Entertainment
Okonjo-Iweala Showcases Dance Skills As Igbo Masquerades Perform At WTO Open Day Ceremony
WTO Open Day was observed on Sunday 5 July 2026, to mark the 100th anniversary of the WTO’s headquarters (Centre William Rappard).
The World Trade Organisation’s annual Open Day ceremony was fun as cultures collided, but one performance stole the entire afternoon.
WTO Open Day 2026 was observed on Sunday 5 July 2026, to mark the 100th anniversary of the WTO’s headquarters (Centre William Rappard).
The crowd of international delegates, ambassadors, witnessed the rhythmic and unmistakable sound of the Ogene- a metal gong paired with the deep rattle of the Ichaka.
In a viral video, an Adamma masquerade, adorned in elaborate woven raffia and a beautifully carved maiden mask, strode into the centre of the square and moved with intricate footwork, stamping its feet to the escalating tempo of the drums, bringing the raw spirit of southeastern Nigeria straight into the heart of global governance.
Standing near the front of the pavilion was the WTO Director-General herself, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
True to her signature style, she wore a striking, impeccably tied gele paired with a silky gown.
As the masquerade swirled, its handlers gestured respectfully toward the Director-General, inviting her into the sacred circle. In Igbo tradition, a masquerade interacting with a leader is a sign of immense honour and spiritual blessing.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala didn’t hesitate as she stepped forward into the open square. The crowd erupted in cheers as the DG immediately caught the rhythm. She matched the masquerade’s energy, rolling her shoulders and executing graceful, rhythmic steps that perfectly mirrored the cadence of the Ogene.
For a few beautiful minutes, the weight of global trade policies vanished, replaced by the universal language of dance.
The masquerade bowed low, spinning one last time in a flurry of colour before Dr Okonjo-Iweala waved gracefully back, her face lit with a broad smile. It was the perfect embodiment of the Open Day’s true purpose: breaking down institutional walls and proving that even in the world’s most serious rooms, cultural pride and joy have a vital seat at the table.
(Credit: Leadership)
Entertainment
Rema to release new single ‘Oh No’ Friday
`Oh No’ adds to Rema’s growing catalogue of Afrobeats and Afrofusion sounds, following his recent musical exploits.
Afrobeats star Rema is set to release his new single, ‘Oh No’, on Friday.
The singer announced it in a post on his X account, sharing a video of himself seated in a car and simply writing, “Oh No out this Friday.”‘
‘Oh No’ adds to Rema’s growing catalogue of Afrobeats and Afrofusion sounds, following his recent musical exploits.
The Mavin Records star, who continues to gain international recognition, is known for hit songs including ‘Calm Down’, his global collaboration with Selena Gomez, and tracks from his 2024 album, HEIS.
Entertainment
Ikenga becomes highest-grossing Igbo film of all time
The film was directed by Darlington Kelechi and features Pete Edochie, Nkem Owoh, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Patience Ozokwo, Zubby Michael, Beverly Osu, Jide Kene Achufusi, Regina Daniels and Destiny Etiko.
Ikenga: The Last Festival has crossed the N75 million mark at the Nigerian box office and is now the highest-grossing Igbo title of all time.
The film was directed by Darlington Kelechi and features Pete Edochie, Nkem Owoh, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Patience Ozokwo, Zubby Michael, Beverly Osu, Jide Kene Achufusi, Regina Daniels and Destiny Etiko.
FilmOne Entertainment, announced the milestone on Monday in a post on X, revealing that the film has also maintained its position as the highest-grossing Nollywood film for three consecutive weeks.
The latest milestone marks another major step in the film’s cinema run, which has seen it maintain strong audience interest since opening nationwide in August.
FilmOne said the film’s performance reflects the strong response it has received from moviegoers since its release.
The distributor also thanked audiences who have supported the film, crediting moviegoers for helping drive its performance at the box office.
Entertainment
Nollywood actress Atinuke Kareem dies of breast cancer
In the release signed by the state Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja, on behalf of Ajasa, the association expressed deep appreciation to colleagues, fans, and well-wishers who provided financial and moral support during the actress’s medical battle.
Image credit : WhatsApp
The Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) Ogun State Chapter, has announced the death of Nollywood actress Atinuke Kareem.
She died as a result of breast cancer.
The news of her passing was officially announced on Tuesday by her colleague and the Executive Governor of TAMPAN Ogun State, Owolabi Ajasa, via an official statement posted on his Instagram page.
The statement was accompanied by a video clip of Kareem seeking support and prayers during her battle with breast cancer, highlighting the physical toll of the illness on her.
“I’m a breast cancer patient. It has been going on for a while. My family has spent a lot of money; I’ve come to seek help. The association I belong to, TAMPAN, has tried too, but it’s not enough,” Kareem said in the video.
” Don’t allow me to die this way; I have two young children. Nigerians, please help me with any amount you can use to help.”
In the release signed by the state Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja, on behalf of Ajasa, the association expressed deep appreciation to colleagues, fans, and well-wishers who provided financial and moral support during the actress’s medical battle.
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