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Tony Elumelu Appointed Chairman of Seplat Energy as Effiong Okon Takes Over as CEO

Tosin Ranks
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Tony Elumelu Appointed Chairman of Seplat Energy as Effiong Okon Takes Over as CEO

In a major leadership transition, Tony Elumelu has been appointed Chairman of Seplat Energy, while Effiong Okon has been named the company’s new Chief Executive Officer.

The appointments mark a significant new chapter for Seplat Energy as the company continues to strengthen its position as one of Africa’s leading indigenous energy firms.

Tony Elumelu, one of Africa’s most influential business leaders and investors, brings decades of experience in corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, and economic development across the continent. His appointment is expected to further reinforce Seplat Energy’s long-term growth ambitions and strategic direction.

Meanwhile, Effiong Okon steps into the CEO role with extensive industry experience and a deep understanding of the company’s operations, positioning him to lead the next phase of growth and transformation.

The leadership changes have been welcomed by industry observers, who view the appointments as a strong combination of strategic vision and operational expertise.

As Africa’s energy sector continues to evolve, Seplat Energy’s new leadership team is expected to play a key role in driving innovation, sustainability, and value creation across the industry.

HEIRS ENERGIES LAUNCHES AGBADA GREEN CORRIDOR INITIATIVE TO ADVANCE ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

Tosin Ranks
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HEIRS ENERGIES LAUNCHES AGBADA GREEN CORRIDOR INITIATIVE TO ADVANCE ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

Heirs Energies has launched the Agbada Green Corridor Initiative, a tree-planting programme aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability, supporting biodiversity and strengthening climate resilience across its area of operations.

The initiative, launched along the Agbada Non-Associated Gas (NAG) Corridor in Omuohia Community, Rivers State, brought together representatives of the Rivers State Ministry of Environment, the OML 17 Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT), community leaders, environmental stakeholders and employees of Heirs Energies.

The programme forms part of the Company’s broader commitment to responsible energy development and environmental stewardship, demonstrating that energy production and environmental sustainability can progress hand in hand.

Speaking at the event, Bola Bode, Senior Vice President , Production, who represented the Chief Executive Officer of Heirs Energies, Osa Igiehon, noted that the initiative reflects the Company’s commitment to creating lasting value for both its host communities and the environment.

“As we continue to grow production and expand our oil and gas business, we recognise that our success is closely linked to the wellbeing of our host communities and the health of the environment in which we operate. The Agbada Green Corridor Initiative is one expression of our commitment to responsible operations and sustainable development,” he said.

The tree-planting exercise was conducted in partnership with the Rivers State Ministry of Environment and the Self Help and Rural Development Association (SHERDA), with support from the OML 17 HCDT and community stakeholders.

Representatives of the Rivers State Ministry of Environment commended the initiative and reaffirmed the importance of partnerships between government, communities and industry in promoting environmental protection and sustainable development.

The Agbada Green Corridor Initiative aligns with Heirs Energies’ sustainability agenda, which focuses on environmental stewardship, community partnership and long-term value creation. It also reinforces the Company’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s energy security objectives while preserving the environment for future generations.

About Heirs Energies

Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company and operator of OML 17. Since assuming operatorship in 2021, the Company has more than doubled oil production to over 50,000 barrels per day and tripled gas production to over 135 million standard cubic feet per day. Heirs Energies contributes approximately 5% of Nigeria’s oil production and 5% of domestic gas supply, helping to advance energy security, economic growth and sustainable development across Africa.

GUGURU MEDIA Signs Uche Jombo, and the Impact Could Reach Far Beyond Entertainment

Ranks Screen
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GUGURU MEDIA Signs Uche Jombo, and the Impact Could Reach Far Beyond Entertainment

Guguru Media just signed Nigerian veteran actor, writer, producer, and director, Uche Jombo to its ever-expanding talent roster, which includes AMVCA-winning and nominated actors Uzor Arukwe, Omowunmi Dada, Adunni Ade, veterans Najite Dede, Jude Chukwuka, and fast-rising actors including Sharon Rotimi and Kanyin Eros.

This strategic collaboration brings together Guguru Media’s commitment to building driven-by-performance,industry-enthused, and culturally and commercially successful actors with Uche Jombo’s decades of award-winning work in Nollywood, as both parties set their sights on developing bold, culture-driven film and television projects for Nigerian and global audiences. Guguru has cemented itself as one of the most serious forces in Nollywood talent management. Here’s why this matters.

Uche Jombo Isn’t Just a Star, She’s Infrastructure

With over 200 film credits and a producing career that helped establish Asaba as a legitimate Nollywood production hub, Jombo didn’t just participate in the industry’s growth but was part of its builders. Signing her means acquiring institutional knowledge, deep industry relationships, and a legacy with active commercial weight.

Guguru Media Announces Its Ambitions at Full Volume

This signing is a declaration. Guguru Media is no longer positioning itself as a rising player  it is here, and it is serious. Bringing Uche Jombo into its ranks signals an agency ready to work with talent who shape the conversation, not just participate in it.

The Timing Couldn’t Be More Strategic

Streaming has changed what gets made. International co-productions are multiplying. The global market for African content has never been more competitive or lucrative. Jombo, who has navigated every major industry shift from the home-video era to the prestige turn, brings cross-era credibility that travels well from Lagos to London to Los Angeles.

It Reopens a Long-Overdue Conversation

Nollywood’s talent management discourse has largely centered on emerging acts. How veteran talent  the figures who built the industry, fit into contemporary management structures has gone unaddressed. This signing puts that question front and center, and potentially rewrites the template for how the industry thinks about its own history. Guguru Media’s decision to formalize a structure around Jombo’s career at this stage is both a business move and an implicit industry argument, that legacy talent, properly managed, still has a significant runway.

It Sets a Precedent Worth Watching

How this partnership performs will be instructive. If Guguru Media can demonstrate what thoughtful, full-cycle management looks like for a talent of Jombo’s standing, across endorsements, content, press, and long-term positioning — it establishes a model with implications for how the wider industry approaches its senior tier. That’s a conversation Nollywood is overdue to have.

Mohammed Abbas Turns Nature into Couture for Nana Akua Addo’s Ghana Movie Awards Look

Tosin Ranks
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0
Mohammed Abbas Turns Nature into Couture for Nana Akua Addo’s Ghana Movie Awards Look

Just when many thought they had recovered from the unforgettable fashion statement that stunned audiences at AMVCA 2026, Nana Akua Addo and celebrated designer Mohammed Abbas have returned with another masterpiece.

For the Ghana Movie Awards 2026, Nana Akua Addo stepped onto the red carpet in “Mother Leaf” — a breathtaking couture creation that once again pushed the boundaries of fashion, art, and storytelling.

Inspired by nature, rebirth, femininity, and strength, the outfit transformed Nana Akua Addo into a living work of art. The green leaf-inspired creation was not simply a dress; it was a statement piece that demonstrated how African fashion can merge creativity, symbolism, craftsmanship, and innovation at the highest level.

One thing is becoming increasingly clear: some of the fashion concepts the industry never imagined are being brought to life by the creative partnership between Nana Akua Addo and Mohammed Abbas. Their ability to consistently create conversation-worthy moments continues to elevate African fashion on the global stage.

The impact is even more remarkable considering that many fashion enthusiasts are still discussing their groundbreaking AMVCA 2026 look. Yet somehow, they have managed to deliver another unforgettable red-carpet moment.

It comes as no surprise that both Nana Akua Addo and Mohammed Abbas are among the distinguished personalities set to be unveiled in the upcoming Ranks Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Fashion – Africa 2026, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to creativity, innovation, influence, and the advancement of African fashion.

With “Mother Leaf,” they have once again proven that fashion is not merely about clothing—it is about imagination, storytelling, and creating moments that leave a lasting mark on culture.

Dress @abbaswoman.ng
Photographer @edos_artistry
Makeup @luchys.glow
Hairstylist @dpmhairstudio.ng
Painted @heazeeylee_art

Diana Childs And The Quiet Breakthrough For Nollywood

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Diana Childs And The Quiet Breakthrough For Nollywood

In an industry often defined by scale, star power, and large ensemble casts, Diana Childs has proven that powerful storytelling can stand on its own.

Diana Childs

The Nigerian-British writer, producer, and actress has reached a significant milestone with Mirrors, a film she wrote, produced, and starred in alongside actor Kunle Remi. The production, featuring only two on-screen characters, has now secured a place on Prime Video, making it one of the most distinctive Nollywood acquisitions in recent years.

Diana Childs began her career as a scriptwriter at early age before expanding into acting, producing, and founding DC Productions. With projects including Dinner is Served, 143, Flaws, and Mirrors, she has steadily built a reputation for creating character-driven stories that explore relationships, personal struggles, and human emotions.

What sets Mirrors apart is its simplicity. With only Diana Childs and Kunle Remi carrying the entire narrative, the film relies heavily on writing, performance, and emotional depth. The story explores themes of marriage, grief, betrayal, self-worth, and healing, while incorporating spoken-word elements rarely seen in mainstream Nollywood productions.

The Prime Video acquisition marks another major achievement for Childs, whose earlier film Flaws is also available on the platform. It reinforces a growing reality within African cinema: international audiences are increasingly responding to originality, precision, and authentic storytelling rather than spectacle alone.

Diana Childs

For Diana Childs, the journey has never been about making the loudest noise. It has been about building meaningful stories, owning the creative process, and trusting the work to speak for itself.

Today, that work is reaching a global audience.

Mirrors is now streaming on Prime Video, while more original productions from Diana Childs can be found on Diana Childs TV on YouTube.

Adunni Ade Reveals She Welcomed A Child Two Years Ago, Shares Personal Journey On Birthday

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Adunni Ade Reveals She Welcomed A Child Two Years Ago, Shares Personal Journey On Birthday

Nollywood actress Adunni Ade has shared a deeply personal revelation with her fans, announcing that she welcomed a child nearly two years ago and chose to keep the news private until now.

The actress made the disclosure on her birthday through an emotional social media post, describing the experience as a journey marked by silent battles, personal growth, and intentional privacy.

According to Adunni, she and her partner deliberately kept the birth of their daughter away from public attention in order to enjoy the blessing in peace. She explained that not every aspect of life requires public validation and that some moments are best cherished away from the spotlight.

Addressing public assumptions surrounding her private life, the actress dismissed speculation and narratives often attached to single motherhood, emphasizing that her story is one of love, commitment, and divine timing.

Adunni revealed that she and her partner have been together for almost a decade and described their daughter as an answered prayer and a testament to God’s faithfulness. She also stressed that no family or relationship was disrupted in the course of their union, seemingly responding to online rumours that had circulated over time.

Reflecting on the difference between her public image and private reality, the actress noted that while many people know Adunni Ade the celebrity, few truly understand the woman behind the spotlight.

The announcement has generated widespread reactions across social media, with colleagues, fans, and well-wishers congratulating the actress on the milestone and celebrating her decision to share the news on her own terms.

As birthday messages continue to pour in, Adunni Ade’s revelation stands as a reminder that behind the glamour of celebrity life are personal stories often kept away from public view until the time feels right to tell them.

Tamunosoye Karibi-George Crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026, Set To Represent Nigeria On Global Stage

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Tamunosoye Karibi-George Crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026, Set To Represent Nigeria On Global Stage

 

Nigeria has a new queen.

Tamunosoye Karibi-George, the reigning Miss Bayelsa, has emerged as Miss World Nigeria 2026 following a highly competitive grand finale held at the prestigious Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Tamunosoye Karibi-George

The event brought together 37 outstanding contestants representing states and regions across the country, all competing for the opportunity to wear the coveted crown and represent Nigeria on one of the world’s most respected beauty and humanitarian platforms.

After several rounds of competition, the field was narrowed to ten finalists, each demonstrating poise, intelligence, leadership qualities, and a commitment to social impact. The competition reached its climax with Tamunosoye standing out among an exceptional group of finalists, including representatives from Edo, Anambra, Rivers State, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Beyond beauty and stage presence, contestants participated in an intensive week-long camp designed to assess their leadership potential, communication skills, community service initiatives, and understanding of social issues. The camp featured leadership development sessions, mentorship programmes, and community engagement activities, all of which contributed significantly to the final judging process.

Tamunosoye’s performance throughout the competition impressed judges and audiences alike, earning her the title of Miss World Nigeria 2026 and positioning her as Nigeria’s next ambassador on the international pageant stage.

With her victory, she succeeds Joy Raimi, who represented Nigeria during the previous Miss World cycle. Tamunosoye will now carry the nation’s hopes to the 73rd Miss World pageant scheduled to take place in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August to September 2026.

The global event is expected to attract contestants from approximately 140 countries and territories, making it one of the largest international beauty competitions in the world. Beyond the glamour, the Miss World platform remains widely recognized for its emphasis on humanitarian projects, cultural exchange, advocacy, and women’s empowerment.

As preparations begin for the international competition, many Nigerians will be looking forward to seeing Tamunosoye Karibi-George showcase the country’s rich culture, resilience, creativity, and excellence before a global audience.

Her emergence marks another significant milestone in Nigeria’s long-standing participation in the Miss World franchise and reinforces the growing influence of young Nigerian women in leadership, advocacy, and international representation.

 

Gabriel Afolayan: An Actor’s Actor Who Delivered a Masterclass in Blood Sisters 2

Tosin Ranks
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Gabriel Afolayan: An Actor’s Actor Who Delivered a Masterclass in Blood Sisters 2

Gabriel Afolayan has once again reminded audiences why he remains one of Nollywood’s most respected actors.

Gabriel Afolayan is what the industry calls an actor’s actor. The kind of performer whose work is studied by fellow actors, respected by directors, and appreciated by audiences who understand great storytelling. In Blood Sisters 2, he does not rely on theatrics or excessive drama. Instead, he delivers a performance built on precision, emotional intelligence, restraint, and authenticity. This is the type of acting that cannot be taught through hype. It comes from years of mastering the craft. As Femi, Gabriel reminds us that some actors perform roles, while others become the standard. This was not just a performance; it was a masterclass from someone who has dedicated his life to the art of acting.

Although Gabriel has been a consistent force in the industry for years, he continues to perform with the hunger, discipline, and commitment of an actor determined to prove himself. That passion is evident throughout the series. He approaches Femi with depth, vulnerability, and precision, creating a character that feels real, flawed, and deeply human.

The reaction online has been overwhelmingly positive. Viewers have praised his performance, with many highlighting the emotional weight he brought to the role and the chemistry he shared with Kehinde Bankole.

Comments from audiences include:

“Gabriel Afolayan and Kehinde Bankole are absolutely fantastic.”

“The way Femi carried that pain was exceptional.”

“Gabriel conveyed so much emotion through the smallest expressions.”

Many viewers have described his portrayal as layered, heartbreaking, and one of the standout performances of the season. His scenes with Kehinde Bankole, particularly the emotionally charged moments, have generated significant conversation among audiences.

This is what happens when a seasoned actor remains fully committed to his craft. No shortcuts, no complacency, just exceptional storytelling through performance. Gabriel Afolayan transforms Femi into a character that feels authentic, relatable, and unforgettable.

Ranks Africa Verdict

Based on performance metrics including character interpretation, emotional delivery, screen presence, authenticity, audience engagement, and overall impact on the story, Gabriel Afolayan earns a clear:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5-Star Performance Rating

His portrayal of Femi Ademola in Blood Sisters 2 is compelling, emotionally rich, and executed with remarkable precision. It is yet another reminder of why Gabriel Afolayan remains one of the finest actors of his generation.

Blessing Nze Delivers a Career-Defining 5-Star Performance in Blood Sisters 2

Tosin Ranks
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0
Blessing Nze Delivers a Career-Defining 5-Star Performance in Blood Sisters 2

Every once in a while, an actor delivers a performance that changes how audiences see them. A performance so powerful, so convincing, and so emotionally charged that it opens an entirely new chapter in their career.

For Blessing Jessica Obasi-Nze, that moment has arrived with Blood Sisters 2.
In a series filled with strong performances, established stars, and intense storytelling, Blessing Jessica Obasi-Nze found a way to stand out. She did not simply play a role. She transformed into it. Every scene felt authentic, every emotion felt earned, and every appearance left a lasting impression.

This is the kind of performance that reminds audiences why acting is one of the most difficult crafts in entertainment. It requires vulnerability, discipline, emotional intelligence, and complete commitment. Blessing Nze brought all of that and more.

From the moment Mimi appears, she changes the energy of the story.
Strong, intimidating, intelligent, unpredictable, and layered, Mimi is the kind of character that could easily fall into stereotypes. Instead, Blessing Jessica Obasi-Nze brings remarkable depth and humanity to the role.

One of the biggest takeaways from Blood Sisters 2 is the incredible versatility she displayed throughout the series.

Audiences have always known Blessing Nze as a talented actress, but this role revealed another dimension of her ability. She navigated emotional highs and lows with confidence, delivering moments of tension, vulnerability, strength, and intensity with remarkable ease.

There was never a moment where she looked out of place. Instead, she elevated every scene she appeared in and proved she can hold her own alongside some of Nollywood’s biggest names.

Performances like this separate good actors from exceptional ones.

What makes Blessing Nze’s performance even more impressive is how naturally she commands attention.

She does not rely on exaggerated reactions or unnecessary drama. Instead, she allows the character’s emotions to speak through subtle expressions, controlled delivery, and genuine presence.

That level of control is a sign of an actor who understands her craft.

Whether in emotionally charged scenes or quieter moments, she maintained a consistency that kept viewers invested throughout the series.

Blood Sisters 2 may well become the project that redefines how many people view Blessing Nze’s acting range.

This is the type of role that expands opportunities, attracts bigger projects, and places an actor in conversations they may not have previously occupied. It is a performance that demonstrates readiness for larger platforms, bigger responsibilities, and even more complex characters.

Most importantly, it proves that she possesses the versatility and screen presence required to thrive at the highest level.

Ranks Africa Verdict:

Based on performance metrics including character interpretation, emotional delivery, screen presence, authenticity, audience engagement, and overall impact on the story, Blessing Nze earns a clear:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5-Star Performance Rating

Her work in Blood Sisters 2 is powerful, memorable, and delivered with remarkable confidence.

This is not just another good performance.

This is a statement.

And if Blood Sisters 2 is any indication, Blessing Nze is only getting started.

HEIRS ENERGIES’ US$750 MILLION FINANCING NAMED BEST OIL & GAS DEAL OF THE YEAR

Tosin Ranks
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0
HEIRS ENERGIES’ US$750 MILLION FINANCING NAMED BEST OIL & GAS DEAL OF THE YEAR

Heirs Energies Limited, Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, has been recognised on the global stage after its landmark US$750 million dual-tranche Senior Secured Reserve-Based Lending (RBL) facility was named Best Oil & Gas Deal of the Year at the EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards 2026.

The award was presented on 3 June 2026 in London and recognises one of the largest financings secured by an indigenous African energy company. The transaction reflects the vision of Heirs Energies’ Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, that African institutions and African-led businesses can successfully mobilise capital to unlock the continent’s resources, advance energy security, and create long-term economic value.

L-R: Nnamdi Azubuike, AVP, Corporate Finance & Commercial Operations, and Pascal Eva, VP, Finance, Heirs Energies, at the EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards 2026 in London, where the company’s landmark US$750 million financing transaction was recognised as Best Oil & Gas Deal of the Year.

Executed with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the US$750 million financing was structured to accelerate field development, optimise production, and support Heirs Energies’ long-term growth ambitions, while maintaining disciplined capital management.

Commenting on the recognition, Osa Igiehon, Chief Executive Officer of Heirs Energies, said:

“This recognition reflects the confidence that African and international financial institutions continue to place in Heirs Energies, our strategy, and our long-term vision.

The transaction demonstrates that indigenous African energy companies can successfully structure and execute world-class financing solutions that support investment, growth, and value creation. We are proud to receive this award and grateful to our financing partners, advisers, and stakeholders whose support made it possible.”

Mr. Haytham ElMaayergi, Executive Vice President, Global Trade Bank at Afreximbank, said: “We are truly honoured that the US$750 million dual-tranche Senior Secured Reserve-Based Lending facility for Heirs Energies has been recognised as Best Oil & Gas Deal of the Year by the EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards.

This recognition underscores the importance of well-structured, Africa-focused financing in supporting indigenous energy companies with strong governance, high-quality assets and clear long-term growth plans. Afreximbank was proud to support this landmark transaction, which demonstrates how African financial institutions can help mobilise capital for strategic businesses that advance energy security, production capacity and sustainable value creation across the continent.

We congratulate Heirs Energies and all the partners involved in the transaction and are pleased to see this important financing recognised on such a respected international platform.”

Samuel Nwanze, Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer of Heirs Energies, added:

“This award validates the strength of the transaction and the confidence our financing partners placed in Heirs Energies.

The facility was designed to support our long-term growth strategy, enabling continued investment in field development, production optimisation, and sustainable value creation. We are pleased to see the transaction recognised on such a respected global platform.”

The financing represented a major milestone in Heirs Energies’ evolution from acquisition-led financing to a capital structure aligned with the long-term development profile of its reserves. It further reinforced the Company’s position as a leading indigenous energy producer and demonstrated the ability of African institutions to finance transformational African businesses.

The EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards recognise outstanding transactions across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, celebrating excellence, innovation, and impact in project and structured finance.

ABOUT HEIRS ENERGIES

Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company and operator of OML 17. Since assuming operatorship in 2021, the Company has more than doubled oil production to over 50,000 barrels per day and tripled gas production to over 135 million standard cubic feet per day. Heirs Energies contributes approximately 5% of Nigeria’s oil production and 5% of domestic gas supply, helping to advance energy security, economic growth and sustainable development across Africa.

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