Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Take care.

Regards,

Glos make Becca ambassador

Ghanaian music diva, Rebecca Acheampong, popularly known as Becca, has been signed on as Glo Mobile Ghana’s ambassador.

At a ceremony in Accra on Wednesday, Becca joined 17 other stars who had earlier been signed on by the company in Ghana. On September 1, 2009, GLO Mobile Ghana unveiled 17 brand ambassadors cutting across the very important social strata of the Ghanaian society from music to sports, movies and general entertainment. That event marked the first time any brand would assemble such a large cast of ambassadors from the crèème of Ghana’s best.

The leading music stars in the package include Nii Ado Quaynor alias Tiny, George Kwabena Adu (Kwabena Kwabena), Irene Logan and Nana Wiafe Asante Mensah (A.S.E.M). Popular Ghanaian footballer, Junior Agogo is also one of the ambassadors.

Others were screen idols Van Vicker, Jackie Appiah, Nadia Buhari and music icons, Gyedu Blay Ambolley, Dan Amakye Dede, Pat Thomas, Paapa Yankson, the Wutah Brothers, Sherifa, Edem and Reggie Rockstone, the godfather of Ghanaian hip-life.

Mr John Vasikaran, who represented the company at the event said, “We opted for as many as 18 ambassadors in Ghana to vividly demonstrate that in our brand philosophy, we deliberately go beyond profit making which is the essence of any business endeavour”. He added that “GLO is a mega brand which proactively seeks every opportunity to provide the enabling platform to empower the society.”

The Ghana project manager said that the company has been impressed by the feedback received from the ambassadors it earlier engaged as they confirmed that the honour and recognition from GLO Mobile has greatly inspired them to continuously aspire to be the best, not just in Ghana but globally.

On the rationale for the choice of Becca, Mr Vasikaran said that, “Becca is a young, enterprising, vivacious and talented musician who shares our values of youthful, positive energy and innovativeness. She is one of Ghana’s most outstanding and versatile female musicians.”

He urged her to continue to be a leading light to millions of her fans who look up to her for inspiration as a role model and good ambassador of Glo Mobile.

“We will like to reiterate that the unveiling of Becca is part of the build up to the fulfilment of our avowed objective to roll out excellent and innovative telecommunications services that will immediately have a positive impact on every Ghanaian, and transform the telecommunications sector nationwide. We remain firmly committed to our vision to build the biggest and best telecommunications network in Africa”, said Vasikaran.

In her response, Becca said she regarded the contract she just signed with Glo as a major boost to her career, adding that she was excited about it all because Glo is an authentic African brand.

Becca became a national phenomenon in 2008 when she won the record of the year award at last year’s Ghana Music Awards ceremony. Her profile has been on the rise since as she has performed with greats like Hugh Masekela.

Koffi in Workerman Movement

Comedian Idowu Nuel, otherwise known as Koffi in the entertainment circle is taking his career to a higher level. Aside from being a comedian, the humour merchant has instituted an entertainment outfit — Workerman Movement.

Already, Koffi’s effort has started yielding fruit with the production of an album, All Eyes Open-12 Sessions, 5 Mics. A musical assemblage of five different artistes namely: Koffi, Yeankeyz, Outshine, Affroholik and Boomerang, is said to have been borne out of the need to foster serene and good music, which would be devoid of lewd lyrics and obscene contents.

Known as Workerholics, Koffi, who leads the group, is of the opinion that lovers of urban hippy music can easily identify with the production, while not disregarding the need for socially responsible thoughts. The 12-track album featured songs such as Jammin, S.E.X.Y, No Be Ashy, Adrenaline, Money, No Shigbin Shigbin, Take Over, Swagga Dis Swaga Dat, Going Nowhere, Workerholik and others.
“I’m into so many things, but right now, we would be releasing the album this December. We just wanted to show people that we can still do serious music,” he said.

On why he delved into music, Koffi explained that, “What we are doing is a full time job and should be treated as such. The same doctor that treats malaria treats cancer and also assists in giving birth to a baby. Those are different areas a doctor performs his duties. In the same vein, as a comedian, why can’t I do every other thing that I can do; as long as I don’t try to take another person’s piece of cake. I just try to express myself the best way I could.”

2face, MI, others crack ribs with Julius

Comedian of note, Julius Agwu will be staging his annual comedy show, Crack ya ribs in Lagos and Port Harcourt to wrap up the year. The event, which has a reputation of being the foremost comedy and music event, where the big names converge, will hold on the 20 and 25 of December in Lagos and Port Harcourt respectively.

The Lagos, edition which is billed for Sunday, December 20, will hold at the Expo Center, Oceanview by 5pm. Stars like 2face Idibia, Banky W, KC Presh, MI, MC Loof and DJ Jimmy Jatt will fill the evening with their brand of music, while comedians like Ali Baba, Gordons, Seyi Law, Helen Paul, Dan d Humourous, Funny Bone, Emeka Smith, and Senator will be on stage filling the air with comedy that instigates laughter. And as a way of giving back to society, Julius is giving two physically challenged comedians, Kelly Blind and Crazy Legs, the opportunity to bite at stardom.

After the Sunday event, the train moves to Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt on Friday, Christmas Day. Terry G will be on stage with his free madness style. Banky W will unleash the W experience while KC Presh will try ginger the swagger.

Other musicians billed to perform that night include Donka Mighty, and Maleke.

Julius will be leading a host of comedian like Senator, Seyi Law, Emeka Smith, Funny Bone to really crack ribs.
Commenting on Port Harcourt, Julius said the state is now peaceful due to leadership drive of Governor Rotimi Ameachi.

“I want to assure everybody that Port Harcourt is now peaceful. The governor has done a lot to ensure that. So, we need not entertain any fear. As I speak now, a carnival is going on here. So, people should come out and enjoy themselves.”

Speaking further, the diminutive comedian said the Port Harcourt edition, which is going for half the price of Lagos edition is his own Christmas gift for his people. “We are staging two shows.

One starts by 3pm while the other starts by 7pm,” he said.

‘Crack ya rib’, which has been running for nine years in Nigeria is a comedy show that has taken on a life of its own as it has become part of social calendar of many. The event has never failed to have a pack-full hall, both here and in London where the fourth edition held this year.

Jim Iyke says thank you

After 12 months of outstanding achievements, star actor, Jim Iyke is looking back, counting his blessings, and saying thank you to everyone that contributed one way or the other to his achievements in 2009.

“I will be an ingrate to let this month pass without saying thank you to producers that have given jobs. At the last count I’ve done over 45 movies and I’m currently shooting two of my own movies,” he said. Speaking further, the bad boy with good cause said, the press have been wonderful to him. “I want to say thank you to the journalists as well, they’ve been wonderful. I am grateful to them for keeping me in good light to the public.” To this end Jim is planning a tour of various media houses to personally say thank you and familiarize himself with members of the fourth estate.

The celebrated actor who also emerged the highest paid Glo Ambassador during the year says Glo deal is a major plus to him. ‘Globacom has demonstrated that it is truly a Nigerian company at heart. Their support meant a lot to me. I thank them too for contributing to my achievements in 2009.”

Jim, who is planning to release the video of Born to do this in January will be in Ghana on December 26 to host the Ovation Party. An offer he got after he was voted as the choice of the people in a voting process made open to the public.

As a way of rewarding himself, Jim’s company, Untamed Records has taken delivery of two cars, an escalade and a space bus, to mark the New Year. An unconfirmed report also has it that he is putting finishing touch to his country home in Anambra.

As a way of revamping his act, Jim will be releasing a comedy film which he is still shooting next year.

“I want my fans in Nigeria and across the globe to expect something spectacular from me next year. We already have plans to reenergize and re-strategize the brand. We thank you for your support this year and like Oliver Twist we ask for more in 2010,” he concluded.

Elvon Jarret launches new movie

ACE actor and an associate of Mount Zion Films production, Elvon Jarret, will today launch a new movie titled The Centurion.


Jarret is the producer of the land mark film, Strongholds and he has directed and taken part in several others.


The University of Ibadan-trained actor and director is popularly known in several Mount Zion Faith Ministries movies such as The Story of My Life, Blood on the Altar and Blood Covenant.


The public presentation of the new movie will take place today, Friday 18th December at Pentorise Event Centre, Housing Cooperation Round About, Old Bodija, Ibadan.

The Future Award Nominees

Model of the Year
1. Isio Wanogho
2. Tosin Adewunmi
3. Abiola Bashorun
4. Adeola Ariyo
5. Dolapo Olorunsola
6. Warebi Martha
7. Otu Ukpanah
8. Yusuf Raheem

Entrepreneur of the Year (Beauty & Style):
1. Tessy Oliseh – Designer, Tesslo Concepts
2. Bola Balogun and Yemi Akerele – Executive Imaging and Stylists
3. Buki Osunkeye – Designer, Azaria
4. Elorhor Isioho – MD, Beth Modelling Agenecy
5. Lisa Folawiyo – Designer, Jewel by Lisa
6. Toni Payne – MD, Toni Payne Cosmetics
7. Taiwo and Kehinde Okunoren – Designers, Okunoren Twins
8. Bisola Edun – Designer, Tae

Young Person of the Year:
1. Symon Adeji – Sleek Magazine
2. Chimamanda Adichie - Accomplished young writer
3. Cobhams Asuquo – Music producer
4. Ikpowusan Osakioduwa (Wildchild) – Presenter (Temptation Nigeria/Studio 53)
5. Bright Okpocha (Basketmouth) - Comedian
6. Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde - Actress
7. Temidayo Israel – Youth Leader/Activist
8. Tara Fela-Durotoye – Makeup entrepreneur

Entrepreneur of the Year:
1. Symon Adeji – Sleek Magazine
2. Goke Oludare – Owns 4 companies worth a total of 20 million naira
3. Temi Ogunsanya – Creative Director, Tiger Tem
4. Tewa Onasanya – Exquisite Magazine
5. Funke Bucknor – Event Planner
6. Bukola Ponnle- Adubi - Miccom Resorts
7. Emem Ema – Music Executive/Entrepreneur
8. Funlola Aofiyebi – Media Entrepreneur

Best Use of Goodwill:
1. Tosin Dekalu – New Generation CEO, Lady Cobbler
2. Jennifer Obayuwana – Polo Limited
3. Zena Igbinedion
4. Dumebi Agbakoba – Do Somethin’
5. TELD
6. Bunmi Adeola
7. Maria and Marita Ayodele - SADD
8. Rotimi and Niyi Makanjuola –Caverton Helicopters

Actor of the Year:
1. Uche Anyaemele
2. Stella Damascus-Aboderin
3. Ini Edo
4. Carol Ekanem
5. Frankincense Ben-Eche
6. Mike Ezuruonye
7. Dakore Egbuson
8. Omono Imobhio

Journalist of the Year:
1. Femi Kolawole - JAAID
2. Shina Oyetayo - TELL
3. Gbenga Ogundare - National Interest
4. Ebun Olatoye – True Love West Africa
5. Samson Adeoye - The Guardian
6. Abdulkareem Baba Aminu - Weekly Trust
7. Femi Rilwan Adebumiju - The Week
8. Ayeni Adekunle - Encomium

On-Air Personality of the Year:
1. Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi – Cool 96.9 FM
2. Kemi Olisaemeka (Kemistry) – Rhythm 93.7 FM
3. Kemi Adetiba – Temptation Nigeria/Studio 53
4. Ikponwusan Osakioduwa (Wildchild) – Temptation Nigeria/Studio 53
5. Ronke Apampa – BEN TV
6. Lamide Akintobi – Channels TV
7. Ebuka Obi-Uchendu – BBN/Friends or Foe
8. Denrele Edun – Sound City/Next Movie Star

Musician of the Year:
1. Soul E
2. Psquare
3. Tosin Martins
4. Dare Art-Alade
5. Infiniti
6. Bouqui
7. Dbanj
8. Resonance

Professional of the Year:
1. Emma Ugolee - Globacom
2. Lola Talabi – Manager, Cadbury Schweppes
3. Modupe Adefeso - YDNX
4. Femi Olagbaiye - MTV Base
5. Ify Dozie - Nigerian Breweries
6. Stephen Owolabi - GTBank
7. Anita Ibru - Minerva Recruitment Consultants
8. Stanley Ailuelohia - UBA

Producer of the Year:
1. Effiong Eton - STV
2. Denrele Edun - Soundcity
3. Sekinat Ayeyemi - New Dawn
4. Mary Ero - MBI
5. Soji Ogunnaike - Big Brother Nigeria
6. David Uro – Based in Jos
7. Gbenga Akinbo
8. Alu Mc Ikpah - BBC’s Naija Flava
9. Oreofe Williams - STV
10. Micheal Olatunde Oyeyiola - Soundcity

Magazine of the Year:
1. Juice
2. Dynamix
3. RISE
4. Bubbles
5. Inspire
6. Applause
7. Hip Hop World
8. ICON

Team of the Year:
1. Sound Effects
2. MASK – Dance Group
3. Thoroughbreds
4. The Zebra Team – Dance Group (Guinness Book of Records)
5. TELD
6. WhoGoBuy
7. Babs Educational Consult
8. Induced Mega Media

Best Use of Technology:
1. Bola Olowu - Vibedownloads
2. Lanre Lawal – Multimedia guru
3. Chinedu Ogwuegbu - Silicon Concepts
4. Cygress
5. Adebola Adeoni
6. Gbenga Sesan - Lagos Digital Village
7. Gecko Multimedia
8. Ify Eronini

Youth Advocacy:
1. Gbenga Sesan
2. Temidayo Israel
3. Victor Gotevbe
4. Moses Imayi
5. Steven Oguntoyinbo
6. Temitayo Etomi
7. Henry Ilaegbe
8. Francis Anyaegbu

Wish them all the best of luck.

Cheers!

Mercy Johnson Set To Wed

Mercy Johnson – one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising actresses and one of Nollywood’s most eligible bachelorettes – is allegedly getting set to walk down the aisle with the man of her dreams.

Very reliable sources told NET, today, that the gifted-but-controversial actress is officially engaged to an Edo-born prince named Odanosen Okojie; and that the couple’s families have met officially for traditional introductions.

Miss Johnson is one of the sexiest actresses in Nigeria’s growing movie industry. And, in spite of repeated scandals and media bashings, the young actress has continued to rise; clinching role after role and proving to cynics that she’s not all about cleavages and see-through dresses and superiority battles.

The young lady gets credit for her acting skills. And, just like Genevieve Nnaji and Rita Dominic before her, she’s getting the men looking and watching and lusting and wishing they could kidnap her for a weekend or more.

Those dreams may never come to pass now; as Mercy Johnson plans to settle down and concentrate on life as a Mrs.

Reliable sources told NET the pre-wedding traditional introductions held at her family home in Ebiraland (Okene, Kogi State) on Friday November 27.

A wedding date has been fixed for April 2010.

”They’ve had the introduction”, our source offers. ”They’ve given her fiance the list of things required for the engagement and marriage; and a date has been fixed”.

Mercy Johnson’s groom, according to our findings, is a businessman who has interests in Property and Automobiles.

Mike Ezuruonye becomes face of Amstel Malta

Good looking actor and Glo Ambassador, Mike Ezuruonye, has just become the face of Amstel Malta and for this, he got paid in millions. His contract will run for one year.

T.W.O releases new video

Showbiz couple Tunde and Wunmi Obe, have released their second video titled "Fine Bara". According to T.W.O, "The satiric and hilarious video laced with meaning and parables, tells a story of a corporate beggar. All we were just trying to do was tell the usual story that happens around. These days, there are a lot of techniques being used by people to extort money from people."

The video, directed by Clarence Peters in Lagos, is a comic glance at the usual habits of beggars in Lagos and other Nigerian cities. While many may be lost in the amusing drama, the message is not lost. Their fifth album titled, T.W.O Legit will be released in a few weeks.

Prepare for a heavy dose

Rapper, Overdose a.k.a OD, has announced that all is now set for the release of his second album. According to his label, X3M Music, the upcoming autobiographical album will detail the events shaping OD's life since the release of his last album, Don't Hate.

The forthcoming album features collaborators with Modenine, Terry tha Rapman, Sasha, Black Solo and AT. Overdose is also worked with producers Kraft, Ill Fingerz and Bernstein.

The label also added that there are talks of partnerships with a yet to be disclosed South African hip-hop group. With a new single, "Alujo" already released, the rapper is set to hit locations in Lagos and South Africa for a couple of videos. A new video titled "Wine in the Glass" is scheduled to be released in a matter of weeks.

Nigeria wins Big Brother Africa

Big Brother Africa, a television program produced by Endemol, has come to an end with Kevin Chuwang, a Nigerian, emerging as a winner of a N30m (USD200 000) grand prize.


The 27-year-old graduate of English Language turn entertainer was joyful with tears as he said, "I feel like Obama right now" while appreciating his fans for voting him.

The new King of Big Brother Africa had said in an interview during the show that he plans to build an entertainment empire, take a trip to Hollywood to experience a movie in the making and share some of his money with friends if he eventually emerges the winner.

Big Brother Africa is a reality show that featured 14 countries, each producing a contestant living in an isolated house while trying to avoid being evicted by viewers with the winner bagging a cash prize at the end of the show.

Femi Kuti nominated for a Grammy award

Son of the Afro beat Legend, Femi Kuti has been nominated for a Grammy again. He got his first Grammy nomination in 2003 – for the critically-acclaimed album ‘Fight To Win’ but lost the prestigious plaque to Ruben Blade. This time around He has been nominated for the 2008 album – Day By Day alongside Amadou & Mariam, Bella Fleck, Oumou Sangare and Omar Sosar for the World music category. The 52nd Annual Grammy Awards would hold on January 21, 2010.

9ice announces album three

9ice is set to release his new album titled Tradition on Monday, December 7. Speaking at a Press Conference in Lagos recently, the singer said that the 16 track album which includes production from ID Cabasa, Cheffo, Terry G and Dokta Frabz will feature collaborations with superstar Asa, Nneka and many others.

The album will be released under Alapomeji Records and distributed by Nigeria's first distribution label So'forte Entertainment. Two singles from the album, "Gbamu Gbamu" and "Energy" are already enjoying airplay across the country.

Cobhams Unveils Newbies

Ace music producer, song writer and performing artist Cobhams Asuquo is set to unleash unto the Nigerian music scene and the world fresh talents. On Thursday December 10, as the chief executive officer of Cobhams Asuquo Music Productions' (CAMP), Mr. Asuquo will lead four new talents from his camp to the second edition of their Quirk Concert featuring a night of Soul music performances. The artists include 2009 Hennessey Artistry participant, Bez, Omolara, Tarri and Joan. The concert will hold at Coral Reef, Ikoyi at 7pm.

Cobhams has production credits on the acclaimed Asa's debut album and has worked with ‘A' grade artists in the country including the Rooftop Mcs.