Popular comedians like AY Makun, Seyi Law, and MC Lively were among the personalities who attended the dedication ceremony of Atunyota Akpobome, also known as Ali Baba’s triplets.

The event, which took place on Sunday in Lagos, brought together Ali Baba’s friends, family, and professional acquaintances.

The dedication started with a church service at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Christ The Lord Central Parish in Lekki.

The service was followed by a reception at an event centre on Hakeem Dickson Street in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos.

Other guests at the event included Chigul, Bunmi Davis, Ajebo Comedian, and Adebola Williams.

Ali Baba had on April 1 announced that his wife,
Mary was delivered a set of triplets.

Many, however, did not believe the information which they tagged April Fools’ message.

The African Union Commission (AUC) has officially invited the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to take advantage of the hosting rights benefits of the next 2 editions of the prestigious annual All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA.

In a letter bearing reference number HHS/CUL/16/170.23 and signed by the AUC’s Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, Her Excellency, Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, the AU said the call aligns with its policies for the strategic transformation of Africa through social integration, as outlined in AU Agenda 2063, the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance, and the AU Plan for Action on Cultural and Creative Industry.

The AU describes AFRIMA as a global platform for celebrating and developing Africa’s diverse musical talents and cultural heritage, highlighting the significant opportunities hosting the prestigious awards presents for the selected host country

“Since 2014, the African Union has been partnering and working successfully with AFRIMA to develop, celebrate and promote African music globally for the purpose of integration/inclusivity, economic prosperity and world peace via its seven core pillars: (1) Music Awards, (2) Music Festivals; (3) AFRIMA creative Academy; (4) Talent Discovery and Promotions; (5) Music Business Hub; (6) Advocacy; (7) Advisory and Policy Debates,” the letter reads.

“AFRIMA is the biggest and longest-running music award and platform in Africa, with a huge global appeal, diaspora audience, and youthful fans. The main event events of AFRIMA are usually broadcast live to over 84 countries around the world after a continental and global roadshow, with thousands of music artists, actors, celebrities, members of the diplomatic corps, professionals in the creative space, tourists, media and fans from all over the world converging on the host country.”

A letter received by the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa,  on behalf of the Nigerian government, a copy of which was seen by our correspondent, reads, “Nigeria, as a beacon in African music with huge young population, should it accept to host AFRIMA, stands a promising chance in elevating the country’s positive global presence, bolstering artistic, tourism and economic growth, fostering cultural exchange and job creation, and reinforcing a positive perception of our continent’s rich cultural heritage on a global scale.”

The successful last edition of AFRIMA was hosted and partnered by the government of the Republic of Senegal in the city of Dakar. The hosting rights of AFRIMA are usually bestowed on a country that shows capacity and commitment to meet up with the requirement and conditions.

The Acting Director for Social Development, Culture, and Sports Division, African Union Commission, Ms. Angela Martins confirmed the invitation and request to bid for the hosting rights extended to the two countries.

She said that AFRIMA provides a unique opportunity for the host country to showcase its rich cultural heritage, develop her music sector, promote tourism, and stimulate economic growth.

“This call to action comes as part of the AU’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange, unity, and economic development across the African continent. We urge the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to seize this opportunity to strengthen intra-African collaboration (in line with AFCTA) within the music industry and enhance their international visibility positively.

“AFRIMA serves as a premier platform for African artists in Africa and diaspora to showcase their talent, gain international exposure, and connect with audiences worldwide,” she said.

She added that as the bidding process is itching towards its deadline, the African Union remains committed to providing support and guidance to ensure a successful hosting of AFRIMA.

She also reiterated the AUC’s readiness to work closely with the selected host country to maximize the impact of the event on the African music industry, tourism, general economy growth, and socio-cultural landscape.

How does one describe Uncle Pete Edochie?

He is an Actor’s Actor

He is a Cultural Ambassador

On Thursday, we had an early evening date, before the date, I had a very bad day and I almost cancelled. Even though I really wasn’t in the mood to see anyone, I felt that it would be rude to cancel on him, so I set out for his Enugu home.

It was easy locating his beautiful house and I was ushered into his private living room upstairs where he was busy watching EPL reviews. I was pleasantly surprised to find that Uncle Pete is a Man U supporter by the way, and he shared with me that this started during his training in the UK.

My appointment with Uncle Pete was for 30 minutes, but the 77 year old man lectured us on the importance of friendships. He spoke almost with tears in his eyes on his friendship with Uncle Olu Jacobs and the good times they shared, including how Uncle Olu met Aunty Joke. He spoke about the wonderful acting skills of Uncle Bimbo Manuel and his love for Genevieve Nnaji, Omotola Jalade, and Stella Damasus

As he grows Uncle Pete is pained with the way our society is today especially the LGBTQ trend and the way youths no longer favour hard work.

He further expressed that he is upset with bloggers and he wonders why they twist his words all the time.

I say thank you to my Uncle Pete for adding to the knowledge in my upcoming documentary on Nollywood. I thank him for praying for the success of BON 2024, and also for speaking so passionately from his heart in the interview which will be on my YouTube Channel next week. I thank him for the gift too.

Seun Oloketuyi

Chairman, Advisory Board BON Awards,

Producer, ‘This is Nollywood’ Documentary.