TUFACE IDIBIA GRACES MO'NIQUE SHOW IN ATLANTA

[caption id="attachment_3522" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Tuface Idibia and Mo'nique in the Atlanta Georgia. Photo taken after the recording on 8 February 2011"][/caption]

By Niyi Tabiti

Remember PHAT GIRLS , one of the movies that gave Monique so much fame? One of the songs used in the film was 'African Queen' recorded by one of Africa's biggest hip hop stars, Tuface Idibia. On 8 February 2011, Tuface met with Monique for the recording of an interview session at the Mo'nique show in Atlanta, Georgia, USA

 Tuface's close associate, Efe Omoregie informed the media that the interview arrangement was at the instance of the actress and show presenter. She saw the brightness in the African star and wanted him to be on her show.

Gistmaster.com gathered that the interview is another big mileage for Tuface and African music in general. This is a show that is being watched by millions of people around the world. It gave Tuface another opportunity to show off the vast creative ingenuity that abound in Africa entertainment industry.

Pic thanks to Ayo Shonaiya

MANIA MAGAZINE:THE NEW NAME IN STYLE DEBUT

By Gistmaster.com

Dimeji Alara! Does that name sound stylish? Call him style-mania,you are not wrong. He is one of Nigeria's biggest names in the style industry. Working and making impact as a stylist many love to admire. He has an eviable track record in his career. Almost all the big names want him involved in their projects.

Dimeji just landed with a new magazine. He calls it-Mania!


MANIA

MANIA! This is the new name in fashion, beauty, music, books, movies, lifestyle and everything in between. Mania is everything you are crazy about, anything you are mad about and that one thing you can’t live without! It’s everything that tickles your fancy and keeps you coming back for more. If you are a sucker for fashion, beauty, music, books and all things artsy, then this new magazine about to hit the news stand is definitely for you!

Mania is more than a magazine; we choose to describe it as ‘a way of life’ because it encompasses almost every facet of human life. Mania captures stories of everyday people, the ever changing and growing world of fashion and beauty; the best of music, movies, food and all things art. Part of our aim is to be daring, relentless and unafraid to push the boundaries of conventional Nigerian and African society, but also to create a different perspective to fashion and lifestyle.

The minds behind this beautiful work of art have taken a different direction in the way they tell peoples stories (no alias, no anonymities), the cover will prove beyond doubt our unquestionable strength to be different and daring. With Mania’s entrance into the market, we are not saying ‘this is how it is done’ instead, we are saying, ‘it can be done differently; edgier, fiercer, more daring and a lot more fun’.

Our desire at Mania is to appeal to a diverse group of people and lessen the stereotype that fashion and lifestyle magazines are for a discerning few. At Mania, we want to tell stories that touch people’s lives; we strive to teach people, the tiny, yet many tricks of being stylish, beautiful without breaking bank. We want to share our love for the arts and make every reader, not just a casual reader, but a Mania fan; we want Mania to appeal to different kinds of people and different parts of them.

The launch which comes up on Sunday February 20th of this year is proudly sponsored by some of the biggest international and Nigerian brands. Mania is grateful for the support it is receiving from its headline sponsors like; Belvedere Vodka, the world’s first super premium and luxury vodka, décor and events planning support is provided by Victoria Green, media support by M-Net’s Studio 53 Extra and Photography from veteran and accomplished Photo studio, Kelechi Amadi-Obi Studios.

SHOP AT MAI ATELIER,IKOYI+BIG FOOT @ IKEJA AND VI

Got this notice and we think it would be nice if you get it too.

MAI ATELIER

Male shoes,female shoes,Linen Scout shirts for sale.

Visit Mai Atelier,

B2A Block B, Falomo Shopping Centre, Awolowo Road, Ikoyi. or call 08191791102

VALENTINE SHOPPING AT BIG FOOT

Love is in air! Shoes, Bags, Jwelleries @ 20%  off even on sales of goods.9th-14th February only.

Adebola Shopping Mall GRA,Ikeja and Sweet 16 Mall,Victoria Island,Lagos. call: 07087891331. Happy Valentine

HOW OMOTOLA,PAT UTOMI ,BETTY IRABOR INSPIRED THE YOUTH AT THE FUTURE PRE-AWARD CONFERENCE 2011

The Future Pre-Awards Conference, also called the ‘Do Something’ Conference is one of the most influential youth seminars every year. The conference is designed to encourage young people to move from merely talking about their aspirations and dreams for Nigeria to doing something about them.

This year’s event held on 29 January at the Main Auditorium of the University of Lagos. The 2,000-seater hall was packed full with eager young people, who absorbed the practical tips and strategies from some of Nigeria’s most successful professionals.

“It looks like a crusade is going on here!,” said Tolu Longe, one of the young people who attended the event.

The agenda at this one-of-a-kind event, was dictated by youth delegates who asked the speakers questions, probing into biting issues which affect their careers and the country in general. The ‘Do Something’ Conference was centred around free flowing discussion, rather than the ‘classroom’ vibe of the typical conference.

[caption id="attachment_3491" align="aligncenter" width="260" caption="OMOTOLA"][/caption]

The conference speakers comprised of an impressive line up of Nigerians from diverse walks of life – entertainment to ministry; fashion to business, and included:

Professor Pat Utomi (Director,  Centre for Applied Economics, Lagos Business School)

Dr. Rasheed Gbadamosi (Former Chairman, Petroleum Product Pricing and Regulatory Agency)

Professor Oye Ibidapo-Obe (Former Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos/President, Nigeria Academy of Science)

Tonye Cole (Executive Director, Sahara Group)

Poju Oyemade (Senior Pastor, Covenant Christian Centre)

Betty Irabor (Publisher, Genevieve Magazine)

Iretiola Doyle (Actress/TV Presenter)

Steve Babaeko (Creative Director, 141 Worldwide)

Ayo Animashaun (Founder Hip Hop World Awards and Executive Producer HIP on TV)

Naeto C

Debbie Ogunjobi (C.E.O Everywoman)

Kemi Adetiba (Director/ TV Presenter)

Tosyn Bucknor (Radio Presenter/Writer)

Nicholas Okoye (CEO, Anabel)

Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde (Actress/Musician)

Peace Anyiam-Osigwe (CEO, AMAA Awards)

Bukola Adubi (CEO, Miccom Golf Resort)

Kefee (Musician)

Tolu Sangosanya (Founder, LOTS Foundation)

Bode Pedro (CEO, VEDA Technology)

Uche Nnaji (Ouch!)

John Momoh (CEO, Channels TV)

BIGGER, BETTER, BRIGHTER! AKPOS OKUDU LAUNCHES SPRING/ SUMMER 2011 COLLECTION

[caption id="attachment_3474" align="alignleft" width="480" caption="Oroma Jacket and Shorts with Eniye Metallic Tank and Wummi Pants"][/caption]

INTRO
Feminine, wearable and playfully sophisticated are words that best
describe Akpos Okudu pieces. Every Akpos Okudu piece shows a love for lush
fabric, intricate details and colour. With this collection, the designer
is clearer about her clients’ needs and what they are about and has made
clothes that women love to wear, want to wear & CAN afford to wear.

BODY
Remember the picture of the ladies in pink having a tea party on the lawn?
Designer Akpos Okudu is back injecting a little bit of sunshine in the
world one pretty little thing at a time! It’s been a whirlwind year;
numerous exhibitions, editorials in ThisDay Style, FAB and Complete
Fashion magazines, dressing celebrities including Joke Silva, Stephanie
Okereke and Omowunmi Akinnifesi and a nomination at The Future Awards for
“Designer of the Year”!

[caption id="attachment_3476" align="aligncenter" width="480" caption="Gbemi"][/caption]

With the release of the long awaited lookbook for this collection, Akpos
Okudu has grown as a designer and confidently creates the type of clothes
she passionate about; pieces that women LOVE to wear, WANT to wear and CAN
afford to wear. For the first time, she also delves into the world of
accessories with a unique range due to be launched shortly.
Shot on location at the gorgeous Bishop’s Cottage, Lagos, the pieces
explode with colour, zest and joie de vivre. Working with signature
fabrics like brocade, silk and satin, the designer plays with colour
blocking (with the jewel tone Eki dress and Eniye tanks), structure (with
the Oroma jacket and shorts) and draping (with the April dress).

The results are fun, easy pieces that flatter and translate easily from day to
evening. And at affordable prices, yanga doesn’t have to pain J
Visit http://akposokudu.com/ for an extensive gallery and exclusive
pictures from the “Cocktail Hour” themed photoshoot at the impressive
Novotel Hotel, Port Harcourt and the designer’s blog
www.ijawgirl.blogspot.com. Also on facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Akpos-Okudu/177137548964698?ref=ts

For orders and enquiries, please call 08076256599 or email
info@akposokudu.com. Also check out Akpos Okudu stalls at the monthly Le
Petit Marche, Lagos

Photo Credits
Photography: Victor Udoh
Art Direction and Styling: Saze Osayande
Location: Bishop’s Cottage- Bishop Oluwole Street, VI, Lagos; Novotel
Hotel- 3 Stadium Road Rumuomasi, PH, Rivers

TWO NIGERIANS ARRESTED WITH MILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN DRC.ONE FRENCH AND AMERICAN TOO

By Gistmaster.com

Two Nigerian businessmen, one french national and another US citizen have been arrested in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) based on accusations that they are involved in smuggling of Gold.
According to information, at the time of their arrest, they were in possession of millions of dollars and gold weighing close to 450 Kg. gistmaster.com gathered they were arrested based on information that people who come to buy gold from armed gangs help fuel rebel wars in Eastern DRC. The natural resources are mostly controlled by armed gangs, who run a vast black market business under the guise of fighting for liberation from bad government.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is highly resourceful in natural minerals such as gold and coltan used in making phones. A highly placed political figure in DRC disclosed that those arrested came aboard an American registered aircraft from Abuja. The crew members consisting of three Americans and a Nigerian were also taken into custody.Gistmaster.com gathered that the same aircraft was also there two weeks earlier.

The Nigerian, French American government are yet to make a statement regarding the alleged involvement of their citizens in gold smuggling and arrest in DRC.

DUCHESS VALENTINE SEASON SALE!!!

Valentine season is a time to show a little extra LOVE. We love chocolate, we love flowers, we love nice dinners, but you know what else we LOVE, Clothes, Shoes, Bags and other lovely fashion accessories!!!

Duchess, Nigerian’s premier luxury fashion retailer offers the style-savvy customer the hottest looks of the season from various designer labels at affordable prices. We give you affordable luxury all in one.
This Valentine we are offering a 20% discount on all items in store for one week from the 7th to 15th of February 2011. Treat yourself, buy something special for your loved ones, whatever you do, don't miss out on this opportunity.
Visit any of our stores today at:
32D Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.
284B Ajose Adeogun Street, Victoria Island, Lagos
93A Opebi Road, Ikeja, Lagos.
7 Onne Road, GRA, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Email: info@duchessnigeria.com
Tel: +234 (0) 12715147, +234 (0) 7025619804

VALENTINE IN THE AIR!TWO TAKES CUPID's BALL TO PORT HARCOURT

[caption id="attachment_3455" align="alignleft" width="334" caption="Tunde and Wunmi Obe of TWO"][/caption]

If you want to see Tunde and Wunmi Obe this valentine, or enjoy again, the lavish opportunity for fun and romance that their annual valentine gig ‘Cupid’s Ball’ provides, then you may need to take a trip to the Garden City.

 Although the couple is yet to confirm this, Sources are saying that for the first time in five years, they will be leaving Lagos to wine and dine with couples who are based in PH or who happen to be visiting.

 An insider tells us: ‘I believe they’ve decided to start taking the show to different cities. In fact, they were initially considering taking it to the UK before the Port Harcourt offer came’.

 We could not immediately reach the couple for comments, but enquiries to their publicists revealed they’re engaged to be in Port Harcourt on Saturday February 12. ‘I cant confirm right now if it’s Cupid’s Ball or not, but I’m aware they’re in Port Harcourt for Valentine’s day this year’. The event is a dance and dinner gig for lovers and it’s holding at Hotel Presidential.

NINA,OLA EVICTED FROM NIGERIAN IDOL

[caption id="attachment_3448" align="alignleft" width="500" caption="Nina, Ola and Anis"][/caption]

...As Audu goes missing in action

Two contestants with the lowest votes were evicted at last Thursday’s result show on Nigerian Idol. The two contestants Nina and Ola were part of the contestants the audience voted in during the top 50 phase. While Ola made it to the final stage during the first group, Nina was the contestant with the highest votes in the fourth group.

 But the Idol journey came to an end for both last Thursday as they recorded the lowest fan votes.

After their eviction was announced, the audience was treated to a recap of their journey so far, and it was an emotional experience for the judges and the contestants. Infact Bibi and George couldn’t hold the tears.

“It’s a tough decision to make, but if I had my way, I’d send Yeka Onka parking without looking back”. Yinka Davies said right before Anis announced Nina and Ola as the contestants with the lowest votes. “I think I’d go with Yinka, I totally agree with her on Yeka” Jeffery adds

 But then, the format had to be followed. The judges no longer have a say, but the audience does, and so Ola and Nina had to leave.

 Nina is a lawyer, but unlike most of the other contestants, she has a background in dance and not music. She has been a dancer since childhood and was a member of a dance group in university. The group also incorporated singing in their performances. The graduate of University of Nigeria Nsukka also manages a spa in Abuja.

 Ola (Olamide in full) is the most laid back among all the Nigerian Idol contestants. The 22 year old undergraduate of Babcock University claims that even though he is the first to sing professionally in his family, his family members are involved in music, whether singing on an amateur level or just appreciating good music.

 Before they left the competition, they performed for one last time.

 Now with two people out of the competition, there are now 11 contestants remaining in the house. Expect things to get tougher and more exciting as these contestants slug it out for the final prize of 7.5 Million Naira and a record deal with Sony BMG.

 Meanwhile, onlookers and ardent followers of Nigerian Idol were perplexed that judge Audu was not at the result show. And even though Anis announced that he missed his flight to Lagos, the questions won’t stop coming in“Did he know that a lawyer would leave?”, “Where is Audu”, “Whatever happened to Audu?” “Has Nigerian Idol sacked Audu”, “why do we just have two judges on the show today” were comments on twitter and facebook last Thursday.

 Nigerian Idol is sponsored by Etisalat in association with Pepsi and Royal Exchange.

news : niyi@gistmaster.com

FATHIA BALOGUN SET TO WED LOVER ON MAY 21

[caption id="attachment_3439" align="alignleft" width="234" caption="Fathia Balogun"][/caption]

By Gistmaster.com

Top Yoruba actress, Fathia Balogun is set to wed her lover in May 21. Sources disclosed to the media that Fathia, who has been separated from her actor husband, Saheed Balogun has made up her mind to try marital life again.

The new man in Fathia's life is said to be a prominent member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). They have been keeping the relationship on a low profile especially because of the media.

Though most members of the NURTW are seen as illiterates but they operate with touts in getting money from commercial vehicle operators on daily basis thus making them rich.

Gistmaster.com gathered that the new man in Fathia's life  is  a prominent member of the Isolo Branch of the NURTW. He is a well known associate of MC Musiliu and Akanni Olorunwa,the Treasurer and Chairman of Lagos State branch of NURTW respectively.

Those who thought Fathia would stick to her man friend, Razak Abdullahi of Corporate Pictures were shocked. They believe so much that he contributed so much to her career and was even the prominent reasons why Fathia and Saheed Balogun marriage crashed.

Saheed her former husband has also moved on with his love life, showing off at every opportunity with Funke Adeshiyan, the up and coming actress he wants to marry.

CELEBS GATHER FOR DAREY ART ALADE-+ PICTURES

 It was fun, excitement, banters and all at the star studded reception for Darey last Sunday.

On Sunday, February 6, 2011 not only did R&B King Darey Art Alade spend his evening hobnobbing with colleagues, Journalists, Radio DJs and industry top shots, he was also the centre of attraction as City people hosted him to a grand reception in honour of his outstanding achievements in the Nigerian music industry. “He was decorated with an award as “The King of R&B” in Nigeria.
The event was hosted by a team of comperes, including Tosyn Bucknor, Tee A, Ali Baba and Gbenga Adeyinka, who drilled and thrilled guests; taking them through series of jokes and comic sketches. Waje was the only artiste that performed at the event!
The Publisher of City People Seye Kehinde says “the essence of the event is encourage and appreciate the king of R&B for making Nigeria proud and for being a good ambassador of the country”
In view of this Bisi Olatilo presented a glass crystal plague to honor Darey on behalf of City people Darey in turn thanked everybody for honouring him.
  Guests at the event include Bisi Olatilo,Ayo Animashaun, Moyeen, Audu Makori Djinee, Emeka Ike, TY Mix, Femi Adeyinka, Ayeni Adekunle Waje, Jedi, Ali Baba and Julius Agwu. Others include, Lamide Akintobi, Tee A, Kingsley James, Kelvin Orifa, Abisoye Fagade, Kunle Afolayan, Banky W and Gbemi Olateru Olagbegi .