Entertainment
Obasanjo Applauds Omotola’s Directorial Debut, Calls Her ‘National Treasure’
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has showered praise on Nollywood star Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, describing her as a “national treasure” whose talent should be harnessed for Nigeria’s growth and development.
Obasanjo made the remarks on Sunday at the premiere of Mother’s Love, Omotola’s directorial debut, held at Alliance Française Lagos.
Speaking about the actress, the former president drew her close in a fatherly gesture and said Nigeria must preserve and utilise talents like hers.
“We have a treasure that we must keep and utilise for the development and growth of Nigeria,” he said. “And there are many others like that. We have to keep them and bring them to make meaningful contributions.”
While movie premieres in Nigeria often attract celebrities and dignitaries, it is rare to see a former president in attendance. Obasanjo, 88, dressed in a white agbada and blue fila, fully immersed himself in the evening’s festivities, taking photographs and interacting with guests and the media.
His appearance quickly sparked reactions online. Many social media users described it as a major boost for Nollywood’s credibility, while others saw it as a brilliant publicity move.
The premiere also doubled as a celebration of Omotola’s 30 years in the entertainment industry. Since launching her career in the early 1990s, she has featured in more than 100 films, including Mortal Inheritance, Ije, and Alter Ego.
With Mother’s Love, Omotola transitions from in front of the camera to behind it, embracing storytelling from a new perspective. The film stars Olumide Owuru, Noray Nehita, and Ifeanyi Kalu, and explores themes of sacrifice and resilience a subject that resonates with the actress, who is also a mother of four and wife to Capt. Matthew Ekeinde.
By stepping into the director’s role, she joins a growing list of actor-producers shaping Nollywood’s evolution, including Kunle Afolayan, Funke Akindele, Niyi Akinmolayan, Toyin Abraham, and Genevieve Nnaji.
With a presidential endorsement and three decades of influence in the industry, Omotola’s latest milestone underscores her enduring impact not just as a screen icon, but as a creative force shaping the future of Nigerian cinema.
Popular Nigerian singer, Adekunle Gold, has reportedly filed for divorce from his wife and fellow artiste, Simi, at the High Court of Lagos State.
According to a petition dated February 28, 2026, and currently circulating online, the case was filed under the Family Court – Matrimonial Causes Jurisdiction, seeking the dissolution of their marriage on the grounds that it has “irretrievably broken down.”
In the court documents, Adekunle Kosoko, widely known as Adekunle Gold, allegedly claimed he had been subjected to continuous emotional, financial, social, and professional control by his wife. He described the marriage as “toxic and unbearable,” citing an absence of mutual respect and peace in the home.
The petitioner further accused Simi of undermining his authority and stated that the relationship had been characterised by persistent control and manipulation.
As part of the reliefs sought, Adekunle Gold is asking the court to dissolve the marriage, approve an equitable division of assets acquired during the union, and grant joint custody of their child, subject to mutual agreement. He also requested any additional relief the court may consider appropriate.
The document reportedly bears an official court stamp marked “Filed” and “Approved” on February 28, 2026, alongside a certified true copy endorsement.
As of press time, neither Adekunle Gold nor Simi has issued a public statement regarding the development.
The couple, who tied the knot in a private ceremony in 2019, have long been celebrated as one of Nigeria’s most admired celebrity pairs, known for their musical collaborations and public expressions of affection.
Taiwo Adegbodu, one half of the popular gospel music duo known as the Adegbodu Twins, has passed away.
The sad news was confirmed on Sunday by his twin brother and ministry partner, Kehinde Adegbodu, who announced the loss in an emotional post on social media.
Expressing deep grief, Kehinde mourned not only a brother but a fellow labourer in the vineyard.
“TAIWO, why will you leave me and your kids without notification? My heart is bleeding. Lord, how do you want me to cope without him? God why? This is too much for me to bear!!!” he wrote.
The Adegbodu Twins had carved a niche for themselves in Nigeria’s gospel music scene, particularly across the South-West, where they were known for their electrifying worship sessions, seamless vocal harmony and powerful stage presence. Over the years, the duo ministered at numerous churches and Christian gatherings, drawing large crowds and leaving lasting spiritual impact.
As of press time, the cause of Taiwo Adegbodu’s death has not been made public. Funeral arrangements are also yet to be announced.
Netflix has officially walked away from its bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery’s studio and streaming business, ending months of speculation over one of Hollywood’s most closely watched potential mergers.
The streaming giant had agreed in December to acquire Warner Bros.’ studios and streaming assets; including its iconic film library and HBO content, in a deal valued at approximately $82.7 billion. However, the agreement has collapsed after Paramount Global, backed by Skydance Media, raised its offer, which Warner Bros.’ board labelled a “superior proposal.”
Netflix co-CEOs Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters said in a statement that the revised offer was “no longer financially attractive,” and the company chose not to increase its bid. The decision highlights Netflix’s commitment to disciplined spending and strategic growth.
With Netflix out of the race, Paramount Skydance is expected to move forward with the acquisition, which could value the combined assets at around $111 billion. The deal would merge Paramount’s holdings with Warner Bros.’ extensive portfolio, including HBO, CNN, Discovery channels, and major franchises like Harry Potter and DC Comics.
Investors reacted positively to Netflix’s decision, with shares surging after news of the withdrawal. Analysts noted that the move allows Netflix to avoid a costly bidding war while remaining focused on its core streaming business and original content strategy.
The merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, if completed, will reshape Hollywood’s media landscape and is likely to face regulatory scrutiny over concerns about media consolidation and competition.
Netflix’s exit signals a new phase in the industry, leaving Paramount poised to become an even more dominant media player, while Netflix refocuses on strengthening its streaming platform and content offerings.