwavering support, also appreciated them for their immense contribution towards the celebration of his 80th birthday in July.
As a boss and leader, the Octogenarian showbiz magnate believed it doesn’t get better than this as most of The Coliseum Alumni —scattered across the globe with most of them now professionals in various fields— occupying significant roles and shaping the world into a better place.
Olumese promised to make the reunion an annual soiree as he looked forward to meeting other ex-Coliseum staff who couldn’t make it to the first reunion.
With Prince Kunle Bakare as the master of ceremonies, he recognised most of the old staff present at the memorable reunion. They include Pastor Moses Ogunlaja, Bode Morakinyo, Patrick Ukpong, Kingsley Stanley, Patrick and Tina Joseph, Taiwo Ajayi and Kehinde Ajayi.
Of course, when it comes to era-defining soirées, only a few could rival Olumese. With his beloved wife, Mrs. Tina Olumese as co-host, the Guv’nor delivered an unforgettable evening with classy hospitality —choice food and drinks in abundance— to etch in the memories of the Alumni and their families for a long time to come.

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