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Head Judge Joke Silva addresses Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards nomination concerns
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Joke Silva, Head Judge for the 12th Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards, addressed concerns regarding the nomination process for the 2026 edition. Following the unveiling of the nominees list in March, which saw films like Gingerrr and The Herd receive nine nominations each, and To Kill A Monkey eight, some fans and actors expressed disappointment over omissions. Silva explained in an interview with Guardian Life that non-voting categories were reviewed by professionals with deep understanding of film, performance, and technical execution. She stated that award decisions can be subjective, with final nominations determined through a grading process by multiple judges. Silva admitted that even she was surprised by some projects not making the final cut despite their quality, attributing it to the aggregate of scores. Her comments come amid criticism, including actress Lilian Afegbai's public disappointment over her exclusion from the Best Supporting Actress category for her role in To Kill A Monkey. Silva defined an award-worthy performance as deeply embodying a character to the point of believability. Despite the debates, Silva expressed pride in the growth and quality of Nollywood productions, noting that the volume of strong projects submitted reflects the increasing standard of African film and television storytelling. This year's awards feature 32 categories, including 18 jury-voted, 11 audience-voted, and three special recognition awards, with new categories for Best Ind
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President Bola Tinubu has appointed Professor Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, as the new Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Universities Commission. The appointment, announced by the President鈥檚 Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, aims to enhance quality, access, and integrity in the education sector. Professor Ogundipe succeeds Emeritus Professor Olufemi Aina, who resigned less than a year after his appointment. In his new role, Professor Ogundipe will focus on funding, global competitiveness, and academic stability within Nigeria's university system, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda. Professor Ogundipe, a professor of Botany with a PhD from Obafemi Awolowo University and an MBA from the University of Lagos, served as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos from 2017 to 2022. He is currently the Pro-Chancellor of Redeemer鈥檚 University and a fellow of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Academy of Science.
Must ReadThe Arewa Consultative Forum ACF and the Northern Elders Forum NEF have cautioned that Nigeria risks descending into anarchy if the Federal Government does not address the actions of Yoruba Nation agitator Sunday Adeyemo, also known as Sunday Igboho. This warning follows Igboho's reported ultimatum to Fulani leaders in Oyo State after the abduction of a pregnant woman and her relatives. Both groups, along with several Fulani associations, accused Igboho of ethnic profiling, stating that blaming an entire ethnic group for the actions of suspected criminals could escalate tensions, provoke retaliation, and undermine national unity. Igboho, however, defended his actions, asserting that his advocacy for improved security in the South-West targets criminal elements responsible for abductions, killings, and banditry, not any specific ethnic group. He emphasized that his focus is on protecting innocent lives and preserving peace, security, and justice, and that criminals should be prosecuted regardless of their ethnicity. The Oyo State police command and the Oorelope Local Government chairman dismissed reports that the abducted woman, Mrs. Kuburat Omowumi, and her relatives had been freed, confirming they remain in captivity and rescue efforts are ongoing. The controversy stems from a viral video where Igboho allegedly gave a two-hour ultimatum to Fulani leaders in the Igboho community, accusing unnamed Fulani men of kidnappings. The National Publicity Secretary of the ACF, Professo
Must ReadThe Nigerian Communications Commission has initiated consultations on a proposal to provide free internet access to approved educational platforms for millions of Nigerian students. This initiative, known as the Zero-Rated Data Access Project, aims to address digital exclusion by removing the affordability barrier for internet access in learning. The consultation, running from June 19 to July 9, 2026, seeks public input on a framework for this project, following President Bola Tinubu's call for unhindered connectivity to educational institutions. The committee is considering two main implementation options: a single mobile-friendly portal for one-click access to approved resources, or telecommunications operators whitelisting approved educational websites. Eligibility for the program is also under discussion, with options ranging from restricting access to senior secondary and tertiary students, to extending it to all students and teachers in both public and private schools, or a phased approach. The committee emphasizes the need for sustainability and is seeking financing options from stakeholders. Content eligible for free access would include structured digital materials supporting teaching, learning, skills development, and academic assessment, while excluding social media and entertainment platforms. Funding options include the Universal Service Provision Fund, government subsidies, development partners, public-private partnerships, and cost-sharing. The program might in