I have heard of Dr. Godwin Maduka, popularly known as the Lion of Africa, a Nigerian Doctor in Las Vegas who employs over 50 other Doctors and owns 5 hospitals Finally at the Mbano Daughters U.S.A Inauguration 10/17/15 I met the man. We had produced the event brochure and he told me we did a great job of it and asked me to do one to celebrate the last Ofala of his late uncle the Igwe of Umuchukwu in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State. I went to my car and brought him some copies of Life and Times Magazine and after flipping briefly through the magazines he looked impressed and told me he would want us to profile him in the magazine Las Vegas can be truly dramatic. However nothing prepared me for this Vegas encounter. The depth and reach of what Godwin Maduka has achieved, since coming to America in
the 80s and qualifying as a Chemist and going on to obtain a Doctorate degree in Pharmacy and a Post Graduate Medical Degree from Harvard, is truly amazing. The story of his life has the makings of a legend or fairy tale... From excruciating poverty to being educated in Harvard as a medical doctor and just in his early 50s controlling great wealth and power. In about 25 years of practice he has built four full service hospitals from the scratch and a fifth one is under construction. His practice the Las Vegas pain institute has been rated the top #1 Pain Management in the U.S. by the health inspection community. He also inspires and teaches medical students as an adjunct clinical professor at the Touro University school of Osteopathic medicine. ---His work schedule is so full that it is simply amazing how he is able to combine all of these roles and stay on top of his game... Besides his work in Las Vegas, Dr. Maduka has transformed his hometown of Umuchukwu- building over 50 homes for kinsmen, building a town hall, a police station, a church, a monastery and presently constructing a 15 storey building that he wants to convert into a college of medical sciences. He has also awarded full scholarships to hundreds of needy students all over Eastern Nigeria and donates generously to several humanitarian causes in the United States and Nigeria. The amazing thing is that this man despite all his success attributes nothing to his abilities but credits God for all that his life has become and all that he is doing.. Listening to him and talking to him for over 10 hours thoroughly transformed me and made me come to terms with the fact that with hard work and di-
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vine blessings...you can rise above your circumstances and be all that you can be. We devote the cover profile of this edition to and interview with and spotlight on this truly Nigerian Diaspora success story. A clear personification of the goal of LIFE & TIMES which is to spotlight the successes of great achievers amongst us to help dispel the negative stereotypes that we have been associated with in the Western media We also bring you other spotlights on achievers within our communityAmbassador Nonye Rajis-Okpara who went home from the Diaspora to become Nigeria's Ambassador to Singapore and Dr. Akumbu Obioha a young medical doctor who is blazing the trail in her profession, plans to go back to Nigeria to help in the revolution of the Public health practice. Akumbu is also a talented fashion designer and we sample some of her great designs in her fashion line- Luxury Kouture. This bumper edition also brings you happenings in our community from Atlanta to Las Vegas in our picture essays- PEOPLE & PLACES. Its our 5th anniversary and holiday 2015 edition that you have to get in your collection. Thanks again to all our readers, subscribers and advert patrons and corporate advertisers who have supported this dream for the past five years.. Wishing you a very merry Christmas, a happy holiday season and a prosperous 2016. Chike Nweke Publisher December/2015
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CONTENTS 3. From the Desk of the Publisher 8. Cover Story Dr. Godwin Maduka, Harvard Trained Doctor and Philanthropist 26. Profile in Excellence Ambassador Nonye Rajis-Okpara 33. Beauty of the Moment Nonye Madu 34. Profile in Excellence Akumbu Obioha M.D. 44. People and Places The Glamour Of Life and Times Fiesta 2015 58. Fashion and Style Fashionably Idu 66. News and Politics Are We Truly Ready for Change? 70. People and Places Lola weds Ade Adebukunola 86. People and Places Umuada Mbano Inauguration 92. People and Places Enugu USA Convention 2015
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70
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CONTENTS 102. People & Places Inauguration of Atlanta Umuada Ndi Igbo in Diaspora 110. Youth The Power of the Idea 112. Health & Wellness It Takes More Than An Apple A Day To Be Healthy 117. Spotlight Plateau State Nigeria, Home of Tourism 122. Gracie’s Corner What Matters? 124. Iruka's Corner Deciding How Long They Stay 127. Country Profile Cameroon: All of Africa in One Country 130. Issues Monetization of Igbo Marriages 135. Music & Entertainment The P Square Phenomenon 139. Religion Have You Received Your Own God’s Christmas Gift?
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Cover Profile
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Cover Profile
Besides his work in Las Vegas, Dr. Maduka has transformed his hometown of From excruciating In about 25 years of practice Dr. Maduka Umuchukwupoverty to being building over 50 has built four hospitals from the scratch educated in homes for poor in the Las Vegas Nevada area and is Harvard as a kinsmen, building a medical doctor and town hall a constructing a fifth one. just in his early 50s magistrate court, a doing so much to post office,, a police serve God and station, a police humanity. barracks, the divisional headquarters of the The depth and State anti Robbery reach of what practice Dr. Maduka has built Squad (SARS), a catholic Godwin Maduka has achieved, four hospitals from the scratch since coming to America in the in the Las Vegas Nevada area church, a home for the catholic 80s and qualifying as a Chemist and is constructing a fifth one. priests and reverend sisters, a and presently and going on to obtain a His Las Vegas pain Institute has monastery constructing a 15 storey Doctorate degree in Pharmacy been rated the top #1 in Pain and a Post Graduate Medical Management in the U.S. by the building that he wants to convert into a college of medical Degree from Harvard, is truly health inspection community. sciences. amazing. In about 25 years of The story of his life has the makings of a legend or fairy tale...
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Cover Profile He has also awarded full scholarships to hundreds of needy students in his town and all over Eastern Nigeria and donated a lot of money to help several communities around Nigeria. He has given away a lot money in free grants in micro finance schemes to kinsmen to start several businesses... The amazing thing is that this man despite all his success attributes nothing to his abilities but credits God for all that his life has become and all that he is doing..
impact on me come and reaffirmed the fact that with hard work and divine blessing you can rise above your circumstances and be all that you can be...
am is to start with what I believe in. Number one, I have the fear of God. That makes me who I am. I also believe that I have been blessed from childhood.
Following are excerpts of Dr. Maduka's interview with our Publisher- Hon. Chike Nweke
So, being who I am, the person that I am, whether it’s my education, my business, my children and family all roots from my belief in God’s supernatural powers and blessing.
A- This is the first time someone has ever asked me who I am, and maybe today while I’m trying to tell you who I am, I Listening to him and talking to will discover who I am myself. him for several hours Well, I will try and keep it very thoroughly made a major simple. I guess to explain who I
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As I look at who I am, I do know
1. Q: Who is Dr. Godwin who I am not. I don’t believe in Maduka? seeing anybody suffer while I just
watch, without trying to help. I know what it feels like to suffer; so I do not even wish to see my enemies suffer. I won’t cause suffering for anybody. I believe that happiness sometimes comes from the goodness we show to others. If you do something good
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Cover Profile for someone, it will make them believes that nobody should be happy and also gives you happiness. I also believe that we are all created equal and that God chooses to give talent or money or other attributes I am someone who believes in to whom he pleases.
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2. Q: Tell us a little bit about your growing up years and early education in Umuchukwu?
A-My formative years were very exciting and eternal life and want to be interesting. My parents I am someone who accountable to my maker when I were very responsible and believes in eternal life and determined to raise us to get to heaven. want to be accountable to be responsible and my maker when I get to productive adults. Period. heaven. I am someone That’s why it is very who also likes to have fun. important that we raise I like people around me our children to become and enjoy good company. responsible. When we I don’t like confrontations. leave them alone they However, if confronted, I won’t know how to handle can push back. The people I don’t discriminated against because of things. If you start teaching a child like on earth are those who are gender, race, religious the secret of success by negative and evil people who go background, age etc. I also believe designating time to play, time to after someone who have not that success comes from hard relax etc, then they grow up and wronged them. I am the guy that work. You also have to have faith.
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Las Vegas Pain Institute
become responsible. If you teach a child early enough to learn to take responsibility it becomes engrained in their brain. So from my earliest childhood it was already engrained in us that hard work is the only way to succeed and that we have to take responsibility for our actions. Our parents loved one another very much and were strong parents that complimented each other very well. They had nine of us. Some of us were born before the war of 1966. But growing up in those days, we had one love which was the community of people that works directly with each other. The people actually can see you doing something wrong and would correct you. Parents would not say, “How dare you talk to my child” if you tried to correct them. It was the
community that helped raised the happy. We were enamored to child. devout Catholicism in those years, praying with our rosary, and In retrospect, I had a wonderful praying to Virgin Mary all the childhood. I remember as a child time. Those were years of being in joining masquerades, dancing to the choir, one of going to Bible the rhythms of the talking drums. studies and respecting the I remember dancing in the Reverend Fathers and Clergy. The moonlight and playing moonlight curious thing was that my parents games. My childhood was one of were not Christians. Yet, they fetching water from the village fully encouraged us to embrace the stream, one of going to the farm, faith. I still don’t understand it. planting yam and cassava and But our parents made sure we go waiting for a bountiful harvest. It to church every Sunday, yet they was also a life of climbing the palm did not go. I did ask my mother to trees to harvest nuts for food and become a Christian but she only to sell for school fees or the next agreed to do that when I stayed 12 meal. Also, it was one of going to years in America without coming the stream to fetch water to cook home. As a result, she went to and eat before going to school. church just so I can come home Looking back now, it was bare and she became a devout existence, but back then even Christian. when we were in poverty, we never felt poor. We were content Growing up in the village was a lot with what we had and we were of hard work too. We struggled for
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money, for food and school fees. because it was all that I knew. The last fall I had, my head was My early years were even tougher. only time I knew something was sandwiched between two sharp Though it was beautiful, I had so wrong was when I was in objects. So even then, God was many mishaps that I should not secondary school with my oldest sending his angels to guide me even be alive today. Due to the brother whom has passed away because God had predestined fact that we always had very now. He and I went to the hospital what He wanted me to be. At 13 marginal income I had to years of age, by his divine become a man before I power, God prevented my was a child. Can you head from being crushed by imagine your child at 13 those sharp objects. years old climbing a tree that is about 50 feet from I was actually meant to be 3. Q: You really put it the ground to get the together. Your personality 6 foot 4, but I am close to palm nuts and make oil comes through as a very 5’8, 5’9 because I had a out of it? That is how we positive and forward sustained ourselves to thinking person. You have spinal compression. So pay our school fees to so much interest in you see I lived by the stay in school. With appreciating God, and you marginal income my mercy of God. believe in humanity, and father would bring from your love for humanity the native doctor shows clearly as one who business, and the work believes in lending a that my mother would helping hand where you get from the little farming have the opportunity. I we do, they were able to know this is driven by send off all their children your love for your creator to school. Although, they God. Now, you studied were able to send all their children back then and found out that I had chemistry, pharmacy and later on to school, as children we had to a spinal compression from all the medicine. What was your driving contribute too. The unfortunate multiple injuries sustained from force in getting yourself this thing in my childhood that I don’t falling from the palm trees. I was together and launch yourself into envy was when I fell from the actually meant to be 6 foot 4, but I where you are today. palm tree seven times to the point am close to 5’8, 5’9 because I had a of being disfigured. As a child I spinal compression. So you see I A-I grew up in an agricultural was placed in risky and harmful lived by the mercy of God. My rural community with my situations just to survive. At that body is one of a miracle. Even my parents. I saw my parents work time I did not think much of it mere existence is a miracle. The
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Cover Profile hard. My mother worked hard as sciences to fulfill my dream of brother, and I took one of those a petty trader, farmer and home becoming a doctor and following applications to fill out. My maker. My father was a native in my father’s footsteps. However, younger brother and two other doctor and a very good one. I saw I had no one to sponsor my relatives came up with the money him relieve a lot of people’s pain. education to train as a doctor in I needed to travel to the US. When I saw him give hope I got here, I studied to women with very hard and took infertility. I saw him extra classes. I treat the people with graduated in a year dignity. I saw him and a half with summa as a happy man. cum laude in My younger brother and two other Chemistry, class of relatives came up with the money I In those days 80% of 1984 from Rust College the men in my in Mississippi. That needed to travel to the US. When I got village were native was the starting point here, I studied very hard and took extra doctors. They of this goal in striving traveled all over to reach to the top. At classes. I graduated in a year and a half Eastern Nigeria to that point I knew that I with summa cum laude in Chemistry. practice their trade. still believed in living There were over that childhood desire. 2,000 native doctors God has been merciful called “Dibia.” Not to me in actually all were good. Some letting me live out my engaged in evil and childhood dreams and voodoo magic. The desires. I studied good “Dibia” made diagnosis and Nigeria. One of my relative whom chemistry in my first degree treated the sick and gave them was sent to America by the because I believed like they all did hope. What I have become today support of the community had in Nigeria that a Chemist is was inspired from those sent applications home to his equipped to administer experiences from medication. I later my childhood. found out in America This is not to make that it was a it sound good, but misconception, and that that is where it all a Chemist is just a started. My scientist and that you father’s profession have to be a Pharmacist as a native doctor to administer was my first medications. motivation to become a chemist, 4. Q: You studied a doctor and Pharmacy @ Mercer pharmacist. I then went on to wanted to know University of the composition of Tennessee Medical all those herbs my School and Graduate father would give Medical Training at to his patients and Harvard. What the effect of how propelled you to 15 storey building under those medications combining pharmacy construction in Umuchukwu worked. While in and medicine as career school in Nigeria, I choices? concentrated on excelling in
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Cover Profile A-After I graduated with a degree in Chemistry from Rust College, I went on to Pharmacy School at Mercer University, and obtained a doctorate degree in pharmacy in 1988. After the Pharmacy program, I proceeded to Medical school at University of Tennessee School of Medicine to start the next phase of my journey. When I obtained my medical degree it was time to figure out what profession I wanted to practice. I considered chemistry, pharmacy, and medicine background. Then I decided that pursuing Anesthesiology with Interventional Pain would make use of my education and training . At that time, for a little poor boy from a rural African village, it seemed like I had come a long way. But, I was still not satisfied. I continued on. I applied and was accepted to the graduate medical training at Harvard University School of Medicine in Boston Massachusetts to train as an anesthesiologist. By being accepted into Harvard and graduating from there as an anesthesiologist, proved to me that there is an omnipotent God, a God of all
possibilities…
clinical professor @ Touro University school of Osteopathic The Harvard program was very medicine. How do you find time tough and challenging, but God from your hectic practice to teach? saw me through. I graduated from Harvard and worked for one and A-I have always loved the a half year with other folks before academia and being an adjunct professor at Touro University School of Osteopathic Medicine is my way of fulfilling that dream of being in the academia and giving back to the community. This also gives me the opportunity to inspire and impact positively on the up and coming student physicians.
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We have also been rated the top #1 Pain Management in the U.S. by the health inspection community.
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6. Q: You have built over 50 homes, schools, a civic center etc. in your home town of Umuchukwu in Orumba South Local The Las Vegas Pain Institute and Government Area and helped Medial Center of which we have 5 several other communities. Just locations in the Las Vegas Area. last weekend you donated a large We have also been rated the top #1 sum to Mbano women to Pain Management in the U.S. by renovate schools in Mbano. What the health inspection community. propels you to give so much? 5.
Q: You are also an adjunct A-The reason for my philanthropic work is to give back and thank God for all he has blessed me with. I believe that it is from God that all blessings flow and I cannot possibly out give him. I do that with the overwhelming conviction and belief that everything that you do, whatever you are, came from God himself. So you see if you believe that, when you make a donation it does not LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE 15
Cover Profile bother you. I also believe that it is what you do when you are still alive that matters. So that is the reason why I went home to make a little change in my home town Umuchukwu. I left for America in the 1980s and came back in the 1990s and the community was still as it was. Most of the people were still poor subsistent farmers. So many people were very poor and the sickness was abundant. It was then that I decided to help the community grow and develop with the blessings that God has poured into my life. That is how we started sending children to school, secondary schools, and Universities to train as lawyers, doctors, pharmacists, engineers, school teachers etc. We also started a micro finance program to give free grants to people to start a vocation or a trade. Several people came to me complaining that they did not have a decent roof over their heads. So we developed several thatched huts in the town and we started helping people who did not have homes. We built several homes which were given to people. We also helped build a monastery for the Mother of Peace Congregation which is a United States based Catholic
congregation. We also helped the College of Medical Sciences. community build a Catholic Church, residence for the parish I attribute all these, not to my own priest, a police station, police power but to the goodness of the Almighty God. I want to thank and acknowledge the first born child from my mother’s womb Chief Joseph Maduka, late Marcel Maduka, late Obi Maduka, Hycinth Maduka, Barrister Kenneth Maduka, Trinitas Hospital, Umuchukwu Barrister Ifeoma Maduka-Arisa, and my nephews Doctor and Engineer Kingsley barracks and the State Anti- Maduka, and Chukwudi Ogbonna Robbery Squad Divisional who were on ground in headquarters. Other projects Umuchukwu supervising and include the town hall, a filling actually doing the construction Station, a magistrate court and we work over the years. I want to also are currently constructing a 15 acknowledge Arc. Nnaemeka floor multiplex planned to house Okpara who designed most of these projects. I also have very fond memories and gratitude to my late Uncle Pius Onwu in mentoring and encouraging me during my early school days in Nigeria. I will never forget the contributions of my late uncle, Igwe Michael N. Ukaegbu who is the founding father of Umuchukwu and who created the enabling environment for all these developments. Of course I could go Offices and the Medical College of on and thank many more the Anambra State University wonderful people but the list will
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It was then that I decided to help the community grow and develop with the blessings that God has poured into my life.
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Cover Profile be too long. But I do want to give back all the praise to God who made all these possible. 7. Q: There has been some past controversy regarding the change of name of your home town to Umuchukwu. Please address this issue and your role in the name change?
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Nkerehi to Umuchukwu- which means- Children of God. This referendum was organized by the State Government under Governor Peter Obi and an overwhelming majority of about 90% of the town voted for the name change which was then gazetted as law by the State Government. Subsequent challenges by those opposed to this in courts of law have been defeated and the name change was approved by the overwhelming majority of the town stands. The town has experienced so much positive growth and development since the name change.
What drives me is the desire to be the best in what I do and to leave a positive name and mark for posterity.
A-Like I told you earlier, a lot of my kinsmen were herbalists or native doctors. There were two categories of them. Those like my father who used their knowledge of herbs to help people with ailmentsinfertility, malaria, and other sorts of diseases to get better. There were however, the other category of evil “dibia” similar to witch doctors and voodoo men who did terrible things such as burying 16 year old virgins alive to harvest their spirits for evil deeds. There was so much evil in the town because of all these evil deities that there was no progress and the people remained poor and in darkness. Development eluded us. We had no motorable roads, no town hall, no church parish. Yet, we had grooves for the deities in abundance. In fact the name WINTER 2015
Nkerehi- was linked to fetish and deity worship. The people of the town felt they had had enough when worshippers of these deities
” wanted to resist all development coming into the town like constructing of the town hall and the Catholic Church because they claimed the land upon which they will be built belonged to the deity. That was why a majority of the town decided that they had had enough and destroyed all the
8. Q: What propels your drive for excellence and achievement? A-What drives me is the desire to be the best in what I do and to leave a positive name and mark for posterity. 9. Q: Tell us a little about your family and how supportive is your wife to all that you do
A-I have a wonderful, beautiful and supportive wife named Stella and we are blessed with five adorable children. Our children ages, range between 8 and 16, so you can imagine how busy our daily life is. My wife immigrated to America when I finished training from Harvard and deities and had a referendum to was starting my own practice. change the name of the town from When I think about her, I LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE 17
Cover Profile remember how supportive she was during the dark hours of my practice when there were a lot of push backs and bigotry which made it difficult to succeed. In the early years, before we had children she used to go to work with me and patiently waited in the lunchroom so we can go home together. She was there for me every step of the way and we never stopped praying.
basically raising our children on her own, has allowed me to dedicate the time and hard work needed to accomplish what I have done so far. 10. Q: What is next for Dr. Maduka?
reach every home and every citizen. 12. Q: What advice will you give to a new African immigrant on succeeding in America? When your work is done, how will you Dr. Maduka, like the “Lion of Africa” want to be remembered?
A-I will go where God leads me. I will not go before him, but wait A-My advice to immigrants that come to America especially those upon his divine guidance. from Africa is to follow their I also remember when I needed a dreams and not be deterred by loan to build the practice; she 11. Q: What are your hopes and whatever challenges they may would accompany me through all dreams for Anambra state and face. those meetings with various Nigeria. banks in the city. She is an When my work is done, I would intelligent woman. She A-I dream of an Anambra State love to be remembered as a lover completed her Bachelor’s degree and Nigeria that is more in Business and is currently prosperous, where people live in of God and as a man who did his pursuing her Master’s degree. abundance and plenty, where the utmost best to help humanity. Being strong at home and dividends of development will
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Las Vegas Pain Institute Facilities
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Las Vegas Pain Institute Facilities
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Development Projects by Dr Godwin Maduka in Umuchukwu
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Development Projects by Dr Godwin Maduka in Umuchukwu
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Profile in Excellence
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Profile in Excellence
Her Excellency Nonye Rajis-Okpara is a firm believer in Nigeria. However her worldview has been shaped by several years of studying and living abroad. She left Nigeria when she was about 17 years old. She trained as an economist and in Transport management obtaining her 1st and master's degrees in Bulgaria. She moved to the United States and United Kingdom for further studies before settling down in the United States. She went back to Nigeria about 1998 to support the Obasanjo/Atiku ticket for the Presidency and later worked as Director General of the Rochas Okorocha Foundation.
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Profile in Excellence
After an unsuccessful run for the Senate she was appointed Nigeria's High Commissioner to Singapore in June 2012. Her tenure which witnessed great strides in Nigerian/Singapore bilateral relations and economic cooperation ended on July 12, 2015. In this interview with Chike Nweke- she talks about the great strides she made as in her three years as Nigeria's High Commissioner to Singapore, her life, and her future. Q. What are some of the challenges you have faced in life and how did you overcome them? One of the greatest challenges I have faced in life and work place is the fact that I am a woman but I am not sorry that God created me as a woman, on the contrary. You are constantly being under rated/estimated in terms of your capability and ability to perform. 28 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
Sometimes you start out what you considered a great and perfect work/business relationship, only to be cut up sooner or later in an awkward circumstance. If you don't handle that stage well, you will end up in a scandal, lose your position or lose a great work/business relationship. My attitude is that Beauty and Brain should be an asset, and added advantage not a disadvantage. If you must hire or accept me, my Brain not my body must be the yardstick for measuring my ability and capability. If you maintain your integrity and sanctity, people will respect and accept you for who you are and what you are worth, without compromise. And if it doesn't work out, I close the door and take a walk. You might look like a big looser but believe me, God always got your back if you trust Him and walk up right. If one door closes, He opens seven other better doors.
Q. What life's lesson did you learn that molded you into the woman whom you are today? I learnt that tough times do not last but tough people do. Women are very resilient, hardworking, go getters, nurturers , and nothing dies in our hands. We are the only one that can stop ourselves from maximizing our potentials and fulfilling our divine destiny. I leant that being a woman is not a disadvantage. I equally understood that hard work, dedication and commitment pays; and for every labor there is profiting. Even when it seems that men have forgotten you, trust me God rewards us all in due season. Q. Why did you choose to study Economics and Transport Management at the university over other professional courses? My Dad was an accountant and WINTER 2015
Profile in Excellence
like most parents, he wanted me to study accountancy in university, unfortunately I was not a great Math student. My desire was to become a lawyer not an accountant, but when I arrived Sofia, Bulgaria everything changed in terms of my choice of course. Bulgaria was a country that practiced mix economy, studying law under such system was not to my advantage so I switched course. My admission was in the National University of Economics and economics was one of my favorite subjects in school. It was easy for me to enroll into school and subsequently specialized in Economics and Transport Management. Q. What were the challenges of being Nigeria's High Commissioner in Singapore? Upon my arrival in Singapore and during the course of my several WINTER 2015
meetings/interactions with host government and the private sectors, I discovered the lack of awareness and knowledge of the great investment opportunities and potential that lays in African's largest economy and most populous nation. One of the major challenge that I faced and still facing is that of selling Nigeria as #1 investment destination and attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). I believe that Nigeria still remains the best country for FDI, despite the recent insurgency problem in some parts of the Northern region, inadequate infrastructure base and continuity in government. I tell investors intending to invest in African that: Nigeria is Africa's getaway, #1 choice in the continent for investment and if you are not in Nigeria, you are not in Africa period.
I took steps to address the challenge by sensitizing government and private sectors through series of talks, speeches and lectures at various fora. The most significant step was to organize the first ever Nigeria-Singapore Business and Investment Forum(NSBIF2013), in collaboration with Singapore Business Federation(SBF) and International Enterprise(IE), Singapore in Oct. 2013. The first edition was tagged: " Nigeria The New Frontier - Unlocking Investment Opportunities in Africa's largest Market." The second edition of NSBIF was held on Aug. 45,(NSBIF2015), with the theme: "Deepening Nigeria- Singapore Bilateral Relation." The forum brought together high level public and private sector officials from Nigeria and Singapore to explore Businesses and Investment opportunities, aimed at beneficial business projects. It equally LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE 29
Profile in Excellence provided a good opportunity for the States Governments to promote their investment opportunities to Singapore prospective investors as well as, for both sides to learn from each other's experiences. The forum was organized for Policy Makers; Investment Promotion Agencies, Infrastructural Development Agencies; Banks and Financial Institutions; Investors; Entrepreneurs, Chief Executives; Captains of Industries, Maritime and Ports and Management Agencies etc. The key focus areas were: Maritime and Port Management; Education-Technical and Vocational; Housing and Urban Development; Infrastructure Development; Agriculture and Agro-allied Industries; Manufacturing and Service Sector; Power and Energy; Water Treatment and Management; Tourism and Hospitality; Oil and Gas; Entrepreneurship and SME Development, etc.
cabinet is formed. As you may be aware, the Nigeria High Commission in Singapore was recently upgraded to a full mission with the appointment of myself as the High Commissioner in 2012. On assumption of duty, I was faced also with the challenges of lack of proper Chancery, Residence, Representational and Operational vehicles, I am glad to inform that most of the challenges has been sorted.
three pending bilateral agreements to their logical conclusion and strengthening our bilateral relation brings me great joy. These agreement are the bed rock and key to advancing our bilateral relation with Singapore to the next level. It will also foster sustainable development and encourage more FDI into Nigeria from Singapore. As Ambassadors one of our key agenda is to promote and attract FDI into Nigeria, while protecting the interest of our citizens and integrity of our dear nation. Given more time, what achievements would you like to see come to pass? I don't think that I need more time in Singapore, because I have given it my best and another person can build on the foundation laid by my predecessors and myself. Let me borrow LKY's quote - Mr. Lew Kuan Yew, Architect of modern Singapore, said - "As for me, I have done what I had wanted to do, to the best of my ability. I am satisfied."
The events also witnessed signing of various MOUs and Exclusive Accolade Award 2015 Atlanta GA, Most remarkable Female Ambassador, presented by the Vice three major bilateral agreePresident ECOWAS, Dr Mcintosh to Ambassador ments were supposed to have Nonye Rajis-Okpara been signed at the sideline of the last forum, but unfortunately that did not happen due to Q. Which of your Achievements are you most proud of as the High Q. How would you measure sucGovernment and Ministries uncess? What does it take to be a readiness at the time of the forum. Commissioner and why? Given successful female diplomat? more time, what achievements It's worthy to note that some of these three agreements, DTA, IGA would u like to see come to pass? Success is a relative term. Being and BASA has been inconclusive successful is not luck. Success has over 5-10 year but two out of these It's very difficult to single out a particular achievement as the one nothing to do with money or dormant agreements are 100% that I am most proud of consider- wealth. It's simply accomplishing and one is 98% concluded within the last three years. It's my prayer ing the significance of the various what you were born to accomplish in life. Becoming exactly that the relevant government min- challenges that I faced upon my what you were born to be in life, arrival in Singapore. But I can istries and agencies will sign the accomplishing purpose. I am born honestly say that pursuing the pending agreement as soon as 30 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
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Profile in Excellence to serve and impact my generation at various level. And I have seen God take me from one phase to another. I was recently nominated by an organisation as the best Female Ambassador, believe me, I don't know how they came about that and I don't think that I have performed more than other female Ambassador. U can do everything and still be a failure if you didn't do what you were sent to do. Before I left Abuja to Singapore, I was very clear on my assignment/purpose, and what was expected of me from both my Government and Singaporean authority. The Singapore government made it very clear that the conclusion of the three pending bilateral agreements was very key and important to strengthening our economic relation; and Nigerian government was equally clear
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on our mandate as Ambassadors, male or female -Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), is the cure of our foreign policy. One thing I am fully persuaded is that - As for me, I have done what I was mandated to do, to the best of my ability and I am satisfied.
Q. How do you combine your duties as the High Commissioner with that in your family? Do you play any role in your children's career choices? Very little is known about your husband, how did you meet and what were the initial attraction? It's very difficult combining both roles; nevertheless it's possible to achieve both, because I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Playing both roles comes with its challenges but God has helped me to maintain bal-
ance without compromising either of the two most important role in a woman's life- I am very fulfilled. I definitely play a very significant role in my child's career choice but I don't make the choice for him. I stay in the place of prayer 24/7 and ask God for divine direction. I advise him to prayer to God to discover his purpose, pursue it with passion and I give him 100% support and guidance. For my friends and family I don't believe that very little is known about my late husband. He was a private person and was not in politics like me. We met in Washington, DC at my work place. My attraction was that he was a God fearing man, he was also from my State and same zone. I was happy that I could serve and worship God freely with him and while in public we could communicate privately in our local language. We
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Profile in Excellence both supported each other in our various career. He was a businessman and I was a career woman and later got involved in politics. We are blessed with a child Chimdinma. Q. What are your hobbies? I enjoy reading, table and lawn tennis as a sports lady. It has been difficult lately unwinding. It has been work ,work and work in the last few years and I am looking forward to a good vacation and truly unwinding soon. Q. You have looks that belie your age, what beauty routines do you indulge in to stay young and beautiful? Should I take that as a compliment? I do not do anything special at all. It must be the grace of God, and I don't indulge in harmful habits or reckless lifestyle. When I am not working, I stay home and
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give my body a deserved rest. Q. How would you describe your style and how do you like to dress. You are mostly spotted in traditional attire, do u fancy western clothes too. I like to dress simple and decent. I dress to suit the occasion, based on my assignment and functions. The way you dress to function and occasion is also an expression of your respect for the occasion and people around you. Here in Singapore, 98% of invitation cards or letters contains a dress code. If you ignore or violate it, you might end up embarrassing yourself or looking out of place/stupid. I am a strong believer that people will address you the way you dress. You will never have a second chance to make the first impression. I am trained to live
ready, and not get ready. It's true that am mostly spotted in traditional attire that is because I love my traditional wears. Nothing bits our traditional wears, and for me it's also a way of promoting cultural diplomacy. I like my western clothes too and I wear them appropriately. Q.-What advice will you give to those seeking to go back to Nigeria from the Diaspora on achieving success back homeDevelop a niche for yourself, take something of value from here that will be needed back home, be prepared to make sacrifices and endure the little hardships of settling into Nigeria...if your persevere and with God on your side, success will definitely come to you!
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Beauty of the Moment
Nonye Madu Pharmacist, wife, mother and above all a God fearing woman.
Favorite quote: "I derive joy in helping people and absolutely believe in the saying, "be nice to those you meet on your way up because you might meet them on your way down" WINTER 2015
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Dr. Obioha is a sterling young researcher at the Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases, Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Her research focuses on the effects the three treatments of cancer (chemotherapy, radiation and surgery) can have on children. With this study, she hopes to reduce memory loss and increase executive functions in children following these treatment rounds for cancer, thus allowing them to lead healthy and functional lives.
poor preventive medical practices and unacceptable sanitary measures are the leading causes of many health problems in sub-Saharan Africa. Dr. Obioha intends to apply herself in these areas in order to improve the healthcare and living standards of all those in the region.
In her spare time, Dr. Obioha plies her pens as a sketch artist and fashion designer. She is the Creative director of Luxury Kouture, a haute couture fashion house based in Bel Air, Alongside this research, Dr. Obioha is California. She draws her inspiration to pursuing a master’s degree in Public design from her love for colors, African Health. The vision behind this is to lend prints, and from trendsetting fashion in a helping hand to public health in general. Her designs are avant-garde, Nigeria, particularly in the areas of playing on a medley between western preventive medicine and infectious and traditional African looks, thus diseases. Her findings have shown that creating very classy and contemporary 36 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
private blends. Luxury Kouture’s private collection is tailored for both men and women with fabrics sourced solely from the most exclusive vendors in the world. In this interview with Life and Times Magazine, she samples some of her designs exclusively from Luxury Kouture. These samples can be seen in the fashion and Style section on pages 3742 For enquiries on how Luxury Kouture can cater to you, please email luxkouture@gmail.com For more information on Dr. Obioha’s research, her public health initiatives, and other healthcare related enquires, please email: cobioha@chla.usc.edu
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It was a gathering of the crème de la crème of the African Community in the United States at the 5th Annual Life and Times Fiesta and award ceremony which held at the urbane Carson Civic Center, Carson CA on Saturday September 5th, 2015. Guests were welcome with serenades from a jazz band under the moon light in the center’s foyer followed by a glittering awards night and dinner inside the main banquet hall of the civic center. This year’s awardees were Dr. Iheanacho Emeruwa, Professional Excellence Award, Dr. Eugenia Busola GeorgeEducational Service Award, Dr. Chinedu Chris IkeanyiCommunity Service Award, Dr.
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Ifesinachi Ugwuonye- Community Service Award, Dr. Olufemi Saliu- Professional Excellence Award and Dr. Solomon GochinEntrepreneurial Excellence Award. The occasion also featured comedy by Ace comedian- Wamilele who co hosted the show with South African TV Star- Babalwa. There was also a smashing dance performance by the youthful Azonto Dancers and the crowd was serenaded by the sultry performance of Soloist- Queen Uffiah Guests also danced the night away to music by LA’s toast DJ- Paul Aninyei. The event has been adjudged by most attendees as the best choreographed and organised event in our African Community this year‌ Following are photo highlights of the event.. WINTER 2015
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Fashion and Style
I am Idu and I write the blog Fashionably Idu. I am a self driven fashion enthusiast and I showcase my unique style on my blog Fashionablyidu.blogspot.co m. My motivation comes form the ability to inspire other gals to be better today than who they were yesterday as they pursue their dreams. It’s exciting to get to share my artistic side in the form of fashion (makeup sometimes) with the world. Do stop by to read and hopefully enjoy my adventures in style and fashion. And while there, WINTER 2015
don’t be a snob, join in on any trending conversation. Want to advertise your business on the blog? Collaborate with me to market your products? Or need styling tips? Email me at fashionablyidu@gmail.com and let’s talk. Follow my blog to keep up with new posts, Fashionablyidu.blogspot.com Follow me on Instagram @fashionably_idu and Twitter @idugirl. Stay fabulous, Xo. LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE 59
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News and Politics
Ayo M. Akingbemi, Ph.D.
The idea of change suggests a desire to learn from the mistakes of the past in order to improve the conditions of the present. Change does not occur in a vacuum but reflects a determined effort on the part of a people to design a process that leads to improved conditions. Within the context of the desired change in Nigeria and in light of the persistent corrupt practices at every level of society, one must ask who and what is to change? Corruption, often seen as embezzlement of public funds and bribery seems to be the focus of change that most Nigerians seek. What is often overlooked, however, is the fact that corruption is symptomatic of a more fundamental problem, absence of the rule of law. Recently, I suggested that the euphoria following the presidential election be tempered with a keen sense of responsibility and accountability at every level, if the change that the election represents is to materialize. But Nigerians seem to place their hopes for change on the new President to single-handedly turn the deplorable national situation around. This is an unrealistic expectation and a recipe for failure. What the President has is an abundant measure of self-discipline. This is what the country needs at every level. 66 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
But this is not a transferable trait that can be copied on a floppy disc and uploaded, like a computer program, into others whose cooperation he would need to stem the tide. Neither can such self-discipline be copied and uploaded to the all of us. Nigerians by and large, must imbibe the same level of self-discipline, as their president, if the desired change is to materialize. Nigeria needs exemplary leadership at every level and good followership at every village and hamlet. I recently had the privilege of spending eight weeks at home after two previous trips in the last year. It was an exploratory trip to see what opportunities are there to contribute to my native community in my post retirement years. After a few short weeks at home, it became crystal clear that eradicating corruption is going to be a long road to hoe. Most Nigerians belief that the change they desire is one that the other person has to make, rather than the one they need to make. The general perception is that the only groups that need to change are the political class and the bureaucracy. While it is difficult to argue that the political class and the bureaucracy need to be put in check, they alone are not responsible for the moral WINTER 2015
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decadence that has gripped the nation. They are a reflection of the society from which they emerged. Any casual observer can attest to the fact that ours is a country suffering from many intractable problems including absence of the rule of law, obsession with imported goods, and the worship of money. The celebration of overnight millionaires and billionaires with no verifiable income sources, and the constant allegations of embezzlement of funds by public officials, bear witness to the level of decadence to which our society has sunk. So, where must the change begin? The Buhari administration has declared its commitment to putting the heat on those suspected of feeding at the public trough. At the same time, the dubious and duplicity of the average Nigerian deserving equal measure of attention, seem to go unnoticed and therefore unchecked. There has to be something at the core of our being as a people that makes us easily prone to greed and financial malfeasance of immeasurable proportion. The readiness to enrich oneself without regard to who suffers the consequence is an all too familiar trait of who we have WINTER 2015
become as a society. The Nigerian mind seems to be wrapped around one thing only, to be the envy of others, no matter how such status is attained. In the pursuit of the almighty naira, we seemed to have lost ourselves. In my travels in Lagos, Oyo, Edo and Ondo states, I observed with dismay some behaviors that bordered on the ludicrous. The level of exploitation to which the average Nigerian is subjected has become intolerable. Who is going to save us from ourselves? A few observations to underscore where I think we are:
Nigerians’ obsession with imported goods and disdain for locally produced items clearly demonstrates the absence of national pride. It is a large contributor to the problem of corruption for those who wish to maintain a foreign lifestyle while resident in Nigeria. The average Nigerian without regard to status is enamored with imported goods which are often much more expensive than goods produced locally. This is more evident among the so-called elites. To maintain the imported lifestyle of the European without the national pride of same, is an expensive undertaking driving the rent seeking and bribe seeking behavior LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE 67
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of those charged with providing public service. We have become what Dr. J.K. Aggree warned against, the poor copies of Europeans, albeit with a weird twist. Let’s remember that the naira has suffered severe devaluation relative to most international currencies and that makes these imported goods very expensive. In order to afford the acquired foreign taste, most resort to unsavory rent seeking behavior. In the pre and immediate post independence years, Nigeria was a popular destination for used clothing, mainly from Europe. Over the years, the appetite of Nigerians for the discarded housewares from the West has grown to insatiable proportion. It is not unusual today to find European second-hand items ranging from used clothing to shoes, curling irons, furniture, undergarments, and home appliances. It is as if we have become a dumping ground for items that belong in European landfills. While it might be acceptable for this kind of business to flourish in an environment of poverty, it translates into some form of social malady when the same people who embrace European discarded goods, seem to have total disdain for brand new items made in Nigeria. This mentality is not unique to those at the 68 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
bottom rung of the economic ladder but even more pervasive at the upper echelon of society. Most Nigerian elites resident in Nigeria have their medical files in the West and the Far East. Most travel abroad for their annual physical examination, while some go for issues as insignificant as acid indigestion. These so-called men of means fail to realize that the medical facilities they run to overseas were made possible by the sweat and investments of citizens of these countries. What’s keeping us from emulating that which is good in others and build such facilities in our own country? Ayo M. Akingbemi, Ph.D. writes from Rialto, California ****Article to be concluded in the SPRING/2016 EDITION OF LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
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It was a story book classy wedding as the ravishingly beautiful Damilola Okunubi said I do to her dashing beauIMG_5116_2 the handsome gentleman Adegoroye Adebukunola at the picturesque St. Vibiana’s Cathedral in downtown Los on Sunday July 5, 2015. Before a crowd of well heeled witnesses, friends and family who travelled from all over the world- the Senior Pastor of International Christian Center Los Angeles Dr. Oladipo Kalejaiye joined Lola and Ade as man and wife at a ceremony which many in the community have come to describe as beautiful, royal and magical‌ Pastor Dipo in his short sermon charged Ade and Lola to remember that marriage is a covenant and not a contract as they have made a commitment by getting married to each other to be together till death do them part, in sickness and in health and for richer or for
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poorer. He also told them to always give 100% to each other no matter the circumstance. Guests were later hosted to a grand reception at enchanting Taglyan complex on Vine Street in North Los Angeles where mother of the Bride, Lara Okunubi recited the family Oriki for Lola and danced with the bride to the bride’s selection of WIND BENEATH MY WINGS by BETTE MIDLER. Lola said she choose the song to espouse the strength and virtue of this great woman who raised them up despite the vacuum created by the loss of her husband their father when they the girls were still very young.
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Guests were treated to a sumptuous and lavish cuisine of African and continental dishes, a free flowing bar, music by DJ Tosin and a live African band from Las Vegas Nevada. Attendees had so much fun that the party lasted till the early hours of Monday 7/6/15. Following is a photo essay of the wedding.
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History was made in the Nigerian Community in the United States on Saturday 10/17/15 when Las Vegas based Medical Doctor, Pharmacist and Philanthropist Dr. Godwin Maduka popularly known as the Lion of Africa broke all fundraising records in the Nigerian community in the U.S.A. when he donated $100,000 (One hundred Thousand Dollars) to the Mbano Daughters fund to rehabilitate dilapidated schools in Mbano. The occasion which was chaired by Dr. Julius Kpaduwa started on a high note when Mrs. Ngozi Egbuleze Nnorom- President of the Mbano Daughters U.S.A. in her welcome address spoke 86 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
about the vision of the women to rehabilitate dilapidated schools throughout Mbano. She said members of their organisation will not just gather to have fun but are driven by the desire to lend a helping hand to the poor and needy youth back home. The occasion also featured a dance performance by the Mbano women and and a rendition of Nwa Mbano- a highlife album by Mbano son- Sir Chris Emedom. Attendees were also lavishly entertained and danced the night away with latest Naija songs played by DJ Solo Azuoma Following are picture highlights of the event and a collage of the members..
Dr. Julius and Dr. Mrs. Stella Kpaduwa
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Dr. Sinachi Ugwuonye, The National President, Enugu U.S.A
July 23-26, 2015 The Enugu Associations – USA Inc. was established in 1998 as the umbrella organization of all Enugu state people in the United States of America. The Association held her 17th Annual National Convention from July 23rd -26th, 2015 at the Palace Station and Casino Hotels, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. The convention’s theme is, “Perfecting Relationship between Enugu-USA and all Enugu State people”. The convention was kicked off on Thursday, July 23 with Announcements from the National President, Dr. Sinachi Ugwuonye, and the Convention Planning Committee Chair, Chief Chidi Ug-
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wueze, and then followed with registrations of all Convention Attendees. The Post Medical Mission Conference topped the list with a review of the 2014 Medical Mission focusing on lesson-learned and suggestions moving forward. The Medical Mission team from Nigeria and their US counterparts led the discussion. Registration continued on Friday July 24 and was rounded up with committee meetings and the usual welcome party. The business meeting on Saturday, July 25th, was made up of numerous plenary ses-
sions with speakers from broad spectrum of committees and organizations discussing Enugu-USA, Medical Mission, Education & Youths, Economic Developments, Women Affairs, Banking, Real Estates & Investments, etc. The highlight of the convention was the keynote speech delivered at the Dinner/Gala night via Live Skype videoconferencing by the Deputy Senate President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Dr. Ike Ekweremadu, CFR titled, “The Enugu State of My Dream”. The convention ended with fundraising, awards and recognition at the Gala Night.
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It was a show of the pomp and pageantry of fine Igbo culture on August 30, 2016 as the beautiful women of the Umuada ndi Igbo in Diaspora- International movement added 49 members to their fold at their latest induction in Atlanta Georgia. Officiated by the indomitable and indefatigable women leader and founder of the movement- Lady Adaozo Chinonyelum Grace Agude, the newly inducted members were charged to uphold the dignity of Igbo womanhood and fight for what is just and right like the Aba women of old. They were also charged to uphold unity in their families and love for their husbands, children and fellow women and eschew everything that will lead to disunity within the family and our community. The occasion was witnessed by hundreds of Umuada and their supporters from around the globe including a delegation from Nigeria led by the Imo State Commissioner for Economic WINTER 2015
Planning and Development Dr. Adaora Ijezie. The occasion also witnessed the start of the launching of the “Umuada ndi Igbo- Cassava Mills Project�- a project which Lady Adaozo Agude explained will lead to the establishment of 7 cassava mills and creation of hundred of
jobs in all seven Igbo speaking states in the country. Dr. Ijezie pledged the support of Imo State Government to the project through donation of land for the mill construction in Owerri. Following are photo highlights of the occasion-
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Youth
Mark Amaza, Abuja, Nigeria
As someone who is very passionate about entrepreneurship and what it can do for the entrepreneur and the society at large, I never pass up on any opportunity to talk about it to others. And when I start, I could go on and on. One of the most common responses I have encountered is that of no capital or finance to start one’s own business. The lack of start-up finance is a very major obstacle, but is it enough to prevent entrepreneurship?
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One thing I have noticed, both from my experiences and observations is that you rarely ever have enough capital to get that your ass-kicking idea off the ground. This is especially so in Nigeria where there are barely any venture financiers willing to take risks with a new venture, where the banks are also sceptical about lending to small businesses, and have cutthroat interest rates. In other words, to start a business here, you must have enough personal funds or have family to support you and in the rare cases, be able to convince investors. I remember my first business idea when I was 18, an internet music start up for which I needed a modest few hundreds of thousands of naira. It wasn’t the fact that I had the capital that spurred me to create that idea, because I didn’t have the money. What I believed in was the power of the idea and its immense potential. I knocked on doors with my business plan and travelled to meet people whom I could pitch my idea to. Even though the idea never took off eventually, I learned an invaluable lot from that experience, especially in trying to raise venture financing. I learned that in looking to be an entrepreneur, you should work on a solid idea and business plan first before looking to raise the money. Looking to raise money before having developed a bankable business idea is akin to putting the cart before the horse. A lot of peopple who are quick to use their lack the capital to start businesses as their main excuse for not being entrepreneurs do not even have in the first WINTER 2015
place any ideas to work with. Instead, they are waiting for the capital to land before they then start looking for ideas. I have had people come up to me and say, ‘I have N1m, what business do you think I should go into?’ to which I always lack what to tell them. As far as I am concerned, that isn’t entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship starts with idea generation, not finance. You have an idea that you are so passionate about, and then you persist in trying to see it get off the ground. The hustle in getting it to work, leveraging contacts, making the most of what you have and the constant refining of the idea is a large part of the fun of being an entrepreneur. If all entrepreneurs were to wait until they had enough capital before setting out to change their world with their ideas, only a fraction of today’s enterprises would exist. It reminds me of the Bible verse in Ecclesiastes 11:4: “Farmers who wait for the perfect weather never plant; if they should watch every cloud, they will never harvest”. Waiting for the perfect conditions before you set out on that road of entrepreneurship is as good as never setting out on that road: the conditions will never be perfect. Create that idea and believe in its power. Start wherever you are. “Start weaving. God will provide the thread” – German Proverb.
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Health & Wellness
Olufemi Y. Saliu, M.D. A few months ago, a colleague asked, “Why are you drinking that?”-as I poured my vegetable smoothie into a cup. “All you need to do,” he continued, “Is drink a cup of coffee a day to protect your heart.” This claim is similar to the suggestions to drink a glass of wine a night or eat a handful of nuts a day to reduce risk for cardiovascular disease. While each of these may be true and healthy, none of them is sufficient on its own- they are just a few of the numerous compo112 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
nents of a healthcare strategy. Following one piece of health advice is like sealing one of many holes in a leaky water pipe. Despite the saying “an apple a day keeps the doctors away,” there is no single food that can keep away the doctors on its own. To reduce the risk of chronic cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol, numerous studies have shown that everyday we need to eat variety of vegetables, such as kale, broc-
coli, lettuce, spin-ach; legumes, nuts, as well as fruits such as apples and tomatoes. A plant based diet provides a wide variety of vital micro- and macronu-trients. But there is more to diet than eating healthy foods. To eat well, people must also avoid foods and drinks with added sugar. Wheat products should also be avoided as studies show that they raise blood sugar level more than sugar itself. People with diabetes should especially avoid WINTER 2015
Health & Wellness wheat. If you have wheat flour at home or bread in your fridge, trash it before you continue to read this article. Unfortunately wheat and added sugar are in virtually every processed food available. My rule of the thumb is if the food is in an artificial package, I do not eat it- except during family birthdays or at airports where there may be nothing healthy to eat. Eighty to ninety percent of my food is vegetables, beef, fish, and chicken. I have heard people complain that “vegetables are boring and unpleasant tasting.” So is pounded yam or any “swallow” food without delicious egusi or ogbono soup. When I began my dietary transformation four years ago, I used variety of delicious vegetable soups to eat my salad: okra, ewedu, egusi, and gbegiri. You may drink vegetable
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smoothie with baked fish, chicken, Isi ewu, akara, moinmoin, nuts, and beans. My wife likes to make scramble eggs with raw spinach. However, it takes more than diet to be truly healthy. It should be adopted as an element of the personal health strategy:The Triangle of Health. The second element is exercise. Numerous studies have shown the benefits of diversified age appropriate exercise. Benefits include weight control, decreasing cardiovascular risk through boosting high-density lipoprotein(HDL), reducing unhealthy triglycerides, improving mood by boosting endorphins, and maintaining better posture. There are varying levels of daily physical activity and it is advisable to en-gage in all them. The first level is not usually considered
physical ac-tivity by most people, but is still good for your health. Getting up from the couch to fetch a remote control that is six feet away rather than asking your son who is a hundred feet away or on another floor to get it is a form of exercise. Helping out in the kitchen to do dishes, blend pepper and process vegetables is good for your health. And packing your car as far away as possible in the parking lot for an opportunity to walk is a level one physical activity. Taking long walk, jogging, and cycling are in the second level of exercise. The third level involves using various exercise equipment at home or at the gym. It is important to remember that our bodies are similar to those of our distant ancestors-the hunter gatherers. They were always on the move: walking, running,
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Health & Wellness and swimming as they hunted animals, picked vegetables and fruits, and fled from predators. They were not cave bound; so we cannot be couch bound. This is my motto: if you can stand, don't sit and if you can walk, don't stand. Exercise should be a life style; not a chore. The final element of the triangle of health is stress control. The state of mind is often ignored but it is the most important to the devel-opment of disease.Two of the most common emotional states that may lead to chronic stress are elucidated here: 1. Worry-People worry about issues in all spheres of life: education, career, business, marriage, children, in-laws, finance, politics, sports, traffic, health, and religion. Valuable time and energy are di-verted away from performing the tasks at hand and towards fixing the wrongs of the past and building a ‘golden castle’ in the future. More would be accomplished in our lives by focusing our re-sources-mental energy and time- on the tasks of today. Perhaps, that is the reason Jesus said, “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Suffi-cient for the day is its own trouble.” Sir William Osler, a physi-cian, and one of the four founding 114 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
professors of Johns Hopkins University Hospital, said the same thing in a different way in an ad-dress to Yale University students in 1913: “Live in daytight com-partments, shutting iron doors on the dead yesterday, and the un-born tomorrow.” In the same address he urged the students to begin everyday with a simple prayer: “Give us this day our daily bread.”
2. Inability to forgive: Man expects mercy from God, but asking for forgiveness from others or forgiving them is often like losing ‘a pound of flesh.’ But Jesus implored us to forgive our neighbors “seventy times seven” times. There are consequences for unaddressed chronic stress. Worry, resentment, anger, and other emotional states of mind, if unresolved, can manifest as conditions such as depression, stomach ulcers, hy-pertension, diabetes, and coronary artery disease. Dr. Russell L. Cecil (1881-1965),
a famous authority on arthritis, listed four of the commonest causes of arthritis: • Marital shipwreck • Financial disaster and grief • Loneliness and worry • Long-cherished resentments Similarly, Dr, Joseph F. Montague said in his book Nervous Stomach Trouble, “You do not get stomach ulcers from what you eat. You get ulcers from what is eating you.” And much more recently in 2010, Pouwer et al wrote in Discovery Medicine the potential pathways linking chronic emotional stress and type 2 diabetes mellitus: • Behavioral mechanism: unhealthy life style leading to poor eating habit, low exercise levels, smoking, and alcohol abuse. • Physiological mechanism: activation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and sympathetic nervous system. • Immune system: activation of immune system leading to secretion of among many chemicals, cortisol responsible for behavioral changes such as depression. Due to the health implications of chronic stress, it is crucial that stressful situations should be resolved. But the application of Christ’s teachings of staying in the moment and forgiving seventy times seven times can be very challengingWINTER 2015
Health & Wellness
more difficult than overhauling your diet and doing regular physical exercise. However, using books and lessons learned at Church, I came up with two exercises that I use to manage stress in my life. 1. Scripture Of The Day approach: At the sound of my alarm before dawn, I go straight to my home office. I select the verse that speaks to my situation on that day in biblehub.com. The scripture pops up in various translations with cross references and commentaries. After a quick review, I use it to pray. Finally I write it on a new slide in Scripture Of The Day- slide presentation I set up with Keynote, an Apple application. Through the iCloud, the scripture goes to all my devices. Wherever I may be on that day, all I need to do is go to the slide in Keynote and meditate on it when my mind WINTER 2015
tries to engage in a futile activity of fixing the wrongs of the ‘dead yesterday’ , building a golden castle in the future, or coming up with negative stories about the ‘unborn tomorrow.” I use the scripture of the day to ‘renew’ my mind-and stay in the moment. 2. Face it Approach: This is an adaptation of various techniques in Dale Carnegie’s book How To Stop Worrying and Start Living. It is a writing exercise. What exactly am I worrying about? What are the possible things I can do about it? What I am going to do about it? Here I find prayer helpful in making the right choice from the list. When do begin to implement my decision? If I am to stay in the moment or live in Sir William Osler’s ‘day-
tight compartment’ it is today, not tomorrow because I am to shut out-with ‘iron doors’ : the ‘dead yesterday’ and ‘the unborn tomorrow’. The urgency of now in conflict resolution is alluded to in Christ’ teachings: “….first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.” Prayer is needed for spiritual strength to act today, not tomorrow. If the stressful situation is too overwhelming to carry out this analysis or one is unable to act on the decision of face-it analysis, it is im-portant to reach out to family and friends. To this end I am blessed with a supportive family, a bible based life transformation group, and a Church-The International Christian Center. It takes more than an apple a day to keep the doctors away: it takes eating right, exercising regularly, and managing LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE 115
Health & Wellness stress- they are crucial to health and happy life. References: 1.Exercise, heart and health. Nam GB - Korean Circ J March 1, 2011; 41 (3); 113-21. 2. Does emotional stress cause type 2 diabetes mellitus? A review from the European Depression in Diabetes (EDID) Research Consor-tium. Discovery medicine. Pouwer, Frans; Kupper, Nina; Adriaanse, Marcel C. Published February 1, 2010. 3. A review of resistance exercise and posture realignment. Author - J Strength Cond Res August 1, 2001; 15 (3); 385-90 4. Exercise for bone health: ra-
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tionale and prescription. Schwab P, Sacalapino K-Curr Opin Rheumatol - March 1, 2011; 23 (2); 137-41. 5. Review: diet and exercise counseling improve intermediate health outcomes in persons with CV risk factors. Annals of internal medicine. Kanaya, Alka M. Published December 16, 2014. 6. Correlation between sport and depression. Psychiatr Danub - November 1, 2014; 26 Suppl 1 (); 208-10. 7. Wheat Belly: Lose the Wheat, Lose the Weight, and Find Your Path Back to Health 2011 by William Davis, M.D.; Rodadale.
Dr. OLufemi Saliu
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Plateau State in Nigeria (West Africa) derives its name from the geographical description of the landscape that predominates in this part of Nigeria which is often referred to as the Jos Plateau. The Jos Plateau is the higher of the two plateaus found in Nigeria; the other one being the Mambilla Plateau. Whereas, a greater part of the PLATEAU is made up of slightly undulating highlands of an average height of 3,500 meters above sea level, there are areas such as the Share Hills with peaks of over 5,000 meters above sea level.
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Spotlight
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Spotlight Jos, the capital of Plateau State is situated approximately on latitude 9.6 degrees North and Latitude 8.5 degrees East. The city lies close to the geographical center of Nigeria. For variety and scenic beauty, Jos is non - peril. Plateau State is a miniature Nigeria. Apart from harboring
an area of fascinating contrast of scenic beauty embracing a some-what cool temperate climate, it has a rich blend of different, yet friendly people mostly Christians. This is one of the few states in the country where there is no particular ethnic group that enjoys monopoly of any sort. Instead one finds here a multiplicity of small ethnic groups that see and appreciate the need for mutual co-operation for the survival and progress of the entire state.
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season. Climate Generally speaking, the climate of the state is milder than that of the rest of the country. It is invigorating, and the nearest equivalent to a temperate climate in this tropical zone. It is for this reason that we have Jos and its environs the largest concentration of resident expatri-
ates in the former British West Africa. In fact, in the colonial days, Jos was regarded as an asylum where colonial officers came to spend their local leave and enjoy the healthy surrounding. Temperatures on the Plateau are several degrees lower than those in the rest of the county. Recorded mean temperature is 81.7F (27.6C) Maximum and 51.7F (10.9C) Minimum. There are neither extreme dual temperatures nor too much difference between the rainy and dry
In the rainy season, there are intermittent rain falls and sometimes drizzles on end. One interesting aspect of Jos weather is that it may be raining in one part of the town yet other parts may remain dry and sunny. Besides, drainage is generally very good.
Because of its climate, and fascinating topography, Jos has become a magnetic holiday resort most especially for European tourist. Markets & places of interest on the Jos-Plateau; Building Materials and Vegetable Market, Faringada Tomatoes Market, Langtang Street, Mangu Market, Rukuba Road Market, Jengre Market, etc. The Jos-Plateau in Nigeria is also the place to find the following in abundance and at good wholesale WINTER 2015
Spotlight
and retail prices. Commodities like; vegetables (including Irish potatoes, Cucumber, Cabbage, Tomatoes, Green pepper, Green peas, water melon, Water, Onions, Carrots), fruits (including; Oranges, Bananas, Mangos, Pineapples, Strawberry, Grape), (including Cow, Calf, Goat, Sheep, Goat, Chicken Eggs, Broiler chicken), and gem stones (including Topaz, Ruby, Tourmaline Blue, Pink Tourmaline, Aquamarine, Quartz, Sapphire), and many more. GOVERNMENT: The Plateau State administrative structure consists of the State Cabinet, the House of Assembly and Local Government Areas. The state government is run by the Governor (chief executive), Deputy Governor, and Secretary to the state government, Commissioners (cabinet members), special advisers, permanent secretaries, board WINTER 2015
STATE: Plateau State is celebated as The Home of Peace and Tourism and there is plenty to see. The House of Assembly consists of 25 members and 11 spe- The Wildlife Safari Park sits in the middle of 8 km2 (3.09 sq. cial advisers. The Speaker of miles) of unspoiled savanna the house is currently Rt. Hon. bush, about 4 km (2 mi) from John D. Clerk who was elected after the 2011 poll by his fellow Jos. It offers a wide variety of members. Local Government is wild animals within easy viewing. These include buffalos, headed by a chairman, who is lions, leopards, baboons, monthe chief executive, while his cabinet consists of elected coun- keys, derby elands, pythons, cilors who make up the legisla- crocodiles, chimpanzees, jackals and the rare pygmy hiptive arm. popotamus, which is being successfully bred in the 'hippo Plateau State is also divided pool’. The park also boasts into chiefdoms and emirates, great, panoramic views of Jos each encompassing ethnic city. groups who share common The National Museum in Jos affinities. Leaders of the chiefdoms are elected by the people was founded in 1952, and is recognised as one of the best in from amongst several contestants who may not be related to the country. It is renowned for its archeology and The Pottery any past chiefdom leaders, while succession to the position Hall has an exceptional collection of finely crafted pottery of an emir is hereditary. from all over Nigeria. The museum boasts some fine speciTOURISM IN PLATEAU chairmen and general managers. The current governor is Jonah David Jang.
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Spotlight
mens of Nok terracotta heads and artifacts dating from between 500 BC to 200 AD. The Museum of Traditional Nigerian Architecture is adjacent, with life-size replicas of a variety of buildings, from the walls of Kano and the Mosque at Zaria to a Tiv village. In addition, articles of interest from colonial times relating to the railway and tin mining can be found on display. Jos Zoo is located in Jos city, beside the museum. It has a good stock of animals, birds and reptiles and was established in 1957. Assop Falls is perhaps, the most notable of Nigeria's many waterfalls. Located at the edge of the Jos Plateau, about 40 miles (64 km) from Jos city, on 120 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
the road to Abuja, this is a popular tourist stop for picnicking, swimming and enjoying the scenery. Assop Falls has also proved popular with people shooting local soap operas and advertisements. Kurra Falls is an area of magnificent scenery some 77 kilometers southeast of Jos. It is the location of the State's first hydroelectric power station. It is a beautiful area of rocks hills, and lakes, ideal for boating, camping, and rock climbing. There is tourist accommodation available. Wase Rock is a striking domeshaped inselberg which juts out of the ground to an incredible height of 450 meters. It is located about 216 kilometers southeast of Jos near Wase
town. It is one of the only five breeding places for the White pelican in Africa. Because of this, the government now protects about 321 acres (1.30 km2) of land around the rock as a bird sanctuary and for wildlife development. The Kerang highlands are located about 88 kilometres from Jos. These beautiful, volcanic mountain hills are the source of natural mountain springs, which supply the popular spring water company (SWAN). The Shere Hills include some of the Plateau’s highest peaks. They are a scenic range of hills to the east of Jos which offer a prime view of the city below. They offer fantastic opportunities to mountain climbers and WINTER 2015
Spotlight hill walkers alike. Riyom Rock is one of nature's most spectacular rock formations, located 25 kilometers southwest of Jos, near Riyom town. Pandam Game Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary. It is a protected region of natural habitat and is home to Hippopotami, Crocodiles and snakes of all types. Local park rangers track local game on foot and guide people to the best viewing areas. This area is still virtually unspoiled by human contact. It offers sports fishing facilities and tourist accommodation is available. Kahwang Rock Formation is a
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set of beautiful basalt rocks, second to one of its kind found in Switzerland. Located in Bangai village of Bachi District in Riyom Local Government of the state, the Kahwang rocks have received tourists from different parts of the state, the country at large and on occasions, from outside Nigeria, who visit the site to see for themselves the wonders of nature. This site is however, still awaiting the attention of the Plateau State Tourism Corporation to meet modern standards and to serve as another source of revenue generation to the state. Miango Rest House is a retreat
and conference center located in Miango established by missionaries (SIM Nigeria) in 1914. It is located next to Kent Academy, a non-denominational missionary school. The Rest House provides visitors with plenty of opportunities to hike in the surrounding area. The property also features a manmade dam, a farm and is located at the foot of small hill (Mt. Sanderson) that provides a beautiful view of the area. Article Source: 1. http://EzineArticles.com/5193 402 2. Wikipedia.com
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Gracie's Corner
The holidays are almost here, and in between the new outfits and purchases, gift shopping and trying to decide whether or not to go back home for Christmas (OK if you’re still thinking about this, just assume you’re not going because those ticket prices…) we often find ourselves stressed out, trying to hold onto at least some of our sanity, and our money. I recently lost my grandmother; at age 84, her time on this earth was up. As it often happens, losing the matriarch of the family can leave the family divided, with bickering about how best to say goodbye and what to do with all that material in her closet (I mean, seriously, was she trying to open a store with all that fabric?) Family members often lose sight of the important things about life and instead engage in unwinnable battles. The most basic decisions become a tug of war, with the “winner” often feeling defeated, anyhow. As I reflect on my grandmother’s life, I am reminded about how much time and energy we invest in things that do not matter. We often expend ourselves, lending our energy to meaningless tasks, until we no longer have any to put towards the real things in life: sharing quality time with loved ones, doing those things that make us feel alive, allowing 122 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
our gifts/talents/creativity to grow, working on our spiritual walk etc. Consider how much time you have spent worrying, only for the concern never to manifest. Instead of solving it, we indulge in prolonging the problem, often by repeating it to as many people that will lend us their ears and energy. Many of us get stuck in our heads so long that we lose sight of the reality around us. And we miss it all: quality time cheering our children on, encouraging those around us, being loving to those that matter most. As I listened to a friend recently lament about work, I realized that we had stopped talking about her children. Instead we were focused on some strangers, whose actions might matter at work, but are inconsequential to the rest of our existence. It is very easy to follow a cycle of “I can’t wait until it’s Friday” to “Thank God it’s Friday” to “I hate Mondays”. At every point of our week, we are looking forward to getting out of where we are or looking to move to something else. And before we know it, it’s been three years since we called that friend or took our partner out on a special date. So this holiday, what are you allowing to steal your light? Do you have to spend time with some in-laws who have called you every name in the book? Do WINTER 2015
Gracie's Corner
you have to share your time with a sibling you haven’t forgiven? Do you have to depend on the generosity of a boss who seems bent on creating a customized hell-on-earth for you? Whatever is it that is stressing you out, making you miserable, and simply stealing your crowning moments will likely not matter tomorrow. What is it that you can do today to create a better world for yourself? Remember that we cannot change others, only ourselves and our perceptions. How can you make the situation livable for yourself? Your life, literally depends on it. Use your five senses wisely:
P-square, Davido, Flavour, R2Bees, Israel Houghton, Donnie McClurkin. What are some of the sounds that leave you uplifted? Take some time to listen to your favorite tracks and bust a move or two! Avoid gossip and self-destructive conversations.
See the world in a new light. Lend your eyes to those things that uplift you. Read a good book; watch a movie with someone that shares your interest. Avoid watching those things that leave you empty and angry.
I hope you get to spend your holidays with people that make you laugh and make you feel special. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
When was the last time you smelled the roses, literally? Take time to stop and smell some of nature’s best. Or cook your favorite dish, savoring the smells that fill your home.
When was the last time you offered someone a hand shake? Or a hug? Take time to share intimate moments with your spouse, your children and other loved ones. Sometimes all a person needs is a long hug from someone who cares.
Grace Neequaye MPH CHES
Goat soup, Jollof rice, khebabs, meat pie, chin chin, biscuits, and ice cream. Have you indulged lately?
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Iruka's Corner Iruka A. Ndubuizu
Deciding HowLong
TheyStay I am loyal. I wear it as a badge of honor. I am quite proud of having the loyalty gene. Whatever the relationship is, I apply the loyalty principle. I am the ever loyal friend, employee, daughter, sibling, wife, mother, boss, confidant, etc. Just name it! This is supposed to be a great thing, but it hasn’t always worked well for me. The problem is, I am an equal opportunity “loyalty applier”. I continue to be loyal to people who no longer deserve my commitment. It really is not their fault. It is all on me because I love building relationships. I invest in and maintain relationships. However, experience has shown me that some relationships have an expiration date. Yet, rather than throw them out, I let them occupy space on my shelf. I continue to dust and make space for them because of my 124 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
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Iruka's Corner inordinate belief that the relationship may be renewed or revived. So, I stay committed and let them stay on the shelf. I also believe in second (and even third) chances, but I have realized that it may not always be the best option in this circumstance. There are relationships that no longer serve us well that we are reluctant to let go of. Expending energy on relationships that are not worth maintaining are exhaustingand can impact one negatively. It also encroaches on the time that can be devoted to true friends and relationships. You have probably heard the saying that some people come into our life for a reason, a season, or a life-
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time and that we decide how long they stay. This sounds quite simple but it can be very difficult to sever relationship ties particularly if it is someone who was very close to you or had a positive impact on your life. If the loyalty gene runs through your bloodstream, you will not make the decision on who stays or who goes lightly. Embarking on an analytical decision tree process to make that determination can be very helpful.In addition to acknowledging your role in the breakdown of the relationship, some factors that may be considered are Length of the relationship– How long has this person been in my life? Understand-
ably, there are people who have been in our life briefly but have made a great impact. Thus, one cannot easily dismiss a relationship just because it is fairly recent. For long term relationships, consider its level of importance in your life and try to figure out when it went awry and what caused the shift. Shared Values–Do we still share the same values? As humans, we are constantly evolving and friends who had a lot in common can wake up one day and realize that they are on very different tracks. Trying to maintain a relationship with someone who does not understand or appreciate the journey you are on is challenging. You
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Healthy – Does the relationship impact you positively or negatively? Unhealthy relationships are quite toxic and can feel like carrying excess weight which can literally make you sick. When this occurs, it is time to detox and rid yourself of the relationship.
consider putting your relationships through some type of analysis and decide who stays. If they fail the test, it is okay. Take the time to discover what they were meant to teach you, master the lesson, thank them for it and move on. If you fail to learn the lesson, you have wasted a great opportunity and will likely repeat the same mistake.Taking the time to go through the process gives us a great opportunity to appreciate those who made the cut so we can devote our time, talent and resources to nurturing relationships that matter.
Commitment – Do they deserve your loyalty? Have they given you reason to beLessons – What did you learn lieve they are committed to from the relationship? Is it an you? Do they look out for ongoing lesson?If you pay at- you? Loyalty is a precious gift. Only those who deserve tention, relationships can be such a wonderful classroom. it should receive it. It can teach youhuman dyAs the year is winding down, namics and how to navigate
Marilyn Monroe summed it up nicely when she said “… everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they're right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and some-
find yourself not sharing as much with them because they either discourage or diminish your dreams, goals or values. How do they make you feel? – This is important because you want to surround yourself with people who lift you up. If they make you feel bad about who you are or what you are doing (assuming it is something positive), then it is time to let the relationship go. Who you are around determines where you are going. If you find yourself tip-toeing around what to share and what not to share in conversation with them, then maybe they should not be in your life.
them. You can never truly understand human behavior without interacting closely with people. It also helps you understand yourself better.Some relationships teach patience, how to manage emotions, and how to be a better communicator.
Iruka A. Ndubuizu is a “contract guru”, attorney, entrepreneur, consultant and trainer. She is an Assistant Director for Contracts Administration at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia and the Founder of Eureka Consulting, LLC (www.eurekaconsultingllc.com). You can reach her at info@eurekaconsultingllc.com; 678.224.1960.
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times good things fall apart so better things can fall together”. Some of my relationships came as a lesson, and most of them as blessings. I am eternally grateful for all of them. Thankfully, I have the power to decide who stays and who to let go. And so do you! WINTER 2015
Country Profile
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Country Profile
Geography Cameroon is a Central African nation on the Gulf of Guinea, bordered by Nigeria, Chad, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon. It is nearly twice the size of Oregon. Mount Cameroon (13,350 ft; 4,069 m), near the coast, is the highest elevation in the country. The main rivers are the Benue, Nyong, and Sanaga.
campaigning for reunification of French and British Cameroon and for independence. Accused of being under Communist control, the party waged a campaign of revolutionary terror from 1955 to 1958, when it was crushed. In British Cameroon, unification was also promoted by the leading party, the Kamerun National Democratic Party, led by John Foncha.
Government After a 1972 plebiscite, a unitary republic was formed out of East and West Cameroon to replace the former federal republic.
Cameroon Becomes an Independent Republic France set up Cameroon as an autonomous state in 1957, and the next year its legislative assembly voted for independence by 1960. In 1959 a fully autonomous government of Cameroon was formed under Ahmadou Ahidjo. Cameroon became an independent republic on Jan. 1, 1960. In 1961 the southern part of the British territory joined the new Federal Republic of Cameroon and the northern section voted for unification with Nigeria. The president of Cameroon since independence, Ahmadou Ahidjo was replaced in 1982 by the prime minister, Paul Biya. Both administrations have been authoritarian.
History Bantu speakers were among the first groups to settle Cameroon, followed by the Muslim Fulani in the 18th and 19th centuries. The land escaped colonial rule until 1884, when treaties with tribal chiefs brought the area under German domination. After World War I, the League of Nations gave the French a mandate over 80% of the area, and the British 20% adjacent to Nigeria. After World War II, when the country came under a UN trusteeship in 1946, selfgovernment was granted, and the Cameroon People's Union emerged as the dominant party by 128 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
With the expansion of oil, timber, and coffee exports, the economy has continued to improve, although WINTER 2015
Country Profile
corruption is prevalent, and environmental degradation remains a concern. In June 2000 the World Bank agreed to provide more than $200 million to build a $3.7 billion pipeline connecting the oil fields in neighboring Chad with the Cameroon coast. In Aug. 2006 Nigeria turned over the disputed oil-rich Bakassi peninsula to Cameroon窶年igeria had been resisting the World Court ruling since 2002.
calated their attacks. In January 2015, Chad sent 2,000 troops to Cameroon to help in the fight against the group. Boko Haram is opposed to Western education, political philosophy, and society, and seeks to overthrow the government and implement sharia throughout the country. The group's name translates to "Western education is sinful." Tourism in Cameroon:
Constitutional Amendment Allows Biya to Remain in Power Parliament amended Cameroon's constitution in April 2008 to allow President Biya to run for a third seven-year term in 2011. He won the 2011 election in a landslide, taking 78% of the vote. His opponents and international observers alleged the election was unfair. Boko Haram Targets Civilians in Cameroon Boko Haram, the fundamentalist Islamist sect based in Nigeria, began kidnapping civilians and attacking villages in northern Cameroon in 2013. The government deployed about 1,000 troops to the border with Nigeria in May 2014 in an attempt to thwart the cross-border incursions by Boko Haram. The deployment further emboldened the militants, and they esWINTER 2015
Tourism in Cameroon is a growing but relatively minor industry. Since the 1970s, the government of Cameroon has cultivated the industry by creating a ministry of tourism and by encouraging investment by airlines, hotels, and travel agencies. The government describes the country as "Africa in miniature", promoting its diversity of climate, culture, and geography. Cameroon's wildlife draws both safari-goers and big-game hunters, as Cameroon is home to many of Africa's iconic animals: cheetahs, chimpanzees,elephants, giraffes, gorillas, hippopotami, and rhinoceroses. Impediments to further growth of the tourism sector include poor transport infrastructure and corrupt officials who may harass visitors for bribes
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Issues
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Experts have long predicted that Igbo language will become extinct during the next two decades. The larger picture is that our entire culture (of which language is a part) is becoming extinct. As such, the current effort to preserve Igbo language must be expanded to include other aspects of our culture that are at risk. The tendency to replace many symbols of our culture with money and other quick fixes is damaging.
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Issues Using money as a substitute for observing our cultural norms and practices is not only injurious to our culture but shows evidence of a total disregard for the relics and traditional norms that make our people unique and special. Cultural preservation must include adherence to the procedures and timelines for performing the rites associated with our traditional institutions, activities and events. To preserve the beauty of Igbo culture, we must promote the symbols, products, and artifacts used to perform those rites without cutting corners. And to the extent practically and legally possible, we need to abide by the timelines prescribed for traditional Igbo events. Let me illustrate with the rites and rituals associated with Igbo traditional marriage. I wish to
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state upfront that I am approaching this issue as an Igbo cultural enthusiast, not an expert. My intent is to shine a light on the aspects of our culture that are becoming extinct like our language. My expectation is for people to participate in expanding this debate, hopefully to save our customs and traditions. In Igboland, using Anambra state and my own town Enugwu-Agidi as an example, there are five basic stages involved in a marriage ceremony. Each of these stages requires the performance of certain rites in order to ensure completion and adequate compliance to our tradition. Some stages may require more steps than others, but are no less important. The five stages of traditional Igbo marriage are: 1. Inquiry (Iku Aka), 2. Dowry (Ime Ego), 3. Traditional Wed-
ding (Okuku Onye Nolu Uwa), 4. A Feast for the Father of the Bride (Igbu Ewu Nna or Igba Nkwu), and 5. Familiarization Visit (Ogo Malu Uno). Below, I will offer a brief description of each step, the purpose it serves, as well as the cultural expectations. The Inquiry Stage (Iku Aka) is when a suitor who finds a potential bride takes the necessary steps to inquire about her family background. The first act here is to visit his prospective father in-law with a bottle of liquor to discuss his intentions. Ideally, the visit should occur only after the suitor has obtained an assurance from the wife-to-be that she is interested in the relationship. However, this does not preclude some overzealous suitor from knocking on that door, knowing full well that a father can easily
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Issues
outcast dedicated to a deity. An outcast or osu is a descendant of a family who was presented to a god or goddess as a gift. It is also believed that certain osu people voluntarily sought refuse with deities. It is considered a taboo or an abomination Payment of Dowry (Ime Ego) is to accept those people or interthe second stage. This stage fol- marry with them. For this stage to be performed with fidelity, lows after both families, the certain tangible items must be family of the bride and the presented and utilized during groom, have inquired about the ceremony: a bundle of each family’s social-moral upbroomsticks, cases of beer, rightness, criminal backkolanuts, and money. These grounds, values, longevity norms and customs constitute (average age of death among integral aspects of our culture. the members of each family) They should be practiced and and predisposition to certain sustained as originally condiseases, including mental illness. They then determine if ei- ceived. For example, the ther family is “clean enough” to broomsticks are used to negotibe associated with in marriage. ate the bride price, which is a symbol of love. The purpose is The inquiry must include the to underscore the fact that a family lineage of one’s birth to ensure that neither family is an bride is not a commodity that is override his daughter’s wish. The traditional item to take along for this inquiry visit is just one bottle of liquor, not a bag of Ghana must go (wads of cash). Don’t monetize it. Keep it real and original.
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being bought or sold, and that is why real money is not used or mentioned during the negotiations. Dowry payment is simply a gesture of appreciation as well as the significance of a wife in a man’s life. The recent trend, however, is to bypass these specific rites and simply pay for all the items in cash. Just recently, I took my American-born son to a marriage event to observe the Dowry ceremony. I promised him an opportunity to see my stories about the marriage rites in practice. Unfortunately, we were totally disappointed, as the event did not live up to our expectations. None of the expected rites was performed. The father of the prospective suitor simply handed over a large envelope of cash to the WINTER 2015
Issues bride’s father, and everyone clapped and continued to drink. The suitor’s father added, “This envelope will take care of everything on the list given to us. If you want more, let us know. Anyi noo down! No shaky! ”Every aspect of the ceremony was monetized. Not even the kolanut that was presented at the beginning of event was from Igboland. My son who had waited in vain to witness the dowry negotiation with brooms was disappointed. It was a gross abuse of our custom. I emphasized the phrase “continued to drink” because ideally, no participant at a Dowry event should drink or eat anything with the exception of the “welcome kolanut” before the potential bride has openly confirmed that she will marry the suitor by kneeling down, taking a sip of wine and handing it over to the suitor to finish. It is only after this acceptance is made that the mission is considered to be accomplished. Only then are the rest of the participants free to eat and drink anything offered to them. The third stage of marriage is the Traditional Wedding (Okuku Onye Nolu Uwa). Again, using Enugwu-Agidi town, as a reference point is the rite performed when a bride informs the spirit of the person who reincarnated her that she (the bride) is getting married and transitioning into a WINTER 2015
new phase of life. The Igbos believe in reincarnation; they believe that when someone dies, the spirit of the deceased returns back to the family in the form of a newborn. The purpose of this ceremony is to notify the spirit of the deceased person whom the family believes to have reincarnated as the bride that the bride is about the leave the family to begin a new life as a married person. During this event, which also occurs at the home of the bride’s parents, a fowl is slaughtered and used to cook a meal for the couple. This ceremony marks the first time the bride and groom will eat a meal together. This stage is actually perceived as the traditional wedding as well as the most important stage of marriage. Why is this stage the most important in any traditional marriage? Because a husband cannot claim as his, any child or children born by the couple if this ceremony is not performed before the child’s birth.
Without this stage, any child born to the couple legally belongs to the bride’s family, ac-
cording to Igbo custom and tradition. The recent trend in some families is to monetize or bypass this stage and accelerate straight to the church wedding and stage four – Igbu Ewu Nna or Igba Nkwu. It is a mockery of our culture and should be discouraged. The fourth stage is the Feast for the Father of the Bride (Igbu Ewu Nna or Igba Nkwu). Again the venue for this event is the residence of the bride’s father. This is the time when the new son in-law slaughters a goat for the father of the bride. This stage involves many more people beyond the immediate and extended families of the couple. Unlike in other stages, this may be the first time the husband will be inviting all his friends, well-wishers, colleagues, classmates and the entire public to his marriage event. Even though this stage is the most famous and most celebrated stage of the marriage rites, it is not as important as stage three. The traditional Igbo marriage is not about crowds; the significance of what each stage represents is important. This event is usually very costly and involves lots of planning because the size of the crowd has gone beyond the members of the couples’ immediate families. The tradition dictates that a specific number of items be used for this stage, including at least two goats, drinks (alcoLIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE 133
Issues holic and non alcoholic beverages), kolanuts, loaves of bread, wraps of tobacco or bottles of ground tobacco, yam tubers, packets of cigarette, cookies, and chewing sticks. The recipients of these items are usually grouped into four categories: Men, Women, Male Youths and Female Youths. All these groups are from the bride’s village where the ceremony will take place. The goats mentioned above are significant. One of them will be slaughtered for the feast, and the second goat returned back to the husband as a gesture of appreciation. Then, depending on the size of the crowd invited by both families, adequate arrangements will be made for feeding the guests.
visit. The goal of the familiarization visit is to formally introduce the bride and other members of her family to her husband’s compound so that they will know how and where to locate their daughter whenever the need arises. During this stage that involves only the members of the bride’s and husband’s nuclear families,
food and drinks will be consumed as the families engage in discussions in a lively and lowThe fifth and final stage is a Fa- key atmosphere. Additional questions about family affiliamiliarization or Formal Visit tions, beliefs, and interests will (Ogo Malu Uno). This is the time when the husband extends be addressed on both sides. The a formal invitation to his wife’s importance of this stage is that if it is not done and there were family to visit him for a feast. The first four stages of the mar- a death or an important event in the husband’s family, memriage rite occur at the bride’s bers of the bride’s family would family home, and up until this traditionally be forbidden to atfifth stage, it is assumed that tend. Even if they attended, trathe bride and members of her dition precludes them from family have not been to the eating or drinking anything ofgroom’s home or town. Even fered to them during such a though the bride may have visit. gone to her husband’s house after the payment of the dowry, The specifics of each stage of it was not considered a formal 134 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
the marriage rites will be discussed in later series. Even though there may be differences in nomenclature for each stage or slight variations on how each stage is performed in different regions and towns of Igboland, the concept is essential the same – a traditional Igbo marriage rite involves multiple stages and the presentation of different items that symbolize our deeply held cultural values. None of these stages must be sacrificed at the altar of expediency, thoughtless social fads or unnecessary displays of opulence. It is our collective responsibility as people born and socialized in Igbo culture to strive to preserve and hand down to our children. These are my views; yours are welcome.
Chinedu Chris Ikeanyi, Ph.D Los Angeles, California
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Music & Entertainment
(Continued on flip page) WINTER 2015
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Music & Entertainment
P-Square are a Nigerian R&B duo composed of identical twin brothers Peter and Paul Okoye. They produce and release their albums through Square Records. In December 2011, they were also signed to Akon's Konvict Muzik label. In May 2012, they also signed a record distribution deal with Universal Music South Africa. The story of P-Square began in St. Murumba secondary school, a small Catholic school in Jos, Nigeria. Identical twins Peter and Paul joined their school music and drama club where they began singing, dancing, and mimicing songs by MC Hammer, Bobby Brown and Michael Jackson. They later formed an aappella quartet called "MMMPP" (M Clef a.k.a. Itemoh, Michael, Melvin, Peter and Paul). Drawing inspira136 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
tion from their music idol Michael Jackson, they began break dancing, formed the group called "Smooth Criminals" in 1997.They dropped M Clef from the group "MMMPP" which later was changed to "MMPP". Their artistic talent and precise dance routine soon made them household names in the city of Jos, where they performed at school functions and other occasions. Later in 1999, Peter and Paul returned to music school to develop their skills on keyboard, drums, bass and rhythm guitar. Their work includes the soundtracks for a number of films like Tobi, Mama Sunday, Moment of Bitterness and Evas Later in 1999, they applied to the University of Abuja to study Business Administration. The Smooth Criminals disbanded when its members left to various other universities. Subsequently Peter and Paul formed their own
group, variously called "Double P", "P&P", and "Da Pees", until they eventually settled on "PSquare". They are managed by Bayo Odusami aka Howie T, a seasoned concert promoter and the CEO of Adrot Nigeria Limited. In 2001, "P-Square" won the "Grab Da Mic" competition, and hence Benson & Hedges sponsored their debut album, titled Last Nite, which was released under Timbuk2 music label. P-Square was also nominated as "Most Promising African Group" in the Kora Awards three months after the release of their debut album. They eventually won the 2003 Amen Award for "Best R&B Group".
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Music & Entertainment In 2005, P Square released their second album, Get Squared under their own label, Square Records. This album was marketed nationwide by TJoe Enterprises, although they were still managed by Howie T of Adrot Nigeria Limited. The video for the second album held the #1 position on the MTV Base chart for four straight weeks. They have an ever growing fan base across South Africa with a particular stronghold of diehard fans in Cape Town. The group has performed alongside the following international artists like Ginuwine, Sean Paul, Akon andBusola Keshiro. The members of P
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Square are now located in Lagos. Late in 2007, they released their best selling album so far, Game Over. It has sold 8 million copies worldwide. In 2009, P-Square released their fourth studio album, Danger . The album features collaborations with 2face Idibia, J Martins and Frenzy. The first single called "Danger" is a hip hop song with cutting synths and a frog bass baseline similar to an Eminem song. The video affirms this with the presence of clowns and staggered movements in front of the camera reminiscent of comical videos by Eminem They are also known for the close resem-
blance which the twins have to American R&B Superstar, Usher Raymond. On 4 April 2010, P-Square was named the Artist of the Year at the KORA All Africa Music Awards inOuagadougou, Burkina-Faso while they were in London for a Concert at the Troxy, and they will receive a whopping sum of $1 Million Dollars as the Award Winners, in Ebebiyin City. Albums 2003: Last Nite 2005: Get Squared 2007: Game Over 2009: Danger 2011: The Invasion
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Music & Entertainment (NMA) Album of the year (Get Squared) Music Video of the year (Get Squared) 2012: "Positif" (Matt Houston 2007 Channel O Music Video feat. P-Square) Awards- Best Duo or Group 2008 Channel O Music Video 2012: "Chop My Money (I Awards Don't Care)" Best Duo or Group Video of the Year ("Do Me") 2012: Alingo MTV Africa Music Awards 2008 - Best Group Won MTV Africa Music Awards 2009- Best Group 2006 Hip Hop World Awards Best R&B Album (Get Squared) 2010 KORA Awards - Artiste of Best Music Video (Get Squared) the Year 2010 LIL PERRY PRODUCAlbum of the Year (Get TIONS Producer of the Year Squared) Song of the Year ("Bizzy Body") 2012 Channel O Music Video Awards - Best Duo, Group or 2006 City Mag 9th Awards Featuring Music Video ("Chop Show - Best Hip Hop Group My Money" with Akon and 2006 Nigerian Music Awards International singles 2009 / 2012: "E No Easy" (P-Square feat. J. Martins)
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May D) Nominated BET Awards 2010 - Best International Act KORA Awards 2003 - Most Promising African Group (Nominated) MOBO Awards 2006 - Best African Act MOBO Awards 2008 - Best African Act .* MTV AFRICAN MUSIC AWARDS- 2008
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ P-Square
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Religion
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Religion
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6) “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men”. (Luke 2:14 ) “I’m telling you these things while I’m still living with you. The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you. He will remind you of all the things I have told you. I’m leaving you well and whole. That’s my parting gift to you. Peace. I don’t leave you the way you’re used to being left— feeling abandoned, bereft. So don’t be upset. Don’t be distraught”. ( John 14 – 25 -27 ( The Message ) If there is anything our world has always needed and desperately craves 140 LIFE & TIMES MAGAZINE
today, it is peace – peace in marriages, peace in the classrooms, peace on the playgrounds, peace in the workplace, peace in the movie theaters, peace at the restaurants and even inside the church! Terrorists have struck fears into the hearts of the world’s inhabitants and it appears no one is beyond their reach. People go out and never return. Families travel and never return. Children go to school and never return. It is not confined to one specific country or a specific race or religion. Everyone is a fair game. The world established the League of Nations to help bring about peace among the nations but it was a colossal failure. Many wars were fought still. The name changed to United Nations. But it is clear that the United Nations is a united nothing. A fiasco. An international joke. Wars not only continued, terrorism and impoverishment of nations were added to it bringing about monumental refugee problems.
Why? Why are all the efforts to usher in peace failing ? Because there can be no true peace until the Prince of Peace comes. But you can enjoy peace even in the midst of all these turbulence and tempests of terror. All you need is the Prince of Peace Himself to come into your life. A patron asked a painter to paint a picture of peace. First, he painted a quiet-looking deserted street bereft of any hint of disquiet. The patron rejected it. Then he painted a field of gently swaying beautiful daffodils in a sunset by the seaside. The patron turned it down. Finally he painted a tempest roaring through a farmland and trees being uprooted and branches breaking and being hurled off by the wind. In the “eye of the storm” is a tiny bird perched and sleeping away in the midst of the tempest on a half broken branch of a tree! “Yes ! Yes!! Yes!!!” Screamed the patron. “This is peace! This is peace!! This WINTER 2015
Religion is peace!!! Indeed, seeing a tiny bird sleeping in the midst of a tempest on a half broken tree branch passes all understanding. I present to you this Christmas Jesus Christ, the Gift of peace that can offer you “the peace of God that passes all understanding” Philippians 4:7. The Gift of Peace with God
his enemies to be at peace with him.” The Gift of Peace with Man Do you know that the Prince of Peace can actually make your enemies to be at peace with you? Believe it or not, that cantankerous and obnoxious
“
Romans 5:1 says we have Do you know that the Prince of peace with God through our Peace can actually make your Lord Jesus Christ. This enemies to be at peace with you? means that we are reconciled back to God because the barriers of hostility and enmity that separated us from God have been removed by the person and work of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing spouse, neighbor or child can be wall of hostility, Ephesians 2:14 . On made to be at peace with you. that glorious night when Jesus was born, the angels sang, "glory to God in Proverbs 16: 7 says “when a man's the highest, and on earth, peace. ways please the Lord, he maketh even
”
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You do not need to be in hostility with those who are hostile towards you. Once you have the Lord Jesus as your Lord and Savior, peace with all men is your heritage. In the Old Testament, Jacob had run away from home because he stole his brother’s blessing by deceiving their father Isaac with the help of his mother Rebecca. Esau, his brother therefore swore to kill him so he fled for his life to live with his mother’s brother. He was there for at least fourteen years and God prospered him. His prosperity triggered envy from his Uncle and his children to the extent that the Uncle pursued him to force him back after Jacob had left him. God appeared to Laban, the Uncle, in a dream and warned him to steer clear of Jacob and leave him in peace. In fact he must not as much as offend Jacob in speech! ( Genesis 31:24). God was Jacob’s Peace. When Jacob heard that his brother Esau was coming with 400 men to meet him, he was scared to death knowing what he did to him
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Religion years ago and how vengeful his brother was. He divided his family into different segments and kept those that he loved most at the rear thinking that evil was determined by Esau towards him. But the Prince of Peace had gone ahead of him. When Esau both brothers finally met, Esau “ran to meet him and embraced him, ad fell on his neck and kissed him, and they wept.” ( Genesis 33:4). God was His Peace. When you make Jesus your Peace, He will be your peace even in “little” things. He cares so much about you that even “the very hairs of your head are numbered” Luke 12:17. For example, an elderly woman wrote a letter to God a week before Christmas but she had no money for stamp or envelope. She made an envelope herself that looked ragged and messy. The postal worker found it while sorting out letters. Out of curiosity he opened it and read that the writer was in great distress and lost all sense of peace because she had lost all her savings of about $150 to online theft. She had no
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money for food or anything else for Christmas. Fellow postal workers heard about it and took contributions of $100 for the woman. The money was mailed to her that same day in a plain envelope, with no note or anything. A week later, the same postal worker noticed another unstamped letter that had been addressed to God in the same handwriting. In it, he found a brief note: “Dear God, Thank you for the $100 that you sent me for Christmas, which would have been so bleak otherwise. P.S. It was $50 short, but that was probably those thieving workers at the post office. “ I present the Prince of Peace to you today. He is the Christmas Gift from God to you this season. Have you received Him?
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 by Email: Pastor@iccla.com, Web: www.iccla.com, Facebook: iccla/facebook, Twitter: @DipoKalejaiye)
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