SUNDAY, MARCH 19, 2017
Dr. Halima Muqadass A medical practitioner with a purpose A PUBLICATION OF
Hi there!
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hiffon has been rocked on and offred carpet events glamorously and effortlessly too. This timeless piece of material is chic and an essential piece of clothing every fashion diva needs in her wardrobe. Coming in all different patterns and colours, there is something for every lady to suit your fashion idea. Aftershaves have become a fashion accessory for every man’s drawer because of its promise of that masculine scent. With the boost of confidence and the aura it provides every gentleman, it can go side by side with perfumes and eau du toilettes and for obvious reasons, every classy guy has to have few. In the kitchen we have cooked up ofeonugbu soup, a delicious and mouthwatering bitter leaf soup full of healthy benefits and it has been paired with pounded yam. For dessert there’s chocolate crackers and French cashew juice to satisfy sweet tooth. On the kiddie’s page, it is all about birthday party themes for the little ones. Celebrating birthdays are the highlight and fond memories of their childhood and it is important to make sure it is executed right. With many birthday party themes to choose from, you can always go for what your kids loves to make it an exceptional celebration. Also, on a lighter note, we’ve talked about pedicures for kids and getting it done perfectly. On the cover we have Dr. Halima Muqaddas, the Commissioner for Health in Bauchi State. She speaks about how she got there, the hurdles she encountered and her life away from work. Read the interview to find out more. Have a splendid day.
* Amina Alhassan
* Femi Mohammed * Uche Eze
Writers
Designer
* Hafsah A. Matazu * Jamila Dauda Freda
* Ballie Kafran Cover Photos
CONTENTS
FASHION // 35
Shimmer in crystal drop-earrings MEN’S STYLE // 34
AFTERSHAVE: A gentleman’s grooming essential CULINARY
CORNER // 37
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did not see my period for two months before it started again in November last year and I was not pregnant. It has since been a 37 days menstrual cycle and it last for 5 days. My lasts period started on 16th of february and ended on the 20th but I continued to feel that pre-menstrual breast tenderness. On the 11th of February, I noticed dark coloured blood. And ‘m very sure i am not pregnant because i haven’t even had intercourse since oct last year. I have also had a pregnancy test before after then and it was negative. Please sir, I realy need your help to know what I can do? Mrs Oge Abuja You do not need to worry if you calculate from February 16th to March 11th it’s twenty three days. Any menstrual cycle length of twenty one days and above is normal. We must also bear in mind that occassional abnormal cycle length is not unusual, it is due to hormonal imbalance and it corrects itself spontaneously. If it persist you may need to see a gynaecologist.
THE TEAM:: Ag. Editor
Irregular menses
Enjoy a delicious u meal of Ofe Onugbu h (bitter leaf soup) with Pounded yam
NO PREGNANCY AFTER SIX MONTHS OF MARRIAGE We have been married for six month yet no pregnancy, What do we do to for her to get pregnant? Any step to ensure we have a boy? Kadiri, Lokoja It is too early to start worrying. You are just six months in marriage. The advise is for you to meet for about three to four days a week. The chance of having a boy is about fifty fifty percent chance. Some have claimed the position of mating influence this - it is not true.. Also some claim meeting at a particular day around ovulation influence the sex. This is also false. Relax and avoid putting undue pressure on the woman.
JAUNDICE IN BABIES This is my third pregnancy. My first baby had jaundice, was admitted but discharged after two days, The second baby had jaundice was admitted and had exchange blood transfusion , we stayed in hospital for twelve days . Now I am seventh months gone. I am afraid, what do I do to avoid this happening again? What is your blood group? What is the blood group of your husband? Are you rhesus negative. Have you done indirect coomb’s test - ICT? Other possible causes include neonatal sepsis. The cord care at birth is critical to prevent infection. Also premature babies are prone to developing jaundice. Diseases like hepatitis and cystic fibrosis can also lead to jaundice I will advise your delivery should be in a place with good neonatal care. The baby must be monitored closely do that it CSB be pucked early and treated approximately to avoid exchange blood transfusion.
HEALTHY LIVING // 32
Tasty morning smoothies to curb high blood pressure PEARL OF WISDOM BY UCHE EZE
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FA S H I O N
TRENDS STYLE NEWSMAKER
Chiffon Glamour By HAFSAH ABUBAKAR MATAZU hiffon is one material that has been around for a while and guess what, all divas are here for it! It has been rocked on the runway and now every fashionista has put a few pieces of chiffon in n her wardrobe. This classy material can be worn in a lot off ways; dresses, skirts, shirts and after dresses too. Not only does it look stylish for a casual day out but it can be dressed up for work too. It really is a versatile material that we can’t help but love so why not get on the chiffon glamour train.
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Asmau
FA S H I O N N E W S Woman by Aisha tags collection Bold for Change for Women’s Day
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by HAFSAH ABUBAKAR MATAZU Woman by Aisha has released a new collection titled Bold for Change to bring the strength of women and fashion together. The fashion brand showcased details of the staple collection to celebrate International Women’s Day. The collection highlighted features such as boldness, courage and feminity associated with the modern day woman. Amongst the pieces there are polka dot dresses, ruffles, hem shirts, peplums and colour blocks in different variations to list a few from the diverse collection. “In celebrating the international Women’s Day, fast rising fashion label Woman by Aisha came up with a special collection titled the ‘Bold For Change Collection’ aimed at showcasing the beauty and strength of a lady through fashion” Woman by Aisha revealed.
PAGE 29 TAMBARI SUNDAY, MARCH 19, 2017
Linda
PEARLS OF WISDOM “In a machine age, dressmaking ng is one of the last refuges of the human, the personal, the inimitable.” — Christian Dior
Fatima
DR. HALIMA MUQADASS //
CO V E R
A medical practitioner with a purpose Interview by AMINA ALHASSAN
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alima Muqadass was born on the 1st of October, sometime in the 70s. Dr. Halima Muqadass holds various medical degrees from prestigious universities both home and abroad. She hails from Bauchi state and has a total number of 24 siblings. She is currently the Hon. Commissioner of Health, Bauchi State.
Introduction I was born in the early 70s on Independence Day(1st October) in Jimeta-Yola, Adamawa State, my mother’s hometown who is Fulani. My Father is a native of Dass LGA, Bauchi State, thus I am Jarawa by tribe. My dad is late and had a total of 25 children and 3 wives. My mother had 12 of us; I am the second born of the family and assisted in the upbringing of about 20 of my siblings. I had a lovely childhood in a house filled with laughter and joy. We lived in about eight different states of Nigeria growing up, because my dad was a policeman. Educational background I attended my primary school in Bompai Police Barracks Kano, then Government Girls’ Science Secondary School Bauchi in Bauchi State; Bauchi College of Arts and Science (BACAS); Ahmadu Bello University Zaria;University of Witwatersrand South Africa; West African College of Surgeons (Ibadan Campus) and University of Liverpool. Career background I started my career as a clinician –a Medical Officer with ABUTH Kaduna and then moved to the state Ministry of Health Bauchi State. I left general practice for Residency in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at FMC Gombe. After completion
MY MOTHER HAD 12 OF US; I AM THE SECOND BORN OF THE FAMILY AND ASSISTED IN THE UPBRINGING OF ABOUT 20 OF MY SIBLINGS. I HAD A LOVELY CHILDHOOD IN A HOUSE FILLED WITH LAUGHTER AND JOY
of my residency training, I was a Consultant O&G at FMC Jalingo, Taraba State for a couple of years. I left clinical practice and joined a non-governmental organisation in 2007 as PMTCT/RH officer with Family Health International (FHI) Abuja. I worked in various capacities in the organisation and left as Senior Advisor on Maternal and Child Health. I was then employed by Jhpiego, another international NGO affiliated with John Hopkins University as Senior Advisor Pre-Service Education in the Targeted States High Impact Project funded by USAID. In the same project I became a Cluster Lead and later headed the project in Bauchi State as Deputy Chief of Party Targeted States High Impact Project Bauchi. On the completion of the project I was appointed Head of Clinical Services National Obstetric Fistula Centre Ningi from where I was called to serve as Honourable Commissioner for Health Bauchi. What growing was like I had a very happy childhood and was a tom boy and a daddy’s girl. I had brothers as my immediate siblings and thus I was considered one of the boys. Challenges faced in your career The challenge was that of trying to prove myself in amale domesticated environment. Life’s lessons Goals set can be achieved with hard work, patience and perseverance. My aspirations growing up I aspired to be a well-known specialist. Fond childhood memories I miss most Sitting at my father’s feet and narrating my daily activities for his comments and
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CO V E R // DR. HALIMA MUQADASS blessings. What my typical day is like I Wake up early at 4:30am – 5; 00am, do my prayers and morning chores in the kitchen with my children. Get them ready for school by 7:30am and get ready for work. I leave for work by 8:15am. I am at work for the day till 4pm, sometimes 5pm depending on the day’s schedule. This may include supervision of some health facilities, service delivery points, attending meetings and executive engagements. Some days I travel out for official engagements. My most cherished gift An old Yusuf Ali English translated Qur’an from my dad. How I met my husband It was a chance meeting at work, where I gave him directions to my house and he appeared same evening in front of my house. Most cherished attribute of his His continuous drive to do the right thing and to live up to his obligations.
FRIDAY; AS THE SONG GOES “THANK GOD IS FRIDAY’’ BECAUSE IT IS THE START OF A WEEKEND. Three fashion accessories you would always have on Earrings, rings and high heels. Best travel destination and why? Rome, because it has history. How I relax No television, no computer, just silence. I lay on my bed and blank my mind. Best food I love chicken (roasted) Your style definition Islamic dress code. Favourite fashion designer Gucci Favourite perfume, designer bag and shoes
Escador and Michael KORs Mum’s advice that stuck Be Patient. Favourite sport Indoor aerobics(very fond of Jane Fonda’s aerobics workouts), My favourite colour White, cold weather My favourite weather Cold weather Favourite day of the week and why? Friday; as the song goes “Thank God is Friday’’ because it is the start of a weekend. Beauty routine Eyeliner, light powder What I hope to achieve in life I have achieved my goal as the first female obstetrician gynecologist in Bauchi State. I hope to make a significant stride towards strengthening the health sector as the Honorable Commissioner for Health Bauchi State My advice to women Be confident in themselves and whatever they do. Role models Many; Dr Safiya Mohammed who is a retired Permanent Secretary from the Federal Service; My mother, Hajiya Zainab; My sister Hajiya Sa’adatu Musa Mukaddas. Looking back, what would you tell a younger you? Be calm, there is no hurry in life.
L - R Asmau Zainab & Fatima Zahra
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KIDDIES WORLD
BIRTHDAY PARTY THEMES YOUR KIDS WILL LOVE By HAFSAH ABUBAKAR MATAZU
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hat child doesn’t love the idea of a urite birthday? Birthdays are a favourite with children. Birthday partiess with themes are the new in thing. Planning your little one’s birthday is always tasking but worth it. The joy and happiness on a child’s birthday is something they experience once a year so ensuring that it lives up to expectations is a must. With different themes varying from the child, it is important to look out for what you child loves the most and channel it into a birthday theme. For boys, it will probably be from their favourite cartoon or sports and for girls, it’s all about glitter, pink and Barbies. It all depends on your child. The most et important thing is to make sure that you get ail the birthday party theme right to every detail row and make it a party to remember till you throw e and if a better one next year. So plan in good time zing so that possible, involve the little one in the organizing he day. they can get what they want at the end of the
KIDDIES HYGIENE
with HAFSAH ABUBAKAR MATAZU ZU
HOW TO GIVE YOUR LITTLE ONES A PEDICURE G
iving your kid a pedicure should be fun and not a recipe for disaster. It is important to take care of your child’s feet well and a good pedicure does just that leaving the feet clean and feeling great, too. Do it at the right time: Make s sure you do the pedicure when y your child is happy and cheerful. I will help use the pedicure time It t bond more rather than at a to t time where he/she is about to s sleep or has just woken up. Don’t use too many tools: Kids o often fear what they do not know, s using too many unfamiliar so s sharp tools may scare them a bit. I is best to use the tools that are It a absolutely necessary such as nail
cutters, scissors and a nail file. Use sensitive products: When soaking your child’s feet, don’t use the same products you would use for yourself. Your kid’s skin is much more sensitive than yours therefore opt for more sensitive and natural products suitable for children. Finish it up with nail polish or henna: If you’re giving your daughter a pedicure, finish it off with a layer of nail polish. It will make her feel pretty and also, protect her nails too. And also, why not use her favourite colour? Or as an alternative, why not go for henna either black or red.
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H E A LT H Y L I V I N G TASTY MORNING SMOOTHIES TO CURB HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE By JAMILA DAUDA FREDA
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hen it comes to managing high blood pressure adding foods rich in potassium, magnesium, nitrates, probiotics and flavonoids to the daily diet, is always advisable to eat a variety of foods. However, the easiest way to tame high blood pressure is to have a glass of smoothie made by blending different types of foods with blood pressure lowering properties. Start your day by adding a blood pressure lowering smoothie to your breakfast menu and it will help in maintaining your blood pressure level in the normal range. 1. BANANA, SPINACH AND BLUEBERRY SMOOTHIE Banana is rich in potassium, Spinach is an excellent source of nitrate. Blueberry is packed with antioxidant compounds. Hence, a smoothie that contains these three ingredients will help in bringing down your high blood pressure level. Make your smoothie by blending one ripe banana, a cup of chopped spinach, a cup of blueberries and a cup of unflavored low fat yogurt. 2. BEET, STRAWBERRY AND ORANGE SMOOTHIE Red beetroot is a wonderful source of nitrate. Strawberries and oranges are packed with potassium, vitamin C and antioxidants. Studies suggest that the antioxidant effect of vitamin C, by neutralizing the free radicals, helps in
maintaining the normal nitric oxide production in the blood vessels. To prepare the smoothie, you will need a cup of chopped red beetroot, one orange, a cup of strawberries, one ripe banana, a cup of spinach and a glass of low fat milk. 3. AVOCADO AND KIWI SMOOTHIE Avocado is a good source of potassium. Moreover, it contains essential fats that help in preventing the arterial walls from becoming stiff. Kiwifruit is rich in potassium and antioxidants. Make your blood pressure reducing smoothie by blending the flesh of half an avocado, one kiwifruit, a cup of baby spinach and half a cup of Greek yogurt 4. CHERRY SMOOTHIE Cherries are rich in the antioxidant anthocyanin. When added to the smoothie recipe, cherries help in boosting the antihypertensive effect of the smoothie. To prepare the smoothie you will need half a cup of frozen cherries, one ripe banana, a cup or arugula and ½-cup of natural yogurt. Blend the ingredients until smooth. 5. PAPAYA AND PEACH SMOOTHIE Papaya is a good source of potassium and antioxidants. To make a potassium rich smoothie that helps in lowering the high blood pressure, include papaya in your recipe. In a blender, add 1 ½-cup of ripe papaya cubes, a ripe banana, five strawberries, one peach and a glass of low fat milk. Blend all the ingredients.
SOCIETY NEWS OONI OF IFE VISITS LONDON Compiled by UCHE EZE
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is Imperial Majesty, the monarch of Ile-Ife, Osun state, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi and his wife, Queen Wuraola took a two week trip to London for a series of events. The royals were welcomed by British Royalty, Prince Charles and wife, Princess Camilla, as well as a large crowd of Nigerians in diaspora. His Imperial Majesty on this Commonwealth Historical visit to the United Kingdom, would be busy with a lineup of events which include the Commonwealth day observance service and Commonwealth Africa summit, where he would be a keynote speaker, an official visit to the British Museum and many others.The celebration is geared toward the promotion of mutually respectful, cultural values, peaceful and prosperous and that also “cherishes equality, diversity and shared values” of all member states, Another highlight of his visit is anevent tagged ‘An Evening with Ooni’ scheduled for the 24th of March with Yinka Aiyefele on the bandstand. He will also be a special guest at a corporate dinner to be hosted by the acting High Commissioner to the United Kingdom SImon Ogah at the ballroom of J .W Marriot Hotel. The highly influential king would be one of the VIP’s at the Commonwealth Day Celebration Business Leaders Luncheon. And lastly he would also be at another event to watch the performance of ‘Moremi’ opera by the Royal College of Music, London.
With additional information from the internet
Why chewing our meals is important
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t is normal to see people just swallow food without chewing. Chewing breaks your food down from large particles into smaller particles that are more easily digested. This also makes it easier for your intestines to absorb nutrients from the food particles as they pass through,In those who chewed less, the larger particles were passed through the body, while also providing opportunistic bacteria and fungi with a source of fuel during their transit.“Particle size [affects the] bioaccessibility of the energy of the food that is being consumed. The more you chew, the less is lost and more is retained in the body.” Maintain a Healthy Weight The longer you chew, the more time it will take you to finish a meal, and research shows that eating slowly can help you to eat less and, ultimately, to avoid weight gain or even lose weight. For example, chewing your food twice as long as you normally would will instantly help you control your portion sizes, which naturally decreases calorie consumption.It takes time (generally about 20 minutes) for your brain to signal to your stomach that you’re full, and this may explain why one study found people reported feeling fuller when they ate slowly. Your Food Gets More Exposure to Your Saliva
Saliva contains digestive enzymes, so the longer you chew, the more time these enzymes have to start breaking down your food, making digestion easier on your stomach and small intestine. Saliva also helps to lubricate your food so it’s easier on your esophagus. Easier Digestion Chewing process predigests your food into small pieces and partially liquefies it, making it easier to digest. Digestion is actually a very demanding task for your body, requiring a great deal of energy, especially if forced to digest improperly chewed food. It’s Good for Your Teeth The bones holding your teeth get a ‘workout’ when you chew, helping to keep them strong. The saliva produced while chewing is also beneficial, helping to clear food particles from your mouth and wash away bacteria so there may be less plaque buildup and tooth decay. Less Excess Bacteria Lingering in Your Intestines When large particles of improperly chewed food enter your stomach, it may remain undigested when it enters your intestines. The bacteria will start to putrefy, potentially leading to gas and bloating, diarrhea, constipation, ab abdominal pain, cramping and other d digestive problems. Enjoy and Taste Your Food If you rush through your meal with hardly an any chewing, you’re also not really tasting or en enjoying the food. When you take the time to p properly chew your food, it forces you to slow d down. How to Chew Your Food Properly • Chew slowly and steadily • Chew until your mouthful of food is liq liquefied or lost all of its texture • Finish chewing and swallowing co completely before taking another bite of food • Wait to drink fluids until you’ve sw swallowed
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With additional information from the internet
AISHA BUHARI TWINNING WITH OLIVIA POPE isha Buhari is no doubt a woman of great style. Her
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continuous dish out of impeccable style has placed her as one of Nigeria’s leading fashionistas. The stylish first lady rocked the Salvatore Ferragamo multi coloured zig zag cape that shook the world wheb she wore it some months ago on an official trip to Belgium. Olivia Pope, the star of the popular Scandal series took a cue from our number one fashionista, Mrs. Amina Buhari and also rocked the Salvatore Ferragamo cape dress. This look was carried by top social media enthusiasts. Over the week, a popular Instagram page posted her picture side by side Kerry Washington, who plays the character Olivia Pope, tagging it “who wore it better…like a diva”? Although we already know the answer to that, we leave it to the public to decide.
OLAJUMOKE ORISAGUNA MARKS ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF STARDOM
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lajumoke Orisaguna marked her one year anniversary in the spotlight of transforming from a bread seller into a model at an exclusive event hosted by NETng. The event, which held at the NET Studios in Ikeja, Lagos was an evening of celebration and candid conversations with Olajumoke Orisaguna. The event was attended by Steve Babaeko, Chris Ihidero, Lamide Akintobi and more. The model stepped out elegantly with her manager, Victoria Nkong for the event in a silver sequin dress and dropping earrings. Also in the spirit of giving back to the streets where she was discovered. Olajumoke Orisaguna went to the streets all dressed up to hand out bread and butter. She cheerfully distributed bread with butter to bread sellers and passersby.
M E N’ S S T Y L E // TRENDS // STYLE // PERSONALITIES
AFTERSHAVE: A gentleman’s grooming essential By FEMI MOHAMMED ftershave, like its name implies, is simply a liquid product applied to skin after fter shaving. Its basic essence is to prevent infection of cuts, as well as to act as an astringent to reduce skin n irritation. However, the versatility of these products has seen them become a major part of any man who knows his style onions’ groom kit. Most aftershaves can also be used in place ce of men’s eau de colognes as they are mostly scented with extremely appealing fragrances and therefore,, serve the dual purpose of protecting g the skin and at the same time offer some me masculine appeal. Talking about killing two birds with th a stone, the versatility the aftershave e provides is unmatched and there is no doubt as to why it’s one of the first rst products in men’s grooming kits.
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FA S H I O N N E W S
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FemyToys puts out clean cut lines for 2nd part of WET ‘17 Collection By FEMI MOHAMMED igerian menswear designer FemyToys is putting up displays of cut lines and rich hues for the second part of his Wet 2017 collection tagged ‘Geometry 3.O’. The fast rising menswear brand who released the first part of the Wet ‘17 collection with ‘Charcoal’ plays with clean lines, streamlined silhouettes on the simple pieces. Going out with bold colours including purple, orange, emerald, navy blue, plum, white and more making a show of matching set in top and pants with intricate design details for the collection done as a conclusion for the ‘Charcoal’ collection.
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Umar Yuguda
PEARLS OF WISDOM “A man should look as if he has bought his clothes with intelligence, put them on with care and then forgotten all about them.” – Hardy Amies PAGE 34 TAMBARI SUNDAY, MARCH 19, 2017
TRENDS // STYLE //
FA S H I O N
SHIMMER IN CRYSTAL
DROP-EARRINGS Y By UCHE EZE ou’ve managed to pull together the perfect “power look,” but before you leave the house, there’s one final touch you might be missing: statement-making drop-earrings. While Wh they seem like a loud choice at first, there’s truly tru nothing to fear. Crystal drop-earrings are the perfect accessory to add that something extra to your pe
polished outfit. A lovely pair of drop-earrings can give any outfit a quick touch of colour and sparkle and glitz. Dropearrings are especially flattering with dresses. You can easily transform into a flowing, moving vision when you pair the right earrings with your collection of cute and fun dresses.
Funke
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FA S H I O N N E W S
9 Nigerian designers selected to feature in the Lagos Fashion & Design Week
Mercy
by UCHE EZE
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Tiwa Adora
PEARLS P EA OF WISDOM “Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.” — Rachel Zoe
he organizers of Lagos Fashion & Design Week announces her inaugural Autumn/Winter presentation featuring nine Nigerian designers.The designers including Maki Oh, Lisa Folawiyo, AAKS, Gozel Green, Kelechi Odu, Orange Culture, Post Imperial, Ré and Shem Paronelli will present at Red Door Gallery, from m 30th March – 2nd April 2017. The founder of LFDW Omoyemi Akerele, Executive Director & Founder of Style House Files, states that the LFDW has continued to uphold the reason why it was founded which is “to provide a platform for buyers, media and fashion enthusiasts to view collections from leading designers from Nigeria and across Africa”.
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LU X U R Y L I V I N G By HAFSAH ABUBAKAR MATAZU
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our kitchen is probably the most frequently used room in the house and therefore it is important that it is kept organized so that working there is easier, simpler and hassle free. There are a few easy steps to bear in mind to organizing and keeping your kitchen neat and tidy and getting the hang of it is as easy as eating cake! Empty the cabinet: go through all the stuff in the cabinet and discard anything that isn’t frequently used, chipped or unnecessary. This will provide more space and less clutter. Group the similar items: Group your baking items together like flour, baking powder and the like. Same goes for the cooking ingredients and spices. For foods that you know you make frequently, you can keep them close by and not too far out of reach. Organize your utensils: you need to decide where everything is going to go, most frequently used closer. Knives, forks and spoons in the drawer closest to the plates, cooking spoons and spatulas near the pots and colander and sieves near the cooking bowls. Just make sure your coordinate everything. Store items in clear containers: it is easier to store your food stuff in open and clear containers so as to locate it much more easily. Too make things even more hassle free, try and label the containers too so that you don’t have to make the constant mistake of mixing sugar and salt. Clean out your fridge weekly: Check which
Organizing your kitchen the right way food stuff have overstayed their welcome in your fridge and throw it into the bin. Ensure you do this at least once a week. If it’s been there for a week then you obviously don’t need it.
If you make the time to declutter, clean and organize your kitchen, it will definitely pay off keep you happy whilst you cook up your favourite meals With additional information from the internet
Making your home smell like spring with fresh flowers and herbs
By HAFSAH ABUBAKAR MATAZU othing is more comforting than a well fragranced home. It instantly gives a relaxing and soothing atmosphere that you never feel like leaving. Spring comes with nature’s beautiful smelling flowers and herbs that are intoxicating. Most of us are accustomed to using air fresheners, incense sticks or turaren wuta to do the job of scenting our home temporarily. Meanwhile, there is a much more effective and inexpensive way to keep your home smelling floral and fresh all day without any effort and it is as simple as dotting around your favourite flowers and herbs in strategic places of your home. Also, you can make your own air freshener by simply simmering your favourite fruits and spices on the stove. How about a combination of lemon and cinnamon or lavender and cloves? Whatever may tickle your fancy. Ideally, flowers like roses, chamomile, orchids, lilies, vanilla and tulips are ideal because of their strong scents so placing these in pots and vases will give a promise of fresh spring air even after they dry out. On the other hand for herbs, rosemary, mint, basil, thyme and lemon grass are amazing too. Hang them on your walls or standing near a fan. A combination of these in your home will make your home smell heavenly, add a bright pop of colour and beautify the atmosphere too. You can’t go wrong with this
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C U L I N A R Y CO R N E R Enjoy a delicious meal of Ofe Onugbu (bitter leaf soup) with pounded yam Stories by UCHE EZE
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fe onugbu (bitter leaf soup) is a popular soup across Nigeria. Although it is originally a native soup of the Igbos, it has become a household name. Research has shown that bitter leaf has many health benefits which include cancer prevention, reduction of hypertension, treating malaria, treating diabetes, overcoming gallstones treating appendicitis and treating diarrhea. Combining bitter leaf soup with pounded yam is a great idea. Yam as we know is a carbohydrate food, and carbohydrates give you energy and help with weight control. They also benefit your heart and promote a healthy digestive system. Portioning your meals is very important also. It is important to avoid consumption of a great deal of carbohydrates at a go. With that said, take your ofe onugbu and pounded yam
duo in small portions at a time. Ingredients • Washed and squeezed bitter leaf - A handful • 10 small corms Cocoyam • 3 cooking spoons Red Palm Oil • Assorted Beef: Includes best cut, shaki (cow tripe) • Assorted Fish: Dry Fish and Stock Fish • Pepper, salt and ground crayfish (to taste) • 3 stock cubes • 1 teaspoon Ogiri Igbo (traditional seasoning) • Tuber(s) of yam Before you turn on the heat, ensure that the bitter leaf has been properly washed, and every trace of bitterness removed, or at least reduced to the minimum. Also, wash the cocoyam, boil till it’s soft and then pound in a mortar until its smooth.
Method of preparation for the soup • Boil the shaki (cow tripe), stock fish and dry fish in 1 litre of water till they are well done. • Wash the beef and add to the pot of shaki etc. and continue cooking. When the meat is done, add Maggi and cook for 5 minutes. • Add pepper, ground crayfish, bitter leaves and cook for 10 minutes. Then add the cocoyam paste (in small lumps) and the palm oil. • Cover the pot and leave to cook on high heat till all the cocoyam lumps have dissolved. You can add more water if you feel that the soup is too thick. • Add salt to taste and the soup is ready. Method of preparation for the pounded yam • Peel the yam, cut it into slices and wash. • Put the yam slices in a pot and boil until soft. • After the yam has softened, put it in a mortar and pound.
REFRESHING FRENCH CASHEW JUICE If you are looking for a wholistic natural drink, then, the French cashew juice is your perfect drink. You can decide to take it completely natural without a sweetner or add a little sweetner to suit your taste. INGREDIENTS • 1 dozen Cashew fruit • 2 Tablespoons sweetened condensed milk (optional – Do not use if you want to go natural) • 3 drop vanilla extract flavoring (optional – Do not use if you want to go natural) • 1 cup water Preparation • Wash the cashew fruits and remove the nuts.
• Cut the fruits into cubes. • Put the fruit in a blender with the water and blend. • Pour the juice through a strainer into a container. Discard the fiber left in the strainer. • Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract flavoring to the container (this is optional as you can go natural). Mix the juice. • Serve with ice
TASTY CHOCOLATE CRACKERS Chocolate creackers are the go to dessert for everyone, especially the sweet tooth. Whether it is for the kids or for the family. It is easy to make and doesn’t require you to break the bank. INGREDIENTS • 2 cups flour • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 1/4 cup cocoa powder • pinch of salt • 2/3 cup warm water • 1/3 cup olive oil For Toppings • Sea Salt • Raw Sugar PREPARATION • Preheat oven to 400 degrees. • Grease two baking sheets (13x9inches) with cooking spray and set
aside. • In a large mixing bowl combine flour, baking powder, cocoa powder and salt. • Combine water and olive oil in a separate bowl; whisk together until combined. • Add oil mixture to the flour mixture. • Using a wooden spoon, stir it all together until you get a smooth ball of dough. • Cut the dough in half; cover one of the dough pieces with a kitchen towel and set aside. • Take the other dough-ball and, using your hands and fingers, flatten
the dough on the bottom of one of the previously prepared baking sheets. Get the dough as flat and as thin as possible. • Take the other dough-ball and repeat the process, pressing the dough on the bottom of the second baking sheet. • Sprinkle with either sea salt or raw sugar. • Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the dough into squares. • Bake for 12 minutes. • Remove from oven and let cool completely in baking sheets.
PAGE 37 TAMBARI SUNDAY, MARCH 19, 2017
B E AU T Y
TRENDS STYLE FASHION
Common mistakes ladies make when drying their hair B By JAMILA DAUDA FREDA
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ho doesn’t love a good hair wash day? Unfortunately, as much as there is a science to washing and conditioning hair, there is also with drying it. Obviously, attacking it with a hair dryer is not the healthiest method, but contrary to what you might think, air-drying is actually not the best for hair either. There’s actually a fine balance between how much air-drying and blow-drying time your hair should receive for optimal health. Have it in mind that when using your hair dryer, keep it at least a few inches away from your head, constantly move it, and use that cool shot when you’re done for a shiny finish. Now just make sure to avoid these other common mistakes, and you’ll easily be rocking
the healthiest hair and best blowout in town. 1. TOWEL DRYING: Hair becomes even more fragile when it’s wet. Rubbing a towel against it causes all sorts of friction that lead to breakage. Instead, blot and air-dry your hair. 2. NOT USING HEAT PROTECTANT: Before using any hot tool, even blow dryers, make sure you’ve sprayed your strands with a heat protectant. It helps against the inevitable damage that comes with heat styling. 3. WHEN YOU START OUT WITH AN EXTREMELY WET HAIR: If your hair is still sopping wet, wait before busting out the hair dryer. The longer you have to use the dryer, the more damage you will impose on your hair. When you
DO YOU KNOW... THAT THE THERMAL HEAT DURING STYLING OF HAIR CAN DAMAGE YOUR HAIR
FACE CARE
use a dryer on just-stepped-out-of-theshower locks, you’re also more likely to end up with frizz from the prolonged heat. Instead, let your hair air dry at least 10-15 minutes before going in with the dryer. 4. SECTIONING OF HAIR: If you just blow dry all of your hair at once, it can be hard to tell if your hair is drying evenly, Instead, section your hair into at least two parts, horizontally around your head. This will help ensure that your hair is drying evenly and completely. 5. USE OF WRONG BRUSH: Metal brushes can overheat and cause damage or even burn your hair. Instead, reach for a boar bristle brush. These brushes will be able to grip your hair, but won’t heat up, so there’s no damage to worry about. 6. LACK OF THE CONCENTRATOR: That duckling mouthed looking thing that comes with your hair dryer, simply helps concentrate the airflow from the dryer onto your hair. Using this attachment will help your hair dry faster and with a sleeker finish since all the heat and air from your dryer is going exactly where it’s supposed to.
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day, that’s the easiest way to try this dark circle reducing method. Just make sure to keep it clean and give it a good soapy scrub a few times a week. 2. Cucumbers: Cucumbers have skin-lightening and mild astringent properties, so you can use cucumber slices to fix raccoon eyes naturally. To try this method twice a day, chop a fresh cucumber into thick slices and then refrigerate for 30 minutes. Then, leave the slices on your eyes for 10 minutes. Rinse your eye area with
PAGE 38 TAMBARI SUNDAY, MARCH 19, 2017
QUESTION 3: WHY DO WE NEED TO CANCEAL OUR EYEBROWS AFTER FILLING THEM IN?
with JAMILA DAUDA FREDA
What works for crowfeet, dark circles and under eye bags e all covet bright, wideawake eyes, but genes and life’s late nights don’t always cooperate. That’s why we’re always on the hunt for the best eye cream to fight dark circles and bags. We’re constantly searching for the answer on how to get rid of crow’s feet for good. Wash your face regularly; remove make up before sleeping etc. Here are few tips 1. Cold compress: In the morning or evening - apply a cold compress for about 10 minutes. If you have a mask you can keep in your fridge and pull out twice a
The competition is still on and it’s simple. Just give answer the question for the week by sending your answers to us via the email tambari@ dailytrust.comb and tag it as Tambari giveaway. Looking forward to reading from you. -Editor
warm (but not hot) water after using. 3. Cucumber juice + lemon juice: If cucumber slices don’t work for you, try mixing equal parts cucumber and lemon juice and then use a cotton ball to apply to your under eye circles. Get Leave
the solution on your skin for 15 minutes and then rinse with warm water. 4. Rose Water: Rose water doesn’t just smell fantastic, it can also soothe and rejuvenate tired skin. Like cucumber, it’s a mild astringent, so it can work as a skin toner. Just soak cotton makeup remover pads in rose water for a few minutes, and then let the soaked makeup pads sit on your CLOSED eyelids. Leave them for about 15 minutes twice daily.