Toke Makinwa is a media brand, she is a radio personality, television host, media influencer and vlogger. She co-hosts The Morning Drive on Rhythm 93.7 FM, as well as host Moments with Mo on EbonyLife TV. Her online reach is very impressive, she has over 35,000 subscribers on YouTube and over a million following on Twitter and Instagram combined. It is clearly obvious that Toke is Nigeria’s Sweetheart and the media’s IT-Girl.  She has won the respect of so many with her passion, drive and personality. These qualities have also been criticized by many and despite the jabs that she gets from being in the spotlight, one fact that cannot be denied is the fact that that Toke Makinwa is a hard worker and is SELF MADE.

Being in the limelight is probably the greatest burden anyone can bear, every move, every sneeze, every action or inaction would be criticized, ripped apart till the actual meaning is lost and Toke has had her fair share of this media cake. In all this, one certain event has loomed over her head and she has been defined by it.

This event has led to this day, where we have Toke as an author of On Becoming which has given her an opportunity to tell her story in the way that she wants it to be told. There are stages to events and things, change is constant for growth to be evident, the journey of a thousand miles began with a step and in all of this we are consciously or subconsciously aware of the person we are becoming.

Hi Toke, introduce yourself.

Toke Makinwa is a multimedia personality. I do radio, television, YouTube and now very recently, I have added the author feather to my hat, I am just a young lady who is very passionate about walking in her purpose and impacting lives as I grow. My goal is to leave this world so much better than I met it so I am not one to fear taking risks and exploring. I am up for growth however painful. I’m open to change, however uncomfortable at the start but discovering, living and learning as I become.

What does – On Becoming- the novel mean to you?

On Becoming is a journey. We are all travelling through life and each day, we see has lessons for us all. The book is about finding myself in the hope that people will read and do the same. It is a story that had to be told, it is important to tell your story or the world will tell it for you and On Becoming shows you that. It battles the fears of a young girl, the lady she has grown into and how she continues to navigate her path through life.

Why break the silence with a book and why now?

I don’t see the book as breaking the silence, it is a must tell. I have found my purpose in sharing and impacting lives as I grow and there are a lot of issues that we do not discuss enough in Africa. As women, there is a culture of shaming to silence about things we go through. It is like the older generation only sees strength as the ability to suffer in silence. The need to ‘keep it all together’ is crippling, I have found that real strength can sometimes be the ability to show vulnerability. Knowing that it is okay not to have the answers but as long as you wake up every morning with the will to try and keep applying yourself to it, things will get better. That is what On Becoming is about.

On Becoming introduces us to the 21st century woman torn between finding herself, her career and her man, are you skeptical about the reviews this book might get?

I hope people read On Becoming and appreciate the honesty. Everyone is trying to find something and that is not a bad thing. It is however how we conduct ourselves in the wait, how we draw strength from our negative experiences, how we thrive, how we remain hopeful even in the worst experiences. That is strength. If being a 21st century woman means bold, fearless, falling and getting back up then I am up for it.

You showed us a Toke Makinwa many people do not know, right now, who is Toke Makinwa?

Toke Makinwa is becoming and loving every step of the way to where she is destined to be. She is comfortable, fearless and not afraid to let the world see that she is a work in progress.

 Asides the realizations shared in the book, were there other self-realization moments while you wrote the book?

I had to confront my worst fears and stared it down, there were moments when I didn’t know what to do or how things will eventually work out, in those times I turned to writing. I documented so much it helped me heal. I had to forgive myself for my naivety, I had to accept my new normal and tell myself that despite it all, I am still standing and all will be well.

What impact do you hope for your book to create?

I want to see many women step out of their comfort zones, I want the book to cause us to have a rethink on certain things we blame our culture for. People need to stop defining other people by their status, we need to appreciate how long we have come and women need to support other women more.

What should we expect in the future from the Toke Makinwa brand?

So much more. I cannot wait to share our 2017 plans. God willing, I am also excited about the book tour. We will tour Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, United Kingdom and the United States. Tour starts in December immediately after our November 28^th nationwide release date.

What is the end goal for you?

To live a life full of purpose, to make my mistakes and grow and be better for it and in my own little way to create a little heaven here on earth! We have enough negative stories to last us our lifetime, we need to begin to rewrite the scripts so that the young ladies coming behind will have much better experiences emotionally, spiritually, financially and much more.

Advice to the people who would be affected by your book?

Keep Becoming more!!

Creative Team

Creative Direction: Chidera Muoka

Photographer: Niyi Okeowo

Makeup: Jumoke Tychus for Eyesome Beauty

Stylist: Harvella Styles

Hair Stylist: Bernard Smiles

Shoot location: A WhiteSpace

The post Becoming Toke Makinwa appeared first on The Guardian Life Magazine.

Ghanaian born and English raised, Peniel Enchill’s illustrations are one of a kind. You might have seen them all over the internet and particularly on the cover of Arese Ugwu’s novel, Smart Money Woman.

Called Penie by most, she credits her current profession to the advent of social media. As most people are not familiar with the rare profession of fashion illustration in Africa, as a child, she would imagine her path as a fashion designer.  According to Penie “I realised I had more of thrill for the art of fashion as opposed to the creation of it”.

Like most Artists, Penie continuously gains inspiration from her personal life as well as social issues in her environment. Although the illustration industry in Africa is quite new, it is easy to observe the level of passion involved in an intricate Peniel illustration.  Her pieces are able to stand out on a global and international light, as it is extremely rare to find illustrations adorning particularly women of colour.

Growing up in the British background, she explains the idea of not being exposed to positive image of black women. Penie has adapted this element as the most powerful aspect of her art, an ideal that most young black girls can relate to internationally.

A client who insisted paying for one of her pieces propelled Penie’s career path. She explains, “The first time I ever charged for a commission was £15…the point is that I placed value on my craft. I don’t think she realized that she taught me a vital life principle.”

Since then, she has recently taken her brand to a whole new level as she officially launched her company which specialises in paper products and gifting including phone cases, greeting cards and calendars. Peniel’s products are a beautiful combination of her BA in Business management and MSC in international fashion retail.

The post Peniel the Exceptional Illustrator appeared first on The Guardian Life Magazine.

Originating nearly 500 years ago, illustrations are a form of art interpretation or visual explanation of a concept, text or process. It differs from the regular art pieces that we are accustomed to in the sense that it is the most appropriate, or the easiest type of art to be published along side media such as posters, magazines, books and teaching materials.

Although illustrations first surfaced in the medieval ages, in the 1600s Japan saw the origination of Ukiyo-e, who became famous for his traditional folk tale renditions.  While African Illustration has been around for a few years, the market is a territory that is extremely open for exploration.

 Africa is blessed with talented individuals who are channelling their creativity to the art of illustration. This editorial casts the spotlight on three of these illustrators – Obinna Omeruo, Stephanie Unaeze and Peniel Enchill.

Obinna Omeruo

Obinna describes himself as “A simple colour loving entrepreneur”.  Although his illustrations are far from “simple”, his work exudes a certain sense of class and grace that sets him aside from others.

As the grandson of an artist, Obinna credits the intricacy of his work to growing up in a stylish household, as he began drawing at a very young age.  The University of Lagos MSC graduate explains, “ I took it up professionally in 2010 because I never ever wanted to use the line, “ I used to draw”.

The Lagos indigene’s work includes extremely detailed pieces inspired by the Vlisco hollandaise fabric company, as well as Lisa Folawiyo’s designs. The most interesting feature about his work, which evidently stands out, is the detailing in the fabrics of his illustrations.

Obinna’s work is timeless, with every planned stroke of dark and light pencil marks as well as colours, the illustrator brings fashion to life on paper.

Contact: obinnaomeruo@gmail.com

Stephanie Unaeze

Stephanie’s illustrations stand out in its individuality as each piece has a unique edifying element to them. Coming across her work, I had imagined walking into an animated Afrocentric dream.

The Nigerian, self-taught artist fell in love with art while studying computer sciences in the University of Science and Technology in Ghana. According to Stephanie, her inspiration is derived from her cultural influences. “I draw a lot from my experiences when it comes to creating my pieces, I feel like real emotion makes for honest and relatable art.”

As most illustrators focus on more realistic portraits, I was particularly drawn the whimsical vibe, which is a rare feature in Nigerian art illustrations. Stephanie’s work sets a new pace for modern day artistry as she unveils her 2017 plans, to turn her illustrations into what she calls “living art”, which is essential functional art for your homes.

Contact: stephanieunaeze@gmail.com

The post Illustration in Colours appeared first on The Guardian Life Magazine.

Damini Ogulu, also known as Burna Boy is the coolest kid on the block. The music mastermind is famous for his Nigerian reggae-dancehall infused songs, which are evidently timeless. Growing up in a family of music, he was destined for fame. He explains, “I don’t think there was ever a time I wasn’t doing anything music”.

Burna’s music career became official in 2012 as he rose to fame after releasing hit singles “Like To Party” and “Tonight”.  Furthermore, the once small town Port-Harcourt boy draws his inspiration from the likes of Fela, Jimmy Hendricks and Tupac. His rhythm simply stands out effortlessly.

His media personality radiates with bad boy connotations, but in person he comes across as cheerful and often kind to the people around him. “I am not big on materialistic stuff, I wouldn’t concern myself with it if I didn’t have to… so that is why my mum is there thank God. If not I would have given up all my stuff,” he explains, with childlike giggle.  As his barber proceeded to shape up his boys at his home, Burna expressed a down-to-earth greeting amongst his peers and workers. It was hard to miss the sense of playfulness about him, one could describe him as a little boy at heart.

Most people consider Burna to be the most underrated artist in Nigeria. Although his musical talent is largely known within the country, as well as internationally, there is a lot of controversy around his ability to obtain awards particularly in Nigeria. In fact, early this year, Burna made history in South Africa, as he became the first to win the” One Africa Award” at the prestigious Metro FM awards ceremony. However, he is yet to bag well-deserved awards within the borders of his own country.

While many have credited the controversy to the crooked ways of “Industry politics”, Burna refuses to be labelled as part of the industry. He strongly emphasises his lack of interest in the Nigerian award system and highlights that the aim of his music is to “feed the soul of people that it concerns”.

During the interview, we learnt a few things about the personality that is Burna Boy…

How did you initially get into music? What inspired you to go towards this path?

– Burna was destined for greatness

 I don’t think there has ever been a time when I wasn’t interested in music. There hasn’t been a time when I wasn’t doing something related to music. Fela is my main inspiration with music, but there is a lot of other inspirational people like Jimmy Hendricks, Tupac, there is also Mark Morrison, my favourite era are the 90s.

You know how Nigerian parents can be quite strict on career goals, how did your parents handle it?

– If he wasn’t a musician he would be an athlete or a computer programmer

I don’t think anyone thought it would be anything serious. They were cool with me doing music because obviously, there is a lot of music in my family but I am sure they would have preferred me to be a lawyer or something like that. I could literally do anything, I could have been a boxer, or played basketball, could have done computer programing, I could have done real estate, which is kind of still my hobby, but now that is my mum’s hobby. She is all about the business side of things and leads me towards a direction in that aspect.

You are one the most popular artists to emerge from Port Harcourt, tell me a bit about your Southern background.

– Damini had to leave Port Harcourt to become Burna Boy

Port Harcourt was not very supportive, but where you are from makes you who you are. I can only be thankful, but it’s all love when I go back because that is my city, but the point is if I stayed there I wouldn’t be doing what I do. I would probably be into oil. That is just the cycle of Port Harcourt.

There has been a lot of speculation on you being deported from the UK, what really happened?

– Burna was never deported from the UK

At the end of the day if I was deported I won’t be let back, it is sad how you can write what ever you want and people just listen. But you see that is the jungle mentality about us in Nigeria.

How has it been switching label and running your own record label?

– Contrary to what most people believe, He did not leave Aristocrat Record Label

I did not move or switch label, as usual the contract finished and I started my thing.  The CEO of the former label I used to work under, now works with me. As I said it comes do to the fact that things have been misinterpreted and whatever you see in black and white becomes the truth to you.

Have you gone into any recent business ventures?

– Burna is not really interested in money

I have always been a business man, it is nothing new but it is not something I focus on because it is materialistic, I am not big on materialistic stuff, I would not concern myself with it if I didn’t have to… so that is why my mum is there, thank God. If not I would have given up all my stuff and all my money to everybody. It is just how I am. 

Are you single?

 –  “I am not sure” usually means it’s complicated but is probably still open to dating… if the right girl comes along

I am not sure anymore, I am a person who doesn’t care about most of those things. That is the irony of it all; I don’t care about the things people care about. I don’t know what people think I can’t tell you what this is or that is. I just take everything as it comes, hoping for the best and preparing for the worst.

I’m sure you get a lot of female attention what is your most interesting story about a female fan?

– He has empathy, depth and is extremely passionate about his fans

Yes, but I don’t like to talk about it because it makes me too emotional. I had one of my biggest fans in the world, her name was Anita and she died. Like she just died, it was mad. She was one of those people; it was like she lived her life for Burna Boy. These are people that ride out like they would get a tattoo of Burna Boy. It was crazy.

Is there any artist local or international you want to work with? Future collaboration projects we can look forward to? Plans for 2017?

– He has mind-blowing surprises, which we can look forward to; he also suggests that people should do less planning and just go with the flow.

They always come out better when you don’t know or it just slaps you in the face. I’ve got a bunch of things that could blow your mind right now but it won’t anymore if I tell you.  There is no point telling people about your plans as well because things will probably change. Everyone says to aim for the moon you might probably hit a star but what if you don’t hit a star, there is no guaranty. You might just shoot and it will vanish into another planet or even destroy it. I just feel like planning is good but it is not something you should rely on. You should just rely on your faith and spirit and who you are.

Creative Team

Creative Direction: Chidera Muoka

Assistant Creative Direction: Beatrice Porbeni

Photographer: Niyi Okeowo

Styling: Henry Uduku

The post Burna Boy: Beneath His Surface appeared first on The Guardian Life Magazine.

Adesua Etomi

In less than three years in Nollywood, Adesua Etomi who we've once had on the cover of G.L when we cast our spotlight on the Next Generation of Nollywood last year has led a successful career in a rather short time frame. Bubbling with energy as she enters the studio with a pixie cut, a print shift dress and hugs to go all around the team, she breaks the ice with G.L as she reveals five things people probably did not know about her saying, “I'm left handed. I'm not a fan of handbags and jewellery. I think Will Smith is perfect. My mum is a pastor and I sang in a choir for ten years.”

Etomi made her debut into the Nollywood film industry in 2014 with Knocking on Heaven's Door and a year after bagged the Best Actress in a Drama Award at the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards for her role in Falling. In 2017 she went on to become part of the cast for one of the highest grossing movies in Nigerian history The Wedding Party (TWP). Prior to that she had been very much involved in the theatre scene featuring in plays like Shattered, Anatomy of a Woman, London Life Lagos Living, Saro 1 and 2 and The Secret Lives Of Baba Segi's Wives to mention a few.

Debby to Dunni
Being a actress is no easy feat and being a successful one we imagine must be harder. When asked about her strategy was when she came into the Nollywood industry, she says “ I didn't come here thinking I am going to meet this person and meet that person, my strategy was prayer and divine connections.  That was what I was going for, I wasn't trying to look for who was going to help me or give me a handout.” The original plan was to stay in Nigeria for three months and head back to the UK but as plans changed she knew she had to hit the ground running, “I knew what I wanted to become and I didn't know how I wanted to get there but I knew the things I didn't want to do to get there. I knew there were certain things that were associated with success and that’s preparation, staying prepared, keeping the work at the forefront of everything that I do” she says.

An evident steady climb, she reveals her motivating factor for her career to be the love for storytelling saying, “The love of getting a chance to play different characters and the fact that I know that my job has an impact on people,” so much so that it influences the character selection in movies as she admits to choosing characters that are flawed because of her belief that humans are fundamentally flawed and the need to connect with her audience.

Speaking on her role for TWP, she explains the audition process for the hit movie, “I auditioned just like everybody else. On the first day I came for the audition I read with three guys, so that's three different stages then on my fourth audition stage I had to read with Banky and that's when I got the role and that was when he got the role too because he went through the audition process as well. He had to read with myself and someone else before they finally decided on myself and him for the final pick.” Being affiliated with TWP for Etomi she says has helped with exposure, marketability as an actor and in terms of having great box office sales as well as more opportunities in the industry.

Getting into character
Passionate about her profession, when asked on other career choices asides acting she says, “I'd be acting. There is no option B for me, I know everyone says it but I literally don't have any other answer”. She later admits to becoming a crime scene investigator because of her love for puzzles. We point out the majority of roles performed by Etomi revolve around love to which she laughs and says, “First of all, love makes the world go round and everyone identifies with love”. She also reveals movies coming in the future that will feature her in characters we've never seen before.

For Etomi, script selection is key. She says, “The story, the characters, the relationships, those are the things that attract me to the script.” She adds, “ If I read a really great script and I don't have peace doing it, I don't do it and I think it has worked for me so far.”

In 2016 she played the role of Dara in The Arbitration, which strayed very far from the roles she's played previously and even altered her personality temporarily. She describes it as one of the most liberating experiences of her life, “She's someone that swears, she curses, she's very different from me, very rude, very straight to the point, very crass. In fact, it's funny because when I was getting into character, my manager said I was kind of mean.” At this point she enters into an argument with her makeup artist and manager who assure her she was fully into character even when the camera stopped rolling. Laughing as she reminisces, she says, “I became Dara pretty much and here's the thing, one thing that I love is getting the opportunity to fully get into character and not get out of character and it is really hard here in Nigeria because on set if you start acting like that to everybody they will be like “Na wa for this girl o,” they won't understand that it's just you trying to stay in character.”

"I am very passionate

about people and children that need help,

so I feel like I am going to be a mum to many"

The intimate circle
Asides being one of the new leading ladies in Nollywood, Adesua was party to one of the best kept secrets of 2017, her engagement to Banky W, her co-star in TWP and popular RnB singer. In the Nigerian entertainment industry where there are barely secrets, we credit her ability to keep this secret to her inner circle. When asked about her inner circle she says, “I'm very particular about my inner circle, you can count my closest friends on one hand and that's because I believe you just need a few good friends, I am very friendly to everybody else. Also my family, my mum, those are the people that keep it all together for me and they are always there and you can't beat that” she says.

The fair lady of Nollywood is guilty like the rest of us when she reveals three things she does when she wakes up every morning, “I wake up, I pick up my phone, I try to say a prayer and then I make a particular phone call” (she laughed, obviously alluding to Banky W). She also admits to being a home buddy and a movie lover which is how she takes downtime from her busy schedule with some good food. When asked how she juggles she explains, “I just do it. As I'm talking to you since the beginning of this year, I have worked very single month, I have shot in South Africa for two months. I came back and went to shoot for a month in Nsukka. I just remember that I am a vessel and I just have to keep going because I owe it to myself, the fans and people that love watching what I do to do this. I also try to make a conscious effort to take a break, so once I am done with my projects towards the end of July, I'm going to give myself a little break and then come back.”

Little Miss Sunshine
Etomi is skilled as an actress, a dancer and a singer. Wondering what she's not good at, she admits to wishing she had kept up with ballet, gymnastics and playing the piano although she has a guitar which she's fairly good at. She believes in teamwork when acting as she spills the lessons she's learnt as an actress.“I've learnt to be vulnerable. I've had to learn to trust the character completely and utterly. I've had to learn to let go of Adesua each time I act and because it’s hard sometimes, you're in your own head a lot of times and I've learnt more than anything else that acting is team work.”

In the nearest future, Adesua hopes to have an acting school in the bid to bridge the gap currently in the industry with the lack of young talents. She'd also like to become a producer as well as a mother to many saying, “At some point my ten year plan, maybe even less, is to open an orphanage, I love children and I am very passionate about people and children that need help, so I feel like I am going to be a mum to many.”

After the rain had settled on a gloomy Tuesday afternoon, I had a long chat with Falz the Bahd Guy, over a few cocktails at BarBar. Right on time, he walks in, grabs my hand and says “Beeetreeez”, with a flirty grin. Just as I expected, he is a total goofball in person, but claims to be shy! He says, “A lot of people don't know I'm shy that is the biggest misconception about me.”  

Folarin Falana also known as Falz has been in the entertainment business since 2009. Most of his fans recognise him from his comedic social media videos that went viral shortly before his song Marry Me hit the limelight.

Under his independent label, Bahd Guy Records, Falz has released several hits including Soft Work, Wehdone Sir and recently, Jeje.  He has dropped two solo albums and collaborated with numerous artists including Yemi Alade, Ajebutter22 and Simi.  He has also been nominated for and won several awards including the 2016 African Magic Viewers Choice Award's Best Actor in a Comedy Movie in Jenifa's Diary, City People Entertainment Award's Album of the Year for his album Stories That Touch. Internationally, Falz won the Viewer's Choice Best New International Act" category at the 2016 BET Awards.

While the artist never disappoints with his tunes, recently, Falz has been tapping a bit more into his acting side as he featured in AY's 10 Days in Sun City, a comedy, which premiered on the 23rd of June. We should also be expecting his third solo album at the end of the year. Guardian Life caught up with Falz, who talks about his opinion on the Nigerian legal system, his alter egos and the lowdown on his dream girl!

The class clown

Falz has been interested in entertainment since his high school days. It was never just music or just acting, he always found a way to combine his talents in a comedic fashion. He explains being a part of a group called “Schoolboys”, they would make music and perform to groups of friends at Olashore secondary school in Osun State.

He explains, “We were gaining quite some ground in school. We had a few groupies…there was a time we used to steal jokes from Night Of A Thousand Laughs. We used to watch it at home and come to school to crack people up. It was the way we cracked the joke that made it funny.”

He began to develop his entertainment personas, which he later combined into the brand we all know as, Falz the Bahd Guy.

The alter ego

The artist talks about his persona being an influence of the people he encountered or that he found funny while he was growing up. He says, “Initially it started off as just making fun of people and it was just something that stuck and I found that I had developed a complete alter ego.”

Falz's music stands out due to his comedic trademark broken English infused into music. According to Falz, “I don't want to make a song just because, I try to preach and teach with my music. I think it's about making music with substance…Most of the time I already have an idea and then I hear the beat. I then try to put the concept on the beat; if it flows then I can work with it. Sometimes, it is the other way around when the beat sounds so nice and I have to work with it.”

While we are more familiar with Falz the musician, he is also widely recognised as Segun from Funke Akindele's series, Jenifa's Diaries. When he is acting, he steps out of Falz the artist into his alter ego whom he calls “Brother Taju”. Similarly to Falz, Brother Taju is a calm, funny, witty character, who also speaks in a broken English language, which is unique to his personality.

He explains the third component of his original personality, Folarin who he describes as “the well-spoken, eloquent, barrister.” When we strip down his characters to bare essentials, we get Folarin Falana, the barrister and son of famous lawyers.

Who is Folarin Falana?

The man behind it all is Folarin Falana. Far from a bad guy but a shy intelligent lawyer who claims to be totally single! While we once heard rumours about Falz  getting up close and personal with singer Simi after the release of his EP, Chemistry, the rumours have since died off.

Although he talks about having a lot of things he needs to achieve in order to be ready for a relationship, he says that his perfect girl “has less to do with the looks and more to do with the personality. So intellectually sound, really smart, very ambitious with a great sense of humour and just really caring.”

Folarin's interest in law started from a young age, as both his parents are activist lawyers. His father is Femi Falana, who ran for governorship of Ekiti State in 2001. He emphasises being “influenced” rather than ”forced” to join the family profession. He says, “I think growing up, in school friends would be calling me lawyer already, they knew that my dad and my mum were lawyers, so that I think it directed me towards that path.”

After studying at Reading University and completing the Nigerian Bar, he practised law for two years and expresses absolute respect for the course. He explains,  “I think law is very challenging, it develops your analytical mind and that is something that really helps me in my day to day life.”

The lawyer expands on his personal objections to the system when he says,  “I think judges need to be more firm and strict when they know people are abusing the court process. We also have corruption of judges as well.”

Besides his strong opinions on the Nigerian legal system, the artist has been vocal about other issues he finds pressing. In an interview he conducted with Hip TV, Falz talks about artists who use their music to glorify fraud due to influence it might have on younger generations. He also expands on Nigerians being treated poorly in foreign countries with a personal encounter he experienced in Kenya. According to the artist, he went on holiday with a group of friends and they were detained because of their Nigerian passports. The officials stated their reason being “-all Nigerians come here for is cyber crime.”

Dealing with the fame

2016 was a year of bliss for Falz. He won several awards for his music, hosted the Headies Awards Ceremony, he put himself in the international limelight after he won Best International Act at the BET awards. He explains, “I think 2016 was definitely one of my most remarkable years.  The BET award was a category that required people to vote for me and a lot of people really voted for me. Seeing that I had that kind of support and people behind me was the most exciting thing about that.”

Contrary to popular belief, being an entertainer is a tasking job, gaining recognition is even harder and staying on top in the saturated industry puts immense pressure on artists. Falz explains, it is tough to get recognised because the music industry is very saturated… There is new music coming out every single day, so you have to try and catch up, you have to be on a very similar pace if not you'll get left behind. So for someone new coming up, you have to really be special.”

The artist also describes the pressure of being constantly in the spotlight. When asked how he handles the craziness of the fame, he says, "it gets very hectic and stressful, sometimes you just want to be by yourself and have a quiet day but it's not possible. You might run into fans and you're not having a good day, but they need to take pictures and they need to hear you talk.”

Through it all, the artist describes being passionate about his work. “If you are passionate about something or if you enjoy doing something you won't get tired of it.”

Creative Team

Creative Direction: Beatrice Porbeni

Photographer: Niyi Okeowo

Styling: John Angel

Full of excitement, Akande walks into the studio, introduces herself to the team and brings out a lightly wrapped breakfast. A loosely fitted gown covers her petite nature, she crossed her legs comfortably and gave a warm smile as she says,  “Ready when you are”.  

Dakore Akande has been in the public eye for many years. The actress came into the old Nollywood scene about 25 years ago, fresh-faced with her signature dreadlocks. Her rise to stardom started off when she was 19 years old and attended her first audition for a sitcom called Inheritance.  She explains, “I went to my first audition, I had never acted before…but I caught the acting bug and the producer said he would call me back.” Since then the actress has been in and out of Nollywood.  She took a short break as she went off to build her personal life with her husband, Olumide Akande, son of multi-millionaire businessman Harry Akande. According to the actress, “It was challenging to leave but it was time for me to go have my kids and settle with my mates.” Akande has been gracing us with her presence on screen, more recently in the film, Fifty, which has been continued as a series and Isoken, a romantic comedy, which premiered in England and Nigeria. But Akande won't be around for too long as she has decided to move to Los Angeles with her family. The successful mother of two girls caught up with Guardian Life, she talks about premarital marriage pressures, balancing motherhood with her work life and reveals her future plans to make a name in Hollywood.

The transition from singing to acting

Lagos born and bred, Akande describes having “an amazing childhood” being the first-born with a lot of responsibilities and living as “a mainland chick”. She reminisces about her high school days when she says I went Federal Government College Girls, Bauchi. I was in a group of girls, we thought we were the baddest but it was a real sisterhood, we would get into trouble, seniors would punish us.” Although many remember Akande from her onscreen performances, her persona first emerged from her early days as a musician. She explains I studied mass communication at UNILAG. I started out doing music so I never thought of myself as an actress. I knew I was expressive and dramatic but I always channelled that into my music.”  

During her UNILAG days, she took up photography with her uncle, Don Barber due to the ongoing UNILAG strikes, which led her move to the UK where she delved deeper into her music career. She talks about performing at “top notch” places such as the Queen Elizabeth Hall.  She adds, “Acting was never the plan, I was totally surprised, that is one thing about life, if you don't put yourself in a box, you never know, you can just surprise yourself.”

Taking on meaningful roles

Recently, we have seen Akande take on very interesting roles in Nollywood. Her character in the film Isoken portrays a 34-year-old woman who has a great family and life. Two of her sisters are married and she is not, so she is constantly under pressure to settle down. She is then caught between a man who is from her tribe who ticks all the husband boxes and a Caucasian man who she is very much happy and comfortable with. The film, which depicts Akande as Isoken, being caught between the pressures she gets from her family. She is trying to find herself is very significant of the struggles as a young unmarried woman in Nigeria. According to Akande, “I think it is so important for these type of movies because of what women are going through in general. It is really reflective of what happens in the Nigerian society as it pertains to females because once you're 25 then everyone starts to count.” She talks about the message behind the film when she says, “I just think it is important for our girls to get to know that it is fine to know who you are before you get married.”

Dakore draws some similarities, she shares with the character's experience as she reveals the societal pressures she faced when before married. “I got married in my 30s, so I totally understand. When my husband and I were dating, we were constantly under pressure. There was a lot of speculation on our relationship; people were counting for us so I know what it is like to be under pressure. Society should stop trying to box women into a corner, stop telling them what to do, not forcing us into doing what you want.”

While her role as Tola in Fifty is a complete contrast to Isoken, she was particularly drawn to the deep message behind the character. The film, which recently premiered as a series, depicts four women who are at the pinnacle of their careers. Tola is burdened with the family secret, which causes her life to fall apart. Akande expands on stepping into a character who is “nothing like you” when she says, a strange alchemy happens when you play a character… you have to mould yourself into the character and leave yourself at the door… I also get to shine the light on incestuous rape, nobody wants to talk about that but that it is the point of art, it's to shine a light.”

Nollywood to Hollywood

Getting settled into Nollywood as a first timer was a challenging task for Akande. She talks about the “challenges” she faced in Nollywood as a young woman. She explains, “Initially there were not many challenges because it was a virgin, open territory. The challenges really came with Nollywood not really being where I felt it was supposed to be. When you're young and just starting out people look at you like what do you know. Especially when it had gotten to the point where we were doing part one to three films. It was tough trying to deal with being an artist and having a voice, and sometimes not being able to use that voice and looked at as a troublemaker.”

Now Akande is moving to Hollywood. “We had a soft move with the kids and my husband,” she says. “I am set up. I have a manager and an agent... I want to see how far I can go.”

Her decision to leave Nollywood for a short period was for the best as she describes Nollywood being in a better place than before. “We are finally hitting those marks and making films, we are actually going for it cinematically. We are not where we should be yet, but we are well on our way, I am really proud and happy that I still have a place there.”

Hollywood is a different ball game, it contains worldwide A-list entertainers and is the leading film industry in the world, there will be some major challenges. Akande talks about her children is one of the major reasons for her decision to move to LA as well as the plan to further her acting career in the United States.  She explains, “Nigerians are doing really well out there. I think it is a really great time for Black actors of a different origin because people want to see themselves…not just for me, it's also for my kids, to give them a bit more stability. They are American, I would like them to experience the opportunities out there.”

Akande is confident about making it out there as she describes having a “better chance” as she already quite successful in Nollywood, she has a good portfolio to carry along.  The actress also mentions Priyanka Chopra as her idol, a popular actress who made a successful transition from Bollywood to Nollywood.  

Being Supermum

Besides her acting, Akande manages to squeeze out time to give back to her community.  She emphasises her deep belief in “Karma” when she says, “When you do good, it comes back to you”.  She is an ambassador for Oxfam, International Aid, an organisation for the poor and Amnesty International in their campaign for the control of guns and ammunition. Being Bayelsan, she explains her passion for her involvement in the Amnesty International NGO, “In any place where there has been a war, I always encourage people to find other ways to resolve the conflict. I believe part of the reason they chose me is that I am from the Niger Delta. It is a hotbed for that kind of activities.”

Balancing it all cannot be an easy task for the actress who has two kids, a husband and a body to maintain.  When asked how she balances it all, she says, “It's intense, it's really tough. I miss my kids a lot, I have to be away for work, and I need to be on point. I need to be mentally strong to deal with careers that are very much dependent on how people perceive you.” The actress also shares some of her workout tips that keep her on track, which include walking, yoga and pilates.

Above all, Akande would like to be remembered for being “a genuine human being”. She says, “There has to be more to life than just being an actress. Let it speak for something”.

The actress who never finished university would like people to understand that life doesn't always go as planned. She says, “It's not always what you set out to do that is your calling, education is super-important but sometimes life gets in the way and that's ok too as long as you're applying yourself to whatever you decide to eventually do with a spirit of excellence.”

Olowu Bardia Adebola, also known as llrymz is a Nigerian television host, radio personality, producer, event MC and former model. The entertainer describes himself as “super shy”, he explains, “I think people think I am arrogant but I am actually the simplest guy.” He later adds, music is my first passion so I will make a onetime only album.”

The Persian Nigerian has been in the industry for about ten  years. He started off as a model. He describes his first few jobs, “I made my first million with Coca Cola, I did some ads for Coke Nigeria. Then I worked for a company named MTech, one of the first value-added companies in Nigeria… then Vibe Weekly, we started the crazy ringtones…that was my first job and I earned 30k, I did that for about three years.”

He went on to work for several companies including being the co-host of Soundcity, Nigezie, Star Gist as well as being the host of Nigerian Idols and Coke Studio Radio.

Recently, he stepped into the Nollywood scene briefly, he runs a new club, 1089 and is the CEO of his media creative content company and he created a news page on Instagram called Selfienews. Finally, we can't forget to mention that Illrymz also works for BET Africa where he has interviewed the likes of Queen Latifah and Jada Pinkett Smith.

He wears so many hats but yet, when asked where he would place himself in the industry, he says, “I am just Illie”. Guardian Life caught up with the presenter and businessman who talks about his journey as a “Light skinned boy” in the entertainment industry and reveals the future of his media company.

Growing up in Nigeria

Being half Nigerian and Persian, Illrymz describes himself as “The official Lagos boy.” He explains, “I was born and bred here…I went to high school and university in Nigeria. When most of my friends move back here, I'm the go-to guy.” Although he experienced being teased for his light skin as a child, he talks about growing up in a typical Nigerian household.

What was growing up like for you?

Nigeria used to be a bit funny back in the day, so kids used to sing “Oyinbo pepper,” but I grew up like everybody else eating amala. I remember growing up had isiewu and I ate the eyeballs and I threw up for about a week.

How was UNILAG? 

Going to UNILAG was the most humbling experience for me because I actually didn't want to go to school, so I decided to go to school here. When I was in UNILAG, I was with Soundcity and I was one of the first people that was really pushing that urban movement back then.”

"If you look on my  social media,

you don’t see any flashy cars

because that’s not how I want to be perceived"

Illrymz

Accidentally famous?

The presenter never intended to be on TV.  He explains, “I went on to do television by accident. I went to pitch to a show called Nokia First Chance before Nigerian Idols started which was the first reality music show.”

Illrymz also shocked us all and himself, when he decided to play the leading character in the web series, Our Best Friend's Wedding. His character, Charles can be described as a playboy who finds out that his mother is dying. In order to please her, he goes on a journey in search of the perfect bride. According to the entertainer, “It was unplanned… I was looking for ways to reinvent myself on TV.”

You are the leading character in Our Best Friend's Wedding, tell us about your role?

This is my 10th year on TV and I decided to do this web series called Our Best Friend's Wedding, which was huge. A lot of people think that's my true character, the playboy whose mum has cancer. My mum doesn't have cancer, and I'm not really a playboy but I have been blessed to have the opportunity to play this role.

Are you transitioning into Nollywood?

No! It was unplanned, they asked me to come in and I wasn't supposed to be acting because I am a presenter, it's not what I do. I was looking for things to reinvent myself on TV.

Illrymz

Was it difficult for you to get into character?

Life is so intertwined because I am a producer, and I produced the Indomitables. My company and my brother's company did that. He created the characters, I did all the audio and we did it in the studio and animated it in India. So, I already know how to put people in character, it came naturally for me because I like telling people what to do. It's like being on stage when you're presenting, you're in character.

The light-skinned boy tag

Believe it or not, there's such a thing as “the light skin bad boy” stereotype in Nigeria. Illrymz describes different scenarios where he had been judged for being light skinned, particularly with the ladies. He talks about an experience he had in UNILAG when some girls saw him walking on the street and felt sorry for him because they never imagined a “light skin” guy trekking. He expands further on the topic when he says, “We live in an environment that is super materialistic, but I need to identify with how I want people to perceive my brand. That's why if you look on my social media, you don't see any flashy cars because that's not how I want to be perceived.”

When asked about his “bad boy” persona, he says, “I do get that whole…Illie has like a hundred girls because I'm light skinned. Imagine when I go up to a girl and say “Hi, how are you I think you're cute” and they say, “Oh Illie, you've got like a hundred girls.” And I'm like how do you know my name? Then they flip on me… and all I said was hi!”

Wearing different hats

After working in the entertainment business for about 10 years, Illrymz has dabbled into different businesses. When he's not presenting, acting or producing, you can find him at 1089. He says, “I don't sleep, I sleep at 4am every day so I might as well be out Thursday to Saturday making money.”

If you're into the Lagos nightlife, there's a chance that you've come across 1089 the “New York” inspired club right by Casper and Gambini's in VI is pretty high.  While running the club takes up a lot of time, he is also working on building his media company, which will focus on content for kids.

You're the man behind 1089, what was the vision?

It's a lifestyle. I spent a lot of money in other places and I want to make some money back. I just wanted people to come and have a good time, I wanted a New York styled club where everybody looks good and stays fresh.  I am really excited about the direction of it. Akon is shooting a movie there as well. It's a lifestyle, so if you want to have a good time, come to us. Let us create an ambiance that is nicer and bigger, somewhere you don't have to smell of smoke when you're going home.

What's the main project you're working on right now?

I make a lot of content and I am tired of looking for places to keep my stuff, I am creating a channel called the C channel. The C channel is contagious TV that will have a bunch of TV series and shows, I will create and put it on my own platform. I am also creating a channel called Toon World, which will be content for kids; the future of the company will be for kids. There is nothing out there for kids. We just finished a few things on classic Nigerian songs for kids.

The first time we laid eyes on Ebuka Obi-Uchendu was as a housemate on the first ever Big Brother Nigeria and although he didn't win the grand prize, he remains one of the most successful housemates of all time. Uchendu admits that although he loved TV he never saw himself as a presenter or host. He says, "I got on TV because I was on Big Brother and people called me for auditions and I got TV shows and started hosting events as a result of that." Uchendu's ability to swing between the soft topics of pop culture to the hard topics of politics has seen him as the anchor for Rubbin Minds on Channels TV, a co-anchor on The Spot on EbonyLife TV and most recently the host of the second season of Big Brother Nigeria.

Who is Ebuka Obi-Uchendu?

Uchendu is calm and collected as he gets to the studio but transforms into a ball of comedic energy as he changes between outfits for the shoot and insists that we credit him for styling. When not being a versed and stylish host, Uchendu is a husband, father and aspires to be on TV for a very long time.

Last year, he became a father and a husband and he speaks of it as a humbling experience from being in the delivery room with his wife to having an amazing first year of marriage. The transition from bachelorhood to family man is what he describes as, "Very interesting!" he goes further to say, "They always warn you about the sleepless nights, nothing prepares you for it.”

Speaking of his marriage he says,  "Marriage has been amazing, the first year is supposed to be the toughest they say but if that's what tough means then I guess I might have a good couple of years ahead of me.”

His daughter, who he says is, "Basically in control of our lives now [laughs]”, and his wife, who he describes as a partner, have taught him the values of communication and patience, saying, "Having a partner who whether I liked it or not was a part of me, I had to change (communication) that because if I was going through stuff, that meant that she was going through that same thing and she needed to know what I was going through and I started coming out gradually."

Uchendu hosted the first ever presidential debate focusing on youth issues in 2011 and he states that his interest was piqued by the 2000 presidential debate between Al Gore and George Bush. He hosted the debate with Chimamanda Adichie which he says was "Probably one of the highlights of my career till date."Talking on his dream platforms to host he says, "You have the platforms like CNN, BBC and the Aljazeeras, they have a certain standard and those are the kind of platform I see myself with in the future hopefully. Maybe show them a different side to Nigeria and Africa."

To set this in motion, Uchendu is currently using the platform on Rubbin Minds to create a name for himself as a host for entertainment and serious issues. "The show that I do on Channels is political.  It's current affairs but it's also tilted towards the youth so they watch these things and think this is what the youths are thinking and coming from.”Speaking on the platforms he would like to be on internationally, he goes on to say, “If they see I've been on Channels, no offense to all the other shows, if they see that I've done a show like this, where I wear a suit and sound smart, they'd take me seriously."

Big Brother from three sides

There was a little bit of surprise when Uchendu was revealed as the host of Big Brother Nigeria in place of Ik Osakioduwa and to this, he says, “Even if they had brought Ryan Seacrest to that show there would have always been "Ik wouldn't do this" which is normal. There is no show in the world where they replace somebody and there wouldn't be comparisons." He was also under pressure hosting the biggest show in Africa which airs in 48 countries to which he says, "Thankfully it was a 12-13 episode show so I had time to build myself.”

Uchendu had a 360 experience from being a contestant in 2006 to hosting the show in 2017, he says, "It was a great experience for me, it was a full circle, being on the show and then hosting the show. Seeing things from the other side was crazy." He goes on to say, "I was very humbled to be a part of it and learn even more aside from being a housemate or a presenter."

The case of morality was one of the major issues that surrounded the 2017 Big Brother Nigeria show when Kemen was evicted for sexually harassing Kemen to which he says, "The beauty of a show like Big Brother is that it mirrors our society. There is nothing that happens on a show like that is orchestrated." From the selection of housemates which Uchendu describes as "probably the best they have ever done,” he goes on to say, “Which is why it was the most popular Big Brother they have ever done on the continent and it was simply because they made sure they picked somebody for everybody so you could relate to at least one person."

He also reveals that: "The most censored season of Big Brother has been this season,” which he attributes to the general perception of Nigerians towards the happenings in the house to which he says, "As much as they were being themselves, there was also the need to consider the society we live in." His advice to the public is to make sure the children don't watch the show stating that, "Morality is always going to be an issue.”

Talking politics and pop culture

Uchendu has positioned himself to be knowledgeable on various topics, particularly politics and pop culture. Speaking on the improvement in the entertainment industry he says, "I think we are on the right track,” and charges the government to fix issues of piracy and distribution as well as building a structure for the industry.  

He goes on to say, "It's almost impossible for us to grow much more than we are now without a structure and I'm talking about people actually going into a business with laws." Using Tuface as an example he goes on to say, "There's no reason why someone like Tuface should retire today and not die a millionaire even he lives for another 40-50 years because he has put in so much work."

Regardless of the lack of structure presently, the industry is booming as Uchendu says, "I know how much I was getting paid as a presenter and MC then and how much I'm getting paid now."

Talking about politics he speaks on the effect of social media which has helped but goes on to say, "There's still a lot of apathy and that's because there's a huge disconnect because most people feel like the government isn't doing anything for them and you can't blame them." Also raising a core issue of the middle class in Nigeria who tend to be influenced by politicians saying, "The real problem is that as long as there's poverty, it's almost impossible for people to be honest when there's money and that's going to keep happening when the people do not have financial stability, power or a voice. A voice cannot come on an empty stomach."

 

 

 

 

"The most censored season of Big Brother has been this season...As much as they were being themselves, there was also the need to consider the society we live in"

Being on the job

Uchendu loves his job and is always looking for new ways to improve his craft. Although he is self-taught he says he watched other hosts and presenters as a tool to harnessing his craft. He goes on to say,  "Whatever art form you are doing you should be on top of your game." He also admits to watching his interviews saying, "I used to cringe but now I actually watch to correct myself."  Conducting an average of 50 interviews every year on Rubbin Minds, his interview with Reminisce sticks out for him for two reasons, "First of all, forgive me I judged him before he came on the show and he came on and was one of the most eloquent people I have ever interviewed and not just eloquent, he made very salient points."

Creative Team

Creative Direction: Chidera Muoka

Photography: Niyi Okeowo

Styling: Nkem Okorafor and

Cynthia Lawrence

If you've ever listened to Wande Coal then you'll know that his sound isn't ordinary. His style of music, which embodies a cross between RnB and Afro beats, never gets old!

The first impression of the musician was hilarious; he's a happy chap who randomly starts dancing and singing at odd times. He walked into the studio, and immediately took himself on a tour round the place with a huge grin on his face.  The most captivating part of his character as he walked was his sudden movements accompanied by his boyish nature, which made it really hard not to laugh.

On a chilled Sunday afternoon in Abuja, Guardian Life had an interesting chat with Wande Coal who talks about his transition from Mo'Hits, to Mavin Records and finally Black Diamond. He also gives us some interesting facts you probably don't know about him!

The choirboy

Before the Wande Coal persona, he was known as Oluwatobi Wande Ojosipe from Ijaniki and Mushin who spent most of his time entertaining his peers at Federal Government School, Ijaniki. Music had always been on the agenda from a young age. When he recalls being in the choir from the age of five and his days in high school, he adds, “I had to dance in front of the whole school because I had to build my rep; people never knew I could dance so I gave it a chance on stage.”

After high school, he went to the University of Lagos (UNILAG) where he describes singing and dancing in the hostels to “make ends meet”. His journey to stardom officially started when Don Jazzy and Dbanj performed at his school. He explains, “I was in UNILAG when Don Jazzy and D’banj came to school to perform and a couple of friends and I just wanted to entertain them backstage before they went on stage, so we started singing and my life became so serious after that.”

Mo'Hits to Mavin Records

When Wande Coal entered into the Mo'Hits family he had this lover boy charm about his music, particularly Ololufe, which catapulted him into the limelight. In 2009 Wande Coal released his debut album, Mushin to Mo'Hits, which is notorious for its back-to-back hits, from You Bad to Taboo to Kiss Your Hand and won several awards. These included the African Artist of the Year in the Ghana Music Awards 2010 and Artist of the Year at the 2010 Hip Hop World Awards.

At the time, working under Mo'Hits with Don Jazzy and D’banj was a bonus as he fit right into the Mo'Hits family. The team dominated the scene with memorable songs such as Booty Call, Pere and Close to You. He talks about his role in the label when he says, “Back then, I used to write for everyone, a lot of songs I wrote back then many people don't know.”

Subsequently, things went downhill after a dispute between Dbanj and Don Jazzy. While Dbanj signed to the famous American rapper, Kanye West's record label, Good Music, he made the decision to leave the team in 2011.  Following the split, by 2012, Wande Coal was under Mavin Records with Don Jazzy as the CEO.

Transition to Black Diamond

On September 2014, Wande Coal launched his label, Black Diamond Entertainment with his single, The Kick. According to the artist, “I am the CEO of my own label. The main thing is back then you had to work with others, so you listen and share ideas. Now I call the shots with my own label.”

Recently, he released his latest single Iskaba, which has over three million hits on YouTube, under his label.  According to the artist, “My fans have given me a really good reception, it's doing really well.”

While the artist keeps his fans buzzing with his unique sounds, it's clear that his style of music has transitioned from the lover boy we once knew to a mainstream sound.

The artist talks about his upcoming album, which is scheduled for release next year. When asked if his fans should be expecting a comeback with his old school love tunes, he says, “These days people want to dance and have fun, so I decided to change it up a bit.”

Moving forward, Wande Coal's vision includes opening a music academy as well as recruiting more artists into Black Diamond Entertainment.

During the course of the interview, Guardian Life found out a few things about Wande Coal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Back then, I used to write for everyone.

A lot of songs I wrote back then,

many people don’t know."

How did you get the name Wande Coal?

Wande is my real name and Coal is because of my dark colour.

What was the first song you wrote?

At the time I just would beat my chest and sing, Ololufe was the song that put me out there.

Which artist inspired your music career?

It was my 300 level, I remember Tuface came to the school, and everybody went wild. People were on him, and he came to one of the hostels and he sang. In my mind I was like wow, I want this too. I have always been a big fan of Tuface.

Who were you a backup singer for?

I started off as a learner, I used to be backup singer to D’banj and we would go on trips together until I became a main artist.

How did D’banj treat you as a boss?

He was a militant! But in a good way, he was always positively driven and I learnt a lot from him.

Word on the street is that Nigerian artists are mimicking Ghanaian sound. What do you think about that?

I look at Ghana and Nigeria like Canadians and Americans. They are family, so both of us have something, but a fusion of it is what creates the sound. We speak Pigeon, they also speak Pigeon so they can flow with us, and I would say both of us rub off on each other.

Who are your main industry guys ?

My guys are many, I'm that guy that hangs out with everyone. Just to mention a few, Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy and Flavour.

What is your favourite album of all time?

The Konvicted Akon album and Face 2 Face Tuface album were my main inspirations.

What's your dream location and with who?

If I could be anywhere I would be in America, particularly Atlanta because it has a music vibe. I would be in the studio with Jazzy Fizzle or Wiz Khalifa.

What do you do in your spare time?

I play basketball; I'm usually the point guard when I go with my guys. I also swim sometimes.

Choose between Ghanian or Nigerian jollof?

I love both of them so there's a problem, I can never choose which one I like better!

Favourite series at the moment

I am in love with Power, I’m actually watching it right now and Ghost is my favourite character.

Tomiwa Edun

Chances are that you have looked at the cover and you are wondering why your favourite new player from the FIFA 17 The Journey looks so real and bears the name Tomiwa Edun. Chances are that you have checked the Internet and have realised that Alex Hunter is Tomiwa Edun, a Nigerian actor who has featured in series like Merlin and most recently the movie everyone is talking about, Banana Island Ghost.

Edun also happens to be the second black man to play the role of Romeo in a production of Romeo and Juliet at the Globe Theatre in London, a prestigious theatre associated with William Shakespeare himself. Speaking of the perception of being able to play the role he says, "I think it should not be remarkable that a given role is played by someone of a given race or creed." He goes on to say, "At the end of the day, we are all human beings and we all know what it means to be in love, to feel betrayed, to feel misunderstood…"

Talking to Edun during his stay in Nigeria from the premiere of Banana Island Ghost, you are infected with his laughter which seems to erupt mid conversation. He speaks of his umbilical connection to Nigeria as he says, "I spend a quarter to a third of the year here, depending on what I'm working on but I don't think I've spent more than a year outside Nigeria and that year that I did, I felt the lack." He goes on to say, "There's a vibrancy to life here that is powerful. I think when anybody is here, they really know that they are alive. I feel like being here is living life at a hundred and ten percent and that is exciting."

Theatre to Film

For most people who venture into this field, they have an attraction to the stage or the screen, for Edun, it was the love of theatre. He recalls some of his earliest memories of theatre being from Lagos at the National Stadium. He says, "I remember these moments of outrage, of seeing someone being duped on stage and wanting to do something about it. I guess I had the impetus to be involved…" it wasn't until his meeting with a the late influential director in Cambridge by the name of Annie Castledine who he says, “- was the one that first of all suggested that this could be a career and secondly was instrumental in pushing me along the path…And like they say, I never looked back."

Being a member of the theatre and film industry in as much as they are under one industry, Edun describes the feeling of being on the stage and on screen. "Every night, the performances are essentially different because the composition of the people involved in the conversation is different and there is something wonderful about being able to start at the beginning of a story and take it to the end with no interruptions." Talking about film he says, "Onscreen, I feel it is more like catching these moments of truth of human experience and the director assembles all these moments that we've caught over the process of the course of the film to tell a story that hopefully connects with cinema audiences emotionally." In an ideal world according to him, he would love to do both.

Acting in Nollywood

Edun recently featured in Banana Island Ghost, a movie which featured Chigul as the lead actress and Edun as her boyfriend. Considering this is his first movie in Nigeria, he admits that, "I have been trying to do that for years. We have taken things to various stages and for whatever reason, they haven't quite worked out." Finally working here due to the right conditions and approach from Biola Alabi and BB Sasore, he was attracted to the script because according to him, "It was a lot of fun! The sort of abundant joyfulness of it just jumped off the page." Laughing as he reminisces about being on set he adds, "We had a great team, it was a real privilege. The crew, the co-stars. There were a lot of laughs on set and hopefully there will be even more for the audience."

Describing the movie as a global industry, Edun goes on to say that "We have so many stories that need to be told and I will love to do more work here (Nigeria)". When asked about the experience shooting in Nigeria, his answer is a little bit shocking but refreshing as he says, "I think being on set is pretty much standard everywhere. You are always short of time, inevitably. No matter how well you can, you are always chasing the clock." Laughing, he adds, "We have fun issues like losing light, all those challenges you have to deal with here that perhaps you don't have to deal with elsewhere."

Becoming Alex Hunter

If careers were left to the fate of a Nigerian parent, at least one child would become a professional football player, preferably playing with the big clubs and sending money back home. Well, Edun is eating his cake and having it in the role of Alex Hunter in the FIFA 17 – The Journey which allows players embark on professional careers as Hunter. Edun describes it as a "surreal experience" he goes on to say, "Basically it has given me the opportunity to live out a boyhood fantasy. I mean who amongst us would not be a professional footballer of the highest level if we could do it and I have sort of gotten to live that dream which is amazing." Talking on his journey while playing this role he says, "We shot in this massive warehouse in Vancouver in winter and then seven, eight months later the material that started off as us dressed in these weird motion capture suits, interacting with very few real sets, props and scenery turns out into this beautifully polished pseudo-movie."

Speaking of the effect of this unique introduction to entertainment, he says, "I will say that the greatest validation of our work was watching my friends or brothers play this thing that I have been working on for all this time and seeing them pulled in that they are now reacting emotively and spontaneously." Playing Alex Hunter has been instrumental in his career as he says, "This FIFA thing has opened up doors that ten years ago we wouldn't have known would be there." Regardless, he admits to being blessed, saying,

"I am proud of the variety of material that I have been able to do. It's great to have been able to work in all these different markets."

When most people think about Mocheddah, they remember a tomboyish girl who stormed into the music scene at a young age. Now she's all grown up and focusing on more than just her music.

Also known as Modupe-Oreoluwa Oyeyemi, the rapper first came into the music scene in 2009. Her signature tunes include Ko Ma Roll, If You Want Me and more recently, Survive.

Mocheddah talks about being signed by Knighthouse Entertainment music label at the age of 13, releasing her first single at 15 and gaining popularity at 17 before her university days at UNILAG. After about four years in the music industry, Mocheddah decided to take a break. According to the musician, “I saw other people living life and it became clear… I was 21, and I thought this was not a way to live. I didn't watch movies anymore. I didn't watch TV. I was missing out on life and that is when I stopped everything.”

I do not strive for fame, I want to get to a point where I am putting consistent music out there...

Although she made a comeback, her focus on music hasn't been the same as she recently got engaged to her longtime boyfriend, Bukunyi Olateru-Olagbeji, and ventured into other business including her clothing line, Mocheddah.co. Guardian Life caught up with Mocheddah, who talks about her departure from the music industry and her future plans for her brand.

How did you get your stage name Mocheddah?
My name has always been Mo, and for some reason when I started rapping I always said Mocheddah. I would go for interviews and the host would always introduce me as Mocheddah. Initially, I hated it and I am pretty good at saving money so people started calling me Mocheddah - initially, if it didn't pay then I wouldn't do it. When I made my first music video, Clarence Peters asked, “Why don't you just use Mocheddah?”

How was your experience at UNILAG?
I won't really say I went to UNILAG because I was popular when I went there, so it was literally class and studio so I didn't have the time to explore. All I did was study and leave.

So your music career started before UNILAG?
I got signed to a label at 13, I would spend my holidays in the studio and school time at school. That was all I knew.

What prompted you to take the long break?
So when I was 21, I decided anything that doesn't make me happy, I'll stop it. I was lost and I knew I was clueless and overwhelmed. I told my mum I didn't want to do this anymore because I didn't know who I was. My friends were having fun, making mistakes, living life and I wasn't. I was famous, I was popular, I had money, I could do what I wanted, and I had a lot of freedom.

What did you do during your break?
I did nothing. Of course, I was still recording music and going to the studio because music is my first love. I have over 50 to 100 songs recorded in my archives. I travelled to see friends. For me, that was fun because I did not have that luxury. Doing nothing was exciting, even though I still recorded music and went to the studio, I did it on my own time. I was an ambassador for several companies.

Have you had issues separating your current identity from your past? Let's start with who you are now.
Mocheddah now has found a middle ground. Growing up, I was built to impress and put my first foot forward and competed with myself. It is not the same music people remember me for because what people do not understand is that it is a business. Right now I'm loving, so I am going to be singing love songs. I want to motivate young girls, so I sang Survive. I am just going to do what I want to do and if I make money fine and if I don't fine.

Are you looking to get back to that level of fame again?
No, because I do not strive for fame, I want to get to a point where I am putting consistent music out there, but where I am running many businesses. I am a style consultant, I am a style influencer, I also do manage several brands, which people don't know about. I want to build an empire and create job opportunities for many people.

Tell us how you got into fashion?
I always liked fashion and styled all my videos. Back then I didn't have the luxury of hiring makeup artists and stylists, what I would do is go to Yaba market and boutiques, I would style myself. I also had sisters, luckily I could steal all their clothes. I feel like, with fashion, when you're out of resources is when you are most creative.

What has been your major challenge establishing yourself in the fashion industry?
I have a fan base, which has made it easier. I had customers before I started and the only challenge I have is meeting orders, but I do not bite more than I can chew. I also have a factory and tailors that work for me. I can say one of the issues I have is the work ethic in Nigeria, which is really bad. The Nigerian youths are not ready to work, they do not know what it takes to get to the top so keeping staff is an issue because they keep coming and going.

So what's the Mocheddah brand about now?
Right now I am running Mochedda.co, which has makeup, music and a blog. The blog has counsellors and gynecologists; we have different people contributing to the site. The idea of the blog is to allow young girls to have friends because what TV and social media are saying right now is the wrong energy. I feel like the blog Girls Girl is that cool, big sister telling you I know how you feel because I went through it and this is how you can handle it.

You recently got engaged, how is your wedding planning going?
I am excited and I have known him for a long time. He is my first boyfriend and now my fiancé! When I am upset, I just look at my ring and I'm like yeah, I am good! This is the happiest time of my life and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.

What has been your highlight so far?
I feel like because I didn't live for so long, now I am just doing what I want. The thing I love about my makeup videos, my fashion and blog is the fact that I am relating to people when I read and reply comments. Now I have customers who I communicate with. My highlight is speaking to customers or getting an email from my blog, and impacting lives.

In the words of Kendrick Lamar, “If I'm gonna tell a real story, I'm gonna start with my name.”  What's in a name that makes it so significant in the stories of our life? A lot of people identify with their names through the traditional meanings and all the better when you need a name that motivates you as an individual. For Toyin Abraham, formerly known as Toyin Aimakhu, it was more than a fresh start as she says, “Yes, changing my name signified a fresh start.” Initially, it was a family decision to change the name but Abraham resisted because of her brand. With the controversial events associated with her in the recent past, she finally made the decision to go with the family change. What's different now? “Toyin Abraham is a different and better brand and I'm here to stay and break new grounds,” she says.

Abraham's journey to stardom started in 2003 when Bukky Wright scouted her in Ibadan, while she was helping out on set, and she eventually had to fill in for a missing actress. In her own words, “I was not there to act, I just went there to help out but I acted well and I was paid.” Since her introduction to the movie industry, she has grown from an actress to a producer. Describing her motivation to stay in the industry, she says, “I love the fact that for every role or character I play, I get to be another person and that is so exciting. I also get to make people laugh.”

Although she had no formal or informal training in the field before her first break, she describes one of the unique factors that aided her career thus far to be her life experiences. “I didn't have a privileged childhood, so, growing up, I had to do different things to make ends meet and all these experiences have helped to shape me into who I am. The experience of my past helps a lot in many of the roles I play.”

Alakada Reloaded

Laughter they say is music to the soul and Abraham has been dishing it throughout her career. The third movie in her comedy series, Alakada Reloaded, reportedly grossed twenty-five million naira in three days. Abraham credits her environment for the idea: “The story idea was also inspired by our environment, the whole fake life that a lot of people seem to be living now; lying and living a lie. So, I just decided to tell a story of a girl that represents these set of people.” With premieres in Odeon Cinema Greenwich in London and Filmhouse Cinemas in Surulere Lagos, Abraham credits the growth of the franchise to God and adds, “Sincerely, I am overwhelmed by the franchise and how far it has gone. It honestly went beyond my expectations. It's bigger than me now and I thank God.”

Speaking of the mixed reviews which Alakada Reloaded got, she says, “My fans are the best in the world, but we can't all agree all the time. So, the mixed reactions are normal and honestly expected and this is because we can't all see something the same way.”

Abraham is one of the very few actresses who feature and act quite convincingly in both the English and Yoruba genres of Nollywood. And more and more English Nollywood movies premiere in the cinemas week in, week out these months. The life of an actress is hardly boring as she reveals, arriving our cover shoot from one production set while working on her coming movie titled, M.M. Admitting to leading a very busy life, Abraham responds to the popular work-life balance question saying, “I create time, and so my work and personal life do not clash.” Adding, “The kind of work I do as an actor, I decide what to do and what not to do, what job to take on or not, so my schedule is in my hands. But for now, I have decided to channel all my positive energy to my work and it has been working for me.”

Drugs and depression

Being in the limelight, we assume, can never be easy. In a recent interview, Abraham spoke of her battle with depression and drugs, and what landed her there. Here, she sheds more light: “Depression came as a result of the negativities around me at the time. Like I said in that interview, I didn't plan for a broken marriage and after the marriage ended, I was down and I didn't give myself enough time to heal before jumping into another relationship. I lost touch with things that used to work for me, things were just spiralling out of control, it felt like I was no longer in control of my life and so when a friend introduced me to drugs, I embraced it and tried to find solace with it.”

Abraham didn't wallow in self-pity for long and rather quickly snatched back her life. “It was like an awakening. I realised I deserve more and that I needed to keep looking at the bigger picture. So, I sought for help, I changed my team and the people around me. I changed some of my friends too and here I am today.  All in all, I thank God for the grace and for a new me.”

For the love of acting

Working hard in the industry as a producer and actress, when asked to choose between acting and producing, she picks acting saying, “I will pick acting because acting gives me this rare opportunity of playing different people. I get to be a different person for each role and that is both exciting and fulfilling for me.”

If acting hadn't come calling, this Ibadan-raised polytechnic graduate would have chosen Marketing for a career. “I like to think my mouth is sugar-coated enough to sell. Again, I am a very friendly person who likes to meet new people and marketing will give me that opportunity.”

Trivia with Toyin

If you were a musician what will be your stage name?

Oh! My stage name will definitely be Toyintitans

Which is your best physical feature?

My breasts.

What did you want to be when you were much younger?

A physiotherapist; I just really loved it then. Well, the interesting part of being an actor is that any day now, I could be playing the role of a physiotherapist.

What is your greatest achievement?

The fact that other people look up to me as a role model and I make people laugh, those are the greatest things I have achieved. It's very humbling knowing that a lot of young people look up to you and want to be like you.

Would you say you have a hidden talent?

Yes, I do. I can sing.

If you were a flower, which one will you be?

I will be a hibiscus flower. Hibiscus flowers, though come in different colours and sizes, have a delicate beauty that draws you in. That flower just fascinates me and I think it best describes me.

"I realised I deserve more and that

I needed to keep looking

at the bigger picture."

There was a time a few names and faces made Nollywood. Omoni Oboli was one of them. Most people recognise Oboli from her early Nollywood days when she made her first appearance along with the likes of Liz Benson and Richard Mofe Damijo in the 1996 film Shame. According to Oboli, “It was a dream come true for me. I went on to play the lead role in three other movies,” including Hilda Dokuboh's movie, Another Campus Tale.

Oboli describes her first day on set with enthusiasm as she says, “I played alongside two of the industry's giants at the time, Liz Benson and RMD...It didn't matter whether it was "waka pass" or a speaking role. I loved it, and I couldn't wait for other roles.”

The actress played a leading character in the 2016 film, Okafor's Law, The Figurine, Being Mrs Elliott and more recently starred in the new film My Wife and I, where she acted alongside Ramsey Nouah.

Oboli had an interesting chat with Guardian Life on her new film and her Nollywood experience thus far.

What was growing up like for you?

Mostly happy and eventful, even though we weren't rich. My experiences with my mum and my sister were such that I couldn't trade them for any other. Living in the Delta Steel Complex at Aladja was a dream for us then; it had all the facilities that made for a great community, and that made me live a somewhat sheltered life, away from the larger society of Warri. The schools there were great, and that's where I also discovered my love for acting. I loved those days.

Would you say acting is a natural gift or training is necessary?

Both. You can be naturally gifted in anything, but without any further training, I don't see how you can get very far. The training may be formal, studying at an institution or taking courses, or it may be informal, which can include on-the-job training in school dramas or any plays with friends and people of like interests or in Nollywood directly. The naturally gifted ones then shine when they are featured in roles after they've been trained either way. So yes, acting is a natural gift, but even some people who didn't think they had the gift still go on to be great through training and sheer determination.

What is it like stepping into a character?

Every role has its own demands and challenges, and depending on the director and the script, I always try to put myself in the place of the character I'm playing. They say an actor can't or shouldn't judge the character he or she is playing and that is what I always try to bring to any movie production I'm featured in. We also somehow still retain a bit of our own traits and mannerisms, which is what makes two actors give different performances for the same role and that is also what brings spice to the entertainment world of movies.

“Okafor's Law” - describe your character in the film?

I played the character of the "good" church girl, Ejiro, who had been stood up at the altar and after finding God, fell for an old seduction trick to find herself in the same position as when she was first jilted. We have all come across an Ejiro in our lives, who has, due to experiences, given up on relationships on the surface, hoping for that person who ticks all their preconceived boxes of the ideal Mr Right. Unfortunately, some people know just how to satisfy those requirements on the surface, until you probe deeper to find that "perfect" doesn't always come in ideal packages.   

How did you decide to start directing?

Back in my secondary school days I was writing, producing, directing and acting in the school and church plays, even though I didn't know that was what I was doing back then. So it kind of came naturally to me to take the next step from acting to directing. So I went to take a course in directing at the New York Film Academy (NYFA) in New York and now I've written, produced, directed and starred in four of my movies and a series.  

How would you describe your experience so far in Nollywood?

Great! I dreamt of this, but I didn't think we would see Nollywood grow this fast to become a force to reckon with at the cinemas alongside other international movies. It has happened and we are competing with Hollywood and doing even better at the Nigeria cinema box office. I have a good relationship with many of my colleagues who have also come to see that the sky is big enough to accommodate even more than we currently have, and I'm glad.

How has the industry transformed for you over the years?

The international recognition says it all. With the great outing at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) we shone brightly. We now have so many great moviemakers, and I'm especially proud of the high number of female filmmakers and producers that have sprung up lately when it was only Amaka Igwe at one time. Nigeria has been the better for it with the influx of employment opportunities and entertainment business doors being flung open. Our movies have grown in production value and the fan base has grown exponentially since I first got in back in 1996.

What has been the highlight of your career?

My career has seen many highlights thank God! My first movie was premiered at Aso Rock Villa. I won the best actress award at the Harlem International Film Festival and also the best actress award at the Los Angeles Movie Awards with Lonzo Nzekwe's movie, Anchor Baby. What more could a girl ask for? My movie was officially selected at the TIFF 2016 edition, and my movies have been doing great at the cinema box office. Not to forget The Figurine, which sparked off the new Nollywood cinema movement. I could say my career has all been in highlights.

What are some challenges you've faced as a female actress in Nollywood?

Nollywood has a lot of female lead actresses, and when a good role comes along, the producers and directors have to sift through them all to find the one they want. So sometimes I find that some roles I would love to play would be given to someone else, and likewise, I get roles that others would want for themselves. That was my first challenge getting back into the industry after a ten-year break. I still lose some juicy roles, but I get so many other roles that it doesn't matter as much as when you're first trying to break into the industry as the new girl in town. Also, with a family, it's hard to stay away from my family for long periods because of the job, but that's what the job calls for.

You're a working mother, how has that been for you?

Like any other working mother in any other field, it's hard to be away for too long from the children and my husband, but we've got to do what we've got to do, and it's always great to have a good support system. My husband is a great support for me and I don't have to feel like I was neglecting them because he makes sure the home front stays functioning properly when I'm away.

 What are some projects you're working on right now?

I have a movie out in the cinemas that I'm promoting right now, My Wife And I. I have other movies in different stages of production. Wives On Strike (The Revolution) will be released in December and I have a series to release even sooner.

How does My Wife and I depict the marital struggles couples go through every day?

Every marriage has its challenges. Couples need to take time to understand each other and their various needs and challenges.

Would you say it's difficult for wives to step into their husbands' shoes sometimes?

It's difficult for anyone to step into anyone's shoes. If the shoes weren't made for you, it's a struggle to fit into them.

How long have you been married for? What would you say is the most challenging part of being married?

I have been married for 17 years. Understanding and living everyday with someone who's not like you can be quite challenging.

"My husband is a great support for me...

he makes sure the home front stays

functioning properly when I'm away."

Ramsey Nouah has been a household name in the Nollywood industry for decades. From the popular role of the lover boy which made him the crush of almost every woman who watched his movies to a prominent member of the industry who is pushing the envelope, one script, one movie at a time.

The award-winning actor is one of the most sought-after actors in the industry is a family man and an advocate for change in the industry with his works in movies like Figurine, his project with platforms like Homevida and his thoughts and aspirations for the industry.

The Family Man

Nouah has been married for over 16 years and has been able to create balance in his role as a husband and father as well as an actor. Why? He explains, “A whole lot of people think that you are hiding your family, no it’s not that. It’s more of the fact that that’s the thing that can bring sanity into the family.” He speaks on the backlash his family gets from his status as he explains:

“Even as we speak, certain people still know my kids and because of that, they suffer either a pat on the shoulder that your dad is a good player or a who’s that silly father of yours that thinks he is a good actor? As kids, sometimes they can’t handle it…they suffer hate speeches a whole lot more than when you give them appraisals.”

It’s about that for him, family comes first as he says, “When you think about that and you still want to let everyone know about your family, you run a risk of having to explain every day to your kids and wife in situations why they have to be a bit more accommodating, contained and more enduring. Not everyone can be as enduring and potentially have thick skin that we have developed over the years.”

Being a father can change even the most radical of men, what was the case for Nollywood’s lover boy? He describes the life lessons he has learned as a father as “huge”. Going on to say, “When you were growing up, you didn’t know the responsibility saddled upon your father and your parents. You have that youth mentality that it’s the world, that’s freedom let’s go catch it, parents hold you back saying don’t do this, don’t do that, they chastise you and we hated them for it not knowing they were trying to guide us.”

He compares the relationship between parent and children to the one between an artist and his medium as he says, “What parents do to their kid is what an artist does to a log of wood and carve an image out of it. Right now, I’m a parent, right now I have to be the responsible one. I’ve seen what life can do to you and I don’t want that for my kids.” His outlook on life has changed as he explains, “I would say it has helped me a whole lot in being focused and responsible because in our world as artists, we are free spirited, we like to do things by inspiration, that’s our personality.”

Nollywood

Nollywood which dates back to the 19th industry has been in a constant state of flux. This is one of the peak times in the industry as there have been breaking sales in the cinemas as well as great movie storylines. This progress created the discussion of segregation in the industry, talking about the topic of “New Nollywood” and “Old Nollywood”. On the subject matter, Nouah says, “ Some people want to admit that there is a new Nollywood and old Nollywood. I think, admitting that fact is what is causing it to truly exist.” Standing to his belief in one industry he goes on to say:

“I don’t believe in it, I think it’s the same Nollywood. It is just changing, I call it growth…there’s been like a wavy unbalanced growth for Nollywood and it’s still ongoing. You can’t really say because of that say it is established that there is one industry called old Nollywood and there’s another called industry called new Nollywood. It’s just a transition into a new phase, a new beginning, new generation, new style and it takes everyone along.”

On segregation, he says, “It’s one umbrella, if you check it, we are all acting. When you bring about that segregation it’s what brings about tribalism, political diversity and all of that. I don’t want to admit that that should happen and that’s my point.”

Buttressing his opinion with the business of movie making he says, “When everybody starts to admit that there is this clout of people for this and that market, you are making it seem as if you don’t need that market. Definitely in business, if you look everywhere you’d know that we need the Asaba and we need the cinemas and everything for you to actually cut even these days.”

From his typecast roles as a lover boy, Nouah has grown into pushing the envelope in the industry with his involvement in movies like award-winning, critically acclaimed supernatural suspense thriller Figurine by Kunle Afolayan as well as the romantic comedy 30 Days in Atlanta by Ayo Makun popularly known as AY which was recognised by the 2017 Guinness World Records as one of the films with the highest domestic gross in the territories of Bollywood, Nollywood and Hollywood, alongside PK and Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

When asked about the motivation behind his recent script selection, he laughs as answers, “What should prompt it? You want to do good stories, you want to play strong compelling characters and do good movies too.”

His most recent appearance in a movie My Wife and I cast Nouah as a woman trapped in a man’s body. The plot revolves around the life of an unmarried couple, whose last chance to save their marriage ends up in a body swap. On getting into the character he says, “It’s not rocket science, I have my mother, my wife, I have a daughter, I have friends, so definitely I’d know their mannerisms, their gestures.”

Crediting his co-actor Omoni Oboli for giving good tips during the movie, he goes on to say, “Besides that, it was also very uncomfortable for me because that’s not just me. It’s very easy for women to try and be men for men to try and be women. Women can play masculine roles and they wouldn’t feel awkward but when a man tries to play a feminine role, it feels awkward.”

Dealing with the fame

Being a celebrity is no easy feat, your life becomes a public spectacle and you have limited control over the news that surrounds your brand. One of the major issues celebrities face here is fake news. Recently, there was the rumour that Nouah had died in a fatal accident while on set for a movie in Ghana. When asked on how he handles the rumours he says, “It’s a lot of pressure right now, you know with social media. When people just have the right access to social media and can hate speech or whatever speech it is and just throw it out there, they don’t know the damage that they are causing people.”

Speaking of the effect of rumours, hate speeches and all the vices one can face by living in the public eye, he sheds light on a Homevida, a platform he is working with to promote movies with societal and political matters. He explains, “We are putting this together with some young upcoming writers who will come together and after we’d choose the right script and actually film it. But it talks about all these things, where you throw words at people without knowing the huge damage you can cause to their life if you did that.”

His own coping mechanism is to use the tool of the art to curtail the issue as he says, “For me when it happens it is probably going to be overbearing me going on video to address it. Most importantly, we are hoping that this will curtail these hate speeches that go round.”

"I was asked to play a lesbian and I just felt Rahama couldn’t do it."

Most of my encounters with actresses are usually quite similar. They're either divas or, well, humble divas. They usually walk in comfortably, generally at ease with all the strange faces on set and they come alive once the camera flashes away. Rahama Sadau is different. She exuded grace, fragility and is often quite shy as her voice is used sparingly when confronted.

Recognised as the queen of Kannywood, (Hausa, Northern film industry), Sadau built her reputation in the North, starting off with minor roles until she landed a role in Gani ga Wane alongside the popular Kannywood actor Ali Nuhu.

Last year, the young actress was kicked out of Kannywood after an onscreen hug in a Hausa music video alongside Jos-based pop star Classiq. The controversy, which made international headlines, saw Sadau condemned by the Motion Picture Practitioners of the Association of Nigeria. Hugging is a violation of the code of ethics in the Hausa movie industry. Subsequently, Sadau has ventured into Nollywood, where she has featured in several productions including, The Light Will Come, Super Story, Sons of the Caliphate and recently, the as yet unreleased movie The Accidental Spy, with Ramsey Nouah
The actress takes inspiration from Priyanka Chopra who transitions from Bollywood to Hollywood. Sadau talks about sharing similar ideals with Chopra when she says, “They don't like her doing it but still they are proud of her.”

She further explains, “We have similar problems and are facing similar situations because at some point, they have to accept you and appreciate what you're doing.”

Guardian Life caught up with the actress who talks about her Kannywood experience, rejecting roles and her transition into Nollywood.

If you weren't an actress what would you be?
I would be a model, still in the industry

How was growing up in Kaduna?
It was a normal life, it has been very great and fantastic. I remember being a dancer in primary school and secondary school.

You're quite young, 23? When you started acting really early how did your parents and your community first take it? Were they supportive?
No, especially my mum, because they thought the industry is not a good place for a young girl like me. But she has still been supportive. No matter how they try to keep us away from our dreams she still tries to support us because she is afraid of us falling into the wrong hands but at some point she was like no and I pushed for it.

Tell us about your Kannywood experience
I started acting in the year 2013. So far it has been great and it was my starting point. I am really grateful for it, I am thankful for what it has made me become today. I have lived in Kaduna all my life. Whenever I travel to any other state it's for work.

You were banned from Kannywood, how did it affect your career at the time?
Well, it's a stepping stone, I am grateful because it has opened a lot of doors because a lot of people didn't know me until the ban happened. It's not something good but I think it was just meant to be.

Do you feel that you did something wrong or deserved to be banned?
No, I can't just touch someone and then they say I did something wrong. I think your religion and faith is between you and God. I grew up as a northern lady, I know my limitations and I know what I can do as a northerner and a Muslim. What I did should be at the liberty of the artist who shouldn't be banned.

Did you ever find yourself turning down a script because of certain things you couldn't do?
Yes I have my limitations like I said, there are certain things I wouldn't do because of where I come from and the religion I stand for. If I show that I am ignorant of things, I have family and I know what the people in the north are capable of, that's why I am being careful.

How has your transition to Nollwood been so far?
Before the ban I had featured in many Nollywood films like The Light Will Come, and Sons of the Caliphate. There hasn't been much difference working in Nollywood. Perhaps the people are different, and the environment, similar stories and cultures.

Can you describe a script, which you had to turn down?
I was asked to play a lesbian and I just felt a side of Rahama that couldn't do it.

Being a Muslim woman in Nollywood, what are some challenges you have faced?
I haven't faced any challenges yet. There are other Muslims in the Nollywood industry, it's just that we have different cultures and different ways we live our lives, but I haven't faced any problems yet.

"I think your religion and faith is between you and God...I know my limitations and I know what I can do as a northerner and a Muslim."

How difficult has it been for you to keep with your personal values?
It has been a bit difficult but I always try to stick to who I am and focus on the things that I need and work towards everything.

Describe your most memorable role
I played a Christian nun in a convent in a film called Tattoo. Wow, it was a totally different side to Rahama, quite different from what people are used to seeing. The covered, conservative Rahama is now a Christian; I mean I loved the role. I went to Corinthians International school, so all in all it wasn't too different. I just step into the character and be that role, for me it is not something difficult as long as I understand what the script needs.

What are some core values you won't compromise?
Growing up in the North has been a bit difficult when you are trying to be another person in another zone and another territory. I don't feel comfortable when I dress in short clothes but I am cool with other things like opening my hair up.

How's your schedule, do you get to do stuff that young women your age do like go on dates?
Yes, I am very busy but if I have time to sleep, then I'll definitely create time for a date. I am a very boring person, I always stick to my laptop, watching movies but whenever my friends call me out on a date, we just go somewhere, it could be anywhere, have fun and come back.

So what's your favourite series right now?
I love House of Cards, my favourite character is the President.

Is there anyone in Nollywood you would like to work with?
Yes, the face I am seeing right now onscreen. Just a few days ago I met Ramsey Nouah and acted with him. It was fantastic!

What are some projects you are currently working on?
I am working on The Accidental Spy, a film by AY, we have also finished working on a script called A Girl with No Words, it is a Yoruba movie and I don't know how to speak Yoruba so I am deaf and dumb in the film.

How was that experience? Was it difficult?
When the producer sent the script I didn't think I would have to say anything in the movie but then I had to learn sign language and it was so difficult. It is another world completely for other people. With the support of Bimbo Akintola we did it.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? What would be the big picture?
I could see myself being like Angelina Jolie, but my role model is Priyanka Chopra. They don't like her doing it but still they are proud of her. We have similar problems and are facing similar situations because at some point, they would have to accept you and appreciate what you're doing.

So would you say that sometimes you are not accepted?
Well I am, it's just that I don't want to change to what people want me to be. I want to be me and I want people to accept that.

Creative Team
Creative Direction: Chidera Muoka
Assisted by: Beatrice Porbeni
Photography: Nkem Okorafor and Cynthia Lawrence
Hair: Tony Aigbogun
Make up: Jumoke Tychus

"If they looked at the stolen money the same way they looked at rapists and murderers then corruption would reduce." - Ifeoma Fafunwa

Who is Ifeoma Fafunwa? She is the mastermind behind one of the best plays to be performed in the Nigerian theatre industry – Hear Word!, a play which has already toured the nation extensively. She has been invited to showcase at the American Repertory Theatre in Boston. She is Mrs F to those in the industry, a playful and bubbly soul who shares a collection of memories, from the girl who went to Holy Child College, Ikoyi, to spending most of her childhood at the Ikoyi Club, which she fondly recalls as, “Playing, swimming and looking for any general trouble I could find.”

Leaving the shores of Nigeria and coming back was the catalyst Fafunwa needed to take up the banner for her country, which she describes as her “biggest love and heartache.” She laughs as she remembers the reason why she came back to the country, “I married a Nigerian man who was doing business in Nigeria, who then told me to come back to Nigeria for three years maximum and now it's 14 years [laughs]. My mother told me when I was leaving that I'd be there for 20-something years and I laughed but I'm almost at 20, she was right.”

From that moment on, she has been involved in the creative industry from directing The Vagina Monologues to founding her company iOpenEye Limited, which has gone on to create workshops and produce her signature play Hear Word! as well as Love & Recession. She recalls having fallen in love with theatre through the play For Coloured Girls Who Have Committed Suicide When The Rainbow Is Not Enough, which she saw in New York City in 1982. In her words, “It was an incredible piece of work commenting on the African-American woman and what it meant to be African-American in White-American and Black-American society.”

Coming back to Nigeria

You left Nigeria when you were 16. How did leaving the country and coming back have an effect on your views on women?
Because I left at 16, I really hadn't processed what was going on in terms of women's issues in Nigeria well enough and, because my mother is American, I also missed out on all these undertones and undercurrent that Nigerian mums tell their daughters. So, when I came back I was very fascinated by choices, decisions, limitations and how the country was affected by the way women see themselves in society.

When you came back to Nigeria, what were the unique things you noticed in the Nigerian theatre industry?
The first thing I noticed when I went to a few plays was that there were very few people watching these plays. I also noticed that theatre was the underdog, everything was about film and I wanted to improve that. I had made a note of that even though it took me ten more years to get into iOpenEye, but I made a note that I wish I could do something about this, have proper critics, have a place where people could find out what was happening in the theatre industry and even just create quality entertainment that people would want to come and see.

The Vagina Monologues was the first play you directed in Nigeria; what were your first thoughts when you were invited to direct the play in Nigeria in relation to our society?
I didn't think about that; I just thought about making good art that said something. I had seen a version of the play in Nigeria that was not clear what the message was and so I wanted to be very clear about the message but I wasn't thinking too deeply then, I was doing art. I wasn't thinking as a feminist, I wasn't thinking about Nigeria the way I am now in my work, I was thinking this is a piece of art. I really wasn't engaged in feminist work at the time, it just happened that it was The Vagina Monologues.

Asking the hard questions

From the inception of Hear Word! until now, what conversations would you say the play has generated?
Well, I think that there are many conversations but one of the big ones is women asking themselves, how am I accepting less? Where am I responsible for the position that I'm in? Hear Word! is not centred around the efforts or lack of efforts of men, what Hear Word! does is ask the victims how they are the perpetrators, where is their responsibility in this equation? If all women in Nigeria said, I will not date a man that has stolen money, in fact, I will disgrace him. If they looked at the stolen money the same way they looked at rapists and murderers then corruption would reduce.

What became interesting to me was to ask these women, “Where is your focus? Do you not care about your children? Do you not care that the country is on the right track? Stop whining and moaning and get to work, this country needs everybody.”

You could be directing a movie about anything, why is the story of women so important to you?
The story of women is so important because women, right now, are what we have not tried for Nigeria. Women are what we need in terms of their involvement. Unfortunately, women are not effective, they are not engaged in the proper things. They are waiting for permission and husband. It is critical, we are in a state of emergency, Nigeria is at war with itself, it's eating itself up from the inside, so we need women to stop waiting for men to give permission and get to work. I'm not saying that it's only women that are going to do it, I am saying they need to balance out the insensitivities that are happening around the Nigerian future. Women are the nurturers of society around the globe. Women, nurture your society!

What's significant about the name Hear Word!?
Hear Word! plays from the grassroots up, it talks about the small things every day that we take for granted. It talks about small things but those small things are what sends the subconscious signal to the woman that her use is to serve a man. I'm not saying that being domestic if that's your desire in life is not great, I think it's great. I as a woman can see that the women are playing smaller and more ridiculous than the men are doing because they are not engaged on the macro level, they are engaged on the micro level with low vibration issues.

Being Mrs F

What's a typical day in the life of Ifeoma Fafunwa?
A typical day for me is not typical, I actually believe that there is something about me that does not like my days to be the same. Some days, I'm waking up at seven am, some days six am, some days nine am. I have always hated my life looking the same from day to day, so at a very early age, I couldn't work in the corporate environment, it was too monotonous.

Are there any elements of your personal and daily experience that seep into your work?
I am very passionate about Nigeria. For me, Nigeria is my biggest love and heartache, it is very painful for me if I think about it deeply because I grew up in the 1960s when I could play and ride my bike around Ikoyi - there were no fences. Things worked better than they work now and to think that in 45-50 years nothing has improved (it has actually gone the opposite way) is very painful for someone like me especially if you left and came back to meet it worse than you left.

Creative Team
Creative Direction: Chidera Muoka and Ireti Bakare-Yusuf
Assisted by: Beatrice Porbeni
Photography: Jerrie Rotimi
Makeup: Jumoke Tychus for Eyesome Beauty
Clothes and Styling: Ituen Basi
Hair styling: Zubby Definition

Modelling is not your everyday profession. We've seen the likes of Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss inspire the world with their aesthetic, change beauty standards and become global icons in the process. But while modelling competitions are not new to Nigeria, how viable is the industry generally? How likely are our aspiring models to find success on the scale of Naomi Campbell or Oluchi Onweagba?

The annual Elite Model Look Competition, run by The Elite Model Company, aims to do just that. Their prestigious modelling contests which draw over 350,000 contestants from 70 countries are famous for discovering supermodels, including the Cindy Crawford, Gisele Bundchen. From Nigeria, Mayowa Nicholas was discovered (2014 winner) who is the first Nigerian model to front a campaign for Calvin Klein. Last year Davidson Obennebo, our cover boy, was the global winner.

Elohor Elizabeth is CEO of Beth Modeling Agency and Creative director of Elite Model Look Nigeria. After winning the Miss Nigeria United Kingdom Pageant in 2001 she decided to venture into the modelling business. According to Elizabeth, “People would always ask me to model for them and I decided I wanted to make more money from it. I sent a few emails to modelling agencies all over the world, eight months later I got an email from Elite Models, they decided to work with me.”

Having represented over two thousand models, Elizabeth talks about the industry being tough on black models as it's mostly about “luck”. She explains, “I always tell people that it's a competition and the industry for black models is very difficult.”

It's no secret that the international modelling standards are known to be an obstacle in an industry that generally favours models with straight noses, white skin and the linear, almost androgynous physiques. Although the major international fashion houses have responded to accusations of racism and encouraging anorexia, black models still meet prejudice in the fashion industry. As Jordan Dunn, a black British model known to be vocal about discrimination told Guardian UK, “People in the industry say if you have a black face on the cover of a magazine it won't sell.” Coming from a model who is British, what, you might imagine, are the chances of the Nigerian models making out there?

International versus Nigerian modelling standards

Although Nigeria hasn't quite produced an international supermodel that can stand alongside the likes of Sudanese Alex Wek and Iman, we've had notable models like Oluchi, who won the M-net Face of Africa in 1998, covered Italian Vogue and walked for lingerie giant Victoria Secret for many years. We’ve also had Agbani Darego who was thrust into the limelight as the first native African winner of Miss World in 2001. However few have found success on such an international scale and within the domestic industry, there are many stories of exploitation and frustrated ambition.

Omoh Momoh

The issue of different modelling standards is a common problem, which prevents models from getting jobs both at home and abroad. A face and body type popular in one market is often wrong for another. While models are uncertain and hopeful of getting foreign jobs, they also need to make money back home to survive. For Omoh Momoh, who won Elite Model Look Nigeria in 2016 it is a struggle getting jobs in Nigeria, as clients in Nigeria often prefer fuller girls. She says “I think in Nigeria, my agency says that clients don't book me for jobs. After winning, I came back and did some jobs but not as many as I was expecting. They said, “Clients don't book you because you're too skinny, you might not fit their products, you need to put on weight or get your hair done.” I don't want to [put on weight] because I feel there are more opportunities for me out there like I could be signed to Elite New York and there they need skinny models, so I don't really need to stick to the Nigerian standards.”

What happens to models that make it?

From strikes at the 2012 Arise Fashion Week to payment issues, the modelling industry in Nigeria doesn't have the best reputation. However, modelling agencies can give the models a sense of security as they can earn between N100, 000 to N300, 000 per job in various sectors including branding and advertising according to Elizabeth.

Unlike most professions, the lifespan for modelling is quite short, as most models tend to work for about five to ten years. In rarer cases, like Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss, models tend to look forward to a longer career that may go beyond the runway. According to Elizabeth, “From about 16-25, we push our models to go to school, and then from there if anything happens, it happens.”

Davidson Obennebo

Last year, Davidson Obennebo won the Elite competition in Nigeria 2016 and incredibly also went on to win the Elite Model Look World Finals, making history as the first black model win the competition. When asked about future plans he talks about being hopeful to “one day becomes a successful black model.” Although he has already modelled in Paris Fashion Week and Milan with the likes of Versace, Balmain and Givenchy, Davidson is still considered to be a new face in the industry. He also complains about not getting enough jobs in Nigeria.

When asked about his experience so far he says “My favourite designer I've worked with so far is Versace…The whole team is just simply amazing, kind and caring and Donatella Versace is a legend and it's been a pleasure working and still working with her.”

This year, the Elite competition is scheduled to take place on October 8th in Eko Hotel, Lagos, with many young models hoping to win and progress to compete on a global level. Many of them already look up to Davidson as inspiration, hoping to strut down the runways in the iconic New York, Paris, London and Milan Fashion Weeks.

The competition includes 24 models, 12 boys and 12 girls from 14-17 years old from different backgrounds. Elizabeth talks passionately about the competition as a way to provide hope and possibly a better income for the contestants. Some contestants have experienced homelessness and others resorted to cleaning positions for steady pay. They are hopeful that the competition will give them new opportunities. As one contestant said, “Davidson is my role model… The best part of modelling for me is travelling and I can't wait to experience that.”

Winning competitions is only a step forward. Being popular is no guarantee of long-lasting success. Nation’s sweetheart Olajumoke Orisaguna “Jumoke the bread seller” plucked from obscurity by TY Bello, was signed to Beth Models but warming hearts isn’t enough for a modelling career and after the initial hype wore off, she diverted into acting. “We find Jumokes everyday,” said Elizabeth. “She fits the everyday model for a Nigerian standard but she doesn’t fit the international standard because she’s not that tall.”

Even the stunning Darego could not top the impact of winning Miss World. Apart from a three-year L'Oreal contract and a flurry of international editorials, her career has mostly remained in Nigeria. Recently, she has fronted a brand of relaxer creme and launched a denim wear collection. This year she married Ishaya Danjuma, the son of TY Danjuma, one of Nigeria's richest men.

It's an elite opportunity, but after the bright lights at Eko Hotel go down, it will be back to reality for most of the contestants. “After we do the show, I'm not sure what happens to the girls after - do they make it or not? It's a 50/50 chance,” admits Elizabeth.

What is life without a little bit of history to inspire a culture? Brands, movements, and personalities are really nothing without their background stories. For the brand Chivas, their history is everything. Traced back to a grocery store at 13 King Street, Aberdeen, in 1801, James and John Chivas started their quest to world domination through a blend of the perfect whiskey and meeting the demands of their luxury clientele from Queen Victoria to Frank Sinatra.

In building their brand, they were very keen on the philosophy of shared success as well as having an eye for astute business opportunities. This meant that as they continued to develop into household names worldwide, they gave back to their local community. It is still in this same spirit, 200 years after that the Chivas Venture platform operates, supporting the stories of entrepreneurs one country at a time. Every year, the sum of 1 million dollars is used to support positive change in the hope for a better future.

Last year the Venture platform had Adam Braun, Sonal Shah, Alexandre Ricard and Halle Berry as judges and was hosted by Josh Gad. Coming in second place was RecyclePoints, an initiative by Chioma Ukonu was awarded the sum of $200,000. This year still embodies the spirit of shared success and the search for revolutionary business minds and in doing so the brand has employed the service of Afua Osei, co-founder of She Leads Africa, Oluyomi Ojo, co-founder of Printivo, Shola Ladoja, founder of Simply Green Juices as judges in light of their recent status as industry leaders, as well as their alignment with the Chivas Regal campaign, Extraordinary Nigerians. Also joining the movement is Temilade Osinfade, Founder T.T Dalk as brand influencer and partner.

Oluyomi Ojo

Oluyomi

In July 2013, Ojo was buzzing with the idea of Printivo which was set to revolutionise publishing in the way we knew it and was almost deterred by the words of a friend who told him, “Dude, are you crazy, print is dying, the future is digital…” Those words in this age and time blow the light bulb in your head as soon as it popped up but not for Ojo because, in January 2014, Printvo was founded alongside Ayodeji Adeogun and Ibukun Oloyede.

The aim according to Ojo is to “Make printing suck less for Nigerian SMEs, Corporations and the general public.”

What qualities make an extraordinary business owner to you?
It begins with a vision to build something way bigger than you against all odds. Extraordinary entrepreneurs build innovate and change how the rest of us behave over time. They break boundaries and create new products and services that over time become part of our lives.

A few businesses have sprung up imitating your brand, what's your advice on remaining unique with the challenge of competitors?
Focus on the customer and keep innovating. It all comes back to making your customers happy. There will always be competition. If you have a business and no one is trying to compete. Perhaps what you building is not worth it then. Printivo constantly competes with itself.

How does your business ethos align with that of the Chivas Venture brand?
Impact on small businesses and the drive to encourage entrepreneurship. We are constantly building solutions that help small business owners and entrepreneurs represent their businesses well. We are the business that helps other businesses build better brands.

Afua Osei

Afua

A vision birthed over drinks at Intercontinental Hotel between former colleagues now turned partners, Afua Osei and Yasmin Belo-Osagie, She Leads Africa is a social enterprise with a focus on women empowerment and entrepreneurship development.

Through their website, they offer a number of informational and inspiration articles as well as guides for young women who want to develop their business or career skills. They also have flagship events like the She Hive, a four-day boot camp aimed at helping young women build the careers they need as well as the SLAY Festival, a one-day festival that celebrates innovation and entrepreneurs.

Shola Ladoja

Shola

The whole planet is going green but Ladoja is doing it in a way we can all appreciate, through food. His establishment Simply Green has created a different perception for the new generation on the benefits of agriculture as well as inspiring most to eat organically. From the signature cold-pressed juices with the funky names like Pick Me Up, Cleanse Intense, Refresh and Get Nake to the minimalist packed fresh veggies. Ladoja is becoming a household name for all the right reasons.

What qualities make an extraordinary business owner to you?
Total dedication to whatever you get into. Patience is also very important.

What elements of this sector did your prioritise to inspire your line of business as well as make it sustainable in Nigeria’s?
I saw there was a gap in the market - value addition to fruits and vegetables which I decided to explore. Most of our farmers in Nigeria don’t think about value addition which means they are not making the maximum profit they can make with their product. When you have a model like that or Simply Green where we want to get the products all the way to the customer cutting out most middle men. We can guarantee our products get the consumers in the best and freshest conditions.

How does your business ethos align with that of the Chivas Venture brand?
Chivas Venture is constantly looking for that entrepreneur who wants to make a social change which in turn benefits everyone and I personally want to make a change in the agricultural sector by empowering farmers and keeping people healthy by growing only the highest quality vegetables.

Temilade Tolulope

Temilade

Taking on the responsibility of creating exclusive footwear, accessories, and leather products for the stylish man and woman through his brand T.T Dalk, Tolulope has tirelessly done within his power to evolve his brand since its inception in 2008.

He highlights the challenges of building his brand in the first five years of its inception which he describes as, “Very challenging because I had to deal with having the right staff to work with in terms of production and retail, getting people to accept a Nigerian shoe brand even at an affordable amount, with the managerial aspect of the business and lastly distribution.”

As a brand influencer, Tolulope has partnered with Chivas Regal to design limited edition footwear for the people who purchase the Chivas Extra bottle.

Who is an extraordinary Nigerian to you?
My perspective about who an extraordinary Nigerian is he/she must have a quality of a good leader, be smart and hardworking, see problems as opportunities, choose to make a difference, be self-disciplined and most of all prayerful.

Which brands and personalities do you see coming up to embody the term extraordinary Nigerian?
I admire a lot of Nigerian brands and will select a few: Jason of Iroko TV, 5K Shop, David Wedge, Tolu of NACK, God is Good Motors, Bella Naija, Gene Bendi, SLOT, Mike Adenuga of GLO, Aliko Dangote, Ruff and Tumble, Ben Bruce of Silverbird Group, Grenadines, Ouch, Mavin Records, Femi Otedola of Forte Oil, Jobberman, Konga, Cakes and Cream, Garment Care, Linda Ikeji.

What advice will you give someone hoping to emulate your success?
Put God first, be consistent, be persistent, be self-disciplined, be yourself, understand your target market, think bigger, business is not for everyone.

Being a solo artist in Nigeria isn't a journey filled with honey and roses; it's even harder when you come back from the U.K to take on the Nigerian music industry as a rap duo. The music career of Olumide Ayeni, popularly known as Ghost, and Wale Davies, also known as Tec, who perform under the stage name Show Dem Camp (SDC), has been buzzing since 2010.

Walking into Freedom Park to start the photoshoot, we were sure of the decision to use this location to channel the spirit of the duo who have been spearheading the new wave of underground music and are taking their careers into their own hands as artists and record label owners.

As we work around the time frame we have for the shoot, Wale is caught between making phone calls and setting up for the shoot. Prior to this, he had shared that they each had separate meetings to attend by noon. It was insightful to know that, despite their passion as SDC, Tec and Ghost had individual hustles that they tended to.

The birth of Show Dem Camp

Like all great duos, these two met officially on the battleground when they realised they had the same stage name, Golden Child. “That was originally a name I had and then this imposter came over and claimed he had the same name. We battled and I obliterated him. Then I got the name back but then chose to give it up because it was tainted,” Ghost says light-heartedly. Like they say, 'the rest is history' as they became joined at the hip and transitioned in names from Loose Cannonz, BlackBoysDown, Third Eye Renegades and finally to, Show Dem Camp. Their journey for the love of music transcends just the art as Tec says, “We have a friendship beyond music.”

Their music which has been described to have the core elements of rap and afrobeat is a sound that is unique to them. Despite the friendly banter that occurs, as Ghost says, “This guy came under my wing at a very young age. I brought him up in the game and I keep looking out for him,” it is clear that there is nothing but respect for the work they do and the value they both bring to the table. As individuals who believe in the power of organic growth, their name changes can give you an insight into that journey. When asked why the name of the group kept changing, Ghost explains, “Because, at different points in time, we were finding out different things about ourselves. As Third Eye Renegades, we were trying to get too deep into our thoughts, reading all sorts of books. With Loose Cannonz, we were very young. So there are different points in life where we've changed our names based on what we were experiencing.” Tec also chips in, “With Loose Cannonz, we were in the UK and found out that there was another group called Loose Cannons who were bigger, so we had to change.”

The Journey

The growth of these artists has seen them change their sound from hardcore rap to what Tec describes as “sunlight,” to the transition of just being artists, to record label owners. We have seen a lot of artists start out signed to a record label, and suddenly, like the occurrence of a light bulb moment, they break ties with said label and start out on their own. Many have been successful, others, not so much. For the group, it was an eye-opening moment based on experience. Tec explains, “To be honest with you, in Nigeria, you are forced to do many jobs as an artist. You're your own financer, A&R, you're doing your own marketing, I know where to go in Alaba, I've been everywhere in terms of music. I think that once we saw that was the approach people were taking here, it made sense to start our own label. I have looked at a lot of people that came around the same time, they are not under the same label now. For us, we thought, 'let's do it ourselves'. Win or lose, we'd stand with our decisions.”

Ghost speaks on how they have progressed as a duo: “ It's been a journey. Ups and downs, like with most things in life, but it's a learning curve and we appreciate the battles, the journey to where we are right now.”

Most creatives are advised to focus on their creativity and allow the professionals take care of the business side of their brand but this is not the case for the duo. As we speak on conflict of interest as artists and record label owners, Tec is more than happy to contradict the idea but marries the elements. He says, “I think it gives us a clearer understanding of what an artist needs to succeed. A lot of the time, some people assume that the artist needs this and that but they haven't lived that life, they've not walked that walk, so it is difficult for them to know. There is an artist I'm working with now called Funbi, who is a singer; and from our experiences, I'm able to say we made this mistake before so don't follow that same path.”

From albums like The Dreamer Project, Clone Wars 3 - The Recession to their recently released E.P, Palmwine Music, the duo are proud of the body of work they have put out in the duration of their career. When asked which body of work they feel has been their strongest and done well in terms of reception, Ghost says, “That's a difficult question because each project that we released has been at different times. Like The Dreamer Project we released, I think it was a very good and critically acclaimed album at the time. I think it was one of the best albums out of Nigeria, personally. But social media wasn't really relevant at that time, so we couldn't get a gauge on what people's response to it was. With Clone War Series, we got a little bit more interaction; but now with Palmwine Music, the interaction from the internet has been mad, the respect and love that we've received, and we can gauge what people have been saying because of social media.”

Speaking of growing on the work they have done in the past and their direction for the future, Tec says, “The first thing is that we don't like to be placed in a box, that's why we did Clone Wars 3, which was a very hip-hop based album, and then we had to come with sunlight, which is Palmwine Music. We've learnt that we are in the era where visuals, engagement, and interaction are the important things. So we've been doing these Palmwine Sessions, which are live shows to engage directly with people. The visuals from the sessions are also interesting.” On lessons learnt, he explains: “ Another thing we've learnt is, we are not waiting for anybody's platforms to push us. We are going to create our own shows and platforms. It may be smaller, but it is better to organically grow your fanbase. At this stage, there are people who are core SDC fans, and people who have never heard of SDC. For us, it's just to touch both of those people and keep expanding that base.”

Music in Nigeria

Seven years is a long time to be in the Nigerian music industry. The public has witnessed first-hand the transition of sounds of young artists who start out as rappers, and then to reggae musicians before becoming dance-hall artists. In the storm that is the industry, SDC has found a way to incorporate all the sounds they feel would ground them, such as: rap, alternative indie, hip-hop and afrobeat sounds, all without losing their core fans but instead, growing said fan base. As with all industries in Nigeria, the near-absence of infrastructure tells also in the music industry. When asked if true talent is appreciated in the country, Ghost is quick to say, “True talent is appreciated but might not always be recognised.”

Debating on the issue of support from on-air personalities (OAPs) and Disc Jockeys (DJs) in the music industry, Tec says, “ I think that there are some great OAPs and DJs, and I think there are some crap OAPs and DJs. I feel as an artist, the responsibility is in your hands to push your stuff; there's SoundCloud and iTunes. The main beauty of the internet is that you can bypass the middleman…and they will find you.” Taking a more liberal stand on the view, Ghost says, “I think there are a lot of good OAPs and DJs. I saw something that DJ Obi wrote about how a majority of people want to hear a certain kind of music when they go out. He (the DJ) might know the music, but I think he also has the responsibility to break the barrier and say 'this is a new guy I'm putting out every week' and support that guy.”

Creative Team

Creative Direction: Chidera Muoka

Assisted By: Beatrice Porbeni

Photography: Niyi Okeowo

Styling: Henry Uduku