Entertainment - Women Times

Funke Akindele Reveals Major Sacrifices Behind ₦2.7 Billion Box Office Success for ‘Behind The Scenes’

by Women Times on July 13, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood powerhouse Funke Akindele has opened up about the intense personal toll behind her latest cinematic triumph, disclosing that her film Behind The Scenes has grossed over ₦2.7 billion at the box office.

In a candid interview with Bella Naija that has since gone viral on social media, the actress, producer, and director attributed the film’s record-breaking performance to unrelenting dedication and significant lifestyle sacrifices.

“So for me to get all these achievements, for the last movie to cross ₦2.7 billion, it was a lot of sleepless nights for me. A lot of sacrifice, giving my all. I forget to eat sometimes,” Akindele said. She added that she “abandoned” herself for the project, forgoing routine self-care such as hair styling except for red carpet events or major commitments.“I don’t even make my hair, except I’m going on the red carpet or for something very important. I don’t attend parties. I don’t go to greet people at home. I put everything into work — research, writing, work. I’m neck deep into work,” she explained.

Akindele noted that she has only recently begun prioritizing self-care again, resuming skincare routines and feeling “fresh” after the demanding production period.

The revelations have sparked widespread admiration online for her discipline and work ethic, with many fans and industry observers praising her as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s film sector.

Akindele, known for her commercially successful comedies and strong female-led stories, has consistently delivered high-grossing films that resonate with audiences across the country and the diaspora.

Her latest achievement further cements her status as one of Nollywood’s most bankable talents, demonstrating that substantial financial returns often come from deep personal investment and focus.

Industry watchers say such transparency also highlights the pressures faced by top filmmakers balancing creative vision with business demands.

As Behind The Scenes continues its run, Akindele’s story serves as both inspiration and a reminder of the hidden costs of success in one of Africa’s most dynamic creative industries.

Entertainment

“I Want to Build the Next Generation of Female Filmmakers” — Funke Akindele Opens Up On Nollywood, Box Office Records & Legacy

by Women Times on July 9, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria

Funke Akindele is not slowing down. The actress, producer and director sat down for a new interview where she spoke candidly about breaking box office records, the state of Nollywood, and her biggest goal yet: mentoring the next generation of women behind the camera.

Known as “Jenifa” to millions of fans, Akindele has spent the last few years rewriting what success looks like in Nigerian cinema. Her films A Tribe Called Judah and Everybody Loves Jenifa both crossed the ₦1 billion mark at the box office, making her the highest-grossing Nollywood director to date.

But for Akindele, the numbers are only part of the story.

“I want to build the next generation of female filmmakers,” she said. “For a long time, the industry was dominated by men in key roles — directing, producing, funding. Now we have women telling our stories, and we need to pull more women up with us.”

The 48-year-old revealed she has started putting structures in place through her production company to train young women in directing, scriptwriting, and production management. According to her, many talented women get stuck in entry-level roles because they lack access and mentorship.

“We have the talent. What we need is opportunity,” she explained. “If I can open doors for 10 girls this year, and they open doors for 10 more, then we’re changing the industry.”

Akindele also addressed the pressure that comes with breaking records. After A Tribe Called Judah became the first Nollywood film to gross over ₦1 billion, expectations have been high.

“The pressure is real, but I don’t make films for records,” she said. “I make films for my people. For the market woman, for the student, for families who want to laugh and cry together. If it breaks records, that’s a bonus.”

On Nollywood’s global rise, she said streaming platforms and cinema culture have given Nigerian stories a bigger stage. But she warned that quality and originality must remain the focus.

“We can’t just chase trends. Our stories are powerful because they are ours. Family, community, hustle, faith — that’s what connects with people here and abroad.”

With two back-to-back billion-naira films and a TV franchise that has run for over 15 years, Funke Akindele has cemented her place in Nollywood history. Yet she says she’s just getting started.

“My legacy won’t just be the films I made,” she added. “It will be the women I helped become directors, producers, and storytellers too.”

Entertainment

Ayra Starr Turns Heads With Sculptural Corset and Bold Gold Jewellery in New Look

by Women Times on July 7, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria — April 2026

Nigerian pop star Ayra Starr is once again setting style trends, this time with a daring new look that blends high fashion with Afro-futurist glam.

The singer debuted the ensemble on her social media over the weekend, pairing a sculptural corset with statement gold jewellery for a look that has already gone viral with fans and fashion critics alike.

The corset featured dramatic, architectural lines and structured boning that cinched at the waist, creating a bold silhouette. Ayra styled it with oversized gold hoops, layered gold chains, and chunky gold cuffs that added a regal, contemporary edge to the outfit.

Stylists say the look pulls from two major 2026 trends: sculptural tailoring and maximalist gold accessories. The combination highlights Ayra’s signature ability to mix softness with strength, a theme that also runs through her music.

“This is Ayra in full artiste mode,” one fashion commentator posted. “The corset is couture, but the gold keeps it rooted in African luxury.”

The 22-year-old Mavin Records star has become known for pushing style boundaries, from Y2K-inspired crop tops to avant-garde stage pieces. Her latest look is expected to influence red carpet and concert fashion in the coming months.

Fans flooded the comments with praise, calling the outfit “iconic,” “art,” and “peak Ayra Starr energy.”

With a new tour and music expected later this year, Ayra Starr continues to prove that her influence goes beyond sound, she’s shaping culture, one look at a time.

Entertainment

Mercy Chinwo and Nathaniel Bassey Team Up for Worship Anthem “Promise Keeper”

by Women Times on July 4, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria | April 4, 2026

Gospel powerhouses Mercy Chinwo and Nathaniel Bassey have joined forces for a new song titled “Promise Keeper”, a stirring worship anthem celebrating God’s faithfulness.

The collaboration, released across all major streaming platforms on Friday, brings together two of Nigeria’s most celebrated gospel voices for the first time on a single.

“Promise Keeper” is built around testimonies of God’s unwavering word, with heartfelt lyrics and soaring vocals that highlight both artists’ signature worship style. The song opens with a soft, reflective melody before building into a powerful chorus declaring: “You are the God who keeps His promise.”

Speaking about the collaboration, Mercy Chinwo described the song as “a reminder that God never fails.”

“In seasons when it looks like nothing is happening, God is still working. This song is about trusting Him to do exactly what He said He will do,” she said.

Nathaniel Bassey also noted that the song was birthed out of personal encounters with God’s faithfulness.

“We wanted to create something that people can hold on to in prayer. ‘Promise Keeper’ is for everyone waiting on God,” he added.

The single was produced with a blend of contemporary gospel and African worship sounds, and is already gaining traction on gospel playlists and radio stations across Nigeria, the US, UK, and other parts of Africa.

Fans have flooded social media with testimonies and praise clips since the release, with #PromiseKeeper trending among gospel music lovers on X and Instagram.

Mercy Chinwo and Nathaniel Bassey are both known for global worship hits, Chinwo for songs like “Excess Love” and “Igwe”, and Bassey for “Hallelujah Challenge” and “Imela”. “Promise Keeper” marks their first official collaboration.

“Promise Keeper” is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay, Audiomack, and YouTube.

Entertainment

Yemi Alade & Bien Deliver a Cross-Continental Love Anthem with “Don’t Be Shy”

by Women Times on July 1, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Lagos, Nigeria – July 2026

Afrobeats queen Yemi Alade and Kenyan hitmaker “Bien” have teamed up for “Don’t Be Shy”, a smooth, cross-continental love anthem that is already heating up playlists across Africa and beyond.

The track blends Alade’s powerful vocals and signature Afro-pop energy with Bien’s laid-back Afro-soul delivery, creating a conversation between two lovers urging each other to let their guard down. Produced with warm guitar licks, soft percussion, and a breezy mid-tempo groove, “Don’t Be Shy” leans into romance without losing dancefloor appeal.

Speaking on the collaboration, Yemi Alade described it as “a meeting of East and West Africa in one song.”

“Bien has such a unique sound, and I wanted us to make something that feels intimate, confident, and very grown,” Alade said. “‘Don’t Be Shy’ is for everyone who has ever liked someone but needed that little push to say it.”

Bien echoed the sentiment, calling the record “easy, flirty, and honest.” “Yemi is a legend. We just vibed in the studio and let the song tell its own story. It’s about chemistry, and not overthinking it,” he added.

The single marks one of the biggest East-West African collaborations of 2026 so far, following a year where cross-border features have dominated streaming charts. Early reactions on TikTok and X show fans already using the chorus for couple content, dance challenges, and wedding mood boards.

“Don’t Be Shy” is now streaming on all major platforms, with an official music video expected to drop later this month.

News Entertainment

Tems Lights Up Obama Presidential Center Grand Opening with Crimson Gown and “Me & U” Performance

by Women Times on June 22, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Grammy-winning artist Tems brought global attention to the Obama Presidential Center Grand Opening this weekend, delivering a show-stopping performance of her hit single “Me & U” in a breathtaking crimson gown.

The event, which marked the official public opening of the cultural and civic space on Chicago’s South Side, drew world leaders, activists, artists, and community members. Tems took the stage as one of the featured performers, celebrating art, leadership, and the next generation of changemakers, core themes of the Center.

Dressed in a floor-length, sculpted crimson gown with dramatic detailing, Tems matched the magnitude of the moment. Her stripped-back, soulful rendition of “Me & U” drew audible reactions from the crowd, blending Afrobeats intimacy with the gravitas of the historic occasion. Clips of the performance quickly spread online, with fans praising both her vocal delivery and the symbolic power of her look.

The Obama Presidential Center is designed as more than a library — it’s a space for civic engagement and cultural expression. Tems’ appearance underscored the role of African artists in shaping global conversations around leadership and identity.

For Tems, the performance adds to a year of milestone moments that continue to position her as one of Nigeria’s most influential cultural exports. From the Grammys to global stages, she has consistently used fashion and music to tell stories that resonate far beyond the music itself.

Entertainment

Somi Begins a New Chapter with ‘What Does It Take to Bloom?’ and “We’re All Falling”

by Women Times on June 15, 2026

By Prosper Mene

There’s something quietly brave about asking questions you don’t have answers to yet. That’s exactly where Somi finds herself with her latest release, _What Does It Take to Bloom?_, and the lead single “We’re All Falling.”

The award-winning singer, songwriter, and storyteller has never been one to chase trends. Instead, she builds worlds with her voice — intimate, layered, and honest. With this new chapter, Somi steps even further into that space. What Does It Take to Bloom? isn’t just an album title. It’s the question she’s been sitting with, and now she’s inviting all of us to sit with it too.

The project moves at its own pace. It’s reflective, sometimes raw, and always rooted in the kind of songwriting that feels like a late-night conversation with someone who gets it. At the center is “We’re All Falling,” a track that strips things back to the basics: voice, feeling, and truth. Over minimal instrumentation, Somi sings about the shared experience of coming undone. Not in a dramatic way, but in the quiet, human way we all do when life gets heavy.

“There’s this idea that falling means failing,” she shared about the single. “But what if falling is just part of growing? ‘We’re All Falling’ is me saying — you’re not alone in this. I’m here too.”

That sense of togetherness runs through What Does It Take to Bloom? From start to finish, the project wrestles with change, resilience, and what it means to rebuild when you’ve been broken down. It’s music for the in-between moments — when you’re not fully healed yet, but you’re choosing to keep going.

Early reactions from fans and critics show the message is landing. People are calling the work “deeply personal yet universally relatable,” and praising Somi for her ability to turn vulnerability into strength. It’s the kind of art that doesn’t just entertain — it stays with you.

With this release, Somi isn’t just dropping new music. She’s opening a door. What Does It Take to Bloom? is now streaming on all major platforms, and “We’re All Falling” is already becoming the anthem for anyone learning how to rise, slowly, from the ground.

Entertainment

Liz Benson & Bisola Aiyeola Star in ‘Remi and Nneoma’ as Ruth and Naomi

by Women Times on June 4, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood is set to deliver another emotionally charged masterpiece with the upcoming film Remi and Nneoma, a modern Nigerian retelling of the timeless biblical story of Ruth and Naomi. Veteran actress Liz Benson Ameye and popular star Bisola Aiyeola lead the cast in this powerful drama centered on grief, resilience, family bonds, healing, and loyalty.

In the film, Liz Benson portrays Nneoma (the Naomi figure), a woman who suffers a devastating loss, while Bisola Aiyeola plays Remi (the Ruth figure), her devoted daughter-in-law. After tragedy strikes, the two women choose to stay together in Ikwerre, Nigeria, navigating life’s uncertainties and building a new path through their unexpected but profound bond. The story explores themes that many Nigerian women can relate to — loss, starting over, female solidarity, and quiet strength.

Remi and Nneoma stands out not just for its compelling narrative but also for its strong female presence behind the camera. The film is directed by Lyndsey Efejuku, produced by Bikiya Graham-Douglas under Five2 Media, and features a predominantly women-led crew. This approach brings a fresh, authentic perspective to the exploration of grief and emotional transitions, avoiding typical tropes and focusing on nuanced portrayals of healing.

The impressive supporting cast includes Uche Montana, Tina Mba, Eucharia Anunobi, Ifeanyi Kalu, Bikiya Graham-Douglas, and others, promising a rich ensemble performance.

Release Date and Global Ambition

The movie is scheduled to hit cinemas nationwide on June 26, 2026. Nile Entertainment, a relatively new but ambitious Nigerian distribution outfit, has secured global rights to the film, signaling strong international potential for this heartfelt story.

Speaking about her role, Bisola Aiyeola described Remi as “every woman who has ever had to start over,” noting that her strength “doesn’t shout, it builds quietly and steadily.” Liz Benson’s return to a lead role in such a significant project has also excited longtime fans who regard her as one of Nollywood’s enduring icons.

With its inspiring message of loyalty across generations and cultural relevance, Remi and Nneoma is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Nigerian films of 2026. The recently released trailer has already generated massive buzz, with many praising the emotional depth and the powerful pairing of these two talented actresses.

Keep your eyes on the cinemas this June — Remi and Nneoma promises to be more than just a movie; it’s a story of hope, sisterhood, and redemption that will linger long after the credits roll.

Entertainment

Tems Releases Official Video for “What You Need”

by Women Times on June 4, 2026

By Prosper Mene

The Nigerian music powerhouse Tems has once again captivated global audiences with the release of the official music video for her emotionally charged single “What You Need.” The track is a standout from her surprise 2025 EP, Love Is A Kingdom, which dropped in November 2025.

Directed by Ayinde Anderson, the video delivers a deeply intimate visual experience. It follows Tems through vulnerable, emotionally raw moments that mirror the song’s core themes: desire, self-worth, vulnerability, and the painful clarity of realizing you may not be what someone else needs — even as you long for connection.

In the visuals, Tems’ haunting vocals and understated performance take center stage. The stripped-back aesthetic keeps the focus squarely on her artistry, allowing the song’s emotional weight to shine without distraction. Fans have praised the video for its honesty and maturity, calling it a perfect extension of the record’s introspective energy.

About the Project

Love Is A Kingdom marks Tems’ first major solo release since her 2024 debut album Born in the Wild. The seven-track EP, largely self-written, produced, and composed by Tems herself, explores love, power, spiritual clarity, and emotional boundaries. Other highlights include “First,” “I’m Not Sure,” “Big Daddy,” and “Lagos Love.”

The two-time Grammy winner continues to solidify her position as one of Africa’s most influential and introspective voices in alternative R&B and Afrobeats. Her ability to blend raw vulnerability with sonic elegance has earned her a devoted global fanbase.

The official music video for “What You Need” is now available on YouTube. Whether you’re discovering Tems for the first time or have been riding with her since her early days, this release is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates soul-stirring music that hits straight to the heart.

What do you think of the new video? Drop your thoughts below

Entertainment

Farooq Oreagba, Mercy Aigbe & Owobo Ogunde Star in Ojude Oba-Inspired Film “Iwe Ala”

by Women Times on June 1, 2026

By Prosper Mene

Nollywood is set to bring the vibrant colours, rich traditions, and cultural spectacle of the iconic Ojude Oba Festival to the big screen with the upcoming drama Iwe Ala (The Book of Dreams).

The film, directed by Adeoluwa Owu and produced by the team behind the award-winning Afamefuna, stars a powerhouse cast including:

Owobo Ogunde

Mercy Aigbe

Farooq Oreagba (popularly known as the “King of Steeze” from his viral Ojude Oba appearances)

Dele Odule

Demola Adedoyin

Eniola Ajao

Tobi Makinde

Aishat Isiaka

and others.

The movie which is set against the backdrop of the famous annual Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, it explores themes of family, legacy, betrayal, pride, and tradition. The story follows a renowned but shrewd master tailor who faces a major crisis when his staff abandons him with unfinished garments just days before the festival. Forced to reconcile with his estranged family, long-buried secrets begin to surface as cultural pride and personal ambitions collide.

The official trailer, recently released, has generated significant buzz, showcasing intense drama, stunning visuals of aso-oke grandeur, equestrian displays, and the festive energy that defines Ojude Oba. Farooq Oreagba’s involvement adds special authenticity, given his real-life reputation as a standout figure at the festival for over 15 years.

Iwe Ala: An Ojude Oba Story is distributed by FilmOne Entertainment and is scheduled to hit cinemas nationwide on June 12, 2026.

This release promises to celebrate Yoruba heritage while delivering the emotional depth and entertainment Nollywood audiences love. With its timing coinciding with cultural festivities and strong star power, Iwe Ala is positioned as one of the major theatrical releases of the year.

Mark your calendars and get ready for a cinematic journey filled with culture, mystery, royalty, and high-stakes family drama.