From the desk of the Publisher t is yet another celebration season at Life and Times Media Group. A time to honor trailblazers and achievers amongst us and celebrate the best talents in our community. In the past eight years, we have used the Life and Times Festival to recognize community leaders, accomplished professionals, outstanding entrepreneurs, talented artists, role models, and youth leaders- people who have been unsung in the mainstream media but who we have recognized and celebrated in our quest to rewrite our stories and dispel the negative stereotypes that have been associated with us.
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ing her with a seven-month-old baby. Constance Rose from that grief to start a brand new company called ITH Staffing - providing staffing solutions to IT and health corporations across the country. Within the first 12 months, her company had generated over $3 million in revenue. Today, her company based in Rancho Cucamonga, California has grown even more and is a premier healthcare and information technology staffing company serving organizations across the country with annual revenues in excess of $10 Million Dollars.
charitable giving. She is the founder of Queen Uche Foundation, a platform that helps scout out people to donate their hair used to make free hairpieces/ wigs to women and kids going to chemotherapy or who share a common goal as far as hair loss is concerned. With all the other staples and stories you have come to associate with your award winning magazine, this is another bumper edition you cannot afford to miss!
We celebrate Dr. Nkechi Ikejiofor- a Chike Nweke brilliant young woman and mother Summer, 2018 In this 2018 Festival edition, we cele- who despite the challenges of being a brate - Dr. Lilian Asomugha in our wife and mother of 4 children has concover profile. Dr. Lilian lost her hus- tinued to push her professional excelband Dr. Godfrey Asomugha in 1994 lence. Within a space of twelve months, leaving her with 4 very young children Nkechi had the rare feat of obtaining a and rose from those ashes to raise all the Doctorate degree in Nursing and a law children into very successful adults and degree with hopes and dreams of behas dedicated her life ever since coming a medical malpractice attorney. through the Asomugha Foundation's two programs- Orphans and Widows We celebrate Pastor Bulus Gago, a in Need (OWIN) and Asomugha Col- young man who has a clear view of the lege Tour for Students (ACTS) future, a youth pastor and mentor, an to giving back to the Society. inspirational speaker who has redirected thousands of lost youth to a more We also celebrate Dr. Olusola Oyemade purposeful life. Bulus who is a Doctoral who became a doctor 51 years ago and Student at Claremont University is also built a successful pediatric practice in the founder of the "We will Rise" Founthe last 31 years in Rancho Cucamonga dation dedicated to acting as a catalyst California caring for children who in for positive change back home in Nigeturn have grown into adults and now ria. bring their own children to the clinic. Dr. Oyemade has also become a go-to We celebrate Queen Uche leader in our community mentoring Umeagukwu, the current Miss Africayounger ones and championing com- World who is using her platform munity causes with his resources and and her voice to give hope and abundant wisdom. save others from despair and struggle. Her mission is to We celebrate Ms. Constance Moonzwe always use her platform to another Amazon who overcame the empower women, youths, grief of losing her husband in 2014 leav- and kids through service and
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CONTENTS 12
3. From the Desk of the Publisher 12. Cover Story Dr. Lilian Asomugha @ 70 - A life dedicated to giving back
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28. Profile in Excellence Olusola A. Oyemade - Professional Excellence Award 42. Beauty of the Moment Onyinye Akametalu - Model, Dance & Film Studies
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44. Fashion and Style Anit Cuts 46. Performers Opportune Akendeu - Event Planner 54. People and Places Jessica & Emeka Obi - Forever as one
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CONTENTS 62. People and Places Kendall & Tonna Onyendu - Traditional Wedding
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65. Health & Wellness What to worry about, if you worry about Diabetes 68. Spotlight Delta State - Nigeria's Melting Pot
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72. Country Spotlight Senegal - The sound of Africa 76. News & Politics Herdsmen Simply wanting to please God? 82. Religion Enemies of Marriage: How to fortify yours against them
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Cover Profile
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Cover Profile
r. (Mrs.) Lilian I. Asomugha is a retired Pharmacist and Naturopath. She wears many hats – as a motivational speaker, author, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. In 2012, she retired after more than 40 years of dedicated work as a supervisor, director and business owner in the health and pharmaceutical industries, to focus on her passion for philanthropy.
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In 2005 she founded the Orphans and Widows In Need (OWIN), one of two flagship programs of the internationally renowned Asomugha Foundation, Inc. OWIN provides disadvantaged widows and orphans with skills to better support their families and supports them with educational resources vital to a successful future.
In 2007, one of her children Nnamdi Asomugha founded the Asomugha College Tours for Scholars (ACTS) In 2010, OWIN and ACTS merged as one, hence The Asomugha Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit 501c (3) organization reaching across the globe for the disadvantaged. Lilian and her four children have since worked hard as a team to build the organization.
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Cover Profile school in partnership with the Under her leadership, the Aso- Gold Crest Family Centre in mugha Foundation has: Lagos Nigeria for highly disad- Completed the Skill Acquisi- vantaged children and a Health tion Centre (Vocational Center) Center in Ogun state. for OWIN in Abia State, Nigeria allowing orphans and wid- - Reached over 20,000 orphans ows to gain skills in various and widows each year in Nigetrades to support their eco- ria and around the world. nomic self-sufficiency. Today, after thirteen years, - Erected a two-classroom through hard work and perse-
women and children, yet possesses the admirable sensibilities, compassion and selflessness of a saint. She has founded, co-founded and chaired many other organizations that support women and children and has demonstrated unparalleled business acumen in her various entrepreneurial ventures. She continues relentlessly to hire, support and uplift many people in communities in the U.S.A. and 14 LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION
verance with the help of her children and some honorable men and women, the Asomugha Foundation, Inc. has become a household name around the world. Dr. Asomugha is a fearless leader and purpose driven woman when it comes to educating and empowering
in Nigeria, regardless of ethnic Women’s Conference hosted by or tribal background. the Asomugha Foundation in Los Angeles, California. Often called “a woman after She inspires audiences through God’s heart,” Dr. Asomugha her five inspirational books: has shared her life experiences The Advent of a New Hope inas a widow and single parent in spiring people to ignite their national and international fora, praying powers in times of adlike the African Women Inno- versity; vation and Entreprenuership Parenting Without Tears –illusForun (AWIEF), Nigeria and trating that successful parentcontinues to advance issues ing incorporates a life of faith concerning women and girls motivated into action; through the annual Global Are You Living in Someone SUMMER 2018
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Cover Profile Else’s Mind? – inspiring people to live a positive life by focusing on their God-given instincts; Special Moments At the Throne of Grace - a carefully composed, sample prayers to help readers understand the foundation, purpose, and reward of prayer while building relationships with God, family and fel-
low humans. She has just published her fifth book -- Living the Commandments -- Prayer Thoughts Inspired by Scripture. A book focused on God's laws, showing us how to live a joyous life by studying and obeying His laws and commands.
and Times Humanitarian Award” and was the very first Nigerian woman in the U.S.A. to receive the “Akanu Ibiam Humanitarian Award” from the Ebony State Union (the home state of Sir Akanu Ibiam). She was also one of the first three women to be honored in the U.S.A. with the "CMS Humanitarian Award" - from the oldest grammar school in Nigeria. She is an esteemed member of the prestigious National As-
sociation of Professional Women (NAPW), and was named “Woman of the Year” by the organization in 2012 and 2013. She also got the Women in leadership Award in 2010.
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Governors, Mayors and Members of Congress have recognized Dr. Asomugha for her relentless service and contribution to the community. Her ability to bring people together, to inspire and motivate others has earned her numerous awards including but not limited to the “Ambassador of Past and present California Goodwill Award,” the “Life
Dr. Asomugha was born in a large Christian family in Umuahia in Nigeria. She learned compassion and giving from her parents. As a woman who leads by example, she attributes her success in life to her
upbringing and is thankful to God for the parents she had. Besides reading, writing, and dancing, she displays a natural agricultural and nurturing talent. During the Nigeria-Biafra War, as a teenager, she wouldsupply the entire village and entrepreneurial women with fruits and vegetables she grew for resale. She still plants fruits and vegetables and loves sharing her produce with friends and family especially with SUMMER 2018
Cover Profile older people. Dr. Asomugha has acquired interest in travelling and has visited all the continents except Australia where she plans to go next. She has also visited thirty seven states of America. The highlight of her journeys was her visit to the Holy Land (Isreal) in 2016. Dr. Asomugha is the proud mother and grandmother of four adult children and many grandchildren. She is an alumna of the College of Pharmacy at the University of Texas (Austin). She also received her doctorate in naturopathy from the College of Naturopathy at Warsaw Indiana and hosts her weekly inspirational blog “Prayer Thoughts” on her personal website www.lilieforinspiration.com. To learn more about her work and philanthropy, visit www.buildingtoday.org and become a part of the movement – an endearing
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ministry to build today for a I was born in an affluent family brighter tomorrow. and I had a very happy childhood. In this interview with our Publisher/CEO- Chike Nweke, Dr. My father was the first to go to Asomugha talks about her school in my village and among growing up years, coming to his siblings and was very well America, losing her husband so respected in the community. early, raising her very success- My mother, though very intelful children, her deep passion ligent and prosperous, had very for philanthropy and giving little education and later beback to the less fortunate, and came the head of the women her plans for the future: group (President) for twelve years before retiring. My parQ1- Tell us a little about your ents believed in education.We, growing up years and early ed- all the children would go to ucation? school and that was like a manI was born in Ubakala date. I enjoyed school and my Umuahia, in Abia State, Nige- intelligence and abilities were ria. I am the fifth of twelve chil- very profound among my dren born to my parents Mr. peers. and Mrs. E. K. Okwuadigbo. I was born in a very large family I made distinction in elemenconsidering also the extended tary school (First School Leavones from my grandfather who ing Certificate) and went onto had twelve wives. This was a secondary school where I time when one's wealth was equally had one of the best recounted by how much land sults for West African Exami(property), wives and children nation Council (WAEC), class he has. Suffice it then to say that of 1966 (War zone? - But we
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Cover Profile made it) While in secondary school, I served as a School Prefect, Class prefect, President of Choral Society, President of a short lived Scripture Union, and the President of the Horticultural Society. I was the Vise president of our Debating Society and our Principal's favorite debater. During inter-school debates I made a name for my school -Methodist Girls' Secondary School Ovim on the topic "Western Civilization has done more harm than good," We were on the opposing side. After the war in 1970, I was admitted into Federal School of Technology / Lagos University, where I studied Basic Sciences and Medical Technology awaiting a scholarship to England for a master’s Degree in Microbiology. Then I met my beloved husband, we married in 1972. He left for U.S.A. and upon graduation from college in 1974, I moved to U.S.A. to joined him. Q2- What was your motivation to come to America and how did you surmount the hurdles of settling down into the American society?
and believed that I would do well in medicine. But we settled Q3- You studied Pharmacy at for Pharmacy. I had to go back the College of Pharmacy Unito school to study pharmacy. versity of Austin, Texas and went on to obtain a doctorate As students, we struggled with degree in Naturopathy from mini jobs, supporting each the College of Naturopathy at other through school and build- Warsaw, Indiana. ing a family yet bearing the burden of his family in Nigeria. For over 40 years you worked We graduated. He, on top of the as a supervisor, director and class in Chemistry and Petro- business owner in the health leum Engineering and I in and pharmaceutical industries Pharmacy. How did I surmount before retiring in 2012. How the hurdles? The answer is fulfilling was your career as a prayer and hard work. We Pharmacist and Naturopath were both devout Christians and how did you walk the fine from Christian parents. We line between pharmacy which loved to pray together and is based on western medicine learned to love and support one and naturopathy which is another in every situation. His largely based on natural love for people is unparalleled herbal cure and alternative and he would not do anything medicine? deliberately to hurt anyone. Dreams come true if you have We lived and thrived by need- the courage to pursue them. I ing and respecting each other in had a dream on what I wanted honesty and in truth while per- in life and that is success to help severing in all endeavors. Per- live my life of care and compassonally, I learned that any sion. hurdle is surmountable by believing strongly and trusting It is a struggle to walk a fine that God alone is my hope. line but for me, I see it as rather Proverb 3:5-6. the usual process of hard work
Other than marriage (joining my husband), I had a dream to study and become a medical doctor or an agriculturist. I just wanted to nurture and care for people or things.That would be one of my hurdles of settling in America. Well, agriculture was now ruled out. I had a husband who believed in my intelligence 18 LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION
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Cover Profile to achieve one's dream. While practicing pharmacy (synthetic medicine) I found the need to incorporate natural medicine to my practice at a time the need for alternative healing was becoming prevalent. I decided to study naturopathy to the highest level with hope to become the best for those who are seeking alternatives answers to their non-yielding synthetic medicines. I wrote my dissertation on “Gall Bladder Disease”. which was offered for publishing at that time. Being able to combine the knowledge of synthetic and natural medicines allowed me to help numerous people and advance my practice as a pharmacist. The benefit came from being able to explain the differences, the risk and benefit, and how to use prescription and Over The Counter (OTC) drugs and natural herbs together. My business went beyond dispensing medications to caring, educating and counseling patients who have lost faith in their regular medications. My career helped me to learn and understand people better especially in their distress, poverty, sorrow and life struggles – things that can cause or excercibate underlying illnesses. We only must understand that a little prayer and loving oneself, with little or no medication SUMMER 2018
can always put us back into our the University. We did mini right frame of mind and heal jobs to sustain our college our diseases. years. Things were tough, but we were always needing and While my career was very ful- loving each other and that was filling, I count it joy thanking what kept us above our peers. God for the husband I had, his confidence in me and his fore- Our life style made us the envy sight, all of which helped me to of our peers. My husband was be where I am today. a very disciplined man who knew what he wanted in life. I Q4- How did you meet your was always in support of his husband and how were the ideas which were right most early years of your marriage times. He believed in me and and the welcoming of your 4 thought I was very intelligent. wonderful children into the We focused on our education family? which of course was his priority and the reason for coming to After the Nigeria Biafra war in the U.S.A. 1970, I got admission into the Yaba College of Technology/ Several years later, while still in Lagos University. Shortly after, school, we welcomed our first I met a fine young man who was at that time working with the Nigerian Airways. As God would have it, we became friends and without wasting time, he was convinced that he had met his sweet heart. It took me much longer to realize that he was the right one but when I finally saw the hand writing on the wall, it was obvious that we were meant for each other. He proposed and was happy he did. Two years later, we got married and he left for U.S.A. In 1974, I graduated from college and joined him in the U.S. A. precious bundle from Heaven, I was given a hero’s welcome Chisaraokwu, a beautiful preby him and his friends. Ours cious baby girl. She became the was like the marriage made in joy of our hearts. Heaven. Our early years were great even when we struggled Following graduation and in with school and finance. We between jobs and graduate were young and both of us in schools, we welcomed three LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION 19
Cover Profile In between school, jobs and family making, Godfrey, my husband ended up with a BSc. in Chemistry, BSc. in Petroleum Engineering, and MSc and PhD in Petroleum Management. I had a doctorate in Pharmacy and later in Naturopathy.
more precious bundles from heaven, Chijioke, and Nnamdi (my two wonderful sons) and finally another precious beauty, Udodirim, my second daughter and the youngest of all. Our family grew and in wisdom.We began the family that Prays together and Stays together.
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Talking of dreams come true, ours to raise a wonderful family and to help the people in our community and in our country of origin (Nigeria) have come to fruition. I am highly favored today to say that our four children are highly educated, talented and accomplished. They are equally following our dreams to help the less privileged.
young age and you were saddled with the tough task of raising four children alone. How did you survive the loss of your darling husband and how did you draw the strength to raise your four children into the very successful adults they are today? Surviving the loss of a loved one is not an easy process in life. However when you believe and put your trust in God, all things become possible through Him. Prayer is one of my ways of getting through in hard times.Thessalonians 5:16-18.
My husband's life style helped me and our children to survive the ordeal of his passing. He Q5- You became widowed at a lived a true Christian life and
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Cover Profile we have maintained that hu- on. Secondly, you must teach Widowhood in Africa espemility in his absence. by example – children learn cially Nigeria where I come more and quicker when you, from and know very well, is like a taboo on a woman and her orphans. Having endured the pain of losing a loved one through sudden death, I am well informed of the sufferings of those widows who have little or nothing to feed their families let alone send their children to school. Sharing and giving was part of my growing up through my parents. It is not new for me to share or spare a little to those who have not. I am personally motivated by the Although my children were the parent, teacher or adult passion of compassion. very young when he died, I learn to teach by example. That have always had Daddy in the is, do not teach one thing and Q7- The Asomugha Foundapicture in our family conversa- do the other. No one is perfect tion's giving extends far betions. His love of family and but strive for perfection, the sky yond the shores of the United the grace of God have contin- will be your limit, God will not States and we understand you ued to lead us through. Incor- forsake you if you obey his will have several projects in Nigeporating his ideas in our daily to do right and teach your chil- ria and South Africa. Please conversations has proven that dren right. Proverb 22:6. tell us a little bit about these there is no joy for a child than projects? to know that in life or death, his Q6- You founded your charityor her parents love each other. Orphans and Widows in Need Asomugha College Tours for It gives the child confidence (OWIN) in 2005 which later Scholars (ACTS) is an annual and the feeling of belonging joined with your son event that embraces the disadthey need while growing up. Nnamdi's Charity (Asomugha vantaged youth in the U.S.A. by As I wrote in my second book, College Tour for Students exposing them to higher educa"Parenting Without Tears", il- (ACTS) founded in 2007 to tion - beyond High School. lustrates that successful parent- form the Asomugha Founda- They are mentored and motiing incorporates a life of faith tion in 2010. What is the core vated to further their education, motivated into action; faith, mission of the Asomugha improve their life style, learn hope, trust, courage and wis- Foundation and what moti- humanitarianism and service to dom came handy for our sur- vates you to give back so much their communities. Every year to society? vival. we take twenty-five High School, high achieving but disThese notwithstanding, we had Our Mission is: To empower advantaged students on these a wealth of friends coupled disadvantaged youth and tours. with my immediate family (my women by providing educasiblings and my mother) who tional opportunities and men- We visit top Universities and gave me lots of moral support torship. Colleges in the nation including and encouraged me to move Ivy League schools to expose SUMMER 2018
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them to the outer world beyond their immediate communities. We also hold annual College Summits where over five hundred Junior and High School students come together and meet with forty or more colleges and universities to learn about the different schools, how to apply for admissions, financial aids and scholarships. All twenty-five ACTS - scholars are also privileged to apply for and receive additional scholarship from the Asomugha Foundation. Asomugha Foundation under ACTS also completes four to five community service projects including town home meetings every year around the nation all geared toward helping the youth and the poor. Orphans and Widows in Need (OWIN) operates fully in Nigeria where we support the disadvantaged widows and orphans in Abia State.We have also done outstanding work in 22 LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION
Lagos State Nigeria through our partner Gold Crest Family Centre. And in South Africa and have continued to support several other non-profits reaching out for women and girls. All these we do by providing them with necessities, through education, micro business, food, medicine, health screening, clothing and spiritual uplifting. Believing that education is the springboard for innovation and success, the Asomugha Foundation through OWIN completed a Skills Acquisition Centre in Abia State Nigeria two years ago. We have now graduated the second set of thirty students from the school. The school serves as a center for career (vocational) training such as Sewing/Fashion Designing, Catering,Hair dressing, Computer literacy and Mentoring for poor widows, and orphans and the disadvan-
taged young adults. Graduates are supported with micro loans to establish their own micro businesses. In the past, in partnership with Gold Crest Family Centre in Lagos, we helped to erect a 2 classrooms elementary school in the remote village of Iwogia in Ogun State and a Health Centre for the people. Twice a year we sponsor over 20,000 orphans and widows on welfare projects for both Gold Crest Family Centre in Lagos and the OWIN Association in Abia State Nigeria and other projects on women and girls in the U.S.A. Our Global Women Conference (GWC) held annually in Los Angeles, California also ties to the OWIN program. It is a oneday educational awareness that addresses the global issues concerning women and girls. All women regardless of race, religion or ethnicity are invited to attend. A group of renowned SUMMER 2018
Cover Profile professionals speak on carefully selected topics on women's health, socio-economic concerns- child trafficking, child marriages, relationships, domestic violence, abuse, neglect and the importance of education. People are empowered to lift their self-esteem and reach their full potential in life. During the last month of every year, the Asomugha Foundation reaches out to the community at large through our Christmas Giving Program. Gifts of toys, clothing, school supplies and food are given to women and children from needy families to help bring smiles on their faces for the Christmas holiday.
other facilities to our community. How rewarding have you found this project that many expressed skepticism at the beginning as being " too good to be located in our community? Nothing is too good for any community if it is needed. Our community needs the best and should not be afraid to embrace it. I believe in doing my best if at all I have to do anything. The Foundation Center has been a blessing to everyone who stepped foot into it. People love good things and the Foundation Center is one. It has been very rewarding. We need more of such. I think we can now say that if our community is Nazareth, good things have come out of it. It was built to help brighten and upgrade the community and without doubt, it has served that purpose and beyond.
Q8- In July 2014, The Foundation Center was opened to house the programs of the Asomugha Foundation and to offer Five Star banquet, conference, offices, restaurant and Q9- On July 21, 2018- friends
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and family gathered from all over the world to celebrate you at 70. Looking back at these seventy years, how do you count your blessings? Do you have any regrets or things you could have done differently? Honestly, I have no regrets mostly because there is nothing I could change. God has been good to me. Even in difficult times, I am still counting and naming my blessings. What God has done for me is uncountable.My three score and ten years on this earth has been very rewarding and fruitful. I cannot complain but thank my God, my family and my friends for the love and kindness you all have shown me. I always ask God to give me courage to accept the things I cannot change. At seventy, I still want to praise God for the rest of my life. He has been good to me. I love my life and my family and friends.
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Q10- It looks like even at 70 you are not about to slow down! Besides the 5 books you have written, we hear you have plans for other literary projects. Please tell us how you derive inspiration for your books and other literary projects you have in the pipeline? My inspiration comes from my knowing that each day that I am alive, there is something special God woke me up for and I will find it and do it. I am a deep thinker as I have been told. I do not dwell in idleness.Yes, I have other projects in the pipeline and I love to wait on the Lord for directions. Psalm 3:5-6. I love to pray (Talking to God) and I do so with all my heart asking God for directions each day. I pray to God in songs and dance and I love laughing at myself, Singing, dancing and laughing all by myself help to release anger from my body and give me peace. These things always inspire and motivate me to focus on positive things in life. There is nothing 24 LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION
that gives more joy than know- that you can pay for. ing you have talked to God each day. That's My Secret! Focus on your God given instinct. Love God, love your Q11- What advice would you neighbor and please love yourgive to a new immigrant from self; learn to sow seeds of Love homeland about achieving and Compassion, the harvest is success in America? joy and fulfillment. For those who would listen, I would repeat that "Rome was not built in a day". "Take time while you rush for Good Things (gold) because they will never finish".
As it is said back home, “Cut your coat according to your size” and obey the laws of the country.
Q12- When your work is done, how would you like Dr. Lilian Make sure you get some educa- Asomugha to be remembered? tion- it is important – it is the springboard for success and I want people to be happy longevity. When in doubt, ask when they remember me. Rebut do not envy. Envy and member the life I lived and the greed will destroy your life and legacy I left behind. Remember success. me by my good works and by continuing my legacy and comAmerica is like a bed of roses- passion. you cannot pluck the rose without going through the thorns. If “Pure and true religion in the you go too fast (cheating or cut- sight of God and the Father is to ting corners) you will cut your- help the orphans and the widself short. ows in their distress and to keep oneself spotless from the Stay away from credit cards as world. James 1:27. much as possible (buy what you can afford) and buy credit SUMMER 2018
People & Places
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Profile In Excellence
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r. Oyemade has been practicing medicine for 50 years. He is a Pediatrician at Olusola Oyemade, MD, Inc. in Rancho Cucamonga, California. He is affiliated with the San Antonio Regional Hospital,
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Profile In Excellence
Upland and Pomona Valley ical School, Loma Linda, CA Hospital Medical Center, respectively. Pomona, California. After he graduated from the He has had more than forty University of Edinburgh Medyears of experience in the ical School, Edinburgh, Scotareas of pediatric nephrology land, he did an internship at Genesee Hospital, and public health. Prior aca- the demic positions held include Rochester, NY, and residency Assistant Clinical Instructor- in Pediatrics at the Children’s ship at the University of Buf- Hospital, Buffalo, NY. He also holds a Masters degree in falo, Buffalo, NY. Assistant Professorships in Pediatrics at Public Health from Johns Meharry Medical College, Hopkins University, and a in Pediatric Vanderbilt University, Fellowship Nashville, TN, and Howard Nephrology at Georgetown University, Washington DC, University, Washington D.C. Loma Linda University MedSUMMER 2018
He is a foundation member of the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), an organization that has blossomed into the major representative of Nigerian doctors in the diaspora. ANPA provides a platform for medical and scientific dialogue, on issues of health within North America, the Caribbean, and Africa. He has been a member of the medical team, which has undertaken several medical missions offering free medical services to the needy in variLIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION 29
Profile In Excellence
ous parts of Nigeria over the past twenty-five years. The missions have had a tremendously positive impact on the local population. He is the Medical Director of Special Angels Foundation, based in the Inland Empire, which aims to cater for the care of special needs children.
community as evidenced by his busy pediatric practice. He volunteers at the annual health fair at the community church, and gives talks to high school students to motivate them to achieve their goals. He is supportive of the progress of the Nigerian community by his active involvement in various activities.
tors of several organizations including; ANPA; Medical Resources International (MRI); and Immune Modulations, Inc. (IMI). He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the West African college Of Physicians. Dr. Oyemade is happily married to his beautiful wife Buky and they have five children.
He has also been active in his He is on the Board of Direc-
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oday as the Executive Director and CEO of ITH Staffing, Inc., a premier healthcare and information technology staffing company serving organizations across the country, Moonzwe leads all operations, strategic planning and staff development for this high-volume firm in Rancho Cucamonga, California. With 20-plus years of experience she has man-
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Profile In Excellence
aged large portfolios ($10M) and successfully delivered professionals to companies in hospitality, engineering and health risk management. Moonzwe's broad experience in business consultancy and leadership has made her an expert in her field. As a member of the Society for Human Resource Management, she continues to be recognized by industry peers, colleagues and employees as a trail blazer, role model and mentor. Putting equal time into
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her community work, Moonzwe is the Vice President of ITH Charities, an organization she founded in an effort to promote sustainable healthcare andeducational development initiatives, primarily in her native Zambia. The accolades which follow Moonzwe’s important work are just as impressive: Women of Color Achievement Award, Favorite Healthcare Staffing (selected by The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval), Certified Women's Business Enterprise, and other honors for this entrepreneurial champion. A graduate from California Polytechnic University (Cal-Poly Pomona), and the University of La Verne (ULV); she received a BS in Human Resources and a Masters in Healthcare Administration. In a recent interview with Life & Times Magazine, Constnace had this to say about her remarkable and inspirational story, " I was born in Zambia, we spent a couple years in England, when I was a child, my parents were pursuing their
graduated degrees in England. I had a sickly childhood, my memories of Zambia as a child are not as many as I would prefer. I do remember, it was really important to my parents that we spent time with our extended family, weekend was always busy with family visits and activities. Church and bible study was a must for my family, my spiritual foundation was set in my childhood. I remember our holiday trips to Zimbabwe (the good old days), I have very fond memories of all our family vacations to Zimbabwe, Livingston and the Victoria Falls. My parents worked a whole lot, however, it was very important that we vacationed as a family, those are the memories I cherish the most. It was also in Zambia I learnt the importance of giving back, my parents were constantly giving to the family, community and church. Giving back to causes I believe in has forged in my upbringing. I was innocent in those growing up years in Zambia, I always felt safe, secure, loved and valued. "
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Profile In Excellence
r. Nkechi Ikejiofor (Nee Duru) was born to the late Sir Sebastian Duru (an educationist and accomplished author) and Lady Stella
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N. Duru (a retired school teacher) of Umuduroha Amaigbo in Nwangele Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria. At the age of ten,
Nkechi had completed her Elementary education and immediately commenced her High School education. By the age of fifteen Nkechi had graduated
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Profile In Excellence from High School. She was offered admission in the Nursing School at St. Mary’s Joint Hospital Amaigbo. Nkechi graduated from General Nursing at the age of Nineteen . She was later admitted in the Our Lady of Lourdes School of Midwifery. She graduated as a registered midwife with credit.
December of 2013 with honors. She was invited and indoctrinated into Sigma Theta Tau Honor society of Nursing. She
Nkechi worked in several hospitals at various locations in Nigeria before joining her husband, Sir Frank Ikejiofor of Umuezeobolo Amaigbo, in the United States of America in 1997. Nkechi passed the California Board for Registered Nurses in February of 1998, barely two successfully passed her Board examination and was credenmonths into the United States. tialed by the American Nursing Nkechi Ikejiofor, in her un- Credentialing Center (ANCC) in quenchable thirst for knowledge, February of 2014. juggled between her Nursing career and the raising of children to With zeal and passion for Eduenroll into the University of cation, Nkechi Ikejiofor enrolled Phoenix (Costa Mesa Campus) to pursue two advanced degrees in August of 2011 to pursue a in two major academic disciMasters program in Nursing / plines simultaneously: Health Family Nurse Practitioner Pro- and Law. Health at the gram. Nkechi Graduated with Masters of Nursing/Family Brandman Chapman University Nurse Practitioner Program In System and Law School; Con-
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cord Law at Perdue University Global. Within a few years, and in record time, Nkechi earned two doctorate degrees with honors: one in Nursing as Doctor of Nursing Practice (with specialty in Adult Geriatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner), and another as Doctor of Jurisprudence. Currently Dr. Nkechi Ikejiofor work as a Hospitalist with Internal- Medicine Department St. Francis Medical Center Full time. She also work per diem at Kaiser Permanente Downey Medical Center Intensive Care Unit. Dr. Nkechi Ikejiofor also has medical privileges at Department of Internal Medicine Lakewood Regional Medical Center and Southern California Hospital Medical Center in Culver City. Dr. Nkechi Ikejiofor looks forward to practicing also as a Medical Malpractice Attorney. Dr Nkechi Ikejiofor is blessed with a loving and supportive husband and four wonderfully gifted children.
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Profile In Excellence ullus Gago, first and foremost a Christian and a Pastor who lives by the motto found in Philippians 1:21 which states “to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
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Bullus Gago graduated from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Biology and thereafter worked as a Laboratory Technician II at Cargill Inc, the largest privately owned company in the world. Bullus Gago obtained a
Master of Arts in Biblical Studies with an emphasis in Leadership from Hope University, Fullerton in 2016. Currently, Bullus is a Ph.D. student at Claremont School of theology. His concentration is on the comparison of religions and their philosophies, and as a subheading, he is looking into neuroethology, in an effort to understanding how cultures perceive God based on context. His efforts are to bring awareness and to facilitate the discussion of religious peace, especially within the Nigerian context.
table organizations such as the grounds, race, and tribes, it serves as a platform to ProBullus Gago is an author of Ronal McDonald house. vide, Inform and Educate. The two books, The Simplicity of Christianity and Recalibrating Today Bullus Gago is con- goal of We Will Rise is to carry the Christian Mind—which ducting research in Nigeria. Nigeria to its greatest potenboth could be found on Ama- He is working on a type of tial amidst its current tumulzon. Bullus is also the founder technic that is aimed at sup- tuous situations; it strives to of Rev-Con Movement. A plying organic vegetation in a bring the present and future youth organization that timely and efficient manner. generation to par allowing strives to reintroduce Christ in Bullus is the founder of a Nigerians to participate and organization influence such a modern and the way scripture depicts. Non-profit Within this organization, indi- called We Will Rise. The main pluralistic world. viduals are given a platform idea of this non-profit is to to utilize their gifting’s, and it bring people together. By Bullus Gago is a strong beallows individuals to serve piecing together the best of liever in the greatness of Nigetheir communities and chari- minds, from various back- ria. Therefore, understanding 38 LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION
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the times, Bullus believes more than ever that Nigerians are to rise to reclaim the very land God has given them as a possession. Bullus Gago recently got married to the beautiful Vebiang Gago SUMMER 2018
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Profile In Excellence ueen Uche Umeagukwu is a model, former Face of Nigeria, reigning Miss Africa World (2018-2019), entrepreneur, philanthropist, global business woman and holds a B.S. in Political Science. She has made many appearances in magazines and television such as VH1, Bravo, BET, Centric, ENews, Style Network and WeTV. Operating a sucessful Wigs and Hair Extensions company known as UCHE HAIR, she hopes to use her knowledge of building world class brands to help the local entrepreneurs increase self-suffi-
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ciency and expand their compa- As the nies. reigning Miss Africa She is the founder of Queen World, Uche Foundation, a platform Queen that helps scout out people to her title donate their hair used to make stands free hair pieces/wigs to women for hope and kids going to chemotherapy and savior. That means she has or who share a common goal as the power to use her voice to far as hair loss. Queen Uche be- give hope and save others from lieves children shouldn’t have to despair and struggle. Her misworry about how they look, es- sion is to always use her platpecially when they’re in the form to empower women, middle of a health crisis. and she youths and kids through service wants to give the kids the op- and charitable giving. portunity to feel good about themselves.
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Beauty of the Moment
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Beauty of the Moment
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Fashion & Style
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.”Proverbs 31:24-25
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Anit Cuts and Stitches founder, Celestina, was born and raised in Nigeria where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in economics. After completing her undergraduate studies, she learned how to make both African-print and English wears. While creating designs, Celestina draws inspiration from nature and cultures. She holds clients’ satisfaction dear to her heart and is also passionate about sustainablefashion. Currently, she is pursuing a nursing degree and broadening her fashion knowledge base by taking some fashion classes. She plans to also obtain a degree from a fashion institution. 44 LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION
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Performers y name is Opportune Akendeu, born and raised in Cameroon for 14years and later migrated to Los Angeles California. 3 years later I graduated high school and started college successfully and got licensed as a medical assistant and a year later graduated from the License Vocational program. A few years later after giving birth to my beautiful baby girl, I successfully got accepted into the Registered Nursing program in Iowa but after a few semesters of the program I dropped out willingly to pursue my purpose and passion which was becoming a Chef, designer and run my own event planning and consulting companies.
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I am the owner of Lor Noire and I have a clothing line which I recently launched, a successful events planning & consulting company , and a natural hair & body oil product under this company that will be launching very early in January of 2019. When I am not working on Lor Noire , you can catch me either at music festivals , any multicultural events , and also at private weddings or any special events serving delicious authentic African Gourmet cuisine through my cater and Foodtruck company called African Chop which is also locally ran in Los Angeles. To contact me you can use @africanchop on instagram in regards to food and @lornoirecollection for the clothing or simply go to our website lornoire.com
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Lead Dancer Nkeiruka aka NK,
Nikki Altidor - Dancer:
keiruka aka NK, is a college graduate with a degree in International Business & emphasis in Entertainment Marketing. As a professional dancer, choreographer, and instructor based in Los Angeles, born and raised in Nigeria my goal is to bring you the hottest Afrobeat dances & classes to dancers of all level while having fun & working out at the same time.
ikki Altidor has been dancing since she was in her mother’s womb. Though she was raised in Boston,Massachusetts, she is originally from the country of Haiti. She is a Dancer, Choreographer and Teacher in various dance styles such as Afrobeats, Hiphop, Traditional West African dance, Haitian folklore, Haitian Kompa, and Dancehall. She has opened up for, and danced alongside, major artists in different genres such as August Alsina, KonShens, Olamide, and recently toured all throughout Europe as one of two dancers for the South African artists,
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I have taught and performed throughout the US, United Kingdom, Canada, and Africa alongside with Timaya, 2face, Maleek Berry, Olamide, Victoria Kimani, Dotman, Shikane etc. You can also find me in music videos with Wale as a dancer and choreographer, Daddy Yankee, Flavour, EugyOfficial, Trinidad James, Tiwa Savage & Awilo. My classes are held every Wednesday at Downtown Dance & Movement. You can find me on instagram @nksogorgeoustagra
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Die Antwoord.
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ighly respected Nigerian Comedian, Wamilele, has been making Africa laugh for the past decade. Whether hosting widely publicized government and state events, performing at some of the most prestigious church functions in Nigeria, acting as the official M.C. for all Chevron/Shell Oil events, or doing stand-up alongside Kings of Comedy Ali Baba, Basket Mouth and Basorge, Wamilele's versatile style of comedy has made him one of the most sought after comedians in West Africa. "Wamilele has defiinitely become one of the Big Boys in our industry", Ali Baba said. "He's the type of guy that will quickly become an international sensation. He even makes me laugh!" Although a funny man by nature, Wamilele does
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not joke when it comes to his church. "Wamilele is well embraced and respected in our relationship with God. community", Bishop He is also a motivational Okonkwo states. "His comedy speaker who uses his platform is clean, uplifting, and has a as a comedian to encourage positive message. Wamilele is others. "From a young age, I one of the few comedians I've always knew that putting God met who can sing, dance, and first would help to make my make people laugh all at the dreams become reality. When same time!" people ask how did a young boy from Warri reach the sta- Wamilele's touring schedule tus of becoming a successful for 2011 is already filling up comedian, I let them know fast. For those who have not that my faith in God has got- yet heard of this young cometen me to this point, and will dian, sit back, relax, and continue to take me to greater watch as Wamilele "The Coheights. Eyes have not seen median" takes the comedy nor ears have heard the plans world to a whole 'notha level. God has for all of us". Blessed www.wamilele.com by Bishop Mike Okonkwo of TREM Lagos, one of the largest churches in Africa and North America, Wamilele has always stood firm in his committment to providing quality entertainment within the
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Performers
lujaz (Oluwole Alabi) is the fourth child of the family which hails from Kogi State. He started playing the musical instrument at a young age when he joined the church choir. His first ever played instrument was the trumpet early 90s when he joined the boys' brigade , he picked up the saxophone in 2003
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The music maestro has worked as a solo performer, typically in concerts with genre ranging from traditional African songs to gospel, to modern jazz and other Westernstyles. He has performed on stage with renowned artistes like King Sunny Ade, Pastor Kunle Ajayi, Mike Aremu, Lagbaja, Yinka Davies and many Nigerian artistes. He also has shared stage with International artistes like Hugh Masekela, Gerald Albright and Richard bona. He has creatively done covers for different songs and has released four albums. His 5th Album will be launched in August 2018. He studied computer science at LASU (Lagos State University) in year 2010 and he is currently studying jazz and pursing a master degree in business and system information at San Diego, California.
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Performers
orn and raised between Oklahoma and California, Yemi Sholebo has a balance of country living and city life that allows her to fit into many settings. Her ethnic background of being both Cameroonian and Nigerian has provided cultural diversity within herself which has been both challenging and rewarding at various points in life. From childhood, she started singing in her church choir when she asked her mother if she could join before she had even started attending school. Despite her stage fright, she performed solos per her choir director’s requests and performed in school assemblies and talent shows. Her love for singing has always been present, as has her love for healthcare and positively impacting the lives of others.
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The importance of education was imbedded in her as a child, and as an adult she has received a Master’s level of education as a Nurse Practitioner. She currently works in a Hospitalist Nurse Practitioner position in the Dallas-Forth Worth area of Texas. In an effort to balance her heavy workload, she incorporates her love for travel in her life by taking planned and last minute trips both nationally and internationally when possible. She is currently working on maximizing her time to focus on singing more often in an effort to share her gift with others. Despite the various detours she has made over time, music has always been and will always be a major part of her life.
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People & Places
riends and family gathered in Hawthorne California, on Friday the 25th of May 2018 for the traditional wedding and in Beverly Hills on Saturday the 26th of May as Princess Jessica Ekomerei Uwadia daughter
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of PASTOR AND DR. (MRS.) OJE UWADIA said 'I do" to Prince Chukwuemeka Christian Obi son of MR. AND MRS. EMMANUEL OBI It was a beautiful ceremony full of love, laughter and good cheer
as family and friends gathered at the beautiful ceremonies prayed for a blissful marriage for the couple. Following is a photo essay of the beautiful ceremonies.. SUMMER 2018
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Friends and family gathered fornia on June 15, 2018at the Williams to Mr. Tonna at the Radisson Hotel at the Igbo traditional marriage cer- Onyendu Following is a photo University of Southern Cali- emony of former Ms. Kendall reel of the ceremony.
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Health and Wellness ne day I went to see a patient, a middle aged man. As I approached him, the air around me was filled with a foul odor. It was like the odor of a rotten egg. As I moved closer, the odor got so unbearably intense that I put on a face mask to
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protect my nose. When I arrived at his bedside, I saw that all of the other providers also had face masks. The foul smell was not from a rotten egg, it was from the man’s gangrenous leg. The leg was as black as charcoal. But that was not the patient’s only
problem. He was barely conscious because of the effects of the toxins from his gangrenous leg. The man I described is not unique. His case shows just one of the long-term complications
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Health & Wellness of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. In the long run, if blood sugar levels are not properly controlled, the blood vessels that supply key parts of our bodies are damaged. When it affectssmaller blood vessels (micro-vessels) of the body,peripheral nerves, eyes, and kidneys suffer. Ifnerves of the feet are involved, it causes diabetic neuropathy. Sensation in the feet is impaired. As a result, when a foot injury occurs, you may not notice it. Because you don’t notice the initial injury, it can become more severe or get infected. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels make it harder for your body to fight infections or to heal, making it more likely that an injury to the foot will lead to an amputation. Ifeyes are damaged by elevated blood sugar, they can develop cataracts, vitreous hemorrhage, retinopathy, and eventually blindness. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adult Americans. If sugar damages the kidneys, the complication is
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chronic renal failure, which may eventually require dialysis. And patients on dialysis have an average life expectancy of 5-10 years. [Source: https://www.kidney.org/atoz/ content/dialysisinfo] Uncontrolled blood sugar level can also damage large blood vessels (macro-vessels) in the neck and in the brain, leading to stroke. Damage to the coronary arteries of the heart can lead to heart attack. Finally, damage to the vessels in the legs can lead to gangrene of the foot or of the leg, just as in the patient I described at the beginning of this article. When the foot doesn’t get adequate blood circulation, tissues die, leading to gangrene. If the gangrene is severe enough, to save the patient’s life, they may need to amputate the leg just below the knee. If diabetes remains uncontrolled, the amputation is extended to above the knee. And then to the hip: hip disarticulation. The higher up a leg an amputation goes, the less likely it is that a patient will
adapt well to a prosthetic leg. If you have borderline diabetes, be mindful of these long term complications. If you have diabetes, be mindful of them. If you are healthy now, be mindful of them. We should all be mindful of them. The patient described above started out as a borderline diabetic. “A thousand and one steps begin with the first,” so the saying goes. It’s better to take steps towards health, not towards sickness. Regardless of where we are today, we should all take action to protect our health. We should avoid what we need to avoid. We need to avoid drinks with added sugar such as malt drinks or carbonated drinks. We need to avoid cookies, candies, cake, and ice cream. Finally, we need to avoid the two most impactful food items of all,bread and rice. If you are borderline diabetic, and you stop or cut down your bread and your rice intake, you
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will be amazed at the impact on your health. If you are diabetic, and you stop eating bread and rice, you’ll be amazed at the impact on your health. If you are neither borderline diabetic, nor diabetic, and you stop or cut down your bread and your rice intake, you’ll be amazed at the impact on your health and on your weight. You’ll be amazed. Don’t take my word for it. Try it. You’ll beamazed. “But now what can we eat?” is the most common question people ask me when I suggest that they avoid bread, rice, and other carbs – cake, cookies, cereals, and muffins. You can eat any foods that are rich in nutrients, but light in calories. Eat a variety of vegetables, raw or steamed. Eat them every day, with every meal if possible. Let them be a significant portion of your breakfast, of your lunch, and of your dinner. And eat variety of low glycemic fruits. Go to the produce department of a grocery storeto pick your favorite fruits and your favorite vegetables. Better yet, take the opportunity to try new fruits and new vegetables; expand your dietary horizons.
the animals eat their natural diets – grass for cows, insects and seeds for chickens, andwild diet for fish – it is better forcattle, forfish, forchickens, and ultimately, for you. If you want to be healthy, eat meat from a healthy cow, not from a diabetic cow; eat fish from a healthy fish, not from a diabetic fish; and eat chicken from a healthy chicken, not from a diabetic chicken. That is what to eat.
your age, and of your health. Don’t do it because your spouse or your friend does it, do it because it is appropriate for you, so you do not hurt yourself.
Regardless of your health status, see your doctor at least once a year. Be compliant with your medications if you are on them. Ensure that a variety of fruits and of vegetables are a significant portion of every meal. Drink water and eat your fruits Snack on nuts, not on cookies or whole. Above all, watch out for cake. Not on ice cream. Not on bread, and watch out for rice. chips. Not on cereals. Not on donuts. Whenyou snack on nuts, Dr. Olufemi Saliu, MD is a choose nuts that are relatively board certified anesthesiologist high in omega 3 fatty acids like in Los Angeles, California that walnut, almonds, and cashew has been in medical practice nut. Eat nuts in moderation. A since 1985. handful a day is all you need. Peanuts [which are actually He has a special interest in writlegumes, not nuts] are relatively ing about and educating people high in omega 6 fatty acids, a on healthy nutrition & wellness bad fat, and are not good for habitual consumption. Drink water. And eat foods with high water contents. For example, fruits have a high water content, high fiber content, and high antioxidant content that are good for your health. Eat your fruits whole, rather than processed to get the full benefit.
Eat grass fed meat, wild caught Finally, remember to exercise. fish, and free range chicken. If When you do, be mindful of SUMMER 2018
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Spotlight
elta or Delta State is an oil and agricultural producing state of Nigeria, situated in the region known as the SouthSouth geo-political zone with a population of 4,112,445 (males: 2,069,309; females: 2,043,136). The capital city is Asaba, located at the northern end of the state, with an estimated area of 762 square kilometres (294 sq mi), while Warri is
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the economic nerve center of the state and also the most populated. It is located in the southern end of the state. The state has a total land area of 16,842 square kilometres (6,503 sq mi). The state covers a landmass of about 18,050 km², of which more than 60% is land. The state lies approximately between Longitude 5°00 and 6°.45' East and Latitude 5°00 and 6°.30' North. It is bounded in the north and west by Edo State, the east by Anambra, Imo, and Rivers States, southeast by Bayelsa State, and on the southern flank is the Bight of Benin which covers about 160 kilometres of the state's coastline. Delta State is generally low-lying without remarkable hills. The state has a wide coastal belt inter-lace with rivulets and streams, which form part of the Niger River Delta. Delta State was carved out of SUMMER 2018
the former Bendel State on 27 August 1991. The state was created following agitations for the creation of a separate distinct state by the peoples of the old Delta Province: the Urhobos, Ijaw Izon, Isoko, Itsekiri and Ukwuani (later joined Anioma). There was yet another state creation movement designated as "Niger State" comprising the old midwestern Igbo-speaking Asaba divisions and Ukwuani-speaking Aboh division of the old Midwest region. This was transformed into "Anioma" following the creation of Niger State from the old Northwestern State by the Murtala Muhammed administration in 1976. The then Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, created the state using the name "Delta" advanced by Niger Delta region and "Asaba" a prominent town within the "Anioma" axis as capital. Asaba was designated as capital of the proposed Anioma State. The proposed capital was a virgin land or
"Anioma city" in the heart of the two constituent divisions that had evolved to become the Anioma area. Delta state was once integrated in the Mid Western state from 1963 to 1976 and later Bendel state, from 1976 to 1991. The name "Bendel" (Ben-Del) coined from the old Benin and Delta Provinces of Western Region-Delta to reflect the integration of Benin and Delta provinces. Delta State is ethnically diverse, with various linguistic stocks. The first region is made up of three linguistic groupings, collectively referred to as Anioma. They are of Igboid stock and composed of three main groups namely Enuani, who inhabit the Aniocha and Oshimili Local Government Areas; Ika; and Ndokwa/Ukwuani. All three inhabit the Delta North senatorial district. The second region consists of the other three main linguistic LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION 69
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groups: Edoid, comprising the Isoko and Urhobo; Yoruboid, Itsekiri; and Ijoid, Izon. The Urhobo cultural extraction is the largest in the state with over 2 million native speakers. The Itsekiri speak a language very closely related to Yoruba but have been culturally influenced by the Edo ethnic group from neighbouring Edo state, as well as the Urhobo, Ijaw and Portuguese. The Izon are a branch of their kith and kin, in neighbouring Bayelsa State. The vast majority of inhabitants are Christian, with very
few practicing Traditional Reli- National Hospital, Abuja. In 2015, Chief Ighoyeta Amori gion. was elected Senator of Delta Arthur Okowa Ifeanyi, a mem- Central but his election was anber of the People's Democratic nulled and Senator Ovie OmoParty, was elected Governor Agege sworn in as Senator of and chief executive of Delta Delta Central, James Manager State in April 2015. His deputy retained his position and Chief is Barr. Kingsley Otuaro. The Peter Nwaoboshi was elected state has three National Sena- Senator of Delta North. The Extorial Districts (South, North ecutive, Legislative and Judiand Central). In 2011 and 2013, cial Chambers are housed in the elected senators were James Asaba with a government Manager, Arthur Okowa house annex in Warri. Ifeanyi and Emmanuel Aguariavwodo who replaced Pius Ewherido who died in 2013 at
Itsekiri Traditional Outfit
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Country Spotlight
enegal Wolof: Senegaal; Senegal (Wolof: Réewum West Africa. Senegal is borFrench: Sénégal), offi- Senegaal; French: République dered by Mauritania in the cially the Republic of du Sénégal), is a country in north, Mali to the east, Guinea
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to the southeast, and GuineaBissau to the southwest. Senegal also borders The Gambia, a country occupying a narrow sliver of land along the banks of the Gambia River, which separates Senegal's southern region of Casamance from the rest of the country. Senegal also shares a maritime border with Cape Verde. Senegal's economic and political capital is Dakar. It is the westernmost country in the mainland of the Old World, or Afro-Eurasia, and owes its name to the Senegal River, which borders it to the east and north. The name "Senegal" comes from the Wolof "Sunuu Gaal", which means "Our Boat". Senegal covers a land area of SUMMER 2018
almost 197,000 square kilometres (76,000 sq mi) and has an estimated population of about 15 million. The climate is typically Sahelian, though there is a rainy season. CULTURES & INFLUENCES The territory of modern Senegal has been inhabited by various ethnic groups since prehistory. Organized kingdoms emerged around the seventh century, and parts of the country were ruled by prominent regional empires such as the Jolof Empire. The present state of Senegal has its roots in European colonialism, which began during the mid15th century, when various
European powers began competing for trade in the area. The establishment of coastal trading posts gradually led to control of the mainland, culminating in French rule of the area by the 19th century, albeit amid much local resistance. Senegal peacefully attained independence from France in 1960, and has since been among the more politically stable countries in Africa. Senegal's economy is centered mostly on commodities and natural resources. Major industries are fish processing, phosphate mining, fertilizer production, petroleum refining, construction materials, LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION 73
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and ship construction and repair. As in most African nations, agriculture is a major sector, with Senegal producing several important cash crops, including peanuts, sugarcane, cotton, green beans, tomatoes, melons, and mangoes. Owing to its relative stability, tourism and hospitality are also burgeoning sectors. With it being a multiethnic and secular nation, Senegal is predominantly Sunni Muslim with Sufi and animist influences. French is the official language, although many native languages are spoken and recognized. Since April 2012, Senegal's president has been Macky Sall. Senegal has been 74 LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION
a member of the Organisation president is Macky Sall, internationale de la Francoph- elected in March 2012. onie since 1970. Senegal has more than 80 poPOLITICS litical parties. The unicameral parliament consists of the NaSenegal is a republic with a tional Assembly, which has presidency; the president is 150 seats (a Senate was in elected every five years as of place from 1999 to 2001 and 2001, previously being seven 2007 to 2012). An independent years, by adult voters. The judiciary also exists in Senefirst president, Léopold Sédar gal. The nation's highest Senghor, was a poet and courts that deal with business writer, and was the first issues are the constitutional African elected to the council and the court of jusAcadémie française. Senegal's tice, members of which are second president, Abdou named by the president. Diouf, later served as general secretary of the Organisation CULTURE & MUSIC de la Francophonie. The third president was Abdoulaye Senegal is known across Wade, a lawyer. The current Africa for its musical heritage, due to the popularity of SUMMER 2018
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viane, Titi and Pape Diouf
mbalax, which originated from the Serer percussive tradition especially the Njuup, it has been popularized by Youssou N'Dour, Omar Pene and others. Sabar drumming is especially popular. The sabar is mostly used in special
celebrations like weddings. Another instrument, the tama, is used in more ethnic groups. Other popular international renowned Senegalese musicians are Ismael LĂ´, Cheikh LĂ´, Orchestra Baobab, Baaba Maal, Akon Thione Seck, Vi-
Senegalese economy. Since the 1990s, Senegal has made an effort to reach beyond visitors from the former colonial power France and It is attracting tourists From Spain, British and Italians, in part motivated by the example of neighbouring Gambia, which draws a relatively larger
tourist share from Northern in 2008. Europe and the Americas to Future projections and bookits Banjul coastal resorts. ings announced in 2009 raised In 2008, Senegal's foreign fears that the global economic tourist visitors had reached 1 downturn would deal a blow million, attracted to luxury to 2009 and 2010 tourist visits, beach resorts, natural and his- with a booking rate down toric sites. The return rate for from 30% the year before to visitors stood at around 30% 5%. before to 5%.
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TOURISM From a relatively small industry at the introduction of the first Club Med resort in the 1970s, Tourism has grown to be an important part of the
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hen facing an antagonist, the human’s builtin fear of failure is what makes continuos failure of men. Not only do we draw premature conclusions but by our experiences, we hastily project
W
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into the future plans to eradicate the nuisance. Yet what history shows is the victor's first strategic attack of understanding its contender, has been the cause of celebration. In understanding the enemy the rest of the battle
becomes a well-calculated approach which in turn raises hope for the future. In discussing the issue of violence emanating from the Fulani Herdsmen in Nigeria, it is good
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News & Politics to briefly understand who they are and where it is they are heading. The Fulani people mostly found throughout the Sahel regions of Africa are to some extent united by a common language and religion, Islam. "Fulani oral traditions suggest an origin in Egypt or the Middle East, a common theme in West African Muslim traditions.” Of their 25 million people it is believed that 8 million of them are nomads, making them the world’s largest nomadic group. Also, amongst the Fulani people, there are those who are semi-sedentary, these are those who out of necessity reside temporarily to farm; then there are those who are settled long term in a region. It is not hard to imagine how this nomadic based tribe could be resisted today especially within a country such as Nigeria. There are sources now that claim Nigeria to have surpassed the 200 million people mark. With the growth in population, the increase in deforestation and other ecological conundrum, foraging resources is on the decline. The Fulani herdsmen seem
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to be adapting to the times in the same fashion as they had in times past. They are not a people to shy from a war. They adapt to their surroundings through dominance, such was the case that led to the Fulani Empire of Sokoto under Usman Dan Fodio. In the 18th century Usman “Accusing the Hausa kings of being little more than pagans, he encouraged the Hausa people to revolt. Joined both by Hausa commoners and by Fulani pastoralists alike, the jihad, or holy war, swept through Hausaland and, repulsed only by the eastern empire of Kanem-Bornu, engulfed Adamawa, Nupe, and Yorubaland to the south.”
wunedum Ufodike says, “I am convinced that the intersection of religious faith and political power in the public sphere more than any other factor has led to a conflictual Christian-Muslim relation in Nigeria.” He continues by saying “Political Islam and the religio-political conceptions that have fueled it in Nigeria transcend both the present-day Nigerian polity and the Christian-Muslim relation that presently exists; it has its roots in the political conceptions of the founder of the Fulani Empire of Sokoto Usman Dan Fodio and his understanding of the Muslim’s responsibility and Islam’s role in state building." Lastly, he states, "Some proponents of political Islam clamor for the reinstating of a religious state akin to that which they maintain existed sometime in Islamic history—as perhaps obtained in the historic Islamic State (Kepel 2003) or in the case of Nigeria the Fulani Empire (Tabiu 2001).
The problem then that Nigeria is facing at the hands of the Fulani herdsman is not at all a new phenomenon. The need for conquest is on the move and it is the interaction of religion and political power that is to blame. In a his doctoral dissertation titled The Politicization Of Religion In Islam And Its Impact On Christian-Muslim Relations In Nigeria, as read and approved by They argue that this is prevarious Faculty of Fuller Theo- scribed within the Qur’an and logical Seminar, Ralueke Chuk- the Hadith call on Muslims
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News & Politics everywhere to return to the “fundamentals” of their religion and resist everything non-Islamic as inventions and mechanizations of the imperial West. Such sentiments, it must be agreed, are clearly at the heart of Nigeria’s continued membership of the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) since 1986, the implementation of Shari‘a in the Northern Nigerian states, and more recently the rise of the group Boko Haram.” In light of this it is safe to suggest that the goal of a true Muslim will be to sanctify a land by its conquest and by establishing the “Laws of God”.
were killed by the Fulani herdsmen as revenge for the 300 cows that locals had killed or stole. The locals, on the other hand, justify their actions by exclaiming that the herdsmen were on their lands and farms destroying their hard work. This same theme of revenge is clearly seen and permitted within the Quran. In Quran 2:190-195, although it is not advocating for the killing of innocent people, it is advocating for the killing of those who attack you. Violence is condoned to defend one’s goods, yet one objectively must ask in the scenario presented above, who attacked who first? Was it the invading Fulani herdsmen or the Farmers defending his own land? Now when it comes to cattle rustlers by the locals, this also must be punished. Yet what we are seeing is that leaders who should have the interest of all Nigerians at heart are hypocritically asking citizens to respond with adherence to the law while seemingly justifying the attacks of the herdsmen.
Central zone of MACBAN (Miyetti-Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria) Danladi Ciroma, they seem to appropriate blame on the citizens. According to Vanguard News Damladi Ciroma “accused the communities of hiding cattle rustlers among them as well as frustrating peace efforts of the state government” “He said, ‘These attacks are retaliatory. As much as I don’t support the killing of human beings, the truth must be told that those who carried out the attacks must be on revenge mission.” He continues by saying, “security agencies should be fair to all parties, and not neglect any report presented by herdsmen, saying because such report can lead to attacks and deaths if not properly handled.” When it comes to President Buhari, his concern was that civilians were not to take the law into their own hands because it was giving other politicians a voice against his governance. This was his effort of "securing an advantage in the 2019 general elections."
Whether through the abuse or proper interpretation of the Quran one could see the grounds for the resent herdsmen endeavors within the Quran. Let’s take for example the attacks that transpired on June 2324 in Riyom, Barakin Ladi and Jos South local government area. It was reported that police had reported 86 people to have been killed—although eyewitnesses counted nothing less than 500 Both the president of Nigeria people. It was said that they and the Chairman of the North It is for reasons as such that
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News & Politics Nigerians are beginning to suspect that there is a grand plan on the government’s part to Islamize Nigeria. What gives more credence to this conspiracy theory is the actions of the Kaduna Governor Mallam Nasir elRufai. Two years ago, El-Rufai sent a delegation to neighboring countries to find herdsmen to pay them in exchange for forgiveness. The Fulani’s being individuals that do not forgive of the ills done against them would come to retaliate, El-Rufai, a Fulani, appropriates funds to meet the demands of the herdsmen. If one was to observe merely with a quick glance, a person may conclude that this was a move to secure peace for the future. With a closer look, it becomes obvious that this was a move to validate the beliefs and sentiments of the herdsmen. For a leader to pay off an insurgent as to hash plans of retaliation is a depiction of a sympathetic notion, an agreement that they are right to retaliate. If this were not the case, the money paid to the herdsmen should have been
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used to pay security agencies to ple such as President Buhari are protect the innocent citizens of simply living out an agenda which is a crucial part of their Nigeria. belief system; a belief system What makes this issue complex that requires for the land to be is that Muslim leaders such as cleansed and God becomes God president Buhari and El-Rufai over all the Land. It is this are believers of Islam to their agenda that the church is strivcore and seek for the Quran to ing to resist. What then is the government doing or what are security agencies doing to protect Nigerians from what could be an attempt to Islamize the country?
be lived out to its fullest. Islam sees itself as a community of believers, as the answer to the question of which religion contains the answers to pleasing God. What this means is, for Nigeria to be the expression of God’s will, Nigeria needs to be under the “Laws of God”, Shari’a. What this goes to say is peo-
First and foremost, Nigeria is yet to agree on who the enemy is. Prof. Charles Adisa as a researcher was interviewed on Sunrise Daily News, and there he claims that the perpetrators are not Nigerian but are foreigners invited by Fulani’s to help them with their businesses and in turn become terrorists within Nigeria. Other Nigeria’s are claiming that these recent killing are paid mercenaries hired by the government; credence is given to this theory by observing that herdsmen are walking about with expensive machine
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guns and not sticks anymore. Lastly, there are those who speculate that it is Boko Haram that has disguised itself as the herdsmen. Second, in an interview on Channels Television News with Olu Ogunshakin (Prof. of Police Studies at the University of Exeter United Kingdom), he states how Nigerian security agents are looking at tactics, instead of planning long-term strategies. This is a crucial point that professor is making. When dealing with years of indoctrination tactics will not suffice in turning hearts around. Simply by sending forces after the fact to affected areas and then withdrawing them after a while will not solve the problem long term. The third problem is more police need to be deployed but unfortunately, there are not enough police officers to be deployed. Not only are there not enough police personnel, their equipment is not able to deal with the perpetrators. There are reports of the herdsmen attacking at night, the police are not equipped for this sort of battle— 80 LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION
whether it be training or night view glasses. These are but some few of the problems Nigerians are finding with the security agencies in Nigeria. For this reason, some citizens are striving to take action for themselves which is discouraged by the President and other Federal government leaders; which could be involved in the killings one way or the other. Having reflected upon the herdsmen and Nigeria’s inability to deal with the true essence of the problem, the future looks as though bleak. Yet there are those who amongst Nigeria’s known activists such as Nobel Literature Prize winner Prof. Wole Soyinka that believes that there is a need for an organized resistance that exists to disarm the insurgents if the police are unable to do so. Whether it is that the herdsmen are simply seeking for greener pastures or it is indeed a religious agenda funded by the leaders of Nigeria, now is the time to make a move. Somehow, somewhere new leaders with the understanding of religion and its physiological underpinning’s must rise to feed the hunger of
both Christians and Muslims in their desire to live free of the pure manifestation of the other’s religious tenants. Whatever strategy we may be planning this articles intention is to cause us to understand the Fulani herdsmen a bit better.
Bullus M. Gago, a Pastor and Ph.D. Student. Currently, Bullus is fixated on presenting biblical truths from a scientific, philosophical and theological perspective. His aim is to combat the decline of morality by presenting truths in spite of many attacks against the Christian faith. For invitations Email: bullusmgago@gmail.com
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man was crying over a you die?” Another man ques- “No”. But the man continued to gravestone saying “why tioned him. “Did your mother weep profusely “why did you did you die? why did die?” “No”. “Your father?” die?” “Well, who died?” He an-
A
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Religion swered: “This was my wife’s love quests that matured into marriage conquests are ending first husband.” in bitter and sordid divorce “inFor many couples, it has come quests”. to that. They daily regret and lament their decision to marry If this article succeeds in helptheir mate. The marriage is a ing your marriage to avoid behorror movie playing out in real coming part of the “inquest” time! A deceased Christian had statistics, it has accomplished the following written on his one of its primary objectives. I hope it does! gravestone:
particularly optimistic about that possibility. There is also evidence that many young people are moving toward embracing the idea of serial marriage, in which a person gets married two or three times, seeking a different partner for each phase of their adult life.” You will agree with me that this prognosis is grim and scary. However, your marriage does not have to help fulfill it. You can literally inoculate yours against the enemies of marriage.
Do you know that among Americans who have said their wedding vows, one out of three have been divorced at least once? George Barna, who directed a study on this, noted Sun Tzu, the ancient Chinese Wow! This Christian was will- that Americans have grown warrior, wrote in his classic The ing to forfeit the resurrection in comfortable with divorce as a Art of War, order to avoid any further co- natural part of life: “if you know your enemy and habitation or interaction with his earthly spouse! Spouses who “There no longer seems to be know yourself, you need not are still alive and can’t bear the much of a stigma attached to di- fear the result of a hundred batnightmare of what they call vorce; it is now seen as an un- tles. If you know yourself but marriage bail out through di- avoidable rite of passage. not the enemy, for every victory vorce. Someone said “Love the Interviews with young adults gained you will also suffer a dequest, marriage the conquest, suggest that they want their ini- feat.” divorce the inquest.” Today, tial marriage to last, but are not “Beneath these stones do lie Back to back, my wife and I When the last trumpet the air shall fill, if she gets up, I’ll just lie still.”
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Of course, it is obvious that if you know neither yourself nor the enemy, you have lost the battle even before it starts! I have identified below some of the enemies of marriage and what you should know about yourself so that you may make changes that’ll help fortify yours against these enemies. Enemy Number One: Lack of unshakable foundation. Many Hollywood marriages are built on the foundation of beauty, money, success and fame. These are defective foundations. They are shifting and sinking sand. Therefore the marriages collapse fast. Have you asked yourself: What is the foundation of my marriage? If it is built on “sand”, then when the wind of life begins to blow and the rains of life begin to fall and the flood of life begins to beat against it, it will crumble, but, if it is built on the “rock”, it 84 LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION
will stand. There was a shipwreck and a young boy was the only survivor. He had struggled against the waves to swim to a rock he saw not too far away from him. He held onto the rock for three days until he was rescued. When asked whether he was not afraid being alone day and night in open sea for three days, he replied, “I never stopped shaking since I bearhugged the rock, but the rock itself did not shake.” There is another rock the bible talks about. He is called the Rock of Ages- He is an unshakeable Shaker, unbreakable Breaker, and Immovable Mover. His name is Jesus Christ. When a marriage is built on this Rock, it has acquired an unshakeable, unbreakable and immovable foundation. All that the couple needs to do is take marching orders from the Rock. His manual is the Bible. It explains their roles and offers guidance on how to fulfill them. What is more? The Rock is also the One
who empowers and enables them to obey these marching orders! Remember, it does not matter how gorgeous, luxurious and expensive a mansion is, if its foundation is defective, it’ll come crashing down. It’s not a matter of “whether’, it’s a matter of “when”. Lack of an unshakeable foundation is an enemy of marriage. Is yours fortified against it? Enemy Number Two: Lack of allowances for daily irritations. A couple had been married for fifteen years and is now having more than the usual disagreements. The wife came up with the idea of creating a Fault Box in which both will drop daily notes of irritable habits of the other spouse. At the end of the month, they’ll examine the notes, apologize to each other and cease their irritable habits. So, she diligently dropped off into the box notes of daily irritations: leaving the jelly top off SUMMER 2018
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the jar, wet towels on the shower floor, dirty socks not in the hamper and on and on. At the end of the month, after dinner, they opened the Fault Box and the wife began to read out her notes of what irritated her daily during the month. The husband apologized and promised to make amends. Now it was her turn. She noticed a lot of notes were also there but all of them have the same message, “I love you”! The instruction from the Rock in Colossians 3:13 says you must make allowances for each other’s faults… He also says you should always cut your spouse some slack and accept them the way He The Rock has accepted you: John 6:37: “The Father gives me my people. Every one of them will come to me, and I will always accept them”. God says “I just love you, period! Not because of what you do! ” Jesus treated us much better than we deserve. He made us acceptable. Not that
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we changed. He simply says “because of me, you are acceptable to God”. Accept your spouse as God has accepted you- unconditionally. Until they overcome their irritable habits, accept them. It does not mean you approve of these irritations. It simply means you are obeying the marching orders of the Rock and by so doing you are fortifying your marriage against this enemy number two. Lack of making allowances for your spouse’s daily irritations is an enemy of marriage. Is yours fortified against it? Enemy Number Three: Lack of loving acts Love is not an emotion because emotions cannot be commanded at will. For example you cannot command someone to cry or to be happy or be sorrowful. These are emotions and often uncontrollable. Commanding someone “don’t
worry, be happy”, won’t cut it for a grieving spouse. It is a myth that you can “fall in love” the way you uncontrollably, accidentally fall into a ditch! Love can cause strong emotions but is itself not an emotion. Love is more than sentimentality. More than arousal. More than attraction. Love is a behavior. Love is action. Love is a commitment you make to do something. You make a decision to love or not to love. That is why God commands us to love our neighbors as ourselves and the husbands to love their wives as Christ loves the church and gave Himself for her. 1 John 3:18 says “Let us love not with words but with action and in truth”. Acting in love when your spouse does not deserve it is acting like God who loves you and acts in love towards you when you don’t deserve it. It is the highest form of love. When your spouse is being nasty, you act back in love not because that’s what she de-
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serves but because love is what she needs and that’s what you’re giving her. Maybe you feel so abused by your spouse that you have lost all feelings of love and you are contemplating a divorce. Hold it: there was a woman who had lost all feelings of love for her husband. She hated her husband and wanted to hurt him all she can. Her psychiatrist advised her that the best way to accomplish this goal is to act in extremely loving way towards him, showing him unusual kindness, showering him with compliments and doing stuff for him that he loves- without expecting any appreciation in return! When he’s used to all these and he’s become fully dependent on her, having enjoyed her company greatly, he would do anything to not let her go. Then bam! She will file for divorce. “That will shatter him completely” said the psychiatrist. “He would not be able to bear the thought of losing you” he concluded. So the lady went 86 LIFE & TIMES SUMMER EDITION
and did all she was told to the best of her ability. She really excelled at them because she wanted him to really hurt at her departure when the time comes. On her return date of appointment with her psychiatrist, he asked her, “so how did it go?”. She said the marriage is great now and the husband is so happy and in high spirit. “Great”, said the psychiatrist. “Now go and file the divorce papers”. “Never” she shouted indignantly, my husband and I are having the fun of our lives in this marriage. I love my husband dearly!” Feelings of love follow acts of love. You don’t need divorce. You need to start acting in love. Not acting in love in your marriage will rob you of loving feelings for your spouse. It can cause you to say “I don’t love him/her anymore”. It is an enemy of marriage. Is yours fortified against it?
Oladipo Kalejaiye holds a Ph.D degree in law and was a litigation attorney in Nigeria, Europe and the United States for over 17 years. He entered into full time ministry in year 2000, and currently serves as the pastor of International Christian Center, Los Angeles ( You can contact him on the web: www.iccla.com, Facebook: iccla/facebook, Twitter: @DipoKalejaiye)
(to be continued)
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