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LIFE AND STYLE OF THE COUNTRY
Vol. 08 | Issue 02 | 2017
Come to Lagos and thrive:
£5. €6. $8. R50. ₦1500 www.cometonigeria.com
Lagos strikes Gold at 50
HOT ISSUE: Women as Gatekeepers WHO AM I?:
Carlton Tilley’s journey of discovery
A MID-TERM APPRAISAL
of President Muhammadu Buhari REGULARS: SHOPPING TRAVEL & INVESTMENT NEWS FAMOUS FIRSTS INSPIRATIONAL NIGERIANS RESTAURANTS & BARS
Music of Nigeria Wasiu Ayinde Adewale Omogbolahan Anifowoshe (K1 De Ultimate) His music over the years has won him a lot of fans, not only in the Yoruba communities, but also from across other tribes as well.
Adventure Nigeria through Olivia Osueke’s eyes
EXPLORE * SHOP * EAT *INVEST *ENJOY
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CONTENTS
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OF NIGERIA CONTENTS
Regulars 18 Travel/Investment News 24 Next Issue 66 Gadgets Cover photography: Inagbe Grand Resorts and Lesuire Park Copyright: Victor Ibeabuchi
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07
Publisher’s statements
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Editorial
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Postcards
Travel images from Nigeria Victor Ibeabuchi, Raymond Akpan and Yunusa Tanko Abdullahi
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What you should know
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Hot Issue
A brief look at what you need to know before you go Women as Gatekeepers
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Lunch time in Nigeria
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Featured Story
The making of Miyan Karkashi
Mid-Term apraisal of President Muhammadu Buhari
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Adventure
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Famous firsts in Nigeria
Nigeria through Olivia Osueke’s eyes
First General Hospital in Nigeria, The Amazu Family
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Webpreneurs
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Book reviews
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Inspirational Nigerians
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Music of Nigeria
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Nigeria Fashion
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My Nigeria
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Letters and comments
Yomi Makun (Yomi Casual)
Niels Wagner from Aarhus Denmark
Featuring blogs and websites by Nigerians
Review of books by Nigerian writers
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Olurotimi Badero . Wasiu Ayinde Omogbolahan Anifowose K1 the Ultimate
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Copyright 2017 CometoNigeria Magazine. ISSN 2044-1932
Published By:
Jollof Limited The Old Saint Lawrence School Building, Westminster Road, Kirkdale, Liverpool L4 3TQ UK Tel/Fax: + 44(0) 151 9222911 Mob: +44 (0) 75 51574179 Email: info@cometonigeria.com Website: http://www.cometonigeria.com/
In Nigeria:
Newday Nigeria Limited, Tel: +234 (0)8146357485, (0)8023023710, (0)8025633323, (0)7062220505 and 08032877360
In America:
4930 Heritage Valley Drive, Douglasville, Atlanta, GA 30135 Tel: +1-678-732-7070, 678-637-7700, All editorial and advertising enquiries should be forwarded to: info@cometonigeria.com OR cometonigeria@gmail.com
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Editor
Associate Editors
Graphics
Oladimeji Adisa
Lanre Sangobunmi
Dayo Adeniran, Gina Lisa Pate, Neil Peacock, Nancy Adegbenro
Legal Adviser
Production Manager
Ranti Adisa
Adeyemi A. Adisa
Marketing
Dayo Adeniran Abdulhakeem B. Olanigan Yekinni Opeloyeru Morgan Okunnuga Adewale Adenrele
Photography
Orbit Imagery, Irene Becker, Kunle Oladeinde, Victor Ibeabuchi Chukwuemeka B. Ikechukwu Yunusa Tanko Abdullahi Raymond Akpan
Zac Adeleye
Distributors in Nigeria Newsstand Agencies Ltd Tel: +234 709 8123 459 newsstand2008@gmail.com
Distributors in UK
Post Scriptum Tel: +44 208 526 7779 davidjones@postscriptum.co.uk
Stories
Ekundayo Adeniran Salamatu Sule Nana Mohammed Olivia Nneka Osueke Carlton Tilley Mrs Stella Ify Osammor Oluwole David Elder Dipo Adegbite
Editorial Board
Dr John Osammor, Ade Arogundade, Fatai Ogunribido, Neil Peacock, Wale Ojo-Lanre, Bisi Ogunbadejo, Dr. Raphael James and Oladimeji Adisa
While the publisher of CometoNigeria Travel Magazine makes every effort to ensure that the content of the magazine is accurate at the time of going to press, it cannot accept responsibility for any error that may appear. The publisher strongly suggests all visitors to Nigeria ensure travel documents and vaccines are up to date before travelling. The editor of the magazine is happy to receive contributions. However, while every care is taken with materials submitted, neither the editor nor the publisher can accept responsibility for the material. All submitted materials must include the contributor’s name and address. CometoNigeria cannot guarantee the return of submitted material. Copyright 2017 CometoNigeria Magazine. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form or stored in any form on a retrieval system without the prior permission of the publisher.
Keep in touch with us
Publisher’s Statement
F
irst of all, let me begin by welcoming you to the second edition of ComeToNigeria magazine in 2017! It is with a grateful heart that I write this statement, having discovered that this is one of the best edition yet of Come to Nigeria publication, which is now in its seventh year. Little did we know that the relocation of the Nigerian Military Command Centre to Maiduguri, since May 2015, will contribute to the success in the fight against the insurgency in the North Eastern part of the country. The main focus this time is on President Muhammadu Buhari’s magnificent performance midway through his term in office. Within two years, he and his Vice President has helped to change world perception on Nigeria. Though OLADIMEJI ADISA no pain no gain, Nigeria is picking up gradually and we at ComeToNigeria Publisher/Editor-in-Chief believe that very soon, we are going to get the much-awaited status as a tourist destination. We are now a country in transition with enormous economic potential. Other features in this issue include the effort of the army to bring peace and security to the country by winning the war against insurgencies. We talked extensively about the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Buratai with an in-depth look at the way the security challenges facing Nigeria is been handled. We also feature a story by Olivia Osueke, the new U.S. Travel Ambassador for Come To Nigeria Magazine and we celebrate with Kwam 1 De Ultimate with the music of Nigeria. We also take a look at inspirational Nigerians: Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu who recently celebrated his 65th birthday and the man of the moment, Dr Olurotimi Badero, the world’s only combined heart and kidney specialist doctor. This edition is certainly an exciting one, with fantastic stories. My African American friend of many years in the past, Carlton Tilley shared the result of his ancestral DNA confirming him as more a Nigerian. New additions to our plan in the next twelve months is a tourism expo that will bring some new sets of tourists and investors to Nigeria. It is a proven fact that travelling makes us far happier than any material wealth ever does, therefore, I want to call on those looking for new adventures to come to Nigeria and enjoy the hospitality of the country just like Richard Quest of CNN recently discovered. Dr John Osamor often said to me that ‘YOUR DREAM and VISION were not given to everyone around you, you can’t, therefore, be upset that no one else wants to go all the way with you’. Our mission, at COMETONIGERIA is to promote the good sides of the country that you don’t normally see on the TV, displaying those marvels that make Nigeria awesome, and using this tested platform to bring the World to Nigeria while side by side, taking Nigeria to the world, welcoming the epicureans of all that is brilliant and magnificent to test the powerful pleasures that make Nigeria incredible: the way of life, its people and places, expressions of the human experience and the vegetation; and a tempting bouquet of endless opportunities. If along the line we have succeeded to whet the appetites and wanderlust, not to mention investment pull of the people, we would have to feel fulfilled as this edition will show you that sky is the limit and God is the visioner. It is always good when you come to Nigeria, to find out before you go to some areas, just like when you travel to other places in other parts of the world. We need our guests to observe this. Heading for good things? Come to Nigeria. This is the place to be. This edition is edited by Mr Adeleye who recently joined our team. Together we’ve got miles to go, a mission to fulfil and miles to go before we sleep… See you when you arrive! Finally, to keep up-to-date with all the latest developments on tourism and investment opportunities in Nigeria, please visit our website at www.cometonigeria.com Oladimeji Adisa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
SUBSCRIBE ONLINE @ http://www.cometonigeria.com/subscription
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OF NIGERIA PUBLISHER’S STATEMENT
LIFE AND STYLE OF THE COUNTRY
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his issue features an appraisal of President Muhammadu Buhari’s mid-term performance vis-à-vis his achievements in the past two years in helping to bring back sanity to the image of the country in a bid to attract more foreign partnerships and investments to boost the economy of Nigeria.
Zac Adeleye Editor
Also highlighted in this issue is the tremendous efforts of the military and security forces of Nigeria in fighting terrorism and securing people and properties of Nigerians and indeed non-nationals living in the nation. We also touch more on the need to have new approaches to preparing the country to harness its tourism gains as a result of the peace that has been achieved so far. This edition also celebrates the Music of Nigeria with a focus on Wasiu Ayinde Adewale Omogbolahan (aka KWAM 1 de Ultimate) whose music has won lots of accolades around the world. “I love tasting different foods from all over Nigeria,” says an American friend who has visited close to twenty states in Nigeria over the course of the last three years. This edition presents our readers with the Miyan Karkashi, a popular delicacy from the north-east and north-central states of Nigeria. The success of Inspirational Nigerians at home and abroad is also outlined. This issue highlights the efforts of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in uniting the nation and also his generosity and humanitarianism, among others. We also write about the “man of the moment,” Dr Olurotimi Badero, a Nigerian-born, US based medical doctor who happens to be the world’s only combined heart and kidney specialist doctor. We are proud of this edition and the efforts that have gone into making it special for the benefit of Nigeria, especially for tourism. It is our hope that with this project, we can encourage and attract more tourists and investors to Come to Nigeria. Zac Adeleye
This edition Editor’s picks Music of Nigeria Wasiu Ayinde K1 The Ultimate
His music over the years has won him a lot of fans, not only in the Yoruba communities, but also from across other tribes as well.
www.cometonigeria.com
Getting ready for Tourism Going through the checkered history of Nigeria one would discover that the Nigerian military, particularly the army has, been discharging its constitutional roles of giving aid to the police in internal security operations/crises.
Adventure
Who am I -A journey of discovery of Carlton Tilley from Newark USA
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OF NIGERIAEDITORIAL
Editorial
TRAVEL IMAGES
POSTCARDS Travel images from Nigeria
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Inagbe Grand Resorts and Lesuire Park
The INAGBE GRAND RESORTS AND LEISURE PARK is a one-of-a-kind tourist attraction located along the coastal area of Lagos. Located in Inagbe village, It’s unique location, immediate environment, alongside its facilities add to the distinctive features and an overwhelming tourism experience for the visitors. The resort can only be accessible by boat or ferry from a dedicated Jetty facility.
The Lekki Urban Forest
The Lekki Urban Forest and Sanctuary Initiative (LUFASI)-Approach Pedestrian Pathway
The Lekki Urban Forest
The Lekki Urban Forest and Sanctuary Initiative (LUFASI)The Lake Nora
Victor Ibeabuchi
My Travelling images
V
ictor Ibeabuchi is an Estate Surveyor and Facility Management Consultant resident in Lagos Nigeria. He is the Chief Executive Officer of Marvelfairs Realties Limited - A firm engaged in Strategic Facility Planning, Total Facility Management Services, Facility Audits and Project Management Consultancy Services with work experience spanning about 10(ten)years . A dedicated professional with the zeal and passion for operational efficiency within the work environment, Victor has over the years, developed passion for Aerial and Landscape photography which reflects in his works. He can be reached on marvelfairs.realties@gmail.com
The Lekki Urban Forest and Sanctuary Initiative - otherwise known as LUFASI is a recreational park located in the Lekki Region, in Lagos. It comprises of about 50hectares of land dedicated to recreational, mixed development schemes and forest reserves. Visitors from far and near, home and abroad swarm the park on a daily basis, as the location equally serves as another platform for environmental education and wildlife conservation 10
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TRAVEL IMAGES
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TRAVEL IMAGES
POSTCARDS Travel images from Nigeria
1 Raymond Akpan
Nigeria through my lens Raymond Akpan is a documentary and travel photographer from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Ray has an incredible experience and skills in taking spectacular travel pictures which will inspire anyone to travel. Ray loves to travel and he shares stunning photos on his Instagram page (@iamparay) from different destinations in Nigeria. He is based in Abuja Nigeria and he’s ready for any travel project.
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Skating at Millenium Park, Abuja
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Maraba Nyanya traffic, Abuja
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Two Fulani Women
Two Fulani women head back home after the day’s business at Karachi Village in Nassarawa State
Fishing after School in Akwa Ibom
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POSTCARDS Travel images from Nigeria
1 Yunusa Tanko Abdullahi
My Travel images
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unusa has a genuine passion for broadcasting, photography, as well as content creation. He holds degrees in English Literature BA from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and Masters from the University of Lagos. He has over 23 years’ experience in the Media, Public Relations and photography. Yunusa started as a broadcaster with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) before attending the prestigious London Academy of Media and Television where he bagged a diploma in photojournalism He also has certification from the London School of Photography and the Photo Opportunity Studio in Camden, London. He has attended Masterclasses on photography organised by the Australian Embassy in Nigeria, also at the French and the Spanish Embassies His photographic interest lies in humanistic approach, exploring social aspects and promoting change through photography. He is curious to investigate possibilities offered by any medium using photographs as a platform for further discussion. His photography involves telling stories, raising awareness and creating discussions. Yunusa’s rich career has seen him render high service to the National Film and Video Censors Board, German Deutsche Welle radio, FRCN and The Cable News Network (CNN)
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Zaria Durbar
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Algaita in Zazzau
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Drumming with a smile at Zaria Durbar
Algaita in Zazzau- Singing praises and eulogy for the Emir
Kaduna Tomato Market
Tomatoes at Rail Market in Kaduna
Local Processing
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ESSENTIALS
YOUGO BEFORE
When to visit!
Currency
Entry formalities
Nigeria can be visited all year round but the traveller planning a visit should take the following into consideration: rainfall, particularly in the south, between May and September. Rainfall can be heavy in June and can cause some inconveniences. Temperature ranges from 23–31°C in the south, with high humidity and much higher in the north. A cooler, but dusty harmattan season usually stretches from December to January.
Nigeria’s currency is the naira (N) which is divided into 100 kobo. Currency notes are issued in denominations of N5, N10, N20, N50, N100, N500 and N1000. Coins are issued in 10K, 25K, and N1. Except for hotel bills in some hotels, foreigners can do their shopping and other business in the local currency. There are a number of Bureau De Change and banks at each international airport where the visitor can convert from local to foreign currency, and vice versa. Major banks with international branches operate electronic money transfer services, and it is safe to use your credit cards for your hotel bills and at other recognised outlets.
Visitors from the Commonwealth countries as well as other nations require an entry permit, obtained in advance, and the application should be supported by a letter of invitation and a return ticket for the journey. Processing will take at least two days.
Currency regulations
Language English is the official language of Nigeria and it is used at all levels of administration, law, commerce and education. It is spoken with varying degrees of fluency by 50% of the population, making Nigeria the largest English speaking country in Africa. However, there are three major ethnic languages: Hausa - mainly spoken in the North; Yoruba - spoken in the West; and Igbo - spoken in the East. Another widely spoken language in Nigeria is the Pidgin English (though with varying regional influences on dialect and slang). Other Languages include Kanuri, Edo etc.
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There are no restrictions on importation of foreign currency. A currency declaration is however required both on arrival and departure, for large sums of money in excess of US$5,000.00. Import or export of Nigerian currency is strictly limited to N5.000 (five thousand Naira only). Hotel expenses or bills may be paid for in foreign currency. Personal baggage up to 20 kilograms and belongings such as cameras and laptops for the use of bonafide visitors are admitted free of duty. In addition, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 225 grams tobacco are allowed. The importation of illegal drugs is punishable by a jail term.
Vaccination
An international vaccination certificate against yellow fever (10 years) is required. Cholera (six months) is also required if coming from an infected area. Prophylactic anti-malaria and TB inoculation are recommended. Nigeria is a tropical country and therefore, it is necessary to protect yourself against malaria. It is advisable to take recommended medication from your country of departure. The most recommended drug for use in Nigeria is Chloroquine Phosphate taken once a week. To be started two weeks before departure and continued throughout the stay here until two weeks after returning.
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ESSENTIALS To enter Nigeria, a valid passport and visa are both required for nationals of virtually all countries. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the period of intended stay. All visitors to Nigeria must hold passports or ECOWAS travelling documents (for nationals from ECOWAS member countries). Citizens of countries for which Nigeria requires visas must obtain entry information and visas in advance from Nigerian embassies or consulates abroad. Visas cannot be obtained aboard planes or at the airport. Check your nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate for more information on travel requirements.
MAY 2017
Reaching Nigeria
Baggage Examinations
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
By Air: There are international airports in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port Harcourt Domestic flights operate between all the major cities. Some airlines that fly to Nigeria include Arik Air (London, New york - Lagos, Abuja), British Airways (London - Abuja, Lagos), Virgin Atlantic (London Lagos), KLM (Amsterdam - Abuja, Lagos, Kano), Air France (Paris- Lagos and Port Harcourt), Alitalia (Milan -Abuja, Lagos), Turkish Airline (Istanbul -Lagos), Lufthansa (Frankfurt - Abuja, Lagos), Iberia Airlines (Madrid-Lagos), North American Airlines (Baltimore/Washington, New York - Lagos), Delta Airlines (Atlanta - Lagos). Others include China Southern Airlines, Emirates, Middle East Airlines, Qatar Airways etc.
International airports in Nigeria are staffed by Customs Officers who conduct normal checks of baggage on all international arrivals. Standard security checks are in operation at all Nigerian entry ports.
1 Jan: New Year’s Day 26 Feb: Mouloud (Birth of the Prophet) 25 Mar: Good Friday 28 Mar: Easter Monday 1 May Workers’ Day 29 May: Democracy Day 1 Oct: Independence Day 06 Jul Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) 10 Sept Eid al-Kabir (Feast of the Sacrifice) 25 Dec: Christmas; 26 Dec: Boxing Day
MUSLIM FESTIVALS
Getting around Public Transport: The entire country is well connected. Getting around is relatively easy, except that there could be delays owing to traffic jams in some cities. As usual, there are multitudes of coaches and buses that will take you to any part of Nigeria you wish. Self Drive / Hire Cars: Road conditions in the cities are good. Petrol is very cheap in Nigeria. Driving is on the right hand side and an International Driving Licence is required. Car hire is available in Lagos, Abuja and other major cities. By Boat:
Airport customs Visitors to Nigeria are allowed 4 litres of alcoholic beverages and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Visitors may export souvenirs, although some articles (e.g. animals skins and antiques) require an export permit. Illegal drugs of any description are not allowed into Nigeria. Please check with a Nigerian Embassy, Consulate or High Commission nearest to you for current information before departure.
Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon and the dates given above are approximations. During the lunar month of Ramadan that precedes Eid al-Fitr, Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and normal business patterns may be interrupted. Many restaurants are closed during the day and there may be restrictions on smoking and drinking. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Kabir (Eid al-Adha) may last anything from two to 10 days, depending on the region.
Time Zone Nigeria is 1 hour ahead of GMT, meaning that during daylight savings, it would be 12:00 in London, 1:00pm in Nigeria and 8:00am in New York.
Transport by boat is not widespread unless you venture into Lagos and other riverine areas of Nigeria.
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UPDATES/NEWS
Travel
harmoniously with NSK Farms, the sponsors, as well as the state government to ensure that the dream becomes a reality. He added that the game of polo would indeed be a plus to the festival as it has the potential of attracting people from all over the world. “The benefits are indeed numerous for this part of the country as well as the entire nation,” he said. The Argungu Polo Tournament which was organised by Alhaji Nura Kangiwa, the patron of the NSK Farms galloped on Friday and ended on Sunday. On the final day of the Argungu fishing festival, a competition is held in which thousands of men line up along the river and at the sound of a gunshot, all of them jump into the river and have an hour to catch the largest fish. The winner can take home as much as $7,500 US dollars. Competitors are only allowed to use traditional fishing tools and many prefer to catch fish entirely by hand. irene.becker
complexmaiadotcom
Biggest fishing festival, Argungu set for March 2018 – Emir
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he Argungu fishing festival in its very first edition began in the year 1934, as a mark of the end of the centuriesold hostility between the Sokoto Caliphate and the Kebbi Kingdom. Alhaji Samaila Mera, the Emir of Argungu on Sunday said the popular Argungu Fishing and Cultural Festival would hold in March 2018 and feature polo as one of its events. Mera made the remarks during a courtesy call by Francis Ogboro, the President of the Nigerian Polo Federation (NPF) and his officials to the Emir’s palace.
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thenewgong.com
The Argungu fishing festival a four-day yearly festival held in Kebbi State is one of Nigeria’s internationally recognised tourism attractions. But unfortunately, it has not been held since the last edition in 2009, posing a huge revenue loss to the local economy and the country. The Emir, however said plans were on ground to ensure the festival holds next year. “We are working together with the State government to make sure that the festival is staged next year. We are in the process of appointing a DirectorGeneral for the festival, create a Secretariat and start making contacts with our various sponsors as well as the various stakeholders. As you know, the festival has now been inscribed in the World Heritage list which makes the United Nations a stakeholder in the festival. So, immediately the director-general is appointed, we will have a tripartite meeting between the State, the Federal Government and the United Nations, who are the major stakeholders in the festival. “From
that meeting, we should be able to announce to the world when the next festival will hold which will definitely be sometime in March next year Insha Allah,” he said. He also noted that there was great potential in the polo tournament being part of the festival, adding that the tournament has continued to evolve and grow over the years. “The festival started with just the main event, which is the grand fishing. Today we have like seven to eight major events making the entire festival. Therefore, this has huge potential in my opinion of becoming one event amongst so many to hold during the festival,” he said. He explained that the reason for the lengthy delay in holding festival was largely due to the security situation the country had been faced with for quite a while. You know the festival is such that attracts people like no other festival in the country. In our wisdom, we felt that it was a kind of opportunity the miscreants in our society will want to take advantage of to attack and cause maximum damage. So, we were not prepared to take that chance. Alhamdullahi, peace has come to most part of the country and we felt it is safe enough to stage it at this time. Hopefully, next year Insha Allah it will hold, he said. In his response, Ogboro said he and the entire NPF family were very honoured to have been personally invited by the Emir to witness the maiden Argungu polo tournament. “I am very excited that polo has come to Argungu for the first time in the history of the state and I am proud to have been part of this historical event, ” he said. He said the NPF would work
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UPDATES/NEWS
Destination… Yankari Resort & Safari
NTDC DG: Quick Peek at the New Helmsman
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he Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) has been immersed in various controversies and smear campaign, since the tenure of Mr Olusegun Runsewe. He was succeeded by Mrs Sally Mbanefo who was removed on November 17, 2016, and recently replaced by Mr Folarin Coker. Mr Folorunsho Folarin-Coker is the latest person to be appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari as the new Director General of Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation NTDC, replacing Mrs Sally Uwechue-Mbanefo, whose tenure ended recently. * He is a businessman.
Lagos-based
politician
and
*He was the former Managing Director of Number Plate Production Authority of Lagos State.
*He was an aide to former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, where he served as Business Adviser. *He is the son of respected Lagos Chief, Folarin Coker. *He has been linked to owning Mavin Records headed by Micheal ‘Don Jazzy’ Collins. He has since denied the linkage. *He was married to the daughter of Chief Bode Akindele, Folake Folarin-Coker (founder of Tiffany Amber Fashion label). * He was the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture until the cabinet reshuffle by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode late last year. He resigned from his position before he was replaced. He is a loyalist of Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN.
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ankari Resort & Safari is a large wildlife park located in the southcentral part of Bauchi State, in northeastern Nigeria. It covers an area of about 2,244 square kilometres and is home to several natural warm water springs, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna. Its location in the heartland of the West African savanna makes it a unique place for tourists and holidaymakers to watch wildlife in its natural habitat. Yankari was originally created as a game reserve in 1956, but later designated Nigeria’s biggest national park in 1991. It is the most popular destination for tourists in Nigeria and, as such, plays a crucial role in the development and promotion of tourism and ecotourism in Nigeria. It is also one of the most popular eco-destinations in West Africa. With rich wildlife resources, the park is an important refuge for over 50 species of mammal, including African bush elephant, olive baboon, patas monkey, Tantalus monkey, roan antelope, western hartebeest, lion, African buffalo, waterbuck, bushbuck and hippopotamus. It also has a large and diverse freshwater ecosystem around its freshwater springs and the Raji River. There are also over 350 species of bird found in the park. Of these, 130 are resident, 50 are Palearctic migrants and the rest are intraAfrican migrants that move locally within Nigeria. These birds include the saddlebilled stork, white-rumped vulture, guinea fowl, grey hornbill, and the cattle egret.
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Investment
Nigeria to Emerge Maritime Hub in West and Central Africa
Obasanjo calls for more investment in tourism sector
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former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has said that Nigeria has latent opportunities in the tourism sector, which if explored would generate revenues that could rival, if not exceed the income from oil and gas. Obasanjo made the remark recently in Lagos while addressing the 41st session of the non elective annual general meeting (AGM) of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) as special guest of honour. Speaking on the AGM’s theme: “Tourism in a Recessed Economy,’ the former president described tourism as a catalyst for growing any economy in contemporary times and said if properly harnessed it could take the country out of its present economic recession. Obasanjo observed that for a country as blessed as Nigeria, its nationals and government have no reason to look elsewhere for their source of economic growth. “We need to pay attention to tourism. People are still travelling everywhere and that shows that with tourism there will be nothing like recession in Nigeria. We should even pay more attention to domestic tourism. A lot of Nigerians don’t travel much within the country and it is something we need to embrace. Domestic tourism can generate a lot of revenue for the country,” the former President said. Obasanjo whose speech was read on his behalf by the President of NANTA, Mr. Bankole 20
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Bernard, said he was working hard to turn Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, into a major tourist site. In a keynote speech, a former Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Dr. Harold Demureen, said with tourism Nigeria could end economic recession and strengthen the nation’s currency. He therefore charged the travel agents to look inwards and focus their attention on marketing the many tourists attractions in the country that need to be explored by Nigerians and foreigners alike. The CEO of Nigeria’s major domestic carrier, Medview Airline PLC, Alhaji Muneer Bankole, who shared his experience and how his foray in tourism and aviation ignited his investment impulse, remarked that recession offers the best opportunity for the country and people to diversify their source of revenue and he urged travel agents to be more creative and innovative as there are a lot of business opportunities in the aviation and tourism markets to explore. Earlier in his welcome address, NANTA president, Bernard, charged his members to remain steadfast and resolute in their business, noting that NANTA was set up to assist and boost the country’s tourism potential and create jobs for citizens.
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he Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has expressed confidence that the hosting of the Association of African Maritime Administrations (AAMA) will further enhance Nigeria’s quest of emerging as a hub of maritime destination for the West and Central African region. The Director General of NIMASA, Daduku Peterside, noted that hosting AAMA is currently the biggest maritime event on the continent, bringing together all the major operators to Abuja for the duration of the event. He added that apart from showcasing Nigeria’s maritime potential to the maritime community in Africa, it will also bring about interactions, business meetings, exchange of ideas and contacts among the maritime stakeholders across Africa including those from Nigeria. “In addition to the maritime administrations that would be attending the event, other critical stakeholders such as shipping companies, terminal operators, shipping agents, freight forwarders and other sundry maritime and shipping services providers would also be in attendance and this will bring about exchange of ideas and contacts with the Nigerian stakeholders.” The NIMASA DG also said that 32 countries from all parts of Africa are expected to participate at the continental conference and a number of maritime stakeholder organisations around the world will be attendance. “The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) delegation will be led by Mr. Kitack Lim the Secretary General of IMO which is a United Nations specialised agency that regulates shipping globally, “he said. The director general said that interactions among importers, exporters, shipping firms, freight forwarders and even chandelier’s, among several others will ultimately lead to increase in maritime activities in Nigeria thereby helping the country attain the desired hub port status within the sub-regions and ultimately advance the Nigerian economy. www.cometonigeria.com
UPDATES/NEWS
FG, UNWTO working toward implementation of tourism master plan — Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information
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he Federal Government on Tuesday said it was working with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, UNWTO, toward the full implementation of the Tourism Master Plan, for the country. Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who disclosed this while speaking at the 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) in Lagos, said that the theme, “Tourism in a Recessed Economy -The Way Forward, was very relevant because of its implication for travel, trade and tourism now, and in the years ahead. The minister, who was represented by Dr. Paul Adalikwu, acting Director-General, Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), said that the recession had negatively affected the industry. According to him, it is in response to these challenges, amongst other things, that this administration is not relenting on its drive to diversifying the economy. “Tourism stands to be a major beneficiary of this initiative, as new investments, jobs and growth will be stimulated by the sector. The way forward for tourism in a recessed economy calls for partnerships, creativity and innovation, backed by a determination to succeed. “On the part of the government, this administration has set in motion the process of fine-tuning all details toward creating an enabling environment for tourism in Nigeria, with a view to ensuring that the sector takes its rightful place in the economy.” He said that apart from the implementation of the tourism master plan and attracting increased funding for the sector, the government is also working to put in place a tourism satellite account for the country. “Government’s determination to implement the
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tourism satellite account is to ensure that the actual contribution of tourism to the economy is properly captured, as well as to track the direct and indirect effects of tourists’ spending on outputs and job creation.” Managing Director, Medview Airline, Alhaji Muneer Bankole, said at the event that most countries in the world today depend on tourism as a major foreign exchange earner. Bankole said governments at all levels and tourism practitioners should intensify efforts geared toward maximising the tourism potential of Nigeria. He also called for the establishment of a workable synergy between aviation and tourism sectors, as being practised by some countries such as Kenya and Ethiopia. Dr Harold Demuren, a former DirectorGeneral of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), said that the fall in the global price of oil was a wake-up call for Nigeria to diversify its economy. Demuren noted that for tourism to thrive, the government must, however, ensure that there was peace, safety and security in the country. Earlier, Mr Bernard Bankole, President,NANTA, had said that there was the need to find solutions to the various challenges being faced by the industry from economic meltdown. On the sidelines of the AGM was the celebration of founding fathers NANTA like Mr. Babatunde Akala, Mr. Olufemi Adefope and Elder Jerry Nwosu for their contributions to the growth of the association.
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HOT ISSUE
Women as Gatekeepers By - Stella Ify Osammor
Women in Nigeria need to recognise that it is crucial for them to work tirelessly to change the fortunes of Nigeria. Whenever women get involved in the conflict/affairs of a nation, in a way that is positive, things begin to change for the better in the spiritual and physical realm.
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here is a famous British adage that says ‘The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world’. This truth is latent but has endured for hundreds of years. Women have always had the capacity to determine the destinies of their sons and husbands and ultimately that of their nations. Women achieve this remarkable feat by the subtle vision they convey to men they nurture, either as sons or spouses. The persuasive strength of a woman is akin to that of a flowing river, which over time is capable of eroding granite. Britain would have never won the Second World War without the stiff upper-lipped determination of its women folk. Several were engaged in the production of arms in munitions factories. Many were in the medical corps. Several were engaged in espionage and even much more were members of ‘The Land Army’ and had the slogan, ‘Digging for Victory’ as their watchword. These women tilled the land and cooperated with the government to keep the nation as it endured the Second World War. I overheard a young British woman say to her friend, as she watched an aged mother bulldoze her way through various obstacle courses, in order to get her family to care for her in the way she wanted them to. ‘It’s no wonder we won the war, Hitler and his Generals could never have taken Britain with women like this mother resident in it.’ The statement, said in jest, is pregnant with meaning. It conjures a picture of a country where moral, spiritual and resolute determination of the women, as mothers and spouses, set the destiny of the land in the direction of victory, instead of defeat. 22
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In times past, Delilah brought down the military of Israel, when she nagged Samson into revealing to her the secret of his extraordinary strength. Women in Nigeria need to recognise that it is crucial for them to work tirelessly to change the fortunes of Nigeria. Whenever women get involved in the conflict/affairs of a nation, in a way that is positive, things begin to change for the better in the spiritual and physical realm. This is so because women are the primary carers of every living being. Women are good at projecting visions of success and possibilities for a people or community. Women are natural storytellers, teachers and endowed with fertile imagination/vision. We should tell our men that the country needs to be properly governed and say NO to corruption and ill-gotten wealth. When women seriously say NO to corruption, men will think twice before looting the treasury. We need to tell leaders of our nation that it is important to make clean and safe drinking water available to every household in the land. We need to stress that law and order are the bedrock of a well-governed society that wants to be part of the 21st century. The present global reality makes it imperative for gatekeepers, who are astute, to emerge from amongst this great and virile nation. This current global landscape makes the weak very vulnerable indeed. Only the fittest and most capable can eventually survive the jostling for prime economic positions that attend this political landscape. Nature abhors a vacuum. If there are no effective gatekeepers of nations, with the vast enviable resource, then astute international players will take www.cometonigeria.com
HOT ISSUE
up that position. A nation such as Nigeria needs to be self-possessed. She needs competent sons and daughters to look out for her worldwide interest. Naivety and ignorance are no longer bliss. Nigeria’s sons and daughters all over the world need to be recognised as her finest asset. They need to be engaged in the task of not just nation-building, but also national selfpreservation. Chaos should be jettisoned from our national politics because it makes us vulnerable. Law and order in our land need to be administrated by highly educated and very capable police force, made up of male and female graduates, who are well paid and understand what good governance and the rule of law is.
Kemi Adeosun Aminat Mohammed Folorunsho Alakija Florence Ita Giwa Marie Erejuwa Gbadebo Mosunmola Abudu
Women should say it in the home and on billboards, in the streets, at all our airports (in neon lights), that we are a great nation. A nation blessed with godly sons and daughters and eternally poised to fulfil destiny. We are a pivotal nation of people, created to be a force for good, both at home and abroad, at this current time and season. It is only women who can pronounce blessings upon the womb of the home upon the nation. I pray Nigerian women begin to do this for Nigeria’s sons and daughters and upon the future of this dear land.
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LUNCH TIME
Miyan Karkashi THE MAKING OF MIYAN KARKASHI
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iyan Karkashi is a delicacy popular in the Northeast and North central states of Nigeria, it can be prepared dry as per the leaves are dried and grounded into powder and used to thicken the soup or prepared wet like the Ewedu Soup. It can be served with tuwon shinkafa, tuwon dawa or tuwon masara. Here’s what you need to make this classic and very rich and nutritious soup.
What you need: – – – – – – – – – – – – –
8 medium pieces of Beef (cooked) 1 medium size Dried Fish 4 medium size Fresh Pepper (ground) 2 Bell Pepper 2 bunches Karkashi 2 cakes Dadawa or Dawadawa (Locust Beans) A Pinch of Potash I teaspoon Yaji I cooking spoon Oil (optional) One medium size onion 1½ Litres of Water Little Ginger, Garlic, Turmeric and Mixed Herbs (optional) 2 Maggi cubes, and salt to taste
Step by step Instruction:
Wash and season the beef with salt and yaji, steam for about 15 minutes. Add the fish, ground pepper and onions, Boil for about 10 minutes. Pound and crush the Karkashi (though you can buy the powdered Karkashi from the market) as you pour into the pot and add the potash. Whisk lightly with a special whisking stick to increase the resilience. And create a fine consistency and blending. Add the ground dadawa, and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes. Add Maggi cubes. Stir and add salt to taste. Serve with tuwon dawa
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NEXT ISSUE The next edition of CometoNigeria will be covering the following topics and many more: Hot Issue: What is making Nigeria more strategic to Arts and Cultural develoment Music of Nigeria My Nigeria: Interview with Bjรถrn Oyibo Renders, from Brugge, Belgium Books! Books!! Books!!! Books By Nigerian Writers Top 10 Favourite Budget and Tourists Hotels Full account of the 50th years Celebration of the creation of Lagos state
? gger o l b el Trav yoculer to d n e S /arti y : stor ria@
e onigom t e com mail.c g
Religious Tourism Plus States/City in focus: Tourist sites, hotels, restaurants and nightclubs Other Top Restaurants and Hotels in the country, Featured Sites, Festivals and Resorts Striking photos and many more! For advert placement in the next issue of CometoNigeria Magazine, please contact: Neil Peacock, Ekundayo Adeniran or Morgan Okunnuga on +44 (0) 151 922 2911, Email: info@cometonigeria.com If you would like to contribute stories and images, please send your materials to info@cometonigeria.com.
Some of the Previous editions
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RELIGIOUS TOURISM FEATURE STORY
HIS EXCELLENCY
MUHAMMADU BUHARI GCFR
PRESIDENT, COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA
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Story by: Oluwole David
A mid-term appraisal of the current Nigeria regime is a bitter-sweet assignment to research and pen. Twenty-four months’ race like twenty-four hours; there was no dull moment. Before the election, it was the case of two bad knives in an old woman’s kitchen; the one that is sharp does not have a handle, and the one that has handle is not sharp. Political marketers later helped to make the positioning later to become ‘anything but the incumbent’. All that is now history. The next hurdle became getting things done. Would it have been an advantage to hit the ground running? Or could it also have been disastrous to stumble if the ground rules were not well mastered and decoded? The race may not also be to the swift, after all, it may also not be slow and steady that wins the race. Nigeria is big, complex, strategic to all black race of the world and developing nations. These multifarious contending factors and forces in varying degrees compete for the soul of the nation -Wole David
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FEATURE STORY RELIGIOUS TOURISM
Will this be a REVOLUTION, LAUGH OR CRY with BUHARI on NIGERIA?
RELIGIOUS TOURISM FEATURE STORY
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n 2011, an uprising in Tunisia against former leader Zine El Abidine Ben Ali bolstered similar anti-government protests in most Arab countries. Egypt, Yemen, Syria and Libya entered the fray with diverse manifestation of civil disobedience, disorder, revolution or conflict. However inaccurate and or simplistic their description may be, the western media called it ‘The Arab Spring’. The fundamentals leading to that uprising were political and socioeconomic. Indeed, Nigeria was close to that precipice. Bassem Youssef’s narrative, just released via a book, “Revolution for Dummies: Laughing Through the Arab Spring” talks about propaganda, satire and the dilemma of leadership. The Nigeria economic appraisal in the last 24 months of Buhari have an element of these three premises in varying degree, and strongly spiced with ‘sizeable loud goats, few powerful wolves and large, but silent sheep’. To have a takeaway from this piece you must move out from ‘applied school of mechanistic determinism’, “Baba sope, mama sope” – apologies to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Welcome to the school of an open mind. Know, for a certainty that it is not likely that the ‘goats’ will give way; they are not easily persuaded by facts and figures, but stubbornly stuck to the ‘old woman’s fairy night tales’, and we know that the ‘Wolves’ prosper in disorder and conflict, popularly called “Arije ni madaru”. Sadly, the goats end up in the belly of the vociferous Wolves. Youssef’s sarcasm is a sufficient piece for learning. By the way, Youssef, an Egyptian, lives in New York, the United States of America. He was caught between the devil and the deep blue sea, and the satirist says, “But for many, I was public enemy number one. Islamists hated me. They accused me of being an Islam hater, an apostate and an atheist. When the military took over, they also hated me. They considered me a threat to national security and a secret operative with an agenda to bring down the army.” As it was complex and misunderstood for Bassem, so it is, much more, with President Muhammadu Buhari. Ex-head of state, ex-military general, Muslim Hausa/Fulani who beats an incumbent Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Christian, an Ijaw man from the South-south oil producing Niger-Delta region in a popular vote and in over 2/3 constituent 36 states of the federation. In that election, President Muhammadu Buhari, PMB, as he’s now popularly called, had a very huge support of the South-west region of the country, while the ex-president followership came from the East and the South-South region. The Middle-belt and the three regions of the North went for PMB. Those were the socio-political settings for the new president of the biggest black nation on earth, a leading 28
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THE SIX-POINT AGENDA ARE; • Genuine liberalisation of the foreign exchange market with the intention of achieving a single exchange rate should be topmost on the minds of monetary authorities.
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light in the emerging market, a power beacon in Africa and centre-point of the 400 million Economic Community of West-Africa States, ECOWAS. Tribal, religious and security problems of Boko Haram and Niger-Delta were also rods that must be resolved. All of the above, and more, induced extreme passion. Pre-election, the three times try-and-failed PMB only got ahead via a coalition of forces and parties, including a breakaway five prominent governors of the ruling party, People’s Democratic Party, PDP. The agglomeration seems nothing at that time to the ruling party because of the power of incumbency in African politics. Ultimately, it became the stone that builders reject becoming a cornerstone. The campaign was fierce and birthed uncommon hate designations and appellations in Nigeria politics. Nigerians graduated to an unprecedented podium politics like never before. Nothing scales through national discuss without being fitted into the prism and crucible of religious, tribal and political sentiments. Ultimately, nationalism, policy and governance suffered. With the age long Pan-Africa challenge of corruption, black was no more black, but a thousand shades of grey, neither were red still red. There was also fear of secession, just as the Boko Haram was simultaneously raging in the North-East. As at this time, the level of decadence and deep rooted plundering of national assets was not fully exposed. At best, it was more of suspicion, but the body language of people closer to powers that be felt it was colossal. The strength of PMB’s suspicion, which was confirmed two years down the road, delayed the appointment of state executives; it was difficult to clear appointments through security checks due to humongous pilferage of Nigeria resources. Ultimately, ministers of the federal republic were named and confirmed around the last quarter of 2015. Was is it on merit? Not absolutely. There was ethnic and religious balancing. Largely, Almost all notable appointees that ultimately passed through and deployed to salvage notable national assets or institution that has become a bastion of corruption became sure targets for attack. Writing on Hadiza Bala Usman’s appointment and performance as Managing Director of Nigerian Port Authority, NPA, in Cost of Reforms, Adeeko Ademola wrote, “It is a trend that takes vast amount of political will to undo as systemic reformers battle against the devastating current of blackmail, libel, insubordination and sometimes direct threat to their lives by machinery of the beneficiaries of corruption.” A respected Senior Advocate of Nigeria and human rights activist, Olisa Agbakoba captured it succinctly, saying, “There is no doubt Nigeria was in a state of utter chaos and disorder prior to the 2015 elections. Nigeria struggled
with massive insecurity, weak political structure, empty treasury and corruption. These issues actually influenced the election of President Muhammadu Buhari.” On the other hand, it cuts across. In an interview with Thisday newspaper, Mr. Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a top-flight social and human rights activist says, “There is no doubt that the Buhari administration inherited a country that had been run aground by a dangerously corrupt ruling class. But because the ruling APC believes in the ideology of underdevelopment canvassed by imperialism, it has embraced the reign of market forces. Personally, President Muhammadu Buhari is vehemently opposed to the devaluation of the national currency, but his cabinet members who are largely neo-liberal ideologues, colluded with the IMF to dollarise the economy…At the end of the dubious experiment of the regime, the national currency has been ruined.” Several quarters actually believed that PMB and his party, All Progressives Congress, APC, were not ready for governance. That they rose to the power on failure of the past, and the promises to rebuild the image of Nigeria amongst the committee of nations, minimise corruption, reduce insecurity, rejuvenate and expand infrastructure, diversify the national income sources and grow the economy. PMB and APC did not do what is described in local parlance as ‘due diligence’ or pretended not to know the extent of damage that has been inflicted on the Nigerian’s economy. While the administration tried to start fixing the rot, pieces of the already cracked wall of the economic cookies began to fall on their head. Nigeria economy officially plunged into recession in 2016 after it contracted by 0.4%, 2.1%, 2.2% and 1.3% year-on-year in Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4 respectively. Although padded, the hue and cry all over the land did not start until a few months after. Usually, that is the time for ‘Wolves’ to take a position for the kill, and that was the time, also, that it dawned on PMB, APC and the civil service woke up to the enormity of work to be done. PMB himself ended up in a London hospital for about 49 days to recover what was left of his physiology. GTB 2017 outlook released in February, says, “The fundamentals of the economy, which includes the market size, population, enterprise competency of Nigerians, demographic, natural resources etc., are still very strong. In our opinion, the harmonisation and implementation of the right policies (both fiscal and monetary), that will optimise these fundamentals into stimulating economic activities and maximizing productivity appear to be the missing link”. That is like an over emphasis that implementation kills most strategic thrusts and planning. From Structural Adjustment Programme, SAP, of Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, to Olusegun Obasanjo’s NEEDS, Umoru Musa Yar’Adua’s Vision:2020, Ayorinsola Obisanya re-echoed the same fundamental challenge of successive planning policies, saying, “Yar’Adua administration dumped the NEEDS policy and birthed the Vision 2020 and the seven-point agenda. Currently, the Transformation agenda is the one guiding the ‘progress’ of the country. One problem of Nigeria leaders is their inability to understand that real reform requires systematic policy initiatives and that well thought out and coordinated policy actions drive social and economic development.” Of the listed six-point agenda that GTB analyst suggests may get Nigeria out of the wood, only one, that is, the petroleum industry bill has not been accomplished, taking for granted that civil service will not truncate patriotic communication between private and public sector.
RELIGIOUS FEATURETOURISM STORY
• The credibility of the foreign exchange policy is key to attracting investors. Hence, policies must be transparent, unambiguous and fully implemented. • The federal government must put its best foot forward in finding a lasting solution to the militancy concerns in the Niger Delta. • The true deregulation of the downstream oil and gas sector will only be achieved when the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) has been passed into law. Significant investment in local refining can only come to fruition after the signing of the PIB into law. • The government, as a matter of urgency, needs to prepare an economic blueprint detailing milestones and roadmaps with unambiguous key performance indicators (KPI) regarding the attainment of economic prosperity. • Policy credibility will attract desired investment and in turn, bring about sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Reports by World Economics publication says, “Growth Continents registered 53.7 in March, the slowest rate of growth in 11 months. The recent slowdown can be mainly attributed to the shock suffered by the Indian economy by the demonetisation policy introduced in December. In March the data suggests that the Indian economy is starting to recover but the full effects will not be felt across the developing markets for a few months. In addition, managers in Latin America have signalled that they are experiencing more challenging economic conditions in March and do not expect the region to grow out of recession soon, this means that the Chinese economy is resuming its role as the main stabilising factor for the developing markets group.” Compared with Growth Continents, GCs, Nigeria Reports March Sales Managers’ Index (SMI) data suggests that “Nigerian economy is starting to grow out of the recession which saw 10 months of consecutive contraction. The Market Growth Index grew to 53.5 in March as the monthly Sales Growth Index edged up to 51.3, its highest value since March 2016. It is too early to speculate…Overall, conditions in Nigeria have improved over the past month and managers are expressing optimism that the economy will continue to grow.” The marginal growth experience in Nigeria is in spite of the Monetary Policy Committee, MPC, meeting of the 20th and 21st of March, 2017. The MPC report says, “Against the backdrop of persistent uncertainty in the global economy, stemming from pessimistic economic and socio-political developments around the world, saying, plagued by political, economic and financial market uncertainties defined by Brexit, growing protectionist and anti-globalization sentiments, divergent monetary policies of the advanced economies’ central banks and volatile commodity price movements. And the protectionist stance of the new U.S. administration.” Tactically, what the MPC did was retain the Monetary Policy Rate, MPR at
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14 percent; retain the Cash Reserve Requirement, CRR, at 22.5 per cent; retain the Liquidity Ratio at 30.00 per cent; and retain the Asymmetric corridor at +200 and -500 basis points around the MPR. The CBN also went ahead to stabilise the official foreign exchange rate at between N360 – N380 with a measure of success. The mirage in the foreign exchange rate is a product of the inordinate challenge of Nigeria to import even toothpick. NIGERIA’s inability to locally produce goods and services for its domestic needs has been described by Dr Lema Jubril, an elder statesman and industrialist as ridiculous. At the recent Kaduna Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA) closing event recently, Lema bluntly stated that almost 92 per cent of every Naira spent ends up overseas. He posited that “The economic hardship we face in this country is really international, it’s not only in Nigeria; just as Egypt has just devalued its currency for the sixth time in many months. “We know officially we have not devalued, but everyone knows that the Naira has been devalued at least 50 – 70 percent. This is so because we rely so much on imports and this is the problem. All these years we are not able to produce most of our requirements. Nigeria now imports almost 85 percent of all our national requirements” he concludes. But other institutions like the legislature and judiciary are also saliently at war with the efforts of government. Earlier, the Buhari administration developed list of items not valid for foreign exchange at the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Window. They are, “1. Rice 2. Cement 3. Margarine 4. Palm Kernel/ Palm oil products/ vegetable oils 5. Meat and Processed Meat Products 6. Vegetables and Processed Vegetable Products 7. Poultry - chicken, eggs, Turkey 8. Private Airlines/ Jets 9. Indian incense 10. Tinned Fish in sauce (Geisha)/Sardines 11. Cold Rolled Steel Sheets 12. Galvanised steel sheets 13. Roofing sheets 14. Wheelbarrows 15. Head Pans 16. Metal Boxes and Containers 17. Enamelware 18. Steel Drums 19. Steel Pipes 20. Wire Rods (deformed and non-deformed) 21. Iron Rods and Reinforcing Bars 22. Wire Mesh 23. Steel Nails 24. Security and Razor Wire 25. Wood Particle Boards and Panels 26. Wood Fiber Boards and Panels 27. Plywood Boards and Panels 28. Wooden Doors 29. Toothpicks 30. Glass and Glassware 31. Kitchen Utensils 32. Tableware 33. Tiles- vitrified and ceramic 34. Textiles 35. Woven Fabrics 36. Clothes 37. Plastic and Rubber Products 38. Soap and Cosmetics 39. Tomatoes/ Tomatoes paste etc.”. Still, there is hope. An ARM Research identified the agricultural sector as turning www.cometonigeria.com
in some good reports in rice, wheat, cash crops and so on. For example, in palm oil production, it says, “In contrast to the macro-induced sell-offs across the broad equities market in 2016, palm oil producers had a stellar year as policy changes in response to the FX pressures handed the sector a lifeline. Specifically, CBN’s proscription of FX access for palm oil imports changed sector dynamics as it provided a competitive edge in pricing for local producers over CPO importers. Accordingly, the sector reported stronger revenues and higher margins in the period which fueled the positive price performance over 2016” But Reuters report by Paul Carsten and Alexis Akwagyiram says, “Nigeria’s woes go beyond its economy, said the report, piling additional challenges onto the government. The Northeast is in the throes of a humanitarian crisis caused by the Boko Haram Islamist insurgency, which is threatening millions with starvation. Adoption of a fully flexible exchange rate would likely see the naira, which is propped up by the Central Bank but trades around 30 percent weaker on the parallel market, plummet in value.” International Monetary Fund, IMF may not see a Nigerian pilgrim’s progress report, we see it, we value it and we thank God for it. On a lighter mood, juxtaposed against our recent past, Liberty Bhadmus, a popular commentator on Facebook wrote, “They kept loots in the bank, Buhari located it. Ask Diezani Allison-Madueke. They used their steward’s names to keep their loots in the bank, Buhari busted it. Ask Patience Jonathan and Stella Oduah. They hid it in septic tanks, Buhari exhumed it. Ask Adesola Amosu. They kept it in an air conditioned house in a ghetto, Buhari sniffed it out. Ask Andrew Yakubu. Then, they started abandoning it. Ask Kaduna airport authority. “I can’t leave a man who is sanitising the system for any reason known to man. I cannot. Don’t you see that the fund kept in an isolated jungle, in soak away, in banks home and abroad is cursing them.? See their ways of life, they built comfortable mansions, castles but they lodged in hotels, uncomfortably, their children are in high school, fees paid but they are always in night clubs consuming alcohol and drugs like rats and pigs. For us, the only question is, can we sustain it? Army generals are getting into prison, past governors are indicted and punished. Top leaders of parliament are vomiting what they swallowed. Judges of the Supreme Court are stung and investigated. Some are very unhappy that they now have to give account, fundamentals of ease of doing business are dealt with headlong, the restive Niger Delta are on the discussion table with government and Boko Haram are flushed out from holding any territory of Nigeria. That may look and sound easy, to outsiders, like IMF, but from this part of town, we’ve never had it like this. It’s a revolution.
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GETTING READY FOR TOURISM -Securing People and Properties Story by Elder Dipo Adegbite
Going through the checkered history of Nigeria one would discover that the Nigerian military, particularly the army has, been discharging its constitutional roles of giving aid to the police in internal security operations/crises. We had the civil war, Maitatsne, Niger-Delta, Zango Kataf and other crises, which seriously tasked eorts of the armed forces, police and para-military services. 32
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It is a thing of joy that the army, the navy and air-force now work in planned collaboration (army and air-force against Boko Haram and army and navy against Niger delta). Activities of the police and para-military forces like the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) and National Defence corps are equally vital to the security efforts. The result is that the country is now, more-than-ever-before, ready to protect its citizens and foreigners who come to Nigeria for legitimate businesses and tourism. One big criticism now is that security agencies do not adequately deal with armed Fulani herdsmen unleashing terror, maiming, killing and raping unarmed farmers and innocent citizens. The Federal Government and its security agencies must quickly bring the offenders to justice and stop the menace. Decisive action will encourage foreigners to make Nigeria their first destination choice. ARMY IN NATION-BUILDING At this juncture, it is apt to throw more light on the current activities of the Nigerian Army as a giant security provider for the country. One big step to make the service self-reliant is the conversion of the Army Technical institution into the University of Technology. According to the Chief of Army staff (COAS) LieutenantGeneral Yusuf Buratai, the university to be sited in Maiduguri will offer studies in unique scientific and engineering courses like electricity generation and manufacturing of soft and hard military wares using mostly local materials.
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Militaries from African neighbours like Cameroon, Niger, Chad and also the United States, United Kingdom and others shared intelligence with Nigeria. This, in no small measure, worked for the government troops.
n the early 60s, one of the discharged Nigerian soldiers who took part in Congo military operation under the United Nations came to our secondary school. The school management arranged with him to take us in physical training. The soldier always told us that time would come when Nigeria would know the essence of having a good standing army. Later we had the civil war (1967 – 1970) and series of internal security crises of which Boko Haram is the latest. These events made me cast my mind back to what the soldier used to tell us in the 60s about the army. Going through the checkered history of Nigeria one would discover that the Nigerian military, particularly the army has been discharging its constitutional roles of giving aid to the police in internal security operations/ crises. We had the civil war, Maitatsne, NigerDelta, Zango Kataf and other crises, which seriously tasked efforts of the armed forces, police and para-military services.
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RELIGIOUS TOURISM GETTING READY FOR TOURISM
SYNERGY AMONG SECURITY AGENCIES Some of the initial challenges facing the operation against Boko Haram insurgency were a lack of synergy, intra-service rivalry and inadequate supply of arms and ammunitions (e.g. misappropriation of money earmarked for supply).
GETTING READY FOR TOURISM RELIGIOUS TOURISM
RECOVERING OCCUPIED LANDS: Increased supply of arms and ammunitions, improved tactical methods and capture of insurgents’ weapons made recovery of lands by the Nigerian troops easy. Soldiers of 25, 28 and 21 brigades making up 7 Division smoked out hundreds of left-over remnants of the dreaded sects from their enclaves. The insurgents had been routed out from their sanctuaries in Sambisa forest. Unlike about two years ago every inch of the territory earlier occupied by Boko Haram had been taken by government troops. Some of them were arrested while some killed in their locations. Most of the roads closed three years ago were thrown open by Lt-Gen Buratai. Motor cycle Battalion that could boast of 90 power bikes escorted people to their destinations. According to the Ex-service man newspaper, a Deputy Director of the Army Public Relations, 7 Division, Col Anka and a member of the civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) Mr Nuhu Madu in an interview said that increased patrol made it easy to capture thousands of arms and ammunitions of different calibres and thousands of insurgents. An anonymous leader in Gamboru Ngala also commended CJTF and the civilian populace for their great help in the anti-insurgency campaign. He disclosed that based on intelligence provided by them, thirty-six boxes of ammunitions and an aircraft gun buried in the ground were destroyed making people have the confidence to move on Konduga – Kwamboru - Ngala – Dikwa road. So also was Damboua-Biu road. MORALE: According to Col Anka one of the things that greatly accounted for the success under Buratai is the high morale of the troops as opposed to what happened at the beginning of the onslaught. The radiophone conversation PMB had with the troops in the front-line last year, visits of the Ministers of Defence, Information and Health and the Chief of Defence Staff greatly boosted the morale of the soldiers. Even the wife of the Vice-President accompanied by Defence and
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Police Wives’ Association (DEPOWA) went to the North-East and offered gifts to the internally displaced persons (IDPs) RADIO LAFIYA DOLE: Mass Media and Radio Lafiya Dole also prepared people for security awareness. When a gun was fired people would phone the radio to know whether they were safe. The radio also gives safety tips and lots of safety-related information. SIGNIFICANCE: The afore-mentioned smooth operations, care of the internally displaced persons in their camps and succor for the returnees back to their homes in the north-east show the amount of efforts and exploits made by the Nigerian troops so that the country can be in peace. If the police and other para-military services e.g immigration, customs and others are quickly deployed to areas liberated by the military normalcy would quickly return to other areas and borders. If the momentum of giving succour to the IDPS and others is kept high efforts of Nigerian Army in nation-building would be properly realised.
PRESENT SITUATION: It is a thing of joy that the insurgents had been checkmated and vanquished. They now resort to sniper actions, ambushes, deliberate attacks in small villages far away from the troop’s presence. This cowardly act will soon stop considering the new approaches of our security agencies to stop them. It is instructive to know that efforts should be made to win the hearts and minds of the insurgents after winning the war. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, Nigerian government should now build a country where fair- play and justice reign supreme. We need a country where the constitution and the rule of law are not tailored to favour only the elites. It should be a place where religious – ethnic considerations are not allowed to becloud efforts of PMB to fight corruption. Strong institutions should also be in place. It is then and only then that we could stop fratricidal avoidable wars. It is then that efforts of our gallant troops to decimate Boko Haram and other insurgents will not be in vain.
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RELIGIOUS TOURISM
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ADVENTURES RELIGIOUS TOURISM WAR AGAINST TERRORISM
ORCHESTRATING THE WAR AGAINST TERRORISM Story by-Wole David
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own the memory lane of Nigerian military history, there was never a period like now when the skills and power of the Army has been tried, tested and stretched to the limit. Since mid-2015, the Nigeria military has taken mammoth walks that have made the nation safer than before. The polished methodology of the armed forces in the two years can be credited to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Tukur Buratai. Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, NAM GSS psc(+) ndc (BD) BA (Hons) MA MPhil, was appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari, on Monday, July 13, 2015, as the 20th Chief of Army Staff, (COAS). He takes over from former COAS, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah who was appointed by former President, Goodluck Jonathan. He was born on 24th November 1960 in Buratai town in the Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, and attended the Government Teachers College Potiskum, Yobe State and graduated with distinction. His father, Alhaji Yusuf Buratai, himself a soldier joined the army as a teenager in 1942. He fought in Burma, India. Recounting the world war days, he said, “We joined a ship from Lagos to Cotonou, then to Cape Town in South Africa. From there we went to Mombasa, then to Bombay in India from where we joined a train to Lahore, from where we were posted to the field in the bush where we trained in preparation for the war in Burma. I fought for three years” He gained admission into the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy
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Kaduna as a member of the 29 Regular Combatant Course (29 RC) on 3rd January 1981. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on 17th December 1983 into the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, and attended the mandatory Young Officers Course Infantry (YOC) and Anti-Tank Platoon Commanders’ Course both at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Jaji. He is an accomplished infantry senior officer who was commissioned in 1983 and has had multiple commands, administrative and instructional appointments over his 34 years’ illustrious career. He served in 26 Amphibious Battalion Elele, Port Harcourt, Military Observer at the United Nations Verification Mission II in Angola; later 26 Guards Battalion, Lagos; Lagos Garrison Command Camp. Lt Gen Buratai also served as administrative officer at the State House, Abuja; 82 Motorized Battalion; 81 Battalion, Bakassi Peninsula; Army Headquarters Garrison, Abuja before he became a Directing Staff at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji; earning the prestigious “Pass Staff College Dagger” (psc(+) appellation. Subsequently, he served at AHQ Department of Army Policy and Plans, Abuja; Assistant Chief of Staff Administrative Matters, HQ Infantry Centre Jaji. Additionally, he was again at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College as Director Department of Land Warfare from where he was appointed Commander 2 Brigade, Port Harcourt, doubling as Commander, Sector 2 JTF Operation PULO SHIELD. Upon promotion to the rank of Major General, he was appointed
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NAM GSS psc(+) ndc (BD) BA (Hons) MA MPhil
CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF
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WAR AGAINST TOURISM TERRORISM RELIGIOUS
LIEUTENANT GENERAL T.Y BURATAI
Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Jaji; thereafter he was appointed Director of Procurement DHQ before being appointed Force Commander of the newly reconstituted Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) under the auspices of the Lake Chad Basin Commission and the Benin Republic, an appointment he held till he became Chief of Army Staff. His operational deployments include, Military Observer at the United Nations Verification Mission II in Angola, Op HARMONY IV in the Bakassi Peninsula, OP MESA, Op PULO SHIELD, Op SAFE CONDUCT, MNJTF, Op ZAMAN LAFIYA and Op LAFIYA DOLE. His qualifications include Nigerian Defence Academy Certification of Education, Bachelor of Arts in History, Masters of Arts Degree in History and Master of Philosophy Degree in Security Studies. A highly decorated senior officer, Lt Gen Buratai’s Honours and Awards include; Nigerian Army Medal, Forces Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, Distinguished Service Star and the Grand Service Star. Others include Pass Staff Course Dagger (psc(+), National Defence College (Bangladesh), Field Command Medal, Training Support Medal and the United Nations Medal for Angolan Verification Medal II. He is a Member of Historical Society of Nigeria. Lt Gen Buratai loves farming, squash racket and jogging. Unconfirmed sources say the President’s visit to the United States, precipitated the sack of the service chiefs. According to Vanguard, reliable security sources, speaking under anonymity said, there were indications that President Obama was not happy about the way Nigeria was handling the Boko-Haram issue despite the huge funding from abroad. Also, the source said the US was worried that Boko-Haram was still in control, and posed a huge threat. The United States at a time provided $35 million in military and defense support services to France as part of America’s investment in the war against the Islamist terrorist group, Boko Haram. The American support, contained in a press statement issued by the White House, is to provide assistance to France which has been actively supporting Nigeria’s French speaking neighbours—Niger and Chad— in their fight against Boko Haram insurgents as well as Mali, which
ADVENTURE WAR AGAINST TERRORISM is battling Islamist extremism. The three French-speaking countries have been described as being in the forefront of the war against the dreaded Islamist terrorist group. Curiously, America’s new support did not mention Nigeria, the country worst hit by Boko Haram’s terrorist assaults. The conspicuous omission of Nigeria has raised questions in diplomatic circles whether the apparent snub represented a continuing fallout from strained relations between the Goodluck Jonathan administration and President Barack Obama over the former’s original questionable response to the Boko Haram menace. The national security challenges in the country at the time Buratai was appointed was beyond Boko Haram. There were other threatening issues that include cattle rustling, kidnapping and inter-tribal killings in several parts of the country, illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, cultism, gangsters, militancy in the Niger Delta region and Biafra separatist movement. Nigeria was losing about N3.7 trillion to ILLEGAL bunkering- the act or process of unlawfully supplying a ship with fuel, without NNPC license, authorisation or without payment of taxes, levies, and dues to the government are illegal bunkering. According to a report prepared by the Maritime Industry Advocacy Initiative, Nigeria was losing 600,000 barrels of crude oil daily to illegal bunkering. In the midst of all, monies voted for equipping and training security officials ended up in private pockets. Over N185,843,052,564.30 and $685,349,692.49 could not be accounted for, and beyond money, thousands of soldiers were deserting their commission and so many abandoning their duty posts and running away from terrorists. It was gathered that many of the weapons failed to respond in the frontline, armoured tanks broke down while many could not shoot. Aside this, many logistics equipment deployed refused or failed to work in very critical periods where soldiers were face-to-face with armed terrorists. During my research, I came across several Simulation, Command Post and Field Training Exercises like SHIRIN HARBI, HARBIN KUNAMA, CROCODILE SMILE, PYTHON DANCE and LAFIYA DOLE. They were carried out in various regions of Nigeria. These Exercises were deliberately initiated and conducted with an overarching aim of checkmating identified security challenges prevalent in the regions where they were carried out.
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ADVENTURE WAR AGAINST TERRORISM
Sambisa Forest Two years down the road, playing up how far the regime has dissipated the insurgency, President Muhammadu Buhari said, “Never again will terrorists take over and occupy any part of Nigeria’s territory”. The Nigerian army actually hosted an event, 2017 Nigerian Army Small Arms Championship (NASAC), inside Sambisa Forest. Juxtaposed against times when the Islamist state flag was flying over three states of Adamawa, Yobe and Borno. The Minister of Defence, Mansur Dan-Ali Buhari noted that holding the championship in the forest was an affirmation that government was “resolved to stamp out all activities and operations of the Boko Haram insurgents from our territory.” Buhari also said: “This championship is a showcase of the clear effect and degradation of the Boko Haram terrorist group with the destruction of Camp Zairo in the heart of the famous Sambisa forest. Gallant officers of the joint multinational task force like Maj-Gen. Leo Irabor and even the support and Vision of the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar all helped in making Sambisa what it is today. “I want to use this opportunity to congratulate the Nigerian Army for this achievement and reiterate at this point by noting that it is a case of professional training that brought the Nigerian Army to this length.” Buhari restated that through the Presidential Committee on North-East Initiative (PCNI), government would reconstruct facilities and structures destroyed by the terrorists so that the people of the region could enjoy the dividends of democracy. Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, said the championship was held at the forest to consolidate on the gains achieved by troops in the North East so far. “This championship is therefore held here at the heart of the Sambisa forest as part of Nigerian Army’s plans to effectively dominate all hostile
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territories in the North East”, Buratai said. NASAC was held seven years ago at Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, in Kaduna state. According to Buratai, the championship could not be held since then due to numerous operational engagements by the army. Meanwhile, the Federal Government has named the newly established Nigerian Army shooting range at the Sambisa forest after the late Lt.-Col. Abu Ali. Ali, who was the commander of an army formation at Mallam Fatori in Borno east, died in a battle on Nov. 4, 2016 when Boko Haram terrorists attempted to invade and take the town. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), recalls that the army routed the terrorists and took over Sambisa on Dec. 23, 2016 at about 1.35pm after it overran Camp Zairo, their last strong hold in the forest. As for illegal bunkering, the COAS says, “Strictly speaking, there is no rise (in illegal bunkering and oil theft) because of the efforts of all the stakeholders, the military and other security agencies, working hard to make sure that the sabotage is checked. That is why you see so many arrests, so many moves to stop the illegal bunkering. It is a new drive, new effort put by all the security agencies. “You know that we have a new 6 Division (of the Nigerian Army) that has been established. By that establishment, we have more areas which hitherto have not been touched. We have an experienced General Officer Commanding–GOC of the division, who has gone virtually to those areas that hitherto have been isolated,’’ he said. The Nigeria military realized that jobs, not bombs, will win the war on terror and restiveness, therefore, it has not all been smooth. There were vexed cases of Buratai’s buying property in Dubai. Upon investigation, it was confirmed that it’s an old case of 2013, pre appointment. Officials says, “It is a fact that the family bought such property through personal savings and was paid for instalmentally.” There was also the celebrated case of human rights abuses, (Transparency International) and accusations by Biafra that are still being investigated and in court.
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ADVENTURE
Cyprian Ekwensi Center for Arts and Culture, Abuja Nigeria
Nigeria Through OLIVIA NNEKA OSUEKE’S Eyes
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Going into the country, I was excited to experience the feeling of togetherness in the villages and a richness in culture, things we don’t often hear about when it comes to traveling to Nigeria.
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was given the task to write an adventure story, and sure enough, I managed to do just that the first time around. I had clear-cut, straightforward descriptions of everything I did and why I recommended them as sites to visit, but something was missing. I came away from the first draft with a certain unsatisfaction that I couldn’t shake; it lacked the authenticity of how much it impacted me to finally be Home after so long. For the life of me, I wanted to construct the perfect article about my trip to Nigeria while shining light on the beauty of the country. Determined, I went back to the laptop and took another swing at it. For those of us who don’t have an extensive knowledge about the Nigerian way of life, it’s easy to create an image about the country based on what others mention most about it. Unfortunately, because of this, Nigeria tends to get a bad rap for a number of reasons, even by native Nigerians themselves. My parents, both born and raised in the country, were extremely nervous about me going back Home alone. I’m more than sure they meant well, but their anxiousness encouraged a preconceived notion of ill will, and I certainly didn’t want to go on my trip with that mindset. I wanted to experience Nigeria for myself and focus on the areas where the country excelled. Even though I regard every trip I take as an adventure in some form or fashion, I certainly didn’t set up my Nigeria visit as paradise getaway. Quite frankly, my main intentions were to relax with family, which is what I did for the most part, but in true Nneka Osueke fashion, I managed to squeeze in some exploration. Still adjusting to the time difference, I woke up at 2:30 am for three days straight waiting for daylight while rolling around in my bed with the flashlight on. As soon as I saw sunbeams illuminating the sky, I hopped up, collected a bucket of hot water for my bath, and drenched myself in coconut oil and mosquito spray. That first Sunday of my trip, I took my cousins up on an offer to see the Imo State Zoo, where there were vervet monkeys running around begging for my biscuits. Eventually, I gave into their cuteness and shared some. Needless to say, it was a pleasant surprise to find out that such a place existed near www.cometonigeria.com
ADVENTURE Wuse Market, Abuja
Model School, Mbaise, Imo State
Imo State Zoo, Owerri
Imo State Zoo, Owerri
the rural parts of Imo State, and my enjoyment was more so rooted in being able to show others that Nigeria had outing places such as this. Going into the country, I was excited to experience the feeling of togetherness in the villages and a richness in culture, things we don’t often hear about when it comes to traveling to Nigeria. A good number of first generation Nigerians living in America tend to receive and believe only a portion of what the country has to offer. Most of us who come to the village are only coming to see family--we wouldn’t know the first thing about luxury hotels nearby. The hotels in Owerri, like the Links Hotel I visited, could easily rival those found in the States. Equipped with free Internet service, a swimming pool, 24-hour gym access, airport pick up, and room service running into the wee hours of the morning and beds like clouds, one could roll over from their sleep and request for jollof rice at three in the morning. Also, the shopping experience was never dull here. The newest South African-based economic venture, Shoprite, located in the Owerri Mall was a favorite meet-up spot. Furthermore, walking through the Owerri Main Market I felt like I was in a movie scene, stepping through narrow breezeways and being greeted by the shop owners offering me handbags and shoes.
Shoprite found it’s way into this city as well at the modern-style shopping center, Jabi Lake Mall. For tourist looking to browse through the familiarity of stores like M.A.C., Clinique, and Pandora, this serene setting was a perfect retail fix. Not to mention, the relaxing view of the lake was delightful as I devoured rice and jammed to some Naija tunes coming from the outdoor restaurants. Toward the end of that day, I browsed the stunning artwork at the Cyprian Ekwensi Art and Cultural Centre. This facility, built in honor of writer, pharmacist, and activist Cyprian Ekwensi had a room full of the most beautiful pieces of artwork I’d seen in a while. After filming and trying my hand at photography during a mini photo shoot there, I browsed the market conveniently located right outside of the entrance of the building. Even with the few outings I did while in Nigeria, I was more so inspired by country’s resiliency, even in the smallest feats: the strength in my grandmother’s hands as she boiled and strained palm kernels for wine oil to sell, the refined skill of the young seamstress who crafted my perfectly fitted Ankara suit in only three days, and the poise of the women I saw effortlessly carrying their baskets of goods to the market on their head without even lifting a finger to hold it up. I wanted to float with joy and wonder like the school children I filmed at my aunt’s Model Primary School in Mbaise, Imo State. More than anything, from the big bustling markets to the small village restaurants, I was proud to see my Homeland making the most of their resources and striving to build the best for themselves with what they had. It made me all the more proud to call myself a Nigerian. Nneka Osueke, www.southernfriedambitious.com
When I wasn’t feasting on Moin-Moin and fish, sleeping from the hot sun, or lounging around watching Big Brother Naija, I had my fair share of enjoyment riding through the country’s capital, Abuja, and scoping the city-life scene. Where the markets are thriving, the land area is more spacious, and the mosquito population was significantly lower (thank God), Abuja had a completely different vibe than the village. Of course, www.cometonigeria.com
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ADVENTURE
WHO AM I? – A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY! By Carlton Tilley (Newark USA)
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everal years ago while working in a department store I met three young African students newly arrived to America; one from Angola, one from Mozambique and the other from South Africa. They were in my department to buy clothes and we introduced ourselves to each other, as I was the first American Black they had had any interaction with and I was also always eager to meet people from other countries. They told me their names, and I told them mine, but then something unexpected and strange happened. One of them said, “Brother, what tribe are you from?” to which I answered, “My last name is Tilley.” The fellow repeated, “No Brother, that is your last name, but what tribe are you from? Of course, I couldn’t answer because I didn’t know and it was in that instant that I really didn’t know who I was or where I came from other than being born in Buffalo, New York and of course knowing my parents. Let me fast forward to a more recent time; a time of family reunions, DNA ancestry analyses, and families “discovering” themselves. I attended my first Tilley Family Reunion in 1988, my branch of the family was “found” through the diligence of some cousins in North Carolina. The reunion was great as I met many cousins that I didn’t even know existed, however, at a subsequent family reunion I learned that “Tilley” is the adopted name of a former slave with the original last 42
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ADVENTURE name of “Dunbar,” so, even though a missing piece of my heritage may have been filled in I was still left with many questions. The advent of, and rise in popularity of, ancestry DNA testing has been a boon to many of us who have questions about our ancestry. Given to procrastination I delayed sending away for a DNA ancestry testing kit for many months until finally, immediately after the new year of 2017 I decided that it was time. I went online and researched the various testing companies and decided that My Heritage DNA was the best one for me. I accessed MyHeritage DNA, paid the $79 USD fee, and awaited the arrival of my kit. When the kit arrived approximately two weeks later I swabbed the inside of both my cheeks, inserted the swabs in the container, placed the container in the return mail packet and mailed it off. Approximately a month later I received the results and was mildly surprised at one set of results in particular, Finnish 2.7%. We all know about Europeans and the slave trade so I understand about the British and Irish ancestry, but as far as I know the Finnish were never involved in slave trading; however, given European history and wars it is entirely possible that there are some unknown links and/or liaisons between the British/Irish and Finnish. However, the fact that DNA analysis showed that I am 66.0% Nigerian puts a part of my life in perspective and just identifying solely as “African American” is no longer entirely sufficient and this DNA ancestry test fills in one of the missing pieces for me. I have travelled in South America and to many countries in Europe, and said that my first trip to Africa would be to South Africa, however now,
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ADVENTURE my first trip to Africa must be to Nigeria, my ancestral home. For years I have been writing and telling people that based on misinformation, lies, prejudice and false judgement that Nigeria is usually shown negatively by the western press and media. Little does anyone know that in America the immigrant group with the highest rate of college graduates is Nigerian-Americans and not the Asians as is often thought. Many Nigerians are firmly ensconced in American life and are truly living the “American Dream” just as all groups who come to America are seeking. Now more than ever, we African Americans must connect or reconnect with our ancestral nations in Africa and form a bond with those countries. I don’t like comparisons, but just as the Jews have an affinity for Israel, we too, must have an affinity and devotion to our ancestral places in Africa. I will certainly begin to take measures to connect with Nigeria. While travelling to countries abroad is indeed educational, but we African Americans and other Blacks in the Diaspora, many of us know next to nothing about Africa or where we emanated from. Today is the day to change that as simple ancestry DNA tests are very inexpensive, painless, but will provide a wealth of information. So why not take that first step and have your ancestral DNA analyzed? Even though I now know that I am 66.0% Nigerian I still want to know, if possible, what ancestral tribe I’m from, so in the very near future I will consult another ancestry DNA service that may provide that information. But I must relate the following brief account in relation to that. In the mid-1960’s my grandfather travelled to his birth home in South Carolina to attend his female cousin’s funeral. I don’t know the cousin’s name but according to my grandfather she was at or nearly, one hundred years old at the time of her death. From his description of the funeral service it appeared to be Islamic, and I asked him whether she had been a follower of the Nation of Islam movement to which he told me no, and as far as he remembered and even when he lived in the south in the late 1890’s and early in the 20th century she was always Muslim. So, I am thinking that the cousin was either brought from Africa and was Muslim or was born into Muslim parentage and if so, perhaps my heritage may be northern Nigerian. Still so many missing pieces! African governments must come to realize that Africans in the Diaspora are researching and finding their roots. They must also understand that African Americans in particular and others in the Diaspora have tremendous spending power and if these governments would enact a law or bill similar to Israel’s “Law of Return” thereby granting citizenship to returning Diaspora Africans their respective economies would realize a tremendous benefit. The citizenship would be based on the DNA analysis of the individual, for example in my case; it was determined through DNA analysis that I am 66.0% Nigerian, therefore, if Nigeria had a “Law of Return” I could visit Nigeria and apply and claim my Nigerian citizenship. When the Nigerian citizenship is granted I would have dual American and Nigerian citizenship. This would be even more important today for African Americans and those Africans in the Diaspora in some European countries because of the very wary and uneasy political climate that could potentially have negative 44
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ramifications for many years to come. I see this is a win-win for African nations and Africans in the Diaspora. You may ask why I have chosen the “Come to Nigeria” magazine to tell my story of discovery. Some years ago I met the “Come to Nigeria” founder and publisher, Oladimeji Adisa quite by happenstance through KLM Club Africa and then Facebook, subsequently I subscribed to the magazine and we have maintained contact since then. What really interested me about both the magazine and the website of the same name is the fact that Ola seeks to portray Nigeria in a positive light. Early on I told him that even though I had not travelled to Nigeria yet, it made no sense to me that the country and Nigerian people would constantly be portrayed negatively. Again, this negative press was totally baseless, unreasonable and again….made no sense! I chose “Come to Nigeria” magazine because it is the publication that I can be assured my story will be told accurately and correctly without the possible “western bias” that happens so often in publications. Perhaps this was always meant to be…a “separated” Nigerian son telling his story to a Nigerian magazine! Here is my DNA analysis and I sincerely hope that this brief account and analysis will motivate many Brothers and Sisters to seek their roots. Based on my DNA analysis, I am: AFRICA 91.7% West Africa 80.1% Nigerian 66.0% West African 14.1% East Africa 6.6% Somali 5.0% Kenyan 1.6% North Africa 5.0% North African 5.0% EUROPE 6.3% North and West Europe 6.3% British and Irish 3.6% Finnish 2.7% ASIA 2.0% South Asia 2.0% South Asian 2.0% Carlton Tilley 100.0%
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MY NIGERIA
PALACE OF SHEHU OF BORNO Home of culture, tourism, tradition and religion By Nana Muhammed
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he Palace of Shehu of Borno is one of the tourist centres of attraction in northeast Nigeria. The home of the traditional ruler of the Kanuri Kingdom is a beautiful place with beautiful architectures. Designed in the traditional way of the Kanuri and the Arab’s culture, the Shehu’s palace has the combination of religion and culture of the Kanuri and the Bura people. Kanuri is the predominant language of the people of Borno. But just like other states of the North Maiduguri have other ethnic groups and tribes from other parts of Nigeria. The Shehu’s beautiful and colourful kingdom also serves as an avenue for Eid-el Kabir celebrations for the Muslim Ummah, aside being the custodian of the Kanuri cultural heritage. During festivals such as the Eid-el Kabir Celebration, is the right time to visit the Shehu’s palace. Because it is at times like this that the Kanuri people and the Bura come together to celebrate and display their cultural heritage. Princes, king makers and traditional titled holders do visit the palace wearing blue, black and red colourful regalia. With colorful and beautiful attires, the Shehu’s place is a home for all. The most interesting part of the Kanuri culture is the especial Gangakwara Dance, an annual dance by king makers and title holders of the palace. At the Palace of Alhaji Abubakar Umar Garbai, the Shehu of Borno each titled holder www.cometonigeria.com
wears double baban riga swinging his sword majestically towards the direction of the drummers and the Kaákaki blowers. However the use of sword during such occasion signifies peace and warrior ship as part of historical achievement of KANEM Bornu, when the Kanuri fought Jihad and won. Just the traditional way, the Shehu will set calm to watch the kingdom family and visitors as they troop into the palace with amusement. With their swords in hand the king makers and the title holders will swing it majestically towards the direction of the drummers, the Kakaaki blowers as the Shehu watches. At times like this at the Shehu of Borno Palace the Gongkwara dance was never too big for the young; neither will it be too small for the elders, people of class, religion and politics partake in this cultural event, which is made part of the Muslim tradition of Eid el Adhan celebration. To the visitors and people of Kanuri Chiefdom, the occasion is the other beautiful and joyful side of Borno State. Even though the Boko Haram crises has taken away so many thing from them, some, their families, love ones and wealth, but one thing that could not be take away is the joy, amusement, laughter and unity that the kingdom of the proud Kanuri and the Bura people keeps reminding them.
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FAMOUS FISRT
Famous firsts in Nigeria The First General Hospital
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he General Hospital, Lagos Island was established in 1893 as a military hospital in order to cater for the health needs of members of the British Armed Forces during the colonial era. The establishment was formerly known as the African Hospital, however the name was changed to General Hospital when incidents of racial discrimination sprung up. The hospital is situated in Odan, Lagos Island, between Broad Street and Marina in the central business district. As part of the development, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) was established at the hospital in 1960 as a transformation of the Nigerian branch of British Medical Association, started in 1951. With the headquarters in Abuja, today the NMA has over 40,000 members in at least 36 state branches and the federal capital territory. The British formed the pioneer staff members of the hospital until 1952 when the Nursing School was established and the first set of nurses trained at the hospital were admitted. The hospital was handed over to the Federal Government during Nigeria’s independence on the October 1st, 1960 and was handed over to the Lagos State Government after the state was created on May 27th, 1967. The hospital’s services included Surgery, General Out-Patient Services and Obstetrics and Gynecology. Years later, the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department got relocated to Massey Street (Ita Eleiye) and became recognized as the birthplace for several famous Lagosians. The hospital has since served as a training ground for Doctors, Nurses, Radiographers, Pharmacists and Technologists all over the country.
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FAMOUS FIRST
THE AMAZU FAMILY: First Nigerians to Reach Geographic North Pole
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ollowing in the strides of incredible voyagers and globetrotters, the Amazu Family reached the Geographic North Pole to launch their philanthropic foundation Challenge 100 and remember the abducted girls of Chibok, Nigeria. In doing so they also became the first Nigerians to reach the North Pole.
The Geographic North Pole as the northernmost point on the planet, is where Earth’s axis intersects with its surface. Its latitude is 90 degrees north, and all longitudinal lines meet there. From there, every direction one turns is south. Since every longitudinal line start from it, it has no time zone.
The “North Pole” refers to multiple places: the geographically northernmost point on Earth, the magnetic north, and, most enchantingly, Santa’s headquarters. The North Pole has inspired human imagination, scientific exploration and political conflict for decades.
The North Pole is on Arctic ice floes, frozen water, in the high Arctic, with 6 to 12 feet separating you from 13,400 feet of Arctic Ocean.
Sir Ogbonnaya Amazu, and Lady Joy Amazu, alongside their young girls Aimee and Monica, from Anambra state, made a trip to the Geographic North Pole from Barneo, where the parents skydived from 10,000 feet onto the ice, with Og then jumping under the icecap to walk topsy turvy on the real site of the Geographic North Pole. Established by Og and Joy Amazu, their foundation “Challenge 100” is based on the three pillars of entrepreneurialism, philanthropy and family, with the aim of inspiring charitable acts in others. Nigerian Tuedon Morgan took part in the North Pole marathon and hoisted the Nigerian flag there earlier in 2015. The Nigerian Sportswoman Tuedon Morgan had only visited the North Pole Ice Camp, a distance of 25 miles from the actual North Pole. She decided not to travel with other marathon runners to complete the journey to the Geographic North Pole. However, the Amazu family traveled these extra miles and became the first Nigerians to reach the actual North Pole and mount a flag there and as a family. They strive hard enough to get to the peak risking attacks of polar bears and other dangerous animals. www.cometonigeria.com
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WEBPRENEURSHIP
nigerian Webpreneurs
st Sugge an i r a Nigeor send e t i s web urs to yo igeria@ on comet .com a m g il
A few years ago, some writers said Nigeria was lost in Cyberspace, because no worthy websites were found in the country. But today, Nigerians presence on the Internet is overwhelming. Not for the wrong reason though, the majority of today Nigerians are setting up websites that are not only appealing to a Nigeria audience but to global traffic.
www.northernlife.ng NorthernlifeNG is a one of a kind online media platform, designed to showcase the diversity of the people of Northern Nigeria. The blog showcases and celebrates the North, exploring the rich cultural history of its people, their origins and relationships within the region and with other people and cultures around them. Farida Yahya who hold a B.Sc. in Biochemistry from the University of Maiduguri, a founder/CEO at Lumo Naturals, Abuja’s foremost natural hair salon and shop is the CEO and Editor-in-chief at Northernlife.ng She is also the co-founder of Social Entrepreneurs’ Network, Nigeria: A network with interest in fostering collective responsibility, creating synergy among non-governmental organisations, and making youths more aware of their communities and how they can initiate small changes that will have ripple effect impact. Farida is the Co-founder and project coordinator for Ja Muje; a platform for citizen-led, community-driven action towards achieving sustainable growth and development of Northern Nigeria, with a focus on education, health, business and innovation.
www.ynaija.com YNaija.com is a Nigerian news website and blog founded by Chude Jideonwo and Adebola Williams of Red Africa media group, launched in May 2010, featuring columnists and various news sources. It offers news, original content and covers politics, business, entertainment, environment, technology, popular media, lifestyle, culture, comedy and healthy living. In July 2012, YNaija was ranked #5 top blog in the country for the year 2012, by CP- Africa. The Y! brand also includes a television show, a radio show and a hard-copy magazine, Y!, is a 100-150-page glossy monthly publication that initially began as a quarterly. Since its inception, the brand has been bent on fulfilling its mandate of being, in its own words, “the high priest of Nigerian culture.
www.writersincharge.com Bamidele Onibalusi, the brain behind Writersincharge.com, is a young writer and blogger. He believes that writers are unique and highly talented individuals that should be given the respect they deserve. His blog offers advice to help people to be truly in charge of their writing career.At ‘Writers in Charge’ our philosophy is that you, the writer, should be in charge – not your client or anybody/anything else, but you. Our only goal here at this blog is to help you become the person in charge. Every content released here will be focused on helping you achieve this goal. This blog has been by a team of writers from different parts of the world. Onibalusi Bamidele started his blog back in April 2010 as YoungPrePro.com. It was rebranded as WritersinCharge.com in March 2013.
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WEBPRENEURSHIP For more information please contact:
Registered in England and Wales Charity Number: 1039875 www.cometonigeria.com
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BOOKS
BOOKS by Nigerian Writers
Most of the books here are selections from the Literary Hub Bookshelf known for smart, engaged, entertaining writing about all things books. One thing that I know now is the greatness of Nigerian writers. The unique approach of Nigerians attitude to whatever they do. In every profession, writing included, we are good and special and the whole world is testifying to that. We have moved a bit ahead with this quarter’s Books by Nigerian Writers. - compiled by SALAMOTU
Author: Bash Sunday Amuneni Title: There is a Lunatic
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SULE
in Every Town
here is a Lunatic in Every Town by Bash Sunday Amuneni is a collection of poems that dig into our conscious and subconscious minds including our everyday absurdities. In this compelling collection of Forty Five (45) Poems which are divided into three parts namely; Resonance, Intimacy and Human Condition, the poet shows the somewhat inconsistent social realities of life through the interplay of complex circumstances. Basiru Sunday Amuneni known on stage as Bash the poet is one of Nigeria’s most promising performance poet. The author, who is based in Abuja, is an architect by profession but works with a bank and performs poetry at his leisure. He has won several awards including the Abuja Literary Society’s Poetry Slam Jam. There is a Lunatic in Every Town is his first published work.
Author: Oliver Iorkase Title: The
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Journey to One
he Journey to One by Oliver Iorkase is a play that ex-rays the challenges of co-existence by a people distinctly different in traditions, history, politics, and lifestyle. In most cases in spite of the conflict on the religious front, it is demanded they live as one. Three nations namely: the Fua, Ibotoro and Orin are at war. It takes the small nations to provide for the two most powerful nations state on how they settle their scores, Iorkase says, they must not serve each other a parboiled meal. They must not spill blood in the process and must acknowledge the potentials of each of the member state. Oliver Iorkase, is a Benue born Playwright of the modern day contemporary playwright, a stage director and cinematographer. He has staged plays which include: Jiji, Irajanmi, Jargon Republic and Journey to One and his Forty Shades of Sorry are due for April and October this year.
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Author: Munzali Dantata
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Tammunnde: Hope on the Horizon
BOOKS
Title:
ammunnde: Hope on the Horizon by Munzali Dantata is an attempt to trace the historical evolution of the relationships between the Nomadic Cattle Herders and farmers in Nigeria as represented by the protagonist Bappa and his host community of Okitipupa. The novel depicts how in the past, the Fulani nomads used to enjoy mutual relationships with their host communities. At that time, there were local alternative dispute resolution for resolution of disputes between the nomads and their host. Lately, pressure from ecological problems and politics has led to the breakdown of this mechanism.The book raises questions such as; at what point did the romantic nomads whose portrait adorns many hotel, halls and galleries drops his stick in favour of the AK47? At what time did the once mutual relationship turn soar?In Tammunnde, we uncover the issues of cattle rustlers and bandits who take advantage of the existing situation by causing harm to both the host community and the Fulani and added to this, are the attempts to politicize the issue for political reasons.Munzali Dantata is a lawyer by training with a (PhD) from the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. He spent the better part of his working life in the Culture and Tourism sector where he initiated the cultural village in 1999. He also worked as Director General of the National institute for Hospitality and Tourism from (2006-2014).He is an artist and has many artworks to his credit, a poet and a playwright. Tammunnde is his first attempt into the world of prose.
Author: Emeka Aniagolu Title:
A Tale of Two Giants: Chinua Achebe and Wole Soyinka A Tale of Two Giants: Chinua Achebe and Wole Soyinka by Emeka Aniagolu is a book of literary criticism published by AMAB Books, Nigeria. The book is a critical deconstruction of the two giants against the background of several other critical reviews about the lives and writings of the two giants. Whether or not the author justifies his criticisms of the duo giants, the book is quite inviting and open to debate. Emeka Aniagolu is a professor and teaches Political Science in the Ohio Wesleyan University, USA. He has written several works of fiction and criticisms which includes The Black Muster Seed, Ejima and several others.
Author: Kukogho Samson Iruesiri Title:
I Said These Words I Said These Words by Kukogho Samson Iruesiri is a collection of poems on rainbow themesPolitics, Religion, Love, Society, and self-realization of man. In this collection, which is a worthy sequel to Kukogho’s first and most acclaimed contemporary work of poetry, What Can Words Do the poet makes far reaching statements which echoes in the title I SAID THESE WORDS. Kukogho undeniably wraps his opinions around the minds of his readers presenting originality and metaphors that runs in our everyday lives. The poet who is also an online publisher at Word Rhyme and Rhythm Ltd is multitalented, he combines journalism, photography and advocacy about the girl child and issues on rape. He is the founder of the Poetivist movement in Nigeria tagged “Verse up against Women Abuse”. He is currently a Communications Manager at a Federal Government Agency in Nigeria.
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INSPIRATIONAL
Inspirational Nigerians
Inspirational Nigerians showcases Nigerians home and abroad who have been a source of inspiration to Nigerians in their respective professions and careers. It is an avenue to celebrate their achievements and showcase their success stories to inspire other people.
Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu... The Grand Master of the Game.
‘I learnt by experiment that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams and endeavours to live the life he has imagined, he would meet with a success unexpected in uncommon hour’- Henry Thoreau
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ove him or loathe him, Tinubu, the Jagaban, is a fascinating subject of study and an amazing success story, updated every day, whose enchanting political skills and contagious courage of conviction in pursuing any vision he believes in, not minding to be a minority of one on some occasions and against all odds has not only become the stuff that legends are made of within the context of Nigeria’s magical folklore, but he has continued to attract droves of believers to his school of thought nationwide at every stride of his political journey. Born on 29th March 1952, a prodigy child, if there was ever could be one, in the quest to secure a place in the sun, there has never been any dull moment for the compulsive game-changer, Tinubu, since seizing the imagination of the folks across the nation by securing the highest votes nationwide on his history-making way as an elected Senator representing Lagos West constituency in 1993, under the left-leaning wing of the then Social Democratic Party in the course of the short-lived, aborted Third 52
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In all his noble mission, without the slightest whiff of intermission, farsighted Tinubu has always been all-good in finding the nerve and verve in not only able to find his voice in doing what is right for the nation, but also empowering others to find theirs. Proof positive that, in the memorable words of the legendary Mohammed Ali: ‘“Champions aren’t made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside of them - a desire, a dream, a vision. They have last-minute stamina, they have to be a little faster, they have to have the skills and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill.” As the Governor of Lagos State from the halcyon AD days, onto AC, and ACN, Tinubu’s track record was resounding second to none. His financial wizardry shone like a million stars in the dark moments when on the excuse of the creation of inchoate Local Council Development Areas (LCDA’s) led to impound the monthly subventions, worth billions from the Federation. To get out of the bind, the Jagaban had to invent an out-of-the-box solution that will be simple in its conception and flawless in execution. Tinubu not only used to telltale effect all the brains he has got but all good ones he can borrow to fashion out a brand-new sustainable financial blueprint, Internally-Generated Revenue that helps deliver the State out of prostrate dependence on monthly doles from the centre. For some piddling N600 million, the Internally Generated Revenue revved up to N3.6 billion, 6 billion under Tinubu, now waltzing to N20 billion over eight years period. This is one magical template straight from the ever-ticking brain-box of Tinubu that has helped negotiate the path of liberation and sustainable progress for Lagos State, the commercial heartbeat of the nation and one that has become the sacred writ of wisdom passionately copied by the Buhari’s regime in its way to creatively think outside of the barrels of
INSPIRATIONAL
Republic midwived by General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida. A believer in Mark Twain’s immortal counsel: ‘Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest’, Tinubu, has always left lasting impressions expressed through his exploits at iconic places he has worked and left his enduring imprint on, namely Arthur Andersen; Deloitte, Haskins & Sells and GTE Services Corporation ascending the ladder of corporate leadership as an Executive of Mobil Oil Nigeria. It is not by accident, but by deftly-orchestrated design that the ever refreshing name, Tinubu, either with the fascinating tag, the Asiwaju or the Jagaban has since been ringing all the right bells along the trail of Tinubu, since flagging off from his audacious centre-of-attraction role in the formation of National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), which mobilised global support for the restoration and recognition of wilfully annulled 12 June 1993 results, that already had the late Moshood Kashimawo Abiola of the then Social Democratic Party, already coasting in to unassailable victory against Tofa, the conservative-tainted NRC’s flag-bearer, but the popular mandate of which was ambushed and annulled by Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, the then military president. Smooth seas do not make skilful sailors: Tinubu had to beat a tactical retreat to recharge his creative batteries with an exile abroad to escape the death squad that was let loose on the land by late General Sanni Abacha. Tinubu, the ticking brain-box behind the floating of RADIO KUDIRAT, the activist station that was deployed to telltale effect in fighting the Abacha government to a standstill returned to the country in 1998 after the death of the military dictator Abacha, to pick up the intriguing pieces of his unfolding life where he has left off. oil that has held the beleaguered nation hostage for years now, especially with the upsurge in the militant sabotage of the oil wealth of the nation. At last count, Lagos under the Ambode’s administration has pumped up the volume of its Internally-Generated Revenue base and laughing all the way to the bank with a heart- pleasing N 287 billion in the year under review as against N268.2 in 2016! The wise man is he who constantly wonders afresh and far-sightedly seeks solutions to problems even before it becomes obvious to other souls. What some may call luck is simply when preparation meets opportunity. It is to the credit of Tinubu that he deserves to be hailed as the Man Who Saw Tomorrow, both in the ambidextrous manner he created the self-sustaining template that has magically transformed Lagos into a worthy megacity, a tourist and investment haven and in head-hunting for mastermind successors, who will help carry on with the legacy of infrastructural and human development excellence he has midwife that has transformed Lagos into a place to fall in love at first sight, and live happily ever after. From Raji Babatunde Fashola, who succeeded him and performed great feats while thinking on his feet, to prodigy-performer, Akinwunmi Ambode(AA) incumbent Governor of Lagos State, one can but give a non-stop standing ovation for uncanny ability of Tinubu to sniff out talents and deploy them into areas where they will excel and leave their own enduring footprints on the sand of time. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, like the legendary George Bernard Shaw, believes, that ‘life is not ‘‘a brief candle.’’ It is a splendid torch that I want to make burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations. And what a mighty, illuminating, path-finding job he is making good light of this, going by the giants of today that have emerged from the Asiwaju School of Progressive Thought: Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria; Akinwunmi Ambode; Governor Lagos State; Raji Babatunde Fashola; Federal Minister of Works, Housing and Power; Lai Mohammed, Information Minister; Olorunibe Mamora; Femi Gbajabiamila; Idayatu Adebule, Abike Dabiri Erewa; Femi Pedro; and so much more. Tinubu believes that for Nigeria to find her feet and perform feats in the comity of nations for the betterment of the Nigerian nation and people we must rise to the occasion of ‘not only must we use what we make and make what we use, we must make what the world values’ Proof positive the the Godfather Never Sleeps. If a man happens to find himself, he has a mansion which he can inhabit with dignity all the days of his life. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has naturally found one and he is enjoying every piece of the mystery that has made him an enigma tied to a riddle, intricately wrapped up in a mystery, revealing himself in a way that amuses and it never stops to amaze! That which deserves to lead leads. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is an inspirational Nigerian.
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INSPIRATIONAL
Inspirational Nigerians Dr Olurotimi Badero M.D, R.M.A, M.B.CH.B, F.A.C.P, F.A.S.N, F.A.S.D.I.N, F.A.S.N.C, F.A.C.C, F.S.C.A.I.
THE WORLD’S ONLY COMBINED CARDIOLOGIST AND NEPHROLOGIST (HEART AND KIDNEY) SPECIALIST DOCTOR
D
r Olurotimi John Badero was born in Lagos to Late Chief Eliab Olufemi and Mrs. Stella Taiwo Badero. His primary education was at St Mary’s Private School in Lagos, where he skipped classes 4 and 6 due to his academic excellence, completing primary education in four years. He received his secondary school education at Federal Government College Odogbolu, Ogun State, graduating with 8 distinctions in his senior secondary school certificate examination. The previous year, he won the best overall student in Nigeria in national science quiz competition along with other students - Adekunle Shittu, Adebowale Ademola and Ogugua Okonwo. He received his medical education at Obafemi Awolowo University, College of Health Sciences Ile-Ife after which he relocated to the US for his graduate training. He completed 3 years of Internal Medicine Residency training at State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn NY. Following which he then completed a 2-year Fellowship training in Nephrology & Hypertension at Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta Georgia. He returned to SUNY Downstate Medical Brooklyn to complete another 3-year fellowship training in Cardiovascular Medicine/ Cardiology. Following a distinguished Cardiology Fellowship, he gained admission into prestigious Yale University School of Medicine at Bridgeport, where he completed with distinction, Fellowships in Invasive & Interventional Cardiology as well as Peripheral Vascular Intervention. He was awarded a certificate of achievement for exemplary performance that year. Dr Badero later returned to SUNY-Downstate Medical Center for another year of Fellowship training in Interventional Nephrology/Endovascular medicine & Dialysis Access intervention. In all he completed an unprecedented 10 years of continuous post-graduate medical training and he is currently a Specialist Consultant in: • Internal medicine • Nephrology & Hypertension • Interventional Nephrology & Endovascular Access • Cardiovascular Medicine • Nuclear Cardiology • Invasive & Interventional Cardiology • Peripheral Vascular Intervention. 54
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INSPIRATIONAL
Dr Badero is board certified in six different specialties and is currently the only fully trained and board certified cardionephrologist (combined kidney and heart-specialist) in the world today. Dr Badero performed the first trans-radial cardiac catheterization and coronary angioplasty at CMMC Hospital Mississippi. He is a recipient of many awards including: •
United States Congressional Citation/Record for outstanding medical career and service to humanity
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Distinguished Physician Award as the First and Only combined heart and kidney specialist in the world
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University of Ife Global Award for Excellence in Medicine
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2014 Mississippi Healthcare Heroes
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Distinguished Alumni Award from the Vice Chancellor, University of Ife
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Association of Black Cardiologists scholarship award for the best cardiology fellow in the U.S in 2008
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G Plus Award for being a Global Pacesetter in Medicine as the First and Only Fully Trained Board Certified Cardio-Nephrologist (Combined heart and kidney specialist) in the world
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One of Jackson Mississippi’s Best Surgeons
Dr Badero has authored many peer-reviewed journals and he is currently on the editorial board of the International Journal of Nephrology & Reno-vascular Disease.
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He is a • Fellow of the American College of Physicians • Fellow of the American Society of Nephrology • Fellow of the American Society of Diagnostic & Interventional Nephrology • Fellow of the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology • Fellow of the American College of Cardiology • Fellow of the Society for Cardiac Angiography & Interventions. Dr Badero is currently the executive Director of Cardiac Renal & Vascular Associates in Jackson Misssissippi. He is on the global advisory panel of therapeutic experts on thrombosis and Artherisclerosis, Merck Pharmaceuticals U.S.A. Outside of medicine, he is the assistant pastor of Vine chapel Church in Mississippi. Dr Badero believed, that people in general need to do what they feel and feel what they do. When we face obstacles and question our own ability, we must remember what we have achieved and let that fuel our desire to succeed. We should not let people or situations define our ability. We should remember without commitment, we can never start anything but more importantly without consistency, we can never finish anything. Its not where we come from but what we are made of that can alter our life’s trajectory. Our seperation is always in our preparation. Two things define us; patience when we have nothing and attitude when we have everything. Surely between a dream and a reality is a journey. We should embrace that journey and define the moment because in that process we will discover our passion and ourselves. Finally we should always remember others may hate us but those who hate us don’t win unless we hate them and then we destroy ourselves. Dr Badero, the man of the moment, is truly an Inspirational Nigerian.
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MUSIC OF NIGERIA
Wasiu Ayinde Adewale Omogbolahan Anifowoshe K1 De Ultimate
His music over the years has won him a lot of fans, not only in the Yoruba communities, but also from across other tribes... 56
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Best African Artiste at the WOMAD Festival in Reading England 1996, The ‘Headies Hall Of Fame’ award in 2013 and City People Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014.
He is rich in knowledge and culture of his people. He strongly believes that the best education anybody can acquire is most often through self-education and life’s experiences. He also derives a great pleasure in reading because it helps to widen his horizon.
ORIGIN OF HIS MUSIC The origin of his music, he says, is rooted in Islam. It is the kind of music used from the onset to wake the Muslims during the fasting period, especially the early Morning Prayer during the month of Ramadan. “This is where my kind of music started from.” The music is called Were Fuji; Fuji means faaji, (enjoyment). Everybody has a preference for the kind of music they like; as a musician, Wasiu likes his own kind of music. He also loves to drown himself in jazz and classical music. He believes this has also rubbed off positively on his kind of music. Gradually as he grew musically, Wasiu decided that Fuji music needed to expand beyond its original Yoruba setting. Fuji music therefore made a push into every part of the world, not just only among the Yoruba or the Muslims in the country. His music is popular among the Igbos, the Hausas and every minority tribes in Nigeria. He has also extended his musical acceptance to the western world.
He has assumed his mentor’s role as “king of Fuji,” a style of dance music combining juju, Apala, and Yoruba blues. A member of Chief Doctor Sikiru Ayinde Barrister’s band, the Supreme Fuji Commanders, from 1975 to 1979. A prolific recording artist, K1 De Ultimate continues to update the Fuji style incorporating Western instruments such as keyboards, saxophone, and electric guitar. He has expanded his musical vocabulary to include rock, funk, and hip-hop influences. At the beginning, he sang Koranic chants and rhymes, but later, KWAM1 has increasingly focused on youth-oriented themes. At first when Wasiu began, he didn’t have a good voice; some of the elders then in a way didn’t help matter, his voice disgusted them that they had to pass a message to Wasiu, asking him to save them another bout of his horrible singing. But he kept at it. With time, he had to work on his voice. King Wasiu Ayinde has released over 120 records since he started singing. He also has to his credit up to 60 long playing albums and some other international releases. In 1994, he was crowned Fuji king by His Royal Majesty, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III. He thus became King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal. In May 2001, he was installed as the “Olu Omo” (golden child) of Lagos by the then Oba of Lagos, Adeyinka Oyekan II. Recording as a soloist since 1980, KWAM1 had his greatest success with his 1984 album, Talazo 84, which introduced a new, turbo-charged style of music that became known as the Talazo system.
His music over the years has won him a lot of fans, not only in the Yoruba communities, but also from across other tribes as well. He has been able to create a rhythm that seems to jell even without the lyrics.
And he is the most widely travelled Fuji musician who belongs to the category of high net worth individuals. With an impressive career pursuit spanning over forty years, K1 is an upscale and accomplished man in all ramifications. His influence, admirers and patrons cut across every area of human endeavours. He is married and blessed with children. In Nigeria today, K1 is also arguably the only Fuji musician that has produced largest number of graduates among his children- lawyers, doctors, accountants and so on.
After several years of toil in the not too rosy Nigerian music industry then, the Obaluaye of Fuji – that makes him the king of his genre of music (even though he claims he is actually a crown prince of the late Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barister), he has assembled the fruits of his labour in a quite impressive way in downtown Okota, Lagos. It is a quiet place. And he aptly calls it Castle of Peace. A major attraction to Wasiu’s living are his animals; ranging from the most tame of dogs to the most poisonous snakes to vicious crocodiles. The huge reptiles also share in the peace of his Castle of Peace in Okota. He at one stage considered leaving all this comfort to relocate to England. To commemorate his 60th birthday celebration, he donated his mansion in Isolo to the organisation he founded over twenty years ago. SOME OF HIS AWARDS He is the only Fuji musician to perform at Troxy, WOMEX and SOB’s. Among his many awards are FAME Musician of the Year, Best Fuji Artiste at the Nigerian Music Awards 1995, www.cometonigeria.com
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MUSIC OF NIGERIA
W
asiu Ayinde Adewale Omogbolahan Anifowoshe popularly known as King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal I, (K1 De Ultimate) was born on March 3, 1957 in Agarawu, Lagos Island though he is an indigene of Ogun state. His father is from Ijebu Ode while his mother is from Ilupeju in Ondo state. Wasiu attended Jamatu lslamiya Standard School. He said, if he hadn’t become a Fuji star, he would probably have studied Law.
NIGERIAN FASHION
FORERUNNER IN CONTEMPORARY AFRICAN FASHION A Nigerian leading fashion designer, Yomi Casual is an artist who projects and interprets what he feels into clothing, to him clothing is about style
Y
omi, younger brother of Ace Comedian, AY and the last of seven children of the Makun Family, Yomi Makun hails from Ifon in Ondo State Nigeria.
He started his fashion outfit, Yomi Casual® in 2007 and broke into A-list Fashion designers in Nigeria when his bold and contemporary designs became the favourite of celebrities in Nigeria and Africa. Yomi Casual® a label outfit that specializes in African design, especially cutto-fit African design. Our designs are intricately textured and designed to stand our clients out in style. Our definition of Casual is deliberately the direct opposite of the Fashion World definition of Casual. Our designs are uniquely sewn to a standard of Perfection. Our trendsetting designs flatter you from every angle. Each time we work on a new design, we have a Celebrity in mind. And whether you are famous or not, once you are dressed up in our designs, our sleek style automatically brings a celebrity out of you We are led, and driven by the genuine innovations of Olorunyomi Omoniyi Makun our Founding CEO, who holds a degree in Fashion Design & Clothing Technology from Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State Nigeria He has since set an enviable standard of attracting models in the Shape of Celebrities for his new collections. Desmond Elliot, Zack Orji, AY, Alibaba, Uti Nwachukwu, Alex Ekubo, Dj Jimmy Jatt, Ebube Nwagbo, IK Ogbonna, Sammie Okoposo, Iyanya, and to mention a few, Aki and Paw Paw are some of the many Celebrities who have at one time being Celebrity Models for Yomi Casual®. The remarkable comfort of Yomi Casual® Polish designs is also enjoyed by Captains of Industry, private Businessmen, Socialites as well as Politicians in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and some other parts of Africa. Yomi Casual® has featured in Fashion Exhibitions in Nigeria, and in the UK including the recent Native Vogue International Fashion Week which was held in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Officially, Yomi Casual® is the official Clothier of AY and many more celebrities. His outfits were featured in the award winning 30 Days in Atlanta, a movie filmed in Atlanta, USA and Lagos Nigeria. Yomi Casual® is also the official Clothing Partner of AY Live Comedy & Music Concerts, and Shift Celebrity Prayse – an annual thanksgiving event for all Nigerian Celebrities. Yomi Casual® is an award-winning fashion Brand in Africa
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NIGERIAN FASHION
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MY NIGERIA
My Nigeria
My Nigeria showcases friends of Nigeria who have either been to the country or have interest in Nigeria. It is an avenue for them to tell the world their thoughts and views about Nigeria and her people. This edition of My Nigeria features NIELS WAGNER, from Aarhus, Denmark.
Can you please introduce yourself to our readers?
hard working, and always ready to take up any
My name is Niels Wagner, I am 55 years old I am
all the difficulties with lack of regular electricity
from Denmark. I have been coming regularly
supply Nigerians always find a way to get the job
to Nigeria for the past 25 years, my wife is from
done.
Ibadan, and when I come it is always both family
What the world should actually admire and
visit and business oriented visits. My overall
look up to is the fact, that back in the 1970 the
personal interest is West Africa, where I lost my
population was about 70 million people and today
heart back in 1991 when I first visited Nigeria. I
the population exceed 200 million, I think that is
have a very strong sense of belonging here.
a tremendous achievement for a country being
Professionally I am an experienced Marketing
able to sustain, multiply and keep on being able
Coordinator with a demonstrated history of
to bread feed so many people in spite of all the
working in the import and export industry. Skilled
hardship you face everyday.
in Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Journalism,
I cannot imagine how my own country with less
Web Design, Management, and Direct Sales. Strong
than 7 million people would react if we had grown
marketing professional with an AP focused in
the population to 14 million.
Multimedia Design & Communication from Aarhus
Nigerians are born optimists they believe
Tech 2010.
tomorrow will be better, and if you ask 8 out
What do you think about Nigeria and would you advise anyone to visit? Nigerians are very enterprising people, they are
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Second Quarter 2017
challenge which may come their way. In spite of
of 10 Nigerians they all have this drive to be independent entrepreneurs but in my country it is may be 3 out of 10 who has the courage and drive to be their own master. The world can learn a lot
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What do you think about Nigeria as a giant of Africa?
surprise me with their straightforward reactions
Nigeria is the Americans of Africa. All African
to a problem, Nigerians do not wait for an
nations look up to Nigeria, think of the fashion
explanation they always go for the throat, so to
and film industry, which you have exported and
speak.
being copied all over Africa. Nigeria also showed
It can for a calm European be a bit of a mouthful
its committed to peace and stability lately in
sometimes. Nigerians love their food, they love
The Gambia. So Nigeria is the big brother of all
their country and they speak it out loud, whereas
Africans.
MY NIGERIA
Nigerians are very hot tempered and often they
from Nigerian winner mentality.
we in Scandinavia are much more subtle about our
“God bless Denmark” it is not part of our narrative
They often say that Nigeria is not on the tourism belt, what do you think Nigeria can do to change this?
or in our culture to say that.
Kindly find answer in above question “Is Nigeria
In that connection I have a particular itch about
ready for tourism”
love for our country, you will never hear anyone except the Queen of Denmark on new years eve say
the Nigerian people, and that is, I find it quite
every day I read social media updates and posts
What do you think about this project - ComeToNigeria Magazine and the website -www.cometonigeria.com?
on Facebook with horrible human tragedies, about
I have been a fan of the website and magazine
mutilation, child abduction, fraud, famine and
since 2012, and I sincerely hope it will grow and get
social instability, often with pictures or video of
the necessary funding it deserves so it will be able
violence going on in Nigeria. As the social media
to reach even further.
harmful and not coherent with your outspoken love for your country and then at the same time
has made every man, woman and child their own news editor being able to broadcast to the whole
How often do you visit Nigeria
world. But Nigeria has so many great stories to tell,
I try to visit Nigeria at least once a year. My wife
your rich and diverse cultural heritage, brilliant
and I are trying hard to prepare for our retirement
scientists, athletes, artists etc.
plan in Nigeria.
My overall wish is to engage Nigerians to help, aid
Before leaving Denmark I am always asked if it is
What are the most important things you miss when you are away from Nigeria?
safe to travel to Nigeria, and I always reply that
Feeling alive, the pulse, the phase, everything in
I have never felt insecure or unsafe anywhere
Nigeria is more, the heat, the rain, the anger, the
in Nigeria at any time, what you hear and see in
joy, the love, the food, the people, the busy street
the social media accounts maybe for 3% of the
life, all the unexpected and unforeseen adventure I
population, 97% of all Nigerians are honest, hard
get just taking a walk down the street.
working people like you and I.
The resilience and endurance of the Nigerian
and improve the reputational capital of Nigeria in a positive way.
people and their will to overcome hardship
Is Nigeria ready for tourism?
with a smile; It is like everything here is x time 2
Of course you are, but like in any other field
compared to our quite calm very often vey dull
of marketing you need to identify your target
life in Scandinavia where life is too predictable.
audience, whom do you want to attract as visitors
Nigeria has so much to offer if you have an open
and set up a scheme how to attract them.
mind and spirit and not to mention vast business
Also look at your own resources, what do you
potential.
have to offer. 7 out of the 10 biggest churches in the “Mekka” of Christianity but with much more
What do you miss when you travel away from your country of origin?
potential as it is not only a yearly event.
My family and electricity 24/7
the world is situated in Nigeria, I see Nigeria as
Cultural festivals, especially Europeans and Americans love and appreciate cultural events.
Recommend websites to visit:
There is a saying in Europe; if you want to
www.farmcrowdy.com - A company promoting
experience wildlife in Africa, then you go to East
private investment in farms.
Africa, but if you want to experience original African culture then you go to West Africa. In
www.nigeriathegoodnews.com - Be part of the
Europe the service and hospitality industry is
positive narrative of Nigeria
booming these days with the aid of the government funding, people can only acquire so and so much
www.thenordicvillage.com - A successful Danish
material wealth, and in Europe many people now
owned hotel in Abuja
look to where they can enrich their lives through
http://trendwatching.com/quarterly/2017-03/
experiences like festivals, theatres, museums,
truthful-consumerism-africa/
events, holiday resorts etc. And do not forget Nigeria has its own homegrown tourist, with a growing middleclass ready to spend money and create jobs in the service - and hospitality industry.
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NIGERIAN CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF LIEUTENANT GENERAL TY BURATAI BAGS BRAZILIAN HIGHEST MILITARY HONOUR The Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General TY Buratai, was on Tuesday, 25th April 2017, conferred with the Brazilian Military Order of Merit Award, at Brasilia, Brazil. The Brazilian Military Order of Merit Award, which is the highest military honour, is awarded to those military officers that have distinguished themselves in various military endeavours. Lieutenant General Buratai is one of the few foreign dignitaries to be so honoured with such an award by the country. The prestigious award and its presentation to Lieutenant General TY Buratai were based on the approval of President Michel Temer, on the recommendation of the Brazilian Army Commander, General Eduardo Villas-Boas. According to the citation at the occasion, the award was in recognition of his exemplary and world’s recognised leadership qualities and the Nigerian Army’s effort in the fight against terrorism and insurgency. In his vote of thanks at the occasion, the visibly elated Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General TY Buratai, expressed appreciation for the honour, which he described not only to him personally but to the entire officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army and indeed, Nigeria. According to him, “I had never imagined that I was going to be given such recognition when I was planning to visit the Brazilian Army. It is no doubt a great honour to me, the Nigerian Army and the Federal Republic of Nigeria to be bestowed with the Brazilian Military Order of Merit which is the highest and most prestigious award in the Brazilian Army”. He went further to state that the award was a clear manifestation of the long-standing relationship between Brazil and Nigeria, which also portrays the recognition of Nigerian Army’s effort in the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria. He thanked the Government and the people of Brazil, as well as the Commander of Brazilian Army and his staff for finding him worthy of such award and recognition and for the hospitality, accorded him and his entourage. He further expressed hope that his visit would serve as the needed fulcrum for the more strengthened relationship between the Nigerian Army and the Brazilian Army. Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman Director Army Public Relations
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LAGOS ATGADGETS 50
Come to Lagos, and thrive! Lagos strikes Gold at 50... - a success story, updated every day
Oh! pleasant exercise of hope and joy! For mighty were the auxiliars which then stood, Upon our side, we who were strong in love! Bliss was it in that dawn to be alive, But to be young was very heaven!—
T
he come-hither-and prosper reason that long magnetised merchants and conquerors to come to good old Lagos and prosper in the golden ages past, is still same allure that ‘s attracting new horde of merchants like the firefly to the fire in Lagos light years after the Lagos was seized as a British colony , and even up her dazzling stride now, as she strikes gold on a high note, a seductive showcase as most prosperous state in the new Nigeria that is daily unfolding Lagos has always been the adventurer’s fantasy Island with diverse explorers and intrepid merchants, coming in with their gun-boats to have a shot at her infinite treasures that have often seduced may suitors to daring all odds to have a fill of her. Ahead of Britain, Nigeria’s more popular colonial master who set up forte in 1860’s the Portuguese navigators had followed the trade winds to the coast of Lagos in 1472 or thereabouts and gave the name ‘Lagos’ this jewel in the crown of their exploits, a well-tuned name the new British overlord retained when powers changed hand, with His Majesty’s Colonial regime reigned supreme between 1862-1906. Before the Portuguese did the settlement an unsolicited favour the original name of ‘Lagos’ was Eko which referred mainly to the Island , made mainly by the Awori hunters and fishermen who originally came from Ile-Ife , the cradle of the Yoruba race to the coast. The name Eko comes either from the Yoruba ‘Oko’ ( cassava farm or ‘Eko’ (war camp) ‘ Over 650 years ago, the Oba of Benin sent warriors 62
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to Eko who were received in a welcoming manner by the residing Awori fishermen. The Bini Prince Ado who led the party was asked to become the leader. From this point on Eko belong Yoruba’ Coastal Lagos was to emerge out of the shadows of previous experimental capitals to become the capital of Nigeria with the amalgamation of the Southern and Northern Protectorates and colony of Lagos by Lord Fredrick Lugard and onwards to the gong of Nigerian Independence in 1960, before yielding the pearl of place to Abuja by proclamation in April, 1976, with concrete manifestation in 1991, with the creation of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. A creation out of the stroke of genius of the them General Yakubu Gowom, wartime military Head of State of Nigeria in the cauldron of war that cynical observers will be at home putting down as everything thing but civil, Lagos saw the light of day as the first constellation of constituent state forged out of the mother-gem of the Nigeria nation, on May 27, 1967, with Ikeja as her present capital. From inception it could be said that Lagos, the crown in the jewels of the new emerging states was separated by birth as she proudly caries the dual mandate as a state and as the Capital of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, until when the capital was shunted away to far-flung but centrally located Abuja following the epic report of the Justice Akinola Aguda committee set up by the general Mohammed/Obasanjo’s regime , which sought to decongest the mind-bending pressure on the strained infrastructures of slender but over bloated Lagos, and to forestall stress www.cometonigeria.com
Lagos by its divine location and the accommodating nature of its original proudly Yoruba heritage , with blend of Edo flavours, has always been a perfect signature of a rainbow community, where a vibrant amalgam of ethnic nationalities, races, tongues, cuisines and cultures, fashions have always blended right to give the state a unique cultural flavour; where ivory, ebony and colour keys mingle to create a heart-teasing mindpleasing , soul-stirring harmony. It is also endowed with an embarrassment of riches in the pools of farsighted leadership who even the most cynical of critics will readily concede that that are proud natives of Lagos, and Nigeria, and respected citizens of the world, flagging off with the urbane Major, later Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson, scion of the aristocratic gentry, JM Johnson; allaction governor, Lateef Kayode Jakande, Okuku Prince, Brigadier Oyinlola; rambunctious ticking brain box and builder extraordinaire of New Lagos, Asiwaju Bola, Ahmed Tinubu, the master orchestrator of the beyond belief triumph of APC that surge in a hurricane to unhorse an incumbent president and government from the saddle for the first time ever in Nigeria history. By almost infinite magnitude of its strategic location and endowments stirred further by the stroke of genius of economic wizardry of its ingenious deftly-choreographed relay-run of her more than capable inspirational leaders and dealers of everlasting hope that has run the affairs of the State since inception , Lagos , a magnetic financial and commercial centre, would easily be the fifth largest economy in Africa , if it were a country.
Story by Ekundayo Adeniran
Lagos also has the prime advantage of a never-ceasing flow of upwardly mobile population; a truly priceless asset that also adds stress to the infrastructural capacity of the city that never sleeps. As at 2015, the population of Lagos city alone was appropriately 16 million. Major town of undoubted strategic importance include Ikeja, the capital; Lekki; Ikorodu; Badagry; Epe; Ojo; and, Eko Atlantic the novel creation of settlement, reclaimed from the Atlantic Ocean, that beckons to the high and mighty to come and enjoy more than a lease in her Wonderland. Upon completion , the new island which is still under development is anticipating at least 250,00 residents and a daily flow of awe-inspiring 150,00 commuters! Today’s mighty oak is yesterdays nut that stayed put. Often hailed to high heavens as the perceptive weather-man who saw tomorrow, it is to the eternal credit of Tinubu that he was able to sniff around and acute for successors that carry a similar scent of success and help to install them as succeeding governor all within the inner circle of transformational leaders he has weaned, nurtured and painstakingly delivered. The baton exchange has been flawlessly executed from Raji Babatunde Fashola, presently the Federal Minister of Works, Housing and Power, whose feats while serving have become the stuff legends are made of and the incumbent Akinwunmi Ambode, a prodigy performer and amazing success story, updated every day in infrastructural feats, Human index signs and wonders and incredible synergy he has forged with the people and even critics who now love him. Where there is an original voice, it makes a trillion echoes, the lead virtuoso performance of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has become the ultimate gold standard that is defining statecraft and the fine art that governance in Lagos State today making it such a flattering beauty to behold by all and one that tourist and investors can fall in love with at first sight and taste, with the lure to live happily ever after with all the fruits of cohabitation that comes almong with it. Nothing good ever come easy. The Lagos wonder – story was forged right inside the furnace of conflict that flared up when the then last man standing on the side of the progressive platform got pummelled by the President Obasanjo whose party the PDP Had coveted Lagos, the last bastion of meaningful opposition to the all –conquering juggernaut. When all entreaties to win Tinubu, the Kingpin of volatile Lagos over, the tiger in the foxy-old soldier pounced on the opportunity of the creation of ‘inchoate’ additional local governments to impound the statutory allocations top local governments all engineered to bring Tinubu’s Lagos-run government under its knees. All trouble-shooting missions and even pronouncements of the Supreme Court to put an end to the crisis hit the rocks. This must have been the turning point in the making of the new Lagos, as never-say-die Tinubu and his masterminds has to think and out of the
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LAGOS AT 50 GADGETS
becoming distress.
FEATURELAGOS STORYAT 50
box solution to get the state out of the bind it was been cornered by the powers that be to encounter: Self-service became the finest form of best service: The state had to think outside the barrel of seductive oil to wean and win over her independence from the Federal purse and the curse of monthly doles and subventions from the Federation account powered by oil revenue. In the legendary words of Henry David: ‘ I learnt this, at least by experiment: that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavours to live the life he has imagined , he will meet the success unexpected in an uncommon hours’ Lagos has come to so much good because it has struck gold in having a never-fading chime of ticking brain-boxes that have been able to keep their eyes on the ball of sustainable development having learnt from the feet of feats of the masters before them. And rightly so, too: ‘Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, and skilful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.’ High achievement always takes place in within the framework of high expectation and Lagos through the years have been fortunate to enjoy the imperishable services of a galvanised and highly sophisticated citizenry and critical media that has mastered the sweet science of how to keep their leaders on their toes. Lagos, it will be resonantly recalled, is the cradle of countless legends produced from her fertile womb and real giants from all fields of endeavours that help shape the destiny and wealth of nations beyond Lagos State and the Nigerian nation. It is in this light that the engrossing narrative of Lagos can be captured in seven perfect words: An Amazing Success Story, Updated Every Day. Names of illustrious people who either were thoroughbred son and daughters of the land or their peers across the nation who came , saw and conquered diverse challenges in their chosen fields of endeavours include Herbert Macaulay; Nnamdi Azikiwe, Tafawa Balewa; Mobolaji Johnson; the master of Bombast, the incomparable Mbadiwe; Rasheed Gbadamosi; Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Lateef Jakande; Babatunde Raji Fashola; Akinwunmi Ambode; Wole Soyinka; Bruce Onobrakpeye; Ayodele Awojobi; Bobby Benson; Bode George; Sunny Ade; Ebenezer Obey Fabiyi; Biodun Shobanjo; Hubert Ogunde; Comedian-in-Chief Moses Olaiya (Baba Sala);Taiwo Ajai-Lycett, amongst others. Memories are made of epic moments, milestones and monuments made possible by these giants on whose shoulders that nation and indigenes, alike lean on to behold and conquer new frontiers almost on a daily basis making Lagos a land where the dreams come true every ticking second. Images of such iconic figures are captured in a dazzling buntings and signage adorning Lagos to give her an infectious joyful feeling that synchronises with the theme of the Golden Anniversary: Enhance the Heritage, Advance the Future. Powerful names that resonate with the State Golden Parade of Progress, across variegated fields of endeavours and spot-on categorisation, include the Gentle urbane Giant & General, Mobolaji Johnson (History); Wole Soyinka(Freedom); Lateef Jakande (Legacy) ; Bola Ahmed Tinubu (Legacy); Raji Babatunde Fashola (Legacy) Akinwunmi Ambode (Legacy); Olufemi Okunu (Wisdom); Musiliu Smith (Law & Order); Jimmy Ovia (Possibilities) Aliko Dangote(Business) Sunny Ade( Melody); Adewale Ayuba(Rhythm); Soni Irabor(Peace) Women who have broken the glass ceiling of their fields were not left out from the enthralling credit roll of honour: Joke Silva, with silver lining worth more than gold (Beauty); Taiwo Ajai-Lycett; Salawa Abeni Generation Next are also having their DIGIT-all day in the sun: Banky W(Achievement); Olamide; Funke Akindele-Jenifa and so much more No journey is so great when one finds what one seeks. 50 years down the line, Lagos has fantastically lived up to its billings and proud heritage as a land that flows with milk, honey and money an easyto-connect-to, impossible to resist magnet of prosperity. One never-ceasing stream of pleasant surprises; with a proud past, a promising present and a glorious future, When the quest for perfection and to be the best is perpetual, nothing great shall forever be out of reach. The world steps aside to let them pass who know where they are going! At fifty 50, yet still going Young & Strong, Lagos deserves a standing ovation! Next frontier, please! 64
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Dear Editor, MADE IN NIGERIA PRODUCTS I read with interest the Volume 08 Issue 01 2017 edition of Come to Nigeria. about Made in Nigeria Products, I must say that it is highly important in the current economic climate to encourage Nigerians to start producing goods for local consumption. I also like to suggest that you feature more of relevant Nigerian products on your website to enable more people all over the world appreciate production efforts which in turns may produce more investors for our people. Lilly Edun, Brussels, Belgium Editor’s Response: Hello Lilly. Thanks for your feedback. I can assure you that Come to Nigeria will start posting stories on this from now on. Anything we can do to attract more investors and tourists to patronise made in Nigeria products is what we are going to do.
A LINKING BRIDGE OF ECONOMIC IMPROVEMENT Dear Editor A linking bridge of economic improvement What a great surprise. What a great production. CONGRATULATION. The magazine is what Nigeria and the world need at this period of our development. An educative magazine illustrating all that is good of Nigeria, cultural exposure and educative information for tourist- a showcase for an emerging great nation like Nigeria. With our economic uncertainty now, this magazine with its content will help to create a linking bridge of economic improvement. Again thanking you for opening the other side of your great talent. I highly commend your great exposure of different aspects of Nigerian art, culture, geography and pioneers. WELL DONE.
Emmanuel Taiwo Jegede London United Kingdom
CELEBRATING RECENT CHANGES COMING OUT OF NIGERIA Dear Editor Celebrating recent Changes coming out of Nigeria I am writing to celebrate with your readers on the recent changes coming out of Nigeria. The country is coming out of recession, the price of essential commodities like rice are down, the naira to most of the foreign currencies is gradually dropping. 82 #ChibokGirls were released. It is an exiting time for us and our leaders. Rueben Chukwuemeka Enugu Nigeria www.cometonigeria.com
Editor’s Response: Hello Rueben. Many thanks for pointing these out. We are confident that with all these new developments, it is further evident that Nigeria is now ready for more investment and tourism.
GOD’S ASSIGNMENT Dear Editor, God’s Assignment JOOO keep on facing God’s assignment for you and Come to Nigeria will rise!!! It is a great publication. The same God that gave you the vision, will announce you himself soon That’s how my husband did with AHRLC! Olodumare Ase! Mrs.Yeye Akilimali Funua Olade African Heritage Research Library and Cultural Centre Akobo-Olorunda Road, Library village Adeyipo, Igbo Elerin Oyo State Editor’s Response: Hello Iya Agba. Thanks for your words of support. It is well appreciated. We are all proud of your works too at the African Heritage Research Library.
THE VISA PROBLEMS Dear Editor The Visa Problems It is lovely to read Pam Sam story in your last edition about Visa problems that may be discouraging people to travel to Nigeria. Tourism is an agent for economic diversi-
LETTERS
Your Letters, Comments & Photos
send your comments to cometonigeria@googlemail.com
fications. I think our government is forgetting the economic benefits of what influx of people can do to a nation. I have read in the news since your publication came out that government have just now changed this policy, is it true? Please let us know. Long live Nigeria. Ropo Oriade Houston Texas USA Editor’s Response: Dear Ropo, we cannot confirm the change in the policy as at the time of going to press. Yes, we also read about it in the press but we hope to report more about it in the next edition.
EXTREMELY IMPRESSED Dear Editor, Extremely Impressed Wow, wow, wow, I received the magazine yesterday! I must say, it was the right decision for me to subscribe. What I found exceeded my expectation. I am extremely impressed with what you’ve created! My dad read it from cover to cover and loved it. I am excited to read more editions of Come To Nigeria. I know that one day a copy will reach the decision makers and those that will appreciate your hand work. Promoting a country is not a joke, please try your best to make it more available all over the world. Thanks for doing it! Musa Aliameen Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Editor’s Response: Thanks for your letter. We are also happy that the magazine exceeded your expectation. We hope you will help us to get more friends and family to subscribe too. The more people doing this kind of publication the better because information about the Nigeria need to get to different parts of the world.
Disclaimer: Images/letters featured on this page are not the properties of CometoNigeria; they were posted on our forum by users and visitors. cometonigeria Second Quarter 2017| 65
GADGETS
Gadgets this quarter
1. Norton Core router
N
orton Core is a powerful home router with real-time security This is a new app-enabled router that has built-in security to protect the entire home, rather than just an individual computer, the way Norton Security software does. Symantec says the device aims to keep devices connected to it safe, including Windows computers, Macs, phones, tablets and any internet-of-things devices, in real time. According to Symantec, the Norton Core is backed by a team of security experts who are constantly analyzing and eliminating cybersecurity attacks worldwide. The router gets regular updates on cybercrime information and protection mechanisms to keep any device connected to it safe. If an infected device is connected to the network, it can isolate it from the rest of your devices to prevent the spreading of the malware.
2. LG’s amazing W7 ultrathin OLED is wall art that happens to be
J
ust when you thought flat-panel TVs couldn’t get any thinner, lighter or betterlooking, LG throws something new against the wall. The all-new W7 OLED is like no TV you’ve ever seen. It can’t stand by itself on legs or a pedestal. Instead, it requires a wall. And when attached to that wall, it protrudes no further than a couple of coins stacked together: just 3.85 mm. That’s 0.15 inch, so thin you’d never notice it from the side. The 65-inch model weighs just 18 pounds and the 77-incher weighs 27. That’s less than many 32-inch LCDs, light enough to attach just about anywhere, without worrying about in-wall studs or weight limits. LG includes a special flush-mounting plate, the top of which screws into the wall as usual, while the bottom sticks to the wall with magnets. It’s even flexible enough to peel slightly away, if for no other reason than to blow your visitors’ minds.
3. Baby’s first voice assistant: The Mattel Aristotle by Nabi
I
t’s a baby monitor. It’s a voice-activated smart assistant. It answers your questions, and maybe your kids’ questions, too. It orders more diapers when you run out and soothes babies back to sleep automatically. It plays with your kids. It could be the most exciting thing toymaker Mattel has ever produced. It’s called the Aristotle, and it’s not just an Amazon Echo clone: the device is a fully functioning Amazon Alexa assistant that can answer all the same adult questions and has all the same smart-home capabilities -- but if you say “Aristotle” instead of “Alexa,” it will summon a different voice assistant designed to interact with your kids. The voice-activated speaker also comes with a wireless camera that streams 256-bit encrypted video to your phone, an array of colorful LEDs and special software, some of which -- as a new parent myself -- sounds too good to be true.
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4. Airbar for touchless MacBooks
I
t’s what you’ve always wanted. A 13-inch MacBook Air with a touchscreen. We’ve all done the same thing, reaching out to tap or swipe a MacBook before realizing it was, in fact, a MacBook and not a touchscreen Windows laptop. Put a MacBook Air in front of any kid under 10, and they’ll instinctively do the same thing. Only, it’s not exactly a MacBook with a touchscreen. It’s actually a MacBook with a sold-separately add-on sensor bar that sits just below the display and connects via USB plug. We’ve played around with one of these devices -- called the AirBar -- late last year, but that version was for Windows PCs.
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