Category: Life – The Midweek Magazine

The painting of Arugungun festival by impressionistic artist Wilson Agu, ushered guests into the newly established Art Gallery at the local wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Two.

 The place was agog with artistic zest Agu’s exhibition berthed penultimate weekend and would run till the end of the month. The painting was one of the over 20 works of paintings and sculptures on display in diverse areas of life. The event, which was anchored by Nollywood actor Mofe Duncan, drew dignitaries from all spheres of business and art worlds.

The exhibition was a major highlight at the official launch of the Art Gallery at MMA2 Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) as part of activities marking its 16th anniversary.

Speaking at the launch of the gallery, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), Dr. Wale Babalakin, said the company is committed to promoting such initiatives, the gallery was part of moves to up its game in the hospitality business. “People can relax, unwind and shop, even as they travel,”

The philosophical appeal of Agu’s painting depicting Nigeria’s political trajectory excited guests. As Nigeria matches into a new republic, like “a prophet crying in the wildness”, his painting, entitled: “Contention for power”, warns the incoming government of the unseen forces that often militates against the better judgement of the political leadership in the country. The painting is both political as it is historic: it shows a representative of all the heads of states, using their caps. While the battle for survival by the caps is on, you’d see the electorates watching from a distance. “The Lion-like sprite on the ground depicts the demons confronting our leaders when they get to the throne; while the people standing by the side are the electorates.”

He said: “We are not doing enough” whereas, there is potential to do better, but all hands must be on deck to change the present trend and narrative.”

As an engineer, who delved into arts over 32 years ago, his works seem to reflect the influences he has had in the past.  When asked about the choice of his works, Agu stated: “the exhibition showcased his works are on leisure, commentaries on the society, as well as women, all bothering on arts forms and movements over time.”

Also, a large number of his works had women motifs.

On his keen interest in women, Agu declared that they (women) are a unique gender, saying that his interest was rooted in the significant roles they play in every society. According to him, “Most cultures appreciate women, it is, however, unfortunate that Africa was the least that accords due recognition to women.”

According to Agu, who is the CEO of the gallery, the project is beyond the normal buying and selling of arts, or exposing people to the arts and updating the same, revealing that another component of the initiative was a section to profile celebrities – achievers, arts collectors, individually or through organisations.

His words, “Airport is a peculiar facility meant to be the parlour of the country, a parlour of stage, just like you make your room and leave your parlour for the stranger. As a welcoming space, it ought to be a foremost projector of our culture. I commend BASL for its foresight in leading the pack to having a first-of-its-kind gallery at an airport. I thank the Bi-Courtney Chair, Dr. Babalakin, for approving the initiative and creating a space for its realisation.

“The initiative, which began as a “discussion” was to create a platform where arts can lead, thrive and interact with the people. The place would promote the arts, tourism and is meant to have an interaction, creating a platform for young artists to interact with the art collectors; for the connoisseurs.”

On his part, BASL’s Head of Corporate Communications, Oluwatosin Onalaja, said the company recognises the importance of the arts in travels and tourism and its contributions to the economy.

The launch, which had gallery’s curator Anthonia Nze, was attended by artists, curators, art ambassadors, such as former Editor, The Guardian on Saturday, Jahman Anikulapo; award-winning travel journalist, Pelu Awofeso; academia, senior aviation and arts  correspondents, Principal Officers of Bi-Courtney, manager of MMA2 and staff.  

No fewer than 3,000 Nigerian youths will undergo cultural tourism training in China, billed to reduce unemployment and crime, as well as to  mobilise  them to drive the Nigerian creative cultural tourism economy. 

This was disclosed by the Director- General, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Otunba Segun Runsewe, who led an African delegation to  the International Culture Tourism Reform for Developing Nations, put together by the Chinese Government and the Academic International for International Business Officials (AIBO) holding in Beijing, China. 

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the forum in Beijing, Runsewe, who also the President, World Craft Council (WCC) Africa Region,  said the training and exposures for Nigerian youths to acquire new skills were not limited to cultural tourism economy but on technological breakthroughs and innovations. 

“The meetings were strategic,  successful, and eye opener to how our youths can benefit from training by the Chinese government who are ready to partner and support us to bring about 3,000 youths from Nigeria at first instance to undergo diverse areas of trainings in area such as manufacturing of chips and even on  electrical car production” Runsewe said,  adding that “it will be a new beginning for us as a  nation and for our young persons as the collaboration will bear verifiable gains to our immediate and future capacity building ecosystem in cultural tourism and technology ecosystems.”

He said the Chinese training offer will take up about 100 young persons per state, which would help reduce crime and unemployment and beneficial to rural development.

“Am excited about this opportunity for our young persons in Nigeria. It is no elephant project, and we know how committed the Chinese are to promises  to us a nation, and this is certainly huge.  On arrival back in Nigeria, we shall, in earnest, put up strategies to actualise these milestones, “ Runsewe said.

Runsewe in his presentation, “Public cultural Reforms and Health  Development for Developing Countries,” urged top government officials in developing nations to pay attention to cultural tourism issues as  they are the bedrock of peace and security in the world. 

“ For tourism to thrive,  attention must be paid to  public washrooms as no tourist wants to visit a place or destination with a dirty washroom. There’s no denying the fact that people are attracted to places that are good-looking as cleanliness is next to godliness, “Runsewe noted. 

The CEO of Cornerstone Beddings, Temidayo Ogunleke, popularly known as ‘The Beddings Madam’, is one woman who leaves a lasting impression on every person she meets. Ogunleke, author of the book, entitled: Keep Saying it if you want it, runs an e-commerce platform for bedding products providing toxic-free breathable products. She is motivated by the need to inspire young and aspiring women start-ups. In this interview with EVELYN OSAGIE, she speaks on how social media changed her life and how she is bridging the gap, connecting and inspiring women all over the world.

I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit, and after completing my studies in Beddings production, I decided to venture into the bedding business itself. I saw a gap in the market. I started business in Ibadan with zero Naira and had few customers before deciding to come to Lagos. That was another unique story on its own because at some point then I was also homeless.

Voyage into the world of beddings

 It has been an interesting journey so far. The beddings industry is very competitive, but nothing good comes easy. However, with dedication and hard work, there’s nothing one cannot achieve. From selling ordinary pillows, I’ve been able to carve a niche for myself in the industry. You have to keep at it. Although I started very small and only learned the production part of it and not the business part, I have improved in so many ways. You have to keep improving yourselF.

Origin of the name, The beddings madam

(Laughs). I got that name from my customers, who identified me as the go-to person when it comes to anything related to beddings and at the time it was mostly on social media. Then when I started beddings, people found it difficult to access me online. Some will not even remember my name is Temidayo. People started calling me “the beddings madam”. I guess it stuck and I embraced it and it made it easy for people to access me.

My life-changing decision

Starting this company was one of my life-changing decisions for me. In fact, my life has been tremendously transformed. It has given me the opportunity to express my creativity and passion while making a positive impact in the lives of my customers and society. Indeed, there’s a big difference between learning a skill and doing business. What I actually learned was how to do bedsheets, pillows but right now we do much more. And I have gone ahead to acquire two MBAs and I’ve recently gone into Tech. We’ll be six by next month. We’ve run as a traditional business before now, but what we are doing now involves tech. So, we have to be tech enabled. And I have been taking some tech courses because of the need to know the nitty gritty of ICT.

 Taking advantage of the technology

Young start-ups, particularly women should learn more about technology and how to leverage on it. Make use of social media. Just ensure that you’re there. And I’d say make use of whatever device you have to start whatever you want to. Some people are limited by resources, cash, gadgets, like laptops and phones; but you can use other people’s phones. I told you I got into business with zero naira. But what I did not say was that it was my use of tech (social media) that got me started. In fact, I started business because I was hungry, I didn’t have a life. I used to depend on people to feed me. I was submitting CVs but to no avail. But how did I get customers. I began to post online while I talked to people, friends, family and I also went to the market to talk to people and that time I did not have a phone I used people’s phone to post online. As a matter of fact, the first sewing machine I used was also borrowed before my Mom bought me mine. But today, all that is history, success is now my name.

Challenges encountered

Like I’ve said, there was a time in 2018 that I was homeless. They threw my things out and for two months I was just sleeping anywhere. During this period, I’ve already made adverts on social media. People were calling to buy products. Sometimes I would cry because I had nowhere to sleep. But I had to hide my pain and actually wanted to commit suicide. I was tired and done. And I told myself no. So, it was truly a trying time for me. Honestly, I cannot remove God from my story. Anytime it looks as though things are falling apart, He comes through for me. Sometimes we forget our identity, but He is mercy.

By the time I had got my company running, in the early stages, a major challenge I faced was getting customers to trust and patronise my brand. However, by consistently offering quality products and exceptional customer service, I was able to gain their trust and loyalty. Also, there were times where our machines were not working for five months. And the technicians could not locate the fault. But the good thing is that for every time I wanted to quit, a customer had always made me bounce back.

Most memorable experience in business

I have many memorable experiences, one of which was when I was given an award of recognition for the most passionate entrepreneur of the year. This recognition boosted my confidence and made me realise that hard work pays off.

Some patterns in career women

One pattern I have noticed is that women tend to doubt themselves and their abilities. It is important for women to embrace their strengths and be confident in their abilities. They should also seek out mentors and build a strong network. Women bring a unique perspective and approach to business, which can lead to increased creativity and innovation. That is why I have opened a telegram group where I advise young women and where they also share same stories and more

Inspiration behind my motivational book

 Motivate by my story, I have written the book, entitled: “Keep Saying it if you want it”.  You must have a positive mindset. Despite the test, at that my low moments, I never gave up and never allowed it show on my face. I might be crying just now and immediately a customer calls me, I hold back the tears and talk normal.  As a matter of fact, unless you are my very close friend, you might not know that I’ve been crying. You need to see yourself as an overcomer.

Challenges will come in life: the Bible also tells us that we must face trials and tribulations but we should see ourselves as overcomers for we shall overcome. So, don’t be discouraged. Go out there as an overcomer. But don’t forget to harness the power of being a volunteer, learn the ropes.  Some people do not want to be an intern, forgetting that it is the quickest and cheapest way to learn.

I’ve volunteered for two people for free; and now I also own a multimillion naira company. And I am still volunteering, if I’m doing that I’m also building myself too in tech specialisation. So tomorrow if I tell you that I am setting up a tech company, you won’t be surprise. Let’s push ourselves. I know it’s not easy but God has blessed us, women, with multitasking. Women can push themselves: they give birth, breast feed, take care of the home and hubby, and much more. Go to school for what you want to learn, use the internet to improve on yourself. You can be schooling and working at the same time.

Men or women who helped me the most

  Both genders have helped me but to be honest, women have helped me more. I think it is because we relate with ourselves more. They are struggling with something they also want to help with your struggles, so men you can do better (laughs).

My plea to the new administration

As business people, we look forward to policies that will favour us all. I must say, the naira-dollar exchange rates is affecting us. We are looking forward to a bigger factory and we want to expand to Africa and to other places of the world and these policies are important to us. I believe that this country can do more but funding is also key.

Fast rising Disc Jockey, Markson Uwanobong mostly known as DJ Brightstar has said that DJs deserve every respect they get from artistes and music executives.

He noted that DJs play a vital role in turning an ‘ordinary’ music act into a superstar.

“I think the power of a DJ is underrated, we are like the key to the doors that many artists need to accomplish their dreams. No artist will become famous or ‘blow’ without the help of DJs because we are the ones who make sure their music is known in clubs, streets and radio stations,” said DJ Brightstar.

Continuing, he said, “When artists see aDJ no matter how small you may think he is, respect him, he deserves it.”

A consummate professional, DJ Brightstar has worked alongside 2Baba, Timaya, Duncan Mighty, Kiss Daniel, Seyi Vibez, Peruzzi, Iyanya, Kcee, JMartins, Tekno, Harrysongs, Idahams, Dandizzy, and Skales.

In 2019, he was signed by MC Galaxy as his official DJ. In 2021, he released a hype track, featuring the Energy gAD, Do2dtun.

Veteran Nollywood actress, Patience Ozokwo aka Mama G has been conferred with Africa Magic Viewers Choice Award (AMVCA) Lifetime Merit Award during the ninth edition which was held recently in Lagos.

Mama G was honored with the award for her contribution to the movie industry.

Accepting her award, Mama G revealed that she was tricked to attend the event without a prior knowledge of the award.

She, however, expressed joy for being recognized and loved for her contribution to the industry while vowing not to stop doing her best.

“When we started in the industry there was no social media and so many other luxuries we enjoy now. Progress was completely dependent on your talent, humility, word of mouth and trust. I appreciate my colleagues who work tirelessly and oftentimes without recognition. I appreciate my family, who have always surrounded me with love and acceptance. My children sacrificed a lot and stayed long periods without a mother. At one point, my daughter became my PA and is still my Associate Manager till date,” said Mama G.

Continuing, she said, “All marketers that believed in me from the very beginning. I did not want to mention names so as not to omit anyone, especially producers, executive producers and independent producers far too numerous to count. I appreciate you all. Thank you #MamaGLovers’ for your unwavering Love and support. I will never take you for granted. I will keep working hard so help me God.

“This moment right here is written in stone, firm, immutable and permanent. To all those who dream, to all those who work hard, to all those who hope, to those who start from the very bottom, to the obscured. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.Never stop moving, never stop learning, never stop believing, never stop praying, never look down on yourself, never try to be anyone else but yourself. Your change will come in the due course.I am a living testimony.”

Award-winning comedian, Emeka Erem aka Ajebo is set to celebrate the 10th anniversary of his show, Ajebo Unleashed 10.0.

Tagged the ‘Grateful’ edition, the entertainer disclosed that he will be delivering a scintillating performance for his audience on June 25 at Eko Hotel and Suite alongside some of the funniest men and rave musicians in Africa.

Speaking about the upcoming event, Ajebo said, “Basically, Ajebo Unleashed 10.0 is my way of expressing my gratitude to God who has brought me this far. I owe everything to him. Without God, I won’t be here. It is also a Thanksgiving concert as I had a major accident last year and came out unscathed.

“I am grateful to God for life as well. I will be talking about my fatherhood experience. I’ve had three daughters over the last five years. I’m giving God back the glory.

“The event is my way of saying thank you to my fans who have stayed loyal to the Ajebo brand over the past decade. ‘Ajebo Unleashed’ started as a child of passion but grew to become a household name, all thanks to the loyalty of my teeming fans,” he said.

The humour merchant revealed that he has curated a list of the funniest comedians and the finest musicians in Africa and the Diaspora to provide quality entertainment on the 25th of June.

As a comedian, Ajebo has had a colourful career in the humour industry. In addition to ‘Ajebo Unleashed’, he is also the brain behind the ‘House of Ajebo’ cartoon brand which has been running for the past 13 years.

Talented standup comedian and on-air personality, Oluwafunmibi Olarinde aka Funbi is set to hold the fifth annual edition of his annual gig, ‘Funbi’s Bus.’

The 2023 edition of the gig is themed ‘Grown Man’ and will be held on June 4 at Eko Conference Centre with performances from Sabinus, Terry G, Sean Tizzle, Crayon, Majeed, Josh2funny, Remote, Odogwu, and Bowjoint.

Read Also : Why my skits don’t promote nudity – Sabinus

 Sharing the concept of the event, the host said “Funbi’s Bus is my brand and it’s unique, when thinking of rebranding my show name, I had to pick between myself and what everybody could relate to which is a Bus (everyone enters buses home and abroad) and this is my own bus giving happiness, so Funbi’s Bus is a movement. This year’s edition is ‘Grown Man’ because I’m somebody’s father and somebody’s husband now! I have people looking up to me and I have a story to tell about being a Grown Man” he said.

 Revealing why this fifth edition stands out from the previous editions Funbi Funbi said “Over the years, we have changed lives! From people getting married after meeting at the Show to people becoming superstars in the industry… this year we want to bless someone with a plot of land in the new Lagos.”

The spread of hate on social media can be avoided and one should afford others the respect they desire,” these were the words of Jimi Agboola, the director of recently premiered movie, ‘Comment Section.’

The film according to Agboola tackles the phenomenon of cyberbullying and its effects on cyberbullies and victims of cyberbullying.

“Comment Section is a relevant and timely film exploring how social media characters are exhibited, the people behind these accounts and the vast reasons that lead to active, constant and in most cases dangerously obsessive participation. It’s a film that addresses while creating a portrait of our society in the modern age, the unique time in which we live in and its influence by social media,” he added.

Speaking on his role as a lead actor in the movie, Chris Akoh, said: “I got the script for ‘Comment Section’ and as soon as i read it i had an immediate connection to the character Dede because he was/is the protagonist conveying the very important message that this film has for the society we live in today when it comes to social media, the pros/cons that come with certain kinds of upbringing/parenting, vices and the human perception of what is right or wrong based off of real life times and experiences. It’s an exceptional script, cinematically told in the most unconventional way. It was love at first and every sight.”

Comment section was directed by Jimi Agboola, co-directed by Iyke Osoka and written by Jimeto Onyedika.

The Chairman Mayore Beauty, Silver Oghayore is optimistic that the firm’s launch into the Nigerian market would be highly welcomed by the Nigerian movie industry.

Oghayore noted that Nollywood and the music industry are involved in the use of cosmetics in movies and music videos.

He made this affirmation at a pre-launch media parley recently in Lagos.

He also noted that though both entertainment industries have become a force to reckon with globally, the make up/makeover aspects still need better products like Mayore to compliment its standard and also save cost of buying beauty products.

“It’s a great opportunity for us. We have a product that the market needs as much as we want to be in it. I’m willing to invest in my words today, I have an impression that when both industries test our products they won’t have a lot of choice but do rely on Mayore,” said Oghayore

“The quality of our products, the sustainability of our products and the natural nature of our products will convince them. We’ve seen movies where makeups are fading, you’re not going to have that kind of problem with Mayore products. You will be investing a lot less for superior quality products. So I think they will welcome us as long as we will welcome partnership and collaboration with them.”