Phoenix Nigeria - Apr-Jun

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The Decoration of

God’s General

● Chief Uzo Owunne: Man About Business ● UNIWA: Nigeria High Commissioner Visit ● Commonwealth News: Games Boost for Brum

INSIDE THIS EDITION

My Wedding Day: Fatima Dangote & Jamil Abubakar Remembering the Former VP of Nigeria Dr Alex Ekwueme

Your FREE ● Business ● Commerce ● Positive News Magazine

Editor’s Note

W

elcome to the fantastic AprilJune edition of Phoenix Nigeria.

We are excited about the prospects of such a unique publication that will be showcasing the best of the best in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

We would like to take this opportunity of thanking His Imperial Majesty Alayeluwa Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi Ojaja II, 51st Ooni of Ife for taking the time to visit us in Birmingham on a very spiritual and enlightening occasion.

Special thanks also go out

to all of the Kings and representatives that came with His Imperial Majesty, meeting with Birmingham City University, Birmingham City Council, the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, The Nishkam Centre, and Nehemiah Housing as part of his itinerary.

Mayor of Birmingham, Cllr Anne Underwood, His Excellency Seth George Ramocan, Jamaica High Commissioner, and flying in from Barbados, Johnson JohnRose of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation.

Andy Street praised me and my team for our tireless work,

This Royal Visit by His Imperial Majesty to Birmingham was to celebrate the 7th Year of the UK’s only Positive Newspaper that has touched the hearts of many people globally.

I must thank His Imperial Majesty for his support in cutting the ribbon and unveiling Phoenix Nigeria Magazine.

He was able to echo the words of prominent members of our city, including Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street, the Lord

l Daniel Riley, Assistant Editor, Phoenix Nigeria

l Emeka Alex Akwaeze, Operations Manager

Look out for Phoenix Nigeria’s official launch and awards presentation ceremony this year in NIgeria!

On the night, awards for the

l Marcia McLaughlin, Editor In Chief, Phoenix Nigeria Emissary of Peace 2017 and International Excellence 2017 went to the Honourable Farouk Adamu Aliyu and His Excellency Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode respectively, with their awards collected by Jana Shodiyah on their behalf.

Many see His Imperial Majesty’s visit to the West Midlands as a way of Ile-Ife ‘twinning’ with the second city of the UK. I was also able to attend the Ovation Christmas Carol where I met with many top Businesspeople, Celebrities and friends, with a highlight being able to meet with Aliko Dangote

on the night, as I was surprised by his approachable nature and humbling spirit.

Sometimes you can almost feel people that put God first. I felt this connection with this man.

I have to thank Alex Akwaeze, our Operations Manager, who has spent 4 years sowing the seed of positivity and creating the right connections within mineral, agriculture, education and government bodies.

I hope you enjoy this edition of Phoenix Nigeria, and if you have any stories of your own, please do get in touch via our newsdesk.

Contents

Q1 2018

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Where Sold

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The Decoration

of

God’s General Remembering the Former VP of Nigeria Dr Alex Ekwueme

Your FREE ● Bu

siness ● Comm

3 - Editors Note 6-7 - Remembering Former Vice President of Nigeria, Dr Alex Ekwueme

18-20 - His Imperial Majesty’s Visit to Birmingham 21 - Venezuela President Calls for Stronger Nigerian Ties

8-10 - Connecting Communities with UNIWA and the Nigeria HC

23 - Cyrille Regis Special Feature

11 - John Heavens Ministry International

32-33 - Chief Uzo Owunne is Man About Business

12-13 -Focus on Disability Foundation

34-35 - The 2022 Commonwealth Games go to Birmingham!

14-17 - The Decoration of God’s General

36-37 - Nigeria Women Making History in Pyeongchang

erce ● Positive

Nigeria HC Welcomed to Birmingham with UNIWA News Magazine

38-39 - Learning has no age limit!

37 - Inauguration of National Transition Government Youth Council of Nigeria 42-43 - Nigeria Lead on the African Billionaire List 44 - Azuza Street 46 - Holiday And Travel 48-49 - Anthony Joshua 50 - Technology

Contact Us Published by: TPN Media Limited UK

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Phoenix Nigeria

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Disclaimer The views and promises of advertisers and companies featured in Phoenix Nigeria do not necessarily reflect the views of or endorsement by Phoenix Nigeria or TPN Media.

BUSINESS

Remembering former Vice President of Nigeria,

Dr Alex Ekwueme

J

anuary 14th saw the first Memorial and Service of Songs for the late Dr Alex Ifeanyichukwu Ekwueme, GCON (Ide of the Oko Kingdom) and former Vice President of Nigeria took place at The Father’s House International church, London.

This Inter-faith, Inter-denominational event was attended by Nigerians from across the Diaspora and communities in the UK. Celebrated by the Reverend Rex Chosen, the audience were regaled with the late Doctor's exploits across Humanitarian services, Business and Politics.

He said "The late Vice President Ekwueme without any blemish served his country during his time and that’s one of the reasons every

Nigerian who knew him is mourning his passing to the great beyond."

Chief Mike Ndukwe and The Council of Igbo Communities (UK) organised this first of many services for Dr Ekwueme, with the next beingThe Family Memorial Service on Saturday 27th January, 2018 at St Marylebone Parish Church, London.

Dignitaries and special guests included Special Guest of Honour Ambassador Bamanga Tukur CON, COM represented by Dr Alistair Soyode, CEO of BEN TV, Mr Paul Ekwueme representing the family of the late Dr Alex Ifeanyichukwu Ekwueme, GCON (Ide of the Oko Kingdom), and Ambassador Uzo Owunne, CEO of INGO Ltd. among others.

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Connecting Communities I

t was a joyful day, despite the inclement weather on Saturday 17th March as Ambassador George Adesola Oguntade, CFE, CON, High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the United Kingdom and his wife Modupeola Adewemimo arrived in Birmingham to join the United Nigeria Welfare Association at its Annual Stake-

holders Dinner Meeting.

UNIWA is the Umbrella body for Nigerian Associations in the West Midlands, and membership is open to all Nigerians living in Birmingham, Solihull and the Black Country, and they also welcomed the Minister and Head of Section for Consular Education and Welfare, Mr Emmanuel Namah The Editor In Chief of The Phoenix Newspaper was on

hand to personally welcome the High Commissioner to Birmingham, and to present him with copies of The Phoenix Newspaper, Phoenix Nigeria and Peepoo, showcasing the newspaper’s 7th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Awards which he was unfortunately unable to attend.

In his welcoming speech, UNIWA President Dr Toye Ajeigbe spoke of the discord within the Nigerian commu-

nity. Where there should be one mass of people showing solidarity and working together instead there are splintered groups of Yoruba, Igbo, and others, taking what they need for themselves and not looking to better the Nigerian Diaspora as a whole.

He urged the gathered businesspeople, doctors, religious leaders and community leaders to see past their differences and work together to create a better future for Nigerians in the UK. His Excellency spoke to the group about his tenure in office so far, including his intention at a local level to increase biometric data collection to get a full and proper count of the Nigerian Diaspora in the UK. “I am worried over the absence of accurate statistics about the Nigerian Community in the UK.” He was also proud to announce that he is in the process of revamping the Nigerian High Commission website “to ensure that it is up to date and user friendly” while also looking to utilise social media platforms to ensure faster and easier engagement with Nigerians across the UK. The High Commissioner was met with rapturous applause as he announced that for the first time, Nigerian passports will be valid for 10 years, up from 5 years currently.

As the High Commissioner had only celebrated his 78th Birthday the week before, UNIWA presented him with a delicious birthday cake as the group celebrated with him.

J

JOHN HEAVENS MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL

ohn Heavens Ministry International marks their one year anniversary in the service of God with lots of humanitarian services to the under privileged in the society; in the area of medical services and women empowerment to ease the suffering that most Nigerians are confronted with.

Looking at Dr. John Kingsley, the president of the ministry, one gets the impression of a quietly deliberative man, one with a charismatic and compelling personality.

But he simply sees himself as a worshipper, a proclaimer of God’s word through inspirational songs.

His ministry commenced

officially on the 1st August, 2016, with a calling like that of prophet Jeremiah in the bible, whom God called from birth. He said he’s been called for the worship ministry long before meeting his wife in 2008.

Dr. John Kingsley said, “I’m not a song writer. I hear songs and sing them. A song writer looks around at circumstances and writes his songs. I receive inspiration from God.” He noted that their mission is to undertake a grand education and revival using a ministry that loves to share the good news through worship.

According to Dr. Kingsley, “Prayer benefits man while worship benefits God. Wor-

ship is what is done in heaven so it is the only thing that will remain.”

This concept was further explained by Mrs. Kingsley who said, “Worship is God’s own kind of food. Here, we’re not asking God for anything but telling God we love him and telling him how beautiful and wonderful he is in songs.

“More attention should be paid to worship because God is looking for people to worship him.”

In this year’s anniversary celebration, over one hundred and fifty beneficiaries received comprehensive eye examination with free glasses and medication, from John Heavens Ministry International.

Mrs. Gloria Mbanefo a beneficiary and Deaconess Jenifer Jato thanked the ministry for demonstrating such love to the under privileged and wished other organizations could emulate these kinds of humanitarian services.

Women who benefited from the women empowerment program in areas of skill acquisition are full of praises and thanks to God for using John Heavens Ministry International to meet their needs.

Mrs. Blessing Nuhu is optimistic that after the soap making instruction, she would be able to support her family and take care of her children better.

In his closing remarks, Dr. John Kingsley noted that as part of this year’s anniver-

sary celebration, Valentine’s Day gifts were given to hospitals and patients as well as payment of school fees for under-privileged children, though on a small scale at the moment, it’s hoped these will increase as the ministry progresses.

Mr. Joseph Gabriel, a pioneer member of the ministry, summed the day up by thanking God for directing and upholding the ministry for the past year, praying that John Heavens ministry would be well known all over the world as a prophetic worship ministry that brings God’s message to all households worldwide. www. johnheavenspropheticworshipministry.com Phone: +234-8163723607

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MY WEDDING DAY

Already in place as ‘THE’ wedding of the year, in Africa, a stunningly beautiful Fatima Dangote was the ‘Belle of the Ball’ as she tied the knot with new husband, Jamil Abubakar, in a star-studded, lavish ceremony, in Kano, Nigeria.

With a guest-list which read like a who’s-who of African – and the wider world’s – greatest (each one receiving a their own top-end Rolex watch in their personal gift bag) and

most powerful, this was a wedding, though formal in stature, would go down as one of the most memorable occasions in the country’s history as it was the perfect opportunity for all to ‘let their hair down’ and just be part of what the three-day extravaganza for all to be part of.

Its worldwide appeal highlighted with the presence of Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, Senate President Bukola Saraki,

My

g n i d d e W Day

His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Senator for Osun West, Ademola Adeleke, as well as Microsoft magnate, Bill Gates, many state governors and members of the National Assembly and many more who witnessed the bestowal of billionaire Aliko Dangote’s daughter, Fatima, to pilot, Jamil, who is the son of former Inspector General of Police, Retired I.G Abubakar.

In a bright, exciting and fulfilling atmosphere - which generated

throughout the whole of Kano - it was Senator Adeleke who made his own headlines as he took to the dance floor, to lead a merry dance, the likes of which was a sight to behold – truly outstanding!

So, as Nigeria, neh, the world celebrated the nuptials of Fatima and Jamil, we salute you, Senator Adeleke, for show your entertaining, uniquely creative dance-side – PRICELESS!!!

The Decoration of

God’s General

A

ll roads lead to Ile Ife on 9th February, to the Ooni’s Palace for the decoration of Reverend Mother Esther Ajayi, founder and General Overseer of Love of Christ Generation Church Int’l and founder of the Esther Ajayi Foundation Int’l, as Chaplain General and awarding of an honorary doctorate.

The decoration attracted the World Commandant General Executive Chaplain of Mission for Africa Chaplaincy Corps, MACCORPS Mississippi USA, all the way from USA. The event witnessed a high turnout of dignitaries from all walks of life. The commission, whose mandate is to propagate the gospel of Christ, is made up, of General Overseers and workers in the church, whose life must be attested by their senior pastors.

It is a nondenominational outfit that bring the body of Christ together with the sole aim of depopulating the kingdom of darkens through evangelism, mission visitation, and community projects through which life can be affected and attracted for Christ, founded by Apostle Edward Lee Taylor from the United States of America.

The African Commandant General is Chap Gen. T. Livingstone Ambek who oversees the affairs in Africa and the Nigerian Commandant general is Chap Gen. Paul Monday Chom.

The entire event was a series

of activities tagged the gathering of the victorious, with a courtesy call to the palace of the Ooni of Ile Ife by members of C & S drawn from all part of the country, members of Mission for Africa Chaplaincy Corps and well-wishers.

The Ooni, who opened the door to his palace and welcomed everybody, praised Reverend Mother Esther Ajayi, for her tireless efforts in putting smiles to the face of the less privileged ones in society.

He further wished everyone a happy stay.

The World Commandant noted that Mother Esther has demonstrated a Christ-like life style, who takes delight in affecting positively to the lives of those she come across with dear needs.

He called on Christians in and around Africa to come together in unity for the propagation of the work of God. He stressed that Christians all over the world have a mandate for soul winning and enjoined all in this great mandate.

The event which came to an end with a

joint Sunday service featuring renowned Christian artist who ministered in songs, Chap Gen (Dr.).

Esther A. Ajayi in her message charged all C & S in and around the country to live up to expectation by following and practicing doctrines which are found in the bible.

She noted that peoples perception about white garment churches is a call to take critical look into practices which are not founded.

Stressing that her mission is to project the white garment church for people to know that the days where practices which are not biblical are over, noting that she grew in white garment church and encountered Christ in it as such will remain in it.

She stated she will not fail to expose anybody found wanting in this regard and finally called on all to live a righteous life where Christ will be seen in all that they do.

ROYAL VISIT ITINERARY

A Right Royal Visit to l His Imperial Majesty The Ooni of Ife and his Kings and Chiefs meets with Marcia McLaughlin, CEO and Founder of The Phoenix, as well as Nehemiah UCHA Leadership Team and Dr Beverly Lindsay OBE OD VLL

A

proud, yet humbled, Ms McLaughlin by his side – aided by TPN Media Chair, Dr Neslyn WatsonDruee - The Ooni would fire excitement and huge anticipation with his first visit, to Nehemiah UCHA, a retirement living scheme, in Aston.

Enabled by Dr Beverly Lindsay OBE OD VLL, the meeting at Nehemiah’s Plummers House shared best

practices of assisted living and retirement schemes which the Ooni stated would be good to take back to Ile-Ife to improve the situtation over there.

Following a showing of respect by his Kings and Chiefs, His Imperial Majesty heard about the history of the organisation from Jimmy Ogunshakin, Chairman of Nehemiah UCHA, and Llewellyn Graham, Chief Executive of Nehemiah UCHA and was in-

troduced to Plummer House Scheme Manager Beverley Ramhi before being taken on a tour of the assisted living.

“It was a real honour and very humbling indeed to have been included in His Imperial Majesty’s tour of the West Midlands – and it was our absolute pleasure to meet him and show him around Plummer House,” Llewellyn Graham, Chief Executive

of Nehemiah UCHA, says.

The Royal party was given a tour of Plummer House, one of seven retirement schemes and Nehemiah UCHA’s earliest founded scheme, built in 1991. The scheme underwent an extensive refurbishment programme in 2016, benefiting all 37 self-contained flats that house older people, aged 55 and over.

Building Links with

H

is impact took on a greater awareness when his entourage, led by the ever-present band of hearty musicians, marked his presence at Birmingham City Council.

It’s the 18th Anniversary of the ever-popular German Market, in Birmingham, and even the thousands of revellers there, and stall holders, stood to attention to greet the royal entourage.

“I feel blessed to be able to witness Royalty in our midst,” one on-looker said.

Explaining the present structure and future strategy of Nigeria, on a world stage, The Ooni said: “We must make provisions for a growing population with extensive amounts of money going towards our youth.”

On an eco-political stance, he went on: “With Birmingham being the centre for gold, in particular, and jewellery in general, the links between us two can be unending.

“We just have to remain transparent with our minerals and raw materials.”

Continuing, he said: “As the ‘Mirror of Africa,’ we have to be more proactive with Birmingham-based companies setting up in Nigeria – through trade missions and the likes.`` “With oil and gas already prominent in the country, we are in a position to open more commercial properties on a grander scale.

“After all, the largest diamond bolder in world history was found in the Yoruba kingdom and originally used to light up that country.

“Now we are looking to open strate-

l His Imperial Majesty at Birmingham Council House after meeting with The Lord Mayor Cllr Anne Underwood and Birmingham Commonwealth Association gic partnerships to work with us…not cuss a focal point to work from.” A An opportunity it was for His Royal abuse us, and also create exchange commitment endorsed by BirmingHighness to, as he did at his previous programmes that would be mutually ham Chamber of Commerce and visits, present a gift to Birmingham beneficial.”

Industry CEO, Jerry Blackett, who Lord Mayor, Councillor Anne Un“Connections with the commonhighlighted the city’s “big appetite derwood; a bronze embossed framed wealth is vital for all parties,” was the to explore new opportunities since figurine depicting the history of the Council’s reply. “It’s about what we Brexit.

Yoruba Kingdom in Nigeria and can deliver to you as well as what you “After all, when British people first worldwide. can to us. visited Nigeria the first people they “We are happy and willing to discame across were the Yoruba people.”

Rolls Out The Red Carpet For The Ooni

A

t Birmingham City University, in the presence of world renowned former cellist Julian Lloyd Webber, Principal of Birmingham Conservatoire, which is part of BCU, plus other dignitaries including; Satinder Kaur Taunque OBE DL, Dr Beverly Lindsey OBE OD VL, BCU chair, Keith Stokes-Smith (also chair of Birmingham Commonwealth Association), His Imperial Majesty was warmly received.

“Your Royal Highness, you exude love, harmony and hope,” said Dr Neslyn. “And TPN Media gives value to connecting communities as Marcia continues to do wonders as she continues to be a mountain in all our communities.

The Ooni’s visit would provide an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the large number students of Nigerian/African descent at the seat of learning.

“Birmingham City University is

testimony of the multicultural diversity of the city as a whole,” he said.

“It’s an honour to be here at BCU. I thank the Vice-Chancellor for taking his time to welcome all of us to this beautiful University. It’s a great honour and we will not forget what you done for us.

We are proud to be associated with this University and to be in the thoughts and feelings of your students who are potential leaders of our great country of Nigeria and the entire Black race.”

Birmingham City University ViceChancellor, Professor Philip Plowden, said: “Our Nigerian scholars are integral to our diversity and success going forward.

“The visit by His Imperial Majesty is a chance for us to reflect on our collective past, present and future, and celebrate the success of our Nigerian students, both here and in their home country.

“I hope this visit will mark the be-

ginning of even more fruitful partnerships between Birmingham City University and Nigeria, and the Yoruba people in particular.”

Speeches were also given by Oluwadamilola Adebambo, President of the Nigerian Society at Birmingham City University Students’ Union (BCSU) and Akin Babasanya, University alumnus and President of the Yoruba Descendants in the Midlands.

It is thought there are almost 100,000 Yoruba people currently living in the UK. His Imperial Majesty spoke of the historic significance of Africa and appealed for global unity. “Africa is the next frontier if the entire world. It is a continent that everyone has a stake in.

All of humanity has a stake in it.

“Everyone has a cot there, that’s where the entire history of mankind began,” he said. “We belong to one big happy family and that’s what we should preach.”

Following his speech, the Vice-

Chancellor announced, that in the Ooni’s honour, a series of partial scholarships would be made available to prospective Yoruba students commencing their studies in 2018 at Birmingham City University.

The scholarship, based on merit, was further marked by the exchange of a commemorative plate from the Vice-Chancellor to His Imperial Majesty.

The event at Birmingham City University concluded with a performance from a Nigerian student at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

Classical singer John Eclou from Edo State was accompanied by pianist postgraduate Stefanos Politsakis before gifts were exchanged on stage.

“I hope today will mark the beginning of even more fruitful partnerships between Birmingham City University and Nigeria, and the Yoruba people in particular,” Professor Plowden said.

Making A Spiritual Connection at the

O

n the morning of the 25th November, mere hours before he was to attend The Phoenix Newspaper 7th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation at the ICC, His Imperial Majesty, The Ooni of Ife arrived at the Nishkam Centre on Soho Road.

With a congregation standing waiting in white for the King, he was received by Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh OBE KSG, Chairman of the centre.

Presented with flowers, signifying love and warm welcome, he was ushered into the Gurdwara where he was shown around, offering flowers and prayers at various points within the Gurdwara.

The Ooni offered and presented a

flower to the center as a sign of love and peace in return.

It was a remarkable visit for His Imperial Majesty as the centre was well built and decorated with gold. The Nishkam Centre is a Sikh faith-led organization working for the benefit of all communities.

The organisation is known for its mission to enrich mundane life through the practice and promotion of the Sikh values which is earning an honest living, sharing and active volunteering that are embedded in their spiritual and Dharmic heritage.

The Ooni and his entourage enjoyed Langar, the sharing of food that is available to everyone at the Gurdwara every day regardless of status, religion or race.

His Imperial Majesty was later entertained with a warm reception to show appreciation of his visit to Nishkam Centre.

He was presented with various gifts

Yoruba Descendants Midlands

A

l His Imperial Majesty meets with members of the Yoruba Descendants Midlands group.

s part of The Phoenix Newspaper’s itinerary for His Imperial Majesty The Ooni of Ile Ife, the King visited a Yoruba Descendants Midlands gathering in Birmingham.

Meeting with the members of

YDM, lead by Mr Stephen Akin Babasanya, the Ooni felt at ease and comfortable as he laughed and jokes, speaking the Yoruba language all the way.

It was a lovely slice of home for His Imperial Majesty, before retiring back to his hotel with his hosts, TPN Media and his

entourage of Kings and Chiefs.

In attendance were John Okundaye of Jecom and Co Accountants, and Olusegun Dosumu, Professor at Newman University and Doctoral Researcher at Birmingham City University.

in recognitions of his visit and His Imperial Majesty in a swift reaction made a presentation to the Centre itself for their kind gesture done to him and his entourage.

l Nigerian Ambassador, Amb. Martin Cobham, presented his ‘Letters of Credence’ in Caracas,Venezuelan president, Nicolas Maduro

Venezuela President, Maduro, Calling for Stronger Ties with Nigeria

A

s the newly-appointed Nigerian Ambassador, Amb. Martin Cobham, presented his ‘Letters of Credence’ in Caracas, Venezuelan president, Nicolas Maduro, immediately called for stronger bilateral ties between the West African republic and South American country - also calling for sustained interaction with Africa.

With Maduro calling for the opening of new vistas in areas of mutual benefits for the development of the two countries, Cobham, in response, conveyed greetings from Nigerian presi-

dent, Muhammadu Buhari, to Maduro, with his envoy pledging to collaborate with the relevant officials of the country to sustain the existing bilateral ties and further deepen partnerships as spelt out in various MOUs and Agreements between the two countries.

In earnest, he also solicited for supports from his fellow-Commonwealth host to enable him to succeed in assignment.

Cobham, served as Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to South Africa.

Venezuela established diplomatic relations with Nigeria in 1965.

HOLIDAY SPOTLIGHT: AND CYRILLE TRAVELREGIS

22

There’s Only 1 Cyrille Regis

By Steve Williams

T

hey chanted it in the ‘Brummie’ Road End, at The Hawthornes; ‘One Cyrille Regis, There’s only one Cyrille Regis, One Cyrille Regis, There’s only one Cyrille Regis.’ And, to the world of football and wider afield, there really was only 1 Cyrille Regis.

In the world of football he was a ‘soldier’ who fought the tyranny of the most inhumane forms of

abuse ever heard of on terraces up and down the country, yet, with the greatest form of bravery, determination and admiration, he somehow took it on the chin with immense dignity – whilst deep inside could only image what was stirring.

Black players were the rarest of rarities in years gone by. From Arthur Wharton, at the turn of the 19th century, to Leeds United’s Albert Johannessen and Gerry Francis in the 1960s and former West Ham favourite Clyde Best, they, along with far too few others were often treated as a novelty toy, for the purpose of ridicule, at best – at worst, a target of verbal, and where possible, physical – abuse by both sets of fans.

When Cyrille signed for West Bromwich Albion, in 1977, it proved to be the dawning of a new world

for young boys who were kicking around a football out in the streets up and down the country.

When Ron Atkinson arrived at The Hawthorns he brought rightback, Brendon Batson along with him before then signing the young whizz-kid, Laurie Cunningham, from Leyton Orient. That signing proved historical.

For probably the first time in English football there would be three Black players in the same team.

This was the late 1970’s. Black and Asian families were settling in the UK. There numbers were small – their living quite concentrated in locality.

With Enoch Powell’s ‘rivers of blood’ speech resonating, the National Front led the political undercurrent that would be a ‘figure-

head’ for the open racism that was rife back then. And football was the perfect vehicle to let it be known.

A pioneer for Black footballers in the UK, alongside the late Cunningham and Brendon, the trio was nicknamed the ‘Three Degrees’ by Atkinson.

And when the American superstars, who originated the name (The Three Degrees) were in town, Ron couldn’t miss the opportunity. The iconic ‘2 Three Degrees’ picture a unique statement of the time.

But, away from one of the rare moments of positive, the match-day realities were often too extreme.

Black players were not only tackling opposing players, they had to tackle the verbal abuse, not only from the terraces, but on the field of play too.

23

24

They then had to ‘tackle’ the monkey chants followed by bananas being thrown on the pitch.

You couldn’t image such a thing happened, but it did – with alarming regularity. But the ‘Big Man’ was the bigger man and took it all in his stride.

In fact, whilst playing for Albion, a banana was thrown at him as he went up for a corner.

After rising like a phoenix, and scoring with one of his trademark ‘bullet’ headers, he’d pick up the projectile and ‘mock eat’ it in front of the baying hordes before then just tossing it to the side of the pitch out of harm’s way – PRICELESS! Born in French Guyana, in 1958, he opted to play for England, making five appearances for the Three Lions.

He scored 112 goals in 297 appearances for West Bromwich Albion before joining Coventry City for £250,000 in 1984 where, in the dramatic 1987 FA Cup Final, against the mighty Tottenham Hotspur, the under-dog Sky Blues came out winners 3-2.

Appointed an MBE in 2008, Regis, who also played for Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers, returned to West Brom as a coach.

But, having faced, and overcame open racism on the pitch, the institutional form became more apparent in his eyes as he would be overlooked for vacant mangers positions, whilst a lesser-qualified

white ex-player, with now coaching qualifications might get ‘railroaded’ into the hot seat.

To which, he then becoming a football agent instead and looked after the interests of players, from all League Divisions, with the great advantage of his vast experience to go by.

A man of great mental strength, his physical strength, to the end, was one of an eternal Adonis – lean, tight and bulging with solid muscle, he looked the perfect centre forward ideal for any Premier League side today, so his passing was harder to fathom.

Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand paid tribute to “a great man who helped to set the foundations for others. He will always be remembered.”

A gentle man away from football, such was his threat on the field, particularly when subjected to heavy physical, and too often racial, attentions from opponents, that opposing managers used to specifically instruct their players not to upset him or annoy him in any way as the results could be devastating. In full flight, Regis was a magnificent sight.

Laurie Cunningham died in a car crash in Spain in 1989 which changed Cyrille more than he probably thought it would.

He turned to God ‘for answers as to why it happened,’ before becoming a devout born again

Christian and giving his soul to The Lord.

Graham Daniels, the General Director at Christians in Sport said that Regis will be remembered as a “humble man” and an “ambassador for Christ.”

“He shared influence as a Christian at the highest level of football and a role model to hundreds of professionals and thousands of young people, who wanted to stand for Christ, but hadn’t had a role model.”

PFA Trustee Garth Crooks OBE paid his own tribute to him. The former Spurs and England forward said: “Cyrille Regis suffered like we all did from racism in those days but he never allowed it to diminish him. He was a giant both on and off the field and literally fed off the abuse.

“He would chuckle at the thought of the racist knuckle heads who thought that their abuse would somehow put him off his game.

They couldn’t have been further from the truth.”

Former Albion, Wigan and Blackburn player, Jason Roberts, who is Regis’ nephew, once described his uncle as; “twice the player I was, twice better looking, and he always looked half my age.”

I look back at Uncle Cyrille and have to say that he was lost to the game in terms of coaching, management or administration.”

The Regis family wrote on Twit-

ter: ‘Thank you for the love & support you have shown us.

Every comment & tribute is so precious to us & we will be sure to read every one of them.

We appreciate the calls & messages, we ask that you bear with us whilst we try to come to terms with losing Cyrille. - The Regis Family x’ Regis, 59, Cunningham and Batson are due to be honoured with a 7.6ft statue, called ‘The Celebration,’ in West Bromwich. Meant to be unveiled in the summer of 2014 to coincide with the 25th anniversary of Cunningham’s death, a funding shortfall of £50,000 is the given reason for the four year delay. There are now calls for the unveiling to be brought forward.

Presently, the unfinished sculpture lies in a foundry in London.

There really was only ONE Cyrille Regis!

And for the sake of a Premier League youth team player’s weekly wage his legacy must stand gleaming at the place he called his ‘home,’ The Hawthorns.

There is a crowdfunding website at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/celebration-statue looking to raise the money required to make the statue a reality.

Cyrille is a knight of the people. A humanitarian who stood for sound values and one that deserves a knighthood. Cyrille is one of the truly deserving icons of these accolades.

25

My Personal tribute to Cyrille Regis T

he announcement of the death of Cyrille Regis MBE sent shockwaves throughout communities of all race colour and creed, you did not have to be a football fan to be touched by this devastating

news.

When I heard the news I stood motionless with a dropped jaw for what seemed like an eternity, it was indeed a very sad day.

Cyrille was indeed a man for all seasons, championing the cause of

l Dr Beverly Lindsay OBE OD Vice Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands

26

his community and giving faithfully of his time.

A man of faith, he was a person that saw the work of the Almighty in every task he did.

Whilst many will remember Mr. Cyrille Regis MBE as a Pioneering Footballer, that championed the cause that allowed many black footballers to stand shoulder to shoulder with their team mates and receiving the roaring praise of fans, his greatest accolade is for his work with youths and young adults, transforming lives in a positive manner that brings unity and willingness to give back to their communities.

Cyrille demonstrated what is good of British society in its ability to remove boundaries, elevate those with talent and to break down prejudices.

Death can never take a good man away, for in the hearts of the people

he inspired, the legacy remains and will continue throughout generations.

Cyrille was a man who chose a life of selflessness and generosity and he will never be forgotten.

For his family, friends and many others, his memory will be a star that will continue to shine, inspiring others to always give of their best.

Cyrille you will be sadly missed, a beacon that others will find much comfort in, knowing that you once stood and played on this great global stage.

Now, the angels rejoice as a good soul has finally made its way home!

My sincere sympathy to you and your family.

Dr. Beverly Lindsay OBE, OD, Vice Lord-lieutenant of the West Midlands Chairman Associations of Jamaican Nationals

Cyrille Regis: My Story

By Paul Ramsey

H

aving worked in West Bromwich for the last 18 years as a business man I had the pleasure of meeting Cyrille personally for the first time in 2001.

In unfortunate circumstances a few years ago I was invited to attend a business meeting where he, Brendon Baston and a handful of select business people, board directors of West Bromwich Football Club and councillors from Sandwell Council were invited to a presentation being hosted at Sandwell Council house in Oldbury.

The purpose of this gathering was to sell us the opportunity to buy into the statue project and to help raise the finances required to commission and fund the structure of the Celebration Statue.

We were shown a smaller scale, brass prototype. Only a limited amount of these were made and were being offered at a price that would be financial income and support to fund the main work of art.

This statue is an awesome sculpture of the so called ‘Three Degrees’ of West Bromwich Albion.

The presentation by a very humble Cyrille was heartfelt and touching that such a servant to a founder member of the football league such as West Bromwich Albion had taken a stance that money was not available through reasons that only they could explain.

In my humble opinion what this guy had done to raise the profile of WBA a price could not be put on it.

It’s not to be overlooked that the club were the first in the country to field 3 black players which at the time was a very dilligent move by them as racism from the terraces at this time was rife.

This was by no means a political move but for pure footballing reasons Regis, Batson and Cunning-

ham were simply the best.

Cyrille had a surprise for us all in a small brown Jiffy bag. He pulled from it a large bullet. This had been posted to him by a racist prior to his debut for the England national team in February 1982.

He had been warned through hate mail that if he dared to put on an England shirt and step onto the hallowed turf of Wembley he would be shot.

Most men would have feared for their lives...not Cyrille he was not to be deterred.

He dared to follow black players before him to wear the shirt namely

Viv Anderson his neighbour plying his trade at Nottingham Forest and his fellow team mate Laurie Cunningham.

This was either stupidity or courageousness at the most high, the latter most appropriate for this colossal lion heart.

Cyrille vowed to place this bullet he had in his possession under the base of this statue once erected as a way of burying the past and a reminder of how far he had come in the English game.

He unfortunately never lived to see this statue completed. This is testament to the name who put the love of the game before his life.

He could have been shot at anytime as promised by a disturbed coward.

He was the walking dead in so many respects but he did it so he could unbeknown to him pave the way for other up and coming black footballers some 25 years later.

What a man.

Rest in eternal peace Cyrille.

Paul Ramsey.

McDonald’s Franchisee

Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, Emir of Kano C

rowned in 2014, the Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Emir of Kano, carries his worldwide-respected reputation with the greatest repost, dignity and humility which has seen many of the world’s great movers-and-shakers at one in his company – or around the ‘top table.’

A successful career banker

by way of profession, the multi award winning, multi-talented former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria before serving as the highly respected Islamic scholar he is today.

Born into the Fulani Torobe clan of Kano, the grandson of Sir Muhammadu Sanusi I (The 11th Fulani Emir of Kano), he is the direct son of Ambassador Aminu Sanusi, a career diplomat and technocrat

who served as the Nigerian Ambassador to Belgium, China and Canada, before later serving as the Permanent Secretary of Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

His global appeal being such that he was listed in TIMES Magazine’s100 list of Most Influential People of 2011, awarded a Special GIFA award at the third Global Islamic Finance Awards held in Dubai in 2013 and the Global

Leadership in Islamic Finance Award 2015 by Global Islamic Finance Awards.

Leader of the Tijaniyya Sufi order, historically the second most important Muslim position in Nigeria after the Sultan of Sokoto, the 14th Emir of Kano is also the leader of the more populous Qadiriyya sufi order.

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And the Host for the 2022 Common

BIRMINGH I

t was the perfect Christmas present as Birmingham was confirmed as the host city for the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The only city standing with a bid submitted to the Commonwealth Games Federation CGF president, Louise Martin, confirmed the decision saying: “We warmly congratulate Birmingham on the announcement. With its rich history, cultural diversity, youthful dynamism and ambitious spirit, it embodies all that we cherish about the Commonwealth."

Despite a bidding process beset with problems, with the South African city of Durban originally awarded the Games in 2015 be-

34

fore being stripped of the event because it did not meet the CGF criteria, the UK’s second city is set to host the most expensive sports event in Britain since the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

The success in securing a major global sporting event has been a long time coming for the city after decades of failure, but now the decision means that there will not only be 11 days of sport in the summer of 2022 but major investment in sports venues, transport, housing and jobs over the next few years.

In making the announcement, in front of pupils from Arena Academy in Great Barr, in Sandwell, Ms. Martin said: “You have to earn the right and Bir-

mingham has earned it.”

West Midlands Mayor Andy Street added: “The successful bid depended entirely on the whole of the West Midlands region getting behind it and recognising the benefits it will bring.

These Games will provide the opportunity to not only see world-class sport but bring economic and social benefits.

“Along with Coventry winning the ‘City of Culture’ vote for 2021, it’s a great period to showcase a resurgent, diverse and confident West Midlands to the world.”

Birmingham City Council leader, Ian Ward, said: “The hard work begins now and we all have just four-and-a-half years to de-

liver an unforgettable Games that will shape the future of our city, our region and our people.

“The vast majority of the Games venues are in place,” said Martin “and with extensive experience in the UK of hosting successful major events – including Manchester 2002, London 2012 and Glasgow 2014 – the CGF looks forward to a truly spectacular Games that delivers not only for the 2.4 billion citizens across the Commonwealth but the wider world, too.

“This is great for Birmingham, global Britain and our resurgent Commonwealth Sports Movement.”

nwealth Games is...

HAM

Nigeria Women Making History in Pyeongchang 36

SPORT

Nigeria Women Making History in Pyeongchang

Nigeria's women's bobsleigh team will make history in Pyeongchang as the first African sled to compete at the Winter Olympics.

in South Korea, and Simidele will have the added honour as she will also be flying the country’s nation's flag in the women's skeleton.

Seun Adigun, Ngozi Onwumere, and Akuoma Omeoga hit the qualifying standard in November but needed to maintain their world ranking until January 14.

All three bobsledders were once track and field athletes before switching to winter sports, with Adigun competing in the 100m hurdles at the London 2012 Olympics and she will pilot the Nigerian sled in south east Asia with either Onwumere or Omeoga to be selected

Nigeria will be represented for the first time at the Winter Olympics,

as brakewoman.

She said: "It's surreal. One of the things that you aspire to is to have a podium spot with respect for the process and respect for the learning curve of what it is that we're actually doing."

Adeagbo, 36, only took up skeleton four months ago but will compete in Pyeongchang after finishing third in her two races at the recent

North American Cup in Lake Placid, New York.

The Canadian-born slider - a former triple and long jumper - first expressed an interest in bobsleigh but was encouraged to try skeleton instead.

37

Learning has no age limit!

T

he convocation center of the National Open University Abuja, witnessed the who is who in Nigeria on the 20th of January 2018, as it celebrate its 7th convocation ceremony.

Established in 1983, and the biggest in West Africa, with high class learning facilities to meet with modern international standard, the institution recorded the highest number of graduands with a total number of 14,769.

From across the various disciplines offered, under the leadership of the vice chancellor Professor Abdalla Uba Adamu, the students who are drawn from various study centres could not contain their joy for being graduating mates of former president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.

In a key note address from the chancellor and the vice chancellor of the university, they thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for supporting the university, which is what had made the days events a great success.

They both noted that the university is for the first time recording the first graduating Ph.D. student in person of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.

The former president has demonstrated that there is no age limit to education and as such urged all Nigerians to take advantage of this noble opportunity and acquire education as it stands to be the cheapest in the country.

NOUN have set a high standard for the institution which is what has earned it the approval of the NUC,

a body that regulates the university system in Nigeria.

The president humbly represented

by Prof Abdulrashid Garba, noted that part of the essence of open university is to help reduce the number of people who were not able to secure admission into the conventional university.

The government support in ensuring the vision for establishing the institution is attained and continued to further congratulated the graduating students and most importantly the former president for his success in obtaining a PH.D degree from the institution.

He noted that graduating from the university will be accorded the same opportunity with those of their counterparts from conventional institutions.

In a similar note, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, thanked his departmental head, fellow students who are now graduates and all that have everything to do with his study especially his supervisors who are firm and strict but have made his learning period a successful one.

He noted that he never required nor wanted any special attention but should be allowed to pass through the academic system like any other student.

He said his purpose of embarking on the program was not to get engaged with the certificate but rather more knowledgeable and to show to the public and the world that education has no age limit, stating that open university is more flexible and cheaper.

He stressed that should his services be required at any time based on

his specialization he would not hesitate to use it as part of community and society development efforts, calling on the authority to give more support to the university.

In a similar vein the Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Henry Dickson, who came with teams of entourage to grace the occasion, noted that he is highly delighted with the leadership style of the former president stating that with what he has witnessed, he will have no choice than to enroll as a student after his tenure

as Governor.

He then called on the university to count on him to support the institution at any time and called on the federal Government to give more support as well.

The vice chancellors from various universities across the country who were also present, also congratulated the university.

THE OLOJO EDUCATION FESTIVAL

THE OLOJO FESTIVAL

Inauguration Of National Transition Government Youth Council Of Nigeria

T

he youth as they say, are the future leaders of the nation, but this cannot be where there is no peace among the youth.

They need to be united in other to achieve an expected mandate. The honorable Minister for Youth and Sports, Barrister Solomon Selcap Dalung, has with his good office set the ball rolling by providing the enabling environment by which the youth can positively make an impact in the Nigeria unity and the economy at large.

Of course the role played by the

40

chairman of the board of trustees of the council, AMB (DR.) Dickson A. O Akoh, in making this memorable process see the light of the day is one that is highly applauded.

The 23rd of January will remain a memorable day in the history of the NYC of Nigeria, as they witnessed another vibrant leadership selected from across the geo political zone of the country.

The trustee chairman AMB Dr. Dickons A. O. Akoh in his opening speech thanked the minister for standing by the council in all ramification, most especially in the peace being experienced today.

He remarked that the council is a body established to cater for the welfare of all Nigerian youths and as such calls on all vibrant and eligible youth to join and make a remarkable contribution to the council.

He also noted that individual registration is not allowed, stressing that the council is more stronger than ever before.

He further advised the newly elected officers of the council to see the appointment as opportunity to serve and not to enrich oneself, admonishing all those seeking elective position to follow the laid down constitutional guidelines.

In a similar vein, the honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Barrister Solomon Selcap Dalung, noted that his ministry is responsible for the overseeing of the NYCN, and assured the council of his maximum support.

He noted that the youth must not allow themself to be used by any politician for selfish reason, as he will not entertain such, calling on all the newly elected officers to stand up to the expectations of them and play according to the constitution He also admonished the newly inaugurated executives not to allow them self to be used by any politician against the constitution of the council, as he will not hesitate to ask the relevant law agency to do the needful, noting that they have only six months grace to work positively as expected.

He said he would expect to see the historic flag being shown today fly higher, calling on all who have nothing to do with the youth to please give them a chance.

Other key speakers at the events congratulated the newly elected officers and assured them of their support and reminded them that much is expected of them; as such they should all be on their feet and follow the constitution for better and efficient performance. The event was also graced by cultural dancers.

YOUTH neWS

Jonathan First African Leader to Receive MLK Human Rights Award F

ormer President Goodluck Jonathan was awarded in the US on Thursday 2016 for his leadership in human rights in Africa’s most populous nation, Nigeria.

Awarded in recognition of his leadership in ‘human rights, social justice and universal fight for freedom,’ in 2016 former Nigerian president, Goodluck Jonathan, became the first ever African leader to be so honoured by the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, founded by the late American human rights activist, Martin Luther King Jr. “I thank Dr. Charles Steele Jr, president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, and the executive of the SCLC for honoring me,” he said at the time.

“By this award, I am further inspired to continue to work for the advancement of democracy, peace and progress in Nigeria and Africa.”

In the letter sent to Jonathan in 2015, he was invited to join the biggest 500 companies in the world in their promotion of King’s human right ideals.

‘We invite you to join Fortune 500 CEO’s, private investors, financial leaders and government officials to connect and collaborate on this vision,’ the letter had read.

‘With the theme ‘Reimagining the Global Economy: Inclusive Economics’, the annual meeting is set against the backdrop of the Martin Luther King Holiday weekend and gathers leaders from government, community and the private sector to outline a vision for the modern global economy.’

AZUZA STREET

LEAVING AND CLEAVING WITH A PURPOSE

M

ark 6:6-8 “But from the beginning of creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together let no man put asunder.”

Marriage is a honourable institution; first to honour God and second to honour each other. To honour God in the sense that the institution was His creation; He was the one who saw that it was not good for man to be alone and decided to ‘Make’ a help suitable to him.

The man was not conscious of this need but because man was His creation He knew everything about his need. He indeed made the helper and brought her to him.

The response of the man was laced with affection, deeply emotional and appreciative of the beauty and goodness of God culminating in his readiness to leave and cleave.

44

The demand/cost of leaving and cleaving

When the Holy Spirit brings to bare the full realization and the cost of leaving and cleaving, the people involved in the relationship would realize “I am no longer my own.”

To say ” I am not my own is to have reached a high point in my spiritual stature. The true nature of that life or relationship in the context of leaving and cleaving is evidenced by the deliberate giving up of oneself to another person.

Who does the leaving?

This is a great mystery because judging by human point of view it would appear as if it is the woman who leaves.

In the African setting, special boxes are prepared including iron boxes for the woman. Some of the boxes are big and a bit expensive depending on the culture; some are of gold, silver or bronze stuffed by the husband-to-be with assorted clothing materials, shoes and other items on the engagement list.

In some cases it could be a set of

beautiful expensive set of boxes. Furthermore some items like traditional stool, arm chair or a plastic chair could be included in the engagement luggage of the bride-to-be indicating the lady’s seat has been removed from the family and will not be welcomed back, she has been released to the husband for life, no provision for divorce.

It’s in line with God’s standard and injunction “I hate divorce.”

The lady is aware of the implication of the chair and if would be emphasized at the engagement, “you could come on a visit but not as a wife with the new status.

Whatever it is, all these point to the readiness of the lady to ‘leave.’

From the activities above, it would appear as if it is the wife-to-be who leaves since the activities is centered around her including her readiness to change her name to the man’s name; she is delighted to bear the new name Mrs. Agnes Bone declaring the former name Miss Agnes

Bucket invalid.

In the real sense of it and in God’s mandate it is the man who leaves to cleave.

The Bible says “Therefore shall a man leave his father and mother and cleave to his wife.”

Leaving for a man is a difficult issue: my money, my car, my house, my mother’s food when not sure of the ability of the wife-to-be to cook a sumptuous meal like the mother particularly in these days of Indomine, spaghetti, cakes, fast food instead of fish pepper soup, Isi Ewu, Okazi and Akpu, amala and ewedu, fried rice, jollof rice, pounded yam/ yellow eba and edika ekon /white soup and with the general saying ‘The way to a man is the stomach.’

A reflection on all these by the man is like leaving the known for the unknown.

HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL

Get a Real Taste of the Caribbean

S

t. Lucia's Anse Chastanet resort has unveiled a new dining concept, featuring fresh sustainable seafood prepared with local Caribbean ingredients.

In keeping with Anse Chastanet's

46

eco-conscious philosophy, the resort's Treehouse restaurant is offering a new menu, titled Balawoo - a Creole name for a small fish - which embodies the sea-to-plate, farm-totable philosophy for which the legendary resort is known around the globe.

"Anse Chastanet is defining enthusiastic regional Caribbean

cooking, which uses fish caught by local fisherman, while simultaneously incorporating produce from our own Emerald Estate farm," said the resort's James Beard Awardwinning consulting chef, Allen Susser. "Each time we connect with our fishermen, the flavors present themselves in new and engaging ways."

Tapping into the resurgence of agricultural industries such as fishing, foraging and farming, Anse Chastanet's culinary team has partnered with local fishermen and farmers to plan a fresh, coastal menu that features fish and produce that are in season.

Balawoo menu offerings include a Caribbean seafood bar with fresh options such as Snapper Tiradito, Lionfish Ceviche and Wahoo Sashimi.

Other menu items include the whole fish of the day roasted in banana leaf. During lobster season, guests can also enjoy Grilled Local Spiny Lobster with Passion Fruit Butter or the World's Largest Shrimp.

“Our vision is to ensure that all seafood is acquired responsibly, with minimum negative impact on the oceans and on the ecosystems, and on the communities that depend upon them,” said Karolin Troubetzkoy, Anse Chastanet’s Executive Director.

The Anse Chastanet Treehouse is a two-level open-air restaurant overlooking lush tropical foliage and the Caribbean Sea.

MAN OF EXCELLENCE

48

Anthony Joshua to Rule the Ring for Years to Come C

urrently the unified world heavyweight champion, Anthony Oluwafemi Olaseni Joshua MBE is on the verge of consolidating his overwhelming collection when he defends his world heavyweight title against WBO champion Joseph Parker in Cardiff on March 31 having held the IBF title since 2016, and the WBA and IBO titles since 2017.

The fight, at the Principality Stadium, between British hero Joshua and New Zealand's unbeaten WBO champion Parker is sure to be one of the biggest money-spinners in UK boxing history, with the four heavyweight title belts on the line.

It is the second successive fight Joshua will take part in at the Principality Stadium, having defended his IBF, WBA and IBO titles against Carlos Takam there in October.

The Team GB gold medal winner at the London Olympics 2012, Joshua is aiming to see off the challenge of 26-year-old Parker before targeting a clash with American Deontay Wilder later in the year.

The aim is to win both fights to become the undisputed world heavyweight champion

by the end of 2018 – and, subsequently, seal his legacy in the history of the sport.

Born in Watford, Herthfordshire, in the UK, to a Nigerian mother and a British father of Nigerian and Irish descent, Joshua, nicknamed ‘AJ,’ grew up for some of his early years in Nigeria and returned to Britain some years late into his childhood.

Called ‘Femi’ by his friends, he excelled in sport, especially football and athletics, breaking the Year Nine 100m record with a time of 11.6 seconds.

But it was the noble art of boxing which would be his ‘calling.’

And, after winning a series of local and national titles, in 2010 his domestic success earned him a place on the GB Boxing team and later the same year he became British amateur champion at the GB Amateur Boxing Championships.

At the 2011 European Amateur Boxing Championships he beat Eric Berechlin and Cathal McMonagle but was stopped

by Romanian southpaw Mihai Nistor after receiving several standing counts. His amateur record was 40-3.

Going into the 2012 London

Olympics as a novice on the international scene, he battled through three tough rounds in his opening contest before meeting Italian, Roberto Cammarelle, in the closing bout.

After conceding the first two rounds, Joshua was announced winner via count-back and the new Olympic champion.

A bricklayer by trade, AJ – who still lives with his mother Yeta Odusanya in their north London flat - made his professional debut in 2013, under the Matchroom Sport promotional banner.

He won the British and Commonwealth champion, being previously undefeated Scottish boxer Gary Cornish, in 2015, won the IBF heavyweight title, against Charles Martin, in 2016, before a the vacant WBA 'super' title and unified bout against champion Wladimir Klitschko, at Wembley Stadium, in 2017.

A very ‘public’ sporting figure, Anthony’s personal life is, to all lengths, very private – his on-off girlfriend, Nicole Osbourne, recently giving birth to their baby son, Joseph Bayley Temiloluwa Prince Joshua.

Promoters Matchroom expect the Principality Stadium to be

an 80,000 sell-out for the first heavyweight unification fight to be staged on British shores, later this month and Anthony ‘AJ’ Joshua is expects to hold on to his belts still, for some time yet.

"What I've learned from previous experiences is that it will take more than any human to stop me,” said a belligerent Joshua.

"It's about making history now, we are always moving in that direction. And it's an honour to be able to unify these belts in front of my own home fans.”

“I am leaps and bounds ahead compared to the Klitschko and Takam fights,” he said. “I think speed is in power,” he added.

“When you’re heavy and you try to club these durable fighters, it’s not that simple just to go ‘boom’.

“Just because I’m the most ‘muscly’ man, it doesn’t mean I can just hit someone and knock them out. It’s the shot that you don’t see coming that knocks you out.

“When I’m quicker – bang, bang, bang – that’s when I can knock my opponents down a lot easier.”

TECHNOLOGY

NDDIS to host First Ever Communications Summit

N

igeria’s Communications and Technology minister, Barrister Adebayo Shittu will be arriving in the UK in April to chair the first ever Nigerian Communications and Technology Summit taking place in London on April 27 and 28.

Organised by the Nigerian Diaspora Direct Investment Summit (NDDIS), the event has been designed to expose Diasporans and other international investors to the opportunities available within Nigeria's communications and IT sector.

At the event, Mr Shittu along with Director Generals of agencies

under the Ministry of Communications and Technology and numerous professionals from the Nigerian telecommunications industry will outline areas of potential investment opportunities including mobile phone, Internet penetration and satellite television at this summit.

During an NDDIS Press conference in Abuja, earlier this year, Mr Shittu announced plans to tap into Nigerians living in the Diaspora in a bid to surpass the 30% penetration target set in the National Broadband Plan by the end of the year.

He stated that many Nigerians living abroad were endowed with both the technical expertise and the

financial resources to make a difference in the country’s Broadband and telecommunications architecture.

According to the minister, because of poor electricity supply in the country, newer technologies were required for Broadband connectivity in the rural communities where the customer base might not justify investment in multi-layer power generation by existing telecommunications operators.

He added that the London summit was being packaged to facilitate new investment commitments in the country by diasporans, with the aim of increasing Broadband connectiv-

ity, creating jobs and enhancing the economy.

Other speakers expected at this summit include governors from some of states in Nigeria, delegates from chambers of commerce, Mrs Abike Dabiri Erewa, the President’s Senior Special Adviser on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs, Lanre Osibona, the Presidents Senior Special Adviser on ICT, Chairmen of the Diaspora, Investment and Communications committees of the National assembly and delegates from several states from Nigeria.