Events

Ace Film Producer Dimbo Atiya, Nde Ezekiel Gomos Honor Two Film Makers With N1M In Plateau

Published

3 years ago

February 20, 2023

vicky

The Ezekiel Gomos Short Film Fund an initiative by Mr. Dimbo Atiya has honored two winners of a filmmaker’s entry competition with N1 million soft funding in honor of the CEO of Jos Business School, Nde Ezekiel Gomos.

Winners of the one-page pitch and synopsis competition Rubiya Sadig and Twamsen Danaan were granted N500,000 each at a press briefing on Thursday 16 February at the Jos Business School Miri Drive Jos, the Plateau State Capital.

Mr. Dimbo Atiya stated that the film fund is to give back to society and to encourage young filmmakers who are very talented but lack the funds to get their dreams started.

“Years ago as a young dreamer, Mr. Eziekel Gomos funded my small business venture which I am grateful for. Recently I was honored by the Jos Business School headed by Mr. Gomos. His wealth of knowledge has also made me a better person in society.

“As a way of giving back to the society I have tried to extend opportunities to poeple in Plateau. For the last four years 70% of the crew members in the films I produced are from plateau.

According to Mr. Dimbo, film production is one of the most challenging industries to be when it comes to funding.

“Nolltwood has not have the priviledge of working into a bank to request a loan to make a movie or meet investors, it takes some kind of grace to get investors especially considering how expensive film making can be.

“It is in light of this an entry submission of a one-page pitch and synopsis with the theme: “Zero to Hundred” was open to short filmmakers within Jos.“

“The two winners will be granted N500,000 each and mentored through the process of scripting, budgeting, production and marketing of 15 minutes short film starting with thire entry project.”

“Our target is to have plateau film makers at film festivals and other international stages”

In his remarks, the Chief Executive of Jos Business School and former Secretary to the Government of Plateau State, Nde Ezekiel Gomos staved that the honor given to the two winners will stand as a legacy that will open doors for others which means more to him than an award.

“For a single movie produced in Nigeria today, it employs a minimum of 100 people and up to 500 people. The Film Industry is something that we in Jos Business School (JBS) think is important to pay attention to hence this initiative”

“As Dimbo rightly said its not just about funding a project but mentoring the winners in every process of film making to inable them to become independent and be able to help others and provide more jobs in the long run”

To further support the program Mr. Nde promised to fund three persons from any area of film production in the internship program founded by Mr. Dimbo.

Dimbo Atiya is a Plateau-Born Graduate of the prestigious New York Film Academy USA, the Founder of the “Justified Movement”, an award-winning Film/Television Director and Producer with highly rated production credits like: Sons of the Caliphate, Halita, the Rishantes, Nawa Nawa, Drawing Strength and Still Falling.

The engagement had in attendance Nde Ezekiel Gomos, Mr. Dimbo Atiya, the winners of the competition and their families, Members of the press, and the Ezekiel Gomos Short Film Fund team.

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Entertainment

Jos Wildlife Park Hosts The Honeybee Experience

Published

4 days ago

May 22, 2026

Lama Godoz

On Saturday 2nd May 2026, the Jos Wildlife Park hosted a pilot edition of The Honeybee Experience, invitees were immersed in the fascinating world of bees. 10 Exclusive attendees took part in the multi-station tour exploring the economic, ecological and cultural value of honeybees. This rich ecotourism campaign combines nature (bees and wildlife), education, agriculture, and local culture to promote awareness and encourage sustainability.

This initiative is facilitated by Afrobees9ja and Apis Interactive Network Ltd., in partnership with Bloom Niche Prime Ventures, under the auspices of the ongoing IDEAS TVET Beekeeping Training Programme, at Jos Wildlife Park.

Opening: The Honey Bar

The Honeybee Experience opened to special guests with a curated honey tasting titled, “The Honey Bar” where participants sampled seven (7) varieties of pure Nigerian honey sourced from flowering plants such as eucalyptus, sunflower, oil palm, acacia, citrus, locust bean, and shea butter.

The “Honey bar” was the visitor’s first stop, introducing them to a variety of distinct honey flavours. Young apiculturists in training guided guests through the honey bar, sharing facts about the traceability of the honey samples displayed, the botanical origins, flavour profiles and the unique properties associated with each.

Storytelling and Bee Trivia Engage Guests

In the museum conference room, participants engaged in trivia sessions that sparked curiosity and lively discussion, before proceeding to a documentary screening on bees and honey production, which highlighted the ecological importance of bees to human livelihoods and the broader ecosystem. The session continued with live quizzes, where participants deepened their understanding of bee communication, colony organisation, and the critical role of bees in global food production.

As a follow-up to honey tasting, this segment captures the essence of the Honeybee Experience while offering a deeper understanding of its lasting impact.

Live Hive Observation

One of the major highlights of the event was the hive observation, where participants wore protective veils to view a live bee colony through a transparent exhibition hive.

During the session, a guide identified the queen bee, worker bees, and drones while explaining their distinct roles within the colony structure.

Several attendees describe hive observation as their first close interaction with live bees. “I came in nervous, but I left fascinated,” a guest said after the demonstration. This moment during hive observation echoed the storytelling segment, reinforcing comprehension.

Honey-Based Cuisine

Local dishes prepared with honey were served at the Park Café. Menu offerings include masa with honey, awara glazed with honey, couscous served with honey gravy, unsweetened cakes paired with honey varieties, and beverages – honey cider and honey mead wine.

One of the anchors said the honey-cuisine demonstrates the versatility of honey in food culture and hospitality.

Honeybee Product Exhibition

During the exhibition, a demonstration of bee venom therapy thrilled volunteers who received controlled bee stings under supervision. They also explored various honeybee products including comb honey, beeswax, bee pollen and propolis, alongside beeswax-based cosmetics such as hair cream and body ointment.

The anchor of the exhibition mentioned that bee venom therapy is an ancient practice attracting growing scientific interest for its potential therapeutic applications. Bee venom contains melittin, a compound currently under scientific study for its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, including research into conditions such as arthritis and certain cancer types.

The exhibition highlights the potential of honeybee-derived products beyond nutrition and local dishes. It reveals a growing interest in apiculture innovations and their contributions to health, wellness, and sustainable development.

Tourism Booster

The Honeybee Experience amplifies ongoing efforts to position Plateau State as a tourist destination for natural and cultural experiences. Observers note that the initiative combines agriculture, conservation, food culture, and tourism in a way that could attract both local and international visitors to Jos Wildlife Park.

Following the successful launch of the VIP pilot edition, guests, organisers, and beekeeping trainees expressed optimism about its potential to become a major addition to Plateau State’s growing ecotourism industry.

Events

Iwopin Kingdom seals historic pact to take Okosi festival global through digital transformation – Technology Times

Published

6 days ago

May 20, 2026

Preport

In a historic move set to redefine the preservation and global promotion of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, the Kingdom of Iwopin has entered into a landmark strategic partnership with Digital Transformation Media Limited (DTML) for the digitalisation and international promotion of the revered Okosi Festival.

The agreement, signed May 9, 2026 on the sidelines of the colourful Okosi Iwopin Ajidagan 2026 Festival, marks a defining moment in the cultural and economic trajectory of Iwopin, as the Kingdom embarks on a journey to elevate the annual Okosi boat regatta from a celebrated local heritage event into a globally recognised cultural tourism spectacle.

Speaking on the significance of the agreement, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sunday Adeniyi Agbojo, the Liken of Iwopin Kingdom, delivered a profound and visionary address that underscored the cultural, historical, and transformational importance of the landmark partnership.

Okosi Iwopin: A heritage reawakened for the world

His Royal Majesty described the Okosi Festival as more than a celebration, but a living testament to the identity, resilience, and maritime heritage of the Iwopin people.

“This is not merely the signing of an agreement; it is the opening of a new chapter in the history of our Kingdom,” the monarch declared. “For generations, the Okosi Festival has been the heartbeat of our people, a sacred convergence of culture, history, and communal pride expressed through the rhythms of the waters, the splendour of our regatta, and the unity of our people.”

The Royal Father emphasised that the partnership with DTML represents a deliberate and strategic effort to ensure that this heritage is not only preserved but amplified across Nigeria, Africa and beyond.

“In an age where the world is increasingly interconnected through technology, it is imperative that our heritage is not confined to our shores alone. Through this collaboration, the sights, sounds, and spirit of Okosi will travel beyond Iwopin, beyond Ogun State, and beyond Nigeria, to reach audiences across Africa and the global community.”

Drawing a powerful historical parallel, Oba Agbojo positioned the Okosi Festival within the broader narrative of African cultural renaissance.

“We recall with pride the great cultural convergence that took place during FESTAC ‘77 in Lagos, where the richness of Black heritage was displayed before the world. The Okosi Festival, which was proudly showcased at this historic event, stands in that same lineage of cultural excellence, a showcase of identity, heritage, and tradition that deserves its rightful place on the global stage.”

He further noted that the digital transformation initiative would ensure that the festival evolves while retaining its authenticity.

“This partnership guarantees that while we embrace modern technology, we do not lose the essence of who we are. Our traditions will remain sacred, our stories will remain authentic, and our people will remain at the centre of this transformation.”

“This is not merely the signing of an agreement; it is the opening of a new chapter in the history of our Kingdom,” the monarch declared. “For generations, the Okosi Festival has been the heartbeat of our people, a sacred convergence of culture, history, and communal pride expressed through the rhythms of the waters, the splendour of our regatta, and the unity of our people.”

A cultural and economic transformation agenda

The monarch highlighted the broader implications of the agreement, particularly its potential to drive economic growth and youth empowerment within the Kingdom.

“This initiative is not only about culture; it is about prosperity. It is about creating opportunities for our youth, empowering our artisans, and positioning Iwopin as a destination of choice for cultural tourism. Through digital innovation, we will unlock new economic pathways for our people.”

He expressed confidence in DTML’s capacity to deliver on the ambitious vision outlined in the the landmark partnership agreement.

“We have found in DTML a partner that understands both the power of storytelling and the importance of technology in shaping the future. Together, we will ensure that Okosi becomes a beacon of cultural pride and a driver of economic advancement.”

Edi Lawani: Bridging heritage and global entertainment

Entertainment legend and Advisory Board Member at DTML, Mr. Edi Lawani, brought a unique perspective to the partnership, positioning it within the global evolution of cultural festivals as platforms of influence and economic value.

“This is a defining moment, not just for Iwopin, but for Nigeria’s cultural landscape,” he stated. “Across the world, cultural festivals have evolved into powerful global brands, platforms that attract tourism, investment, and international recognition. What we are witnessing here is the birth of such a transformation for the Okosi Festival.”

Mr. Lawani emphasised that the fusion of tradition and modern media would unlock unprecedented opportunities.

“The richness of the Okosi Festival lies in its authenticity: the regatta, the cultural expressions, the communal energy. What DTML brings to the table is the ability to package and project this authenticity in a way that resonates globally, without diluting its essence.”

He noted that the initiative aligns with global trends in cultural consumption.

“Today’s audience is digital. They experience culture through screens, through immersive content, through storytelling that transcends geography. By digitising Okosi Iwopin, we are not just preserving it; we are making it accessible to the world.”

Mr. Lawani also highlighted the importance of positioning the festival within the international tourism ecosystem.

“With the right execution, Okosi Iwopin can become a destination event, something people plan their calendars around, just as they do with major festivals across Africa and beyond. This partnership lays the foundation for that reality.”

Technology, catalyst for cultural transformation

Providing the strategic and operational perspective, Mr. Shina Badaru, Founder and Chairman of DTML, described the agreement as a bold step in redefining how culture is preserved and promoted in the digital age.

“At DTML, we believe that culture and technology are not opposing forces; they are complementary drivers of progress,” he stated. “This partnership embodies that philosophy by leveraging digital tools to amplify one of Nigeria’s most unique cultural assets.”

Mr. Badaru explained that the Okosi Iwopin programme aligns with the technology group’s “Nigeria Heritage Initiative” which includes the development of a digital ecosystem for the festival.

Under the plan, DTML said it has success acquired the premium Nigerian internet domain, www.okosiiwopin.ng, to serve as the digital home of the annual Okosi Ajidagan Festival on the internet.

“The platform,” according to Mr. Badaru, “will drive strategic storytelling, tourism promotion, partnerships, media engagement and innovative digital experiences that will elevate the festival onto the global tourism map.”

He added that, “we are deploying a multi-layered strategy that includes a dedicated digital platform, immersive multimedia content, live streaming capabilities, and the creation of a digital cultural archive. This ensures that the Okosi Iwopin Festival is not only experienced physically but also digitally, by audiences anywhere in the world.”

He stressed that the initiative goes beyond visibility to deliver measurable impact.

“This is about building a sustainable cultural economy. Through strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and global media engagement, we will create value that benefits the community, supports local enterprises, and attracts investment.”

Mr. Badaru also underscored the importance of capacity building within the community.

“A key component of this initiative is empowering local youth with skills in digital media, content creation, and event technology. This ensures that the transformation is inclusive and that the benefits are felt across the community.”

Positioning Okosi Iwopin on the global stage

The agreement establishes a long-term framework for collaboration, spanning a diverse array of sustained effort to build the Okosi Iwopin Festival into a globally recognised brand.

Under the agreement, DTML assumes the role of Exclusive Strategic Partner for the digitalisation and promotion of the festival, while the Iwopin Kingdom preserves cultural stewardship and institutional support.

At its core, the partnership is about repositioning the Okosi Iwopin Festival as a flagship cultural event that reflects the richness of Nigeria’s heritage while embracing the possibilities of the digital future.

From the vibrant boat regatta that defines the festival to the intricate cultural expressions that accompany it, every element is set to be documented, preserved, and showcased to a global audience.

The initiative will leverage advanced media production, strategic marketing, and international partnerships to ensure that the festival gains visibility across key markets.

New era for cultural heritage in Nigeria

The agreement between the Kingdom of Iwopin and DTML signals a broader shift in how cultural heritage is approached in Nigeria, moving from preservation in isolation to promotion through innovation.

It represents a model that can be replicated across other cultural assets in the country, demonstrating how technology can be harnessed to unlock value while safeguarding tradition.

With the combined strength of traditional authority, creative expertise, and technological innovation, the festival is poised to become a symbol of cultural pride, economic opportunity, and international recognition.

In the words of His Royal Majesty: “The world will hear our story. The world will see our culture. And the world will know Iwopin.”