June 2018 edition

ISSN:2588-8807

ISSN:1571-3466

Motto: Actuated towards Africa’s advancement

Volume 20. NO. 173 JUNE 2018

www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thenigerianvoice.com

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First complete African magazine published in The Netherlands since August 1999

FIFA World Cup begins in Russia

Mamoudou gets honorary citizenship for his heroism in France

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Contents

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The Voice Magazine Volume 20. No 173 June 2018 Edition

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54-59

ARTICLES

Page 4 - Editorial: So special to be royal in United Kingdom Page 7- Rwandan visa on arrival for all nations around the world Page 8- Feedback – A page for your letters and opinions Page 9 - Ghanaian & international groups kick off campaign to prosecute Yahya Jammeh Page 16 - Senatorial hopeful seeks collective efforts at curbing insecurity as the nation celebrates Democracy day Page 20 - The Gambia selling ex-leader’s luxury cars, planes amid mounting debt Pages 22 & 23 - Man Vastgoed: Offer to own Real Estate without stress Pages 26 & 27 - Face to Face with Vivienne Diamond: TV hostess on the spotlight 28 - Preparations for The Voice Achievers Award 2018.

Pages 34 & 35 - Why is Adams Oshiomhole so oppressive to the Benin People?

Pages 38 & 39 - Grand Emperor Hotel, Lekki Lagos: A place to be when in Nigeria Home away from home ……………..

Page 40 - 6 Children Rescued From Human Traffickers’ Den, 7 Missing 42 & 43 - Soul winning mission to Nigeria: hundreds give their lives to Jesus Christ Page 44 - OPINION: African currency dream will be a nightmare Page 45 - Ghana president says he will never oversee same-sex legalization Page 47 - ‘It’s a masterful piece of important ideas’.

Page 50 - Mugabe proudly rejects asylum offer from Equatorial Guinea President Page 51 - Swiss to decide on Sovereign Money initiative on 10th June 2018 Pages 52 & 53 - Kingship Assembly celebrates 7th year anniversary Pages 60- 61 - Pastor Elvis `Iruh birthday celebration in Nigeria.

SUBMISSIONS: Articles and photographs for publication are welcome but the publisher while exercising all reasonable ­caution cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage.

Please ensure that all materials are sent by e-mail to our official email.

For other inquiries, e-mail us as well at: info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Editorial

So special to be royal in United Kingdom........

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he much talked about marriage of the century has come and gone and it took place last month when the fifth in line to the British Monarch, Prince Harry Charles Albert David of Wales married the love of his life, Rachel Meghan Markle at what could simply be described as ‘world class’ wedding ceremony with a touch of excellence. With the permission of

the Queen for the marriage to go ahead, the preparation was elaborate, it could be described as the wedding of a royal prince and an ordinary country side girl. The ceremony took place at St. George’s chapel at Windsor Castle where the Most Right Reverend Michael Bruce Curry joined the two together. Both families particularly Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland was allowed to play a significant role in the wedding so were the siblings of Late Princess Diana, mother of Prince Harry. In fact as part of the wedding program was a visit to pay tribute to Princess Diana. I could imagine what role she could have played if she was alive. In all, the ceremony went well without any major incident, in fact the couple received a new title from the Queen, they will be known as Duke & Duchess of Sussex. And since Meghan does not have a royal blood lineage, she would not be addressed as princess to her name rather she would enjoy the title of her husband. Her Royal Highness, Princess Henry of Wales.

We wish the couple the best of marriage life and we pray God to give them the fortitude to endure the pressure and sacrifices of the marriage.

ORE SPECIAL TO BE YOURSELF IN FRANCE.

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The second good news in the past month is that of an Illegal immigrant from Mali who made headlines for his act of bravery in Paris by rescuing and saving a toddler from falling

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off from a fourth storey building.

The incident was captured by amateur video and it was instantly circulated on the social media.

Within two hours, the video had become a viral and having more than two million hits.

Everyone in Paris and around the world were still talking about these fit including the Mayor Pastor Elvis Iruh of Paris and finally the Editor-in-Chief President. Many says he is a hero but he says he did it for the love of children. He couldn’t stand and watch this 4 year old fall to death. He puts his own life at risk and forgot about his situation to help someone else who was desperately in need. A lesion to all of us that a small art of kindness would not be unrecognized or acknowledged. His act of kindness has made a way for him. He is a gainful employed man and also receive French nationality courtesy of the French President. Every act of kindness will be rewarded so I challenge you never to get tired of doing good.

Welcome to the month of June 2018, the World

cup is around the corner, wishing Africa the best of sporting success. Enjoy your copy, with the new regulations on privacy policy, if you want to receive a copy of our magazine apart from our advertisers, kindly send us an email on info@ thevoicenewsmagazine.com. Enjoy your copy. God bless you.

TV

The Voice magazine The Voice magazine is editorially independent although we enjoys the support of our readers, subscribers, advertisers, non-­ governmental organizations and in­dividuals of like minds; however the magazine publishers are in no way af­ filiated to any of these bodies or to any other ­publishing institution or political interest or group.

The Voice magazine strives to foster awareness among the African audience and bridge the widening gap between Africans and the rest of the world in news gathering and dissemination.

The Voice is published digitally Online except on demand, we print hard copy..

If you wan to receive a copy, send us your email address.

On the Editorial board are Elvis Iruh, Jonathan Mgbejume, Sandra Iruh-Monsels, and Henry Oduenyi READ THE VOICE ON LINE AT www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com Our Affiliate partner: www.thenigerianvoice.com Registration NO: (Kvk. Nr. 34.110.928) TAX (BTW) NO: NL806215809B01 ISSN: 1571-3466 (For Print edition) ISSN: 2588-8807 (For Digital edition) For payments, use these bank details: Stichting Paddi Europa SNS Bank Account No: NL29SNSB0908374372 Swift Code: SNSBNL2A OR Stichting Paddi Europa Knab Bank Account No: NL77KNAB0725202238 Swift Code: KNABNL2H

THE VOICE MAGAZINE TEAM Publisher: Stichting Paddi Europa Editor-in-Chief Pastor Elvis Ndubuisi Iruh elvisiruh@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Founding/Contributing Editor Edward Idahosa Ogbee apexbest2000@yahoo.co.uk Managing Editor Henry D. Oduenyi (Nigeria Office) henry@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Project Coordinator Ifeyinwa Ezeagabu i.ezeagabu@thevoicenewsmagazine. com Advert Executive Faith Ehanire ehanire4607@gmail.com Project Editor (Nigeria) Chiedu Harris Ify henry@thevoicenewsmagazine.com BUREAU CHIEFS Gbenga T. Okunlola (London) teejayok@gmail.com Joel Savage (Belgium) juskosave@yahoo.com Femi Ikutiyinu (London) afpaprint2000@yahoo.com Middle East Vice- President Amb. Laila EL Aftani Rahhall CORRESPONDENTS ABROAD Nicholas Noghayin Ehioghiren (Madrid, Spain) nicholasmicnita@yahoo.com Barrister Eze Eluchie (Nigeria) paddingr@yahoo.com Kehinde Aig-Imoru (Nigeria) aigimoru@yahoo.com Rev. Tammy Abusi (Port-Harcourt) t.abusi@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Eubaldus Enahoro

enabadus2000@yahoo.com Principal Photo Editor: Handy Tims Azeez Badris fatim_26@hotmail.com PA to Publisher Lilian Akintokun (Mrs) raven_lilian@yahoo.com Graphic Designers David Banjoko Wil Gomersbach (Web Master) George Adegite Printer: Drukkerij Palteam www.palteam.nl MEDIA CONSULTANT Jonathan Mgbejume Abeka Salmin Abdallah Mildred Kleinbussink Pastor Duncan Spier Engr. Barry Igbeare You can as well contact our Office Address: Stichting Paddi Europa Inz The Voice Jeroen Boschplantsoen 82 1318 HH Almere The Netherlands Land Line: +3136-8801341 Tel.: +31 (0)6-48519292 Mobile: +31 (0)6-84999548 E-mail: info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com In memory of our late colleague, LUCKY OSAHON

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

The Voice magazine is published in the Netherlands by Stichting Paddi Europa and it is p ­ ublished online from 2017 around the world. It is registered at the Chamber of Commerce Amsterdam. The Voice aim to serve as a vital link among African readers in the Diaspora and we ­provide ­objective information and organizes opinion exchange among African people both in the ­continent and abroad. Thus it strives to foster and enhance complete understanding of ­developing c­ ountries problems and bring information to help address those issues. TV

Volume 20

NO 173

June 2018 www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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RWANDAN BEGINS VISA ON ARRIVAL FOR ALL NATIONS AROUND THE WORLD

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he Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and East African Community of the Republic of Rwanda presents its compliments to the Diplomatic and Consular Missions (Resident and Non Resident) as well as international and Regional organizations accredited to Rwanda, and has the honour to communicate the following NEW VISA Regime of the Republic of Rwanda.

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30 days visa upon arrival: Citizens of all countries to get visa upon arrival without prior application starting from 1st January 2018. Before that, only Nationals of African countries and few others were getting visa upon arrival.

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COMESA Member states to get 90 days visa upon arrival. Citizens of COMESA Member states to get 90 days visa on arrival (on payment of the prescribed fee) as provided

by Article 4 of the COMESA protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Labour, Services, Right of Establishment and Residence. Rwanda ratified the protocol on 13th July 2016.

Currently citizens of COMESA Member states were getting 30 days on arrival as other holders of African passports.

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Rwandans living abroad with dual nationality allowed to use national IDs on entry. Waive visa fee to Rwandans traveling on foreign passports in possession of a Rwandan Identity card for countries that permit dual nationality only. Initially Rwandans traveling on a foreign passport in possession of a valid Rwandan passport were the only granted visa free on arrival.

The ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and East Africa Community of the Republic of Rwanda avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Diplomatic and Consular Missions (Resident and Non Resident) as well as international and Regional Organizations accredited to Rwanda the assurances of its highest consideration.

NEW VISA REGIME Reference to Cabinet meeting of 08-11-2017 that approved the establishment of new visa regime for the Republic of Rwanda; the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration would like to inform the public the following New Visa Regime: 1.

Reciprocity: Rwanda will grant visa free of charge with 90 days validity to the following countries on reciprocal

basis: Benin, Central African Republic, Chad, Ghana, Guinea, Indonesia, Haiti, Senegal, Seychelles and Sao Tome and Principle. This is in addition to Democratic Republic of Congo, East African Community Partner States, Mauritius, Philippines and Singapore. This takes immediate effect.

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Visa waiver for diplomatic and service passports – The Government of Rwanda has entered into Visa Waiver Agreement for holders of Diplomatic and Service passports with; Djibouti, Ethiopia, Gabon, Guinea, India, Israel, Morocco and Turkey. This take immediate effect.

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Visa on arrival to all national: Citizens of all countries

to get visa upon arrival with validity up to 30 days without prior application, starting 01 January 2018. Before that, only nationals of African countries and few others were getting visa upon arrival.

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COMESA Member states to get 90 days visa upon arrival- Citizens of COMESA member States to get 90 days visa on arrival (on payment of the prescribed fee) as provided

by Article 4 of the COMESA Protocol for Free Movement of Persons, Labour, Services, Right of Establishment and Residence. Rwanda ratified the protocol on 13th July 2016.

Currently, citizens of COMESA member states were getting 30 days on arrival as other holders of African passports. This take immediate effect.

5. Rwandans living abroad with dual nationality allowed to use national IDs on entry – Waive visa fee to Rwandans traveling on foreign passports in possession of a valid Rwandan passport were the only granted visa free on arrival. This take immediate effect.

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Foreign residents to use their Resident ID cards for entry – Returning residents holding valid residence permits with corresponding resident cards will be allowed to use them on entry, including using electronic gates (Automated Passenger Clearance System) at Kigali International Airport.

End.

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FEEDBACK

Addressing the problem of Hunger around the world.

We are diplomats from The Netherlands on the UN Security Council. In March of this year, the World Food Programme announced that the unthinkable is happening: hunger is on the rise for the first time in decades. Conflicts are the main cause of that. We took it upon us to raise this issue on the agenda of the Security Council. For the past months, we worked on a resolution that for the first time ever condemns the use of starvation as a method of warfare. We are very happy that, after weeks of negotiations with diplomats of the other member states, the Security Council unanimously adopted our resolution. It clearly acknowledges the fact that conflict can lead to increased food insecurity, and recognizes the need to break the vicious cycle between armed conflict and food insecurity. It is a truly hopeful sign that the Council managed to unanimously agree on some of the basic norms of humanity. The text is a significant step towards making the use of starvation as a method of warfare a crime of the past.

By Eran Nagan and Liselot Egmond Dear Editor,

BUHARI hasn’t integrity and Nigerians aren’t fools.

THOSE WHO HAVE EARS LET THEM HEAR!

Gov Ganduje of Kano’s daughter married Gov Ajimobi of Oyo’s son! Yes bro, Dangote’s Daughter married former IGP Mohammed’s son! Bros! Buhari’s daughter married the richest man’s son from Borno State. Abike Dabiri, former lawmaker and now special adviser to the president on foreign matters is now an in-law to Gov. Ibikunle Amosun, governor of Ogun State. Let me inform you again that, Prof Yemi Osibanjo’s daughter was taken to the same kind of home marrying the son of one of the richest black women in Nigeria.

Their children study abroad, start work abroad, get married abroad, go to hospitals abroad, treat headache and cough abroad, give birth abroad, establish businesses abroad, go for vacation abroad, et al.

Yet, they come out later to give you guns, COMING EDITION IN JULY 2018 machete, axes and few thousands of naira to Evangelist Hans Griffioen from The Netherlands with Pastor Elvis Iruh on the cut your fellow brothers down in the name of election. Believe me, they will be coming to invitation of Rev. Ademola Afolabi of Mountain of God you again come 2019.

Evangelical Ministry with Bros! If u are only good as political thugs, the Christian Association ballot box snatchers, Mace hijacker and not of Nigeria (CAN) Ibarapa as an in-law, then u have a problem. You North Local Government better use your brain.

Apart from the fact the something sinister and dark is going on which Mr President hopes to hide...... Why the pressure to pay for a jet which will be delivered in 2020?

If Mr Integrity (as he called by his supporters) was truthful, why didn’t he approach the national assembly?

Realistically, if the jet is going to be delivered upon receipt of payment, then, maybe there could be justification for the hasty payment.

But, in this case the Tucano Jet is not due for delivery to Nigeria until 2020, when Mr Buhari will no longer be the president of Nigeria.

Is this a cover up? Is it a ploy to raise funds for Mr Buhari’s re-election bid?

What is Mr Buhari not telling the Nigerian people?

Just asking!!!

By Albert Ekwere

area of Oyo State organized a five day crusade in Ayete town.

It was an experience of a life time. We would share some with you in our next edition.

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Deacon Osayande Decency Amadasun The Netherlands

Justice A powerful campaign dubbed Jammeh2JusticeGhana has been who took orders directly launched in Accra, the Ghana capital, calling for prosecution of from Yahya Jammeh. former Gambian leader, Yahya Jammeh, for the 2005 massacres Family members of the of 44 innocent Ghanaian migrants in the Gambia, who were on victims were present their way to seek greener pastures in Europe and were allegedly for the launch. The mistaken for coup plotters by Jammeh’s intelligence. Bringing spokesperson of the Jammeh to trial in Ghana would be only a first step to ensure victims’ families informed that the former Gambian strongman does not escape the wings the audience that he was of justice.

10 years old when his The Chair of the event was none other than Justice Emile Short, mother and other family the very effective first Chairperson of the Ghana Commission for members were called by Justice Emile Short, Human Rights and Administrative Justice, and former ad litem their head of family to Judge at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. inform them about what In fact, the collective effort to seek justice for the Ghanaian had happened to his father. victims started as far back as in 2007, when Africa Legal Aid Also present were a number of Ghanaian personalities, including (AFLA), and the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative Africa the Inspector General of Police, David Asante Apeatu, who, as Office, established the Gambia Task Force. Other Ghana based director of the criminal department of the Ghana Police Service groups and individuals later joined. had participated in a mission in Senegal The removal of Jammeh from office and Gambia investigating the killings and his relocation to Equatorial Guinea and disappearances of ‘our fellow paved the way for a re-launch and human beings,’ as he so well put it; Nana intensification of the campaign. Human Oye Lithur, former Minister of Gender, Rights Watch took the lead and is Children, and Social Protection who at represented by Reed Brody, renowned the time of the massacres was regional for the role he played as advocate for coordinator of the Commonwealth the victims of former Chadian leader Human Rights Initiative Africa Office; Hisséne Habré, who was convicted of and a representative of the Office of the crimes against humanity, torture, sexual President of Ghana. slavery, and sentenced to life on 30 The initiators of the re-launched May 2016, by the Extraordinary African campaign had earlier briefed the Chambers within the Courts of Senegal.

President of Ghana, who incidentally Organizations involved in the was the Minister for Foreign Affairs Jammeh2JusticeGhana campaign include Trial International, when the killings occurred. They reported that the President CDD Ghana, and Africa Centre for International Law and appeared to take the matter seriously.

Accountability.

Bringing a former President to justice in another country will Notable among the justice seekers is 37-year old Martin Kyere, likely be an uphill battle. Nevertheless, the launch ended on a the key witness, and the only survivor of the 56-57 West African hopeful note with Justice Emile Short highlighting the jurisdiction migrants who were killed. Approximately, they included 44 options available for Ghana to prosecute Jammeh.

Ghanaians, 10 Nigerians, One Senegalese, One Ivorian, and One Extradition of Jammeh to Ghana would be required. Justice Short Togolese. Kyere is alive because he was able to free himself from opined: the rope tied around him ‘Given the evidence and the other victims, and that has been compiled, jumped out of the pickand the gravity of the up vehicle carrying them offences which have been to the destination where demonstrated by those they were to be executed. who have testified to it, He gives a vivid and I think that a momentum shocking account of the can be gathered to ensure victims’ untold sufferings international support for a at the hands of the killers, request for extradition of who have since been Yahya Jammeh to Ghana identified as the Junglers, Yayha Jammeh being accused of mass murder of Ghanaians in The Gambia to face trial.’ a paramilitary death squad

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Celebration OF SUCCESS

Mamoudou gets honorary citizenship and a job with Paris fire service for his heroism Mamoudou Gassama, a 22 year old Malian whom until his heroine act was illegal immigrant in France, he became an instant hero and his act of heroism was since all over the world. He became instant most popular figure in the world and everyone wanted to read his story. What happened? This young man took a great risk by climbing a building for storey high with his bare hands to rescue a child that was dangling from a balcony while on lookers just video on and watch without doing anything to help.

Video clip emerged via Facebook and other social media showing this young man like the famous superman or batman movie climbing the walls of the building to rescue this 4 year old child. He did the climbing up to fourth floor of the apartment building in just seconds to rescue the child who was hanging precariously from the top of the apartment at about 8pm on Saturday.

By the time Parisian emergency services arrived at the building on Rue Marx Dormoy in the 18th arrondissement of the French capital to help the child suspended in mid-air, Mamoudou had already pulled the child to safety.

Footage posted on social media shows a transfixed crowd gathered beneath the scene cheering and whooping as the migrant risked his life to rescue the child. The video has been viewed more than five million times on social media.

Mamoudou has now been hailed as a hero for his action, without which the boy would most likely have been killed as he would have fall from that height. The young man suffered scratches from scaling the building and by the time firefighter attended to him and the child, they were both suffering from shock.

Speaking to the press after the rescue, Mamoudou said he had been in the neighborhood to watch a football match in a local restaurant when he saw the commotion.

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“I like children, I would have hated to see him getting hurt in front of me. I ran and I looked for solutions to save him and thank God I scaled the front of the building to the balcony,” he said.

Mamoudou’s brave act caught the attention of French leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron congratulated the young migrant and invited him to the Elysee Palace where he personally thank him on behalf of the French people.

President Macron has this to say of this young man, “I met with Mr. Gassama who saved a child’s life on Saturday by climbing 4 floors with his bare hands. I told him that in recognition of his heroic act he would have his papers in order as quickly as possible and that the Paris Fire Brigade would be keen to welcome him to their ranks.

I also invited him to submit a naturalization request because France is built on desire and Mr. Gassama’s commitment clearly showed that he has that desire”.

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo said on her official Twitter page that she has personally called Mamoudou to thank him, congratulating the Malian migrant on his act of bravery.

“He explained to me that he arrived from Mali a few months ago with the dream of making a life for himself here.

I replied that his heroic act is an example for all citizens and that the City of Paris will obviously be keen to support him in his efforts to settle in France,” she posted on Twitter.

Mamoudou Gassama has earn a new name for himself he is called “Le Spiderman” because of how fast he scaled the building to get to the child.

As we go to press, “All the papers will be put in order,” Macron said when meeting Mamoudou Gassama.

The president later tweeted: “With Mr Gassama who saved the life of a child after scaling four floors with his bare hands. I told him that in recognition of this act of heroism he would be regularized as soon as possible and that the Paris fire brigade were ready to welcome him.”

During his meeting with Macron, Mamoudou told him of his experience.”I was trembling, I couldn’t believe it,” he said.

Macron asked what condition the child had been in once he’d been rescued.

“He was crying, his feet were hurt” said Gassama, adding that he had seen the toddler since the incident.

“Bravo,” replied the president.

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WHY ARE CHINESE RELATIONS WITH AFRICAN COUNTRIES SO CONTROVERSIAL?

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Introduction & Background ver the last few decades, China has emerged as a global power with string and deep international and regional influences by virtue of its economic status and foreign policy. However, unlike the US or Russia, China’s emphasis so far has remained primarily upon the economic growth through the exploitation of resources, which are much needed to sustain industrial and urban consumption patterns within China. From the mid-1990s onwards, Africa has assumed a special focus for China because of the richness of resource availability, mainly coal and oil. But though all of China’s foreign relations with the African countries can be seen limited to investment in return for trade for resources, these activities have been highly criticized because of several reasons like for instance, the retarded growth in the host countries and the degrading impacts upon the environment (Dreher et al., 2018; and Ado & Su, 2016).

Keeping above in view, it is considered pertinent to examine as to why China’s relationship with the African countries are viewed as controversial. However, it is considered pertinent to precede this discussion by an introduction to the historical evolution of modern China and the main drivers behind its foreign policy.

Historical Development of the Peoples Republic of China Historic China was dynastic in nature and the main dynasties can be identified to include: the Qin dynasty; the Han dynasty; the Xin dynasty; the Jin dynasty and finally the Qing dynasty.

The Boxer Uprising or Rebellion was initiated in northern China in 1900 by the Society of the Righteous and Harmonious Fists against the westerners and Chinese. It was overcome in 1901 by an international armed force. This episode was followed in 1911 by the Chinese or the Xinhai Revolution against the Qing Dynasty and involved several important movements like for example the Railway Protection Movement and the Wuchang Uprising (Snow, 2017).

The early 1930s were characterized by three important events that were the Japanese invasion of Manchuria, warlord insurrections and the communist uprisings. Countering the Japanese became a difficult option for the government because of the communists’ resistance on an internal front. The surrender of Japanese forces was closely followed by a civil war between the nationalist government being led by Chiang Kai-shek and 12

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supported by the US government and the communist forces being led by Mao Zedong and supported by the Soviet Union. It is important to note that one of the most important reasons for the rising popularity of the communists was their victory against the Japanese forces; however this was made possible mainly because of Soviet Union, which strategically maneuvered this victory in favour of the communists (Chang, 2001). From 1945 onwards, several efforts at peace making, negotiations and forming a coalition government between the two sides failed one after the other and in October 1949, Mao Zedong managed to establish the Peoples Republic of China (PRC), while the nationalists withdrew to Taiwan. Thereafter, the relations between the PRC and the US soured further because of the Korean War and also the US’ stance on Taiwan (Callahan, 2004).

Evolution of the Modern China The communist government being led by Mao Zedong concentrated upon domestic policy with respect to enhancement and firming up of national unity; socioeconomic transformation; and independence from any foreign influence. However, this last aim could not be properly materialized as China was continued to be viewed as a satellite of Moscow in the Cold War environment by the US to an extent where the latter even imposed a trade embargo on the PRC. This relationship continued to degrade further because of the Korean War and also the Vietnam War and also because of China’s growing intimacy with the Soviet Union (Cheek, 2002).

After the Korean War, China underwent a gradual political and economic transformation and the significant highlights in this context included: the operation against the counterrevolutionaries in 1951; the reformation of the party bureaucracy; and nationalization and industrialization as part of the First Five Year Plan (FYP) (Yuan & Zuo, 2011). In 1965, China started to pursue an independent foreign policy after a split from the Soviet Union, which occurred primarily because of Khrushchev’s favourable view towards the US; the war in Albania; the crises in the Taiwan Straits; the Sino-Indian war in 1962; and the Cuban missile crisis (Lüthi, 2010).

After Mao’s death in 1976, wide-scale economic reforms were undertaken by the new government in the form of: agricultural reforms; industrial reforms; scientific and technological development; and enhancement of national defence.

Though these reforms were undertaken in association with other liberal trade policies, the results were not favourable primarily because of bad implementation approaches, political dissent and violation of human rights at the behest of the government (Harding, 2010). A further blow was delivered by the Student Democracy Movement in 1989 and the subsequent slaughter of students protesting against failed government policies and corrupt governmental practices, in the Tienanmen Square (Wasserstrom, 2018).

China’s growth into a superpower primarily through economic development can be traced form 1980s onwards. The important steps during this period can be identified to include: innovative economic policies including lesser governmental control, market economy and private ownership; globalization and export orientation; attracting foreign investment; and maintenance of a stable and sustainable monetary and fiscal policy (Naughton, 2007). These measures were accompanied by: joining the World Trade Organization (WTO);development of the domestic consumer sector; high growth-rate performance; efficient macroeconomic management; renewable energy initiatives; population management and control policies; poverty reduction; and anti-corruption measures (Lardy & Subramanian, 2011). Two other important strategies include a

betterment of relationship with the West and One-belt Initiative, which is a strategy aimed at the regional economic integration (Wasserstrom, 2018).

Evolution & Direction of the Chinese Foreign Policy Three elements characterize the existing Chinese foreign policy i.e. controversy, confidence and global and regional politico-security engagement, while the foreign policy itself is aimed at the preservation of fundamental national interests.

Evidence of this can be found in terms of the One-belt Oneroad (OBOR) project; the New Development Bank (NDB); the

Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB); and the ImportExport Bank (IEB) (Brown, 2017). The emphasis of both the regional and global diplomacy has also transformed in terms of: interaction with the US on equivalent terms; and active participation in the Nuclear Security Summit, the climate talks, the G20 and the Asia–Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) (Shambaugh, 2013). Furthermore, contrary to past passiveness, China is showing a more aggressive, coercive and powerful stance. Examples of this transformation can be found in the form of: the regional display of naval power; large scale land reclamation projects; and challenging the US’s dominance through placement of military assets on the artificial islands in the South China Sea and declaration of an Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) in the East China Sea (Lu, 2018).

Several cultural, philosophical and historical drivers can be identified behind this transformation of the foreign policy. For example, China is believed to enjoy an over-exaggerated and superior self-perception because of its unique cultural and civilizational heritage, as is evident from the translation of China’s local name ‘Zhongguo’, which means ‘the Middle Kingdom’ or ‘the centre of the world’ (Heilmann, 2008).This cultural orientation aligns the Chinese political and social policies with the historic traditions, beliefs, practices and ideas. According to these historic beliefs and concepts, aggression and the use of military force constitute definite and essential components of the foreign policy towards preservation of the physical security. These ideas are substantiated by an accommodative stance and operational flexibility when the need arises for diplomacy (Glaser & Medeiros, 2007). Overall, in line with the Maoist strategic approach, the Chinese foreign policy remains innately defensive, realistic and pragmatist, with an option of using force when such use is considered to be morally justified. Furthermore, the power maximization and preservation of national respect, image and interests, especially the economic interests, assume the principal significance while dealing with other international powers and also while engaging in trade with other countries and regions (Ferdinand, 2016). Hence it can be argued that the Chinese culture, identity and beliefs contextualize its view of the world, which in turn dictates the formulation of the country’s defence, security and foreign policies (Shirk, 2007).

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 Chinese Relations with the African Countries Over a period of time, China has grown a huge appetite for resources primarily because of the rapid expansion of its middle class and also because of the phenomenal economic growth.

Towards satiating this appetite, China’s foreign and economic policies are aligned towards maintaining a focus upon the sustenance of its industries through securing the supply of energy over a long term in terms of oil and other raw materials (Wu, 2017). China’s emphasis upon and investment in Africa can be identified as a crucial component of this strategy despite the seriousness of the political and security risks accompanying this investment. Therefore, China has not only secured lucrative trade deals by investing heavily in the mining and oil sectors in Africa, but also enjoys large scale diversification of interests as the Chinese companies are investing in the agricultural, telecommunications, manufacturing and the infrastructure sectors as well (Lam et al., 2016). Though, overall the recipient or host governments’ in Africa are quite satisfied with the Chinese investment primarily because of the investor’s policy of non-interference with the local politics or governance; the international community has highly criticized China’s interests in Africa because of the country’s refusal to address human rights violations, environmental preservation and governance issues and controversial business practices in the host countries (Shinn, 2016).

Though the economic growth rate in China in 2016 dropped to around 6.7%, the demand for energy in the country remains phenomenal towards maintaining and reviving the momentum of economic growth. At present China is amongst the top two in the world in energy production and consumption and its imports of oil exceeds that of the US; while it is expected to become the biggest oil consumer by the first half of 2030 (Yuan et al., 2017). Africa and in particular South Sudan, the Republic of Congo and Angola are the largest sources of crude oil imports for China after the Middle East, at an average of 1.4 million barrels per day. Towards maintaining this source in a steady manner and even towards its further enhancement, China engages in an active and unmatchable commercial diplomacy comprising of extensive trade deals, large scale financial assistance and also lucrative investment deals being offered to the resource-rich African countries;

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while enjoying a unique ability to provide and fulfill these countries’ infrastructural needs through the provision of cheap labour and low-cost financing (Shen & Power, 2017).

China’s oil interests in Africa and its investment in the oil producing countries towards sustaining and even enhancing oil production have suffered the brunt of criticism, primarily because of the adverse impact of oil production processes and activities upon the local environment (Xiaoyang& Sun, 2016). Experts comment that though over the last few years, a change has been visible in China’s outlook towards environmental preservation; however, this change has been limited to addressing environmental concerns within China and in major cities like Beijing, while the environmental degradation in the African countries has been ignored. With regards to China’s oil production and exploration activities in Africa, experts are of an opinion that these activities are often characterized by environmental deterioration and a lack of resource transparency (Gupta et al., 2017).

Another important criticism on China’s foreign and trade relations with Africa relates to the increasing debt loads for the recipient countries. This is because China is one of the largest sources of foreign direct investment in Africa as it has heavily invested in agriculture and established special economic and trade cooperation zones in Zambia, Nigeria and Ethiopia; and has also provided heavy development loans to countries like Angola (Lee, 2018).

According to a rough estimate, by 2014, countries in Africa like Sudan, Kenya, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola, had received approximately US $86 billion from various Chinese entities.

However, the debt servicing record indicates at a possible debt crisis in the recipient countries especially once the Chinese oil interests come to an end. Also, while these loans give a boost to economic growth, a drop in commodity prices has recently squeezed growth rates in Africa (Brautigam & Hwang, 2016).

In a context similar to above, China has also been criticized for its lack of interest in building up the capacities of the local economies for self-development and instead keeping these economies dependent upon heavy loans, which are rescheduled regularly. In this manner, the local economies do not become autonomous and their future after the termination of Chinese interests in the region, are insecure. According to a 2013 statement by the governor of Nigeria’s Central Bank, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, China in Africa should be seen as a competitor which is looking after its own interests on the lines of the US and other major international powers (Eisenman & Shinn, 2018).

Chinese companies have also been observed frequently of violating the local laws and regulations in terms of unfair labour practices, which are increasingly being resented by the African. These violations can be observed mostly in terms of the adverse working conditions and unfair wages. For instance in Zambia, from 2011- 2012, there was almost a civil strife like condition because of the malpractices by the Chinese companies and especially in response to an incident where the Chinese mine managers shot a few protesters at a coal mine in South Zambia; as a result of which several Chinese mine managers were murdered a year later (Sautman & Hairong, 2016).

The deteriorating situation of human rights is yet another important area where the Chinese presence in Africa has been criticized. This is because China focuses upon the economic relationships with the host governments, while strictly adhering to the policy of non-interference in local governance matters or political dynamics. This is often accompanied by making available huge financial packages with virtually no strings attached, like for instance financial aid packages provided to the governments in Zimbabwe and Sudan. The resultant is a strong non-democratic government, which carries on with the violation of fundamental human rights of the deprived population without any check (Barton, 2016).

It is true that the governance systems in most of the African countries are often unable to provide a protection against possible environmental damage, business malpractices and economic adversity; however the fact remains that the responsibility for these issues falls primarily on the shoulders of China being

a responsible global power. Once a noninterest is observed on part of China, the foreign relationship with Africa automatically assumes a controversial shade.

Conclusion From the discussion in the above sections, it can be concluded that though Africa is economically significant for China because of the

By Gbenga Teejay Okunlola richness of resource London Bureau-Chief availability, China’s teejayok@gmail.com relationship with the African countries has remained more or less controversial. The reasons for this controversy have been identified in the form of: the adverse impact of oil production processes and activities upon the local environment; the increasing debt loads for the recipient countries; lack of building up the capacities of the local economies; violation of the local laws and regulations in terms of unfair labour practices; and the deteriorating situation of human rights.

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Senatorial hopeful seeks collective efforts at curbing insecurity as the nation celebrates Democracy day

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Senatorial hopeful in the 2019 election for Ondo Central district, Prince Afolabi Obasuyi wants Nigerians irrespective of tribe to see fighting insecurity which has been a major barrier to National growth as a collective responsibility of government and individuals.

The call was contained in Prince Obasuyi’s Democracy day celebration message of Nigeria, which return to democratic governance in 1999 after prolonged military rule.

Prince Obasuyi noted that government alone cannot curb the menace of insecurity without the support of residents being each other’s keeper and living in peace and love for one another despite religious and ethnic differences.

leadership in the country for divine guidance and direction in order to steer the wheel of progress of the nation in the right path in the interest of the masses.

He appreciate the support he received from his district comprising Akure South, Akure North, Ondo East, Ondo West, Idanre and Ifedore and urge them to remain committed to their beliefs in him.

He commended the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration’s effort at putting an end to insurgency in the country so far and urge government to do more by providing security apparatus to every security agencies in the country.

The Senatorial hopeful who expresses confident in the electoral process emphasized that he believed he

Prince Afolabi Obasuyi sealed agreement with high profile Dutch farmers to partner with Ondo State government in the area of Agro industry.

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will emerge as the flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress, APC ahead of the 2019 election.

He also use the medium to appeal to leadership of the APC to sustain internal democracy within the party to avoid loopholes which could be dangerous to the victory of the ruling party in the forthcoming general elections.

Prince Obasuyi called on Nigerians to remain steadfast and continually pray for the www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Victory Outreach is a Pentecostal Church, Bible based believing people in the trinity of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

What would you like to know? Our vision?

Which activities we organize? Or would you like to hear testimonies about how we follow God? One thing is certain, we would like to get to know you and therefore you are more than welcome to visit one of our services. You can visit us every day of the week.

You may have been a believer for many years already.

Or you might still be searching for the meaning of life and asking yourself whether or not there is God. Within Victory Outreach Almere we would like to help you find the answer. We will gladly teach you the exact meaning of “a living faith�. With us you will truly see and experience the supernatural power of the living God. You can always count on love and comfort when you need it.

You will discover that we have a wonderful diversity of people with lots of different backgrounds, characters and personalities. But there is one thing we have in common.

We all follow the same God, Jesus Christ.

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In that diversity and love for God we are a family where you are more than welcome.

We personally hope to meet you during one of our services.

God bless you as you come in Jesus Christ name. Amen

Pastor Roel & Ida van Rooij Senior Pastor Victory Outreach Almere.

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The Gambia selling ex-leader’s luxury cars, planes amid mounting debt

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hile most of his people struggled in poverty under one of West Africa’s most oppressive regimes, former President Yahya Jammeh acquired vast wealth, much of which he took with him into exile in Equatorial Guinea. However, the government that replaced him is busy selling several planes and a fleet of luxury cars bought by former president Yahya Jammeh as it seeks to reduce a mountain of crippling debt contracted during the authoritarian leader’s decades-long rule.

Jammeh, who seized power in a 1994 coup, fled The Gambia early last year as West African neighbours were poised for military intervention to topple him after he refused to step down following an election he loss to current President Adama Barrow.

While most of his people struggled in poverty under one of West Africa’s most oppressive regimes, Jammeh acquired vast wealth, much of which he packed into planes and carried with him into exile in Equatorial Guinea.

However, a fleet of vehicles, including several Rolls-Royces with Jammeh’s name embroidered in their red leather headrests, were left behind on the tarmac.

“The fleet of expensive vehicles at State House and the three planes bought by former president Yahya Jammeh have been put on sale,” Finance Minister Amadou Sanneh told the press. “My ministry has started publicizing the sales of these materials.”

The International Monetary Fund warned The Gambia against any new borrowing after its debt stock reached 130% of gross domestic product at the end of last year.

Most of that debt was contracted under Jammeh, either through borrowing or the government’s taking on the liabilities of state-owned enterprises.

“Let me be very clear ... it may even go higher because we have not opened the books of the state-owned enterprises,” said Jaroslaw Wieczorek, who led a recent IMF mission to The Gambia. “It could be a lot of liabilities.”

Since taking office and discovering government coffers were largely empty, Barrow’s administration has worked to disentangle Gambia’s state finances from Jammeh’s sprawling personal business empire.

Sanneh said last year that around $100 million - more than a third of the government’s annual budget - had been siphoned from state firms by the former leader and his associates.

President Barrow set up a commission that visited Jammeh’s many properties - one estate boasts a mosque, jungle warfare training camp and a vast private safari park - to establish an inventory of his possessions with the aim of recovering looted assets.

Investigators have also sought to establish what wealth Jammeh may have stashed abroad.

The process has faced opposition from Jammeh’s political party and supporters, who have accused Barrow’s government of carrying out a witch-hunt against the expresident.

Former President Yahya Jammeh accused of looting The Gambia empty but, his ill-gotten wealth would be sold to save the country.

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NOLLYWOOD SHINES UNDER THE HOLLYWOOD STARS (PART 2)

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he historic Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, the School of Cinematic Arts at the University of Southern California and O2A Media copresented the inaugural HOLLYWOOD IN HOLLYWOOD event to an impressive crowd of Hollywood insiders, the international entertainment media, Nigerians in the Diaspora and Film lovers were at hand to enjoy it all.

We bring you concluding part of photo shots from the event on March 23rd and 24th, 2018.

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INVITING NEW MEMBERS!!

Join Ika speaking people of Delta State every last Saturday of the month for our regular meeting where we discuss issues affecting our State of origin, homeland, future of Nigeria and our wellbeing in The Netherlands It is open to every sons and daughters of Ika Kingdom

Time: 6.30pm - 9.00pm YOU ARE ALL WELCOME. For details, Call: 06-87510616, 06-87508082, 0655516057 Address : Fortuinlaan 39 , 1561JB, Krommenie www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Man Vastgoed: Two ladies helping you to engage in Real Estate without stress After their own successful investments in real estate, the ladies decided to turn their passion into their profession more than a year ago. They offer their clients, including the smaller investors, the possibility to invest in real estate.

Anuschka Wiebers was formerly a tax adviser at the PwC office in Amsterdam-Sloterdijk. Johanna Held worked for years as a traffic advisor at the municipality of Amsterdam.

Johanna explains the change: “We are passionate about real estate and have made good investment properties ourselves in recent years. We have, among other things, a number of buildings and a building plot in Purmerend. Apart from passion, we also have a feeling for real estate and we really enjoy sharing this with others. Our own successful investments and the pleasure we have in searching for new projects gives us so much energy that we have opted for a career in real estate. “Johanna adds:” Real estate is there for everyone, not just for the big ones. It is precisely the little man who has the

opportunity to invest with us. We issue certificates for this, which are notarized. Investors receive a five percent return and a 10 percent redemption premium. That is something else than hardly any interest from a bank. “ Property management

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Investing in real estate can be very lucrative, but it also takes time to manage it.

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The owner / investor can enjoy his return without worries, unburdens Man Vastgoed through administrative management, financial management and technical management, “says Johanna.

Rental office units and flexible workspaces The ladies are now active throughout the North Holland region, but their office is located in Slenkstraat 201, in the office area of Purmerend. Although they were looking for their own small office, the entire top floor is now the ladies. Their own office is located there and the other units are for rental to (smaller) companies and for flexplaces. The tenants can jointly use the beautiful meeting room, the kitchen and toilet facilities.

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We offer a total package for entrepreneurs: a good workplace with fast Wi-Fi, for a fixed amount per month, in the center of Purmerend. The entrepreneur can work in peace and meets other entrepreneurs in the hallway. This is a beautiful location. “ Feel free to contact Man Vastgoed, Slenkstraat 201, 1441 MN Purmerend.

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Calculation example: If you invest €100, you will receive €122, 10 after 28 months. Your total interest on your invested capital then comes to 12.10 percent. €100.00 + 5% = €105.00 per 12 months (1-12months) €105.00 + 5% = €110.25 per 12 months (13-24 months) €110.25 + 5% = €112.10 per 4 months (25-28 months) Redemption premium 10% is 10.00 Payout is €112.10 + 10 is then €122.10 With this savings campaign, we at Man Vastgoed hope to make it possible for everyone to invest in Real Estate.

ManVastgoed, * The services that can receive a discount are: Housing support and workshops info@man-vastgoed.nl Slenkstraat 201, 1441MN, Purmerend,The Netherlands Kvk: 67719171; BTW: 857147.511 Account: NL22ABNA0246322934; Tel: 0299-770980

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Face to Face with Vivienne Diamond: TV hostess on the spotlight

L

ast month, we introduced a dynamic female talk show host to you by name Vivienne Diamond.

She is born Nigerian and lived for years in the United States of America. Due to time factor, we could not publish her interview which you can read in details now.

TV: Tell us about yourself?

Miss Diamond: You already know my names. I am the 13th child out of 15 children born by my parents. I was born a Christian but recently converted to Islam.

TV: What about your studies.

Miss Diamond: I have a degree in Law. Also a Diploma in Social works and I also studied Healthcare because of my passion for humanity. I am a very observant person and alert.

What is inside of me is greater than what you see on the outside. I’m not just a pretty face, I have more to offer than just my good looks. I am a Model, event host, TV presenter, Motivational Speaker and also an Actress.

TV: That is quite much, tell us about your talk show which made you popular in the States?

Miss Diamond: Vidia Talk is all about touching lives in every positive ways.

My focus is on covering stories on entertainment, politics, sports, movies, and all other events happening around the world at large.

TV: What type of people do you feature on your talk show?

Miss Diamond: All type of people. I sit with key decision makers one on one and have important discussion with them regarding their journey and how to move humanity forward.

I have had the privilege of being invited to House of Dereon in Houston Texas to speak and inspire/motivate the

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New girl group put together by Matthew Knowles which he was also present. I have also had the privilege of interviewing the current Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki in Houston Texas, before he took office as the governor while he was visiting the States. I have also interviewed one of the Boko Haram escapee victim in Houston Texas.

TV: How long ago did you start your television show?

Miss Diamond: I started airing Vidia Talk show on Television two years ago in 2016.

TV: How do you source your guests for the program and what is the objective of your talk show?

Miss Diamond: Well, I don’t mean to brag but most of these people actually contacted me to be on my show. We select those we feature on Vidia Talk show based on their positive impact on our viewers. I make sure that the person will inspire, motivate and impact the lives of our viewers.

TV: You have been in Nigeria for a while now. What are you doing in Nigeria?

Miss Diamond: Yes, I came into Nigeria in other to establish Vidia brand of which Vidia Talk show is one of the platforms. My coming to Nigeria is to make a positive impact in moving this country forward through my own contribution.

TV: What is your future plans of your stay in Nigeria, are you settling down or just visiting and what happens to your television show?

Miss Diamond: My future plan is to establish Vidia brand in Nigeria as I mentioned earlier… Yes, I am settling down in Nigeria to establish these things. I need to establish here and also travel around the world taking care of my businesses.

My television show will still be running irrespective of my where about even if I am based in Nigeria or elsewhere.

TV: What has been your experience being back to Nigeria?

Miss Diamond: My experience so for in Nigeria has been wonderful. It’s quite interesting that a lot of dignitaries want to be featured on Vidia Talk show. I am really honoured. I guess the America impact is having rob off effect in Nigeria. (Laughs) TV: Apart from your talk show, have you been involved in any…?

Miss Diamond: Yes, I have been involved in fashion as well since I love fashion. Looking to see what I can come up with.

Also about movies, I have had some offers but I have not accepted any yet due to my busy schedule. I love to act in some quality movies so I am looking out for the best offers.

TV: What do you plan to do in the next few years, where do you see yourself?

Miss Diamond: I see myself establishing Vidia brand all over the world.

TV: Wishing you all the success in your future endeavours and thank you for the interview.

Miss Diamond: Thank you for this opportunity with this interview, with the write up last month, I got also a lot of positive reactions so I wish the Voice magazine more success for the future.

For more information about this enterprising young woman, and to know more about her talk show, Vidiatalk, visit her at www.vidiabrand.com

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Preparations for The Voice Achievers Award 2018.

P

ublisher of The Voice magazine visits two State with us to promote Edo state. He gave us the best wishes Governors in Nigeria as we begin preparations for of His Excellency, Governor Godwin Obaseki. He later this year’s The Voice Achievers Award, the publisher and the originator of the award has been traveling across the continent to discuss on the event for 2018 and confirming awardees for the event. During his visit to Nigeria, he was at Akwa Ibom State where he met the Honorable Commissioner of Information and Strategy on behalf of the State Governor. He was given firsthand information on all the efforts of the Governor to re-brand Akwa Ibom and make it the most attractive state to visit in Nigeria. Honorable Charles Udoh express the Governors gratitude for his name being considered for recognition despite the fact that he is not doing any of the developmental projects to be recognized rather to serve the Pastor Elvis Iruh with Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information & Strategy, Hon. Charles Udoh in his office. people who elected. His second visit took him to Edo state where he was received and hosted by the Honorable Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism and decorated Pastor Elvis Iruh with one of the bronze metals Diaspora Affairs, Honorable Osaze Osemwegie-Ero. He of Edo kingdom as mark of friendship and hospitality gave the publisher a tour of his ministry and Edo cultural in the State. He plans to organize Edo Arts festival in heritage under his supervision and his plans to make Edo December 2018, watch out for more details in the Voice state an envy of the world again. He pledged to work magazine. More report to follow…….

Pastor Elvis Iruh with Edo State Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism & Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Osaze Osemwegie-Ero in his office.

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OPINION

Why is Adams Oshiomhole so oppressive to the Benin People?

I

really wonder why the Benin people have allowed the political configuration of Edo State to be so skewed against them. It is unbelievable. I am not easily given to tribalism and those who know me can attest to this. What is going on in Edo State is ugly. I am no doubt a Benin man but the views herein expressed are verifiable by any member of the public who cares.

Let us be real for once. Adams Oshiomhole was a formidable National Labour Leader in his own right. He had no significant political influence in Edo State, let alone Nigeria, before becoming the Governor of Edo State by the pronouncement of a competent Tribunal who aided his journey to the Government House?

The Benin people did. Lucky Igbinedion made the machinery of the State available for the mission.

He pumped in plenty of private and public funds. Chief Gabriel Igbinedion did not spare any expense. He did everything within his power. Captain Hosa Okunbor spent hundreds of millions of naira to support the election and Court processes that led to his election as Governor. Pastor Osagie IzeIyamu practically laid out plan for this political success. These are all Benin men. Is there any of them who has not been a victim of Oshiomhole’s annihilation methods in one way of the other? I don’t know of any.

At the commencement of his tenure, the slogan was to do away with “god-fatherism” in Edo politics. That resonated well with the people given the neck breaking grip that certain godfathers had over the political life of the State. As he went deep into his tenure, the slogan began to change its complexion. A new “god-father” had emerged on the political stage. That was not the end. A systematic composition and re-arrangement of the Benin political class was quietly effected. An insignificant number among those who offered future political promise was allowed into the new order. The majority of the new men on the block were practitioners of the Hobesian hypothetical state of nature. Without adequate education and useful skill, they were selected and empowered with enormous financial opportunities. They were so influential that they disrupted political meetings not authorized by their overlords at will. On one occasion, they stretched out an influential Benin politician

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on the floor in front of his ancestral home and thoroughly thrashed him for calling himself a leader. The man that they thrashed was over 60 years of age at the time. It was quite tough to operate politically without the endorsement of these enforcers. It was a strange development in Benin politics.

Even the famous Benin moat was totally disfigured by a certain Government Ministry on the pretext of preserving same. Not a question was asked by anyone. Today, the moat is near extinction. I believe that this was deliberate.

Given the support that Oshiomhole enjoyed from the Benin people, they deserved more than they got in terms of the political architecture of the Benin leadership. Some may quickly talk about the overall relative infrastructural development that Benin City enjoyed at the time and so on and so forth. That is merely because Benin City is the State capital and the home of the all-powerful Oba of Benin.

The point that is being made is that the type of people that made up the artificial political leadership foisted on the Benin people was to preclude them from wielding any level of political influence or competing for power with Oshiomhole within and outside the State.

The tactics was to weaken the Benin political leaders through hand outs on the one hand and physical intimidation on the other. It worked. In the end, he determined who got what amongst the Benin people. Besides the Minister of State for Health appointed

by President Buhari, nearly all other appointments got Oshiomhole’s nod.

So were elected officials, including the Governor of the State. I concede that Godwin Obaseki is a worthy technocrat who appears to understand development theories and methodology, but that does not detract from the fact that he was the product of Oshiomhole’s arbitrary selection process on behalf of Benin people.

For instance, when Oshiomhole was Governor of the State, he was the defacto head of ACN turned APC in the State. No one else had a say as far as Party matters were concerned.

Ironically, the same Oshiomhole remains the Political leader of APC in Edo State till date despite the fact that there is a serving Governor from the same party. If the post of the Governor qualified Oshomhole to lead the party in the State, why does it not qualify Obaseki to do same? Why is he subjected to the dictates of Oshiomhole on party matters? Is what is good for the goose not good for the gander?

OPINION It came to pass that another Benin man found himself as Chairman of the ruling 33. Since then, Odigie Oyegun has known no peace. Spurious allegations have been levelled against him.

They include weakness, lack of massive followership, aloofness etc. Most of these complaints came from pro-Oshiomhole groups.

Some of them may be correct and some are not. For God sake, this is a former super Federal Permanent Secretary and Governor of Edo State. He cannot be as weak as he has been portrayed.

His real problem was that the man from Iyamoh wanted that seat desperately after completing his tenure as Governor. He could not stomach the fact that Oyegun being a Benin man enjoyed so much national relevance while he was searching for one. For him, the Benin people must not be allowed so much national or local political influence in order to prevent them from acquiring the impetus to invoke the power in their superior population in directing the political affairs of the State.

Oyegun’s continued stay as National Chairman would mean that the Benin people are gradually gaining political relevance at the Federal level. Having extinguished their influence locally within the State, why must they be allowed to flourish outside? I think this is the unspoken battle now going on between Oyegun and Oshiomhole and the non-edo public may need to know this. For the sake of argument, even if Oyegun is to be kicked out as the National Chairman of APC, why must Oshiomhole lead that assignment?

Why must he take the office from him in a humiliating manner? Are they not both Edo men? Is edoism of any value to Oshiomhole? Is there no other capacity in which Oshomhole can serve? One man is in charge of three Ministries in Nigeria. Why not take one from him on behalf of the South-south Zone. Oyegun led the party to the historic victory of electorally rooting out an incumbent Government. A rare feat to achieve. If Buhari is re-contesting for the post of President, what

is the crime of Oyegun? Why should Oyegun not be allowed to do a second tenure?

Many of us are left with no choice than to conclude that Oshiomhole does not want a Benin man to remain in a position of political influence which is more significant that his role in the political system at any given time.

Many in Oshiomhole’s shoes would show more respect for his Benin political benefactors. In spite of their near 58% population in the State, they have been very generous to “Oshio Baba” and poured their love on him. Even if Oshiomhole does not respect Oyegun’s capacity, he should at least let him be as a Benin man. Our people say that “if you do not eat pounded yam because of the delicious soup, you would eat it because of the lure in yam itself”. That is what I think should have happened on this occasion. I have my strong doubts. Knowing the way Oshiomhole operates, I pity Oyegun already. His job is probably gone. Politically, he comes from what now appears to be an extremely weak majority tribe in Edo State.

A place where the tail wags the dog and not the other way round.

In any case, Oyegun has had his date with history. What is left for the Benin political class is a reawakening of their self-esteem and complete renewal of their bereft leadership. They now need to invoke the memories of Chief Humphrey Omo-Osagie, Pa Imafidon, Pa Amadasun, Pa Ben- Edo Osagie and their likes to guide them in the search for their modern equivalent. And it would come to pass by the grace of God and their ancestors.

Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa.

Benin-City, Edo State.

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EVENTS LISTING, INVITATION AND TICKETING WEBSITE DEBUTS A new website designed for event organizers and users has launched. Inviterite is the next-generation platform intended to assist event organizers with the creation of stunning listings and sending email invitations to the attendees at the press of a button.

Public, private and business events can all be listed, as well as sending bespoke invitation notes and sale of tickets. All these are built in to the platform, complemented by a user-friendly and aesthetically-pleasing 3-step process with features that are easy to navigate.

Inviterite aims to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with existing providers of service in this sector, by creating a niche market with added values and a platform that is backed by a vibrant digital media and marketing outlet. It will consistently improve upon both the mechanisms and dynamics of its operations without disruption to the users.

Franklyn Frantos, Co-Founder of Feferity Media Group Limited, owners of Inviterite said: “We have in Inviterite an all-encompassing event listing, invitation and ticketing portal where no facet of celebration or social activities are ignored. Grand celebrations, small group private events, formal ceremonies and social get-togethers are all allowed on our platform. Users of this website will be treated warmly as clients, and not just as some obscure website visitors logged on somewhere. This way, we aim to build a community of client-users who will have at their disposal functional data sets built up from constant patronage and which can then be used to assist in planning future events.”

We also have a vast understanding of the nuances of events organizing among the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) groups. These would be brought to the fore and used to the fullest advantage to ensure events are completed to perfection.

Inviterite will massively deploy social networking media promos for more visibility of users’ events prior to its holding.

What’s more, we are allowing users free access to this platform, so no commissions or charges are incurred whether organizers list free-of-fees or fee-based events.

Event organizers are enjoined to register on our platform and upload current and future events. It doesn’t matter if they are listed elsewhere already. It would simply increase the events’ visibility.

Visit https://inviterite.co.uk to register and use this exciting new service. And, remember.... It’s FREE! -EndsNotes to editors * Inviterite is the first event listing website designed to consider, specifically Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) groups in its provisions. * The portal has both the capability and the resources to fully engage the vast array of social and formal events, specific to these groups, thereby making the most success of events listed on the site. * The services are being provided free as neither fee nor commission is charged for the usage. * Inviterite is powered by Feferity Media Group Ltd, a consolidated media outfit, publishers of Feferity magazine (online/ digital and print editions). The online edition is due to go live early in October while the preview (print) edition will be on the newsstand 1st week in December. * Feferity will offer event organizers who use Inviterite the requisite pre-and post-event media support to make their events exceed expectations in terms of success.

(Public, Private and Business Event Listings, Invitation & Tickets) Feferity Media Group Ltd Kemp House, 160 City Road, London EC1V 2NX United Kingdom Tel: 03330 110 781 Web: inviterite.co.uk Facebook: Inviterite; Twitter: @inviteriteuk Pinterest: Inviterite; LinkedIn: Inviterite

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Grand Emperor Hotel, Lekki Lag Home away

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rand Emperor Hotel is now open and fast becoming renown in Nigeria and other parts of the world for exquisite and sophisticated luxury. Grand Emperor Hotel’s guests are mostly the high society and distinguished guests, VIPs, Government Parastatals, Oil industry, Other corporate organizations, entertainment industry. The hotel offers an impressive variety of luxury rooms and suites, incomparable gourmet dining and world class customer service that would make your visit a remarkable and memorable one.

Grand Emperor Hotel is a luxury hotel located at Block 129, Plot 9 Akinyemi Avenue, Lagos. It is a traveler favourite due to its closeness to Elegushi Royal Beach, Lekki Beach, Lekki Leisure Lake, Landmark Centre, The Palms Shopping Mall, Amazon Spur Steak Ranch, The Place Nightclub and Circle Mall. The hotel is located at the city centre. It is renowned for its sunbathing terrace.

The rooms at Grand Emperor Hotel is divided into four categories. Room categories are Superior Suite, Deluxe Room, Executive Room and Grand Emperor Suite.

Each room category is well furnished to make sure guests have a homely feeling as soon as they step foot into the rooms.

The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, flat screen TV with cable connection, soundproofing, beautiful wall arts, kettle and a private bathroom. The bathroom features a stand-in shower, toiletries and a bathrobe. Some rooms have a private sitting area. All guests are entitled to a complimentary breakfast.

Grand Emperor Hotel offers some facilities to guests at the hotel. Some of which are, free on site parking, VIP room facilities, free wireless Internet, 2 restaurants and a bar. Guests can grab a tasty African or intercontinental dish from either of the restaurants at the hotel. The restaurants pride themselves in cooking in the most hygienic conditions possible. Guests can order a chilled bottle of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage from the bar. The choices available at the bar are unlimited.

On request, the hotel offers some additional services to guests.

These include, 24-hour room service, express check-in and check-out, concierge services, ironing services, laundry and dry cleaning services, currency exchange services, airport shuttle services and meeting facilities.

The hotel is a top destination for corporate people, leisure 38

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seekers, and families on vacation and couples. It is relatively cheaper than other hotels in its category. The nearest airport is Muritala Muhammed International Airport, 23.2km away.

Private taxi services are available with secured arrangement for our guests at any given time of the day.

Terms and Conditions Check In: From 12:00 PM Check Out: Until 11:30 AM Cancellation: Cancellation policies vary according to room type.

Children: Children accompanied by adults.

Pets: Pets are not allowed.

Payment: Only cash payment is accepted here.

Frequently Asked Questions Q: Does Grand Emperor Hotel offer free wifi?

A: Yes, guests have access to free wireless Internet.

Q: Does Grand Emperor Hotel offer complimentary breakfast?

A: Yes, all guests are entitled to complimentary breakfast.

Q: Does Grand Emperor Hotel have on site parking? Is it free?

A: Yes, guests are offered free on site parking.

Q: Does Grand Emperor Hotel have kettles?

A: Yes, each room has a kettle.

Q: Does Grand Emperor Hotel allow pets?

A: No, pets are not allowed at the hotel.

Q: What about electricity supply at the hotel A: We have constant electricity supply and if there is power failure we have our stand by generators to power your rooms 24 hours Grand Emperor Hotel is a top-class hotel in Lekki, Lagos and we look forward to having you be our guest for the first time and make it a home Grand Emperor Hotel Block 129, Plot 9, Akinyemi Avenue

By Elf Bus stop, Lekki Phase 1 Lekki Lagos. +234 (0)906 918 0163 +234 (0)903 342 5726 +234 (0)903 493 2906 www.grandemperorhotelnigeria.com

gos: A place to be when in Nigeria from Home.

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6 Children Rescued From Human Traffickers’ Den, 7 Missing

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o fewer than six children from different local government areas of Akwa Ibom State were recently rescued from what is believed to be the hideouts of human traffickers in Eket by volunteers of the Child’s Right and Rehabilitation Network (CRARN).

The Manager of the organization, Pastor Hezekiah Akpasi stated this while fielding questions from newsmen in his office at the CRARN Children Center, Eket.

Pastor Akpasi said the children who were all stigmatized in various churches and prayer houses were 13 in number and seven were nowhere to be found as they were believed to have been whisked away by the human trafficking syndicates who lured them into their enclave and took them away before the organization got the tip off.

“We believe from what the children said that all of them were denounced as witches and wizards by some of these hungry and desperate pastors and prophets. As we got the information we went there immediately. The children even said seven of their colleagues were already missing after some men came and told them that they have a place to take them for work and from there, they would return to school “ said Akpasi He added that they got hint from a child who was reunited

with her parents six months ago but pushed out of the house again with the warning that she should not return back to CRARN, otherwise she’d be killed by the father. So she opted to go back to the streets where she was rescued during an anti-witch branding campaign rally organized by the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Women and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and related matters (NAPTIP).

One of the rescued children, Emmanuel Akpan Uno said 40

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he trekked from Oron to Eket (about 50 KM) after two of his friends on the streets were badly beaten and tortured by their brothers to a state of coma before dragged them into the bush and left them there to die and he became afraid that he would be the next victim so ran away.

For five year old, Wisdom Friday Ndohose from Enen Ekpene, Afaha-Eket, the story is different. Friday told newsmen that he lost touch with his mother after their pastor told him that he was responsible for the accident his mother had. His mother then took him from Uyo to Eket and returned him to his father. Though his father welcomed him, such welcome was merely short-lived as his stepmother and father later turned him into a punching bag and usually tied him to a pillar in the backyard, burnt a nylon bag and allowed it to be dropping on him.

He said even after he ran out of the house, his father normally comes to the streets where he stays with friends and beat the hell out of him saying that until he releases his wife’s womb from the witch coven, he would never know peace.

The CRARN Children Centre in Eket was established in 2003 by a Nigerian, Sam Itauma when he rescued four children who were being beaten by a dozen of adults in his community with the fanciful claim that they were holding down the sales and progress of the market in his community. Since then, the centre has continued to rescued pariah children and street urchins from the streets and woods of the state.

These abuses on children need to stop and the church has a role to play in it as many of these children re accused of witchcraft by Pastors so the organization plead for more enlightenment on this problem that should be addressed by the government and the general public. No child should be demonized.

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VAS promote sports among Dutch public

T

he Association of African Sports (VAS), an African organization set up to united Africans in the Diaspora through sporting activities has continued to inspire more people to take into sports. Each Saturday the group gathered together at a sporting facility in the city of The

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Hague to engage in various sporting exercises particularly running. They recently started what they call, VAS Fitness Cafeteria. This was held at the Zuiderpark in preparation for the 10K Golden Tenloop marathon competition which took place on 10th May 2018. Four members of the association participated in the marathon event and it was such a success that each of them finished the 10 kilometer race.

Congratulations to all VAS members who participated in the race and it included Pastor Dominic Emeh, Pastor Emmanuel Emeh, Samson Okorocha and Jonathan Ogidi-Nwankwo.

They were cheered on by members of their families and friends.

For more information about this association or how you can join them in their sporting activities, contact them through the following address and information.

Bilderdijklaan 32, 2281 ST Rijswijk, The Netherlands E-mail: info@verenigingafricasport.com Telephone: + (31) 06 25332083 / + (31) 06 13501200

VAS promote sports among Dutch public

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OPINION: African currency dream will be a nightmare

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n that grey Brussels New Year’s Day – January the 1st 1999 – when they launched the Euro, I was at that grey Brussels building when the Finance Ministers of Europe agreed on the fixed exchange rates between their soon to-beexecuted currencies and the new, improved, Euro.

They launched bunches of balloons into the grey Brussels sky. And (working at the time for the British tabloids) I was delighted to see some of them return to earth. Deflated, distorted. A better man than I would have resisted the temptation to make an analogy with saggy, burst condoms. I was not that man.

And so to Africa….

In what must be President Ramaphosa’s biggest mistake since failing to evict all the Ministerial disasters from his first cabinet, he has decided that Africa must have its own Continental currency. Our own Euro. The Afro?

Which reminds me of the Euro’s biggest weakness: it seemed like a good idea to politicians.

A single currency is an economic strait-jacket. Lots of economies bunched together, with restrictive economic goals, and misery if you fail to meet them.

Ask the Greeks. A few years ago, their economy was brought to its knees. Not just because of widespread corruption, economic mismanagement, statistical dishonesty. Although all of these helped.

The problem, I would suggest, is that if you join a common currency, you need to run your economy properly. Like your currency co-conspirators The Greeks didn’t, and facing spiralling debts and the strait-jacket of the Euro, they had to seek bail-outs, which came with tough conditions. The country plunged into a massive recession; unemployment shot up. What misery.

And this is the problem. You cannot naively opt for currency union unless you also accept that it must involve a degree of economic convergence.

Africa is not Europe.

If you think the Greeks and the Germans have divergent economies, then look at, say, Botswana and Sudan. Economic chalk and cheese. And one can move around a map of Africa to identify many other economic contrasts. The

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Good, the Bad and the economically Ugly.

There is a stereotype of the typical American who thinks of Africa as one country. It is not. There is a glorious diversity, but this diversity is also an economic one.

Africa may dream of a single currency, but for some it would become a painful nightmare, as the Euro became for Greece.

By all means pursue free trade, as Africane leaders are doing.

But, for now and the foreseeable future, do bury any thoughts of a single African currency.

It won’t work.

Just ask the Greeks.

-South Africa The Messenger

By John Razer contributed to Africa Link

President Ramaphosa of South Africa pushing for one single currency for African countries

African News Ghana president says he will never oversee Same-sex legalization

The president faced a backlash earlier this year when most Ghanaians accused him of not being emphatic enough on the same-sex question in an interview with Al Jazeera.

Asked why homosexuality remained a criminal offence in Ghana, the president said, “I don’t believe that in Ghana so far a sufficiently strong coalition has emerged which is having that impact of public opinion that will say, change it; let’s then have a new paradigm in Ghana.”

He adds that like in other parts of the world, it will take the activities of groups and individuals to try bringing it up for discussion.

“At the moment, I don’t feel and I don’t see that in Ghana there is that strong current of opinion that is saying that this is something that we need even deal with. It is not so far a matter which is on the agenda.”

A lawyer by training, the president recounted his days as a young boy in England where homosexuality was banned and illegal, a time when politicians thought it was an anathema to be homosexual saying he believed the same processes will bring about changes.

His views are slightly moderate to that of Ghana’s third most powerful man, Speaker of parliament Mike Ocquaye, who is an ardent anti-gay rights activist. In his most recent pronouncement on the issue he said Africa was getting tired of the seeming cultural imposition.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo says: “It will NOT be under his presidency that same-sex marriage will be legalized in Ghana.”

A statement from the presidency was responding to a recent resurfacing of the issue. The main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) scribe had made the allegation warranting the response.

This is nothing but a baseless and vile fabrication, by no less a person than, the General Secretary of the leading opposition party in Ghana.

For the avoidance of doubt, President Akufo-Addo has NEVER stated anywhere that, under his presidency, men will marry men, and women will marry women.

“For the avoidance of doubt, President Akufo-Addo has NEVER stated anywhere that, under his presidency, men will marry men, and women will marry women,” the statement signed by Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications at the president said.

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‘It’s a masterful piece of important ideas’.

Ayeni Adekunle, Oluseun Onigbinde, Dr. Obiaya, others endorse NigeriaPresslog Media Resource Following its release early March 2018, the NigeriaPresslog Media Resource (NMR) has continued to receive rave reviews and high profile endorsements from notable personalities and influencers across diverse sectors.

Titled ‘Through the Clutter: How to Get Free Media Publicity in Nigeria’, the resource is a 24-page compendium detailing the thoughts and ideas of young, influential professionals in the Nigerian media space.

“The media and public relations industries are going through an interesting phase: turbulent for those averse to change and innovation; promising for those who passionately embrace new ideas and technology,” said Ayeni Adekunle, founder/ CEO of BHM. “I find this effort by Isime Esene timely and extremely important, coming at a time when practitioners in Nigeria desperately need the kind of information that this report provides. I do hope we all take advantage of it, as we continue to work together to build the industry of our dreams.”

Ayeni Adekunle, Founder/CEO of BHM. Alpha Reach; Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, communications and PR manager, Google West Africa; Nseobong Okon-Ekong, deputy editor, ThisDay Newspapers; Daphne Akatugba, head of digital marketing, Sterling Bank Plc.; Stanley Azuakola, editor-in-chief, ScoopNG; and Mercy Abang, United Nations Journalism Fellow.

The NigeriaPresslog Media Resource is an initiative of

Mr. Isime Esene BudgIT co-founder, Oluseun Onigbinde BudgIT co-founder, Oluseun Onigbinde described it as “an excellent book for entrepreneurs and communication managers who seek to use media effectively in advancing their brand. It is a masterful piece of important ideas from doers within the Nigerian space.”

On his part, Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya, Dean School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University said the content will increase brand visibility for end users.

“This publication certainly lives up to its name,” Obiaya said. “In an increasingly busy mediascape, the practical tips offered for cutting through the clutter will enhance brand visibility for anyone that takes them seriously. It also serves as a good introduction to the principles that should guide the fascinating field of PR.” Other media professionals who spoke on the importance of the media resource include Japheth Omojuwa, chief strategist,

media professional, Isime Esene with strategic support from the University of Sussex, United Kingdom. It is available for download at bit.ly/throughtheclutter. Follow the official handle @nigeriapresslog and hashtag #ThroughTheClutter on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

About NigeriaPresslog: NigeriaPresslog is a news and press release distribution platform showcasing brands to digitally connected audiences.

About University of Sussex: The University of Sussex is a top 20 research-intensive UK university located in Brighton and Hove. Transformative education, developing talent, and equipping its graduates with lifelong skills for the world of work is central to its values.

Ranked 1st in the world for Development Studies and top 50 for Business and Economics as well as Media and Communications, University of Sussex is truly global and with an excellent international reputation. www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Mugabe proudly rejects asylum offer from Equatorial Guinea President

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ormer president Robert Mugabe has proudly rejected offer of seeking political asylum in Equatorial Guinea according to a leading weekly‚ The Standard‚ quoting sources‚ that Equatorial Guinea President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo had paid a visit to his close friend Mugabe at his private residence‚ the Blue Roof in Borrowdale‚ where he offered him the chance to come and live the rest of his life in his country.

However‚ Mugabe is said to have warmly declined the offer.

“This is my home‚ I will die here. I will visit you as usual and when I want to but I will never abandon my people‚“ Mugabe is reported to have said.

The paper also reported that Mugabe had complained that his successor‚ President Emmerson Mnangagwa‚ was keeping a close watch on his

movements.

Since stepping down after military intervention in November 2017‚ Mugabe has spoken only once to the media when he revealed that his family’s security was compromised. Only pictures and videos of the former head of state have surfaced on social media‚ which have been posted by close family during celebrations such as his birthday and family dinners.

Mbasongo and Mugabe - both at some point Africa’s longest serving leaders – cemented their friendship in 2004.

Zimbabwe arrested former British soldier and mercenary Simon Mann who led a band of 69 soldiers en route to Equatorial Guinea to unseat Mbasongo on 7 March 2004.

Their Boeing 727 was seized by Zimbabwe’s security forces when it landed in Harare to collect weapons.

In 2015 at the request of Mbasongo‚ Mugabe sent military experts to one of Sub-Sahara’s leading oil producers.

Their friendship has since blossom to brotherhood and they are prepared to do anything to support one another.

The Equatorial Guinea President offered a similar gesture to former President of The Gambia, Yahya Jammeh and he still lives in exile in his country.

It is widely reported that he has vast mansions built for former African leaders as gifts on their retirement from power. Among those with properties there is Nigerian former President, Olusegun Obasanjo.

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Swiss to decide on Sovereign Money initiative on 10th June 2018

T

he initiative which aims at a sweeping reform of Switzerland’s monetary system is challenging not only for the banking industry and politicians but also for average citizens.

What impact would the introduction of the so-called Sovereign Money system have in the case of a – rather unlikely – approval by voters on June 10?

Here are some key points of the initiative: The promoters of the idea are a small group comprising economists, financial specialists and entrepreneurs.

Their initiative is aimed at minimizing the risk of financial crises like the global economic downturn which began in 2007 when the subprime mortgage bubble burst in the United States.

Sovereign money is basically bank notes and coins issued by the central bank as a legal tender. The proposal to reform the ability of private banks to create money is based on a theory of American economist Irving Fisher from the 1930s.

So far, no country in the world is using the sovereign money system. The debate about the June 10 vote in Switzerland is therefore necessarily somewhat hypothetical. The promoters regularly point out the innovative approach of that in their proposal.

Money creation Today: Money is put into circulation by banks which grant individual loans, mortgages and credits to businesses. By doing so, it creates a debt with the creditor.

The initiative wants to give the central bank the sole right to create money. The commercial banks would only act as distributors, transferring the money of the Swiss National

Bank to borrowers.

Bank run Today: The credits granted by commercial banks exceed by far their cash reserves. A bank is doomed and collapses if all clients withdraw their deposits at the same time during a crisis.

Initiative: The created money is no longer based on a debt. The banks would simply manage the sovereign money accounts, which have a100% coverage by the Swiss National Bank. It would be similar to the management of valuables held by clients in bank safe deposits. Such a system rules out the risk of bank runs.

In other words: The system would make deposits safe for clients and their money would always be fully covered whether it is in an account or stored in a mattress at home.

Money value Today and with the initiative: The value of money is based on trust. CHF100 are only worth CHF100 as long as people are willing to believe this.

A loss of trust under the current system leads to the book money dropping in value, because the commercial bank collapses as a result of a bank run.

A sudden loss of trust is not impossible under the new system. If nobody is prepared to take sovereign money it becomes worthless too.

By Renat Kuenzi (Swissinfo) Adapted from German/urs, swissinfo.ch www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Kingship Assembly celebrates 7th year anniversary

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ingship Life Assembly Inc. recently celebrated their 7th year anniversary as a church with a 3-day crusade to give thanks to God Almighty for his faithfulness over the ministry in the past seven years and looking forward to a greater seven years of the future.

The ministry played host to two international Guest speakers, Pastor Elvis Iruh from Victory Outreach church Almere, The Netherlands and Pastor Chuks Anizor, an International Preacher from Asaba, Delta state, Nigeria. It was a three day power packed spiritual awakening which was rounded up with a thanks giving service.

The host Pastor, Pastor & Mrs Chuks Iruh charged the members

to continue to work harder for greater harvest God plan to bring upon the church and to maintain their worship of the Almighty God. He said the secret of their success so far is their gratitude to God with their worship and preaching of the

full gospel of his truth to the people, teaching them to depend and trust the Almighty God for everything for their lives.

The whole program was held at the church new church Auditorium at No 65 Alika Street, Boji-Boji, Owa. Also awards were given out to two outstanding supporters of the ministry from the very beginning, Madam Dorcas Onyibe, presently based in United States of America for her continued support to the church and Pastor Chuks Anizor who had been a pillar of support for the ministry. Also disciples who completed their training courses were presented with their certificates.

The church, friends and guests were entertained to performances from the youths, the women, the choir and they were treated to good music and Pastor Chuks Anizor delivered the word to round up the program after the cutting of the anniversary cake.

The event was captured for the Voice magazine by the cameraman. View some of the highlights of the three day event. To God be all the glory.

Congratulations to Pastor & Mrs Chuks Iruh and the entire Kingship Life Assembly.

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Kingship Assembly celebrates 7th year anniversary of the ministry

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What are Africa’s chances at the 2018 World Cup?

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o African soccer team has ever reached the World Cup semi-finals. For the 2018 tournament in Russia, five strong teams could change that. But it’s not going to be an easy feat. Ghana almost made it in 2010 in South Africa. The West African country was close to fulfilling the dream of Africans to finally advance to World Cup semi-finals.

The game had already entered extra time when Ghana’s Stephen Appiah kicked the ball towards Uruguay’s goal. Luis Suarez blocked it at the goal line, but Dominic Adiyiah headed the ball towards the goal.

The ball was not caught by Uruguay’s goalkeeper but by Suarez, who used his hands to stop the ball. Suarez was subsequently given a red card; Ghana’s Asamoah Gyan failed to score penalty.

The following penalty shootout was then won by Uruguay, thus ending Ghana’s chance to reach the semi-finals, the debate still continues why the referee did not rule it a goal instead of giving a penalty, of course it was a game of chance.

Two other African teams have so far reached quarter-finals: Cameroon in 1990 and Senegal in 2002. Both lost during extra time.

Hopes are high for 2018: Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal and Tunisia all qualified for the 2018 World Cup in Russia

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and there preparations so far points to the fact that they are going to challenge the big names for a place in the next round and who knows what will happen next!

Nigeria’s Super Eagles It’s the sixth time Nigeria is participating in the tournament, which makes the Super Eagles a regular World Cup player, only missing out on one tournament since 1994.

While drawing a difficult qualifying group, the Super Eagles around captain John Obi Mikel (30) and midfielder Victor Moses (26) were able to defeat Zambia, Cameroon and Algeria.

But due to poor performance in preceding years, Nigeria which is ranked number 47 on the list of international teams was placed in a weaker pot at the draw held in Russia, and ended up in a group with Croatia, Island and Argentina.

Nigeria has played against Argentina four times during previous World Cups, and lost every single game. German trainer Gernot Rohr has said he aims to at least “give a good performance and show high morale.”

But a 4:2 victory in a friendly match against Argentina in November has left the Super Eagles longing for more.

Morocco’s Atlas Lions Morocco will be participating in a World Cup for the fifth time; however, its last tournament was in 1998. In the last qualifying round, the Atlas Lions led by captain Mehdi Benatia (30) won every match without conceding a goal, to the chagrin of Ivory Coast, Gabon and Mali. The man behind these brilliant tactics was French trainer Herve Renard, who has won the Africa Cup twice: with Zambia in 2012 and Ivory Coast in 2015.

Volker Finke, a former trainer of the German Bundesliga, said that Morocco was “well organized.” Finke, who used to train Cameroon until 2015, has faced Renard’s Ivory Coast three times.

He said Morocco was capable of “annoying the two power houses” Spain and Portugal in the tournament, but expects them to advance to the next round.

“In the end quality will win the day. And that quality is over powering, no matter how well you organize the defense,” he said.

Egypt’s Pharaohs Egypt is the most successful national team on the African

continent, having won the Africa Cup of Nations multiple times. It’s the third time for the North African country to participate in the World Cup; the last time Egypt played was in 1990.

The Pharaohs beat Uganda, Ghana and the Republic of Congo to qualify for Russia. They only scored eight goals in six games. Trainer Hector Cuper from Argentina has been heavily criticized for his defensive game, but was vindicated by success: his team won 20 out of 30 games.

And compared to other African teams, the Pharaohs drew a less difficult lot, having been seeded with host Russia, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.

“In view of their opponents, the team has the best starting position,” Finke said. “Good technique, physically powerful, confident,” he added.

The team’s star is Mohamed Salah (25), who plays for FC Liverpool. If he manages to score a goal, the Pharaohs might make it to the second round for the first time ever.

Although he is doubtful with his injury at the European Champions league final against Real Madrid in Ukraine.

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Sports

What are Africa’s chances for the 2018 World Cup? Continued from Page 55 Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles Tunisia too has not yet been able to survive the groups’ stage, in spite of participating in five World Cups. The Carthage Eagles qualified without losing a single game. But their opponents - the Democratic Republic of Congo, Libya and Guinea were not the strongest competition. Defeating Belgium, England and Panama will be more difficult.

“The key to reaching the second stage is the match against England,” trainer Nabil Maaloul said. The Tunisian has recruited most of his players from the national league, contrary to other African teams.

Betting agencies consider Tunisia to be among the biggest outsiders of the tournament. They put the odds of the Carthage Eagles winning the World Cup at between 1:500 and 1:751.

The team is still adding players to its roster.

The Tunisian football association recently invited Rani Khedira (23), the younger brother of German national player Sami Khedira (30) to join the Eagles in Russia.

Senegal’s Lions of Teranga Senegal ranks 23 on the FIFA world ranking, making it the highest ranked of all African teams. Bookmakers are offering bettors on Senegal odds between 1:126 and 1:151.

This is only the second time for Senegal to play in a World Cup. In 2002, during the World Cup in Japan and South Korea, Aliou Cisse led the team as captain. Today he serves as their trainer. The Lions qualified by defeating South Africa, Burkina Faso and Cape Verde.

The draw placed them in a balanced group, together with Poland, Columbia and Japan. The team around star player Sadio Mane (25), also from Liverpool, has a good chance of

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reaching the next stage - the round of 16.

The usual African problems?

Volker Finke does not believe an African team will “make it very far” in the 2018 World Cup. It has less to do with

sports and more with organization, infrastructure and lack of transparency, he said. After having qualified for a championship, associations would start fighting over big budgets, he disclosed.

Suddenly, the doors in the team’s hotel are locked, because the bills have not been paid; the team’s bus won’t come to pick up players, because there is allegedly no money for fuel; or the flight will be delayed, because rewards for players are still being negotiated.

That’s why teams of the north are usually stronger, Finke said.

“Ghana, Cameroon and the Ivory Coast clearly have better players than the North Africans. But the North Africans are more organized and structured, for instance when it comes to work within the associations or organizing training camps,” he said.

The job of the trainer was different in Africa, where football associations have protégés among the players, he added. When working in Cameroon, Finke said he was “50 percent diplomat and 50 percent trainer.”

In order to be successful, it’s “important to have a team that acts as a team. And you need the support of the football association, when you decide to not invite certain players,” Finke told the press then you get into trouble. He hopes African countries will put their acts together and give a better representation in Russia then African can expect better result in the tournament.

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Mo Salah confident of World Cup fitness as €1bn lawsuit is filed against Sergio Ramo When tearfully Mo Salah left the pitch during the final of the Champions league between his club, Liverpool and Real Madrid, it was more than an injury of a player, the hope of a nation called Egypt was nearly crushed.

According to media report, the whole nation was in tears and all sort of reactions had greeted the player’s injury.

Was it a deliberate attempt to keep him out of the world cup starting this month in Russia?

Mohamed Salah believes he’ll be fit for this month’s World Cup but that hasn’t stopped one angry Egyptian filing a €1bn (£873m) lawsuit against Sergio Ramos.

The Real Madrid captain was the cause of Salah’s nasty fall during Saturday’s Champions League final and initially the prognosis was bleak for the Liverpool talisman. The left shoulder that bore the brunt of his fall, as Ramos grappled him to the ground, was thought to have ligament damage severe enough to sideline Salah from the World Cup.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said on the club’s website that the injury was “really serious”, but Salah subsequently told Egypt via Twitter that he was “confident” he would recover in time for their first World Cup match against Uruguay on 15th June 2018. “Your love and support will give me the strength I need,” he added.

There was a similar upbeat message from the Egyptian FA, which said Salah had suffered a sprain in the shoulder ligaments but they were “optimistic” he would be fit for Russia.

Did Ramos intentionally injured Salah ?

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Ramos needs to pay – literally – for his clumsy challenge on the Premier League Golden Boot winner, reports Goal. com.

During an appearance on national broadcaster Sada El-Balad, Wahba accused Ramos of a deliberate act that inflicted “physical and psychological harm” on the whole country.

He added: “Ramos intentionally injured Mo Salah and should be punished about his actions. I’ve filed a lawsuit and a complaint to Fifa.”

Asked what he hoped to obtain from his lawsuit, Wahba replied: “I’ll ask for compensation, which could exceed €1bn, for the physical and psychological harm that Ramos gave Salah and the Egyptian people.”

If the lawsuit is successful Wahba has promised to donate the money to Long Live Egypt Fund. A petition has also been launched on Change.org, demanding that Uefa and Fifa take action against Ramos for what he did to Salah. The appeal has received over a million signatories to that effect.

Egyptian press blame Saudi Arabia Meanwhile, elements of the Egyptian press have blamed Saudi Arabia for what happened to Salah, claiming it’s all part of a dastardly plot by their World Cup rival. The two countries are in the same group and Turki al-Sheikh, the Saudi sports minister, has spoken in the past of his wish to see Salah “absent from the World Cup”.

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Pastor Elvis Iruh celebrates 53rd birthday at MOGEM in Lagos, Nigeria.

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t the invitation of Pastor and Mrs. Ademola Afolabi, the General of Overseer of Mountain of God Evangelical Ministry, Pastor Elvis Iruh was prieveledged to minister to the congregation in preparation of the five day crusade at Ayete, Oyo State with Evangelist Hans Griffioen from The Netherlands.

After ministration, the entire surprised him as they boast out in singing for him happy birthday songs and a beautiful well decorate cake was presented to him on behalf of the church.

Both the Pastor and his wife had kind words to say about Pastor Elvis Iruh who was celebrating his birthday away from his wife and children back in The Netherlands. In his words, he was thankful for the church and said his wife would be more surprised for the kind gesture. He prayed for the whole church for God’s blessing upon their lives. The event was covered by the church media crew. We present some of the photos and we at the Voice magazine wishes our publisher a very happy return of the day.

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Pastor Elvis Iruh celebrates 53rd birthday at MOGEM in Lagos, Nigeria.

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