Scheduled for Friday, July 31, 2026 at the Alliance Française de Lagos/Mike Adenuga Centre, Osborne Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, the event promises an unforgettable evening where legacy meets literature, storytelling inspires reflection and advocacy drives social impact.

The presentation will honour the memory of the late Justice Oputa, It will also celebrate the life journey of Charly Boy, an unconventional public figure whose advocacy, artistic expression and unwavering commitment to social justice have influenced generations of Nigerians.

With the compelling tagline, “A Story. A Legacy. A Rebellion in Ink,” 999: The Memoir of Charly Boy offers an unfiltered account of a life defined by courage, controversy, creativity and conviction. It also offers readers an intimate and thought-provoking account of the author’s life, from his upbringing as the son of one of Nigeria’s most respected jurists to his emergence as one of the country’s most outspoken cultural figures. The memoir explores themes of identity, family, resilience, courage, rebellion and purpose, presenting a powerful narrative of a life lived on its own terms.

In 999: The Memoir of Charly Boy, Charles Oputa offers an unfiltered account of a life defined by courage, controversy, creativity and conviction. From challenging societal norms to championing the rights of ordinary Nigerians, the memoir chronicles the experiences that shaped one of Africa’s most unconventional and influential public figures.

Beyond its literary significance, the event will also support the Charly Boy Foundation, which is championing nationwide awareness of men’s health, with a particular focus on prostate cancer advocacy. Through sustained public education and awareness campaigns, the Foundation seeks to encourage regular screening, early detection and timely treatment, helping to improve health outcomes for men across Nigeria.

The event is expected to attract an array of distinguished personalities, including leaders from government, the judiciary, the diplomatic corps, the private sector, civil society, academia, healthcare, media, and the creative industries, as well as literary enthusiasts and members of the public.

Speaking ahead of the memoir’s unveiling, the music icon said it is “more than a personal story.”

“This book is about truth, courage and the freedom to be yourself despite the odds. It is my tribute to my father, whose sense of justice shaped my worldview, and my gift to every Nigerian who has ever dared to be different. If it also encourages more men to pay attention to their health, then its mission extends far beyond literature.

“999 is not just about me. It is about courage, truth, legacy and survival. It is a reflection of where I come from, the values my father stood for, the battles I have fought and the hope that our stories can inspire others to live boldly, care for themselves and never give up,” Charly Boy said.

Those who wish to join virtually can do so via zoom, with Meeting ID – 897 1626 8311 | Passcode – CORA2026
Time is 1pm (prompt).

A statement from the organisers said the event will be broadcast live on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.

The genre in focus is poetry. The 11 poets on the longlist were drawn from 223 entries received for the competition this year.

In alphabetical order, the books on the longlist for the 2026 NPL are:
Adult Love, by Tanure Ojaide
Bakandamiya: An Elegy, by Saddiq Dzukogi
Black Passport, by Paul Akpomuje
2000 Blacks, by Ajibola Tolase
Ceremony for The Nameless, by Theresa Lola
Corpus: Animistic Verses, by Ayo Oyeku
Floral’s Love Colony, by Tares Oburumu
The Origin of Wounds, by Rasaq Malik Gbolahan
The Years of Blood, by Adedayo Agarau
Unbind Me Now, by James Ugwu Eze
Why Does God Need a Gun?, by Ogaga Ifowodo

The Book Party, a literary feast of ideas and life, celebrates the authors and their works for emerging as the very best in the country. It promises to be an afternoon of literary feasting, featuring performances, wining and dining.

The Nigeria Prize for Literature was inaugurated in 2004 with $20,000 Prix=ze money. Sponsored by the Nigeria LNG Limited, the prize money was later raised to $50,000 and now, it is $100,000 – the biggest of its kind in Africa.

The CORA-Nigeria Prize for Literature Book Party, a special iteration of the CORA Book Party launched in 1996 — was initiated after a review of the first five years of the esteemed Prize project. The idea is to create a platform through which the public gets to engage with the works considered the best of the usually, over 200 entries per edition of the NPL.

The announcement was made on Monday by Mighty Media Plus Network Limited, publishers of QEDNG.

Dr Olamide Okulaja, technical adviser to the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, and a key driver of the Invest Lagos initiative, is another addition to the lineup of speakers.

The organisers also announced that veteran journalist and culture advocate Steve Ayorinde and broadcaster and media executive Funke Treasure will moderate the two panel sessions at the summit.

Themed “Creativity, Culture and Nigeria’s Next Chapter,” the 2026 QEDNG Creative Powerhouse Summit will hold on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos. It will bring together creative professionals, policymakers and business leaders for conversations on the future of Nigeria’s creative economy, with discussions focusing on innovation, investment and public policy.

Popularly known as Kiekie, Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori has built a successful career as a content creator, event and TV host, actress, brand influencer and entrepreneur. Through her engaging digital content and growing influence across entertainment and media, she has become one of the country’s most recognisable creative voices, representing the growing impact of the creator economy.

Gbenga Adeyinka, one of Nigeria’s best-known entertainers and event hosts, brings decades of experience as a comedian, broadcaster and master of ceremonies. Widely respected for his ability to engage audiences across different platforms, he will guide proceedings throughout the summit.

Steve Ayorinde, a journalist, culture commentator and former commissioner for tourism, arts and culture in Lagos State, will moderate one of the panel sessions. He is widely respected for his contributions to arts journalism and public policy.

Funke Treasure, a broadcaster, media executive and creative director of Yellow Bloom Consulting, will moderate the second panel. She has built a reputation for thoughtful conversations on leadership, business and personal development through television, radio and digital media.

The organisers had earlier announced Sir Demola Aladekomo, executive chairman of SmartCity Resorts Plc, as chairman of the summit, and Ife Adebayo, national coordinator of the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme at the Bank of Industry, as keynote speaker.

Other speakers include veteran actress Joke Silva, creative economy strategist Audu Maikori, advertising executive Steve Babaeko, technology and finance content creator Fisayo Fosudo, talent manager and music executive Efe Omorogbe, media and intellectual property lawyer Omotayo Inakoju, theatre practitioner and culture administrator Yibo Koko, and publisher Anwuli Ojogwu.

Commenting on the latest additions to the programme, QEDNG publisher and convener of the summit, Olumide Iyanda, said the organisers were deliberate in selecting personalities whose work reflects the changing landscape of Nigeria’s creative economy.

“The creative economy continues to evolve, and so has our approach to this year’s summit. Kiekie represents a new generation of creators who have built successful careers by embracing digital platforms, while Dr Okulaja brings a public policy and investment perspective to the conversation, drawing on his experience in creating an enabling environment for enterprise, innovation and economic growth.

“Gbenga Adeyinka brings the experience and presence needed to anchor the conversations. Steve Ayorinde and Funke Treasure also bring a deep understanding of the media and the creative industries, making them ideal moderators for what promises to be engaging discussions,” Mr Iyanda said.

He added that the summit is designed to encourage meaningful conversations that connect creativity with business, technology, public policy and national development.

Born March 26, 1946, the actor and teacher died on June 12, 2026 at age 80. He was educated at the university of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), where he obtained a certificate in dramatic arts; a certificate in Yoruba oral literature; and much later a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Theatre Art in 1995. He proceeded to the University of Ibadan where he earned a Master of Arts (M.A.) and doctorate degree (Ph.D.) in drama.

The family of the venerated actor simply called Kole Oyewo, in theatrical and cultural circuits, in an announcement, gave the details of the funeral rites as follows:
Wednesday, August 5: 5pm-7pm: Wake-Keep/Service of Songs at St Mary’s Catholic Chirch, Igboya, Ile Ife

Thursday, August 6:
i. 10am-12 noon: Commendation Mass at St Mary’s Catholic Chirch, Igboya, Ile Ife
ii. 3pm-8pm -Artistes Night, Tributes, cultural Display at Oduduwa Hall OAU, Ile Ife
iii. 1pm- 4pm: Exhibition of Dr Oyewo’s works and pictures at The Pit Theatre, African Studies Building. The display will continue till 4pm on Friday, August.

Friday, August 7:
7am: Motorcade to Oba Ile with the corpse
9.45am: Lying in State at Ese Ola’s compound
11am: Requiem Mass at St Joseph Catholic Church, Oba Ile
12.45pm: Interment (Strictly by invitation for family members and close allies) at Labaluyege Villa, Oba Ile
1pm: Reception at Aderounmu Grammar School Field, Oba Ile

A renowned folk actor who later went into the academia and rose to become an associate professor of drama serving in several institutions, notably Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer University, and Elizade University, Oyewo was also the Balogun of his Oba Ile native home.

The late Oyewo, according to Wikipedia, began his acting as a professional in 1964 after he joined the “Oyin Adejobi theatre group” and the first role he played was Adejare in Orogun Adedigba, which was Oyin Adejobi’s autobiography.

After he spent nine years with Oyin Adejobi, he joined the University of Ife theatre, where he worked with the late veteran dramatist and scholar, chief Ola Rotimi, Oyewo was known for the role he played as “Odewale” in The Gods Are Not to Blame, a drama by Ola Rotimi.

In 1996, Oyewo joined the services of Obafemi Awolowo University, where he rose to the rank of senior lecturer before retiring in September 2011. After his retirement from the OAU, he joined the services of Redeemer’s University, where he served as head of the department of dramatic art. He later worked at Elizade University Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State as a performing arts lecturer.

He would be remembered for his well-applauded roles in several stage, television and movie roles including, Sango (1997); Super Story (episode 1); The Gods Are Not to Blame as Odewale; Saworoide (1999) as King Lapite; Koseegbe (1995) as Mako; O Le Ku (1997) as Oloye Ajasa; Efunsetan Aniwura (2005); Yemoja (2011) as Osi; Omo University (2015) as Vice Chancellor; Ayomi (2015) as Chief Olalere; Ewon Laafin (2015) as Oludeti; Ofeefe – Mirage (2019) as Baba Morenikeji; Oba Bi Olorun (2021) as Balogun; Oosa Aafin (2022) as Oluawo; Olukoti (2022); Ogeere (2023), among others. He ws also very prominent in cultural activism, and advocacy for the arts.

The family statement, signed by his eldest son, also an academic, Dr. Adewale Christopher Oyewo (on behalf of or the family), captures his life and career as follows:

“Our beloved patriarch was a respected community leader, accomplished professional, devoted family man, and distinguished traditional title holder whose life was defined by service, integrity, and commitment to the development of his people. The tributes received in his honour are a reflection of the lasting impact he made on countless lives.”

The family extends “special appreciation to His Excellency, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, Executive Governor of Osun State, for his thoughtful message of condolence and prayers.

“We are equally grateful to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja Il, the Ooni of Ife, for his words of comfort and support, which have been a great source of encouragement to the family. Our deepest appreciation goes to His Royal Majesty, Oba (Prof.) Adekunle Ashamu Oyeyemi (Tewogbade 1), The Oloba of Oba-Ile for his fatherly support and prayers and also The Oloba-Ile in council.

“Our sincere thanks also go to His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, GCON (Waziri of Adamawa), for his kind message of sympathy and solidarity during this period of mourning.

“We further appreciate all community associations, professional colleagues (NANTAP, TAMPAN), the academic community of all the universities where our dear father worked (OAU, RUN, EKSU & ELIZADE), friends, and well-wishers who have stood by us with prayers and support.”

Held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at the DIDI Museum, Nelson Mandela Gardens and Resort, Asaba, the event organized ahead of the official Mandela Day celebration on July 18 brought together over 120 participants, including students, lecturers, educators, development practitioners, government representatives, civil society organizations, and members of the public to celebrate the life, values, and enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela.

This year’s Mandela Day theme, “It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity,” served as the foundation for discussions that challenged participants to embrace service, leadership, environmental stewardship, and community development.

Among the institutions represented were Dennis Osadebay University, Delta State College of Nursing Sciences, Young Achievers Model School, Asaba, Lawrence Prentice Academy, Asaba, Standard Life School, Asaba, Asaba Literacy and Reading Club, Asaba Reading Lifestyle, CHYBEE Foundation, Aniocha Magazine, and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Culture.

The event was graced by distinguished academics and dignitaries, including Professor Christopher Ogwugwuam Ezeagwu, Dean, Faculty of Computing, Dennis Osadebay University; Dr. Mrs. Rume Yoro, Sub-Dean, Faculty of Computing, Dennis Osadebay University; Dr. Innocent Onwuegbuzie, Head of the Department of Software Engineering; Mrs. Frances Uchechukwu Emordi, Head of the Department of Information Technology.

Also present were Mrs. Adeoye Abosede, Lecturer, Department of Software Engineering; Mrs. Inikori Gloria Ochuko, Dean, Delta State College of Nursing Sciences; Ms. Anne Perry of Young Achievers Model School; Ms. Rachael Adeleye of Lawrence Prentice Academy; Mrs. Chinyere Zimako, Founder of CHYBEE Foundation; Dr. Husley, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Culture; as well as the management and staff of Nelson Mandela Gardens and Resort.

The programme was moderated by Miss Oluebube Okafor, Communications Manager of Nelson Mandela Gardens and Resort, while the opening prayer and vote of thanks were delivered by Professor Christopher Ogwugwuam Ezeagwu.

Delivering the keynote address, renowned environmentalist, founder of Fight Against Desert Encroachment (FADE Africa), and internationally acclaimed Desert Warrior, Dr. Newton Jibunoh, took participants on a compelling journey through the life of Nelson Mandela, highlighting the values that shaped one of history’s greatest statesment.

He reflected on Mandela’s unwavering commitment to justice, equality, reconciliation, and service, emphasizing how his leadership continues to inspire individuals and nations across the world. Dr. Jibunoh also examined the devastating impact of the Bantu Education system under apartheid, explaining how Mandela’s pursuit of legal education equipped him to defend the rights of oppressed South Africans and challenge systemic injustice.

Drawing lessons for Nigeria, Dr. Jibunoh urged participants—particularly young people—to emulate Mandela’s courage, resilience, integrity, selflessness, and commitment to nation-building.

He also shared four Nelson Mandela quotations that profoundly influenced his own life’s journey and environmental expeditions:
“It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.”
“As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”
“There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to help others without expecting anything in return.”

According to Dr. Jibunoh, these timeless words became guiding principles throughout his remarkable environmental expeditions and humanitarian work.

One of the highlights of the event was an engaging question-and-answer session, during which students and lecturers actively interacted with the keynote speaker.

Participants explored practical ways of dedicating 67 minutes to meaningful community service in the spirit of Nelson Mandela, sought lessons Nigeria could adopt from Mandela’s leadership, discussed youth participation in nation-building, and asked Dr. Jibunoh about the challenges, endurance, and experiences that shaped his legendary Sahara Desert expeditions.

The interactive session was characterised by thoughtful conversations, curiosity, laughter, and enthusiastic participation, reflecting the deep interest of the audience in Mandela’s ideals and Dr. Jibunoh’s extraordinary life experiences.

Speaking during the programme, the moderator, Miss Oluebube Okafor, challenged participants to make service a daily commitment rather than an annual event.

“Every day of your life, do something that you will not benefit from directly, but something that will benefit another person or your community,” she said.

Inspired by the discussions, several participants pledged to volunteer within their communities, plant trees, promote environmental sustainability, support community development initiatives, and dedicate more of their time to helping others—echoing the true spirit of Nelson Mandela Day.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to continue Mandela’s legacy by combating poverty and inequity, promoting peace and justice, protecting the environment, and investing in future generations through selfless service and responsible leadership.

Aimed at fostering unity and harmony among the people as well as steering national unity and international relations, the August festival is expected to bring communities together to celebrate the bounty of nature.

Born from the Legacy of traditions initiative, the festival, according to a statement issued by the Chief Executive Officer of Akogate Group, Hon Felix Aganbi, gathers five acts — fishing, ceremony, art, sport and feast — and lays them along three days of water.

“Bini Riva Life is a renaissance celebration of the people, communities and traditions of the Bini river country,” Aganbi said.

“We move between Koko, Ogheye and Oboghoro. We open with cast-nets at sunrise and close beneath kite-light and lantern smoke.”

The statement listed Neville’s Day, Riva Golf, Riverside Race, Fishing Festival, River Games, Festival Gate, Art Competition, Seafood Market and Media Competition as key activities of the Koko, Ogheye and Oboghoro Bini Riva Festival.

“Children are welcome at all daytime events. The art competition is open for age 12 and above. The night market is best for older children and up. Fishing heats and the Oboghoro canoe races have visiting-team categories. A festival wristband grants access to all sites. Spectating from the riverbank is free; competition entries and the Koko night market are wristband-only” the statement said.

Aganbi, who is also the Chairman of Canaan land Golf Course and Country Club, announced photography, content creation and festival looks as the three categories in the media competition.

“Entries open to all credentialed creators. Photography — a single best image of the festival, Content creation, short-form video, reels and storytelling, Festival looks — styling and wearable art inspired by the river towns.”

He assured that Neville’s Day would unfold the historic Koko courtyard — the seat of Chief Nana Olomu, whose figure presides over the opening week.

“A six-day remembrance opens the festival. Six days of civic gatherings, oral history sessions and quiet processions prepare the river towns for the festival to come.”

The statement issued in Koko, headquarters of Warri North, emphasized the heritage walks each morning, oral-history circles after noon, evening processions, torch-lighting from the courtyard at sundown, Riva Golf competition and prizes.

“The Riva Golf marks the sporting opening of Bini Riva Life — a single-day stroke-play event on the Koko fairways. 18 holes, individual stroke play. Tee-off windows from 6:30 AM.”

Aganbi also announced a three-day road race tracing the Oboghoro shoreline.

“Open for runners of all levels — finish under the festival arch with the river at your shoulder. It is a measured course tracing the Oboghoro shoreline, looping past the festival grounds and finishing under the riverside arch, a flat, scenic, run in the cool of the morning.”

The business magnate said hundreds of fishermen would dive into the river using the time-honored traditional methods in a spirited contest to catch the largest fish.

“Ogheye and the river Ogheye is a riverine community where fishing is both livelihood and heritage. This festival honours that tradition with live cast-net demonstrations, competitive fishing heats, and a community feast cooked fresh on the water’s edge. Open to all visitors and community members. Competitive heats have separate categories for locals and visiting teams. Spectating is free from the riverbank.”

Excited Aganbi stressed on the Oboghoro River Games.

“It is canoe racing, water challenges, and the fierce competitive spirit of the Oboghoro tradition at full intensity. Oboghoro canoe racing is centuries-old, rooted in the river communities of the Niger Delta. Teams paddle hard, crowds roar from the banks, and the current plays its part. This is the heartbeat of the Bini Riva festival. The riverbank is open to all viewers. Best vantage points fill early — arrive by 9 AM. Community food stalls line the bank throughout.

The festival incorporates other things like kite installations, live performance and night market

“Immersive kite art, cultural performance, and the vibrant energy of the river community converge. Art installations, kite displays, live music” Aganbi said.

He also announced an art competition.

“Submit your work and see it exhibited in Koko for twelve days. Canvas paintings and carved paddles inspired by the river. Open to ages 12 and over.”

He further announced other unique features of this year’s Bini Riva festival.

“A line of open-fire kitchens runs along the Koko waterfront, with cooks from across the Delta preparing regional specialties throughout the day. Stalls open from 8 AM. The night market kicks in after sunset, with lanterns, drumming and informal performances until midnight” he added.

Also billed to speak at the summit are technology and finance content creator Fisayo Fosudo, talent manager and music executive Efe Omorogbe, media and intellectual property lawyer Omotayo Inakoju, theatre practitioner and culture administrator Yibo Koko, and publisher Anwuli Ojogwu.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by Mighty Media Plus Network Limited, publishers of the online newspaper QEDNG.

QEDNG Creative Powerhouse Summit 2.0 is themed Creativity, Culture and Nigeria’s Next Chapter. It will examine how stronger partnerships among government, investors and the creative community can unlock opportunities for growth, job creation and sustainable development.

The summit, scheduled for Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, will bring together leaders from the creative industries, business, government and technology for conversations on the future of Nigeria’s creative economy. Discussions will explore the role of culture, innovation, investment and public policy in shaping the sector’s next phase of growth.

Joke Silva, MFR, has spent more than four decades building a distinguished career on stage, television and film. Beyond acting, she is co-founder of the Lufodo Group, president of Women in Film and TV Nigeria and chair of the board of trustees of the Centre for Contemporary Arts, Lagos.

Joining her is Audu Maikori, co-founder and chairman of Chocolate City Group. A lawyer, entrepreneur and creative economy strategist, he has helped shape Africa’s music and entertainment industry while contributing to policy, intellectual property and creative infrastructure initiatives in Nigeria and other parts of the continent.

Steve Babaeko, founder and chief executive officer of X3M Ideas, is one of Africa’s leading advertising and branding professionals. Through his agency, he has led award-winning campaigns for major brands while mentoring young creatives and promoting African creativity on the global stage.

Efe Omorogbe has worked across music, media, film and live entertainment for more than two decades. As founder of Now Muzik and Buckwyld Media Network, he has managed leading artistes, produced major entertainment events and contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s music industry. He is also a faculty member of the Music Business Academy for Africa.

Omotayo Inakoju is head of legal at EbonyLife Group, where she leads legal strategy for film, television and streaming projects. A media and intellectual property lawyer, she has advised international studios, production companies and content creators on content licensing, rights management and digital distribution.

Yibo Koko is director general and chief executive officer of the Rivers State Tourism Development Agency. A theatre practitioner, filmmaker and cultural administrator, he has led major cultural and tourism initiatives while building a career across stage, screen and the creative industries.

Anwuli Ojogwu is co-founder of Narrative Landscape Press, one of Nigeria’s leading independent publishing houses. She has spent two decades working across publishing, media and development while championing African writing and editorial excellence. She is also co-founder of the Society for Book and Magazine Editors of Nigeria.

Fisayo Fosudo is one of Nigeria’s leading technology and finance content creators. Through his videos on technology, personal finance and the Nigerian economy, he has built an audience of more than 1.5 million followers across digital platforms. His work has earned recognition for making complex subjects easier to understand.

Commenting on the panel, QEDNG publisher and convener of the summit, Olumide Iyanda, said the speakers were chosen because they represent key pillars of Nigeria’s creative ecosystem.

“Our choice of panellists reflects a breadth that is uncommon at creative industry summits. We are bringing together voices from across the creative ecosystem rather than focus on a single sector.  The creative economy is much bigger than film or music. It includes publishing, advertising, technology, law, cultural tourism and several other sectors that contribute to economic growth. We have assembled a panel of accomplished professionals whose experiences reflect that diversity and whose insights will enrich the conversations we want to have at this year’s summit,” Iyanda said.

The organisers had earlier announced Sir Demola Aladekomo, founder of Chams Holding Company Plc, as chairman of the summit, and Ife Adebayo, national coordinator of the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme at the Bank of Industry, as keynote speaker.

The overwhelming response underscores LIFANIMA’s growing reputation as one of Africa’s leading platforms for animation, storytelling, creativity and industry collaboration.

Since its inception, the festival has provided a unique platform for showcasing outstanding animated films, nurturing emerging talent, promoting cultural exchange and connecting African creators with the global animation community.

Scheduled to hold October 20–22, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria, the 10th Anniversary Festival promises to be the biggest edition in the festival’s history. Audiences and industry stakeholders can look forward to an exciting programme featuring international film screenings, masterclasses, workshops, networking sessions, panel discussions and special events celebrating a decade of excellence in animation.

A major highlight of this year’s festival is the introduction of the NOA Animation Awards, sponsored by the National Orientation Agency (NOA). The awards will offer a total of ₦22.5 million in cash prizes, making them one of the richest animation awards on the African continent.

The NOA Animation Awards seek to inspire Nigerian animators to harness the power of animation as a tool for promoting positive values, national orientation and social development, while encouraging world-class creativity among the country’s growing community of animation professionals.

Muyiwa Kayode, the Festival Director expressed delight at the unprecedented global participation.

“Receiving 1,298 submissions from over 120 countries is a remarkable achievement and a testament to how far LIFANIMA has come in the past ten years, ” he said.” We are proud that creators from every region of the world continue to see Nigeria as an important destination for animation. The introduction of the NOA Animation Awards further demonstrates our commitment to growing the industry while encouraging animation that positively impacts society.”

As preparations intensify, an international panel of industry professionals will begin the rigorous selection process to determine the Official Selections, nominees and eventual award winners.

LIFANIMA invites filmmakers, animation studios, students, industry professionals, investors, government agencies, corporate organisations and animation enthusiasts to join the celebration of ten years of African animation excellence in Lagos this October.

LIFANIMA is Nigeria’s Animation Film Festival, dedicated to celebrating excellence in animation while promoting creativity, innovation, education and industry development.

Since its inception, the festival has served as a premier platform for showcasing animated films from Africa and around the world, fostering international collaboration and advancing the growth of Africa’s animation ecosystem.

Presented by B-Rated Productions, ẸBỌ (The Offering) will be staged on Friday July 10th and Sunday July 12th, 2026 at the Guest Quarters (GQ), 16, Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi, Lagos. On Friday, curtain rises by 7pm, while there will be two sessions on Sunday at 5pm and 7pm respectively.

The producer and actor Tosin Adeyemi said stepping into ĘBỌ (The Offering) “is the ultimate test of artistic discipline” because, as a one-woman show, the visible weight of the production rests squarely on her shoulders.

“On one hand, I am heavily involved as a producer, managing the entire project from budget allocation, to logistics and coordination. Balancing operations grit while trying to memorize lines, embody the character, and safely hold a deeply vulnerable, emotional space for the audience is an immense responsibility” Adeyemi added.

In the captivating play, Tosin Adeyemi as Simi Adeyinka-Cole, is doing what many of us do too well — getting dressed for someone else’s happiest day while quietly carrying every unfinished question about her own life.

Directed by Bimbo Olorunmola, ẸBỌ (The Offering) is funny. It’s honest. It’s all of us. While fielding question, Olorunmola said this weekend is a culmination of an incredible journey that will offer the audience a sumptuous and satisfying experience.

“The high point for me would be when Simi realizes that Kemi and aunty Ngozi colluded to match-make her with someone. On one hand, it feels like the ultimate betrayal where one’s best friend and confidante seemingly sides with everyone else in “trying to fix” Simi with a partner, whereas she sees herself as “complete and unbroken”. This is something Kemi knows more than anyone else that she strongly abhors, thus heightening the feeling of betrayal. On the other hand, Simi also understands that Kemi has acted purely out of love and a genuine interest in her well-being”, Olorunmola disclosed.

ẸBỌ (The Offering) is officially PG-rated rather than strictly age-restricted. There is nothing to stop a 12-year or 14-year-old from enjoying the stage play. The production simply speaks to an audience of any age bracket that is ready for profound, layered storytelling.

It’s all happening this weekend at GQ Lagos, 16 Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi, with a show on Friday July 10th, by 7pm and two shows on Sunday July 12th, by 5pm and 7pm respectively. For tickets, scan on the barcode in the flyer.

The announcement was made by Mighty Media Plus Network LTD, the parent company of online newspaper QEDNG, on Wednesday.

Themed Creativity, Culture and Nigeria’s Next Chapter,” the summit will examine how stronger partnerships among government, investors and the creative community can unlock opportunities for growth, job creation and sustainable development.

A technology and innovation professional, Mr Adebayo has spent more than 16 years working across Germany, the United Kingdom and Nigeria, leading programmes that support innovation, entrepreneurship and enterprise development. His experience spans the public and private sectors as well as partnerships with international development institutions.

He currently leads the African Development Bank-supported iDICE programme at the Bank of Industry, coordinating the day-to-day implementation of the $617 million initiative. The programme is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s technology and creative ecosystem through skills and enterprise development, access to finance for startups and an enabling environment for businesses.

Before taking up the role, Adebayo served as special assistant on innovation to the Nigerian vice president from 2015 to 2023. In that position, he advised the Federal Government on innovation policy and strategy for Nigeria’s digital technology and creative ecosystem, while contributing to initiatives that promoted technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.

His work has also involved major projects supported by the World Bank, African Development Bank, French Development Agency and Islamic Development Bank.

Adebayo earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Ilorin and a master’s degree in business information systems from the University of East London.

QEDNG publisher, Olumide Iyanda, said Adebayo’s work reflects the kind of collaboration between government, finance and creative enterprise that the summit seeks to encourage.

“This year’s summit is about shaping Nigeria’s next chapter through creativity and culture. That conversation cannot happen without addressing innovation, investment and the policies that help creative businesses grow. Ife Adebayo brings practical experience from working at the centre of those conversations, and we are delighted to have him deliver the keynote address,” Mr Iyanda said.

Adebayo takes over from Dr Nkiru Balonwu, founder of The Africa Soft Power Group, who delivered the keynote address at the inaugural QEDNG Creative Powerhouse Summit in 2025. That maiden edition attracted leading voices from business, government and the creative industries and focused on financing as a catalyst for the growth of Nigeria’s creative economy.