Auren Rukayya Dawayya Ya Mutu

Rukayya Dawayya

A cikin 'yan kwanakin nan ne rahotanni suka bayyana cewa aure fitacciyar jarumar finafinan Hausan nan, Rukayya Umar Santa, wadda aka fi sani da Rukayya Dawayya ya mutu.

Majiyarmu ba ta tabbatar da ranar da auren ya mutu ba, amma wata majiya mai tushe ta tabbatar da mutuwar auren jarumar da mijin nata, Alhaji Adamu Mohammde Teku, wanda dan asalin garin Yola ne da ke jihar Adamawa, amma mazaunin babban birinin tarayya Abuja ne.

A hirar da jarumar ta yi da mujallar Fim game da batun mutuwar auren nata, Dawayya ta tabbatar da hakan, inda ta kara da cewa "Allah ya hada ni da wani irin miji wanda shi sakin mace a gurin sa ba komai ba ne. Domin akalla ya saki mata sun fi goma sha biyar. To, ka ga kuwa don ni ya sake ni ba zai zama wani abu ba".

Kafin rabuwar Dawayya da mijin nata, Allah ya azurta su da da namiji, wanda aka sanya masa suna Arfat, bayan ta haife shi a kasa mai tsarki a yayin da ta je aikin Hajji a shekarar da ta gabata.

Bikin wanda Dawayya, wanda ka yi shi kusan shekaru biyu da suka gabata, yana daya daga cikin kayatattun bukukuwan auren da aka yi a tarihin masana'antar fim, kasancewar irin wadakar da aka yi da dalolin kudi a yayin shagulgulan bikin, ganin cewa mijin dan siyasa ne, wanda aka dauki tsawon kwanki hudu ana yi.

Sannan kuma bikin ya kafa wani tarihi a msana'antar fim, domin a yayin da za a rako amaryar zuwa gidan mijinta da ke Abuja, a jirgi a ka kawo ta tare da ita da kawayenta, inda bayan an zo Abuja ma, aka sake cashewa da wani sabon shagalin biki.

Auren wanda aka biya sadaki naira dubu hamsin, majiyarmu ta bayyana cewa Dawayya ta hadu da mijin nata ne a Abuja, a yayin da take kan daukar wani fim dinta mai suna A'isha, inda ba da jimawa ba bayan sun fahimci junansu sai kawai aka sanya ranar aure.

SOURCE: RARIYA

20 Kannywood's attend film training course India

Hauwa Maina in India

Twenty Kannywood actors and film makers left Nigeria for India on September 28 to participate in a film training programme at the Asian School of Media Studies in Noida, New Delhi, India.

The training was sponsored by the federal ministry of finance.

The group included Ali Nuhu, Jamilu Yakasai, Mustapha Mustapha (Musty), Bashir Rijau, Mohammed Bifa, Ibrahim Mandawari, Hamisu Iyantama, Sani Abdullahi, Aliyu Yakasai, Bala Babinlata and Hauwa Maina.

Others were Farida Rahi, Balarabe Tukur, Usman Adamu, Ishaq Ishaq, Umar Labaran, Falalu Dorayi, Mika’il Bin Hassan (Gidigo) and Aminu Sabo.

The group is expected to visit movie locations to interact with some Bollywood actors and producers and discuss how to improve on film production in Kannywood.

Producer, Babinlata, who spoke to PREMIUM TIMES, said they were on the trip to learn more on movie production and marketing.

“Kannywood is getting bigger by the day and we need to have this kind of training and exposure so that everything will be done in a more professional way,” he said.

He described the trip as one of a kind.

Hamisu Lamido Iyantama in India

It is expected that when the group returns, it would hold similar trainings and share its experiences with other Kannywood actors and film makers.

The group is expected to return by the first week of November.

Source: Premium Times

Five Kannywood films to watch during sallah

As the Eid-el Kabir festivities begin, PREMIUM TIMES recommends five Kannywood movies to enjoy during the holiday.

1. Hassana da Husaina – featuring Saratu Gidado, Patience Ozokwor, Rabilu Musa and Suleiman Bosho

The movie features Patience as Hussaina in her first Kannywood role. Saratu Gidado played her twin sister, Hassana. Sulieman Bosho and Rabilu Musa were their husbands, Bosho and Ibro.

The movie is about an army general who arranges for his troublesome twin sons to get married to another set of female twins. It is a great comedy that one would enjoy over a bowl of sallah meat.

2. Zeenat – starring Aisha Tsamiya, Hadiza Mohammed, Adam Zango, Tanimu Akawo.

Zeenat is about a jealous uncle who makes his niece’s life miserable after the death of her father. He forces her to marry a security guard who turns out to be a prince.

This movie seems best to be watched at night after all the family visits on the day of Eid.

3. Uwar Mugu – starring Halima Atete, Adam Zango, Rabiu Rikadawa, Aisha Yar Kano

Uwar Mugu is about a bad mother – Aisha yar Kano, and her evil son, Adam Zango. She supports and encourages him to be a menace to society.

Uwar Mugu is action-filled from start to finish; a day after Sallah will be great time to watch it.

4. Gudun Wuce Sa’a – starring Rahama Sadau, Mohammed Bello, Fadila Mohammed

Gudun Wuce Sa’a is a movie about revenge.

Rahama Sadau as Menar sets out to avenge the death of her father, who was killed by his friend that stole all his wealth.

Watch this movie with your friends. They will most likely like it.

5. Ina kika je – Yakubu Mohammed, Hadiza Gabon, Aisha Tsamiya

The movie is filled with suspense and surprises.

Yakubu Mohammed, ‘Hamza’ was married to Hadiza Gabon, ‘Zainab’ and they are living happily together.

Not quite long into their marriage, problems started, engineered by Zainab’s best friend Rashida Mohammed, ‘Talatu.’

I recommend you watch the film at night, immediately after dinner.

Controversy Trails Project Act-Nollywod

By Al Amin Ciroma

Following government's efforts to support training and skills acquisition for the Nigerian movie industry, the Federal Ministry of Finance has approved the applications of some Kannywood stakeholders and practitioners who are a part of the Project Act-Nollywood.

The grant, which is given to existing practitioners for short, intensive training courses in Nigeria and/or abroad, will see the movie makers drafted to existing public and private training institutions, in order to learn and adhere to global best practices by improving the reach and effectiveness of their training programmes through the upgrade of existing facilities, procurement of equipment and development of an agreeable curricula.

According to findings, the ministry has approved the sum of US$3,300 each to Asian School of Media Studies in Mumbai, India, the venue of the training, as well as an additional allowance of N2,798,890 for the beneficiaries. So far, about 19 filmmakers were to undertake the courses, which were earlier scheduled to hold between August 25 and September 20, but will now hold between September 29 and October 25, 2014.

The beneficiaries - Jamilu Ahmad Yakasai, Mustapha Mustapha, Bashir Abdullahi, Mohammed Ahmed Bifa, Ibrahim Mandawari, Hamisu Lamido Iyantama, Sani Abdullahi Abdullahi, Aliyu Shehu Yakasai and Bala Anas Babinlata. Others are Hauwa Maina, Faika Ibrahim Rahi, Balarabe Salisu Tukur, Usman Yusuf Adamu, Ishaq Sidi Ishaq, Umar Sani Labaran, Falalu Dorayi, Mikhail Bin Hassan, Muhammad Ali Nuhu and Aminu Mohammed Sabo - all expressed their gratitude to the coordinators of the project and promised to take up more of such opportunities in order to bolster their passion towards telling the story of Kannywood successfully.

Most of the beneficiaries were too sceptical to comment on the issue, as a result of the many delays which have accompanied its take-off. One of them who spoke but refused to give his name disclosed that the project was slated to in February this year, but a gross lack of coordination ensured it did not take off.

Many others still have misgivings about the process of selection of the course's participants. According to them, almost all the beneficiaries are largely from Kano, with a representative each from Niger and Kaduna states.

Meanwhile, a Jos-based movie director, Salisu Mu'azu, did not hide his dismay over the absence of representatives from Plateau State. For him, this is a clear indicator that those involved in the selection process do not intend to carry along all stakeholders in the north.

"We are not aware of this development. We were, also, not told, until now that you called to give me an avenue to air my view on the matter. However, Jos is one of the central points of filmmaking,not only in the north, but in the nation. Therefore, if such gestures are coming from the government and none of our members are involved, then I can assure you that someone is bleeding Kanywood dry," he told Kannywood Trends.

A Kaduna-based filmmaker, Yakubu Lere, equally expressed his dismay over the mode of selection of participants. He also wondered why Kaduna State is not represented. According to him, as the second most popular centre of Kannywood, the state is supposed to get quite a number of representatives. "I am not surprised, because things are not done the right way in Kannywood. I heard about Ali Nuhu going for a certain course in India through a family source, but not as a representative from Project Act-Nollywood Fund. After Kano, Kaduna and Jos are leading centres of film-related matters in the north. We also have considerable number of stakeholders in Katsina, Sokoto, Niger and others states in the region. I think they should have a re-think," he opined.

Disputing the alleged favouritism on selecting the beneficiaries, the national vice-president of Arewa Filmmakers Association of Nigeria, AFAN, Salisu Mohammed, said his organisation did a thorough study on the selection process, adding that all northern states were fully represented. "I can tell you that the selection process was free and fair and aimed at the selection of representatives for the capacity-building. It will interest you to know that, initially, individuals were meant to apply, but the AFAN acts as an intermediary between the project coordinators and the practitioners without any prejudice. So, there is no bias whatsoever in the process," Mohammed countered.

If the stories told about the allege bias in the selection process are anything to go by, then the industry's frontliners should, as a matter of urgency, have a round-table session and sort out their differences.

Source: LEADERSHIP

Kannywood Movie Review: Hanyar Kano

Director: Iliyasu Tantiri

Starring: Ali Nuhu, Bello Mohammed, Sani Danja, Sadiq Sani, Aisha Tsamiya, Mustapha Naburaska, Muhammadu Maisana’a

Genre: Comedy

Year: 2014

Duration: 120 minutes

Hanyar Kano is an innovative Kannywood film that features an all-star cast.

It is about a journey to Kano by bus.

Ali Nuhu, the driver, and Sadiq Sani, his conductor, were driving to Kano and at intervals, stopped to pick passengers from the roadside.

Each passenger had a funny/annoying/crazy character that rubbed the others the wrong way.

Sani Danja was the overprotective boyfriend who warned everybody against admiring his girlfriend, Jummy (Aisha Tsamiya)

Bello “General Bello” Mohammed, spoke only in English, pretending not to understand Hausa; until a very funny and revealing scene.

His acting in that scene was superb.

Meanwhile, the journey was peaceful until a sleeping Maisana’a, who was travelling with his brother, Daushe Daushe, woke up and began to cause mayhem.

He kicked at people and flung luggage around. Eventually, he grabbed the steering wheel forcing the driver to drive into a tree.

He was finally cornered by the conductor, who gave him the beating of his life.

The director, Tantiri, must be commended for managing to exact a uniformly dynamic performance from his parade of stars.

However, some scenes were overly long, other unnecessary; and while some actors gave their best to their roles, others killed theirs with overacting or underwhelming performances.

Sani, Nabruska, and Dorayi must be commended for their outstanding aptitude for comedic acting.

All in all, it was a very entertaining movie that deserves all the awards and nominations that would come its way.

Source: Premium Times

Neil Sensitises Kannywood On Health Insurance

FOLLOWING a successful hosting of the first leg of the sensitisation convention in Lagos, the Nigerian Entertainment Industry Lecture Series (NEILS) moved to Kano last week for the Nigerian Entertainment Industry Health Insurance Scheme (NEIHIS) convention, which will herald the eventual roll out of the scheme from the northern region of the country.

The event, which held at the General Ramat Murtala Conference Hall in Ni'imah Hotel, Kano, had in attendance renowned artistes and actors from the area such as Sani Danja, Ibrahim Abdullahi, Tumba Bubukan, Aisha Ibrahim, representatives from the Arewa Film Makers Association of Nigeria (AFMAN) led by the President, Abdullahi Sani, representatives from Guild of Directors led by the President, Nasir Gwangwazo, representatives from Guild of Directors led by the President, Aminu Sara and many others. It was indeed one of the biggest gatherings of entertainment stakeholders from that region.

Officials from two of the three partner HMOs for the scheme; Healthcare International and United Healthcare gave an insight via multimedia projections into the benefits of health insurance as well as the uniform and customized plans (standard and Ultra) for the Nigerian Entertainment Industry Health Insurance Scheme (NEIHIS) after the welcome address and speech by the initiators led by Mr. Seun Apara.

Attendees took turns to ask questions they had concerning the workings of the scheme and were all adequately responded to. They were also provided with educative materials in the form of brochures, pamphlets etc.

The major stakeholders, who were present at the convention lauded the initiative and were particularly fascinated that it was specifically customized to meet the health need of all entertainment industry practitioners nationwide no matter where they practiced. It was also very well received as a welcome and positive development towards putting an end to the degrading incidences of prominent artistes and actors appealing publicly for funds to cater to their heavy medical bills under emergency situations.

The President of Arewa Film Makers of Nigeria (AFMAN), Mr. Abdullahi Sani, who was one of the panelists, described the scheme as the best innovation so far to safeguard the future of the Nigerian entertainment industry.

"On behalf of all the members of Arewa Film Makers that constitute the Northern film industry in Nigeria popularly known as Kannywood, I want to thank NEILS for this brilliant initiative and pledge that all our members and in extension, the whole film community in Kannywood will come under the scheme".

The Presidents of Guild of Directors, Mr. Aminu and that of Producers Associations of Nigeria, Mr. Nasir Gwangwazo, who were both part of the panelists, also took turns to applaud the scheme and pledge the full support of the entire entertainment practitioners in the North.

Season actor and musician, Sani Danger, who gave the welcome address, said he's happy this is happening in his time.

"I don't think any same human should ignore this brilliant initiative that will collectively safe guard our future. I remember how we lost a particular actor not too long ago because of a little amount less than N50, 000. This is our future and we all must all embrace it".

A three-man committee was immediately set up to liaise with the NEILS secretariat (conveners of the convention) to relate the information and coordinate effectively the enrollment of all Kannywood practitioners as soon as possible.

Since the flag off edition of the NEILS organised Nigerian Entertainment Industry Health Insurance Convention which held at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island on July 22, 2014, a nationwide sensitisation has begun to educate and better inform practitioners on the immense benefits of enrolling under the Nigerian Entertainment Industry Health Insurance Scheme (NEIHIS) especially as it will guarantee them automatic access to the Nigerian Entertainment Industry Health Trust Fund (NEIHTF) being set up in extreme cases of medical care.

NEILS executives were also in Abeokuta, Ogun State and Ibadan, Oyo State last week to take part in the national executives meeting of Theatre Arts & Movie Practitioners of Nigeria (TAMPAN) and Association of Nigerian Theater-Arts Practitioners (ANTP) respectively as part of the ongoing nationwide sensitization of the entertainment industry.

The Nigerian Entertainment Industry Health Insurance Scheme (NEIHIS) is also part of the main features of the 11th Abuja International Film Festival currently holding in Abuja. The coordinator of NEIHIS, Mr. Seun Apara is expected to speak in the segment New Innovations in Nollywood to further educate the industry on the workability of NEIHIS.

Other panelists in that session are Bond Emeruwa (MD Nollywood Workshop & Gist), Engr. Elvis Obaseki (CEO Chapters TV), Mr. Sola Fajobi (MD E-Force) and Pastor Cyprian Orakpo.

Source: The Guardian

Usman Uzee, John Okafor, Annie Idibia honoured at Ambassador for Peace 2014

Usman Uzee

A Kannywood movie producer, Usman Uzee, popularly known as Uzee Concept, won the award for the Best movie maker at the Ambassador for Peace awards on Saturday, September 27.

The event which took place at the Ladi Kwali hall, Sheraton Hotel and Towers, is a yearly activity organised by the United Nations / Peace Achievers Award.

Four entertainers were honoured this year; three from Nollywood and one from Kannywood.

John Okafor won Best Actor; Annie Idibia, Best Actress and Vincent Opurum, Best Supporting Actor.

Uzee produced three of the Kannywood/Nollywood movies, Maja, Oga Abuja and Hassana da Hussaina which featured stars such as John Okafor, Patience Ozokwor, Nkem Owoh, Rabilu Musa, Ali Nuhu and Saratu Gidadu.

The Peace Achievers Award recognises individuals and organisations in Nigeria and Africa that have demonstrated strong commitment to capacity and peace building and also upholding the peace message in service to their local communities and the Diaspora at large.

Kannywood Could Win Oscar - Ali Nuhu

By Abdulkareem Baba Aminu, Amina Alhassan and Eseohe Ebhota

Ali Nuhu is Kannywood's biggest star, as well as one of the most successful actors in Nollywood. Weekend Magazine cornered him for a chat, during which he spoke about his rumoured second marriage, career and others. Excerpts:

There are reports that you're going to marry a second wife, the daughter of a traditional ruler. True?

Totally false. People come up with imaginary claims which are totally baseless and the stories take on a life of their own. I've never intended to take a second wife, and I have no interest in that. Thank God, it didn't really cause a problem in my marriage because I have an understanding wife who believes in who I am. She understands the pressure of my job and the rumours that come along with it. It was never an issue for her for a minute. We understand each other perfectly and our trust for each other is unshakable.

Industry-watchers say you've have stepped down as the 'King of Kannywood' for Adam A. Zango. Do you agree with that?

We all have unique personalities when it comes to work. I'm still very active in Kannywood, so stepping down should not come up. Adam Zango is a very good actor and we're quite close. Those notions are mere speculation. It comes with the territory.

You are an ambassador for Samsung and you have an endorsement deal with Glo while remaining an active participant in the entertainment industry. How do you juggle all this?

It's not easy. Most of the endorsement work one does is time-consuming, because clients could just say they need you at any point and it could affect your schedule. But sometimes directors and producers understand with us because they know that as an actor, endorsement deals are important. Presently, I'm also an ambassador of Unilever and I have to be away most weekends to do some door-to-door surprise visits to consumers in some specific markets. Even if I'm on set, I know that at this particular time I have this activity. It's an arrangement between me and the producers.

You have directed a few movies. What remains a personal love for you: Acting or directing?

Acting is my first and only love.

You flit between Kannywood and Nollywood. Which of the two is more challenging?

I wouldn't say any of the two is more challenging than the other. What I would say about challenges when it comes to movies is how difficult a role is to interpret, in any given industry. It's a role that is either challenging or a breeze to go through. For instance, when I was shooting 'Sitanda,' we had to shoot in a deep forest and it was hellish as we had to shoot at night and we were wearing skin outfits as the story's set in the past, so I almost froze due to the cold rain that was falling. Now, that's a challenge and it could come up in any movie, in any industry.

Do feel there are enough collaborations between Kannywood and Nollywood?

Well, there are several between the two industries, too numerous to mention. Ones that immediately come to mind are 'Hamza' and 'Oga Abuja'. Both industries have come of age, so collaboration is a no-brainer.

Which A-list Nollywood actor/actress do you hope to see in a Kannywood production and why?

I will love to work with someone like Desmond Elliot because he quite understands Hausa. I don't know why he hasn't featured in any Hausa movie. He's from Southern Nigeria but I think he will do well.

Kannywood has come under a lot of criticism in terms of production quality. What's your opinion on this?

Critics will always criticize. In the end, what matters is the end product. Critics forget the efforts being put in the industry. Most of the people in the industry are not actually professionals in any field, with little or no formal training. Some find themselves in the industry by chance. They should be commended, not condemned. However, I respect constructive criticism.

Ways to help the industry include an active drive to fully revive cinema-going culture. Northerners don't have that, so maybe better theatres and equipment will do the trick. Also, sponsorship should be applied by big corporations. When we started, nobody was sponsoring anything and we were using monies from our pockets to produce movies. Also, an elevation of standards would help. Standards of filmmaking, marketing, et cetera.

And critics can sometimes miss the mark. Like in the case of the worst review my work ever got, when a reviewer took apart my performance in 'Sitanda' by declaring it as "stiff". She basically wrote what she wanted to write and the movie premiered and it became a success and I even won an AMAA for it. Some people still argue that it's one of my best performances. So, criticism isn't always on the mark.

What is the biggest budget you've ever sunk into a movie, as a producer or director?

I would say it's about N6 million, around 2004. However, I'm looking into epic, big budget productions in the future.

What is your opinion about the North having a film institute where you can train actors, similar to what is obtainable in Imo State?

The Kano State governor is setting one up. I don't have an active role in setting it up because he actually wants to bring professionals from India to come and start up the school. For the more technical aspects like the cinematography, you can't invite someone like me to come and give lectures on it because I don't know much about it.

Nigeria gets Grammy nominations every once in a while. Do you think Kannywood could one day get an Oscar nod?

Yes. With the right story, cast, director and a good dose of luck, it's definitely a possibility. We do have a lot of great stories in Nigeria. Maybe when we tell them, the Academy Awards will notice.

Source: Daily Trust

From Kannywood, Nollywood To... Politics?

By Adie Vanessa Offiong and Bashir Musa Liman

'Watch out, the entertainers are coming,' seems to be the loud but unspoken warning to political enthusiasts in recent times. In the last few weeks, the media has been agog with news of entertainers declaring political ambitions.

From both Kannywood and Nollywood, Abba Al-Mustapha, Nura Hussain, Kate Henshaw, 9ice, Julius Agwu, Bob Manuel Udokwu and Desmond Elliot, among others, had declared their intention to take their services of the nation a huge step further by going into politics come 2015. Amidst criticisms, which some of them have been greeted with, they have gone ahead to state clearly what their intentions are as fans hope it is not a case of mistaking entertainment fame for political fame.

Abba Al-Mustapha

"The sky is not my limit, it's my starting point," Al-Mustapha was quoted to have said recently. His political ambition may very well fit this description. He is contesting for a seat at the Senate under the umbrella of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The 36-year-old from Gwale Local Government Area of Kano State, came into limelight for his role in the Hausa movie 'Ruda,' where he played the lead character.

Al-Mustapha's most memorable role in movies was in the blockbuster, 'Jarumai,' where he teamed with big stars in the Hausa film genre like Ali Nuhu, Sani Danja, Aminu Shariff (Momo) and Ibrahim Maishinku.

Nura Hussain

Nura Hussain has been in filmmaking since 1997, beginning with 'Zarge,' produced by Sarauniya Film Production based in Kano. His humility and courteous disposition earned him a lot of respect and admiration from his fans and the industry as a whole.

He combined the running of Al-Ansar Islamiyya School with acting before delving into politics in 2007 when he ran for councillorship on the platform of the defunct All Nigeria People's Party for Kano Municipal ward.

On why he joined politics, Hussain said: "I want to do anything that will have impact on people. At the beginning I was running a school; then I ventured into acting which also educates and enlightens people. Now I'm in politics to solve the problems of people."

There is rumour that he will contest for the state House of Assembly under Kano Municipal constituency; a rumour he has neither denied nor confirmed.

Hamisu Lamido Iyantama

Hamisu Lamido Iyantama is one of the founding fathers of the Hausa film industry, Kannywood. He is an actor, producer and director. He ventured into active politics in 2006 and for governor on the ticket of the Action Democratic (AD) during 2007 elections.

His political ambition was thwarted after he was sentenced to 15 months in prison by a mobile court for not registering his film 'Tsintsiya' (The Broom) with the Kano State Censorship Board. He won his appeal at the Court of Appeal in Kaduna where he was acquitted. 'Tsintsiya' won the 2008 Zuma Award for Best Film on social issues.

The 46-year-old actor is not in active politics now, but there is speculation that he will make a u-turn and contest the 2015 elections. What is equally not certain is which post he would gun for.

Tony Tetuila

Newest on the bloq is Anthony Olanrewaju Awotoye, popularly known as Tony Tetuila, who declared his intention to run for Kwara State House of Assembly as member representing Irepodun Local Government Area, last Thursday.

The 'My car' crooner who was a member of the defunct music group 'The Remedies', following his split from the group recorded success as a solo artist; but has lately not done much in the industry.

Kate Henshaw

Fielding questions from journalists, Kate Henshaw, whose intention is "to do, make noise and leave when the ovation is loudest," has emphasised that she is not quitting acting for politics. "I'll take a break to serve the larger population of Nigeria; I won't quit (acting). Arnold Schwarzenegger was governor and is back to acting again. Four, eight years, that's the limit... you can hold me to my words," she said.

Henshaw said a prolonged stay in politic office is reason for many of Nigeria's problems and corruption by government officials. She also said she has no money to share and added that she was not going into politics for financial gains, but to "push" herself to improve the country.

It has been reported that the A-list actress has officially kicked off her campaign to contest for the Calabar Municipality/Odukpani constituency seat in the House of Representatives under the PDP.

Thanking fans and supporters for their birthday wishes on her Instagram page, she said: "My desire to serve is true, but I cannot say much right now because there is definitely a lot of work to be done on my part and firm decisions made. We must recognise and remember that change cannot come, if we all sit back in the shadows complaining silently. I want to try."

Henshaw has been attacked on twitter by a fan who called her a 'prostitute' following her declaration. A comment she hasn't responded to.

The mother of one has starred in no less than 200 movies since her 1993 chance entry into Nollywood when she acted in 'When the sun sets'.

9ice

The 'Street Credibility' co-crooner 9ice, most famous for his hit 'Gongo Aso,' has announced he will be venturing into politics and contest for the Oyo State House of Assembly.

His recent Instagram posts described as aligning with this ambition, 9ice informed his fans of his intentions via the same medium. He said: "Your Honourable Come 2015. Ogbomosho North Constituency."

Born Alexander Ajifolajifaola, on January 17, 1980, 9ice actively began his music career in 2000 and has won the 'Revelation of the Year Award' and the 'Best Male Vocal Performer' in the 2008 edition of the Hip Hop World Awards held in Nigeria. A month later, he was nominated in the category of Best New Artiste at the first SoundCity Music Video Awards.

Julius Agwu

Moving away from lawmakers, Julius Agwu is aiming to be governor of Rivers State come 2015. Speaking about his intentions and asking his fans' prayers, the famous comedian wrote: "#RIVERS2015 'the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong... ' #Eccl 9:11 emoji After pressure from my people to lead them come 2015... I have finally decided to take the #BOLDSTEP emoji? My Party will be unveiled in due course. Please say a word of #Prayer4me." [sic]

Toying with the possibility of this declaration being a joke, a report said: "Knowing Julius this could all be one big joke... but if he is indeed serious about his governorship ambitions, he will be joining other entertainers like Desmond Elliot and singer 9ice who have announced their political ambitions."

Better known for his 'Crack ya ribs' and 'Laff for Christ Sake' comedy series, 41 year-old Agwu is a Theatre Arts graduate and had his first major break in 1996, when he featured in the first edition of 'Night of a Thousand Laughs.'

Yemi Solade

Renowned Yoruba and Nollywood actor, Yemi Solade announced he would run for office via his twitter account where he shared his campaign poster. He declared he would seek election into the Senate under the All Progressives' Congress (APC).

As an actor, Yemi has featured in several hit movies, especially in the Yoruba section of Nollywood as well as a number of TV soap operas. He is famous for his role in 'Super Story.'

Starting when he was 27-years-old, Solade has been in the profession for over 30 years now and directed his first movie, 'Bogiri O Balanu,' last year.

Kenny St. Brown

Gospel singer Kehinde Ogungbe, popularly called Kenny St. Brown, is the younger sister of Kennis Music chief executive, Kenny Ogungbe and was once married to Eddy Brown of 1990s pop group, Remedies. She is eyeing a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly and recently unveiled her campaign posters.

Contesting on the APC platform to represent Ikeja Constituency 1, Kenny changed her name in June 2013 to Kenny St. Best, following her divorce process. According to her: "'I've been separated from my ex for close to six years now, and I've never really filed for a divorce before that, but now I want to do that and the divorce proceedings are already on.

"I never thought I would have to drop the name 'Brown.' But after Whitney died, you know there is a kinda similarity with her too, I just didn't want to identify with that at all, if something is 'ex,' it has expired."

Desmond Elliot

Desmond Elliot is running for Lagos State House of Assembly. In a recent interview he explained why he is vying for public office. He said: "The current situation is very pathetic. I feel God has helped me thus far and I want to give back through politics that will be favourable to the youths."

He added that: "The worst part of our national life is that the level of corruption has not allowed youths to understand what it means to live a meaningful life. Just because of lack of knowledge of what to do, we are being side-tracked. There are no jobs and issues like these lead to frustration."

Born to a Yoruba father and an Igbo mother, Elliot warmed his way into the hearts of many Nigerians for his formidable acting in works like 'Everyday People' and 'Reloaded' amongst others. The actor cum director has received various recognitions, including nominations for the Best Actor category at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards (2009, 2010).

The father of four has also been involved in the 'volunteer-based non-profit, non-religious, non-political organisation established to give hope to the hopeless' with a goal to fix child illiteracy in Nigeria and Africa at large.

Bob Manuel Udokwu

Bob Manuel Udokwu is the Senior Special Adviser on Nollywood & Entertainment affairs to the Anambra State Governor. On September 3 he declared his intention to run for the Anambra State of Assembly to represent Idemili North constituency but has not stated his chosen platform.

Soliciting the support and prayers of his fans, Udokwu said: "This move is to help develop and transform the state in line with the vision of the present administration. Also, to help develop Idemili North area and make it the constituency to beat in the state."

Udokwu first hit limelight with his appearance in the hit soap opera, 'Checkmate,' as a supporting lead actor. In 1992, he went on to debut in the home video 'Living in Bondage.' Since then he has made one epic rise to another on Nigeria's entertainment scene, including hosting the Ultimate Search reality show.

Source: Premium Times

Kannywood Is Now Benefitting From FG’s Project Act Nollywood

Mohammed Salisu

Mohammed Salisu, aka Officer is the national vice president of the Arewa Film Makers Association of Nigeria (AFMAN). He is also the CEO, S&A Studios Limited, based in Kano. In this interaction with some journalists,  he speaks on the controversial issues between the umbrella body of the Hausa movie sector, Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN) and his new group, (AFMAN) as well as the federal government’s Project Act Nollywood, set up to assist the growth of the industry . SOLOMON NDA-ISAIAH was there.

How did you get into the entertainment industry, particularly the movie sector?

You know I have friends in the entertainment industry and one of them was also in the CBN. He was the one who encouraged me to sojourn into production. He helped me fast-track my move into the industry. I was operating a business centre before this friend of mine motivated me to take the production of music and movies more seriously and since then, I have not regretted taking that decision.

What was the first step you took?

I started by putting the structures in place. I installed a music (sound) studio, before adding the editing suite. So, it was a gradual process which has grown to be what it is today.

What is your motivation?

The motivation, like I have said earlier, is the business prospect I noticed in the industry. Besides, I wanted to have the opportunity to tell stories.

You have one of the most flourishing production outfits in Kano and the entire northern part of the country. What is your staying power?

My staying power is tolerance towards every player in the industry. I am a producer and studio executive. I spend most of my time in the studio or movie location. Right now, I am shooting a multi-million naira documentary film project titled, Wai-Waye (it is a focus on Hausa customs and traditions). I have gone far with this. It is about the festivities that come up during Hausa marriages and other celebrations.

What gave birth to AFMAN and how did you emerge as its national vice president?

I am one of the founding fathers of AFMAN. We created it in order to correct some of the damage that has been done by the other associations that have existed before now. As a former banker, I have the maturity and age and was initially slated to be the president. So, the proponent of the association thought my background as a disciplined banker would be useful in building the industry. You can agree with me that even as a caretaker leadership that we are now, we have effected changes in several aspects of the industry, like production for example. We have tried to a certain extent to curtail the ugly habits exhibited by practitioners. I almost single handedly attracted about N30 million from the Bank of Industry (BoI) into the industry. This was made possible using my contacts in the banking sector.

Talking about Kannywood politics, there seems to be a rivalry between AFMAN and Motion Pictures Production Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN), why is this so?

In every association there must be rivalry; there must be all kinds of clashes because of differences in ideology, policies and all that differ. It is just like we have in political parties in the larger society and in non-governmental organisations. However, MOPPAN was not established to register individuals, it’s a collection of all guilds, associations and others. But they began to deviate from their responsibilities to begin registration of individuals and we said no-this is not your job. That is where the problem lies. Ordinarily, if MOPPAN had allowed every group to take care of its responsibilities, there would not be problems. But they chose to usurp the responsibilities of other guilds and associations-this is what gave birth to AFMAN.

Some people believe that the division is structured along political lines, how true is this?

Let me make this point clear-no politician is behind AFMAN. What we try to do is to sell the ideals of the association. So, we are strictly a professional group. But it is true that a serving commissioner is president of MOPPAN. Yes, it is true that MOPPAN has an ideology that tallies with the ideology and philosophy of the present government. That is why they are close to the Kano State Censorship Board which is the department of government that is executing the ideology and policies of government in relation to the movie and entertainment industry.

But don’t you think aligning the various associations to become one big force would be better for the growth of Kannywood?

We are working on it because we are currently restructuring the system. We are screening new artistes through the Artiste Guild, one of the associations in existence. We want to work on a single platform so that things will not be cumbersome for the industry anymore. This includes the marketers as well, so that we would be speaking with one voice.

Marketers seem to be part of the problems plaguing Kannywood, what is your take?

They used to run to us when things become critical for them; when for example, the problem of ‘choked market’ comes up; that is when too many films are released or on issues of piracy. As things stand now, we are in cooperation, as they are also included in committees that we have set up for these purposes.

So, what is it that AFMAN is bringing into the industry that was lacking in MOPPAN?

We are bringing in a whole lot. We have brought credibility where members are carried along. We protect them when the need arises and sanction those who err. We give them a sense of belonging. We have brought stability into Kannywood.

 Is Kannywood benefiting from the Project Act Nollywood set up by the President Goodluck Jonathan administration to assist the industry? Sometime ago, Kannywood was complaining of marginalisation, what is the situation like today?

Initially, managers of the Project Act fund came up with three categories of grants. One-they will give out money based on productions. The second is for capacity building while the third is for marketing and distribution. However, there was a problem because accessing the funds is supposed to be done individually, but they discarded this guideline and started lumping people together before they could benefit. This was a problem, but even at that it is a blessing to us in the north because of our peculiarity.

The new introduction favoured us and so we swiftly began to process this grant accordingly, but as an association. Reason being that here in the north, awareness is very, very minimal to individuals and because of the low level of education and enlightenment in the industry here, initially we were marginalised. So, when the fund managers introduced the new approach, we quickly queued up to it because we don’t want to lose out; that is why we have to go as an association.

As at now, they have trained 40 out of the 200 applicants we posted online, as they requested for the local training. For the overseas training, 19 have been approved as the first set to go to India very soon. So, we are expecting more will benefit in both the local and foreign training and they are currently working on that from their database. So for us, it is so far, so good, because what is good for the goose is also good for the gander. But admittedly, the process was very slow initially.

Source: LEADERSHIP