Entertainment/Arts/Culture
NFVCB trains youths, warns against sharing hate speeches, videos on social media

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) on Thursday conducted training on film Censoring and classification for youths in Oshodi/Isolo Local Government of Lagos State and advised them against sharing hate speeches, photos and inciting videos on social media platforms.
The event, tagged “Media Literacy and Empowerment for Youths” was held at Oshodi, headquarters of Oshodi/Isolo Local Government Council and had in attendance youths, stakeholders in the creative industry and officials of the NFVCB.
The participants were taught basic dynamics of films and videos censorship and classification codes and the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage through films.
Alh. Adedayo Thomas, Executive Director of NFVCB said the programme was in furtherance of the board’s nationwide Media Literacy and Mentorship initiatives launched for upcoming industry players, youths and students.
According to him, there is urgent need to caution young Nigerians against the dangers of generating and sharing fake news and provocative motion pictures for the interest of national peace and unity.
“We live in an age where technology and ICT transcend every aspect of our existence, as we no longer need to be in the cinema, buy or rent a DVD to watch films, because they are now streamed online and one can access them with smartphones, tablet or the PC via the social media.
“The youths need protection from harmful media contents, because these days we have influx of harmful and unsubstantiated contents ranging from fake news/hate speech to unwholesome film/video circulating on online channels and social media.
“It is therefore desirable for everyone to be intentionally critical of media contents he is exposed to in order not to be caught in the web of harmful and destructive materials.
“These underscore the need for the youths to be equipped with the knowledge which will aid them to think right, deep and at the end make informed choices about media contents they are exposed to,” he said.
The Executive Director noted that the trend of people receiving and forwarding hate speeches and harmful contents without verifying the authenticity was on the increase.
He added that since the spread of news on social media could not be restricted, there was need for people to be educated on the implication of such news on society before spreading them.
According to him, “ the NFVCB has developed capacity over the years in this regard such that it is acknowledged and commended by both the UNESCO and Google for its Media Literacy programmes.
“Due to sustained concern for the youths, especially in the area of saving them from harmful and unwholesome media contents, the NFVCB engages in this same programme in the six geo-political zones of the country which includes Lagos as one of the states in the South-West. Highpoint of the programme was the presentation of start-up packs to the youths entrepreneurs involved in acting and other vocations in the sector.
Entertainment/Arts/Culture
Ayra Starr Clinches UK Platinum Certification for “Rush”

Afrobeat superstar Ayra Starr has earned the prestigious Platinum Certification in the United Kingdom for her hit single “Rush”, for surpassing 600,000 units in combined sales and streams.
The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) officially recognise “Rush” with a platinum plaque, making the “Sability” crooner first Nigerian female artist to achieve this remarkable feat in the UK.
The hit song marked Ayra Starr’s debut on the UK Official Top 100, cementing her growing status as one of the most sought-after African music artiste in recent times.
The Grammy-nominated singer had earlier earned impressive accolades for ‘Rush’, including a Diamond Certification in France in 2023.
“Rush”was released in Sept, 2022, and quickly gained viral success, charting in the top ten across several countries such as France, Lebanon, and South Africa.
The track’s massive popularity also contributed to Ayra Starr’s first Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 66th annual Grammy Awards.
In addition to her recent UK achievement, “Rush” has also earned platinum status in Canada and New Zealand, and 3times Platinum in Nigeria, demonstrating its widespread acclaim and commercial success. (NAN)
Entertainment/Arts/Culture
OdumoduBlvck Wins Next Rated Award at Headies

Rapper OdumoduBlvck has emerged as the big winner of the ‘Next Rated’ category at the 17th edition of the prestigious Headies Award.The 17th Headies Award ceremony, with the theme “Back to Base”, took place on Sunday at the Landmark Event Centre, Lagos.The Next Rated category is arguably the most coveted award at the Headies, recognising the most promising and talented emerging artistes in the industry.
OdumoduBlvck’s win in the Next Rated category was a highlight of the evening. In an emotional moment, he brought his mother and entire crew on stage to celebrate with him.He shared a heartfelt story about his mother’s journey, revealing that she gave birth to him in her late thirties and how she always knew he was destined for greatness.He expressed his deep gratitude to his mother, dedicating the award to her, and acknowledging the special bond they share as mother and son.The crowd erupted in applause as Odumudu Blvck’s mother beamed with pride, surrounded by her son’s crew members, friends, and Report also says that this year’s event marked a significant return to Nigeria after a two-year of hosting in the United States.The “Back to Base” theme of the ceremony highlighted the importance of staying true to one’s cultural identity while pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation.The event drew an array of star-studded attendees, showcasing the richness and diversity of African music.Notable attendees included Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who graced the occasion with his presence.Celebrities, top industry stakeholders, and dignitaries walked the red carpet, adding to the glamour of the evening.One of the most talked-about moments of the night was the attendance of Tanzanian singer Juma Jux and his wife, Priscilla Ojo.The newlywed couple marked their first appearance together at the Headies award, making it a memorable night for fans and admirers.This year’s edition of Headies featured 31 categories, including Artiste of the Year, Song of the Year, and Recording of the Year.Other notable winners of the night included Liya, who won Best Vocal Performance (Female).Lojay, who won Best Vocal Performance (Male), and Rema, who won Afrobeats Album of the Year for his album “HEIS”.Davido was crowned Artiste of the Year, while Zerry DL took home the Rookie of the Year award.Late rapper Mohbad was also honoured with a posthumous award, which was received by his family.KCEE was recognised with a Special Recognition Award for years of excellence in the industry.Other notable winners include:- Tribe Called Judah,(Soundtrack of the Year); Tems, who won Best Recording of the Year for her song “Burning”; Qing Madi, who won Songwriter of the Year for “Vision” by Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma.Others are OZEBA, who won Producer of the Year; Director Pink, Music Video of the Year for “EGWU”; Flavour, Afrobeats Single of the Year for “Big Baller”.Also, Temitola Adekunle Johnson and Michelle Mukoro (King Mitchy), who were recipients of the Humanitarian Award. (NAN)Entertainment/Arts/Culture
Liverpool Trashed Tottenham Hotspur To Secure 20th EPL Title
by Muhyideen Jimoh
Liverpool clinched the Premier League title in style as they came from behind to thrash Tottenham 5-1 at Anfield.
First-half strikes from Luis Diaz, Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo all but wrapped up a record-equalling 20th top-flight title.
This was before Mohammed Salah’s 28th goal of a prolific campaign and a Destiny Udogie own goal made the scoreline emphatic.
Spurs briefly threatened to spoil a party that began hours before kick-off by taking an early lead through former Liverpool striker Dominic Solanke but the Londoners put up little resistance as the Reds clicked into gear.
The title, secured with four games to spare, is only the Merseysiders’ second in 35 years.
It is also the first in that period they have been permitted to celebrate in front of fans after their 2020 success came during the COVID-19 pandemic