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After all these years, there's still nothing quite like a new project from Kirk Franklin. It's hard to believe that he's been on the scene since 1993. Since Kirk Franklin and the Family debuted, Gospel and music in general have been turning their heads to see what this self-proclaimed church boy is all about.

True to previous projects, this new one, Hello Fear, isn't just about the soulful music and innovative beats. Rather, it's the combination of his melodies and grooves with his transparency, his honesty, and his accessible story that draws us in to Franklin's world.

The project title references the fact that we all deal with fears of various sorts, and that for Kirk Franklin, the time for turning and facing fears is now. The transparency is palpable.

Joining Franklin on production is longtime collaborator and keys man,Shaun "Harold" Martin. VocalistsIsaac Carree, Anaysha Figueroa, Nikki Ross, Charmaine Swimpson and Eric Moore add their harmonies to nearly every cut.

Joining Franklin on the project are guests that include Marvin Sapp and Beverly Crawford (on the traditional, organ-infused slow burner, "The Altar"). 

Then there's a whole slew of names on the long time coming reprise of "Something About The Name Jesus Part 2". The original, appear on Franklin's Nu Nation Project from 1998, has been in repeat play mode for many since that it first came out. Back again for the reprise are Rance Allen and Isaac Carree (whose group Men of Standard was featured on the original), with Marvin Winans andJohn P. Kee also in the mix. 

Newcomer and fast riser Mali Music is tapped to join Franklin on "Give Me", adding his distinctive delivery to this soundtrack to prayer for God's strength and wisdom. Insistent snare percussion overlays high register keyboard stylings, making the sound stick.

Not many will sleep on the inspirational "Today", an infectious contemporary cut that combines beat with melody. Raise your hands in the air everybody!!

The mid tempo urban radio single "I Smile" is typical Kirk Franklin, his compositional imprint all over it. The song is "a declarative statement that I'm not going to live my life based on how I feel. I will live my life based on God's Word", says Franklin.

"I Give" is the other song making the radio rounds. The laid back ballad puts the focus on soft harmonies, with Franklin intoning declarations and promises from God's Word. "'I Am' is about exchanging all of my weaknesses for God's strength. This song is also about declaring what God says about me and not my situation. As we daily transform to God's image, we no longer identify with who we were, but who we are becoming", says Franklin. 

Hello Fear is another step in the spiritual and musical journey of Kirk Franklin; it succeeds on both levels.

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2010 was indeed an eventful year for entertainment. The movies and music scene had never had it so good, going by the number of returnees who made it just in time to catch in on the ever vibrant and lucrative industries.

One of the earliest shockers fans got was when Nigerian traditional hip-hop artiste, 9ice, announced his separation from his wife, Toni Payne, on January 8. The news was received with mixed reactions, especially since his ‘Tradition’ album was not so much of a commercial success.

In August, controversial actor and singer, Jim Iyke, was in the news for the wrong reason when rumours made the rounds online that he had contracted HIV from his married Sierra Leonean lover, and that she had a child by him. The actor hit back through his PR company, which took legal action on his behalf.

It was also a year of many endorsement deals and awards - P-Square’s multi-million naira Globacom deal became public after months of speculation. The talented duo were officially announced as Glo Ambassadors in August while Timaya is being rumoured as next on the list. The year was also a good one for the Glo ambassadors including Jim Iyke, Pasuma, Funke Akindele, Uche Jumbo, Chioma Akpotha, Nonso Diobi, Jackie Apphia, Kate Henshaw-Nuttall, Rita Dominic, and Ego Ogbara. They all dazzled in various campaigns and also graced the Glo recharge cards.

However, in the midst of various happy events in the industry, it suffered a dent when international star, Leona Lewis, who was due to perform at Nigeria’s Golden Jubilee Independence celebration, cancelled her visit in honour of the 8 victims who lost their lives after two car bombs went off in the nation’s capital.

While we will not agree any less that the year was an eventful one, we present to you just some of those people, places, and events which will continue to make headlines and some interesting conversation even in the New Year.

MOVIES

‘Small Boy’ - May 27

African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) award winning filmmaker, Michelle Dede’s acclaimed feature film ‘Small Boy’ was premiered in Lagos months after it had had scooped wins and nominations at various awards ceremonies and film festivals.

‘Ije’ - July 30

Undoubtedly one of the most anticipated and hyped Nollywood movie of the year. Produced and directed by young filmmaker, Chineze Anyaene, ‘Ije’ parades an international cast including Nigerian movie sweethearts - Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and Genevieve Nnaji. The movie opened in Nigerian cinemas on July 30 to rave reviews, its tickets were sold out in a week. Due to popular demand, it had a second opening which will run from Christmas Eve up until January 6, 2011.

‘Kajola’ - July 30

Despite its huge budget and futuristic sci-fi theme, ‘Kajola’ stands out as the flop of the year. Set in 2059 and complete with stunning Hollywood style visual effects, the movie was directed by Niyi Akinmolayan and produced by Adonis Production, with visual effects by Anthill.The movie starred a crop of new actors such as Adonijah Owiriwa and Keira Hewatch alongside Nollywood star, Desmond Elliot. It had to be withdrawn from the cinemas due to complaints by the audiences across the country of its lack lustre quality.

‘Holding Hope’ and ‘Bursting Out’ - August 8

It was a double premeire at the Silverbird Galleria when ‘Holding Hope’ and Bursting Out’ came to town. ‘Holding Hope’ was written by Uche Jombo, Emem Isong, and Uduak Emem Oguwamalam and stars Uche Jombo, Desmond Elliot, Nadia Buhari, Biola Williams, Ngozi Nwosu, Rukky Sanda, and many others.

‘Bursting out’, on the other hand, was produced by Emem Isong and directed by Desmond Elliot and features Genevieve Nnaji and Majid Michael.

Some of the works of Royal Arts Academy include ‘Guilty Pleasure’ and ‘Nollywood Hustlers’, where renowned stars such as Ramsey Nouah, Majid Micheal, Nse Ikpe Etim, Uche Jombo, Susan Peters, Charles Inojie, Monalisa Chinda, and many others did what they do best.

‘Save our Souls’ - August 26

Nollywood actress, Oby Edozieh, premiered her long-awaited movie titled ‘Save our Souls’ in some major cinemas in Lagos and Abuja. Shot on location in both India and London, ‘Save our Souls‘ dwells on the emotional and psychological trauma that people stricken with cancer suffer and its effect on their families and friends. The flick was directed by Moses Inyang. Its cast include the likes of Kenneth Okonkwo, Elebelu Elebuwa, Chioma Chukwuka, Ebere Okaro, Segun Arinze, Oby Edozie, amongst many others. The actress also launched her NGO, Oby Gold Cancer Foundation, on same date.

‘D’ Comeback’ - September 7

‘D’Comeback’, produced by Prominent Cease, a group of Nigerian entrepreneurs based in Washington, was premeired in style in Lagos. It is a fictional adaptation of the Biblical story of King David. Shot in the US, the movie was first premiered in Bethesda, Maryland, in April 2010.

‘Home in Exile’ - September 26

Nigerian movie producer and director, Lancelot Imasuen, premiered his latest work, ‘Home in Exile’ in Benin City, Edo State. According to Imasuen, ‘Home In Exile’ reveals the inherent selfish nature of man and exposes how people extol tradition when it favours them and abhor it when it comes against them. The event was hosted by the Edo State commissioner for arts and culture, Abdul Oroh, and supported by the Edo State House of Assembly through its representative, Patrick Osayimen.

‘Memories of the Heart’ - October 15

Nollywood actress, Ini Edo, joined the movie making wagon on October 15 when she premiered her movie ‘Memories of my Heart’ - a romantic comedy. The movie was co-produced by Emem Isong and stars Ramsey Nouah, Monalisa Chinda, Nse Ikpe Etim, Kofi Adjorlolo, and Desmond Elliot.

‘Inale’- November 3

‘Inalé’ is based on an old folk tale, and is a musically inclined movie. The entire project came to fruition at the hands of three major players: Bongos Ikwue, his daughter and producer Keke Bongos, and talented director, Amata. It parades the likes of Keppy Ekpeyong, Dede Mabiaku, and Omawumi Megbele.

‘Champions of our Time’ - November 28

‘Champions of our Time’ opened at Silverbird Cinemas, Lagos. It was produced by Chidi Nwokeabia, and Nollywood actor, Emeka Enyiocha. ‘Champions of our Time’ features Segun Arinze, Joke Silva-Jacob, Ngozi Ezeonu, Ejike Asiegbu, Ayo Adesanya, Charles Inojie, and many others.

‘Anchor Baby’ - December 10

This is another movie which has been enjoying media buzz and patronage. Produced by Canadian based Nigerian film maker, Lonzo Nzekwe, ‘Anchor Baby’, like ‘Ije’, has storylines which explore illegal immigrant themes. It also stars an international cast,except for Nigeria’s Omoni Oboli. It opened in cinemas across the country on December 10.

‘A Private Storm’ - December 18

Writer/producer, Vivian Ejike, latest movie premiered in Lagos. The romantic thriller starred Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Ramsey Nouah, John Dumelo, Ngozi Ezeonuand, and Ufuoma Ejenobor. The movie was directed by Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen and Kechukwu Onyeka.

REALITY SHOWS

MR. NIGERIA 2010 - March 2

Nigeria’s representative, 25-year old Kenneth Okolie, emerged second runner up in the keenly contested MR. World competition, which took place in Songdo Convensiona, in Korea’s city, Incheon.

MGBN 2010 - May 22

18-year old student, Fiona Aforma Amuzie, was crowned as the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria. Onyeka Martina Udechukwu, who was chosen as Miss LaCasera 2010, received a N1m cash prize and the chance to be the Face of LaCasera for 12 months. Miss Ebonyi, Shalom Obi, won the Face of Select Pro Cosmetics Contest and a N500,000 cash prize.

MISS NIGERIA 2010 - September 25

6 years after the last Miss Nigeria was crowned,19-year old Damilola Agbajor, representing Delta State, was chosen as Miss Nigeria 2010. Damilola was crowned by the MD of the Miss Nigeria Organisation - Adenike Oshinowo-Soleye.

Agbajor’s winning package includes a full scholarship to be educated in a tertiary institution anywhere in the world, a luxury car, one year’s salary package of N3 million naira, one year’s accommodation in Lagos, Nigeria, and a wardrobe for a year, from Nigerian designers.

MTN Project Fame Season 3 - September 26

Chidinma Ekile made history as the first female winner of MTN Project Fame. Kesse Frimpong, a Ghananian, emerged 1st runner up, with Eyo Eminue grabbing the 2nd runner up spot, while Yetunde Orijah was named 3rd runner up. Surprisingly, Tolu Aadesina and Ochuko Ogbu-Sifo, who were crowd favourites, came fifth and sixth respectively.

The business promoter and student drove away with a Toyota Rav4, 2.5 million naira, and a record deal.

Genevieve Nnaji on CNN CONECTOR - November 23

The much talked about CNN’s Connector of The Day, featuring Nigerian star actress, Genevive Nnaji, finally aired ‘The Interview’ which was recorded sometime in October 2010 at the CNN International Studio in London, saw Nnaji responding to questions sent in. The actress was also listed in the October 15 issue of Entertainment Weekly, which had a cover story on ‘The 50 Most Powerful Entertainers’ (in Hollywood). Genevieve was mentioned in a small sub-feature on ‘Stars Around the World’ which alludes to Genny as “the Angelina Jolie of Nigeria.”

Glo Naija Sings Season 2 - December 6

Diploma in Music holder, Casey, won the second instalment of the musical talent reality television show, Naija Sings. The 27-year old Warri indigene won the coveted $100, 000, a Toyota Rav4 SUV, and he’s now an automatic Glo Ambassador. He beats the other finalists, Rasine and Da brodas, to the trophy on Friday at the grand finale which took place at the MNET Studios in Lagos.

Peak Talent Show season 2 - December 19

16-year old Kida Kudz emerged winner of the Peak Talent Show Season 2, beating runners-up Osagie and Super 2 to the star prize. The rapper’s real names, Kayode Odesanya, went home with N2m cash and an Ipad.

The Debaters - December 21

25-year old orator, Chinedu Chidi emerged the champion of ‘The Debaters’ Season II, winning N3.5m, Toyota RAV4, and VEDA Laptop grand prize.

‘The Debaters’ is created by TV personality, Mo, who anchors ‘Moments with Mo’.

WEDDINGS

Joseph Yobo and Adaeze Igwe December 31/January 1

Nigerian international footballer, Joseph Yobo, wedded ex-beauty queen, Adaeze Igwe, during the ‘midnight crossover’ service at the El-Buba Outreach Ministries in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria.

Kingsley Okonkwo of KC Presh & Cynthia Ijeoma Oduah - March 12

Kingsley Okonkwo of KC PRESH fame married his heartthrob Ijeoma Cynthia Oduah at Apapa Registry, Lagos.

Helen Paul and Oluwafemi Bamisile - April 17

Comedianne, Helen Paul, wedded her lawyer beau in Lagos.

Ufuoma Ejenobor and Steven McDermott - April 23

Nollywood actress and model, Ufouma Ejenobor, wedded Steve McDermott, a Briton, at a private ceremony in Lagos.

Bella Adenuga and Jameel Disu - April 24

Belinda Ajoke Adenuga and Jameel Adetokunboh Disu, had a fairytale wedding ceremony which took place at the Cathedral Church of Christ in Marina, Lagos, Nigeria.

Saint Janet and Olukayode Samuel Iyun - May 20

Contoversial singer, Saint Janet, formalised her wedding to heatthrob, Olukayode Samuel Iyun, at the Oke-Odo local government Registry in Lagos.

Ernest Obi and Evi Oki - May 30

Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Ernest Obi, wedded his long time heartthrob, Evi Oki, in Lagos.

Sammie Okposo and Ozioma Mkparu - July 1

Gospel musician, Sammie Okposo, tied the knots with his sweetheart, Ozioma Mkparu, at the Lagoon Restaurant and Banquet Hall.

Jeremiah Gyang and Ladi Otache - August 28

Nigerian singer and producer, Jeremiah Gyang, married his longtime love and P.A., Ladi Otache, in Jos, Plateau State.

Cynthia Okpala and Ozoemena Mbanefo - October 23

MTV VJ, Cynthia Okpala, wedded Ozoemena Mbanefo at the Sheraton Hotels and Towers.

Mike Ezuruonye and Nkechi Keke - November 13

Nollywood actor, Mike Ezuruonye, wedded his sweetheart, Nkechi Keke. Mike and Keke’s love story began when they met while he was filming a movie. The two had earlier celebrated their traditional wedding on May 2010.

Basketmouth and Elsie Uzoma - November 26

After a 7-year romance, comedian Bright ‘Basketmouth’ Okpocha, married his sweetheart, Elsie Uzoma, in glamorous style at the Eko Hotel and Suites.

Cobhams Asuquo and Ojuola Olukanni - December 2

Nigerian music maestro, Cobhams Emmanuel Asuquo, wedded Ojuolape Veronica Olukanni at the Redeemed Christian Church of God , The King is Coming Parish, at the Redemption Camp. After the church ceremony, Cobhams and Ojuola proceeded to their wedding reception at the Redemption Resort.

AY.COM and Joy - December 4

‘Pass me your Love’ crooner, Ayoola Johnson, popularly knowns as AY.COM, tied the knots with his undergraduate girlfriend, known as Joy.

Tuvi James and Tshimologo Igwegbe - Decemeber 19

Nigerian actor, Tuvi James, married Tshimologo Igwegbe, a South African model who works with NedBank in South Africa, whom he met at the Big Brother Africa party.

Queen Onakola and Dotun Omotoye - December 21

The two love birds tied the knot at the Onigbongbo local government registry, Ikeja.

DEATHS

Sikiru Ayinde Barrister

62-year old Fuji maestro, Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, passed away at St. Mary’s Hospital in London, after a protracted illness.

Sazzy

Aspiring MC/producer, Sazzy, real name Osaze Omonbude, passed on after a brief illness. His most memorable achievement was the release of the DJ Atte-hosted mixtape - ‘The Take Over’ which featured a gang of stars including M.I, 9ice, and Ruggedman. Sazzy was 26 years old at the time of his death.

Toun Oni

Veteran Nigerian actress, dancer, and vocalist, Toun Oni, passed away while being rushed to the hospital. Mama T, as she was popularly known, was one of Nigeria’s most successful cross-over actresses. She was also a recipient of the prestigious Order of Niger (OON), conferred in 2006. Her most memorably roles were undoubtedly on television, with parts in one of Nigeria’s longest running soap opera,‘Checkmate,’ and the popular ‘Fuji House of Commotion,’ where she played Mama Moji. She was aged 67.

FEATS

Omawummi and Dr. Frabz break up - March

After a short lived romance which began late last year while working on her debut album, Omawumi and producer and singer, Dr. Frabz parted ways.

Jay Martins Joins Storm Records - September

Talented songwriter, producer and singer, Jay Martins, signed a deal with Storm Records to manage him.

Terry G - September 4

Singer and producer, Terry G, real name Gabriel Amanyi, survived a horrific car crash after he ran his car into a street demarcation. The ‘Free Madness’ singer was subsequently rumoured dead minutes after the accident which happened in Ogba.

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde Album - September 14

Nollywood actress and singer, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, treated fans and friends to a 5-star album launch event at the Eko Hotels.

Desmond Elliot - September 17

Actor and director, Desmond Elliot, welcomed a set of twins - a boy and a girl. This would be the second set of twins for the actor and his wife, coming after three year ago, when his wife gave birth to their first twin - Desmond Jr and Denzel.

Nse Ikpe Etim Speaks at Harvard October 1-3

Award-winning Nigerian actress, Nse Ikpe-Etim, was a guest of the Nigerian Students Association, Harvard University, to be a part of a distinguished panel to share with the world the growth and potential of the Nigerian film industry.

Tuface and One 8 - November 5

Eight African celebrities including Nigerian’s superstar, Tuface, featured on One8, a project that seeks to unify eight major African countries to create an African super music group. These artistes recorded an album in Chicago alongside American super star, R-kelly.

SCANDALS

Tonto Dikeh’s steamy sex scenes

Since getting her big break in 2006 through a Nigerian reality TV show, The Next Movie Star, where she emerged the first runner-up, Tonto Dikeh has worked her way to the top. However, lately, she has been making headlines as a result of steamy sex scenes. The movies ‘Dirty Secret’ and ‘Men in Love’ got tongues wagging.

Toni Payne and 9ice break up - January 8

Nigerian traditional hip-hop artist, 9ice, announced his separation from his wife, Toni Payne, through a statement released by his publicist, Ayeni Adekunle. The couple agreed to separate for a while, even though they continue to remain good friends and business partners while their baby, Zion, will reside with Payne.

Sammie Okposo and Scottish law - July

Newly-wedded Sammie Okposo was arrested in far away Aberdeen, Scotland, where he was honeymooning with his wife. According to the report, the couple and another couple-friend were at Jimmy Chung’s, a Chinese bar and restaurant in Aberdeen Beach Esplanade, which operates an all-you-can-eat menu featuring starters, main courses, and desserts when the gospel star was angered by a supposedly truculent waitress.

Wande Coal nude picture saga - July 14

Mo Hits star, Wande Coal, real name, Ojosipe Wande, became the hottest trending topic on social networking site, Twitter, when pictures alleged to be his nude shots, surfaced on the Internet.

9ice and Rugged Man - September 14

The last not has been heard about the 9ice and Rugged Man feud which has been on for months now shortly after Rugged Man leaked a phone conversation between him and 9ice. Both artistes have since released a Diss tracks targeted at each other.

Ufouma Ejenebor vs Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly - October

Nollywood actress, Ufouma Ejenebor, claimed one of the vehicles (the Pilot) in the lawmakers’ convoy hit her Nissan Xterra. The incident, which occured on Ozumba Mbadiwe Road, had two different accounts from the two parties.

October

Mo’Hits rapper, Ikechukwu, kept entertainment portals buzzing, as rumours of his supposed departure from the ace record label dominated various forums in the cyber world. Although the rumours are yet to be confirmed, they get stronger, with different entertainment websites attributing the source to a Mo’Hits mole.

Emem Isong / Vivian Ejike

Both filmmakers are said to be in silent rivalry after it was rumoured that Ejike stole Isong’s story ‘Silent Scandal’. In her defence, Ejike said ‘I wrote ‘Silent Scandal’ in 2007 and the person you are talking about wrote her movie in 2009. How is it possible that I stole her concept? Please, let’s not get into that.’

GT Da Guitarman leaves Storm Records - November 11

Soul singer, Gbemiro Tokunbo Akinbogun, popularly known as GT Da Guitarman, officially called it quits with Storm Records. He has floated his own record label, Ember Records. GT Da Guitarman joined Storm Records in 2007 and released his debut album, ‘The Truth’ in 2009.

Uche Jumbo age scandal - December

The future awards nominated actress, Uche Jumbo, in the best actress award category, was involved in an age falsification scandal. After critics petitioned the awards committee saying that the actress was not 31years old as published by the Future Awards, but 42 years old.

Star Mega Jamz death rumours - December 17 and 18

Rumours had it that there was a stampede at the Abuja concert, leading to multiple injuries. But while there are reports that some fans died as a result of the stampede, the organisers, through a statement insisted nothing of such happened.

Genevieve and Dbanj

These two have been rumoured to be an item. However, while Dbanj has not denied it, the sultry actress has kept mum. The two arrived hand in hand at PSquares birthday bash and were paired together to present an award at the just concluded MAMA Awards.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria's government agency responsible for safety on the roads has confirmed that 472 persons died in 500 road accidents in different parts of the country in December 2010. This was made known by the Corps Marshall of the FRSC, Mr Osita Chidoka.

Chidoka said the commission would come up with the state-by-state statistics of road accidents in the period, saying that the three states with the lowest number of crashes would be rewarded. He described the activities of the commission in the last quarter of 2010 as successful,while noting that, the figure is lower compared to what was recorded in December 2009. Mr.Chidoka also applauded the collaborative efforts of other security agencies like the police, air-force and others saying their contributions ensured that the carnage on the nation's highways, saying that the introduction of aerial survey was helpful...

The guy with more friends than anybody has been named Time magazine's Person of the Year: Mark Zuckerberg, the controversial, 26-year-old founder of Facebook, the newsweekly announced Wednesday morning.

Winning the honor over such short-listed names as WikiLeak's Julian Assange (the favorite in a readers' poll), the Tea Party, the Chilean Miners, Apple's Steve Jobs and Afghanistan leader Hamid Karzai, Zuckerberg on his own Facebook page describes his personal interests as "openness, making things that help people connect and share what's important to them, revolutions, information flow, minimalism."

As Time tagged Zuckerberg's on the Web site of the Today show – Time editor Rick Stengel made the announcement of Zuckerberg's selection on the NBC morning program – "More than half a billion people on the planet live in a world created by Mark Zuckerberg. The good news is, their friends all live there too. Zuckerberg founded the social networking site Facebook in his college dorm six years ago, but 2010 was the year that Facebook reached critical mass, both in sheer quantity of users and in its presence (through its 'connect' features) all over the Web."

The profile continued, "Zuckerberg spent much of the year fighting privacy concerns, and this fall he had to shake off a movie that depicted him as an alienated loner, hacking to get girls. But the world's youngest billionaire has no plans to slow Facebook's growth, nor does it show any sign of stopping."

That movie is The Social Network, which, besides doing well at the box office, is an Oscar Best Picture frontrunner. In the past week it's been honored, too – having been named Best Picture of the Year by the National Board of Review, the New York Film Critics Circle and critics' groups in Toronto, Boston and Los Angeles. In addition, the movie and its leading man, Jesse Eisenberg, who plays a hard-boiled Zuckerman, received Golden Globe nominations. .

Time's Person of the Year tradition harkens back to 1927, the year the magazine (which, like PEOPLE, is today part of Time Inc.) was launched. The first Person was aviator Charles Lindbergh. Others named throughout the decades have included Franklin D. Roosevelt (1932, 1934 and 1941), Adolf Hitler (1936), the American Fighting Man (1950), the Generation Under 25 (1966), American Women (1975), and, during their terms in office, Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Carter, Reagan, both Bushes, Clinton and Obama.

Photo: Mark,AAssange, Chilean Miners

The CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi has emerged as the 2010 Silverbird Man of the Year. He was voted enmasse by the Nigerian people by text messaging..

Most Nigerians who received the news, believe his choice as the Silverbird Man of the Year was based on his frankness and fearlessness in policy formulation and ,more importantly ,his recent revelation about how twenty five percent of the national budget is spent on federal legislators. Other contenders for the prestigious award in 2010 were Aliko Dangote (Chairman Dangote Group) ,Funke Osibodu (CEO Union Bank Plc, Olusegun Aganga (Minister of Finance), Ahmadu Giade (NDLEA Chairman) & Funke Opeke (CEO Main One Cable).

The Silverbird Man of the Year was initiated in 2006 to celebrate outstanding and extraordinary Nigerians.

Nominees announced for FIFA Ballon d’Or gala 2010

The contenders for this year’s FIFA Ballon d’Or award for the best player of 2010 and for the FIFA Women’s WorldPlayer of the Year 2010 award were announced on Monday during a pressconference held at the headquarters of the sports daily L’Equipe in Paris, inwhich Jérôme Valcke, FIFA Secretary General, François Morinière, CEO of FranceFootball, Jean-Pierre Papin, a former winner of the Ballon d’Or, and ChristianKarembeu, a member of FIFA’s Football Committee, took part.

In alphabetical order, the male nominees are Andrés Iniesta (Spain), Lionel Messi (Argentina) and Xavi (Spain), whileFatmire Bajramaj (Germany), Marta (Brazil) and Birgit Prinz (Germany) willcontest the women’s award.

The candidates for the newly created FIFA World Coach of the Year for Men’s Football award and the FIFA World Coachof the Year for Women’s Football award were also announced. The contenders arethe following: Vicente del Bosque (Spain/Spanish national team), Pep Guardiola(Spain/FC Barcelona) and José Mourinho (Portugal/FC Internazionale and RealMadrid CF) in the men’s category, and Maren Meinert (Germany/German U-20national team) Silvia Neid (Germany/German national team) and Pia Sundhage(Sweden/USA national team) in the women’s category...

All of these nominees were confirmed after a poll in which the captains and head coaches of the men’s and women’snational teams as well as international media representatives selected byFrance Football voted for candidates. The votes from each of the three groupscounted for one-third to obtain the final result.

The winners will be revealed at the first FIFA Ballon d’Or gala as part of a televised ceremony at the ZurichKongresshaus on 10 January 2011, during which the FIFA FIFPro World XI and theFIFA Puskás Award for the most beautiful goal of the year will also beannounced for the second year running. The online vote for fans on FIFA.com forthe FIFA Puskás Award has now reached the 1 million vote landmark, with oneweek to go until the poll closes at noon CET on 13 December. The FIFAPresidential Award and the FIFA Fair Play Award will also be presented duringthe gala.

FIFA.COM

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VIDEO OF THE YEAR:
2face – “Only Me”
2. BEST AFRO HIP HOP VIDEO:
Mr. Raw Nwanne – “O Chukwu”
3. BEST USE OF ANIMATION:
T.W.O – “I Need Someone”
4. BEST FUJI MUSIC VIDEO:
Dekunle Fuji – “Funmilayo”
5. BEST CONTEMPORARY AFRO:
Sound Sultan – “2010”
6. BEST MAINSTREAM HIP HOP:
Bouqui – “Take You Away”
7. BEST AFROBEAT MUSIC VIDEO:
Fela – “Viva Africa”
8. BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY (Director):
TOSIN IGHO – “Don’t Leave Me”
9. BEST AFRO POP:
2face – “Only Me”
10. BEST USE OF CHOREOGRAPHY:
Dipp – “Pop Off Selecta”
11. BEST HIGHLIFE:
J. Martins – “Eva”
12. BEST REGGAE DANCEHALL:
General Pype – “Champion”
13. BEST SOFT ROCK VIDEO:
Djinee – “Overkillin’”
14. BEST USE OF EFFECTS:
Dipp – “Pop Off Selecta”
15. BEST INDIGENOUS CONCEPT:
Kefee – “Thank You”
16. BEST USE OF COSTUME:
Goldie – “You Know It”
17. BEST R ‘n’ B:
Banky W – “Strong Ting”
18. BEST GOSPEL:
KSB – “Turn Around”
19. BEST VIDEO BY A NEW ARTIST:
Solidstar – “One In A Million”
20. MOST POPULAR NIGERIAN MUSIC VIDEO IN EUROPE:
JJC – “We Are Africans”
21. BEST DIRECTOR:
Clarence Peters
22. BEST EDITOR:
Clarence Peters
23. BEST PRODUCER:
KENNIS MUSIC
24. BEST NEW DIRECTOR:
Frizzle – “Taka Sufe”

2010 Soul Train Awards

Legend Awards: Anita Baker and Ron Isley

Best New Artist: Melanie Fiona

Best Female R&B/Soul Artist: Alicia Keys

Best Male R&B/Soul Artist: Trey Songz and Usher (tie)

Song of the year: “Nothin’ on You” - B.o.B ft. Bruno Mars

Best Hip-Hop Song of the Year: “Love the Way You Lie” - Eminem ft. Rihanna

Album of the Year: “Raymond vs. Raymond” - Usher

Record of the Year: “Un-thinkable (I’m Ready)” - Alicia Keys,

Aubrey Graham (Drake), Kerry Brothers Jr., and Noah “40” Shebib

Best Reggae Artist: Gyptian

Centric Award: Janelle Monae

Best Gospel Performance: Marvin Sapp

Best Dance Performance: Ciara - “Ride”

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Casey wins Naija Sings

Diploma in Music holder, Casey, wins.. the second instalment of the musical talent reality television show, Naija Sings....

The 27 year old Warri indigene won the coveted $100, 000, a Toyota Rav4 SUV and he’s now an automatic Glo Ambassador. He beats the other finalists Rasineand Da brodas to the trophy on Friday at the grand finale which took place at the MNET Studios in Lagos.

“I intend to invest with the money and get back to school and take care of my family. I want to learn something in a music school. I just don’t want to win this money and disappear into thin air. I want to do something big in music that’s why I have a competition, challenge and serious work to do. I have to step up, from my packaging to the kind of music people want,” he told cp-africa.com after winning.

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New Music

Aspiring musician Kennedy Arohia who goes by the moniker K-Source, has released new singles, ‘Play Me’ and ‘Adamma’ under KD Records recently. The new tracks were presented to various media organisations and entertainment bloggers at Alalo Eatery, Ikeja GRA on Thursday 1 December 2010.

The singer cum producer, a graduate from the University of Benin, says making music has always been his dream. He said both singles were inspired by issues in his environment and hopes to release a full album within the first quarter of next year.

“I intend making my debut before February 14 next year since it’s the love season and my album would contain a couple of love songs,” the singer in his mid twenties said.

K-Source hopes to tread in the R&B and Pop genre in Nigerian mainstream music.

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Mel Gibson movie heads to theatres

Mel Gibson is headed back into movie theatres after months of damaging publicity over his tempestuous relationship with ex-lover Oksana Grigorieva and a domestic abuse investigation by Los Angeles authorities.

Movie studio Summit Entertainment on Friday released the first promotional trailer and a poster of Gibson’s long-delayed movie “The Beaver”, in which the Oscar-winning director plays “a man who has lost all hope.” Directed by actress Jodie Foster, who also co-stars with Gibson, the family drama is described as “coming soon” to movie theatres. According to the Internet Movie Database website, “The Beaver” will be released in the UK in February 2011. No date was given for a U.S. release.

In “The Beaver”, Gibson, 54, plays Walter Black, a man described in the trailer as “a hopelessly depressed individual” who finds solace and new hope by talking through a beaver hand-puppet.

Filming was completed earlier this year but the release was apparently put on hold after audio tapes were leaked in the summer of Gibson ranting at, and threatening Russian-born model Grigorieva as their brief relationship hit the rocks in January.

The “Braveheart” and “Passion of Christ” director has remained silent throughout the furor, which caused him to lose a cameo part in the upcoming sequel to the comedy “The Hangover” due to cast objections, and to be dumped by his long-time Hollywood talent agency.

Los Angeles police are investigating Gibson on suspicion of domestic abuse, and Grigorieva for possible extortion. Neither has been charged.

Gibson, once considered one of Hollywood’s most popular stars, made his last acting appearance in the thriller “Edge of Darkness” in January 2010, which made a lackluster $81 million at the global box office.

But according to an opinion poll in August, 76 percent of Americans questioned said the Gibson-Grigorieva scandal would have no effect on whether they would buy a ticket for a Gibson movie.

The “Teflon Don”, American rapper – Rick Ross is an exciting new addition to the MTV Africa Music Awards bill. The rapper along with Kenya’s P-Unit, South Africa’s Jozi and Nigeria’s Wande Coal will join previously announced performers DJ Arafat (Ivory Coast), 2Face (Nigeria), Daddy Owen (Kenya), Banky W (Nigeria), Fally Ipupa(DRC), Teargas (South Africa) and Cabo Snoop(Angola) on stage at the event.

This is Rick Ross’ first ever visit to Africa and we hear the rapper is very excited about the opportunity to perform here. Rick Ross is not just a performer but also a nominee as well. He is nominated in the Best International Category. Following the trend set by international nominees who performed at the MAMAs in prior years, it is safe to assume that Rick will be walking away with the award.

Rick Ross has been described by the New York Times as “one of rap’s most potent and creative forces”. The tattoo-loving, six-foot, larger-than-life rap figure first came to attention with “Hustlin”, his 2006 debut single. Influenced by artists like Luther Campbell and Notorious B.I.G, Ross, a.k.a. William Roberts, aimed to put Miami back in rap’s national spotlight and went on to do just that with his 2006 album “Port of Miami”, which went to number one on the Billboard album chart. Similar acclaim followed for “Trilla” (2007) and “Deeper Than Rap” (2009), while his 2010 album release “Teflon Don”, which debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200, has garnered critical acclaim for its emotional depth, cinematic production, sleek, synth-heavy beats, and rich soundscapes. Ross is nominated in the Best International category at the MAMA awards.

Making their first appearance at the MAMAs, Best Group contenders P-Unit are going head to head against Uganda’s Radio & Weasle, South Africa’s Teargas and multiple MAMA winners and Nigerian music phenomenon, P-Square. As well as performing at the 2010 show, former MAMA winners Jozi are also nominated in the Artist of the Year category, where they are pitched against 2FACE, P-Square and Fally Ipupa. Wande Coal faces a tough race in the Best Anglophone category, where Ghana’s Sarkodie, Kenya’s Daddy Owen and South Africa’s Biz Nuz are also in the running...

The MTV Africa Music Awards with Airtel takes place at the Eko Hotel & Suites in Lagos on Saturday 11 December 2010 and will broadcast on MTV base (DStv Channel 322), MTV platforms around the world and partner TV stations from 18 December 2010.

The MTV Africa Music Awards 2010 is sponsored by Airtel in association with MasterCard. Arik Air is the official airline partner of the MTV Africa Music Awards with Airtel...

Damilola Agbajor, 19 years old, from Delta State, won the 2010 edition of miss Nigeria, yesterday in Abuja.

Winner, Miss Nigeria 2010, Damilola Agbajor,Nike Oshinowo-Soleye, Crowning her.

Twenty young beautiful girls from different State where paraded at this year Miss Nigeria Competition. Erica Okuneye,24yrs, 1^st runner-up, Miss Lagos and Obori Edenkwo, 25yrs, 2^nd runner-up, Miss Cross- River.

The Competition did not show case swimwear segment. The outstanding young ladies where said to be judged on poise, intelligence, cultural values as well as beauty.

First Miss Nigeria pageant was held in 1957, producing Grace Tinke Oyelude as the first Miss Nigeria. 36^th Miss Nigeria has since emerged up till 2004.

According to Chief Adenike Oshinowo-Soleye, the executive producer of the new Miss Nigeria Competition;” will once again showcase positive attributes of the Nigerian woman- elegance, poise, talent, intelligence as well as beauty. Miss Nigeria historically has been a role model to the Nigerian society at large and a spokesperson for national volunteerism and charity, while using her title to educate millions of Nigerians on issues of importance to herself and the society”.

Present at the event, are Mrs Josephine Anineh, minister for women affair, Alhaji Sadiq Mohammed, minister for Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Otunba Rusewe, Danladi Bako and other important persons in the Country.

Miss Nigeria 2010 Edition

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Author: pmnews Date: Sep 26th, 2010. | Category: Multimedia, Photo News. | Follow comments: RSS 2.0. | You can leave a response below. |

Section of the 20 Finalists.

1st Runner-up, miss Nigeria 2010, Erica Okuneye.

2nd Runner-up, Miss Nigeria 2010, Obori Edenkwo.

Chief Adenike Oshinowo-Soleye, Executive Producer, Miss Nigeria.

Winner, Miss Nigeria 2010, Damilola Agbajor, Miss Delta.

L-R Winner, Miss Nigeria 2010, Damilola Agbajor, Miss Delta,2ND Runner-up, Obori Edenkwo and 1st Runner-Up, Erica Okuneye.

Winner, Miss Nigeria 2010, Damilola Agbajor, Miss Delta,(M) 2nd Runner-up, Obori Edenkwo(R) and 1st Runner-Up, Erica Okuneye(L).

Winner, Miss Nigeria 2010, Damilola Agbajor,Nike Oshinowo-Soleye, presenting her gift.

Winner, Miss Nigeria 2010, Damilola Agbajor,Nike Oshinowo-Soleye, Crowning her.

Winner, Miss Nigeria 2010, Damilola Agbajor, Miss Delta.

Winner, Miss Nigeria 2010, Damilola Agbajor, Miss Delta.

Winner, Miss Nigeria 2010, Damilola Agbajor, Miss Delta.

Photos by Femi Ipaye, TheNEWS/Abuja

By Femi Ipaye.

From flags to Facebook, 22-year-old Jimena Navarrete has quickly made it clear what she plans to promote as the world's newest Miss Universe — her home country of Mexico.

"I want the whole world to know about my country and my people," the Guadalajara native said after beating 82 competitors for global bragging rights at the pageant in Las Vegas.

"I imagine that they're all going crazy in Mexico right now," she said through an interpreter. "I'm extremely proud and I'm sure they're very proud, too."

She donned a flowing red dress, strutted confidently in a violet bikini, and said onstage that the Internet is indispensable and requires parents to impart family values.

The model-turned pageant queen then posed for pictures with a Mexican flag and Mexico's last Miss Universe as congratulations from her countrymen came pouring in.

"Her triumph is a source of pride and satisfaction for all Mexicans, who see in her the fruits of perseverance," Mexican President Felipe Calderon said in a statement. Immediately after her win, Calderon said on Twitter that her victory would help Mexico's image as a country.

"We won, long live Mexico!" Navarrete said on her fan page on Facebook, spurring 478 "likes" and 218 comments in about one hour.

She was cheered by Spanish-speaking reporters clamoring to talk with her after the pageant, and twice answered questions about Arizona's recent immigration law.

"Every country has the right to impose and enact their laws," she said, wearing her new sash and sparkling tiara. "But I tell you that all the Mexicans and the Latins that are living here in the United States are hardworking people — people who want to improve on their quality of life."

The Miss Universe pageant is known for grabbing headlines — and Navarrete appears ready to make her mark.

She's Mexico's second Miss Universe. Lupita Jones — Navarrete's national pageant director — won in 1991. Navarrete has been modeling since she was 15 and came to Miss Universe after winning for Jalisco, then Mexico, in the country's Nuestra Belleza pageant.

Navarrete replaces Miss Universe 2009 Stefania Fernandez of Venezuela. She also spoiled a bid by Miss Venezuela Marelisa Gibson from giving the South American country a third consecutive victory. Neither Gibson nor Miss USA Rima Fakih made the top 15 finalists.

With fans in some 190 countries watching on television and keeping tabs on social networks, Navarrete and her competitors introduced themselves while wearing over-the-top national costumes. They then danced in silver and black dresses for the show's opening number before the last 15 finalists were announced.

The final 15 walked in swimsuits while Cirque du Soleil musicians played Elvis Presley songs including "Viva Las Vegas." The last 10 impressed in their gowns while John Legend and the Roots played a soulful medley including "Save Room."

By the end of the show, seven of the top 10 trending topics on Twitter had to do with the pageant, its contestants, its judges or owner Donald Trump. The mogul co-owns the pageant with TV network NBC.

The show was without any major gaffes, except for Miss Philippines' answer when asked what her biggest mistake in life was and how she fixed it.

"In my 22 years of existence, I can say there is nothing major," Venus Raj said.

Before the pageant, Raj was rated among the top contestants in an online poll on the pageant's website. She finished in fifth place.

Asked by Olympic gold-medal figure skater Evan Lysacek how she felt about unsupervised Internet use, Navarrete said the Internet is important.

"I do believe that Internet is an indispensable, necessary tool for the present time," she said through an interpreter. "We must be sure to teach them the values that we learned as a family."

Lysacek was one of this year's nine celebrity judges. The others were actresses Jane Seymour and Chynna Phillips; actors Chazz Palminteri and William Baldwin; magician Criss Angel; MSNBC anchor Tamron Hall; drummer Sheila E.; and supermodel Niki Taylor.

Navarrete won a package of prizes including an undisclosed salary, a luxury New York apartment with living expenses, a one-year scholarship to the New York Film Academy with housing after her reign, plus jewelry, clothes and shoes fit for a beauty champion..

Campbell won the Miss Congeniality Universe award. Miss Thailand Fonthip Watcharatrakul won Miss Photogenic Universe and a second award for having the best national costume.

First runner-up was Miss Jamaica Yendi Phillipps, while second runner-up was Miss Australia Jesinta Campbell.

Fakih, a 24-year-old Lebanese immigrant from Dearborn, Mich., spurred celebrations among Arab-Americans when she won Miss USA. Pageant records aren't detailed enough to show whether Fakih is the first Arab-American, Muslim or immigrant to win Miss USA.

Miss USA has not been named Miss Universe since Brook Lee won the title in 1997.