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Nigeria News (Standard)

Port Harcourt’s Beekay Bassey Champions Afro Soul, Advocates Hope Through Live Music

Emerging singer credits city’s insecurity for shaping his sound, calls for deeper recognition of soul genre in Nigeria

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Emerging singer credits city’s insecurity for shaping his sound, calls for deeper recognition of soul genre in Nigeria

Beekay Bassey, a fast-rising Afro soul musician from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has highlighted how growing up amid insecurity in the city influenced his passion for music and commitment to spreading hope. Speaking on Wednesday, Bassey described choir rehearsals as a safe haven during tense periods, which eventually inspired him to pursue a career rooted in soul and live performance.

According to the singer-songwriter, Port Harcourt’s environment played a crucial role in shaping his artistic journey. He explained that music served as both an escape and a tool for self-expression during challenging times. “Music became a kind of rescue for me,” Bassey said, reflecting on his formative years. He noted that the experience fuelled his drive to deliver messages of hope and resilience through every performance.

The Nigerian music scene has long been dominated by pop and adjacent genres, often pushing soul musicians to the background. However, Bassey believes there is growing space for artists who prioritise depth and authenticity. “There are still troubadours making a case for the genre with profound releases,” he stated, urging more support for live music platforms and opportunities for emerging talents.

Industry watchers say Bassey’s emergence signals renewed interest in Afro soul at a time when many young Nigerians are seeking more meaningful musical experiences. Some stakeholders have called on event organisers and promoters to invest in live showcases that highlight diverse genres beyond mainstream hits.

As Beekay Bassey continues to perform across major cities, he remains focused on using his craft to uplift audiences. “My goal is to spread hope with every song,” he said. Observers expect his advocacy will encourage both listeners and industry players to embrace the healing power of soul music within Nigeria’s evolving cultural landscape.

Source: https://guardian.ng/life/music/beekay-basseyon-afro-soul-live-music-and-spreading-hope-with-soul/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Mike Bamiloye Reveals Cameraman’s Disappearance Halted Original ‘Agbara Nla’ Production in Osun

Veteran filmmaker recounts how the iconic Christian film was abandoned in 1987 as new sequel readies for cinema release

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June 26, 2026

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Veteran filmmaker recounts how the iconic Christian film was abandoned in 1987 as new sequel readies for cinema release

Renowned Christian filmmaker Mike Bamiloye has disclosed that the original production of his influential movie, Agbara Nla, collapsed in Osun State in 1987 after the cameraman vanished with all the recorded tapes shortly after filming concluded. Bamiloye made this revelation on Friday via a post on his verified X account, just as anticipation grows for the upcoming cinema debut of Agbara Nla: The Return.

According to Bamiloye, after completing the initial shooting nearly four decades ago, the entire cast and crew were left stranded when the hired cameraman absconded with the only copies of their work. The incident forced him and his Mount Zion Faith Ministries team to abandon their efforts, despite high hopes for what would become one of Nigeria’s most impactful faith-based films.

Agbara Nla later became a household name across Nigeria, credited with inspiring a wave of indigenous Christian filmmaking and outreach. The lost tapes incident, however, delayed its emergence and shaped Bamiloye’s approach to subsequent productions. The filmmaker’s latest account comes as excitement builds for Agbara Nla: The Return, expected to draw significant attention from both older fans and a new generation of viewers.

Bamiloye did not provide further details on how or if the missing tapes were recovered, but he described the experience as a test of perseverance that ultimately strengthened his commitment to gospel drama. Stakeholders in Nigeria’s Christian creative sector have hailed his resilience, with many pointing to Agbara Nla as a turning point for local content.

With Agbara Nla: The Return set for cinema screens nationwide, Bamiloye’s story serves as a reminder of the challenges facing early Nigerian filmmakers. Industry observers expect renewed interest in faith-based productions and greater recognition for those who laid the groundwork despite setbacks.

_Agbara Nla: The Return._


Source: https://guardian.ng/life/how-original-agbara-nla-production-collapsed-mike-bamiloye/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Chams HoldCo Appoints New Board Chair in Lagos, Targets Improved Corporate Governance

Company says board restructuring aims to strengthen oversight and drive growth in Nigeria’s technology sector

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June 26, 2026

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Company says board restructuring aims to strengthen oversight and drive growth in Nigeria’s technology sector

Chams HoldCo Plc, a major player in Nigeria’s technology and digital solutions sector, has announced the appointment of a new chairperson to lead its board of directors. The decision was made public on Friday in Lagos, as part of a broader effort by the company to enhance corporate governance and accelerate business growth.

According to a statement released by the company, the new appointment forms part of ongoing reforms intended to reposition Chams HoldCo for increased competitiveness within Nigeria’s dynamic technology landscape. The company did not disclose the name of the incoming board chair or provide further details about changes to other board positions as at press time.

Chams HoldCo’s leadership transition comes at a period when Nigerian technology firms are under pressure to demonstrate stronger oversight and adapt quickly to evolving market demands. Analysts say effective corporate governance is key for firms like Chams seeking investor confidence and sustainable expansion in areas such as digital identity management, fintech solutions, and data services.

The company maintained that the restructuring will enable its board to better support executive management in implementing strategic initiatives across various subsidiaries. “This move is part of our commitment to ensuring high standards of accountability and transparency within our operations,” Chams HoldCo said in its official statement.

Industry observers are watching closely for subsequent announcements regarding the composition of Chams HoldCo’s board and next steps for its business strategy. The company is expected to hold an annual general meeting later this year, where shareholders may receive more details on the direction of its leadership and future plans.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/890954-chams-holdco-appoints-new-board-of-directors-chair.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Lagos PTML Customs, Port Police Strengthen Maritime Security Collaboration

Agencies pledge tighter port security, focus on anti-smuggling and intelligence sharing in fresh joint effort

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16 minutes ago

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June 26, 2026

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Agencies pledge tighter port security, focus on anti-smuggling and intelligence sharing in fresh joint effort

The Nigeria Customs Service, Ports Terminal Multi-services Limited (PTML) Area Command, and the Ports Authority Police Western Command have intensified their partnership to improve maritime security in Lagos, following a high-level meeting held on Thursday. The courtesy visit, led by Customs Area Controller Nura Miko and his management team to the Police Western Command headquarters, aimed at reinforcing joint strategies for safeguarding Nigeria’s busiest commercial port corridor.

During the meeting, both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to promoting a secure and efficient trade environment at the port. Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in key areas such as port security operations, intelligence sharing between officers, cargo protection protocols, anti-smuggling initiatives, and preventive measures against maritime-related crimes.

Maritime insecurity remains a major concern for stakeholders in Lagos and across Nigeria’s coastal region. The collaboration comes amid persistent threats including smuggling activities, unauthorised cargo movement, and the need to maintain public trust in the nation’s import-export processes. Improved coordination between customs and police is seen as vital to reducing illicit trade and supporting legitimate economic activity at the PTML terminal.

In a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer Isaac Hundeyin after the event, both sides agreed to deepen operational links and share actionable intelligence on suspicious movements within the port area. “Our agencies are committed to ensuring that the port remains safe for business,” Hundeyin said. Customs Area Controller Nura Miko also noted that the ongoing cooperation would help close operational gaps exploited by criminal elements.

The agencies announced plans to expand joint patrols and conduct periodic reviews of security protocols at PTML. Stakeholders are expected to monitor the impact of this renewed collaboration on cargo throughput and overall trade efficiency in Lagos ports over the coming months.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/maritime/ptml-customs-port-police-strengthen-maritime-security-partnership/

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