THEWILL DOWNTOWN DEC 19 EDITION

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

Pristine vision for Nollywood storytelling

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

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Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Desire Onyema @desire_makeover

EDITOR’S NOTE

T

he funniest thing I’ve heard and read in recent times is the rumoured position of our dear government on marriages that took place in Ikoyi Registry being invalid or illegal. So silly was it that couples took to social media, making jokes about baby mamas and being back on the streets. Now that was funny. It was only right that the federal government then release a statement debunking the rumours.

When are we ever going to get our act together in this country?

This incident reminded me of the joke about different countries complaining to God about giving Nigeria preferential treatment. You gave them everything they said, …natural resources, great weather, fertile land and they went on. Then God said to them, ‘wait until you see the people I place as their leaders.’

If there ever was a joke that might just explain why we have everything and nothing, it’s this one. God have mercy on Nigeria.

This week at DOWNTOWN, we feature Ramsey Nouah as our cover personality. Known to play the lover-boy role in the past, there has been a shift for the actor who believes we should make more movies about Nigerian history. In this interview, he also discusses Nollywood, what it really means to be a director, and his new movie. It makes for a very interesting read.

Seeing as it’s a week to Christmas, we suggest the perfect gifts for him and her, as well as more intimated gift ideas for our Downtown Confidential fans. Flip through pages 4, 5, and 7 for the full list.

Our Movie Review page gives its take on the new Aki and Pawpaw movie, as well as Money Heist’s season 5 part 2.

There’s also something for the beauty enthusiasts - check pages 12 to 13 for how to use the different types of masks. And don’t miss our travel pages where we recommend places to visit within the country this holiday season.

Here’s wishing everyone a Merry Christmas in advance.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

AUSTYN OGANNAH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Editor-at-Large: Chalya Shagaya Senior Lifestyle Editor: Ayodele Johnson Writers: Kehinde Fagbule, Tilewa Kazeem Graphics/Layout: Olaniyan John Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘ SunZA’ www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown

CONTENTS

COVER RAMSEY NOUAH’S PRISTINE VISION FOR NOLLYWOOD STORYTELLING

16

THE SCENE DOWNTOWN HERE’S TO THE EXQUISITE WOMEN OF THE YEAR

04-05

LIVING THE BEST GIFT IDEAS FOR HIM AND HER THIS CHRISTMAS

14-15

TRAVEL 7 CITY-SPECIFIC PLACES TO VISIT THIS CHRISTMAS

Photographed by Gift Eghator @graphedbyblue Styled by Ozi @wear.it.like.ozic Creative Direction by The Editor, Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Hope Trench Coat with Tasseled lapel -Emmy Kasbit Nigeria @emmykasbit Linen Bishop Collared Top With Pants - Trax Apparel @trax_apparel

06

ODDBOD & THE CITY THE RED LIST BLUES

11 12-13

07

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL FELIZ NAVIBAD

AKI AND PAWPAW

Odun Ogunbiyi @oddbodandthecity

- Contributing Editor Odunayo Ogunbiyi is an ex pharmacist with a passion for food and pampering. Writing about her exploits wherever in the world she may find herself is just her way of staying sane in this zany world.

Boluwatife Adesina @bolugramm - Contributing Writer Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.

David Nwachukwu @ebube.nw - Contributing Writer David Nwachukwu has always been immersed in fashion from the age of 10, watching a Dior by Galliano show on television.

His work in fashion stretches across media, marketing, brand communications as well as design.As a fashion & lifestyle journalist, David has tracked key industry data for various publications including Industrie Africa, Culture Custodian, Haute Fashion Africa, and HELLO! Nigeria. A Geography graduate from The University of Lagos, David consciously aligns this background in environmental advocacy and sustainable development with the need to promote a more ethical fashion ecosystem. He currently oversees strategic communications at Clean Technology Hub.

Efua Oyofo @efuastar

BEAUTY

REVIEW

- Contributing Writer Efua has always enjoyed telling stories.

A writer and cultural storyteller, Efua Oyofo helps clients tell their most compelling story. She focuses on social impact storytelling, and hosts a podcast: This African Love, exploring the culture of dating - and helping people develop more effective ways to navigate relationships in today’s world.

AN EFFECTIVE GUIDE TO USING DIFFERENT TYPES OF FACE MASKS

WHAT YOU SAID INSTAGRAM

@saskay

@ favourntyak Who run this matter?

Saykay

@ datgal_sarah

Caption: It’s the 7th slide for me. Saskay The Model

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VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

LIVING The Best Gift Ideas For Him And Her

F This Christmas

rom Christmas bonuses at work to Boxing day giftings at family events, December is renowned for bringing good tidings. However, gift ideas can be quite tedious to come up with. Take a cue from our specially curated list to help you pick the right gift for that special someone this season.

BY KEHINDÉ FAGBULE

Noir Extreme Eau de Parfum For Aftershave TOM FORD 103,000 Naira for 100ml Luxury fragrances are not for the shy and retiring. They’re daring, commanding, and far from subtle. This Christmas, get him a hot and heavy fragrance that feels more grown-up than what he probably currently has.

3-in-1 Stand for MagSafe Charger MOPHIE 37,000 Naira If he’s big on gadgets and heavy on tech, the perfect gift for him is a charger for all his Apple devices iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods.

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For Him Alt Pen, Silver Stainless Steel 49,300 Naira We all know a handyman or two.

What gift can you give him to capture his essence? How about a pen and a screwdriver set rolled in one. Two birds, one remarkably crafted, worthy-of-showing-off-toeveryone stone.

Haut à Courroies Cargo Bag HERMÈS 14.2 Million Cargo bags are some of the lasting fashion accessories men own.

Because of their efficiency and durability, these bags are not only fashionable, they also help productivity. You are thinking “he probably has so many work bags, why should I get him another one?” Well, does he have a cargo multipurpose bag?

Master Collection Luxury Beard Kit BEARDED MAN 82,000 Naira The ideal beard should look shiny and groomed — and with the right product on your side, you can expect beard growth as well.

Help him moisturize and grow his facial hair, coveted beard, and the skin beneath with this beard kit. It hydrates his skin and helps soften and tame beard hair, while it also does double-duty as a styling agent.

The Lumbar Back Stretcher 18,000 Naira Anyone with back pain knows how much physiotherapy, chiropractic, and massages can cost. This is why a back stretcher could prove the most thoughtful gift this December, as it is the best cost-effective solution to heal chronic back pain, muscle stiffness, sciatic pain from the comfort of your giftee’s home.

HomePod Mini APPLE 41,000 Naira 45 Second Omelette Maker HOLMAN POTTERY 10,700 Naira If he loves a veggie omelette in the morning but finds stovetop cooking a little much especially when a hurried pre-work routine leaves little time for culinary bravado. Getting him kitchenware makes for a really nice Christmas gift.

If he is a “Hey Siri” kind of person, you want to give him a gift that allows him to give orders more conveniently.

An intelligent assistance with a room-filling sound will be a seamless addition to his home.

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

LIVING AirTag Hermès Bag Charm APPLE 123,000 Naira Have you ever misplaced your keys and it ruined your day? That is one of the worst feelings ever. This Christmas, you can make someone really happy with an AirTag that’s virtually impossible to misplace —it syncs to the Find My iPhone app!—and is guaranteed to please the giftee with fancy tastes.

For Her Magic Pierced Earrings SWAROVSKI 71,000 Naira

The Clean Beauty & Skincare Box LAUREL & REED 21,000 Naira A gift set that’s worth your money and worth her precious bathroom counter space? You can get her a specially curated skincare complete set with essential products—such as toners, moisturisers, facemasks, — in a ready-to-gift carry case is the perfect gift to keep her glow up.

The gift of relaxation is one of the most popular features at Nigeria’s most popular spas. You can select any service, package or amount to create a gift card for her. This could be the perfect gift for workaholics who don’t find time to unwind.

For a gift that’ll send your loved one starry-eyed, look no further than luxury jewellery. You want to pick out pieces of jewellery that could be styled differently to achieve different looks for several occasions. However they choose to style the jewellery, it is a gift item that buys the gifter some fondness in her (the giftee’s)

Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum Twist & Spray Set CHANEL 47,000 Naira If you’re looking for a statement-making gift, luxury perfumes are unrivalled (and totally worth the splurge). Best of all?

Get her a perfume that is refillable so that once she’s used every last drop, she can keep refilling the vessel with other scents.

Spa Gift Card VINTAGE BY NAOMIE LUXURY SPA 50,000 Naira

Cher Pumps BADGLEY MISCHKA 93,000 Naira

Multipurpose Birkin 3-En-1 bag HERMÈS 6.5 million Naira Bags are important fashion accessories and make a good Christmas gift. When shopping for the perfect handbags, prioritising efficiency is key. Multipurpose bags are more likely to stand out in anyone’s closet.

She will love one.

Shoes make some of the perfect gifts for any occasion. The appropriate footwear completes a person’s outfit and so, gifting her a beautiful pair is one of the biggest love languages there is. It’s the period to show up and show off, let this item reflect that.

The Double Shot Blow-Dryer Brush DRYBAR 62,000 Naira With this blow-dryer brush, she can bring the salon — and salon-quality results — home while saving some money in the long run.

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VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

ODUN OGUNBIYI

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

ODDBOD & THE CITY

The Red List Blues So, last Saturday was a bit of a shocker, I am not going to lie to you. It took me a good 72 hours and two bottles of wine to fully absorb it all from under my duvet. Yes, that’s right, I took to my bed like a distressed Victorian heroine.

It felt like Boris and his Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, woke up on a chilly Saturday morning and chose violence. The disappointment was so acute because I don’t know about you, I had been praying against this eventuality since the inception of the traffic light travel system. It was a very bitter pill to swallow, and the ripple effect has been felt far and wide.

Not that there was ever going to be a good time to be added to the red list, but Boris does seem to enjoy ruining Christmas.

Last year, he locked up his fellow countrymen with barely any notice and after some had not seen family since the instigation of lockdown. #ChristmasPartygate is ongoing as I write so we will see just how serious the power that be are about these arbitrary laws they throw around.

Detty December has been cancelled people. With a rude suddenness and brutal finality that has me reeling. I know there were businesses and the entire lifestyle industry looking forward to the influx of the diaspora and their FX. My father was looking at having all his children and grandchildren gathered around his dining table for Christmas dinner for the first time in fifteen years.

I am heartbroken and I know I am not alone.

This is what the 72-hour time-out was all about.

I had to take the time to grieve and then I really had to find peace with being comfortable with being uncomfortable and

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uncertain. It’s still a work in progress but what other option do I have?

With lockdown, a stint in quarantine, new, (possibly) scarier COVID variants, and living with the constant fear for the health and safety of loved ones, this travel ban really does seem like the straw that broke the camel’s back.

Then social media and news outlets started blowing up with articles condemning the British government for “travel apartheid” because that Red List was looking mighty Black. (I read that somewhere so I really can’t take credit, but it does roll nicely off the tongue don’t you think?)

Omicron was first sequenced south of the equator but that does not mean it is where it originated. It’s all over Europe already and I am watching with side eye to see if after the Brexit debacle, the UK would have the liver to ban non-resident Europeans from crossing its borders.

The situation is set to be reviewed on December 20th, and I am not hopeful, to be honest. With all the rumours flying around and with the scientists genuinely not knowing which way is up with this virus, I know they will follow the urge to err on the side of caution and stay locked up.

In an ideal world, we would all be in this together and we would all be united against this common enemy.

Countries would freely share research with no fear of penalisation and the richer countries would understand that vaccine equity is the only way forward (and not the vaccine equity that sends expiring stock to developing economies with literal days to spare). Stockpiling that leads to wastage will eventually come back to bite. With all the uncertainty what is not in doubt is that getting as many people vaccinated as soon as possible is the only defence we really have against this pandemic.

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL Black Lace Teddy VICTORIA’S SECRET Nothing subtlely hints at sex than lingerie.

And with an impressive track record and assortment of collections, Victoria’s Secret rarely ever misses the mark.

Feliz

NaviBAD

Sex Juice MOON JUICE

Mentioning that this elixir comes highly recommended by the Oscar awarding-winning actress and Goop founder, Gwyneth Paltrow should already have you adding this to your cart right away.

BY TILEWA KAZEEM

A Kissable Massage Candle OPENMINTY Beginning your bedroom rendezvous with a tender, sensual and romantic caress will have your partner uttering the first sentence from Andy Weir’s The Martian “I’m pretty much fucked.”

Soft Over-The-Door Sex Swing LOVE HONEY Ever stared at a door in your apartment door and wondered if it could be doing more for you sexually? I guess it’s just me then. Well, with this sex swing, your door can get in on the action. Sex swings are exciting ways to try out unfathomable sex positions.

s a kid, aside from the cold and dusty harmattan air, the reverberating sounds of fireworks as they exploded in the sky, and the barrage of Christmas theme shows, nothing else got me as fizzy as when I heard the tintinnabulation of the doorbell. During this season, it meant that a neighbour was at the other side of the door with a basket of food and drinks. One of several that would come before the day expires. It was, without a shadow of doubt, my favourite part of the festive season. Add the entire Home Alone catalogue and I’m a couch potato till Boxing Day.

Although deciding to spend Jesus’ birthday with your partner, eating pizza and ice cream, while binge-watching RuPaul’s Drag Race in matching sweaters is not entirely a bad idea. It’s not... necessarily a gift either. A gift idea is; saving the pizza, ice cream, and RuPaul’s Drag Race till after you both have tried the items you picked from this list in the bedroom—And as for those matching sweaters? Think of them as props for whatever mischief you intend to get into.

So-ho-ho, here are gift ideas for him, for her, and the bedroom. Cheers to a merrier sex life.

Enchanted Silky Sash Restraints SEX & MISCHIEF Handcuffs, in my opinion, are very old school. With satin restraints, you’ll be rest assured no keys will go missing after the dust settles.

2009 Bordeaux Blend CLOS DE BETZ I mean, Bob Betz makes only stellar wines, so why not, right?

Lucida Satin-Trimmed Stretch-Lace Chemise COCO DE MER This satin-trimmed gift is bound to bring joy and pleasure to both the gift giver and the gifted.

Dark Chocolate Body Paint HIGHONLOVE Yes, it comes as advertised.

A heart-shaped bottle filled with edible chocolate and a brush. Bye whipped cream there’s a new kid on the block.

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VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

COVER

RAMSEY NOUAH’S Pristine Vision For Nollywood Storytelling

Photographed by Gift Eghator @graphedbyblue Styled by Ozi @wear.it.like.ozic Creative Direction by The Editor, Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Hand-Painted Kashmir Tunic And White Linen Pants - @Trax Apparel

I

t’s been approximately three years since your directorial debut in the movie, Living in Bondage: Breaking Free (2019). Has this experience taught you a distinct way to imagine storytelling?

Of course it did. In so many ways, it did. As a matter of fact, my concise way to answer that will be to continue to be as visual and as authentic as possible in my artistic approach to professional directing.

Were you upset after the copyright theft row that occurred with graphic designer Louisa Ejenavbo who created art used in the production of Living In Bondage?

Absolutely not! She is an artist and has a right to her work. But unfortunately, there was a disconnect somewhere there. The disconnect was that she wasn’t working under our department – she was working in another department which is the set design.

The set designer (a male staff) who employed her fell short of pulling through the project and we had to let him off. It cost the production and a lot on our budget because he wasn’t fulfilling his part and was dragging production back. We didn’t realize that he didn’t take care of some of his workers. The aggravation wasn’t meant to be to us, but as I said, she is an artist and she deserves her work and her worth.

You have admitted interest in shooting a historical movie. What makes such a theme attractive to you?

Historical pieces give a wonderful and colourful palette to tell a story. The depth of character for actors, the visual canvas for directing. It is quite an intriguing moment when you think about the creative effort that you need to put into it to get the best out of the actor. When you are talking about history, you are talking about something that a lot of people may have only heard the stories of but right now, you are not just giving them the story which is of course written, you are visually giving and creating that moment for them. Historical pieces are very important and necessary – I love them.

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Seeing into Nollywood through the imaginative, futuristic mind of the Oscar-rated actor, Ramsey Nouah, reveals an orderly manner to approach storytelling. At a filming set, he imagines every character is almost like a tool that the director can employ to channel a deep, visual experience that an audience could care to remember. While doing this, a dynamic career he is grooming means he is ever engaged. The veteran, Nouah, has got a portal he has carved out for when he needs to let off steam should one be needed —such as through sightseeing and underrated fun games. Among a list of interests, the sharp appetite to recreate historical pieces has noticeably stuck out. He discusses all of these with DOWNTOWN’s Ayodele Johnson.

When you are not acting or directing a cinematic hit, you devote time to other efforts.

What sticks out the most among a list of interests?

Family, squash, travel. Most times when I am not professionally inclined, I am usually with my family because they rarely see me. Work can take a bit of time. If it is not that, I love to travel and like to play squash as my sport. I like sightseeing and beautiful scenery. They tend to rejuvenate my creativity and clear my head. And I do find myself in those moments when I feel clogged-headed from either performing as an actor, getting into a character, or directing a job and then realising that you want to go clear your mind. I usually like sceneries for that, sort of like landscapes, oceans, skies, nature – things like that.

It seems that you keep it together more than most. What is your hack for coming out good as you do every time especially when you have to combine movie directing with acting?

First and foremost, I understand and believe that I’m an artist. Either as an actor or a director, I am an artist. I also have my support system to thank for how far I have come and for being where I am today. I have my fans, my loved ones. The people who show me love and care. They keep pushing me and telling me, “Ramsey, you are doing the right thing. We love you.” When

you get all those encouraging words, they tend to keep you going and you just love the moments.

You are among 365 movie industry professionals listed as Oscar’s new academy members for the year. What do you make of the diversity going on there?

Without being superficial, I am brutally honest here – I think I like the move. I totally admire it. Don’t forget, most of us got groomed by Hollywood basically.

They taught most of us the filmmaking style. They got us interested in it. That’s the biggest film festival worldwide and probably the oldest. So, it is a great honour to be part of that. And the diversity, bringing other tribes and traditions, culture inclusive into it, is I think a dynamic move by them. So, yes. I am very appreciative of it.

An inspiring delivery by you in the 2016 movie, ‘76, earned you a deserved spot on the member list. Is that an urging that historical movies should be told more?

Oh, yes, of course! They need to be told. Very much so, and also executed brilliantly, you know. We talked about it earlier from one of your questions.

And I mentioned how a historical piece is very necessary to keep a tab on what happened back then because that’s the only way we can move forward. You need to understand where you are coming from to know where you are going.

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

COVER So, being able to put those pieces together and execute them brilliantly is very very key. Yes! It should be done. More often, as a matter of fact.

In your assessment, you think the actors’ delivery in Nollywood films needs to go deeper. How can a movie director get an Oscar-winning performance from the actor?

It all boils down to the story and characters created. Once the director adds his insight and visuals to the mix, he creates an atmosphere for the actor to dig out gold. No hurry to move to the next project. Working with the actor bit-by-bit from the eyes to the voice and body language, are very paramount things that a director needs to put in to make sure that he gets his best look or feel of that visual aesthetics. As the director, you are the creator of this work and everybody working on that set is almost like your tool. So, actors are like the brush that you use in painting the picture. Each stroke that you use to perfect the lines that you create creatively is very key. How you hold the stroke, the love in which you use to hold the stroke is like to say the love in which you deal with your actors. The way you tell them how you want them to come out. The way you bring that character out of them is very key. It is huge work for the director to understand all of these.

Bringing out the best of the end product which is the visual look of that creative work you want to bring out.

Could you talk about an imminent acting role you have up your sleeve?

Please let’s not ruin the surprise, I beg of you. Yes, I do in all honesty. I am actually working on one. I will just give you the title because I do not want to let the cat out of the bag. It is titled Man in the Mirror and there is a strong-performing character in it.

Since you have an imminent acting function planned out, how do you plan to prepare for this?

I tend to internalise the story.

Understudy the necessary materials and imagine interesting nit-bits that could spice up the character. All those things are very important and necessary. Then play with the ideas, play back the lines and rehearse. I tend to submerge myself into that world of the character that I want to play. I look at all the things that might just give it that extra finesse or character that might make it a bit more endearing and realistic.

Those are key things that I always put together to make sure I bring the best out of the character. That is what I do.

Do you have any other artistic tendencies that are yet to be explored because of your deep involvement in filming over decades?

Absolutely! Of course, there is, which is to supervise a score and the music. So, film for me is visual and sound. Film started up with just visuals and then sound was added

I intend to ride until the wheel falls off my brother.

Look! I love pushing myself, so I will push as far as grace would have me go and that’s just me for you.” later on and then became so strong. You now realise that sound is quite huge when you want to bring in the thrills and get into the mind of the viewers, depending on whatever genre you are trying to portray. Be it action, drama, thriller, sci-fi, any of them. Sound tends to take the viewers along. You can make sounds very horrifying.

You can make sound and create suspense and moods. All those things are very key and that is one part that I know that filmmaking in Nigeria, has neglected for so long that it is almost like you have to go back to school and orientate yourself on how to apply sounds perfectly to the visuals that have been created.

Cinema-goers and those who binge from the couch are expecting from you the delivery of a biopic on the Niger Delta hero, King Jaja of Opobo. What can be expected in the form of an authentic perspective?

For me, it is about the man himself. His moments and memories that define him as Jaja of Opobo. His business, trading acumen, his courage. During colonial rule, he was able to pull things through. He had what you will call native wisdom and that helped pull him through and he started a whole tribe with that. A young small boy coming in from the east went to the south and started his own kingdom. I think it is about time for me in my own opinion to start telling our history because it is like we don’t know what some of our great forefathers have done. Don’t get me wrong. Most of these things are written down, but even at that, I can see that most people do not have access to these things so it was very important and necessary to create visuals for them. It is one of my great works I intend to embark on very strongly and I intend to bring the best out of it.

Photographed by Gift Eghator @graphedbyblue Styled by Ozi @wear.it.like.ozic Creative Direction by The Editor, Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Linen Waist Coat on Bishop Collared Shirt And Pants- Trax Apparel @ trax_apparel

What do you imagine would be the aftermath when it is all done?

It is hard if you are expecting me to say that it is going to be a blockbuster or something.

I can’t really say that for now. All I can say is that I am going to do something that a lot of people, not of just this generation but of those to come, can point and remember us by. There are a lot of things that we have in Nigeria that are just written, and I realise that the new generations that are coming are more visual than writing, so why don’t we do the visuals for them? And why are we not actually visually telling our stories anymore?

I can’t say to you what the outcome will be but it is going to be educational, inspirational, and will touch people’s lives and make them rethink what they want to do as they move forward.

What is your favourite place to visit away from the African continent?

I would like to go to another continent completely. Australia. I don’t know why. I just like the fact that it is so far off. It is something different and unique. I have been there only once and I would like to visit it again. It is almost like an outback continent for me. But professionally, I would like to go to Atlanta, Georgia in the United States of America. I would like to visit there more often and also for the fact that Tyler Perry has a big studio there. I am yet to go see that, so I am looking forward to it.

What is an achievement in your career that you treasure so far?

The funnel trap that I can give you right now is the understudy of lives of military officials for the movie, ‘76. We were on set for almost six months and we were in a military barracks. We had to do some drills just to get into the military state of mind. It was an eye-opener for me and I love the fact that I could see that. I love playing alternative roles – it broadens my depth as an actor when I do that. As a director, the privilege to tell Amaka Igwe’s story is one that I do not take likely. When I did Rattlesnake as a director, that was very key for me. When we got the right to shoot it, I was very happy because

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VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

COVER I was thrilled and I wanted to remake it.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get the mileage that I want on it because I filmed it during COVID, so it was a lot of shortcoming in the process and we couldn’t hold back because we already put a date on release at the cinema.

It was hard but we just had to let it go.

What kind of world can you envisage for future iGens and daughters that would grow up to experience the Nigerian movie industry?

The key factor is that they are here and they are here to stay. They are going to be part of our growth and whatever it is that we do right now. As far as I am concerned, I want a world where we are not ashamed of our stories. A world where we are not ashamed of our mistakes, culture, and people. To make our voice count; our Nigerian heritage displayed for all to see through media and technology available. That’s what I see for the next generation to come. Where they can know our stories and they are not ashamed to talk about those stories – our history, where we come from, what we are.

Tell it, wholeheartedly beat their chest and say “that’s who we are and that’s what I am.

That’s what I stand for.” It does not matter what gender you are. Tell your story.

You are more than a professional. You are the image of success in a given field. Will you be taking a break at an age limit you have already decided?

I intend to ride until the wheel falls off my brother. Look! I love pushing myself, so I will push as far as grace would have me go and that’s just me for you.

What is a memorable movie set experience that you remember?

Living in Bondage because I was very impressed by my team. The amount of room the team gave me to be a perfectionist. I mean I was a bit extreme, they all could testify to that but they accommodated me.

We did a lot of a couple of things. Talking about scenes in the movie where I was pushing a lot of the people to the extreme. I remember the first time I was going to shoot the club scene where after the opening prologue of the movie, we had the scene where we are talking about Lagos, and in the club where Nnamdi (a character) and his friend went in and got thrown out by the bouncer. That club, I remember the first time I wanted to film, we had issues and I didn’t like the crowd. I had to cancel the shoot. We had to come back and reshoot that. So many things that I wanted to get right but couldn’t and we were there until daylight. It was supposed to be a night thing of course and I thought that we could finish in like four, five hours. We were there until morning. Luckily, the internal part of the club was still very dark. I remember also shooting the scene where you had the hooded head cultist in the black hood – they shot at him in Durban, South Africa. It was a rush-in and rush-out thingy and I was burnt out. My team made sure that they helped me see it through to the end. The support that they gave me was beyond ordinary. It was an experience that I would always love to remember.

Can you measure the influence of Nollywood outside its natural environment?

I think it is about how our stories and actors crossover to different parts of Africa. Ghana for instance and Cameroon. I remember a

PAGE 10

Photographed by Gift Eghator @graphedbyblue Styled by Ozi @wear.it.like.ozic Creative Direction by The Editor, Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Custom all Denim Jumpsuit - Wilo Studios @w.i.l.o__

...I think it is about time for me in my own opinion to start telling our history because it is like we don’t know what some of our great forefathers have done. Don’t get me wrong. Most of these things are written down, but even at that, I can see that most people do not have access to these things so it was very important and necessary to create visuals for them. It is one of my great works I intend to embark on very strongly and I intend to bring the best out of it.” moment when I was in Kenya. We were celebrating the first of October over there. I think I was on the stage with D’banj at the time and the crowd was really awesome. The crossover was the fact that they loved Nigerian movies. Not just movies, they loved the music and everything about it. How we crossover is very important. It is a great thing – I think that’s the best thing that can happen to us.

Do you think the ongoing collaboration between local film industry experts and international contemporaries has reached a peak? If not, what more can be expected?

Unfortunately, I don’t think we are there yet. I am sorry to say that but that is the truth. We do not have an international competitive edge infrastructure-wise.

We lack that, unfortunately. We are still considered and valued locally more than internationally.

Considering the fluctuations of the dollars, raising funds is still like trying to surmount Mount Everest

or Kilimanjaro – it is still very hard and a far cry. In the future, we will be going with more efforts put into the creative art of filmmaking.

Getting the depth of it and bringing that authenticity – who we are, our culture, tradition, what we are and portray. Hopefully, we might be able to get to that point where our films become internationally acclaimed and they cross over very perfectly without much ado. And of course, the key factor is the structural things that need to be put in place. For instance, laws that are protecting the industry and practitioners. Once there is unity and a unified body, and everybody talks together in one voice, then yes, we can find it.

Which movie of yours has deep, personal meaning to you?

That’s very simple – ‘76, and Living in Bondage. In ‘76, I understood the pains of a military person when I did an understudy of being in the military state of mind. I realised what some of the soldiers go through. So, there was a sort of a personal connection with that when I was observing it. When I did Living in Bondage – when I acted and directed it.

Do you sense that it has become easier to make movies in Nigeria compared to equipped foreign movie industries like the US? Of course not. There is so much lawlessness around that is creating all of these. The lack of structure that I am talking about. We have talked about the crazy exchange rate, the guilds, and unions that are not unified. All of that is what would not make us be able to find that bearing where we can compare ourselves to Hollywood. We need to come together and go by the law. Hopefully, with the economy steady, all these will come together, and then we will be able to find that structure that can now be comparable at least to a certain degree with Hollywood.

What does Netflix’s interest in local content mean for Nigerian filmmakers?

It is an open field now where everybody can have their reach; where your movies can cross borders. I think it is a big thing for us and would create healthy competition for us to get better.

Are you seeing gender balance and the end to the marginalisation of women in the movie industry?

I believe they are taking the right step towards gender balance. It is a slow, steady process but I know we are going to get there most definitely. We are moving closer to the idea and it can only get better as we go.

It seemed you had been marked to play emotion-focused roles that had you many times assuming a lover as a character. How have you found the recent switch to comedy?

I found it quite interesting but yet limiting. I like to be a versatile actor. The fact that you see me as a lover boy, you think that’s the only thing I am good at. No! I don’t like to be boxed in a corner – I like to approach things from a versatile angle.

What needs to happen first in your mind before you decide to make a movie?

I like to connect to the project emotionally, artistically, and professionally. That way, I am consumed by the work. You will know that I am consumed with the job emotionally – that means I love it. Artistically is how do I make this visually real and professionally go all the way out to work out all the details necessary to perfect the job.

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA Scan this with your camera to access the playlist (Apple Music)

Movie Review:

Playlist for the week

AKI AND PAWPAW

The world has come a long way since 2002.

In that time, Osita Iheme and Chinedu Ikedieze have gone from small-time actors to some of the most recognisable faces on the Internet. Their adventures as comedy duo Aki and Pawpaw rival those of foreign acts like Abbott and Costello and with over 100 films to their name, their legacies in Nigerian Cinema are all but assured. In recent times, they have become some of the most popular meme or reaction images on the internet, thus pushing their fame to international heights. Aki and Pawpaw, their newest film and most recent collaboration in quite a while, represents a return to their roots and the core of what made them so popular in the first place.

Helmed by producers Chris Odeh, Mimi Bartels and Agozie Ugwu and directed

by Biodun Stephen, this film is actually a remake of Aki na Ukwa, a 2002 production that boosted these two to the limelight and started off their career. Produced by PlayNetwork and FilmOne Entertainment, the film is smarter than it lets on. On the surface of it, there is a plot that involves the lead characters trials around making it in life but learning that with fame comes a lot of issues.

Behind that however, there’s a really interesting layer of meta commentary on the rise of Aki and Pawpaw themselves.

It’s certainly not a coincidence that the two lead characters find their way to fame via social media and the ‘content’ industry, mirroring the recent fame of the real Aki and Pawpaw. The incorporation of more modern elements into the remake is done quite well throughout the story, with character issues arising from rifts being created and at times aired through social media.

Apart from the lead characters, I quite enjoyed the performances of the supporting cast. Special praise should go to Uti Nwachukwu’s character, a hilariously over the top antagonist to one of the side characters. Loudly dressed and armed with a louder personality, he’s someone you’ll either revel in his pettiness or love to hate, both of which are the reactions that the production team was hoping for.

Toyin Abraham, Charles Inojie, Amaechi Muonagor, Anita Asuoha (Real Warri Pikin), Stan Nze, MC Lively, Beverly Osu and Chioma Okafor round out the cast, giving performances that assist the leads admirably. The pacing of the film is another aspect I was pleasantly surprised by. The film hummed through its runtime and I was sufficiently entertained. The use of indigenous languages throughout the film was nice to see, and was of course used for a few laughs as well.

Overall, Aki and Pawpaw achieved most of what it set out to do. Featuring a story that highlights the pitfalls of fame while slightly referencing the rise to popularity of the lead characters, this film is not perfect, but nonetheless quite enjoyable. The key to this film’s success was the easy chemistry that 20 years of friendship can bring to a production and the two leads brought that back to the silver screen. It’s nice to have them back in our lives.

Rating 7.5/10

Netflix Watch of the Week

Money Heist Season 5, Part 2 I have to admit, I was pretty grumpy when Netflix decided to split season five into two volumes. “Why drag it out” I wondered. However, as soon as season 5 began and we witnessed the cinematic experience, the well-delivered action, and an audacious script; it was clear — this was

Scan this with your camera to access the playlist (Spotify)

Mayorkun_ Flavour - Feel Am

Adele - I Drink Wine

Unknown Mortal Orchestra Necessary Evil

Kwesi Arthur_ Teni - Celebrate

Kizz Daniel - Lie

WizKid - Anoti

CKay - Emiliana

Isaiah Rashad_ DOECHII_ Kal Banx - Wat U Sed (feat.

Iamdoechii & Kal Banx)

a streaming event, not a final season.

This was an experience more than a story. Money Heist has managed to achieve many things; it’s justified the absurd, the intrinsic storylines, and the jaw-dropping twists. Yet, the story never lost posture. It never loses composure or value. Many would think that spanning two heists over five seasons would be overkill. It was sublime.

Money Heist‘s ultimate ace is its characters. It builds up each event with character desires, principles, and moral compass. By weaving in romance and a determination for victory and reason, it’s already one of the greatest series by the time it reaches the second half of season 5.

And by then, the characters were so well developed that audiences fell in absolute love with them. Except for Arturo, of course.

By season 5, Money Heist had proposed an idea. It successfully weaves in politics and the insanity and unfairness of the economic system. It became a heist of ideas over a heist of money. Psychological warfare took over. Season 5 was never about the gold loot; it was about which ideology won. Who could swerve public opinion more?

The authorities or The Professor? And

it seems to me that was the biggest trick played on the audience. We were led down a path of greedy opportunists led by a genius, only to be exposed to a world of community and a shared proposition to dismantle the system.

Volume 2 of Money Heist season 5 is the ultimate result that does not let the audience down.

Yes, ou have to endure many twists and heartwrenching moments.

But, what’s clear is that Money Heist desperately wanted to win the hearts of the audience. The writers wanted you out of your seat, applauding each plot swerve and character decision. It’s pure escapism.

Tame Impala - Let It Happen

AV - Confession It’s audacious and addictive. Season 5, part 2 more than delivers to the audience. It kept to its promise to end the series with an excellent finish.

And while we will all miss Money Heist, we can all walk away (and revisit) knowing the writers did the best for the audience. Too many TV series have come and finished with a conclusion that does not live up to expectations. Every time a series does live up to the concept, we feel attached to it. Money Heist is one of those series now. A proving point is Game of Thrones — it never really survived after that final season.

When you get to the final episode of Money Heist season 5, volume 2, you will see one last poker play.

You will witness the last moments of solid characters. It will leave you empty but satisfied.

PAGE 11

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

BEAUTY

An Effective Guide To Using Different Types of Face Masks

BY SOPHIA EDISI

NIKI_RAVENOUS

D

ay after day, impurities, dirt, makeup, excess oils, or harsh environmental factors like pollution can cause damage to the surface of your skin, leaving your complexion looking dull, overly oily and tired.

As a result, your skin needs a cleansing that is effective yet gentle which is why using a face mask is one of the favourite ways to treat our skin.

A face mask can help draw out the buildup of impurities, dirt, oils and pollution, shed rough dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, clarify tone and gently cleanse stressed areas to improve your skin texture and appearance. The best way to use a facial mask is dependent on your personal preference or your skin type. Some masks are best used once a week, while others can be used a few times a week for best results.

HOW YOU CAN ADD A FACE MASK TO YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE It is highly recommended to keep a facial cleanser and moisturiser on hand to use before and after you’re done with your mask. After removing your face mask, moisturise your skin while it’s still damp. Choose a moisturiser designed for your skin type, and apply just a thin layer after removing your face mask. This can help keep your skin hydrated while maximising the full effects of your mask.

Taking the time to apply your face mask correctly can help ensure you see the most worthwhile results. Going overboard and using too much product can be avoided. Before we jump to the right way and how to apply different types of face masks like a pro as part of your skincare routine, here are some tips that will help you figure out which face mask is right for you based on your skin concerns.

PAGE 12

ALEX UNUSUAL KESHIALVRPL

MUD MASK

CLAY MASK

A clay mask is a creamy cosmetic drying agent that, as you probably guessed, is formulated with clay. The purifying benefits of clay help to absorb excess oil and extract dirt. The mask helps draw out the buildup of impurities, dirt, pollution and reduces the look of dull skin. This facial mask is mostly useful for someone who has excessive oily skin and is prone to breakouts of acne and blemishes

HOW TO APPLY

Step 1: Cleanse.

No matter how excited you are to whip out your face mask and put it on, it is very important to cleanse your skin first before starting the procedure. Look for a facial cleanser formulated for your skin type.

Step 2: Apply.

Dip your fingertips or a flat brush into your face mask and scoop out about a quarter-sized amount. Start by evenly spreading the face mask onto your skin. Begin at your upper neck and gently work your way up to your face. Just make sure to avoid your delicate lip and eye area.

Step 3: Let it sit.

Be sure to follow the instructions, because leaving a mask on longer than necessary won’t do your complexion any favours.

Step 4: Rinse off.

Gently splash your skin with a little water and continue to rinse until the entire face mask has been removed.

Step 5: Moisturise while skin is still damp.

Exfoliating Treatment Clay Face Mask TULA BEAUTY

A mud mask is a skin-healing agent which is known to improve blood circulation under the skin, cleanse the skin of dirt and impurities, moisturise and refresh tired skin and make the skin appear brighter, softer, and clearer. The mask is water-based, so the product in mask-form is more hydrating and suitable for people with dryer, duller skin.

HOW TO APPLY

Step 1: Masks should be applied to a clean and dry face.

Step 2: Spread a thin layer of the mud mask onto your face with your fingers or flat brush.

Step 3: Allow it to dry for 20 to 30 minutes depending on the instructions on the products.

Step 4: Rinse with warm water or a soft washcloth to remove the mud.

Step 5: Moisturise while skin is still damp 3 in 1 Detox Mud Mask HONEST BEAUTY

Detox Activated Charcoal COSMEDIX

Mineral Mud Masque DARSH

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

BEAUTY SHEET MASK

Looking for a quick and easy face mask option? Consider a sheet mask. These serum-soaked fabrics are shaped to be molded against your face. Often known for their hydrating properties, this is also a great face mask choice for those with dry skin. They are also easy to pop in your suitcase if you want to give your skin some TLC (tender loving care) mid-vacay since they are slim and single-use.

LATAYIA B

ABIODUN

Water Sleeping Mask LANEIGE

OVERNIGHT MASK

HOW TO APPLY

Step 1: Cleanse your skin.

Step 2: Remove the mask from its packaging and gently unfold it. Align the shape of the mask with your face and gently form it to the contours of your face.

Step 3: While your face mask is sitting on your skin, you can use this time to relax, read a book or meditate for the several minutes you have it on. Think of this as an at-home spa day.

Brightening and Firming Facial Mask ANGELA CAGLIA

HOW TO APPLY

Step 1: Cleanse your skin.

Step 2: Smoothen the mask over your face just as you would a moisturiser. Avoid your eye and lip areas.

Step 4: Simply pull off the mask and massage any remaining formula over your skin. No rinsing is required.

Step 5: Moisturise while skin is still damp.

Does your skin need some extra love? Or do you feel as though you don’t have enough time in the day to dedicate to a mask. You might want to consider an overnight mask. These masks are applied as the last step in your nighttime skincare routine and left on overnight. They absorb just like a moisturiser and help improve skin’s firmness, elasticity and visibly transform the look of aging skin overnight.

Step 3: Let it sit overnight.

Sub-Zero De-Puffing Energy Mask 111SKIN

Step 4: In the morning, just go about your skincare routine as usual.

Holy Hydration Sleeping Mask ELF SKIN

BUBBLE MASK

RHIITIA

Bubble face masks were popularised by the Korean beauty world. It is a mask infused with oxygen, which aids in improving circulation and boosting collagen production, both of which are beneficial to aging skin. These masks are ideal for those who want to give their skin an extra deep cleanse. As the mask oxidizes, bubbles form to remove dirt and impurities from your skin which can help reduce wrinkles, fade age spots and enhance elasticity.

HOW TO APPLY

Step 1: Cleanse the skin.

Step 2: Use a sufficient amount of mask on your hands and apply it to the face evenly, avoiding your eyes and lips.

Step 5: Follow up by applying a moisturiser to damp skin, which can help lock in hydration.

PEEL-OFF MASK

Another quick and easy face mask option, a peel-off mask is great for exfoliating and unclogging your pores. They are typically applied as a cream or gel, then peeled off after the allotted amount of time. This is another ideal mask choice for those who are traveling since they result in minimal Metallic Peel Off Mask mess.

MARY KAY

HOW TO APPLY

Step 1: Cleanse.

Step 3: Let the mask component soaks into the skin until tiny bubbles and toxin excretion begin to appear.

Waiting time is usually from 5–10 minutes.

Step 4: Rinse off the mask using lukewarm water until it’s fully removed from your skin.

IRISHBEILIN

Step 2: Use your fingertips to smoothen the mask over your skin and be sure to apply an even coat. Avoid your lips, eyes, and eyebrows.

Step 3: Let it dry.

By All Greens Foaming Deep Cleansing Mask ORIGIN

EradiKate Mask Foam-Activated Acne Treatment KATE SOMERVILLE

Step 4: Gently peel off your mask. Be sure to take your time so as to not tug at your skin harshly. Rub any remaining formula over your skin when done—no need to rinse.

Step 5: After removing the face mask, your skin should look and feel smooth and clean then apply a moisturiser.

Lift and Glow Peel Off Mask WISHFUL SKIN

PAGE 13

7 7

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

TRAVEL

City-specific Places To Visit

This Christmas

BY KEHINDÉ FAGBULE

W

ith tourist attractions across the country opening up and capable of hosting people again (following COVID-19 safety guidelines of course), this Christmas is destined to be more outdoorsy than last year’s.

There are so many things one can do in Nigeria during this festive season. Thanks to our diversity, Nigeria is a nation spoilt for tourist offerings. One doesn’t even have to travel long distances to explore these absolutely serene establishments.

Expect most hotspots to be a bit more packed than usual, but that is fine, people are only looking for the same thing as you - the warm Christmassy feeling.

Here are places you can visit to celebrate this Christmas with loved ones.

Abuja

Almat Farms and Resort - The Green Escape

Almat farms is the most sought-after resort in Abuja with luxurious facilities to make you escape the bustles of the city. Stay in the calm and serene environment where you are totally cut off from the blaring of car horns or loud noises which are inherent in city life. A visit will change your perception of luxury.

Horse rides and Quad bike are some of the activities that you could partake in.

Agodi Gardens Park Benches s Garden entre Agodi ecreation C R Kid’s

nment

Serene enviro

Almat Farms Huts

Almat Farms Park

Agodi Gardens Swimming Area Benches

Ibadan

Agodi Gardens

Calabar

Obudu Mountain Resort - Kiss The Clouds Obudu Mountain Resort is the foremost and most popular tourist destination in Nigeria, with beautifully built cabins and well laid out structure on the mountains that serenades the temperate conditions on the mountain.

Obudu mountain resort is a world of its own where you get to connect with nature and practically live in the clouds throughout your stay at the resort.

It is indeed a tourist delight and perfect for your Obudu Mountain Overview holidays.

PAGE 14

Obudu

Cable Car At Obudu

Agodi Gardens was established as a natureoriented tourist centre in 1967 and managed by the Western Region at the time.

They were once called the Zoological and Botanical Gardens of Agodi and once a premier relaxation centre providing recreational and educational services to residents and visitors. Sadly, the attraction lost its glory in 1980 due to a flood that destroyed and washed away most of the wild animals and exotic ancient plants from the gardens.

As a result of this incident, the level of tourist attendance dropped considerably. After so many years of neglect, the park and gardens were renovated in 2012 officially reopened in 2014.

It has a children’s play area and includes a lush green space open for picnics and small events, an artificial lake that contributes to the beauty of the park, a swimming pool, a bar and restaurant, a mini zoo, water park, walkways, and native tree species.

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

TRAVEL Lagos (Island)

Lagos (Mainland)

LUFASI Park

LUFASI is an acronym for Lekki Urban Forestry and Animal Shelter Initiative: a non-governmental organisation established in 2013 and dedicated to the preservation of natural habitats in urban areas for use as a field laboratory to interact with and learn from nature.

LUFASI attempts to address the issue of limited green spaces in urban areas like Lagos Nigeria, which can provide recreation and aesthetic satisfaction, and likewise enlighten the populace to clear the ambiguity of climate change through practical learning. The shelter for rescued animals (wild and domestic) serves to educate on conservation with an extra aesthetic and recreational incentive for the centre.

The nature park has a sports world with members in different sports: LUFASI Table Tennis Club, LUFASI Volleyball Club, etc.

This majorly is to bring people from different walks of life using their personal interests and hobbies to draw them close to nature and get them to support creation care while they enjoy their games. Each club organizes different levels of tournaments to engage the outside world.

The tournaments bring together people from different works of life. Paralympics also participate in the tournament, this creates an avenue to connect them to nature as well as instill environmental consciousness in them.

Kalakuta Republic Museum

LUFASI Park Movie Tents

FASI Park

Yoga at the LU

Kid’s Tree

house

Osogbo

Building

seum Kalakuta Mu

Fela’s Art

um Open

Muse Kalakuta

Lounge

Kano

Nike Centre for Art and Culture At Nike’s (Ambassador) Guesthouse, an affordable hotel situated at Old Ede Road, Ofatedo Area, they have fused arts and tourism to give tourists the best of Nigerian culture. They can provide guests with a tour guide who can take you on a trip to the home of Susan Wenger, the famous artist and high priestess of the Osun Secret grove. There is ample on-site parking, and meals and drinks are provided through the on-site restaurant and bar daily at a surcharge.

Around the guesthouse are different activities and visits that are itinerary-worthy. One of them is the Nike Centre for Art and Culture where training is offered free of charge to all Nigerians in various forms of arts; painting, batik, dance, study of sculpture, theatre, quilting and more. The centre was originally a safe haven for disadvantaged women and young adults and has trained over 3000 Nigerians who are now earning a decent living.

Lagos’ Kalakuta Museum, a fascinating site full of history, is set in the former home and revolutionary headquarters of famous musician Fela Anikulapo Kuti. The building was Kuti’s home from the 1970s until his death in 1997 and is now open as a museum for travellers to explore. Several personal artefacts and household items are on display.

Kuti was a great advocate of human rights and expressed his concerns about the corruption and dictatorship of the then military government of Nigeria through his music. The afrobeat legend’s trademark clothes and shoes feature heavily at the museum, while his bedroom and living room have been left almost untouched, with additional photographs and other items also proudly displayed, such as his saxophone and various album covers.

The museum is the result of Kuti’s family’s efforts to promote the late musician’s legacy and was officially opened to the public on October 15, 2012, to mark Kuti’s birthday.

There are tour packages you could opt for which includes visits to the museum, Hotel 1960 (Prince of Anthony) - the hotel where Fela married his 27 wives, a night at the New African Shrine and a night stay at the museum to have a Kalakuta experience.

Las Vegas Restaurant

ouse

Nike Guesth

Nike Gue Attractionsthouse Side s

odge sthouse L

The newly opened Las Vegas restaurant has some exciting ongoing offers as part of their introductory period in the neighbourhood.

Open between 10 am to 11 pm, you can check out their combinations that offer you a varied list of cuisines, all of the pizzas, with the awesome accompaniment of exotic sauces and grilled vegetables of different kinds, rice, pasta, and many more. They have special occasions for programming, so that means Christmas offerings and feel are big possibilities. You can also get in their VIP dining lounge, as well as a VIP shisha area.

Las Vegas Restaurant

Open Dining

Nike Gue

urant s Resta

ga Las Ve

PAGE 15

VOL 1 NO.45 • DECEMBER 19 – DECEMBER 25, 2021

THEWILL DOWNTOWN

THE SCENE DOWNTOWN FASHION

Here’s To The

EXQUISITEWOMEN OF THE YEAR

BY TILEWA KAZEEM

T

hemed ‘When She wins You Win’ by its founder, Tewa Onasanya, the 13th edition of the ELOY award ceremony promised to be an elegant affair, and it was.

Women from different walks of life gathered in Lagos on the 26th of November to witness, congratulate and celebrate the

Tewa Ogunsanya

Adaeze Yobo

e

Ify Mony

Kenny Saint Best

Dr May Ike

ora

ha Chinyere Okoroc

impressive achievements of Nigerian women in today’s world.

United Bank Of Africa’s Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu, was honoured with The ELOY HE4SHE Recognition Award for his unwavering support towards empowering women.

Other award winners were Princess Kelechi Oghene for empowerment through fashion,

Salihat ‘Rahaman Abaya Lagos’ for Fashion Entrepreneurship, and Dr. May Ikeora and Adeola Adeyemi for Beauty Entrepreneurship.

The agenda for the day was merged with the ELOY conference that focused on collaboration to foster women’s empowerment.

li

ge Tracey Obia Salihat Rahaman

Temitope Mark

Omotunde Adebowale

ome

Mary Akpob Adeola Adeyemi

PAGE 16

Nancy Isime

Dakore Akande

Idia Aisien

David