The Nation Newspaper

Category: Life – The Midweek Magazine

  • X-raying Nigeria’s democracy, development

    This book takes a panoramic view of the Nigerian socio-economic and political landscape. It attempts a deconstruction of the notions of politics and of economics which underpin public policy and practice. These attempts are made in two parts spread across forty-seven chapters under themes dealing with varied issues which in the first part include among others leadership, democracy, power and power politics, the configurations of political interests and the patterns as well as implications of the constellations of these interests.

    The author engaged with the challenges of development in the second part of the book detailing his thoughts on issues of vision and growth, the imperative of education as well as exigencies of innovation and its inevitability as a catalyst for growth and development. Also capturing the analytical focus of the author are the issues of poverty eradication and unemployment, economic diversification, entrepreneurship and the prospects for Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

    The diversity of the issue areas covered by the book is indicative of the broad dimensions of the author’s concern with the multiplicity of the malaise currently besieging the Nigerian State, especially its political economy. He correctly placed the leadership question upfront and in the epicenter of his analysis. He sees leadership as ‘a complex ethical relationship’ between leaders and the led, one which ought necessarily to be underpinned by trust and good faith. Unfortunately the ‘illusion of omnipotence’ i.e. the assumption by leaders that they possess unlimited power enables the embarrassing, oftentimes dysfunctional, mismatch between policy and outcome. African leaders over promise and underachieve.

    African leaders, true African leaders, must in the author’s opinion be realistic, transparent and accountable. He bemoaned the genre of leadership in Africa and ascribed the failure of governance to them. He substantiates his argument with the point that Africa lags painfully behind on all the major indices of human development. He canvasses for courageous and committed leadership guided by truth, discipline, and transparency. He calls for leadership that is inspirational, propelling citizens’ confidence and action towards growth and development.

    But citizens’ action is predicated on the extent of the prevalence of the ethos of democracy and the pursuit of political inclusiveness. The author’s analysis of the shades of democracy was very brief, almost too brief in fact. Any one craving for more details will therefore need to consult other academic materials on the subject. However, the author elaborated fairly well his thoughts on the Nigerian situation positing that “There is currently a growing concern in Nigeria about the mismatch between democracy and development”.

    Of further interest perhaps is the author’s depiction not only of the stunted, malnourished nature of Nigeria’s political system, but even more serious the wanton display of infantile political predilection by the political elite. How else can one describe the boxing contexts that take place every now and again on the floor of the supposedly hallowed chambers of our state and national parliaments?

    The author also took a swipe at the country’s political party system. This is a particularly strong point although he came short of fruitfully and maximally exploring the several key aspects of this aspect of our political praxis. For instance, the obsession with the notions of party supremacy as well as the culture of imposition of political appointees is discussed. However, the point could have been developed further by pointing out, inter-alia, that as the statutorily recognized machinery for capturing the reins of power, political parties themselves ought to rise to the higher calling of serving as veritable breeding grounds and ‘colleges’ for the production of qualitative, visionary and law respecting leaders. But alas the reverse in several cases appears to be the norm. Banausocracy, i.e., government by the uncultured and vulgar elements of society, now prevails.

    The author passed a critical test of political economy when he attempted to link democracy and the economy. His point of departure was the perennial contestation over the value of the naira and the petroleum subsidisation policy. The author’s points are well taken, particularly his call for caution over the simultaneous adoption of currency devaluation and the removal of subsidy. However, it must be stated that the issues are more profound and ramified that the position assumed in the book. At stake is the character of the structure of the Nigerian economy especially the system of production, distribution and consumption. These in turn must be placed within the wider context of the contemporary global economy, bearing in mind also such dynamics as economic power and globalized competition. All these constitute exogenous constraints which in themselves impact domestic policy options and strategies.

    The author’s capacity for deploying useful analogies serves his communicative function very well throughout the book. Farmers and Hunters in Governance, Chapter 7 of the work, compared and contrasted the sniper, ad hoc activity of the hunter with the skillful, innovative, futuristic mindset of the farmer. Public officeholders in contemporary Nigeria are likened to the former while what is needed for long term, sustainable growth and development is the mindset of the latter.

    His illustration of governance failure with the inability of governors of oil rich states of the Niger Delta region to pay civil servants’ salaries is apt. It signposts clearly not only that there are high levels of corruption and profligacy in government, but also that there are manifest inability to be proactive, creative and resourceful.

    The author correctly identified the power politics among nations in the international arena as a critical context and determinant of national development. From this arena, the prospects and/or fortunes of nations, Nigeria’s inclusive, cannot therefore be divorced from the capacity to use economic resources and influence meaningfully.

    The author clearly and correctly commented on Nigeria’s waning power and influence not only in the region but also globally, attributing same  to its dwindling economic fortunes, especially the fall in the international price of oil. That point, as sound as it is, is however not a sufficient one in itself. The mangers of the state have also failed to harness and develop the country’s other frontiers and indices of power – population, military, industry, the diverse element of soft power including media, culture, tourism etc. Nor has the state been able to arrest and/or mitigate the fallouts associated with such dysfunctionalities like the country’s negative image abroad in terms of corruption, terrorism, kidnapping, 419, drug trafficking, election rigging and violence, etc. Efforts at rebranding the country have had suboptimal results. Perhaps because of the DNA of disorderliness?

    The scholar also elaborated on the notion of national security, linking same to the prevalence of poverty, unemployment and the general low living standards of the populace. His prescription for national security therefore is: improve the lot of the citizenry.

    The author spared a few words for the Buhari administration particularly on issues that border on quality of leadership and of appointments of state officials to drive the policies of his administration. In this connection he opines that the President ought to screen for leadership traits which are devoid of the greediness which now plagues the current crop of leadership in Nigeria. He also canvassed for leadership which is enamored of youth development, nurturing the youth for leadership roles. Unfortunately however, the president appeared, in the opinion of the author, to have succumbed to the typical Nigerian disease of using the exercise as an opportunity for providing jobs for the boys.

    Nonetheless, the author does not believe that the all was lost. In other words the ‘boys’ could still perform, rising to the billings of true statesmen and women and charting a course for the country out of the present doldrums. All these so long as they are able and willing to adopt the appropriate mindsets, develop the vision for growth and development and most importantly pursue, adopt, apply and activate complex innovations to all those processes that are germane to socio-economic and political transformations, growth and development of the country  .

    On a final note the author accessed the global development framework of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). It is noted here that the framework itself has been succeeded by the Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs). However the take home point remains that government must up its ante. A critical and objective post-MDG review is necessary to ensure a consolidation of past gains while reviewing areas of poor or even negative performance.

    On the whole these are the major themes around which the thoughts and analysis of the author are built and across which other subthemes were developed.

    The book’s main contribution to knowledge lies mainly in the non-technicist manner in which it intervenes in the discourse on the Nigeria social formation. Devoid of any technical jargons it is still able to dissect the problems, isolate the critical variables around which contestations turn, evaluate policies and strategies and ultimately take an informed stand on designated issues.

    A major flaw of the book lies in the structure of its presentation. The chapter outline is not only way to long (47 chapters), it is onerously repetitive.  A book so lucidly written and dwelling on so many important themes of national significance is deserving of a well-structured, revised reproduction. At such point, it is advised that the author streamline the book’s chapter outline. Chapters suitable for merging, for instance, include chapters 2 and 3; 14 and 15; 1, 12, 16 and 17; 22 through to 28; 29 and 30.

    In the final analysis this is a commendable effort and one expects to see a continuation of a very robust debate around the issues which have been raised therein by the author in the near future.

     

     

  • ‘Countries should implement WHO Tobacco Convention’

    The Regional Director for the World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, has urged African countries to implement the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco.

    He made the statement at a symposium to mark this year’s World No-Tobacco Day.

    The event, which was attended by students from seven junior and senior secondary schools in Lagos, also featured students’ arts competition and exhibition.

    The artworks submitted by the students for the ‘No-Tobacco Arts competition’, were exhibited. The best artwork attracted a bicycle as the prize and it was won by Lawal Ayobami, a Junior Secondary School (JSS) students of Debiruss College, Ajah Lagos.

    The activities were organised by the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) and the United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNAN). They used to highlight the health and additional risks associated with tobacco use and advocate for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption.

    Regional Director for the World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, Dr Moeti, called on member states to include tobacco control in their national policies, plans and SDG implementation frameworks.

    “Countries should fully implement the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco (WHO FCTC), including raising tobacco taxes to reduce demand for tobacco. The revenue generated for governments can be used to finance universal health coverage, health promotion and other development programmes.”

    Dr Moeti’s message, which was read by Dr Meimuna Esan of WHO Lagos Office, also urged individuals to help make a sustainable, tobacco-free world, either by never using tobacco products, or by quitting the habit. “Protect your health and that of people exposed to second-hand smoke, including children, other family members and friends.”

    Welcoming participants, Nigerian Heart Foundation President, Mrs Francesca Emmanuel, reiterated Moeti’s words, observing that: “We are overwhelmed by the threats that tobacco industry poses to the sustainable development of all countries, including the health and economic well-being of our citizens, especially our young population. Everyone should work towards a sustainable tobacco-free Nigeria through the collaboration of government, private sector, international organisations and the civil society.”

    Speaking on the 2017 theme: Tobacco: A threat to development, UNAN representative, Ambassador Ayo Olukanni explained that tobacco control could break the cycle of poverty, contribute to ending hunger, promote sustainable agriculture and economic growth, and combat climate change.

    According to him, “Tobacco control has been enshrined in the Sustainable Development Agenda. It is seen as one of the most effective means to help achieve SDG target 3.4 of a one-third reduction globally, by 2030, of premature deaths from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular disease, cancers and chronic obstructed pulmonary disease”.

    Ambassador Olukanni called for increased taxes on tobacco products, which, he said, could be used to finance universal health coverage and other development programmes of the government.

    Youth Action on Tobacco Control and Health (YATCH) representative, Mr Seye Omiyefa noted that every year Nigeria loses all cadres of manpower and all categories of statesmen and leaders as a direct result of preventable tobacco-related deaths. He warned that “Nigeria is at the risk of losing its workforce if urgent steps are not taken by the government”.

     

  • When France met Germany enRoute 234

    When France met Germany enRoute 234

    It was an evening of seeing the world through Nigeria’s eyes. The French and Germans had come to dine at a literary feast their Consulates organised to celebrate the work of Nigeria’s art/culture and travel writers, Route 234. The feast, a reading at the German Consulate in Lagos, revisited issues of growing global concerns, reports EVELYN OSAGIE.

    From the bewitching Ol Ari Nyiro of Kenya to the overlapping hills of Nigeria’s Mambilla Plateau, and all the way to Munich’s Dachau and Paris’ Eiffel Tower, Route 234 takes you around the world in a full read.

    This was the case when the book was read at the German Consulate in Lagos. Though it featured readings of a few of the stories in the 211-page book, one could also call it an evening of travels. Route 234 features a collection of around-the-world stories by 15 seasoned Nigeria’s art/culture and travel writers.

    With the aim of “Uniting humanity through travel”, the reading, a cross-cultural exchange, was jointly organised by German and French Consulates. Owing to the German-French co-operation, oftentimes, at least, once or twice in a year, their Consulates do a joint project – the reading was one of such. In attendance were some of the authors,  with family members, friends and book lovers.

    “I thought, ‘Yes.’ I would approach the editor, who had once reached out to me, to have a book reading,” began the German Consul-General Ingo Albert as he spoke on what inspired the event. “And then, I approached my French colleague and asked if he had received the very special book, which I thought was a wonderful idea. I told him I plan to do a book reading, but that we can have a joint reading.”

    Led by the two hosts, the Consuls-General for German and French Embassies, the book contributors took guests to Europe and across Africa as they read the stories.   Both envoys read a piece on each other’s country. Albert read Funke Osae-Brown’s piece on Inside the Eiffel Tower, while his French counterpart, Laurent Polonceux, read Eyitayo Aloh’s Literary Frankfurt.

    “You do not want to be stranded in a strange land like Sola Balogun in Nice” came the thought from a guest as he read from his piece, The Good Samaritans of Nice. Other contributors that also read stories (in full and in part) were The Nation Assistant Editor (Arts) Ozolua Uhakheme (Hitler’s House of Horrors), Molara Wood, (Ol Ari Nyiro), and Okon-Ekong (Trekking the Mambilla Plateau).

    The stories were engaging and raised diverse issues of global concerns, which formed part of the evening discourse, such as tourism, migration, crime, prostitution, human trafficking and drug abuse.

    While praising the book for its global relevance, the hosts said they found the stories exciting. Albert, who had read some of the stories before that day, described them as “wonderful”- “some funny, but interesting”.

    Citing Uhakheme’s piece as one of the stories that gave the collection global appeal, the German Consul-General said: “People of Nigeria can feel connected to the world that the authors have travelled. There are even two chapters about Germany. There is the story about the concentration camps Dachau, the horror, the inhumanity to man that even a visitor experienced it as he visited. And I have seen on France, other parts, and on Africa. I find it a good introduction to see Europe, Germany from an African perspective – the other way round. I guess there are more travel books by travel journalists from Europe, America and Asia, but not the African perspective and I find that really fascinating.

    “And that’s what inspired me to inform my colleague that I have already contacted the editor and authors that they could use the third floor, which was formerly a residence of the Consul General that can contain at least 60 people. I urged him that we should help them realise this idea by giving the floor, because this is really what travelling is about – meeting other people, having a discourse and a joint-communication. And I think tonight, we explored it. I am very happy about the evening and enjoyed the event.”

    Aloh’s Literary Frankfurt inspired the discussion on trafficking. While describing prostitution and trafficking as hideous acts that put people in “mental jail”, Polonceux, said Route 234’s reading presented him another perspective of viewing the world. He said: “The main point in promoting arts is to have a good cooperation and to have a better understanding. It is really honourable to have this kind of writing and have this kind of exchange that the reading represented. It was a great experience being in the reading and experiencing the world through the eyes of Nigerian journalists.

    “The book is a very nice way to better understand other countries and even French mentioned in this book. For instance, I discovered an aspect of the Eiffel Tower I wasn’t aware about. I love readings; and I was glad that people were willing to discuss together and compare their experiences. It was a very inspiring event.”

       Route 234, according to award-winning travel writer, Pelu Awofeso, who compiled and edited it, “is essentially about Nigerians travelling the world and seeking to understand the people we met and the places we spent time while our journeys lasted”.

    The idea of a travel book, according to Awofeso, was first muted in 2007 at online platform for art/culture journalists. It was published in May last year.

    While urging journalists to write more on Nigeria, Awofeso noted that the country can create revenue within from tourism. “In recent years, the world has been in such a terrible and insecure state, with wars and terrorism disrupting everyday living. This is caused largely by cultural, religious and racial mistrust and differences. “The art of travelling helps us understand the world and the people, who inhabit it better; and when we understand and embrace our differences, then the world will be one united, peaceful place to live in. Countries are great, not because of politics, but ordinary people touching lives. I want to thank those who made this event possible,” he said.

    Speaking on the relevance of culture journalists in promoting arts, culture and tourism, Jahman Anikulapo decried the shrinking state of art pages in the newspapers across the country. This, he observed, was a reflection of the media appreciation of the culture and creative sector. He praised the organisers, saying: “They are the two embassies that fund journalists most. France and Germany have been wonderful to art and travel journalists. We have no industry but the culture journalists have kept it going.”

    Toni Kan noted succinctly: “What surprised me about this book is its honesty,” even as former Chairman of Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) Lagos chapter, Folu Agoi, expressed: “Traveling has a way of opening us to the world and the world to us. The writers have taken us round the world today.”

    Other contributors are Anikulapo, Olayinka Oyegbile (The Nation Deputy Editor), Steve Ayorinde (now Lagos State Commissioner for Information), Olumide Iyanda, Kole Ade-Odutola, Tunde Aremu, Ayeni Adekunle and Akintayo Abodunrin.

    The event was also spiced with Evelyn Osagie poetic performance of her poem, Nature’s Story, which she dedicated to the book’s contributors.w

  • NTA versus Hotel De Jordan slot

    I don’t really know what hurdles the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) is facing that have made it impossible to bring back the imperatively sensational good slot, the Hotel De Jordan to  thousands of its viewers in Edo State to  sustain the station’s old age self-praising slogan, “the award winning station”.

    It started back during the years when creative producers, like the late David Orere and others, enhanced its image right from its infancy in the then Midwest Region as MTV (Midwest Television).

    This spectacular slot, to the glory of humanity, is a creation of Mr Jonathan Ihonde and the then seconded Programmes Manager from the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Mr Peter Jarvis, who was solely recruited to Benin City by the late General Osaigbovo Ogbemudia, who established the station.

    I specifically went down memory lane to recall the birth of the station to let those who now call the shots at the helm of affairs at the NTA to realise that they are killing the hen that laid the golden eggs.

    They should be told in clear terms that an ageless slot like: “Hotel De Jordan”, gave birth to the station’s chest-beating slogan of the “award winning station”.

    May I ask what the NTA Benin Production Centre would miss if it devotes 30 minutes free to air this slot?

    Marketing a slot would certainly make prospective advertisers fall over their heels to be given the chance to sponsor such a slot and not the idle slogan  of “it has to be a sponsored”. A good and popular product never stays on the shelf for long as keen prospective buyers rush to the location to try getting it and this makes a corporate body popular and increases the public demand for its product(s).

    To date, no single sponsored slot of the  NTA  can stand the aged long popularity of “Hotel De Jordan”.

    The producer from its infancy, Mr. Ihonde is an erudite activist, a creative disciple who knows the elite Nigerian politicians, their dress colour, attitudes and endless pranks in sucking the blood of the Nigerian crop of masses and he tells the story bluntly through this slot and the sucked masses see it as they suffer in the hands of the elite class: this is the mission of the slot.

    Good enough, leading cast of a play depicts its realistic and thought provoking deliverance: the major cast member, Chief Ajax (Sam Osemede) is alive, roasting away at a flower garden around Ugbowo, the house boy clown Idemudia is around, Madam Brefa is around, so also Gbewan, the sarcastic village beauty and of course Bob Allan ( now a legal academic man at Uniben, he certainly would gladly take a script, I am sure) while the Professor of Jaw breaking grammar Prof. Milo Moro, has groomed a son of his to step into his role.

    Perhaps the NTA needs to be told that this slot draws fans much more than those of foreign football league matches.

    Joe Ihonde is ageing, but his creativity in assessing the Nigerian society through his scripts for this slot should be tapped now before he passes away as no one would be tickled with the usual governmental after – death tributes to his memory.

    I have in the past written on the  creative disciples like Kokori (David Ariyo) Casino Manager (Ray O’ Slater) and Osiobafo (Emmanuel Oni).

    The script writer Joe Ihonde has even gone to the extent of recruiting a producer, Joseph Okhomina to handle pre rehearsals production on standby awaiting NTA’s decision.

    I can climb atop the Kukuruku hills to sing the lyrics of Hotel De Jordan that it should be rescued by the NTA for it knows not what it is missing in programme contents.

    It helps human beings to know their personal and individualistic short-comings, echoed loudly to an enemy – as this would disarm such an enemy wanting to abuse one as one had already unfolded what is to be used in a battle of words – this is the unfolding realism contained in “Hotel De Jordan” by Joe Ihonde.

    This writer is rather facing a hard knock to crack.

    What is the problem between Joe Ihonde and NTA? The two sides must speak out and let the fans of this slot know.

    Should the Federal Government that owns NTA call the parties for a solution? Or are the operational executives of NTA playing a shielding game to protect their masters, which the scripting of “Hotel De Jordan” is unfolding through harmless deliverance of creative acting?

    “Poor man dey suffer, monkey dey work, babu dey chop” is a line from the sing tune of the opening of the slot as delivered by Segun Alile – another highly creative musician, who saw it all here in Benin, sojourned to Lagos for years and relocated to his root in Benin City with a full band.

    I hear Joe Ihonde and NTA are talking – I hear about marketing hurdles and inexplicable grammar from one side, bothering on getting the  slot sponsored. Must “Hotel De Jordan” die?

    Abudah, a journalist/writer and founder of Afenmai Heritage & Cultural Studies wrote from Benin City, Edo State

     

  • NPA sacks SON, NAFDAC, others from ports

    The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has sacked Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and other agencies from the sea ports.

    They are no longer allowed to operate at the ports as the NPA plans to begin the 24-hour operation.

    Managing Director of the NPA MsHadizaBalaUsman, said the eviction of the agencies is to ensure a smooth operation of the ease of doing business as directed by the Federal government.

    Addressing over 600 stakeholders at a forum in Lagos, yesterday, Ms Usman said the eviction of the officials of all agencies operating at the ports illegally became imperative based on the Executive Order issued by Acting President YemiOsinbajo to enhance the ease of doing business, boost efficiency and security in the nation’s sea ports.

    Apart from the NPA which is the landlord, Ms Usman said the agencies allowed by the federal government to operate in the ports are the Nigerian Customs Services (NCS), the Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS), the Police, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Port Health Authority.

    The agencies not allowed under the Executive Order, according to her are: The  StandardsOrganisation of Nigeria (SON), the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Directorate of Naval Intelligence (DNI), the  Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA), the Plant Quarantine and Animal Quarantine (PQAQ) and  the National Environmental Regulatory and Standards Agency (NESREA)

    Ms Usman, who served the immediate quite notice, warned against touting and extortion by official or unofficial persons at the ports.

    She said the NPA had been empowered to enforce the order and ensure efficiency at the ports.

    She restated the determination of the Buhari administration to reduce the time and cost of goods clearance from the ports.

    According to her, the Acting President had directed that the Apapa Ports must embark on 24-hour operation from June 18.

    She said: “I want to recognise seven approved agencies of government that operate at the port. In 2011, an approval was granted to streamline activities of government agencies at the ports.

    “The NDLEA is required to come in and function as at when required. The need to bring all agencies of government at the ports to this forum is demonstrate to stakeholders how the Executive Orders can be achieved.

    “All agencies that are not mentioned are to vacate the port or anywhere they are operating from the ports.

    Customs Comptroller General Col. Hameed Ali, described the action as key to the operations of the service.

    “I want to say we have embarked on a change process. “It is going to stay because we believe all of us should be committed to this. The ease of doing business is to reduce time and processes and cost.

    “I will enjoin all of you to join hands with all of us and to ensure that we implement this to the letter

    Apart from Ali, senior Customs officers, representatives of  government agencies, Terminal operators, shipping companies, Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents ( ANLCA), freight forwarders, truck owners and truck drivers, and other stakeholders in the maritime industry, attended the parley.

  • At 76, Victor Guitar Boy Uwaifo is UNESCO’s Living Treasure

    At 76, Victor Guitar Boy Uwaifo is UNESCO’s Living Treasure

    Multi-talented artist and musician Sir Victor Efosa Uwaifo, 76, will be celebrated in performance tours across six countries as UNESCO’s living human treasure, Assistant Editor (Arts) OZOLUA UHAKHEME reports. 

    Renowned musician, sculptor and scholar Sir Victor  Efosa Uwaifo is United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO’s) Nigerian living human treasure to be celebrated at the UNESCO  headquaters in Paris, France this year.

    The project initiated by France-based Nigerian curator Bose Fagbemi will feature a tour exhibition, symposium and music performance in some states in Nigeria before leaving for France, Ghana, United Kingdom, United States, the Caribbean and South Africa.

    It is being organised to celebrate  Uwaifo’s achievements and contributions to Nigeria, Africa and the world. The France leg of the tour will hold in October to coincide with the commemoration of the Nigerian Cultural Heritage Week, in collaboration with the Nigeria Embassy in Paris.

    According to Fagbemi, the search for a Nigerian with the credentials of a living treasure took her a while. But the decision to choose Uwaifo is informed by his pedigree as a multi-talented and an accomplished artist.

    Fagbemi said Uwaifo is one of the few Nigerians who possess art and music talents.

    “And I found one who possesses about four: fine artist, musician, inventor, composer and author,” she noted.

    Uwaifo, who was a lecturer at the University of Benin, Benin City is the first African musician to win a gold disc, and has inspired many.

    “Also, institutionally, at UNESCO, there is the section where Human living treasures are documented; Prof Uwaifo’s legendary status stands out as a totally accomplished legend and icon,” she said explaining that the project is being supported by corporate bodies and agencies such as National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, Ministry of Art, Culture and Information, Edo State, Hexagon Network and MTN Abuja are collaborators in the project.

    Expressing its support for the project, the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture in a letter dated April 27, 2017 said it would provide technical support for the project, noting that it will inspire and impact positively on the young generation of aspiring musicians and artists.

    “We applaud this great initiative aimed at celebrating one of Nigeria’s greatest musical icons and embodiment of knowledge and creativity. The ministry is confident that this venture will inspire and impact positively on the young generation of aspiring musicians and artists,” according to Director (Entertainment and Creative Services, Grace Isu Gekpe on behalf of Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

    Similarly, Edo State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism and the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) have expressed their readiness to collaborate with Fagbemi for the success of the project. In separate letters, the ministry and the council reassured that they were ‘’willing to work with agencies such as yours in promoting and projecting the rich culture of Nigeria to the world’’.

    But, I had to search for who can handle the musical section of the project and I found a competent hand in Edi Lawani as a partner. Edi Lawani and Uwaifo are a good pair one can ever think of. Then, Mr Hilary Ogbechie, a retired director at the NCAC, is charged with the composition,” Fagbemi said of the partners.

    She explained that ‘the project is about celebrating Uwaifo as a living legend. He is an artist (sculpture), musician, an inventor and author. He is Nigeria’s total accomplished artist. It will be a total celebration of his life, his achievements and contributions to Nigeria, Africa and the world. The tour is scheduled for some states in Nigeria, France, UK, US, Caribbean, South Africa and Ghana.’

    She said discussions were on-going with other corporate bodies, media houses and institutions as well as Uwaifo’s alma-mater for support, adding that the performance tours will hold in countries that appreciate African music and still have strong ties with Nigerian cultural music. But as for the exhibits selected for the tour, she said the collections will be mainly small and medium size works while

    The performance will include paper presentations by guest speakers, musical concert featuring Uwaifo playing the instrument, demonstrating the making of sculptures and giving a talk to young artists.

    Uwaifo, who is enthusiastic about the events, told The Nation that his prepared for the performances as well as present his art collection for the international travelling exhibition.

     

    Biodata

    Uwaifo was born March 1, 1941 in Benin City. He attended Western Boys High School, Benein City between 1957 and 1961, and later St. Gregory’s College, Lagos. He studied Graphics at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos and won scholarship as the best student. He earned a Bachelor of Art Degree in Fine and Applied Arts (First Class) in 1995 and Masters of Fine and Applied Arts – all from the UNIBEN in 1997.

    Uwaifo started playing at 12. During holidays and weekends, he jammed with Olaiya’s All Stars band. After completing secondary school, he played with E.C. Arinze’s highlife during late hours. Uwaifo also worked briefly with Stephen Osadebe and Fred Coker before he formed Melody Maestros in 1965.

    The band released Joromi, which became a huge hit in Nigeria and other parts of West Africa. Between 1965 and 1968, he developed the Akwete rhythm sound. In 1969, he launched a new beat called Shadow accompanied by a new dance also called shadow, a mixture of Akwete and twist. The sound was released when soul music was popular in Lagos and lasted a few years. After the launch of Shadow, the Melody Maestros went on tour of various Nigerian cities.

    Uwaifo later experimented with a new rhythm that was similar to soul but soon left it for Ekassa, an interpretation of a traditional Benin sound.

    Hes made history in Nigeria when he won the first Golden record in Nigeria, West Africa and Africa (presented by Philips, West Africa) for his song Joromi in 1996. Uwaifo, who has a total of 12 golden records to date, has travelled to many countries, including the United States, Russia, Japan, United Kingdom, Bulgaria, Romania, Germany, France, Hungary, Rome, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Benin Republic, Spain, Canada and others.

    His band, The Melody Maestros, had several national and international performance tours, including representing Nigeria at the Black Art Festival in Algiers, Algeria, in 1969, African Commonwealth Festival in London in 1973.

    He invented a double neck ‘magic guitar’ with 18 strings, which he rotates 360 degrees at the speed of sound. He played with many bands but stayed longer with EC Arinze at Kakadu Club, Lagos.

    The Federal Government, in appreciation of his talents and contributions to Nigeria, honoured him with a National Honors Merit in 1983, which reads in part: “ … whereas you have been nominated and appointed as Member of the Order of the Niger to have and hold and enjoy the privileges of the Federal Republic of Nigeria of the said Order, MON.”

    Uwaifo was the first professional musician in Nigeria to receive such an award. He is a Justice of the Peace and has served in many capacities.

    Uwaifo was appointed as the Commissioner of Arts, Culture and Tourism in Edo State in 2001.

     

  • ‘Why I preach Yoruba renaissance’

    ‘Why I preach Yoruba renaissance’

    Ojetayo Oluwadamilare, aka Ajakaye, the Hip-Hop artiste behind Sai Buhari, Sai Baba, the All Progressives Congress (APC) 2015 presidential campaign theme song, has pulled another stunt with the rebranded Ojaja – the New Face of Ooni of Ife in Lagos. The Oke-Igbo, Ondo State born singer, in this interview with Damisi Ojo, hinges his passion for music on the promotion of Yoruba cultural renaissance.

    What actually spurred your passion to transform into the new face of Ojaja, the Ooni of Ife and not another Oba or personality?

    As a culturally-inclined person, the inspiration and thirst for the cultural renaissance and rebirth of undiluted Yoruba culture motivated my research. And as a proud Yoruba artiste, the only way I think I can help the Yoruba cultural rebirth is to use my talent as my quota in reawakening campaign because research has shown that Yoruba culture is one of the cultures facing extinction. And you know the source of all Yoruba is Ile Ife and our Oba, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ojaja by his position is a deity not only that he is highly passionate about the reawakening and unity of Yoruba race. In fact, he has played his role as a Globally Recognised Peace Ambassador. His actions and benevolence inspired me as my role model, so I decided to use my face to promote him as Ojaja in the entertainment world. As a young man having a blood affinity and roots with Ile ife and also from omo Afolu oje family ruling quarter which their profession is basically based on culture, it is like I am promoting my family by re-branding as the face of Ojaja.The vision behind Ooni of Ife branding can also be linked to the fact that Ooni of Ife,Oba Oguwunsi’s afflicted  related a little  with my home town Oke-Igbo in Ondo state and from the Dynasty family Ologbenla known to be famous warrior. This also naturally prompted my keen interest in this supernatural being that I have to adopt Ojaja as my brand and in my next album we are dedicating it to the Ooni of Ife’s unmatched achievements  in preaching  peace, progress and unity among all Obas  and people of  Yoruba nation. I am identifying with his vision, mission and goal. I am branding and preaching peace and unity as well emulating his humility and enterprise.

    It is like the re-branding project has slowed you down or make you less active in the musical radar or what is happening?

    Apart from re-branding project, I am an agriculturist and my attempt to fulfill certain professional dictates took me off a bit and perfecting my new label, Loyalty Empire Records. I also took time off to perfect work on my new album project, which I just  dropped a new single featuring the Afro Musical Machine with stage name Jumabee, titled Iyanuashell, meaning miracle must happen which is a track from it. I just dropped a song online premier on www.tooxclusive.com title Jabrata featuring a German Nigeria hip-hop based international star whose stage name is CeeHigh. I am also dropping my new single. And if you check my ratings, I am already coming up with these few activities which my followership on the different social media platforms can attest to on my facebook @ajakaye and my instagram @iamajakaye and my record label instagram @loyalty_empire_record.

    To your fans and the entertainment community, what must they be expecting from the newly rebranded Ojaja?

    There are many things. I am an ideological and multi-talented performer who has a lot of surprises in my pouch and to really prepare me for the new task and role, my Corporate Handlers and Publicist, Gokemedia & Associates, have designed  a very fantastic workable strategies and plan of action that will help jump-start, ignite  my new brand, “His Royal Majesty, Ojaja Oba Stage” will be accorded that desired status. This strategic positioning of Ojaja incorporates adequate media hype and brand setting, both local and foreign tours, create A-Lists events and also market me for international engagement, concerts and brand endorsements. So my brand can enjoy that optimum exposure reputed of an international star.

     

  • Lions Club offers free eye screening, glasses to pupils

    Lions Club offers free eye screening, glasses to pupils

    Teachers and pupils of Iganmode Junior Grammar School and Ijako Local Primary School in Ogun State were in a joyous mood penultimate weekend when they received free eye screening and glasses from the Region 6 of District 404-B1, Nigeria, International Association of Lions Club.

    The club’s medical team screened the pupils for vision problems and ensured that they got help. Pupils with critical eye problems were referred to optometrists.

    The gesture was part of the activities to celebrate the 2016/2017 District Governor Alhaji  Waheed Kadiri’s visit to Region 6.

    Besides, the club donated a two-unit modern toilet facility to St James Primary School in Ota, a 3.5KVA generating set to General Hospital in Ota, planted trees at Ota Local Government and distributed books and writing materials to school pupils of Ado/Odo-Ota and Ifo local governments and as well as inaugurated the newly renovated Gateway Bus-Stop.

    Kadiri said the most common conditions among the pupils were eye allergies, refractive errors and glaucoma.

    He said the screening was aimed at helping the pupils detect their eye problems early to prevent blindness, restore eyesight and improve their eye health. He noted that eye caring for many people was part of Lions’ humanitarian services.

    He said school-age children might have an eye problem,and  if untreated, could result in blindness, adding that such problems could be fixed, if they are detected early.

    He said the club had made available medication and spectacles that pupils whose conditions required spectacles and those with critical conditions had been referred to optometric hospitals.

    Kadiri urged the public to take good care of their sight, saying eyes are the window to the body.

    Alhaja Fatima Kadiri said the screening would enable the doctors to detect any optical challenges among pupils, adding that if such problems were detected early, they would be easily treated.

    She said the majority of the pupils with eye problems did not have time to discuss it with their parents before it became worst, saying some parents might have no financial muscle to treat it even if the children told them.

    Alhaja Kadiri said Lions Club International mandated the screening as one of its agenda of for the year.

    She appealed to parents to study their wards to detect the ailment and treat it before it escalated.

     

  • Remembering Herbert Macaulay, Wizard of Kirsten Hall

    Remembering Herbert Macaulay, Wizard of Kirsten Hall

    Herbert Samuel Heelas Macaulay, the Wizard of Kirsten Hall, was a man of many parts. He was an engineer, an architect; a surveyor, journalist, lawyer and musician. Better known as a nationalist, he was in the forefront of the Independence struggle. A true Lagosian, a lecture was held in his honour as part of activities to celebrate Lagos @ 50. The maiden Herbert Macaulay Gold Lecture was held at the Lagos Country Club, Ikeja. It was coordinated by a member of The Nation Editorial Board, Femi Macaulay and supported by the Lagos State Government. EVELYN OSAGIE was there.

    THOugh he studied in England, he became a thorn in the flesh of the British colonialists on his return home. Herbert Samuel Heelas Macaulay fought for political and economic emancipation of his people. He was born in Lagos and he lived and died in Lagos. His love for the city was  reciprocated by residents. The city stood by him during his political travails in the hands of the colonialists. The late Macaulay, the Wizard of Kirsten Hall, was the father of Nigerian Nationalism. He was born on November 14, 1864 and he died on May 7, 1946.

    He was the focus of the “Herbert Macaulay Gold Lecture”, delivered by seasoned diplomat Ambassador Dapo Fafowora at the  Lagos Country Club in Ikeja.

    The event was attended by members of the Macaulay family, prominent Lagosians and well-wishers. Some of them recounted the life and times of the late nationalist, urging present leaders and politicians to borrow a leaf from him.

    “I was only five when Herbert Macaulay died and never met him,” began Fafowora in what became a rich journey into the life and times of the late nationalist. The theme was Herbert Macaulay and his relevance to the excellence of Lagos. The Ambassador did not mince words. To him, “Lagos was about Macaulay and Macaulay was about Lagos”. It was a symbiotic relationship. The two were inseparable”, and he passionately emphasised it.

    He said:”Every major political agitation in our country for the realisation of these liberal values has emanated from Lagos. Like a colossus, he dominated and bestrode the city completely, leaving an indelible mark on its future. He wanted Lagos to be the leading centre of excellence, of liberal traditions and progress in Nigeria. These liberal political traditions and values are even more relevant today in our country.”

    While Fafowora was touching on Macaulay’s background, values, ideals, struggles and political relevance to Lagos and the nation at large, one could feel the tint of pride in his voice as he recounted: “It was as a school boy in Lagos that my late father, who was a civil servant himself in the colonial civil service, and a great admirer of Herbert Macaulay, first told me about him and his relentless struggle against colonial rule in Nigeria. Later, when I was 12, he took me to see Herbert Macaulay’s house, named ‘Kirsten Hall’, at 8, Balbina Street, Lagos, near the water front (the Lagoon)…Long after Herbert Macaulay’s death, the house remained a tourist attraction and a sort of political Mecca for his admirers and political associates.”

    While urging that the lecture be made an annual event to mark  Macaulay’s death, the historian wondered why Macaulay’s house was not preserved for posterity, but demolished along with other houses of his friends and political associates, who resided in the city despite the nationalist’s prominence as an outstanding historic and public figure in Lagos.

    Describing Macaulay as “outstanding nationalist and patriot”, Fafowora also questioned why successive governments, Lagos in particular, has not done much to immortalise him beyond streets naming in his honour. While hammering on the need for the state with the private sector to urgently set up a foundation in his honour, the seasoned diplomat urged that a “major public educational institution be named after him. He also advocated the renaming of Glover Memorial Hall to Herbert Macaulay Memorial Hall. “What have we done to honour his memory? If we can so generously honour these colonial governors, then I think that Herbert Macaulay and our other national heroes deserve much more,”he said.

    Distinguished guests at the event included a great grandson of the late nationalist’s brother Frank Macaulay, Mr Akin Ajayi;  great grandson of  his late sister who is also a chieftain of  Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief  Olabode George; past President of Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) and father of The Nation Sports Editor, Jaiye Ojeikere; grandson of the late  “veritable titan of the Lagos Press” Thomas Horatio Jackson and past President of Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) Mr Olusola MacGregor; Provost, Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Gbemiga Ogunleye (who chaired the event); members of The Nation Editorial Board led by its Chairman Sam Omatseye (who anchored the event) and students of Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ).

    Mr MacGregor grandfather, the late Jackson ran Lagos Weekly Record, which was Macaulay’s mouth piece at a time, and was Secretary when Macaulay was President. MacGregor observed that besides the government, the Nigerian Society of Engineers and NIS should also immortalise Macaulay. “For instance, in my grandfather’s case, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe set up the School of Journalism in the University of Nsukka (UNN) and called it the Jackson School of Journalism after my grandfather. So something should be also done for Macaulay. So something should be also done for Macaulay,” he said.

    Comparing Macaulay’s travails with his political struggles, Chief George condemned the lack of representation by the government at the event. “Where are the people of Lagos State? How could you ride on the history of Lagos without remembering and honouring a man like Macaulay? It is shameful! Let us learn from the legacies of Papa: beyond self-loyalty, be loyal to the system,” he said.

    For Mr Omatseye, “Everything we do in Lagos today, whether it is in the pursuit of justice, rule of law, good governance and the self-assertion of Lagos, has a reference point with Macaulay”.

    Decked in a bow tie, a trademark of Macaulay, NIJ Provost, lamented that Nigeria seems to have forgotten the late nationalist, saying: “Even the one naira coin, which carried his photograph is no longer in circulation”. He noted: “Were he alive today, he would have told his friends, family and associates: “Keep the flag flying”, I say to you also “Keep the flag flying.”

    Speaking metaphorically on the link between the lecture and the Lagos State @ 50 celebrations, Mr Femi Macaulay, who coordinated the event, said death and birth are meeting in a celebration of life to recount the legacy of the great man. Explaining further, he said: “Herbert Macaulay died 21 years before the creation of Lagos State. The 71st anniversary of his death is  being commemorated as Lagos State celebrated its 50th anniversary to remind us of the values and ideas that the man Macaulay stood for.”

  • ‘Why we must keep Macaulay’s legacy’

    ‘Why we must keep Macaulay’s legacy’

    He loved Lagos and Lagos loved him. The late Herbert Heelas Macaulay, foremost nationalist and founder of the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP), led the struggle for Nigeria’s Independence. As part of activities marking Lagos State @ 50, a lecture was held in his honour. To celebrate the titan 71 years after his death, Femi Macaulay, with the support of the Lagos State government, coordinated the “Herbert Macaulay Gold Lecture”. In this interview with EVELYN OSAGIE, Macaulay, a member of The Nation Editorial Board, speaks on the late Macaulay’s relevance to Lagos. 

    How are you related to the man being celebrated?

    Herbert Macaulay was the older brother of my great grandfather, Frank Gurney Venn Macaulay. Their father was the Revd Thomas Babington Macaulay, who founded the CMS Grammar School, Lagos, in 1859.  The school is “Nigeria’s oldest secondary grammar school.”  Their mother, Abigail Macaulay, was the daughter of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, who became the first African bishop of the Anglican Church in 1864.     How has your family connection to Herbert Macaulay influenced the development of the person that you are?

    From my childhood my father introduced the family history to me.  He was an active member of the family. In fact, he was the Secretary of the family union for years till his death in 2013 at the age of 83. My father was Frank Olusola Macaulay. He was a grandson of Herbert Macaulay’s younger brother. I grew up wondering how Herbert Macaulay achieved such fame and an enduring reputation as a nationalist and a fighter for justice. Herbert Macaulay is widely acknowledged as the “Father of Nigerian Nationalism.” I tried to read up on him and I found out that he was a colossal personality – really colossal. And that is why even 71 years after his death, his name still rings a bell.  Herbert Macaulay has been a subtle influence on my consciousness. He has been a guiding example.

    I need to say that among the objectives of the Herbert Macaulay Gold Lecture is:  to popularise History, which has been trivialised in Nigeria’s educational system.  And part of the reason for this lecture is to educate the public about Herbert Macaulay and his enduring relevance.  His image was on the country’s stamp to commemorate the “1st Anniversary of the Republic” with the inscription “Championed Independence”.  Also, his image was on the country’s currency as coin and note. It is lamentable that the currency that carried his image is no longer in use.  This lecture is designed to put Herbert Macaulay’s legacy on the front burner.

    What inspired the launch of the Herbert Macaulay Gold Lecture?

    I had been thinking of how to design a potent project to further promote Herbert Macaulay. He died 71 years ago on May 7, 1946. So, the lecture is, first and foremost, a remembrance event. It is a striking coincidence that Lagos is celebrating its 50th   birth anniversary at the time of Herbert Macaulay’s 71st death anniversary.  As I pointed out in my coordinator’s speech, death and birth are meeting in a celebration of life.

    I thought it fitting to introduce the Herbert Macaulay Gold Lecture at this point in time to connect with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Lagos State. Macaulay was born in Lagos; lived in Lagos; lived for Lagos and Nigeria; and died in Lagos. So, there is an important connection between this event and the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Lagos which will climax on May 27.

    It is relevant to say that on April 10, I wrote a column in The Nation titled “Has Lagos forgotten Herbert Macaulay?” This was followed by a proposal by Golden Point Communications for the Herbert Macaulay Gold Lecture to the Lagos State Government under Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.  The Ambode administration deserves commendation for supporting this project, and I hope the government’s support will continue beyond the state’s 50th anniversary celebrations.  It is a reassuring sign that the administration is history-conscious and history-friendly.   There is no doubt that Herbert Macaulay belongs to the category of all-time greats.

    I must emphasise that Herbert Macaulay was a national figure with a national outlook, meaning that there is room for other state governments, the federal government and the private sector to also support the Herbert Macaulay Gold Lecture. By the grace of God, the lecture will be held yearly with the support of those who value Herbert Macaulay’s national significance.

    Several speakers at the lecture called on the government, especially Lagos State, to further immortalise Herbert Macaulay? What do you think?  

    Herbert Macaulay was large; he was an illustrious man of many parts, including civil engineering, surveying, architecture, journalism, pamphleteering, politics and nationalist activism. To further immortalise him is to further acknowledge and further promote his greatness and its relevance to the pursuit of greatness by Lagos State, and indeed Nigeria.  It is noteworthy that Ambassador Fafowora, the distinguished Gold Lecturer, suggested : “First, the Lagos State government should urgently set up a Herbert Macaulay Foundation, with the active and generous support of the private sector, to keep his memory and political ideals alive…Second, this lecture should be made an annual event to mark the anniversary of the death of Herbert Macaulay…Third, a major public educational institution in Lagos, preferably a higher institution, should be named after him. As an alternative, a Herbert Macaulay School of Politics and Government should be established in one of our leading Universities in his honour.  The Lagos State University should be considered for this honour. Fourth, in the context of the compulsory teaching of Nigerian history in our secondary schools, particularly in Lagos State, a course on Herbert Macaulay should be introduced and made compulsory in our secondary schools; and Fifth, the Glover Memorial Hall on Customs Street, Lagos, adjacent to the Union Bank headquarters… should, with the permission of its Trustees, be renamed Herbert Macaulay Memorial Hall.” Certainly, a lot more can still be done to further immortalise Herbert Macaulay.