NIGER-DELTA FREEDOM FIGHTER BOYLOAF WEDS IN PORT HARCOURT
No. 42
International N 500 8 3 GHc 6 201102
G e n t l e m a n S o l d i e r A d m i r a l A i k h o m u T a k e s a B o w President Jonathan Dazzles At The 66th UN Assembly President Ellen Sirleaf & Leymah Gbowee: Global Peace Champions Sanusi Lamido Sanusi: ...on the Threshold of History
THE SPECTACULAR WEDDING OF
Sam Loco Efe:
NENGI & ISRAEL
...the fall of an Iroko
IN NIGERIA’S OIL-RICH BAYELSA STATE
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Number 42
International
66 UN General Assembly PRESIDENT JONATHAN: At The 66th Session of the UN General Assembly In New York 11
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Milestone
ADMIRAL AUGUSTUS AIKHOMU: A Gentleman Soldier takes a Bow
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32 Society
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Nigeria’s Garden City Pull-out The Stops To Celebrate BOYLOAF'S Grandiose Marriage
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A Splendid Evening as SIR CELESTINE OMEHIA Fetes Nigeria Law School Class 86 in Port Harcourt 36 Fashion Betroths Elegance At NENGI & ISRAEL GOLI'S Wedding Cere,omy in Bayelsa State 54 Tribute
Fashion & Style Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring
Fashion Counsel
69 Appearance: Your Asset
For Men Only The Dos & Don’t of Wearing Suits
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SAM LOCO EFE: An Iroko Has Fallen
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The Beauty Files
Corporate Excellence
Looking Gorgeous Everyday of The Week 78
SANUSI LAMIDO ...On the Threshold of History
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The Allure of 79 Amber Jewelleries
Niger Delta Amnesty Programme NIGER DELTA AMNESTY: Engendering a Positive Transformation for former Niger Delta Militants 49
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Departments 6 XCEL People:
President Ellen Sirleaf & Leymah Gbowee
20 Health Matters:
Brest Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment...
34 Feminine Talk:
SISTERS RAVE! Condemn the Animalists...
40 Moving Up The Ladder: Don't Burst Your Bubble 46 Business & Money: Ready To Start Your Own Business? Vital...
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48 Career Wise:
Attributes of Effective Chief Executives
64 Relationship:
Ditching Your Bad Habits
66 Thinking Cap:
Are We Losing The Battle Against Crime?
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THE PEOPLES’ VOICE The letter by Agwu Chukwudi from Umuahia - Abia State is the Star Letter of this edition and wins our N1,000 prize money. Congratulations. Dear Editor, I am a regular reader of your Magazine especially “The moving up the Ladder. Page” The article on your 40th edition Living with purpose. The words on that page a r e v e r y inspirational. I pray that people out there, who have lost purpose in life, should pick up this article, read and meditate on it. They will see how they will bounce back to life and see that there is a ray of light at the end of the tunnel. They should be able to discover their purpose in this life and not struggle to be somebody else. This article will make them know that they are divine creatures of destiny and a treasure of great value. It is important that one knows who he is and what he thinks about himself, because God holds us in high esteem that is why he sent his son to die for us. I wish that more of these articles will be published in subsequent editions. Awili Jack Ikpoba - Benin Dear Awili, Thanks for all your comments. We will do our best to ensure that we continue to publish such motivational pieces as usual. Just follow us and you will continue to enjoy them. ED Dear Editor, I am an ardent reader of your magazine, the page that interests me most- is the parenting page. Especially the article on your 40th edition, it is a welcome development and not negotiable with your kids-On my own part, I agree that parents should spy on what their kids do on the internet always in other to protect them from materials that are not suitable for kids. Access should be strictly monitored at all times by parentssome may decide to log into sites that have to do with, drugs, sex etc. These may affect them as they grow up, even worst still they may indulge in vices such as cultism, rape, arm robbery etc. Which are detrimental to the society. I pray that parents should take this matter seriously. Agwu Chukwudi Umuahia, Abia State Dear Agwu, Our joy is that parents are also reading your comment. They will decide on it the way they see it. However, we agree with your comments totally and thank you for contributing. ED
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Dear Editor, I am an addict of your world class magazine. I enjoyed the Health Matters page in which you wrote on breast cancer in your 41 edition. This problem has been a menace to our society and women are the greatest victims of this problem, the majority of our women are in the dark concerning the causes, symptoms, preventions and treatment of this dreaded disease. I pray the government and the health organizations should borrow a leaf from you people at xcel media in educating the society, especially our women folks about this problem. Jane Adoku Abuja Dear Jane, Thanks for you letter. We really appreciate your impute and join your prayers that the education be intensified to create awareness. ED Dear Editor, I am one of your readers and I enjoy most of the articles in your magazine, especially the story on soft drinks and what they do to your body, published on your 41st edition was quite good and educating. I think we need stories like that, but if I may ask, what are the Government and health institutions doing in order to protect the well being of the consumers from these harmful chemicals. Even the health authorities cannot ascertain the amount, types, and make of these chemicals used in producing these so called soft drinks. I appreciate the efforts of your magazine in educating the populace and exposing what these chemicals do to the body. Jonah Aighalua Warri, Delta State Dear Jonah, We thank you for your interest in our magazine. We urge you to continue to read XCEL and encourage others. ED Dear Editor, Am an ardent reader of your magazine and I am quite impress about the article on soft drinks which was published in your 41 edition, its time the Government and the health authorities in this country checkmate the producers of these soft drinks. They should be made to educate the consumers of the content of their products, so that the choice of buying will be left in the hands of the consumer. The consumer has the right to know what they are buying. Kudos to your media in bringing this to bare Prince Eleanya Port-Harcourt Dear Prince,
You don't need to emphasize that you are an ardent reader, as we know you are, judging by your consistent letters to us. Once more we thank you for the undying interest you have shown in us. ED Dear Editor, I am a fan of the Feminine Talk column of your magazine and I appreciate the a r t i c l e o n handling your Ex in your 41st edition. You see most Ex both in men and women find it very difficult to appreciate or show kindness when they mistakenly come in contact with each other. That burning hatred still lingers on and in their heart and it shows on their face as they are looking for a way to have their own pound of flesh. They forget that it is not always that a broken relationship is something that happens naturally, spiritually and etc. Which is beyond our power. It is just the grace of God- the only thing we have is to take it the way it comes, because you may not know if that person is not really for you or it is a step to move up and learn a few lessons to grow in relationships. So being nice or showing kindness to your Ex is some thing that will go a long way in building you for a better relationship. Thanks for such an article it spurs one to move on in life. Mike Igbini Isolo way - Lagos Dear Mike, Thanks for your contribution on the issue of handling your Ex. We appreciate. ED Dear Editor, I read the article on dating behavior that scare single men away on the 41st edition of your magazine. It was a good one for our women and probably men too. Such behaviours manifest when we don't know what we really want in a relationship. While some are there just for the fun, some are for what they can get, eat & drink. I pray most women and men should look beyond these and exhibit behaviors that may enhance l a s t i n g relationships. Johnson Akinwunmi Dear Johnson, Thanks for your advice. We hope that our readers will find your impute very necessary.
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International
In pursuit of Excellence: XCEL Publisher, Barth in a training session at PMA Centre for Media Excellence in London
All Hail Our Beloved Nigeria "Nigeria we hail thee! Our own dear native land, though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand. Nigerians are proud to serve our sovereign motherland�
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his is an extraction from the first stanza of Nigeria's former National Anthem which some of us grew up to know. More often than not, this is one thing that readily comes to my mind especially in this era of seemingly insecurity and unfavourable coexistence in our beloved nation. There is no doubt that this informed the dream and aspirations of our founding fathers, the architects of our beloved nation. Only recently, our nation clocked 51, a feat which can be aptly described as the first leg of the second half of our journey to a centurion. But one question begging for answer today is whether or not Nigerians believe in the brotherhood and unity of the nation, as professed in our old anthem, despite the differences in tongue and tribe. This is a food for thought which requires that all genuine stakeholders of our professed one Nigeria must take serious as we retrospectically recall the statement made by Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, to the effect that "to keep Nigeria one, is a task that must be done" There is no doubt that as a people, we are bound to step on each other's toes in the course of living. We are bound to have our varying opinions on whether or n o t we h ave m a d e s i g n i f i ca nt achievements as a fifty-one year old nation; we are also bound to be trailed
by varying vexing issues. Yes we are all entitled to as many varying opinions as we have. However, in the midst of all these, we must exercise restraint in our actions. We must collectively resolve to shame the United States prediction that our beloved nation is heading for disintegration in 2015. We must not behave like the proverbial tortoise which after enduring several years, as it were, inside the latrine, became impatient and uncompromising at the point of rescue. It is against this backdrop that I implore Nigerians, in the interest of our Godgiven nation, to heed to the advice of President Jonathan in his Independence broadcast where he admonished us, thus "As we celebrate today, we remember with pride, the nationalism and patriotism that inspired our founding fathers and the Nigerian people. They set aside their differences, to secure the unity and independence of our great country. That is the Nigerian spirit! For the Nigerian spirit cannot be broken. We are a resilient nation, determined to chart a course, through the turbulent waters of nation building. The Nigerian spirit is vibrant today in the world." We must remind ourselves that except we collectively resolve to put our past behind us, focus on this second half with a view to putting our hands on deck to effect the necessary changes, we shall
continue in these tale of woes. Though I would not dispute the fact that the various challenges that have rocked the very foundation of our country in the past 51 years are capable of destroying the fabric on which a nation stands, It is however noteworthy to mention here that in the midst of all these trials and tribulations, we have remained one indivisible nation. Isn't this worth celebrating at 51? If you think in this direction with me, then you will certainly join me to hail our beloved Nigeria at fifty one! Be that as it may, according to our customwe serve you a thoroughly packaged magazine, in this edition with a promise that you will find it unputdownable. You will find in it, the much talked-about wedding ceremony of Governor Timipre Sylva's Special Adviser on Youth Matters, Israel Goli to his heartthrob, Nengi in the Oil-rich Bayelsa state while in Port Harcourt, the nation's acclaimed Garden City, former Niger-Delta warlord, Dr. Ebikabowei Victor-Ben popularly known as Boyloaf, two years after signing for the Federal Government Amnesty Programme, ecstatically ties the knots with his heart rob, Sonia in what turned out to be a marriage carnival. Also, in line with our celebration of Africans who consistently strive to make our continent proud, we bring you the inspiring story of two African role models: Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who incidentally had graced our XCEL PEOPLE page in the past, and Liberian Female Activist, Leymah Gbowee. The duo, both Liberians stand tall in our XCEL PEOPLE page as they fly the African Banner of Excellence as proud recipients of the 2011 Nobel Peace prize. They are indeed women of valor and we join other Africans to say congrats to these shinning lights and worthy ambassadors of our continent.
XCEL PEOPLE
Africa’s President Ellen Sirleaf & Leymah Gbowee: Global Face of Peace
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t is a universal truism that African women are beautiful, yes; they are also very strong, diligent and gifted in different spheres of life. In fact, the United States Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton was not mistaken, one bit, when she, in a recent visit to the black continent, ranked our women as amongst the most intelligent and industrious in the world. In a period when the continent has made media headlines for almost the worst of reasons, the ever-adorable African woman has come to the rescue, to gracefully wipe our teary eyes
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away and replace it with joy and prestige; she has decided to help us tell the rest of the world that though there might be pockets of violence in some parts of the continent, we are not an altogether violent people. The truth is that we are also a peace loving people and have, in several cases, helped to restore peace and order in crisis ravaged points in the world. It is against this backdrop that we, in this edition of edition of Xcel People, celebrate two brave and beautiful African women who recently gave us reasons to rejoice. “Rejoice and
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Shout with Laughter. Throw all you burdens down,” admonishes another ebullient African Woman, Casely Helford in her masterpiece, poem, “Rejoice”. We at Xcel International have decided to heed Helford's admonition by temporarily dispatching our burden while we gloriously concentrate in rejoicing with Liberian peace activist Leymah Gbowee and Liberian president, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf who were recently awarded the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize. They share the prize with Yemeni democracy activist, Tawukul Karman. Gbowee and Sirleaf, we should add, are amongst a slim prestigious list of 15 women
who have received the award in 110 years and are also the first female winners of Nobel's top award for seven years. As we celebrate this two dazzling trail blazers, it is also instructive and significant to note that the two of them hail from the same country, Liberia; a country which was only until recently, devastated by a recalcitrant civil war. It might also be worthy of mention here that the heroism of one of them helped pave way for the other to make history by becoming the first female president in Africa. Liberian peace advocate, Leymah Gbowee, alongside Ellen Sirleaf was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their non-violent struggle for the safety of women and for women's rights to full participation in peace-building work, the Nobel Committee said. Being one of the major facilitators of the restoration of peace in the once crisis-ridden Liberia, Gbowee wrote her name in the annals of the heroes of that petit African country, when she led a coalition of Christian and Muslim women to confront Liberia's then ruthless president and rebel warlords. Only a few years ago, Gbowee told her listeners in a conference that she herself was a refugee from the brutal civil war in her native Liberia, comforting her children with the old gospel song: “This little light of mine/I'm gonna let it shine.” “I don't feel like I've done anything extraordinary but take my little light and shine it in darkness,” said Gbowee, who is now 40, while stressing also that, “The journey has been tough; the road has been rough. But it's been rewarding”. For Gbowee, a social worker and mother of six, that journey started when she organized other women in a Monrovia fish market to sing, pray, and protest the horrific conflict that was tearing apart their country. The women's peace movement helped to end the war in 2003 and led to the election of Johnson Sirleaf, the first woman to become president of an African nation. “Our message is that women's role in the peace and security process is crucial,” Gbowee said, shortly after receiving the award. The Nobel Prize Committee had also said of Gbowee and Sirleaf, that, “There is no way you can fix a community if you only use half that community. The three women who won the Nobel Prize today didn't set out to conquer the world. They set out to transform their society first, and that's a message for all of us. Do peace and justice at home, in your back yard. It's time for us to start looking in our own communities. It's no longer enough for you to vote for people who will not stand up for your needs and priorities. And it's time for men to stand up and say, 'I'm going to start fighting for women's rights.'” That cause has brought international renown to Gbowee, who was a major figure in the award-winning 2008 documentary Pray the Devil Back to Hell. Recently, Gbowee published her autobiography, Mighty Be Our Powers, which details the toll of the Liberian conflict as well as her own personal nightmare of domestic abuse with her former partner. Although the violence in Liberia was horrific when Gbowee first began to organize other women, the horrors they endured ultimately fueled their determination. “We had lived through fear all our lives, and when you have gone through a whole lot of fear, sometimes all you can do is resist the fear, and resistance comes in the form of courage,” she said.
Gbowee trained as a trauma counselor and worked with former child soldiers during Liberia's first civil war, which lasted from 1989 to 1996. Gbowee's female followers, in their signature white T-shirts, would regularly gather in Monrovia to lead protests. By organizing a sex strike during which women refused to have sexual relations with men until the end of the civil war she forced a meeting with Taylor that opened the gates to conflict-ending talks. She led a grassroots movement of women in the early 2000s to protest against the use of rape and child soldiers in Liberia's 14-year civil war. During the 2003 peace talks she and hundreds of women, dressed in white, surrounded the hall where the discussions were being held, refusing to let delegates leave until they had signed the treaty. In fact, many believe that without her actions, peace would not have come when it did. Now she is the executive director of the Ghana-based Non Governmental Organization, Women Peace and Security Network Africa and is a founding member of the Women in Peacebuilding program, both of which will receive significant boosts in exposure with Gbowee's Nobel winner. On her part, Africa's first female President has spent the past five years working to bring democratic peace and stability to Liberia and leveraging relationships with friends in the global community including U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to put Liberian women's issues in the spotlight. In a recent interview, she said that her education initiatives, namelymandatory free elementary schooling for all children, are her legacy. But the most famous woman in Liberian history remains an enigma. "She's nononsense," says a State Department official who works with Johnson Sirleaf. "She has a sense of humor, and she doesn't have a sense of self-importance." And she's "Mama Ellen" on the home front too. Sirleaf, 72, a Harvard-trained economist, became Africa's first democratically elected female president in 2005, two years after decades of civil war ended. Seen as a reformer and peacemaker when she took office, she declared a zero-tolerance policy against corruption and has made education compulsory and free for all primary-age children. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, born 29 October 1938, is the 24th and current President of Liberia. She served as Minister of Finance under President William Tolbert from 1979 until the 1980 coup d'état, after which she left Liberia and held senior positions at various financial institutions. She placed a very distant second in the 1997 presidential election. While not Americo-Liberian by ancestry, Sirleaf is considered culturally AmericoLiberian by some observers or assumed to be Americo-Liberian. However, Sirleaf does not identify as such. Her ethnic background is 1/2 Gola from her father's side, and 1/4 German (grandfather) and 1/4 Kru (grandmother) from her mother's side. Sirleaf was born in Monrovia, and studied economics and accounts from 1948 to 1955 at the College of West Africa in Monrovia. She married James Sirleaf when she was 17 years old, and then traveled with him to the United States in 1961 to continue her studies and earned an accounting degree at Madison Business College, in Madison, Wisconsin, and a degree in economics from the University of Colorado, Boulder. Sirleaf later studied economics and public policy at Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government from 1969
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to 1971, gaining a Master of Public Administration. She then returned to her native Liberia to work under the government of William Tolbert. Sirleaf initially moved to Washington, D.C., to work for the World Bank before moving to Nairobi in 1981 to serve as Vice President of the African Regional Office of Citibank. While working at Citibank, Sirleaf returned to Liberia in 1985 to run for Vice President on the ticket of the Liberian Action Party in the 1985 elections. However, Sirleaf was placed under house arrest in August of that year and soon after sentenced to ten years in prison for sedition as a consequence of a speech in which she insulted the members of the Doe regime. Following international calls for her release, Doe pardoned and released her in September. Due to government pressure, she was removed from the presidential ticket and instead ran for a Senate seat in Montserrado County. Though the elections, which saw Doe and the National Democratic Party win the presidency and large majorities in both houses, were widely condemned as neither free nor fair, Sirleaf was declared the winner of her Senate race. After the end of the Second Liberian Civil War and the establishment of a transitional government, Sirleaf was proposed as a possible candidate for chairman of the government. Ultimately, Gyude Bryant, a political neutral, was chosen as chairman, while Sirleaf served as head of the Governance Reform Commission. Sirleaf once again stood for president as the candidate of the Unity Party in the 2005 general election. She placed second in the first round of voting behind footballer, George Weah. In the subsequent run-off election, Sirleaf earned 59% of the vote versus 40% for Weah, though Weah disputed the results. On 23 November 2005, Sirleaf was declared the winner of the Liberian election and confirmed as the country's next president. Her inauguration, attended by many foreign dignitaries, including United States then Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice and First Lady Laura Bush, took place on 16 January 2006. Meanwhile, Leymah Gbowee was born in central Liberia. At the age of 17, she moved to Monrovia, when the First Liberian Civil War erupted. Surrounded by the images of war, she realized that "if any changes were to be made in society it had to be by the mothers". We at XCEL International strongly believe that the achievement of Ellen Sirleaf and Leymah Gbowee holds a lesson for other African women, especially here in Nigeria where it would seem that the participatory rights of women in governance is still suffering some setbacks. Their feat simply points to the fact that women can become whatever they dream and achieve any vision they chart for themselves, if only they invest courage and dexterity with perseverance to it. Though there may be no physical wars that should warrant the kind of campaign that Gbowee championed, oppressed Nigerian women can also fight against insecurity in the country. They can a ferocious war against epileptic power output, poor health service delivery, high infant mortality rate, death-traps called roads and debilitating economic policies. For gloriously projecting this continent in such a good light truly worthy of note, we at XCEL decorate these icons with the XCEL SEAL of EXCELLENCE on our XCEL PEOPLE Page as an admirable example for other women and joy of African motherhood! XL
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AFRICA PERISCOPE
South Africa's Desmond Tutu Marks 80th Birthday
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rchbishop Emeritus, Desmond Tutu has celebrated his 80th birthday in Cape Town with a series of events that included a conversation between the Dalai Lama and the archbishop via video link. Birthday wishes poured in from across South Africa and the globe for the Nobel Peace Laureate, Desmond Tutu as he marked his 80th birthday. People called radio stations and flooded social media sites with messages of support and affection. The milestone was celebrated with events spanning over three days, culminating with the inaugural address of the Desmond Tutu International Peace Lecture. The Tibetan spiritual leader had been slated to deliver the address but was forced to cancel his trip when the South African government did not respond to his visa application. Many have described their silence as a constructive denial of the visa. In a video message posted on his website and circulated by social networking sites, the Dalai Lama said the archbishop is a unique person. “Unfortunately it is quite rare on this planet, such like you who really carry hope, “he said. Tutu started his professional life as a teacher and became a priest at 30. He became an increasingly outspoken critic of
the apartheid government following the Soweto student uprising of 1976, and was subjected to frequent harassment by the police and his passport was cancelled. But this did not silence him and in 1984 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. But Tutu told guests in Cape Town he did not stand alone - he said he had the support of his fellow citizens and of the international community. “If our people had repudiated me, if
the gross human rights violations of the apartheid era. But even after the advent of democracy the Arch, as he is fondly known by South Africans, continued to speak out against what he saw as the excesses or failures of the African National Congress led government. His outspoken honesty continues to irk those in power or who are privileged, but endears him to ordinary people.
Uganda MP Block Oil Deals After Corruption Claims
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those of you in the outside world had not supported us, I would have been nil," Tutu said. "And so you are as much a part of these celebrations in a very real organic way, and I wish I could open my heart and you had the medical skills, that would be able to say ahh, ja, there we see. I just want to say, thank you.” After the end of apartheid in 1994, then President Nelson Mandela asked the archbishop to head up the country's Truth and Reconciliation Commission, established to deal with
he vote is a blow to President Yoweri Museveni Uganda's parliament has voted to suspend all new deals in the oil sector following claims that government ministers took multi-million dollar bribes. MP Gerald Karuhanga said in parliament that UK-based Tullow Oil paid bribes to influence decisions. Tullow said it rejected the "outrageous and wholly defamatory" allegations. The vote is a big blow to President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, analysts say. The BBC's Joshua Mmali in the capital, Kampala, says it means the government will not be able to sign new oil deals until a petroleum law is enacted. During a heated parliamentary debate on Monday, Mr Karuhanga tabled documents alleging that Tullow Oil bribed Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi, Foreign Minister Sam Kutesa and former Energy Minister Hilary Onek. Mr Onek, who was accused of receiving about 17m euros ($23m; £15m), strongly denied the allegation. “I am thoroughly hurt by these lies because if such an account really exists I deserve all the punishment on Earth," Mr Onek told Mps.
Nigeria Celebrates Independence Amid Bomb Fears
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igeria celebrated its 51st independence last October 1st with a muted, security-conscious ceremony at the nation's heavily guarded presidential villa amid a threat of bombings and attacks carried out by a radical Muslim sect. President Goodluck Jonathan joined foreign diplomats and dignitaries in watching goose-stepping soldiers parade at the Aso Rock presidential villa, which remains shielded from public view by its mountain namesake in the capital city of Abuja. The event, aired live on the State-run Nigerian Television Authority, had some empty seats and a noticeable presence of security agents. Africa's most populous nation typically holds memorial ceremonies at the capital's Eagle Square parade ground, a large venue that allows the public a rare opportunity to be close to the oil-rich nation's elite. However, authorities moved the event to the secure villa as the radical sect known locally as Boko Haram carries out increasingly bloody sectarian attacks
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in the nation. The nation faces other security threats as well. Last year, one of the main militant group in the country's oil-producing
southern delta claimed responsibility for a dual car bombing outside the capital's Independence Day celebration that killed at least 12 people and wounded dozens more. In an address aired on television and radio stations across the nation on Independence Day morning, Jonathan promised the country's 150 million people that the "Nigerian spirit cannot be broken." "The current incidents of violence and terror in parts of the country will surely be
overcome," he said. "We will secure the safety of our citizens for only when we do this will we be able to build the needed peace and tranquility in all parts of the federation." Yet Nigeria's security services remain unable to stop the threat posed by Boko Haram, which claimed responsibility for the now famous August 26 suicide car bombing at United Nations headquarters in Abuja that killed 23 people and wounded 116 others. Nigeria gained its independence from Britain in 1960. In the 51 years since, the nation struggled under military rulers, crushing poverty and endemic corruption. The problems persisted after Nigeria became an uneasy democracy in 1999. At the ceremony at the Aso Villa, a soldier played an electronic keyboard and sang "We Are The World." The military guard presented flags and twirled their rifles. At the end, Jonathan took a dove into his hands and threw it into the air, signifying peace as others released from a cage flew into the sky. As the television broadcast ended, the state-run broadcaster aired a commercial showing ambulances and the aftermath of bombings, asking mothers to stop the "wanton killing of innocent people."
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AIROBI-- Kenyan president Emilio Mwai Kibaki is due to retire from elective politics at the end of his term 2012, but the imminent exit has excited several political developments in the East African country. The respected economist entered politics in 1963 from the lecture halls at Makerere University, starting off as Executive Director of the Kenya National African Union (KANU), before stealthily and cautiously weaving his way to the top. His recent homecoming party cum prayer service at his Othaya home has left many political overtones, especially among the dozens or so politicians who plot to succeed the affable and reserved President. He appealed to those eyeing to succeed him to put the country above tribe. Speaking in spiritual tones, the President urged leaders to desist from preaching hatred and abuse. Among the potential successors are Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, Deputy
KENYA: Anxiety as President Kibaki Prepares to Retire Prime Minister and Finance minister Uhuru Kenyatta, Eldoret North MP William Ruto, Gichugu MP Martha Karua, Internal Security minister George Saitoti , Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth, Saboti MP Eugene Wamwala, Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo, Gachoka MP Mutava Musyimi and Safina leader Paul Muite, among other hopefuls. Kibaki ventured into the murky and uncertain elective political arena by easily winning the Bahati Parliamentary seat in 1969. In 1974, he shifted to Othaya constituency in his native Nyeri district and has since represented the constituency uninterrupted, albeit under different political parties. The country's founding President and independence hero Jomo Kenyatta passed on in August 1978 and political omens visited Kibaki when incoming President Daniel Toroitich arap Moi bequeathed to him vice-presidency soon after his own inauguration. Doubling as the country Finance Minister and KANU vice president, Kibaki was destined to greater things, evident by cool posture
ETHIOPIA: Inexplicable Disease Afflicts 3,000 in Afar
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mysterious disease, which has infected approximately 3,000 people in Afar Regional State in the recent past, has medical professionals puzzled. Blood samples were sent to Senegal after an investigation at the Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institution (EHNRI) failed to identify cultures grown here, according to sources in Afar. People who are infected show symptoms including high fever, shivering, hallucinations, vomiting, and back pain, according to Hussein Ali, an official in the Regional Health Bureau. “At first we thought it was malaria because of the symptoms, but blood tests done for it came back negative," he told Fortune. People living in three Weredas in the region - Asa'iyta, Dubti and Afambo - have been infected, residents and health professionals Fortune talked to over the phone confirmed. The population of the three Weredas is 140,998 out of 1.1 million in the whole region, according to the 2007 census done by the Central Statistics Agency (CSA). So far patients with the symptoms are being treated with Doxycycline, an antibiotic, and
Diclophenac, an anti inflammatory, according to a nurse possessing his Bachelors of Science (BSc), who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity nature of the issue. "Although there is suspicion that the cause might be viral, there has not been a definitive diagnosis," he told Fortune. "However, there has not been a single death reported so far." After blood samples tested negative for malaria, health professionals, the Regional Health Bureau and WHO had suspected that it might be Dengue Fever, a tropical disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes, according to Hussien. "However, that notion has been abandoned as the symptoms do not include body rash, which is characteristics of Dengue Fever," he told Fortune. Health professionals at the Ministry of Health (MoH), WHO, and EHNRI declined comment on the issue. However, WHO and the Regional Disease Prevention and Control Office are working collaboratively to identify and control the new unidentified disease, according to Hussein.
under severe political pressures, never to publicly display his anger and frustrations. Keeping the country's purse tightly zipped thus ensuring strong economic growth, Kibaki's waterloo came in February 1982, leaving Finance docket to Arthur Kinyanjui Magugu for less prestigious Home Affairs Ministry. He would soon relinquish the vice presidency to former University of Nairobi Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Josephat Karanja. The Mangu High School Alumnus resigned as Health Minister and KANU member in December 1991 to found Democratic Party (DP). At the 1992 first multiparty elections, he posted credible fourth position and became number two in the 1997 presidential race to assume Official Leader of Opposition in Parliament. The Patron of Kenya Golf Union contested the 2002 under National Rainbow Collation (NARC) and won by massive 61 percent. He retained the controversial 2007 general elections under Party of National Unity (PNU) ticket. After two months of negotiations brokered by former United Nations Secretary General, Koffi Annan, he formed a Grand Coalition Government with his challenger Raila Odinga. With long and interesting political career, the world is focused on how the country is approaching next it's general elections.
AFRICA: UK to Reduce Aid to Anti-Gay Regimes
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frican countries which persecute gays will have their aid cut, International Development Secretary Andrew Mitchell has said. Michael was quoted by the Britain's Mail, recently, saying that already his country has cut aid to Malawi by £19million after two gay men were sentenced to 14 years hard labour. Mitchell, one of Cameron's closest allies, is also threatening to impose further aid 'fines' against Uganda and Ghana for hardline anti-gay and lesbian measures. The policy was disclosed after Mr Cameron defended his decision to legalise gay weddings when he addressed the Conservative Party Conference. It also comes at a time when the divorce of Kenya gay couple in London, Charles Ng'ang'a Wacera and his civil partner, Daniel Chege Gichia were said to be seeking divorce, two years after their internationally debated wedding. Wacera had told the Nation in an interview that the reason why his marriage to Gichia broke down was a campaign of negative publicity by media houses back home in Kenya and in social forums. The cut in aid to Malawi came after two gay men were convicted last year under the country's rigidly imposed ban on homosexuality. Pop stars Elton John and Madonna joined an international outcry when Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 26, and Steven Monjeza, 20, received a 14-year sentence for getting engaged. But a Judge in Malawi was quoted saying in his judgement: "'Malawi is not ready to see its sons getting married to its sons." The Mail reported that Uganda also faced the threat of an aid 'fine' by the UK unless it abandons plans to extend the death penalty to homosexuality. "Again during a visit to Ghana earlier this year, Stephen O'Brien - Mr Mitchell's deputy - told President John Evans Atta Mills that Britain would cut its aid unless he stopped persecuting gays," The Mail claimed. However, the threats to cut the aid to Ghana appeared to have little effect. Even though Ghana gets £36million a year from the UK, her President has vowed to 'institute measures to check the menace of homosexuality and lesbianism. XL 9
Message to My
B e l o v e d P r e s i d e n t My beloved President and Brother, Alua o!! Yabeh! Quite some ages it seems. I have lost the now belated privilege of seeing and chatting with you, as we used to do since you relocated to Abuja. How I long for the return of those good old days even if it is, at least once, in a while. You know what I mean. Whenever you return to our seeming Government-forsaken homeland, those overzealous men in black with their deadly weapons will not allow me to even contemplate coming close like we used to do as kinsmen.. Before I forget my manners, How is our wife and mother “pei-pei”? Needless I ask as I see her daily on television. I am glad she's fine and doing great as mother of the nation. Brother! That reminds me, only recently I watched on national television a footage from a trip you undertook with her outside the country. Though it was more like an oversight to me, I noticed she alighted first from the Aircraft and commenced the reception of dignitaries even before you got down. Brother, between me and you, tongues really wagged and I think it was not in line with proper protocol. What do you think? I know that our people can really love their wives, and what happened may not be far from that, but brother, I think we need to check it so we don't send the wrong signals. My beloved president, I was so proud of you when I saw you, my Izon brother, addressing the 66th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Yabeh! I listened to you address the world leaders and I make bold to say that it was a landmark speech. It was a wake-up call for the world and I am so proud that it came from you.. Again my Bros! Sorry my Beloved President I mean to say. Please pardon me; you know I am used to referring to you as Bros, especially as we know you are not carried away with the selfaggrandizement of titles. That notwithstanding, I will do my best to stick to officialdom. Like I was saying, my beloved president, I felt really bad when tongues wagged again recently at your decision to celebrate our nation's 51st independence anniversary inside the presidential enclave. Yabeh! Why did you allow the people see you as being scared of the bomb threat by MEND and Boko Haram, even with the quantum of national security apparatus at your disposal? Can you imagine that some people went on to say that it was a show of cowardice, while others interpreted it to mean that you do not see our beloved country as worth dying for? Though I do not believe them because I know it's not in our character to show weakness in the face of daunting challenges, my bros, next time I think you may need to shun such advisers and braze up to the challenge. As the number one citizen, you must give us reason to be courageous by showcasing resilience and bravery, even in the face of fear. When you show weakness, the people will lose confidence in you like a father who runs away in the face of attack by robbers in the night, ordering his wife and kids to fight the thieves. You must be seen as leading the battle, my president. After all, former
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United States President, George Bush admitted in a talk show with Oprah Winfrey that he was deadscared on September 11, 2001. He was even advised not to go into Washington immediately from Alabama where he was at the time of the attack. According to him he had learnt from his father, never to show weakness in leadership, even in the face of death threat. As a leader, he defied advice not to go into Washington and flew to immediately take charge and restore the confidence of his people. Hence, they saw him as a man who is ready to die for his fatherland. This is the style world-over my bros. How would the very demanding American have seen Bush if he had stayed back in Alabama, even if he made the loudest noise. My beloved President, while I was still pondering on the Anniversary Day incident, I learnt that the NYSC passing-out parade for Corpers was unprecedentedly put off for fear of Boko Haram in the same month of October. Where does this leave us as a nation? If we continue like this, don't you think we will one day put off the National Executive Council meeting for fear of Bomb threat? God forbid! Not in the era of my brother and beloved President. How can you allow your citizens perceive your government as cowardly in approach? Brother J, I know this may not be the best of times for our country, but you must take steps to reverse o After all, this trend because we no go carry last o! the phrase that “Warri no dey carry last” has since been modified to read “Niger Delta no dey carry last oo!” This is why you must work round the clock to return peace and sanity to our country. Brother J let me commend you on your new initiative to empower and build a more virile youth for our nation. When I saw you launching the Youth YOU WIN” on Empowerment Programme dubbed “YOU television, I screamed for joy because I think the idea of investing in the Youth simply translates to rebuilding our nation for tomorrow. Creating job opportunities for 100,000 youths across the country is a wonderful idea. This will certainly build capacity; transform our youths from job seekers to job creators. Yabeh! No doubt this is one of your administration's most ambitious programs. However, brother J you must take heed as your mere mention of 50billion naira earmarked for this all-important program has no doubt sent the professional jobbers to the drawing board. You know what I mean my beloved president. You must be willing to appoint only men and women with track records of integrity and delivery to oversee the scheme; otherwise this laudable project may turn round to become your biggest undoing. My beloved president, there is so much to talk about, but let me stop here for now. I promise to continually take advantage of this medium to reach you and contribute my own quota to your transformation agenda. Please great our Mummy. Tell her we miss her greatly, and don't forget to extend my regards to your brother in Abuja - Namadi May God bless you as you continue in the service of our beloved Nigeria. I remain yours, Akpos
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UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY Mr. President, On behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, I would like to congratulate you on your election as the President of the 66th Session of the General Assembly.
Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF), the Counter Terrorism Executive Directorate (CTED), as well as relevant international bodies and friendly countries to sharpen our response mechanisms.
I have no doubt that, under your able leadership, the work of the 66th Session would progress to a successful conclusion. I should also like to acknowledge the excellent work done by your predecessor, His Excellency Mr. Joseph Diess, who ably guided the affairs of the 65th Session with consummate skill and commitment. I must also seize the opportunity to extend my warmest felicitations to Secretary-General, Mr. Ban KiMoon, on his well-deserved reelection, a tribute to his leadership and vision.
In this connection, the UN Counter Terrorism Implementation Task force is launching its first project in Abuja in November 2011, aimed at conflict prevention and countering the appeal of terrorism to youth through education and dialogue. In addition, Nigeria is a member of the new global body, the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum (GCTF), initiated to galvanize and pull our efforts together to fight the scourge in all its ramifications. We pledge to continue to work with all stakeholders, as we enlarge and intensify our partnerships.
Secretary-General Ban KiMoon deserves Our appreciation for the good work he is doing on our behalf. I welcome the newest member of our organization - South Sudan.
President Jonathan
I am confident South Sudan will bring unique perspective to the work of the United Nations and enrich our collective experience. Mr. President, despite our initial optimism, the peace dividend we had hoped would accrue following the end of the Cold War is yet to materialize. On the contrary, the world of the 21st century in which we live is becoming ever more precarious, unpredictable and certainly more dangerous perhaps more than any other time in history. The increasing use of terror in various regions of the world as a form of political action poses serious threat to international peace and security. We must win the war against terrorism because it infringes on the fundamental rights of all peoples to life and to live in safety from fear. Over the past few months, we in Nigeria have faced an upsurge of terrorist attacks in parts of our country. Only recently, the UN Building in Abuja housing several UN Agencies was the target of an atrocious terrorist attack which left several dead. On behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, I like to convey my sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to the entire UN family for this barbaric and heinous attack against those who have dedicated their lives to helping others.
As the United States and the rest of the world commemorate the 10th anniversary of 9/11, we are reminded of the international dimension of terrorism and the imperative of a concerted global response to combat this scourge. Mr. President, for us in Nigeria, terrorist acts, rather than intimidate, will only help to strengthen our resolve to develop appropriate national strategies and collaborate even more closely with the international community in the fight against this menace. As part of Nigeria's efforts to fight terrorism, I signed into law the Terrorism (Prevention) Bill 2011 and the Anti-Money Laundering (Prohibition) Amendment Act on the 3rd of June this year. The new laws not only outlined measures for the prevention and combating of acts of terrorism, but also prohibit the financing of terrorism and laundering of the proceeds of crime. Nigeria will continue to work with the UN and other partners in this global fight. To this end, Nigeria is working closely with the United Nations Counter
When I stood before this Assembly last year, I gave a solemn pledge that Nigeria will conduct free and credible elections in the second quarter of this year. I am glad to report that we, indeed, conducted what have been adjudged credible and transparent general elections in April 2011. Let me take this opportunity to thank the United Nations and all other organisations and nations that assisted us to achieve that feat. The elections are now behind us and the Government which I head is well on course to implement our programmes of Transformation, a strategic plan for the delivery of the dividends of democracy to citizens, and for preparing our country for the challenges of the future. Indeed, all across my country, there is a renewed sense of optimism and self-belief in our ability to re-create a new Nigeria on the principles of personal freedoms, democracy, good governance and rule of law. Mr. President, permit me to identify with the theme of this year's debate of engaging the role of mediation in the peaceful resolution of conflicts in the world. You will recall that Nigeria has been in the fore front of the campaign to promote this theme when, as the President of the Security Council in July 2010, my country adopted the use of Preventive Diplomacy to resolve armed conflicts across the world. This theme is apt and could not have come at a better time when armed conflicts are increasingly taking a greater part of the time and resources of the United XL
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UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY Nations. For too long, the international community has focused too little attention on mediation and preventive diplomacy and far too much effort and resources on military aspects of peace and security. Yet, measures to address the root cause of conflict, including d i a l o g u e a n d mediation, can be far more effective as means to achieving sustainable peace and stability.
President Jonathan on arrival
I believe that cultivating peace and fulfilling the aims of Chapter V1 of the UN Charter require early identification and appropriate intervention in conflict situations in order to build confidence and trust, and also to preclude the eruption of violence between opposing parties. As I see it, our goal should always be to present the peaceful alternative as a less costly and effective way of achieving political and social objectives. I also believe that in addition to other traditional tools of preventive diplomacy, democracy and good governance can be particularly important in building a just, equitable and inclusive society. By focusing on mediation as a tool for conflict prevention, we are able to address the real triggers of conflict, without which we cannot achieve sustainable solutions. However, for the world to move from a culture of response after conflict to that of a culture of prevention, the international community must muster the political will to promote preventive diplomacy, in particular through mediation. This will necessarily entail rededicating greater human and financial resources to institutions and mechanisms that already exist within and outside the UN system for conflict prevention and resolution. Going forward, I should like to propose the establishment, under the SecretaryGeneral's Office, a Conflict Mediation Commission, to be charged, among others, with the collation of information on conflict situations across the world, identify the dramatis personae and develop appropriate strategies for initiating resolution of such conflicts.
The Commission will also develop rules of engagement, including sanctions which would apply to those who may obstruct efforts to resolve conflicts peacefully. Mr. President, this naturally brings me to the issue of trafficking in Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW). Mr. President, if your idea of resolving conflicts through mediation is to succeed, then the problem of trafficking in small arms and light weapons must be frontally tackled. The proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons is particularly worrisome, due to their easy accessibility and availability to unauthorized persons and groups, who in turn have used these arms to create instability and insecurity in much of the countries in the developing world. Even worse, the proliferation of these weapons has proved handy in the hands of terrorists. This explains our commitment to, and preoccupation with, the actualization of an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) that robustly addresses the illicit trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons which, as we all know, are among the major causes of destabilization and conflict in West Africa. The danger of proliferation of, and illicit trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons informed Nigeria's decision to co-sponsor Resolution 61/89 of 2006, the principal objective being to provide a legally binding international instrument for the trade in conventional arms. We will continue to support all initiatives towards the realization of an Arms Trade Treaty in 2012. I call on all Member States of the UN to join in this endeavour.
Finland’s President Tarja Halonen
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The increasing rate of piracy and other maritime crimes, with their attendant damaging effects on security, trade and economic activities in the Gulf of Guinea and other locations call for coordinated regional a n d g l o b a l approaches. In this respect, I like to express support for the proposal of the Secretary General to deploy a United Nations Assessment Mission to understudy the situation in the Gulf of Guinea and explore possible options for UN support and action. Our expectation is that a positive outcome from such a strategy will not only benefit our sub-region but the larger international community as well. I am already consulting with other Leaders in our sub-region to boost this initiative. Mr. President, gender equality and women empowerment strategy of the UN, especially through the creation of UN Women, deserve commendation and support. Nigeria's support for UN Women, to which we have made substantial contributions, reflects our desire to harness the potentials of women in the task of nation building. Our national action plan on gender equality and women empowerment places strong emphasis on women's effective participation In politics and adequate representation in public office. I am, indeed, proud to announce to this august Assembly that more than 30% of my Cabinet is made up of women. Let me also commend the Executive Board of UN Women on the successful take-off of the entity. UN Women can be assured of Nigeria's strong support. Mr. President, this year, prevention of non-communicable diseases is one of the issues slated for discussion at our High Level Meeting (HLM). Only three months ago, I attended the High Level Meeting on AIDS, where I pledged Nigeria's commitment to healthcare, as part of our country's human capital development agenda. My Government is intensifying efforts to improve on national healthcare delivery by allocating substantial
President Obama addressing the Assembly
resources to primary healthcare. We look forward to a productive outcome of the High Level Meeting on noncommunicable diseases at the end of this Session. In the same vein, I welcome discussions at the High Level Meeting on Desertification and Land degradation as they continue to pose challenges to our developmental efforts. This is why Nigeria strongly supports the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), including strategies and best practices to address this challenge. In order to demonstrate our commitment to human rights, Nigeria recently ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and acceded to four other international human rights instruments, including the optional protocol on the Convention against Torture and Migrant Workers. My Government has also passed into law the National Human Right Commission Amendment Act (2011), Legal Aid Council Amendment Act (2011) and Freedom of Information Act (2011). Nigeria will continue to accord the highest priority to human rights issues as they speak directly to the dignity and inalienable rights of humanity. Mr. President, we in West Africa are passing through an exciting season of democratic rebirth. Before the end of year 2011, elections would have held in six countries in West Africa. These
elections will set these countries along the path of political stability, progress, good governance and sustainable development, some of which benefits we have begun to experience. The progress we have made could not have been possible without the support of the United Nations. The resolution of the conflict in Cote d'Ivoire is a case in point. I consider the inauguration of President Ouatarra not just a success for Cote d'Ivoire but also for the international community, which spoke with one voice and acted in concert in support of the Ivorian people. The end of this crisis must be seen by all as the beginning of our journey towards the consolidation of the democratic culture and good governance in Africa. Having put this crisis behind us, the international community must now provide robust assistance to the country as it embarks on the tasks of post conflict reconstruction and national reconciliation. Mr. President, the struggle for self governance and majority rule in Africa started in the forties and by 1957, Ghana had gained independence. Today, all African States have achieved self determination and majority rule. These are no small achievements. But we still have much work to do. A great deal of the work that remains is to build viable and capable states in Africa on the principles of popular
participation, rule of law and respect for human rights, as we pledged to do in the Constitutive Act of the African Union. Nigeria believes that these values must remain at the core of governance in Africa, if we are ever to achieve the goals of stability, security and development. As Nigeria is approaching the end of its tenure on the Security Council, I will like to express my country's deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve in this important organ. In this course of our stewardship, the Council had the courage to reach many difficult decisions that resulted in positive development around the world. We are proud to be associated with these decisions. I would like to urge the Council to continue its important work in the maintenance of international peace and security. In spite of the Council's many successes, it is our belief that this important organ will benefit from the vigour and fresh perspectives which only a revamped Council that accommodated changing global political realities can provide. Mr. President, I urge you to set up clear criteria for the reform of the UN Security Council in line with the demand of the majority of the World. A reformed UN Security Council is the only way to demonstrate that all nations have equal stake in the UN. Nigeria looks forward to the prospect of membership in a reformed UN Security Council.
(Being the full text of President Goodluck Jonathan’s speech delivered at the 66th session of the United Nation General Assembly in New York on Wednesday 21st September 2011)
...with Doris Leuthard, President of Switzerland at the State luncheon ...With Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary General
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MILESTONES
Admiral Aikhomu on the final journey
A d m i r a l A u g u s t u s A i k h o m u : A
fter many years of exemplary service to his nation, Admiral Augustus Akhabue Aikhomu has gone to rest in the land of immortals. Aikhomu died on August 17, 2011, the same day his former boss, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida under whom he served as Chief of General Staff and later Vice President, clocked 70. Born on 20th October 1939, Aikhomu's life was one of many firsts. He made history as the first Nigerian Naval Officer to rise to the much coveted rank of a four star general and he belonged to the shrinking club of Nigerians whose lives and accomplishments were shaped by the noble values of hard work, commitment and loyalty. His demise therefore marked the end of an impressive chapter in the annals of the history of the Nigerian Navy. He was
also the first man from the South-South geo-political zone to become a Chief of Naval staff, then Chief of General Staff, and later Vice-President in rapid succession. As Chief of Naval Staff (19841986) he established the Air Arm of the Nigerian Navy, and initiated work on the Nigerian Naval Dockyard at Wilmot Point, which was partially commissioned in 1990 after he had left the post. He also increased the navy's fleet. Also, as the CGS and VP, Aikhomu served as an effective stabilizing factor, calming vocal agitations especially those from the oil-rich Niger Delta, over alleged political and economic inequities within the Nigerian federation. For instance, he was instrumental to the creation of Edo State in 1991 during the Babangida regime to address perceived ill-feelings of marginalization. A great lover of sports, he was also instrumental to the
Full Military Parade at the Benin Airport
Package sponsored by Admiral Porbeni
A Gentleman Soldier takes a Bow successes of the Nigerian National Team during the Babangida era. He was equally dogged and committed to the unity of Nigeria as evidenced in his career during the civil war. According to Admiral Porbeni, Aikhomu who he said was his mentor, could be described as an Anchor of the Nigerian Navy and will be missed greatly by the nation. Aikhomu was orphaned at an early age. He lost his father at the age of eight while his mother's death came while he was just 14. But by dint of hard work, commitment, loyalty and foresight, he made it to the top of his chosen profession. Born in Irrua, in present day Edo State in 1939, the late Admiral Aikhomu had his secondary education at Irrua Government School, Okpebho, from where he proceeded to the then Yaba Technical Institute (now Yaba College of Technology) from 1954 to 1958. Thereafter on he enrolled in the Nigerian Navy and was quickly dispatched to the prestigious Royal Britannia Naval College, Dartmouth, England. He also attended the Royal Naval Engineering College, England, the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Nigeria and, the Long Gunnery Specialist Course, India where he came out in flying colours culminating in his commission as a SubLieutenant in the Navy in 1964. Throughout his illustrious
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MILESTONES
Package sponsored by Admiral Porbeni
career, Aikhomu stood out as a thorough breed officer and a gentleman whose illuminating forays should serve as case study to young generation of military officers. In 1967, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant from where he rose to the position of Commander in 1974. In fact, between 1974 and 1986, he held the following positions: Commanding Officer, Nigerian Navy Doma; Commanding Officer, NNS Nigeria (now NNS Obuma); Commanding Officer, the Flagship (1975-1978); Flag Officer Commanding, Flotilla ( 1 9 7 8 - 8 0 ) ; N a v y Commodore,(1980); Chief of Personnel, Naval Headquarters(1980-1983); Chief of Naval Operations (1983-1984); Rear Admiral, May 1, 1984 and Chief of Naval Staff (1984-1986).
to the funeral. In the Federal government delegation were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim; the Chief of Staff to the President, Mike Oghiadomhe; the Chief of Defence Staff, Oluseyi Petinrin; the Chief of Army Staff,
A member of the then ruling Armed Forces Ruling Council, he was decorated with notable national honours, including Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) in 1992 and Forces Service Staff (FSS). Like most of his retired military colleagues, the late former Vice President, joined partisan politics upon his disengagement from public service. He was Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).
Until his death, he was not only a strong family man, but also a devout Christian. He was married to Rebecca Madojemu in 1967 and they were blessed with two sons and four daughters. So close was he to his children that he gathered them, as narrated by his first daughter Mrs. Vinitha Nimmyel, and urged them to be strong, less than one hour before his death. The remains of the former Chief of General Staff and later military Vice President were laid to rest at his home town, Irrua in Edo state, amid eulogies from eminent Nigerians including Vice President Namadi Sambo, who led a Federal government delegation
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professional constituency also paid its last respect to the former number two citizen in a colourful ceremony held at the Nigerian Navy Training Command in Lagos. The Lying-in-state ceremony which was attended by top naval chiefs was to bid farewell to the Late Aikhomu, the first Nigerian to rise to the exalted position of an Admiral in the Nigerian Navy.
Aikhomu left his footprints in his native town of Irrua, where he bequeathed many developmental projects to his name, especially the Irrua Specialist Hospital, the referral hospital for Lassa fever in the country.
Azubike Ihejirika; the Chief of Naval Staff, and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Mohammed Dikko Umar. Earlier, the Nigerian Navy, as his
Admiral Aikhomu, as described on his epitaph, a True Officer, Gentleman and Uncommon Patriot, finally bowed to the cold hands of death at 71, after an unsuccessful battle with prostrate cancer.
His Excellency, Vice President Namadi Sambo
Sen. David Mark & Admiral Joe Aikhomu
Thier Excellencies, Namadi Sambo & Gov. Adams Oshiomole
General Ibrahim Babangida (C)
Package sponsored by Admiral Porbeni
The Aikhomus: Ma Rebecca, Ehime & Mark-Holden
Chief Tom Ikimi, Admiral FBI Porbeni & Otunba Ojora
Gov. Adams Oshiomole
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Chief Tom Ikimi (L) & Gov. Liyel Imoke (c)
Chief Bode George (C) and daughter (L) with others
Chief Tom Ikimi (left)
Gen. Salisu Ibrahim (c) Chief Alison Madueke (r) with others
His Excellency, Chief Osunbor & Sen. Tunde Ogbeha
Chief Don Etiebet, Alex Ekwueme & AVM Okpere (Rtd.)
Chief Tony Anenih & Chief Oyegun, former Governor of Edo State
Package sponsored by Admiral Porbeni
Gov. Obi, Chief Alex Ekwueme & Sen. David Mark
Ma Rebecca Aikhomu
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Gov. Liyel Imoke
Ray Ekpu (r)
Mama, with friends at the Airport in Benin
Mama, with family friends during the Grave-side oration
Ma Rebecca Aikhomu performs the Dust-to-Dust
A cross-section of the Aikhomus
A Grand-child performs the Dust-to-Dust
Mark-Holden Aikhomu takes his turn Top Military Brass pay last respect
Package sponsored by Admiral Porbeni
Esama of Benin, Chief Gabriel Igbenedion & Chief Usunbor
Naval Top Brass, S.O. Ojediran & O.S. Ibrahim
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Breast Cancer:
Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention
(Part 2)
In part 1 of this piece, we touched on the two types of Breast Cancer, the symptoms, causes and risk factors like Age and Gender, Family History, Genes, Menstrual Cycle, Alcohol use etc. We also touched all the Test and Diagnostics. In this concluding part, we will take you through the Treatments, possible Complications and Prevention. Enjoy TREATMENTS c o m b i n a t i o n o f treatments. For women Treatment is based on many factors, like the type and stage of the with stage I, II, or III breast cancer, for instance, whether the cancer cancer, the main goal is to is sensitive to certain hormones, and treat the cancer and whether or not the cancer overproduces prevent it from returning. For women with stage IV (over expresses) a gene called HER2/neu. cancer, the goal is to In general, cancer treatments improve symptoms and may include Chemotherapy medicines to help them live longer. In most cases, kill cancer cells, Radiation therapy to stage IV breast cancer cannot be cured. destroy cancerous tissue, Surgery to remove cancerous tissue either by Stage 0 and DCIS - Lumpectomy plus lumpectomy which removes the breast radiation or mastectomy is the standard lump while mastectomy removes all or treatment. There is some controversy on part of the breast and possible nearby how best to treat DCIS. Stage I and II - Lumpectomy plus radiation structures Other treatments are Hormonal or mastectomy with some sort of lymph therapy to block certain hormones that node removal is standard treatment. Hormone therapy, fuel cancer growth and chemotherapy, and targeted therapy to interfere “...Have a biologic therapy may with cancer cell growth and also be recommended complete breast function following surgery. An example of examination by a Stage III - Treatment hormonal therapy is the drug involves surgery health care tamoxifen. This drug blocks possibly followed by the effects of estrogen, which provider every chemotherapy, hormone can help breast cancer cells therapy, and biologic year. Generally, survive and grow. Most women therapy. with estrogen-sensitive breast women should call Stage IV - Treatment cancer benefit from this drug. their doctor may involve surgery, A newer class of medicines r a d i a t i o n , immediately; if called aromatase inhibitors, chemotherapy, such as exemestane they notice any hormonal therapy, or a (Aromasin), have been shown combination of such change in their to work just as well or even treatments. better than tamoxifen in breasts, whether A f t e r postmenopausal women with or not they do treatment, some breast cancer. women will continue to Targeted therapy, also routine breast self- take medications such called biologic therapy, is a examinations� as tamoxifen for a newer type of cancer period of time. All treatment. This therapy uses women will continue to special anticancer drugs that identify certain changes in a cell that can lead to have blood tests, mammograms, and cancer. One such drug is trastuzumab other tests following treatment. (Herceptin). For women with stage IV HER2-positive breast cancer, Herceptin COMPLICATIONS plus chemotherapy has been shown to New, improved treatments are work better than chemotherapy alone. Studies have also shown that in women helping persons with breast cancer live with early stage HER2-positive breast longer than ever before. However, even cancer, this medicine plus chemotherapy with treatment, breast cancer can spread cuts the risk of the cancer coming back by to other parts of the body. Sometimes, cancer returns even after the entire 50%. tumor is removed and nearby lymph Cancer treatment may be local or nodes are found to be cancer-free. You systemic as Local treatments involve only m a y e x p e r i e n c e s i d e e f f e c t s o r the area of disease. Radiation and complications from cancer treatment. For surgery are forms of local treatment while example, radiation therapy may cause Systemic treatments affect the entire temporary swelling of the breast, aches body. Chemotherapy is a type of systemic and pains around the area. Ask your treatment. doctor about the side effects you may M o s t w o m e n r e c e i v e a have during treatment.
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PREVENTION Many risk factors such as your genes and family history cannot be controlled. However, a healthy diet and a few lifestyle changes may reduce your overall chance of cancer in general. Breast cancer is more easily treated and often curable if it is found early. That is why it is advisable to be involved in Breast self-examinations (BSE), Clinical breast examinations by a medical professional and Screening mammography. Most experts recommend that women within age 20 and 39 examine their breasts once a month during the week following the menstrual period, and have a doctor examine their breasts at least once every 3 years. For women who are 40 and older, they should have a mammogram every 1 2 years, depending on their risk factors. They should have a complete breast examination by a health care provider every year. Generally, women should call their doctor immediately; if they notice any change in their breasts, whether or not they do routine breast selfexaminations. However, Mammography is the most effective way of detecting breast cancer early. Certain women at high risk for breast cancer may have a breast MRI along with their yearly mammogram. Ask your doctor if you need an MRI. Screening for breast cancer is a topic filled with controversy. A woman needs to have an informed and balanced discussion with her doctor, along with doing additional reading and researching on her own, to determine if mammography is right for her. Tamoxifen is approved for breast cancer prevention in women aged 35 and older who are at high risk. Women at very high risk for breast cancer may consider preventive (prophylactic) mastectomy, which is the surgical removal of the breasts. Possible candidates for this procedure may include those who have already had one breast removed due to cancer, women with a strong family history of breast cancer, and persons with genes or genetic mutations that raise their risk of breast cancer.