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“If you are going to dream....Dream big... It takes the same amount of energy!.” Editors Page If you are going to dream....Dream big... It takes the same amount of energy! Welcome to the first issue of DTNow - Daily Times lifestyle colour supplement. Literally a labour of love and a journey of self-discovery, perseverance & belief. The same values and ideals the trailblazers featured in this edition represent. My first ever front cover & interview was with none other than global icon & philanthropist, mother & actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde reflecting this same belief.We will continue to champion such strong beautiful, principled, hard working role models making a difference to create a better world. Giving thanks to the Lord Almighty. I am also honoured and privileged to be given this unique opportunity by Daily Times Nigeria as a platform to share knowledge, inspire & be inspired, discover & showcase what is simply ours: Made in Nigeria, outside in the diaspora & across the Continent. In this issue, its light reading with DTNow fashion, entertainment, its a splash of politics which sees us exploring the minds of some of our policy makers with Honourable Godwin Ettah, Commissioner for Education- Cross River State on the ‘State of the Nation’ hot seat. Be inspired by the Asisat Oshoala breaking records in the sports arena and making us proud,plus a series of enlightening features bringing us up to date on the latest technological advances. Have fun reading DTNow and do revert with your feedback and suggestions. We are open to ways of making it better & providing an informed read. So let us know what you would like to see. We will be publishing some of your comments - after all without ‘YOU’ there is no ‘US’.
Editor’s Note In bed with Omotola Jalade Ekeinde Interview Out‘N’About: DTNow cover unveil event Fashion and Style Insider DTNow: Destinations Lifestyle & Health State of the Nation: Honourable Godwin Ettah DTNow sport inspired profile: Asisat Oshoala Trending
P.3 P.4&5 P.6&7 P.8 P.9 P.10 P.11 P.12 P.13
Ngozi Omambala Editor-at-Large @caramelchicng Assistant to Editor: Toyen Meriben Contributors: Sassy Bigma, Chuchu Balepo, Babatunde Salako. Creative Design: Ola Olowu Cover Picture Editor (Omotola): Igure Imoukhuede Dominic Associate Producer: Contagious Collective Cover: OMOTOLA J EKEINDE. Photography:Tope Horpload @tope_horpload Make up: Bimpe Onakoya (Elite Make Up) @bimpeonakoya (Omotola) NMO Management make-up- Ladi Munis (LADONG make-up artist for the Editor) Ferdinand (Omotola’s hair Stylist) @ferdinandshair Hair provided (poolside image) by @SignaturebyVHair Stylist: @flostyling & Moashystyling Nail technician: Vaavavoom Inspired Red dress (cover): @nonisticfashion, earrings, bracelet, rings-shoes-Omotola’s own.Styled by (FLOSTYLING). White jumpsuit: Omotola’s own, facinator@Ene Maya, earrings@ nonisticfashion. Black chiffon/black swimsuit: by Moses Ebitime@Moashystyling. Photo Shoot directors/fashion: Style Consultants-Andy & Ayo Ogbechi Ohuruogu - A Squared Network. Omotola Shoot - management & co-ordination: NMO Management & PR Ltd Ngozi Omambala (Editor): silk navy blouse & accessories (editors own) jeans/ trousers by Moses Ebitime @Moashystyling DTNow - Publication of Daily Times Nigeria part of Folio Media Group Publisher: Mr Fidelis Anosike Thank you Geraldine Uba, Konnie Agu & Dr May Ikeora (Miss Nigeria Organisaion) PS: Big shout out to #SlayQueen Omotola Jalade Ekeinde for your guidance & support you are Sistahood personified - God Bless you.
Enjoy. The issue is dedicated to my beloved mother & confidante Mrs Theresa Omambala who passed last year after living the last four of her twilight years with me in Lagos. Such fun & cherished memories together - she was generous to the core, giving me the encouragement and support - never forgotten- a beautiful, humble and gracious soul. May she forever RIP. Ngozi Omambala Editor-at -large DTNow Follow instagram & twitter: @DTNowng @Caramelchicng
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My cover glam squad! Professional & On point. What fun we had... Shoot Location: The Wheatbaker Hotel, Ikoyi Lagos (Thank you Simon Gringrod, and your awesome team) Pic credit: Michael Ekeinde
In Bed With...
In 2013, Omotola guest starred on VH1 hit show "Hit the floor" episode5 with American actress Kimberly Ellise and Akon. Arguably the first actress from Nigeria to feature on a prime time TV show in the US. ‘I have a lot of stamina, I was built for the long run’
Cover interview by Ngozi Omambala
Her high profile, coupled with her timeless relevance, genuine & bubbly (often funny) nature, has created a force to be reckoned with. Her celebrity standing & personality is recognized worldwide. With all this comes a sense of responsibility, which she embraces wholeheartedly and fully aware her brand can make a difference to people’s lives and mindset for better good. Ambassador since 2005. She has worked tirelessly across Africa as an advocate raising funds in Liberia, Sierra Leone and founded O.Y.E.P. (Omotola Youth Empowerment Programme) one of her pet projects, which birthed the popular " 20 widows makeover” created in remembrance of her late mother Mrs Oluwatoyin Amori Jalade. Omotola worked with the Save the Children UK organisation in 2009 on the popular "Rewrite the Future" campaign.
Omotola, is innately giving by nature. There is an unending list of organisations to which she has lent her brand name: Amnesty International campaigner – an advocate with the human Rights Organization since its enlistment in 2010. Omotola has campaigned against the Maternal mortality rate in Sierra Leone (highest rate in the world) and taken on oil giant "Shell" over the spillages and degradation of the Niger delta region in Nigeria – a subject matter dear to her heart. Support for such reputable causes, has fuelled her evolution into a seasoned speaker on human right issues.
It’s not often one is in the company of a global icon and is able to gain a true insight into the professional & personal character of the legend that is OMOTLA JALADE EKEINDE
Attending international conventions such as W.I.S.E (The World Innovation Summit for Education) Doha Quatar, Crans Montana Dakhla Morocco, The World Economic Forum (WEF) Capetown South-Africa , Unevoc, Teep, Gotni Recognition of these actions We meet at the super luxurious 5 Star Wheatbaker boutique Hotel in Ikoyi Lagos, during the festive weekend. I notice as she enters the Hotel - naturally regal in nature led to in 2013 her being honoured by Time Magazine as one of its – people surround her, full of awe and admiration – her aura is strong, confident and 100 most influential people in the world alongside Michelle Obama, Kate Middleton and Beyonce Knowles. In 2014 UK Telegraph she knows her brand is not to be messed with, so don’t cross this Titan of a woman. gave her its own stamp of approval, naming her ‘Queen of NollyShe is ever ready & happy to greet her fans and take selfies to the delight of everywood’. Arguably her most high profile philanthropic work to date, body. She oozes great charisma. happened in 2015 when she became the Ambassador for One's "poverty is sexist" campaign . Working with Bono (U2) who visited Omotola Jalade Ekeinde aka ‘OmoT’, popularly called ‘Realomosexy’ is a multiple Nigeria, Omotola launched the campaign globally. award winning Nigerian actress, Director, Singer, & philanthropist: founder of the Omotola Youth Empowerment Programme (OYEP), UNwfp Ambassador and Amnesty international activist. She has been cited by CNN as being the 5th sexiest accent in the world. Screen Nation’s Best actress, and by Beffta Film as one of the most Intriguing women to ever grace the African screen. Omotola started her young career as a model in 1995 & made her screen debut that same year in a lead role: ‘Venom of Justice’. Her performance that year, as the lead character in the epic ‘Mortal Inheritance’ secured her the Best Actress gong at the prestigious Thema Awards 1996/97. A trailblazer from the onset – she became the youngest actress ever to win such an award aged 18. An easily recognized figure by Africans and Caribbean alike, she has carved a worldwide niche for herself as Africa's Biggest screen goddess: with a plethora of film credits to her portfolio, having starred in over 300 movies to date with copy sales in tens of millions to her credit. Omotola is a smart, business savvy multi-tasker – and does it effortlessly. It’s easy to understand why she can comfortably command many roles simultaneously & wear so many proverbial ‘hats’. Married to Captain Matthew Ekeinde, an experienced & passionate Airline pilot since 1996, whom she met in the Church. Omotola has 4 amazing children ‘Family first over everything’ is her mantra. The warmth & unconditional love exuded from the Ekeinde family is awe inspiring – always in the media spotlight, aware but unnerved by the attention that follows their every move in public. It comes with the territory - is my observation – a tight knit modern day 21st Century family in Nigeria – she combines her career with family responsibilities. Her parents hail from Ondo state in Nigeria. Her Father passing at tender age of 12 left a permanent mark in her subconscious mind. Omotola born in Lagos, went to Chrisland Opebi, lagos. Command secondary school, Kaduna, and Yabatech lagos, where she studied Estate management. It was not long after, she tried her hand in working behind the camera in ‘The Smoke’, a soap opera (13 Episodes) that she both produced and directed in 2010. It starred veterans such Segun Arinze, Larry Coldsweat, Funke Akindele - mixing veteran actors with upcoming young actors – a first at the time. Not satisfied with mastering behind the scene film production, in 2012 she launched her own Reality show, ‘Omotola The Real Me’ (first Nigerian to start her own reality show), it broke records on its first showing to become cable channel African Magic’s most viewed programme of all time (with well over 150 million people tuning in).
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Omotola is also actively supporting the UN SDGS, was featured in the campaign video and chose to adopt & support “Goal Number 1: No poverty”. In 2016, Omotola, a huge advocate of family health, was announced as brand Ambassador for the Nigerian Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association (NLPGA) and was later honored in Nigeria as a Member of federal Republic (MFR). Not afraid to fully explore her untapped capabilities, the fearless Omotola bravely delved into the music entertainment business and morphed herself into a fully fledged recording artiste releasing an album in 2005 entitled "GBA". Her song "Naija lowa" has received nomination award nods. Omotola's soon to be released second album is titled "Me Myself and Eyes". The song "Barren land" from the same album has already been adopted by Amnesty International for their Niger-delta campaign. To the delight of her fans, Omotola is returning to the Nollywood Silver screen – her absence has been missed by a three year hiatus & with this she has been inundated with film offers. Already she has two finished movies under her belt: ‘Alter Ego’ & ‘The Tribunal’ directed by Kunle Afolaran (October 1st, CEO) due for release in July 2017. Currently she is involved in a Movie project with Silverbird Group to encourage & support budding script-writers. Doubtless to say the industry has evolved tenfold since she put down her last script, this however will, further fire up the creative juices in this screen Goddess, who by her own self admission is ‘bursting to the seams with so many ideas’ to take Nigerian movies & movie making to the next level. I sense The Oscars calling (her name even begins with ‘O’) – no longer a pipe dream for Nollywood actors & film-makers alike. Indeed she may need to look into creating a little more space in her awards Cabinet…. Let the cameras roll on, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde no go carry last!! Some of Omotola's other Recent movies 1. Ije 2. Ties that Bind 3. Amina 4.Last flight to Abuja 5.Up creek without a paddle( post production) 6.Blood on the Lagoon(post production) 7.AlterEgo 8.The tribunal
Some of Omotola's recent awards Most outstanding performance2004/05- API washington Dc Most Oustanding performance Africa 2005- Academy of television and sciences North Hollywood,CA. Most friendly actress- Youths Benefactor's award, Nigeria. Best Actress african collaboration- Ghana Movie awards 2011. Pan African Best Actress 2011/2012- Screen Nation awards ,Uk Film actress Icon of the year 2012 - Beffta awards UK. Model citizen (Humanitarian)- Todays woman 2012 Actress of the Year 2012- Eloy awards Recognition of the Icon - AGN 2013 ( Actors guild of Nigeria) Silverbird Unique personality award 2013 - Silverbird group Viewers choice actress award - Nollywood movies Awards 2013. Ebony vanguard Award - Mvisas award Birmingham film festival 2013.
OUT N ABOUT
Our publication DTNow - Daily Times Nigeria colour supplement held it front cover unveil relaunch event on Tuesday 25th April at top notch restaurant UTOPIA LAGOS in Victoria Island. The event was attended by a host of distinguished guests & celebrities including CNN’s quirky but loveable presenter Richard Quest (Quest Means Business) & iconic legend OMOTOLA JALADE EKEINDE revealed as the celebrity cover queen to the delight of many in attendance.
Others in attendance: Legendary designer FRANK OSHODI. Ngozi Omambala also present was announced formally as DTNow Editor-at-Large of the publication by Mr FIDELIS ANOSIKE the Chairman of Daily Times Nigeria. She promised ensure a good informative fun filled read with something for everyone. The special event was hosted by ILLRYMZ (Contagious Collective) Associate producer of DT NOW alongside NMO Management & PR who also organised the DTNow unveil event at UTOPIA. 40th Miss Nigeria CHIOMA OBIADI also present, was announced as Ambassador for LoudNProudLive premium platform ‘One Nite: Live & Unplugged’ Class personified the event organised by NMO Management & PR Ltd which saw a delicious & colourful display of beautifully crafted canapés and bites for guests all served with signature fine wines courtesy of Le Connaisseur and Belaire Rose black bottles to wet the appetite. The LoudNProudLive ‘One Sound Band’ alongside international bass guitarist BRIAN COX were also on hand to entertain guests. A surprise performance by veteran artist African China. This evolved into a mini jam session with celebrity cover queen Omotola Jalade Ekeinde who happily got into the spirit, fun and life of the event.
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Fashion &Style Insider It is not new that fashion in our world today is the new deal. Fashion itself expresses a lot of things from the likes of modernity, social and cultural values. Wear an outfit that is classy and also a little bit of you. Trust me a little bit of you in everything you wear never goes out of style and it always remain sexy. As for me I love “classy with a little bit of street”. Fashion and style in society today varies from the likes of clothes to foot wears to accessories, make-up and hairstyle. Here are some few fashion trends in our society today; CLOTHES: The Bardot top and dress: for a while now the Bardot tops and dresses have been in vogue in Nigeria. Off the shoulder style is having a moment in our society. It can be paired up with these: Ripped jeans, Mom jeans or Skirts. Accessories can be Chokers, Bangle earrings and even a nice color turban. Shoes can be Sneakers, Stilettos and any open toe heels to name a few. The Bardot style is one of the cutest look in our society.
Also trending styles are the bandage dresses and skirts, khaki color, the velvet dresses, jumpsuits and two piece to name a few.
SHOES: Transparent shoes: Definitely cannot leave this style out. The transparent heel shoes are the BOOM!! It varies from sneakers to stilettos to strap sandals with transparent heels. These transparent heels are here to stay and I don’t think they are going off trend soon. Also trending are High thigh boots, Fur shoes, Sandal heels, Ankara shoes, slips and slides etc.
Events Diary: African Fashion Week 2017 Africa fashion week Nigeria is back and promises to be better. The event which provides a platform to promote already existing Nigerian brands through worldwide visibility, distribution and manufacturing is focused on creating jobs, education and skills training in fashion and empowerment. The fashion show which is its third, will bring industry experts under one roof to deliberate on new ways of maximizing the potentials within the fashion industry for greater economic benefit of Nigeria. The show will feature various designers, make up artists and models will hold between the 1st and 3rd of July, 2017 at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos Nigeria.
Travels-Kajuru Castle by Babatunde Salako Located in South –East Kaduna on Kachia road, Kajuru local government area is an imposing structure so conspicuous you cannot miss it. Built with meter thick granite stones the magnificent and beautiful Kajuru Castle which sits atop a rocky formation, took 5 long years to build complete with turrets, armory and dungeons. The luxury villa, built in 1978 by a controversial German expatriate has a very European look and covers 360 square meters and includes a guest tower of 4 guest room you can also call dungeons, a kitchen, a central building with an authentic knight hall like the ones you see in movies, master’s suite( landlord’s residence) as well as a dragon tower well guided by ‘dragons’.
In the center of the building is a stainless swimming pool that makes hot days more pleasant and like every other castle, the Kajuru castle has a secret door known only to the Hungarian caretaker of the castle. Did I mention also that the entrance to the castle is surrounded by crocs? The castle which is a private property offers three different packages. The one day package is offered for NGN 260,000 and does not involve sleeping overnight, a guided tour of the castle or use of the indoor facilities. Only the outdoor facilities can be used and there is no limit to the number of guests. The 24 hours package which costs NGN 310,000. This package involves sleeping overnight but restricted to 10 guests. The weekend package costs NGN 570,000 and it is also restricted to 10 guests and it starts on Friday morning at 10 and ends Sunday by noon. Both packages involve the use of facilities both indoor and outdoor but to get a guided tour of the castle, you’ll have to pay NGN 25, 000 for an hour around the castle premises with background information about the medieval setting. Please note that you’ll need to go with your own food and drinks as none of the packages comes with any of these. Although you can make arrangements with Chinese or Lebanese restaurant outside and the meals will be delivered to your doorstep at an extra cost of you can just make use of the castle’s well equipped kitchen or outdoor pizza oven or barbeque spot to make your meals yourself. The price for sleeping 2 guests is the same for sleeping 10. All visits are pre-arranged and if a date is agreed upon, the management will do a total lockdown. Bookings are expected to be made 2 weeks before the intended date and a 60% non-refundable fee is to be deposited after agreeing on a date. So in conclusion, if you are looking to explore this architectural masterpiece experience what it feels like being looked up in a castle then Kajuru castle is the place you need to be.
Restaurant Review-355 Restaurant & Lounge 355 restaurant and lounge is an exquisite restaurant located in a small street in the heart of Victoria Island, Lagos-Nigeria and it is one of the favorite hangout spot for the creme de la creme in the city of Lagos. As you enter the place, you are welcomed by an impressive interior setting that oozes style and class and an ambience that gives customers a great environment for a quality marriage of antique cut stones and luxuries of modernity to suit the taste of the high class in the society. The restaurant offers mainly a combination of Mexican and Continental dishes with a vaudeville of cocktails and drink compositions from frozen margaritas to beer cocktails. The menu has a variety of mouth watering starters. I had the white asparagus with poached eggs which I must say were exquisite. For the main course, I had Eba with Calabar Egusi which was thrilling and filling and after that had a delicious apple pie served with a scoop of Strawberry ice cream for dessert. The diversity on the menu delivers both the casual dining experience as well as a romantic dinner for two. Though I feel the prices are a bit on the high side but hey, that’s why it’s for the socialites. The great thing about this lovely lounge is the fact that you get to start any meal with a basket of their complimentary homemade bread, just enough to get your taste buds excited for what is to come. It’s a pity the service does not accompany the amazing food and beautifully decorated interior. The waiters put on a stern look that made them seem unapproachable. Thankfully, the manager made up for the lapse as he regulary complimented and exchanged kind words with his clients. All in all, despite the stern looking waiters and seemingly overpriced drinks and food, 355 Restaurant & Lounge located at 9A Oko Awo Street, V.I is a place to experience dining in a serene environment like you never have.
‘Seriously Though’ with SassyBigMa
Trending Apps For Your Smart Phones
If you have not been living under a rock in the last 2 months, then you would know about the Big Brother Nigeria show and the Kemen fracas that trails it. Well, I really don’t wanna talk about that big lipped fella today, it’s more about what he did and how Nigerians reacted. Spotify is a music, podcast, and videos streaming Some of those reactions gave me serious concern service. Music can be browsed or searched for though. Ok, let me back up for a minute and refresh your via various parameters, such as artist, album, memory a little. So,on one of genre, playlist, or record label. Users can create, those weekend drinking fest nights (just a day after TBoss edit and share playlists, share tracks on social had shredded Kemen to bits on his kissing skills), TBoss media, and make playlists with other users. had had just one When you purchase a premium plan, Spotify drink and was passed out. Kemen, whose bed was next to allows you to listen to your favorite jams on hers decided to first act like a criminal before committing demand just as if you are carrying your entire the heinous crime of music library with you everywhere. The app also sexually assaulting his bed mate. He looked around to be has a radio option and allows you to sync music sure the cameras weren’t on him, satisfied by his findings, to your phone to listen when you are offline. It he then carefully is available for most modern devices, including reached under her duvet and proceeded to finger blast Windows, macOS, and Linux computers, as well her while she was unconscious. His luck, however, ran as iOS and Android smartphones and tablets. out on him because he missed one crucial detail, the camera on the window. So, there is the summary of basically what got him disqualified. Before we totally put the whole blame on our parents, let us take into Yes, the act was very disturbing and Big Brother took the right action. Yes, Kemen has asked for our collective forgiveness by publicly apologizing, so we wont over flog this dead horse. Here is where, or what I find very disturbing; the day that the news broke, Nigerian Twitter was on fire with different reactions. People mostly supported the decision of Big Brother (which, thankfully, is a good thing) while some disagreed and even went as far as defending Kemen’s action. See why I find this disturbing? And to top the icing on this horrid cake, most of those supporting him were female! Like, seriously??? Have we become so jaded that we don’t see anything wrong in some certain actions? Or do we put this particular blame on our parents? One of the most adverse effects of growing up in a ‘normal’ Nigerian home is that our parents totally shy away from talking about all things sex with us. They were intentionally vague with their responses when we asked certain questions, some as simple is “what is sex?”. feel there is nothing wrong if a guy does such to a woman through the mental damage it would have caused if I didn’t know any better. Let Kemen serve as a lesson to us all. Get yourself educated on all things sex related before you Kemen your future. Some of us were lucky to get parents who didn’t mind answering our very uncomfortable questions about sex, which helped us as we grew into our bodies and faced unwanted attention from the opposite sex. But what about the ones who were not so lucky, how did they turn out? Exhibit A - Kemen. Need I say more? Well, either ways, I would.
consideration that the people committing sexual assault are not kids, but adults already. Soon as you pass the age of 21, you cease to have any rights to blame your parents for how you turned out. If as a child you made certain mistakes then your parents were definitely to blame, but as an adult, you are totally held accountable for any and all your actions. That being said, if by 21 you haven’t self educated yourself on all things sex related, you only have yourself to blame. Sexually assaulting the opposite sex (or in some rare cases, the same sex) is a huge no no! What is sexual assault? It is when you practice sexual acts on someone without the persons consent or it being a mutual agreement, especially when the person has expressly told you that he or she is in no way attracted to you. Just because someone flirts with you doesn’t mean the person wants to be sexually involved with you, either consciously or unconsciously! Nigerian men are brought up to generally feel entitled, hence the sad rise in sexually assaulted victims. Some women who was “asking for it”. Seriously??? Any woman who thinks such should be denied any right to procreate because we need to end such stupidity with immediate effect! Parents, shame on you for not doing the right thing all in the name of culture and religion. Future parents, please try and do better. If you have any difficulty talking to your wards about sex, get a counselor or someone with the know-how to do it. Schools are no exception! They should do better! In the past, I was also a victim of sexual assault while in Primary school, but I’m grateful to my mom because she was always open about these things and it helped me get through the mental damage it would have caused if i didnt know any better. Let kemen serve as a lesson to us all! Get yourself educated on all things sex related before you ‘Kemen Your Future”.
-- --------------------------------------------------------Olaoluwasunbo “BigMa” Olundegun T|I|F - @sassybigma
WAZE: Whether you are a big driver or just going for a road trip, the Waze App will help you outsmart traffic by sharing real time traffic updates, redirecting you mid traffic, ultimately shortening your commute. The app does not only deal with traffic, it also alerts you on construction, accidents, police and for us here in Nigeria, FRSC and VIO traps ahead on your routes. The Waze app is available for both IOS and Android devices. EVERNOTE: This is essentially a virtual notebook you have with you everywhereperfect for downloading whatever is bouncing in your brain. You can directly make notes in the app, save images and articles from the web and upload pages from physical notebooks, track task and even handle audio files. After you capture a note, Evernote automatically uploads everything that you put into it to the company’s servers, where your notes are indexed for easy search and retrieval, and become available for syncing to all your devices. Fast, smooth and extremely functional. Available for all android smartphones and iPhones.
Lifestyle And Fitness: Fitness Tips By Chuchu Balepo And Salako Babatunde Staying fit is an important part of your lifestyle as it makes you a healthier and happy person but a lot of circumstance prevent us from having a regular workout session which could be detrimental to our general wellbeing. So here are a few ways you can squeeze in fitness into your daily routine without worrying about losing all your free time. Make the world your gym. Do stretches in the grocery line, ballet moves while pumping gas, take the stairs instead of the elevator, take a brisk, 20-minute walk at lunch. Lift weights while you wait for your pasta water to boil. Sitting in traffic? Squeeze your lower abs, then release. “You’ll be amazed at how much you can develop your core strength while driving.
Go social. Social media can boost your motivation and keep you on track. Announce your fitness goals on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Pump yourself up. Positive self-talk can boost your motivation. Look in the mirror and observe how strong your muscles are. Recognize the goals you have met and applaud yourself for getting fit. Say no to sports drinks. Unless you’re a pro athlete, they’re not necessary. Sports drinks are loaded with extra calories and you don’t need them. Try water with lemon instead, this will help you burn calories.
Are you getting your 8 hours & enjoying continuous uninterrupted sleep? Good Sleep is conditional & directly related to better physical health. The coined term ‘health is wealth’ has true reasonance here…
Are You Sleeping On The Right Bed? Your sleeping solutions sorted... We are a nation of workaholics – working around the clock often more than not to make basic ends meet. It is therefore important we make the best of our downtime to ensure physical condition is at its best to cope with the daily grind, rigours & stress which often involves back to back long working days.
Are you kind to your back? Research has shown, Just by Choosing the right mattress can save you in the long run on medical bills associated with debilitating back pain/ailments.
Break up your workouts. If you dread a long workout, break it into small chunks. “Five minutes here, 5 minutes there -- it all adds up. (insert workout routine) Stretch. It makes you more flexible, relieves muscle tension, and improves posture. It also helps you tune in to your body. Stretch while watching TV or lying in bed and ten minutes before taking a shower. Crank up the music and dance like nobody’s watching. Take a Zumba or pole-dancing class. Play tag with your kids. Dancing helps to improve our heart and lung condition so dance till you lose your breath
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COMMISSIONERS CORNER: We engage with state practitioners on how their strategy & policy initiatives are impacting day to day lives of their citizens in Nigeria. Their future prospects, objectives & aspirations. Ngozi Omambala speaks with Honourable Godwin Ettah Commissioner of Education for Cross River State under the Governorship of His Excellency Professor Ben Ayade. ‘Educate a girl. Empower a community. Importance for world leaders know that #GirlsCount!’ ONE CAMPAIGN!!! Each year a girl stays at school adds 12% to her future income #PovertyisSexist ONE CAMPAIGN!!! Meeting Honourable Godwin on a whistle stop visit to Lagos at his 8th floor Oriental Hotel suite, in the heart of Victoria Island overlooking an impressive Lagos skyline, was a good start and set the tone. Honourable Godwin Ettah received me with the demeanour of a gentleman who genuinely has a very warm character and aura. His relaxed yet confident persona confirmed we were in for a healthy debate. As Commissioner for Education Cross River State – he has held the post for a year and is a proud indigene native of Cross River. A BSc Public Administration, Double Masters in Industrial Diplomacy and Diplomatic and International relations at University of Westminster (London). He was the former Local Government Chairman and secretary of his party before becoming Education Commissioner. He is well qualified for the position. ‘Cross River State takes education very seriously and is in a unique position -it’s the only Nigerian state where Governor and Deputy Governor, are both Professors. Academic standards of the state are under close scrutiny and taken very seriously’ he muses.
Of course the lessons students learn in school will remain with them throughout their lives. Equipping a child with basic skills like reading, writing, numeracy and critical thinking enables a child (well beyond school-age years) and gives the opportunity to earn a meaningful and fulfilling livelihood. For example, such skills could enable a student to become an adult who can read and understand the dosage directions for a child’s medicine, give correct change to the market vendor, or even to running one’s own business independently. With reference to West African ranking for Education, Commissioner Ettah comments on how Cross River has leapfrogged from 37 to 7 under current the Governorship. Nationwide, it has climbed from 20 to 2 in ranking after just 1 year, with the aim of inspiring excellence to get the best out of the State’s young citizens. All targets within sight, he is proud and happy to point out the No1 ranked Nigerian student with the highest overall results this year, hails from Cross River State. ‘We (at Cross River State) have a different mentality’, Commissioner interjets – ‘its an enlightened state. Providing for gender balance – the only state in Nigeria that addresses such targets”: 56 Female councillors in the state 18 Local government representatives – of whom 4 women hold Chairmanship positions. Cross River State is highly visible in relation to gender issues ‘Without quality education, the consequences for girls can be devastating. Girls without an education are more likely to become child brides, more vulnerable to infectious diseases and likely to ‘drop out’ of school early in their academic life cycle.’ Drawing on international comparisons: For Secondary school International ratings, Finland ranks no1 with zero ‘drop out’ casualty rates. Meaning, if one million students are starting the academic
year, at end of that year, one million students go to next level. Followed in 2nd & 3rd pole positions by Canada and South Korea respectively. In contrast, Nigeria’s drop out rates compares somewhat negatively averaging a monstrous 13million - pointing out the national figures are more acute in the Northern Regions where girls drop out more than boys(who may be better off to provide for the family) as children are often denied education due to poverty. On a Federal level: The School feeding program – addressing the high drop out incidence was launched last year. In Primary 1 to 3 children are given a full square meal at the school premises. The downside of this is as they progress beyond primary 4 and 5, the drop- out incidence increases due to feeding program not being available beyond this cut off. Cross River State is implementing the same program by April/May 2017. ‘Food vendors are being vetted’ Honourable Ettah informs– Cross River is in the process of recruiting – exploring healthy food options, researching menus, drinks and beverages - standards are rigorous. ‘More needs to be done’ he admits Cross River has introduced discussions on a sharing formula with Federal government. These statistics paint a dire picture of the state of education system in Nigeria with much room for improvement. However, there are positive initiatives in place to directly impact the community of Cross River and bring them up to par with the practicalities of the modern era. “In keeping with this aspiration, the Smart School for Teachers collaborative program with the private sector - set up in 2016 to focus attention on equipping and training teachers in basic computer literacy, as well as providing access to the tools needed to use ICT for curriculum development and more impactful teaching. The aim is to empower teachers to access digital content, share it with their students, use it to conduct assessments and monitor their students’ progress continuously,’’
Commissioners Corner Cont.d Smart school/mobile learning concept will make a positive impact on the lives of students and the people in Cross River. The exposure of technology to the classroom, along with guidance from teachers, who understand the technology, will be the first step for students to gain the skills they need to flourish in the rapidly advancing and ICT-centric world together, to make quality education delivery a reality in Cross River State”. It is estimated that over the next five years, a total of 5,000 teachers will receive training through such programs, with a further 10,000 students impacted as secondary beneficiaries in Cross River State. This is in line with the mission of the Cross River State government to use education to foster development of the people to their full potential in the promotion of a strong, democratic and prosperous state. In summary Honourable Godwin Ettah has imposed a series of yardstick objectives he plans to fulfill during his tenure as Commissioner for Education “Calabar is traditionally the First capital of Nigeria – so we are fully committed to achieving many firsts” Cross River rankings: First in education and to take it to single digits. Infrastructure –for Cross River to be outstanding in education – provision of a good conducive environment to study needs to be in place. Cross River University of Technology is positioned 113 out of 146 in Nigeria’s University ranking. Recently it increased from 96 to 54. The objective is to take it to single figures Education tourism in Cross River is a policy objective - from Primary, Secondary and University levels to create demand & supply for a ‘model state’ for education” it will take time but we will get there,we want the best educationally for our kids”. International Exchange schemes are key to enlightening kids. Initiatives are being set up in China & Maryland (USA) Mr. Ettah asserts the primary objective of the Cross River Education board, is to ensure that primary schools in the State perform creditably in their academics. The Commissioner maintains that, the Senator Ben Ayade led administration is poised to revive the sector and called on the board to collaborate with the Ministry to achieve set goals, “the challenges faced are enormous, but, together we can tackle them,” he assured. Cross River State is making great effort with Honourable Ettah at the helm to empower its citizens, advocating gender equality, further develop & promote educational tourism, develop exchange schemes for students to enlighten its children. Education is an insurance. Cross River is ready to deliver this policy. Thank you Honourable
Ngozi Omambala
A trailblazer strong personality – Asi- sat does not shy away from encour- aging h SportInspired toDTNowng celebrate success find their unique selves “ Be in competition with yourself, not others. Don’t be jealous of their achievements or take pleasure in their misfort on being the best version of you” Kicking off her school roadshow in Nigeria to inspire future stars,she started off a Young,school determined super talented SuperZee as referred by her team highflying striker hasbas mary in & Lekki. She commented “Sharing my mates, storyAsisat andthe demonstrating put her name, country and on picture the world map amazing skills. a Continent joy”. The tellswith theherstory offootball all the fun that was had. Her impressive record with Super Falcons - highest goal scorerLeague (6 goals) atas theforward 2016 Africafor Women’s Cup of Currently playing in Chinese Women’s Super Dalian Quan Nations (AWCON) where she money deal signing. We wish this huge inspiration that is Asisat Oshoala best helped the Super Falcons to their record eighth AWCON title. Asisat was the first African footballer in Britishof lu Women’s Super league cently InterWomen’s sheArsenal proudly posted: “For all those fi footballconcluded when she signed a dealnational with Liverpool Ladies FCDay later with Ladies in 2016 –scoring on her Arsenal debut & winning against all odds achieve Women’s FA cup in her first season. their dreams with kindness and hu- mility” Happy International Women’s Day. The 22 year old recognized by former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan who conferred her with Member of the Order the Niger who medal are (MON). BBCcan Female year 2015, African ‘We needofwomen soCoveted strongtitle they befootballer gentle,ofsotheeducated theyWomens can be hu they can be compassionate, so passionate they can be recently rational and soInterdisciplined they can be free’ Kavita Ramdas On the concluded national Women’s Day she proudly posted: “For A trailblazer strong personality – Asi- sat does not shy away from encour- aging h all those fierce women that against all toodds celebrate success unique selves achieve their dreamsfind with their kindness and humility” Happy International “ Be in competition with yourself, Women’s Day. not others. Don’t be jealous of their achievements or take pleasure in their misfort ‘ We need who version are so strong on beingwomen the best of they you” can be gentle, so educated they can be Kickin thethey recently concluded Inter- national Women’s Day she proudly posted humble, On so fierce can be compassionate, so passionate they can be fierce women that against all odds achieve rational and so disciplined they can be their dreams with kindness and hu- mility” Happy International Women’s Day. free’ Kavita Ramdas ‘We need women who are so strong they can be gentle, so educated they can be hu they can bestrong compassionate, A trailblazer personality – Asi-so satpassionate they does not shy away from encouraging her can be rational and so disciplined they can be free’ Kavita Ramdas fellow women to celebrate success find Atheir trailblazer strong personality – Asi- sat does not shy away from encour- aging h unique selves to celebrate success find their unique selves ““Be Beinincompetition competition with yourself, with yourself, not others. Don’t be jealous of their of their achievements or take pleasure in their misfort not others. Don’t be jealous achievements or take pleasure in their on being the misfortunes. Justbest focusversion on being of theyou” best version ofoff you”her school roadshow in Nigeria to inspire future stars,she started off a Kicking mary school in Lekki. She commented “Sharing my story and demonstrat- ing bas herpicture school roadshow in story Nige- of all the fun that was had. aKicking joy”. off The tells the ria to inspire future stars.She started off Currently in Chinese at Tendervilleplaying primary school in Lekki. Women’s Super League as forward for Dalian Quan She commented “Sharing my and ey deal signing. We wishstory this huge inspiration that is Asisat Oshoala best of luck. demonstrating basic skills was such a roadshow in Nigeria to inspire future stars,she started off at Tenderville primary joy”. She commented “Sharing my story and demonstrat- ing basic skills was such a joy tells the story all theWomen’s fun that was had. Currently playingof in Chinese Super League as forward for Dalian Currently playing in Chinese Women’s Super League as forward for Dalian Quan Quanjian in a big money deal signing. ey We wishthat this Wedeal wish signing. this huge inspiration is huge inspiration that is Asisat Oshoala best of luck.
Asisat Lamina Oshoala
Asisat Oshoala best of luck.
Nigerian professional footballer who plays for Chinese side Dalian Quanjian F.C. in the Chinese Women’s Super League as a forward. Such an inspirational figure.
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