Lifestyle - Women Times

From Joke to Reality: Uche Montana’s Surprise Trailblazer Award Win Had Everyone Cheering

by Women Times on May 13, 2026

By Prosper Mene

In one of the most memorable moments of the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA 2026), actress Uche Montana turned a playful joke into a triumphant reality, walking away with the prestigious Trailblazer Award and leaving the audience in cheers and disbelief.

The ceremony, held on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at the Eko Hotel in Lagos, celebrated excellence in African film and television. While the Trailblazer Award—presented by MultiChoice and Africa Magic to honor rising talents making significant strides in the industry—typically carries an element of surprise with no public nominees announced, Montana’s win stood out for its poetic full-circle moment.

Earlier in the evening, while presenting another award, the Monica star jokingly delivered a fake acceptance speech, playfully referencing her nomination loss from the previous year. Little did she know that fate—and the AMVCA organizers—had other plans. When her name was called as the 2026 Trailblazer recipient, Montana’s reaction was one of pure shock, joy, and emotion.

Videos circulating on social media captured the heartfelt moment: Montana, visibly overwhelmed, took to the stage and dedicated the award to her family, describing them as her “solid rock.” She expressed gratitude for how far they had come and urged young creatives to “Keep dreaming, keep believing, don’t stop!” Her emotional speech, punctuated by screams of excitement and tears, resonated deeply with viewers and fellow industry colleagues.

The win comes on the heels of Montana’s impressive run in recent projects, including standout performances that have positioned her as one of Nollywood’s most exciting talents. Fans and celebrities flooded social media with congratulations, hailing the award as “well-deserved” and celebrating her growth from supporting roles to a certified trailblazer.

Industry watchers note that Montana’s journey embodies the spirit of the Trailblazer Award: consistent hard work, versatility across television and digital platforms, and the ability to captivate audiences with authenticity. Her previous accolades, including a MAYA Award for Hush, further underscore her rising stature.

What began as a light-hearted joke on stage manifested into a career-defining victory. Uche Montana’s AMVCA 2026 moment will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the highlights of the night—a testament to manifestation, resilience, and the magic of unexpected breakthroughs in Nollywood.

Entertainment

Nollywood in Mourning: Funke Akindele and Kate Henshaw Pay Emotional Tributes as Actor Alex Ekubo Passes Away at 40

by Women Times on May 12, 2026

By Prosper Mene

The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into grief following the death of popular actor Alexx Ekubo (born Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraekee), who passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the age of 40.

Ekubo, known for his charismatic roles in romantic comedies and dramas such as The Bling Lagosians and Okafor’s Law, reportedly died after battling kidney cancer that led to kidney failure. He had been largely absent from social media since December 2024, sparking concern among fans about his health.

Funke Akindele, one of Nollywood’s biggest stars, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, revealing her unsuccessful attempts to reach out to her colleague in his final days.

“I really tried to reach out to see you one more time, but I guess you knew best. May your kind soul rest in peace, Alex. Ore mi, like you fondly called me, I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared together,” she wrote while sharing a photo of the late actor.

Veteran actress Kate Henshaw also mourned the actor, lamenting the lack of response to her messages: “I’ve been sending chats, no response.” Her post reflected the shock and pain felt by many who tried to connect with Ekubo during his illness.

Other colleagues, including Bolanle Ninalowo and Godwin Nnadiekwe, have also publicly confirmed and lamented the news, with tributes pouring in across social media platforms.

Ekubo first gained wider recognition as the first runner-up at the 2010 Mr. Nigeria pageant before building a successful acting career spanning over two decades. He was also noted for his humanitarian work and vibrant personality both on and off screen.

The actor’s death has triggered an outpouring of condolences from fans and industry players, many describing it as a huge loss to Nollywood. Details about funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family as they grieve in private.

This tragedy adds to the growing list of young Nigerian actors who have succumbed to health battles in recent times.

May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace

Fashion Entertainment Lifestyle

‎AMVCA 2026: How the Women on the Red Carpet Made Fashion the Story of the Night ‎ ‎

by Women Times on May 12, 2026

By Prosper Mene

The 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA 2026), held on May 9 at the Eko Hotel & Suites, will be remembered as much for its cinematic excellence as for its unforgettable red carpet spectacle. This year, the women stole the show, transforming the arrivals into a vibrant exhibition of African couture, innovation, and cultural pride under the theme “Honouring Craft, Celebrating Culture.”

From sculptural masterpieces and dramatic textures to bold reinterpretations of tradition, the female celebrities delivered high-fashion moments that outshone expectations and sparked global conversations. The red carpet became a runway for African designers, with intricate handwork, sustainable statements, and theatrical drama taking centre stage.

Standout Looks That Defined the Night

Osas Ighodaro set an early tone with not one but two ambitious creations by Veekee James. She first stunned in a sculptural red column gown featuring a towering structured collar with horizontal crystal-edged bands. Her second look — a show-stopping silver ball gown — featured a heavily crystal-embellished bodice and a voluminous skirt constructed from approximately 400 metal sponges, blending glamour with unconventional materials.

Ghanaian fashion star Nana Akua Addo treated the carpet like her personal gallery, debuting multiple looks. Highlights included a Gothic cathedral-inspired gown by Mohammed Abbas Ossu and a dramatic mermaid silhouette built from layered, earth-like textured fragments. She completed her appearances with a spiral fish-scale gown accessorised with a matching fish-shaped beaded bag. One of her most talked-about moments? A silver architectural dress that reportedly incorporated dramatic elements, including conversations around a bread-loaf creation by another star.

Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman, who took home two acting awards that night, glowed in a floor-length emerald green metallic gown with a liquid-metal finish. The plunging V-neckline was adorned with dense 3D floral appliqués in navy, teal, and violet, accented by beaded fringe and delicate butterflies.

Other memorable appearances included Uche Jombo in an elegant white beaded gown, Uche Montana in a vibrant red feathered creation, and various stars showcasing 3D botanical florals, heavy embellishments, and cultural fusions. Reality stars and actresses like Queen Mercy Atang also pushed boundaries with avant-garde statements, including edible or unconventional material experiments

More than ever, the 2026 red carpet highlighted indigenous talent. Over 85% of female attendees opted for garments by African designers, featuring hand-beading that took hundreds of hours, sustainable innovations, and bold volume. The night proved that African fashion can rival — and at times surpass — international stages in creativity and execution.

Social media buzzed with praise, with many declaring the AMVCA 2026 red carpet superior to global events like the Met Gala in terms of cultural resonance and sheer spectacle. Fans and critics alike celebrated the women for elevating the conversation around fashion as an essential part of storytelling and heritage.

The AMVCA 2026 red carpet wasn’t just about glamour — it was a powerful statement of confidence, creativity, and the unstoppable force of African women in entertainment and style. Long after the winners were announced, the fashion moments continue to dominate headlines and inspire the next generation of designers and stars.

Lifestyle Fashion

Osas Ighodaro Stuns AMVCA 2026 in Veekee James’ Kitchen-to-Couture Metal Sponge Gown

by Women Times on May 11, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian designer Veekee James and actress Osas Ighodaro once again stole the spotlight at the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), delivering two bold, conversation-starting looks that blended high fashion with remarkable creativity and sustainability.

Osas Ighodaro, who opened the red carpet, first turned heads in a striking crimson sculptural gown by Veekee James. The architectural piece featured horizontal satin bands on a nude illusion mesh base, with select bands encrusted in shimmering red crystals. A dramatic, free-standing spiral collar extended from the shoulder, wrapping around the back and arching over the head like a halo, creating a futuristic, almost wearable-sculpture effect. The sheer elements and structured silhouette gave the gown a powerful, editorial presence at the Eko Convention Centre.

For her second look, the duo pushed boundaries even further. Veekee James revealed that the silver ballgown was meticulously constructed using over 400 repurposed metal (iron) sponges — an everyday kitchen item transformed into couture. The designer celebrated the unconventional material choice with a playful note: “Clean your steel pots while we casually make magic.”

The looks highlight Veekee James’ signature innovation, turning humble or unexpected materials into high-impact designs while championing craftsmanship. Osas Ighodaro, a longtime muse for the designer, perfectly embodied the avant-garde vision with poise and confidence.

Social media has been buzzing with praise for the creativity, with many calling the metal sponge gown one of the most memorable and talked-about creations of AMVCA 2026. The collaboration underscores the growing global interest in Nigerian fashion’s bold experimentation on the red carpet.

Veekee James and Osas Ighodaro continue to set trends, proving that African designers are redefining luxury through ingenuity, storytelling, and sustainability. Fans and fashion enthusiasts eagerly await what this dynamic duo will create next.

News Entertainment

AMVCA 2026 Full Winners List: My Father’s Shadow Wins Best Movie as Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman Makes History

by Women Times on May 11, 2026

By Prosper Mene

The 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) concluded on a high note on May 9-10, 2026, at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, celebrating outstanding achievements in African film, television, and digital content.

British-Nigerian film My Father’s Shadow, directed by Akinola Davies Jr., emerged as the biggest winner of the night, clinching the coveted Best Movie award along with approximately five other accolades. The film’s strong showing highlighted its exceptional storytelling, technical excellence, and emotional depth.

Nollywood star Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman stole the spotlight by becoming the first actress in AMVCA history to win both Best Lead Actress and Best Supporting Actress in the same edition.

She took home Best Lead Actress for her powerful performance in The Serpent’s Gift.

She won Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Herd.

This rare feat underscores her versatility and commanding presence across different projects in a single awards cycle. Ejiofor-Suleiman’s achievement has been widely celebrated as a milestone for Nigerian acting talent.

Other Major Highlights

Best Director: Akinola Davies Jr. (My Father’s Shadow) — Winner.

Best Writing (Movie): Wale Davies (My Father’s Shadow) — Winner.

Best Cinematography, Best Score/Music, and Best Sound Design also went to My Father’s Shadow, contributing to its dominant haul.

Uzor Arukwe was among the other standout acting winners, claiming Best Lead Actor. Merit awards went to veterans like Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O. Kanayo, while Uche Montana received the Trailblazer Award.

Several other films, including To Kill a Monkey, Colours of Fire, Lisabi (A Legend Is Born), and Inimba, secured multiple wins in technical and category-specific awards, reflecting the competitive and diverse field.

Gingerrr, despite leading nominations, reportedly went home empty-handed in major categories.

The AMVCA 2026 ceremony underscored the growing global influence of African cinema, with a mix of indigenous language films, diaspora stories, and innovative storytelling taking center stage. My Father’s Shadow’s success signals strong international appeal for thoughtful, well-crafted African narratives.

Congratulations poured in across social media for the winners, particularly Ejiofor-Suleiman and the team behind My Father’s Shadow. The event also featured dazzling red-carpet moments and cultural celebrations.

The 2026 edition will be remembered for its historic acting double and the crowning of a new flagship film in contemporary African cinema.

Fashion Lifestyle

All Eyes on Venus Williams as She Steps Out in Swarovski Couture at Met Gala 2026

by Women Times on May 5, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Tennis legend and 2026 Met Gala co-chair Venus Williams commanded attention on the red carpet Monday night, arriving in a dazzling custom Swarovski creation that perfectly embodied the evening’s “Costume Art” theme and “Fashion Is Art” dress code.

The 45-year-old champion, one of the event’s co-chairs alongside Anna Wintour, Beyoncé, and Nicole Kidman, wore a curve-hugging black crystal mesh gown by Swarovski that sparkled under the lights. The standout piece was an elaborate, diamond-encrusted neckplate/breastplate with draped chains, creating a sculptural, artistic effect that merged high jewelry with wearable art.

Williams revealed the deeply personal inspiration behind the look: it pays homage to her 2022 portrait Venus Williams, Double Portrait by Robert Pruitt, commissioned by the National Portrait Gallery. The design also nods to her tennis legacy, with elements evoking the silver Venus Rosewater Dish she has won at Wimbledon. Additional touches reference her family heritage and journey in the sport.

Styled by Ron Breece, the ensemble transformed Williams into a living work of art, aligning seamlessly with the Met’s Costume Institute exhibition exploring fashion’s relationship to art and the human body.

Williams attended the gala with her husband, actor and producer Andrea Preti, whom she married in late 2025. The couple shared tender moments on the carpet, including Preti helping adjust her gown.

As both a co-host and fashion ambassador, Williams used the platform to highlight women’s sports science and equity initiatives. “Fashion is going to be on fleek,” she teased earlier in the evening.

Swarovski’s creative director Giovanna Engelbert crafted the one-of-a-kind couture piece, reinforcing the brand’s long-standing friendship with the tennis icon.

Social media quickly lit up with praise for Williams’ look, with many calling it one of the night’s most memorable and meaningful interpretations of the theme. The tennis star once again proved that her influence extends far beyond the court, blending athletic excellence, artistic vision, and red-carpet glamour.

The 2026 Met Gala continues to celebrate the intersection of fashion and art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

News Entertainment

Nollywood’s Powerhouses Shine: Meet the AMVCA 12 Best Supporting Actress Nominees – The Women Who Made the Films Feel Real

by Women Times on May 4, 2026

By Prosper Mene

The 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) is heating up, and the Best Supporting Actress category is serving nothing but talent, versatility, and unforgettable performances

These incredible women didn’t just act — they brought depth, emotion, fire, and realness to their roles, stealing scenes and hearts across blockbuster movies and series. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, this year’s nominees represent the very best of Nollywood and African storytelling.

Here are the phenomenal women nominated for AMVCA 12 Best Supporting Actress:

1. Linda Ejiofor – The Herd

The elegant and talented Linda Ejiofor delivers yet another standout performance in The Herd. Known for her emotional range and screen presence, she continues to prove why she’s one of Nollywood’s most respected actresses.

2. Olamide Kidbaby – Oversabi Aunty

Bringing the laughs and the drama in equal measure! Olamide Kidbaby’s comedic timing and relatable energy in Oversabi Aunty have fans talking. This nomination celebrates her growing star power and ability to own every scene.

3. Bisola Aiyeola – Gingerrr

Bisola Aiyeola is serving versatility! The former Big Brother Naija star turned actress has been winning with her authentic portrayals, and her role in Gingerrr (one of the leading films this awards season) is pure fire.

4. Sola Sobowale – The Covenant Series

Veteran royalty! Mama Sola Sobowale needs no introduction. Her commanding presence and legendary acting chops in The Covenant remind everyone why she remains an icon in the industry. A true Nollywood treasure.

5. Nadia Dutch – Aljana

Nadia Dutch brings fresh energy and intensity to Aljana. Her nomination highlights the rising wave of talented actresses making their mark in big productions.

6. Amal Umar – The Herd

Another strong nod for The Herd! Amal Umar’s performance adds layers and realism that have critics and viewers applauding. She’s proving she belongs among the best.

7. Juliebrenda Nyambura – MTV Shuga Mashariki

Representing East Africa with pride! Juliebrenda Nyambura’s work in MTV Shuga Mashariki showcases powerful storytelling beyond Nigeria’s borders, adding regional flavour to this competitive category.

8. Funke Akindele – Behind The Scenes

The Queen herself! Funke Akindele, a box office powerhouse and multiple award winner, earns this nod for her role in Behind The Scenes. Whether producing, directing, or acting, Mama Jenifa continues to dominate.

This category is stacked with legends, breakout stars, and consistent deliverers — making it one of the toughest to call this year!

Who are you rooting for to take home the trophy at AMVCA 12? Drop your predictions in the comments!

The awards ceremony promises to be a glamorous celebration of African excellence. Voting is ongoing — make your voice count

Lifestyle

Ayra Starr Keeps It 100: Ditches Jollof Rice for Her Beloved Yam and Eggs

by Women Times on May 4, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian superstar Ayra Starr brought her signature energy, laughter, and unfiltered Naija vibes to the kitchen in the latest episode of Feeding Starving Celebrities alongside content creator Quenlin Blackwell and fans can’t stop talking about it.

What started as an ambitious plan to whip up a classic Jollof Rice quickly turned into a relatable detour to her all-time favorite: Fried Yam and Eggs.

In the episode, Ayra and her host dove into the process, but it didn’t take long for the singer to reveal where her heart truly lies. As the Jollof prep got underway, Ayra kept steering the conversation toward yam and eggs, her ultimate comfort food.

“No, yam takes way longer… It’s fast! That’s why it’s towards the end,” she explained with pure conviction, while the kitchen slowly descended into delightful chaos. The singer laughed her way through the moment, showing she’s just as real and fun-loving off-stage as she is on it.

Viewers were in stitches watching the “Commas” hitmaker prioritize her beloved yam and eggs over the more “serious” Jollof mission. One fan perfectly summed it up: “She’s literally a yam and eggs Queen at this point 😂”

Ayra Starr has never been one to put on airs. Whether she’s dropping chart-topping anthems or sharing her love for simple Nigerian staples like fried yam with peppery egg sauce, she stays authentically herself. This kitchen moment perfectly captures her playful personality — the same one that endears her to millions of fans across Africa and the diaspora.

For many Nigerians, yam and eggs isn’t just food — it’s nostalgia. It’s Sunday mornings, quick fixes after a long day, or that reliable meal that hits every time. Ayra’s unapologetic love for it made the episode even more relatable.

Entertainment

Teni Stuns in Head-to-Toe Red in Her New “Zion” Video With Olamide

by Women Times on April 29, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian music sensation Teni (Teniola Apata) has once again turned heads with her bold fashion statement and captivating performance in the official music video for her latest single, “Zion,” featuring rap heavyweight Olamide.

The video, which dropped on Monday, April 27, 2026, directed by Creative Yute and produced by Deeyaso, showcases Teni commanding the screen in a striking head-to-toe red ensemble that perfectly complements the song’s warm, reflective vibe. Her confident delivery and vibrant presence light up the minimalist, nostalgic visuals, creating a memorable aesthetic that fans can’t stop talking about.

“Zion” marks a softer, more introspective shift for Teni, moving away from her usual high-energy upbeat style. The track explores love as a safe haven and sanctuary, blending her soulful, melodic vocals with Olamide’s signature sharp rap verses for a perfect chemistry. The nearly four-minute video also features a special cameo from Nollywood veteran Nkem Owoh, adding a layer of nostalgic charm.

The song first hit streaming platforms on April 24, 2026, and quickly gained traction, debuting at No. 36 on Spotify Nigeria’s Top Songs chart with an impressive 85,000 opening-day streams. Fans have praised the heartfelt lyrics, smooth production, and the effortless synergy between the two artists, with many calling it a potential hit and “soul-stirring” collaboration.

Social media has been buzzing with reactions to Teni’s stunning red look, Olamide’s verse (described by some as “making her year”), and the overall emotional depth of the project. Many are already anticipating Teni’s upcoming EP, teased to drop next month.

This release further cements Teni’s versatility as one of Nigeria’s most exciting voices and strengthens her chemistry with Olamide, one of the most respected figures in Afrobeats and hip-hop.

News Entertainment

Tiwa Savage Turns Heads in Striking Lisa Folawiyo Creation at Berklee in Nigeria Grand Finale

by Women Times on April 28, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos came alive with music, pride, and undeniable glamour as Tiwa Savage hosted the grand finale concert for her music foundation’s partnership with Berklee College of Music.

The Afrobeats queen didn’t just grace the stage — she owned it in a show-stopping custom two-piece set from Lisa Folawiyo Studio. The outfit featured a vibrant one-shoulder crochet top in warm stripes of coral, orange, cream, and pink, paired with a crystal-fringed skirt that shimmered with every move. Styled by Ade Owolabi, the look perfectly blended modern elegance with bold Nigerian creativity, proving once again why Tiwa remains a fashion force.

The event, held at the National Theatre in Lagos, marked the climax of the Berklee in Nigeria: Tiwa Savage Intensive Music Program (Class of 2026). Over four days, the initiative brought world-class Berklee faculty to Nigeria to train emerging music talents in performance, songwriting, and the business of music — all fully funded.

But the night wasn’t just about celebration and style. Tiwa and her foundation made a massive impact by awarding life-changing scholarships worth over $2 million to 18 standout Nigerian talents, opening doors for them to pursue further studies and opportunities in music.

From heartfelt performances by the young creatives to star-studded appearances, the evening felt like a true passing of the torch. Tiwa, a Berklee alum herself (class of 2007), has long spoken about giving back to the industry that shaped her — and on this night, she did exactly that, with grace, generosity, and serious style.

In a country with raw musical talent, moments like this remind us what’s possible when icons use their platform to uplift the next generation. Tiwa Savage wasn’t just looking stunning — she was shining a light on the future of Nigerian music.