ISSN:1571-3466
ISSN:1571-3466
Motto: Actuated towards Africa’s advancement
Volume 18. NO. 159 March 2017
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thenigerianvoice.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
First complete African magazine published in The Netherlands since August 1999
Chief Remi Ojutalayo becomes Yeye Tayese 1 of Ojoraland, Lagos, Nigeria
The Netherlands elect New Parliament on15th March 2017
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
1
2
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
3
• We sell tickets to all destinations • We offer the cheapest and possible fares all year round • SAFE AND RELIABLE CARGO SERVICES • We have professionals to handle your needs • We deliver ACROSS THE WORLD, WE ARE SIMPLY THE BEST AND IN THE HEART OF THE PEOPLE - AMSTERDAM
Your gateway to Africa!! Accra, Lagos, Abuja, Abidjan, Lome, Tripoli, Cairo, Tunis, other African destinations, European countries, Americans, Asia and the Caribbean countries etc. New Office Address: Groeneveen 89 1103EE, Amsterdam Zuid-Oost Tel: +31 (0)20-6951202 Mob: +31 -623946878 or 06-12999553 Fax: +31 (0)20-6951760 E-mail: info@transafrica.nl
www.transafrica.nl
Mr. Stephen Osei - Travel Consultant & Managing Director
CALL US FOR YOUR TICKETS TO ENJOY ALL YEAR ROUND OFFERS & LAST MINUTE CHANCES AND BOOKINGS IN 2017 ................ 4
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
5
Congratulations TO Princess Moradeke Adeyemi I, Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo, Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijoraland rejoices with my dear sister and friend, Alhaja Princess Misitura Olabisi Moradeke Adeyemi (The daughter of Alafin of Oyo) on title confirmation as Osupa Adeen Amani Mosque, Surulere, Lagos.
Oye amori oooo.
Signed: Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijoraland 6
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
UNIC MULTISERVICE, Bijlmerdreef 1127A
Now on offer: Send telephone credit to loved ones in Nigeria Fast and cheap
Amsterdam Zuid-Oost Tel. No: 06-46056199 www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
7
HISTORY
The Voice Magazine Volume 18. No 159 March 2017 Edition
Vote Don Ceder for Member of Dutch Parliament on Christian Union Party . Don Ceder is a Dutch lawyer, 27 years old, and a born-again Christian believer and a member of the Christian Union Party. Don Ceder is of Surinam/Ghana parentage and he works as a lawyer in Amsterdam assisting people with financial debts, over taxing and other challenges. He is on the ballot as candidate number 7 on Christian Union Party for the elections on 15th March 2017 in Holland. Let us vote for equal represenation and a Voice in this coming election. It is better to have one voice than having nothing . We therefore ask for your support for DON CEDER
Content/Masthead -8 & 9 Nigeria unworkable budget for 2017– 13 Feedback: Pages for your letters & opinions - 16 & 17 President Donald Trump’s Africa policy: Unclear and uncertain – 18 &19 Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora Kingdom pledge to better the lives of her people – 22 & 23 Oba Aromire celebrates 64 in style – 24 & 25 New Book: The Gospel Illuminators - 27 Don Ceder appeals for your vote at 15th March parliamentary elections in The Netherlands – 30 & 31 Jammeh mansion he may not live in again in Potomac, Maryland, USA- 38 Chad foreign minister Moussa Faki Mahamat to head African Union Commission – 40 African News: Morocco rejoins African Union after more than 30 years– 41 Justice for the murder of Steven Osaigbovo Ekunwe; Killer gets 12 years imprisonment – 42 & 43 Gambia heads back to the polls in two months- 49 Invest in Real Estate in Nigeria – 54 - 56 Chief Remi Ojutalayo chieftaincy ceremony in Nigeria – 57 -61 African Nations Cup 2017 – 66 & 67
8
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Tell every on e you know eligible to vote to VOTE DON CEDER
ABOUT US The Voice magazine
The Team
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 monthly and distributed for FREE via digital online copy around the world. If you wan to receive a copy, send us your email address. On the team are Elvis Iruh, E dward Ogbee, Sandra Iruh-Monsels & Henry Oduenyi supported by an editorial board. READ THE VOICE ON LINE AT www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thenigerianvoice.com Registration NO: (Kvk. Nr. 34.110.928) ISSN: 1571-3466 Stichting Paddi Europa Account No: NL29SNSB0908374372(SNS Bank) IBAN NO: NL29SNSB0908374372 Swift Code: SNSBNL2A Graphic Designers George Adegite David Banjoko Wil Smile Special Senior Adviser Engr. Barry Igbeare Advert Executive Faith Ehanire-Popken Fehanire70@gmail.com
Publisher: Stichting Paddi E uropa Editor-in-Chief Pastor Elvis Ndubuisi Iruh elvisiruh@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Managing Editor Henry D. Oduenyi (Nigeria Office) henry@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Contributing Editor Edward Idahosa Ogbee apexbest2000@yahoo.co.uk Associate Editor Lucky Osahon (London, UK) hlosahon@hotmail.com Associate Editor Etim Thompson London, United Kingdom royalthompson@yahoo.com Project Coordinator Ifeyinwa Ezeagabu i.ezeagabu@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Project Editor (Nigeria) Chiedu Harris Ify harrisbok4real@gmail.com BUREAU CHIEFS Gbenga T. Okunlola (London) teejayok@gmail.com Joel Savage (Belgium) juskosave@yahoo.com Femi Ikutiyinu (London) afpaprint2000@yahoo.com Collaboration with National Infinity magazine, Lagos
CORRESPONDENTS ABROAD Nicholas Noghayin Ehioghiren (Spain) nicholasmicnita@yahoo.com Barrister Eze Eluchie (Nigeria) paddingr@yahoo.com Kehinde Aig-Imoru (Nigeria) aigimoru@yahoo.com Tammy Abusi (Port-Harcourt) t.abusi@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Eubaldus Enahoro enabadus2000@yahoo.com Principal Photo Editor: Azeez Badris fatim_26@hotmail.com PA to Publisher Lilian Akintokun (Mrs) raven_lilian@yahoo.com MEDIA CONSULTANTS Jonathan Mgbejume Bernd Wandkowski Mildred Kleinbussink Adeleke Ogunkoya 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
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 at: info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com
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 countries problems and bring information to help address those issues. TV
Volume 18
NO 159
March 2017 www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
9
KAYSTAR BV
Supermarket for Import & Export of African, Caribbean food and general groceries
Shop Address: Bijlmerdreef 1182-1184, 1103JV, Amsterdam Z.O. Tel: 0645532466 Facebook:KaystarB.V. kayeze60@yahoo.com nne_kay@yahoo.com
For all your products and latest, fresh products , shop with us at KAYSTAR BV, Amsterdam. 10
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
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. 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 of the church Victory Outreach Almere. Barbeelstraat 12, 1317 PZ Almere Telephone: 036-8417007; Telephone: 036-7505571 info@voalmere.nl ...................http://www.voalmere.nl
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
11
Congratulations! Congratulations!! Congratulations!!!
Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora Kingdom 12
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
EDITORIAL
Nigeria unworkable budget for 2017 Who will bill Nigeria out of its predicaments as it is going from bad to worse as I write this editorial? As a matter of principle, we decided not to write about Buhari presidency and give him the chance that he pleaded for and his associates. Yes we all knew his other name was “Baba Go Slow” but nobody not even his political associates expected that it is going to be this slow or even not moving anymore. When Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari finally campaigned on the platform of change and fighting corruption, what it meant to the ordinary Nigerians was that they would experience an open, accountable, caring and forward moving government, a President to correct the mistakes of the past and help to empower the people, create job for the unemployed, at least improve from where the last administration stopped. The case seems to be the opposite now, the country thrived better under what was called a corrupt government. They asked for time, two years now, they are now shying away from the reality that they had no plan on how to move Nigeria forward. We still wonder why Buhari was so interested in the office of the President, attempting it four times before succeeding! Just to answer the name, ‘the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria’! After he was sworn-in, all the signs of lack of idea was there, and those sycophants around him will not tell him the truth about the state of the nation, if he cannot see or hear well. First was the free fall of our currency and till this day, no remedy to that, a dollar exchanging for 500 naira and yet no devaluation of the naira yet. Please don’t even try it, Nigeria would be worst that Ugandan shilling that was described as ‘shit money’ under Idi Amin regime. Nigeria has no Ambassadors in our foreign missions to help repackage our image and attract investors, they are poorly funded and the civil servants there are just doing their own things waiting for the appointment of Ambassadors. How serious is this government? Come to the budget of Africa’s largest economy, it is being flogged in the parliament as a joke by law-makers who are supposed to be friendly to President Buhari; the Presidency is demanding high increase on expenditures to run the Presidency, this was the same President who said no wasteful spending will be tolerated under his watch; that even family members are not welcome in Aso Rock villa. The question is, who is eating all the budgetary allocation to the Presidency? The issue of the house built for the Vice-President is there, the Presidency is quite on that. According to lawmaker, Senator Ben Bruce, let us break down the budget for the Presidency as see what it entails. “The N2.9bn voted for honoraria for the Presidency and its agencies in a recession can feed 1 million starving IDPs in North Eeastern Nigeria for 2 months.
“The budget for catering equipment for Aso Rock can pay minimum wage for 10,000 Nigerians. What happened to equipment budgeted for last year? “With the way we in government treat Nigerians, I sometimes suspect that our people will prefer to go to hell if our leaders are found Pastor Elvis Iruh in heaven”. This is Ben Bruce Editor-in-Chief submission. “With a minimum wage of N18, 000, the N250m budgeted for the Vice President’s gate house can pay the salaries of 13,888 Nigerians.” Recently, figures of the sum allocated to the Presidency in the 2017 budget have become a subject of controversy in the parliament. A total sum of N1.6 billion was allocated to Buhari office, while N448.6 million was allocated to the office of the Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo. Out of the N1.3 billion for the President’s office, N736.4 million is earmarked for international travels, N239.2 million for local travels and N5.6million for postages and courier services. Foodstuffs and catering materials is pegged at N114.9 million, the same rate as in 2016 budget, and N188million for general services. N53.8 million as miscellaneous expenses and N48.2 for publicity and advertisements. For the office of the Vice-President, N218.2 million is for international travel, N88.3million for local travels, N53.4 million for foodstuffs and catering materials, N21.3 million for general services, honorarium and allowances, and N6.9million for office stationery and computer consumables. Welfare packages stands at N24.4 million, publicity and advertisements N14.6 million, N5.7 million for sporting activities, N1.7 million for postages and courier services and cooking gas fuel costs N246, 000. Borrowing from Ben Bruce analysis, one of the Nigerian Senators, says this 2017 budget could be regarded as Buhari’s budget as it does not reflect the reality in Nigeria today. The question is what is left for the over 170 million people in the budget? You don’t need to be an economist to realize that there is no difference from this government to the one we voted out and if I am not mistaken, we are worse off than we started with this government. Therefore Nigerians demand change either in leadership or style of governance, it is obvious that this government is in crisis.
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
13
JJFV IMPORT &EXPORT FOOD ITEMS & CLOTHING In partnership with BIG MAMA, we have all their products in stock for you and many more ....
We also have Lal Qilla Rice in stock. We are the main major distributor of this rice in Amsterdam. Check us out ...
14
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Dealer on African Food items & Clothing Attention; Sister Joy Location address: Kruitberghof 63 1104BC Amsterdam (Kraaiennest, Back of Albert Heijn) Tel: +31-685728929 E-mail: joyubiubi@yahoo.com
We moved to new & better location to serve you better. We have new collections for 2017. Visit us today ............
Fairage Exotic & Elegant Cake Designs What is the Occasion? Are you planning an Event? You need an exotic cake to match the occasion! Then you don’t have to search further, We are the right company for you –
Fairage Exotic & Elegant Cake Designer (A taste of Excellence)
We design cakes for all occasions, people loves it. Patronize us today........
No one does it better than us. Contact: Princess Faith P. Ehanire President/CEO +31(0)6-81459589 E-mail: fehanire4607@gmail.com We have taste for excellence, making exotic cake is our task....
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
15
FEEDBACK
Where is Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR? When a nation lies, the destiny of its people are in danger. The report released to the Nigerian people was that the President was going on a short vacation to the United Kingdom. There is nothing wrong with the President going on vacation, it baffled the whole nation why the president will choose to go on vacation at the beginning of the year when no work has been done yet, not even his budget for 2017 had been passed. Then 10 days passed and within that period rumour of all sorts was in the air. You will not blame the rumour muggers, this is the only time you get someone from the government to speak out on the where about of the President. Several so called visits made to the president was published, even distorted photographs of him and his wife and ministers circulated in the social media but to this point, it is all rumours. Even the words of the Vice-President to the press that he personally spoke to the President and that he is fine is not convincing to anyone. If the President of Nigeria is running medical tests, does the doctors forbid him to speak? Even leaders like late Fidel Castro spoke to the nation from his sick bed. His people prayed for him. In the case of Nigeria, it is denial upon denial until we cannot deny it any more. We saw this played out during the time of Late President Yar’ Adua and now it is President Buhari. Let me use this medium to inform the world that Nigeria President, President Buhari is sick and he needs our prayers for God to preserve his life. The presidency should come clean and tell the nation the condition of the President and let us wish him well. If he is strong enough, let him address the nation even from his sick bed. He is human afterall and we all know that and let us stop acting like Nigerians are fools. Quick recovery to President Muhammadu Buhari. TV
Yayah Jammeh fetish powers failed him.
Over the years, former dictator and The Gambia former head of state, Mr. Yayah Jammeh boasted that no human being could remove him from power except the will of Allah. He governed his people with fear and terror. His reliance on collection of jujus gave him force hope to staying in power for life. I will rule for a billion years he boasted. Just few years into his administration, he turned himself from a military officer to a civilian but he knew that his civilian status will not bring enough fear into the people, he resulted into importing Voodoo priests from neighboring Senegal to charm him and dress him up for occasions. I do remember one of the Independent day celebration, in the public, the Voodoo priests after incantations, take three live python snakes and rapped him with it. They bring out all sorts of juju items to pray for protection over him in public events and yet on one hand he carried his Koran. Mixing everything together to stay in power for life. May be for many who did not belief in what he was doing thought it a joke. After he was ousted from the Presidential villa in Banjul, these were some materials retrieved from the secret closets of the State House. (The pictures are disgusting so viewers discretion please) The New President, President Adama Barrow need to have the state House properly cleanse, washed and spiritually covered before he can move into it. Jammeh made it his ritualistic home in his 22 years regime in The Gambia. Today, he is living a life of quietness from public view in exile. I guess this is what he deserved. Items recovered included gold bars, pile up of cash, variou stypes of charms and ritual stops in the State House. None of them could save him from the will of the people.
Disguised with his Koran
Gold bars hidden in the State house Load of cash left behind by Jammeh 16
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Some of Jammeh’s juju he left behind
Feedback (Page for your letters) We have government of jokers in Kenya Dear Editor, Jambo Kenyans? Let someone of sound mind remind me of any nation in the world where the president and his deputy will continue campaigning while its military forces are being mauled in another state. Remind me of any serious president who will execute sovereign duties without a word of condolence to almost 100 of these patriots who put their lives on line to defend his pride. Let me know dear Kenyans if there exists any government worth its name that has overseen the doctors’ strike for two months without doing anything to resolve the problem so that more of the populace can die. Make me aware of any modern government that would contemplate jailing its doctors via industrial action while sick Kenyans are dying in their hundreds per day of treatable conditions. Are you aware of any government that allows lecturers, nurses on the streets for months to force it to
meet its obligations? Remind me Kenyans if indeed we have ever had a government urging starving people to register as voters. Kenyans, is it realistic for people without water to be given an old locomotive from China to transport them across the dry Tsavo at a snail speed of 72km/h at double the cost of a bullet train in Morocco? Which government borrows close to half a trillion Ksh in my name and build ‘invisible’ development projects when I can’t put food on my table!!. The government of Kenya must be the government of crazy people. Otherwise why are they dancing on our graves every morning? Say no to this oppression, plunder and impunity, the ICC case is over, we must take back Kenya!!! Enough is enough!!! GK Wamungu , Kisumu, Kenya
The Voice magazine goes digital online Since the beginning of the New Year (2017). ‘You can read the full magazine via digital edition. The Voice magazine is available now and also on our website at www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com. If you want to receive a digital copy from now on, kindly send us an email at info@ thevoicenewsmagazine.com Over 10,000 people get the magazine within a day, it is faster for your business promotion, so contact us for details and it is much cheaper. Better way of serving you now. Thank you for your patronage, help spread it to your contacts. Editor
ON THE NEWS OF THE VOICE MAGAZINE ONLINE Dear Editor, Thanks a lot for the copy of the latest magazine which you sent to me through ‘We transfer’. Really appreciated and thanks for the attention for the political changes in my beloved country The Gambia. By Géke Lagerburg-Schutte CEO 4Gambia Foundation The Netherlands. **** Dear Editor, Many thanks for sending this magazine. It’s a beautiful edition. I have seen the article on the voice award as well with pictures. It is very nice. Regards, Martin Adu Utrecht, The Netherlands
GET MORE ADVERTISING VALUE
READ COPY OF THE VOICE
FROM THE VOICE MAGAZINE
MAGAZINE ONLINE
With over 800,000 hits, we go online with The Voice magazine. There is reduction in our prices. Get fast results by advertising with us. Call us today on +31684999548 or +31648519292
Send us your email and we would send you a copy digitally. E-mail us at info@ thevoicenewsmagazine.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
17
President Donald Trump’s Africa policy: Unclear and uncertain
F
rom trade to human rights, what will Trump’s policies towards Africa look like as he assume leadership of the Presidency of United States of America? Obama’s former US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Johnnie Carson highlights some likely changes but nothing is certain with President Trump in charge of United States of America. Africa is not likely to emerge as one of US President Donald Trump’s foreign policy priorities. But the continent is almost certain to be affected by the fallout from his hardline foreign policy views, his strong anti-Muslim pronouncements, his vow to eliminate Islamic terrorism, and his “America First” economic policies. And the prospects are probably bleak for any bold new development initiatives targeted at Africa like those rolled out by his predecessors Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Over the past two decades, US Africa policy has enjoyed strong bipartisan congressional support from both Democrats and Republicans working together. But without a strong commitment to Africa in the White House or Executive Branch under Trump, the major programmes that have defined US policy in Africa for the past two decades will probably struggle to sustain the previous funding levels and state support. Trump has exhibited no interest in Africa. Nor have any of his closest White House advisors. Except for some campaign comments about Libya and Benghazi, the new president has made very few remarks about the continent. And despite his global network of hotel, golf and tourist holdings, he appears
to have no investments or business relationships in subSaharan Africa. The one member of Trump’s inner circle that may have an interest in Africa is Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. He has some experience of Africa because of his many years in the oil industry with ExxonMobil, most of whose successful dealings on the continent were with largely corrupt and authoritarian leaders. 18
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
If Tillerson appoints a moderate and experienced Africa expert to run the Africa Bureau – and there are a dozen Republicans who meet that definition – and if he is able to keep policy in the control of the State Department, African issues may not be pushed aside completely. But irrespective of who manages Trump’s Africa policy, there will be a major change from recent previous administrations. President Obama pushed a strong democratic agenda and launched half a dozen new development programmes including Power Africa, Feed the Future and the Global Health Initiative. Before him, Bush’s “compassionate” approach led to the establishment of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), two of America’s most widely-praised programmes on the continent. But Trump’s world view is more myopic. He believes in “America First” and questions the value of the United Nations, NATO and the European Union. He is strongly opposed to nation-building and large overseas assistance programmes. He looks suspiciously at trade agreements. And he has railed against Muslims and other foreigners, while he has publically praised dictators and tyrants. Under Trump, any focus on Africa will likely be on military and security issues, not democracy, good governance or human rights. These policies are likely to find greater favour with Africa’s autocrats than civil society or local business leaders.
What can we expect in the different areas of US engagement? Security and counterterrorism We should expect an uptick in military and security cooperation with a number of African nations, especially those facing terrorist threats given Trump’s promise to wage an all-out war on Islamist militancy. The US role in the battle against alShabaab, Boko Haram and armed groups in the Sahel region will probably be expanded, and African support for US actions may become a new litmus test for closer relations. Democracy and governance We should probably expect a sharp drop off in White House support for democracy and governance programmes. Trump has denounced nation-building abroad and said during his inaugural address that he will “not seek to impose” America’s “way of life on anyone”. His policies will almost certainly result in less spending on the promotion of political reforms, democracy and the conduct of free and fair elections in Africa. Human rights The Obama administration routinely spoke out against torture, detention and extrajudicial killings, and pushed for greater gender equality and LGBTI rights. This will not happen under a Trump administration which has praised some authoritarian leaders, asserted the value of torture, and already curbed funding for women’s health programmes. The recent executive order excluding citizens from seven majority Muslim countries, including three in Africa, is an indication that respect for human rights and civil liberties will take a back seat to notions of security. Business relations Trump’s “America First” stance will probably lead to the collapse of Obama’s major economic initiatives in Africa. Trade Africa, a regional effort to boost trade among five East African nations; Doing Business in the Africa, designed to encourage American businesses to trade with the continent; and the high-level US-Africa business summits Obama hosted are all in jeopardy. With Trump complaining about American companies moving jobs overseas and touting a new form of economic nationalism, dealing with Africa economically will not be a priority. Trade The strongly bipartisan African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has been the centrepiece of American trade policy in Africa, but its non-reciprocal concessionary treatment runs counter to Trump’s trade doctrine. Trump’s administration has focused on TPP (the Asia free trade deal) and NAFTA (the North American free trade agreement) so far, but at some point AGOA, which was recently renewed until 2025, will inevitably come to the attention of someone in the White House. Despite bipartisan support, the best hope for AGOA is that it will be allowed to remain in place with declining support until it expires. If there is an effort to reframe it, the US will probably demand African nations open their markets to American goods on a reciprocal basis. Exchange programmes One of Obama’s most successful programmes was the Young African Leaders which brings several Initiative (YALI), hundred young African professionals and entrepreneurs to the US for six weeks each summer. Although it has the potential to be as significant to Africa as the Fulbright Programme was to Europe, YALI could be an early casualty. YALI is not covered by any congressional legislation and is not funded beyond 2017. Previous Republican
administrations have cut back exchange programmes and YALI has no natural constituency in the Trump administration. Climate change Climate change is a major problem for Africa, but many in the Trump administration have denied or downplayed its importance, threatening to pull out of the 2015 Paris climate change agreement. UN and US studies have shown that Africa will be impacted by climate change more than any other region of the world and that African nations are the least prepared to deal with it. A shift on the global agreement will have damaging ripple effects across the continent. USAID Trump has said that rebuilding America’s deteriorating infrastructure would be one of his domestic priorities, and as he sets about this, USAID’s overseas programmes could become an easy target to be cut. Trump has already criticized them as wasteful and corrupt, and his administration might easily align itself with Republicans who fought to reduce development spending and eliminate the Export-Import Bank and the Overseas Private Investment Corporation – two organisations that have supported America’s trade, aid and development projects in Africa and around the world. Benign neglect It is possible that Trump’s term in office will surprise us on Africa. Republican administrations have outperformed on this front before. President Bush certainly did, and his two landmark development initiatives – PEPFAR and MCC – remain extremely popular. But given the absence of any serious White House interest in Africa, Secretary Tillerson may become the key American player on Africa. He could put Africa policy on a solid footing by appointing an experienced Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs; supporting key Bush- and Obama-era food, health and power development initiatives; and maintaining the business-focused policies of Obama. He could also throw his support behind USAID, the Overseas Private Investment Corporation and EXIM Bank, all of which strengthen US economic and development objectives in Africa. Congressional leaders could also play an important role by maintaining their strong two-decade-long bipartisan support for Africa and encouraging the administration to prioritize and not to marginalize Africa. But realistically, perhaps the most the continent can really hope for under Trump is “benign neglect”. By Johnnie Carson. He was US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs from 2009 to 2012. He is currently a Senior Advisor at the United States Institute of Peace and a Senior Fellow at the Jackson Institute at Yale University.
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
19
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
For details, Call: 06-87510616, 06-87508082, 0655516057 Address : EGOLI 9A 1103AC, Amsterdam 20
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Time: 6.30pm - 9.00pm YOU ARE ALL WELCOME.
NETFREIGHT SCHIFFAHRTS- & SPEDITIONS GMBH COMPANY NAME: NETFREIGHT SCHIFFAHRTS- & SPEDITIONS GMBH YEAR OF INCORPORATION: 1986 STATUS: PRIVATE LIMITED COMPANY SHAREHOLDER AND FOUNDER: BERND WANDKOWSKI HEAD OFFICE: HAMBURG GERMANY KEY GLOBAL BUSINESSES ACTIVITIES IMPORT & EXPORT TURN KEY LOGISTICS, CONTAINER SHIPPING, RORO SHIPPING, PROJECT SHIPPING, LOCAL TRANSPORT BY ROAD, RAIL AND BARGE CUSTOMS CLEARANCE, WAREHOUSING KEY TRADING AREAS MIDDLE EAST, MEDITERRANEAN, THE CONTINENT OF AFRICA WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON WEST AND EAST AFRICA. KEY RELATIONSHIPS CLOSE RELATIONSHIPS WITH ALL MAJOR LINER SERVICES SERVING OUR KEY TRADE LANES NETWORK PARTNERSHIPS WITH RENOWN COMPANIES IN ALL EUROPEAN AND ALL AFRICAN PORTS SERVED. MISSION STATEMENT THE COMPANY WILL PROVIDE WORLDWIDE FREIGHT SOLUTIONS BY LAND, SEA OR AIR TO CUSTOMERS BASED IN GERMANY AND OVERSEAS. PROVIDING OUR CUSTOMERS WITH A PERSONALIZED, EFFICIENT AND CONFIDENTIAL SERVICE BASED ON THE HIGHEST STANDARDS AIMED AT BUILDING LONG TERM RELATIONSHIPS, STABILITY AND MUTUAL GROWTH. PHILOSOPHY QUALIFIED AND COMMITTED PERSONNEL SERVICE ANALYSIS TAILOR MADE SOLUTIONS HIGH LEVEL SERVICE COMMITMENT COMPETITIVE PRICING EXPORT DOCUMENTATION TO HIGHEST INDUSTRY STANDARDS COMPLETE PROJECT MANAGEMENT WITH FULL CONTROL PROCESSES ALL CUSTOMERS ARE IMPORTANT SERVICES GLOBAL SERVICE PROVISION TRANSPORTATION FEASIBILITY STUDIES RO RO SERVICES CONTAINER SERVICE FCL/LCL BULK AND BREAKBULK SHIPMENTS HEAVY LIFT AND OVERSIZE CARGO TRANSPORTATION TRUCKING, RAIL AND BARGE MOVEMENTS WAREHOUSING, PACKING AND STORAGE CUSTOMS CLEARANCE FORMALITIES
BERND WANDKOWSKI
FULL EXPORT DOCUMENTATION CARGO TRACKING-INFORMATION SYSTEM WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES BY CHOOSING NETFREIGHT AS YOUR PARTNER? FIRST CLASS REPUTATION EXCELLENT TRACK RECORD AND REFERENCES A ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL OF YOUR SHIPPING AND LOGISTIC SERVICES A COMPREHENSIVE GLOBAL SUPPORT NETWORK COLLECTIVE EXPERIENCE EXCEEDING 100 YEARS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF THE FOLLOWING SERVICES INTERNATIONAL FREIGHT FORWARDING TURN KEY PROJECTS LOGISTICS WAREHOUSING AND PACKING CUSTOMS CLEARANCE DISTRIBUTION VISION FOR THE FUTURE MAINTAIN OUR POSITION AS ONE OF THE LEADING PROVIDERS OF SHIPPING AND LOGISTICS SERVICES BASED IN GERMANY. CONTINUE TO EXPAND OUR NETWORK AND ASSOCIATION WITH THE LEADERS IN THE SHIPPING AND LOGISTICS INDUSTRY STRENGTHEN OUR BASE IN THE REGION CONTINUE TO OFFER OUR CUSTOMERS THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF CUSTOMER SERVICE BY CONTINUING TO ADAPT TO CHANGES IN GLOBAL PERFORMANCE CRITERIA Netfreight Schiffahrts- & Speditions GmbH Kurze Muehren 20 20095 Hamburg Tel. +49 40 307047-11 Fax. +49 40 307047-47 E-mail: wandkowski@netfreight.de www.netfreight.de
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
21
Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora Kingdom pledge Chief Mrs. Remi Diarra Ojutalayo, one of the Nigerian women leaders in the Netherlands on her return from Nigeria where she was officially unveil as the first Yeye Tayese of Ijora kingdom in Lagos State of Nigeria. The chieftaincy title was confirmed on her by His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdul Fatai Aremu Oyeyinka Aromire on 1st January 2017 at the royal palace. The newly decorated chief in her full regalia paid a courtesy visit to the Voice magazine office in Almere. Her mission was to speak to the Voice magazine on her recent visit to Nigeria and to have the event widely published through our medium. In this interview, she spoke exclusively to the Voice magazine Editor-in-Chief, Pastor Elvis Iruh.
Excerpts TV: A short introduction of yourself? Chief Mrs. Ojutalayo: My name is Mrs. Remi Diarra Ojutalayo. I live and work in Tilburg in The Netherlands. I am the President of United Nigeria Women Association in The Netherlands and the coordinator of Nigerians in Brabant area of the country for the past four years. TV: Recently you were installed in Nigeria as a Chief. Can you tell our readers how this came about? Chief Mrs. Ojutalayo: Thank you sir for this interview. I never expected it. I was recognized by His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdul Fatai Aremu Oyeyinka Aromire with the title Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom. To God be the glory, I am the first woman to be so recognized with the title in Ijora kingdom. TV: What does this title means to you? Chief Mrs. Ojutalayo: The title has to do with service to the community, someone to make the lives of the people better or to improve their condition of living particularly to women and children in the community. TV: So what part of the Yoruba kingdom is Ijora? Chief Mrs. Ojutalayo: Ijora kingdom is in Lagos State. I can say they are real Lagosians spreading from Ijora to Iganumu so the kingdom is wide and every area of Ijora kingdom like Ajegunle has its own Baale who represents the king to govern the communities. The palace of the King is at Ojora 7Up, it covers the Stadium area, Iganumu area and as I said they all have a Baale so you have the Baale of Layeni of Ajegunle, Alhaji Monsuru Alli-Balogun, he is a god father to me, also is the Lisa of Ijora kingdom, Alhaji Haleem Ojora Adejiyan. He is also a god father to me in the palace and the Iyalode of Ijora kingdom, Alhaja Sidikat Ololade Olusanya. She is a god mother to me in the palace. I would say they know me and my activities as well. TV: Are you from Ijora kingdom yourself? Chief Mrs. Ojutalayo: No, but like I have mentioned, I am connected to Ijora kingdom through these persons I mentioned above so I am treated as a daughter and a friend of the Ijora kingdom. I am originally from Ile-Ife in present day Osun State of Nigeria where we have Oni of Ife as our spiritual father. The title is not because I am from Ile-Ife but a Yoruba title as a daughter of Oduduwa, the founder of the Yoruba race. 22
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
e to better the lives of her people
TV: What role do you think you can play to contribute to the development of Ijora kingdom? Chief Mrs. Ojutalayo: Well as a woman leader, my first priority is to see how I can help the less privileged ones in Ijora kingdom. I have plans for the motherless homes, the widows and most importantly how I can contribute to the efficient working of His Royal Majesty, Oba (king) Abdul Fatai Aremu Oyeyinka Aromire in his kingdom. TV: You were installed on 1st January 2017 in Nigeria but you live in Holland so how do you intend to carry out your duties? Chief Mrs. Ojutalayo: I will always be part of the kingdom weather I am in Europe or in Nigeria. There is an effective means of communication and I am in constant contact with the King and the palace chiefs. They know how best to reach me and likewise for me to reach them so distance will not affect my performance of my duties as Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom. Secondly, we have a Yoruba umbrella body in Holland, I will work with them to promote Oduduwa cultural entity and the Ijora kingdom. I will use the umbrella body to promote my roles and duties as Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora land for the advancement of Yoruba kingdom as a whole. I will work with others of like minds to bring improvement and travel as often as possible to see the progress on ground. TV: To be a Chief, many people do not understand it in the West and they associate it with rituals. Can a Christian or a Muslim become a Chief without traditional idol worshiping? Chief Mrs. Ojutalayo: Being a Chief has nothing to do with rituals or idol worshipping. I did not perform any form of ritual, rather you are prayed for to have long life and prosper as you contribute to contribute to the
development of the community that has recognized you. If you are a Christian or a Muslim, you can be a Chief. Everything that was given to me in the palace is a blessing; a prayer offered for my wellbeing. Everything done is for you to receive blessing from our great ancestors. In fact being a Chief is bringing a challenge in your front, to realize you have been called to service; it is quite overwhelming, surprise and you come to love it and you want to surprise your people also; you try not to disappoint them. You want to respect the crown and do it the way it should be done so you can get the desire result. I am very happy and please to have been given this title by the King, Oba Aromire, the Ojora of Ijora kingdom. TV: Is there other people you want to express your appreciation to? Chief Mrs. Ojutalayo: Yes, once again, I thank His Majesty, King Abdul Fatai Aremu Oyeyinka and his Olori (wife) for the support they gave me during and after the ceremony. I thank the Iyalode of Ijora Kingdom as well and all the mothers that stood by me throughout the ceremony. I thank the Lisa of Ijora Land, Alhaji Haleem Ojora Adejiyan, a loving father and also the Baale of Layeni of Ajegunle, Alhaji Monsuru Alli-Balogun. I am thanking them for having the trust and the belief in me to confirm on me the title as the first Yeye Tayese of Ijora kingdom. I thank my children, my family and friends both in Nigeria and Europe. I cannot mention all their names because of space but they know themselves. And also those who sent congratulatory messages to me. Thank you all. TV: Thank you for speaking to us Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo. Chief Mrs. Ojutalayo: Thank you sir. www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
23
Oba Aromire celebrates 64 in style
His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdufatai Oyeyinka Aremu Aromire, Oyegbemi 11, the Ojora of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom at the beginning of the year celebrated his 64th birthday among his subjects and best wishers from around the world. He is enjoying the seat of Obaship of his ancestors. Today he oversees both Ijora and Iganmu kingdom.
The Oba an ex-Nigeria Prison service officer enjoyed his job and he did it diligently until he was called to join the Ojora Chieftaincy family office, an offer he reluctantly took because of his love to serve his people and nation. He served in several capacities as a Chief in the kingdom, bringing about changes for the betterment of the area in Lagos State. It is on record that he created the family ledger for streets for Ijora and Iganmu kingdom. In 1994, he succeeded late Taoreed Akapo as the Chief of Ojora of Lagos. His position has been lifted and recognized by the Lagos State government to Obaship. Today, he has succeeded to uplift his family to Obaship title well recognized in the State and across the country. He is addressed as His Royal Majesty, Oba (king) Abdul Fatai Aremu Oyeyinka Aromire, Oyegbemi the second, the OJORA of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom. All hail the king!!!
Birthday celebration of Oba Abdul fatai Aromire of Ojora Kingdom
24
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Celebrating Oba Aromire at 64
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
25
26
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
New Book: The Gospel Illuminators The heroes depicted in the Bible, as well as those who brought Christianity more into the fallen world, are the subjects of interest in Author Rosemary Graham’s new book, “The Gospel Illuminators”. Described as an epistle to the 21st century Church, the book is shaped to be a call to all Christians in the world to follow the military command and put “boots on the ground” for their faith: meaning a call to re-energize Christians today, who may be downtrodden by tragedies in the world, to re-claim the Gospel and share it with those who don’t know God personally. Rosemary separates her book into selected sections focused on the Old and New Testaments, Ministry of Jesus, the Apostolic era, the Post-Apostolic era, concluding with the Pentecostal era and the 21st century Church of today. The chapters clearly outlines the lives and contributions of recognized Biblical figures, who stood against powerful
enemies, knowing the most powerful ally, God, had already won their battles for them. The same sentiment is felt among those affected by Jesus’ ministry and crucifixion, who saw the Savior overcome death and erase everyone’s sins. Each chapter also includes key life lessons, words of encouragement and a concluding prayer to assist readers in identifying what is learned from these remarkable people and their unwavering faith in God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Just as God equipped those in the Bible for the spiritual warfare ahead of them, He has called the 21st century Church to become “The Gospel Illuminators” for the Christian faith to the world. Summary of Chapters Chapter 1 (Faith in Action). It focuses on the lives of the cloud of witnesses whose heroic deeds were recorded in Hebrews 11. Beginning from Abel to Samuel, the heroic acts of these triumphant saints of the Lord were highlighted. The highlight was an examination of how each of them earned their place in the “Scriptures Hall of Fame.” Chapter 2 (The Man Jesus). It focuses on the most impactful ministry of “The Man Jesus.” The focus was on how our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the catalyst for the faith being professed by many today did it in His time. In order to expound this, the narratives of the four Gospels dedicated to this story were discussed. These Gospels are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
Chapter 3 (The Apostolic Era). It focuses on examining the lives of those who took over the mantle directly from Jesus. These are those who were directly under His tutelage as well as those they later instructed. The powerful preaching of Peter that set Jerusalem on fire on the day of Pentecost including the great Acts of the Holy Spirit were discussed. The lives and times of the 12 Apostles were reviewed. The vibrant ministry of Saul of Tarsus and some of his companions were analyzed. Chapter 4 (The Post-Apostolic Era). It focuses on the lives of those who took over from the early disciples. From the second century, the responsibilities for expanding the frontier of the church were shouldered by later converts. Some of these later converts who are usually referred to as the Apostolic fathers discussed here are Ignatius of Antioch, Polycarp of Smyrna, lrenaeus of Lyons and Clement of Rome. The key roles played by Emperor Constantine and his mother Empress Helena to place Christianity at the center stage of the Roman world was discussed. The vital roles played in the Post-Nicene era by Augustine of Hippo, St Jerome, Marcella, Eustochium, Catherine of Sienna, John Wycliffe, Jan Hus, Martin Luther and William Tyndale were highlighted. Chapter 5 (The Evangelical Era) It focuses on the Evangelical Era. This is the era in which the work of reformation was beginning to take root. The impact the introduction of the industrial revolution of 1800 had on the reformed church was assessed. Some of the evangelicals whose impactful deeds changed the
course of history discussed here are John Wesley, George Whitefields, Jonathan Edwards, Charles Spurgeon and Billy Graham. Chapter 6 (The Pentecostal/Charismatic Era) It focuses on the Pentecostal/Charismatic Era in church history. This era that began in the 20th century was the era of the rediscovery of the Holy Spirit. During this era several Pentecostals/Charismatics rediscovered the awesome power of the Holy Spirit and used it to change their world. Those whose impactful deeds were discussed here are: Charles Parham, William Seymour, Amy Macpherson, Benson Idahosa, Harald Bredesen, Dennis Bennnett, Derek Prince and Colin Urquhart. Chapter 7 (The Twenty-First Century Church). It focuses on bringing together all that have been gleaned from the lives of those studied as a launch pad for the future. Key suggestions about the role the twenty-first-century church can play in society were highlighted. Several important topics were addressed that could set the tone for a new way of doing church. Chapter 8 (A New Era is born). The focus is on the birth of a new era in church history. This is an era to be known as the era of “The Gospel Illuminators.” This is an era the Holy Spirit is birthing in the twenty-first-century church. An era that builds upon the relics of all the past eras. An era that gleans from the abundant wisdom deposited in the lives of so many heroes of faith. Key ways on how to build a formidable Christian movement in 21 century were discussed. Powerful concluding prayers to call out all the heroes of faith in our generation were offered. To order for a copy, go to Amazon.com. Type in the title.... www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
27
Olatunji Matthew Odagi at 50
A date with our friend, colleague and brother, OLATUNJI ODAGI to celebrate his 50th birthday on 4th March 2017 at Yinusa Sanni Close, (Opp. Lemmy Factory) Aboru by 3.00pm. Only by Invitation please
We rejoice with you dear Mr. Olatunji Odagi on this landmark of your life, turning golden. Happy 50th birthday We join hundreds of people sending you best wishes as you turn 50 years old. We pray for God to give you more years of grace to live beyond 100 in Jesus Christ name. Amen Signed Pastor Elvis Iruh On behalf of The Voice magazine 28
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
29
Don Ceder appeals for your vote at 15th March parliamentary elections in The Netherlands Every week at his office in Amsterdam this young lawyer is attending to hundreds of people in need of assistance to clear them from unnecessary debts and bills incurred from tax office, in some cases they have been wrongfully taxed. Recently I met him on his campaign train and chatted with him on his mission to become a parliamentarian. Meet Don Ceder, a candidate on the ticket of the Christian Union, No 7 on the list. Read his interview and why we have to vote him into the parliament. Excerpts: TV: Give a short introduction of yourself? Don Ceder: My name is Don Cedar. I was born 27 years ago in the city of Amsterdam. I’m an offspring of a Ghanaian mother and a Surinamese father. I am currently practicing as a lawyer and I own a law firm based in Amsterdam. TV: Congratulations, and what does
your work entails as a lawyer? Don Ceder: As a lawyer I chose to advocate for citizens whose rights are being violated by unlawful additional costs by collection agencies (in the Netherlands they are known as ‘Incasso bureaus’), tax authorities, big companies, CJIB and banks. Many people lack the language from minority communities and even those who have the language are scare to death whenever they get bills they do not clearly understand, out of panic many goes to pay it and some even get more bills after paying so some people are in serious debts. Through my legal representation I have helped many to correct the mistakes and even get them payback the over charges they have received in the past.
30
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
TV: This is a great work you are doing and it must be challenging as well? Don Ceder: Yes, I enjoy helping people and especially when they are taken advantage of because of underline challenges like language or not understanding how the tax regulations work in The Netherlands. For my effort, I was nominated and recognized as Amsterdam citizen of the year in 2014. That humbled me the more. TV: We have seen some posters of you vying for a political office. How come you are going into politics? Don Ceder: Well, I got involved into politics because I feel that the issues of large group of people are not being heard and addressed by the current political assembly. There are a lot of serious issues plaguing the communities like increasing debts, unfair school system, discrimination on the job market and unaffordable health care. Growing up in the Amsterdam Bijlmer and as a lawyer I see these problems daily and I am confronted by it to do something. And if you want to make your voice heard or give a voice to the voiceless, you have to join the political arena. TV: As a Christian, does your faith not affect you in politics? Don Ceder: As a Christian, I really believe that our lives are light in the darkness. Jesus mention this in Matthew 5:14. All of us are capable of making a change, and a difference can
start with just one person. A small lamp can light up an entire dark room, because the room will have to adapt to the light. I want to be a light in the field where I feel I can be most effective right now - the political arena.
TV: We are also aware you intend to contest in the coming elections? Don Ceder: Yes, I’m running for the upcoming elections for the Parliament. On the 15th of March, Dutch citizens will have to make a choice on which direction they want this country to go. A lot of important decisions will be made this year. I’m on the ballot because I want to be at the place where these decisions are being made. I don’t just want to be a voice for the people; I want to be the voice from the people, to contribute to giving the best to our communities. I cannot get there by myself, I need all the support, from the Dutch communities, the African immigrants who are resident and eligible to vote, the Asians, South Africans, you name it, all people who are residents in the Netherlands and can vote should vote for me and my party. TV: Which is your party? Don Ceder: It is called ChristenUnie in Dutch; Christian Union Party in English, we represent core Christian values in government, we appeal to Christians and everyone else who believes in fairness, justice and progress to vote our party in this coming elections, we are one of the 38 political parties registered for the elections but we have been around for a long time now and participate in government, the more representation we have the stronger our voice will be in parliament and we can effect the right changes in government. TV: What do you want from the African and minority populace who can vote in the Netherlands? Don Ceder: I will be very honest to you. I cannot do this by myself. To be able to represent you, I will need your trust and vote. And not only that; I will need your help to campaign with me these coming weeks to spread this message. Let the people know that someone from among us wants to represent us in the parliament. We need nothing less than 16,000 votes to make it to the parliament, it sounds a lot but it is possible with all our efforts. TV: What will your election mean to people in the Netherlands? Don Ceder: I’m not just talking about what I would like to change, I’ve already been trying to change unfair systems as a lawyer and want to continue bringing a change in the parliament. I know I can contribute if given the chance, so I once again appeal to you all, to partner with me and vote Don Ceder, NO 7 ChristenUnie list in the elections on 15th March 2017. TV: Thank you for your time Don Ceder: Thank you too and looking forward to great time with all of your readers.
“I cannot do this by myself. To be able to represent you, I will need your trust and vote” Don Ceder MARCH 15TH, GO OUT AND VOTE......
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
31
Hip!!! Hip!!! Hip!!! Chief Mrs Remi Ojutalayo as Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom. Congratulations
on
your
chieftaincy title confirmation on 1st January 2017 On behalf of my family, we wish you good health, long life and abundance of grace to fulfill the calling of your new office.
Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom
Oye Amori ooooo
Tony AB Akinyemi Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
Congratulations to Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijoraland kingdom Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo. I heartily congratulate you on this occasion of you being honored with a Chieftaincy title as Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijoraland. It is particularly exciting and motivating to me that you’re being recognized and honored by the people of Ijora kingdom. Truly, the commendation is not surprising, knowing the unique grain and mettle of your essence. I feel proud, honored and humbled to have been and continue to be associated with someone like you for over 20 years. I pray for your continued good health and mental alertness for valued services in the development of Ijora kingdom and mankind in general. More grace to your elbows. Signed: Chief Mrs.Uzoamaka Nweke.(Nee lloka) Ugosimba 1 of Nteje. Ojemba Eweilo 1 of Ezira. Ezenwanyi na Rotterdam.
32
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo
Congratulations messages to Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo
I want to say a very BIG congratulations to YEYE Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom, Chief Mrs Remi Ojutalayo. On the occasion of her chieftaincy title which took place on 1st January 2017 in Lagos Nigeria. You are such a wonderful woman with a golden heart. No doubt your title is derived from the real you. I pray that your time will bring good tidings to you and the people of Ijora Kingdom. Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom
Greetings
Ajike Oyinbo Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Congratulatory massage to Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo. Mr. & Mrs. Lambert Ugwu (Elegant) do hereby wish to Congratulate Chief Mrs, Remi Ojutalayo on her Chieftaincy title as (YEYE TAYESE -1-OF THE IJORA KINGDOM) and thanks to His Royal Majesty, Oba AbdulFatai AROMIRE for your confidence in Chief Mrs, Remi Ojutalayo as a mark of honour towards her tremendous contributions to your kingdom. We congratulate the Oba of Ijora Kingdom on a well-made choice. We welcome you, Chief Mrs Remi Ojutalayo to the Nigerian Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom
community in the Kingdom of the
Signed: Lambert Ugwu (Elegant) For the Ugwu family.
Netherlands.
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
33
Jeffangs Beauty
This is a one-stop shopping center for all your hair and body products. We have sections for all beauty and body care products for men and women at Jeffangs Beauty Supply & Salon in Rotterdam We offer you the latest hair and skin products with fantastic prices.......
You are Welcome always
34
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Supply & Salon
We specialize in Afro & European hair styles Weaving, Braiding, Lace wig fixing, Trimming of hair, Washing of hair, Relaxing of hair, Colouring of hair, Barbering of all men styles etc.
Contact: 1st Middellandstraat 132B
3021BJ, Rotterdam Centrum
E-mail: jeffang2002@yahoo.com jeffangs@jeffangs.com Tel: +31(0)10-4776062 Mob: +31614471508
We have many more products for you to select from.... You can purchase Retail or Wholesale
J E F F A N G S www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
35
36
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
37
Jammeh mansion he may not live in again in Potomac, Maryland, USA!
The 22-year reign of one of Africa’s most eccentric and selfserving dictators came to an end last month when the former president of The Gambia whose full title was His Excellency Sheikh Professor Alhaji Dr. Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh Babili Mansa finally ceded power to his democratically elected rival and fled to Equatorial Guinea. Investigations by activist groups have found evidence Jammeh did siphoned off vast quantities of money from state coffers and also with him most of the expensive cars he used to ride while in power in Banjul, The Gambia. Also discovered is lavish properties around the world particularly one in America has caught the attention of the media in United States of America while he governs a nation proud to be addressed as one of the poorest in the world. The majority of the people in his country continue to live in poverty. A property has been traced to the Jammeh family, it is a palatial multimillion-dollar house in a luxurious subdivision of Potomac, Maryland, about 20 miles from downtown Washington. Bentcross Drive is a ribbon of mansions. Their looping driveways, manicured lawns, tennis courts and swimming pools are guarded almost universally by iron gates with passcodes and security cameras. Prominent signs warn a g a i n s t trespassing. T h e subdivision, Falconhurst, is home to doctors, lawyers, business executives and even professional basketball players. C a l b e r t Cheaney, whom the Washington Bullets (now Wizards) picked sixth overall in the 1993 NBA draft, sold 9908 Bentcross to Jammeh’s family trust for $3.5 million in September 2010, according to public property records. A 2013 CNNMoney.com article titled “Where the money makers live,” listed Potomac as the most affluent town of more than 25,000 people in the United States and Falconhurst is a warren of its richest. The World Bank’s latest figures indicate the average Gambian earns $460 a year but is so unequal that two-thirds of the population lives in extreme poverty and infant mortality rates are some of the worst in the world. Falconhurst, as fate would have it, is wedged between two major thoroughfares: River Road and Democracy Boulevard. After the exit of Jammeh, a D.C.-based activists from Gambia said that the residence usually remain unoccupied. Sohna Sallah, vice chairwoman of the Democratic Union of Gambian Activists, said that as far as she knows, Jammeh has been to the Potomac house twice since it was purchased, while his wife uses it on a monthly basis for shopping excursions and to see their daughter, who attends boarding school in McLean, Virginia. The listing for Jammeh’s house on Maryland’s property records portal says it has 11 bathrooms. The house is 8,818 square feet and sits on 2.3 acres of land. 38
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Repeated requests for comment to the ambassador of The Gambia Guinea on their states’ roles in purchasing or using these houses went unanswered. he United States doesn’t have an “ill-gotten wealth statute” that would allow investigators to act on the simple suspicion that a government employee couldn’t possibly be earning enough to afford certain assets. So even though Yahya Jammeh isn’t a head of state anymore, it might still be very difficult for U.S. authorities to mount a case for seizing his property. “To bring a civil forfeiture case, we need evidence of the crime and the link to the asset we seek to forfeit,” said the Justice Department official. Evidence can be hard to come by, but nongovernmental organizations that work in The Gambia, for instance, have helped U.S. investigators by convincing witnesses of corruption to come forward. Sallah, the Gambian activist, said she was returning to her country for the first time in eight years to try to collect some of that evidence. She’s hoping that officials from the central bank will be confident enough of Gambia’s new government and democracy to help her pinpoint instances of illegal withdrawals Jammeh made from the state treasury to purchase such a property and how places in the world does he has such properties. That would be the first step to challenging Jammeh’s ownership of houses like the one on Bentcross Drive. Jammeh’s house is listed as belonging to “Trustees of the MYJ Family Trust,” which activists like Sallah have long known is tied to Jammeh’s family, but now they can endeavor to make the link tangible. When asked how many other foreign power brokers own property in Falconhurst, Eric Stewart, a real estate broker who has sold houses in Potomac for 25 years, said the common practice of listing caretaker trusts as
Disgraced out of office: Yayah Jammeh owners makes it hard to tell. Nixon Clermont, a part-time cabdriver who grew up around Potomac, said he feels a twinge of disgust when he drives around the neighborhood and sees what he takes to be evidence of misused state wealth. “I’m from Haiti. In Haiti, my people can’t find the food to eat,” said Clermont. “Our ambassador used to live here. Paid for with money that could have saved people. It makes me so angry, man. So sad.” Julie Tate contributed this article.
Congratulations to His Majesty, Our Royal Father Oba Abdufatai Oyeyinka Aremu Aromire His Royal Majesty, Oyegbmi 11, The Ojora of Ijora & Iganmu Kingdom
On the occasion of your 64th birthday. My family and all my friends join me to wish you a very happy birthday, long life and prosperity. We pray your reign to continue to bless our people and bring prosperity for all the people of Ijora & Iganmu Kingdoms and Lagos State in general.
Signed: layo Chief Remi Ojuta aland r jo I f o 1 e s e y a T e Yey Lagos, Nigeria www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
39
Chad foreign minister Moussa Faki Mahamat to head African Union Commission Chad foreign minister Moussa Faki Mahamat to head African strong leadership from someone who could “refocus on the African Union has a new chairperson for its commission. basics”, adding that the body had implemented less than 15% He is Mr. Moussa Faki. Chad’s foreign minister has been of the 1,800 resolutions adopted since 2002. elected as the new chair of the African Union Commission. A Moussa Faki said during his campaign that he harboured position many top Africans showed interest and vied for but dreams of an Africa where the “sound of guns will be drowned Moussa Faki accepted the job, pledging to place development out by cultural songs and rumbling factories”. He pledged and security to streamline the organisation during the at the top of course of his four-year term in office. his agenda and Moussa Faki succeeds Nkosazana Dlaministreamline the Zuma, of South Africa. Dlamini-Zuma organisation’s stayed in the post for an extra six months bureaucracy. after African leaders failed to agree on a Moussa Faki candidate in July of 2016. Mahamat – a President Alpha Condé, the Guinean former Prime president, was elected to the largely Minister who ceremonial role of chairperson of the union. has been at Condé’s stewardship of his own country the forefront has been controversial, with at least half of the fight a million people taking to the streets of against Islamist Guinea last year to protest against alleged militants in government corruptions. Nigeria, Mali Demonstrations against what domestic attends a meeting in Chad. He pledges to critics charged as economic mismanagement and the Sahel Moussa Faki Mahamat focus on development and security. was chosen by by Condé’s government were marked by Photograph: Farouk Batiche/AFP/Getty Images the 54-member clashes with the police. In November 2015, body at a Guinea’s constitutional court formally summit that has confirmed Conde’s reelection, dismissing exposed splits over Africa’s relationship with the international opposition claims of vote-rigging and fraud. criminal court and Morocco’s readmission to the union. Condé’s position at the AU is held for a one-year term and He edged out his closest rival, the Kenyan foreign minister, rotates among the continent’s five regions. Amina Mohamed who had been regarded in some quarters as the frontrunner. In an interview recently, Moussa Faki said the AU needed
President Idriss Déby of Chad, centre, hands over to President Alpha Condé of Guinea, right, with the former head of the AU, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, left, at the summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Photograph: Courtesy Africa Union
40
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Ambassador Amina Mohamed: She lost her bid
Morocco rejoins African Union after more than 30 years Morocco has been readmitted as a member of the African Union. The country left the Union in 1984 after a row over the status of Western Sahara. Morocco’s readmission brings hope of peace-building over the territory Morocco has been readmitted to the African Union more than three decades after it left when the continental body recognized the independence of the disputed territory of Western Sahara. Hopes that the move could pave the way for peace-building were bolstered after Western Sahara – regarded by Morocco as part of its historic territory welcomed the readmission. Morocco’s King Mohammed VI, who had been campaigning since last year to join the bloc, told African leaders at the AU
supposed to be held in 1992 but was aborted when Morocco objected to the proposed electoral register, which it said was biased in favour of secession. A UN peacekeeping mission that attempted to organise the vote has remained in the territory ever since, monitoring the 2,700km-long sand wall built by the Moroccan army across the desert that separates the two sides. Thirty-nine countries supported Morocco’s bid for readmission into the AU this week but nine voted against it, according to sources quoted by the Associated Press. The nine “were countries in Southern Africa except Swaziland”, said the source, who added that most of the debate was related to
summit in Addis Ababa: “Africa is my home, and I am coming back home.” African heads of state before the start of the 28th African Union summit in The foreign minister of Western Sahara (officially Addis Ababa. the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic), Mohamed Photograph: Zacharias Abubeker/AFP/Getty Images Salem Ould Salek, said that Morocco’s readmission was a “positive step for the people of Western Sahara”. A former Spanish colony, Western Sahara was annexed by Morocco in 1975 and was the focus of conflict between Western Sahara’s border. Morocco and indigenous people led by the Polisario Front Morocco, the only country in Africa that was not a member of until a UN-brokered truce brought the armed insurgency to a the AU, left its predecessor, the Organisation of African Unity, halt in 1991. in 1984 after a majority of the member states recognized the An UN-supervised referendum on independence was disputed territory of Western Sahara.
Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma comments President Trump US travel ban on some African countries. Former African Union Commission Chairperson, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma spoke out against US travel ban on refugees from Somalia, Libya and Sudan despite the ban has been suspended by the Appeal Court in America but the President says he would ensure it is back in place soon. Dlamini-Zuma spoke out over the recently imposed US travel ban on seven Muslim-majority countries. President Donald Trump using his executive order halted travel by people with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for 90 days, and stopped refugee resettlement for 120 days creating international crisis among major airports around the world. “We are entering very turbulent times,” she told leaders at the start of the summit, at the AU’s headquarters in Ethiopia’s capital,
Addis Ababa. “The very country to which many of our people were taken as slaves during the transatlantic slave trade has now decided to ban refugees from some of our countries. What do we do about this? Indeed, this is one of the greatest challenges to our unity and solidarity.”
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
41
By: Pastor Elvis Iruh | Editor-in-Chief | elvisiruh@gmail.com
Justice for the murder of Steven Osaigbovo Ekunwe; Killer gets 12 years imprisonment. A Dutch court sitting in Breda has found a Surinamese man guilty of manslaughter and sentence to maximum jail term of 12 years without the possibility of early release in the murder of Steven Kantaga. (His asylum name in the Netherlands). He has since been recognized as a Nigerian born as Steven Osaigbovo Ekunwe, he was born on 27th of June 1971 at Benin-City, Edo State Nigeria. He was killed through knife wounds on 5th of June 2015 at Oosterhout, Noord Brabant, The Netherlands after he has been attacked. A friend of his, Ms Monique-Brigitte Klamer had for the last two years fought to get justice for the deceased and for his children as she felt he was unjustly murdered in cold blood because he is a foreigner and nobody to fight his course in the Netherlands. According to Monique when she spoke to the Voice magazine on the decision of the court, she says it is a relief after two years of fighting to get justice for Steven. “He was a good man and a dear friend, he has children who are now without a father because someone decided to take his life�.
Late Steven Osaigbovo Ekunwe According to her she fought this case with all her resources, because even in death, they wanted to rob Steven of justice, the accused claimed he knifed him in self-defense, but he had no physical injury and yet he stabbed Steven 37 times even on his heart; to me that is intentional killing. It would be recalled that the story was first heard on the fateful day of 5th June 2015 at around 8:45am in the morning, Steven had got into an argument with his roommate they shared an apartment 42
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
with. The accused w a s alleged to have removed Steven clothes from the laundry machine t h e y shared and when Steven demanded for his clothes, an argument ensued. T h e roommate attacked Steven with a knife in the apartment and after the first set of stab wounds which were like three times, Steven struggled out of the house into the street to seek for help, the attacker not satisfied with the damaged done already followed him into the street and stabbed him several more times and fled the scene, leaving him for dead. By the time help got to him, Steven has lost so much blood and he succored to his injuries. The course of death was determined as result of severe bleeding. The attacker was identified as Robbie Leeman, a 50 year old man from Paramaribo- Surinam. He initially denied his involvement but later changed his story to that of self-defense when evidences piled up against him. Throughout the trial, no evidence point to that fact that it was in self-defense.
Late Steven ‘s three children
Late Steven was stabbed once in the heart and twice in the lungs; inside his head and throat. (The pictures were presented as evidence but too graphic to be published in the media). According to Monique, his death was horrible, the body was badly stabbed and left in the heat of 36 degrees in the summer of 2015; in fact it is too graphic that we could not open his coffin for the public to view. Monique and Dela assisted to wash him and dressed him for burial. He was buried at ’s-Hertogenbosch burial place. The case has taken almost two years, though they arrested the
three children that would continue to ask questions why was their father killed? Although she is confident to still have victory and Mr. Leeman has not further lies to tell to the court. Steven was the first son of Mr. & Mrs. Ekunwe from Edo state, Nigeria. He has an elder sister and other siblings. We are told he was from a royal family where he was expected to succeed his father but that is no longer possible with his death. He was a family man with 3 children; Jayna (Holland) 14, Angel (UK) 13 and David (Holland) 13. Monique says she would always remember Steven because he was a joyful and caring man, you knew when he was present in any meeting or event. He was very strict, honest, and strong from mind and body. She appeals to his friends and those who knew him to always remember him thatAfricans here in the Netherlands will never walk alone despite they are far from their homeland. “His death changed me and I am yet to fully recovered from the church but I needed to do this for his children”, she concluded.
accused person the same day of the crime but he has tried to use the legal system to get himself free from any responsibility to this gruesome murder. On 17th of January 2017, the high court ruled that Mr. Leeman is liable for his death and he was found guilty of a lesser charge of man slaughter than murder. The sentencing was set for 6th February 2017 and yesterday the court delivered its judgment in favour of the murder of Steven Osaigbovo – (Steven Kantaga). Leeman was sentenced to 12 years in imprisonment although he could appeal the judgment.
Ms Monique-Brigitte Klamer fought this case to get justice for Steven & his children
According to Monique if he does appeal, she will follow the case up until justice is done for Steven and for his www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
43
PureCare
Looking for a classic place for your Hair do (For a Woman or a Man)? Look no further than PURECARE Salon in Almere Buiten We offer the latest hair and skin products and our services are world class.
YOU ARE WELCOME!!!!
44
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Salon & Shop Wimper extentions stylist • Mary Kay Consultant • Skin and hair analysis with digital microscope • For appointments Only: 06-86495901 •
We have eye for beauty Contact: Reykjavikstraat 13 1334KG, Almere Buiten Centrum Near Trekpleister E-mail:info@purecare.nl Tel: +31(0)36-5212618 www.purecare.nl
Opening times: Monday: 1.00pm – 6.00pm Tuesday: 9.30am – 6.00pm Wednesday: 9.30am- 6.00pm Thursday: 9.30am – 6.00pm Friday: 9.30am – 6.00pm Saturday: 9.30am – 6.00pm
P U R E C A R E www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
45
Preparations for the installation ceremony of Chief Remi Ojutalayo
46
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
A day before the coronation ceremony, Mrs. Remi Diarra Ojutalayo and others went through the preparation process before the King and its chiefs and witnesses. The next day was the main event
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
47
+ The legacy continues........ Welcome to 2017.
You could be the next in this year 2017 to do business with us ........... Let the Voice magazine promote your business and services to a wider audience. (Online editions available NOW) Contact Details: Stichting Paddi Europa inz The Voice magazine Jeroen Boschplantsoen 82, 1318HH, Almere, The Netherlands E-mail: info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Phone: +31368801341 +31684999548 or +31648519292 www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thevoiceachieversaward.com
The Voice Achievers Award 2017 nomination details reveal
After a success event for 2016, already there is a huge interest for next year’s event as we plan to have double celebration. African and Diaspora awards. From February 2nd 2017, we are going to open the nomination and for the first time we are allowing the public to participate with our nomination, however the award committee will still have the final say on suitable candidates for recognition. Now this is the procedure: 1. You are allowed to nominate one person from any African country for any of the award list which would be published under this mail. 2. Nomination of a non-African but has contributed towards the advancement of Africa in the past year or years. 3. You send us a 350 word document profile on the candidate you are nominating and why the candidate deserve to be recognized by the Voice Achievers award committee for 2017. 4. We would request you also to include your email address in your nomination letter sent to our email address at info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com 5. If your candidate is not on the list for 2017, he or she would remain on the shortlist for the following year. Important contest dates to remember • July/August 2017: Candidates nominated and have accepted their nomination names will be announced • 19th to 23rd October 2017: 2017 The Voice Achievers Award to be held in Dhjibolo, Equatorial Guinea. • 17th November 2017: Diaspora award ceremony to held in Almere, The Netherlands
Be Part of The Voice Achievers Award 2017 This is where achievers are recognized and honour. It can be you ....... 48
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Gambia heads back to the polls in two months The Gambians are going back to drop their marbles in a metal box filled with sawdust at the bottom, not to have fresh presidential elections as demanded by former President Yahya Jammeh, but not for a fresh presidential election but to elect members of parliament and local government leaders. The electoral commission of the Gambia announced it will hold National Assembly elections on April 6, 2017, and local government elections on April 12 for new members of parliament. Gambia’s electoral chief Alieu Mommar Njie found his life at risk after declaring President Adama Barrow the winner of the presidential elections. Njie fled the Gambia to Senegal and returned after Jammeh was exiled to Equatorial Guinea. The electoral commission was besieged by forces loyal to Jammeh for weeks after Jammeh called for fresh elections to be held citing irregularities in the initial polls. But Njie returned to annul the polls. He has since be recalled to his office and hailed as a hero by Gambians for standing his ground and upholding the results of the polls, in which the 22-year longstanding ruler Yahya Jammeh was defeated. Jammeh’s APRC won 43 of the 48 National Assembly seats in 2012. The opposition then, now the ruling coalition boycotted the polls citing unfavorable electoral laws and conditions that would make the polls not free or fair. With the turn of events now, the APRC is now the main opposition party in the next elections and according to many opinion polls, they stand little or no real chance of retaining majority in the parliament. Many may seek parliamentary positions under independent tickets after Jammeh exist from the political scene. The APRC shows no sign of giving up and announced it will contest the parliamentary and local government polls hoping to pull the kind of surprise victory that brought President Adama Barrow to power. The Gambia’s electoral chief Alieu Mommar Njie
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
49
Congratulations 1, Wemimo Ogundare Success congratulates you, Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo as YEYE TAYESE 1 of Ijoraland. Your installation as Yeye Tayese 1of Ijoraland is greeted with high expectations and hope of the people, your reign will be meaningful to all the people. Congratulations and happy tenure as the first person to occupy the position. Oye Amori oooo‌ By Wemimo Ogundare Success from Oshodi, Lagos.
Congratulations to Mrs Chief Remi Ojutalayo Your steadfastness and courage as a woman of substance and integrity has been rewarded. May your leadership bring greater progress, peace, joy and happiness to the people of Ijoraland. Go forward with your people. Signed: Alhaji Haleem Ojora Adejiyan (The Lisa of Ojora Land)
Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom with Alhaji Ojora Adejiyan
50
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
d n a l a r o j I f o 1 e s Yeye Taygeos, Nigeria La
Congratulations to First Yoruba Woman Chief in The Netherlands
Chief Remi Diarra Ojulatayo
Congratulations to Chief Hajia Remi
Chief Mrs Remi Ojutalayo, Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom. Such a humble but a highly respectable woman in the community. May God grant you the strength, grace and wisdom for the task ahead.
Oye amori oooo
On behalf of my family, I congratulate Hajia Remi Ojutalayo on her conferment with chieftaincy title of Yeye Tayese 1 of Ojora. May your title become a source of blessing to the people of Ojora and Nigerians in The Netherlands.
Signed: Deacon Osayande Decency Amadasun Signed: Benjamin Brown
& family
a.k.a Ambassador. www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
51
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR MOM To a wonderful mom, Mom with you and join hundreds of people sending you best wishes as you are coroneted as Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo with the title of Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora Kingdom We pray God to give you more years of grace beyond words. We celebrate you as you have celebrated many others.
Signed Temidayo Queen Babatunde Amabel Princess Sampson On behalf of your children
OYE AMORI OOOO CHIEF MRS REMI OJUTALAYO The management & staff of Baflok Golden Concepts Limited (RC 871696) felicitate with Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo on her welldeserved title and installation as Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom by Oba Aromire. The title is a testament to your enviable person as an astute community woman who love to serve her people. Your unwavering commitment towards restoring the dignity of women and children and giving them a better chance in society is your motivating drive.
Congratulations to you, Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo. We are well pleased in you. Congratulations our Chief Signed: Bukola Adereti Fabeku
Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom
52
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Executive Director Baflok Golden Concepts Limited.
Mr. & Mrs. Adereti Fabeku
Congratulations to a worthy woman I reiterate my sincere congratulations on your well-deserved position as Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijoraland in Lagos State of Nigeria. Signed Alhaja Sidikat Ololade Olusanya (Iyalode of Ojoraland)
Congratulations Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo On your chieftaincy installation As Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijoraland MAY YOU REIGN LONG AND GOD PROTECT YOUR WAYS AS YOU SUPPORT HIS MAJESTY TO BRING DEVELOPMENT TO IJORALAND.
Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom with Alhaji Monsuru Alli-Balogun Baale of Layeni in Ajegunle
Felicitation to Princess Adewunmi Aromire I, Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo congratulate Princess Adewunmi Ashanni Aromire as IYALODE of Onibaba Ajegunle Lagos on 1st January 2017. Congratulations to our dear Chief, Princess Adewunmi Aromire your recognition as Iyalode of Onibaba Ajegunle is a testimony to your hard work for the progress of women in your domain.. I rejoice with you and wish you success in all your endeavors.
Signed: Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo, Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijoraland, Lagos, Nigeria
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
53
ADVERTORIAL
INVESTMENT IN REAL ESTATE: EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES FOR NIGERIAN DIASPORAN WITH KAYODE-OBEMBE & CO LTD Real Estate Real estate is the modern term for land, as well as any physical property or improvements that are permanently affixed to the land, including houses, buildings, landscaping, fencing, wells, etc. Investment in real estate therefore, involves the purchase, ownership, management, rental and/ or sale of real estate for profit or private gain. It is about more than just finding a place to call home, but has increasingly become a common investment vehicle to grow and nurture wealth. It is interesting to note that an overwhelming proportion of today’s and past world billionaires made their fortunes through real estate and in most cases, the journey to wealth starts from just one property and the portfolio keep growing. Have you ever wonder why property owners were called “lords”, or as now more colloquially known as “landlords”? It’s because owning properties gives power and financial freedom. There must be a reason why every rich person you know owns multiple properties. Even Donald Trump today remains a billionaire thanks to his real estate fortunes as most of his other businesses have declared bankruptcy. It is particularly gainful to invest in real estate in a growing and volatile economy like that of Nigeria as the real estate provides a safe hedge and store of value against inflation. The low rate of inflation in the country is positive for those that have real estate as assets because as the inflation goes up, so does the value of your real estate. Associated Risks However, in spite of the compelling opportunities that exist in investing in real estate, it also comes with its own associated risks. The most fundamental risk in real estate investment in Nigeria is the possibility of falling into hands of fraudsters. It is therefore important that you deal with the right people and invest in properties with genuine titles when investing in Nigerian real estate. After ensuring the integrity and genuineness of the people and properties with whom you are dealing with, the next important factors to consider are location, location and again, location! The rate of your success in real estate investment is determined largely by the location where you are putting your investment. If you are ever to choose between a good location with a higher price or bad location with a lower price, consider the former: When considering good location, one of the key factors to look out for include: area with appreciating value, axis on the line of current development, nearness 54
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
to other properties with current or prospective values and good transportation. It is also important to look at the locations in regard to the future, rather than that of the past for higher, long term returns. It is also financially wise for prospective investors to consider investing dormant capital that’s sitting in low yielding Bank accounts into real estate. It may be a tough slog the first few years, but somewhat later, you’ll probably wish you had bought more. Investing in real estate is also becoming an increasingly favorable option for those eying retirement and who want to take advantage of real estate’s return potential and its abilities as a portfolio diversifier and inflation hedge.
“
• Paying on installment with no interest. For people paying on a property over a period of time on installment, the rate is fixed and the payments never change. 3-4 years from now you might be paying the same amount that aren’t worth as much as when you first took out the subscription for the property on installment. As your net worth grows, the amount you pay monthly or so becomes a smaller part of your overall net worth, thereby reducing any feelings of stress associated with paying for the property. • Collateral asset. Unlike cash, which serves no utility function, property addresses not only a fundamental human need, shelter but can also serve as collateral material against loans. If our financial system goes to hell, at least you will have an asset you can actually utilize. Remember, cash is just an ordinary paper and worthless unless it’s turned into a tangible asset! Continued on Page 56
“
Why you must consider investment in Real Estate. Other reasons why you must consider investment in real estate includes: • Hedge against inflation. You only hate inflation if you don’t have an asset that is inflating. Inflation is increasing the values of your properties hopefully faster than any input costs and the costs to operate the asset. Some people used to think back in 1996 how ridiculous it was for anyone to pay N50,000 to purchase a plot of land in the Ajah area of Lagos State. Today, the same one plot of land is over N50M. Inflation is a powerful economic force that’s difficult to stop. You would rather want to own inflating assets than always be a price taker. • Rise on growing economy. When times are good, assets tend to inflate quicker due to higher employment, rising wages, and rising corporate profits leading to more demands on properties. Real estate tends to be a major beneficiary during a bull market. Forget about protecting yourself against inflation, owning real estate is a gainful opportunity to make money with inflation. If there happens to be hyperinflation, your cash is devaluing rapidly whereas your real assets start surging in nominal value. When economic tightness returns sooner or later, it causes another surge in property prices. • Generational asset. You can pass on property from generation to generation, conceivably making your family and loved ones lives a little bit better. Think about our university graduates nowadays who are complaining they might never be able to afford owning a home like their parents due to exorbitant prices. Now think how much worse it will be for their children. Everybody has heard a story of some grandparent buying a home for just N20, 000 that is now worth millions of Naira. If you can buy a property to live and enjoy, and then pass it down the family to give your children a heads start, what an amazing gift you’ll provide. But besides working hard, a massive generational wealth transfer should help support future generations. • Little effort to build wealth. The whole idea is to invest in assets that work for you, and not the other way around. Real estate is a relatively easy business to understand compared to investing in stocks. For instance, on a rental property, good location, good tenants, manageable maintenance, and rental growth are all it basically takes to make for a solid real estate investment, whereas stocks have so many more variables to deal with, including: management credibility, industry growth, competition, politics, regulation, tax policies, inventory turns, margin analysis, operating profit growth, and more. Meanwhile, to turn N100, 000 into N500, 000 through equity investing is no easy feat, neither is making an interest of another N400,000 on the deposit into a Bank over 7-8 years.
“Everybody can own a property here, call us or email us for more details.... THE PLAN IS EASY TO REACH” www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
55
Own property is in the best location in NIGERIA Continued from Page 55 • Tangible asset. Real estate is a tangible asset that will continue to add measurable value and enduring impact to everyday life and a valuable financial portfolio. It is an investment you can see, feel and touch, giving you a sense of accomplishment and success. KAYODE-OBEMBE & CO LIMITED: Empowering you to become homeowners. If you must take the advantage of the opportunities that abound in investing on real estate in Nigeria, the company to work with is KAYODEOBEMBE & CO LIMITED. The Company is a real estate firm incorporated and registered in Nigeria as a limited liability company. Setting new standards in the delivery of services in the real estate sector, our Company acquires, develops, sells, leases and manages properties and real estate products in choice locations across the country. K A Y O D E OBEMBE & CO LTD is a company that stands totally on the trust placed on it by its valued clients. The company returns this trust by continuously working to provide satisfactory and affordable housing opportunities and real estate investment windows. We believe in empowering our clients to make better informed investment decisions in their bid to either create wealth or become home-owners’ through property development. We are the promoter of serviced plot estate development projects within Lagos Megacity axis. Our estate development projects include: a) Portview Estate, (Lekki Free Trade Zone) Ibeju-Lekki, 56
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Lagos b) Victory Estate, (Lekki Free Trade Zone) Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos c) Gracecourt, Mowe, Off Lagos-Ibadan Expressway d) Vineyard Estate, Mowe, Off Lagos-Ibadan Expressway ICPC & NIDO MOU: An added value for the Diaspora The Diaspora Housing investment scheme will key into the independent corruption practices and other related offences commission (ICPC) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Nigerians in Diaspora organization (NIDO) Germany’s memorandum of understanding which allows collaboration in the areas of design, pilot testing and deployment of ITbased anti-corruption applications and tools towards effective and efficient public sector management in Nigeria and shall include but not of limited to Land acquisition, allocation, registration, management and background checks on estate developers. Interested investors in Germany and Continental Europe (Europe excluding UK and Ireland), please contact our Germany and Continental European representative GKC Business Group Continental European representative KAYODE OBEMBE & CO LIMITED Heritage Group Hamburg, Germany Tel + 49 170 98 78 495 Or you can contact MARKETING department of The Voice Magazine. E-mail: info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com
CHIEF REMI OJUTALAYO CHIEFTANCY CEREMONY IN NIGERIA On January 1st 2017, Remi Diarra Ojutalayo officially became a traditional chief in Nigeria. She was recognized and decorated at a ceremony marking Oba Aromire 64th birthday in Ijora kingdom of Lagos state, Nigeria. Here you have the official photos and congratulatory messages across the world.
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
57
58
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
59
Congratulations to Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo on your coronation We, the Nigerian Women of Integrity in the Netherlands wholeheartedly congratulates Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo on her coronation as the Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijora kingdom May the good Lord grant you the knowledge of wisdom & understanding in all her endeavors
Congrats our able Chief. Signed: Christy Idowu (President) Fester Imoh (Secretary General)
Congratulations Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijoraland, Chief Remi Ojutalayo
We heartily felicitate with Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo On your installation as Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijoraland We wish you all success at this wonderful accomplishment in your life.
Signed Pastor & Mrs. Dominic Emeh
60
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
CONGRATULATIONS CHIEF REMI OJUTALAYO Chief Mrs. Remi Ojutalayo, I rejoice with you on your confirmation and installation as the Yeye Tayese 1 of Ijoraland. Your elevation to this position is a manifestation of your hard work, diligence and commitment to serving your people We have no doubt that you will make a success of your new position as you have done in your previous endeavours. I pray God almighty to direct your path and give your success in your new assignments.
Signed: Anita Hogan-Mak Creative Director & Documentary producer
CHIEF REMI OJUTALAYO CHIEFTANCY CEREMONY IN NIGERIA Mrs. Remi Diarra Ojutalayo officially became a traditional chief in IJORA kingdom in Nigeria. She was recognized at a ceremony marking Oba Aromire 64th birthday in Ijora kingdom of Lagos state, Nigeria. Later was a grand reception for all her friends, families and well wishers who attended from around the world.
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
61
62
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
63
“
“
COMING SOON`: THE VOICE ACHIEVERS AWARD 2017
GRAND HOTEL DJIBLOHO will be hosting the 8th yearly The Voice Achievers Awards from 19th to 23rd of October 2017 in Djibloho – Equatorial Guinea. THE GRAND HOTEL DJIBLOHO will be offering special discounts to all guests coming to attend this event in Equatorial Guinea. The offers includes 4 nights in (superior rooms and Oyala suites) Special 4 days package with bed and breakfast Special discount for all purchases (full board soft drinks included, breakfast, lunch and dinner in MARIPOSA BUFFET RESTAURANT) Special Restaurant rate (MARIPOSA BUFFET RESTAURANT) Special package stand rent – 4 days for businesses that want to display their goods Special Saturday AWARD Gala Dinner Buffet, at LIBERTADE BALLROOM (including wine red and white) Transfer from Mongomoyen Airport to the Hotel vice versa - Complimentary free of charge Visitation to places of interest in the city including the cathedral of Mongomo For more details, email us at info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com
To know more about this wonderful hotel facility in Equatorial Guinea, visit their website at www.grandhoteldjibloho.com
64
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
SPONSOR The Grand Hotel Djibloho is located in the heart of the Equatorial Forest. Surrounded by green hills and the winding Mbini River, the hotel sits at the heart of Djibloho, the future new administrative capital of Equatorial Guinea, and is only 20 km from the new airport in Mongomeyen. It is the new the ultimate and unique leisure destination in Equatorial Guinea
Stay with us
All our accommodation options offer the highest level of comfort and the latest and most sophisticated access to all the hotel services. Each room combines sense of elegance and contemporary design, with the finest bed linens and full marble bathrooms. Grand Hotel Djibloho, Equatorial Guinea 380 Elegantly decorated guest rooms 72 Impressive suites up to 200 square meter 50 Luxurious villas (Elegant and spacious) Amazing Forest view And many more attractions for a wonderful stay in paradise on earth Getting here The best way to travel to Djibloho is flying to Mongomoyen International Airport (20 km from Djibloho) from Malabo airport. The new road which connects Bata and Mongomeyen allows you to reach Djibloho on vehicle in less than 2 hours.
Visa requirements
US is the only exempted country where its citizens do not require a visa to enter Equatorial Guinea. All other citizens must apply for a travel visa at an Equatorial Guinea embassy prior to traveling. Please refer to your local Equatorial Guinea embassy for complete and updated visa application requirements and mandatory vaccinations. Airlines flying to Equatorial Guinea National airline Ceiba Intercontinental operates both domestic and international flights from other African countries and Madrid. Iberia flights daily from Madrid to Malabo, which can also be reached from Paris (Air France), Frankfurt (Lufthansa), Addis Abeba (Ethiopian Airlines), Casablanca (Royal Air Morocco) and from other major cities from all the central Africa countries. Languages The official language is Spanish, and also French and Portuguese. There are also local languages like fang, bubi and others.
CONTACT Djibloho, Oyala WELE-NZAS Equatorial Guinea T (+240) 3500 70 300 M (+240) 551 694 844 E info@grandhoteldjibloho.com http://www.grandhoteldjibloho.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
65
African Nations Cup 2017 Cameroon becomes the second most successful African Nation in football taking the 2017 African Nations Cup crown with a superlative strike from Vincent Aboubakar of Indomitable Lions of Cameroon less than two minutes to the end of the match against Egypt to decide the finals of 2017 African Nations cup in Libreville, Gabon with a 2-1 win. This victory although viewed by soccer exploits as an upset because no one gave Cameroon a chance to move beyond the first round of the tournament because of the various challenges during their preparation for the competition. Seven of their star players refused to honour the invitation to play for Cameroon over lack of funding and payment of outstanding allowances. The coaching job was advertised and the Belgian coach, Hugo Broos applied and he was hired with no expectation as he has also no country coaching experience, with what you will term a Cameroon B team, he prepared the players for the tournament. It paid off and Cameroon is Africa’s champion after 15 years absence and becomes the second most successful nation behind Egypt in the number of trophies won so far. Egypt leads with 7, Cameroon 5 and Ghana 4. They could not have won a more unlikely title than this. Nobody gave Hugo Broos’ remoulded side, missing a number of key players, a chance of coming home from Gabon with the trophy, but a brilliant 88th-minute volley from substitute
66
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Vincent Aboubakar turned this final on its head and brought wild, emotional celebrations minutes later. It was a goal fit to win any final, anywhere, and a victory to soften the steeliest of hearts. The odds had been on a tentative final between teams whose 10 matches in Gabon had brought just 12 goals. Egypt almost blew such thoughts out of the water within 90 seconds; Abdallah Said was found in space by Mohamed Salah inside the area, but keeper Fabrice Ondoa saved sharply to his right. With their next genuine chance, they went one better. Again Salah, located on the right of the box after a slick spell build-up, was the architect, but this time it was Mohamed Elneny making the run from deep. At a tight angle and with Ondoa perhaps expecting a cross, he found the roof of the net with a vicious strike inside the near post. Egypt looked comfortable at this stage. A few Cameroon efforts led by Christian Bassogog were dealt with, and when the in-form right-winger was given a shooting opportunity by a sloppy punch from Essam El-Hadary, the resulting shot flew out towards the corner flag. That was as much as Cameroon offered in the first half. Egypt could pick their moments to break and looked slicker in all areas of the pitch. Aboubakar, the Besiktas striker, was introduced for the quiet Robert Ndip Tambe at the interval, and there was an extra thrust to their efforts once the game resumed.
“
It was still something of a surprise when they equalized just before the hour. Nicolas N’Koulou had replaced the injured Adolphe Teikeu during the opening period, and the centre-back’s contribution was emphatic, rising to thump a brave header past El Hadary from Benjamin Moukandjo’s left-sided cross. Now the complexion was entirely different. N’Koulou put another header over as Cameroon, buoyant now and backed by a febrile crowd, found another gear. Jacques Zoua, with options ahead of him to both sides, then shot harmlessly wide after a rapid break. Moukandjo, found unmarked by a Bassogog centre in the 78th minute, spooned the best chance high over the top as Egypt tottered. But then, as extra-time seemed all but certain, came Aboubakar’s stunning contribution. Latching on to a long pass from Sebastien Siani, he controlled the ball before knocking it over the head of Aly Gabr and cracking a low volley past a rooted El Hadary. Stade de L’Amitie, full of Cameroon supporters who had travelled or lived in Libreville, went berserk; a remarkable final had been turned completely on its head and Cameroon had their trophy. Like their name, Indomitable Lions with their coach, Broos, they improved from match to match and it was no surprise that they dispatched Ghana in the semi-final with ease. Broos’ reliance on young players like Ondoa and Bassogog has been well documented, but it was two senior players who made the difference here. It had seemed like a match too far for this side, but N’Koulou and Aboubakar, relative veterans at 26 and 25 but with considerable top-level
experience behind them, tipped the scales and achieved the impossible. Nkoulou, the Lyon defender, has had to kick his heels on the bench for most of the tournament but put his head in where it counted to equalise despite taking a knock for his troubles. Aboubakar had only played 88 minutes in this tournament before his half-time introduction for the struggling Tambe and provided the flourish by which this final will always be remembered. It is hard to remember a game of this standing at any level that has been won by such a piece of individual brilliance; this was the finish of a player who can be brilliant on his day and it showed the value of keeping a close-knit squad happy. That can have been no easy task for Broos, who has made brave decisions in devising this success and risked alienating the public early in his tenure. Nobody is questioning him now. I wonder what is going on in the minds of those 7 players who turned down the offer to play for their country. Regrets or happy for their fellow countrymen who made the whole Cameroon proud and forget all the ethnic problems that has plague the country for a while now. The whole country came together to celebrate the success of the football team, English and French speaking Cameroonians, so we can be one after all when there is success. Cameroon are the host of 2019 African Nations cup, they don’t need to qualify but they have to put up a better preparation to defend the cup on home soil which is becoming difficult for host nations to do now. They have two years to enjoy and reflect on this victory and for the players, they go down in history as African Nations cup gold medal winners. Cameroon have shown they are back and they will surely improve from here with the World Cup qualifiers around the corner.
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
67
68
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
Call +31648519292 for details ..
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
69
70
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
71
72
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
73
74
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com
75
76
www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com