The Nation Newspaper

Category: Arts & Life

  • NAFDAC to regulate trans-fatty acids

    NAFDAC to regulate trans-fatty acids

    • By Glorious Idowu

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched a comprehensive strategy and roadmap for the regulation of Trans Fatty Acids (TFAs) in Nigeria. The event, which was held last Friday in Lagos, had in attendance officials from the Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, industry stakeholders, civil society organisations and development partners.

    Director-General NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, said the initiative was aimed at protecting Nigerians from the harmful effects of trans-fats, which are widely recognised as a major contributor to heart disease and other non-communicable diseases.

    Prof. Adeyeye said that the agency must protect Nigerians from invisible dangers in their diets, adding that the strategy is not about penalizing industry, but about transitioning to healthier food systems. “We will support industries in reformulation, but compliance is non-negotiable,” she noted. 

    On why NAFDAC decided to prioritise TFA regulation at this time, she said the roadmap was rooted in the gazetted regulation on fats and oils published in 2022.

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    “Many of us in Nigeria think the more oil in the food, the better it is — no. We must reduce the oils we use in our foods and ensure they do not contain trans-fatty acids or saturated fats, which cause cardiovascular diseases. WHO has shown that almost 300,000 deaths every year are linked to trans-fatty acids. We cannot ignore this,” she stated.

    She disclosed that manufacturers have been given an 18-month moratorium since 2023 to exhaust old labels and packaging stocks, after which new labels will indicate the presence or absence of TFAs. She also stressed that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) would be carried along through capacity-building and awareness programmes.

    Trans fatty acids are a type of artificial fat produced through industrial processes such as partial hydrogenation of vegetable oils. They are commonly found in baked goods, margarine, fried foods and processed snacks. According to the World Health Organization, TFAs raise “bad” cholesterol, lower “good” cholesterol and are linked to thousands of premature deaths globally each year.

    Studies suggest that reducing TFA exposure in populations can avert thousands of premature deaths. For example, research indicates that enforcing stricter TFA limits in Nigeria could prevent about 10,000 heart disease deaths over a decade and save significant healthcare costs.

    It was gathered that the roadmap provides for a phased implementation, including an 18-month moratorium granted to manufacturers to exhaust old labels before full enforcement begins on February 1, 2026. The policy also mandates clearer nutrition labelling and sets a limit of not more than two grams of TFAs per 100 grams of oils and fats, in line with international best practices. Representatives of the Federal Ministry of Health, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission pledged their support for the implementation. Development partners such as the World Health Organization and Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL) also commended the move as a step towards safer food environments.

    Industry stakeholders present expressed readiness to cooperate but called for clarity on technical standards and support for small and medium enterprises.

    The roadmap, developed with input from a technical working group and validated at a stakeholders’ workshop in 2024, will guide enforcement, capacity building and public awareness campaigns. The overview of this road map was presented by Deputy Director (Food R&R)- Dr Tinuola Akinnubi

    By this move, Nigeria joins countries implementing best-practice policies to eliminate industrially produced trans fats from national food supplies, in line with the World Health Organization’s global target.

  • Archivist Talk: a collective remembering through art, memory

    Archivist Talk: a collective remembering through art, memory

    • By Sisianu Melewakou

    The quiet layers of memory and history came alive at the inaugural Archivist Talk held at the Centre for Contemporary Art (CCA), Yaba, Lagos.  The event, themed A Collective Remembering, brought together artists, archivists, cultural workers, and journalists to reflect on the role of archives in shaping Nigerian and global contemporary art.

    The Archivist Talk is part of the CCA Lagos’ ongoing efforts to preserve the legacy of its founder, the late Bisi Silva, whose vision of connecting Nigerian artists to global audiences continues to inspire projects in archiving, documentation, and storytelling.

    The session featured interactive activities such as collage-making and digital storytelling, designed to engage participants in new ways of experiencing archival materials. Technology was at the forefront of the conversations, showing how archives are evolving into dynamic platforms of creativity.

    Multidisciplinary artist, Rasak Akorede, described the project as inspiring and innovative.

    “It was quite interesting because different people had different reactions. Some were able to ask questions about events as far back as the 1990s, and the archive gave them answers immediately. That shows how technology can change the way we engage with history,” he said.

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    Curator and founder of the Arts Bridge Project, Tony Agbapuonwu, stressed the importance of documentation beyond art. “This programme shows us the importance of documenting the times we live in and the role of technology in preserving our stories. Beyond art, archives are tools for understanding culture and shaping the narrative of our society,” he said.

    For cultural reporter, Pelu Adegbesun, the event was a timely reminder of the need to embrace archiving in Nigeria. “In the past, many people did not pay attention to preserving memory, but with initiatives like this, young people are beginning to take interest in documentation. This is a beautiful development for our cultural heritage,” he noted.

    Project archivist, Jenny Agu, emphasized the continuing influence of Bisi Silva in Nigeria’s art ecosystem. “Her legacy is still very visible in the arts community. She believed in connecting Nigerian artists to global audiences, and this project continues that mission by opening access to archives in creative ways,” she said.

    Agu added that the Archivist Talk was not only about revisiting the past but also about shaping the future. “Preserving memory gives us a sense of identity. By using art and technology, we are ensuring that today’s stories will be available for generations to come,” she explained.

  • UN, stakeholders call for responsible actions on tourism

    UN, stakeholders call for responsible actions on tourism

    • From Janefrances Chibuzor

    As the world marked World Tourism Day 2025 last Saturday, the United Nations and key tourism stakeholders across Nigeria have called for a renewed commitment to make tourism a tool for sustainable transformation. The global celebration, held in Melaka, Malaysia, centred on the theme Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.

    The UN Tourism Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, urged nations and operators to reflect deeply on how tourism impacts societies and the planet. According to him, the sector’s future lies not only in visitor numbers but in how its growth contributes to people’s empowerment, cultural preservation, and environmental protection.

    “We must look beyond numbers and reflect on how our sector impacts societies and our planet,” Pololikashvili said. “Sustainable transformation through tourism is only possible if we embrace new ideas and listen to new voices. That means reshaping business practices, investing in the right values, and focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship. It also means investing in education, jobs, and the training of young talents.”

    He noted that World Tourism Day in Melaka has once again demonstrated that tourism can serve as a force for good when guided by sustainability and inclusivity. “By working together, we can transform tourism into a tool for empowerment, cultural preservation, and environmental protection,” he added.

    In a similar message, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres described tourism as “a powerful driver of transformation,” noting that it builds bridges across cultures and fuels development. He, however, cautioned that its expansion must be managed responsibly to safeguard the very communities it celebrates.

    “Tourism creates jobs, fuels local economies, and strengthens bonds between people and places,” Guterres said. “It builds bridges across cultures, preserves traditions, and restores cultural heritage. Yet tourism can also damage the very places it celebrates. As the world faces climate breakdown and rising inequalities, we need bold, sustainable action that puts people and the planet first.”

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    He urged countries to harness tourism as a force for resilience, sustainability, and shared progress.

    Across the world, governments, operators, and civil society groups marked the day with events promoting inclusive tourism and sustainable development. In Nigeria, activities were held across several cities, including Lagos, Abuja, and Enugu, with the private sector playing a key role in mobilising awareness.

    In Lagos, the State Government, through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, partnered the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) and other private operators to commemorate the day at Tarkwa Bay. The event brought together professionals, destination managers, and cultural promoters to discuss the future of sustainable tourism in the country.

    Speaking on the significance of the celebration, Mr. Uche Wilson Ugwu, Vice President (South East) of FTAN, said the theme aligns with Nigeria’s need to reposition tourism as a development tool. He explained that true transformation begins when the industry is built on sustainability, cultural identity, and local participation.

    “Beyond celebrating the day, stakeholders must commit to practical actions that will make the South East a model for responsible tourism,” Ugwu said. “Infrastructure development, security, and access roads remain critical to unlocking our region’s full potential. Without good roads and reliable utilities, even our best attractions remain hidden.”

    He stressed the importance of capacity building and innovation, calling for continuous training of youth entrepreneurs and tour operators.

    Ugwu maintained that sustainability depends on knowledge-sharing and the integration of modern technology into tourism promotion.

    “The South East must tell its story differently,” he added. “We have history, cuisine, and craftsmanship that can compete globally. But this requires unity of purpose. Every operator, artisan, and policymaker must see themselves as part of the transformation process.”

    Also speaking, Mr. Awomoyi Ayodeji, Principal Executive of Flyzone Tourism, said tourism remains a strategic tool for fostering peace, mutual understanding, and economic development among nations. According to him, sustainable transformation cannot be achieved without deliberate collaboration between governments, local communities, and the private sector.

    “Tourism contributes significantly to peace and development when it promotes cultural exchange, supports local economies, and encourages global citizenship,” Awomoyi said. He identified inadequate infrastructure, insecurity, inconsistent government policies, and poor funding as some of the biggest challenges facing tourism in Nigeria.

    Awomoyi stressed that capacity development and partnership are key. “Governments, private sector, and communities must work together to build skills, improve access, and foster partnerships. Only then can tourism reach its full potential as a tool for inclusion and sustainable change,” he noted.

  • Tolu Olanipekun named Marketing Personality of the Year 2025

    Tolu Olanipekun named Marketing Personality of the Year 2025

    In a night dedicated to celebrating excellence in brand building and strategic communication, Tolu Olanipekun, Head of Marketing at Mouka Foam, emerged as a beacon of industry leadership, clinching the coveted Outstanding Marketing Personality of the Year award at the Marketing Edge Awards 2025.

    Held on Friday, September 26, at the Balmoral Event Hall, Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, the ceremony brought together Nigeria’s most influential marketing professionals, brand custodians, and communications strategists.

    The event, hosted annually by Marketing Edge, one of Nigeria’s foremost marketing and advertising publications, recognises individuals and organisations that have demonstrated exceptional innovation, consistency, and impact in the field.

    Olanipekun’s recognition is a celebration of a remarkable career that spans over a decade and a half, marked by strategic excellence and an unwavering commitment to consumer-centric marketing. From her early days at Reckitt Benckiser, where she helped redefine brand narratives in the health, hygiene, and home care segment, to leading transformative campaigns at FrieslandCampina and now Mouka, her journey has been one of vision, grit, and growth.

    Currently leading the marketing efforts at Mouka Foam, a trusted name in sleep and wellness products, Olanipekun has steered the brand through bold repositioning strategies that not only amplified its relevance but also deepened emotional connections with consumers. Her campaigns have consistently broken the clutter in a crowded media landscape, delivering both creative storytelling and measurable results.

    Speaking at the event after receiving the award, an elated Olanipekun remarked: “This recognition is truly humbling. For me, it is not just an award but a call to keep raising the bar and delivering excellence. Marketing is about connecting brands to people in ways that add value to their lives, and I am grateful to my team and mentors who have been part of this journey.”

    Her statement captures the essence of a marketer who sees beyond campaigns and billboards, one who believes in purpose-driven branding that touches lives.

    Industry stakeholders have praised the choice of Olanipekun, one of this year’s honourees, citing her ability to blend creativity with commercial insight.

    According to Marketing Edge, the selection was based on “her strategic influence in redefining brand narratives across multiple sectors, as well as her role in mentoring upcoming marketers and driving industry-wide innovation.”

    Indeed, Olanipekun’s success story is not just about individual achievement but about the impact she continues to make on teams, brands, and the broader marketing ecosystem. Her leadership style, collaborative, curious, and always forward-thinking, has positioned her as a respected voice on industry panels and in executive boardrooms alike.

    With this recognition, Olanipekun is poised to further solidify her role as a thought leader and trailblazer in Nigeria’s marketing and brand communication space. Whether through groundbreaking campaigns at Mouka or mentorship initiatives across the industry, her influence is set to expand in the years to come.

  • Mouka unveils comfort garden in Lagos, redefining rest, wellness

    Mouka unveils comfort garden in Lagos, redefining rest, wellness

    In a bold move to spotlight the link between quality sleep and wellness, Mouka Limited, Nigeria’s foremost brand in sleep solutions, has unveiled the Mouka Comfort Garden, the first structure of its kind in the country.

    Located on Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun, Ikeja, the Comfort Garden features a striking glass-enclosed bedroom setup, designed to captivate motorists and passersby while reimagining the meaning of rest, comfort, and healthy living.

    The unveiling was led by Mouka’s Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), Dimeji Osingunwa, who underscored the brand’s mission to elevate the quality of life of Nigerians through better sleep.

    “In a country where the average adult sleeps fewer hours than recommended, this structure is our way of reminding Nigerians to prioritise sleep for good health, better productivity, and improved quality of life,” Osingunwa said.

    “We want Lagosians, and Nigerians at large, to pause, reflect, and remember that no matter how fast life moves, everyone deserves to rest, and to rest well on a Mouka.”

    Also present at the launch was Mouka’s brand ambassador and legendary actress, Sola Sobowale, popularly known as the “King of Boys.” She hailed the initiative as “a bold and beautiful reminder that true luxury begins with how well we rest.”

    At the centre of the Comfort Garden is Mouka’s flagship Royal Luxury Pillow Top Mattress, an opulent, multi-layered innovation designed with memory foam, high-performance springs, and premium fibre to deliver a five-star sleep experience.

    Taking a tour of the installation, Sobowale affirmed her personal belief in the power of good rest:

    “As someone whose career demands both mental and physical energy, I understand how vital sleep is. Mouka has always stood for quality, and this Comfort Garden is a bold and creative statement that says: your body deserves good rest, and rest deserves the luxury of Mouka. I’m proud to be part of this journey.”

    The Comfort Garden marks another milestone in Mouka’s six-decade legacy of innovation, blending artistry, lifestyle, and health advocacy into a visually arresting public installation. Whether stuck in traffic or strolling by, Lagosians are offered a daily reminder to slow down, recharge, and value sleep as a necessity rather than a luxury.

    In his closing remarks, Osingunwa noted: “As you drive past Oregun and catch a glimpse of this installation, we hope it makes you smile, reflect, and, most importantly. go home inspired to take your sleep health seriously.”

    Founded in 1959, Mouka remains Nigeria’s leading manufacturer of mattresses, pillows, and other sleep products. Now part of the Dolidol International Group, the brand continues to push boundaries in delivering comfort, innovation, and value across Africa and beyond.

  • Lagos to become Africa’s tourism hub, says foundation

    Lagos to become Africa’s tourism hub, says foundation

    Lagos is set to take centre stage as a top global tourism destination with the launch of the Eko Tourism Foundation (ETF), an initiative designed to unify the sector, attract investment, and drive sustainable economic growth.

    In a statement, the Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees and Governing Board, Lai Mohammed, said the initiative was a bold and forward-looking step towards transforming Lagos into Africa’s foremost tourism destination.

    “This foundation is to harmonise the industry, engage government productively, attract investment, and create millions of jobs. If we must achieve the desired socio-economic gains, then the tourism ecosystem must speak with one voice,” he said.

    Mohammed, a former Minister of Information and Culture and Special Advisor to the Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) in Spain, emphasised that tourism in Nigeria had for too long been weakened by fragmented voices and uncoordinated efforts.

    He explained that the ETF, an initiative of the 137-year-old Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, had introduced key projects to reposition the sector.

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    These include the Eko Tourism Foundation Trust Fund to attract investments, the Eko Tourism Foundation Academy for human capacity development, and an Annual International Conference and Exhibition to showcase Lagos globally.

    Other initiatives, he said, would include the “Experience Lagos Project” featuring virtual tours and immersive experiences, quarterly publications to provide data and insights, ETF clubs for students, and the Annual Eko Tourism Festival.

    “Lagos has already captured global attention with ‘Detty December’, our concerts, nightlife, Owambe parties, fashion, food, and culture. The Foundation will ensure this energy is sustained and scaled into a year-round global attraction,” he said.

    Reaffirming the importance of tourism to Nigeria’s economy, he disclosed that the sector currently provides between 10 and 15 million jobs nationwide, contributing 3.6 per cent to the country’s GDP and generating over US$17.3 billion in 2022.

    On security concerns, Mohammed urged stakeholders not to allow negative perceptions to overshadow the country’s realities.

    “There is no country that does not have its own problems. The government is trying. But honestly, if you read about Nigeria before you come to Nigeria, or you read about Lagos before you come to Lagos, you think they are two different countries,” he said.

    He added that the Foundation, being a brainchild of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, would ensure Lagos becomes the partner of choice for global tour operators and firmly establish Nigeria as a destination for tourists worldwide.

  • Mouka’s MD honoured as CEO of the Year 2025, beddings category

    Mouka’s MD honoured as CEO of the Year 2025, beddings category

    Mouka, Nigeria’s leading brand in sleep solutions, is proud to announce that its Managing Director, Mr Femi Fapohunda, has been recognised with the prestigious award of CEO of the Year 2025, Beddings Category at the 2025 Brand Handlers Summit & Awards, organised by Marketing Space, one of the nation’s most respected marketing publications.

    The award, which celebrates excellence in brand leadership and marketing innovation, was presented to Mr Fapohunda at an exclusive industry gathering held on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Regency Hall, Central Business District, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

    According to the organisers, Mr Fapohunda was selected “head and shoulders above the rest” after a rigorous evaluation process conducted by a distinguished panel of judges. His exceptional leadership and Mouka’s consistent delivery of consumer-focused innovation played a significant role in securing this honour.

    The 2025 edition of the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards, themed “Advancing Nigeria’s Marketing Ecosystem To Drive Brand Growth”, brought together influential stakeholders, brand custodians, marketing professionals, and agency leaders. The event served as a platform to recognise and celebrate individuals and organisations who are shaping Nigeria’s marketing communications landscape through vision, creativity, and impact.

    Speaking on the recognition, Mr Fapohunda expressed gratitude to the organisers and dedicated the award to the entire Mouka team: “This honour is not mine alone, it is a testament to the hard work, resilience and shared purpose of the entire Mouka family. At Mouka, we believe in delivering quality, innovation, and value to our consumers. I am humbled to be recognised among distinguished peers and will continue to drive our mission to enhance the wellbeing of Nigerians through quality sleep.”

    Over the years, Mouka has built a legacy of quality and trust, consistently evolving with consumer needs and maintaining its position at the forefront of Nigeria’s sleep industry. Under Mr Fapohunda’s leadership, the brand has not only expanded its product offerings but has also intensified its commitment to sustainability and health-driven advocacy for better sleep culture.

    Commenting on the award, the organisers from Marketing Space noted: “Mouka remains a gold standard for strategic brand building in Nigeria. The leadership demonstrated by Mr Fapohunda reflects a deep understanding of consumer connection and marketplace dynamics. It is leaders like him who drive the marketing ecosystem forward.”

    This award adds to the growing list of accolades Mouka has received in recent years, reinforcing its unwavering commitment to innovation, integrity, and excellence in brand stewardship.

    Mouka is Nigeria’s leading manufacturer of high-quality mattresses, pillows, and other sleep products, designed to enhance the quality of life. With a heritage spanning over six decades, Mouka remains committed to its mission of adding comfort to life through innovation, customer-centric solutions, and sustainable operations.

  • King Of Boys star, Sola Sobowale unveils Mouka sleep gallery

    King Of Boys star, Sola Sobowale unveils Mouka sleep gallery

    Mouka, Nigeria’s leading manufacturer of quality sleep solutions has officially opened its state-of-the-art Mouka Sleep Gallery at Plot Y, Mobolaji Johnson Avenue, Alausa, Ikeja, within the prestigious Grand Square Mall. The launch, held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, was marked by colour, glamour, and an unmistakable flair as Nollywood icon and “King of Boys” star, Sola Sobowale, graced the occasion.

    The unveiling attracted customers, well-wishers, and stakeholders across the sleep and wellness sector who were eager to explore Mouka’s latest innovation in retail experience. Guests were treated to live product demonstrations, personalised consultations, and an immersive walkthrough of Mouka’s range of mattresses, pillows, and sleep accessories.

    Speaking at the launch, Mouka’s Chief Commercial Officer (COO), Dimeji Osingunwa, reaffirmed the company’s longstanding reputation as a trusted brand in Nigeria for over six decades.

    “At Mouka, we believe quality sleep is not a luxury but a necessity,” Osingunwa said. “This gallery is more than a showroom, it’s a statement of our commitment to innovation, consumer satisfaction, and wellness. We want every Nigerian to have access to the science of good sleep.”

    Drawing on his familiar public voice that often blends business insight with consumer advocacy, Osingunwa stressed that the gallery embodies Mouka’s push to expand access while deepening consumer engagement.

    “We are not just selling mattresses,” he continued. “We are creating a culture of healthy living, because sleep is one of the three pillars of wellness alongside diet and exercise. That is why we continue to invest in spaces like this, where consumers can feel, test, and choose the right solutions for their unique needs.”

    Osingunwa also linked the new retail initiative to Mouka’s broader sustainability goals:

    “Sustainability is no longer optional for forward-looking businesses,” he said. “From our eco-friendly production processes to recyclable packaging, and now our consumer-centric retail spaces, we are aligning every step of our value chain with global best practices. This is how Mouka stays relevant after 65 years, by constantly reinventing while staying true to our promise of comfort.”

    Also speaking, Mouka’s National Retail Manager, Mrs. Chinwe Remi-Lawal, highlighted the gallery’s role in the company’s nationwide expansion strategy.

    “This is a serene, consumer-friendly environment where customers can shop, test, and experience Mouka’s wide range of products,” she explained. “In addition to Lagos, we currently have Mouka Sleep Galleries in Abuja, Benin, Kano, and Port Harcourt. More locations are in the pipeline because our goal is to bring the Mouka experience closer to Nigerians everywhere.”

    The newly launched Grand Square outlet is the third Sleep Gallery opened by Mouka in 2025 alone, following similar launches in Kano State and Ojaja Mall, Lekki Scheme II, Lagos. The company’s retail push underscores its mission of making quality sleep solutions accessible nationwide.

    Adding a touch of glamour, Nollywood veteran Sola Sobowale expressed delight at being part of the unveiling.

    “I am thrilled to be part of this exciting moment with Mouka,” Sobowale said. “Everyone deserves quality sleep, and I’m proud to be associated with a brand that truly cares about the wellbeing of Nigerians.”

    With the new Mouka Sleep Gallery, customers can consult trained sleep experts on-site for personalised guidance, trial various sleep products in a calm environment, and enjoy an experience that reflects Mouka’s enduring message: sleep well, live well.

  • Tinubu, Obasanjo, Kukah for Ex-CDS Gen. Irabor’s book launch Friday

    Tinubu, Obasanjo, Kukah for Ex-CDS Gen. Irabor’s book launch Friday

    Former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (Rtd.) will on Friday October 3, 2025 present his new book on the Boko Haram insurgency to the public in Abuja.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Rev. Fr. Matthew Hassan Kukah, have been invited to grace the unveiling ceremony of the book titled: “Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum.”

    According to reviewers the book is “destined to change the Boko Haram narrative.” 

    The Chairman of the Book Launch Organising Committee, Jonah Ejenavi, in a statement, said the book, which is a compelling revelation of the complex dynamics of Boko Haram terrorist organisation, will be unveiled at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

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    Ejenavi said: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been invited to the book presentation as Special Guest of Honour, while former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, is chairman of the occasion. 

    “Most Rev (Dr) Matthew Hassan Kukah, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, will serve as book reviewer.”

    He added that the Boko Haram’s emergence in 2002 ushered in an unprecedented era of bloodbath, destruction of property and devastation of economies, not just in Nigeria, but also across the West African belt, with far-reaching regional, continental and global consequences.

    “In Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum, Gen. Irabor dissects the Boko Haram conundrum, while proposing solutions to a challenge that threatens the future of Nigeria and other West African states. 

    “The bird’s-eye view of Gen Irabor, who led Nigerian forces against one of the biggest threats to his country, offers a deeper understanding of Boko Haram and the insurgency challenge.

    “The 330-page book has 14 chapters divided into three parts. The parts explore Nigeria’s historical past while unravelling the roots of the country’s security challenges; the conundrum caused by Boko Haram, and the paradigm shift required to establish peace in the Nigerian society despite the threat of insurgency,” Ejenavi said.

  • CampwithDavidBlaq returns October: Shaping next generation of African creatives

    CampwithDavidBlaq returns October: Shaping next generation of African creatives

    After the remarkable success of its maiden edition, “CampwithDavidBlaq” the transformative creative bootcamp designed to equip young Africans with the tools, skills, and mindset to thrive in today’s creative industry , is set to return this October.

    Founded by Maduegbusi David Onyedikachi, popularly known as DavidBlaq, the camp has become one of the most impactful platforms for aspiring creatives in Nigeria and across Africa. It provides participants with practical knowledge, immersive mentorship, and direct access to a network of seasoned professionals drawn from diverse creative disciplines.

    Reflecting on last year’s edition, participants described the camp as a turning point in their journey:

    “CampwithDavidBlaq” was the ice breaker. I started finding my pace, thanks to the teachings and lessons from our wonderful tutors.” – Festus

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    This year, the 2025 edition promises to raise the bar even higher. Alongside DavidBlaq, the camp will feature an impressive faculty of industry leaders and creative pioneers, including Niyi Fagbemi, OluwaDabest, Esiaga, PerliksDefinition, Mr Ademola Olaniran, Yomi Visuals, and other distinguished voices.

    Speaking about this year’s vision, DavidBlaq shared: “Last year, with the support of brilliant minds such as Kemzart, SnappCode, David Afolayan, Oyagha, Director Ayobami, Femi Gabriel , Victor Ayodele, and others, we were able to plant seeds of creativity and confidence in many young people , and we witnessed the impact first-hand. This year, we’re raising the standard. It’s not just about chasing passion, but about equipping creatives to build sustainable platforms and lasting careers from their art.

    CampwithDavidBlaq is more than a bootcamp, it’s a movement to empower the next generation of African storytellers, innovators, and industry leaders.