Unveiling the prominence of South-South Nigeria
cover story
a tale of two Oreka stars & Vixen
FIRST
LOVE
DILEMMA
beauty & the budget
11 shocking single girl habits that nigerian girls are Proud to admit to!
iSSUe 1 VOL. 2
ISSN 227685644 02
oSaze odemwiNgie
N700 (VaT incl)
i really don’t believe in destiny
9 772276 856025
getting over your first love. true stories, great advices and more
5 stePs to get rid of body fat
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making the cover
What’s the 411? Oreka Godis and Yvonne Ekwere cover the second edition of Urban Royale Magazine looking more stunning than ever. They give a candid interview on life, coping with fame and love.
4 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
“It is believed that everything on top would at some point circle round, touch down and come back up again.Focus should be more on enjoying each moment...not pondering over things and how they would or should turn out”. Oreka
“Working in showbiz will change you if you are not strong. I just need to stay grounded, humble, respectful, focused, continue to seek for knowledge and never get tired of reading or asking”. Yvonne
www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 5
UR LETTERS KUDOS I salute you for the high publishing standard you have set. Sincerely, UR magazine is one of the most appealing I have personally seen (and I have seen a lot of them). It images the dignity and prestige of the people it represents. I have looked forward to the day a magazine for the south-south would emerge, and I must say that I am not disappointed at all. THANKS! And, God’s blessing to you in the outstanding journalistic work you are doing.
Stella Damasus talked on her new TV show, music and movies in our last (maiden) issue.
LOVE UR
MORE COLOURS
I wanted to drop a line to let you know how much I loved reading this maiden edition of Urban Royale Magazine(UR). It was thought-provoking and very worthwhile reading! I can’t wait to get my hands on the next issue
I got your UR maiden edition at the right time, I was actually looking for ways to brighten my wardrobe woth colours. Most of the clothes in my wardrobe were staples: black, white, brown and blue. I was becoming invisible, but reading the article ‘ 5 ways to add colour to your wardrobe really inspired me. Right now, I have an orange dress in my wardrobe and I am not freaking out!
BACK ON MY GAME Thanks for your story on ‘3 signs you might get fired’. I felt like the article was written just for me. The signs have been there but I never really saw them until I read about it. I have made adjustments where necessary and I am back on my game. My sincere thanks to anyone who took part in making this possible.
STELLA ROCKS! I love stella! I was so glad seeing her on the cover of this magazine. I was a little disappointed she didn’t talk on her love life. There is a lot drama going on, every day the media tells different stories and fans react in diverse way. I feel like she owes it to her fans to open up on this. I look forward to reading about her on this magazine again. 6 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
If you’d like to send a letter to the editor of Urban Royale Magazine, you may send an e-mail to vivienne@urbanroyalemagazine.com or send postal mail to: (insert office adress) Send your comments along with your full name, adress and phone numbers. Letters for each issue will be posted on this page as they are received, and if they are deemed appropriate for publication
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alsu odemwingie Alsu Odemwingie is the CEO of startup sity, a global presence which supports startups in employment and business. She also manages a group on facebook – Vantage point, a forum for unusual, remarkable, surprising and inspiring conversations on history, culture, science, literature and social issues. In this edition, she introduces her column - Ask Alsu, where she will be advicing UR readers on relationship issues. She loves to read and travel. ceo@startupsity.com
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All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the editor is strictly prohibited.
chris ilems Chris Ilems is a graduate of Accountancy , UNIBEN and holds an MBA in Human Resources Management. A broadcaster with Metro Fm, he is also a voice over artiste, an allocution instructor and a media consultant. He has a flair for youth development. In this edition he contributes to the Work and wealth section. He interviews three personnel on their ideologies as regards life, work and wealth. A family man, he likes to shop and cook.
chrisilems@metrofm.com
@chrisilems
www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 7
A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
moving on F irst love. Everyone on planet earth has one... and No, they are not the authors, musicians, movie stars (Desmond Elliot...smh) and artists we encountered in our formative years.They are the real people we met who will probably hold a part of our hearts forever. I like to think that i met mine when i was fifteen . Fresh out of high school, i was just breaking out of my tomboy routines. My fashion sense was tacky, my nails - all gobbled up. The only attractive thing about me I guess was and still is my voice. I would keep to myself , read books and go to church as much I needed to, i never really gave anyone a chance to get to me, until i bumped into him. He was persistent. honestly,i never really understood why a young man as dazzling as he was at that time, would have such a strong interest in me. We would sit and talk for hours, sing, hold hands, dance...its all coming back
8 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
to me now. It was the simplest yet most intense feeling of being intimate without the ususal physical complications. Sadly, he moved. We tried e-mails, phone calls, chatting,every social app that could help close the distance... it worked for a while. I refused to move on for a long time after we stopped, i had this fantasy where i was the only one for him. Luckily I snapped out of it two years ago when I bumped into him at his sister’s house . He looked really old, as though drained of life. It had been 8 years! I looked in his eyes, i felt nothing. He was a shadow of what i used to love..or maybe, i had evolved. Meeting him again confirmed my suspicion; i was ready to move on. There is a myth that no one truly ever gets over their first love, I say - some people do and some people don’t, feelings truly do end! I had a conversation on the topic with my girls recently, one of them was obviously still so broken over her first love. I realized at that moment that getting over one’s first love and moving on was a huge deal. Apparently, five other people share the same thought, they tell their stories in our cover feature titled - The first Love dilemma. Of course, there’s plenty of other content, including our music, film and book reviews, Interview with International football star - Osaze Odemwingie, extensive coverage of the Arise fashion week and a lot more.We are also very pleased to present our cover story on two popular TV presenters - one born in south-south (Oreka), the other originally from the south-south( Yvonne). They talk on life, their transition from radio to TV, the fame and Love. Thanks are due to our entire editorial staff, our outstanding contributors, and, as always, you, the reader. We hope you enjoy this issue, and that it gives you the chance to remember your first love. Feel free to e-mail me anytime, i look forward to reading your comments.
Vivienne
vivienne@urbanroyalemagazine.com
@ndemv
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and h tc re s Wa : c tu i r p k e Flicare agazin sh re Ur mtouch lo in e x p s t ay d an
www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 9
ISSUE 1 VOL 2
regulars 06 04 08
LeTTerS TO eDiTOr Making THe COVer eDiTOr’S LeTTer
style 36
38
STyLe BUzz: Time to upgrade your wardrobe LOVe iT Or LeaVe iT: Statement earrings
39 CiTrOn Crazy 59 rUnWay TrenDS FrOM ariSe FaSHiOn Week
61
STyLe STar Alex Ekubor
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beauty 30
BeaUTy anD THe BUDgeT: Dabota Lawson
33
5 BeaUTy TrenDS We Can’T WaiT TO Try! TiPS FOr COVering WHiTe Hair
34 35
BeaUTy Q&a: Tweaking you make-up routine
news and culture 14
BOOkS: Hot books up for grabs
21 26
MOVieS: Sneak Peak Ur MUSiC Hot stuff Chit-Chat: Joan Paul 8 Things We Are Talking about
luXury 104 LUxUry gLiTTerS 106 FOr THe LOVe OF
133 PeoPle 133
PerFUMeS
108 LUxUry gaDgeTS 110
72
neW LUxUry CarS
112
OSaze ODiMWigie The International footballer talks about life, setbacks in the past, recent string of successes as well as marriage plans
28 On THe SPOT:
Andy Bello on SSMA
cover
112
seX and relationshiPs 112
103
THe FirST LOVe DiLeMMa: Five people share experiences and tips on how to get over first love. Sex On THe FirST DaTe? Five reasons why he will respect you less
travel / city guide
48
a TaLe OF TWO TV STarS: Oreka and Vixen talk on life, love and success.
118
aSaba
124
pacK righT, TraVel lighT!
food 127
events
72
33rd coroNVaTioN aNNiVerSary of The oba of beNiN
82
Kefee opeNS reSTaUraNT fraNciShe
84
liVe iN lagoS wiTh bobby browN
weddings
eaT yoUr cUlTUre
94
ade wedS ada
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UR NEWS AND CULTURE
10 Things We Are Talking About!
2 Miss Nigeria Teen Debuts The first ever Miss Nigeria Teen beauty pageant is set to hold this year! Auditions are to commence shortly in Abuja, Lagos, Owerri and Calabar while the grand finale of the event will be held in Lagos. The beauty pageant created for teenage girls in Nigeria between the ages of 15 and 19 is meant to celebrate deserving teenage girls, promote morality among teenagers and also to promote the country’s cultural heritage among other .The winner of the pageant will get a brand new Kia Picanto, N1m scholarship, N500, 000 cash and one year modelling contract with Models Int’l.
3 MBGN
Screening 7 Finalists Emerges From Benin
Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) 2012 beauty pageant which started in Benin Tuesday, March 27 at Homeville Hotels, Benin City produced seven finalists from the region! With the Grand finale also holding in Edo State on Saturday, May 5 2012 at the HomeVille Hotel, Etete, G.R.A. Benin City, the event will mark the 25th edition of the annual pageant which started in 1986.
4 Shan George on USA tour to promote new movie
Star actress Shan George has commenced an international tour to promote her new movie titled “Finding Goodluck”. An educative and morally corrective movie bordering on corruption in the country, the movie was shot in different countries, including Nigeria. She commenced the tour in Houston and will progress to Chicago, Newyork, Washington DC, El-paso, and Los Angeles. The movie will however premier in Nigeria.
1 Stella Damasus nominated At Cameroon Entertainment Awards
Nollywood icon Stella Damasus has been nominated alongside other nollywood personalities as Omotola Jalade, Genevieve Nnaji and Jim Iyke in the Pan-African Actor category of the Cameroon Entertainment Awards. The CEA Awards will be taking Place at the Cramton Auditoriun in Howard University in DC, July 28th 2012. We are keeping our fingers crossed as we wish her the best of luck.
3
5 Kefee, Others In Vodafone Deal Popular Nigerian entertainers have been enlisted to boost the brand profile of a cellular network company, odafone, among them being, a veteran in the Nigerian gospel music scene, kefee. With its eyes on emerging markets, Vodafone, an England-based network is already in Turkey, India, South Africa and Ghana; and is now hoping to penetrate Nigeria. Apart from kefee include; Bukky Wright, Lola Alao, Eva, Segun Arinze, Ngozi Ezeonu and a whole lot of others.
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8 Don Jazzy Confirm Split With D’banj
The rumours have been confirmed by the Don himself. As first reported by a major local newspaper a few weeks ago, Don Jazzy and D’Banj have parted ways due to a longstanding dispute between both parties.Further confirmation of this shock separation is the fact that Don Jazzy was nowhere to be found in the “Oliver Twist” video but Kanye West made a cameo in it (we’ll upload it shortly).
6 Nollywood Actress
Eucharia Anunobi Now Officially A Pastor
Most famous for her role in Glamour Girls, one of the early blockbusters in nollywood, Eucharia Anunobi is now officially a pastor. She was officially ordained on Sunday, 05 February 2012 at the Fresh Oil Ministry International, Egbeda, Lagos. The ceremony was performed by Pastor Psalm Okpe and he was in the company of other men of God and family and friends. Also in attendance was Susan Peters and Clarion Chukwura.
9 Jude Abaga Wedding Rumours
7 Toni Payne’s New
Reality Show “My ChamPayne Life” hits TV Screens across Nigeria in April
Toni Payne a.k.a Mrs 9ice has launched a new reality TV series focused on her life as a Public Relations Executive, Entertainment Consultant, Online Radio Owner, Socialite, Makeup Brand Owner and Mother. The show titled “Toni Payne: My ChamPayne Life” will air on STV NETWORKS (Monday 2pm), TVC (Wednesday 630pm), DBN LAGOS (Tuesday 11pm & Saturday 9:30pm), ITV ABJ (Tuesday 6:30pm), ITV BENIN (Thursday 10:30pm), BCOS IBADAN (Friday 10pm, Tuesday 9am), ESTV ENUGU (Wednesday 10:30pm), DBS ASABA (Tuesday 10:30pm) MBI Obosi (Saturday 10:30pm) and according to the producers, the show will is “coming soon” to MNET, UK and USA
10 Timi Dakolo Weds baby Mama
Fnally! Nigerian alternative singer and first winner of West African Idols Timi Dakolo and the mother of his son Busola are now man and wife.The couple exchanged wedding vows on Saturday, March 31, 2012 at the Royal Fame Garden, Old Cattle Market Area, Sango. The wedding was attended by family members and close friends including producer Cobhams Asuquo and wife Odunola, as well as Idols alumni Eric Arubayi and Joan Ekpai.
Nigeria’s Mr Incredible, rapper M.I is about to get hitched...or so we have heard.The short black boy from J town has gotten himself a tall slim fair girl lucky girl - 2010 Miss Nigeria runner up, Erica Okundaye. Word has it that he has even gone to see the parents of the Edo state born Benson Idahosa University graduate. We sincerely hope this is true!
www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 13
UR BOOKS
/ REVIEWS
hot books up for grabs!
Tomorrow Died Yesterday
Nights of the Creeking Bed
New African Fashion [Paperback]
chimeka garricks 1,200
Toni Kan N 1 365.96
Helen Jennings N 3,700
N
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives Lola Shoneyin N 1550 Year: 2010 In this book, Lola Shoneyin tells the plight of a wealthy man caught in a web of uncertainty spun by his insatiable libido and quest for female conquest.
The Granta Book of the African Short Story
Defeating Dictators
African Delights
george B.n. ayittey N 6,086
Siphiwo Mahala N 2,945
Helon Habila 2,730
N
The Dancing and the Death in Lemon Street
Waiting for an Angel
I Do Not Come to You by Chance
Denis Hirson 2,350
Helon Habila N 2, 500
adaobi Tricia nwaubani N 1, 780
N
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Sadness pervades the Alao family at the invitation of a fourth wife, a young graduate who evidently stands out from the other wives but is unable to prove the strength of her husband’s manhood. Distraught, Baba Segi is forced to invite a certified doctor to thoroughly examine her, an action which leads to a major turning point in the family as a gruesome secret is uncovered: Baba Segi’s manhood is no different from that of a child! The story is filled with deceit, betrayal, hypocrisy, abuse and moral decadence. It expounds the relevance of fertility in a polygamous family. Contrary to a monogamous family where the husband tends to be considerate when his wife is without child for over two years, Baba Segi kicks love and patience to the curb, as he is of the belief that the woman’s existence is useless if she fails to produce seeds. The other wives who also capitalize on this belief, try to frustrate Bolanle out of their husband’s house. The book gives a dynamic view of polygamy in a seamless manner that makes it easily understood by the readers. The writer’s use of proverbs is also commendable and worthy of note.
How Stupidity Saved My Life
Okechukwu Ofili N 1250 Year: 2010 “You don’t always have to think outside the box, sometimes, the solution is in the box!” This excerpt best describes the entirety of what the book ‘How Stupidity Saved My Life’ is all about. Ofili elucidates how normal experiences which ordinarily would be classified as one-of-those-things-that-naturallycome-with-existing-on-earth, taught him vital life lessons.
The Big Stick Richard De nooy N 2,200
At almost every point of his life, the author goes through experiences, each gravid with a whole lot of meaning. Some lessons to be learned from the book include: one’s ability to rise above their fears; the need to understand the entire individual before making judgments; learning to appreciate ‘experience’ rather than ‘competition’ and living out ones dreams regardless of physical barriers amongst others. Despite his inability to clearly express himself in the use of English (while writing especially), he was not afraid to carry out his dreams of being a public speaker and a writer. The author makes use of a story telling approach to drive his points home. He also corroborates this with historical facts that make it credible. His ability to grab the reader’s attention is also commendable as he achieves this with the use of catchy topics.
Set in a typical Lagos environment, Perfect Mother highlights the attachment of a Calabar family to their cultural roots regardless of civilization. Ani and Cecilia, a couple blessed with three girls: Eno Abassi and Ekaete and Itoro, struggle to have a male child. Bound by strong traditional beliefs, pressure from her mother-in-law and fear of losing her husband to a ‘capable’ woman, Cecilia insists on providing a male heir to further her husband’s lineage despite his discouragements.
What the Day Owes the Night Yasmina Khadra N 1, 340
Perfect Mother Uduak E. akpabio N 2,150
Changes: A Love Story ama ata aidoo N 2,860
After she miscarries and loses her womb,she soon realizes her husband already has a son. In a bid to remedy the problem, she is caught in a web of betrayal, frustration, harassment by legal authorities amongst others. In the end, she loses her daughter Itoro. Filled with regrets, she realizes that the term ‘perfect’ is elusive . The book is an aberration from the Nigerian books we usually find on our book stands. Uduak Akpabio attempts to unearth the importance of our culture in this modern parlance regardless of awareness. She fills the story with elements of intrigue, deceit, betrayal that probes the reader to get through to the end of the book.
Alder explains the importance of the first mastery (Mastering your faith) as being important as it could lead to a life of opportunities. He advocates a strong belief in the future and taking conscious steps to the realization of our dreams. In the same vein, he stresses that every individual has a part to play as faith in itself is not alone. Human efforts have an important role to play as he sums it in
his words ‘dedicated pursuit is a quality of achievement, you must put in all you have got’. The beauty of the book is hinged on the fact that the author exposed the readers to a lot of information on success in 27pages. It is a must read for everyone who is desirous of success as it provides tips that can be practiced daily.
The Four Masteries N
Leke alder 750 Year: 2011
www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 15
UR ART
arT reView
aZagueni evans imafidon World acclaimed and descendant of a distinguished line of indigenous Edo State artists, Azagueni Evans Imafidon is an artist whose style of painting transcends paint and brush. With works as ‘The Igue Festival’ , ‘igiekpomwen’ amongst others, he documents and communicates important phases of the Benin cultural history. He talks to UR on his works
Q: Can you please tell us about yourself? A: I am an artist by training; I had a Bachelor’s degree in Painting and a Masters degree (MFA) in Painting as well from University of Benin. I am currently undergoing PhD Painting in View, at Delta State University Abraka. I am into printing and publishing as well, currently the manager of University of Benin press. I am married with children. Q: What is art? A: Art covers a wide area, it does not particularly have a definition; it could be the literary arts, performing arts… these are all art. To me art is a way by which an artist expresses he’s or her feelings about a society or environment. Q: Why are you an artist? A: First and for most I think I was born an artist. Some people say artist are both born and made, I think both apply to me because, the ‘artiste’ gene flows in my veins, I developed it in university and with time and exposure I have specialized in the area. Way back in primary school I was already doing art, I was one of the best pupils at drawing, and in my secondary
school. I was basically helping those that were ahead of me during Art exams. I love it, I enjoy it, it makes me happy when I see my creation, I am the kind of person that when I am painting for example I don’t even think about food because mere looking at my work gives me a lot of satisfaction that I don’t remember that I have not even eaten so it’s part of me .
of my paintings are focusing on Benin and its people. Aside that, I have done quite a number of work, I believe every artist works speaks about them one way or the other, as an artist you are not just recreating what you have seen, you are creating something from within, that is why every art work has a content outside its general theme or topic.
Q: How did you first decide that art was your path? A: Like as I said, it is something that has been there, it was inborn so to say , as I grow up way , the talent was evident, so it wasn’t hard to know that that was actually what I wanted to do. I remember at a time my parents actually wanted me to study medicine, maybe because I had good grades, but that was not I wanted for myself. I had a sister then who already was also in the art and she tried to dissuade me as well, but with time, she realized that ‘art’ is my line it didn’t take me time to know that.
There is always an underlying meaning. For instance, I have done a painting titled IGUE were you see the Oba with some chiefs . While making such paintings, I am looking at IGUE not just as a ceremony but as a content in its own. Though IGUE is celebrated annually, it started at a point in the history of the Benin people for a cause. There are activities surrounding that ceremony which have deeper meaning than just the surfacial ceremony. I have another work I called igiekpomwen, it is one of my latest works, in it you see a chief dancing to the palace. That as well has deep societal meaning.
Q: Tell us about your works? A: I have done a lot of work, some I may not even remember! Through my work, I try to project a place, that’s why most
16 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
Q: What do you try to communicate with your Art work? A: I actually communicate a
lot of ideals or different though, actually it depends on what I feel at that particular time, sometimes I want to bring to the awareness of the society what has been that the people left behind and one of my latest works is a kind of masquerade in other words what I try to communicate is our tradition. Q: Can you describe the time you first realized that creating was something you actually want to do? A: The time I first realized that was while I was in secondary school. As I said before, I used to help my seniors do a lot of drawing, I even sold a lot of works then as well. Between that time and when I entered the university my eye began to open to art works so to speak and I began to see prospects. I also read about some notable artists who had become big men in the society and that inspired me a lot. Q: What are you currently working on? A: Presently I am trying to branch into something different from what I have been doing, I am trying to use materials made for other things to create art works. The project I am
presently working on, I am trying to see how I can use chunks of a slipper to create a painting. That is actually what I am working on for my PhD. Q: What is your most favorite work? A: Well, I don’t know which one to particularly single out because at different times I have created different works that really thrilled me. I have done a lot of work that has really satisfied me, every work comes with different ideas and it also depends on the mood. However, I relate to ‘The IGUE’ a lot because it speaks about my root and my people. Q: Do you work from life or from photograph or from imagination? A: It depends on what I am doing. For example if I am painting portrait I make use of photograph, I work on life modesty, but when creating, I use my creative imagination, and if I am not familiar with the work I would do some consultation. Q: What are those things
that inspire you motivate you? A: I believe in sincerity and simplicity. I don’t think there is any big deal about life, I live life in such a way that I can affect the next person positively. Q: What is the best advice you had on how to be creative? A: Creativity simply entails being original in whatsoever you do. People who dare to stand alone make more compared to those who follow the footstep of others. Until you decide to be or become original, you find out that you remain insignificant.
From top left ‘Igue Festival’, Oil on canvas, 30’x 42 ‘Earthen Vessels’, Water colour on paper, 16’x 24’ ‘Okpa no vie’, Water colour on paper, 16’x 24’
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UR REVIEWS
/ BOOKS, MUSIC, FILMS
Movies
Adesuwa ...A Wasted Lust Director: Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen Release Year: 2012 Cast: Iyobosa Olaye, Bob Manuel Udokwu, Olu Jacobs, ngozi Ezeonu, cliff Igbinovia, Koffi adjorlolo, Ben Okeguale This epic tale written by Ossa Earlice is masterfully brought to life by acclaimed director Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen. Benin Kingdom 1752 AD: Princess Adesuwa (Olaye), who is betrothed to the king of Benin, Oba Akengbuda is lured into the arms of a vassal chief Obi Olise (Udokwu), who on a homage-paying visit to the Oba, is hosted at the home of the Ezomo (Jacobs), father of Adesuwa. His failure to repay a debt owed her, prompts Adesuwa to embark on the journey to 18 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
Ubulu-Uku. Obi Olise, pleased with the success of his plot, propositions the princess on her arrival. Highly insulted by his overtures, she rejects him in such a humiliating manner that Olise in a blinded rage beheads her. This creates a chain of events culminating in war between the two people. As the movie draws to a tragic climax, one can’t help but wonder who was more at fault –the visitor who failed to restrain his desires ,vagrantly disrespecting his host and a whole kingdom as a result, or a stubborn princess who refused to act as her status demanded, thus falling into an obvious trap? Although the Benin kingdom triumphed at the end of the day, the real losers were Obi Olise and Adesuwa: two different people, but ultimately very similar. With lavish visual effects and dialogue (even the non-Bini cast had some lines in the indigenous tongue, lending authenticity to the feel of the movie), the movie is a remarkably-portrayed tale of lust, passion, and betrayal . It is a great story by a great master of the screen, and a lot of people will attest to this! Already Adesuwa has received eight nominations including Best Film and Best Nigerian Film at this year’s AMAA awards.
Femi Jacobs, Linda Ejiofor, Jide Kosoko, Kate Henshaw & nse Ikpe Etim
90 Ninth Day Director: Paul Tavershima apel Release Year: 2012 CAST: Bimbo akintola and Keppy Ekpeyong Bassey 90 Ninth Day tells a captivating and exciting story. Engineer Jack is awarded a Power Plant Contract by the Government. This begins a chain of treacherous and tragic events for him and his family. Susan (Bimbo Akintola) who loses out of the bid embarks on a blind revenge. In the dangerous triangle is one of Jack’s friends, Col. Ben (Keppy Ekpeyong Bassey) whose obsession of becoming an Army General turns him into a psychopath but for honor, Jack’s family hangs in the balance. It all plays out in the 90 Ninth Day.
The Meeting
Producer: audrey Silva company Director: Mildred Okwo. Release Year: 2012 CAST: Rita Dominic,
Makinde Esho, a Lagosbased corporate executive, finds himself at the mercy of political patronage and bureaucratic red-tape when he embarks on a one day business trip to Abuja to secure a government contract.
Last Flight To Abuja Producer: OH Films Director: Obi Emenloye CAST: Jim Iyke, Omotola Ekeinde, Hakeem Kae-Kazim, Jide Kosoko and ali nuhu
Inspired by a true story, the movie follows the journey of a group of strangers who board a flight from Lagos to Abuja. The plane develops difficulties as soon as it is airborne, and as the pilots fight with the controls of the stricken airplane, a series of flashbacks unravel the twists, turns and leaps of fate that put each passenger on the fateful flight. Young lovers, an elderly couple, a corporate party, a sportsman on the threshold of greatness; all the passengers are caught up in the nightmare scenario and sense the final moments of their lives approach. All except one!
Mr and Mrs
Producer: chinwe Egwuagwu Director:
Mr & Mrs tells the story of two couples whose marriages are constantly threatened by economic and social divisions in
the society they find themselves. Kenneth (played by Benjamin) is a young man who is ashamed of his wife’s (Ikpe-Etim) background and then decides to confine her to the kitchen, a place he strongly believes she belongs. Meanwhile, another couple Linda and Charles played by the duo -Thelma Ojiji and Paul Apel, have a seemingly perfect marriage until Linda begins to take her husband for granted because she takes care of all the bills.
Tobi Director: Emmanuel Ijeh Cast: chet Bashari anekwe, Jimmy allen, chisom Oz-Lee
Future Releases The Weekend Get Away Director: Desmond Elliot CAST: Ramsey nouah, genevieve nnaji, Ini Edo, Monalisa chinda, Beverly naya, Uru Eke, Uti nwachukwu, Bryan Okwara, alexx Ekubo, Ime-Bishop Umoh and Ini Ikpe.
Streetz Director: nonso diobi Cast: nonso Diobi, Eric anderson, 2Shotz Williams, and Kelvin Books.
Last Flight To Abuja
Director: kunle afolayan Cast: Joke Silva, chika Okpala, nse Ikpe-Etim, Wale Ojo www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 19
sneak Peek okon goes to school on set: best lagos Sneak peeks! as production on the sequel to Okon Lagos titled ‘okon goes to school’ wraps, we detail picutres to whet your appetit!
In this sequel, Okon (Ime Bishop Umoh) is down on his luck again and his benefactor (Moses Armstrong) is determined to set him on d right path by enrollling him on a university. The much anticipated role of Okon for the upcoming film may still be in shooting stages - but fret not, the ibibio language film (with english infiltrations) will definitely crack your ribs when it is done. The movie is set to air before the last quarter of the year. www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 21
UR MOVIES
multi million naira movie “adesuwa” Premiers in abuJa
T
he heavyweights of the Nigerian film industry converged in Abuja for the BOBTV expo, one of the highlights being the Abuja screening (Director’s Cut) of ‘Adesuwa, an epic movie by famed Nollywood producer/director, Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen. Captivated by the beauty of Bini princess Adesuwa (played by Iyobosa Olaye), Eze Obi Olise of Ubulukwu Kingdom (Bob Manuel Udokwu) vows to take her by any means necessary, regardless of the fact that she was already betrothed to the Oba. His ploy to fulfil his perverse desires lead to tragic results and thus begins a tale of war and bloodshed. This riveting story was brought to life by a rich cast including Olu Jacobs, Ngozi Ezeonu, Ghana’s Kofi Adjorlolo and Ben Okeguale as Oba Akengbuda. Supported by Urban Royale Magazine, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Ministry of Arts Culture & Tourism, Hawthorn Suites Abuja and endorsed by the National Film and Video Censors Board, the highly anticipated red carpet event which held at the Sheraton Hotel & Towers, was a huge success.
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adesuwa lagos Premier
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UR MOVIES
multi million naira movie “adesuwa� lodon Premier
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UR MUSIC
/ REVIEWS
Videos
Music Reviews Singles
Davido: Dami Duro
Bez: The Stupid Song This song is one of the best of songs released this year. It is classy (as always with Bez) and entertaining. It just has a way of putting a smile on the face of the listener, plus it features the Nigerian John Legend - Praise. The two soulful singers put in their genius to make pure sweet, funny, enjoyable music. Kudos to Bez for making another sensible music ,and giving Nigeria a new face in the music industry
Afulagah: Cyrus Da Virus
In the song, Afulagah is an endearment for a classy sophisticated lady you meet in a club whose aura and dance steps are so alluring you get hypnotized. The theme of the song is not entirely unique, however, it is a very danceable song. Supported with a techno oriented drum progression, the song could be one of the hottest club songs on rotation this year.
IBK spaceship boi: I have a dream “I have a dream, and I will fulfill my own destiny...Raising up the bar I’m going higher... Aint nobody stopping me...” are lines from the inspiration filled lyrics of the gospel rap song ‘i have a dream’ by IBK (spaceship boi). This is gospel music like never before. This song is inspirational, rich in message, enjoyable and shocking to say the least. One would not believe it is of Nigerian origin. The song writer leaves the listener with awe and desire to hear something else from him. IBK has set a new standard, raised the bar for not only gospel singers but circular rap artists in Nigeria as well. His unique style in delivery of his song is saluted.
Double six feat Mr books: Yes Yes Y’all
I doubt there is any person currently resident in Nigeria who has not heard this song. Djs love it, Radio and TV stations adore it, it is almost an anthem! The video is enthralling; you could see it five times in a row and not get bored! The song is sweet to the ear, the rhythm is pulsating, the lyrics are easy to learn, and the artiste (Davido) oozes confidence and excitement whilst rendering the song, which somehow makes you feel good as well. Bump and grind away... this song and the artist are here to stay!
Eldee: Today Today
Shot in South Africa and directed by Mark Hofmeyr, ‘Today Today’ is a fun song targeted at couples walking down the aisle as well as those renewing their vows. A new material from his forthcoming album – Undeniable, it features Eldee and his new gang in a wedding themed scenario where he ties the knot with that special person. Although the song could be considered more of a marketing tool than a versatility showoff, the video expresses the lyrics and expounds the theme quite amicably. The scenes are captivativating and keep you glued to your seat till the end.
Produced by PH bred veteran rapper & producer Double Six for Phat Wall Studios, ‘Yes Yes Y’all is a hot new song bound to get you out of your seat. Featuring another skilled MC - Mista Books of Coal City fame, this slamming hip-hop joint just takes you back to 1994. This will no doubt be one of the hottest rap songs in Nigeria this year.
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Hot Stuff New Music: Cyclo-Flo – Won Be + Uju ft. Maleke, Bigg Splash & Cyruso Multiple award winner Cyclo-Flo’” is back with his new album titled “A.C.P VOL 1 (ANOTHA CYCLO-FLO’ PRODUCTION VOL 1). He has released 2 singles titled Won Beh, and Uju, featuring Maleke, Cyrus Tha Virus and Bigg Splash. The songs have been making rounds in various radio stations nationally and internationally.
Evaezi: The Rebirth ft. Blaise, Mode 9, Cyrus Tha Virus & M’Trill
Singer formerly known as EVA D’DIVA recently did a whole rebrand and change of stage name from EVA to EVAEZI. With that rebranding comes The Rebirth, a package which features 2 new singles Evaezi & I Don’t Give A Fuck. I Don’t Give A Fuck has 3 versions and features in all Blaise, Mode 9, Cyrus Tha Virus & M’Trill. In all , The Rebirth contains 4 solid joints that should please her fans and the hip-hop heads.
M’trill: Trilla Channel O winner, M’trill is a renowned rapper/lyricist with a huge fan base in PORT HARCOURT city. Originally from Delta State, he is known for his tiny voice and tight flows. He is currently working on his second album (Untitled for now). He recently released his first video single which is currently running up the charts on major music channels MTV, SOUNDCITY and so on. www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 27
andy bello on the sPot
the brain behind the south-south music awards.
Ex-presenter, music video producer and cEO lockdown entertainment, andy Bello is the brain behind the SouthSouth Music award, an event to reward excellence and celebrate creativity of southsouth music artistes. In this interview, he talks about SSMa, why he started it and his new partner!
@andybello
Q: I searched the web for your profile, but realized you do not have a very significant presence online? A: Yes, there isn’t much about me online and it is intentional, i try not to put my life online. There is a little write up on Wikipedia though; I guess Wikipedia is like a search engine, they just pick up whatever they find to build on a certain topic or person. Most of the information are unauthorized. I never authorized the information that is on their website. Q: You are a presenter? A: (smiling) I was. I was a TV presenter, the pioneer presenter of breakfast Groove ,a music show on EBS TV. ‘Right now’, I am a music
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video director and i run my shop - Lockdown entertainment. Some of my works include Yhuki’s ‘Omo oba’ video, Cyclo Flo’s ‘this my life’, Tony harmony’s, ‘Kpo Kpor’, spice vision’s ‘for your mind’, Liora’s ‘How you love me’ and so on. Currently, i am making a video for Sleezy E, it is a single from his yet-to-be released album.
to like take the bull by the horn. Many were talking about it before me but i decided to take action. I think it all stemmed from the pain of seeing south-south artistes not being properly recognized for what they put out. If you do a research on the history of Nigerian music, you would see that the pillars - those that cultivated the bedrock of the industry today, are mostly from the South-South. In the Q: Ok! So…tell us three things about you 50’s and 70’s we had Victor Uwaifo (a highlife people do not know. general), Sony Okusun, Chris Okotie (a pop king), Felix Liberty ...and when reggae became A: Three things people don’t know about me? the ‘in’ thing, artistes from the south-south The things people don’t know about me are origin made reggae a hit in Nigeria. We had basically the things i don’t want them to know. Raski Mono from Delta state, Majek Fashek (Laughs) I guess I can say three things. One, from the then Bendel state, The Mandators most people think I am very quiet or frail or and so on. If you follow that history to present something, but I am not. Two, despite being day, you will find out that we - the south – on TV for several years, I am still very shy and south, have not really been getting the kind of finally, I am not a churchy person but I fear acknowledgement or reward that we deserve. God a lot. Why would someone like Rymzo not be seen as one of the kings of dancehall music in Q: How was growing up? Nigeria? Rhymzo is like a Bob Marley and Wyclef Jean clone! We have Djnee, Kefee, A: Hah! I am area! I grew up in a very poor Timamya, Duncan mighty...but, instead of the environment. Some people are ashamed to say national press portraying these guys in good things like that but I feel very proud to say it light, they spend time digging up dirt and because, whenever I remember, it’s like I am telling horrendous as well as fictitious stories giving thanks to God for where I am today. I about them, as though the artistes from other came from a family of 7 including my parents. regions are perfect! it hurts! In 2007 when I am the first child. I went to Igbesanmwan Cyrus the Virus got nominated alongside primary schools, one of the least equipped some other artistes from Lagos in a category at public school in Benin at that time, I went The Hiphop World awards, he did not get the through primary school bare foot, luckily award just because the people on the streets of I stepped up in secondary school, but only Lagos didn’t know him. Sometimes, when you because the school regulations required us to know the quality of the work, and you know wear sandals. It was that bad. In the long run, what that person has put in, you don’t play to I got a bachelor’s degree in Law from Ambrose the gamble, you reward excellence for what it Ali university, I quit law to do what I am doing is. After considering all these things, i thought now. to myself; we should definitely have our own and thankfully, South-South Music Awards Q: You are the brain behind the South- have turned out successful. South Music Awards? What is it all about? Q: Do you work alone or have partners A: (Laughs) Well, I prefer to think that she is who work with you? my baby in whom i am well pleased. SSMA is an award platform for artistes and related A: Until 2011, it was a one-man show. The professionals. It is not just about artistes CEO of the Hexagon Network indicated that and music producers, we have rewarded and he wanted to partner with me and I was elated. honored those who are into event and artiste If i couldn’t get corporate sponsorship for management as well as those who paved the it and there is someone of Prince Omoregbe way for South- South music. Someone like Ben Erediauwa’s caliber willing to share the Olaye, Edi Lawani and so on. Basically, it is burden with me, there was nothing I could do an overview of Nigerian music from a south- but welcome it. In the end, it was of a bigger south perspective. advantage than I imagined, it made the award bigger. The 2011 show was actually the biggest Q: What propelled you? Why did you see so far, everyone acknowledged that it was on the need for SSMA? point. Q: Are you open to more sponsors? A: I saw the need for there to be an award platform here in the south-south. In Lagos, A: Yes! More sponsors, not partners. Prince they are so many - Hiphop World Awards now came in as a partner, not a sponsor...so, yes, turned Headies, Nigerian Music Video Awards I would love to have sponsors for the awards. and so much more we do not even know. This is probably the first place i am saying We had to have our own; somebody just had it, the SSMA as a franchise, now belongs
to Lockdown entertainment.
Entertainment
and
Hex
Q: The last award was held December last year, what directions are you taking for the next one? A: The first challenge I need to tackle is getting a venue that best suits the growing audience that we have at the events, the last two took place at Oba Akenzua cultural centre. The second issue, is reviewing the grades of categories. We have 20 categories and 2 honorary categories! We are looking at cutting down the number of categories because the number of categories actually affects the duration of the event, and we do not want the event to be a long bore. so we will do a review of that and a couple of other things Q: Who are the people being considered for nomination this 2012? A: Its too early to say, the year just kicked off, a lot of people are still working and recording, while some have recorded and are about to shoot their videos. The year under review starts from October of the previous year to September of the current year. It’s too early to say. Q: How do you determine who gets nominated? A: The quality of the work, the quality of the video(it’s a music video award) , how the video interpretes the song and how people respond to it as well. Q: How do you measure the voting? A: The voting has been online because it’s a little expensive to get a short code, but we are working on it for the next awards event. The website is however designed in such a way that we can get the IP address of those that are voting, so if more than one person is voting with the same IP address we can detect it. However, voting is not the only criteria to determine who wins in a particular category. Not that the vote is not important, we use it to measure the popularity of the song, but we also look at the quality of the song. Q: On a final note, what songs do you consider the best songs of all times: A: Easy! Man in the Mirror by Michael jackson - a song that calls for change and peace; Majek Fahsek - I’m not tired; Mary J Blidge - be happy, Tu face idibia - if na just me and orisefemi - e go better. Their lyrics inspire me. ur
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UR BEAUTY
Beauty & The Budget Miss Dabota Lawson, 25, is ex-Miss Nigeria UK 2009. Although an accountant by profession, she moonlights as a presenter, graphic designer, as well as a model and owns a public relations/ event management company. The Rivers state beauty unviels her budget-beauty secrets to Nuella Iyoha.
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Simple Face wipes
I’ve got really sensitive skin prone to acne. Simple’s products are great for sensitive skin and leave me feeling fresh at the end of the day or even during day, especially with my busy and tight schedule that usually involves being in front of the camera. It’s such a fantastic product that can even remove water proof mascaras and eyeliners without irritating my skin. It can be found in almost every Nigerian beauty store/ pharmacy for less than N1000. 30 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
2
Lip gloss
Carmex lip balm with SPF
I’ve got tons of lip glosses in various shades and colours. I don’t usually go out of my way to spend too much money on my lip gloss, any brand will do. Even when I’m not wearing makeup, I always put on my lip gloss
This is another affordable and great product I use to moisturise my lips . Using it regularly protects my lips from the damage that can occur as a result of exposure to extreme weather conditions. It really helps with our climate here in Nigeria.
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3 Boots Glycerin & Rose water This is another beauty product I can’t live without! I use this as a toner to keep my skin soft, cool and hydrated – especially necessary in this Lagos! The use of rose in various forms has long been used in traditional skincare and beauty originating from Persia. It is well known for its cleansing, toning and moisturising properties. It is soothing and balancing, perfect for all skin types, but especially good for sensitive skin as it is so entle. With regular use it can help prevent your skin from ageing. It is affordable and can be found at any good supermarket or pharmacy for less than N1000.
Neo-medrol Acne Lotion I use this to control spots and it is also a very good base for my makeup, as it controls oil, sets my foundation and protects my skin from breaking out at the same time.
4
6 Baby Wipes
7
5
Non-perfumed baby wipes is something you’ll find on my dressing table, in my car and office. I use it for almost anything and everything. Retails for about N800.
Mary Kay liquid foundation
It’s light, oil-free and good for sensitive skin. It’s a good foundation to use during the day for a less-dramatic, yet finished look.
Johnson’s baby powder This keeps me dry and smelling fresh at night. It smells good and retails under N1000 too.
Baby Oil This is another product that I love and never run out of. I use it for my lips as a moisturiser, skin softener and even in my hair sometimes. A good brand can set you back N600.
Bronzer My bronzer is one of my favourite beauty items. I use it to enhance my makeup and sometimes use a brush to dust some on my shoulders and chest for a golden, glamorous look.
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SIDEBA R
Other Budget beauty Tips to Maximize Your Naira While expensive nail varnishes may come packaged in prettier bottles, there really is very little difference between cheap and expensive brands when it comes to what is inside. A high priced nail polish is just as likely to flake and chip as cheaper brands. It is a waste of money to go for expensive options when cheaper ones will do the job just as well. Store your nail varnishes in the fridge. Keeping them cold will make them extra glossy. If your nail varnish is thick or gummy, either warm it up in a bowl of hot water before application or to add a drop of two of nail varnish remover which will thin it down instantly. Another great money-saving tip is to choose from the wide range of 2-in-1 makeup options available nowadays, effectively reducing what you need to spend. Like 2-in-1 eyeliner/mascara pens, bronzer/blush and lip colour/ eyeshadow sets.
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5 UR BEAUTY
Beauty Trends We Can’t Wait To Try Right now is always a great time for experimenting with makeup! There are so many fun runway trends to try as seen at the local and international fashion shows. Take some cues from the runway this season and get your trends on. Here’s how.
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1. ORANGE HUES: Orange is the new Black and it’s not going anywhere (at least until 2013). The global authority on colour and provider of professional colour standards for the design industries, Pantone, announced Tangerine Tango, as the colour of the year for 2012. They consider the vibrant reddish orange as both “exotic” and “friendly” and the best part: the sunset hue is flattering on all skin tones! From clothes to accessories and makeup, orange is flattering. Mix this happy shade into your routine with nail polish and bright lips. TIP: For fair skin tones choose a bright orange-red. Medium skin tones should opt for a more burnt orange colour, while darker skin tones will look great in bluebased orange. Since a matte lip can be a bit tricky, start with a gloss and work your way up to a lipstick. Eva marcille with bold brows & radiant skin
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BOLD BROWS: Step away from the tweezers. Bold brows are big in the news. Striking and feminine at the same time, leave the shape natural and use a brow pencil to add extra colour and definition. TIP: If your brows aren’t quite there, you can fill them in with brow powder or a pencil using light, feathery, hair-like strokes. Be mindful not to overdo it. Use a brow bone highlight (cream concealer 1-2 shades lighter than your skin tone or a sheer shadow) to really make your arches stand out.
CAT EYELINER: The familiar flick of liner returned to the outer corners of eyes with inventive, even playful, variations (as seen on he model for Eki Orleans). Cat-eye liner remains one of the most classic and stunning beauty looks. When done right the effect is utterly sexy. Statement eyeliner give eyes an instant lift, in colours from classic to coloured liners like tangerine and gold, giving it a modern touch.
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RADIANT SKIN: Look like you are on vacation every day with a luminous bronzed look! You can mix a touch of liquid luminizer in your foundation for an all over glow or dust a deep shade of powder bronzer long the perimeter of the face and the hollows of the cheeks. Keep the bronzed skin as your focus – just a swipe of lip gloss or balm and some light mascara and you’re good to go.
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PONYTAILS, BRAIDS & BUNS: Bye to the 40-inch weave! We’re giving our scalps a breather with slicked-back ponytails, long braids and dishevelled buns. The bun is one of the hottest hairstyles in trending now. It’s super-easy and it’s oh-so-flattering on every face shape! The look is easy, effortless and greatly suited for our weather!
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UR BEAUTY
TIpS FOR COVERIng WhITE hAIR
W
hite hair does not necessarily mean that you are getting old. however, they can be quite embarrasing.You don’t necessarily have to color your hair in order to make white hair less noticeable. You can try a few salon tricks to hide the gray hair without completely changing the color of your hair. Follow these tips.
2. Try parting your hair a different way to hide the white hair If you usually part your hair in the middle and you notice that white hairs are visible, try parting your hair to the left to cover them up. You can even experiment with a zig zag part, or practice a bouffant style where only your bangs are parted and the rest of your hair is combed back. Play with your hair to see what style makes your white hair the least noticeable.
3. Ask your hairstylist for a tinted rinse. It won’t cover or remove your white hairs completely, but it will give your head an all over color and shine that can camouflage some of the lighter parts of your hair where it has turned gray or white.
1. Wear your hair down more often While a ponytail may seem like a convenient hairstyle, white hairs most often appear at the root of your scalp. Pulling your hair back tightly only serves to make the hairs stand out more against the rest of your hair. Wear loose and flowing styles with a bit of wave, so that the texture of your hair makes the white hair less noticeable.
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4. Use a dab of mascara to temporarily hide gray hair when you’re short on time Choose a mascara that is close to your hair color, like black for dark brown hair, and apply the mascara wand to the hair near the roots. It will quickly cover the white and wash off the next time you shampoo your hair
5. Consider getting highlights If your hair is dark, than your white hairs are likely to be very noticeable due to the contrast. By getting highlights, either through a stylist or on your own at home, you place streaks of lighter color through your hair, making the white hairs less noticeable. choose a shade that is three shades lighter than your natural hair.
6. Use appropriate hair colour For salt and pepper coloured hair (hair that is a mixture of white and natural coloured hair), try using a longer lasting semi-permanent hair colour. These types of hair colours usually last up to 20 shampoos and add extra shine to your hair, and If your hair is completely white it can be covered with permanent hair colour. However with permanent hair colour you will need to update the colour every 4 to 6 weeks.
UR BEAUTY
If you are looking to infuse some new life into your makeup routine, and you are clueless as to where/how to start here are some tips to get you started:
1 Beauty
A Q&
Q
I feel like I’ve had the same makeup routine since I was 14: foundation/ tinted moisturizer, the same muted bronze eyeshadows withthe expected highlighter on the inner part of the eye and red lipgloss. Do you have ideas/tips for new ways to mix it up? I feel like I’m a paint-by-numbers …
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Don’t replace all your makeup at once: This can take you from excited to frustrated in a minute. Focus on changing/introducing one item at a time in your regular routine. For instance, start with your eyes, and play around with a couple of eyeshadow palettes/ lashes, and master that before you move on to lipsticks. Take your time to get yourself used to using new tools and products.
Testers are your friend: Makeup testers stations in a cosmetic store are your best friends when it comes to switching up your look. Find a store/studio (like the Sleek Makeup Studios) that has makeup artists on hand to offer free trials using testers and help you select what looks best for your skin type and face shape, before you commit to a purchase.
Have fun with it: It is just makeup. Not heart surgery. Have fun, and be open-minded about trying new products. It’s not a tattoo: if you don’t like it, you can always wash it off!
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UR STYLE
TIME TO UpgRADE YOUR WARDROBE!
Maxi Dress This can be worn any day and any time. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be a runway model to pull off this look. Part of the fun of the maxi dress is that with the right accessories and styling, this dress can work for bodies of all shapes and sizes. It can also be styled for a red carpet event or even a casual date!
N
o questions! To stand out in the crowd, you certainly have to put a lot of effort in your wardrobe. The year is moving so fast and there are so many events to attend, you don’t want to look the same as you did last year. Your wardrobe needs an upgrade! Make your wardrobe work 100% to suit you every time you step out. Get your wardrobe ready with these pieces:
Jewel By Lisa Frock
Jewel by lisa will stop at nothing to when it comes to helping Nigerian ladies look astounding. JBL dresses are fun, chick and glam. The mix of sequin and Ankara just makes it so ethnic.
Ankara Bags
These days, it doesn’t have to be a top notch designer bag before you can carry them. Ankara bags and accessories are really trendy and affordable and be easily paired. All you need to rock one is your charisma.
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Turquoise Necklace Black Sandals Every lady should have pair black sandals in their closet. Heels, wedge, flat…a pair of black sandals goes with everything and can help keep the rest of your clothes looking pulled together. Ensure you get a comfortable black sandal.
Turquoise jewelry is in trend and should be included in every woman’s jewellery collection. It never left actually; it just keeps getting bolder, bigger and more colorful. The color turquoise just stands out when worn with anything; it exudes a glow of a warm, healthy and happy person. It is definitely the shade to be seen in.
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UR STYLE
LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT
STATEMEnT EARRIngS
W
hen it comes to jewelry, sometimes less is more. Instead of throwing on all the bracelets, rings,earrings and necklaces you have in your jewelry box, try sticking to one bold statement piece to tie your outfit together. Add a touch of luxe to your wardrobe this season with the hottest and boldest earrings. Not just for evenings, a bold earring can transform your outfit at any given time and add a touch of personality that can do wonders for your look. Not to mention statement earrings are also a frugal way to get more out of a simple, minimalistic wardrobe‌
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CITROn
CRAzY
Among trending hues, the one that grabs the most attention is the citron yellow. Bold, vibrant and glamorous, it is sure to brighten up your whole look. Although interesting, I’m sure that the fluorescent color will leave many intimidated. What’s life without a little challenge?
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www.pageshandmade.com
A different kind of fine
...handmade, tailored to suite
toP: black lace Top N10,000 short: ankara Shots N3,500 shoes: rafia Sander N5,500 rafia hat N5,000
all clothings & shoes are handmade by PAGES
toP: branded Top N3,000 short: N3,500 shoes: pages pump N10,000
all clothings & shoes are handmade by PAGES
ankara dress N7,000 shoe: black heels N10,000
all clothings & shoes are handmade by PAGES
ankara mixed dress: N10,000 ankara branded heel: N10,000 all clothings & shoes are handmade by PAGES
toP: black top N5,000 chinos Pant: N5,000 customized teaser loafers: N30,000
all clothings & shoes are handmade by PAGES
UR STYLE
YOU DOn’T hAVE TO BE A STAR TO
WEAR A
STAR
These star-inspired outfits are the hottest trendy look to make your wardrobe dazzle. You can either play it up or down, the choice is yours. It’s red carpet chic, casual comfortable.…very hands on. Team it with an all star accessories or make it the statement piece in your look.
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Cover Story
A TALE OF TWO TV STARS Oreka and Vixen talk on life, love and success By : Nkem Ndem Photography: Kola (Litehouse Photography) Styling : Adejoke Adepase
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OREKA Miss goody Two Shoes
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: 23 AM: I am in a cab on my way to Surulere for the photo-shoot. I am freaking out; the driver is not driving fast enough, I am going to be late. Think to myself: Why can’t I drive? I bet I could get past all these cars holding me up. Then I consider the fact that I am in Lagos where traffic is a an inevitable event. I hope Oreka is held up somewhere as well. 9: 00 AM: It’s exactly nine o’clock, the time Oreka is supposed to arrive. Her number has been unreachable all morning and she did not reply my e-mail last night. My heart starts to pump real hard, What if she doesn’t show up. I climb up the stairs, I am not late. I get to the studio; the make-up artists and stylist are waiting outside. The studio is stuffy and the photographers are MIA. Deep breath. Try very hard not to be fretful or self-conscious but I am mad at myself for wearing very high heels, I need to pace. 9:05 AM: I step out of the studio, I need fresh air. I bump into Oreka, Joke(the stylist) introduces us. I smile, but can’t feel my palms; the photographers are still not here! “I am so sorry I din’t reply your e-mail or respond to your calls”, oreka says, staring at me with big brown eyes and a very charming smile. “I had this very crucial meeting at the office this morning; I hope you didn’t think I wouldn’t come? That would be so unprofessional”. We laugh. 10:00 AM: Everyone is finally on set. Vixen is doing her make-up; Oreka sits next to me and picks up a foreign magazine. Jennifer Aniston and Paul Rudd are on the cover. She tells me her fantasy job is to be the editor of a magazine and she gets my full attention. The way she talked, her body language, the relaxed posture, the light in her eyes like she didn’t have a problem in the world, the chortle she suffixed to every sentence she made…she seemed like someone from a story book…she reminded of Oliver Goldsmith’s Magery Meanwell - Miss goody two shoes!
About Oreka Oreka calls herself a dreamer, she likes to explore her mind and build on her imaginations. “I am somebody who articulates things in a way that is slightly different from how people are used to hearing certain things” she says. “I say this and I borrow this from a tv show : I am a victim of my own imagination. When someone says something, the way it resounds within my spirit is different from what would go through the mind of the person next to me. You could say, oh I feel down a tree today…I would picture the colour of the tree, how you fell and what would have happened… the shape of the leaves, the bird perched on the tree flying away...The kind of imagery that runs my mind is amazing. I like to think that it all stems from the kind of books I used to read growing up, they made me more imaginative and creative.”
Oreka’s Roots
For a girl who never got Barbie or Wendy dolls while young, Oreka Godis turned out pretty well. Born in Benin City, she has lived all over Nigeria: Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Zaria, Kogi, as well as Enugu. Oreka grew up in a very large family setting : her mother a retired nurse, her father retired from the Nigerian army , a lot of uncles, aunties, cousins and siblings in the same roof. “...really, the line of who is whose uncle or aunty in my family is so blurred” she says. “My grandmother had 12 kids and each of them have a bunch of kids as well, but we were all treated as if we were all from the same mum and dad, so...my www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 51
lege, London.
presenting
“Presenting is something I feel that just happened to me” Oreka says with a smile “while I was in college, I was the president of the African Society, in my A levels, I was part of the student union, I have always been class captain, so, at some point, I found myself being given positions of responsibilities even when those around me (my peers) were worth being given the same responsibility or opportunity. A lot of people said: ‘you are doing this and that… how about you go try presenting instead’
As human beings, we keep searching for something and you keep searching until you find it for yourself. I want to find answers to the question that I have cousins are not my cousins, they are more like my brothers and sisters it took me a long while to even realize that some of my cousins where actually not my direct siblings”. Most people will wish they had grown up with fewer family members, however, Oreka confirms that she likes the way she grew up. Oreka fell in love with books at a very young age, “My parent would buy me a book to read every weekend even when I was 5. My friends had toys and all, but I had books to read. From a very early age I was being honed to think and be in a certain kind of way and for that reason, I write verses, poems and short stories and when people say some things to me, I see it and react to it in different kind of way”. Unwilling to share her age, she admits to spending most of her teenage years in England where she bagged a Bachelor’s degree from kings col52 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
When I came to Nigeria, I was told that a radio station had a vacancy and I should go and try out. I was like: I don’t do radio , I have never thought to try anything linked to radio in my life, but a friend of mine convinced me. She said: Oreka, there are some stories you read and share with us and I really wish you could share it with other people. I went for the audition, I tried out and they called me back. For any company that is starting up brand new, it is always a huge risk to take someone that nobody knows of before. It was a very huge risk for Beat Fm to take me , I had never done radio in my life, I did not study Mass Communication! They did not just want to hire me; they wanted to put me on the morning show, traditionally is one of the highest slots you can get on any radio station. It was a huge gamble because I think it’s either they saw something in me that I never thought I had or they were just willing to take a risk … I don’t know what it is.. because at first, when I get on air, people would call to say: I don’t like your style of presenting, I don’t like what you are saying .They were not used to the way I said things or the ideas I had. In months however, it all turned around. I found a way to tie every bit of information to other genres like entertainment to politics, or health. Presenting is something that I think my friends saw in me more than I knew that I had in me.” In a few years however, Oreka was compelled by her instincts
to move from Beat Fm to NN24, a TV broadcasting station. Although she tagged the move a lateral career progression, it sparked a lot of rumours and criticisms. “Somethings will be said and obviously not all of them would be true” Oreka held. “When It happened, I had so much love even from the guys at The beat. I left the Beat; I handed in my resignation with no job to go to. All I know is that I just woke up that morning and after months and months of thinking, I knew that I had to do something else. I dint know what it would be! I got a call from NN24 a few weeks after I had already turned in my resignation. They said they really wanted to meet me, I sent them my resume and they looked through all the work I had done before and the one I did at the Beat, and they were like: You know what, the reason why we called you doesn’t even stand anymore, we need you for something entirely from what we originally intended...and that’s how that started. Working at The beat was awesome; we had a close knit family, a very supportive family relationship. I was never fired, I decided to leave on my own, the time had just come…there was a reason why I moved to Nigeria, and there were things I wanted to do while I was in Nigeria. For me, it was just a lateral career progression, there was nothing else to it, it was a personal decision that I made on how and where I wanted to be!”
Everday Life
Oreka’s alarm goes off at 4 am every day. Once awake, she is online, reading newspapers and listening radio from all around the world. Next, she sets her agenda for the day, everything from meetings, to production shoots, to very mundane female things as going to the hair dresser to change her hair style. As a co-executive producer for NN24, Oreka has a lot of roles to play. Corporations like BBC or CNN have different departments that handle areas as funding, commissioning new programmes, developing new shows,
I think somehow I always knew that everybody comes into our life for a reason, for me what matters the most is how you touch the lives of people around you… If I can affect someone’s life on any kind of level, for me, it’s definitely outweighs dating
financing and even anchoring, however, in most Nigerian stations, it is not the same. Oreka’s roles include: anchoring shows – a breakfast show and an interview section which she will be handling soon, she works on other in-house programmes, she is involved in sourcing funds for existing and brand new shows. With NN24 about to launch in England, Oreka has a lot of work to do in front of camera, as well as on the editorial board. Most people would complain, but Oreka finds it all challenging and exciting. “There a lot of limitations to radio, but at NN24 I can do it all...i work on topics that are not even related, I plan documentaries, it is very intriguing and it’s a role I hope that I can grow into more than I am right now”.
Dealing With The Fame
“It so surreal” she confesses. “sometimes when I go to Shoprite, I have no make-up on, my hair is a mess (that’s how I roll… some days I look like I literally just rolled out of bed) and I am all sweaty, I pull my trolly and all, and I get home..then someone calls and says: someone saw you dah dah dah..I will be like: oh no! I am the kind of person that minds my own business. I have never really tried to hang out at the hottest spot, so for people to see me and know me, I get so shy...i love to just disappear, let my hair down, and just be me. Sometimes I bump into people who remember and know me, and I look at them and I can’t re-
ally remember who they are or where I met them ... it is so awkward and nerve wrecking, i don’t want people thinking I am rude or that I feel I am better than them or anything so, I always say hello. Media I think has made me more into people. Because of the expectation people have about me, I have to be more sensitive and respond to them better. It’s a mixture of things. When I find things about me, good or bad, I remember to make a copy or take a clipping and send it to my mum, she gets angry when I don’t she is so proud of what I have done so far and where I am right now. Sometimes I see things that are written about me and I am like: Oh no! they got it wrong, or oh God! why are they talking about me…to me, the important people in life today are people like Madonna, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Genevieve, Julia Roberts…when they talk about me, I am like, why are they wasting their time, I haven’t done anything yet!”
The Male Attention And Dating
“I think a lot of my male fans speak to me and they end up saying, ah! This one, she is my guy!, I always end up in the friend zone. Always! I meet people and we hang out and talk and I become their friends. They see my friends and they say to me say, hey, that you girl, how far what’s her number? I am never the one they sit down and obsess over for long, they always see me as their best friend, their confidant, they
tell me everything, they call me, show up on my door and I would welcome them ,give them food ,and we talk about the one they love. At one point in time I actually felt jinxed, but even then, I think somehow I always knew that everybody comes into our life for a reason, for me what matters the most is how you touch the lives of people around you… If I can affect someone’s life on any kind of level, for me, it’s definitely outweighs dating somebody, it goes right or wrong, then you guys hate each other and there’s nothing good to say after that.” Until she gets the ring, Oreka will probably always tell you that she is single. “Until there is a ring on your finger, you are still single! So, I am not on the market, but I am on the market”.
Love And Marriage
If you asked Nigerian ladies, most would say “I hope I get married and have a bunch of kids” but to Oreka, love and marriage is something that either happens or it doesn’t . “…not to say I don’t care about it, but… it is not something that comes on my ‘it-musthappen-otherwise-I –am-not-ahuman-being’ list” she says. “I find that there are so many other things that we ignore that are equally important”. She however gushes over her ideal man, “I have always wanted someone who had compassion, someone passionate in life, love, in the need to accumulate knowledge, someone was is a great teacher, and who was patient. Somebody who loves life. I always wanted my ideal man to be someone who would make me feel like I should be a better person and at the same time not judge me necessarily for not being a better person, somebody who would give up everything to be around you...a life partner. it’s a mash of all the romantic ideas you get from watching sex and the city or beauty and the beast, it probably doesn’t happen that way in real life .” In her definition of love, she says “Love to me is very complicated, love to me is sometimes having someone that you really care about and giving them up, just because you know you aren’t
ready for them or u don’t think they are ready for you. Love is meeting somebody and being absolutely infatuated with them, taking two months or however long it take you to realize that that’s just what it is – infatuation, but in that period, it’s a lovely feeling of being totally infatuated. Love is so complicated and takes so many different forms that it is sometimes wrong. Being in love is complicated as well, have I been in love? Yes or I would like to think that I have been at least. It is a good feeling, you know, there is a surety that comes with being in love - you know that no matter what this person does to you, the feeling you have at that moment will never be taken away, it is at that moment you realize that you do not just love that person, but you are also in love with them. it is something so pure.”
The Future
Oreka believes in the Circle of fortune. “it is believed that everything on top would at sometimes circle round, touch down and come back up again. The focus should be more on enjoying each moment ,rather than wondering how it would turn out”. Determined to be successful in everything she does, she wants to impact not just other people’s life but her life as well. “As human beings, we keep searching for something and you keep searching until you find it for yourself. I want to find answers to the question that I have” . ur
Until there is a ring on your finger, you are still single! So therefore, I am not one the market, but I am on the market
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YVOnnE The Drama Queen
The gorgeous and bubbly, Akwa Ibom born, Yvonne Ekwere, is of course, a familiar face on TV. Although she graduated with a History and International Relations degree from the Lagos State Universtiy, Lekki Campus, Yvonne worked behind the scenes in Rhythm 93.7FM for about a year, before getting a job as a presenter on Silverbird Television. Yvonne’s great look and wonderfully affable personality meant she was an instant hit with viewers! Currently the Entertainment News producer and presenter of E-Weekly on Silverbird Television, she has received several awards including the Dynamix All Youths Awards- TV presenter of the year 2010, ELOY (Exquisite Lady Of the Year) Award- TV personality of the year- 2011 and FAB Award- TV personality of the year 2011. We have also noticed that Yvonne is a fan of all things fashionable making her an icon in the Nigerian fashion industry as well. She speaks to UR on dealing with popularity, handling love and the future she sees for herself.
Yvonne was exactly 40 minutes late (though that would be considered early in Nigerian time) when she walked into the studio that morning. No facial make-up and hair not entirely brushed, she was dressed in simple washed jeans, a top and an ankara shoulder bag, yet she looked gorgeous! Joke, Oreka and I were in the dressing room when she popped in, I was not sure how to approach her, seeing it was the first time I was meeting with her. In two minutes however, I was already laughing at her theatrics (nothing extreme) and witty remarks…it was like she had brought the light we desperately needed in the room. She complained of being tired, she had spent the day before picking up Bobby brown from the airport and planning the show that was to hold later that night. We couldn’t get her the coffee she wanted (thanks to Shoprite, Surulere) and no one would have the sparkling water available. She got edgy. In minutes she was upset over an eyelash not properly lined, then the heat, then the ‘crowd’ in the studio. I was already praying she wouldn’t get into the ‘hot-temper’ mood she always claimed to have when I heard the ring of her laughter… Kola (the photographer) had just said something to her, her good mood was back! Three hours later, Yvonne still smiling strikes another pose and the photographer clicks away. You could tell she was in her favourite zone. There is no love lost between herself and the camera. I looked at the time, 3 O’clock already, there was no way we could have the interview again, we all had to rest before the big concert later that night. We had to reschedule. I however brought out my journal, I wanted to jot down a few things about Yvonne to give me a head start, it was hard with all the laughter and yelling. I doodled a bit then one word came to mind: Drama Queen! www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 55
All about Yvonne
True to her alias, Yvonne is a vixen. At 25, Yvonne is a woman in full command of her personality. She seems to embrace her TV –star fabulousity. She puts it all out there as if to say ‘take it or leave it.!’ she is what you see, nothing more to it. “I’m a fun loving person, I am also shy introverted but when I am in front of the camera people don’t see that” she says. When asked to tell what makes her stand out, Yvonne laughs and says: “The fact that I am multi-talented, definitely. People know there is something else to me but they don’t know what it is. I am a singer, rapper, a TV presenter, an actress… I used to write poetry though I don’t know if I could still do that. You could also say I am a model.” “Talent is not everything though” she however adds, “it is good to be talented, but you have to have the total package, you need to have the skills…being beautiful is not a necessity, but you have to be appealing to the eyes, diction is important, because you are speaking to an audience.”
growing up and Family
As a child, Yvonne never wanted to be a TV star, though she was born into an entertainment oriented family - her grandmother was a choir mistress and her aunt, the all-time screen goddess – Liz Benson. The youngest of 7 girls, she grew up in Lagos with big dreams of being a singer or a performer in the theatre. An entertainment enthusiast, her mother set her on that path at an early age. “I remember when I was 8, my mum created a musical group including five sisters called hepzibahquinted.” “We had our first concert at Muson centre in 1992/1993 and that was the first time ever held a microphone to sing. She has always pushed us to do several things” Yvonne never really lived outside the country, she attended numerous primary schools, the last ones being Home Science, Airforce and Essencez. She has fond memories of her secondary years as well. “While i was at holy child college, I was a trouble maker!” she declares. She however insists that she was shy and intro-
it is good to be talented, but you have to have the total package, you need to have the skills… being beautiful is not a necessity...
verted as well. At 21, she developed a fondness for a radio show called the dance party hosted by Wild Child now known as IK Osakioduwa. She would call as often as she could, and that got her noticed! One of the days she called in, IK asked her to come on the show as a guest, from there she became a co-presenter of the show. Before long, she was told of an opening for a TV show , “I was forced to attend the TV audition” she says, “I went reluctantly, did my thing, I was as nervous as hell, but I aced it! They call me the next day and ask me to come in and that my first interview was with MBGN and that was the first thing I ever presented on TV”.
Work
“A normal work day is crazy!” she admits “most times I am in the office putting together footage, audio and visuals that I recorded during the week to put it on the air. I am a news producer as well, so, a typical day is crazy. I lose my voice most of the time because I am always talking, I do voice overs, and assist the editor to ensure that footage is used right. In as much as TV presenting has a glamorous side to it, there is also the background –behind-thescene work, it is stressful, but it is fun. It is erratic, I can attend five events in one day and I would still have to look good and shiny and pleasant. it is a lot of work!” Although she has been with the Silverbird group for about 4 years now, Yvonne concedes to having contract jobs on the side. “I hosted something for MTN, it was a tour, for different societies in Nigeria, we were in Benin, Jos and Sokoto, I was the official red carpet presenter. Other jobs I have worked include FAB awards, the president’s inaugural ball and so on. I have done quite a few other things. I haven’t been employed by any other establishment though; I am still a brand face for Silverbird.” Aside from taking on other jobs, commandeering red carpets and modelling, Yvonne has just started her own jewelry line.
Coping With The Fame
Yvonne admits that she feels awkward sometimes when she sees herself on TV or on magazine covers. Most times, when strangers stare at her, she freaks. “I am in introvert. When I am not working, I am by myself at home, reading or sleeping. I don’t really like a lot of people around but because of the nature of my job, I have to let people have access to me. Sometimes I get upset people are looking at me, and then I remember, oh, I am on TV, that’s why they are starring...” she says with a laugh. She however feels honoured that she could be the kind of model people look up to, she says “it is flattering, the fact that people see me, they commend me, they want to be like me, I feel honoured, because I am just a very laid –back-girl- nextdoor kind of person, and when people gush over me like they want to take pictures with me or they want to interview me.. it makes me feel pleased, to be given all that attention”. So far, Yvonne has been very lucky not to be involved in scandals. Everybody in the limelight has to maintain a particular status, but she insists that she will never lose herself. “I will always maintain my key values. The popularity hasn’t changed my personality because I am still the same person - hot tempered, but humble. The only change is that a lot of people now know who I am and they want to associate with me or interview me. I am a celebrity. Working in the showbiz will change you if you are not a strong person. I just need to stay grounded, humble, respectful, focused, continue to seek for knowledge and never get tired of reading or asking”.
Love And Marriage
Spontaneous, refreshing and witty…vixen is cocktail most men cannot resist! Although she is currently dating, the reception by male fans has been overwhelming. “sometimes, guys just come at you in so many ways, because they don’t know the kind of person you are” she says, “because you are popular person, they approach you in a certain kind of way, they think you are easy to gain access to, and I try as much as possible to respond to them in the best possible polite way that I can, because sometimes when I am upset, I am not very polite. It has been okay, but I am not the kind of person that likes attention. I get lots of attention, but I don’t like it. With guys, I don’t give them so much access to me.” Yvonne’s ideal kind of man is definitely a spiritual person “I am a spiritual person as well. I am not a church-going tongue-speaking person, but I have a spiritual side. So, he has to have that connection with God somehow, when we have issues, I should be able to hold his hands and pray. He has to be intelligent, financially stable (because a girl has to be taken care of), handsome (I want someone I can look at and smile at and feel happy) and he should have a sense of humour. He will have to be caring as well, I have noticed that most Nigerian men are not caring, they like to be in charge, which can be good, but you have to be caring and affectionate…” Although her friends do not consider her romantic, Yvonne insists that she has a soft side. “My work persona is fierce, professional, no nonsense kind of lady, so they don’t see that soft side of me, I am trying my best to adjust and show that soft side of me”.
When asked to define love, she says “The love I believe in is the one Christ has for me, it is unconditional, and it never dies. So far, I have not found anyone else that can show me that kind of feeling. Love is indescribable, I can’t describe it, I guess when you feel it when you feel it, when you are in love you will know, when you are loved, you will know as well..” she however gets a bit defensive when she is asked how her experience has been dating since she became popular. “I am not a serial dater; I don’t jump into relationship because I am alone. There is so much attention on me. Men get very intimidated because people give you so much attention - you work so hard, you are everywhere, so they are afraid to be with that kind of woman . So, I guess it is very difficult to find love when you r a woman in showbiz or famous”.
The Future
Strong willed and career oriented, Yvonne is determined to make a bigger mark in the Nigerian entertainment circle. Marriage and starting a family are also important to her; however, she has them listed on her long term plan. “I am not really keen on getting married and having children, but, to shut the family up, I think I might consider getting married at the age of 32” she says. She plans on delving deeper into music and exploring opportunities open to her in the Nigerian music industry. “I love singing, I was born into music, music has always been a passion, I have a soft spot for music. That’s what I have always wanted to be”. With two music video cameo roles and lots of friends in the music industry already, she expects to make a smooth transition. ur
My work persona is fierce, professional, no non sense kind of lady, so they don’t see that soft side to me, I am trying my best to adjust and show that soft side of me
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UR STYLE
TREnDS On ThE RUnWAY aize greg paul
A
myriad outfts were trendy on the runway at the arise fashion week! From onepiece suits to dresses, from lace to leather....we bring you the trendiest of them all...
LACE IT Up
58 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
MIx AnD Un-MATCh
V-pLUngE
TRAIL BLAzER
LIBERTY LADIES
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aleX ekubo
Actor, model, recording artist…our Style Star of the month, Alex Ekubo is a triple threat and then some. Since he rose to fame as the First RunnerUp at the second ever Mr. Nigeria pageant, Alex has been a constant fixture on the red carpets, consistently camera-ready – whether dressed up in a sleek fitted suit or casual in jeans and a t-shirt.
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orn in Port Harcourt, Alex attended Federal Government College, Daura in Katsina State, gained a diploma in Mass Communication from Calabar Polytechnic and then studied Law at University of Calabar. In the style department, Mr. Ekubo also has an impressive resume. For him, style is not acquired or bought, but in his genes. His mother, Jane Ekubo-Okwaraeke, is the MD of Jalex Sweetheart Creations, a leading name in fashion and designing based in Lagos. She designed the iconic dresses Kanu Nwankwo’s wife Amarachi wore for their traditional wedding. Being raised by a prolific designer had its perks, and Alex credits her for his first style lessons at an early age, which includes how to match colours and dressing appropriately: “Growing up, I’ve always been conscious of how I looked and was raised to know that your appearance in public and how people perceive you means a lot”, he says, “so I always try to keep it together.”
his Personal style
Alex always exudes a certain ‘coolness’ in whatever he wears—Confidence is ultimately his number one accessory. He sometimes wears trends that most guys would not dare wear, but secretly wish they could. To dare to dress like Alex Ekubo, one must have guts and be self-assured! www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 61
daytime casual
A career in modelling has endeared Alex to the classic ‘model uniform’ of the straight jean and T-shirt. A casual look for him would be Jeans, graphic T-shirts or fitted sleeved-shirts, vest/light jacket and sneakers. Polo shirts and lounge trousers paired with casual footwear and tunics by Yomi Casuals also make it into his daytime look. Accessories like a ring, bracelet, necklace, watch, his Swarovski studs and aviator sunglasses pull his ensembles together nicely, putting his signature spin on what would otherwise be a regular look on anyone else. Regardless of what or which designer he is wearing, for Alex comfort is key: “Fashion is comfort, style and affordability
all wrapped in one; don’t shoot yourself in the foot just because you want to look good!”
evening/formal style
Alex Ekubo has rarely made a red carpet faux pas. Evening events are when his true style shines through. With such a wide range of fashion options to choose from, Alex is open to mixing things up: “Every designer has their own unique style, so I like to sample a bit of everything.” His evening red carpet style ranges from the classic to the edgy: well-tailored tuxedo jackets and bespoke suits are a common feature. All expertly showcased with his redcarpet signature pose: legs spread
out, hands in pockets and shoulders squared, exuding a gracefulness that cannot be missed in the crowd. This poise and flair for making the clothes look good, is what makes Nigerian menswear designers and fashion houses eager to style him in choice outfits. Mai Atafo, Kola Kuddus and Yomi Casuals are some of his favourite labels which have graced the perfect physique of the dapper young man, with so many others clamouring to style him. So whose style does our Style star love? “Uti Nwachukwu, Julius Agwu, Yvonne ‘Vixen’: these are fashion forward, edgy and creative dressers always breaking the norm”, he states. “Being on TV has helped me develop my fash-
ion sense, because I get to interact with the masters of fashion. As you know, fashion is ever-evolving and I get to learn a lot from other fashionistas.” Alex dishes on tips to navigating the murky waters of Fashion: “Fashion is for everybody, no matter your complexion, body size, height, social status, and regardless of how much you have to spend. Just cut your coat according to your material! Go for what flatters your body shape (size) and projects your personality. As a man you can almost never go wrong in casual wear: be sure to stock up on good quality jeans and t-shirts.”
Fashion is not a do or die affair; it may look good on that person, but it might not look so good on you. Find what works best for you. Stop worrying about following the trends…set your own trend
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UR STYLE
pAMpER YOUR MUM Mums deserve the very best, so don’t hesitate to make them feel that way. If you are confused on how to make your mum feel special, here are a few gift items you may consider to get you started on your long list.
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1. coco chanel 2. tods flats 3.klien natural pearl necklace 4.sewing kit 5.lancome visionnaire serum 6.ferragamo sopia bag
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UR TRIVIAL
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things you don’t know about kcee!
First thing you need to know about Kcee is this: He is neither Efik nor Ibibio! Although he speaks Efik, he is actually an Ibo boy. Most mornings, Kcee eats cornflakes or a bowl of oats and beans ( beans porridge with palm oil people…not baked beans! smh) Kcee actually dreamt of being a footballer while he was young (awwwhh…but… sorry man, not happening!) The tattoos on Kcee’s body are permanent! One is close to his elbow(a music sign and a star coming out of a zip) and another close to the shoulder(rose flower,2 birds and a diamond) If he had his way, he would rather sleep with a cockroach than a rat! (lol..pun intended!) Of all the embarrassing moments he has had so far, he is not likely to forget these three:
The day he was chased (not booed) off the stage while performing! (LOL! Don’t be alarmed, it happened sometime in 1999…way before he became a star!)
Kingsley Okonkwo, popularly known as ‘Kcee’ came into limelight when his group won the much coveted Star Quest prize in 2002. While in the group (KC Presh) , Kcee performed around Africa and the 36 states of Nigeria . He also performed alongside international stars like 50CENT,USHER,LL COOL J ,AKON,KANYE WEST and TPAIN, as well great Nigerian musicians like OLIVER D COQUE,LAGBAJA and FEMI KUTI. Following his break out from the group, KCee released a single titled ‘okpekete’, a highlife tinged tune. Here are 12 things you most probably do not know about him!
The afternoon a random driver hit his car along Allen Avenue (Lagos) and made a whole drama out of it. (The man grabbed his shirt and challenged him to a duel... Well…a fight)
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He only learnt how to drive a car in 2002, after he and a couple of others won the Star quest contest. The first car he ever drove was the Mercedes Benz 190. He uses mega growth hair product for his dreads! (uhm...) KC has never taken dance lessons … he makes up all his moves (or the lack of it) The longest trip he’s ever made is not from Nigeria to china, it’s actually from Lagos to Calabar in the year 2007 One time he took a girlfriend out on a date, she got really mad and broke the windscreen of his new car!(talk about drama!) He admits it was his worst date ever! He has got a mean ‘phobia for poverty’ (come on…you can’t really blame him!)
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fa shion week
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he Arise Magazine Fashion week (AMFW2012) aimed at showcasing the finest of African’s fashion to a global audience, was outstanding and certainly bigger this year. The glitz, the glamour, dazzling presentations and network of Africa’s fashion elite together spawned the euphoria of fashion perfection. With a 100-meter-long tent and a schedule of 77 designers, the Fashion Week recorded 16 back-to-back catwalk shows in less than five hours.
Enjoy pictures of the backstage Designers, Models, Stylists and “Fashionistas” on the red-carpet and at the venue. As well as our selection of 5 designers (Mai Atafo , Odio mimonet, Maki OH, tsemaye binitie, Vonne) who we loved!
red carPet at arise fashion week
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mai atafo Our very own young and upcoming south- south breed designer is attaining his position in the fashion world faster than we imagined, his tailoring speaks volumes! With vibrant matching colours for shoes and bags, loads of tweeds and sequins with lollipop colors looming around every piece, his creations oozed class, elegance, sophistication, sexy and funk. The attention to details are legendary and the Ankara fusion simply marvelous!
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odio mimonet Winner of the Innovative Designer of the Year award at the 2012 Arise Magazine Fashion Week Awards, Odio mimonet has been on the scene for over a decade now and has proven that she knows her fashion. The Veteran designer presented a marvelous collection! Structured dresses, high waist ankle length skirts,70’s cuts, lace, sequins and silk was major in her collection with fur detailing in some jackets for winter feel. Most designs had their own interpretation and has different story to tell, couple of head turban was featured which gave the collection a northern African vibe and retro glam with popping colors.
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maki oh An outstanding star at the 2012 Arise Magazine Fashion Week, it is no wonder talented UK based Nigerian designer Maki Oh bagged the Designer of the Year award! Still in her 20s, she is acknowledged for her distinct flare and eccentric taste for fashion . Oh used a healthy dose of lace and sheer fabric, quirky prints and beautiful muted colours. Exposing bras also give the collection a touch of sex appeal and modernity.
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tsemaye binitie Uk based Nigerian designer has proven that a man can create classic clothing for women. Winner of Womenswear Designer of the Year Award, Tsemaye remains one of the most promising new talents on the Afropolitan design scene. Binitie showcased exotic and straight cut pieces with a bit of fur giving, his collection a ready to wear winter look. black, nude and white were major colours in his collection adding texture and exuding a Bohemian feel to his theme.
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vonne With an over bearing personality and a viper theme collection, the BLACK MAMBA was the most anticipated show of the season. French born Nigerian designer Yvonne invoked the darling goddess in her feminine pieces made of silk, lacy net and mamba sequin. Twelve black elegant Victorian dresses, shirts, shirts, cigarette pants and ankle length high waist skirt was shown on the runway, whilst everyone was dazzled with the sparkle from the mamba sequin. It is obvious Vonne is evolving
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33 UR EVENTS
rd
coronation anniversary
hrm omo n’oba n’edo, oba erediauwa
T
he people of Edo State rejoiced on March 23, 2012 as His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo,Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa marked his 33rd coronation anniversary in Benin City. The revered monarch, 38th in the line of obas to reign over Benin Kingdom - the cradle of the black race in Africa and the world at large, succeeded, His Royal Majesty, Oba Akenzua II. He has ruled the Kingdom from when he was coronated on March 23, 1979 till date. A retired federal civil servant, Oba Erediauwa rose through ranks to the position of Permanent Secretary and later served as Commissioner of Finance in the old Bendel State before he assumed his throne. Even at old age, he is endowed with vibrant health, sharp memory and wisdom, a fact statedby Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole in a goodwill message to the Oba on the occasion: “We thank God for your life, health and vigor” The ceremony which commenced on Monday march 19th 2012 featured the launch of a book titled; “The Glorious Reign of Omo N’Oba Erediauwa” edited by former Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, Professor Gregory Akenzua, the Enogie of Evbobanosa, and climaxed on Sunday March 27th, 2012 with a special thanksgiving service at the Holy Aruosa Cathedral, Akpakpava Road, Benin City. Notwithstanding the very busy schedule of activities of the Oba, he granted UR crew a very rare honour of an exclusive interview bordered on his 33 years reign as the Oba of Benin Kingdom and memories from the past.
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UR EVENTS
Excerpt UR: How does it feel, 33years on a throne as a ruler? HRM: I feel relaxed and happy UR: What is the magic behind your vibrant steps and sharp memory? HRM: It’s God’s work, no magic. UR: Can you compare early days on the throne with now? HRM: I cannot make any comparison. I started well and I am still here by the grace of God. I was younger then now I am older I am still carrying on by the grace of God. UR: What challenges have you had so far as the Oba of Benin. HRM: We thank God, I haven’t had any. UR:If you were not an Oba, what else would you have loved to be? HRM: I was a civil servant and I retired as a Permanent Secretary. UR: Most cherished moments? HRM: When I am around my family, when my chiefs come, we all sit down and chat and talk... those are moments I cherish most. UR: What are some of the things you would have loved to do which the throne would not permit? HRM: Going around and meeting people outside the town and all that. UR: Have you had uncomfortable moments? HRM: Some of my subject have done some offensive things. UR: How did you handle them? HRM: The chiefs are there to handle the matter. Those that deserve traditional punishment would be given traditional punishment.
UR: Have you ever driven a car? HRM: Yes! For many years, I was driving myself. I used to have my driver. I drove for a long time from Enugu to Lagos, Lagos to Benin. UR: What was the first car you ever drove? HRM: My first car was a Mercedes-Benz and it was the first of its kind in the country. UR: Why travel by road instead of air? HRM: I never liked flying UR: What has been your longest journey by road? HRM: A few years after my coronation, I went round all the states in this country by road, visiting the traditional rulers that graced my coronation ceremony. We started off but I flew from Lagos to Sokoto, from Sokoto everything else was by road but I wasn’t driving. UR: Do you sometimes engage your children in dancing lessons? HRM: Yes, I do. UR: What is your favorite food? HRM: What I take depends on the sight when its opened unless you can give me edika-ikong. UR: Favorite music? HRM: Symphony. The reign of Oba Erediauwa has been characterized by peace and tranquility throughout the state, with unprecedented infrastructural development dotted every part of Benin City and the entire state.Today, the city has been transformed from the state of an ancient city to a metropolitan one. ur
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When I am around my family, when my chiefs come, we all sit down and chat and talk...those are moments I cherish most.
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From top left: 1, 5 - chiefs performing Ekponmwen Obo (chiefs coming to thank the Omo n’Oba with just their hands no drums on the third day of the confirment of their chieftaincy title), 2 - confirment of title from Ekete (the throne), 3 - chiefs greeting the Omo n’ Oba at Iwori 4 Omo n’Oba coming out from inside the palace 6 - The Omo n’ Oba and chiefs in the reception hall preparing to listen to complain
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UR EVENTS
Cultural dancers performing at the palace on the occasion of the coronation anniversay
The Ohen Osa (the arousa chief priest) at the palace to offer the monthly prayer to the Omo n’ Oba
The Oba waiting to receive guest in the new hall
Benin Muslims at the palace to also offer prayers to the Omo n’ Oba on the coronation anniversary
Children from Southpoint royal School visiting the Omo n’ Oba at his palace during the Coronation anniversary Osaretin and co cultural group performing for the iloi
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Omo n’ Oba arriving at the Holy arousa for the coronation anniversary thanks giving
The Omo n’ Oba at the arousa Thanksgiving
Chiefs and guest at the Holy arousa
Chiefs and guest at the Holy arousa
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igue festival 2011 UR EVENTS
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he Igue Oba, which is held at the Ugha Ozolua, was celebrated with great cultural display as chiefs and palace functionaries paid homage to the Oba of Benin, Oba Erediauwa.Dressed in traditional regalia, chiefs accompanied by their followers, danced with the traditional Eben, which is not expected to drop on the ground during the dance. The cultural display featured troupes from across the 18 local councils, competing for the star prize of N500,000 donated by the Edo State Government.Other ceremonies performed to mark the Ugieoba Festival included the Ugie Iron, Ugie Erha’Óba, Igue Oba, Igue Ivbioba, Igue Edohia and Ugie Ewere. Oba Erediauwa adds a new dimension to the annual Igue festival by bestowing honour on 14 people who distinguished themselves in their chosen career. The Ugieoba Festival ended with a thanksgiving service at the Holy Arousa Cathedral.
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UR EVENTS
igue festival art eXhibition
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oba erediauwa’s award of eXcellence
from toP left to bottom right
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UR EVENTS
kefee opens restaurant franchise, branama kitchen
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t was a duple celebration for award winning Nigerian singer Irekefe Obareki, popularly known as Kefee on February 5th 2012 as she celebrated her birthday and opened her kitchen called Branama Kitchen as well. The kitchen situated at Ajose Street, Mende, Maryland, Lagos, serves Nigerian dishes from all four geo-political zones and offers home delivery for clients. The event which welcomed the la crème de la crème in the entertainment industry, started with a red carpet event, then the cutting of the ribbon, cutting of the birthday cake and kitchen opening cake afterwards. Among those present were Opa Williams, Yaw, Gordons, Princess (comedian), Uti Nwachukwu, Barrak’O Tijani, Mudi, Toni Payne, Hellen Paul, Segun Obe ,Eric Arubayi of Idol West Africa, Ochuko of MTN project fame and Suzan Peters.
cutting of the ribbon
2. barrak’o Tijani ceo Tijani ent with Kefee
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4 4. Kefee with eric of idol west africa
5 5. mc abbey & princess
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6. opa williams anchoring tape cutting
3. comedian akpororo, a friend with yaw
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7. Kefee giving welcome speech 8. dayo ephraim & Segun obe 9. alex ekubo, Susan peters & raw 10. Joke Jaiyesimi 11. Kefee with a friend 12. Susan peters, Uti & Kefee 13. Kefee, wierd mc, Jmartins 14. guest at the event. 15. Uti,alex ekubo & friends 16. princess entertaining guests.
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UR EVENTS
live in lagos with bobby brown,
bel biV deVoe, baNKy w, mode 9, waJe aNd omawUmi
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rammy Award winner Bobby Brown and his former group members BELBIVDEVOE staged an memorable performance in Lagos on Friday March 9 at the Expo Hall of Eko Hotels and Suites. The debut R28 Concert , dubbed “The New Edition Live in Concert”, Featured Banky W, Mode 9, Waje, Omawumi – all of whom are no strangers to the Nigerian audience. The event which attracted top corporate executives and music fans across all sectors delivered remarkable live performances supported by choreographed multimedia, lighting and fireworks. The electrifying sets were interposed with dance sketches from the acclaimed Dance Na D Main Thing as well as carefully selected mixes delivered by some of Nigeria’s best DJs. The high budget event organized in partnership with Eko Hotel, with support from Delta Airlines, Cool FM, Wazobia FM and LASAA, also held at the Port Harcourt Polo Club on March 11.
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UR EVENTS
karen igho’s KareNified parTy wiTh former bba hoUSemaTeS
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igBrother Africa 2011 winner pulled a gathering of BBA Amplified edition Housemates to Nigeria on Friday, April 6, 2012 for an intercontinental celebrity and fans studded meet party themed; ‘Karen Igho Amplified!’. The event which commemorates her birthday as well held at at Club Scintilla; Victoria Island, Lagos. Present at this mega-fab event were former Big Brother Africa Amplified housemates such as Wendall Parson (Karen’s Co-winner from Zimbabwe), Luclay ‘Mr. Otono’ (S/Africa), Confidence(Ghana), Weza Solange (Angola), Lomwe (Malawi), Millicent Bonake (Kenya) Mumba Mwakwa (Zambia), Bernadina Buys (Namibia) and a host of others.
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UR WEDDINGS
mildred & osahon tie the knot
On the 14th of January 2012 Mildred Okoedion and Osahon Paul Odia said “I Do” at St Gabriel Catholic Church, Sapele road Benin city in the presence of their loved ones, family and friends. Just a day before, the couple celebrated their traditional engagement. Mildred and Osahon’s traditional engagement which was a colorful and festive occasion filled with joy and love was the start of their wonderful wedding festivities which continued at their church ceremony where they were blessed and joined as husband and wife. The bride was breathtaking in her stunning white dress while the groom complemented his blushing bride in a sleek black jacket with a blue tie. After their ceremony, the celebration transitioned to the reception venue - the Hexagon, which looked amazing with royal purple and gold hues giving it a glamorous vibe. The rest of the day was filled with even more well-wishes, prayers, dancing, lots of fun including short performance by Godfather who was also the MC at the event. It was a fabulous day celebrating Mildred and Osahon’s love!
Bride - Mildred Okoedion with Groom - Odia Paul Osahon
Bride - Mildred Okoedion with Groom - Odia Paul Osahon
MC - The Godfather, Bride & Groom and a friend
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Sponsor Engr & Dr. Mrs. Aburimen, Groom’s Mum, Mrs. D. Odia \and Other Guest
Distinguished guests at the ceremony Bride & Groom at the white wedding ceremony
Bride & Groom dancing with the Chairman, Mr. Fred Atiomo
Maids of Honour
Bride & Groom cutting their wedding cake
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UR WEDDING
Bride with Queen Esther, The Eson N’ Erie
Bride with Mum younger sister Eseosa
forever love princess oze yvonne erediauwa weds Sylvester ebhodaghe The ancient kingdom of Benin, Edo State wore a festive look on the 17th of February 2012, as the Traditional Wedding ceremony of their princess, Oze Yvonne Erediauwa and Sylvester Ehimen Ebhodaghe took place at the Royal Palace. The white wedding which took place the next day at Christ Embassy Church, Benin City was a joyful sequel. The festive occasion was an enchanted experience. The princess was an utterly gorgeous bride in her stunning wedding dress while the groom was at his dapper best in his black tuxedo. The bridesmaid also looked dazzling in their dresses by pages.
Groom, Sylvester Ebhodaghe at the Palace of the Oba of Benin
Bride & Groom at the traditional ceremony
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Dignitaries at the occasion included: chief Tony Anenih, Dr. Mrs Dora Nkem Akunyili, Gov Adams Oshiomhole, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan,former Governor Edo state Chief John Odigie Oyegun, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Rita Edochie, Shadrach Nworah.
Kanayo O. Kanayo with a traditional chief
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Bride &Groom with Chief Oseni Elamah Chairman Board of Internal Revenue Edo State
Bride Princess Oze Erediauwa & Groom Sylvester Ebhodaghie
Maids of Honour
Bride and Groom Choir performing at Christ Embassy, venue of the white wedding
Comrade Adam Oshiomhole governor, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan and the Couple.
Comrade Adams Oshiomhole governor Edo State Frank Nweke jnr ,Chief John Odigie Oyegun former governor Edo State
Prof&Mrs G.I Akenzua, Chief Sam Igbe Prince Theresa Erediauwa & Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa
Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa and his wife Princess lroghama Erediauwa
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Kanayo.O.Kanayo with Prinnce Ehioze Erediauwa
Bride’s Siblings Princess Ig, Prince Ehioze and Prince Osama Erediauwa
Bride with her eldest brother Crown Prince Ehenede Erediauwa representing his father and Chief bridesmaid Princess Eseosa Erediauwa
Chief Tony Anenih Chairman Nigeria Port Authority Bride Oze Yvonne Erediauwa and Groom Sylvester Ebhodaghe
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Bride & Groom with guests
Helen Paul (MC at the event)
Bride & Groom with pastor
Dr. Peter Odili, former Governor of Rivers State with his Lovely Wife
Bride and Groom with Mrs. Dora Akunyili (former minister for information), Mr. Frank Nweke Jnr. (Director General/CEO of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group) and other distinguished guests.
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UR WEDDING
ade weds Prince ada Adesuwa Uzamere and Osarugue Omoregbe
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Comrade Adams Oshiomole, Governor of Edo State at the White Wedding
Time to kiss: Ade & Ada
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From Left: Princess Mrs. Ekiuwa Inned, Edo State Head of Service, Dr Egberanwen Odubu Deputy Governor Edo State with Bride Parents Elder & Deaconess Fred Uzamere
Bishop FEB Idahosa, at the wedding ceremony
Bride & Groom with Senator and Mrs. Dame Ehigie Uzamere
Bride & Groom with Bride’s dad Elder Fred Uzamere
Bride & Groom with Bride’s Parents Elder & Deaconess Mrs. Fred Uzamere
Bride and Abies Uzamere
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Bride & Groom with the Erediauwas and the Olois
Crown prince - Ehenede Erediauwa, Wife and family with Chief Oseni Elamah Chairman Edo State Board of Internal revenue
Entry of the bride & groom into the palace after the church weedding
Oba Erediauwa, Oba of Benin with Bride & Groom and family
Bride & Groom with Groom’s family
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man & love vs. independence
The plight of a Successful woman
by ogechi Umez-eronini
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ave you ever wondered why some men refrain from dating strong, smart women like you? Seriously, what’s up with that?! The last two decades witnessed the rise and bloom of fiercer, stronger, assertive and ambitious independent women who pay their own bills, drive their car(s), own their businesses and live in their own homes. However, as these women have started to enjoy a more “equal” place in society with careers, opportunities and so on, something strange has happened. Women are no longer considered “feminine” once they’ve become independent and successful in their own right!
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verywhere I go, I hear women talk and i am amazed at some of the stories they tell. How can being smarter, more independent or more talented than other women and some men actually be considered negative? Why are men intimidated by these kinds of women and why are these women not really fighting back? After personal experience, observation and research, I found these reasons to be key to the “plight” of the successful and independent woman:
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and create a great relationship, becoming successful is not going to change that. But being a woman who learns to attract men and create the right situation for love and also happens to be successful is.
reason #3: success itself won’t get you there reason #1: independent and successful women are smart enough to be a danger to themselves. Have you ever noticed that other smart and successful women around you are often the ones alone or in the least fulfilling relationships? And have you ever noticed that no matter how intellectually educated a woman is, it doesn’t make her immune to the problems of love that a broke or uneducated woman might face? A lot of women assume that since they’re intelligent that they can figure out or solve any dumb little dating or relationship dilemma and think that all it takes is enough focus and determination and they’ll work everything out. This couldn’t be further from the truth. You can’t “think” a man into feeling something for you. Just like you can’t get a man to treat you differently because you logically figured out what’s wrong with him and you let him know. In fact, doing the latter is more likely to have you standing alone in the cold than being held tightly in his arms. Being “right” doesn’t mean you’ll be loved.
reason #2: believing in the “men don’t like successful women” myth The truth is, men do not dislike successful women. But they do not like them either. It is obvious in this day and age that being successful and independent are no longer “male” qualities that exclude women from being attractive if they have them. But here’s the thing, most men don’t really care how successful a woman is. I mean that literally. They don’t care. Why? No matter what a woman does for a living, and no matter how much money she makes, none of that is going to make a man feel anything for a woman. Just like women , men are not attracted to their opposite sex just because they are rich or successful or can buy whatever they wants. Success can add to the appeal, but it doesn’t create it! But lots of women who are successful secretly believe that their success should change how men act around them. These women, just like men often do, start to rely on their success to attract men. The truth is, success isn’t going to turn a man on or create a great situation. If a woman does not understand how to attract a man
Being successful can be a nice quality or a “bonus” about a woman, but inside a man’s mind, success has nothing to do with whether or not he feels attraction or love. Women are frustrated when the respect and status that they’ve earned at the office or in life hasn’t translated over to their love life. Success won’t buy you love, affection or get you shortcuts to a great situation with a man. It just might help get you in the door.
reason #4: assuming that success “strategies” cross over to men and relationshiPs
that is created between the man and woman. The out-of-control feeling and the desire to fill in the gap between him and the woman that starts the classic patterns of love. Unfortunately, lots of successful women get in their own way and prevent the natural patterns that lead to love from taking place. The most common way that successful women get in their own way is when they starting doing things to control each and every aspect of what’s going on between her and the man.
reason #6: successful women are used to being in control
Successful women have obviously found and used smart “strategies” to get where they are with the people around them. They try and test all kinds of new ideas, approaches, attitudes, etc., until they find what works and then they stick with what’s best. And things go great. It’s like they’ve got the world and everyone around them all figured out. That is, until they run into a “guy problem” and somehow everything seems to instantly go whacko and stop working. They just take their best strategy and try harder and harder at it, so sure that it will work since they’ve seen the world open up to them with it. But, there are no results this time and it’s a total shock to the system. Men are the WORST at doing this, by the way.
reason #5: successful women “accidentally” Prevent men from naturally feeling attraction with them Have you ever thought about how a man falls in love with a woman? One of the most important and central elements of love that takes a man from just “interested” to “in love” with a woman is experiencing a loss of control and the absence of predictability with the woman. And no, this doesn’t mean that he gives control over to the woman and she has it. When a man is experiencing attraction and chemistry with a woman and he doesn’t know exactly what’s going to happen next, then everything becomes terribly exciting. If the woman isn’t acting controlling or manipulative, then there is a “space” or “void”
Most mature women want to have a great relationship and continually experience deep love and intimacy once they’ve found a worthwhile and attractive guy. But often times their desire to have their ideal situation is so strong that it can actually drive them to try and control the situations they’re in and the man they’re with. Successful women have an uncanny ability to pull together every aspect of their life and make it work. Trying to control how a man feels, what he thinks, and how he acts around them not only does not usually work for women - it often works against them and repels the man.
reason #7: they fall into the traP of using “masculine energy” to shaPe their love life The energy, drive, focus and discipline that can push women to success in their work can be a potent force to create the outcomes they want. Unfortunately, this same attitude and approach does not translate over to getting outcomes women might want with men, love and relationships. In fact, this attitude often becomes an obstacle to creating an intimate and loving situation with a man. Successful women often make the mistake of approaching men and relationships with the same kind of intensity and energy that they seek to influence or control things at work. Tip This is merely the opinion of an observer who has been on both sides of the divide! To get a clearer picture of this, one can find out by trying to be a successful woman or not.
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UR BEAUTY & CHIC
Ask Alsu
nature to look at other women, it does not mean he does not love or appreciate me, I mean, we have talked about marriage! The thing is , recently, I realized that my selfesteem is really being affected. The kind of girls he stares at are girls I feel are hotter than I am. Honestly, I thought it was die down once we got closer, but it has gotten worse, he stares all the time and it is embarrassing. What do I do?
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Nengie, 26, Lagos Reponse:
Confused? Distressed? Clueless? Alsu is available to help with advice on relationship matters and issues distressing your love life.
Q Dear Alsu,
My boyfriend stares at other women… My boyfriend and I have been dating for about 6 months now, but he cannot just stop starring at other girls while we are out on a date or just hanging out. I haven’t raised this issue in a discussion with him yet because I understand that it is in a dude’s 100 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
Dear Nengie, The thought that it is normal for guys to look at other babes is stereotypical, but there are cases where that isn’t a norm but a personality and preference based attitude! You need to be objective about this, if this disturbs you, you need to address it. If it is becoming a thorn in your relationship then you may need to back off for a bit. Create a balance, allow peace but create some preventative measures. On the other hand, you don’t want to spend your pressures time running after a guy or snooping around for evidence! Maybe in retaliation you could give him a taste of what you going through, start looking at other guys. I have learnt from experience that the less attention you give to a man, the more interested he is because he has space! Ask yourself these questions! Am I too much in his space? Or am I an attention seeker? At the start of any relationship, we as women get all the attention but after a while, we start to feel that we are not getting enough! This is usually a pointer letting you know that you have lost track of the fact that you didn’t have that much time to notice his absence at the beginning, but as time progressed you were creating more time and abandoned things you used to do that occupied you! Maybe you need to get back to what you were occupied with before and let him crave for your time again. The thoughts and discussions of marriage have made you vulnerable, now you feel dependent, hence needy! Become independent again, but don’t detach if you like the person you are with!
Q Dear Alsu,
Love vs. Career : my Long distance dilemma! I am a what anyone would refer to as a workaholic. My life was lonely and honestly, kind of boring until my boyfriend found me on facebook. I was a bit sceptical about adding him, but 8 months later, we are so in love. The problems we are facing now is that he lives Warri, while I live in Port Harcourt! And Abuja(work). We have only met once, it was a very brief meeting and I had business transaction in Warri at that time . He wants us to get married which I am thrilled over, but he says I have to live in Warri with him. He does not have a job yet and I feel like my career path is a good place here in Port Harcourt. What do I do? I love him so much! Kesiena, 31, PH
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Response: Dear Kesiena, Never leave what sustains you whether boyfriend is working or not, even more so if he isn’t working. His abundance of time allows him to give you all the attention you crave as well as excitement. Your life isn’t structured either, you live in PH but u work in Abuja, relocating to warri will be difficult, equal to same as changing country, every state has its culture and that would create tension in your relationship, even if you feel you can easily travel! If you certain that you really love each other, my advice is that he relocates to PH or Abuja and you can grow your young relationship while you still have your job! A guy who is in his right mind without a job would not ask that you leave it!
Q Dear Alsu,
I can’t burn anymore! I am a red-blood 28-year-old and I love sex! I have unfortunately fallen in love with a lady who is very keen on saving herself for marriage. I love her and I want to marry her, I just am not sure I can take care of her the way I would want to right now. I really doubt that I can stop myself from cheating on her soon. I have been sexually active since I was 14,so, it’s a lot of pressure on me to abstain right now. We have dated for 3 months and the only thing we have done is kiss. How do I convince her to let me in?
r
Abel, 28, Asaba Response:
Dear Abel If you know you will not be able to commit, then leave her alone! She has values that protect her, why do you need to weaken someone for your own pleasure! If you want to marry then marry her and keep her strong. Personally I think it’s too early for men to marry at 28 and for many reasons too! Most people marry these days for the thrill of being seen in that status! When you are fed up of being a waste management machine then you are at the first stage of realizing that there are people around you rather than just an object of a minutes pleasure!
Give people around you the chance to be who they are by being who you are! However their reaction would be based on what you present! As they say, if there is a lie in your question, there will be a lie in the answer!
Q
from the truths of your past as they have nothing I am out of my game! to do with your future! It affects the dynamics of what could be ,as it is a The last time I dated, I was 22 and had absolutely lot of pressure to try not make such mistakes again. no baggage. Single and Give people around you carefree, I never worried about what to say or how the chance to be who they are by being who you are! to say it on any date .I However they react would be just told the truth! Now, based on what you present! I’m back in the dating As they say, if there is a lie in scene and it’s amazing how things have changed! your question, there will be a lie in the answer! And don’t I’m in my 30s, and I have take it personal if the person two sons. I don’t want to overwhelm men on a first says sorry I can’t handle date, but to be honest this being in your life. Rather than accepting you on one side is all an important part and rejecting the another! of who I am. What do I Note, it doesnt speak less of tell them, and when? I the guy if he says he can’t need dating advice fast. because there are other factors that play out, he may ‘name withheld’ not want to be dealing with your babies daddy or taking Response: responsibility for another man’s kids, which actually Dear Anonymous, has nothing to do with you! Men are territorial, and can Best to tell such things rarely give their hearts to from first date! It’s a fact you can’t erase! But refrain what they did not create! Dear Alsu,
Ask a question! E-mail Alsu at Alsu@ urbanroyalemagazine.com. Please include age and sex, and If you do not want your question posted, type “PRIVATE” in the subject line and you will recieve a personal reply. You can also visit and exchange genius tips on her facebook group tagged ‘Vantage Point’.
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Q Dear Alsu,
I’m still in love with him! The last guy I dated hurt me. I admit, I was too available, called him too much, was too attentive, gave too much information too soon and slept with him a quite sooner than I should have. After about a month he didn’t call me for several days and I sent him a “final” e-mail telling him how he was breaking my heart and all. He e-mailed back and explained that he wasn’t ready for a relationship and that he was sorry for the mixed messages. It was weird because he seemed so interested in the beginning. It’s been two months sicne the e-mail, but he just called me out of the blue for a date. I am excited because I still love him, but honestly, do you think i can change the game this time and maybe play the “chase-me game” to win him over forever this time? How long should I wait to call him back? As you can see, I desperately need some dating advice!
R Sele, 24, PH Response
Dear sele, If I were in your shoes, I would totally ignore and move on! Or least to satisfy your curiosity is to ask why he wants a date after he has made clear that he didn’t want any relationship. And please I don’t mean to cut off your wings but you have to weigh your definition of love! You can only get to love someone who is available or who you know!
www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 101
know your base!
1st Base in a relationship:
No longer defined as just kissing, with or without tongue (your choice) on the mouth, first base in a relationship today includes kissing and touching anything above the waistline. Tip: If you’re looking for long-term love, first base is best saved for the 2nd or 3rd date.
T
he “Bases” were adopted 1920’s and 1930’s as handy terms for young american men to brag about how far they got with a girl without having to say the word “Breast” out loud. The bases were pretty simple steps to follow. First base was kissing only; Second base in a relationship meant letting him feel around under your blouse; Third base meant letting him feel around under you skirt; While the Fourth base, also called ‘a homerun’, was simple sex.
Dating, Third Base:
2nd Base in a relationship:
Today, getting to second involves hands fiddling under skirts and in trousers. We would paint you a bigger picture, but really, what else is there to say? Tip: Ensure you have you partner’s home address, his police history and high school transcript before visiting 2nd base in a relationship.
Seeing how handy and convenient the baseball analogies were, it spread round the globe. Everyone uses it today, including nigerians. The only difference is that the meanings of these terms have change quite a lot! In the standard list, there isn’t a base for giving oral sex or getting it, there isn’t a base for threesomes, anal sex or the trapeze act. However, since the young men of this generation still felt the need to brag about sex, they altered the meaning to suit their purpose. Here are the new meanings: 102 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
In a nutshell, oral sex is the new dating third base. That bit of naughtiness that’s still illegal in some areas is now de rigueur for kids who aren’t even in high school! Tip: when looking for a long-term relationship, wait till you’ve had a dozen good dates before your mouth meets his unmentionables or you let his mouth entertain yours.in a relationship.
Fourth base: The Sexual Homerun!:
The homerun is basically the only base that didn’t really change in meaning. while homeruns were once reserved for girls with rings, this is no longer the case. Tip: Before sliding into home, you should trade current AIDS test results. Don’t forget the “love glove” as well, It will help you avoid an unwanted pregnancy and help to keep some of those other galling STD’s away.
UR RELATIONSHIP & SEX
sex on the first date? 7 reasons why you Should wait You can’t think straight, she’s so hot, probably the hottest girl you have seen in a while and you guys have chemistry! There’s so much sexual tension and you are one drink away from asking her to go back to your place with you. STOP. It might be the worst move you ever made. Really. Not only will she be pleased that you picked an interest in her and not just her body. Not letting your zip down will improve her impression of you, especially If you are interested in pursuing a relationship with her. If you are still contemplating, here are some reason why it’s better to take a cold shower. Waiting shows you’re a gentleman Chivalry in the form of opening the door, or pulling out the left the dating scene long ago, but avoiding first-date sex is right up there with the greats. Suggesting sex after knowing her a few hours makes her feel you’re only after one thing, you don’t respect her or you’re just a tout.
Waiting shows you don’t think she’s a slut If you’re quick to ask her to your bedroom, she might think you see her as nothing but a cheap date that puts out for every man she meets. And chances are, she’ll be right. Hold off on sex for now. Although she’s attracted to you, ultimately she wants to know you respect her and are interested to know more about her than how her boobs jingle when she is naked.
Waiting creates anticipation In our society today, anticipation has been shoved away in favour of instant pleasure. But waiting
a little longer before having sex is important because it gives you something to look forward to. If you enjoy the main prize of sex on a first date, you’re starting the process back to front. It’s quite a setback to get to know each other after you’ve already had sex.
Waiting creates challenge If you don’t let yourself get hot and heavy right away, you can create challenge. This means letting her do some work in chasing you, as well as moving slowly and then holding back a bit so that her interest is raised. If you indulge in first-date sex, you’re showing her you’re very interested right off, which makes it very difficult to be a bit distant afterward if you are keen on pursuing a real relationship. It could also make her think a relationship with you is a done deal (some women still view sex as synonymous with coupledom).
Waiting keeps you interested Not only does anticipation
disappear after you have sex on the first date, but chances are your interest will take a dive as well. You might not even feel the need to get to know her once you’ve had sex, and so the interest in trying work out a viable relationship evaporates. If you press pause on sex for a while, you give yourself a chance to get to know her when lust is not clouding your vision. Then sex becomes the reward for keeping that interest burning.
Waiting gives you time to evaluate her Since you’ve just met her, you don’t really know her other than what she ahs told you. If you add carnal knowledge to the list too quickly, you miss out on other crucial info you should be spending sex time trying to discover. It’s important to know her vibe before you take her to the next level, in order to avoid bad sex complications.
Sex is important in a relationship; there’s no doubt about it. But making a slow transition to sex will result in an even more mind-blowing experience when the full act does happen. By then you’ll know if you’re in sync with each other, you can explore the chemistry, and sex can become something that cements your relationship even more.so, wait sex out a little longer, it’ll pay off.
Not only does anticipation disappear after you have sex on the first date, but chances are your interest will take a dive as well
Good things come to those who wait www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 103
UR LUXURY
luxury glitters
INCANTO ROYALE
Emerald and Diamond 18K Gold Earrings
$1,575.00
COLUCCI DIAMONDS
ORLANDO ORLANDINI
16.67 ctw White Gold Diamond Drop Earrings
Fashion - Diamond 18K Twotone Gold Drop Earrings
$78,000.00 TORRINI Quadrifoglio Diamond FourLeaf Clover 18K Gold Earrings
$4,750.00
$8,700 .00 INCANTO ROYALE
1.89 ctw Diamond 18K Gold Necklace
$12,750.00 ORLANDO ORLANDINI
Fashion - Diamond 18K Rose Gold Chain Necklace
AMIN LUXURY
$18,890.00
1.14 Carat Web Cut Diamond
$16,200.00
DEL GATTO
Three-Stone Diamond 18K Gold Pendant Necklace
$2,225.00 104 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
TORRINI
Lenticchie - 18K Gold and Diamonds Necklace
$12,750.00
ROMA IMPERIALE
Carved Gemstone Links 18K Gold & Diamond Bracelet
$17,845.00
ORLANDO ORLANDINI
COLUCCI DIAMONDS
Galaxy - Diamond Charm 18K Rose Gold Bracelet
Sea - 1.18 ctw White Gold Diamond Charm Bracelet
$11,850.00
$13,400.00
COLUCCI DIAMONDS
MITA MARINA MILANO
COLUCCI DIAMONDS
Geo - 18K White Gold and Diamond Ring
3.93 ctw White Gold Galaxy Ring
$13,300.00
$27,500.00
INCANTO ROYALE
ORLANDO ORLANDINI
1.44 ctw Diamond 18K Gold Ring
Central Diamond 18K Gold Cufflinks
$11,700 .00 ORLANDO ORLANDINI 18K Gold Diamond Button Double-side Cufflinks
$2,980.00
$3,809 .00
TORRINI
18K Yellow Gold Diamond Cufflinks
$1,998.00
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UR LUXURY
dVf fragrance
giorgio beverly hills eau de giorgio
Fresh and sensual, DIANE is the new fragrance by DVF . The perfume is emblematic of its creator: radiant, captivating, and seductive.The bottle design was inspired by von Furstenberg’s Sutra bracelet, which has become the perfumer’s signature accessory, and the interlocking golden rings are beautifully depicted on the bottle.Diane Eau de Parfum Spray 50 mL, $98 or Eau de Toilette Spray 50 mL, $75 and 100 mL, $104.
for the love of Perfumes
Madonna is set to launch her Truth or Dare brand . The perfume will be made from gardenia, tuberose and neroli, with jasmine, benzoin tears, white lily petals, vanilla absolute, caramelized amber and sensual musk aura. The perfume will be produced in collaboration with Fabien Baron who she worked with on the Sex book. Arsenal launch new fragrance that smells of Emirates Stadium
l’eau de la Tour In May 2012, The house of Giorgio Beverly Hills will launch a new light and sunny interpretation of the original, named Eau de Giorgio . The scent is described as floral, bold and vivid, containing rich flowers and sparkling fruits. It celebrates the luxurious lifestyle of California, Beverly Hills palm trees and the Rodeo Drive breeze.The base is discreetly oriental, blending notes of amber, patchouli, sandalwood and vanilla.
ARSENAL are launching their own fragrance , and it smells like their Emirates Stadium.The £23 perfume includes a whiff of oils in the players’ massage area, the fresh-cut pitch and leather from boss Arsene Wenger’s dugout seat.Experts who blended the scent also included a hint of matchday food prepared in the posh Diamond Club by celebrity chef Raymond Blanc and even a touch of striker Robin van Persie’s hair products .It’s perfect for any occasion. There is a version of for girls too.
madonna’s ‘Truth or clive christian l fragrance for dare’ perfume Queen elizabeth Queen Elizabeth‘s Jubilee may not be until June, but famed perfumer Clive Christian is set to honor her 60 years on the throne. Christian, who previously created a his-and-hers fragrance set for Prince William and Kate Middleton, will release a special edition of his No. 1 Perfume, named “Imperial Jubilee.” Unlike the original No. 1, this edition contains a higher concentration 106 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
of perfume, making the scent richer and fit for the Queen. Only 500 bottles will be released, priced at a cool $1,300.
aura by Swavorski Aura by Swarovski can be described as an “incandescent, fruity, floral creation” and is created by Jean-Pierre Bethouart and Olivier Cresp. The fragrance begins sweet, sharp and a bit overwhelming. The bottle is elegant and stunning, refillable and unique with a Swarovski crystal set at the top .
WANT? NEED? SAME DIFFERENCE
Top of the line Nisan products SDD NISAN MOTORS NIGERIA LIMITED 163 Benin – Sapele Road, Benin City, Nigeria
UR LUXURY
luxury gadgets
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1. Ferrari and Logic3 Luxury Headphones Collection These Ferrari Headphones includes 9 headphones and 4 speaker harbors across 2 series called Cavallino and Scuderia. All models are iPod and iPad-capable. Pre-orders will start soon, but the items won’t be accessible until late April 2012
2. Project Level 10 M Mouse for gamers Tt eSPORTS and BMW Designworks USA have attempted to provide a sporty twist to a superlative gaming experience through the launch of Project LEVEL 10 M Mouse at CES 2012. The ergonomics of the mouse are designed in such a manner that it fits perfectly within the gamers’ hand, which directly influences the performance and speed of the gamers.
3. LG Prada 3.0 phone Described as ‘World’s Most Stylish Smartphone’, Phones 4U is offering the designer Android smartphone for a two-year agreement at $49 per month and more, over a range of other networks.
4. Vertu Constellation Quest Ferrari handset Vertu has finally unveiled yet another luxury smartphone called the Vertu Constellation Quest Ferrari inspired by the Ferrari 458 Italia sports car. The device has it primary focus on use of luxe materials like polished sapphire crystal, Ferrari calf leather and polished black ceramic than on high-end functionality. Users will also be able to boast of exclusive ringtones obtained from live recordings of a Ferrari 458 Italia on a test circuit.Owning one of these handsets comes with a set of privileges.
5. Diamond-studded speakers worth $68,000 show up at CES 2012 Here are $68,000 worth diamond-studded speakers all dressed up in luxe materials like metal, leather, gold accents, and Russian diamonds which were inspired by flower in a wine bottle. The speakers underwent several 3D iterations before the final piece could be created.
108 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
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6. MWE Emperor 200 workstation
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Worth $45,000, this technologypacked gaming station aka workstation sports the finest equipment you’d require to play and is a gamers’ paradise of sorts. TheMWE Emperor 200 comes with an ergonomic leather seating unit, three touch-screen 24” LED monitors, motorised screen and chair adjustments, LED lighting and THX surround sound system, along with an air-filter to cater to nicotine-loving users.
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7. Ulysse Nardin Chairman smartphones
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8 9
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Ulysse Nardin Chairman, which was crowned as the “Most Expensive Mobile Phone (Cell Phone) Series” by Guinness World Records is available to the world at large. With only 1846 handsets up for grabs, the number celebrates Ulysse Nardin’s founding year.
8. HP VantagePoint touchscreen will open up a wall of interactive experience HP unveiled its new 132-inch touchscreen displays for high-end retail stores . The HP VantagePoint system the display measures 11 feet wide by 7 feet high and is powered by two computers featuring one graphics card and six monitors. The systems can support 32 fingers touching it at a time. The setup is priced at about $125,000.
9. Diamond-studded Dre Beats headphones dazzle for $1 million These headphones stole the show when Madonna performed with Sky Blu, LMFAO member, during the Super Bowl 2012 halftime show. SkyBlu grabbed the limelight by sporting this pair of diamond encrusted Beats by Dre headphones which are exclusively customized by London-based jewelers, Graff.
www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 109
UR LUXURY
new luxury cars
Luxury cars have come a long way! April is a typically busy time of the year for new model announcements as the month plays host to two major international auto shows, one in New York and the other alternating between Beijing and Shanghai each consecutive year. Here are six of these new and redesigned luxury models which we love:
2013 Cadillac SRX At first glance, there isn’t much of a difference between the 2012 Cadillac SRX crossover and the 2013 model. Parked side-by-side, it would still take you a moment to notice the new upper and lower grille design on the 2013 SRX, and even the LED-lit front fender vents don’t immediately pop. Cadillac’s CUE infotainment system appears in the SRX for 2013, giving owners easy access to navigation, climate, phone and audio controls. The CUE system uses proximity-sensing technology and provides users with haptic feedback to confirm inputs. Cadillac hasn’t made any changes to the 308-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 or six-speed automatic transmission used in the SRX last year. The 2013 Cadillac SRX is available in both front-wheeldrive and all-wheel-drive. 110 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
Lexus 2013 RX 350 F SPORT RX 350 F Sport models will feature allwheel-drive, an eight-speed transmission with paddle shifters, an F Sport tuned suspension, a unique front bumper and grille, 19-inch wheels finished in Dark Graphite and interior enhancements to distinguish F Sport models.The suspension package includes firmer shocks and stiffer springs, with what Lexus bills as a “unique lateral performance damper system.” This produces a more linear steering feel and greater ride comfort, but still allows for improved handling compared to standard RX 350 models. Inside are perforated black leather seats with contrasting white stitching and white perforations. The leather-wrapped steering wheel gets an “F” logo, and aluminum pedals round out the sporty look. Lexus’ Enform infotainment system is available and supports the use of iPhone, Android or Blackberry devices.
2013 Acura RLX
2012 Infiniti LE Concept
Acura is making waves by fitting the RLX with its Acura Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system. This hybrid-based all-wheel drive system utilizes three electric motors in total, two powering one axle and a third integrated with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and gasoline V-6 that powers the alternating axle. The setup allows multiple driving modes, including electric- or gas-only modes, plus a hybrid mode calling on both electric and gas power and offering all-wheel drive capability. The sophisticated setup utilizes a bilateral torque control system to instantly generate negative or positive torque to the rear wheels during cornering. This provides a new level of agility and confidence to create what Acura calls an “on-the-rails-cornering” experience.
Infiniti is keen to stress that the LE Concept has been designed with luxury in mind, rather than purely economy.The LE Concept’s exterior features several Infiniti design cues, such as its double-arch grille and crescent-cut rear-pillar.However, its lines have been made more swoopy than usual to boost aerodynamic efficiency and maximize space. The vehicle’s overall length stands at 186.4 inches and it features a wheelbase of 106.3 inches. It also features a vehiclespeed-sensitive electric power steering. Like the Leaf, the LE Concept is expected to have a range of about 100 miles on a single charge
2013 Acura RLX
BMW 3-Series Long Wheelbase
Mercedes-Benz GLK Class A bit more glamorous, a bit more mature and a bit less performanceoriented than most of the smaller luxury crossover market, the MercedesBenz GLK stakes out its own territory and defends it well, selling just under 25,000 copies last year. For 2013, the GLK gets a handful of updates plus a new GLK250 BlueTEC diesel model . With 190 horsepower but 369 pooundfeet of torque,the 2.1-liter four-cylinder GLK250 diesel might just be the new hotness in the luxury crossover world. As far as looks go, it’s still the same GLK , freshened for the new year, and that’s a good thing.
Designed exclusively for the Chinese market, the long-wheelbase 3-Series follows BMW’s 2011 introduction of current-generation longwheelbase 5-Series models in the Chinese market. With its wheelbase extended by 4.3 inches, a conspicuously elegant design, and a claimed best rear seat travel comfort among the competition, the long-wheelbase 3-Series should prove popular among the executive crowd. The lineup is based on the latest 2012 BMW 3-Series range and offers three different options for buyers: the 320Li, 328Li and 335Li. The most powerful model, the 335Li, features the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine offered in the regular 335i and the full 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque that comes with it. www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 111
“The magic of first love is our ignorance that it can never end� - Benjamin Disraeli
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ongwriters and poets over time have said that first love never dies. You never forget the first person, who made your heart beat incredibly fast, filled your mind to the point that it was impossible to spend a day without thinking of him/her, made you go through sleepless nights and yearn for things you had never dreamed of before. Everyone remembers their first love, it is not the childhood infatuation on a teacher or a movie star; it is usually the first relationship or attraction of a romantic nature experienced in adolescence. The emotional experiences are very strong - feelings of passion, euphoria, sincerity, anxiety, and fear - and they usually all come in a blend, which makes getting over it very tough. If the first love ends on a happy note, then it poses no further problems. On the other hand, if the first love fails for any reason, the legacy it leaves behind could be very excruciating. Getting over your first love is not just any old break-up; this is the boy/girl who taught you what it meant to fall in love! You made plans for the future to live together; you have tons of jokes and memories of the time you spent together. It will definitely be a daunting undertaking. The truth however is, no matter how hard it is to believe right now, it is a fact that we humans are capable of loving more than one person. We have the ability to love unconditionally, and even though we will not extend the same degree of love to each of our partners, we can have more than one true love in our lifetimes. No doubt, the memories of first love would always remain fresh and occupy a special place in our hearts, but it is left to us to decide how we let those memories affect our lives. Research by scientists indicate that the ideal would be to forget first loves since they give unattainable expectations in future relationships and most times lead to disappointments. But is the first love dilemma really that intense? Is it really necessary that we employ such drastic a measure? Here, five people take a richly reminiscent look into the past and share their real life experiences, as well as tips that that worked for them.
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the first love dilemma
A THRIVING MOVIE STAR, A CORPER IN HER MID-TWENTIES, A FIRST-RATE MUSIC PRODUCER, A COLLEGE HUNK AND A SEXY MODEL ALL GOT OVER THEIR FIRST LOVES WHEN THEY ALMOST THOUGHT IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE. YOU CAN TOO!
Adaeze Nnamani 24,Youth Corper, Single
“…I love her... not because she is pretty on the outside, but the inner beauty that radiates on the outside. I cannot explain it, but it’s just a strong connection beyond feelings and I just love to love her shaaaa... There’s just a peace in that”. Those were words he said about me...how can you get over someone who says something like that? I met him at Covenant University shortly before I travelled out to finish my schooling in USA. Sometimes i think it was the way he stared at me, he just couldn’t stop. He would see me at choir practice and do things like laugh louder or stare really hard at me so I could notice him. He kept telling everyone else before were officially introduced to each other that I was his wife... his advances were lovey dovey and so romantic (at least that’s what i thought). I noticed him though, he was so attractive and still is...Beautiful teeth, lovely eyes, amazing voice ,warm and caring charisma, fun-to-be-around type of guy. Finally, he asks me to lunch and calls me the night I was leaving for the States to say “I like you” and then a couple of days later to say “I love you.” We dated for four years (long distance) and it was really hard, but beautiful. I would come back to Nigeria once a year after i travelled and we would spend bits of time within the time i had to stay. One of the memories that i have from that time that i still cherish so much is the evening he walked me home and we were just singing out loud on the street and people were like what in the world is wrong with these 2 people! He would sing a verse and I would try to sing the bridge or chorus of the song with my crooked voice and he would lie to me and say “its okay baby, you sing well.” Despite the distance and the possibilities of leaving each other, we wanted to be together, to stick together, to help each other grow, and above all to love each other unconditionally. He loved me like a true son of God and it was amazing. We were not in the relationship for play. The fact that he considered me good enough to be his wife was no joke. Why and how we lasted that long remains a mystery to me, but we did. The funniest thing was why and how we broke up. I told him on one of our Skype nights that I wanted to lock my hair and he did not like that very much (he probably has his own version of this story).Next thing, he started confessing how he was not sexually or physically attracted to me and all. He felt it was something we could work on, but I knew i had to break us up right then. I felt - why date me for four years or even get into the relationship in the first place when you know I wasn’t that attractive to you? The heart wrenching part was him getting a girlfriend almost immediately after we broke up, it was like he never really cared at all. Even after he got the girlfriend, I kept telling myself he would come back and we would pick up from 114 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
where we stopped. It was a very traumatic experience for me! When i realized he was not coming back, i grieved for a while, but soon realized i had to stop at some point. I reduced the number of times I called or talked about him, I was beginning to move on. Also, I kept myself busy. The busier I got, the more I realized I wasn’t thinking of him as much as I used to. Slowly as I started to focus more on God and what I needed to do with my life it started to ease, also dating someone else helped but that’s not the best way to get over someone and I did not use my next relationship to get over him, i just found myself liking someone else so strongly that I forgot I was so in love with my ex! I do not regret dating my first love, i still think of the memories we made together, but the ‘beef’is gone, we are good friends and we stay in touch. ur
When i realized he was not coming back, i grieved for a while, but soon realized i had to stop at some point
Chris Bassey 28, Actor, Dating
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ometimes the flashbacks come...and then i wonder if I have truly gotten over my first love! We never broke up, at least not officially. Losing her was the worst feeling ever! It felt like i had a hole in my stomach, painfully spreading to my heart...And I was dying a slow, excruciating death. We didn’t even date for so long, just a year and some months. I had gone to my mother’s village to spend some time with my maternal relations when I met her. One of my friends introduced her to me. She was the sweetest girl, a ray of sunshine! Our relationship wasn’t as romantic as present day where you go out on a date in a restaurant or so. We used to take longs walks. Actually, she would tell her parents she was out to visit her friend (the friend who introduced us), and we would meet there. My friend would give us some privacy to talk, but she loved to take walks. After each time we spent together, she would walk me half way back to my house and most times I would escort her back to the front of her place.it seems cheesy right now, but right then, it was the highlight of our walks. The little things we did like resting on a building wall and gisting, holding hands and having nice conversation or just laughing out loud made what we had so simple but exotic. The whole thing went sour the day I was told that she was actually my cousin and there was no way we were going to have a future together. I can’t even explain how the information made me feel, I cried a lot the day, I was only 17 at that time. Most times i wonder if we would still be together if I was never told that bit of information. Blinded by the pain, confusion and fear as well, I dint bother to do any form of investigation, I just cut off all links I had to her. I am a very open minded person, fun to be with, but I tend to get very discouraged at very little things. After a couple of months, after i stopped grieving and started accepting the fact that i had to move on, the worst
thing happened, i got another information countering the fact that my first love was my cousin. I did some investigation this time, and realized that she were not related in any way. I had reacted to wrong information. I tried searching for her, i wanted to fix it, but it was too late. I even went to her work place but she wasn’t there anymore. I did not only suffer though another heart break, this time, the guilt and feelings of regret was eating at me. I took me a very long time to stop thinking about her and how i could make things right. I realized that i had to let the pain out, tell someone, get advice ...it was the only way to expel all the negative feelings stored up inside of me. Those feelings where holding me captive. I had to move on. It has been over five years, but i have found new joy and the courage to let go of my past. ur
I realized that i had to let the pain out, tell someone, get advice ...it was the only way to expel all the negative feelings stored up inside of me.
Dafe Obatarhe 32, Music Producer, Single
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hey say you will always love your first LOVE, that there is something magical about it that often goes beyond words... call me mushy, but I believe that. It has been over 5 years and i still cannot confidently say that i am over her. She is married, and i know that, and i know that i no longer have any chance with her, but i guess something in me still belongs to her. I remember that sensation of first love that struck me the day i met her, It was a
feeling like winning the lottery and simultaneously, like wanting to vomit. It is indescribable. I was 22 at that time; she was based in Calabar while I was based in Lagos. She had come to visit a relation in Lagos. I like to think it was love at first sight. We were so in love and in tune with each other! We were so in sync, like we could read each other’s mind. It was magical.It sadly lasted for just four years. I think we both knew. She consciously and me subconsciously, that there was no way we would work out. We wanted different things. I see that now. But back then all I saw was her pushing me away for no reason. I was very upset and disappointed in her, it was like she was avoiding me at all costs. When time came for it to truly end I was devastated. I say “truly end” because at the age bracket we were in, couples break up a bunch of times and then get back together for some reason or another. Towards the end of our relationship, that was happening a lot and we were both unhappy. I believe that we wanted to stay together because we had built such a happy and loving relationship. She was very close with my family and we were best friends. It was one of the hardest things I have ever had to overcome in my life thus far. After the break up I moved to Benin. I moved there to pursue my dream of being a music producer, get away from all the drama, and start something fresh. But then, i still missed her. At the time, I never, ever thought that I would find someone else someone that I would be happier with, feel more comfortable with, and be able to see a future with. They say it takes half the
time you date someone to get over them. I know firsthand it is not true. People are different; it takes different lengths of time with different people. I resisted the temptation of falling into a rebound relationship, I was single and loved it for two years, and then met someone else who made me forget about my first love and those awful feelings that surged through me each time I thought about her. I moved on. I admit I had relapses where I would compare the new love with my first love, but in the long run...I realized three things about relationships: Don’t project your past into your future and assume that things are going to be bad; let go of any negative reaction you had from your relationship and put them in the past and finally, Make a choice to be optimistic about the future, open yourself up tolove again. Am I still a little cynical? Of course I am. Will I forever be a little scared of forming a loving and hopefully, lasting relationship with women down the road? Maybe. But I would never let that stop me from sharing love with someone else. ur
They say it takes half the time you date someone to get over them. I know firsthand it is not true. People are different; it takes different lengths of time with different people
Agorua Donald 21, Student, Dating
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rowing up, I had older siblings at home, three elder brothers and 4 big sisters. One would think that would be a joy, but all the attention and criticisms made me kind of shy. The good part of having elder sisters I guess was the load of female friends who would come around the house, chat to me and buy me things. It made me very free with the female folk; I could talk to any girl at anytime. Sometimes I would crush on some of their friends … even my brother’s girlfriends. At some point I even though I was in love with one of the older girls, I dint have a clear idea of what loving someone was until I got into secondary school. The first three years passed in a blur. It was in SS1 that I met her. I noticed her in the dining hall; I never saw her before and was wondering if she was a new student, so I walked up to her. when I got to her I just went blank, didn’t know what to say. It was a whole new experience for me because I considered myself a pro when it came to chatting up ladies. I felt like a complete fool. Her friends started laughing at me. I would have traded my right arm there and then for the floor to open up and swallow me. I was about to turn around and walk away when she asked “are you going to say anything?”I was instantly entranced! I still wonder what it was, maybe her voice or the way she said it, but, I just felt courage surge back into me, and my old self come into me. It took just 5 minutes to get her number and two weeks later, we were officially a couple. She was not the first girl that I dated, she was not the first
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that I kissed or had sex with, but she was the first to really touch my heart and show me what it really meant to love. I was hugely enamoured! We had so many adventures and fun together, my world was so wrapped around hers that I couldn’t hide my feelings for her from either my family or the school authorities. Our love was fierce and to me it was our bliss, but I guess there were negative sides to it as well, my grades were dropping, we were taking unnecessary risks and I was becoming a lot more rebellious. After one short year, we knew it had to end, we had put in so much and lost a lot – respect, love, trust, confidence and so on. When I mentioned that we take a break, she looked at me with such pain on her face. Till today, I can’t really get the picture out of my head. If she had suspicions on why I was breaking up with her or leaving her, I would never know because that day was probably the last day I ever spoke to her. She ignored me, would not respond to my notes, emails and messages. Before long, I had to leave for AUN to continue my education. I had taken the SCCE in my SS2 and passed.
her just to dump her or because I had stopped loving her, we just needed a break, it was apparent that we were not good for each other. For a long time after her, I could not date anyone else or let my heart out to anyone else because I was afraid it would be a repeat of my last relationship, I was so afraid to invest so much time, love and emotion on a relationship that would most likely turn sour at the end of the day. I met lots of girls, slept with some, but it was never the same, the worst part was I dint event know I was battling with moving on from the relationship with my first love. I finally met someone else who loved me enough to point it out to me and stick with me while I worked towards getting over my first love. It was the worst thing ever, but I am glad that I am finally over her! I still think about her, but, that’s all there is to it - Memories! ur
Faleye kemi 23, Model, Dating
Breaking up with her gave me so much guilt, her silence and refusal to clear the air with me made me feel so bad about the whole issue. It felt like I was the one that had been dumped, I had never wanted to break up with
She was not the first girl that I dated, she was not the first that I kissed or had sex with, but she was the first to really touch my heart and show me what it really meant to love
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y First love ‘absolutely did not’ spoil the rest! I know it sounds smug, but honestly, if you have a boyfriend who is sensitive to your needs, adores you, and treats you like a queen, you would hardly think wistfully of someone you haven’t (with luck) seen for over 5 years or of any of the others who crossed your path before. I met him in my last year of secondary school, i had enrolled in this after-school private lesson
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to help me prepare better for my final exams. One of the days as i was going home from that lesson, he saw me and accosted me. He was already in the university and had come around the area for for his friend’s birthday party . I guess like beyounce, i can say that he had me at hello! His accent, perfume, swags...and the fact that he was already an undergraduate, it was all overwhelming to me at that time. i remember our first kiss and our other first moments, I really loved him in my own naive way. We dated for 4 years before i realized he was not good for me and there was no way we could hav a future together. I left him. It was one of the hardest decisions I ever had to make at that time because i was not just in love with him, he was my best friend, my everything. He was the first person I could do anything for apart from my family and at that time, I could not survive a day without talking to him. i just could not stand the cheating and lies as well as his possessive nature anymore. we did not trust each other anymore. I felt like i was devaluing my worth by sticking with him. I had already given him two years to change, but it only got worse. It was like living in bondage and being tortured as well. I needed some fresh air; i needed to feel beautiful and whole again! After I broke up with him, I thought I would be devastated and my life would never be the same again, but I found out soon enough that i felt free instead, like a heavy burden had been lifted off my shoulders. Moving on was not the hardest thing at all, I just needed to believe within myself that I deserved better. I realize now that the key to moving on is actually slowing things down, and taking out time to be alone rather than rushing into another relationship. You don’t have to be in a relationship to feel loved; you can actually give yourself that safe feeling of being loved by concentrating on loving yourself. The relationship might have ended badly, but I do not regret it, I believe to everything, there is a certain purpose. I remember
him from time to time, but in eve feel any sort of animosity towards him. He gave me my first experience of what love was all about and I will always be thankful for that. ur
the key to moving on is actually slowing things down, and taking out time to be alone rather than rushing into another relationship. You don’t have to be in a relationship to feel loved; you can actually give yourself that safe feeling of being loved by concentrating on loving yourself.
Tips for Getting Over Your First Love 1. Don’t try to get your ex back 2. Cut off all communication with your ex 3. Don’t assume that you’ll never find love again 4. Focus on becoming a better person 5. Don’t be afraid to love again
confessions
11 Shocking Single girl habits That Nigerian girls are proud To admit To!
After a long stretch of time, single girls living alone find that certain shameful behaviours fester and grow and become less appalling. Though most Nigerian girls would never admit doing anything weird while alone in their apartments, like sing Wizkid songs to their plants or strut around in stained crumpled clothes, some others feel fairly confident and proud to admit to such behaviours. Here are sixteen single behaviour confessions we got from some of these girls!
1. Making noodles in a small pot and eating directly from the same pot to avoid washing an extra dish. It might look stupid. But the two minutes saved on washing extra dishes is worth it. Time is money!
2. Spilling something on the counter and brushing it onto the floor. Come on! You can’t sweep them off all the time…Bread and cereal crumbs, groundnut shells, all of it belongs on the kitchen floor where it blends into the tiles or gets stuck to the bottom of your slippers.
3. Eating straight out of the fridge or in bed with the laptop. If you’ve recently wiped down your regular eating area, it’s dumb to get it dirty by taking yet another meal there … alone. Skip the kitchen and go straight from fridge to bed.
4. Drinking straight from the bottle.
Are you kidding! This shouldn’t even be a confession. Water straight from the can. Wine straight from the bottle. Milk straight from the tin.
5. Wearing the same underwear multiple times. Do not be alarmed, by underwear, we do not mean G-strings or tight panties. Inner tights and under skirts are underwear that cushion female clothing, you can put off washing them for a while. A long while!
6. Washing hand after using the bathroom without using actual soap. Waste of hand soap! It’s your butt, your hands; you really don’t expect to get sick, especially when you just eased out the liquid one. Bask in your own germs
7. Pressing the trash down further to fit more garbage in, instead of
taking it out. It doesn’t matter if your apartment smells like rotting beans if you’re the only one who has to smell it. A candle or some room spray will mask the smell and you’ll live another day without having to go down four flights of stairs to the big bin.
8. Taking a longer time to wash period blood stained sheets. It is not disgusting; it is usually just a small spot, besides there is something comforting about sleeping in one’s own period stain. Reminds you that you’re still fertile!
9. Cupping bare breasts or vagina while watching TV.
It just feels right, especially when the room is cold.
10. Using a towel for a really long time without washing it. Same goes for that face towel you’ve been using in the bathroom. You can flip it up to four times before every surface is covered in your mascara.
11. Boogers don’t really need to go in tissues. Boogers (or mucus as most Nigerians call it) also can be wiped on walls, under beds, in the carpet. Boogers also like to be flicked. But don’t eat boogers. That would be really disgusting. 16. Leaving clumps of hair in the hairbrush. As long at the bristles still run through your hair, you’re in business dear.
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city guide
asaba 118 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
hot list ediTor’S picKS of The aSaba’S beST hoTelS
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tunning views, imaginative décor and fine dinning, there’s a hotel to suit all tastes in this city. Take a look at our favourite Asaba hotels to find your perfect fit. As you might imagine, our favourite hotels in Asaba come fully equipped with impressive technology and business facilities, lending themselves perfectly to corporate meetings, as well as a bundle of added extras that make all the difference when travelling out-ofstate. This year’s Hot Hotels are an eclectic group and they range in size!
grand hotel
No 112 Nnebisi rd, Asaba, Delta
orchid hotels
DBS Road,GRA, Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria
and suite accommodations, meetings and events space, delicious restaurants,a club and a serene rooftop garden that overlooks the River Niger . It also offers a variety of getaway packages for your vacation in Asaba. With each their 170 guestrooms including suites featuring deluxe bedding, a spacious floor plan, and modern amenities including WiFi and premium television channels, you will always be assured of a privileged welcome with a discreet and friendly service. Amenities include: Olympic size pool, tennis courts, fitness room with beauty services, conference rooms, Internet facilities, open air amphitheater, night club and casino, a variety of restaurants. REVIEW: This is one of the best hotels to chill out when you are on vacation or business in Asaba. Situated on River Niger, it is truely a paradise with great views of Onitsha and the Niger Bridge. Very good service with interncontinental cuisine and 24 hour room service. Reccommend to all because its fabulous.
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xperience the essence of urban tranquility in the heart of Asaba, Delta State when you stay at the Grand Hotel Convention Centre & Resort Asaba. Nestled between the beautiful river coast of the Niger and the impressive Town of Asaba, capital of the Delta State, Grand Hotel is one of the most luxurious and cosy resorts with contemporary elegance imaginable .The splendour of the décor, the ever present quality linked to true elegance combine to give a refined atmosphere of luxury. Grand Hotel offers deluxe
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ne of Asaba’s original hotels, Orchid Hotel is definitely the place to come for a touch of classical grandeur. Situated in the heart of Asbaba, public areas are awash with artefacts and antique furniture, whilst elegant bedrooms feature heavy curtains, oriental rugs and imposing marble bathrooms. With a bar and restaurant , there are plenty of culinary options available, as well as local delicacies that attracts visitors from far and wide. Orchid is a name synonymous with leisure, they symbolise beauty of a home away from home and the satisfaction sought for in a cosy hotel.It is easy to
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hotel valarie
3-11, Hotel Valerie Road, Off DLA Road, Asaba
access.From the road adjoining the Benin, Asaba expressway by summit junction. Amenities available include :Gymnasium, Internet, Laundry, Mini Bar, Mobile Police Security, Pool, Room Service, Golf Driving Range and Tennis REVIEW: Reception could not be more helpful. Loved the decor. Huge rooms, private balcony, big bathroom and closet and most comfortable bed. The restaurant is hip and popular with Nollywoodites, great local cuisine. Loved the central courtyard with bar service. Not cheap but if want interesting Asaba stay... then this is great choice.
southgate hotel 1 okpanam road,by inter Bau Round about, Asaba, delta state Nigeria
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estled in the heart of heart of the business district of Asaba, is the Southgate hotel. A short walk, drive or commuter trek to many prominent local attractions; this Asaba hotel is the ideal location for business & leisure travelers. If you find yourself in Asaba for a convention , a business meeting, a leisure getaway, a family vacation, or a movie deal in Nollywood, Southgate has every amenity plus great location the on-the-go traveler needs to pull it all together. An
oasis of tranquillity, it offers a choice of 42 luxurious bedrooms, a perfect idea of excellent accommodation in the most elegant of surroundings.Their friendly staff are always on hand to offer efficient and prompt service, ensuring that you get the best out of your stay . REVIEW The property is absolutely beautiful but most impressive is the amazingservice ,if you need pampering and to be taken care of then this is the place.Great food, excellent menu , lovely gift shop! Excellent for , business, couples, familly and with the advent of proximity to local attractions. This is a diamond. Tip: evry room is a good room.
nature caPanari hotel 17 Bar. Mrs Okonye Street Behind Co-operative House, Okpanam Road, Asaba, Delta State.
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he premier choice for celebrities and dignitaries , Nature Capanari Hotel offers modern luxury in the heart of exciting Asaba town. Located in the vibrant cultural and financial districts,this hotel is steps away from major attractions.Nature Campanari celebrates Asaba’s vibrant history and contemporary lifestyle, offering an intimate and elegant hideaway. Experience distinctive service and classic style in their hotel guest rooms and suites. Each bright, spacious room has a fresh, clean atmosphere with a hint of south-south charm, and offers traditional amenities like satellite television, daily maid
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service, a mini-bar, complimentary high-speed wireless Internet access, modem lines and laundry services. The hotel also offers complimentary breakfasts each morning, fine dining is available on site and there are incredible meeting and event spaces suitable for everything from board meetings to weddings. Review Nice, quiet, spacious suites. They are well-appointed, and have everything you need to be comfortable. Nice new flatscreens in each room. It is clean, well maintained throughout the property. The cleaning and check out staff were all very pleasant and professional.
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nsconced in the heart of Asaba, the recently unveiled Hotel Valarie is a colloquial gem . Sleek guestrooms complete with European influences, gourmet mini bars and luxury bath essentials are just the start of offerings at the Hotel Valarie. Only a 20 minutes drive from airport , This Asaba hotel impresses with a soothing ambiance despite a vibrant location within easy reach of key destinations .From the outdoor pool to nightly turndown service, this hotel strives to offer a truly pampering experience. Review Great size room - the beds and pillow super comfortable, a quieter spot than the other big name hotel in town, convenient for business, courteous staff and a great bar.
dining + nightlife in asaba
nelrose hotel Government House Road, Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria.
Nelrose Hotel is the preferred option when in Asaba for both business and pleasure. with excellently landscaped and gorgeous surroundings, fully fitted gyms, wireless internet access, relaxing pool side area, artificial beach, exotic lounges and bars, night clubs, beautifully appointed rooms, finest cuisine and much more, it will provides you with a haven of tranquility and satisfaction. Located at the highbrow area of Asaba, Nelrose has become the number one centre for business travelers, business conferences, holiday makers, fun seekers and for wining and dining. Amenities include: 24 hrs Power supply Gymnasium Fitness Centre Internet Kitchen Laundry Mini Bar Mobile Police Security Pool Room Service REVIEW The hotel was clean, elegant, quiet and restful with very nice toiletries. The shower and bath mat were perfect with hot water to last and a powerful stream of water to bath. Service was great, the bar and lounge was excellent.The staff was friendly and helpful.
havilah hotel No, 11 Erhuvwu Street, Off Summit Road, Asaba
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Asaba is stuffed with intriguing travel spots, where one can quite simply pass a lot of hours enjoying the nightlife . Currently there are a wide range of bars, gardens and clubs through out the city. No matter what sort of bar or club you are interested in, if you are determined, you will unearth it in Asaba.
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or travelers on a budget unwilling to compromise style for thriftiness, Havilah hotel in Asaba offers modern, savvy accommodation at a cheap price. Close to the airport, upscale boutique shops and trendy bars and nightclubs, Havilah Suites gives superior hospitality. Rooms are brightly lit with colorful furnishings and each guestroom provides you with all you need for ere is one of the brilliant a comfortable stay as well as free bars in Asaba with a huge high-speed Internet access. Along garden bar serving drinks of with spectacular views of the city, When you stay at Havilah Suites, all sorts and local cusines. From you relax in a sophisticated three the outside this place looks very inviting. Great corner location, star environment. good music playing & an outside patio that looks like the perfect Review place to enjoy some good food. The staff at this hotel are People in Asaba drop their cars wonderful - very attentive to special requests. Perfect location, off for a wash and give their great recommendations to local tonsils a bit of a tickle with beer. Tunja bar is hugely popular as it restraunts ,a peacful haven. offesr something rather different. Overall, great place with an environment and portions worth at least 3 stars. The atmosphere is incredibly friendly, waiters and waitresses over the years have been very consistent with checking up coustomers which makes them feel welcome.
tunJa
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derma gardens
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erma Gardens, one of Asaba’s popular Restaurants, gives you a different expereince with south-south cuisines. The
owners are obviously committed to ingredient quality and scratch preparations to create healthy robust flavors and unique expressions of Asaba favourites like Isiewu, Nkwobi, peppered snails and Pepper soup.Similarly, their bar offerings are refreshing, creative, and addictive. Derma gardens bar options are perfect for pairing with the menu they offer, and can be enjoyed for happy hour, or late night.
Phase 2 bar
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hase 2 bar is one of Asaba’s hottest nightclub. The outside may be an odd collection of chairs, plastic crates and/or logs to sit on. Music is always played and often from speakers that were blown some years ago. This may sound unattractive, but it is actually a good time.Brilliant place to meet locals and others, and also has plenty of bars dotted around. A very, very lively and cool place. Smart/casual - men will not get in if wearing sandals. Phase 2 is open every Saturday, Friday, Wednesday and Sunday night.
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gaga gardens
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ith unmatchable style and unbeatable taste, Gaga gardens is one of those cool hangouts at night whose performance cannot be challenged. Nigerian culture intermingled with south-south inspired delicacies makes the place the perfect place for anyone from asaba to feel at home. Further contributing to the serenity of atmosphere, the classic and the contemporary Nigerian music in combination with beer enhances the enjoyment.
y2k Pub
Planet golden club
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saba’s luxurious nightclub is situated in The Grand Hotel. Haunt of the uber-trendy, it combines unrestrained opulence with a distinct, progressive and modern approach. You can expect to listen to well-known local names from dancehall, live blues, jazz, fusion, comedy or the coolest new acts. Jam sessions and open mics offer up-andcoming talent an outlet too. This is a real cultural and decidedly social experience not to be missed. It has its reputation as one of the hottest nightspots in the Asaba.
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his pub in Asaba is the setting where you can relax in the peaceful aura with hands engaged with glasses full of beer.Comfortable service of the bartenders and availability of delectable dishes along with the sensation of music is sufficient enough to drive any heart crazy. The open roof area wins the admiration of the guests within seconds.To keep drinking spirits high and enjoy the beauty of night, Y2k pub can be your much.
shoPPing STyliSh in asaba baSicS
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rom the perfect pair of jeans to a dazzling dress or sky-high heels, there are plenty of ways to flit away your paycheck at one of Asaba’s best boutiques. There’s no doubt you’ll discover some irresistible fabulous fashions finds at these top Asaba stores; after all, Asaba girls love to shop and they’ve got the boutiques to prove it. Looks like it’s time for some retail therapy!
gliTTery gemS
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lantino wine cafe and lounge offers a glimpse into the sophisticated world of wine. This esteemed wine bar features over 20 wine selections. Along with their impressive wine list, they also offer an extensive brunch and lunch menu, and a large selection of local delicacies. With a comfortable, elegant interior and warm cozy lighting to provide the perfect atmosphere for your night out and outsized bottle labels adorning their walls, it is a good place to spend your night;.
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nyols Bold, colorful jewelry accents a range of looks from punk to pretty-girl. You’ll find handcarved and delicate beaded pieces with pearls and semiprecious stones .
foreign affairs
This shop displays super-chic collections, ranging from the twisted modern to more traditional chandelier earrings dripping with precious gems to non-jewelry accessories.
so fly aPParels Although university students and stylish twentysomethings come here for things that are just trendy enough, these clothes appeal to all ages.
attraction This understated little shop carries trendy women’s fashion without distractions or crowds. The downside: the selection is limited.
mUlTideSigNer, mUlTipUrpoSe Perfection mega boutique Looking for women’s, mens and children’s clothing? Designers but very low prices on selected items? Then visit this place , you can find something nice if you really give a lot of efford into looking.
faZek faZek
signature boutique
This shop displays super-chic collections, ranging from the twisted modern to more traditional chandelier earrings dripping with precious gems to non-jewelry accessories.
Here you will find a diverse and fantastic selection of fashionforward jewelry, tops, dresses, handbags, and other fabulous gifts you won’t find anywhere else. And best of all, t hewallet-
friendly prices will make you feel like you’ve just found a secret treasure trove.
starworld collection boutique This shop express a modern sensibility to clothing design. You’ll find both men’s and women’s clothes here plus handbags, shoes, and jewelry, Expect to shell out a fair amount of cash, but it’s worth it. And if you are lucky you will visit during one of their very good sales, where prices can be as much as 50 percent off!
Princess chomy uniseX boutique
parTy girlS
This store sells a lot of European labels and really timeless pretty things. They they have amazing jewelry as well. They are also next door to a bunch of other boutiques.
Just trendy
divine favour Place This is a place to find decent clothing, shoes, homegoods, etc at a very decent price. customer affirm that they always bring in a lot of new merchandise so visit this store, even every couple of weeks, and you may find a lot of new and different merchandise.
claSSic TailoriNg afrik wardrobe
Looking for women’s, and men’s clothing? Local designers but very low prices on selected items? Then visit this place , you can find something nice if you really give a lot of efford into looking.
STyliSh SoleS Zara world all in one This multi-designer-boutique stock , it also carries costume jewellry, fragrances, and children’s clothing.
This upscale store entices shoppers with fashiony downtown taste in shoes with a good selection hip labels—both famous and below the radar. Labels include : Zara,bershka, xdye, Dorothy perkins, baby-phat, George, nine west.
house of mo Aside from shoes, bags, belts and lingerie, this shop has a wide selection of beauty products, ranging from nail polish to eyeliners and facial wipes. They have such brands as LA colors, Iman, Sleek, Mac and so on!
Pick from this shop’s ultrafeminine clothing and accessories made from vintage fabrics or bring your own stuff to be jazzed up.
KidS
dress sense
k’n’t boutique
Pretty publicists and their wellheeled friends swear by this shop’s trendy staples: designer jeans, corduroys, Jimmy Choo boots, splashy handbags, and much more.
This boutique has an amazing assortment of specialty clothing for kids. Skip it if you are looking for mass-market clothing. However, if your kids (from newborns to tweens) like to dress in unique, fashion-forward clothes, this is the spot for you.
signature secrets Packed with bright, tight fashion from European labels , these shop has everything a young society girl needs to get through a season full of brunch dates and party hopping.
treeZa boutique This colorful store has some of the sexiest, most feminine things around: Show some leg in a jagged-edged flare dress or lace “culotte”-style underwear.
nunny’s collection ( ladies and kiddies) For parents of stylish kids who live or shop in Asaba, this is a highly regarded clothing store with a reputation for quality clothing and excellent customer service. They house an extensive assortment of trendy fashions. Although this might not be the best economic option for purchasing your child’s everyday wear, we definitely recommend it for the occasional splurge.
beaUTy ThiNgS ella’s court This is a neighborhood shop for reasonably priced beauty products Here you can get products from sleek, Mary -K, Iman and Mac, mostly beauty products for facial make-up.
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UR CITY GUIDE
Pack right, travel light!
Travelling can be very stressful: waking up early in the morning to be at the airport at least two hours in advance, arguing with the ticket agent about how big your carry-on luggage is, being checked through security and having all of your belongings searched, waiting in the gate area, and worrying about whether you packed all of the essentials! It becomes even more stressful when you have a lot of luggage. Over packing can weigh you down but under packing can leave you stranded with nothing to wear. Before you let the stress keep you at home , check out our travel tips to getting it just right.
1 6 2 7 3 4 5 1. Choose luggage wisely
The first rule of packing involves knowing how to choose good luggage. This involves determining whether or not your suitcase is going to rip, break and if it can be easily opened. You need top-quality and light-weight for peace of mind.
2. Plan Ahead:
Rather than bringing a bunch of separate outfits you feel you could pick from once you get to your destination; plan your full outfits – from the shoes to the accessories - before you leave the house.
3. Coordinate Your Colours:
Try to choose pieces with a similar colour scheme and vibe, so that you can mix and match for added flexibility without any added items to pack.
4. Light on Your Feet:
Shoes are one of the largest and heaviest items to bring. When packing footwear, go for styles that will work for several occasions. Generally, a neutral coloured wedge heel and a flat embellished sandal will work for most casual weekends.
5. Load Up on Jewelry:
Jewelry takes up less space in your bag than clothing, and can transform an outfit in a snap. Start with simple dainty gold jewellery for daytime, and throw in some statement pieces to
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transition into cocktail hour and dressier occasions.
6. Toiletries Toothbrush, mouthwash, toothpaste, floss (traveling abroad doesn’t mean your breath has to start stinking like the local farm animals), comb, nail clippers, shaving cream, razor, cotton balls, cologne, and moisturizer. If you’re not picky about shampoos and conditioners, then don’t bother packing your own; hotels usually provide them .
7. Count Your Travel Outfit: Whatever you wear to travel is an extension of what you’re bringing on the trip. Whether it’s a chunky cardigan to protect you from an ocean breeze, or an oversized necklace to jazz up a sundress use your body to carry things that you would want to wear during the weekend. Now hop on that train, rental car , airplane, whatever… with confidence, and without your body weight in baggage. ..And don’t forget your wallet!
5 steps to get rid of stomach fat quickly
UR HEALTH & FITNESS
T
he stomach is certainly the worst place to carry fat. Ask any man, woman, they’ll point to their abdominal region as the number one part the body they wished was thinner. Unfortunately, the belly is one of the hardest places to “shift” weight! For some individuals, it would take many months of hard dieting coupled with intense exercises sessions to get down to body fat levels where you could see really defined abs, whereas other lucky individuals are simply able to get down to reasonable levels of body fat to see a clear picture of their abs without much ado. A toned, sexy midsection is a good indication that you are doing something right in the diet and fitness department of your life and definitely does increase your attractiveness level. Follow these easy steps to a slimmer tummy (and you) in weeks!:
your 4 reduce portion sizes!
1
work out your metabolism type
To do this, answer the following questions: - How do you feel after eating a large meal? Tired, hungry, what? - What foods do you crave? - How do you gain weight? - Do you eat breakfast? - Are you hungry all the time?
you are a Type 1 if: - You feel hungry after eating, normally just 10 minutes later - You crave salty or fatty foods between meals - You gain weight easily, no matter what you eat - You eat breakfast - You are hungry constantly
you are a Type 2 if: - You feel tired and heavy after a large meal - You crave sweets between meals - You gain weight when you eat too many fats or sweets - You don’t eat breakfast - You are not hungry after eating
The difference between the types is simple. Type 1 burns fat quicker than a Type 2, making it slightly easier for a Type 1 to lose weight than a Type 2, but only just.
2
be aware of your metabolism type
If you are Type 1, cut out fatty, salty foods and Type 2 cut out on your sweet foods. If you can’t “cut” these out, reduce your intake. Whatever you do, make a start.
eat more good
and good 3 proteins fats (type 1 ) and more complex carbohydrates (type 2)
Good Proteins include: Chicken, turkey, most fish, milk (low fat), cheese (low fat) butter, eggs, and most veges; Good Fats include: Almond oil, Olive oil, Canola oil and butter; while Complex Carbohydrates include: Oatmeal, brown rice, avocado’s, whole wheat bread, white rice and pasta.
This is a key to losing the weight quickly. Do not always go for extras, or eat more than you need to, cut down the quantity of what you eat. If you can stick to the right portion sizes you WILL lose weight. This means that you can still eat some of the foods you like, even if they are “bad” for you, making it easier to follow and stick to.
5
eat more good proteins and good fats (type 1 ) and more complex carbohydrates (type 2)
You need to get your metabolism going especially if you are a Type 2, this will help you lose weight quicker. 30 minutes, 5 times a week is all it takes, consistency is the key - keep at it. There you have it, 5 steps to get rid of stomach fat quickly, safely and easily. Portion sizes and consistency in exercise is the key to making this diet work. Make a goal to do this for at least 3 months and you WILL lose that belly fat.
other helPful tiPs:
• Take a fiber supplement before your meals so that you have a fuller feeling and will eat lesser • Do brisk walking at 7.2 KM/H of at least 30 minutes 5 times a day • Take an apple in the morning an hour before your breakfast • Have at least 4 hours in between your breakfast and lunch and lunch and dinner • Have at least 12 hours in between your dinner and your breakfast • Avoid high sugar intake like soft drinks and sports drinks • Take a high fiber, high protein and low carbohydrates dinner • Eat only up till 70% full and not stop only when you are full • Avoid eating oily, fatty food and have more of the healthy food • No snacking in between meals • If you really need carbohydrates, take complex carbohydrates instead of simple carbohydrates • Chew your food at least 32 times before you swallow
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UR HEALTH & FITNESS
top 10 heartburn foods M
illions of us are familiar with the discomfort of heartburn, a condition in which stomach acids back up into the oasophagus. Instead of focusing on what you can’t eat and drink, learn how to choose the right foods and drinks to help prevent or reduce the uncomfortable burning sensation that heartburn sufferers know too well.heartburn is largely avoidable if you steer clear of these top 10 heartburn foods.
tangy citrus fruits Oranges, grapefruits and orange juice are classic heartburn foods. They are very acidic, and as a result they are likely to cause heartburns, especially when consumed on an otherwise empty stomach
tomatoes While they might be chockfull of healthy nutrients like lycopene, tomatoes are also highly acidic and likely to cause heartburn in those who are prone to it.The acid antidote may be a sour ball, things that promote saliva are good for acid reflux because saliva neutralizes the acid that comes up from your stomach.
spicy foods While they might be chockfull of healthy nutrients like lycopene, tomatoes are also highly acidic and likely to cause heartburn in those who are prone to it.The acid antidote may be a sour ball, things that promote saliva are good for acid reflux because saliva neutralizes the acid that comes up from your stomach. 126 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
garlic and onion Some people with heartburn do not do well with either garlic or onion. It’s all very individual. For avoiding heartburn, , keep a food log to help you track the foods that are your heartburn offenders, and try to develop a list of safe foods. Foods like baked sweet potatoes, toast, or cheese are on the safe side of the heartburn food list.
Peppermint While many people think peppermint is soothing for the tummy, it is actually a heartburn trigger food. Skip the after-dinner mints, they may be good for your breath on a datebut they are not so good if you are prone to heartburn. Peppermint may increase your chances of heartburn because it relaxes the sphincter muscle that lay between the stomach and esophagus. This allows stomach acids to flow back into the esophagus.
cheese, nuts, avocadoes These foods may not get as much press as acidic foods when it comes to heartburnbut they can be major triggers. Here’s why: they are high in fat ! Fat slows down the emptying of the stomach, so there is more opportunity for a big distended stomach which increases pressure on the esophageal sphincter to make heartburn more likely.
alcohol Wine, beer, or your favorite cocktail can all trigger heartburn,especially when they are imbibed with a large meal. A glass of red wine may not be a big deal on its own, but if you also have tomato sauce on your pasta and a glass of orange juice in the morning on an empty stomach, it could be a problem. Like peppermint, alcohol opens the sphincter, allowing the acid free range.
chocolate Sure, it can be loaded with caffeine, but chocolate can also be a heartburn food in and of itself. Chocolate relaxes the sphincter, allowing stomach acids to flow back into the esophagus.
caffeine Coffee, soda, tea, iced tea, and any other food or beverages that contain caffeine are big offenders. It’s not ‘no coffee ever’ if you have heartburn. It’s about cutting down and paying attention to portion sizes. If you have heartburn, you can likely consume a 3- or 4-ounce cup of coffee each morning with no problem. But if you guzzle coffee all day long, then, yes, heartburn is a consequence.
carbonated beverages Carbonated beverages cause gastric distension, and if your stomach is distended, this increases pressure on the esophageal sphincter, promoting reflux. People with heartburn may be wise to steer clear of pop and other carbonated beverages. The above list is a guide to help you figure out your heartburn foods and heartburn trigger situations. Too much of any food can trigger heartburn, it’s not just what you eat; it’s how much you eat and when you eat it. www.urbanroyalemagazine.com UR Magazine | 127
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UR FOOD
eat your culture!
garden egg sauce Many experts agree that garden egg is a cholesterol lowering fruit. But apart for it health benefit, garden eggs are very delicious in stew. They are very popular in many West African countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Guinea, Ivory cost and so on
ingredients
by amenze igbinedion
Some dishes are easily identified with some cultures such as Banga soup and Garden Egg sauce. With these dishes, every bite is an enjoyable cultural experience. Try these recipes at home with friends and family!
banga souP cooking directions
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•
Banga soup is of Urhobo origin and is made from the extract derived from palm kernel . It is very easy to make and can make for a great addition to your meal plans . Although you can add any meat of your choice - chicken, fish, beef, mutton, chevon or pork, we prefer fresh fish.
ingredients
• • • • • • • • •
1kg of fresh palm fruits (washed) 1 litre warm water Dry fish (washed and cleaned) Fresh fish (washed and cleaned) 1 cup of periwinkles 2 tablespoon of ground crayfish 1 teaspoon of ground dry pepper Salt Banga spices
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Boil the palm fruits for about 1 hour until they are very soft. Drain off the water. In a pot, gently beat the boiled palm fruits with a pestle until the skin/pulp comes off the palm kernels. Once all the pulp has come off, pour in the warm water and use your hands to squeeze out the juices from the pulp of the palm fruits. Then, use a strainer to sieve the liquid into another bowl. You should be left with the hard palm kernels, and no juice in the pulp. The sieved liquid is the fresh banga liquid. Pour the banga liquid into a pot and simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes. Add the dry fish, fresh fish, ground crayfish, dry pepper, periwinkles and banga spices. Allow to cook gently over medium heat until the soup begins to thicken. Add the periwinkle, salt and check the seasoning to taste and cook for another 10minutess till the soup has thickened. Serve with starch or pounded yam.
• • • • • • • • • • • •
800g chicken, cut into medium pieces 6 garden eggs or 3 eggplants ½ cup shrimp fresh or dried shrimp 3 tbsp vegetable oil or palm oil 1 tbsp grated ginger 1 tbsp grated garlic 2 onions, 1 minced 3 chillies 2 fresh tomatoes(optional) Salt and pepper to taste 4 cups of water
cooking directions
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Heat the vegetable oil on medium and add the chicken, minced onion, garlic and ginger.
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Stir fry for few minutes and let the chicken cook for 3 min.
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Add the water (you can add hot water if you are in a hurry) and add the garden eggs
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Let the simmer until the vegetables are tender. Approximately 20 min.
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When the vegetables are tender remove from the saucepan and put in a food processor. Mix until smooth.
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In the pot, add the shrimps, bouillon cube, salt and pepper to your taste.
•
Pour the garden egg mixture into the saucepan and let simmer for 20 more minutes or till you get your desired consistency.
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“…i really don’t believe in destiny.” osaze odemwingie
T
he first-ever Albion player to score in four successive Barclays Premier League games and recently entitled the Premier League Player of the Month for the third time in his career, the Striker is still as passionate over the game as he was on the day that he first pulled on a pair of boots. He tells UR editor about his life, setbacks in the past, his recent string of successes as well as his marriage plans.
Famous for his technique and pace, the Soviet-born nigerian international footballer, Osaze Peter Odemwingie, who plays for Premier League club West Bromwich albion, has seen the game from more angles than many professionals ever get the chance to see. From League One to the championship and the Premier League, to playing at the World cup in South africa and suffering career threatening injuries, there is very little in the game that he has yet to see. most of my growing up was between Russia and Nigeria!
Q: Tell us about yourself? A: Uhm...I would say that I am stubborn, headstrong…an easy flow but not simplistic (laughing). I guess fair play and team game has always been my style! I am usually humble, friendly and straight but...i can become stubborn when not understood or taken for a ride!
Q: At what age did you realize you were actually pretty good at football? A: I would say that at the time I wasn’t focused on knowing how good I was, I was busy playing with passion! My parents supported me a lot so I wasn’t too self-conscious, and that allowed me the free mind to grow. As my sister would say, “Those who are focused on how good they are usually don’t play far”. I keep my humble self on check always. I am not always pleased with myself, which pushes me harder to be better, I would leave it to my fans to judge me, my accolades remind me of good moments and replays of my games propel me to do better! I don’t dwell on past glories but future goals!
Q: Where did you grow up? A: I was born in Tashkent capital of Uzbekistan, then USSR. 1982, I came with my family to Nigeria, I was just a year old at that time. We stayed in Benin till I was about 8 (1989), then when we went back to Tashkent. We were there for about 10years before we returned to Nigeria in 1999. You could say that
Q: Do you remember where you first played football? A: When I was young, my dad was the doctor of Bendel Insurance; he used to take me for games and that was how my passion budded. On our return to Nigeria, we went to North Kaduna where I started with the Pepsi Club Academy. I chose to continue my career in
Bendel Insurance from there! Q: You can play in a lot of different positions on the pitch, what did you play when you were a kid? A: My technique training started when I was in CSKA Moscow, there I learnt from the best technical coaches. My strength and toughness was enhanced while on practice in Nigeria with the Pepsi Academy in Kaduna as well. Q: Who were your footballing heroes growing up? A: When Nigeria won the Olympic Games in Atlanta, kanu was my hero! Ronaldo was at the top of his game at the time as well! Q: Do you remember the first game you went to see? A: Bendel insurance Vs. Enugu Rangers. I was small then, but memories of a number of games, the tear gas and its effects still come back! Q: Was there anyone else who was very influential in teaching you how to play football?
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your sharp eye sees, your brain kicks in, you pray that the hard training pushes your body to meet the pace, your legs strong & skilled to hit the ball right enough to take the goalkeeper with it! Back to the question…How did I feel? Definitely thrilled that I made another mark of standard for my fellow upcoming colleagues to beat my record. It is important to set a height that many can strive towards! No vision, no aims! I also look up to present and past players they keep me competitive! It has really made me happy and the bonus was that I scored it on the local derby! Q: Nigeria won’t be in 2012 Cup of Nations, what is your take on this? A: It’s sad! But then, you have to accept certain events! Not being there this year would definitely propel us to be there next time and we will make sure we don’t come short! A: My father always told me that a good football player has to use both legs, and he made sure I was always conscious of it! Q: Of all the games you played in, which would you consider your favourite? A: There is a difference between where I think I did well and where my fans may think I did well. But I think my favourites would be my first nation’s cup game against South Africa. It was the highlight of my young career, which propelled me to my path today! Q: Who’s the best player you’ve played with and the best player you’ve played against? A: The best I’ve played with is definitely Okocha, while the best I’ve played against would be Christiano Ronaldo! Q: Who was the toughest defender you ever faced? A: (smiling)Vidic Nemania from Manchester United. Q: Who would you say is the best player of all-time? A: Every generation has its legends, I would say: christiano, messy, Zidan and Goarge Weah, Pele and Maradona Q: What is your most embarrassing moment? A: Honestly, my most embarrassing moment was when I missed my first penalty for Nigeria! We didn’t qualify for the last nation’s cup, it was a very embarrassing situation for me. Q: When you play in big games do you isolate yourself from the outside world and focus on football or do you just wing it? A: It is important for a football player to develop his inner strength! It can be very nerve
racking as the pressure to perform in front of a crowd can put you in trance! Seriously, I had to develop an arrogant attitude to an extent to protect my mind from being affected by the booing and even the cheering sometimes. I had to keep balance. Sometimes I look at the crowd and I just tell myself they owe me money! (Laughing) Q: You just recently became the first Baggie to score a Black Country derby hattrick in 58 years! How did it happen and how does it make you feel? A: Football like life is unpredictable, you don’t really know how it will turn out, and that’s the trill of it! You know what strengths you have and so does your team, so you hope to be given a chance shot. It always seems like you are daring destiny, like everything is preprogrammed from above, but I really don’t believe in destiny. When you are in the game,
“
There is a difference between where I think I did well and where my fans may think I did well. But I think my favourites would be my first nation’s cup game against South Africa. It was the highlight of my young career, which propelled me to my path today!
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“
Q: A lot of people seem to think you are to blame for the situation with the 2012 cup of nations, how does it, make you feel? A: There is no such thing as Osaze Odemwingie in the team failing to qualify for the nation’s cup. Q: What do you think was responsible, do you blame the players, coaches, or NFF? A: Who will make the difference is what we are looking for not who to blame! Q: Are you disappointed some of the traditional giants like Cameroon and Egypt haven’t qualified as well? A: There positive thing about it is that football in general has improved and that indicates that football in the African continent as well has improved. There are more football stars in Africa who would be a pride to the continent. Q: How difficult was it dealing with your injury in 2011? A: When you play hard something has got to give, in my case it was my legs! We all need a bit of rehab and I sure did push hard! Body no be firewood! I had a complicated injury; it was a hard call for me during a particular period of time. It was I stopped training and playing completely or I manage for a while till it would get better. I chose the second option because my participation was needed! Q: Do you think the appointment of Stephen Keshi as the new Super Eagles manager a blessing or a curse? A: It’s a blessing and the results will confirm it! Q: Are you in support of him calling back some old players or not? A: I don’t choose my team, I play with them! Q: There’s news that you turned down £640,000-a-month Offer From Anzhi
Makhachkala (a Russian club) and that your main reason for turning down the offer was because you could not stand the abuse you suffered the last time you were in Russia… A: The offer is definitely a rumor. What happened in Russia is what many footballers have gone through; we all have to learn to deal with the negative sides of life! That wouldn’t stop me; there are many positives that encourage me! What happened will not stop me! Q: You just landed a major endorsement deal with the firm producing Cintrion energy drink in South Africa alongside Sexy Nollywood actress Genevieve Nnaji, however, how much exactly is the deal worth and do you look forward to working with Genevieve? A: I signed a 2 year contract, I personally like their drinks, it adds more choice to the choice of beverages to Nigeria. Genevieve is a household name and collaborating with her was exciting! Q: Are you married? A: I am engaged to a lovely lady, preparations for marriage are on the way! (smiling) Q: How do you cope with temptation from other ladies though? A: It’s not easy! (laughing) Q: What do you miss about Nigeria when you are away? A: Owo and plantain with egile ‘snails’
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Q: Who gives you the best advice? A: My sister, as stubborn as she is, she is my only one! I cherish her advice even if we disagree to agree! My mum helps me out greatly, she sure still sees me as her baby, with her I don’t need to be anything but her son. My dad, he is a man in his own right and never pressured but supported all my dreams! I have my best friend Austin Uabor who makes sure I am grounded. I recently lost a dear friend and colleague Bob Sammy Elegico, who prayed for me always and encouraged me always! My prayers to his wife and kids! Austin Ejide, colleague and friend who we rub minds and prayers about our Eagles games ! Q: Do you watch any other sport? A: Basketball and ice hokey! Q: If you were not a footballer what would you be doing? A: Would be a doctor like my parents! Q: Are you a bad loser? A: Winners never give up! As a sports man you have to know how to deal with defeat! Other sports men are working hard towards the same aim, and best to never let down. Persevere!
Q: If you were stranded on a desert island which one of your team-mates would you take with you? A: Kanu Nwankwo because I can climb him like a long ladder to pick fruits from the highest branches to keep my vitamin balance! And I can see further sitting on his shoulders to see if there is a passing ship! (laughs) Q: Your advice to FA ? A: I hail ooooo! Keep going no matter what! Q: Words to your fans? A: Stick with me and we shall continue enjoying each other! ur
Honestly, my most embarrassing moment was when I missed my first penalty for Nigeria! We didn’t qualify for the last nation’s cup, it was a very embarrassing situation for me.
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pERSOnnEL IDEOLOgIES work
In an interview with Chris Ilems, a group of personnel (4) share their ideologies on life, Work and Wealth, they also advice young people and the government.
life
h e a lt h Ideology on life, work and wealth Life is for the living, so play the game of life with care. Don’t kill yourself to get anything... what will be, will be. That is one thing I believe aside the ultimate fact that God is the owner and master of my life. For work, I believe strongly in faithfulness and the fact that what you do to your boss today will be done to you one day too. So, I try to do my bit very well so in future I will also get people who would work for me well too. I work as unto God for he is my rewarder. For wealth, I want to be rich ooooo! Money is good and I like money! (Laughs). But, I will not cross the line to the negative to make money...it’s not worth it. I don’t love it, so I patiently work to get it. When you love it, evil sets in. So, jeje! Opinion on Fuel Subsidy Removal I don’t think it is a bad thing but the manner of implementation is the big problem. Put things
cordelia okPei Presenter, Metro FM
Background I was born into an Isoko family in Delta State. Spent a better part of my formative years in Benin where I completed my education which had started in Warri. I am a graduate of English and literature from the University of Benin. Life growing up was not bad, my parents did well in setting a good foundation for us all. We had a happy setting and were content with what we had. I have 3 sisters and 2 brothers.
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Personality I am shy, it takes a lot of courage for me to work through a crowd when am not on the stage as the host of the event. Challenges at work. Challenges are a part of life and growth. So, no matter how well you work, you must face some. Bearing that in mind makes adjusting to any challenge easy for me. I say to myself, ‘if somebody had survived this before, I shall survive it now’. That gives me the frame of mind to tackle whatever issue crops up in the course of doing my job.
Challenges are a part of life and growth. So, no matter how well you work, you must face some
in place then gradually ease the subsidy out. Make electricity stable so businesses don’t fold up. Better schools, health facilities and so on would help cushion the effect of the removal. Let the government add serious wisdom to the knowledge they now have to make the implementation less demonic. The strike didn’t affect me that much cause I actually needed the break so I rested. Advice to young people and the government To the youths, I’d say it’s not all about money, power and sex. Life is more than what we see in the hiphop videos. Take your education seriously and focus on what you’d like to be in the future. Be proud of yourselves and trust God always. To the government, the people are suffering. Leave a mark that posterity would remember by doing what is right by the people. Serve and don’t starve the people. ur
sam kargbo (UNcle Sam) C.E.O of S.K.P
was a senior special assistant to the honorable minister of the FCT of which I was second in the hierarchy of his assistants. I am back into practicing and have my practices in Lagos and Abuja. I am a good cook but way beyond that is that I party very well . I have gone to the office and proceed to the court though I hung out the previous night, so… I could really enjoy my partytime. I enjoy writing as well, and I do hope that someday in future I could retire into writing. Personality I was quite deep and analytical as a young boy and one of my teachers advised me I studied law and my guardian as at then said I couldn’t study law, that I was cut out for that, so I took the challenge and today I count myself as a successful lawyer and my works speak for me. Ideology on life, work and wealth I grew up in an environment that actually put premium on selfworth, value that incorporates the family. You were regarded as an ambassador of the family and the family was attentive to your
uncle sam
Background My name is Sam kargbo popularly known as Uncle Sam. I grew up in Benin City (Uzebu quarters), attended the university of Benin where I studied Law and thereafter went ahead to teach Law for seven (7) years at the Lagos state university (LASU) before I finally resorted to practicing. At some point I
growth, well-being. Parents are interested in where you got money from to buy whatever they did not give you. It was a closely monitored family system. I don’t think I grew up buying anything for myself because I would not be able to explain it, but these days the reverse is the case, not too many parents are bothered about the where
about of their kids. So there is a discount between the family’s responsibility to the society and the children they breed. However I still may want to hold them liable in the sense that no one can ever grow the primary object of his or her dream. I have always believed I got to work from 1996 today. I have worked with some of the richest people in this country but never a day have I gone to them to beg. It has always been “what are you paying me for my services” and that has earned me respect and admiration because they see me as someone who gives value for earnings, so when one goes borrowing, begging from one uncle to another he or she is more or less eating his or her future, because you may be having your best of time today while mortgaging the future. Advice to Young People Self-motivation is key to building relevance or adding value, I did not have everything working for me while in school but I made sure I groomed myself by reading a novel a day up to the time I left university, from my A level days I made sure I read a novel a day and that has continued to help me daily. I have not read any in the last ten years because of work but there is already a residue. Today young people have all the best of opportunities with the internet, BB phones, etc. But what do they use it for? Sending both relevant and irrelevant messages. Young people should learn to smell opportunities and take them up instead of constant involvements in frivolities. To have a smart phone and use it only for SMS is like having a Lamborghini and driving it in your living room. Those days we read with lanterns but today young people with all the divers opportunities are not reading. Every kid of today wants to have the best of life; they don’t want to give the best, life is barter. My fear now is our generation produced them what kind of generation will they produce? I think the family should be called to task and if I have my way, I will say we should start
holding the parents vicariously liable for the misdemeanors of their children. These days parents get rich overnight and nobody is asking question, and the children are watching who would come to believe in the miracles that money could come overnight thereby killing the entire generation of that family. So anywhere in the world where the mindset of working and saving as it were in the past is not entrenched cannot achieve success. END NOTE: Young people should believe in themselves and realize that begging is the worst crime anybody could commit against him or herself. I washed people’s clothes to be able to fend for myself while in school and I was not concerned about wearing the best of anything. I think young people should also adopt that mentality and be the best they could be. ur
To have a smart phone and use it only for SMS is like having a Lamborghini and driving it in your living room
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benneth ogbeiwi Voice Coach Background I grew up with my parents and my 6 siblings. We did everything together and we got support from our parents in terms of education, orientation about life and scaling the hurdles of challenges. We were raised to respect everyone we come in contact with, no matter how little they are or how hopeless their lives portray them to be. I was particularly armed with that knowledge. I have a civil engineering degree. Challenges At Work A new challenge means you have moved a level up and the solutions are right inside of you... challenges are meant to be overwhelmed and the positivity we radiate gives us an edge towards success.. Ideology On Life, Work And Wealth Life is short, live it well: work is important, spend time achieving your set goals and aspirations and wealth is key to happiness even though it can’t be bought. These three elements go together and a lot of wise people, dead or alive have been able to work around them to make the world what it is today: the choice of being good or bad rests in our hands. Opinion on Fuel Subsidy Removal The economists have been able to explain the gains of subsidy removal to us and if all the palliatives mentioned are achieved in record time, I wouldn’t have to bother generating power myself...subsidy is good but set the machineries right. At the time of the strike, my family wanted time out and all recreational centers were closed, we all had to make do with what was available in our home. It was boring! Advice to young people and the government We should be patient and wait for our leaders to prove their point even though we are tired
of their maneuvers and the government should provide jobs and incentives in order to engage our creative minds. ur
Life is short, live it well: work is important, spend time achieving your set goals and aspirations and wealth is key to happiness even though it can’t be bought... these three elements go together and a lot of wise people dead or alive have been able to work around them to make the world what it is today: the choice of being good or bad rests in our hands..
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ebuwa martins Country Head, SOUNDCITY GHANA Background Growing up was good in every sense of the word. I had a closeknit family with parents that loved me and siblings that we share good and normal squabble times with. Even as grown-ups now, we all still get along. My late dad made sure we never lacked and if I can, that is the same type of life I want to create for my children. I dabbled into entertainment as a teenager, and despite studying Mathematics in the University, I found myself being drawn back to entertainment, and fashion. This is what I am good at and that is why I do it. The best job in life is the one you love doing, while getting paid for it. My job requires me to hang out with people in social gatherings and circles, party with celebrities, go to clubs to work with clients, the red carpets etc...if I had an option, I really would love to snuggle close to my lady at home, away from all the noise and jams. I am divorced though, but I strongly believe in the institution of marriage, and you should be hearing wedding bells soon. This time, it would be a private quiet affair. Challenges at work Challenges are what make any job, passion or career interesting. If I did not want any challenges, I would have opted for professions where I simply follow the rules and get the job done. Like any human being, challenges causes stress some of the time, and in the entertainment industry, that is to be expected as we deal with creative and artistic people. One thing that keeps me going is knowing that I do what I do for others, not for myself. Like they say in Latin:. Non Sibi sed aliis. There is a joy that comes from knowing that I am helping someone’s career get to the next level. It is priceless. Ideology of life, work and wealth Your Idea of purpose defines your idea of life. Without purpose life itself becomes to scattered to pull
together and shape ideology. Purpose itself creates lenses that allow your focus to be clear and meaningful. You have to first find your purpose. I want what brings me peace. To me a peaceful life would be a successful life. Love and blessings Opinion on Removal of fuel subsidy Removal of fuel subsidy is good and it would stall unnecessary spending, but the way to implement it, is the issue right now. The economy of Nigeria would be boosted when subsidy is removed. The government should have gradually removed the subsidy over a period of time not new year when the citizen were still busy recovering from spending during the festive period. The last strike affected though because I was worried for my families and friends. I was out of the country at that period for business. Advice to young people and the government My advice for young people are: they need to be patient, be aware that good or bad, right or wrong…every decision you make will affect you for the rest of your life. Your actions or lack of have the potential for future impact on your family, friends, partner and children. Mistakes are priceless learning opportunities. The worst mistake one can make is to ignore the lesson and keep repeating it. For the government is to focus on creating jobs, improving the education sector and tackle the issue of terrorism in the country. Future plans for the entertainment industry ‘Africa’s Got talent’ is my mantra! There are so many people with the talent here in West Africa especially who do not have anyone to help them showcase their talent, and that is what we are here for. To give everyone, rich and poor a chance to use their God-given talent and be a blessing to others! ur
WhAT TO DO WhEn YOU gET LAID OFF
1. ask for severance Pay Usually when you get laid off, it’s not because of anything you did or didn’t do; it’s because the company just can’t afford to hold onto you anymore. So capitalize on that. If your company doesn’t automatically offer severance pay, ask for it. According to executive coach Marc Dorio, author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide To Career Advancement, most companies will agree to pay you one week of your full salary for every year you’ve worked for them. So, if you worked there for five years, you should get five weeks of pay.
2. get a recommendation Before you leave the office, ask your boss if you can use her as a reference in the future. Even though you’ll probably be pissed/confused/floored, it’s important to do it when you’re face-to-face, since emails can get lost in the shuffle.
3. tell everyone Once you’ve had a moment to process what just went down, email everyone you have a good relationship with in your field to clue them in on your situation. And don’t feel weird about it. So many millions of people have been laid off in the past three years, It’s not uncommon. You could just simply say, “Due to a reduction of staff, as of now I’m no longer with my company. I’ll be reaching out to you later for advice as I begin my job search, but in the meantime, please keep me in mind for any future opportunities!
4. take a break
getting fired, unfortunately, can happen to the best of us. It might not even be your fault, there could have been a personality conflict between yourself and your supervisor. or maybe You just simply screwed up. It happens. You’re not alone. your situation isn’t unique. The unemployment rate is better than it has been in the last three years, but some companies are still downsizing. If you’re handed a pink slip, take a second to spazz in private and then make these moves to cover your butt.
Yes, it’s a total disaster you didn’t see coming, but take a break to think about what you want to do next. Do you want to stick with the same kind of job or do something totally different? Or maybe go back to school? Don’t jump too fast into a new job, People tend to get panicky during this time and make bad decisions.Of course, you may need a new income in order to make rent. Keep in mind that there’s nothing wrong with taking up lower jobs as babysitting, or house-cleaning. Plenty of people make a good living doing these jobs and, if it’s not your favorite job ever, at least it’s temporary. If you are among the people who are not working, it’s time to figure out what you want to do, find a way to do it, and bring tons of value to the table. Nobody is coming to the rescue, so you must build your own ship and take control of your life. Laying you off was their choice. What you do after that is yours. If you do it right, becoming unemployed can be the best thing that ever happened to you. They chose, now you choose!
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Joan Paul chi-chat
a riSiNg STar
Winner of the Best Gospel Female-South South Music Award (2011), Joan Paul maybe more than a decade deep in the music industry, but she is certainly not slowing down. Though she has just one album released, singles like IKHAYERE has brought her the much needed publicity and fame craved by any gospel artiste in the south-south. Henrietta Okoduwa caught up with a positive sparkling Joan recently to talk about the new album she is working on as well as the other projects she is currently handling. Q: How did you start? A: I started singing at age 7 in the children’s choir of my church back in Warri. I remember my first solo performance, I was 8 years old. I sang a song that my church bassist (Mr. Hope Isesele) taught me - “The Magic of Love” by Leon Patillo. From then on, I started singing both in the choir and performing solo. 1996 when I relocated to Benin, I met my husband; He was the one who coached me to sing professionally. From 1996 up until now I have grown, matured and now my style has been redefined. I’m far better than when I started. Q: What and where have you performed so far? A: I have performed alongside other great gospel singers in gospel shows, especially those held in the south-south, the likes of Mike Aremu, Samsong, DC envoys, Kingsley Ike, Sene Odia Ighodaro etc. At Towdah jamz held March 2010 at Rainbow Christian Assembly (Warri) I sang alongside Cobhams Asuquo, Asari Otu etc. Recently I performed at a public lecture in honour of the comrade governor – Adams Oshiomole on April 1st, 2012. Q: What current projects have you been handling..? A: Right now, I am working on my album, titled” My Luv, My
Life” which should be out before the end of the year. I have an NGO called PROJECT 3:16(NIGERIA) for pregnant women and babies, I intend 2 organize a charity concert between now and the middle of next year. An album project should emerge from that concert as well. I am also working on a magazine right now called Pro-claim magazine. My talkshow will soon be aired; I’ve always wanted to anchor one. I am taking it one step at a time. Q: Wow, you seem to be doing a lot in the entertainment circle, any movie Roles? A: (laughs) No, I have never had a movie role b4, but getting one won’t be a bad idea. Q: What are your three favourite movies and songs? A: Movies- Runaway Bride, baby’s Day Out and Mr. Bones. Music- It all belongs to you(Damita Haddon) , I speak life(Joe Pace),kuchie kuchie(J’odie) ur
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life approach was revolutionized. So now what? Well, new forms of self-expression and creative self-release are about to explode. If you can’t find them do seek new forms of amusements. Take no one and nothing for granted. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 20): There will be a need for you to be more flexible as several structures you hold dear will possibly be challenged. Those that are alive and vital will weather this. Those still on shaky ground, let them go. A tension may surface. Observe it only. It will disappear.
april horoscope ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 20): Everything at work and in your mind could feel fast, reckless, out of control. Expect disruptions, intrusions, interruptions to anything routine. If things become much too unexpected, stop awhile, observe the energies, and start over again. But expect life to be rather awry. TAURUS (APRIL 21-MAY 21): Expect a complete revolution in your hopes and expectations. You will hear something and then rapidly change course. You’ll resist all pressure and will either be challenged or seek a new one. GEMINI (MAY 23-JUNE 20): You may attempt to break free from something, somewhere, somehow. Hopefully all will be harmonious and you’ll simply see opportunities to work in new ways and begin something rather revolutionary which stimulates you to greater selfawareness. I hope this occurs. Do curb erratic impulses. CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 20): Information not known before becomes apparent and your awareness of everything expands. Nothing unyielding will be allowed. Not in mind, beliefs, or philosophy (yours/ others). You will view reality differently. Actually this has already begun and will be emphasized this Month. LEO (JULY 21-AUG. 22): Though you are rarely reliant upon anyone or anything, it’s wise to refrain from any dependencies (financial, emotional, desires) this Month. In fact you may break away from all obligations. Be sure not to create disruptions. A new era has already emerged in your life. This Month it accelerates. 142 | UR Magazine www.urbanroyalemagazine.com
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22): Anything you have been unsatisfied with for years and years will begin to show signs of unravelling because you simply can’t hold onto them anymore. You may weather the storms but only when you realize what changes your life needs to create more aliveness and vitality. LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22): What is occurring in your life is redemption. All the old forces from the past are coming into play and they need to be understood. There comes a time when a crucifixion of the personality happens. It hurts. But it’s so the Soul can make itself known and bring light into what has been a long held darkness. You then resurrect. Allow this. Your bondage will soon be over. SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21): For some this is an exciting time. Basically, a while ago your basic
CAPRICORN (DEC. 21-JAN. 20): Should you travel on a short trip anywhere, be aware that what you expect and hope for won’t happen. Something else will. I suggest a simple plan, as simple as possible for everything about travel, communication, thinking, tending could go astray this Month. Especially Sunday and Monday. A problem, not looked at, may surface. Careful how you respond. Use love. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21-FEB. 18): A fundamental reorientation has been and is taking place within you concerning self-awareness, continuing for about seven more years. What you are learning is that you are your own vital and important resource, and of greater value that you recognize. Daily life’s tempo will increase this Month. Routines will suddenly fall apart. Don’t fret. It will pass. PISCES (FEB. 18-MARCH 20): As all material resources continue to either dissolve or float away or simply not be available, and as you continue to wonder why, here is the answer. The change is your relationship with matter and this is being radically altered so you can evolve into a more spiritual focus without the responsibilities of things in form. Not a pleasant answer but an esoteric one.
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