The Accelerate Filmmaker Project is an initiative of Accelerate TV, powered by Access Bank, created to train, empower and give a platform to young enthusiastic filmmakers between the ages of 18 -29 to actualize their filmmaking dreams.

The 2023 edition of the AFP training week incorporates a host of well-known industry professionals and heavyweights who work both in front and behind the scenes, including Judith Audu, Joke Silva, Theo Ukpaa, Kenneth Gyang, Chris Odeh, Xavier Oghorodje, Tolu Ajayi, Tunji Afolanya, Steve Sodiya, Dianne Russet, and more to ensure the trainees get a well-rounded understanding of the filmmaking ecosystem.

Ukpaa had an incisive two hours session at the Accelerate TV conference classes in Victoria Island, his teachings to the young filmmakers was focused on how you can apply creative and intelligence means to making an excellent film designed to sweep awards in film festivals all over the world.

“I haven’t met a filmmaker yet who doesn’t want to make a festival worthy film. But the process of finding and selecting an appropriate film festival is time-consuming and expensive. Getting your film accepted by an international film festival can be fun – and can really help with the distribution of your film. Acceptance to the right kind of festival can stamp ‘quality independent film’ all over your film and your independent film career” Theo Emphasized.




The AFRIFF COO also went on to narrate that a film festival is an organized, extended presentation of films in one or more cinemas or screening venues, usually in a single city or region. Increasingly, film festivals show some films outdoors. Films may be of recent date and, depending upon the festival’s focus, can include international and domestic releases.

The first Film Festival was in Venice in 1938. Today there are over 500 major international film festivals, and thousands of local, niche, and intermittent ones.

Commenting on the return of the Accelerate Film Maker Project, Head of Accelerate, Colette Otusheso commented: “We are excited to be bringing back the instalment of our award-winning capacity building and mentoring project, The Accelerate Filmmaker Project in partnership with Access Bank and AFRIFF. This year we will be training and empowering more young people and throwing in some big surprises along the way. The AFP is all about training and empowering young people while giving them the skills, tools, access and a stepping stone to realise their dreams and bring their stories to life.”

Ukpaa has just returned from the Cannes International film festival in far away France, in time for the Accelerate classes. When asked about plans for AFRIFF this year, he mentioned that Africa is yet to experience the greatest film gathering yet at this year’s festival. “So many interesting programs lined up and so many new international partners are coming on board but we are not ready to let the cat out of the bag yet; announcements will be made soon” … Theo says.

The Africa International Film Festival – AFRIFF is Africa’s most vibrant film festival experience. AFRIFF consistently delivers an energetic and exciting hub of reel people making reel connections and has gradually built a reputation for delivering real value. The festival this year will hold from 5-11 November 2023. Ukpaa closed announcing that some of the best students from the Accelerate Filmmaker project AFP will have their films screen at AFRIFF this year. A great achievement for the budding students and the project.

Theo Ukpaa has been consistent with mentoring young entrepreneurs from all walks of life with the purpose of raising the next generation of young leaders who will shape a better African continent.

The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment held a retreat and workshop to unveil its new strategy that supports the mobilization of direct investment at all levels to be implemented by Federal and State Governments’, and their ministries, departments, and agencies. The new Federal-State Investment Strategy (FSIPS), which has been designed and developed over the last three years, was authored by renowned global Investment strategy expert, Dr Nicky Okoye, and it forms an integral part of his work on “National Investment Strategy” which has been implemented by several African Countries and sub-national authorities. The Federal Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment had used the last three years to subject the new Federal-State Investment Promotion Strategy to the scrutiny of stakeholders and it has received widespread acceptability. It is pertinent to note that the new Federal-State Investment Promotion Strategy was equally presented, evaluated and scrutinized by the National Council on Investment, which is Nigeria’s highest investment body, comprising of the leadership and institutional membership of all the Investment promotion ministries, departments and agencies at the Federal as well as from all the State Government in Nigeria.

In the opening remarks by Hon Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, which was delivered at the retreat by Mr. Ishaya Abednego, the Deputy Director of Investment Promotion Department in the Ministry, the Hon Minister expressed a deep commitment towards Investment Promotion in Nigeria especially for Federal departments, Federal agencies, specific industries, and for State and local communities. The Hon Minster went further to indicate that the drive by the Ministry to expand its collaboration with stakeholders for repositioning Nigeria’s direct investment landscape is yielding positive results especially as is evident by its current collaboration with the African Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Institute, and its founder Dr Nicky Okoye its founder in authoring and developing the new Federal State Investment Promotion Strategy.

The unique import from the collaborative efforts to unveil the Federal-State Investment Promotion Strategy at the Retreat, is that the African Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Institute has been directed to provide all Federal and State Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies with the roadmap, the strategic framework, implementation matrix and direct investment guide for effective rollout of the new strategy for the benefit of national and state based industry, small businesses and entrepreneurial development. State Investment Promotion Agencies were particularly encouraged to take advantage of the Investment Promotion Agency Support structures embedded into the new strategy.

The founder and President of the African Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Institute, Dr Nicky Okoye, had this to say at the Federal-State Investment Promotion Strategy Retreat:

“We are excited that the Federal Government of Nigeria and the National Council on Investment has adopted the Federal-State Investment Promotion Strategy as a pathway to harmonize and integrate the various Federal and State Government Investment policies, as well as provide for the first time, unique collaborative roles for accredited private sector professionals at the global and local levels. The new Federal- State Investment Promotion Strategy has particularly repositioned direct investment for the small business community at the community, state and federal levels, and it provides a unique pathway for extensive sustainable investment returns by integrating market access and consumer demand, to business opportunities, built on targeted industrial ecosystem segments. The most appealing part of the new strategy is its ability to stimulate new job creation in specific targeted industrial segments which have been recorded to experience growing global consumer demand especially as it relates to a post Covid-19 environment.”


After the retreat stakeholders and delegates who attended from the different States, different Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies expressed satisfaction that the sustained implementation of the new Federal -State Investment Promotion Strategy will completely redefine investment aggregation in Nigeria’s industrial landscape going forward.

About the stakeholders
The Federal-State Investment Promotion Strategy is an initiative of the Investment Promotion Department of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment developed in collaboration with State Investment Promotion Agencies, the National Council on Investment, and stakeholders in the investment promotion industry. The African Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Institute is a body corporate registered in Nigeria with strong affiliation to the African Enterprise Institute of Washington DC USA, off which they collaboratively focus on the development of enterprises through expanding Enterprise access to investment capital, access to markets and access to strategic resources. Dr Nicky Okoye is the author of Nigeria’s newly launched Federal and State Government integrated Investment Promotion strategy, which has been designed to mobilize direct investment for strategic industries, small businesses, and strategic industrial sectors on a sustainable basis, from local and foreign direct investors. Dr Nicky Okoye is a serial entrepreneur and Co-founder of Transcorp Plc, having served as Transcorp Plc’s first Executive and its first Group Executive Director for group operations. He led Transcorp Plc’s early-stage fund-raising efforts, which successfully raised over one billion US dollars ($1,000,000,000.00) in its first twelve months of operations. Dr Nicky Okoye has also served as the Chief Strategy Officer of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (now Nigerian Exchange). Dr Okoye has advised and consulted for, in a strategic capacity, the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board, the Central Securities Clearing System and a host of other Corporate Institutions. As Founder and Chief Executive of ANABEL Group, Dr Nicky Okoye founded Africa’s first designed and manufactured Mobile device, the ANABEL Mobile, and he currently manages ANABEL Cares, which is the Anabel group’s global healthcare community network specializing in the training and accreditation of healthcare professionals for global assignments. Dr Okoye is a former global investment adviser and financial consultant with Merrill Lynch (now Bank of America Merrill Lynch), United States of America.

Society Elite Oludare Lawanson son of the late chief Olu Lawanson continues to evolve on his humanitarian movement in honor of his beloved Father.

In a recent statement, he said he started feeding people of Agboyi-Ketu every 10th-11th of December to mark as a remembrance of his father Chief Olu Lawanson,he said he chose 10th-11th because his Father's birthday is on the 12th of December.

He started this philanthropic movement in 2021 and he fed over 5000 people,he called this movement COLD which stands for Chief Olu Lawanson day.

A bonafide son of the soil, from the Lawanson Aborishade ruling house in Lawanson Surulere Lagos state.

In 2022, this good act of charity evolved when he founded Chief Olu Lawanson Foundation.
To mark this growth, the foundation hosted a football competition alongside the food drive of feeding 5000 people in Agboyi-Ketu

The football competition is a reoccurring one that is called Agboyi-Ketu Unity cup.
The purpose of the competition is to bring the youth of Agboyi ketu together because a whole lot of killings was going on in the community at the time.Mr Oludare is indeed man of the people who live for the people, not only does he say it,he show it in his selfless contributions to his community even after his father's demise.

In the football competition, cash prizes are given to the winners.

This year 2023,the foundation also launched its water project themed Clean water for the people of Agboyi-Ketu. The aim of this project is to create a number of water borehole facilities in strategic areas of the community to solve the serious scarcity of clean water, this made it easy for residents to have easy access to water.

The foundation is on the water project now till December when it will host the Agboyi-Ketu Unity cup and the food Drive again.Useful items like clothes, shoes, food ingredients, toys for kids and various basic needs will be given out to everyone in the community.

Regardless of his father status in the society ,Mr Oludare Lawanson has amassed so much for himself.He is a business man and a politician.He holds a first class bachelors degree in Information technology (IT) from Lovely Professional University (LPU) India. He holds a masters degree in Information Technology Network Security from Conestoga University in Ontario Canada. He is on the board of directors of A.O Lawanson Nigeria LTD and Bridget Platinum Insurance brokers,and Co-founded Barbeque and Booze Lounge. But his never-forgetting creation would continue to be the Chief Olu Lawanson Foundation and his philanthropic devotion toward humanity.

Media Executive and AFRIFF COO, Theo Ukpaa delivered a very insightful lecture during his masterclass at the Oslo Urban film conference in Norway. He gave a detailed breakdown on the growth of the Nigeria film industry popularly known as Nollywood. Nollywood ranks second in the world after Hollywood with a financial value of over $6.4 billion, making it one of the fastest-growing movie industries in the world and one of the biggest employers of labour in the country. Ukpaa felt a need to enlighten the global film front about the Nigeria film industry while emphasizing that with Federal Government support, Nollywood has potentials financially to surpass Hollywood and Bollywood out together.

“To put the financial impact of Nollywood on the socioeconomic landscape in proper perspective, we must consider the known fact that the Nigerian movie industry is currently ranked the second largest film industry globally with the financial value of the film industry put at over $6.4 billion as of 2021” Ukpaa narrates.


The Oslo Urban film conference Norway in is organised by independent filmmakers and attracted speakers and facilitators from all over Europe, USA and Asia. At the event which also saw players and stakeholders in the industry from all over the world being rewarded with awards of various categories, the AFRIFF COO said the impacts of Nollywood in the Nigerian economy, if well sustained would open doors of prosperity to the country and beyond.

Ukpaa said “since the breakthrough by pioneers of the industry in the 60s and early 90s, “Nollywood has become a thriving space that not only provides an avenue for entertainment but also generates significant revenue for Nigeria’s economy”

“Furthermore, the job-creating potential inherent in the industry cannot be overstated as the industry currently employs over ten million people, making it one of Nigeria’s largest employers. Its capacity to employ a large number of people has been applauded by the World Bank, who acknowledged the job creation potentials of Nollywood,” he added.

There is no surprise regarding the high registration and turn out Ukpaa’s Masterclass following the success of his Masterclasses all around the globe, incorporating his many film lectures at various international universities. Mr. Ukpaa has spread his teaching to institutions in Europe, America and African continent. The Global film development Masterclass integrated Filmmakers technical and conceptual understanding of filmmaking with the practical dimensions of managing career in the Global film industry. Young filmmakers were enlightened about the great influx of streaming platforms like Netflix and Prime video and the current industry business models and development plans to advance their careers in filmmaking on a global stage.

According to Theo “Often times people focus merely on the show and glamor as well as the razzmatazz that comes with filmmaking, and end up dying broke. A strong national economy depends on a strong creative economy—and it all starts with a story. The film and television industry supports 2.4 million jobs, pays out $186 billion in total wages, and comprises over 122,000 businesses. As a Filmmaker, one of the best moments is directing real stories of real individuals, getting them to the big screens and smiling to the Bank”. He believes that passion can burn out when expenditure and hard work does not produce financial returns. These are part of the important basics he taught at his Masterclass at the coal city film Festival.

Young filmmakers were also thought how to pitch their film project, how best to approach investors, how to access international grants, how to approach film distribution the perfect way and how to stay relevant in the film industry while maximizing profit.

Theo Ukpaa is an African filmmaker, playwright, and entrepreneur. He was listed as top 10 most promising new directors by Africa Kulture Magazine in 2020.

Ukpaa is a certified project management professional offering a Master’s in Business Administration degree from the prestigious Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California plus a Diploma in Contract Law from the esteemed Harvard University. A Native Nigerian with a passion to empower young art and culture creatives through teaching and Masterclasses at various free empowerment across Africa.

He also touched on the importance of a production treaty between Nigeria and the neighboring African countries to ease free flow of cultural exchange and breaking language barrier while leaching on great treaty benefits. The importance of Government tax incentives was also emphasized.

It was imperative to note that the Nigeria film industry contributes largely to the nations GDP and deserves a lot of support from the government as it relates to growth and sustainability in the creative sector of the country.

Theo has multiple speaking engagement lined up all year at various institutions including the Willshire Film festival in London, Sabia film festival in Monaco, the Francoise film festival in Paris, France and the United States of America

The 2023 Lawanson day in Surulere Lagos Nigeria was a day for celebrating the over 400 years old heritage and culture in Lawanson, Surulere Lagos. It took place at the Obele Kolade Lawanson on the 29th of April, 2023.

The event hosted by Hon. Gbolahan Lawanson, Oludare Lawanson, Baale-elect of the Obele Kolade Lawanson, Ajibola lawanson had the great people of lawanson community prepared joyfully for the day that you could see the joy and happiness radiating around the people.

Hon. Gbolahan Lawanson and Oludare Lawanson are the two prominent sons of late Chief AO Lawanson, while Ajibola Lawanson the Baale-elect is Chief AO Lawanson first grandson.

The excitement was incomparable as people trooped in bantering on the activities of the day, some looked forward to enriching their tastebud with the delicacies that would be available to the satisfaction of their stomach while others looked forward to seeing their loved ones perform, most just wanted to enjoy the show. It was never a boring moment during the Lawanson day which is filled with love of the land and their cultural heritage which had all the tribal heals of the different ethnic groups in attendance.

As the day unfolded, drums were organized, tent were raised up to accommodate the guests, tables were labelled to acknowledge the presence of heritage leaders and guest from home and abroad, people began to fill spaces hoping not to take last so that they can see all the glorious activities and maybe possibly be a part of history as the event unfolds.

Lawanson day is a well known cultural day far and beyond. The people looked forward to it every year. According to Hon. Gbolahan Lawanson, it was a day they celebrate their forefathers and their ancient history.

" Lawanson day is a day that cannot be forgotten in a hurry around here and even abroad, the day in essence is a day we celebrate Lawanson forefathers and their ancient history, and we do this to remind us of our heritage" Hon Gbolahan Lawanson explained.

The day activity started with the Master of ceremony welcoming everyone to the joyous gathering and acknowledging the heritage leaders and the chiefs including the special guests of honor from home and abroad who came from different parts of the world to celebrate with the Lawansons.

According to patron of the day, Mr. Fola Tinubu who is also a very top APC dignitary, he admitted that Lawanson Day can never be forgotten as it has always been like that since the days of the forefathers.

"Lawanson day, our heritage, our pride, may we never forget our forefathers who started and made this community what it is today, the people prayed and made special panegyric of the land and their forefathers, and you can not but notice the excitement on their faces".

On that day, one could see the youths of the land in groups representing the community and performing the native songs whilst dancing to the rhythm in whites, other group in African print, another group in the hausa, Ibo and yoruba traditional wear and other attires strangers among them have not seen before. It was indeed a sight to behold and a day to remember.

A special African print was worn by hundreds of guest present which everyone sewed in different style, not to talk of the children, our leaders of tomorrow who came out in colors, one could see the children in group of blue, yellow, green, red, pink. Behold! The joy in their faces, your heart would melt just seeing them.

Never forgetting the traditional masquerades in glorious attire of red, green, and blue danced to their heart content as each household representative were panegyrizing them.it was a merry moment for everyone.


The event took to a joyous stage when everyone had to rally the community, some on horses, some in colorful cars, most walking with satisfaction and fulfillment on their faces. There was so much to eat and drink just like most have foreseen, some people even packed food home. There was enough to go round.

..............

...........Promises To Join Hands In Recreating A New Abia!


On behalf of my family, friends and associates, I Chief Lawrence Charles Nwangwa (Akajiugo), heartily congratulate our amiable Governor-Elect, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti OFR (Ugwu Abia) on his landslide victory in the just concluded Governorship election in Abia State.

Your Excellency sir, you deserve our commendation for leading successfully the liberation battle of our dear State since 2015 when you first presented yourself to Ndi Abia.

I, therefore join other well-meaning Abians to salute your doggedness, consistency and dexterity which today have translated to victory.

Having worked and supported you, I am not unaware of your lofty programs and development agenda as encapsulated in your people-oriented manifesto which I am confident you will implement to among other gains change the negative trajectory of the God's Own State and also create economic prosperity for our people.

I have no iota of doubt that with Your Excellency on the driving seat, Abia shall witness massive infrastural development, regular payment of workers salaries, socio-econmic revolution and overall good governance.

May I humbly suggest a STATE OF EMERGENCY and STRICT AUSTERITY-MEASURE be put in place to stem the tide of drift to abyss as Abia was positioned by the immediate passing administration.

Let me, therefore, assure that I am willing to join hands with you in any form you desire in recreating a New Abia of our collective dream and aspiration. As you may have known, I recently built an industry to make impact, created jobs for our people and make statement to our brothers in Dispora that Abia is safe for investment. I am willing and eager to do more towards contributing to your success in all sectors.

Congrstutions once again, Your Excellency!

Signed:

Chief Lawrence Charles Nwangwa (AKAJIUGO)

An industrialist, MD/CEO RUFTECH ALUMINIUM INDUSTRIES LTD.

For Canada-based filmmaker Pascal Atuma, Abia State is in dire need of a turnaround and the hope of millions of indigenes have been placed in Governor-elect Alex Otti.

We know the challenges you will face because you are starting from ground zero, unlike the other new governors with something from their predecessors to build on,” said the film producer in an open letter to Otti shared on his Instagram page.

“We will be very patient with you, but at the same time, we expect your best efforts and nothing but the best.”

Highlighting areas of concentration to the recently elected Labour Party candidate, Anuma points to the need for more infrastructure, youth development, schools, roads, industries, and trained employees.

Echoing a vacuum identified by Otti himself, the artist laments the hunger suffered by pensioners, the burden of “more loans” being serviced, and a lack of security of lives and property.

Atuma dreams of an Abia that supersedes the Samuel Mbakwe years, when the beloved governor of Second Republic Imo State was at the helm.

He reminds Otti that the campaign season is ended: “You are the leader now that the election is over and the people chose you. So please lead Abia State to greater heights than Governor Sam Onunaka Mbakwe did when we were all in old Imo State.

“You have what it takes, and we are confident you will do exceptionally well behind all odds and challenges.”

The filmmaker also urges Otti to prioritise the youths, carrying them along every step of the way, and creating educative and innovative programmes for them that will prepare them to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

One of the greatest tools to film development in Africa is continuous learning by film practitioners through film schools, Online Tutorials and Masterclasses Facilitated by film professionals.

The Masterclasses at the Coal City Film Festival this year is facilitated by Veteran filmmaker, Izu Ojukwu, Producer of shanty town on Netflix Chichi Nwoko and Award-winning Filmmaker and Media Executive Theo Ukpaa from 11-15 April 2023.

There has been a lot of expectation from the masterclasses especially the BUSINNESS OF FILM Masterclass facilitated by AFRIFF Chief Operations Officer, Theo Ukpaa. There is no surprise regarding the high expectations for his Masterclass following the success of his Masterclasses all around the globe, incorporating his many film lectures at various international universities. Mr. Ukpaa has spread his teaching to institutions in Europe, America and African continent. The Business of Film Masterclass integrates a Filmmakers technical and conceptual understanding of filmmaking with the practical dimensions of a managing career in the film industry. Students will examine current industry business models and develop plans to advance their careers in filmmaking.

According to Theo “Often times people focus merely on the show and glamor as well as the razzmatazz that comes with filmmaking, and end up dying broke. A strong national economy depends on a strong creative economy—and it all starts with a story. The film and television industry supports 2.4 million jobs, pays out $186 billion in total wages, and comprises over 122,000 businesses. As a Filmmaker, one of the best moments is directing real stories of real individuals, getting them to the big screens and smiling to the Bank”. He believes that passion can burn out when expenditure and hard work does not produce financial returns. These are part of the important basics he wants to teach at his Masterclass at the coal city film Festival.

Theo Ukpaa is an African filmmaker, playwright, and entrepreneur. His First Feature film, ‘Lagos Landing’ (2018), in partnership with Alliance Françoise travelled to Film Festival around the globe and won prestigious Awards. Lagos Landing is a story about an uptight French woman who joins a dating site and connects with rich, young lawyer in Africa and ends up victim of a mistaken identity. Lagos Landing was acquired by Prime video, Tubi and Showmax. Theo Ukpaa was listed as top 10 most promising new directors by Africa Kulture Magazine in 2020.

Founder/CEO of Tiger Republic Studios, a fully consolidated studio that specializes in the production of TV Commercials for corporate advertising Agencies in Nigeria, producing and directing Live Shows including, Music Concerts, Comedy shows, Fashion shows, Awards and Festivals in Nigeria, Ghana and Congo. In the past 3 years Ukpaa has produced Various Original feature films for Showmax and Africa magic Channels, including ‘Third Party’, ‘Haywire’, ‘The Hunter’, ‘Lovers Nest’ and ‘Oak Island’.

Over the years, Ukpaa has helped in corporate TV Chanel start-up and development including Soundcity/SpiceTV (Africa’s biggest music/Fashion chanel) and Trace Naija, (a French pay-TV music video television channel owned by TPG CapitaI). In 2021,

Theo Ukpaa was announced Chief Operations Officer for Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF); Africa’s Hallmark film festival in its 11th year running. AFRIFF was founded by Africa’s leading entertainment Mogul, Chioma ude. In 2022 AFRIFF hosted the African Premiere of Marvel Studios Blockbuster ‘Wakanda Forever’ in partnership with Disney Studios and Filmone Entertainment; it was themed the biggest film premiere in the history of Africa.

Ukpaa is a certified project management professional offering a Master’s in Business Administration degree from the prestigious Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California plus a Diploma in Contract Law from the esteemed Harvard University. A Native Nigerian with a passion to empower young art and culture creatives through teaching and Masterclasses at various free empowerment across Africa.

In a recent BBC interview Theo says “Filmmaking is also a very risky investment, since most movies, even those small, intimate dramas, take several million dollars to make. Still, it's definitely a hugely profitable business—if you hit the jackpot aka the target audience, in this Masterclass I will share my wealth of knowledge on building great film business, accessing grants, networking with great film studios and distributors plus Maximising profit in Film”.

Coal City Film Festival celebrates the originality of African and world cinematic expressions in the city that arguably gave birth to the Nigeria Film Industry otherwise known as Nollywood. Enugu State, Nigeria.

A Philanthropist, Mr Tunde Olaogun, has distributed General Certificate Education (GCE) forms to no fewer than 50 indigent students of his constituency in Ogbomosho, Oyo state.
Olaogun, said this at the official distribution of the WAEC GCE registration PIN to beneficiaries that investment in education was necessary to transform Nigeria.

The philanthropist promised that the number of beneficiaries would increase to 200 by next exams.

Olaogun, a grassroot politician, Philanthropist and owner of Royalty Lounge & Suites, Ikeja said that the gesture was in line with progressive programme on education for youths.

We have done this in the past without any publicity knowing fully well that our youth needs this encouragement to take education seriously.
“But we later discovered that some of them did not have complete O’ level results and some students also approached me, and said that they needed GCE forms.

So, I felt that this was a way to let the youth grow. With this, they would be able to help their parents when they eventually graduate.



“The knowledge that we acquired is what is helping us today. So we will continue to do more to impact on the youth.

In response to this kind gesture, the principal of the secondary school where this forms were distributed appreciate the philanthropist in an official letter here attached.

watch out the space

Bad Boy Timz, SB Live, Klever Jay, Ijoba Na Danku, Danny’s and five others are set for Sinatra’s Place’s second instalment of ‘A Night Under The Sky’, scheduled to hold on Sunday, October 2.
Following an explosive maiden edition with Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, Mr Money in July, the second edition with a lineup of 10 talents, including DJ C-Boi promises to be bigger and better.
‘A Night Under The Sky’ is a series created by Sinatra for fun lovers and party people who love to dance and vibe to good music away from the confines of enclosed walls.
Held in the open-air Sinatra garden, the event, which traditionally starts at 6 PM in the evening spills into the early hours of the following day.
With the skies getting clearer and the rainy season fading, the series is back with a 2.0 edition that is bigger and better.
Also, while the headline liquor brands for the 1.0 edition were Jägermeister and Glenfiddich, this edition promises to have even more especially with the lineup of artistes billed for the event.
In the past, Sinatra’s Place, located in the heart of Adeniyi Jones on Ladipo Oluwole has been a hub for lovers of good music, quality entertainment and relaxing ambience. Stars like K1, Pasuma, Peruzzi, Bella Shmurda and many others have graced Sinatra’s stage and its adjoining club, Carica.

The Eleko Beach stretching over 5km was cleaned on the 17th of September 2022 by Volunteers from HighGarden Private Beach Club to celebrate the world Cleanup day.

World Cleanup Day is an annual global social action program aimed at combating the global solid waste problem, including the problem of marine debris. It is coordinated by the global organization Let’s Do It! World.



According to the MD of Highgarden Mr Wale Ewedemi “Environmental cleanliness and awareness is key to our values as a lifestyle brand, so we use the world Cleanup day to indoctrinate our customers and friends into one of our core lifestyle values”



The event that started at 9am rounded up about noon. Plastics and debri Collected were separated and marked for pickup.



The HighGarden Private Beach Club in Eleko boast of the first Glamping site in Nigeria.

@highgardenprivatebeach

Starting a new business is somewhat like a York, but gradually, the idea begins to metamorphose into reality and the idea begins to pay off with consistency and perseverance. The reality of such a business is when it grows in capacity and strength, and also begins to impact people’s life positively. Hence, a successful business can ensure that it offers exceptional services.
When the late business tycoon, Captain Hosa Okunbo started the Ocean Marine Solution Ltd, he never saw the dream to be big as what it has achieved now. Although the idea came to him as a result of starting a company to foster a new approach in the marine and petroleum sector in Nigeria, he built the company, Ocean Marine Solution Ltd, (OMSL) as a strategic organization operating the marine industry to provide solutions to high-risks security personnel in Nigerian waters
Ever since the deceased established the company, the company has made a lot of tremendous successes in achieving the vision and mission of the founder, by producing more vessels and human capacity to keep providing solutions. Late Captain Hosa Okunbo believed so dearly in his dream. He worked hard to give the company the strength it has today, by employing competent men and women who believed in putting their professionalism to the job. Businesses are nurtured when experts put their tenacity, grit, and commitment to work. It is this act of dedication that makes the OMSL become what it is today.
Just like the popular soft drink, Coca-Cola, when the company started, in its first year, it sold just an ordinary 12 bottles, but now the soft-drink company is one of the most widely sold drinks in the world. It is the power of consistency. It is this consistency that OMSL has experienced since the idea was birthed by the late businessman. The late Captain Hosa Okunbo was an industrialist, a doer, and a dream chaser because he was dedicated to his dream; especially to seeing all his businesses flourish.
Establishing a business doesn’t come easy; it comes with frustration, doubt, imposter syndrome, and fear. But when late Captain Hosa Okunbo was starting OMSL, he knew it would work, because he saw a problem and he proffered a solution. Any business that solves a problem stands to outlive the owner and do better than when the owner has gone. Truly, since the demise of the OMSL owner, the company has been successfully achieving a new paradigm in providing top-notch services to the marine sector.
In 2019, before the shocking death of Captain, His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III the Olu of Warri then Prince (Omoba) Tsola Emiko was appointed as the acting chairman because of his entrepreneur prowess by the late founder, Captain Hosa Okunbo, and since the intelligent monarch took over the leadership of the company, he has enviably brought the company to giant strides that even the founder found His imperial majesty worthy to become Chairman of Ocean Marine Solution Ltd.
Having a business is fine but when the business doesn’t have good management or leadership, it makes the business struggle for survival. With the intelligent gusto of the eminent monarch, the OMSL has grown at an exponential rate, compared to when the founder was alive. His emergence as the chairman has given the company and new perspective and the member of staff are excited to have him as the new chairman because of his candour to humanity, and subtle and yet acerbic move to implement new policy within the company.
OMSL is one of the most reputed companies in Nigeria that deal with marine security. And ever since it was established, the company has been consistently improving security in the maritime industry, with the help of cutting-edge technology to make Nigerian lagoons and creeks secure for the exploration of crude oil. Thus, when the late Captain Hosa Okunbo was alive, he was sincerely committed to this idea because he strongly believed it. He dreamt big and his doggedness gave him the courage that the business will keep serving its purpose. Indeed, it is serving a greater and more promising in the hands of the new chairman, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, Olu of Warri, who is using his vibrant mind and his youthful energy to drive the business forward. However, businesses like Ocean Marine Solution Limited, OMSL survive when they have respected and hardworking chairman.
May OMSL continue to flourish under the leadership of our royal father, His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III

Ikeja, Mainland fun seekers are in for another fun-filled and enjoyable weekend as top one-stop spot where fun-seekers rev up their nightlife, Sinatra, is set to bring Nigerian current king of the air waves , Asake to entertain their numerous customers on Sunday 10th of July.
The show tagged 'A Night Under The Sky with Asake' and it's slated to come up on Sunday, 10th of July at the Sintra Place, 16B, Ladipo Oluwole Street, off adeniyi jones ,Opposite Chelsea House, Ikeja, Lagos. It promises to be one in a live time show as many musicians and entertainers like Grandmaster, Klever Jay, Steven Adeoye (alli go yo sch), DJ C-Boss and many others would be in attendance.
According to the General Manager of the hospitality outfit, Tunji Lawal, they have decided to bring one of Nigeria’s most talented entertainers, Asake, fondly called Mr Money by his numerous admirers to thrill their customer during the 'Ileya Festival' period in a proper concert format.
We decided on a concert to give the opportunity to every member of sinatra community and lovers to enjoy the rave of the moment and its also a platform for new musicians making waves to sell themselves to the world.
"For sometime now, Asake has been thrilling people with is numerous song on the airwaves and we decided to bring him for our patrons to enjoy and we can say with confidence that your security is guaranteed with fully guaranteed. You can come and enjoy yourself with your families with us on Sunday from 6pm till the next day. Sinatra remains the choice, and our previous events have continued to be memorable to our patrons," Lawal said.

Gbolahan Lawanson is one of the Sons of Prominent Business Mogul Chief AO l Lawanson.. Who died sometime in 1998. Apparently since the death of the Patriach their brother Ladi Lawanson, who became a commissioner under former Governor Ambode, had been stripping the family off its assets and selling at discount prices

Most of the family members did not realize what Ladi Lawanson was doing till his exposure by his younger brothers, Gbolahan Lawanson.

In his attempts to cover up the monumental stealing and in turn destroying the legacy their hard working father left behind, Ladi apparently acquired the services of AIG ADELEKE as an accomplice to achieve his selfish aims.

Seeing Gbolahan as the arrowhead to the opposition against his continuous looting he decided on a plan to arrange false petitions against him, so that the AIG ADELEKE can use to cage him while they both use their power to loot the family wealth dry.

We gathered reliably that recently at a family meeting chaired by their elder sister, Gbolahan Lawanson exposed the monumental stealing by Ladi that runs into over a billion naira. The entire family was shocked at the revelation. When the elder sister looked into the stripped assets, and this led to Ladi’s desperation to get rid of anyone blocking his way.

“At a Family meeting held on the 23rd of January 2022, by siblings, post their Mother’s Funeral rites of January 21st, 2022, Gbolahan Lawanson was asked to render financial and other accounts of the family assets being managed directly by him. Which he duly gave accounts as advised and handed the assets in his possession to their elder Sister. Right there and then he noted that as part of the family assets, over three (3) acres of vast land worth the sum of N650million, company shares in various blue chip companies in their Late Father’s name, worth the sum of N250 million, the sum of N100 million lease rentals resulting from the lease of the family’s petrol station to Total Nigeria and the sum of N20 Million lease rentals resulting from the lease of the roof-top to the family’s property situated at No. 8 Lawanson Road, Lawanson, Surulere, Lagos, to Globacom Limited for construction of their communications mast, are all unaccounted for and were directly handled by Ladi Lawanson (Ladi). It was also indicated that Ladi should be asked to render accounts for these assets. From the day he (Ladi) was instructed to render the stated accounts, Ladi vowed to deal decisively with Gbolahanand use all the power he has and connection to get rid of him. He boasted that he has ‘friends’ in the police force and that he was going to have Gbolahan locked up and gotten rid of “ the source hinted.

A Family source who would like to be anonymous, claims that Ladi and Gbolahan became bitter enemies when Ladi tried to evict their late brothers Wife from their brothers home two months after the death of their elder brother Rotimi. This action infuriated Gbolahan who vehemently opposed Ladi’s action. It got so bad that when Gbolahan was contesting an election last year, his brother Ladi, was his fierce opponent. Who went as far as to team up with the opposing camp to fight against him.

These and other expose was what led to Gbolahan’s manhandling and illegal arrest by the AIG Adeleke, whom we gathered Ladi had used for his hatchet job to deal with Gbolahan as he had earlier boasted.

“We gathered that on the 24th of May, 2022, Gbolahan was invited to visit the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police (A.I.G) Adeyinka Adeleke, on the pretext that the A.I.G. wanted to mediate between the two brothers (Ladi Lawanson & Gbolahan). The opposite was the case as we learnt that upon his arrival to the A.I.G’s office in courteous compliance with the received invitation, he was confronted with over eight ( people, with some of them being unknown to him, brandishing petitions against him. The petitions had never been served prior to the invitation. These people included representatives of Globacom Limited, Vixen Enterprises and a lawyer representing Mr Akin Lawanson.
Akin Lawanson is late chief lawanson’s brother, who also has a questionable character with pending court cases of forgery of documents. These people were all present at the A.I.G.’s office, alleging that Gbolahan threatened their lives, all of this as a game plan of Ladi.
Without listening to Gbolahan’s side of the story, The A.I.G Adeleke looked at him directly and said ‘I WILL DEAL WITH YOU AND TEACH YOU A LESSON’. He then ordered the Commander of the Monitoring Team to detain him with a “NO BAIL’ option. “I was there, locked up in a cell at Zone 2 Police Quarters at Onikan, Lagos on the 24th of May, 2022, prevented from contacting my Lawyers neither was I allowed to inform my Wife of my whereabouts. I was held for 20 hours at the prison cell with no access to water nor food”. Gbolahan told us in a telephone conversation.
He said further that he was also taken to tinubu magistrate court paraded like a criminal, and this was Ladi’s mission to really deal with him if he had been remanded in the prison.
“On the morning of 25th May, 2022, I was driven to Tinubu Magistrate court by six (6) heavily armed policemen and paraded like a criminal. The intention of the police was for me to be further detained at the Ikoyi Prisons pending bail application. The case has been scheduled for hearing on June 20th, 2022”.

Speaking further, Gbolahan told this news medium that, “I also note that Ladi Lawanson had informed me directly that being a former Commissioner of Transport of Lagos State, he has acolytes everywhere. In this regard, I submit that Ladi Lawanson acquired the services of A.I.G Adeyinka Adeleke and the instrumentality of the A.I.G.’s office to harass and detain me unlawfully”.
“I cannot be intimidated on my birthright neither would I let anybody disinherit my younger ones or anybody else in the family”
It is a situation that has united all of the Lawanson’s against Ladi, even though most of them were too young to oppose Ladi when their father died in 1998.

Gbolahan who is quite successful on his own right is known to be a people’s man and has a large grass roots following in Lawanson/Surulere environs .His popularity apparently is also a threat to his brother who is known to be a close ally to a top politician, which we gathered is the forces he has always lay claims on to deal with anyone that crosses his path.

DIED IN AUGUST 2021

International award winning music star, Omawumi Megbele, ace broadcaster and publisher, Adesuwa Onyenokwe, Nollywood lover boy, Ibrahim Suleiman, comedian Akpororo, award winning actor, Tony Umez, Canada trained actress, Nengi Adoki and multiple award winning actor OdunladeAdekolaare set to headline a new movie titled ‘CHATROOM’ to be released on Good Friday, April 15, 2022 on international digital platform, afrocinema.tv.
The film, premiered to the press and the diplomatic community at the Deputy British High Commissioners residence in March 2020 and is inspired by true life events. A suspense-filled drama, the movie tells an authentic, fun, socially relevant and inspiring story, a must-watch for everyone.
Set in Lagos, Nigeria, it tells the gritty, yet inspiring story of Ebiere (Nengi Adoki), an almost down and out young lady in her mid-20‘s who finds an opportunity to be in a popular, dance reality TV show as an opening for her to get away from the haunting ghost of her past. The fun filled TV reality show takes an unexpected turn when she is triggered to face her past trauma causing a nationwide turmoil. Laced with comedy, romance and power tussles, it's a story of overcoming and finding one's voice and inspired by true life events.
Written and Directed by award winning film director, Chike Ibekwe, CHATROOM is a contemporary 98mins drama that will take audiences on a roller coaster of emotions and have audiences at the edges of their seats. It is a beautiful mix of comedic thrills with core themes around love, betrayal, stigma, sexual abuse, violence, power and more.
Other casts include multiple award winning actor, Sambasa Nzeribe, international singer, dancer and actress, Ronya Man, award winning actor, Rykardo Agbor, award winning actress and broadcaster, Vivian Anani, Ghanaian actor, Kobby Acheampong, Camerounian actor and dancer, Lea Dibebe, actress and author, Damilare Kukuamong many others.
This will be the first time, ace broadcaster and publisher, Adesuwa Onyenokwe will be venturing into the movie industry as she is also the Associate Producer of the movie apart from having an appearance in it.
The movie is produced by PejuFadirepoIbekwe, and shot on locations and in studios in Lagos and Onitsha. It can be seen from its global release date of April 15 on www.afrocinema.tv.
It will also have its exclusive official premiere on April 17 at the prestigiousWheatbaker Hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQlr5d2VzjE

It was a night of glamour, pomp, and pageantry in the picturesque of Ikeja as some of the biggest boys and girls in Lagos gathered to celebrate House 30 Lounge’s fourth year anniversary. The all-white party affair which was held on 12 March 2022 took place at 30A, Aba Johnson Crescent, Akora Villa, Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja.

Speaking at the event, Showbiz guru, Akinwale Oluwaleimu, who is also a business associate with Seun Oshofisan on the House 30 project, said the anniversary was worth the celebration following their achievement in the last four years.

“First of all, let me start by saying, the idea to celebrate our 4th year in this business is not because we have too much money to throw around, no! We decided to celebrate four years of entertaining Lagosians, four years of giving our best of hospitality to people living in Ikeja and its locality. And you see, this won’t have been possible if our clients and customers didn’t trust us with their welfare”
“We consider their patronage an integral part of House 30 so we decided, it is important for us to celebrate ourselves. And trust me, this is just the beginning, it’s obviously going to get better, better, and better. And let me also use this opportunity to especially appreciate one of Nigeria’s premium drinks, Campari for standing by us in this time of celebration, and every other individual and organization” said Mr. Akinwale.

Among those that graced the occasion were notable socialites, Nollywood stars, media giants, such as Bimbo Thomas, Femi Davies, Yomi Fash Lanso, Shina Oyetayo, Tunde Ablo, Chief Segun Akiremi (Karan), and many others. The best of live music by Femi Trinity, other performing stars for the night were Toye St Charles, MC Ajele, MC Openteeth, MC Chinco, Dj Vinnie, DJ Dammy, Crazy DJ Shezxy, and Master Tee on Congas.

House 30 is a full-fledge hospitality firm, that has over the four years of opening served fun-loving Lagosians. Own and run by two creative, dedicated and hardworking Nigerians, Seun Oshofisan and his cousin, Akinwale Oluwaleimu who with over thirty years in the Nigerian entertainment scene, has not only made his mark but has contributed immensely towards the growth of several entertainers.

The likes of 2Baba, Wizkid, and many more have benefited from his wealth of creativity. It is worthy of note, Akinwale Oluwaleimu through his Event and Entertainment Consult Company has worked behind the scene for some of the biggest events in Nigeria today, some of which includes, Nigerian Entertainment Awards, Headies Award, Ovation Carol, MEGA Awards, and many others.

Akinwale Oluwaleimu alongside his partner Seun Oshofisan (Oshopay) continues the development of the country, with the new opening of their 3rd House 30 and 4th Hotel this week, the duo is not ready to slow down in their quest to give Lagosians a value for their money.

Nigeria’s one-stop spot where fun-seekers rev up their nightlife is set to excite Lagosians, particularly Mainlanders this weekend with the "Campari Red Passion". The event which promises to be a bumper package will feature one of Nigeria's talented entertainers, Adigun Alapomeji popularly known as 9ice.

Giving details of the event, the CEO and Managing Director, Segun Amosu said, although Sinatra has always been known for memorable events, this is another show that will not leave the mind of anyone that attend on Friday, he assures every Lagosians with a quality taste of nightlife, not to miss the event while assuring maximum security.

"For us at Sinatra, we place the interest of our customers first; we are not new in the business of nightlife, especially when it involves quality. I implore anyone in Lagos this Friday to turn up for this event. Adding that, we are not making this happen alone, Campari got us for that day, so come experience passion, to cap it all, the lyricist himself, the Alapomeji of Nigerian music, 9ice will be live on stage to excites us with the best of his hit songs"

"We just can't wait for Friday to come, we are fully prepared. Maximum security is guaranteed, come with your loved ones and enjoy nightlife like never before. When it comes to premium entertainment in Ikeja and its environs, Sinatra remains the choice, and our previous events have continued to be memorable to our patrons.

Located at Ladipo Oluwole Street, Ogba Ikeja, Lagos. Built with state-of-the-art facilities, a well decorative Restaurant, Bar, Lounge, and Grill Event spot.

As the All Progressives Congress (APC) 2022 Convention draws closer, party faithfuls and delegates are ready for a weekend in Abuja. The Senatorial seats of Ogun Central, East and West are heating up with many speculations on who would eventually clinch the APC party ticket for each of the 3 seats.



In Ogun East, many aspirants have emerged including Omo'oba Segun Senbanjo, Otunba Gbenga Daniels and Mr Sola Oduntan. In Ogun West, aspirants have also emerged including Senator Olamilekan Adeola and Gboyega Nasir Isiaka. In Ogun Central, Princess Olatorera Majekodunmi-Oniru is the only aspirant known to have declared under the APC party.



Majekodunmi-Oniru and her support groups started the motion for her senatorial aspiration in November 2021. She met with citizens across all 74 wards of 6 local government areas in the district. According to her posts on social media, she had planned and analyzed the district's senatorial developments since 2019 and she has a huge, unwavering passion for Greater Ogun and Greater Nigeria. Also on her instagram page @olatoreraoniru, are videos of Ogun Central citizens dancing and singing high praises in favor of Majekodunmi-Oniru for Senate. Some exclaimed loudly "Obinrin (woman) Senator!!!!" With only 3% women in Nigeria's Senate today, Majekodunmi-Oniru's win is a win for all.



There have been speculations that other candidates including cabinet members of the current governor are interested in running for the same seat as Majekodunmi-Oniru but to date no one else has declared. Young, energetic, experienced, elegant, beautiful, ambitious and progressive, Majekodunmi-Oniru's chances of securing the Ogun Central Senatorial Seat in 2023 are very high. She seems to be the leading candidate as we continue to watch and countdown to Nigeria's 2023 elections.

Canadian-Nigerian Actor, Screenwriter, Film Producer, Director and CEO/Chairman TABIC Record Label, Pascal Atuma is celebrating his birthday today.

The Ikwuano Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria born successful businessman in a heartwarming message to celebrate his special day said;


"I'm very grateful to see today, Feb 22nd, 2022, my 50th BIRTHDAY!!! Permit me to express my gratitude to Canada and Canadians for finding me worthy to receive the "Best Black Actor in Canada 2021" award. I'm incredibly humbled. Thanks to my agent Warren Beatty, my family, my beloved wife, friends, and fans for their support. As grateful as I am, I also have mixed feelings because of the adverse effects of tribalism, religion intolerance, bitter politics, and corruption in Nigeria, my country of birth. We have failed to attain our full potential mainly due to bad choices in choosing some of our past leaders. I encourage all Nigerians not to vote along religious, ethnic, and tribal lines come 2023, and youths must rise and save Nigeria. The older adults are almost close to their heavens; the younger generation should say no to crumbs while our leaders bury Nigeria and the future of Nigeria before they depart!!

Unity is the ability to pull towards a common goal at a given time. Ethnic and tribal divides are common amongst most Countries of the world, but weaponizing Ethnicity is more prevalent in 3rd World Countries where leaders take advantage of tribal sentiments to appeal to sectional support. Evidence abounds that such leaders hardly can mobilize the entire country's potential for growth and development. Our inability to unite our country has affected our country negatively. Therefore, inefficient governance is a direct result and Correlation of tribalism in Nigeria.

Tribalism put round pegs in square holes, thereby making it extremely difficult for the best hands and professionals to participate in building a nation. Tribalism will raise primordial favors above rewards for good jobs done, creating a downward slope for Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and hence impoverishment is imminent. Therefore, if Nigeria must progress, we must eradicate tribalism. Let's unite the Centrifugal forces of Nigeria beyond ethnic and sectional sentiments in the choice of candidates into public office.

Development and wealth do not speak the language of Ethnicity; Growth and development speak a universal language. Therefore, if Nigeria can look for the best men and women irrespective of tribe or religion, we will have a chance to rebuild Nigeria from its present ruins caused by years of Ethnic Politics and confusing religion.

Together, we can build the Nigeria of our dreams. Happy birthday to me." He wrote.

Pascal was born in Ikwuano Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria. He attended Government College, Umuahia, attended University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

The recalcitrant attitude of debtors who take depositors funds by way of loan facilities with no intention to repay has once again come into public focus with the recent dispute between the Estate of the late Chief Sunny Odogwu, and his related companies.

While it is not in dispute that a facility was taken from the bank to finance a hotel project at 31-35, Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos, the said facility is yet to be repaid.
The impression being created by the Estate of the late Chief Odogwu and his related companies that they can take depositors funds to finance projects and rather than repay such funds, they would make false claims to the ownership of the assets of the debtors as inheritance to be shared is a vivid reminder of the era of failed banks in the country.
The dubious attempts by the Estate of the late Sunny Odogwu to rewrite the terms of the facilities is not only a show of shame but a clever attempt by the family to inherit dubious assets gotten from depositors’ funds which does not form part of the estate and as such should not be allowed.
It would be recalled that the defunct Diamond Bank Plc, an iconic bank comparable to Eastern Nigeria’s African Continental Bank (ACB) almost went under due to recalcitrant borrowers and the bank was rescued by Access Bank Plc.
Unfortunately for the Estate of the late Sunny Odogwu and his related companies, the facts of the matter, terms of the loans and the dispute has been litigated and pronounced upon by the Federal High Court and the Odogwu Family had the opportunity to present their own side of the story which they did before Hon. Justice Saliu Saidu of the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court in suit number: FHC/L/CS/1633/14, in November 3, 2015.
Delivering judgment in the suit, Hon. Justice Saidu held that the first to third defendants were in fundamental breach of the contract for the financing of the construction of the Luxury Collection Hotels and Apartments, having admitted, “Indebtedness to the plaintiff in the sum of N10, 252,315,567.28 on the project finance facility as at December 20, 2011.”
Additionally, the learned trial judge held that the first to third defendants have not produced before the court any evidence that any of the conditions for the grant of the facility was waived or demonstrated to the court how they liquidated their indebtedness.
His words: “With all the facts before me, I am satisfied that the first to third defendants who have admitted indebtedness has not shown how the indebtedness was liquidated.
Flowing from these grounds, Justice Saidu made the following consequential order: “Judgment is entered in the sum of N26, 229,943,035.22 jointly and severally against the 1st to 3rd defendants being the outstanding sum as at September 30, 2014 advanced by the plaintiff for the 1st to 3rd defendants’ project which sum has remained unpaid despite several demands.
“That leave is granted to the plaintiff to foreclose and sell the said property situated at 31-35 Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos and to deposit the proceed of the sales into the 1st defendant’s account kept with the plaintiff towards the partial satisfaction of the judgment sum against the 1st to 3rd defendants.
“That leave is granted the plaintiff with the supervision of the Court’s Registrar to sell property situated at No 31-35 Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos being the security for the sum of N26, 229,943,035.22 advanced by the plaintiff to the 1st to 3rd defendants for the development of the project called Luxury Collections Hotels and Apartments, the repayment of which facility, the 1st to 3rd defendants have failed, refuse otherwise neglected to make despite several demands.”
It was against this background that the Estate of the Late Odogwu entered into a settlement agreement in May 2019 on the matter.
The key parts of the settlement include the following: “The defendants (the Estate of the late Sunny Odogwu and his related companies) agreed to sell a property described therein as the (Berendo Property”) in Los Angeles and to pay the sum of $11,111,111.11 within (60) days from the date of the settlement agreement to the Bank, failing which, the ownership of the Berendo property was to be assigned to the Bank, and the defendants also agreed with the bank in satisfaction of the outstanding settlement amount after receipt of the net proceeds of the sale from the Berendo property to assign such additional properties directly to the bank by way of an agreed asset swap arrangement subject to the terms of this settlement agreement.
Also, the defendants agreed to provide the bank with all the original documents pertaining to certain properties after the execution of the settlement agreement and undertook to execute and provide all documents required to perfect the legal interest of the Bank in such properties and also perfect the asset swap for the purpose of liquidating the outstanding settlement amount with the bank and shall provide such warranties and representations including without limitation, clean, undisputable and unencumbered title with quiet and peaceful possession. All these shall be achieved within seven days from the date on the settlement agreement.
Furthermore, the defendants failed to facilitate/conclude the sale of the Berendo property, hence the sum of $11,111,111.11 has not been received by the bank in line with the settlement agreement. Consequently, the defendants have failed and refused to assign the Berendo property in Los Angeles to the Bank. Rather, the defendants compromised the property at Los Angeles without paying the agreed sum to the bank.
Furthermore, the defendants refused to hand over the Dubai property to the bank in line with the settlement agreement. The defendants have refused to grant vacant possession to the properties at Kirikiri as well as the Dubai property till date in line with the settlement agreement.
Recalcitrant debtors negatively impact the critical banking sector and defeat the essence of granting such facilities to aid business growth.
Regrettably, the Estate of the late Sunny Odogwu instead of repaying the facility in line with the terms of the settlement have apparently opted for assets stripping and have failed to comply with the settlement agreement.
The idea or impression that the beneficiaries of the estate of the late Sonny Odogwu can lay any claim of ownership to an asset acquired from depositor’s funds of a financial institution as forming part of the estate when they are aware that the underling facility has not been repaid is not only sad but actionable. And this is exactly what the Failed Bank Act seeks to prevent.
At the end of the day, depositor’s funds are savings by hard working Nigerians who believe in the financial system.
Banks are merely custodian of this funds and as custodians, when banks grant credit facilities to customers to finance and fund assets and projects, such assets do not form part of the estate of the customers for the beneficiaries to share and leave luxurious lifestyles at the expense of the depositors, until such facilities are fully repaid.

Access Bank Plc has remained resolute in its determination and in its typical manner of dealing with chronic and recalcitrant debtors, has indicated that it will continue to deploy every legal available resource to ensure that this debt is fully recovered.
This is why dodgy and chronic debtors like these must steer clear of accessing facilities from Access Bank Plc.

Leading mainland hospitality and entertainment outfit, Sinatra’s Place is set to celebrate its second year as a brand and based on feelers all over social media, leading entertainers like Mayegun of Yorubaland, K1 De Ultimate; songsters Ludare and Mr Solek have been confirmed as those who would create the feel-good atmosphere Sinatra patrons are accustomed.



As a Yuletide bonus, the celebratory season, which has started this December, will see crowd favourite, SB Live serenading on Sinatra stage on Monday, December 27. Thursday, December 30 will feature Ludare in an extraordinary show, while on Sunday, January 2 will see a full comedy and music concert by Mazi and Friends. The celebratory season will culminate in an explosive fiesta come January 6, 2022, when K1 will man the Sinatra stage to the delight of fun lovers.



Noted for its serene atmosphere, great food and excellent entertainment options, qualities that patrons have stated keep them coming back, Sinatra’s Place has maintained an enviable momentum, hence their two-year success story the outfit is celebrating.



In December 2019, when the Visioneer behind the outfit officially opened the doors of Sinatra, which is located in the upscale Ladipo Oluwole Street off Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja, it served as a breath of fresh air for fun lovers in the vicinity.



Looking back on the journey so far, MD, Sinatra revealed that continuous innovations is one of the secrets to their success. “Others have not been as fortunate in this market, but we are extremely humbled to not only still be here but to be adding new attractions to start our third year of growth,” he stated.



Among other things, Sinatra’s latest addition to the group, the Club House will commence operations in the Valentine season of 2022.



In the meantime, the Black Hut VVIP lounge area for private parties have enjoyed renewed patronage this Yuletide, alongside the dedicated game room with several indoor games like PS5, monopoly, ‘ayo’, chess and others.



Like an all-around entertainment hub, Sinatra’s Place hosts events like the Wednesday Old Skool Night; and Friday and Sunday Live Band sessions.



“We listened to customer feedback on what is missing from the area, what we needed to do to improve their experience once inside our doors, and we took a little time last year to remodel the layout of the venue. We are always looking for ways to improve the Sinatra experience,” he added.



Expected at the epoch-making events are the movers and shakers of Lagos night scene and its environs, rockers and ballers among other notable fun-seekers.

…..Insist on collecting every penny of depositors money owed it by Recalcitrant debtors!

The no nonsense managers of Access Bank led by Hubert Wigwe has gone after the properties of Late Chief Sony Odogu over a debt of 50Billion Naira.
We gathered reliably that the debt was originally over 26Billion but since 2015, it has spiral up to 50Billion and the managers of the bank have commenced the process of getting every penny of the depositor’s funds from the Late Socialite family.
For some time now, the families have been playing hide and seek with the bank but at the weekend the bank move to seize some of the assets in Ikoyi Lagos.
Access Bank Plc last week commenced the process of recovering the outstanding sums due it from a total of over N50 billion judgment debts in its favor against the late Chief Sunny Odogwu and two of his companies – Robert Dyson & Diket Limited and SIO Property Limited.
The said judgment debt was in respect of a property situated on No. 31 – 35, Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos State, known as Luxury Collection Hotels and Apartments (formerly Le Meridien Grand Towers).
The said property owned by SIO Property Limited of which the late Odogwu was the majority shareholder, was financed with a loan from the then Diamond Bank, which is now Access Bank.
Justice Saliu Saidu of the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court in suit number: FHC/L/CS/1633/14, had in November 3, 2015, found the late Odogwu and his companies guilty of breach of Bank-Customer Relationship and consequently ordered the sale of the property used as collateral for the loan sum of N26,229,943,035.22.
However, with a 20 per cent interest on the N26 billion judgment debt in the last six years the judgment was delivered, the total debt has now reason to over N50 billion.
The bank had in 2014, commenced legal action against the defendants at a Federal High Court, Lagos, following the failure of the defendants to meet their loan obligations granted in the financing of the Le Meridien Grand Towers, known as Luxury Collection Hotels and Apartments.
While Access Bank was the sole plaintiff; Robert Dyson & Diket Limited, SIO Property Limited, Odogwu, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) the Registrar of Title Federal Land Registry and Leadway Trustee Limited were the first to sixth defendants respectively.
Plaintiff in arguing its case had placed plethora of evidence before the court on how it granted various credit facilities to the 1st and 2nd defendants to finance the construction of the Luxury Collection Hotels and Apartments.
Plaintiff added that the various facilities were at various times restructured to ease the repayment of the loan facility but the 1st to 3rd defendants continue to refused or failed to meet their obligations, stating that the project site located at 31-35 Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos and the Personal Guarantee of the late Chief Sonny Odogwu were used as collaterals for the facility.
Among the 20 reliefs sought by the plaintiff then was that whether having regards to plaintiff’s colossal investment/ financing of the sum of N26 billion in the 1st to 3rd defendants project and by the various agreements entered between plaintiff and the 1st to 3rd defendants to create a legal mortgage in favour of the plaintiff, a beneficial owner of the property on No 31 – 35 Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos State, and the breach of the terms of the agreement by the 1st to 3rd defendants, the plaintiff is entitled to leave of court to foreclose and sell the affected property.
“Whether having regard to the failure, refusal and or neglect of the 3rd defendant to execute the deed of personal guarantee as agreed as agreed with the plaintiff on November 19, 2010 as part security of the cumulative sum of facility advanced to the 1st to 3rd defendants for the project at 31 -35 Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos State which now stands at N26 billion as at September 30, 2014, order an order of specific performance can be made to compel the 3rd defendant to execute the said deed of personal guarantee in favour of the plaintiff within two days of this court.”
Delivering judgment in the suit, Justice Saidu held that the first to third defendants were in fundamental breach of the contract for the financing of the construction of the Luxury Collection Hotels and Apartments, having admitted “Indebtedness to the plaintiff in the sum of N10, 252,315,567.28 on the project finance facility as at December 20, 2011.”
The judge stated that where there was an admission of indebtedness by a party, the court could make an order for the sum admitted to be paid.
“The following is very clear from the totality of evidence before me; that there are facilities granted and disbursed….the facts of these facilities were admitted in paragraphs 8, 10, 11, 13,14, 15, 16 and 17 of the counter affidavit.
“I have not seen anywhere in the pleadings of the 1st to 3rd defendants that they did not enter the contract as shown in exhibit DB3 with the agreed collateral being a third-party legal mortgage on the parcel of land located at No 31 – 35 Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos State”, the court held.
In addition, the judge said the first to third defendants have not produced before the court any evidence that any of the conditions for the grant of the facility was waived or demonstrated to the court how they liquidated their indebtedness.
“With all the facts before me, I am satisfied that the first to third defendants who have admitted indebtedness has not shown how the indebtedness was liquidated.
“There are four probable methods of answering an allegation of indebtedness which are to admit the debt, deny the debt, to counter-claim against the debt and to set off against the debt. From all the facts before me the 1st to 3rd defendants have only admitted the debt but have not shown how the admitted indebtedness was liquidated.
“When the 1st to 3rd defendants have failed to liquidate their debt, the court has a duty the duty to order specific performance on the part of the 1st to 3rd defendants to honour their pledge in the contract. The 3rd defendant had through the 2nd defendant pledged to execute a third-party legal mortgage in favour of the plaintiff as shown in the documentary evidence before this court.
“This court therefore has the power to grant an equitable relief of specific performance against the 1st to 3rd defendants to do what they have agreed to do by the contract”, he added.
Justice Saidu accordingly made the following consequential order: “Judgment is entered in the sum of N26, 229,943,035.22 jointly and severally against the 1st to 3rd defendants being the outstanding sum as at September 30, 2014 advanced by the plaintiff for the 1st to 3rd defendants project which sum has remained unpaid despite several demands.
“That leave is granted to the plaintiff to foreclose and sell the said property situated at 31 – 35 Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos and to deposit the proceed of the sales into the 1st defendant’s account kept with the plaintiff towards the partial satisfaction of the judgment sum against the 1st to 3rd defendants.
“That leave is granted the plaintiff with the supervision of the Court’s Registrar to sell property situated at No 31 – 35 Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos being the security for the sum of N26, 229,943,035.22 advanced by the plaintiff to the 1st to 3rd defendants for the development of the project called Luxury Collections Hotels and Apartments, the repayment of which facility, the 1st to 3rd defendants have failed, refuse otherwise neglected to make despite several demands.
“The 3rd defendant is hereby ordered to execute the said deed of personal guarantee of the sum of N26, 229,943,035.22 in favour of the plaintiff within 30 days of the judgment of this court.”
The judge in addition restrained the 3rd defendant from disposing, selling or alienating any of his personal assets, money, shares, stock and any of his negotiable instruments until the sum of N26, 229,943,035.22 owed to the plaintiff by the 1st to 3rd defendants is fully paid.
The court also ordered the sixth defendant to pay to the plaintiff the sum of N49 million being money it had and recovered for a consideration that as failed.
The sixth defendant was further ordered to surrender all the title documents in its custody in relation to the said property and other documentation connected and or pertaining to the extant transaction of which the plaintiff is the beneficiary.
Not satisfied with the Judgment of the Court, the Defendants appealed to the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CA/L/1151/2015, but while the case was pending at the Court of Appeal, the late Chief Sonny Odogwu died, and his numerous children attempted to dissipate the various assets charged to the bank including the property located at 31-35 Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos that the Court has ordered to be sold.
The bank was constrained to takes steps to restrain the beneficiaries of the estate of the late Odogwu from dissipating the various assets acquired by depositors’ funds which ultimately led to settlement discussions between the Bank and the beneficiaries of the estate of the late Sonny Odogwu and subsequent execution of Settlement Agreements.
Rather than comply with the terms of the Settlement Agreement, the beneficiaries of the estate and children of late Odogwu have willfully and persistently refused to comply with the terms of settlement reached with the Bank. They have resorted to dissipating the assets which were pledged to the Bank and have breached the consent judgment made by the Federal High Court.
For instance, under the consent judgment, the defendants were required to sell the property in Los Angeles, USA within 60 days from 30th of May, 2019 or otherwise assign their interest in the property to the Bank. The defendants have failed to meet this condition and have rather compromised their interest in the property without regards to the consent judgment.
Subsequently, the bank as beneficial owner under the Judgment has taken steps to sell the property situate at 31-35 Ikoyi Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos to a new owner.
Unfortunately, the beneficiaries of the estate of the late Odogwu and other unknown persons who have been parading the property have promised to disrupt any takeover of the property.
Based on the foregoing and in order to safe guard depositors’ funds, the bank is determined to recover the outstanding sums due from the defendants and enforce the judgment of the Federal High Court.

Top fashionista, Abiodun Odukoya and his upscale fashion house A.B Rollings Clothiers, is a fashion lovers dream come true, because of ABR's ability to uniquely combine fast and slow fashion together, under thesame umbrella and with great ease and precision.

The fashion house whose vision is always constant - to rule the world of fashion and provide the needs of fashion savvy buddies - is at it again.

The fashion outfit which had origin in the lively streets of Surulere, Lagos, has come a long way since the heady days of the '90's when it catered to the needs of fashion buffs in Lagos. The fashion house has grown into a recognized and trusted brand now straddling three continents with flagship stores in Lagos and London.

With over two decades experience, A.B Rollings which started from a one stop store on Adelabu Street, in Surulere, Lagos many years ago has continued to meet the fashion needs of diverse clientele in Africa, Europe and America. The fashionpreneur, Abiodun Odukoya enthuses "at A.B Rollings there is something for everyone. We meet the needs of the young and the not so young, men and women, black and white and in all shapes and sizes".

Word reaching us is that the fashion house is set to launch in London - to the general public - having gotten a nod of approval from a host of Nigeria and U.K's finest connoisseurs of high end fine fashion.

A.B Rollings is set for the next phase of expansion as one of Africa's finest, Obi Cubana is set to collaborate with the fashion house.

It would be recalled that a couple of weeks ago Obi Cubana, a Nigerian socialite stopped by at the A.B. Rollings Clothiers store in London, to buy some exclusive clothes and ordered for some personalized bespoke outfits.

Obi Cubana is so impressed with the brand that he is investing in it now and with a firm commitment to continue to work with the fashion house as he forays into the fashion business.

Come Sunday the 19th of December 2021, the clothing store is set to launch its Bespoke, Suits, Blazers, Footwear and accessories store on Brook Street, Mayfair London.

This event is an epoch making one for a fashion house out of Lagos. Many celebrities and celebutanties are set to support their man 'Biodun Oduoya, popularly known as “Father Rolling” as he and the fashion house he built glides smoothly into a new era of expansion across continents still with the undiminished vision to meet the fashion needs of all fashion lovers who choose A.B Rollings.

The 2021 edition of the Africa international film festival (afriff) was held on 7 - 13 November, in Lagos. Themed Africans for Africa highlighted the journey of afriff through its first to the tenth anniversary, culminating in mutually beneficial partnerships with global film superpowers like Amazon Prime, and representation from a wide array of film and TV professionals from all over the world.


The roundtable panel discussion on accessing creative industry grants was with Mr. Madison Conoley, the Cultural Affairs Officer of the U.S. Missions in Nigeria, and Mr. Victor Mark-Onyegbu, the Grant Director at Africa no Filter invited to discuss the subject matter was moderated by Award-winning Filmmaker and Contract lawyer Theo Ukpaa;


The hour-long session involved in-depth discussions on the dos and don’ts of the grant application for filmmakers and key take always include How to apply for grants and how not to apply. with Theo asking relevant questions, triggering the submission of relevant information by the panelists to the session attendee, the session was very enlightening and engaging, covering aspects of accessing grants including the type of grants, who should access them, doing proper research before application and creative ideas that can pass approvals easily.


Theo Ukpaa who is also the Chief Operations officer in a statement after the session said he had put the session together to empower and equip a lot of people in the creative industry who have been trying to access grants but have not been lucky passing the first stage of applications. Every year, millions of dollars are made available for filmmakers vis several grant programs but very few people are able to access them. The session hopes to change this narrative.


The Africa International Film Festival AFRIFF, Founded by Chioma Ude is a world-class showcase that presents a complete immersion into the world of filmmaking.


Overall the session was impactful and memorable.

Following the visitation of the Honourable minister of state for petroleum, Timipre Sylva and other dignitaries to take stock of the situation at ground zero yesterday, ongoing efforts are being undertaken to cap the well at its Santa Barbara, Southwest field, in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The Honourable minister, Timipre Silva had detailed discussions with the Aiteo intervention team on ground, led by its Chief Operations Officer, EwareziUseh who debriefed him on the pre-kill well assessment by Boots & Coots, assuring him that the well would be secured within 48 hours of his visit. Afterwards, he had a town hall meeting with the Opu-Nembe Kingdom where he and other leaders of regulatory agencies held a detailed interaction with the people. Together with the company they assured them that their concerns and grievances will be addressed, while investigations take off upon the killing of the well.
The containment exercise continues, with booms and environmental barges mopping up spilled crude.
All relevant personnel and experts, local and international are now on location. The marine spread carrying the pumps, chemicals, cranes and firefighting equipment are 100% mobilized and have started sail to location. The crew will night stop at KM45 and take off again first light tomorrow with ETA 12noon on site
2 x 1000MT Ramp barge containing simulation equipment for the well kill also sailed today while sailing, concurrent activities are ongoing on the barges to minimize clean up downtime, (spotting and hook up of hoses).
At SBAS-1 the well control package was transferred onto the well platform and the crew carried out an inspection with the Xmas tree and identified THS (tubing Head Spool) to be 2-1/16”. We commenced RU (rig up) but could not finish due to bad weather. Forward plan complete RU and install well control package to arrest the flow.

SPECIFIC UPDATES
• Site Status/Fire Status in Well & Vicinity
• There is currently no fire at or within the vicinity of the well.
• Environmental Impact Assessment in vicinity of the area is in planning phase with DPR / NOSDRA accredited firm.
Preparation for Well Kill
• A team comprising member from Aiteo Well Operations and Boots & Coot is at well site for site preparation for well control operation.
• Connection of suction and delivery lines of two high discharge water pumps, to be used for well control operation is completed.
• Commissioning of the pumps is in progress.
• Civil work for development of debris laydown area and bunk house placement area is in progress.
• 1000 Ramp barge containing all pimping and simulation equipment for the well kill is approaching Santa Barbra as per latest report received at 21:00hrs.
• Barge carrying heavy duty well equipment on sail
• Loading of additional equipment being mobilised from Snake Island is underway and is expected to arrive staging area in Santa Barbra by 12:00hrs on 26 November, 2021.
Relief and Recovery
• Relief materials, viz. Mosquito Net, Hygiene and Sanitary Kits, Disinfectants, food materials, are being mobilized to the immediate communities impacted by the spill.
• Aiteo Officials are closely monitoring all activities related to the affected communities, viz. feeding, lighting, hygiene, drinking water and medical requirements with the help of local associations.
• Aiteo Safety and security and HSE teams are monitoring the quality of air every 6 hours to ascertain the livability of the areas adjoining ground zero.
• Aiteo is mobilizing additional relief materials for the affected communities
See attached photos of clean up exercise and equipment on board

On October 6, 2020, NextGen Mining, a company with over 75 years of collective experience of prospecting, exploration and mining of precious metals in Nevada, entered into a Letter of Intent (JMX LOI) with JMX, LLC for the Jessie Project located in Nevada. The LOI expired on February 2, 2021. The Company has a lawsuit pending in the Second Judicial District Count of the State of Nevada and for the County of Washoe against JMX, LLC, Donn Gunn, Mark Kucher and Thomas Mancuso, former Managing Director for breach of contract and fiduciary duties relating to JMX LOI. The lawsuit is still ongoing as of August 2021.


FALSE STATEMENTS FROM MARK KUCHER DATED 2019. Taken from the prospectus: https://dlpresourcesinc.com/ management-directors/

Mark D. Kucher, Advisory Board
Mr. Kucher brings over 35 years of mining investment banking, company creation and shareholder wealth creation. He is currently the Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer of the Bank of Nevis International
https://www.pressreader.com/ canada/stockwatch-daily/ 20191016/282449940790318
Shell Summary for Oct. 15, 2019 - PressReader
https://www.pressreader.com
› canada › stockwatch-daily
16 Oct 2019 — The eighth shareholder of DLP is Mark Kucher. ..In February 2019, he became a managing partner of Bank of Nevis International, a bank ...

So KUCHER became a managing partner in BONI in 2019? Is that possible? BONI was wholly owned by Bank of Nevis Limited then and there is no mention of a Mark Kucher in their financials for that year. So, did Kucher make a statement to the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) that he knew was not true and all because he wanted boost his corporate profile to benefit himself on the Board of DLP? The TSX should please tell us.

THE BAD MIND OF MARK KUCHER
NEVIS people beware there a waah wolf among yuh He’s coming tuh tek everything. Yuh job yuh haad wuk an laba him wa lef yuh wid nuttin. Empty cupboard frustration an tears.
Dis elderly man who like di jink a likkle too much is among yuh suh beware. Bad mind, ongle fi himself. Always ongle fi himself. Kucha fos everyone else laas.
Mark Kucha dem kno him inna Nevada dem kno him inna Canada. Be careful Be careful him ave a lang history of legal cases an nearly all always bout funds breach of contract
He’s fooling yuh him cyaa fool di people him run away from
Nevis people open yuh eyes St kitts people open yuh eyes!