LIFESTYLE

MUMMY CALM DOWN: THE GROWING NEED FOR CEASEFIRE TALKS AND SYNERGY BETWEEN NIGERIAN JUVENILES AND THEIR PARENTS.

BY Sotubo Ayomide

05 August,2020

At the moment, no other Nigerian kid is as popular as 4 year old Oreoluwa Lawal Babalola, the mummy calm down crooner whose video has made his everyday life alluring to everyone.

While most Nigerian kids endure excruciating and incredulous punishments to serve as deterrent for the next possible misdemeanors they may be found culpable of, Oreoluwa has become a sensation on social media for the same reasons.

His first significant appearance on social media was in a video which his mother intended to show the world his incessant theatrics after he had supposedly defaulted.

It remains very common for most children to go through that sort of punishment from his mother by the dictates of the Nigerian social climate but we must all come to the full knowledge that the world is evolving.

Apparently, the young lad was more concerned about his mother’s well-being rather than escaping punishment for his misbehaviour.

The Case For Nigerian Juveniles Versus Their Parents

Most viewers would trivialise this video in the regards of entertainment or a publicity stunt but if the ensuing events that have happened since the breakout of that video is anything to go by, it is imperative that Oreoluwa has made serious progress in clearing the pathway for Nigerian children against child violence.

The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-olu has taken particular interest in this young and precious phenomenon. His mother, Mrs Toluige Olokoobi Babalola confirmed during a telephone conversation to presenters of female talk show, Your View on Thursday, July 30 that the governor has made contact with her and Oreoluwa.

Reports online and on social media also suggests that Oreoluwa has bagged an ambassadorial role with an NGO identified as Combat Domestic Violence and Abuse Foundation (CDVAF).
With such an immense progress recorded in an unexpected jiffy, the fact that Nigerian parents need to understand the psychology of their children cannot be better crystalized.

In age where there is a stregnth in depth for campaigns against child violence and even the most convincing reason to discipline a child could be misconstrued by an overtly conscious society, parents must now start looking for better ways to reprimand a precocious generation.

According to UNICEF, six out of 10 children experience child violence (which of course represents only the reported cases), fewer than 5 out of a 100 received any form of support.

Boys to men: Children have ambition too!!!

While speaking to City People TV in an Instagram live chat, Oreoluwa revealed that he would love to be a police officer in the future to join the movement to bring corruption to an end in Nigeria. We can begin to speculate just how many more Nigerian children have super ambitions but get cowered by the domineering effects of radical and ruthless parenting.
How long it will take to subdue such damning effects on the leaders of tomorrow remains to be seen but it is expedient that the government takes drastic steps in making this a comfortable reality.

What remains conflicting and unfounding about the entire scenario is the debateable nature of why his mother would resort to such extents in a bid to reprimand her child. Very many people would overlook and disregard her claims that it was more of an intent to scold him than domestic abuse. All that may not matter now as Mrs Toluige has come out to say the video went viral because her sister in the United States shared the video with her friends on social media and that parents should always leverage on any opportunity to bring the very best out of their children.

In a nation where arguably everybody needs to calm down, Nigerian parents need to calm down too.

12 PROMINENT PEOPLE WHO DIED IN JUNE 2020

These notable personalities may be no more, but their legacies and remarkable contributions will continue to live on.

Many of this month’s prominent personalities deaths were quite unexpected and very painful.

The month delivered unpleasant surprises for families of these deceased.

These notable personalities may be no more, but their legacies and remarkable contributions will continue to live on.

Many of this month’s prominent personalities deaths were quite unexpected and very painful.

The month delivered unpleasant surprises for families of these deceased.

These notable personalities may be no more, but their legacies and remarkable contributions will continue to live on.

1. Music legend, Majek Fashek

Legendary Nigerian singer, songwriter and guitarist, Majekodunmi Fasheke popularly known as Majek Fashek, died on the June 1.

According to reports, the “Send Down the Rain” crooner, aged 57 died in a hospital in New York on Monday June 1.

He was born in Benin City to an Edo mother and a Ijesha father, but identifies with his Benin roots.

The ‘rain maker’ as he his fondly called has worked with various artists worldwide including Tracy Chapman, Jimmy Cliff, Michael Jackson, Snoop Dogg, and Beyoncé.

Majek’s life and work are still prominently celebrated by Nigerian music fans and beyond. His legacy of excellence in music and worldwide impact through instrumentation will live imminently.

2. Former Ondo Gov, Bamidele Olumilua

Former governor of old Ondo State, Evangelist Bamidele Olumilua, also died in the month of June.

Olumilua died at 80 in his Ikere-Ekiti countryhome after a brief illness. It was gathered that the second civilian governor passed on few weeks after his 80th birthday.

The late Olumilua was the Governor of old Ondo State from January 1992 to November 1993 during the Third Republic.

He was elected under the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) until General Sani Abacha truncated civilian administration and restored a military regime.

3. Alhaji Abubakar Tsav

A former Commissioner of Police in Lagos state, Alhaji Abubakar Tsav also died in the month of June.

Tsav died at Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi.

He was buried in Makurdi according to Islamic rite.

4. Ibidun Ighodalo

The demise of Ibidun Ighodalo (nee Ajayi), wife of Senior Pastor of Trinity House Church, Ituah Ighodalo remains shocking to everyone.

The eye-turning Ibidun married Pastor Ituah Ighodalo 13 years ago when the latter’s first wife left.

The late Mrs. Ighodalo was Founder/CEO of Elizabeth P, Nigeria’s top events planning company and Ibidunni Ighodalo Foundation, a non-profit organisation created to raise awareness on issues of infertility in couples.

Ibidun, 40, is survived by her husband and two kids.

5. Lagos Senator Bayo Osinowo

The Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Sikiru Adebayo Osinowo also died in the month of June.

Popularly known as Pepperito, he was a member of the Lagos House of Assembly for four consecutive terms from 2003 to 2019.

He died in the early hours of Monday.

Survived by wife and children, the late Osinowo was 65.

6. Emeritus Prof Akinkugbe

Emeritus Professor Oladipo Akinkugbe also died in the month of June, 2020.

The late Akinkugbe, a foremost Nigerian professor of Medicine at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, Oyo State, died in the ancient city.

He was 86.

The late Akinkugbe was the Chairman of the Board of Management of University College Hospital, Ibadan, and one-time Chairman of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

He served as Pro-Chancellor, University of Port Harcourt; former Vice Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria; former Vice Chancellor, University of Ilorin; and former Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Ibadan.

Before hanging the stethoscope, Akinkugbe practised medicine for 60 years during which he pioneered the establishment of two critical clinics, one in hypertension and the other in renal disorders at the UCH, Ibadan. Both clinics were firsts in Africa.

7. American radio presenter Dan Foster dies

Popular Nigerian-American broadcaster, Dan Foster also died in the month of June.

The late Foster, real name Daniel Foster, is a Nigerian-based American radio personality, formerly an Idol series judge who held a similar position with the Got Talent franchise.

Foster, better known as Big Dawg, worked with numerous radio stations, including Cathy Hughes Radio One, Mix 106.5, both in America, and Virgin Island-based WTBN, before moving to Nigeria in 2000 where he joined Cool FM and quickly became popular among Nigerian listeners.

In May 2016, Dan Foster left City FM 105.1 to join Classic FM 97.3 radio station where he worked until his demise.

Foster had a son, Joshua, from his previous marriage. Now married to a Nigerian, Lovina, the couple are parents of daughter Daniella and son Somtochukwu.

8. President Kogi Customary Court of Appeal

The President of Kogi Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Ibrahim Shaibu Atadoga also died in the month of June.

Report had it that Atadoga, who was called to the Bar in 1986, died after a brief illness.

Atadoga, who had been in private practice since he was called to Bar, hailed from Omala LGA of Kogi State.

He was said to be instrumental to the creation of the Customary Court of Appeal in the state.

Atadoga became popular when he swore-in Capt. Idris Wada as Governor following a controversial court verdict, which gave room for two Governors as the then Speaker Abdullahi Bello was also sworn-in by the Chief Judge, Justice Nasiru Ajanah.

9. Abiola Ajimobi

The immediate past Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi also died in the month of June.

The former Chief Executive Officer, National Oil and Chemical Marketing Company, a subsidiary of Shell Nigeria, died due to underlying health conditions.

The late Ajimobi was born on December 16, 1949 to the Ajimobi family of Ibadan at Oja-Iba, Ibadan.

He completed his primary education at Ibadan City Council Primary School, Aperin.

He studied Business Administration and Finance at the State University of New York, in Buffalo.

He married Florence Ajimobi in 1980. He had five children. He was a senator from 2003 to 2007.

He became the first Oyo State governor to serve two terms (2011-2019).

10. Nollywood veteran Ogun Majek

Popular Yoruba actor, Gbolagade Akinpelu popularly known as Ogun Majek, also died in the month of June.

The Nation gathered he died at his Imalefalafia, Oke-Ado, Ibadan home.

The actor battled prolonged-sickness before his eventual demise.

11. Kogi State Chief Judge (CJ), Justice Nasir Ajanah

Kogi State Chief Judge (CJ), Justice Nasir Ajanah, also died in the month of June.

The chief law officer hailed from Okehi Local Government Area of the state.

He was 64. The late Justice Ajanah was appointed CJ in 2009 under former Governor Ibrahim Idris.

12. Chief Bode Akindele

The Parakoyi of Ibadanland and Chairman, Madandola Group, Chief Bode Akindele, died on the 29th of June.

Akindele, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, died in his Apapa, Lagos home. He was 88.

President Muhammadu Buhari described the death of Chief Akindele as an irreparable loss to the country

Similarly, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde said Akindele’s death was a great loss to the state and country.

SOURCE: PHOENIX

2020: THE CURRENT STATE OF THE WORLD

By Ezeana Emmanuel

2020 is without a doubt a year that will not be forgotten so easily. A lot of battles have been fought the past few months and a number of lives have been lost as well.

Ever since the outbreak of the deadly corona virus also known as Covid-19, tension ran high among individuals as this deadly virus spreads easily and at an alarming rate. In an attempt to decrease the spread of this disease, Governments worldwide issued a lockdown and restriction on the movements of its citizens to minimize the spread of the disease.

Awareness about this disease, its method of spreading, its symptoms and ways of prevention has also been made known to the public through Public Service Announcements. Sadly, Lives have been lost to this Virus but authorities are working as fast as they can to produce a cure.

Interestingly, the Corona virus is not the only thing the world is fighting today. The past six months has been really challenging for most and the tension has created a lot of issues ranging from political discord to Twitter Drama. This article will be discussing most of the not so subtle issues the world is battling alongside the Covid-19.

Fake News
Saddening but not surprising, a lot of fake news are spread concerning the case of this corona virus. News such as this spread unnecessary panic among individuals. Some of this false information are even used to exploit others with promises of reward.

A lot of this detestable stories presents false information with multiple stories involving the origins of the Novel Virus, false information about it’s spread and conspiracy theories about the creation of the virus and it’s link with modern 5g Network. A lot of these stories have triggered panic in no small way.

Social media handles in which information are being spread are doing their possible best to minimize the spread of toxic information on their Social Network. Fact checkers are also doing the best they can in exposing false information and conveying authentic stories.

Racism
It is apparent that racial discrimination is still a thing of the present and the death to George Floyd, A Black American citizen, is a testament to this. A video portraying White American arresting George Floyd over a $20 bill quickly became graphic as the white police officer, Derek Chauvin, held in place his knee on the neck of the black American. Chauvin did this for a period of 8 minutes and 46 seconds, despite the pleadings of Floyd that he couldn’t breathe. Floyd died as a result of suffocation and racial discrimination that day.

Ever since the incident protests have erupted and continued till this point. Floyd was not the only one to lose his life to discrimination. The likes of Breonna Taylor, Dominique Clayton, Eric Reason and a few others lost their lives this past month to whites.
It is appalling to know racial discrimination and inequality still exists in our era
Citizens across several cities across the US have taken to the streets in an all out protest. Also in Australia, France and the Netherlands. Even in the UK where thousands gathered in central London. The trend still continues on twitter. #Blacklivesmatter
The officers involved in the killing of George Floyd are currently being persecuted with second degree murder

Sexual Violence
Another trend a lot closer to home is the issue of sexual Violence more commonly known as rape. #JusticeforUwa as also being trending on Twitter for some time now. Vera Uwaila Omazuwa, the victim of the assault, was a microbiology student, who in the solace of her church studied every morning between the hours 5:30 and 6. It is quite unfortunate that she would be assaulted in religious center during early hours.
Uwa was found unconscious in a pool of blood, by the Church security guard. She was rushed to the hospital but kicked the bucket three days later
Nigerians are outraged by the gruesome murder of the 22 years old and stormed various social media networks to express their disapproval especially on twitter with the hash tag #Saynotorape.

We are just 6 months into the year of 2020 and Covid-19 is not the only threat to human life we are fighting at this point. Each threats as deadly as the next. While Governments around the world are in controversy over the vaccination and cure of the corona virus, its citizens are contending with the violent acts around them claiming as much lives as the virus itself.

And as inaccurate reports about revolts and other news events floods social media, it becomes evident that the plague is just one of many battles to be fought

PERSONALITY PROFILE: ISAAC ROTIMI AKEREDOLU

By Akeredolu Damilola

ISAAC ROTIMI AKEREDOLU; Life, Ministry, Biography

Isaac Rotimi Akeredolu is the Senior Pastor of Christ’s Followers’ Mission whose headquarter is located in Lagos, Nigeria. He is the convener of Wise Words Media, which started in 2005 with a mandate by God “To Raise a Wise Generation”.

Early Life

Isaac Rotimi Akeredolu was born on April 22nd. He is a native of Isinbode, in Ekiti- East LGA of Ekiti State. He is the first child of the family of Bishop Jacob and Pastor (Mrs) Victoria Akeredolu who founded Christ’s Followers’ Mission in April 1974.

Isaac Akeredolu had his tertiary education at Lagos State University where he graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Biochemistry in 1997.

Career and Ministry
In 1996, Isaac Akeredolu was called to ministry to be a pastor. As at then, he was a devout Christian who loved God, but was not ready to be a pastor. After series of dreams, revelations and confirmation from men of God and personal conviction, he went on to become a pastor in Christ’s Followers’ Mission in 1998 and was posted to a branch of the church in 2001. He was into business while serving as a minister but in 2009 he became a full time pastor. In 2012, he was ordained by Bishop Jacob Akeredolu as the General Overseer of Christ’s Followers’ Mission.
He attended Word Of Faith Bible Institute {WOFBI} in 2001 and Daystar Leadership Institute in 2005.

His mentors are Bishop David Oyedepo and Dr. Pastor Paul Enenche. And his spiritual fathers are Prophet Samson Gbemiga of CAPEM, Rev Bayo Folarin of Divine Christian Assembly, Rev Emmanuel Oludayitan of New Creature Evangelical Church and his biological father Bishop Jacob Akeredolu who mentored him into the ministry.
He has authored “Endless Victories”, “Upon Mount Zion” and he authors a daily devotional “Wise-Words Capsule” quarterly.

Personal Life:
Isaac Rotimi Akeredolu is married to Mary Amosu now Favour Akeredolu who is also a preacher of God’s word and an educational consultant. Together, they have three children.

5 AMAZING FACTS ABOUT NIGERIA

By Gbadamosi Joseph

The pendulum of continuous Critism may have prevented us from noticing a few amazing facts about our dear Country, Nigeria. Truth be told, these are but a few compared to the number of wonderful facts about this nation. Nevertheless, you will find this interesting.

1. Nigeria is home to seven percent (7%) of the total languages spoken on earth. Taraba state alone has more languages than 30 African countries. The importance of this fact is appreciated when one understands that language is the “soul of culture” (as Ngugi wa Thiongo famously said). It is language that births the proverbs, riddles, stories and other aspects of culture that give us identity. UNESCO puts forward that the world’s languages represents an extraordinary wealth of creativity. Linguistic diversity correlates with cultural diversity. This means Nigeria can look inwards and drive itself to become the greatest hub for cultural tourism on earth, and consequently empower its citizens tremendously in the process.

2. The Walls of Benin (800-1400AD), in present day Edo State, are the longest ancient earthworks in the world, and probably the largest man-made structure on earth. They enclose 6500 square kilometers of community lands that connected about 500 communities. At over 16000km long, it was thought to be twice the length of the Great Wall of China, until it was announced in 2012 (after five years of meticulous measurement by Chinese surveyors) that the Great Wall is about 21,000km long.

3. The Yoruba tribe has the highest rate of twin births in the world. Igbo-Ora, a little town in Oyo state, has been nicknamed Twin capital of the World because of its unusually high rate of twins that is put as high as 158 twins per 1000 births. In a video I watched last year on YouTube presented by Titi (a white lady who speaks Yoruba), and which was centred on twin births in Igbo-Ora, one of the locals boasted that every family in the town has at least one twin!

4. Sarki Muhammad Kanta The Great of Kebbi, was the only ruler who resisted control by Songhai, West Africa’s greatest empire at that time. He founded and ruled the Hausa city-state of Kebbi around 1600 A.D and built Surame its capital, a planned city which was almost impossible to penetrate during war. In fact UNESCO describes Surame as “one of the wonders of human history, creativity and ingenuity”, and probably the most massive stone-walled constructions in West Africa. He is listed in Robin Walker’s 50 Greatest Africans.

5. Africa’s oldest known boat is The Dufuna canoe which was discovered in Dufuna village, Yobe state, by a Fulani Herdsman in May 1987, while he dug a well. Various radio-carbon tests conducted in laboratories of reputable universities in Europe and America indicate that the canoe is over 8,000 years old, thus making it the oldest in Africa and 3rd oldest in the world. The discovery of the canoe has completely changed accepted theories of the history and sophistication of marine technology in Africa.

THE ANCIENT TRIBE IN NIGERIA THAT BELIEVE IN GIVING WOMEN AS GIFTS

By Toyin Johnson

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Koma people are indigenous hill-dwelling people occupying the Alantika Mountains in northern Adamawa State in Nigeria and in Northern Cameroon at southwestern side (Faro National Park ) of the border at Adamawa State.

The Koma people have been hiding in their mountainous habitat for years but their existence was officially discovered in 1986 by a corps member.

When the Koma tribe was discovered the people described them as primitive, naked people, backward people and pagans. In fact, the mountain on which Koma resides was named  Alantika  which in Kanuri language means ‘Allah hasn’t yet arrived’ due to the fact that the Koma tribal people living in the Alantika Mountains keep their traditional African religion and their ancient traditions despite being surrounded by Islamic societies in the nearby Faro Valley.

The people of Koma in the Northern part of Adamawa State, who speak Shamba language are of the belief that if women wear clothes, they would incur the wrath of the gods which may lead to their death or barrenness.

It was also revealed that as a mark of acceptance, a Koma man may share his wife with friends, especially visitors.

COVID-19: WHAT DOES THE FUTUTE HOLD?

By Sanyaolu Yemisi

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There is no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic has put a hold on the lives of almost everyone irrespective of plans which have been put in place for the year 2020.

The pandemic has affected schools, corporate organizations, entrepreneurs, traders and the likes. This for sure will leave a long lasting mark on our lives.

One major effect the pandemic will have on people is improved virtual communication. Organizations have resolved to making use of online apps such as teams and zoom in carrying out meetings and they also have no choice but to trust their staff to work from home.

Schools also are making use of these apps to have online classes with students and business men and women have found it very necessary to have their businesses on social media. The chances of these mediums being used after the pandemic is high because people are getting to realise that you do not need to meet physically with anyone to get tasks done.

Although people have started communicating virtually, jobs are done slower than normal because we are not used to the system yet.

People are also likely to loose their jobs after the pandemic, especially those working with private organizations because it will take a while to recover the lost days and they may not have enough to cater for a large number of staff.

There is also likely to be a hike in the price of everything because the pandemic has greatly affected the economy of the country.

This period has kept everyone on their toes, to strategize and make plans in order to survive, also to come out of the usual and try new ways of doing things. One thing is sure though, things will never be the same.

IBASA-NLA YOUTHS EXPRESS GRIEF OVER POOR DRAINAGE SYSTEM AMONGST OTHERS

By Ahmod Oladejo

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The youths of the Ibasa-nla community of Oto-Awori LCDA have expressed discomfort in the bad condition of the drainage system of their Environs amongst other irregularities in the community.

In an interview with the youth leader, Mr Anthony Ogidiagba, he relayed that the community is facing a number of challenges ranging from poor drainage system to bad road to epileptic power supply, etc.

“We are currently facing a number of challenges such as bad road, poor drainage system, etc, and it is really affecting us. For example, when it begins to rain heavily now, we have no good drainage system to channel water to the canal, our roads become water logged, making it difficult for cars to pass easily”

The youths emphasized the need for the LCDA to help the critical conditions of the community as it cannot be fully curtailed by the residents of Ibasa-nla. The youth leader added that they have sent a number of complaint to the LCDA as regards the abysmal condition of their community and they have been no response so far.

“We have made some complaint at the LCDA informing them of the poor state of our community, and we still await their response till now”, he said.

Despite government’s negligence towards improving the state of the community, the youths have unanimously decided and took action with the aim of proffering solutions to their problems and in consequence build the future they want. The actions of ensuring the safety, cleanliness and healthy outlook of the community was a decision taken by youths of Ibasa-nla resolving to collectively work together.

As part of their first project, on Saturday, 2nd May, 2020 they extended the abandoned drainage system at Jimoh Aiyeleru street, cleared all bushes in the surrounding, ensured the available gutters were flowing easily, etc.

They have also noted that they would continue to embark on other projects in the community if the LCDA decides to be irresponsive to their plights in the community.

According to the Youth Leader, other projects in the community in need of prompt attention includes street light and sand filling of the water logged roads which will be executed in the coming weeks.

THE STORY OF LASU’S HUMAN CALCULATOR

By Gbadamosi Joseph

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From the early days of primary education, arithmetics has been known to be the fear and dread of many students. The multiplication table was indeed an herculean task for some. One of the indexes used to know geniuses then was their ability to recount the multiplication table off hand from 1 to 12.

Who would have thought it possible to find a man that could solve any mathematical problem without the use of any equipment, a man who needs his mental faculties alone to solve any sum in very few minutes, a man of numbers, a unique breed. I present to you MR. TELLA MICHAEL JOLADE, a graduate of GEOGRAPHY and planning, lagos state university, popularly known as “THE HUMAN CALCULATOR”.

Mr. Jolade became aware of his ability to become a human calculator at the age of 12. He noticed he could recite the multiplication table at the age of 7 without missing any numbers. Gaining admission into the lagos State University, Mr. Jolade made sure he did not see himself as special and admitted the fact that though he was a genius at sums he was not an island of knowledge. This attitude earned him respect and love from his colleagues.

 During an interview with our reporter he said “I almost gave up on my gift when I was discouraged by someone who I looked up to. She told me things that almost ruined my chance of utilizing my gift because of a baseless reason. But I’m happy that I was able to look beyond what she said then.”

“My futuristic intent is to become a programmer and a data Analyst, and also to teach people the simplest way to do what I do, if possible up to my level. That will be my way of giving back to my society.” He said.

When asked who his role models were he said “ My role models are Philip Emeweali who is a programmer and physicist in the U.S, Donald Trump, Robert Kiyosaki, Mr. Jeoarioge Olaniyi, Keanu Reeves.”

 This is his advice to everyone who is gifted but shy to use their gifts, “ I will tell them this, if they don’t want their children to look down on them, they need to use their gifts because if they don’t, they will regret it.

In every individual, it is said, resides a purpose for his very existence. This purpose can be traced by the inherent gifts and talents of the individual. Mr. Jolade found his gift and built on it. As an undergraduate he was called for a multitude of programmes to exhibit his talent. Often times he would tell anybody in the audience to come up with a sum and he would solve it with the individual checking the calculator to confirm his answer. His fame grew and so did his gift. Mr. Jolade found out his uniqueness and built it to a point of relevance. But what about you? Yes, you reading this. What are your gifts?, What are your abilities?, do not let them go to waste. You owe this to yourself, parents and everyone who ever believed in you.

MY EXPERIENCE AT A LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

By Gbadamosi Joseph

Have you ever been in a situation where it seemed like you were completely out of place? You began to ask yourself questions like “What on earth am I doing here? How do I blend? How do I give the best impression of myself?  Sometimes we end up making terrible mistakes we regret later on in life. Mistakes that could have been avoided in the first place. You see, life is about learning. We keep learning each and every day of our lives. Truly, there is nothing that can’t be learnt. One of the most erroneous ideologies in our ever developing society is the mindset that some are intelligent enough to learn while some are not. Develop the attitude of learning and there is nothing you cannot achieve. My name is GBADAMOSI JOSEPH and I hope that by sharing with you my experience at a leadership conference you see the need to step out of your comfort zone and take your world by storm.

I arrived at RADINSON BLU Hotel, Ikeja at exactly 11:30 am with expectations as high as the skies. These expectations had been ignited by a friend of mine who spoke about the conference in high tones. Armed with my ticket I asked the Gateman for directions as to the particular hall the conference was taking place. He directed me and I thanked him profusely.

I stood in front of the first elevator waiting for the security personnel to complete his search of my belongings Goodness! I was excited. It was a five star hotel, the pinnacle of the Hotel rose high into the skies.

As we stood in front of the elevator and the security personnels checked all our belongings to ensure we meant no harm, I quickly dusted my trousers, checked my shirt and made sure my shoes were looking good to go.

“Joseph stop! It’s a leadership conference not Paradise” Ayo said trying to hide his own excitement.

As soon as we were done we were led into the main hall. My goodness, it was huge! There were huge chandeliers dropping from the ceilings, the highest form of sophistication I had seen in a while. There were a few stairs spiraling from the center of the hall into ‘GOD KNOWS WHERE’.  The look on Ayo’s face was pure gold. I laughed out loud. We were definitely going to get lost.

I took a moment to glance around at the busy men and women floating around like they owned the world, their dressing were top notch. Standing there it was easy to forget you were in one of the most corrupt and poverty stricken countries in the world. Suddenly, I looked at my dressing. I was a bit disappointed but I swore I would be more prepared next time. A man swayed in with three ridiculously young girls dressed as harlots. They had obviously booked a room. I and Ayo exchanged glances, the same thought crossing our minds.

After walking up and down a couple of stairs, almost barging into a very important room, and standing in front of lifts like we knew what we were doing we finally decided to ask for directions from the main secretary at the entrance.

“Good morning ma, please we are here for ‘INBUILT 2019’ by ‘THE UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD’.”

“Oh, just walk down that road and turn right. You will see a couple of lifts. Walk to the first one by the right and punch in the number 5” She replied revealing a perfect set of teeth.

Finally, we made it to the hall. It was a glamorous setting. Seated were men and women of various calibers, colours and sizes. Some white, some Chinese, some Black. It was a beautiful sight indeed.

The First session had already began. I and my friend were late all thanks to our ego. The teacher was a Female Nigerian with beautiful hair and a silky voice. Using a slide show she rambled on and on about famous leaders who changed the world. As I looked down my eyes transfixed on her legs. She had a problem with one leg that prevented her from walking properly. I looked up. I had gotten my first lesson of the day. ‘NEVER LET YOUR LIMITATIONS STOP YOU FROM ACHIEVING YOUR DREAMS’.

“Leadership is about ordinary people doing extra-ordinary things. An aspect of leadership is followership. Transformative leadership is geared to spark a global positive change.” She said

“The likes of Abraham Lincoln, Barrack Obama and others were all ordinary people that decided to do something extra-ordinary.”

I payed rapt attention and completely ignored everybody around me. I was there for a purpose and no one was going to distract me. No one, not even the group of stunning ladies chit chatting right in front of me.

“I am currently a representative of the University of Bradford in some exclusive affairs. I did not get here by chance. I consciously worked and developed myself to a point of relevance.”

“The University of Bradford has just introduced a couple of courses. An example is the recent course on conflict resolution which has been in popular demand. Please if interested, do well to register at the stand.”

Out of pure curiosity I strolled to the stand and asked for details of the registration. After few minutes of scrolling through pages of millions of Naira, I swallowed and humbly went back to my seat.

It was Lunch time!. It was a buffet service. In front of me lay a sophisticated and apparently delicious set of Dishes. From Jollof rice to Chinese Rice, From Spaghetti to a weird looking noodle I quickly walked past. The most beautiful set of meals I had seen. After serving ourselves to our fill, we were arranged and placed on specific tables with a different topic each. On each Table was a facilitator to teach us a particular topic. Mine was a white woman who taught on BRANDING. It was eye opening but most of my attention was channeled towards the face of the woman and the intense feeling of doom that brooded over me whispering in my ears “Joseph, you will mess up soon. You will not hold the cutleries well, You will smile too much, your English will not be good enough”. With a gentle shrug I pushed the fears away and looked up. Ayo had finished his food and was going to get more for himself. “This guy does not seize to amaze me” I said to myself, laughing inwardly. Looking down, I concentrated on my chicken.

 “Alright Ladies and Gentlemen it is time to network and get to meet yourselves!” I nearly dropped my fork. I was still ransacking my brain for a sort of magical formula that will make it easy to blend with these high class people when I heard a soothing angelic voice coming from my right hand side. “Hey handsome, how are you doing?” a stunning looking girl strode towards me. I looked back, no, it could not be me. But I was the one. She wore a gold dress embroidered with patterns only worthy of the best designers, her skin glowed in the light. She dressed to Kill.

“Oh, I’m Joseph. May I meet you?” I said standing up and holding my cup like I owned the world. If I was going to be here for the next few hours, I should at least make the most of it.

It turned out she was a popular voice in the world of fashion. Surprisingly we connected very well though I found her phonetics intimidating. I told her about some of my dreams and aspirations and it turned out we had like minds. Not long after we met lunch time came to a close. We quickly exchanged contacts.

The next sessions that followed were block busters. I learnt a lot. It was indeed memorable.

As I sat in the public bus transporting me back to my hostel from Ikeja, I ruminated on all I had learnt that day. One lesson stood out “TO BECOME SUCCESSFUL YOU NEED RELATIONSHIPS”. It sounded so loud in my ears I looked around for a moment in a dream like trance. Success is not a game of luck. You must be ready to pay the price of sacrifice, you must be ready to work, be focused on your dreams, consciously build solid relationships for no man is an island of knowledge and the sky will be your limit. Life is not designed to give you what you want but what you give. That day I knew that there were people who were doing really well in this terribly talked down country. From then onwards I ignored everyone who said it is not possible to make it in Nigeria. I got down from the bus and thanked Ayo profusely. Looking around me, I noticed the sharp contrast between the two environments I had been to in one day. Silently I whispered, with a will so strong my fists clenched “I refuse to live a life of mediocrity!, I will be successful!. I will make my family, friends and everyone whoever believed in me proud!. I owe them that much!.

P.S: If you found this helpful please comment underneath with @Leadership Conference. Thank you

THE STORY OF THE WOMAN AT THE BACK OF 20 NAIRA NOTE (LADI KWALI)

By Oluwatoyin Johnson

• 

Creativity belongs to the artist in each of us. To create means to relate. The root meaning of the word art is “to fit together” and we all do this every day.

Dr Ladi Kwali is one of the most creative woman in Nigeria, and an exceptional potter. If you are wondering who this woman is you don’t have to wonder anymore.

Dr HADIZA LADI KWALI was born in the village of KWALI in the Gwaru region of Northern Nigeria,where pottery was a common occupation among women. She was an exceptional and excellent potter who made beautiful potteries.

She lived all her life practicing pottery craft in kwali village,where she caught the attention of a white man who loved her potteries and helped her show case her art around the world.

She was later invited to the united kingdom despite her informal education to teach students art work as an external tutor.

LADI was awarded an MBE (Member of the order British Empire) In 1962 an honorary doctoral degree from Ahmadu Bello university, Zaria in 1977.

In 1980,the Nigerian Government invested on her with an insignia of the Nigerian National Order of merit award(NNOM) the highest national honor for academic achievement,she also received the national honour of the officer of the order of the Niger (OON) in 1981.

Dr LADI KWALI died on August 12,1984 at the age of 59. She did not have any children but she left a Great legacy in her work.

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EGUNGUN MASQUERADES EXTORT IBA JUNCTION INHABITANTS

By Gbadamosi Joseph

The Inhabitants of Iba junction, Lagos have shown profound displeasure towards the recent activities of the popular masquerade known as EGUNGUN. They claim that not only does it happen weekly but it is simply a means for extortion of inhabitants.

The Question of whether this is simply a religious practice or a means for extortion can only be answered by the indigenes and inhabitants of this community.

Quadri Sultan, a 300 level student of the Lagos state university who resides in Iba Junction area during an interview complained bitterly saying

“I believe this activity is not for cultural purposes. The purpose is not Cultural. They are not celebrating the festival, they just come out when they are broke to extort people”

When asked whether he had experienced a confrontation, he replied “They have flogged me once”.

It so happens that what worries the inhabitants the most is that it happens weekly and sometimes daily. An interviewee who chose to be anonymous said

” It is simply a means for extortion. If not then it should not happen everyday. They stop everyone they see on the way. I was coming back from school one day when I was stopped. I had to pretend like I was one of them to escape”.

“I believe this is a degradation of the culture. They have bastardized the entire purpose of the festival”. Says Quadri Sultan

The Egungun Festival has been valued over the years in Yoruba land. Citizens of Nigeria have come to respect the masquerade. To disrupt such a sacred activity in order to extort people is not only an abuse and degradation of the culture but a threat to the inhabitants of the community in question. If Nothing is done about this like a virus it might spread and we hope that by then it will not be too late.

FALLEN ANGEL

BY Gbadamosi Joseph

• 

If hell is real, then that’s my wish. To live a life full of pain and anguish is worse than hell. My Name is Angel and this is my story.

It all started on a fateful Saturday. The wind blew so strongly through my bedroom window as if to make a point. I turned over on my little mattress determined that no one,not even the wind will disturb my blissful sleep. This hope was soon to be cut short as my mother’s voice resounded like thunder through the corridor of our 2 bedroom flat.

“Angel!, Angel!!, Angel!!!, can’t you hear your name?”

She was always the strict type. Never taking the proper upbringing of her children for granted.

“Look at the time you are waking up from sleep. A good number of your age mates are already on the road making money for their parents.”

Though her statements were sometimes strong ,i knew deep within me that she did all she did because she wanted the best for us. I never for once rose my voice against her.

“I am going out to get foodstuffs for the family. Ensure the house is very tidy when I return.”

It was the custom for my mum to go shopping every weekend for provisions that will keep the family till the following week. My Father died when I was just 5 years old so my uncle stayed with my Mum and my junior brother as tradition demands.

As soon as my Mum finished talking I got to work. I had been cleaning the living room for about 10 minutes when I suddenly sensed a presence behind me. I paused for a moment and looked back. Standing at the entrance to the living room was my Uncle staring at me in a very obscure manner. After few minutes he sat down.

“Angel, come sit on my Laps” He said

Being a smart but naive 9 year old I was only too glad.

“You know you are a very good girl. I want you to do something for me” He began

I looked up

“Give me your hands”

Holding my hands he began to caress his thighs. He kissed me on my cheek and was about lifting up my skirt when he heard the main door shut very loudly. That could only be my Mum. The speed at which my Uncle jumped left me astonished.

My mum apparently forgot her handbag containing the list of foodstuffs hence her quick return.

***

The Following Monday during basic science class,Jss 1b, I noticed that my teacher’s stomach was bulging. Some of the students were gossiping that she was pregnant. About 20 minutes into the class I asked a question. Being the brightest student in my class everyone paid attention.

“How do people get pregnant?” I asked

Lightening flashed across my teacher’s face

“What made you ask such a question?” She asked

“I am just curious ma” was my reply

“Listen attentively…” Mrs Sandra began the statement that destroyed my future

“…Whenever a boy touches you,you will get pregnant immediately!”

As expected the class was thrown into a frenzy. It was a very sorry sight to behold. Boys running from girls,girls running from boys. No one wanted to be pregnant. Apparently they all took my teacher’s words as the gospel truth. I went back home that day not satisfied with the answer I got but since there was no one to provide a better answer I had to make do with what I got. I began to avoid my Uncle like a plague.

My Uncle tried again. This was about 3 months after his first attempt. He had touched me a number of times and being curious I began to wonder why I was not pregnant yet. My stomach was still as flat as normal. I concluded that my class teacher had been lying to me and so when my Uncle called me to His room one weekend and began to touch my private parts I did not refuse. Had I known! O Had I known!.

This began a series of sexual exploits by my Uncle. Every weekend was an opportunity and he made the most use of it. By the time I was taught how girls got pregnant it was too late. I had already become a sex addict. I never had access to the right informations on time.

I write this story from the Hospital ward at “DR EMEKA SPECIALIST CENTRE”. I am currently a first class student of the prestigious “EXCELLENCE UNIVERSITY”I can’t hold back the tears that stream down my face. I had just recently been diagnosed of HIV. As if that is not enough I am carrying a baby. A young man passes by and drops a pamphlet in my laps. As I read the contents my tears pour out in torrents.

“Do you know you have sexual Rights?, Do you know that you have a right to your body?, Do you know that even if you have to have sex there are contraceptives that can be used to avoid infections and unwanted pregnancies?…”

I can’t change my fate. I have made the mistake already. But I plead with whoever is reading this article to know their rights. I plead with parents to please give their children the proper knowledge before it’s too late. I plead with you to not destroy your future out of ignorance and pleasure.

FIRST CASE OF CORONA VIRUS DISEASE CONFIRMED IN NIGERIA

, February 28, 2020

The Federal Ministry of Health has confirmed a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) case in Lagos State, Nigeria. The case, which was confirmed on the 27th of February 2020, is the first case to be reported in Nigeria since the beginning of the outbreak in China in January 2020.  The case is an Italian citizen who works in Nigeria and returned from Milan, Italy to Lagos, Nigeria on the 25th of February 2020. He was confirmed by the Virology Laboratory of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, part of the Laboratory Network of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control. The patient is clinically stable, with no serious symptoms, and is being managed at the Infectious Disease Hospital in Yaba, Lagos.   The Government of Nigeria, through the Federal Ministry of Health has been strengthening measures to ensure an outbreak in Nigeria is controlled and contained quickly. The multi-sectoral Coronavirus Preparedness Group led by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has immediately activated its national Emergency Operations Centre and will work closely with Lagos State Health authorities to respond to this case and implement firm control measures. I wish to assure all Nigerians that have we have been beefing up our preparedness capabilities since the first confirmation of cases in China, and we will use all the resources made available by the government to respond to this case. We have already started working to identify all the contacts of the patient, since he entered Nigeria. Please be reminded that most people who become infected may experience only mild illness and recover easily, but it can be more severe in others, particularly the elderly and persons with other underlying chronic illnesses. All Nigerians should take care of their health and maintain hand and respiratory hygiene to protect themselves and others, including their own families, following the precautions below: 

1.    Regularly and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water, and use alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

2.    Maintain at least 1 & half metres (5 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

3. Persons with persistent cough or sneezing should stay home or keep a social distance, but not mix in crowd.

4. Make sure you and people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene, meaning cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or into your sleeve at the bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.

5. Stay home if you feel unwell with symptoms like fever, cough and difficulty in breathing. Please call NCDC toll free number which is available day and night, for guidance- 0800-970000-10. Do not engage in self-medication 

6. Stay informed on the latest developments about COVID-19 through official channels on TV and Radio, including the Lagos State Ministry of Health, NCDC and Federal Ministry of Health. Citizens must not abuse social media and indulge in spreading misinformation that causes fear and panic. The Federal Ministry of Health, through Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, will continue to provide updates and will initiate all measures required to prevent the spread of any outbreak in Nigeria.

Dr Osagie EhanireHon.

Minister of Health

SOLDIERS:A BLESSING OR A CURSE TO THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY?

Gbadamosi Joseph

If the weapon turns against the carrier,nothing but doom is in stock. Sadly,many Nigerians are of the opinion that this is the calamity that befalls our dear Nation. Are our soldiers defending or oppressing us? Are they our shield or our enemy? Have our soldiers been of positive or negative influence to the Nation and it’s citizens? Come with me as we explore the intricacies of this dire situation.

Violence is one character trait everyone seems to agree flows through the veins of this armed men. Though some may blame it on the training and the experiences they go through in the course of their profession,nevertheless it is a germain issue that should be looked into.

Mr Omolade during an interview said “I have had a very bad experience with soldiers. They unlawfully forced my neighbour to pack out of her house. I tried to defend her but I was beaten mercilessly in the process”.  

Opemipo Isaih,an alumni of command secondary school who enrolled for a 2 year training course to get into The Nigerian Defence Academy said “It is sad. They are trained to defend and they forget this. The military are seen as gods. I was brought up in a military environment. In my 6 years in this setting I have noticed that the uniform is seen as an intoxication.

Adelowokan Precious,CEO preshy inspirations said “I believe they are doing their job to the best of my knowledge but sometimes they go to the extreme by killing innocent people.

“They are a neccessary evil” says Mr Omolade

“They cheat on civilians hence the saying ‘bloody civilians’. Tell me, why do civilians pay almost twice the fee military students pay in military schools”. Mr Omolade

Irresponsibility and lack of proper understanding of roles are some of the factors a good number of Nigerians believe contributes to the negative behaviour of some soldiers.

“Soldiers should be in their barracks.They should handle more of defence” Says Mr Omolade

“There is no clear definition of roles hence the disrespect or undermining of soldiers”.Mr Omolade

“They should be on the road only if there is an emergency. We have various bodies for various responsibilities. Examples are SARS,EFCC and so forth.” Opeyemi Isaih

When asked for their opinion on the issue of people disrespecting soldiers Mr Gbadamosi, a successful business man said “The moment soldiers started planning coups their respect diminished. Their involvement in politics has reduced the respect people have for them. These guys have destroyed the economy”.

“I can’t talk for every civilian but personally I have never and will never undermine a military man”. Opeyemi Isaih

“Yes soldiers are not given the respect they deserve because they don’t have respect for themselves. If they respect themselves I am very sure people will respect them”. Adelowokan Precious

Nevertheless we would be doing our soldiers injustice if we also decide to ignore the challenges of these men.They undergo a lot of training,they get to fight wars for the country. Often times when these courageous men and women get back they have one health issue or the other. It is the responsibility of the Government to take care of this. There should be re-habilitation programmes to ensure they are still in the right frame of mind. Special attention should be paid to their welfare. They’ve sacrificed a lot. They deserve more.

This is not to say that their training justifies their actions but if all these factors are put into consideration and the Government provides for the effective welfare of her soldiers, if the soldiers are effectively put in check,if responsibilities are clearly stated, only then can we truly hope for the Nigeria of our dreams.