The Voice magazine May 2018 edition

ISSN:2588-8807

ISSN:1571-3466

Motto: Actuated towards Africa’s advancement

Volume 20. NO. 172 May 2018

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First complete African magazine published in The Netherlands since August 1999

We are committed to preserve

Edo Arts/Culture -Hon. Osemwegie-Ero

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES for

Pastors & Leaders says

Dr. Samuel Lee www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Contents

The Voice Magazine Volume 20. No 172 May 2018 Edition

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26-27

54-55

ARTICLES

Page 4 - Editorial: All is not well with Nigeria Page 7- Rwandan visa on arrival for all nations around the world Pages 8- 12 - Edo State is working under Governor Godwin Obaseki – Hon. Osemwegie-Ero Page 16 - Liberia’s success is important to us says VP Osinbajo Page 17 - President Paul Kagame closes down 6000 churches Pages 20 & 21 – Nollywood shines under the Hollywood stars Pages 22 & 23 - Man Vastgoed: Offer to own Real Estate without stress Page 28 - Doctors of the World helps people without papers to the doctor Pages 34 & 35 - Gov. Obaseki commended for development of historical sites in Benin Pages 38 & 39 - Grand Emperor Hotel, Lekki Lagos: A place to be when in Nigeria Home away from home ……………..

Pages 42 & 43 - Foundation MammaeCare Body and Mind goes Caribbean Page 50 - Trump endorses N. American World Cup bid, threatens allies against backing Morocco Page 51 - Swaziland now eSwatini: King renames Africa’s last absolute monarchy Page 52 & 53 - Africa’s ‘City of Innovation’ to Host Conference on ‘Uniting Africa’ Page 56 - FIFA task force assesses Morocco’s 2026 World Cup bid Pages 58 & 59 - Press statement by President Buhari at the press conference in the white house Rose garden during his visit to United States of America

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

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

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

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EDITORIAL

All is not well with Nigeria

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aving spent close to two months in Nigeria, I begin to wonder what the way forward is for this once the giant of Africa! It seem so hard to keep hope alive as I speak to people across the country. The ruling elite seem even more confused to understand the dynamics of the challenges confronting the county at the moment.

A few states could be said to be progressing, the likes of Lagos, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Ondo, Enugu, Ogun, Edo not in any particular order, although I did not visit the Northern part of the country due to insecurity concern and unnecessary and uncertainty with frequent bombings and killings by so called ‘herdsmen’. I do not agree with the theory that these killers are herdsmen looking for where to get food for their cows. The real herdsmen are still everywhere around the country, I saw them as I travel round, they continue to walk their cows around without causing any harm to any person. The most annoying argument is that of Mr. President, Muhammud Buhari who says we should

blame all of these on late Gadhafi that he is to be blamed for the surge of weapons in Nigeria. This is laughable. Why is the problem of herdsmen not rampant in other parts of West Africa? Even countries closer to Libya? There is more to it than the government is admitting. Why are they targeting churches, Christians and their communities, why killing the people in their place of worship? This does not look like a random attacks, it is planned and well executed by the organizers to make a statement of intent with their actions. The president speaks about it as if it does not matter after all Bokom Haram created enough damage under the previous administration, he wants to surpass that record with the herdsmen. The president and his team should look for a better story to tell Nigerians for the people are no fools.

At the state level, while some Governors are making visible efforts to improve their economic activities, some are just wasting resources and leaving the state in total state of dysfunctional, workers are owe months of unpaid salaries and yet they expect the workers to put in their best and be honest and uphold integrity!

Some of the Governors have left the state in worst conditions than they met it and yet they have started clamoring for second term in office; the only few projects they are doing right now is to attract 4

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the populace to vote them again. The slogan of these Governors are no vacancy in the state house. Shame on them….

At the Federal level, President Buhari is recontesting and he is very confident of winning again and again even without the vote of over 40 million youths in the country. That comes as no surprise to any political observer like myself, having loss three elections in the past Pastor Elvis Iruh and succeeded in winning the fourth Editor-in-Chief attempt, he now knows what it takes to stay in power win or lose elections does not matter anymore.

From the number of people I spoke to and public opinion, it is either the President is living in a dream land or fantasy of his own imagination of his victory of 2015. He has forgotten that this same Nigerians clamouring for him not to run the second time where the same people who ganged up against Jonathan and showed him the way. Perhaps they have put in place a machinery to ensure his victory weather Nigerians vote him or not. It is beginning to sound like Late Sani Abacha era – “I will rule as civilian President even if only one person is left in Nigeria’. He never lived to accomplish that vision. President Buhari laughs about himself losing any other election in Nigeria apart from the first three he loosed, he says after three failures and succeeding on the 4th attempt, he knows all the tricks in the books which the electorates do not know. I wouldn’t be surprise at his confidence because I ask where the opposition is. It took a coalition of opposition parties to remove Jonathan, it would take the same to remove Buhari but presently there is no common front like the one which helped Buhari to power in 2015. Could it be it is part of the game plan to sponsor as many candidates for the presidency and divide the populace? Nothing is impossible in Nigerian politics, after all it is possible that the President wife could chose to run against Mr. President. But the President seem to have forgotten that his charm, transparency, honesty and integrity has come under questioning, not about himself but people he surrounds himself with. The question is where the alliance of opposition going to come out from when is less than a year to the polls, each day new candidates are emerging to contest for the office of the President. It is becoming a form of joke now.

Whatever happens from now on till the election day President Buhari should be prepared to see the other side of Nigerians he has not witnessed yet. It is either Buhari will take Nigeria down or they will use every means possible not to return him to office.

True of Nigerians, it could be just empty talks and less action like a dog barking but without strength to bite.

On this note I wish all our brothers and sisters from Sierra Leone congratulations on the election of the new President, despite few problems here and there, the government is settling down to business now. Party Politics is over, it is time to build Sierra Leone. Have a wonderful happy new month of May 2018. Enjoy your new edition of The Voice magazine.

TV

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

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

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

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

Volume 20

NO 172

May 2018 www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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RWANDAN BEGINS VISA ON ARRIVAL FOR ALL NATIONS AROUND THE WORLD

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

1.

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

2.

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

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

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

3.

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

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

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

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

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

2.

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

3.

Visa on arrival to all national: Citizens of all countries

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

4.

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

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

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

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

6.

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

End.

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CELEBRATION OF SUCCESS

Edo State is working under Governor Godwin Obaseki – Hon. Osemwegie-Ero One of the dullest ministry in the past administrations in Edo State, the ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora Affairs has become one of the most effective under the current dispensation courtesy of a dynamic young pragmatic son of the State and Honorable commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora Affairs, Mr. Osaze Osemwegie-Ero whom on assumption of office decided to bring a new wave of life to the ministry and it is yielding dividends already. He is a talker as well as an action young man who has brought new lease of life to the ministry. Our encounter with him confirm his hard working zeal to see Edo State transformed back to the city of excellence and culture capital of Nigeria. After a two day working visit to Edo State, he kindly granted the team of Pastor Elvis Iruh & Eubaldus Enahoro this exclusive Face to Face interview in his office in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.

Enjoy our conversation with him.

TV: Thank you for the privilege to have this interview with you today after our working visit with you on my visit to Edo state of Nigeria.

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Let us start by asking you what your ministry relationship with Edo Diaspora and your responsibilities towards them?

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero: The responsibility of the ministry and as commissioner for our brothers and sisters in the Diaspora is basically to bridge the gap between them and the government of Edo State. Our department is responsible for collating data information of Edo people in the Diaspora.

We liaise with various associations, individuals, professionals and at the same time creating an enabling environment for those that want to come back home and invest or those that want to come on visit with families and their friends. We are here to let them know that government has them at heart.

TV: What is your ministry relationship with that of ministry of Information in Edo State?

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero: We are lucky that we have a Governor who is very civilized, very exposed, articulate and pragmatic leader, he is someone who is trying to build an institution in Edo State rather than doing things zigzag as it has been in the past. So as a ministry we all work together to complement each other, we are all interrelated, we organize inter-ministries activities and we are interwoven in our relationship. We work with the ministry of Information and Communication, we work with the ministry of Youths & Sports, the ministry of Justice in terms of dealing with the menace of human trafficking of our brothers and sisters outside the shore of our country so we are just one government in Edo State.

TV: On the subject of human trafficking, Edo State in particular had been hit badly in the Diaspora. The question is how these negativism affects Edo State or your ministry in particular?

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero: Well this problem has been there for years. The issue of prostitution or human trafficking or stigma has been there for over 20 years. I am aware of that, it didn’t just start today, in fact it was becoming an epidemic proportion before this administration came in and that is why the Governor took it upon himself for us to take the bull by the horn rather than leaving it as a national issue. The Governor is not only looking at the stigma but he is more concern about the lives of our youths being loss and wasted on high sea; this is a major concern to him and that is why he took the bull by the horn by engaging the problems regardless of what the Federal government or donor agents are doing. He has done so much in the last one year in office, he set up a task force which has been very efficient, the task force is chaired by a very competent and passionate leader in person of Professor Prof. Yinka Omoregbe‎ who is the chairman of the task force against human trafficking in Edo State. She has done very well with her team, sometimes I ask her, how do you cope? But if you are passionate about something, you get results so the task force has been very effective. And the Governor has taken drastic actions, a lot of people has been arrested including those so-called sorcerers. I want to appreciate the Governor for this and the task force and the Edo State people who are cooperating with us to get the problem tackled but apart from that there is a lot of advocacy as well to the grass root. If you look at Orhionmwon local government and Uhunmwonde which are the two least developed local government areas in the State, they are most affected with the statistics they have. The records show that the highest percentage of those people affected with human trafficking comes from those areas. The Governor has taken the advocacy to our people, mothers, and fathers, parents, community leaders to let them know it is a suicidal mission to allow their children embark on such unplanned journeys. I think the effort is paying off and those returnees are not been left on the street. We give them proper health checkup, to make sure they are in good state of mind, due to the ordeals and abuses they pass through, the girls are raped, the boys are tortured, most of them return with babies of unknown fathers; we do HIV tests, we care and given them physiological orientation and train them, engage them in skill acquisition program and at the same time finds a way to integrate them back into society properly so it is a huge effort on the part of the state government and the Governor is doing very well with that.

TV: I was privileged to work with you as we visited historical Edo monuments across Benin City. One thing that came out was that this ministry has not been effective till now. Why was that the case?

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero: I belief there is always time for everything in life. When the head I straight, the body follows. We have a Governor that has the vision. He so much believes in culture and tourism. It is one of his six cardinal points agenda and focal point of his government – Culture & tourism. He put me there and

encourages me to do what I am doing now. At the same time, we have an Oba, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, he has great interest and very supportive in our belief and promoting our culture, reviving our culture and tourism and the combination of the two of them is huge and we are blessed to have them. I am so passionate of what I am doing, I didn’t study Arts & Culture but I love my Edo culture and with the Oba and the Governor supporting and promoting us; we intend to put in our best efforts to make Edo State culture great.

Yes this ministry used to be a neglected ministry, there is a saying

that when they want to punish you as a civil servant, they send you to the Ministry of Arts & Culture; to just go there and retired either as Permanent Secretary or Director or even a commissioner. Even when I was brought here, people were saying oh know, why? But I told them I lover arts & culture, I am proud to be an Edo son.

During the retreat before our portfolios were announced in Lagos, I had a take home words from former Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Donald Duke. He said whatever ministry you are allocated, you must think, plan and put into action what you want to accomplish and you must be passionate about it. He said if you have these things, the rest is history. I took that on board and on assumption, I had a meeting with the Permanent Secretary and the board, the staff and even the cleaners and I told them this is how I operate, this is what we need to do and I am a moving train and I am ready to carry anybody along but if you are going to drag me back, I will drop you off the train. But thank God, everybody is putting in their bits. The Permanent Secretaries, the Directors and even the new Permanent secretary that has just joined us, they came and they said they have been hearing about what we are doing here and everybody is putting in their efforts. Everywhere I go I always say it, it is not my effort alone but efforts of everyone working with me. Yes, I put them under pressure like when we heard the Edo festival last December. Like you saw us working here, I carry them all along and it gives them sense of belonging. And when they are outside, people are praising ministry of Arts & Culture, they all take the glory because we all work together for it. We thank God now that this ministry is one of the faces of the government of Edo State. I belief that nothing is impossible when the will to do it there, we learn from each other and strategize to make it work.

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Continued from Page 9 they held about it or saw it on television, they asked me TV: We had the privilege to interview the Governor while how do you do it? And how do they go about it? Or what do he was contesting for office. His vision was to turn around they need to do? So that I have shared the ideas with them the fortune of Edo State. You are trying to use tourism in the so those are the kind of things we are looking into. We also State but how do we make it national attraction? And what is in place that this does not fade away after your tenure?

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero: By the grace of God like I told you earlier we have a Governor who is building an institution, he is interested in putting in place infrastructures, one policy he has taken to heart is that we must work together with our PS and directors, at least four persons must be present when we work so if we are no longer in the ministry or in disposable, there are people to continue the work and they know want to do. And everything we do now in the ministries are properly documented. We are not worry at all Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero during our interview in his office although no one is going to work in the same pace as I work and it is possible that the one who will come after me will do even a better job. But whoever is coming will have documents to refer to in case he has have a stronger national body now, someone like Otunba any question on what we have done. All these things are Olusegun Runsewe, the Director of National Council for there, put into consideration by the Governor. I don’t think Arts & Culture, he is very strong, we work together. We all these efforts will be allowed to fade away. On the other have the Director General of Nigeria Tourism Development part of your question, cooperation under Folorunsho Coker. we have a whats app So we have all these bodies that we are group for all the States working together. I have no fears of the commissioners for future of Edo State as the heart of culture Arts & Culture and in Nigeria. And we have a Governor that Tourism that we relate wants to turn things around as he told you with now. These are in the interview with him. His vision is to innovations that were make Edo State the economic hub of Africa not there before or not just in Nigeria through Agriculture, happens elsewhere. We Tourism and other sectors of the economy all share ideas, linking to woo investors to Edo State. Look what up with one another he has done in less than two years in office, and we can adapt it for attracting investors to Edo State, making our States. For example our state investors destination in Nigeria. few weeks ago, we The flight coming to Edo State is always inaugurated cultural full with foreigners. The hotels are fully clubs for secondary booked and this is the direction we want to Honorable commissioner Ero chatting with schools, it was a major develop Edo State. his Permanent Secretary, Sam Aigbirio in thing and immediately the ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism & Diaspora Affairs

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TV: I am a frequent traveler and I know that major tourist of the hotels, I am sure we would be talking to you again destinations has hotel classification to meet international because of your experiences, you can share it with us on how standards. I have helped in hotel classification in The Gambia. to improve on what we have now.

What effort are you making apart from beautification through TV: Beautiful monuments across the Edo State capital. How arts and culture to improve the hotel services? do you intend to protect them from abuse by the public?

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero: I am glad you brought this Commissioner Ero: Again you saw the efforts being made to up, it is part of our long time vision. I have had stakeholders identify them, fix them and beautify them. One good thing meeting with hoteliers which we plan to have again. My going for us is that once it is beautified, no one will liter it, major discussion with them was that we once it is protected as need to train and retrain their staff; you we plan to do now, will agree with me that one of the things on one will touch that is lacking here is customer service. it. We would do a And you cannot blame them because they proper sanitation work across the state, do not have or provide them good training. nobody will liter the So because they don’t have the training, streets; the same they cannot give what they do not have, thing is for those so we are looking at the area where we can engage the hoteliers, train their staff in monuments, we don’t need to fence customer care, health and safety, security, it round to protect it; sense of belonging to own the business so nobody will destroy that they can give and put in their best. In it so what we saw this area, people just pick their brother or during our tour has sister to come and do the work without any been done a long time form of training and you expect them to ago. My plan now is perform well. So we need to bring them in Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero explaining a point to engage public/ and train them, we already start working on during the interview private partnership that, you know the tourists we are expecting to beautify those to woo to Edo State are not going to stay in Government House or my house, they monuments and are going to stay in the hotels and if they don’t get good put their names on it as sponsors for their business. I am customer service, they would not come back. So if we don’t sure a lot of companies will jump on this offer. It is huge train our staff and that of the hoteliers, they cannot give what advertisement for them. We don’t mind as far as they are they do not have. I am glad you mentioned the classification giving back to society. So once these items are beautified, we would approach these companies.

Continued on Page 12

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero proudly display one of the several bronze objects of the Bini Kingdom dating back to centuries.

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TV: The question of Edo stolen artifacts found abroad. What efforts are been made to have them return to Edo State and how safe would they be here?

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero: It is a continuous process, someone have been working on it before I became the commissioner but the little effort we have made so far had yield a huge result. The Governor and the Oba has key into our efforts for instance when I was in Germany, I met a journalist who for the past 30 years has been doing a documentary on recovery of these stolen Edo artifacts. At the same time, the Governor and the Oba was hosting Prof. Nicholas Thomas of Cambridge University and Prof. Mrs. Annie Coombes of the University of London, both experts in Benin History, to a dinner, at the Government House in Benin City, Edo State. These are people pushing for the return of these stolen artifacts so I came back with some pictures of the artifacts and the exact locations

of where they are kept till date in various museums across the globe. You have them in the Metropolitan museum in Boston, Philadelphia, New York, Berlin in Germany, carter bridge and London in United Kingdom, some also in Paris, France and other places so we have over 1,000 pictures of artifacts at their current locations. Part of our plans again is to keep pushing advocacy, letting the world know that we know where these things are and part of it again is to do Edo festival this year December 2018 and we are going to have an exhibition for 3 or 4 days of those stolen items on pictures (500 plus) in the palace of Oba of Benin.

For that we would be inviting CNN, BBC, world press to Benin city and let the world know that these are artifacts belonging to Benin Kingdom; their present locations and how best to bring them back. Again they were saying we don’t have a safe place to keep them. The Oba of Benin and the Edo State government are building a museum in the palace there so once there is a museum in place in the palace, it is one of the safest place to keep them. I can tell you that nobody will be bold enough to go there to steal these artifacts in the palace. If not the person or persons will not see the light of the next day; that I can tell you 12

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although we all know these things and the values of it. We are Binis, we are proud of our culture and our heritage, we are proud of our king, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II and we are very privilege to have His Excellency, Governor Godwin Obaseki as our Executive Governor of Edo State at this time. We must also be grateful to former Governor Adams Oshiomhole for accepting to support Governor Obaseki for the job. For having the wisdom to know this is the best person for the job that can take Edo State to the next level. If you talk about loyalty, I don’t think he is the most loyal person to Governor Adams Oshiomhole but he looked at competence for the job rather than just loyalty. And we are all getting results today. Less than two years, he is able to sustain the economy of the State and even improve on it with meager resources. He has improved on the state infrastructures including roads, institutional development, improving the health sector, for instance during the outbreak of the Lassa fever, he spent over 100,000 million naira approved by the state executive to ensure that machines were bought for a federal hospital in Irua. I don’t think any other state government will do that. He looked beyond unnecessary bureaucracy and we were able to curb Lassa fever from spreading to other unaffected areas of the state. He is more concern with the younger ones, investing in Education and in primary education as the basic start in life.

TV: One humanitarian gesture of the Governor was a report of his visit to a young widow whose young husband was accidentally killed in Benin City. He visited her home and offer her children state sponsored scholarship. A king gesture for a Governor.

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero: I was there with him and accompanied His Excellency, this is style of leadership in the State.

TV: I have been asked by the Voice Achievers Award committee to deliver two letters, one to His Excellency being invited to Amsterdam to be recognized of outstanding service delivered to Edo State and Nigeria by His Excellency, Governor Godwin Obaseki. And also to recognize you for the effort to change the image of Edo State of Nigeria through your ministry.

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero: And when would this event be?

TV: The event is planned for 22nd & 23rd November 2018 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, the details will be sent to your office sir.

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero: Again November is close to elections and busy time at home so I am not sure if His Excellency would be able to travel but it is an honour to be acknowledged for the work we are doing. We would do our best to honour your invitation. Please keep us posted. And also on behalf of my ministry I welcome you to Edo state and we look forward to working with you for the advancement of Edo State. I receive the award on behalf of the good people of Edo state.

TV: Thank you very much for your time and hospitality.

Commissioner Osemwegie-Ero: You are welcome I was decorated with an emblem of Edo State which makes me proud to be identified with Edo state from now.

Interview by Pastor Elvis Iruh & Eubaldus Enahoro.

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Liberia’s success is important to us says VP Osinbajo

*Visiting Vice President commends FG’s sustained support

N

igeria will continue to extend a full range of diplomatic and other forms of assistance to Liberia as the country progresses with a new administration, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, while receiving his Liberian counterpart, Dr. Jewel Howard Taylor at the Presidential Villa, Abuja last month.

“Nigeria is committed to working with Liberia, we are certainly committed; the success of Liberia is important to us,” the Vice President noted.

Liberian Vice President Taylor commended the Federal Government of Nigeria for its support for Liberia during the immediate past administration of Madam Ellen

Johnson Sirleaf, while also urging that such kind of support should be maintained under the new presidency of George Weah.

“Like you pointed out, we have invested considerably in Liberia and our support for the Sirleaf administration is also in that respect. You can expect that we shall continue to support and even do much more for Liberia,” Prof. Osinbajo stated.

Both Vice Presidents also spoke on the significance of their youth population, the role of technology in development and the need for greater intercontinental trade among African countries.

The Liberian Vice President also spoke at the Inaugural African Women Summit for Peace and Development in Abuja. It is her first official visit to Nigeria as Vice president of Liberia.

Liberian Vice President also spoke at the Inaugural African Women Summit for Peace and Development in Abuja.

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President Paul Kagame closes down 6000 churches…….

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he President of Rwanda, His Excellency, Paul Kagame issued a statement saying he has officially closed down 6000 churches in Rwanda saying they were playing with the faith of Rwandan citizens and also put up a new requirement of procuring a theology degree before given license to open up a church in Rwanda.

While at the National Leadership retreat in Gabiro, Rwanda, in March Kagame expressed his concerns on the rising number of churches in Rwanda and asked if they were boreholes or wells that gave people water and also said they didn’t even tally with the number of factories in the country.

Paul Kagame who is known for his strict hand also cited security concerns when closing up these religious institutions. The Rwanda Governance Board said the move was also meant to tighten rules on registration and functioning of churches in Rwanda and also reduce on the creeping cases of fraud as many religious leaders

were reaping off impoverished followers.

Anastase Shyaka, head of Rwanda Governance Board also said installation of a lighting rod would be one of the requirements for new churches after a lighting strike killed 16 worshipers and injured 140 at a Seventh Day Adventist Church in March 2018.

Some Rwandese supported the move saying some religious leaders are motivated by greed and start churches to defraud followers.

Government of Rwanda said it respects freedom of worship but protecting people’s lives was first priority.

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NOLLYWOOD SHINES UNDER THE HOLLYWOOD STARS

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housands of Hollywood tourists from all over the world were held spellbound on Friday night by the spectacular Nollywood In Hollywood event. Starting at sunset with a star studded red carpet event highlighted by the filmmakers and actors in the films on showcase, the night ended with a party in the courtyard of The Egyptian Theatre that spilled into Hollywood Boulevard.

“Nollywood seems so far away but there is some curiosity.

This is a great event for Hollywood to know more about the Nigerian cinema. The film tonight (93 DAYS) is an excellent film, a really good piece. There are conversations to be had, for example how can we make it possible for people like Steve and good Nollywood filmmakers to be a part of the DGA,” says Jeff Byrd, moderator for the opening night film and chairman of the African-American Steering Committee of the Directors Guild of America (DGA).

Saturday’s screening was at the reputable Eileen Norris Theater inside the University of Southern California (USC). The theater which has hosted films by reputable USC alumni including Ryan Coogler of the Black Panther, George Lucas, John Singleton, Bryan Singer, Shonda Rhimes amongst others was now playing host to Nigerian films.

A late-arriving crowd saw the matinee screening of THE BRIDGE on Saturday, after which director Kunle Afolayan held the packed audience to an engaging Question and Answer session.

As dusk approached, a standing room only crowd saw the final film on the showcase, ISOKEN. The film’s theme and subject matter engaged the crowd so much there were laughter and talk back to the screen throughout the screening. Actress Dakore Akande had a very colorful and stimulating Questions and Answer session after the screening.

“I didn’t know what to expect. I have never been part of the planning a film showcase. I didn’t really know what I had gotten myself into. I’m used to showing up at film festivals, doing my thing and leaving. But now I was in the thick of it. It turned out well thankfully. Hopefully, the

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filmmakers and actors will get the attention of the industry.

We are actually talking now about how to make Nigerian filmmakers qualify for some sort of membership in the DGA so that’s a huge leap,” says Ose Oyamendan, the brain behind the event.

In a panel on Nollywood, the filmmakers made a point of letting the Hollywood audience and decision makers know that Nollywood grew without government support, which was reflected by the lack of government presence at the biggest cultural showcase for Nigeria outside the country in decades. They also used the platform to promote Nigeria talents and call for co-productions and technical cooperation between Nollywood and Hollywood.

“As first events goes, this was a success. We were worried because it is a new territory but Ose was very passionate about giving a platform to Nollywood films. Now, we will see how we can make it better. We obviously need more sponsors and hopefully, the Nigerian government can be involved from the next one,” says Gwen Deglisse, director of programming for The American Cinematheque, operators of The Egyptian Theater.

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

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

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

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

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

“That’s why it’s nice and easy for owners to hand over the management.

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

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

There are still two office units and 6 flex workstations available.

Anuschka: “Working from home is not ideal for many entrepreneurs and anything but productive. The distraction is great, it is difficult to receive customers and you can not spar with other entrepreneurs.

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

Tel: 0299-770980, 06-12678583 or 06-21171080. www.man-vastgoed.nl e-mail: info@man-vastgoed.nl

Congratulations, your first step to real estate has been taken!

BUY YOUR VOUCHER TO EARN FREE ONE YEAR ACCOMMODATION Dear Customer, Thank you for purchasing the Man Vastgoed promotion package. In your package you will find a piggy bank and one or more voucher (s). With this voucher (s) you receive a discount on one of the services of Man Vastgoed and you have a chance to win one of our great prizes.

Your free ticket number can be found on your voucher. We wish you good luck with your raffle (s).

Man Vastgoed for everyone If you choose to save in the piggy bank, you can hand over your filled piggy bank to Man Vastgoed. You will receive 5% interest per year and 10% redemption premium on your savings balance respectively. The savings balance remains fixed for a maximum period of 28 months. By handing in your savings, you enable us to invest in real estate projects. You can return your filled piggy bank to us by 31 December 2018.

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

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

Free living for a year. We pay your rent or mortgage for a year Because of its one-year existence, Man Vastgoed is holding a promotional campaign to allow you enter easily into real estate business. As a customer, you can buy a voucher for €5, - which entitles you to a 20% discount on the services provided by Man Vastgoed. The voucher is also a ticket for you to enter a raffle draw.

The winners have the chance to win (3) iphones X, (2) IPad and as a first prize, you have free accommodation rent a year. There are (10) other sets as a consolation prizes.

Order your voucher (s) now By transferring the amount of (numbers x €5) to the following account NL22ABNA0246322934 of Man Vastgoed. You can qualified To submit your vouchers, log in to the promotional page on www.man-vastgoed.nl Limited number of tickets (20,000) are available because of this big win opportunity. Get yours today…..

For terms and conditions see: www.man-vastgoed.nl I am a reseller of this promotion. If you want to order, please mention code D with your payment.

Thanks in advance. www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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

What would you like to know? Our vision?

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

You may have been a believer for many years already.

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

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

We all follow the same God, Jesus Christ.

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

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

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

Pastor Roel & Ida van Rooij Senior Pastor Victory Outreach Almere. Barbeelstraat 12, 1317 PZ Almere Telephone: 036-8417007; Telephone: 0367505571 info@voalmere.nl www.voalmere.nl

INVITING NEW MEMBERS!!

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

Time: 6.30pm - 9.00pm YOU ARE ALL WELCOME. For details, Call: 06-87510616, 06-87508082, 0655516057 Address : Fortuinlaan 39 , 1561JB, Krommenie 25

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My goal is to touch lives with my talk show says Vivienne Diamond

V

ivienne Diamond is a Nigerian born television personality based in the United States. She is currently in Nigeria working on putting up a talk show as never witnessed in the country before. She is banking on her experience from United States of America to make things work for her. She is the 13th child of a family made of 15 children. According to her, her late father was in the Nigerian Army where he served and fought during the Biafra war in the late 60s. He also studied physiology in University of Aberdeen, in England and he loved to write.

He will sit for hours and write. My dad was everything to me.

He was a great father and he has inspired her journey so far in life.

She has a degree in Law, a Diploma in Social works and also studied Healthcare because of her passion towards humanity.

She is a very observant person and alert to situations around her. What’s inside of her is mightier that what you see on the outside. She is not just a pretty face, according to her she has more to offer than her good looks.

She has done some modelling in the past and also worked as an actress. Her favorite color is Red. She enjoys sea food. Asked what she does during her spare time, she says she does not window shop because it is torturing so she only goes when she can afford to buy what she wants instead of looking at it and saying goodbye!

She is a big dreamer and she is working hard to see her dreams come true. She loves music of all kind as long as she can relate to it. She loves to encourage people and leave them with something inspirational. Before returning to Nigeria, she ran her own personal talk show

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called Vidia Talk. It was formed with part of her names.., first 2 letters Vi was taken from ‘Vivienne and the last 3 letters Dia was taken from ‘Diamond.

The motive of Vidia Talk is to inspire, motivate and touch lives, making a difference in the world. It’s a show that talks about Politics and the entertainment world, from helping people in need to fashion, music, movies, romance/ relationships, religion, food and much more.

She has this burning desire to reach out to people and she feels that God put something in her that people need to see and hear and that is why she is not holding back and pushing up to reach out and touch as many lives as possible.

She spoke to The Voice magazine in Lagos, Nigeria in an

exclusive interview to be published soon. Stay tune with us. For more information about this enterprising young woman, and to know more about her talk show, Vidiatalk, visit her at www.vidiabrand.com

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Y

Doctors of the World helps people without papers to the doctor

ou are sick, but you don’t have a health insurance. What can you do? You receive a high bill from the hospital, but you don’t have papers and no health insurance. What can you do? Many migrants in the Netherlands without a residence permit don’t know that they have the right to visit the doctor for a medical consult and that their safety is guaranteed.

Everyone is entitled to medical care, with or without papers, with or without an insurance, with or without money. Doctors of the World helps people without a residence permit to gain access to healthcare because we believe that everybody, regardless of their background, is entitled to physical and mental wellbeing.

How does Doctors of the World help people without a residence permit?

1. Consultation hours in Amsterdam and The Hague We help with health care-related questions, such as enrollment with a General Practitioner (‘huisarts”) or midwife. We will also contact other institutions when there are any problems in your way to healthcare.

Where can you find us?

Four days a week our healthcare bus, the mobile office of Doctors of the World, runs in Amsterdam and The Hague.

On our website you can see where this bus is located and at which time. and on what day.

Website: www.doktersvandewereld.org/need-help-2/ 2. Giving group presentations at various locations (churches, mosques, community houses) about healthcare and how to get care without a residence permit Would you like to host a group presentation of Doctors of the World for your own organization and ‘followers’ ?

Please contact our Outreach coordinator Carola Leering at: 020—4652866 or 06-28444803 (Monday, Wednesday or Thursday) Email: zorgrecht@doktersvandewereld.org 3. Provide information via our telephone help-desk.

We provide information about rights and obligations and answer questions of people without a residence permit.

Healthcare providers, support organizations and other stakeholders can also make use of our help-desk service for advice on access to health care for migrants without a residence permit.

Phone helpdesk: 020-4083424 Email: zorgrecht@doktersvandewereld.org

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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.......

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PureCare Sal

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 & HAPPY NEW YEAR 2018 !!!!

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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

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Gov. Obaseki commended for development of historical sites in Benin

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resident of Edo State Bronze Casters Guild, Chief Kingsley Inneh has commended Edo state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki for his determination to develop the state historical sites to world standards.

Speaking during a visit by the Edo State Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Osaze Osemwegie-Ero to the Bronze Casters Guild at Igun Street, Chief Inneh who is the Ine N’ Igun of Benin expressed the appreciation of the guild members to the state government for making arts and culture one of its cardinal goals.

“We are so much honored with your visit to the guild, which goes to show that you and the state government have the interest of our arts and culture at heart. You are the first Commissioner to visit the guild made up of 130 members and we are proud of you and the governor for this gesture today, which will go a long way in to our history books.

The Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora Affairs who took a walk round art works in the Kings square and other significant relics in Benin City assured the Bronze Casters that the state governor is passionate about promoting the Benin culture.

“Without the support of the governor we cannot do much.

He believes that with our arts and culture, Edo state can earn revenue, that is why his vision is to turnaround Igun Street and develop our historical sites to world standards,” he noted.

He said the products of Igun Street are known all over the world and 95 percent of the stolen artifacts in the museums abroad are from Igun Street produced by the bronze casters, adding that as a proud son of Edo state, we will do our best to revive Edo culture.

“The governor has plans to revive Igun Street. We want to develop interactive web site for Igun Street to document all the historical works and produce pictorial books that will be placed in strategic places like embassies and hotels.

The Commissioner had maintained that the governor has plans to empower the guild and he also disclosed plans to go with some members of the guild to Europe for an exhibition

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where they will be entitled to 80 percent of the proceeds.

Earlier, the Commissioner who was at the Benin Museum, where he was conducted round by Comrade Omokhua Ikhuerhi, the Chief Exhibition officer said the idea of going round the museum is to appreciate the beauty of the place which was recently rehabilitated.

“We must appreciate what we have. The museum is recommended for anyone visiting the state. Edo state is safe and we have one of the beautiful museum in the world,” he added.

The Commissioner also went round the Kings square to see the art works of Benin Kings adorning the city center.

According to Mosis Obakpolo, the director of culture in the ministry, the statues of the kings are in the kings square to commemorate the 30th coronation anniversary of the Oba. In his observation, the Commissioner who was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Sam Aigbirio, directors, and some Edo’s from Diaspora, frowned over the defaced statues and he directed that they should have proper description written on them and the need to get corporate organizations involve to maintain them because the government cannot do everything.

The Commissioner was also at the oldest upstairs in Midwest region built in 1906, Egedege N’Okaro where he hinted government’s intention to see how the building can be preserved.

Story by Eubaldus Enahoro

Gov. Obaseki commended for development of historical sites in Benin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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37

Grand Emperor Hotel, Lekki Lag Home away

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

Grand Emperor Hotel is a luxury hotel located at Block 129, Plot 9 Akinyemi Avenue, Lagos.

It is a traveller favourite due to its closeness to Elegushi Royal Beach, Lekki Beach, Lekki Leisure Lake, Landmark Centre, The Palms Shopping Mall, Amazon Spur Steak Ranch, The Place Nightclub and Circle Mall. The hotel is located at the city centre. It is renowned for its sunbathing terrace.

The rooms at Grand Emperor Hotel is divided into four categories. Room categories are Superior Suite, Deluxe Room, Executive Room and Grand Emperor Suite. Each room category is well furnished to make sure guests have a homely feeling as soon as they step foot into the rooms. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, flat screen TV with cable connection, soundproofing, beautiful wall arts, kettle and a private bathroom. The bathroom features a stand-in shower, toiletries and a bathrobe. Some rooms have a private sitting area. All guests are entitled to a complimentary breakfast.

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

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

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

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shuttle services and meeting facilities.

The hotel is a top destination for corporate people, leisure seekers, and families on vacation and couples. It is relatively cheaper than other hotels in its category. The nearest airport is Murtala Muhammed International Airport, 23.2km away.

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

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

Children: Children accompanied by adults.

Pets: Pets are not allowed.

Payment: Only cash payment is accepted here.

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

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

Q: Does Grand Emperor Hotel offer complimentary breakfast?

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

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

A: Yes, guests are offered free onsite parking.

Q: Does Grand Emperor Hotel have kettles?

A: Yes, each room has a kettle.

Q: Does Grand Emperor Hotel allow pets?

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

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

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

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

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Adieu Lucky Osahon (a.k.a Oscar) We are still in shock over your death but your sweet memories remain with us forever.

We continue to pray for your children and family.

We would always remember you.

Not even your death will take your place or change that ....

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Foundation MammaeCare Body and Mind goes Caribbean

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aybe a few of you can remember the foundation MammaeCare Body and Mind.

In October 2015 the foundation received The Voice Achievers Award of which we are very proud to associate with this humble institution and we are still proud of their work and the work we do.

Now we can proudly announce that since the 4th of March 2016, the Foundation has been officially established on Bonaire for Breast Cancer patients and their families.

We have already had a few nice activities such as: 1.

Look good feel better 2.

In October last year which was the breast cancer month, we organized activities every weekend till the end of the month on the diseases and how supportive we could be to help victims. The program was rounded up with an Awareness dinner.

This year, for the first time we organized a bigger event on March 10th 2018, the foundation organized a symposium about breast cancer on Bonaire Island in collaboration with the Cancer Care Centre in Amsterdam. We are proud to achieve this fit, because it is the first time our foundation has organized such a large and important event on the Island. I am very proud of the work the board says Carmelita Haynes, the initiator of the foundation “We of the board are very proud of what the foundation has achieved so far”. The speakers included Mrs. Annemarie Beintema owner of the Cancer Care Centre in Amsterdam, Oncologist/Internist Dr. Scheper from Curaçao , Marjolein Smaal and Nikki Meijer of the health Center from Bonaire

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and at last but not the least, Mrs.Carolien Sikkenk a professional photographer who makes portraits of women whose hair has fallen out after chemotherapy.

The topics covered during the event includes; What is cancer?; Diagnosis and treatment, Cancer and heredity, Physical and psychosocial consequences of cancer and treatment 1.

Aftercare: optimal supportive care 2.

Emotion and cancer 3.

Cancer and movement 4.

Photographer from the Expo Bold On her impression of the program and it success, Ms Haynes said they have started noticing a decline on the taboo surrounding cancer. “Women are now open to talk about it”.

There was a lot of interest and the women are now more aware that it’s important to have themselves checked and if they feel something that doesn’t belong to their body, they have to visit their doctor immediately and they don’t have to hesitate to do this.

The Foundation still keep on the good work. Their motto is “You are not alone” “Women are the life line of humankind, don’t let cancer cut that line off too quickly”

Foundation MammaeCare Body and Mind goes Caribbean.

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VU Center for Theology of Migration offers postgraduate program for migrant pastors and church leaders in Amsterdam.

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new opportunity is open to immigrants Pastors and church leaders in the Netherlands to upgrade and adequately have themselves trained to meet end time challenges of working in the vine yard of God. To this end, Dr. Samuel Lee on his appointment as at VU University, Amsterdam. We decided to have him explain in details how this program will be beneficiary to immigrant Pastors and workers. He obliged and here we are for the interview, . Join me to welcome Dr. Samuel Lee to this interactive interview session.

Enjoy reading it.

President Outatara of Cote d’ Ivoire

church leaders in the Netherlands. This is a unique program, TV: Congratulations on your new appointment, sir! Can you I can say perhaps even unique in Europe for migrant pastors tell us about this new appointment? and church leaders/workers to have a postgraduate diploma Dr. Samuel Lee: Thank you for having me once again in from one of the most prestigious universities in the world, Voice Magazine. It is always a great pleasure to be in your with a faculty of theology that ranks number 5 in the top magazine. In 2017 my colleague, 10 faculties of Theology and Dr. Simon Ririhena, and I were Religious studies in the world. appointed as coordinators for the TV: As the coordinator of the VU VU University Amsterdam at the Center for Theology of Migration, Postgraduate Program for Migrant what does offering postgraduate pastors and church leaders. We were program for migrant pastors and also appointed as assistant professors church leaders entail? within this postgraduate program. As Dr. Samuel Lee: My colleague, you perhaps know, there are around Dr. Simon Ririhena, and I are one million migrant Christians in responsible for the overall the Netherlands. These migrant functionality of the Center for believers are an important part of Theology of Migration. From the Dutch Christian landscape, who its start we have been involved form various churches, fellowships, with curriculum development. In and NGO’s. At the same time, there consultation with SKIN and the is a gap between Dutch churches and Faculty of Theology, we make migrant churches, which leads to a sure that our program is both superficial understanding about each practical and academic. Practical church’s social and religious contexts, in the sense that the program as well as lack of collaboration. addresses the needs of migrant With such developments in the pastors and church leaders within background, the organization Samen a Dutch and global context.

Kerk in Nederland (SKIN), together Academic, in the sense that it must with VU University-De Vrije be in accordance to the academic Universiteit, came up with a unique qualifications and requirements of program within the Faculty of the VU University.

Dr. Samuel Lee Theology providing a postgraduate education for migrant pastors and

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At the same time, I must emphasize that at the Center, our spirituality is respected and alive. I am not only a coordinator but also an assistant professor in the center and the topics I teach are theology of migration, mission in postmodern society, and contextual theology. At the Center we have experts coming from various disciplines within Christian theology who enrich us with their knowledge and experiences.

The aim of the program is to equip the migrant pastors and church leaders/workers with the latest developments in the fields of theology and religion, both in the Netherlands and beyond. Further, it is designed to equip the participants to become more effective bridge builders between their own ethnic church community and those of wider Dutch society.

Our first group of students is enthusiastic about the content and the way the lectures are delivered. There are four major areas we discuss at the Center: Theology of Migration, Mission & Society, Pastoral Care in Multicultural Context, and Internship. The courses we offer within these domains are very interesting; for example, we study migration in the Bible, as well as the role of migrant churches within Dutch society.

We learn to better understand the ideas behind a postmodern society and learn to develop new mission strategies. We study church history, both Dutch church history and the history of Christianity from a global, non-western angle as well.

We discuss pastoral care from a multicultural, multigenerational perspective, and learn about marriage and family. For instance, to whom do we address the issues of the second or third generation of African youth, both within the Dutch context as well as in the context of their parents within the light of pastoral care. Further, there is room for participants to do internships in various organizations, like churches, NGO’s, prison chaplaincies, etc.

TV: What is the requirement to join the program and who is qualified?

Dr. Samuel Lee: The applicants must have at least a BA degree from a recognized university, college, or institution of higher education. The BA degree doesn’t have to be in theology or religious studies. It can be in any field of science, as long as the applicant is involved in ministry, as a church leader or a worker, or aims to start a ministry working among migrants.

TV: What are the benefits of such a post graduate program for pastors and church leaders?

Dr. Samuel Lee: As I mentioned earlier, this is a unique program and the greatest benefit is, of course, the fact that the participants will be equipped with a quality education for a more effective and fruitful ministry within the Dutch or Western European context. Further, they are receiving a recognized postgraduate diploma from one of the most prestigious universities in the world, especially when it comes to theology and religious studies. So, my fellow migrant colleagues, don’t miss this chance and apply today.

TV: Is this program open to external students outside the

Netherlands and Europe?

Dr. Samuel Lee: Practically, it is open for those outside the Netherlands or the EU, but the visa is very hard to get, and as a center we cannot help with visas and accommodation. So, we encourage pastors who live in the Netherlands, Belgium, or Germany to apply.

TV: What is the cost implication or tuition fee?

Dr. Samuel Lee: The cost is the normal tuition fee required

by VU for all students, which is 2060 Euros for the entire program.

TV: What is the duration of the program?

The entire postgraduate program is one academic year, starting in September and ending in June, followed by graduation. It is important for applicants to know that class attendance is a must. Our classes are only once in a week, on Fridays, from 9 AM until 5 PM. The entire program is 60 ECTS. TV: What language are the classes taught in?

Dr. Samuel Lee: The language is English. The lectures and books are all in English.

TV: How can interested candidates apply for this program?

Dr. Samuel Lee: The applicant must write an email and indicate his/her interest in the program. Also, on the 9th of June we are having an Open Day at VU University, from 11 AM until 1 PM. TV: How do they contact you or the department for further information?

Dr. Samuel Lee: For applications, one can directly contact me via email at s.lee@vu.nl.

For more information they can visit our website at www. cthm.nl.

TV: Thank you for the interview.

Dr. Samuel Lee: Thank you, too, for having me here and I wish you all the best with your valuable work.

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Trump endorses N. American World Cup bid, threatens allies against backing Morocco

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nited States President Donald Trump has tweeted his support for the North American bid for the 2026 soccer World Cup and issued a veiled threat to nations that might oppose it.

Morocco is the only rival to a joint bid to stage the event from the United States, Canada and Mexico, with the FIFA Congress due to choose the hosts in Moscow on June 13.

“The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup,” Trump tweeted.

“It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)?”

The North American bid boasts large stadiums, excellent infrastructure and has promised to deliver an enormous $3.5 billion in revenue. The bid is also thought to be supported by FIFA president, Gianni Infantino.

It was widely reported that a senior FIFA source alleged that Infantino encouraged the World Cup evaluation team to find evidence that could block Morocco’s candidacy.

The U.S. previously hosted the World Cup in 1994.

Morocco would require massive investment to host the

World Cup that will be a 48 team event for the first time.

The Morocco bid is expected to receive strong backing from FIFA’s African and Middle East countries.

France plans to back Morocco, the country’s football federation president told local media recently, while Russia, which will host the 2018 tournament from June 14-July 15, has said it will also vote for the North African nation’s bid.

FIFA member countries receive one vote each, no matter their size, which gives disproportionate influence to small soccer nations. Canada, Mexico, USA and Morocco are blocked from voting given their bids, leaving 207 eligible national associations.

A successful bid requires a simple 104 vote majority.

Butfield said the growing recognition that we are living through an extinction crisis did offer some hope.

“We are aware of it, we know what causes it and to some extent we know what the solutions are. Now it is a matter of acting on that knowledge before it is too late.”

In Kenya Kahumbu said people were ready to fight.

“For too long conservation has been seen here a something white people do but now the young generation feel very strongly that this is for us to deal with. We need to take ownership of this issue as Africans and to make sure we act before it is too late.”

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Swaziland now eSwatini: King renames Africa’s last absolute monarchy

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waziland’s King Mswati III has changed the name of his country to the Kingdom of eSwatini,. The monarch reportedly made the announcement during the double celebration in the southern African country. The first landmark is his 50th birthday and the country’s 50 years of independence.

The kingdom of Swaziland – officially Eswatini is known to be one of the world’s last remaining absolute monarchies. The king who has been in charge for 32 years took over at the age 18.

He rules by decree over his subjects. King Mswati III presides over the annual Reed Dance ceremony during which occasion he chooses a new bride.

The king currently has over a dozen wives.

Mswati has over the years been at the crossroad between ruling as a traditional monarch or modernizing his kingdom through multi-party democracy.

Human Rights groups like Amnesty International, Freedom House, Human Rights Watch and Reporters Without Borders have accused him of policies that trample human rights and democracy.

In August 2004, British newspaper the Daily Mirror named him as one of the world’s 10 worst dictators on a list headed by the leaders of North Korea and Myanmar.

Residents of the tiny African kingdom of eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) weighed up their country’s new official name after the king unexpectedly announced it would now be known as “eSwatini”.

Meaning “place of the Swazi”, eSwatini is the local Swazi language name for the nation landlocked between South Africa and Mozambique. This will come with major cost implications, we are a broke country.

Critics of the king, who took the throne in 1986 at the aged of 18, said the move was an example of his authoritarian and wasteful reign in a country that suffers dire poverty.

“We see here King Mswati’s autocratic style,” said Alvit Dlamini, head of the Ngwane National Liberatory Congress, a political party which,

like others, is not allowed to run in elections.

“He can’t change the name of the country on his own. He was supposed to consult the nation.”

Dlamini said that the change would be expensive for Swaziland, where 63 percent of the 1.3 million population live below the national poverty line, according the World Food Programme.

“This will come with major cost implications, we are a broke country,” he said.

“And it will affect us with organisations like the African Union and United Nations, and in international protocols and agreements.”

The Trade Union Congress of Swaziland warned that the process was not immediate, adding it would not immediately change its own name.

“When the king has made a pronouncement, due process must take its course,” acting general secretary Mduduzi Gina told the press.

“The legislature must initiate a process to amend the constitution.

The change cannot be a knee-jerk reaction. “We will not become the Trade Union Congress of eSwatini overnight.

We will consult with our affiliates.”

For many Swazis, the change also raised concerns about updating paperwork and additional bureaucracy.

“Some of us don’t suffer from an inferiority complex,” said Mbabane resident Hynd Shongwe, in a dig at the king. “The name change is neither here nor there. My only worry is the cost and inconvenience of official documents changing. If it was by choice, we would remain with the current documents.”

Unlike some countries, Swaziland did not change its name when it gained independence in 1968 after being a British protectorate for more than 60 years.

The new name had been mooted for several years, with lawmakers considering the issue in 2015, and the king has used eSwatini in previous official speeches.

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Africa’s ‘City of Innovation’ to Host Conference on ‘Uniting Africa’

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ext year Rwanda, one of Africa’s most technologically ambitious countries, will take over the Chairmanship of the African Union. It will also play host to eLearning Africa and the organisers are predicting that it will be the biggest conference in the event’s 13-year history. They believe it could play a significant role in pushing forward the African Union’s 2063 Agenda.

The conference, which is being jointly organised by ICWE GmbH and the Rwanda Convention Bureau under the patronage of the Rwandan Government, usually attracts well over 1,000 participants from all over the world. They are not only teachers, academics and learning experts, but political leaders, policy makers, investors, technologists, business leaders and entrepreneurs too. The conference is also the occasion for an annual round table meeting of African education and technology ministers.

In Rwanda, participants in eLearning Africa will have

a chance to see for themselves the achievements of an African Government, which has set about using technology to transform education. In 2014, the Government signed an agreement to incorporate information and communication technology into the country’s schools and colleges. The benefits of “a new system of teaching that emphasises the use of computers and internet to impart knowledge” are already starting to be felt across the country. And now the Government is confident that by 2020 all schools in the country will have at least two smart classrooms and all subjects will have been digitised. eLearning Africa 2018 will take place from 26 - 28 September in Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali, which has gained a reputation for its ICT-based initiatives in a variety of sectors. So great is its apparent enthusiasm for new technological solutions that some observers have referred to it as the “Innovation City of Africa.”

In addition to its technological prowess, Kigali is also one of Africa’s most attractive cities - eLearning Africa participants will be able to take advantage of its bustling streets, ridges, valleys, and lush hillsides, not to mention Rwanda’s world renowned Gorilla trekking tours, only a short journey away.

“It is wonderful that Rwanda is now setting a real example for other countries in technology-assisted learning and hosting a conference whose theme is „Uniting Africa“, says conference organiser, Rebecca Stromeyer. „I am confident that eLearning Africa 2018 in Rwanda will be the biggest and most exciting eLA yet.”

Under the overall theme of „Uniting Africa,“ conference participants will discuss how the benefits of technology can be shared and help to improve education across Africa, making a reality of the African Union’s 2063 Vision of a “transformed continent.” A call for papers has been issued and will remain open until 30 January 2018. The organisers are looking for contributions on subjects including “creating opportunities through education,” “boosting competitiveness and ICT-centric growth,” “matching skills demand and supply,” and “overcoming barriers.” eLearning Africa 2018 - 13th International Conference on ICT for Development, Education and Skills When: September 26 – 28, 2018 Where: Kigali Convention Centre, Kigali, Rwanda Contact: ICWE GmbH, Ms Rebecca Stromeyer, info@elearningafrica.com, www.eLearning-africa.com, Tel.: +49 (0)30 310 18 18-0

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Isaac Dogboe beats Jessie Magdaleno to win WBO title

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hana has produced a new WBO World Super Bantamweight Champion, in person of Isaac Dogboe. Also known as ‘Royal Storm’, Dogboe earned the title after knocking out American, Jessie Magdaleno at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia.

More special is a new boxing king from Bukom, a suburb of Accra has once again lived up to its unofficial title of ‘the real Mecca of Boxing’.

At the start of the fight, it seemed Magdaleno was going to steal the show. The American knocked Dogboe down and followed it with several precise punches that caught the Ghanaian off-guard. However, Dogboe shook it off in the coming rounds and took an upper hand in the fight.

In addition to earning the belt, the outstanding performance also makes the 23-year-old Ghana’s youngest ever world champion. It was his 19th fight, 19th win and ninth total knockout since he turned professional in 2013. He punched his way to victory in the 11th round of the fight.

It would be recalled that the former Olympian Isaac Dogboe of Ghana came up huge in his first real test as a professional boxer, handing the iron-tough Cesar Juarez the first stoppage loss of his career to win the interim WBO

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super bantamweight title. After that victory, he instantly became a hero in Ghana.

Before the fight, Juarez’s posted (20-6, 15 KO) experience in brawls was intimidating but Dogboe (18-0, 12 KO) came out slugging, unleashing an endless storm of left hooks to the head and body of his opponent. He floored Juarez hard with a hook/jab in the second round, but ate some quality blows in return to finish the round on a strong note.

Juarez found some life in the third round, landing a powerful series of body shots and shrugging off some huge head punches from Dogboe, but the Ghanaian’s speed and sharpness kept him in control. One round later, Dogboe found the mark with a left hook so hard that Juarez’s body a second or so to realize there was nobody home. He was wobbly on his feet when he rose, prompting Tony Weeks to call it a day.

With this victory, the President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dakwa AkufoAddo has joined millions of Ghanaian citizens in celebrating a boxing feat chalked by Isaas Dogboe’s victory and world boxing title glory for Ghana and Africa in a long while now.

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he twenty-three year-old was crowned the new World Boxing Organization (WBO) Junior Featherweight Champion. According to President Akufo-Addo, the young boxer had made the nation proud, ‘I am confident that he is destined for greatness,’ the president added in a twitter post.

Dogboe became the youngest boxing world champion of the country after defeating his opponent.

Nicknamed the Royal Storm, Dogboe shook off some setbacks earlier in the bout before proceeding to knockout his opponent with a round to spare.

Ghana’s boxing legend, Azumah Nelson, who dominated the sport in the 90s has released a statement congratulating the young boxer. “I watched with the excitement and pride how you demonstrated bravery, determination and resilience against an undefeated champion Jessie Magdaleno in his country and more importantly not to allow the judges to decide the outcome of the bout letting you ferocious fists to decide.

“That has always been my philosophy which I have shared

with you, that is, going into the ring with your own judges and referee,’’ Azumah said.

Social media users continue to shower the boxer with praise for restoring Ghana’s boxing glory after a long hiatus.

Ghana has produced boxing greats like Prof. Barima Azumah Nelson and Ike Bazooka Quartey decades back.

On the President Twitter account, he wrote this for the world to read: “Congratulations to Isaac Dogboe on becoming WBO Junior Featherweight Champion, and, in so doing, Ghana’s youngest-ever boxing world champion. We are proud of him, and I am confident that he is destined for greatness” In the same vein, for President Jerry John Rawlings wrote also on his Twitter account: “Congrats champion Isaac Dogboe. Hard work and perseverance leads to success.

You’ve made Ghana proud. You have to sustain that hunger in order to emulate the greatest, Azumah Nelson! #dogboeworldchampion Congratulations to Champion Isaac Dogboe

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Sports FIFA task force assesses Morocco’s 2026 World Cup bid

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orocco’s bid to host the 2026 World Cup went under the microscope as a task force from global soccer body FIFA arrived for an inspection visit to assess the country’s ability to host the tournament.

Morocco is the only rival to a joint bid to stage the event from the United States, Canada and Mexico with the FIFA Congress due to choose the hosts in Moscow on June 13.

Morocco’s bid committee said in a statement that the five-man task force will visit several cities as well as stadiums, training camps and fan fest sites, together with other venues related to the organization of the competition.

The task force will use a pointscoring system to evaluate the two candidates and a bid which does not meet a minimum score on a number of different points will be disqualified before the final vote in Russia.

“Morocco is offering… an innovative and compact concept to ensure operational efficiency, outstanding profitability and a lasting legacy in Morocco and Africa,” said Moulay Hafid Elalamy, president of the bid committee, in the statement.

He added that the visit would “strive to convey the vision of a humble, passionate, determined bid, but above all a professional and solid one.”

Morocco’s bid plays heavily on the country’s passion for

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football and its fan culture, on its relatively compact size, its proximity to Europe and climate.

Morocco has already made four unsuccessful bids to host the tournaments for 1994, 1998, 2006 and 2010, although

it was close on three occasions.

The country was second to the U.S. for 1994, behind France for 1998 and just lost out to South Africa for the 2010 finals, the only time the event has been held in Africa.

Some of FIFA’s national associations have already publicly stated who they will vote for and Morocco received South Africa’s backing on Monday.

South Africa Football Association (SAFA) president Danny Jordaan said that Morocco’s bid was Africa’s bid.

“It is an old myth that Africa doesn’t have the capacity and naysayers should stop using the political argument,” he said. “Africa hosted the best FIFA World Cup ever and with good support, Morocco can emulate South Africa.”

FIFA has 211 member associations who all hold one vote at Congress although FAs cannot vote on World Cup hosting if they are part of a bid or if they are suspended from FIFA at the time.

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Press statement by President Buhari at the press conference in the white house Rose garden during his visit to United States of America Good day, Ladies and Gentlemen of the media.

It has been a pleasure and honour to visit Washington DC at the kind invitation of President Donald Trump.

Nigeria and the United States share a long history of close and cordial relations, which encompass political, economic, military, social and cultural cooperation. Our two countries maintain a strategic partnership for peace and security, conflict resolution as well as the global fight against terrorism.

We also share common features as secular federal states, practicing a similar democratic model of governance and committed to the universal values of fundamental human rights and freedoms, free enterprise, social justice and the rule of law.

President Trump and his team and myself and the Nigerian team discussed issues related to security, trade, governance, human rights and humanitarian crises.

SECURITY We congratulated the leaders of North and South Korea on their historic summit and we applaud them for the positive commitment they have made towards the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. President Trump deserves a great deal of credit for his states manly role in transforming so dramatically the course of events in that region.

We also congratulated the US government on the important role it played in the defeat of ISIS, although some of the

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remnants have found their way to the Sahel region.

We recognized the strong US support in our fight against terrorism and also appreciated very much the US’ agreement to sell twelve Super Tucano A-29 war planes and weapons to Nigeria to effectively fight terrorism.

To contain the spate of insurgency in Nigeria, the Federal government has adopted a multi-sectoral approach, involving relevant government agencies to address the socio-economic and political dimensions while the Armed Forces of Nigeria assist the civil authority to provide security and maintain law and order.

As part of efforts to address emerging cases of insurgency in the country, the Nigerian Military adopted a non-kinetic counter terrorism/counter insurgency approach code-named “Operation safe corridor�, to de-radicalize, re-habilitate, and re-integrate willingly surrendered Boko-Haram members into the larger society.

This programme is currently embarking on a number of projects including: skill acquisition centers and integrated farms; comprising poultry, fish pond and greenhouse farming, among others. A number of international partners, including the International Organization for Migration have contributed to the success of Operation Safe Corridor.

We indicated that we would appreciate whatever support we could also get from the US.

We expressed gratitude for US support in the reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in the North East of Nigeria, as well as humanitarian assistance to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), through agencies such as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and other international partners. The USA has been to date the biggest contributor to the humanitarian response and last year gave approximately 500 million US Dollars in cash and in-kind contributions through the United Nations and other inter-governmental organizations.

These have mainly supported protection activities, health, food assistance and shelter.

We are doing all we can to secure the release of the remaining abducted school girls from Dapchi and Chibok. In this context, we will continue to welcome US collaboration in intelligence gathering, hostage negotiations and information-sharing.

VIOLENCE BETWEEN HERDSMEN AND FARMERS The government is taking necessary steps to promote the peaceful co-existence of herdsmen and farmers, by focusing on boosting security and enforcing legislation that will guarantee herders and farmers access to land;

TRADE AND INVESTMENT I extended sincere congratulations to President Trump and his government on the impressive performance of the US economy under their watch.

Our aim is to diversify our own economy by focusing on agriculture and food security; power and infrastructure.

We have cut the importation of rice by about 90% thereby saving a significant amount of money. We very much welcomed increased US investment in the Nigerian economy, especially in the non-oil sector.

Economic relations between Nigeria and the United States are anchored on three major instruments, namely: the

Bi-National Commission (BNC), Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) and the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). The Bi-National Commission in particular, comprising bilateral political, economic, developmental and humanitarian partnership, is a basic economic framework for engagement between our two countries.

Nigeria’s trade volume with the United States stood at $6.07 billion according to 2016 statistics and comprised $4.176 billion worth of Nigerian exports to the US and $1.894 billion US exports to Nigeria. We urged greater effort to increase these figures substantially.

GOVERNANCE AND ANTICORRUPTION We thanked the US government very much for the cooperation we have received in our effort to recover stolen funds. Our two governments have put the machinery in place for their respective Attorneys-General to collaborate in ensuring the return to Nigeria of over five hundred million United States Dollars ($500) of looted funds siphoned away in banks around the world. In this connection, we congratulated the US government on launching a Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative which was spearheaded by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering. We hoped that we could continue to count on US support in this area.

HUMAN RIGHTS The Government of Nigeria remains deeply committed to the principles of human rights as well as the promotion and protection of people’s freedom, even in the process of fighting terror. We commit to ensure that all documented cases of human rights abuses are investigated and those responsible for violations held accountable for their actions. www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Preparations under way for The Voice Achievers Award 2018 The Voice Achievers Award committee for 2018 is delighted to announce that nomination is open for each category of the 9th edition of the award and it is open to Africans and non-Africans. (See flyer for criteria on the next page please) This new nomination process includes, for the first time, naming the two nominees for the Voice Achievers Award Person of the year. (One from Africa and the other from the Europe Diaspora). The awardees for 2018 and the awardees in all categories, will be announced by end of July 2018 in a press statement in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

O u r mission as a foundation is to connect the world to the stories of these awardees and how they are making impact on

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Africa as a continent. We believe the best way to inspire others by letting them to see and appreciate what others are doing in their own way to advance the course of Africa.

On demand, the award committee is going to starting a HALL OF FAME for all its past awardees and inducting them into ambassadorial status. The foundation will continue to play the role of a bridge builder among people.

The award committee will ensure the best among the best will be recognized this year and we would also identify a project to request our worthy past awardees to support to make a direct impact on the lives of people in Africa.

The great awardees you will see in 2018 edition of our awards will help fulfill our purpose as a global platform connecting professionals and audiences through trustworthy awards to tell the African stories.

Pastor Elvis Iruh President The Voice Achievers Award Committee

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