The much-anticipated Nollywood dramedy Family Brouhaha has stormed Nigerian cinemas, grossing an impressive N21.4 million in its opening week since its release on April 11, 2025. Directed by Femi Adebayo and written and produced by Oyinlola Lasisi (popularly known as Oyinlaz), the film has quickly become one of the most talked-about releases of the year. Set against the rich and diverse backdrop of Nigeria’s urban and rural landscapes, Family Brouhaha unravels the chaotic aftermath of the mysterious death of Dr. Mrs. Braimoh, the formidable matriarch of a powerful cocoa dynasty. What ensues is a gripping and often hilarious battle for inheritance among her children and grandchildren, exposing deep family secrets, betrayals, and power struggles. The film boasts a star-studded cast featuring Nollywood veterans such as Joke Silva, Wale Ojo, Gabriel Afolayan, Shaffy Bello, Yemi Shodimu, Tina Mba, and Charles Okocha, alongside younger talents including Tope “Teddy A” Adenibuyan, Layi Wasabi, Tayo Faniran, and Deza The Great. Their performances bring to life a story that blends comedy and drama, resonating strongly with Nigerian audiences through its authentic portrayal of family dynamics and societal issues. Director Femi Adebayo shared his enthusiasm about the project, saying, “Family Brouhaha has something for everyone. It’s a story that mirrors many real-life situations—funny, emotional, and packed with life lessons. When I read the script and saw the cast, I knew this was a story I wanted to bring to life.” His direction skillfully balances the emotional intensity of familial conflict with a light-hearted comedic rhythm that keeps viewers engaged throughout. Producer and screenwriter Oyinlola Lasisi describes the film as a mirror held up to Nigerian society. “Family Brouhaha isn’t just entertainment; it’s a reflection of who we are as people,” she explained. “Every family has its secrets, power plays, and personalities that either make or break the peace. This film holds up those realities and asks viewers to reflect on their roles in their families.” She also highlighted the film’s deeper messages about family duty, manipulation, and the importance of creating safe emotional spaces within households. Critics and audiences alike have praised Family Brouhaha for its relatable storyline, strong performances, and its ability to spark conversations about family and societal values. The film is already being tipped as a strong contender for major nominations at the upcoming Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA). Family Brouhaha is currently showing in cinemas nationwide.
FG, Chocolate City sign 3-year MoU to boost Nigeria’s creative industry infrastructure
Abuja, April 19, 2025 – The Federal Government of Nigeria has entered into a strategic three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Chocolate City Group to develop and enhance the country’s creative industry infrastructure. The agreement aims to foster growth, nurture talent, and expand global reach for Nigerian creatives. Signed by the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, and Chocolate City Chairman Audu Maikori, the MoU outlines key initiatives including the establishment of live performance venues, talent development programs, and improved intellectual property protections. The partnership will be managed by a Joint Working Committee tasked with driving projects that will transform Nigeria’s creative sector into a significant economic contributor and cultural export powerhouse. Minister Musawa highlighted the sector’s potential to generate jobs and foreign exchange, emphasizing the government’s commitment to sustainable public-private collaborations. Maikori noted the timing as ideal, citing Nigeria’s music industry as a rapidly growing market within the global music economy. This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader economic diversification strategy, positioning the creative economy as a vital pillar for national development. Daily Tech Nigeria will continue to monitor and report on the progress of this landmark collaboration as it unfolds. Follow @dailytech.ng on social media to stay updated.
Eedris Abdulkareem alleges ₦200 million bribe offer over banned protest song
Nigerian hip-hop artist and activist, Eedris Abdulkareem, has claimed that he was offered a ₦200 million bribe by an individual who identified himself as a senator. The alleged offer came in response to the ban of Abdulkareem’s latest protest song, Tell Your Papa, by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). In a video shared online, Abdulkareem recounted receiving a phone call from the unidentified man, who claimed to be acting on behalf of government officials. According to the rapper, the caller promised financial support for his activism and music but insisted that Abdulkareem should disregard any other offers from government representatives. “So I got a call from one criminal who claimed to be a ‘honourable.’ He didn’t even allow me to hear his name,” Abdulkareem said. “After claiming to be a senator, he told me he was in a meeting with Seyi Tinubu [the son of President Bola Tinubu] and some government officials. He said they would call and bribe me, but I should not listen to them because they would sponsor me underground.” Abdulkareem rejected the offer outright, questioning the motive behind it and accusing those involved of attempting to manipulate him. “I told him I was not interested. Thieves! May God punish all of you,” he said. Controversy Surrounding Tell Your PapaThe song Tell Your Papa, which criticizes Nigeria’s political leadership and highlights economic hardships faced by citizens, was officially banned by the NBC on April 10. The commission cited violations of broadcasting standards as the reason for its decision. The ban has sparked widespread criticism from civil society groups and industry stakeholders. The Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) warned that such censorship could backfire by amplifying the song’s message and relevance amid Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges. Media Rights Agenda (MRA) also condemned the NBC’s action, describing it as an abuse of regulatory power. “The NBC has completely confused its role as an independent media regulatory body with that of a propaganda agency charged with shielding the government from criticism,” said Ayomide Eweje, MRA’s Programme Officer. Abdulkareem’s refusal to accept the alleged bribe and his bold stance against censorship have reignited discussions about freedom of expression and accountability in Nigeria. Protest songs like Tell Your Papa have historically played a significant role in challenging authority and advocating for change in democratic societies.
Iyabo Ojo’s Labake Olododo shines at Box Office with N172.5 million in two weeks
Nollywood’s latest epic drama, Labake Olododo, produced and led by actress Iyabo Ojo, has taken the Nigerian film industry by storm, grossing an impressive N172.5 million within just two weeks of its release. The film debuted on March 28, 2025, across cinemas nationwide, earning N50.4 million in its opening weekend alone. This achievement marks the second-largest opening for a Nollywood film this year, according to FilmOne Group, a leading film distribution company in West Africa. A Milestone for Female-Led ProductionsThe success of Labake Olododo is part of a growing trend of female-led Nollywood productions dominating the box office. Last year, Eniola Ajao’s Ajakaju: Beasts of Two Worlds earned over N200 million, while Wumi Toriola’s Queen Lateefah set a high benchmark with an astounding N350 million gross. These achievements highlights the increasing influence of women in Nollywood’s creative and commercial landscape. Behind the Scenes: A Creative TriumphDirected by acclaimed filmmaker Biodun Stephen, Labake Olododo has captivated audiences with its vibrant cinematography, compelling storyline, and exceptional performances. One standout is Alaba Onaolapo (popularly known as Alaba Ultimate), whose portrayal of the antagonist Adigun has received widespread critical acclaim. Reflecting on his role, Alaba shared: “The complexity of Adigun’s character pushed me to my creative limits. Working alongside such talented professionals made every challenging scene worthwhile.” Iyabo Ojo not only stars in the lead role but also serves as co-executive producer, a dual responsibility that has been lauded by her colleagues. Alaba praised her leadership on set: “Iyabo’s passion and commitment to excellence made all the difference.” The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast featuring Nollywood heavyweights like Muyiwa Ademola, Ibrahim Chatta, Bimbo Akintola, and Scarlet Gomez. It also bridges generations by including veteran actors such as Fathia Balogun and Ayo Mogaji alongside rising stars like Lololade Okunsanya and Nkechi Blessing. Labake Olododo arrives at a time when Nigerian cinema is experiencing a renaissance fueled by culturally resonant stories and strategic distribution efforts. The film’s financial success highlights the growing appetite for local epics and reinforces Nollywood’s position as a thriving entertainment hub. As the movie enters its third week in theaters, industry insiders are eager to see if it can sustain its momentum and potentially join the elite club of Nigerian films that have crossed the N300 million mark, a feat achieved by only a few productions in recent years.
Omoni Oboli’s love in every word hits 11 million views on YouTube in just 7 days
Nollywood star and filmmaker Omoni Oboli has achieved yet another milestone with her latest romantic drama, Love in Every Word. The film, which premiered on March 8, 2025, has taken YouTube by storm, amassing an impressive 11.5 million views within its first week of release. The movie initially garnered 4.3 million views within its first 72 hours, signaling strong audience interest. However, its trajectory faced a brief setback when it was removed from the platform due to a copyright claim filed by Canadian-based network engineer Chinonso Obiora Skyberry. Following swift resolution of the dispute, the film was reinstated and has since continued its meteoric rise in popularity. Penned by Mfon-Abasi Michael Inyang, Love in Every Word tells the heartfelt story of two individuals from vastly different backgrounds who must confront personal fears and societal pressures to find love. Set against the backdrop of a fast-paced world where ambition often overshadows romance, the film explores themes of cultural clashes and destiny. Starring Uzor Arukwe and Bamike “Bambam” Olawunmi as the lead characters, the movie has been praised for its engaging storyline and the undeniable chemistry between its stars. Fans have flocked to social media to commend Oboli for delivering yet another compelling Nollywood production that resonates with audiences across cultures. Omoni Oboli, 46, has long been celebrated as one of Nollywood’s most influential figures. A graduate of French from the University of Benin and an alumna of the New York Film Academy, Oboli has consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling in Nigerian cinema. Her portfolio includes acclaimed films like Being Mrs. Elliott, The First Lady, Wives on Strike, and Moms at War. Her international breakthrough came with Anchor Baby, which earned her Best Actress awards at both the Harlem International Film Festival and the Los Angeles Movie Awards in 2010. She also co-produced The Rivals, the first Nigerian film to premiere at the New York International Independent Film & Video Festival. In recent years, Oboli has continued to dominate both cinemas and streaming platforms. Her 2024 production, The Uprising: Wives on Strike 3, grossed over ₦100 million at the box office and generated ₦10 million in presale vouchers before its release, a testament to her ability to captivate diverse audiences. The success of her latest film underscores the growing global appetite for African stories told with authenticity and flair.
Nigerian artists generate record N58 billion in Spotify royalties in 2024
Nigerian artists have achieved an unprecedented financial milestone, earning over N58 billion in royalties from Spotify in 2024, according to the streaming giant’s latest Loud & Clear report. This remarkable figure represents more than double the earnings from 2023 and a fivefold increase compared to 2022, highlighting the explosive growth and global appeal of Nigerian music in recent years. The substantial increase in revenue reflects both expanding international recognition and surging domestic consumption, positioning Nigerian artists as increasingly influential players in the global music industry. The N58 billion royalty achievement marks a watershed moment for Nigerian artists on the world’s largest music streaming platform. This exponential growth reflects a dramatic shift in how Nigerian music is being consumed globally and compensated financially. According to Spotify’s 2024 Loud & Clear report, the number of Nigerian artists earning at least N10 million in royalties from the platform has more than doubled since 2023 and tripled compared to 2022 figures. This widening prosperity indicates that financial success is spreading beyond just the top-tier artists to include a broader segment of Nigeria’s music creators. The scale of this financial milestone becomes even more significant when viewed against the backdrop of Nigeria’s overall music industry growth. A substantial portion of the N58 billion in royalties came from international listeners, reinforcing the global appeal and reach of Nigerian sounds. This international revenue stream represents a critical diversification for artists, reducing dependency on the local market alone and opening sustainable career paths for more Nigerian musicians. The financial success corresponds directly with remarkable growth in audience engagement metrics. Nigerian artists were discovered by first-time listeners over one billion times in 2024, demonstrating the increasing reach and discovery of the country’s musical talent. This discovery metric is particularly valuable as it represents new audience acquisition rather than just repeated plays from existing fans, suggesting continued expansion potential. Global listeners spent over 1.1 million hours streaming Nigerian artists in 2024, reflecting substantial consumption of Nigerian music worldwide. Additionally, users created approximately 250 million playlists featuring Nigerian artists, showing the extensive integration of the country’s music into everyday listening habits globally. This level of playlist inclusion represents an important indicator of cultural penetration, as it signals that Nigerian music is being incorporated into diverse listening contexts rather than being treated as a novelty or niche interest. Over the past three years, Nigerian artists have experienced a 49% growth in international exposure, showing steady expansion into new markets. Even more impressive is the domestic growth, with local consumption surging by 206% year-over-year. In a broader context, Nigerian music has seen an astonishing 782% increase in domestic consumption over the last three years, indicating that Nigerian listeners are increasingly embracing local content. This domestic enthusiasm provides a stable foundation for artists while they build international audiences. Spotify’s Sub-Saharan Africa Managing Director, Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy, emphasized the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting Nigerian artists. “We remain committed to empowering Nigerian artists to earn from their art whilst maintaining transparency with artists and stakeholders. The incredible growth of Nigerian music, both locally and globally, is a testament to the talent and creativity within Nigeria, and we are proud to support its continued rise,” she stated. This commitment from Spotify’s regional leadership suggests continued investment in promoting Nigerian content both locally and internationally. The platform’s focus on the Nigerian market can also be seen in its business decisions. In October 2024, Spotify raised its monthly premium subscription fees in Nigeria by 44%, a significant pricing adjustment that may reflect the increased value of the platform’s offering in the market, including its robust Nigerian content library. While price increases might affect subscriber numbers in the short term, they potentially enable greater investment in local content and artist development. Spotify’s own financial performance has been robust during this period, with the company’s stock rising 10% as revenue climbed by $400 million in Q3, indicating strong overall business performance. The company crossed 250 million subscribers in late 2024 and projected a $1.5 billion operating profit for the year. This financial strength positions Spotify to continue investing in emerging markets like Nigeria while maintaining competitive royalty payments to artists. The exponential growth in Spotify royalties represents more than just financial gains for individual artists, it signals a fundamental shift in Nigeria’s position within the global music ecosystem. As Nigerian artists achieve greater financial independence through streaming revenues, they gain leverage in negotiating more favorable terms with labels, distributors, and concert promoters. This financial autonomy can lead to greater creative control and investment in production quality, potentially elevating the overall standard of Nigerian music. The international success of Nigerian artists also creates a positive feedback loop that benefits the broader industry. As Nigerian sounds gain recognition globally, international collaborations become more frequent, production standards rise to meet global expectations, and investment in the sector increases. This virtuous cycle has already begun to manifest in higher production values, more sophisticated marketing campaigns, and increased international touring opportunities for Nigerian artists. The record-breaking royalty figures from 2024 establish a new baseline for Nigerian music industry success, but questions of sustainability and continued growth remain central. While the 782% growth in domestic consumption over three years demonstrates remarkable momentum, maintaining such explosive growth rates becomes increasingly challenging as the market matures. Future growth will likely depend on continued expansion into new international markets, deeper penetration of existing ones, and innovation in music styles and production techniques. The unprecedented success highlighted in Spotify’s report reinforces the dynamic evolution of Nigeria’s music industry and validates the platform’s ongoing investment in Nigerian artistic talent.