Afro Nation Portugal 2023 announces the addition of main stage headliners Wizkid and Davido

PRESS RELEASE

Afro Nation Portugal 2023 announces the addition of main stage headliners Wizkid and Davido

… as well as more new names including Little Simz, Popcaan and Focalistic

Access Multimedia Content

PORTIMAO, Portugal, February 27, 2023/ -- Afro Nation Portugal 2023 (www.AfroNation.com) announces the addition of main stage headliners  Wizkid and Davido, as well as more new names including Little Simz,  Popcaan and Focalistic - all joining the world’s biggest lineup of Afrobeats and Amapaino this summer. Returning to the beautiful Portimao beach on 28-30th June, Afro Nation has a star-studded line up already boasting the likes of Burna Boy, 50 Cent, Booba, Aya Nakamura, Fireboy DML, Asake, Arya Starr, Black Sherif, Oxlade, Dadju and Ms Banks to name a few. Now the Star Boy himself joins the party once again. With his silky voice and irresistible beats, the Grammy award-winning and multi-platinum-selling global superstar  Wizkid heads to Afro Nation Portugal to perform countless hits including ‘Essence’, ‘Mighty Wine’ and ‘Blessed’ for the adoring crowds. Wizkid has recently joined fellow Afro Nation Portugal 2023 headliner Burna Boy, in becoming the first African artists to take on UK Stadium headline shows in 2023. Wizkid’s ‘More Love, Less Ego’ tour is taking the artist to new heights just two years after his record-breaking sell out London O2 Arena shows on the ‘Made In Lagos’ tour - which The Evening Standard described as “a triumph for African music’s increasingly globalised reach”. Davido, meanwhile, has built a reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative artists in the Nigerian music scene, known for his infectious hooks and equally infectious onstage energy. With his return to the stage highly anticipated this summer, expect another crowning moment with the audience singing along to every word, as the feel-good party king dishes up all his hits like ‘Fall’, ‘If’ and ‘Skelewu’. BRIT Award-winning lyricist Little Simz also heads out to the Algarve, to ignite the crowd with hits from her groundbreaking new albums ‘Sometimes I Might Be Introvert’ and ‘NO THANK YOU’, along with her classic tunes like ‘Venom’, ‘101FM’ and ‘Boss’. Always fearless and thought-provoking, Simz has been collecting accolade after accolade in recent years and next up is another moment to savour as she makes her Afro Nation debut. The iconic dancehall legend Popcaan will also be pulling up to Portugal this summer to heat things up with his most sizzling anthems like ‘Only Man She Want’, ‘Party Shot’ and ‘When You Wine Like That’. And that’s not all. Another one of Amapiano’s finest Focalistic is announced as a leading name on this year’s Piano People stage, off the back of his London headline show at the start of this month.  Kamo Mphela, Felo Ła Tee, Sir Trill and Skyla Tylaa will also be appearing alongside countless South African stars, such as previously announced headliners Scorpion Kings, Major League DJz and Uncle Waffles, and so many DJs and artists behind the world’s most exciting sounds right now. Powerhouse Musa Keys, popular singer Young Stunna, celebrated queen of genre DBN Gogo, trailblazer Vigro Deep, “future ghetto punk” superstar Moonchild Sanelly and many more will all be bringing the heat and stirring up the sand with all the latest moves this June. Day Splits for Afro Nation Portugal 2023 have also been announced today, with Burna Boy, Aya Nakamura and Popcaan opening the show on 28th June, Wizkid, Little Simz and Asake performing on the 29th June and 50 Cent, Davido, Booba and Fireboy DML providing the final fireworks on 30th June. "We are excited to welcome Wizkid, Davido, Little Simz, Popcaan, Focalistic and more to Afro Nation Portugal 2023," said Afro Nation Portugal organisers. "These artists represent the very best of African music and culture, and we can't wait to see them perform on our beautiful beach stage. With so many incredible acts on the lineup, this is shaping up to be the summer’s most unmissable party, and our best festival yet." Following a momentous return to West Africa for Afro Nation Ghana during “Detty December” and a landmark show in Puerto Rico in April 2022, the very first Afro Nation on mainland North America arrives this year. The 2 day debut will see Burna Boy, Wizkid, Rema, Asake, Beenie Man and more landing in the Sunshine State of Florida between 27th - 28th May, for Afro Nation Miami 2023. Afro Nation has become a must-attend event since its 2019 debut in Portugal. The rapid growth of the festival, which is now hosting events on sites of cultural significance across three continents, is a testament to the power of uniting the diaspora and showcasing the best of African music and culture. With this explosive lineup to come, and the stunning Portuguese sun that you can always rely on, Afro Nation Portugal is set to draw in crowds from the UK, right across Europe, Africa, and beyond, for another unifying and joyful celebration of Black music, dancing, food and good vibes. Afro Nation Portugal 2023 Second Wave Line Up (new additions in bold): Wednesday 28th June: Burna Boy, Aya Nakamura, Popcaan, Ayra Starr, Oxlade, The Compozers, Nelson Freitas, Nissi, Camidoh Thursday 29th June: Wizkid, Little Simz, Asake, Tayc, BNXN, Black Sherif, Victony, Ms Banks, Tyla Friday 30th June: 50 Cent, Davido, Booba, Fireboy DML, Vegedream, Gabzy, Sauti Sol, Gyakie, Soraia Ramos Piano People Stage: Scorpion Kings, Major League DJz, Uncle Waffles, Focalistic, Kamo Mphela, Musa Keys, DBN Gogo, Young Stunna, Felo Ła Tee, Daliwonga, Tyler ICU, Sha Sha, Vigro Deep, Moonchild Sanelly, Sir Trill, TXC, Pabi Cooper, Boohle, Charisse C, Nicky Summers, Skyla Tylaa, DJ Fistoz Hosts & DJs: Eddie Kadi, Shopsydoo, Xavier, Captain Lulaz, P Montana, Dj Sogood, Mercedes Benson, DJ Dollar Plus more to be announced! BBC Radio 1Xtra is the official media partner for Afro Nation Portugal. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afro Nation.   Editor’s Notes: Afro Nation Portugal 2023 will take place between 28-30th June 2023 on Praia Da Rocha Beach, Portimao, The Algarve. Tickets: All tickets are be available via: www.AfroNation.com Download hi res photo highlights from Afro Nation Portugal 2022 here:  https://apo-opa.info/3KGURuB Watch the Afro Nation Portugal 2022 Official Aftermovie: https://apo-opa.info/3mc7JyB Tickets for Afro Nation Portugal 2023 are available at: https://apo-opa.info/3Y5HJST PR/Press Enquiries: For all press enquiries please contact: marie@apo-opa.com Follow Afro Nation: Instagram: https://apo-opa.info/3ZoB8nD Twitter: https://apo-opa.info/41tKG2A Facebook: https://apo-opa.info/3kA9lSv www.AfroNation.com SOURCE Afro Nation

Hon. Princess Miriam Onuoha Reelected for the House of Representatives

HON. PRINCESS MIRIAM ONUOHA DEFEATS OTHER CONTESTANTS TO WIN OKIGWE NORTH HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ELECTION

The Electorate in Okigwe North have finally made their choice in Hon. Princess Miriam Onuoha through the polls in the just concluded General Elections for the House of Representatives. This portends that the incumbent lawmaker will continue her responsibility as the legislator representing Isiala Mbano, Onuimo and Okigwe Local Government Areas at the Green Chamber till 2027.

The preferred candidate of APC won the election with resounding margin to floor other contestants in a suspense ridden competition that finally gave her Victory.  Hon. Princess Miriam really deserved the victory, having done so well in her first tenure at effecting meaningful changes in the vicinity.

Congratulations 👏👏👏🎉!

© Hon. Princess Miriam Onuoha PR/Media Team

How to Watch the Political Hysteria of the Presidential Election in Nigeria

How to watch the political hysteria of the presidential election in Nigeria.

The Youngest Voter in the History of Democracy Discovered in Nigeria

The youngest voter in the history of democracy discovered in Nigeria during the 2023 presidential election on February 25. The Guinness Book of Records will like to celebrate him and interview him on CNN. 

Wow! He is so cute!

#Nigeria

#Democracy
#voters
#NigeriaDecides2023
#NigeriaDecides
#presidentialelection
#elections
#Nigerianelections
#politics
#CNN
#youngest
#Guinness
#book
#worldrecord

Peter Obi and the Political Realities of the 2023 Presidential Election in Nigeria

Peter Obi and the Political Realities of the 2023 Presidential Election in Nigeria

Millions of Igbos will not vote for Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the presidential election on Saturday February 25, 2023, even though he is the preferred choice of majority of Igbos among his fellow Igbo presidential candidates of the other political parties. 

Living in denial of the facts on the political realities in Nigeria is sheer stupidity. Because, these realities will determine the outcome of the presidential election. 

There are 371 ethnic groups in the most populous country in Africa; the largest of which are the Yoruba, Hausa and the Igbo. These ethnic groups consist of multiple tribes enumerating up to 371 with about 500 languages.

Majority of non-Igbos don't like Igbos; especially the non-Igbo ethnic groups in Edo State, Delta State, Rivers State, Cross River State and Akwa Ibom State, because of the wickedness of the Igbos during the Nigerian civil war from 1967-1970.

They have not forgotten their agonies under the defunct Republic of Biafra before their liberation by the victorious Nigerian Armed Forces.

Igbos Have Ruled Nigeria As President, Military Head Of State And Senate

Only those who don't know the political history of Nigeria will say that the Igbo tribe has been marginalized or deprived of the political leadership of Nigeria. Because the Igbos have had it all even before the Independence of Nigeria from the British Empire on October 1, 1960.

The Right Honourable: Nnamdi Benjamin Azikiwe was the third and first ever Nigerian Governor-General of Nigeria; the representative of the Monarch of the United Kingdom in Colonial Nigeria and the Nigerian Head of State from 16 November 1960 – 1 October 1963.

Nnamdi Benjamin Azikiwe, PC (16 November 1904 – 11 May 1996), popularly known as "Zik of Africa", was a Nigerian statesman and political leader who served as the first President of Nigeria from 1963 to 1966.

Preceded by

Position established (Elizabeth II

(as Queen of Nigeria))

Succeeded by

Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi

3rd Governor-General of Nigeria

In office

16 November 1960 – 1 October 1963

Monarch

Elizabeth II

Preceded by

James Robertson

Succeeded by

Position abolished

1st President of the Senate of Nigeria

In office

1 January 1960 – 1 October 1960

Preceded by

Position established

Succeeded by

Chief Dennis Osadebay

Gen. Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi MVO, MBE (3 March 1924 – 29 July 1966) was the first Military Head of State of Nigeria.

The Igbos have had more Presidents of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria than any other tribe in Nigeria since 1960 to date.

Senate Presidents of Nigeria

Senate President Term Party

Nnamdi Azikiwe 1960 NCNC

Dennis Osadebay

1960–1963 NCNC

Nwafor Orizu

1963–1966 NCNC

Evan Enwerem

1999 PDP

Chuba Okadigbo

1999–2000 PDP

Anyim Pius Anyim

2000–2003 PDP

Adolphus Wabara

2003–2005 PDP

Ken Nnamani

2005–2007 PDP

The Igbos should stop all their brouhaha over the Office of the President of Nigeria. They have been more favoured in the national leadership of Nigeria than the other tribes.

There are millions of Igbos who will not vote for Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), because of the Inter-tribal conflicts and rivalries among Igbos.

Igbos in the Delta State don't like Igbos in the south eastern states

Igbos from Abia don't like those in Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi and Anambra.

There are deep rooted ethnic rivalries among Igbos.

The 2023 presidential election is a sort of Referendum of the Igbos who want the restoration of their defunct Republic of Biafra and the Igbos who want to belong to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Peter Obi and Nnamdi Kanu.

It is a contest for the leadership of the Igbos between Peter Obi and the detained Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of IPOB.

True members and supporters of IPOB will not vote in the presidential election and other elections in Nigeria.

Because, it is betrayal of the mission of IPOB to participate in Nigerian elections for the sovereignty of Nigeria.

Hundreds of thousands of Igbos will not come out to vote on Saturday, February 25, because of the fear of attacks by different fringe elements of IPOB that will enforce the Sit-At-Home order declared by the Simon Ekpa-led faction of IPOB that the 2023 general elections will not take place in the South East geo-political zone of the country.

Peter Obi has not condemned the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and this has implications for his presidential ambition, because majority of Muslims and others, especially non-Igbos who are against the breakup of the Federal Republic of Nigeria will not vote for him.

Content Creators Earn More on Blogger Than TikTok

Content Creators Earn More on Blogger Than TikTok

Monetizing a blog with Google AdSense or another advertising platform may provide earnings of about $2 to $5 per 1,000 page views.

 A blog that receives 10,000 views per day may generate about $20 to $50 in income.- 16 December, 2022.

TikTok pays around $0.02 and $0.04 for every 1,000 views. These are reports based on payments received through the TikTok Creator Fund. 

This is a program that TikTok introduced in 2021 in a bid to compensate content creators.

There are content creators making thousands of dollars monthly on Blogger from sponsored posts and adverts on their blogs.

As a publisher, you will get 68 percent of the click amount (and 51 percent when it comes to Google AdSense for search). The commission you will receive depends mainly on the competition as well as CPC in a niche. In most cases, the commission per click will range between $0.20 and $15.30 

- August, 2022.

Meta should pay content creators on Facebook and Instagram.

My premier blog on Blogger, Nigerians Report Online has over 200, 000 pageviews monthly and should be making from $5, 000 - $10, 000 monthly. But I have not really monetized it. 70 percent of the viewers are located in the United States of America. 

#Bogger
#TikTok
#YouTube
#Google
#AdSense
#Meta
#Facebook
#CPC
#views
#adverts
#monetization

- Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima

Poetry in Motion Picture

One of the best scenes from my documentary film, "Lagos in Motion".

Featuring two of the most beautiful actresses in #Nollywood, international beauty pageant queen @celinaideh and @nunuojong at the Elegushi beach in #Lekki during the first phase of the principal photography in 2016.

I call my style of filmmaking, "Poetry in Motion Picture".

Filmmaking is the art of storytelling in motion picture.
The Art of filmmaking is the horse pulling the cart which is the craft of filmmaking.
Not every filmmaker is an artist.
The greatest filmmakers are artists.
Ask James Cameron.
Ask Steven Spielberg.
Ask Spike Lee.
Ask Francis Ford Coppola
Ask Quentin Tarantino
Ask Woody Allen
Ask Oliver Stone
Ask Clint Eastwood
Ask Martin Scorsese
Ask Sofia Coppola
Ask Sir Steve Rodney McQueen and coming home to Nigeria:
Ask Dr. Ola Balogun
Ask Femi Odugbemi
Ask CJ "Fiery" Obasi.

#filmmakers
#Filmmaking
#art
#poetry
#horse
#cart
#motionpicture
#Lagos
#Lekki
#elegushibeach
#documentaryfilm
#documentary
#photography
#cinematography
#Nollywood
#spielberg
#coppola
#tarantino
#scorsese
#spikelee
#jamescameron
#clinteastwood
#stevemcqueen
#woodyallen
#sofiacoppola

- Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima,
Publisher/Editor,
NOLLYWOOD MIRROR® Series,
The first book series on Nollywood and the Nigerian film industry published since 2013.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Co14SjNo5EY/?igshid=MDJmNzVkMjY=

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria : Citizens’ Participation in Good Governance in Nigeria

 

PRESS RELEASE

Citizens’ Participation in Good Governance in Nigeria

The Catholic Church continues to insist that government has a constitutional and statutory duty of protecting human rights and securing basic justice for all

ABUJA, Nigeria, February 16, 2023/ -- A Communiqué issued at the end of the First Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the CSN Resource Centre, Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Durumi, Abuja, 11 to 17 February 2023. 1. PREAMBLE We, the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria, held our First Plenary Meeting for the year at the CSN Resource Centre, Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Durumi, Abuja, from 11 to 17 of February 2023. Having prayerfully reflected on issues affecting the Church and the Nigerian State, we now issue this Communiqué: 2. INDICES OF GOOD GOVERNANCE The Catholic Church continues to insist that government has a constitutional and statutory duty of protecting human rights and securing basic justice for all. Society, as a whole, is responsible for building up the common good, and the role of government is to guarantee the minimum conditions that make human rights and justice possible. If the primary purpose of party campaigns is to win elections, then the justifiable end is good governance. Chapter IV of our Constitution on Fundamental Rights is very clear on what constitutes an aspect of good governance, namely, protection of the rights to life, human dignity, liberty, fair hearing, and so on. Despite the many failures of our leaders to ensure good governance, we still nurture and sustain the hope of a democracy that will usher in a renewed era of social justice, equity, peace, and prosperity. These fundamental rights are further enhanced in the rights that are enshrined in Chapter II of our Constitution, such as the rights to health, education, basic amenities, et cetera. Unfortunately, these rights are not justiciable and cannot be enforced in the law courts, thereby leaving the enjoyment of these rights to the whims and caprices of the people in power. As shepherds, we call for a legislative review of Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution, in such a way as to make the provisions justiciable and enforceable. This will go a long way to nurture and sustain good governance. 3. SOME CHALLENGES FACING OUR COUNTRY i) Worsening Insecurity in our Nation Increased insecurity has continued to haunt our nation. The Boko Haram insurgents, herdsmen militia, bandits, and the so-called unknown gunmen have continued to unleash terror in different parts of the country. Some communities have been sacked and their inhabitants displaced as a result of the activities of some criminals and some government security agents. Hundreds of lives have been lost in very brutal circumstances and many more have been maimed. Some of our Church personnel have been victims of abduction and killing. Kidnapping for ransom is on the increase such that nowhere seems safe. Highways, homes, and even the sacred precincts of worshipping centres are not spared. We condole with all the bereaved and pray for the eternal repose of the deceased. While we continue to call on governments to stand up to their primary responsibility of safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians, we enjoin all to strengthen security measures in their homes and institutions. We call on all citizens to be law-abiding, and vigilant, and to shun all forms of violence and criminality. ii) The Challenging Economy in our Nation and its Effects on the Citizens Our crumbling national economy has continued to make life difficult and hard for our people. As the value of the Naira continues to decline, the high cost of goods and services, including food items, continues to soar. Still more, the flawed implementation of the cash swap policy, which resulted in a cash crunch, has added to the ordeal, hunger, anger, and frustration of the people. Again, on account of the persisting fuel scarcity, our people spend many hours in long queues under harsh conditions trying to buy fuel at exorbitant prices. As a result of high unemployment and hard-biting economic conditions, many of our brothers and sisters wallow in abject poverty, and many either flee the nation in search of better living conditions or resort to crime and begging to survive. This situation is further compounded by the growing debt burden that is mortgaging our future and that of upcoming generations. We, therefore, urge Federal Government and its relevant agencies to immediately increase the circulation of new Naira notes and make and implement adequate monetary and other relevant policies that will reduce the suffering and hardship experienced by our people. We admonish those who collaborate in hoarding the new currency and petroleum products to desist from such a dastardly act. We laud the citizens for their bravery in the face of the hard situation while we thank the President for approving the extended use of the old N200 notes. Furthermore, governments need to provides enabling environment for the creation of more jobs by both the government and the private sector. 4. CITIZENS’ PARTICIPATION AND GOOD CHOICES Participation is at the core of the realization of the common good, which good governance serves. Indeed, citizens’ participation is a key element of a good governance structure. We, the Bishops, have continued to voice out the need for Nigerians to be more involved and be part of the decisions over what happens in our society. As enshrined in various sections of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, the right to political participation is a human right. The Church teaches that responsible citizenship is a virtue and participation in the political process is a moral obligation (CCC, nos. 1913-1915). One of the potent instruments of participation in the political life of a country is the choice of its leaders. In the face of the daunting challenges facing our nation, we should not give in to hopelessness and despair, or compromise our values in such a manner as to come up with leaders who are neither intended by God nor truly elected by the people. We, as citizens, must learn to make the right choices for good governance to thrive and be sustained. We, therefore, urge one and all to be more conscious of the kind of choices that they make in their life, especially, as we approach another critical period in our political history. 5.  THE GENERAL ELECTIONS 2023 The 2023 General Elections are around the corner. As we wrote in our recent Pastoral Letter on the 2023 Elections in Nigeria, “these upcoming elections provide us with yet another opportunity in our national history to choose leaders capable of governing for the common good” (p.1). This is now the time to reject evil, greater or lesser, and wisely choose good and capable candidates at all levels. Our votes are precious; we must use them well. We encourage all eligible citizens to come out en masse to vote for God-fearing, honest, vibrant, and transparent leaders for a better Nigeria. We urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its officials to ensure that their conducts in the entire electoral process are transparent, honest, and beyond reproach. We continue to enjoin the Commission to make sure that the newly adopted technologies for accreditation, transmission, and collation, are transparently and sincerely deployed and not manipulated to give false results.  We equally call on the law enforcement agents, whose primary duty is to enforce law and order and ensure the protection of persons and materials during the elections, to efficiently and professionally carry out their responsibilities without fear, favour, or partiality. In the same manner, we advise our youths not to allow themselves to be used as thugs and agents of disruption and violence before, during, and after the elections. We, at the same time, enjoin voters to ensure that proper counting is done before the transmission of the results. One ugly and unfortunate phenomenon that has characterized the electoral contests in our nation is that of vote buying and selling, aimed at frustrating and compromising the free choice of the people. We vehemently continue to condemn this practice and urge all politicians and the electorate to avoid this unlawful and sinful practice and embrace the values of human dignity, integrity, and decency in order to have free, fair, and credible elections. We acknowledge the important role of both national and international observers in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and the promotion of its greater openness and transparency. We call on all those engaged in this task to eschew every trace of bias and partisanship in discharging their duties. The Judiciary is an important institution in the settlement of electoral disputes in our nation. The significance of this role has continued to rise to the point that it seems no election is complete and determined without the pronouncement of the courts. Unfortunately, this role sometimes results in the abuse of judicial power and office wherein unconscionable orders are made, which mock the electoral process and the general will of the electorate. No doubt, this not only compromises the essence of democratic competition but also leads to loss of confidence in the Judiciary. We, therefore, encourage all judges and lawyers to, once again see themselves as ministers in the temple of truth and justice, and work to make the Judiciary the ‘last hope of the common man’. 6. THE ROLE OF THE MEDIA IN GOOD GOVERNANCE The media have a crucial role to play in entrenching good and democratic governance, by providing the necessary information that empowers the citizens not only to engage the political class in debates on the issues that affect their lives, but also, to exercise their democratic choices and make informed decisions about public issues (Inter Mirifica, nn.3-5; Communio et Progressio, n. 87). The Media also function as watchdog by engaging in investigative journalism, which holds political officials and the citizens accountable in the use of public patrimony (Aetatis Novae, n. 14, par. 2). We call on the Media practitioners and owners, not only to seek but to speak the truth with a clear conscience, desisting from the sensational journalism presently being promoted, largely through fake news, violence, inflammatory and divisive remarks. We also urge all citizens to be very discerning and circumspect about news being peddled in the social media. (Pope Francis, Letter to SIGNIS, the World Catholic Association for Communications, 2022). Furthermore, we call upon Governments at all levels to ensure free and independent media that will help to achieve good governance and responsible citizenship. 7. NEWS FROM THE CHURCH We thank God for the successful visits of the Holy Father to the Democratic Republic of Congo, (31 January to 3 February 2023) and South Sudan (3 to 5 February 2023). We hope and pray that these visits will have lasting impact not only on these two nations but on the entire African Continent. In the same vein, we pray for an end to the war in Ukraine and other parts of the world.  We equally pray for the victims of the recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. With gratitude to God for a life well spent, we remember our Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, who passed on 31 December 2022 and was laid to rest on 6 January 2023. May he continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen. Since our last Plenary Meeting in Orlu, Imo State, in September 2022, the Church in Nigeria has been blessed with two additional Diocesan Bishops, Most Rev. Michael Kalu Ukpong, Umuahia Diocese (installed on 2 February 2023) and Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, Warri Diocese (ordained and installed on 9 February 2023). We felicitate with them and pray for the grace to shepherd the flock of God entrusted to their pastoral care. In the same vein, we thank the Holy Father for creating Wukari Diocese on 14 December 2022 and congratulate Msgr. Mark Maigida Nzukwein, appointed as its pioneer Bishop. We look forward to his Episcopal Ordination on 13 April 2023. We equally received with joy, the most recent announcement of the Creation of Aguleri Diocese with Most Reverend Denis Chidi Isizoh as its first Bishop. Furthermore, we rejoice with Most Rev. Peter Kayode Odetoyinbo and the entire Faithful of Abeokuta Diocese on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee of the Erection of their Diocese. Likewise, we are grateful to God for Most. Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, Metropolitan Archbishop of Lagos, and the pioneer Bishop of Abeokuta, who recently clocked 25 years in the Episcopate. 8. CONCLUSION: PRAYING FOR FREE, FAIR, AND PEACEFUL ELECTIONS IN NIGERIA Providentially, the General Elections 2023 fall within the Season of Lent, which summons us all to repent of our sins, to retreat from our evil ways, and to amend our personal and corporate lives (Matthew 6:1-8; 16-18).  Prominent in the Season of Lent is the demand for more intense prayer, and fasting not only from food and drink but also from the evils that destroy human and social life.  In the spirit of the season, we continue to pray as we say: God our Father, grant us the wisdom to identify what is good and the courage to make the right choices.  As we keep our eyes open and our minds alert, inspire in us the will to vote solely for the common good of our nation; fill our electoral umpires with the spirit of patriotism, justice, and fairness; enable us to embrace and usher in a new dawn in our country Nigeria, where citizens’ participation becomes the hallmark of institutional accountability and economic emancipation.  We pray God to bless us with leaders with integrity and nobility while we hope and work for a brighter, more peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria.  Mother Mary, Queen of Nigeria, intercede for us. Amen. Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru UGORJI                    Archbishop of Owerri                                                                                                                         President, CBCN          Most Rev. Donatus A. OGUN, OSA Bishop of Uromi      Secretary, CBCN                                                                                                                Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN). SOURCE Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN)

Why Did "Avatar: The Way of Water" Fail in Nigeria?

Why Did "Avatar: The Way of Water" Fail in Nigeria?

James Cameron's awesome sci-fi epic "Avatar: The Way of Water"  has been a huge box office success, breaking multiple records, and grossing over $2.177 billion worldwide so far. It was the highest-grossing film of 2022, the highest-grossing film of the COVID-19 pandemic era, and the fourth highest-grossing film of all time. But it has failed in Nigeria grossing less than $800, 000 in 7 weeks in the country where "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" has made $2 million so far.
Why?

Poor marketing and publicity caused the failure of "Avatar: The Way of Water" in Nigeria in competition with the highest grossing Nigerian movie, Funke Akindele's " The Battle on Buka Street" that has grossed over $1 million so far in 7 weeks.

Both the local and international film distributors failed in the marketing and publicity of "Avatar: The Way of Water" in Nigeria.

General poor marketing and publicity have caused many Nigerian and foreign movies to bomb in Nigeria and not because there are not enough cinemas in the most populous country in Africa.
If "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" can make $2 million in 12 weeks in Nigeria, then "Avatar: The Way of Water" should have made over $1 million by now.

#Avatar
#avatarthewayofwater
#jamescameron
#blackpanther
#blackpantherwakandaforever
#boxoffice
#bomb
#filmdistributors
#movies
#Hollywood
#Nollywood
#cimemas
#film
#nigeria
#marketing
#media
#entertainment
#publicity
#success
#water
#africa
#covid

- By Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima,
Publisher/Editor,
NOLLYWOOD MIRROR® Series

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/michaelchimaeyerengozi_michael-ekenyerengozi-on-instagram-why-activity-7028882950041579520-2rXV?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android

Idris Elba To Build Film Studios in Ghana To Attract Hollywood

Famous British actor and director, Idris Elba recently met with the President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at the Jubilee House, during his visit to Ghana.

During the meeting with the President of Ghana discussed building a film studio in the country. 

He also urged the president to create favorable policies for filmmakers to thrive. 

He noted that he has plans to shoot a movie in Ghana. 

In a video from their meeting that has gone viral on social media, Idris Elba was seen pitching the idea of establishing a film studio in the west African country.

He noted that there is a lot of filmmaking potential that the lack of facilities has stifled. He also spoke about the importance of government policies in boosting the film sector in Africa.

“We’ve studied the models of obviously South Africa’s incredible incentive package, and around Europe, obviously, Greece, Morocco, these are all places where they realize the value of the filmmaking dollar and have brought that policy into play,” he said to the Ghanaian president.

Idris Alba during a meeting with the President of Ghana discussed building a film studio in the country. 

He also urged the president to create favorable policies for filmmakers to thrive. 

He noted that he has plans to shoot a movie in Ghana. 

The blockbuster actor revealed that he has a movie he is currently shooting and would love to shoot some parts of that movie in Ghana. He disclosed that pre-production is set for August, and principal photography would begin in December.

#IdrisElba #Ghana #SouthAfrica #Nigeria #Filmmaking #FilmStudios #filmmakers #movies #actors 

#August #filmindustry

Read more on 

https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/idris-elba-adds-ghana-to-list-of-african-countries-he-wants-to-partner-with/4z27x1x

Netflix Originals Won the Streaming Wars in 2022

Netflix’s "Stranger Things" taking the top slot among all series.

Netflix Originals Won the Streaming Wars in 2022 

#Netflix #streaming #movies #originals #series #viewers #streamingwars

Americans streamed more than 19 million years’ worth of content last year

Streaming services continue to gain momentum as audiences’ favored destination for content, but the past year of viewing behavior illustrates how dramatically content offerings have evolved since Netflix introduced audiences to original programming back in 2013.

Before the debut of House of Cards, the political drama series on Netflix, which was the first TV series to appear exclusively on a streaming service, virtually all other streaming content had been licensed from other sources. Perhaps viewed as an experiment or a risk by some at the time, original content has grown to become a competitive advantage for streaming services, as many original titles attracted viewers to the platforms, and in some cases, they outperformed acquired content.

In total, Americans streamed more than 19.4 million years of content last year, up 27% from about 15 million years in 2021. The increase was driven by the breadth of new and expanded services, coupled by the depth of content—particularly streaming originals. In the years following the arrival of House of Cards, annual viewership reviews would highlight the incredible support that deep libraries of acquired content would provide. That changed in 2022, as viewing minutes for top-performing original content dramatically outpaced top-performing acquired content, with Netflix’s Stranger Things taking the top slot among all series.

Read the full report on 

https://www.nielsen.com/insights/2023/streaming-unwrapped-2022-was-the-year-of-original-content/

Discover Nollywood from the NOLLYWOOD MIRROR® Series on Amazon Books.

Hardcover versions available by special request 

Black History Month 2023

I am keen on organizing the Nigerian premiere of "ALI'S COMEBACK: The Untold Story" to celebrate the Black History Month in Nigeria.

In 1970, Muhammad Ali has been exiled from boxing for his firm stance against the Vietnam War. stripped of his title, convicted of draft evasion. But in Atlanta that all changed. 

A diverse group of individuals came together to make sure the greatest boxer on Earth received a fair fight. 

An ambitious white attorney turned promoter, Atlanta's first Jewish mayor, and a visionary black Senator joined forces to make the impossible possible. 

"Ali's Comeback: The Untold Story" is the epic tale about the return of the greatest athlete of the 20th Century from the shadows of the boxing ring, and onto the world stage. 

Genre: Documentary 

Original Language:English 

Director: Art Jones 

Producer: Mandy Fason, Yahya McClain, Brittany Wyatt 

Release Date (Theaters): Jan 16, 2020 Limited Release Date (Streaming): Dec 1, 2020 Runtime: 1h 19m 

The Black History Month 2023 theme “Black Resistance” explores how “African Americans have resisted historic and ongoing oppression, in all forms, especially the racial terrorism of lynching, racial pogroms and police killings,” since the nation's earliest days.

Black History Month Colors and Their Meanings

Black History Month uses four colors—black, red, green and yellow—to symbolize unity and pride. Each of the four colors has its own distinct meaning and significance.

The colors of Black History Month are also the colors of many African flags which have been derived from the Ethiopian flag as well as the Pan-African flag. Each set has three colors—Ethiopia uses the colors red, yellow and green which are used to represent the rainbow, and the Pan-African flag contains the colors red, black and green.

The Pan-African flag was created in 1920 to represent the unity of African people no matter where they live, and to symbolize Black liberation in the United States. The Ethiopian flag was inspired by the rainbow and is used by several of the other 53 African countries.

color of the luxuriant vegetation of our Motherland."

Black - Represents the resilient people whose existence as a nation is honored and affirmed by the existence of a flag.

Red - Symbolizes the blood of innocent Black lives that has been shed throughout history.

Yellow - Stands for optimism, justice and equality for everyone.

Green - Symbolizes Africa's rich greenery and other natural resources.

Role Playing in Rehearsal for a Crime Drama

Role Playing in Rehearsal for a Crime Drama

Here I am role playing in rehearsal for a dare devil character for a crime drama. 

I used my cellphone to record it yesterday, Wednesday February 2, 2023. 

I am still looking years younger than my age mates after celebrating my Diamond birthday on Monday, January 30.  Psalm 103:5 is my testimony. Almighty God truly renews my youth like the eagle's to fly to higher grounds of greater heights of triumph.

Cheers!

- Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima