Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Film Critics List 10 Must-Watch Titles for Fans of Netflix’s The Polygamist
Selection includes Nigerian dramas like Fifty and A Sunday Affair, plus international hits exploring betrayal and family secrets
Selection includes Nigerian dramas like Fifty and A Sunday Affair, plus international hits exploring betrayal and family secrets
FIFTY: Official Trailer – An EbonyLife Films Production
Cinema enthusiasts in Lagos have highlighted ten compelling films and series for Nigerians who recently completed Netflix’s The Polygamist, pointing to both local and international titles that delve into similar themes of deception, secret lives, and complex relationships. The curated list was released on Wednesday by a group of industry insiders following growing viewer demand for more content in this genre.
The selection features Nigerian productions such as Fifty, a 2015 drama centred on four successful women in Lagos navigating ambition, infidelity, and family secrets as they approach midlife. Also recommended is A Sunday Affair, which follows two close friends entangled with the same man, offering a relatable look at betrayal and reconciliation from a distinctly Nigerian perspective.
Internationally acclaimed shows like HBO’s Big Love—a series about a man balancing three wives in Utah—and The Undoing starring Nicole Kidman were also included. Both titles are praised for their exploration of plural marriage and the psychological unraveling that follows when secrets come to light. Other highlights on the list are On Becoming a Guinea Fowl, known for its sharp critique of patriarchal silence within families; The Other Woman, which takes a comedic approach to romantic deception; and Unfaithful, focusing on the high emotional cost of hidden affairs.
According to Lagos-based film analyst Chinedu Okeke, “Nigerian audiences are increasingly drawn to stories that reflect real-life complexities—be it polygamy, infidelity or the hidden struggles behind social media perfection.” Okeke said during a phone interview that platforms like Netflix are broadening local access to both homegrown stories and global perspectives on these issues. “This is why you see titles like Fifty trending alongside international miniseries,” he added.
Viewers seeking more recommendations are encouraged to look out for new releases in Nollywood’s relationship drama space as well as global streaming catalogues. Industry observers expect demand for such content to rise further as conversations around marriage dynamics and gender roles continue across Nigeria.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/shows-like-the-polygamist-netflix-2026061915343903992
Nigeria News (Standard)
Abia Governor Otti Mourns Nollywood Actor Alex Ekubo, Calls Loss a Blow to State
Governor describes Ekubo’s death as a major setback for Abia’s creative sector, hailing his legacy in Nigerian film industry
Governor describes Ekubo’s death as a major setback for Abia’s creative sector, hailing his legacy in Nigerian film industry
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has described the passing of Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo as a huge loss to both the state and Nigeria’s creative industry. The Governor made this known on Friday, 19 June, in Umuahia while reacting to news of the actor’s death.
According to Governor Otti, Ekubo, who hailed from Abia, represented not only his state but the entire South-East in Nigeria’s burgeoning film sector. The Governor stated that Ekubo’s contributions had placed Abia on the map for talent and excellence in the entertainment world. He said, “The death of Alex Ekubo is a huge blow to Abia State and the entire Nollywood family.”
Ekubo was widely recognised for his roles in several high-profile Nollywood films and had become a household name across the country. His rise to stardom was seen as an inspiration to many young Nigerians aspiring to careers in acting and filmmaking. The Governor noted that Ekubo’s achievements reflected positively on Abia and served as encouragement for youths in the state.
Governor Otti extended condolences to Ekubo’s immediate family, colleagues in Nollywood, and all who mourn his passing. He urged young creatives not to be discouraged but rather draw strength from Ekubo’s legacy of hard work and dedication. As at press time, stakeholders in Nigeria’s entertainment industry have also expressed shock at the news, describing it as an irreplaceable loss.
The state government is expected to participate fully in funeral arrangements when announced by the family. Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting talent development across all sectors in Abia.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Federal Government Engages Banks to Boost Revenue Collection via Digital Platform
Finance ministry seeks banking sector collaboration for improved tax compliance and transparency in federal remittances
Finance ministry seeks banking sector collaboration for improved tax compliance and transparency in federal remittances
The Federal Government has called on commercial banks across Nigeria to support its efforts at strengthening revenue collection through a digital platform, as part of ongoing reforms to enhance fiscal transparency. The move was disclosed in Abuja on Friday, June 19, by officials from the Ministry of Finance, who stressed the need for effective collaboration with the banking sector.
According to the ministry, integrating banks into the digital revenue collection system will help reduce leakages and promote real-time tracking of payments made by individuals and businesses into government accounts. The initiative is expected to address longstanding concerns around accountability in federal revenue mobilisation and ensure that more funds are available for public services.
Revenue collection has remained a critical challenge for successive administrations in Nigeria, with experts blaming inefficient processes and cash-based transactions for significant losses to the national purse. The push for a fully digital system is part of broader economic reforms aimed at improving non-oil revenue amid fluctuating crude oil prices and persistent budget deficits.
A finance ministry spokesperson said the new digital approach would “bring greater efficiency and transparency” to how government funds are collected. The official urged banks to leverage their existing infrastructure to support seamless adoption of electronic channels. Bank representatives present at the meeting welcomed the proposal but highlighted the need for further engagement on technical requirements and security measures.
With this renewed focus on technology-driven revenue collection, government aims to improve tax compliance rates and curb underreporting by businesses. The finance ministry is expected to roll out pilot programmes in select states before expanding nationwide, while ongoing discussions with stakeholders will continue over coming months.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ex-NAPTIP DG Condemns Assault on 10-Year-Old Boy in Anambra, Demands Swift Justice
Former agency head calls for urgent investigation as child abuse case sparks outrage in South-East state
Former agency head calls for urgent investigation as child abuse case sparks outrage in South-East state
A former Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has condemned the reported assault of a 10-year-old boy in Anambra State, urging authorities to ensure prompt justice for the victim. The incident, which took place in one of the state’s communities, has drawn widespread concern from child rights advocates and local residents.
According to information released on Friday, the ex-NAPTIP chief expressed deep worry over the alleged attack, describing it as a violation of Nigeria’s Child Rights Act. The details surrounding the assault remain unclear, but calls have intensified for police and social welfare officials in Anambra to investigate the matter without delay and bring any perpetrators to book.
The case highlights persistent challenges facing children in some parts of Nigeria, where reports of abuse and neglect continue despite existing legal protections. Stakeholders have repeatedly warned that such incidents undermine efforts to guarantee child safety across South-East states and beyond.
In a statement, the former NAPTIP Director-General stressed that all children are entitled to protection under Nigerian law and called on relevant agencies to act swiftly. “Justice must not only be done but seen to be done in cases like this,” the ex-agency head stated. Child protection groups echoed this sentiment, urging government at both state and federal levels to prioritise enforcement of child rights legislation.
As at press time, it was not clear if arrests had been made in connection with the assault. Authorities are expected to provide updates as investigations progress. The situation continues to generate discussion among community leaders and advocacy organisations focused on safeguarding children’s welfare.
