The Nation Newspaper

Category: Life – The Midweek Magazine

‘Museums must adapt, innovate to remain relevant’

Director-General National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) Mr. Olugbile Holloway has said that museums in this changing time must adapt and innovate to remain relevant and impactful in its community. He stated that museums are not merely buildings that house antiquities, but living institutions that offer spaces for learning, dialogue, and cultural continuity. “They reflect our past, engage with our present, and help us shape our future. In rapidly changing communities, museums serve as anchors of identity, offering context and understanding in times of uncertainty,” he said.

Holloway who spoke at this year’s International Museum Day celebration held at National Museum, Onikan, Lagos last week, tagged The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities, observed that across the globe, communities are evolving at an unprecedented pace and experiencing rapid urbanization, demographic shifts, technological advancements, and significant socio-political changes. Holloway was represented by the Curator National Museum, Lagos, Mrs Nkechi Adedeji.

READ ALSO: Neglected Lagos roads

“For us in Nigeria, where our cultural heritage is rich and diverse, museums play a critical role in preserving indigenous knowledge systems, promoting intercultural dialogue, and fostering national unity. They help us connect with our roots, educate our children about their history, and empower communities through cultural pride and awareness.

“As change sweeps through our societies, museums must not remain static. We must embrace digital innovation, inclusivity, and community engagement. Museums of the future must be interactive, participatory, and accessible to all. They must represent the voices of youth, marginalised groups, and the dynamic realities of our times. In Africa, where oral tradition and community memory remain vital, museums must continue to be custodians of both tangible and intangible heritage,” he added.

According to him, museum must foster research, creativity, and resilience in the face of global challenges such as climate change, conflict, and displacement. He tasked museum staff to reaffirm their commitment to building museums that evolve with their communities. “Let us envision institutions that do not just preserve the past, but actively shape the future,” he said.

Guest speaker at the celebration, Curator, Jaekel House/Railway Museum, Mr. Henry Oyediran identified environmental concern, social change, demographic shift, technological advancement and political shifts and alignment as factors that may hinder the progress and progressions of museum professionals.

He said museum plays multifaceted roles in the community, which include preservation of heritage, educator, repository of knowledge, community hub, centre of inspiration among others.

Oyediran stressed that museum is expected to impact the community it serves by documenting its history and other community events and serving as a must-see tourist destination. “They collect, preserve, and showcase artefacts and stories that reflect the community’s heritage and help to build a sense of identity and belonging. The Museum chronicles and documents the histories of communities lest they forget and provides a compass for the future as well, and posts a reminder of changes in the community,” he added.

On how museums can be relevant in changing time, he said: “For the museums to stay important, impactful and relevant there is a need to adequately fund them. The museum of the 21st century museums must be well funded to ensure its continual relevance to the community it serves and to have an impact on the society. The modern museums are no longer just institutions of preservation, they are beacons of community engagement, learning, and cohesion.

“If and when museums are adequately funded, more collaboration is expected, and the museums will continue to chart new paths forward for both the institutions and the communities they serve. Modern museums must be dynamic and responsive, leveraging new technology and community partnerships to stay relevant.

The future of the museum lies in partnership with schools, libraries, associations, other museums at home and abroad to maintain its stand against the future advocacy – to know about what you do, who you are helping and what you are.

“The museum must always be there to promote and spread information that is committed to the truth and emerging societies/communities, by so doing laying good information about the community they serve. This way, the museum must gain more visibility in the society or communities in which it is situated.”

International Museum Day is a significant event celebrated globally every May 18. This annual celebration, established by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) during its 12th General Assembly in Moscow in 1977, aims to raise awareness about the important role museums play in the development of society.

The IgboUkwu Development Union delegation led by its president general Dr. Sir Mck Ubah, the Ezeakajiugo, performed the traditional breaking of the kola nuts. Other members were
Chairlady, IgboUkwu Development Union,(Women), Lagos, Nono Nkechinyere Umeobi, who was represented by Mrs Obialunamma Pamela Onyemena, Vice Chairlady and Chairman,IgboUkwu Development Union,Lagos, Mr Anigbogu Chukwudi.

The day was not all about speeches as some friends and stakeholders of the museum were recognized and presented some gifts. The event, which also featured cultural performances by White Diamond Troupe, and talks by students on theme of the day, had guests as Prof Ebun Clark, Dr. Mudiare Onobrakpeya, Taiwo Olaniyan, Ronke Ashaye, Mrs. Caro Sosu in attendance. Also, a guided tour of a permanent exhibition titled Cycle of Life was conducted by some secondary school students.

May 28, 2025
Ajido honours Grammy Award winner Olatunji

The serene community of Ajido in Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State was in a festive mood last Saturday as residents converged on the community’s open square, Aholu Thanji, to honour the legendary drummer and Grammy Award winner Dr. Micheal Babatunde Olatunji. They defied the scorching sun and the intermittent shower of rain to celebrate one of their own who brought honour and pride to Ajido Kingdom. Masqueraders in their numbers danced round the community in procession as homage and traditional rites prelude to the big feast of a legend.

Men, women, young and old occupied the sandy Aholu Thanji to be part of an unprecedented celebration of a legend.

At the core of the celebration is the promotion of Ajido heritage, which His Royal Majesty Saheed Sedonu Adamson, Aholu Topon Toyiaga 1 of Ajido Kingdom, Sato dancers and Zangbeto performance and magic display represent.

Last Saturday’s event tagged Feast of a legend, an initiative of Bond Africana in conjunction with the Olatunji Family, is a build up to the 2027 centenary celebration of the legendary drummer.

READ ALSO: Celebrating President Tinubu’s remarkable two years in office

Feast of a Legend is an annual cultural event initiate by Bond Africana, a vibrant organization dedicated to celebrating African heritage, history, and creativity. The festival is designed as a grand homage to iconic African figures—both historical and contemporary—who have shaped the continent’s story through leadership, innovation, arts, activism, and cultural excellence.

Launched as part of Bond Africana’s broader mission to preserve and promote African narratives, Feast of a Legend weaves together elements of history, storytelling, music, and visual arts.

Chairman of the event, Mr. Abraham Olukayode Seton Hodonu described the celebration not only as an eye-opener, but also an unprecedented honour no one has been so given in Ajido. He urged the people to emulate the good works of Dr. Olatunji, adding that “if you do right, you will reap the fruits as we have done today.”

“This type of ceremony has never been done to anybody in the history of this town. Your father has laid a precedence that has never been laid by anybody… As a community we will establish a hall of fame. And your father will be the first person whose picture will be exhibited in the hall.

It may be in the palace or in the town hall. Your father photograph will be number one. There is no other honour you can give to anybody than what is being done now. The Lord will continue to bless you as you honour your father, the Lord will honour you,” he added.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Mrs. Modupe Maume Olatunji commended everyone for participating in the celebration of Baba Olatunji, adding that Baba grew up in Ajido and was inspired from young age to take to drumming, which took him all over the world.

“He always told us if you have a good name and you do good deeds, you will go far. And we are grateful that each and every one of you is here today to witness this occasion to celebrate and kick off his 100th birthday which will be in 2027,” she said.

In a tribute from Mwagale, Kozza, Tukie, Basi and lyabo, the family said: “Baba, you lived as both a humanist and a legend. You were and still legendary. A Grammy-winning percussionist, a devoted philanthropist, a proud Pan-Africanist, a beloved father. And to us, a cherished grandfather. “

“At your core was a deep and abiding belief in the power of family-biological, chosen, and global. You cared for all of us with grace, strength, and unwavering love. And even now, beyond the veil, we feel your care guiding and uplifting us. You gave us the greatest gift: a radiant legacy woven with vibrant fabrics, melodic songs, rhythmic movement, and mighty drum beats. We pledge to share that gift with the world.

“We are ready and deeply honored to carry your legacy forward: a legacy of love, unity, and peace. As we step into new chapters and welcome the 4th generation, we do so with reverence for your words and wisdom, forever honoring the truth that ‘rhythm is the soul of life.’ And when the wind carries our collective heart ‘beat’ to your corner of the universe, we know you will respond with infinite love, with eternal Ife. Love is eternal, love is Ife.”

May 28, 2025
Family Meeting: building block of society

Parents, students and other stakeholders recently converged on Gallery Hall National Council for Arts and Culture, National Theater Complex, Iganmu Lagos to share thoughts on the need to create a supportive structure and family environment where members realise their full potential, thus creating a progressive society. It was at the instance of Family Meeting series project, an Entertainment Bus-Stop Ltd, community engagement and Corporate Social Responsibility initiative marking its 10th edition, under the platform of the United Nations declaration of International Day of Families. Participants engaged in conversations on the theme Preserve Our Family Unity in Peace, Security and Moral Values, as it is essential for every society to create a supportive structure and family environment where members realize their full potential, thus creating a progressive society.

Project convener, Ms. Eki Faith Eboigbe, highlighted the need for an environment of love, understanding, encouragement, and healthy relationships between parents, caregivers, and their wards. She stressed the importance of instilling vital soft skills such as attentive listening, emotional intelligence, and a sympathetic presence to nurture a humane character that is essential in today’s society.

Head of Directorate, National Council for Arts and Culture, Lagos zonal office, Princess Ivie Betty Uwa-Igbinoba who hosted the event welcomed guests to the gallery hall.

She reiterated the significance of a healthy family unit to society and expressed the agency’s delight in collaborating with Entertainment Bus-Stop Ltd on this laudable project that aligns with the Directorate’s goals and mission. The moderator, Mrs. Onome Odili, engaged the speakers and guests in robust conversations based on the theme. Speakers including Mrs. Deborah Odutayo, Executive Director Royal Roots Communication Network, and Engr. Ifeanyichukwu Avajah, Former Chairman, Association of Nigerian Authors, shared personal experiences to encourage parents towards intentional responsible parenting. This, he said, involves actively fulfilling parental duties to ensure the well-being of their wards and develop them into responsible adults who contribute to society.

READ ALSO: Celebrating President Tinubu’s remarkable two years in office

Other guests present at the event were; Mrs. Toki Mabogunje; past President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Prevail Farida; Peace Ambassador, Mrs. Jomion Shogbola; a renowned Educationist, Mrs. Juliet Odesanya; a Seasoned Banker and Mrs. Moji Oshodi-Glover, all shared their perspectives on aspects that will further strengthen the family unit.

The conversations were focused on sharing relatable hands-on experiences and workable solutions that have been successful, which can be utilized as part of the toolkit for family sustainability. Thereafter, children from the Kings & Queens Arts Academy presented a drama performance titled Dancing Mosquito, a thematic stage play with a message to create awareness and stimulate proactive measures towards eradicating malaria in Nigeria and the Sub-Saharan continent.

Master of ceremony, Mr. Steph Ogundele said the Family Meeting series project is dedicated to building and stabilizing the family, an essential building block of society. Entertainment Bus-Stop Ltd has shown unwavering commitment to continuing conversations that will ignite impactful outcomes for families and society.

May 28, 2025
Driving safety culture through films

When art and public safety converge, powerful change follows. In the third quarter, Abuja will host the first Road Safety International Film Festival (RSIFF), a pioneering initiative that enlists Nollywood storytellers, FRSC experts, and youth advocates to confront Nigeria’s road crash epidemic. Under the banner Drive Right, Drive Smart, audiences will experience immersive films, live skits and celebrity roundtables—all crafted to transform road use habits, galvanise community responsibility and spark a nationwide commitment to safer streets, reports Associate Editor ADEKUNLE YUSUF.

In a bold convergence of art and advocacy, Nigeria is preparing to unveil its inaugural Road Safety International Film Festival (RSIFF), a pioneering endeavour aimed at redefining how citizens absorb, internalize, and respond to the principles of safe driving. Against the vibrant cultural tapestry of the Federal Capital Territory, this festival aspires to transcend the typical trappings of public service announcements, harnessing cinema’s emotive resonance to make road safety both deeply personal and powerfully persuasive.

Far more than an opportunity to screen short films and skits, RSIFF represents a collective movement spearheaded by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the I Am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative (IFON), and the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN). Its guiding mantra—“Drive Right, Drive Smart”—distills an urgent message within a nation where road traffic accidents claim thousands of lives each year, many of them young and brimming with potential. In staging this festival, the organisers are acknowledging that facts and figures alone, however compelling, often lack the staying power of a well told story.

At a recent press conference in Abuja, FRSC Corps Marshal Malam Shehu Mohammed described RSIFF as an “entertainment based education project,” one that builds on the Corps’ existing programmes by weaving road safety lessons into narratives that resonate. “We are leveraging film and celebrity influence to deepen understanding of traffic laws and encourage responsible driving,” he explained. Through this blend of star power and storytelling, the festival aims to engage viewers on an emotional level, allowing them to see themselves in the drivers and passengers who populate these short dramas.

For young audiences in particular—those most at risk on Nigeria’s roads—the festival offers a fresh approach. Rather than didactic lectures or dry statistics, RSIFF presents real world scenarios dramatized with authenticity and flair. These cinematic vignettes will illustrate how a moment’s inattention or a single lapse in judgment can lead to tragedy, while demonstrating how simple choices—wearing a seatbelt, obeying speed limits, or avoiding distractions—can preserve life.

READ ALSO: Celebrating President Tinubu’s remarkable two years in office

Behind the glamour, there is a carefully considered strategy. By situating film screenings alongside panel discussions with road safety experts, interactive workshops for filmmakers, and public viewings in open air venues, RSIFF will create multiple touchpoints for learning. Media coverage and social media campaigns will extend the festival’s reach well beyond its physical venues, ensuring that the festival’s messages ripple through communities nationwide. The involvement of the Actors Guild of Nigeria is particularly significant. As cultural influencers whose work already shapes public opinion, Nollywood stars can amplify RSIFF’s impact—transforming on screen lessons into off screen behavioural change. When beloved celebrities share personal commitments to road safety, their fans are far more likely to follow suit.

Ultimately, the Road Safety International Film Festival seeks to usher in a cultural shift: from viewing road regulations as impediments, to embracing them as safeguards that enable mobility, protect families, and preserve futures. By marrying the captivating power of cinema with a life saving message, RSIFF stands poised to spark a nationwide conversation—one that moves beyond mere awareness to real, lasting transformation. In the flicker of each frame, the festival carries the promise that safer roads and saved lives may yet become Nigeria’s greatest box-office successes.

It is, by all accounts, a pioneering move on the African continent, but one that joins a growing global chorus. From France to Chile, India to Morocco, Ethiopia to Congo, film festivals have increasingly become platforms for amplifying road safety narratives, dramatising real-life traffic scenarios, and urging behaviour change in a format that sticks.

In many ways, Nigeria is uniquely poised to make RSIFF a runaway success. The nation’s film industry—Nollywood—is the second-largest in the world by volume and enjoys tremendous reach across demographics. By partnering with the Actors Guild of Nigeria, the organisers are harnessing not only the power of storytelling, but also the influential heft of some of the country’s most recognisable public figures. The President of AGN, Emeka Rollas, was unequivocal in the Guild’s commitment to the festival. “The Actors Guild of Nigeria is proud to collaborate with ‘I Am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative’ (IFON) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on this historic journey,” he stated.

Rollas went further to explain that many actors have already signed on as Road Safety Ambassadors. “They are lending their voices, faces, and influence to this noble cause as we call on many more to join,” he said. “To my colleagues in Nollywood, this is our opportunity to give back to society by using our art for advocacy; let us create stories that matter—stories that save lives. When film meets purpose, magic happens. Let us make that magic count; let us make Nigeria’s roads safer one story at a time.”

At the heart of RSIFF lies a simple but powerful truth: narratives matter. And in the realm of road use, where reckless driving, disregard for traffic rules, and poor enforcement have cost lives and livelihoods, the ability to frame the conversation differently is a game-changer. Mrs Noni Okocha, the Chief Executive Officer of IFON, captured this vision with eloquence and conviction. “This campaign is not just another programme; it is Nigeria’s first-ever road safety movement powered by film, media, and celebrity advocacy,” she said. “In collaboration with the Actors Guild of Nigeria and other key partners, we are harnessing the power of Nollywood storytelling and youth engagement to make road safety education more relatable, impactful, and far-reaching.”

Her words bear the weight of a pressing national crisis. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), road traffic crashes remain a leading cause of death in Nigeria, particularly among people aged 15 to 29. Okocha’s call to action is both poignant and powerful: “When we come together—government agencies, communities, schools, media, and celebrities—we cultivate a culture where safety becomes our second nature. Together, we can save lives, we can protect families, we can build a future where every road user gets home safely.”

Beneath the glitz of celebrity endorsements and red carpet screenings, RSIFF is anchored by a clear strategic vision. According to the Corps Marshal, the festival seeks to elevate public understanding of traffic laws through vivid, relatable storytelling, using films that place viewers directly into the heart of real life driving scenarios and their consequences. By doing so, it aspires to foster genuine behavioural change—especially among young motorists—boost compliance with safety regulations and rekindle national interest in responsible road use. At the same time, it will broaden the FRSC’s presence across digital and traditional media, give creative professionals a meaningful channel for civic engagement, and ultimately reduce road accidents through enhanced driver education and awareness. In short, RSIFF hopes not just to inform but to inspire every road user to embrace safety as a personal commitment.

The Corps is extending an open invitation to entertainers, content creators, skit makers, actors, directors, and youth influencers to join the movement. It is a call to wield their creative talents in service of a national cause that affects every Nigerian, regardless of status or station. “The Corps is convinced that the objectives of this festival will help the re-education and re-orientation of road users through dramatising real life scenarios using short films, skits, and interactive media contents,” Mohammed reiterated.

This emphasis on “dramatisation” is critical. In the age of TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram Reels, where digital content is consumed voraciously and at speed, the potential to saturate public consciousness with safety messages is unprecedented—if done creatively. For too long, road safety campaigns have been couched in bureaucratic language, buried in officialdom, or consigned to dull lectures in school auditoriums. RSIFF disrupts this pattern by making learning visceral, visual, and vibrant. In doing so, it aligns perfectly with global best practices that advocate for behavioural science-informed campaigns—ones that leverage emotion, relatability, and repetition. Moreover, RSIFF is emblematic of a broader shift towards soft power approaches in public policy. It recognises that to change how people behave, one must first change what they believe—and that belief is often shaped not by rules but by stories.

As the Federal Capital Territory prepares to host the maiden edition of the Road Safety International Film Festival in the third quarter of the year, a sense of anticipation is in the air. What stories will emerge? What impact will they have? How many lives will be touched—or even saved—by a powerful skit, a short documentary, or a fictional tale that mirrors real danger?

For every parent who has lost a child to a preventable crash, every commuter who has witnessed recklessness on the highways, every young person tempted to ignore traffic rules, RSIFF offers more than entertainment—it offers redemption, reflection, and renewal. It is not just a festival. It is a national reckoning. It is a cultural renaissance that beckons us to reimagine the road as a place not of peril but of purpose, not of loss but of life.

In the final analysis, the Road Safety International Film Festival represents an inflection point for Nigeria. It is a rare convergence of art and advocacy, passion and policy, cinema and citizenship. And if the vision of the FRSC, IFON, and AGN finds full expression, the festival will not only enrich Nigeria’s cultural calendar—it will recalibrate the nation’s collective conscience on the sanctity of life and the civility of road use. For a country too long haunted by the sirens of emergency vehicles, RSIFF may just be the clarion call for a safer, saner journey ahead. And in that journey, every Nigerian—whether behind the wheel, in the back seat, or behind the camera—has a role to play.

May 28, 2025
Oladoyin Idowu’s journey to empower dyslexics in Nigeria

Oladoyin Idowu wears many hats: assistant psychologist, psychosocial support consultant, mental wellness advocate, and operations lead at Serenity Nigeria. At 17 years old, she founded One Word Africa Foundation. Her work is rooted in equity, sustainability, and creating real impact for those often left behind. In this interview with Assistant Editor, EVELYN OSAGIE, she speaks on her journey to empower dyslexics in Nigeria and more.

The inspiration behind my One Word Africa Foundation and dyslexia advocacy

Honestly, it all began with a personal struggle. I discovered I had dyslexia in 2015, and it changed my life. At that point, I had already gone through so much from academic frustration, self-doubt, anxiety, and years of feeling like I was just not enough.

But discovering I had dyslexia gave me an identity. It helped me understand that I wasn’t lazy or stupid. I just learned differently. By 2016, I had started sharing my story online, and the response was overwhelming. People were reaching out; adults, parents, teachers, saying things like, “This sounds like me” or “This sounds like my child.”

That’s when I knew this wasn’t just about me. It was bigger. So, I started One Word Africa Foundation in year 2016, when I was 17 years old, to push for awareness, support, and dignity for people with dyslexia, especially in Nigeria where conversations around learning difficulties are still very limited.

My personal experience that shaped my advocacy

What started for me as an academic struggle eventually compounded into mental health struggles, terrible imposter syndrome, anxiety disorder, and self-esteem issues. The way society responded to my inability to learn; in school, at home, everywhere made me internalize a lot of negativity.

Because of that, our advocacy at One Word Africa is holistic. We don’t just focus on helping people read better, we pay attention to the emotional, psychological, and social dimensions of dyslexia. We want to heal the whole person. That perspective is what makes our intervention programs effective.

READ ALSO: Neglected Lagos roads

Growing up that impact the woman I became

Growing up was challenging, especially as I struggled with my identity. But even in that uncertainty, one thing was always clear, my sense of empathy. From a young age, I have always been someone who cared deeply for others, stood up for people, and found joy in seeing others happy. That quality has shaped the woman I have become. It shows up in my work, my advocacy, and my desires to build systems that help people not just survive, but thrive. At the heart of everything I do is a simple mission: to contribute to people’s happiness and make life easier and more meaningful for those around me.

Being a woman, to you?

To me, being a woman means holding the power to give life, not just biologically, but in the way we nurture people, ideas, and communities. It means being a legacy builder and a changemaker. As a woman navigating spaces like neurodiversity and advocacy, I see it as a privilege to challenge stereotypes and redefine what’s possible. For me, womanhood is an open canvas, a template through which I can drive positive change, mentor younger women, and contribute meaningfully to nation-building and the future.

Beauty to me

To me, beauty is coming into your essence, truly knowing and being comfortable in your own skin. It’s about self-awareness, recognizing your identity, your power, and being proud of the person you are becoming. Beauty is the ability to behold yourself, not just in the mirror, but in your thoughts, your values, and your growth.

It’s both internal and external: doing the self-work to improve your mindset, your appearance, and how you carry yourself. Beauty is dressing in a way that reflects your body, your style, and your truth, without needing anyone else’s validation. It’s loving what you see and who you are, because you have taken the time to truly know yourself.

My hope for the future of dyslexia advocacy in Nigeria and across Africa

I want to see policy change; bills passed that mandate screening and support for dyslexic learners. I want inclusion to be built into our education and workplace frameworks, not something we have to beg for. I want to see more research done in Nigeria, by Nigerians, so that when we quote statistics, they reflect our actual realities.

And I want to see cross-African partnerships, for us to develop frameworks that work in our own context. We need to build systems that understand our culture, our schools, our families. Ultimately, I want to see a world where dyslexics can thrive, where they’re not just surviving, but actually flourishing.

My professional journey outside of the NGO

It’s been a beautiful journey of growth. I started out as the struggling student no one believed in, I couldn’t read properly, teachers were frustrated with me, and I honestly felt like I wouldn’t amount to much. But after my diagnosis, I decided to go back to school to study psychology, and I ended up graduating as one of the top five in my class.

Since then, I have written and published research on dyslexia, obtained multiple certifications in dyslexia and mental health, and worked across different settings. I currently serve as an assistant psychologist at Serenity Nigeria and consult on various mental health projects. I have also worked on psychosocial support frameworks for women in internally displaced camps and people in low-resource settings. I am passionate about building systems that are scalable, inclusive, and accessible to the people who need them most.

My books

Yes! I am so excited about my two books I’m writing.

The first is a children’s storybook called Audrey’s Amazing Adventure. It’s basically my story, but simplified for children. It’s about encouraging kids to dream big, push through struggles, and believe that their challenges don’t define them.

The second is a memoir titled Redefining Dyslexia: My Path to Leadership. It’s my story from the beginning ; growing up with undiagnosed dyslexia, navigating school, discovering myself, building One Word Africa, and becoming a leader in this space. I wanted to encourage an underdog by showing them that the child everyone thought wouldn’t amount to anything can actually go on to make impact.

Biggest challenge people with dyslexia still face in Nigeria

Support is the biggest issue. People either can’t access resources, or the ones available are too expensive or too complicated to understand. A lot of families don’t even know where to start. There are very few dyslexia-focused organisations in Nigeria, and even fewer that offer free support.

My fashion style

My fashion style is evolving. I am currently learning to understand what truly suits me, learning to dress for my body type, choosing colors that compliment my skin tone, and embracing outfits that make me feel confident and authentic. I have become more intentional about what I wear, and that shift has made a big difference in how I carry myself. One of my favorite fashion choices is African print, especially Adiré. I love how versatile and expressive it is, whether it’s styled into a flowing boubou, a chic two-piece, or a midi dress. Adiré gives me comfort, elegance, and a cultural identity. I love outfits that are loose yet stylish, they allow me to move freely while still looking put together. Overall, comfort is my priority, especially for my day-to-day work, public speaking engagements, or meetings. But I also enjoy being unpredictable with my fashion, I like the idea that you never know what look I will show up with next. Whether it’s traditional, edgy, or soft and minimalist, I love having that freedom to express the different layers of who I am.

Fashion item I cannot do without

Honestly, my glasses! I can switch up my clothes, shoes, and accessories, but my glasses are non-negotiable. I literally can’t see without them, so they are both a necessity and, over time, they have become part of my signature look. So yes, glasses first, fashion follows.

Relaxation

While I am involved with people through my work, I am also someone who values solitude. I cherish my quiet moments, whether that’s a spa day, sleeping in, or watching a good movie, as a way to recharge and stay grounded.

What’s next for me

That is a really exciting question. I am stepping into authorship, I am about to publish books that are very dear to my heart: My Dyslexia Story. There will be a version for children and another for adults, and both are aimed at raising awareness, offering hope, and changing the narrative around dyslexia in Nigeria and beyond. Alongside that, I am formally launching a neurodiversity consultation firm. While I have consulted informally with families and schools for years, I am now building a structured platform to offer professional services, supporting parents, educators, and organizations in understanding and helping individuals with learning difficulties. It’s a natural progression of the work I have done for nearly a decade, and I am excited to see it grow.

May 28, 2025
IPC, NAWOJ partner to promote women issues in elections

To boost democratic participation and elevate the voices of women in Nigeria’s political discourse, the International Press Centre (IPC) and Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) held a high-level consultative forums with key women media stakeholders, aimed at promoting gender-sensitive reporting and amplify women’s voices in the electoral process.

Themed “Advancing Female Journalists’ Impactful Reporting on Women Issues in Election and Democracy,” the forum, which was held in Port Harcourt at the weekend, was supported by the European Union under the Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria Phase II (EU-SDGN II) programme.

IPC Executive Director, Lanre Arogundade, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to strengthening democracy and increasing women’s participation in politics. He announced plans to provide training and support to female journalists, enabling them to effectively cover women-related issues in elections and project Nigeria’s women politicians globally; the initiative’s objectives include: enhancing female journalists’ capacity to report on women’s issues in elections; increasing the visibility of women’s voices and perspectives in the electoral process; and fostering a culture of gender-sensitive reporting

READ ALSO: Celebrating President Tinubu’s remarkable two years in office

Senior lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt, Dr. Titilayo Osuagwu, who gave the keynote address, highlighted the need for women’s recognition in politics and encouraged female journalists to promote women in their reports.

NAWOJ National Chairperson, Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, represented by Deputy National Chairperson Dr. Lilian Okonkwo Ogabu, appreciated IPC’s initiative and pledged collaboration on women’s empowerment and social responsibility issues. “By empowering female journalists, we can create a more inclusive and equitable democratic process,” Dr. Ogabu said.

IPC) and NAWOJ reiterated their commitments to promoting democracy, human rights, and gender equality through various initiatives and programmes. The meeting was attended by NAWOJ officials, top women journalists from across the country, and IPC representatives.

May 28, 2025
Odyssey of man of letters

Author: Joshua Sunday Olagunju

Book title: My Life Odyssey: An autobiography of Pastor Joshua Sunday Olagunju

Year of Publication: 2025

Publishers: SABIC Publishers, Ibadan Reviewer: Prof Emmanuel O. Ojo

This 484-page and twenty chapter book by Pastor Joshua Sunday Olagunju – a one-time Managing Director of the rested Sketch Newspapers – is a latest addition to the growing literature on both autobiography and biographies of eminent personalities in our society. According to the author in his words the book is “an epic account of struggles, setbacks, renewed hopes, and a triumph”. Putting one’s life journey from cradle to its twilight on record, no doubt, is greatly beneficial to both the author who may like to be immortalised and the younger generation who may be privileged to read the story and learn few things in their life course. According to The Penguin Dictionary of Proverbs, (1984:268) ‘writing destroys the memory’. More so that there is a limit to human memory if not committed to writing in black and white.

Like many who were born into a stark illiterate family, the exact date of the author’s birth was not known! His date of birth became mere matter of conjecture as there was no record of birth in the family, neither did they go to the birth registry to register his birth and collect birth certificate. Not until his brother one Dele, the first son of his father told him that by the time their father gave up the ghost in 1960, that he was between 13 and 14 years old. He was also between 7 and 8 years old in 1955 when the author entered St. Paul’s Primary School, EfonAlaaye on February 17, 1955. From his account he was born into a polygamous family – of three wives, of which his mother Rachael Oluwafumilayo, nee Folayan – was the third wife of his father while Sunday was the first child from his own mother.

From the first chapter of the book which he titled “My Childhood Years”, the author benefitted from the free Universal Basic Education of the late Sage – Chief Obafemi Awolowo- the Premier of the defunct Western Region. In the early hours of February 17, 1955 his mother had woken him up early enough to get ready for school. It was at Efon Alaaye, in present day Ekiti State. Young Sunday was a brilliant chap passing exams in flying colours to the admiration of his teachers and consternation of his class mates.

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The second chapter entitled ‘Parenthood’, Sunday’s father was a traditional ‘Adamo’ musician who was famous for it with his dexterity which attracted accolades and fame to him from his admirers. His father did not lived long with Sunday by the time his son started school in 1955 and 1960 when his Dad gave up the ghost. Life expectancy was very low then. The sudden demise of his father made the responsibility of taking good care of the author to fall solely on his mother who had no dime with her as at the time of her husband’s demise after a protracted sickness. He thus began a journey of life of poverty and penury that only a divine intervention could bail him out from this predicament.

The death of his benefactors and those left behind with low education that could barely eke a living, threw young Sunday into a bleakly future. Vicissitudes of life made him to begin squatting from one relation to the other, while some were tolerant for a short while some could not accommodate him with his financial liabilities as a complete dependent person. On completion of his Secondary Modern School, which was in vogue then, he found himself in a quagmire, especially as regards what next for him to do. He became perplexed and seemed totally hopeless as a young man. In the process, he found himself at Osogbo, present day capital of Osun State as an apprentice Radio repairer.

Not long, he found himself in Lagos too as an apprentice tailor. His Lagos experience was fascinating as he was moving away from his cocoon to a cosmopolitan city for the first time in his life. His high expectation was not a misnomer as his movements ever since his birth was restricted to few towns of Efon, Aramoko, Ilesha and Osogbo. It was in Lagos while working as a professional tailor, that by happenstance and divine providence that this author got a salary job for the first time in his life with Palm Line Agency of Nigeria, Apapa, Lagos.

Despite being paid monthly salary, the author did not relent in his innate desire for Western Education which he believed could liberate him from poverty. As a private candidate he registered for two ‘A’ level papers – Economics and Government – at the same time he also put in for four ‘O’ level papers too – English Language, Geography, History and Mathematics – he however passed the two ‘A’level papers and the four ‘O’ level ones. What was amazing to many is the English Language that he crushed. It was the major albatross for many including his superiors at work.

Furthermore, with his sterling performance in public examinations, God’s fingers did not stop pushing him to great fortunes as he was advised to apply for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) job. He did and was able to pass the interview. Thus, a career in banking commenced in earnest. He was with the CBN between 1976 – 1978. He attempted professional bodies’ examination in Banking which he passed also.

But all these did not becloud his desire for tertiary education despite his inability to attend Secondary school!

In July, 1978 fortune smiled on him as he was admitted to the University of Lagos to read History. He was faced with making difficult decisions of whether to continue with the prestigious CBN job or proceeds to the University. Eventually, reason prevailed as he registered as an undergraduate despite all hiccups. He waved away all entreaties from his bosses and colleagues at the bank to stay put, but he resigned his appointment in August 1978 for higher education.

Few events cannot escape this review from his experience in the University as a student. First was the smart way he was schemed out of the race of becoming the Secretary-General of the Student Union. He was shown real ‘politik’ that eventually tainted his perception and world view of politics in the larger society. Another is the cat and mouse relationship amongst lecturers in his department; which dissuaded him from taking up interest in scholarship. He however learnt later from his work place experiences most especially in The Daily Times where he worked for more than a decade before he was frustrated out and the rested Daily Sketch too. Perhaps, a bad one was the personal animosity with one Prof Asiwaju who was however later found out to have plagiarized Sunday’s seminar paper verbatim in a book he (the Professor) published later. This no doubt was and still a very serious offence and demeaning of a Professor in the academics. But unfortunately, plagiarism has become almost an accepted norm in our tertiary institutions. Originality has been thrown to the board (see p. 182 for the story).

May 7, 2025
Tracking Osimhen’s journey to stardom

For the author, Busayo Omidiora is “amazing” and his life’s journey’s worth scripting. To show his conviction, the writer is out with a book on his heroes, entitled: “Amazing Victor Osimhen: From Struggles to Stardom”.

The book is not just a footballing tale; it is a gripping odyssey of resilience, ambition, and an unyielding spirit that refuses to be crushed by adversity.

With lyrical prose and piercing insight, Omidiora paints a portrait of a man whose meteoric ascent—from Lille’s breakout star to Napoli’s record-breaking capocannoniere—is as much about talent as it is about tenacity.

This book is more than a biography; it is a beacon of hope for every African youth clutching a dream in their hands, whispering, “If he could, why not me?”

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From the outset, Victor Osimhen’s journey reads like a script torn from the pages of a Dickensian novel—fraught with hardship, yet illuminated by an indomitable will. Growing up in the labyrinthine slums of Lagos, where poverty gnawed at dreams like a relentless predator, young Victor faced a world that seemed determined to keep him grounded. Yet, like a phoenix rising from ashes, he defied the odds, turning every setback into a stepping stone. His early days in Europe, marked by uncertainty and near-collapse, could have been the tragic end of his story. Instead, they became the crucible in which Omidiora masterfully chronicles the striker’s extraordinary trajectory—from the pitches of Lagos to the hallowed turf of Serie A. Like a finely crafted bildungsroman, the book captures Osimhen’s evolution: a raw, hungry talent refined into a clinical finisher whose name sends shivers down defenders’ spines.

Indeed, his story is one of contrasts: where despair and triumph wage a relentless tug-of-war. After losing his mother early and shouldering the weight of familial expectations, Osimhen’s move to Europe could have been his undoing. A loan spell at Wolfsburg threatened to derail his career before it truly began. Yet, like a protagonist in an epic saga, he clawed his way back, first at Charleroi, then at Lille, where his predatory instincts announced him to the world.

By the time he landed at Napoli, Osimhen was no longer just a footballer, he was a force of nature. His record-breaking season, crowned with the Scudetto and the Capocannoniere title, was not merely a personal triumph but a historic moment for African football.

Omidiora’s narrative is as much about the man as it is about the myth. With vivid imagery and poignant reflection, he reminds us that Osimhen’s journey is a confirmation of the potency of the power of dreams. For every young African gazing at the stars from the depths of hardship, this book is a clarion call: greatness is not inherited—it is seized.

“Amazing Victor Osimhen: From Struggle to Stardom” is more than a football story but a manifesto of hope – it’s a must-read for dreamers, fighters, and believers.

May 7, 2025
Reading, performances excite at NCC

Readings and performances excite guests at a book and copyright event held at the Lagos Office of Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC).

With the theme being “Read Your Way”, the event also featured; statement of the Director-General of the Commission, Dr John Asein, goodwill messages from stakeholders, lecture, spokenword poetry, book reading in English and traditional languages, poetry from selected secondary school students in Lagos State; and book donations.

The celebration, which was in commemoration of the 2025 World Book and Copyright Day, commenced with a welcome address by the Director of Lagos Office of NCC, Mrs. Lynda Alphaeus, informing the participants of the importance of the. She also stood in for the Director-General of the Commission and delivered his statement to mark the occasion.

The Director-General of the Commission, Dr John Asein disclosed that: “In commemoration of this year’s celebration, the NCC will continue to reaffirm its commitment to champion and promote models that will make more books available in accessible and readable formats, enhance and promote reading among young readers and develop policies and strategies to promote copyright awareness and respect for authors and copyright works.”

He stated further that: “Through deepened synergy with Commission’s stakeholders in the renewed fight against piracy, Rights will be better protected and Authors encouraged to create more readable materials, readily available to a greater population of people and in accessible formats for persons living with disabilities, especially blind and visually impaired persons.”

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The celebration, which was anchored by Deputy Director/Head, Operations, Lagos Office, Mr. Charles Amudipe, featuredperformances from students of Christ Dominion Imperial School. And the first performance of the day was rendered by Muiz Shodeinde. He read a poem titled “Eko” in Yoruba language. His performance was followed by another exciting poetry reading by Uzomba Success, who read a poem titled “Izunna Okafor” in Igbo language.

There was also a poetry rendition by Ezeasor Anita Ijeoma, a teenager who has written over 40 poems. Other performances included; book readings from Sharon, who wrote her first book when she was five years old. She read from her book titled “Freedom”.

Students of Christ Dominion Imperial School also captivated the audience with different versions of book readings. Temitope Princess read from a book written in Yoruba language titled “Ika Abamo” by Okedokun Ayoade. Christian Treasure read passages from a story book written in Igbo language titled “Odoziaku”.

There were also goodwill messages from General Manager, Metropolitan Publishers, Mr Banjoko Samuel and representative of Tonad Publishers, Mr Kayode Adediran.

The event concluded with a presentation by Mrs Lynda Alphaeus on copyright: its definition, provisions of the Copyright Act, 2022 and the mandate of the commission. She called on the public to be aware of copyright, to create copyright works and to respect copyright.

The World Book and Copyright Day, usually marked on April 23 of every year, is a day set aside by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to focus on the importance of books, promote reading and raise awareness on the role of copyright in promoting and protecting the rights of authors.

May 7, 2025
A peep into Olanipekun art

By Prof Chuu Krydz Ikwuemesi

If I begin by saying that Gbolahan Olanipekun is a self-taught artist, I would stir the controversy often surrounding that term. Is any artist self-taught? Or should we take the middle course offered by “formally” and “non-formally” trained artist? But the exciting reality about Olanipekun is that he did not study art in the university. At Ekiti State University where he attended between 2011 and 2017, he majored in Accounting Education. His artistry can be said to derive from the biological essence of art, as argued by Ellen Dissanayake. However, if art as a biological prior is a common quality of the human species, not many who are not formally trained in art are able to invoke, harness and exploit that quality on a sustained scale.

The present exhibition is thus a testament to Olanipekun’s creative industry and artistic adventure. Using photography and digital darkroom as his principal media, he has developed a way of making profound graphic statements with everyday unprofound objects and forms. A look at some of the works in the present collection vividly betrays his compositional skills and his capacity to use his forms to generate eclectic meanings that reflect aspects of living and society.

It seems that many of Olanipekun’s works derive their form and content form a deep-seated interest in culture, heritage and identity. His Echoes of the Drum, for instance, evokes memories of tradition where the drum remains a medium of communication as well as a notable musical instrument across different world cultures. Another work, Natures Flow, captures, through a kaleidoscopic female figure, the nobility of the female human body and the beauty of nature. This interest in the noble nude is further explored in Midnight Muse and Undiluted Love where the body is celebrated, not just for its own sake, but as a tableau on which multifarious issues about culture, marriage and other subjects could be addressed. Also, with regard to the aesthetic power and value of nature, we are confronted with The Optimist, not only as an allusion to human and natural resources and the potentials they usually hold for economic advancement, but also as evocation of hope through the calm waters and sublime sky scape.

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Away from the above group, Heritage Unveiled and Fierce Woman evoke a variety of meaning. Apart from issues in identity, they also hint at femininity (or is it feminism, especially as regards Fierce Woman?) and the undeniable import of the female essence in the scheme of existence. Not only that. Olanipekun also envisions those pieces as odes “to the women who have fought for change and continue to inspire others” in our society.

Another work, Redemption, captures the eternal struggle of the human person in the trajectory of life often peopled with ups and downs, hopes and impediments. Between the binary experience, the space in between is also alluded to, the place where courage and desire can dismantle despondency and cause a triumph of the human spirit. This work’s relevance to contemporary Nigeria cannot be overlooked as the country has become a battle ground for hope and despair, the have and the have-not, a battle fueled and sustained by bread-and-butter leaders (or dealers?) in order to perpetuate their hold on power and the attendant strangulating grip on the population. This work seems to be complemented by Oju Aye (The Eye of the World) which references the constancy of truth, the dynamics of power and the unseen divine forces that sustain the universe and its eternal essences.

The above works and others easily image the artist as a deep thinker and one able to give form and meaning to his dreams, thought and imagination through this media, his materials and the resulting materiality. He is not a miserable hand-to-mouth artist, but one who is imbued with an immense vision and the ability to share that vision with his audience through the endless possibilities in photography.

May 7, 2025