Entertainment

Govt, CAN Announce Edo Gospel Art and Creative Award, Winners To Walk Away With N50m

Published

2 years ago

August 22, 2023

By Joseph Ebi Kanjo, Benin

In its bid to harnessing and promoting talents from the religion circle particularly Christianity, the Godwin Obaseki-Edo State government has launched what its called Edo State Gospel Art and Creative Festival/Award (EdoGof).

The festival, to be held in partnership with Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Edo State branch, is aimed at promoting young hidden talents in churches across the three senatorial districts of the state and the 18 local governments.

In a press conference held to herald the festival/award on Tuesday, Chairman of the festival/award committee and Senior Special Assistant to Governor Godwin Obaseki on Religion Matters, Osagie Erhunmwunse, said his principal conceived the idea of promoting talents from the church after rendition by young Chieftain artistes at the thanksgiving service of the immediate past chairman of CAN, Edo State branch, moved him (Obaseki)

He added that having moved by their performances at the thanksgiving service and the performance that took place during the birthday service of Arch Bishop Margaret Benson Idahosa, Obaseki made up his mind to support talents under the umbrella of EdoGof, adding that N50m prize has been placed for winners at different categories.

“…having witnessed what happened during the May 14th thanksgiving service of a successful tenure of the immediate past Chairman of CAN, Edo State branch, Bishop Dr. Oriname Oyonnude Kure, particularly how gospel singers showcased their god-given talents, His Excellency was so moved and said it’s high time to harness creativity in the gospel,” he added.

The SSA continued: “Last month, during the birthday service of our mother in the faith, Arch Bishop Margaret Benson Idahosa, His Excellency was there and again reiterated his commitment to harnessing creative talent from the church. And in his words: he is going to put a N50m prize for the winners. This prize is for the finalists, that is, those that will qualify to the final stage.”

According Erhunmwunse, to kick start the festival/award, the Governor directed that the talent-hunt start from the 18 local governments in the state before it collapses to senatorial level and finally to the state level which is the final stage, adding that nine winners from different categories would emerge and share the N50m.

“Nine persons are going to be competing to have their share of the N50m,” he added.

He added that, at the senatorial level, 27 winners are expected to take prizes home, emphasizing that their take home would not be part of the N50m.

He, however, said the modalities on how the N50m naira is going to be shared among the prospective winners at the final is being put in place by the committee saddled with the responsibility of organising the award, adding that the sharing formula would be made known at due course

He explained: “The senatorial contest is expected to climax on October 1st, and His Excellency is going to be having a very big event to celebrate the winners. We expect to have 27 winners at the senatorial level.

“The competition is expected to produce at the senatorial level, ‘first place traditional ‘; ‘first place contemporary’; and another ‘first place classical.’ This is how we are going to have it in the soloist and dancer.”

According to the Chairman, the committee is presently focusing on music and dance for the festival, adding: “The plan for now is to focus on just two aspects of this creative hub – music and dance. part of our plans is to ensure there is inclusiveness in every aspect that made up the body of Christ. For the music category we have the traditional, contemporary, the classical.”

Erhunmwunse explained that the senatorial competition is named after the immediate past chairman of CAN in the State, Bishop Kure, while the state competition is named after Arch Bishop Margaret Benson Idahosa.

He, therefore, urged choir members from different churches in the state and other independent choir groups to seize the opportunity to apply for the festival and compete.

Entertainment

Top 6 Movies Produced By Late Kayode Peters

Published

3 days ago

June 29, 2025

Editor

Popular Nigerian filmmaker, Kayode Peters, has died in Canada after a prolonged illness.

Contents
1. 13 Letters (2021)
2. Crazy Grannies (2021)
3. I Am Nazzy (2022)
4. Survivors (2022)
5. Dream Job (2021)
6. Teardrops (2024)

The news of his death was announced by his family via his official Instagram page on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

Fans, actors, and colleagues in the entertainment industry are mourning the sudden loss of a man who played a vital role in shaping modern Nigerian comedy and filmmaking.

Peters first gained prominence for directing the iconic comedy TV show Papa Ajasco and Company.

He later produced the hit sitcom Flatmates, which featured major stars like Basketmouth and Okey Bakassi. These shows became household favourites across Nigeria.

Beyond television, Peters made a strong mark in Nollywood with a string of successful films.

Below are six of his most notable movie produced by Kayode Peters:

1. 13 Letters (2021)

Directed by Peters and released on GidiBoxOffice, 13 Letters starred Kunle Remi, Bimbo Ademoye, and Teddy A.

The film explored the emotional fallout of social media call-outs from ex-lovers. Its relatable storyline and emotional depth made it a viral hit.

2. Crazy Grannies (2021)

Co-directed with Tope Alake, this comedy follows three grandmothers who break free from societal expectations in search of fun and freedom.

Featuring Shaffy Bello and Ngozi Nwosu, the film delighted audiences with its humour and vibrant energy.

3. I Am Nazzy (2022)

Starring Nancy Isime and Jidekene Achufusi, I Am Nazzy is a body-swap comedy that examines identity and fame. The film was praised for its refreshing storyline and comedic timing.

4. Survivors (2022)

This comedy-thriller features popular skit makers Mr. Macaroni, Broda Shaggi, and MC Lively. It tells the story of two unemployed friends who unwittingly get involved in a kidnapping plot, leading to a series of chaotic events.

5. Dream Job (2021)

A motivational drama that explores themes of ambition, disappointment, and second chances. Dream Job resonated with young Nigerians striving to achieve their dreams in the face of adversity.

6. Teardrops (2024)

A deeply emotional family drama centered on love, loss, and resilience. Teardrops is regarded as one of Peters’ most heartfelt and mature works.

In addition to the movies produced by Kayode Peters and his achievements in film and television, he also gained recognition for his stage plays and short films, including Doll House, Dead Rite, and Road to Friendship, which were featured at various film festivals.

One of his earliest contributions to the industry was Crossworld Blues, the first comedy series to air on DBN TV. Its success made Peters one of the pioneering figures in Nigerian television comedy.
(TRIBUNE)

Entertainment

What To Know About Late Nigerian Movie Producer, Kayode Peters

Published

3 days ago

June 29, 2025

Editor

Popular Nigerian filmmaker, Kayode Peters, has died in Canada. The news of his death was shared via his official Instagram page on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

Fans, actors, and colleagues in the entertainment industry are mourning the sudden loss of the man who have contributed to shaping modern Nigerian comedy and filmmaking.

Here are things to know about late Kayode Peters:

Kayode Tunde Peters was born on September 25, 1975, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.

Peters studied English Language at the University of Lagos, Akoka, where he obtained his first degree. His education and early involvement in theatre at the university played a major role in shaping his storytelling career.

The late movie producer was of Yoruba descent and proudly Nigerian. He practised Christianity throughout his life.

Kayode Peters was married to popular Nigerian model, actress, and dancer, Tayo Sobola. The couple kept their personal life mostly private, choosing to focus on their careers.

The deceased first became well-known for directing the comedy TV show Papa Ajasco and Company. He later produced the hit sitcom Flatmates, which starred big names like Basketmouth and Okey Bakassi. These shows became favourites in many homes across Nigeria.

In 2021, Peters directed the movie 13 Letters, which streamed on Netflix. The film starred Kunle Remi, Bimbo Ademoye, and Teddy A.

Peters also played a big role in training and supporting young actors. Many new stars got their first big breakthrough through him.

One of his earliest works was Crossworld Blues, the first comedy series aired on DBN TV. It was a big success and made him one of the first names in Nigerian TV comedy.

Peters also worked on stage plays and documentaries. His stories often showed everyday Nigerian life, culture, and humor.

He was known for making people laugh while also sending strong messages through his work.

Entertainment

Nigerian Filmmaker Dies In Canada

Published

3 days ago

June 28, 2025

Editor

Renowned Nigerian filmmaker, director, and actor Kayode Peters has died. He passed away in Toronto, Canada, on the morning of Saturday, June 28, 2025, after a prolonged illness.

The announcement was made by his family through a statement posted on his official Instagram page.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved, Kayode Peters Adewumi, who passed on peacefully this morning June 28, 2025 in Toronto, Canada,” the statement reads.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Kayode Peters. (@kayodepeters1)

“KP braved, challenged and conquered a long time illness until his last breath this morning.

“KP, a cherished son, husband, father, brother, and friend, a gifted film maker, actor and producer whose work inspired many. Beyond his talent, it was his kindness, warmth, and generous spirit that truly defined him.

“He touched countless lives, both on and off the screen, and will be deeply missed.

“As we grieve this painful loss, we kindly ask for kindness and privacy while we take time to make arrangements for his funeral and to heal. Further details will be shared in due course.

“Thank you for your love, condolences, and continued support. — The Adewumi Family.”

Peters earned acclaim for his direction and production of stage plays and sitcoms. He rose to prominence in the early 2000s as the creator of the popular comedy series Flatmates. His contributions to projects like Extended Family further cemented his place as a leading figure in Nigeria’s modern theatre and television scene.