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Author: Val Kosi

  • ‘Gladiator 2’ crosses N200M in Nigerian Cinemas

    ‘Gladiator 2’ crosses N200M in Nigerian Cinemas

    Hollywood’s epic historical action film has crossed the N200 million threshold in Nigerian cinemas after its official release plus advanced screening numbers.

    According to official data, the film earned an additional N60.1 million during the weekend of November 22-24, bringing its total to N202.4 million.

    This figure includes earnin

    The historical epic serves as a sequel to Scott’s 2000 blockbuster, Gladiator, which won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

    With a hefty production budget of $250 million, Gladiator 2 was produced by Scott Free Productions and distributed by Paramount Pictures. Written by David Scarpa from a story he co-developed with Peter Craig, the film continues the legacy of its predecessor while introducing new characters and plotlines.

    The star-studded cast features Paul Mescal in the lead role of Lucius Verus II, the nephew of Joaquin Phoenix’s Emperor Commodus from the original film. Lucius, now grown, returns to Rome after being enslaved, where he fights as a gladiator under Macrinus, a former slave intent on overthrowing Emperors Geta and Caracalla.

    Themes of vengeance, redemption, and power drive the narrative, which resonates with audiences worldwide.

    The cast also includes Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Connie Nielsen, Denzel Washington, and Derek Jacobi. Both Jacobi and Nielsen reprise their roles from the first instalment, while Mescal takes over the role of Lucius, originally portrayed by Spencer Treat Clark.

    What we know 

    Internationally, Gladiator 2 debuted at $55 million in North America and has earned $165.5 million from overseas markets, bringing its global box office total to $220.5 million within its first week. These figures position the film for a strong performance across markets where historical dramas and action-packed spectacles remain popular.

    • In Nigeria, the film’s commercial success shows the increasing demand for high-budget Hollywood productions. Its strong weekend earnings highlight its acceptance among both younger and older male demographics. Globally, Gladiator 2 is expected to become one of the highest-grossing films of the year, benefiting from its blend of action, drama, and compelling storytelling.
    • If trends hold, the sequel could mark the largest opening of Denzel Washington’s career, surpassing his previous record with American Gangster. Meanwhile, Ridley Scott’s directorial vision and the film’s grand scale have cemented Gladiator 2 as a worthy successor to its iconic predecessor.

    As Nigerian audiences continue to flock to cinemas, Gladiator 2 reinforces Hollywood’s dominance in the growing West African film market.

    gs from its advanced screenings and official release, which began on November 15 with an opening day tally of N17.1 million and a subsequent N99 million gross.

    Deborah Dan-Awoh is a seasoned lifestyle analyst with a knack for storytelling. The focus of her work covers people, money and culture as it relates with business and economy. When she’s not keeping tabs on the latest trends in lifestyle and finance- Deborah enjoys networking with industry experts to gain insight into major markets as it affects the populace

    Gladiator 2Nigerian cinemasScott Free Productions

  • UCH spends about N80 million monthly on electricity bills – JOHESU

    UCH spends about N80 million monthly on electricity bills – JOHESU

    The Chairman of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Mr. Oladayo Olabampe, has disclosed that the hospital was spending about N80 million monthly on electricity bills despite its worsening financial situation.

    According to him, the hospital’s inability to sustain the payment led to the disconnection of supply from the facility by the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) on October 26.

    While noting that UCH has not had a power supply since then, Olabampe appealed to the Federal Government to urgently intervene in the hospital’s power outage crisis.
    “There has been no power at UCH since October 26, when the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) disconnected the hospital over accumulated debts.

    “The bills from IBEDC are alarming and outrageous for an institution like UCH. The government must step in to assist the hospital,” he explained.

    High cost of energy
    Olabampe further emphasized the dire situation, saying, “The power costs are overwhelming, costs are killing us. We are paying between N70 million and N80 million each month, yet we still rely on diesel to keep essential services running because we don’t have light for 24 hours.”

    The financial burden on UCH has been compounded by the fact that many of its patients are unable to pay for the medical services they receive.
    As a public hospital, UCH is expected to provide care to those in need, often at little or no cost.
    Hospital appeals to be moved from band A to band B
    Olabampe pointed out that UCH had been assigned to a high-cost electricity band (Band A) by IBEDC, which the hospital could not afford.
    Despite requests to be moved to a lower-cost band (Band B), IBEDC has not acted on the hospital’s plea, leaving UCH in a dire financial position.
    “This is why the hospital management requested that IBEDC downgrade UCH to Band B, where the costs are more manageable. However, IBEDC has yet to make this change.”

    Government and public support needed
    The JOHESU Chairman is now calling on the Federal Government to urge IBEDC to return UCH to Band B, which the hospital can better afford.
    He also appealed to philanthropists and well-meaning Nigerians to lend their support to the hospital.
    He further noted that Federal Government hospitals like UCH are meant to provide “welfare” services. “
    At times, some patients can’t even pay after receiving treatment due to financial constraints.
    “We ask IBEDC to work with UCH management to settle part of the outstanding bill for now, so they can reconnect us while payment negotiations continue,” he added.

    In addition to the electricity challenges, relatives of patients at UCH have expressed concerns about the impact of the power outage on patient care.
    Some patients have faced delays in receiving medical attention and test results due to the lack of power, further aggravating an already critical situation.
    “Patients are suffering. My father hasn’t been attended to because the results of his test haven’t come out, and they keep saying ‘no light,’’ said Mr. Ismail Mohammed, a relative of one of the patients.

    Despite these challenges, UCH management is working tirelessly to find solutions and restore normal services, with Olabampe expressing hope that the situation will soon improve.

    “We are doing our best to address the power issue. But we need government intervention to ease the financial burden and ensure uninterrupted services,” Olabampe concluded.

    The JOHESU Chairman’s call for urgent support comes as UCH continues to struggle with balancing its operational costs and the need to provide quality healthcare to the people of Ibadan and beyond.

  • ‘Wicked’ debuts with N17.1M at Nigerian box office

    ‘Wicked’ debuts with N17.1M at Nigerian box office

    The highly anticipated musical fantasy film ‘Wicked’ has made its debut in Nigerian cinemas, earning an impressive N17.1 million in its opening weekend.

    This marks a strong start for the adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical, which has already captivated global audiences.

    On the international stage, Wicked has grossed $178.7 million worldwide, a promising performance against its $150 million production budget.

    Directed by Jon M. Chu and produced by Universal Pictures alongside Marc Platt Productions, the film is the first installment of a two-part adaptation of the beloved stage musical. Its sequel, Wicked: Part Two, is scheduled for release on November 21, 2025.

    Titled onscreen as Wicked: Part I, the 2024 film is based on the Tony Award-winning musical by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman. The story draws inspiration from Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel and L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

    Set in the magical Land of Oz before Dorothy’s arrival, the film follows Elphaba Thropp, played by Cynthia Erivo(Cynthia Onyedinmanasu Chinasaokwu Erivo), as she embarks on a journey that transforms her into the Wicked Witch of the West. It also chronicles her unlikely friendship with Galinda Upland, portrayed by Ariana Grande, who later becomes Glinda the Good.

    The cast boasts an array of talent, including Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, and Peter Dinklage in supporting roles. Erivo and Grande, both celebrated performers in their own right, have been widely praised for their portrayals of the iconic characters, with their on-screen chemistry drawing significant acclaim.

    Speculations on cast pay grade 

    However, discussions surrounding the film’s success have been partially overshadowed by rumors of pay disparity between its lead actresses, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.

    • Universal Pictures, the studio behind Wicked, swiftly addressed these allegations, firmly denying the claims. Reports circulating online suggested that Grande, who portrays Glinda, was paid $15 million for her role, while Erivo, playing Elphaba, earned only $1 million.
    • A spokesperson for Universal dismissed these rumors as “completely false and based on internet speculation,” confirming that both actresses received equal pay for their contributions to the film.
    • The rumors initially gained traction due to Grande’s high-profile status as a global pop superstar with 376 million Instagram followers and Erivo’s reputation as a critically acclaimed actress with two Oscar nominations and a Tony Award.

    Observers speculated that Grande’s pop icon status might have led to a significantly higher paycheck. However, Universal’s response has quelled much of the speculation, though the studio did not disclose the exact amounts paid to the cast.

    What to know 

    Behind the scenes, the production faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the casting of Grande and Erivo in 2021 brought renewed energy to the project. Despite initial rumors of pay disparity between the two leads, Universal Pictures has officially debunked the claims, stating that both stars were compensated equally.

    • Beyond the screen, Grande and Erivo developed a close bond during production, which they commemorated with matching tattoos. “This experience has been transformative,” Grande shared in a recent interview. Erivo added, “Having Ariana by my side made it all the more special.”
    • Touted as the largest opening weekend for a Broadway-to-film adaptation, Wicked has resonated with audiences worldwide, further fueling excitement for its sequel.

    With its debut in Nigerian cinemas, Wicked reinforces the country’s enthusiasm for global blockbusters, adding to the growing appeal of musical fantasy films in the local market.

    Deborah Dan-Awoh is a seasoned lifestyle analyst with a knack for storytelling. The focus of her work covers people, money and culture as it relates with business and economy. When she’s not keeping tabs on the latest trends in lifestyle and finance- Deborah enjoys networking with industry experts to gain insight into major markets as it affects the populac

    What to know 

    Behind the scenes, the production faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the casting of Grande and Erivo in 2021 brought renewed energy to the project. Despite initial rumors of pay disparity between the two leads, Universal Pictures has officially debunked the claims, stating that both stars were compensated equally.

    • Beyond the screen, Grande and Erivo developed a close bond during production, which they commemorated with matching tattoos. “This experience has been transformative,” Grande shared in a recent interview. Erivo added, “Having Ariana by my side made it all the more special.”
    • Touted as the largest opening weekend for a Broadway-to-film adaptation, Wicked has resonated with audiences worldwide, further fueling excitement for its sequel.

    With its debut in Nigerian cinemas, Wicked reinforces the country’s enthusiasm for global blockbusters, adding to the growing appeal of musical fantasy films in the local market.

    Deborah Dan-Awoh is a seasoned lifestyle analyst with a knack for storytelling. The focus of her work covers people, money and culture as it relates with business and economy. When she’s not keeping tabs on the latest trends in lifestyle and finance- Deborah enjoys networking with industry experts to gain insight into major markets as it affects the populace

     

  • COP29: Islamic Development Bank grants $10m to WHO for Health Impact Investment

    COP29: Islamic Development Bank grants $10m to WHO for Health Impact Investment

    The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has committed a $10 million grant to the World Health Organization (WHO) to support the Health Impact Investment Platform (HIIP), bolstering its mission to strengthen primary healthcare systems worldwide.

    Announced on November 12, 2024, during the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, the grant highlights IsDB’s dedication to enhancing health resilience and climate adaptation in low- and middle-income countries.

    In a statement on Tuesday, IsDB described HIIP as a groundbreaking partnership among Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), WHO and nations seeking robust health and climate solutions.
    “This initiative focuses on the investment in essential, climate and crisis-resilient primary health care services and systems,” the bank stated, emphasizing the aim to reinforce the health system, especially in low- and middle-income countries and in underserved communities, ultimately aiming to foster resilience against emerging health threats and climate challenges.

    Fifteen countries are identified as part of phase one of the Health Impact Investment Platform: Burundi, Central African Republic, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia Guinea Bissau .

    Other countries included Jordan, Maldives Morocco, Senegal, South Sudan, The Gambia, Tunisia and Zambia.

    Supporting WHO’s technical assistance goals
    The $10 million grant will specifically support the technical assistance that WHO provides to countries around the world to assess investment needs and to design the most impactful health projects.

    “These projects will serve as the foundation for co-investment by the MDBs, ensuring that resources are directed toward areas with the greatest potential for positive health outcomes,”IsDB added.

    Over the next four years, WHO aims to strengthen climate resilience as part of its Fourteenth General Programme of Work, which includes implementing national climate adaptation plans and making 10,000 health facilities fully operational, including solar-powered electrification.

    Unlocking $500m in health investments across the region
    In addition to the $10 million grant, IsDB’s contribution is projected to unlock at least $500 million in health investments across the region.

    “This collective goal is part of a broader effort to mobilize a total of US$ 1.5 billion in concessional loans and grants, focusing on critical areas, this way addressing national health priorities.”

    Advancing health resilience, leadership statements
    IsDB President Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser said, the Islamic Development Bank is proud to support the Health Impact Investment Platform as part of our unwavering commitment to advancing universal health coverage and resilience in our Member Countries.

    “These Multilateral Development Banks and WHO partnerships enable us to scale up primary health care where it is needed most, creating a stronger foundation to withstand future crises and addressing the pressing health challenges of today.”

    “Together, we are fostering a healthier, more equitable future for communities across the globe,” he said.

    WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that low- and middle-income countries need access to sustainable financing to strengthen their health systems through primary health care, to make them both more resilient to pandemics and more equitable in delivering essential health services.

    “The Health Impact Investment Platform combines WHO’s public health expertise and on-the-ground presence with the resources and financing expertise of the Islamic Development Bank and other multilateral development banks. By working together, we can make a significant difference in improving health outcomes and creating a healthier future for all.”

    The IsDB, along with its partners, remains committed to fostering partnerships that will advance healthcare and improve quality of life globally.

  • Germany opens doors for skilled workers with expanded visa plans  

    Germany opens doors for skilled workers with expanded visa plans  

    Germany is working to address growing labor shortages in critical sectors by welcoming more skilled foreign workers.

    The country is set to increase professional visas in 2024, creating significant job opportunities for international applicants.

    This is intended to fill gaps in key industries and counterbalance Germany’s aging population.

    According to TravelBiz, Germany’s labor market is facing urgent demands for skilled workers, especially in healthcare, engineering, IT, and technical trades.

    With the country’s aging population, immigration is seen as a crucial solution to prevent workforce decline and meet industry needs.

    Why Germany needs skilled workers   

    Reports unveil that Germany requires 288,000 immigrants annually until 2040 to maintain its labor force. Despite efforts to increase workforce participation from women and older individuals, immigration remains essential. Without it, the demand for skilled workers could rise to 368,000 each year.

    The country’s focus on skilled workers aims to offset demographic shifts and fill vacancies in crucial sectors.

    Germany’s Visa Plans for 2024   

    To address these labor shortages, TravelBiz reports that Germany announced plans to issue 200,000 professional visas in 2024. This marks a 10% increase over previous years.

    Sectors with high demand for workers  

    In light of this gap in the workforce, Germany is offering substantial opportunities for skilled professionals. The most in-demand fields include:

    1. Healthcare  
    • Registered nurses
    • Elder care specialists
    • General practitioners and specialist Doctors
    1. Engineering and technical professions : such as mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers , also environmental and chemical engineers
    1. Information technology (IT)  
    •  Software developers
    •   IT consultants
    •   Network administrators
    1. Skilled trades  
    • Electricians
    • Plumbers
    •  Carpenters

    Shortage Occupation List  : Germany has also identified several professions where there is a notable shortage of skilled workers. These include roles in

    • Healthcare,
    • Engineering,
    • IT, and teaching.

    The country is particularly looking for professionals in medical fields such as nurses, doctors, and physiotherapists.

    • Engineering roles, especially in mechanical, civil, and electrical disciplines, are also high in demand.
    • IT professionals, including software developers and cybersecurity specialists, are needed to support the country’s growing digital infrastructure.

    In addition to these, there is a strong demand for educators, particularly in vocational and secondary education, as well as professionals in fields such as social work, architecture, and management.

    Visa options for skilled workers  

    Furthermore, Germany is also offering several visa pathways for foreign professionals. The most common is the;

    Skilled Worker Visa, which is designed for applicants with qualifications in high-demand fields such as IT, healthcare, and engineering. To qualify, applicants must have a job offer from a German employer. Other visa options include:

    • EU Blue Card: For highly qualified professionals with university degrees and a job contract that meets salary thresholds.
    • Job Seeker Visa: Allows individuals to search for jobs in Germany for up to six months without working.
    • Freelance Visa: For self-employed professionals in creative and academic fields, this visa demands proof of financial stability.

    Increasing your chances of success 

    TravelBiz informs that for those interested in working in Germany, there are several steps to improve their chances. One would first need to,

    • Target sectors listed on Germany’s Shortage Occupation List.
    • Ensure that your qualifications meet German standards and improve your chances by learning the German language, as many roles require it.
    • Finally, prepare a strong application that highlights relevant experience and skills, making you a competitive candidate in Germany’s job market.

    By expanding visa options and focusing on industries facing labor shortages, Germany is offering a valuable opportunity for skilled workers to contribute to its economy and fill critical roles in key sectors.

     

     

  • FG launches 5-year occupational health, safety strategic plan

    FG launches 5-year occupational health, safety strategic plan

    The federal government has launched a National Occupational Health and Safety plan to improve national productivity through a consistently high level of health among workers in all occupations.

    The initiative will be implemented over five years, from 2024 to 2028.

    The plan was launched in Abuja on Tuesday by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom.
    Prof. Pate emphasized that the strategy was developed to safeguard the health of workers and support sustainable development, particularly in the face of increasing industrialization.

    “Nigeria is a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO), it complies with the ratification of conventions, treaties and policies related to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), “Pate stated.

    He highlighted that Nigeria is the 29th country to ratify the Convention No.187 promoting safe and healthy working environment and the 22nd to ratify the ILO Convention No. 190 on violence and harassment in the world of work (June 2019).

    Strengthening policies to protect workers
    The minister reiterated that these international policies encapsulate the need to ensure workers are protected against accidents at workplaces.

    He assured that the Ministry of Health is fully committed to implementing ILO policies and providing essential health sector interventions to support the strategy.
    “The National Occupational Health and Safety Strategic Plan (2024–2028) is designed to provide clear guidance to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, as well as other key stakeholders,” Pate stated.

    “It will improve national productivity through a consistently high level of health among workers in all occupations, by promoting a healthy environment for the Nigerian workforce that is safe to live and work in.”

    He further added that the plan would ensure access to Occupational Health and Safety services to every working individual within Nigeria.
    Additionally, Pate explained that the plan would direct how the Nigerian health sector, in collaboration with its partners, will respond to and manage work-related diseases, injuries, and accidents, ultimately improving the health, well-being, and productivity of employees.

    OHS as part of broader health framework
    Ms. Oluyinka Olayemi, National Coordinator of the Africa Center for Disease Control in Nigeria, emphasized that OHS is a key element of the country’s framework for addressing non-communicable diseases and mental health.

    She expressed confidence that the new plan will lay a strong foundation for the necessary OHS interventions.

    “By establishing robust systems and tools, the country will be better equipped to prevent, protect, and respond to occupational health challenges, ensuring healthier lives for all, and contributing to comprehensive health coverage,” Olayemi concluded.

  • Farmer’s Bride grosses N154 million as Nigerian box office nears N8 billion

    Farmer’s Bride grosses N154 million as Nigerian box office nears N8 billion

    After over a month in cinemas, Farmer’s Bride has grossed an impressive N154 million, solidifying its place among the top-grossing Nollywood releases of 2024.

    The film’s robust performance continues to fuel Nigeria’s year-to-date box office earnings, now approaching an unprecedented N8 billion.

    This milestone highlights a record-breaking year for Nollywood and underscores the sector’s increasing influence in the global cinema landscape

    leased on September 27, Farmer’s Bride wasted no time in making an impact, generating N37.1 million in its debut weekend.

    This opening set a new benchmark as the highest weekend debut for an 18-rated Nollywood film in 2024, also ranking as the fourth-highest opening of the year for a Nigerian production. The film quickly became a talking point, drawing audiences in for its rich storytelling and period setting.

    By October 9—just 12 days after its release—the film had already crossed the N89 million mark. As anticipation built and positive word of mouth spread, Farmer’s Bride maintained a steady draw at the box office, reaching N103 million by October 20.

    This milestone placed it among the exclusive club of Nollywood films to break the N100 million threshold, an achievement that solidified its standing in the year’s top cinematic releases. By the end of October, its earnings climbed to over N130 million, and as of early November, it now stands at a remarkable N154 million.

    What to know 

    Set in the vibrant yet challenging 1980s Ibadan, Farmer’s Bride follows the story of Odun, a wealthy but solitary farmer who marries a young bride, Funmi, in hopes of companionship. However, their relationship quickly faces strain as Funmi becomes entangled in a forbidden affair with Odun’s nephew, leading to complex consequences filled with love, betrayal, and supernatural elements.

    • The film’s compelling narrative has drawn audiences nationwide, resonating with its rich exploration of emotional and cultural themes.
    • The film features a talented cast, including Tobi Bakre (Gangs of Lagos), Gbubemi Ejeye (Far From Home), Femi Branch (House of Gaa), Mercy Aigbe (Ada Omo Mummy), Efe Irele (L.I.F.E), and Wumi Toriola (Aburo), each of whom has contributed to bringing this multifaceted story to life.
    • The stellar performances have played a key role in the film’s success, allowing viewers to connect deeply with the characters and their struggles.

    FilmOne Entertainment, the movie’s distributor, celebrated the film’s achievements, noting its success as a testament to the demand for authentic Nigerian stories. As Farmer’s Bride continues to perform strongly in cinemas, it reflects the growing influence and profitability of Nollywood, marking a significant moment for the industry as it garners greater attention and recognition on both a local and international scale.

    Deborah Dan-Awoh is a seasoned lifestyle analyst with a knack for storytelling. The focus of her work covers people, money and culture as it relates with business and economy. When she’s not keeping tabs on the latest trends in lifestyle and finance- Deborah enjoys networking with industry experts to gain insight into major markets as it affects the populace

     

  • ‘Moana 2’ earns N12.4million for first day advanced screening in Nigerian cinemas

    ‘Moana 2’ earns N12.4million for first day advanced screening in Nigerian cinemas

    Moana 2 has earned N12.4 million during its first day of advanced screenings across 37 locations in Nigeria, according to newly released data.

    The figures highlight the film’s substantial appeal, as the sequel to Disney’s 2016 blockbuster resonated strongly with local audiences, setting a promising tone for its full theatrical release.

    This performance shows the film’s potential to dominate the Nigerian box office in the coming weeks, though its trajectory remains difficult to predict. Animated features of this scale often experience significant word-of-mouth momentum, which could amplify its reach beyond initial expectations.

    This performance sets Moana 2 apart as the highest Wednesday preview for any film this calendar year, surpassing notable entries like Ajosepo, which grossed N9.5 million during a holiday preview, and Gladiator II, which earned N8.2 million.

    Other strong performances in 2024 include Deadpool & Wolverine at N7.8 million, All’s Fair and Love at N7.6 million during Valentine’s Day, and Muri & Ko, which garnered N5.6 million on a holiday release. Moana 2’s debut not only outshines these films but also establishes a new benchmark for advanced screenings in Nigeria.

    What we know 

    Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, Moana 2 reunites beloved characters Moana and Maui for an epic new voyage three years after the events of the first film. This time, Moana heeds an ancestral call to navigate uncharted waters in Oceania, accompanied by an unlikely crew of seafarers.

    • With producers Christina Chen and Yvett Merino at the helm, the film is enriched by a musical score featuring Grammy winners Abigail Barlow, Emily Bear, and Mark Mancina, alongside Grammy-nominated Opetaia Foaʻi. Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson reprise their iconic roles as Moana and Maui, ensuring continuity for fans of the original.
    • Globally, Moana 2 has also made a significant impact. The film earned $57.5 million on its first day in North America, placing it as a frontrunner in the Thanksgiving holiday box office race.
    • Industry projections suggest it will gross at least $175 million over its first five days in U.S. theatres, with some estimates as high as $200 million.
    • If achieved, these figures would break the Thanksgiving box office record, surpassing Disney’s Frozen II, which collected $125 million, and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, which grossed $109 million over the same period.

    The N12.4 million debut positions Moana 2 as a strong contender for top-grossing animated films in Nigeria this year. Its blend of action-adventure, family-friendly themes, and high-quality animation aligns well with local audience preferences, potentially paving the way for further milestones in the coming weeks.

  • Hijack ’93 climbs to No. 3 on Netflix global chart, Enters top 10 in 61 Countries

    Hijack ’93 climbs to No. 3 on Netflix global chart, Enters top 10 in 61 Countries

    Nollywood’s Hijack ’93 has claimed the No. 3 spot on Netflix’s global chart for most-watched English films this past week, with 7.3 million views.

    Now in the Top 10 across 61 countries, Hijack ’93 is the second Nigerian film to reach such a broad audience, following The Black Book, which charted in 69 countries.

    Directed by Robert O. Peters and written by Musa Jeffery David, Hijack ’93 revisits Nigeria’s 1993 airline hijacking, bringing gripping realism to the international stage.

    The film stars Nnamdi Agbo, Adam Garba, Allison Emmanuel, and Oluwaseyi Akinsola as a group of teenage rebels who commandeer a Nigerian Airways flight in a dramatic protest. Their demands? The resignation of General Sani Abacha and an end to corruption and human rights abuses in Nigeria.

    Since its October 25, 2024 debut, Hijack ’93 has captivated audiences with its intense storytelling and powerful political themes, accumulating 3.2 million views and securing a spot in Netflix Nigeria’s Top 10 during its premiere week. It’s the fourth Nollywood title this year to achieve this feat, underscoring the global appetite for Nigerian cinema.

    Plot and Cast 

    The film follows four youths from the Movement for the Actualization of Democracy—Skipper (Nnamdi Agbo), Eruku (Adam Garba), Owiwi (Allison Emmanuel), and Iku (Oluwaseyi Akinsola)—as they hijack an Airbus A310 on its route from Lagos to Abuja.

    • Armed and impassioned, the teens reroute the plane to Germany, demanding global attention for Nigeria’s sociopolitical turmoil.
    • Their plan, however, is disrupted by fuel issues, forcing an unscheduled landing in Niamey, Niger, where international negotiations intensify.

    The cast features prominent actors including Sam Dede, Bob Manuel, John Dumelo, Idia Aisien, Nancy Isime, Efa Iwara, and Sharon Ooja, whose portrayals add depth to the gripping, real-life drama.

    What to know 

    Development for Hijack ’93 began in May 2021, spearheaded by Charles Okpaleke’s Play Network Studios, known for high-caliber Nollywood remakes like Living in Bondage and Rattle Snake.

    • In partnership with the British Film Institute and UK’s Department of International Trade, Okpaleke brought this gripping true story to life, driven by detailed interviews with the original hijackers, some of whom served long prison sentences.
    • After intensive pre-production and three months of aviation training for the actors, filming wrapped in mid-2023.

    The film’s success underscores Nollywood’s rapid global ascent, marking yet another milestone in Nigerian cinema’s global reach and cultural impact.

    Deborah Dan-Awoh is a seasoned lifestyle analyst with a knack for storytelling. The focus of her work covers people, money and culture as it relates with business and economy. When she’s not keeping tabs on the latest trends in lifestyle and finance- Deborah enjoys networking with industry experts to gain insight into major markets as it affects the populace

     

  • Nigeria records 1,035 Lassa fever cases, 174 deaths across 28 states – NCDC

    Nigeria records 1,035 Lassa fever cases, 174 deaths across 28 states – NCDC

    Nigeria has recorded 1,035 confirmed cases of Lassa fever out of 8,569 suspected cases, with 174 deaths reported across 28 states and 129 local government areas as of October 13, 2024.

    During the 2023/2024 season, the country also recorded 4,915 suspected cases of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM), with 380 confirmed cases and 361 deaths across 174 LGAs in 24 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    Dr. Jide Idris, Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), revealed these statistics during a press briefing in Abuja, stressing the need for vigilance as Lassa fever continues to affect lives and livelihoods.
    Dr. Idris stressed that the agency’s alert on Lassa Fever and meningitis was crucial to preventing avoidable loss of life, which affects individuals, families, and the nation as a whole.

    He emphasized that both diseases are preventable with timely, proactive measures.

    To address these risks, the NCDC has already strengthened its prevention and mitigation strategies ahead of the expected outbreak season. Dr. Idris emphasized the importance of early intervention, especially considering the cases already recorded this year.

    The NCDC is committed to comprehensive efforts to reduce the spread and impact of these infections across Nigeria.

    On Lassa Fever, Dr. Idris explained that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Health and NCDC, has been leading efforts to prevent, detect, and respond to Lassa Fever cases.

    He pointed out that the number of states reporting Lassa Fever cases has been steadily increasing due to improved surveillance and greater community awareness.

    He also highlighted that environmental factors, such as climate change and other harmful human activities, have contributed to the rise in cases.

    NCDC and Federal Health Ministry lead disease control efforts
    On Lassa Fever, Dr. Idris explained NCDC, working in tandem with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has been leading efforts to detect, prevent, and respond to Lassa fever outbreaks every year.

    Lassa fever, a viral hemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, is primarily spread by multimammate rats, although other rodents may also carry the virus.

    “The disease’s high virulence leads to significant challenges for affected families and communities. We have continued to see a steady increase in the number of states reporting Lassa fever cases. This rise is due, in part, to improved surveillance, better community awareness, environmental degradation from climate change, and other harmful human activities,” he said.

    Rise in Lassa fever cases tied to improved surveillance and environmental issues

    Dr. Idris noted that the increase in reported Lassa fever cases stems from factors such as enhanced disease surveillance, greater community awareness, and climate-induced environmental degradation.

    “In 2022, Nigeria reported 1,067 confirmed cases across 27 states and 112 local government areas. In 2023, 28 states and 114 local government areas reported confirmed cases, with 9,155 suspected cases, 1,270 confirmed cases, and 227 deaths. As of October 13, 2024, 8,569 suspected cases, 1,035 confirmed cases, and 174 deaths have been reported across 28 states and 129 local government areas.

    “The disease also leads to significant loss of livelihood in the communities it affects. Heads of households are unable to work when exposed to Lassa fever, and when other household members are infected, the cost of care and treatment, which is often significant, strains existing household income, pushing families toward poverty in a swift turn of events,”

    Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) remains a persistent threat

    Nigeria also faces a significant meningitis challenge, with 380 confirmed cases and 361 deaths out of 4,915 suspected cases in the 2023/2024 season.

    Dr. Idris explained that CSM, an epidemic-prone disease, becomes especially prevalent during Nigeria’s dry season, which brings dust, winds, cold nights, and frequent upper respiratory tract infections, increase the risk of infection, especially with crowding and poor ventilation.

    ‘Meningitis Belt’ at highest risk amid vaccination campaigns
    The highest burden of CSM in Nigeria occurs in the ‘Meningitis Belt,’ which includes all 19 states in the northern region, the Federal Capital Territory, and some southern states such as Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Ekiti, Ogun, Ondo, and Osun.

    “Vaccination efforts remain a priority, and during the 2023/2024 season, a total of 2,281,750 doses of Men5CV-ACWYX were administered to high-risk populations in Bauchi, Gombe, Jigawa, and Yobe, covering 134 wards in 13 local government areas. The campaign targeted individuals aged 1 to 29 years, comprising 70 per cent of the population.”

    However, Dr. Idris highlighted that despite significant progress in surveillance, diagnostic capacity, and vaccination over the last few years, “CSM remains a priority disease and an ever-present public health threat in Nigeria, with annual outbreaks in high-burden states presenting a challenge for people, health systems, economies, and communities,” he highlighted.

    He urged Nigerians to receive the appropriate vaccination required to protect against meningitis, avoid close and prolonged contact with confirmed cases of CSM, and avoid overcrowding in households, school dormitories, internally displaced persons camps, prisons, and other communal settings.
    Dr. Idris encouraged all eligible Nigerians to get vaccinated, avoid close contact with confirmed cases of meningitis, and reduce overcrowding in communal settings such as schools, prisons, and internally displaced persons camps.
    He advised healthcare workers were also advised to maintain high standards of infection control and report suspected cases promptly to local health officials to ensure rapid intervention.