Delectable Nollywood actress, Funmi Awelewa who is also popularly called “Morili Omo Ibadan” for her comical roles has upped her game by stepping up from acting to directing.
In a statement released by the talented actress, Funmi Awelewa has made her debut as a director in a new short movie, “A WISH”, which is a true life story.
The movie was shot on location at Ibadan by her production company, Faab Entertainment. It was filmed at the actual places where she grew up and had her childhood.
According to the actress, “it’s really an awesome experience, though very tasking for me to direct this movie because it’s a TRUE LIFE story, and it is the story of my life. It is one story very dear to my heart, hence my resolve to take the risk and direct it myself and I thank God it turns out just the way I wanted it. It’s a very wonderful production in all ramifications.”
The plot of the movie is based on her life experience. How she left home to pursue her acting career and unknowing to her that her mother is suffering from eye problems that eventually led to her blindness.
Speaking on the movie, Awelewa stated that, “we often neglect our loved ones, especially parents in our quests for better life, and many times they have things and issues, especially health wise they go through but don’t have the opportunity to discuss it with their children since they rarely see them one on one.
“I want to use this movie to correct that misdeed. No matter how busy we are, we should always create time for our parents, check on them, talk to them and always advise and assist them to check their health status as often as possible”.
The movie started screening via her YouTube channel, FaabTV on Thursday 12 October, 2023 which also happened to be the day the actress celebrated her 35th birthday.
Funmi Awelewa was introduced into Nollywood by Sola Kosoko in 2013. She made her acting debut the same year when she appeared in the film “Wosi Kenke”. She later got under the mentorship of veteran Nollywood actor, writer, and director Antar Laniyan.
She is also a philanthropist and the founder of Funmi Awelewa Foundation, which is a non-governmental foundation that caters for the visually impaired. She is also an entrepreneur. She is the creator of Glow Envy beauty and skincare products.
She has her own production company, FAAB Entertainment and her production credits include: Aromimawe, Omo Ibadan, Natasha, Gbakoje, Ebudola, Morili Bilisi and Ewon Ife.
Funmi Awelewa, before delving into acting in 2013, while being an undergraduate at the University of Ibadan was also into fashion designing. The actress mulls a comeback with her fashion brand, FashionENVY.
She enjoys great followership and has a huge fan base across various social media platforms. She is a social media influencer. The actress has an extensive following on Instagram. Presently she has close to 3 million followers on Instagram. She is also famous on TikTok, with over 600 thousand followers.
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.
Avalanche Club is set to become the epicentre of celebration this Ileya Festival with a lineup of electrifying performances by some of Nigeria’s most beloved musicians.
The festivities kick off this Friday, June 14, with a performance by the renowned fuji musician King Aderemi Aluko. Known for his dynamic stage presence and captivating fuji beats, Aluko promises to deliver a show that attendees won’t soon forget.
IGWE as his fans love to call him is having the official welcome dance after a successful tour of Canada. Lovers of his music are assured of new fusion of fast tempo beats laced with lyrics that narrates his experience while in Canada.
On Sunday, June 16, the celebration continues with juju music sensation Witty Wale Thompson.
Thompson, a maestro of the juju genre, will take the stage at 7pm, bringing his smooth rhythms and engaging melodies to the delighted crowd. His performance is set to be a highlight of the weekend, as fans gather to enjoy his timeless hits and new compositions.
The Ileya Festival festivities at Avalanche Club don’t end there.
The following Friday, June 21, legendary musician Sir Shina Peters will grace the stage.
Known for pioneering the Afro-Juju genre, Sir Shina Peters has a reputation for his high-energy performances and musical prowess.
His show is anticipated to draw a large crowd, eager to see the legend perform live.
These performances are powered by Metro Media Hub, ensuring top-notch production quality for an unforgettable entertainment experience.
For those looking to attend these exciting events, reservations can be made by contacting 09075545626.
Avalanche Club, known for its cozy ambiance and excellent service, is located at 5, Bamako Street, Opposite Omole Phase I, Lagos State.
The venue is perfect for an evening of music and celebration, offering a comfortable and welcoming environment for all attendees.
This series of events at Avalanche Club is more than just a celebration of the Ileya Festival; it’s a showcase of Nigeria’s rich musical heritage.
“The mission of Avalanche is to serve its patrons the best of music, entertainment and food to celebrate the Ileya festival. Ours is premium entertainment with intention to create memories in the mind of patrons,” remarked Hon. Kehinde Bankole, CEO Avalanche.
Attempt by Nigerian-born chess player, Tunde Onakoya, to break the Guinness World Record has received a boost with the Group Chief Executive Officer, Oando Group, Mr Adewale Tinubu, throwing his weight behind his effort.
Tinubu, on his social handles, lauded the ingenuity of the young Nigerian.
He wrote: ‘’It’s been 27 hours and counting since the Grand Chess master took on the inspiring feat of breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon in Times Square, New York City, as a beacon of hope for vulnerable children across Africa.
“Let’s take a leaf from Tunde Onakoya’s book because, in all of us, there exists the capacity for great courage and good. Tunde Onakoya is a truly inspirational story, it’s one of determination, tenacity and, above all, passion for humanity, and one that we must all learn from. Bring it home!’’
Onakoya, 29, who is in New York City, aims not only to break the world record of 56 hours set in 2018, but also to raise money for the Gift of Chess and Chess in Slums Africa organisations that aim to use the game to lift children out of poverty.