The Nation Newspaper

Category: Arts & Life

  • At Ikogosi Warm Springs, nature is king

    At Ikogosi Warm Springs, nature is king

    Ikogosi Warm Springs and Conference Centre has an enviable history of being a haven where nature and environment offer a healing balm to its inhabitants and visitors. This gift of nature forms the bedrock of what the current operators of the resort is building upon to offer top-notch hospitality services to its growing clienteles.  General Manager, Glocient Hospitality Limited, the hospitality arm of Cavista Holdings, and operators of the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre, Mr. Lanre Sharafa Balogun disclosed that despite the initial huge challenges at the resort, the on-going development at the resort is guided strictly by the need to preserve the peoples’ heritage and their environment. To achieve this, Balogun said no tree is allowed to be cut in the resort because ‘we want to keep the balance of the ecosystem. In fact, if you look at some trees, they just die a natural death because you will be arrested if you cut down any tree. Everywhere around here, you see trees growing.’

    Balogun who spoke recently with The Nation recalled that when he and his team arrived Ikogosi years ago, they were met not by promise but by ruins. “When we started, it was challenging. There was no technical assistance, no architectural or electrical drawings, nothing to work with. The entire place was rundown. We had to sit down and study everything from scratch, from the power systems, infrastructure, and terrain,” he said.

    But most importantly, preservation of nature and environment was at the core of each level of development. ‘‘That principle now defines every structure at Ikogosi. From the design of the Tree-House, built around standing trees without cutting a single one, to the careful bamboo trimming instead of indiscriminate clearing, nature is not displaced; it is respected. “You will be arrested if you cut down a tree here.

    ‘‘The Ikogosi Warm Spring, the heart of the site, was not rerouted or altered during the upgrade. Instead, it was reinforced with protective lining to prevent erosion and maintain its natural flow. In the evenings, monkeys still roam freely, a sign that, unlike in many other locations, wildlife continues to feel at home here,’’

    In furtherance of the sustainability of the ecosystem, the management of the resort also gives priority to agrotourism.  According to Balogun, the team grows its yams, watermelons, and pumpkin leaves (ugwu), which are all consumed fresh on-site. “We don’t buy what we eat here. It’s part of our model to live off the land, responsibly,” he noted.

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    “If you observe that at the Tree-House, no tree was cut down. We actually built the Tree-House around the trees without cutting any tree. That way, we want to keep the balance of the ecosystem. In fact, if you look at some trees, they just die a natural death because you will be arrested if you cut down any tree. Everywhere around here, you see trees growing.

    “We have that a lot. What we do is to trim it so we don’t have bamboo falling all over. They grow very, very rapidly. We have them in abundance and we preserve them. Even our spring, we still maintain the path. At night, you see monkeys come around. In fact, part of our goal in the long run is to have a mini zoo around for people to see wild animals around here. We are also having what we call an agro-tourism space where all the vegetables that we eat are being grown here. We have a yam farm already. We have watermelons. The yam is grown and harvested. We do not buy the yam that we consume,” he said.

    Balogun stressed that every development at the resort is in line with the master plan. “We have a master plan. And we approach, religiously and intentionally approach the master plan step by step. Our first focus is to provide accommodation, a living area, and a conference. We have a MICE business. What we focus on is accommodation and the conferencing area.

    “Largely, bringing people here, they have space to stay, they have a restaurant to dine, and they have space for their banqueting and conferencing facility. Next up is to do the high traffic area, entertainment area, where, like the tree-house, the foreign bar, the pool enhancements, the environment, the amphi-theatre for people to get engaged. And it’s been a heavy investment that has been put in here. And it’s going to continue. This is still a construction site,” he assured.

    According to Balogun, the goal of the resort is to have 50 percent of its projected rooms ready by December as it is getting to the point that the rooms available may not be enough for the demands.  “We intend to complete about 16 rooms of the 32 rooms by December 2025. For us, that is a given. Then, by the middle of next year 2026, our goal is to have completed the other 16 rooms. So, in all, we have 92 rooms.

    Recalling last December’s experience of turning back customers due to lack of rooms, he hoped the resort could have up to 150 rooms this December to be able to take advantage of Detty December. “People are ready to pay heavily but you are turning them down. It is quite frustrating. So, I want to be able to accommodate more people as much as we can for them to experience this nature’s gift to Africa,” he added. 

    On the implementation of the resort’s master plan, he said: “We are a strategic organistion. We have a master plan, which we religiously and intentionally approach step by step. Our first focus is to provide accommodation, the living area, and the conference. If you are in MICE business, what you focus on is accommodation and the conferencing area. That way, when you bring in people here, they have space to stay, they have a restaurant to dine, and they have space for their conference facility.

    “Next up is to do the high traffic area, entertainment area, like the tree house, the forest bath, the pool enhancement, the environment, the amphitheater, for people to get engaged. After doing all that, it will be the upgrading of the kitchen and others.  The reception is not up yet, but before mid-2026, we would have completed the reception, and it is going to be a world-class reception. After that, we will move to the golf range. We have a space for the range, which will be cleared after we have enhanced and transformed those areas that I just mentioned.”

  • Association applauds Ojo-Lanre’s comitiment to tourism

    Association applauds Ojo-Lanre’s comitiment to tourism

    The Association of Travel and Tourism Writers of Nigeria (ATTWON) has commended Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, for his remarkable consistency and dedication to promoting tourism in Nigeria.

    In a statement ATTWON described Ojo-Lanre as a “relentless force” whose decades of advocacy have significantly advanced domestic tourism and projected Nigeria’s cultural heritage onto the global stage.

    The association highlighted Ojo-Lanre’s extensive career, noting his service as a former Tourism Editor at the Nigerian Tribune and as the pioneer President of the Guild of Tourism Journalists. “Barrister Ojo-Lanre has been a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the beauty, diversity, and potential of Nigerian tourism even at times when national interest in the sector waned,” the statement read.

    Ojo-Lanre’s energetic campaigns, thought leadership, and passionate storytelling have been instrumental in advocating for greater investment and policy support for the industry. Through consistent media engagement and initiatives, he has spotlighted numerous hidden tourism gems across Nigeria, boosting local economies and fostering cultural pride.

    As the Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Ojo-Lanre’s efforts have notably placed Ekiti on the global tourism map, attracting an influx of visitors and investors to the state. His achievements, according to ATTWON, have significantly strengthened Ekiti’s tourism profile and opened new economic opportunities.

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    ATTWON also lauded his advocacy for the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Tourism at both the state and federal levels, noting that his self-funded campaigns have raised critical conversations about the need for tourism to be prioritized as a standalone economic sector.

    “At a time when many are swayed by trends, Wale Ojo-Lanre has remained steadfast in his commitment to tourism development. His efforts continue to inspire a new generation of promoters and journalists,” the association said.

    ATTWON urged stakeholders, government bodies, and private investors to rally more support for tourism development, emphasizing that champions like Ojo-Lanre have laid a strong foundation for the industry to flourish.

  • ‘Lagos is Africa’s emerging tourism hub’

    ‘Lagos is Africa’s emerging tourism hub’

    The Chairman Victoria Crown Plaza (VCP) Hotel, Mr. Emeka Ofor has commended the efforts of Lagos State in developing its tourism and hospitality sector, describing it as a promising journey towards becoming a leading tourism destination in Africa. Speaking during an interaction with The Nation, Ofor highlighted the deliberate steps taken by the Lagos State government, while also emphasising need for further investment in infrastructure, security, and branding to sustain growth.

    According to Ofor, the state’s commitment to transforming Lagos into a tourism hub is evident in its actions. He noted that while the state has not fully achieved its vision, the intentions are unmistakably clear. “Lagos State has taken significant strides to improve its tourism sector. The government is undoubtedly intentional in its efforts to position the state as a tourism hub, not just in Nigeria but across Africa. However, there is still more work to be done to create a truly friendly and conducive environment for the hospitality industry to thrive,” he said.

    Ofor underscored the economic importance of tourism, describing it as the backbone of many successful global economies. He lamented that Nigeria is yet to fully recognise or capitalise on the sector’s potential. “Tourism is the key driver of most economies worldwide. Sadly, in Nigeria, it has been relegated to the background.

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    Industries like oil, gas, and even real estate are often by-products of a thriving tourism sector. Fortunately, Lagos is beginning to understand this, and the deliberate actions we are seeing now signal a positive shift,” he remarked.

    As the Chairman of one of Lagos’ premier hospitality establishments, Ofor commended the role Victoria Crown Plaza Hotel plays in aligning with the state’s tourism goals. He described the hotel as a reflection of Lagos’ cultural richness and potential, offering a blend of top-tier hospitality services and entertainment. “At VCP, we aim to provide our guests with a holistic experience that showcases the best of Lagos. Whether it’s relaxing in our indoor lounge, enjoying the vibrant nightlife at our outdoor pool bar, or dining at our piano restaurant, we want to embody the vibrancy and diversity of Lagos as a tourism destination,” he said.

    While acknowledging the progress being made, Ofor identified key challenges that need to be addressed to sustain tourism growth in Lagos. He pointed out the need for better infrastructure to facilitate movement, enhanced security to reassure visitors, and improved healthcare facilities to handle emergencies. “The space for tourism activities is still insufficient. We need robust infrastructure, efficient transportation systems, and a safer environment for tourists. Additionally, quality healthcare services are crucial for handling any health concerns that may arise while visitors are in the state,” he noted.

    Ofor also emphasised the importance of rebranding Lagos to change its global

    perception. He observed that the city’s portrayal as a chaotic and tough place has often deterred potential tourists. “Lagos needs to be sold as a welcoming and safe

    destination. We must change the narrative and highlight the city’s unique offerings, from its rich arts and culture scene to its vibrant nightlife. The goal is to show the world that Lagos is a place where you can have fun, feel safe, and create unforgettable memories,” he explained.

    He pointed out that Lagos’ strength lies in its diversity, which should be

    harnessed to appeal to a broader audience. According to him, the intentional strides

    being made by the state government are commendable and have already begun to yield results. However, he urged other states in Nigeria to follow Lagos’ lead by leveraging their unique resources to drive sustainable tourism growth. “Tourism should not be limited to Lagos alone. Every state in Nigeria has something unique to offer. By tapping into these potentials, we can position the country as a global tourism destination,” he said.

    Victoria Crown Plaza Hotel, Ofor said, remains committed to supporting Lagos State’s vision of becoming a tourism and economic hub for Africa. He described the hotel as a shining example of what can be achieved through intentional investment in the hospitality sector. “Our work at VCP is a testament to the potential of Lagos. By offering world-class services, we hope to inspire confidence in Nigeria’s tourism sector and contribute to the economic growth of the state,” he stated.

    As Lagos continues to evolve into a tourism powerhouse, Ofor expressed optimism

    about the future, noting that with the right investments and collaborations the state

    can attract millions of tourists annually. He reaffirmed Victoria Crown Plaza Hotel’s dedication to playing an active role in this transformation. “Lagos has the resources and the willpower to achieve greatness in tourism. At VCP, we are proud to be part of this journey and are committed to supporting the state’s efforts to make Lagos a safe haven for tourism and hospitality in Africa,” he said.

  • Exploring dynamics of human conditions

    Exploring dynamics of human conditions

    Twining the boundaries, a retrospective exhibition of paintings and drawings by Prof Victor Ecoma, opened at the National Museum, Onikan Lagos between May 17 and 24, featured 17 works of art that reflect the everyday exotic and banal experiences presented in an enduring metaphors. The exhibits are mainly paintings, drawings (pen and ink), etching and sketches. As one of the modern Nigerian artists who have enriched the cultural production trade in Nigeria with an undoubting impact, Ecoma’s solo exhibition Twining the boundaries, is not only timely, but also relevant to present day Nigerian reality. Like he said at the exhibition ground, his solo exhibition was not primarily for monetary gains, but a responsibility he owes the society as an artist and educator. Little wonder he focuses on salient issues bothering on socio-cultural life of Nigerian as thrust and subject of the artworks. Beyond being a link between town and gown, Ecoma’s works speak to matters of central interest to the ruled and the rulers, the elites and the masses, and man and his spirituality. 

    In presenting the body of works, the former head, Department of Fine and Applied Arts, University of Calabar, belongs to a category of high-end artists who are imbued with talent and skills.

    Interestingly, his painting approach has consolidated over the years, and he no longer seeks external influences or inspirations from art movement unlike when he was younger. Going by the titles of the works in Twining the boundaries, Ecoma is more under the influence of contemporary happenings in the society.                        

    “As an anthropologist my social sensibilities are awake by what is happening around me local or global derived from what I see, hear, read or feel which could be the happenings in Gaza, Ukraine or Benue and Plateau,” he said. Little wonder Ecoma treats themes such as dance, sexuality, spirituality, environment and safety in his collection with profound finesse. Paintings such as Same sex marriage proposal, Internal displacement and Orange seller are typical reflections of the happenings in the society, which the artist did not only document but also interrogate for posterity. These works are not mere images but record of visual narratives of our socio-cultural development captured over time on canvas as paper. 

    Other works are Masked Dancers, Spirit Dancers, Women Dancers, Girl Child Education, The Intellectual, The Earth, Tribute to Prof Chinua Achebe, Monikim Dance, Sahelian condition and Rhythm of hope. Most of the paintings share commonality in vibrant yet warm colour scheme, which throws up the high energy associated with the works. Similarly the images are actively engaging while the movement, the flow of colours, and the near relief nature of the paintings endear the composition to viewers.  Some of the images appear surreal backed by some visual effects. But, Ecoma went beyond this to enrich his paintings with visual strength that enlivens the figures of the composition and their expressive content.

    Among his drawings and sketches, Tribute to Prof Chinua Achebe, a 2013 (50x60cm) drawing stands out. He captures a flying eagle literarily carrying the late Achebe on its wings while perching on a huge tree.

    In his statement, Ecoma described the solo exhibition as a professional responsibility as an artist and an art scholar presented to the Nigerian public. “My paintings, drawings, etchings, sketches are a means to inform, educate and illustrate the social circumstances we find ourselves. The art works interrogate issues relevant to our own survival as a nation, as the human species with capacity for abstract reasoning and as a member of the global village.”

    According to him, art whether paintings, drawings, or sketches are a means of nation building and a quest for national development. He noted that it is only when these goals are attained that the living standards will rise and the imperatives for art appreciation and acquisition will correspondingly develop.

    “The earlier generation of Artists through their works fought for freedom from colonialism. My generation of artists is today interrogating issues of good governance and living standards without which art appreciation and collection will be appreciably the less. Therefore, for an Artist to exhibit his/her works publicly it is a social responsibility and an obligation to do so.

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    “This exhibition is also critical as a means of drawing government attention fo ensuring that Nigeria opens a pavilion to participate in Venice Biennale in 2026 (which is the World Cup for the Arts industry). I have already notified the Hon. Minister on this if we must drive the President’s vision of growing GDP through the arts, culture and creative industry. The need, therefore, arises to invest and grow Nigeria’s contemporary internationally on a broader scale that is beyond our individual efforts. GDP growth of nay nation is simply a return on investment. If you don’t invest, you don’t reap. This exhibition supports Mr. President’s vision of diversifying into the non-oil sector of our economy through investment in services and creative industry,” he added. 

    On the title of the exhibition, Ecoma said twining the boundaries is a reminder of our relationships with the twine in a literal or intellectual sense. He stated that in art, twine is used in a variety of ways especially in textiles and crafts, and for other everyday uses. “It also has a historical relationship with man as used in various forms as tools. In my paintings twine is used literally in aesthetic manner to create decorative patterns, as motifs and as lines to delineate shapes and create forms that become boundaries between positive and negative spaces in the sense of boundaries being twined. My style is an impactful contribution that is fast influencing other artists.

    “Intellectually, twine has been used in my paintings as a product of research from experimentations and explorations of materials in creativity. In my paintings twine has become an open means that allows me to create visual representations with convenient choices of aesthetic adventure in creating shapes, forms and textures on an otherwise flat surface of the canvas.

    The intellectual engagement with twine goes beyond mere representations to an intense search for its creative possibilities in terms of visual characterizations and mental boundaries of my views, values, thoughts processes and belief systems. Twine therefore, aesthetically speaking is an intellectual means of exploring the dynamics of human conditions and it has a divine beauty which becomes only evident through the original power of thinking of a painter,” he added. 

  • Strengthening youth capacity

    Strengthening youth capacity

    The second Youth Legislative Theatre Lab aimed at honing the skills of youths in communication art has ended a three-day training in Kosofe, Lagos State.

    In a statement,  Chief Operating Officer, Mrs. Eduvielawhe Olutimayin, Street Project Foundation (SPF), said the programme, organised by SPF, in collaboration with Demo.Reset and Extituto, Colombia, was aimed at empowering the youth to use their creative expression for social change.

    Founder/Lead Visionary, SPF. Rita Ezenwa-Okoro, said their goal was to create spaces for young people to discover the power of their voices, and understand the role of diplomacy in effective communication for change.

    “Strengthening their capacity for public speaking, advocacy, and movement building prepares them for learning about the implementation of legislative theatre.”

    There were sessions on advocacy and movement building led by Mrs. Olutimayin, and community engagement and Media Officer, Mr. James Okewu, while Mr. Uche Anoruo, anchored how to tackle unemployment.

    Mrs Olutimayin said: “We created a vibrant learning environment using Nigeria’s present realities to simulate scenarios. The Lab’s success lay in transforming traditional learning into an engaging, hands-on experience, proving that education can be both fun and life-changing.”

    An expert on Legislative Theatre in residency, Dr. Oluchi Igili, added:  “Using Jenga as a metaphor helped participants visualise how fragile governance structures can be without inclusivity.’’

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    Participants explored key concepts such as Forum Theatre, Metabolising Cell, Spect-actor, and Joker. A documentary from the first edition illuminated the training.

    A participant, Chinaza John said: “I learnt that change doesn’t start from leaders, thanks to this training I can use my voice even at the lowest level of society to advocate for change in my community.”

    Amarachi Onukaogu said: “I learnt the importance of standing up for other people, you don’t wait until an issue affects you before you speak up  .” 

     Victoria Onutue said: “I learnt that body movement is very important in communication, as it can be misunderstood”

    Representative of the Demo.Reset Team, Silvia, added: “It’s this kind of global-local synergy that drives sustainable community development.”

  • How animals’ adventure sparks children’s interest in reading

    How animals’ adventure sparks children’s interest in reading

    In African literature, folklore maintains a strong presence while acting as a rich source of inspiration, tradition, and cultural identity. It is usually passed down orally with stories, myths, legends and customs that offer moral lessons, explain natural phenomena, and bind communities. Little wonder many writers often draw upon these traditions to create narratives, characters, and themes that reflect African cultural values and experiences. Yet, some of the adventures of animals in some folklore can be metaphors for man and the society. It is in this light that Sunshine and Sparkles series children books, by Prof Oyinkan Medubi find relevance. 

    Medubi, a professor of English at the University of Ilorin, had her post-doctoral interest combines Sociolinguistics with Psycholinguistics in Cognitive Linguistics (a field that looks at language in the society as resident in the mind of the individual). She specialises in the Cognitive Linguistics, sometimes using political cartoons as examples. Between 2022 and this year, she published three books as part of the series. They are War of the Nuts, The many troubles of Sunshine and Sparkles, and The Adventure of Sunshine and Sparkles, published by Institute of Media Studies Limited.

    But, what sets the books apart from other children books? The books attempt to contribute to the education and entertainment of Nigeria’s children through stories that would lead them into philosophical inquiries about life in general, and their environment in particular. The animals are involved in different adventures that lead them to question themselves, their motives and existence even their identities, hopes, aspirations, and place in the society. Social issues treated in the books relate to all human societies, such as responsibility, education, friendship, selfishness, gratitude, loneliness, work values, ambition, greed, social construction and destruction.

    “Focus is placed on the interactions that the animals have with each other (they do not talk to humans, only with each other, thus keeping it as real as possible) as they face their problems, inner struggles and growth. We thus see how they work out the solutions they bring to their challenges”

    “In short, the adventures of the animals lead them to interrogate life’s issues in such a way that we hope should inspire creativity and innovativeness in the readers. Even though these stories are specifically designed for children, they can be regarded as metaphors for Man and the human society, his primordial nature, growth, and refinement.

    The layers of thrust and meaning possibilities can be multiple,” she said.

    In one of the books, War of the Nuts, the story of the animals touches on moral lessons, especially for children like being truthful, honest and appreciative. For example, Sparkles lied to Sunshine that he traded its cart for their freedom, but in reality, it was traded for some nuts for the squirrel’s hungry family. The book like others, also teaches support for one another, love and unity as together the animals defeated the bad squirrels, stopped their intimidations, hoarding of the nuts, and opened the store for all animals to get and eat the nuts

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    According to her, The Sunshine and Sparkles series was inspired by the unusual behaviour of some of the animals around me – a dog that refused to bark, a squirrel that repeatedly thumped over rooftops in my neighbourhood, a fish that repeatedly jumped out of the fish-tank in play.

    “I was thus moved to build stories around their antics. The value of these stories lies in the desire they build in us as humans, especially as children, to begin to see beyond ourselves and move into higher realms of possibilities. This would help to raise the level of our consciousness towards better social engineering for the greater good, as these animals are always in a constant state of forward motion,” she added.

    Determined to get young readers more interested in reading, she uses stories about ordinary things and events around us to form the content of the books. In a way, the series is also to capture the imagination of children and make them want to know, not only what happens next to the characters, but what happens in subsequent installments in the series. To her, it an attempt to promote the reading culture in Nigeria from the grassroots.

    The books are suitable for Primary 3 school children and above and the characters are mostly, but not exclusively, animals, which children can relate to. The characters also move in ways that are familiar. The language is simple and direct, and can be easily appealing to children. Pictures are provided in cartoon forms to aid understanding as well, in colours from the second installment. Indeed, if included in the primary school curriculum, the Sunshine and Sparkles books should provide something different for Nigerian children to relate to in very imaginative ways.

    Apart from academic works, she has written a play, The King’s Banquet, published by Caltop Publishers, in 1993. Other of her works includes short stories and other book series, which have not been published.

  • The man who carried a city: Dr. Lanre Alfred celebrates Sanwo-Olu at 60 with landmark

    The man who carried a city: Dr. Lanre Alfred celebrates Sanwo-Olu at 60 with landmark

    Renowned author and biographer, Dr. Lanre Alfred, has unveiled a significant new title, “The Man Who Carried a City”, an in-depth literary biography of Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.

    The launch of the book serves as a heartfelt celebration of the governor’s upcoming 60th birthday on June 25, 2025.

    Recognised for his elegant prose and detailed chronicling of modern Nigerian leadership, Alfred, popularly known as the “Doctor of Letters”, presents another impactful narrative of resilience shaped by vision.

    This latest release is his eighth publication, adding to his impressive catalogue, which includes The Titans…The Amazing Exploits of Nigeria’s Greatest Achievers, Pacemaker – Triumphs of Igho Sanomi at 40, and Dapo Abiodun: The State House As His Pulpit.

    In “The Man Who Carried a City,” Alfred offers a detailed portrayal of Sanwo-Olu’s career in public service, tracking his journey from early influences to his current role as the leader of Nigeria’s most dynamic state. The coffee table book, published by Old English Partners, features fourteen chapters spread across more than 250 glossy, full-colour pages, brought to life with striking photography and Alfred’s signature poetic writing style.

    The opening chapter, “The Clockmaker’s Spawn,” explores Sanwo-Olu’s background and the early forces that shaped him, creatively linking the discipline of timekeeping to his methodical and structured approach to leadership. Another notable section, “Lagos in His Lungs,” delves into Sanwo-Olu’s deep connection with the city, illustrating how his personal and professional life is intricately aligned with the rhythm of Lagos.

    In “The Politics of Listening,” Alfred portrays Sanwo-Olu not just as a leader issuing orders, but as a servant of the people, in tune with public needs and translating those into governance. Other insightful chapters include “His Tailored Creed”, which connects his fashion choices to his administrative philosophy; “2020… The Year Lagos Trembled”, which examines his leadership during the pandemic and #EndSARS protests; and “Legacy as a Living Covenant,” a reflection on the future of Lagos under his watch.

    The foreword, written by Olawale Olaleye, Deputy Editor at ThisDay newspaper, affirms the depth of Alfred’s work. In a piece titled “His Burden of Grace”, Olaleye praises the biography as “probing and profound,” noting that “Dr. Alfred’s book has not only done justice to the leadership of Sanwo-Olu as he steps into the sixth floor on June 25th, 2025, it has also done so without taking anything away from the truth of the accounts of his stewardship thus far.”

    Olaleye further reflects, “From one crisis to another, Governor Sanwo-Olu has experienced such a hard-to-believe baptism of fire in the last seven years… Yet, he has taken his travails of leadership with equanimity and rare grace, a quality that sets him apart and establishes a different standard for whomever eventually succeeds him.”

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    Dr. Lanre Alfred explained that writing “The Man Who Carried a City” was more than a literary project; it was a personal homage to a leader whose approach stands in contrast to the usual noise of politics, offering steady and sincere service to the people. According to Alfred, “Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is not simply a public servant. He is a civic artisan, meticulous, selfless, and deeply humane. He governs with empathy, listening more than he speaks, and building more than he boasts.”

    He added, “In today’s world where leadership is often reduced to spectacle, Sanwo-Olu exemplifies a different path — one of humility and substance. He has mastered the rare skill of being genuinely present for the people without seeking attention. This book aims to preserve that unique ethos of governance.”

    Alfred pointed out Nigeria’s failure to preserve the legacies of genuine public servants, calling it a serious shortcoming in national consciousness. He said, “One of the great failings of our nation is our inability to document the journeys of those who have truly served. Nigeria is poor not for lack of heroes, but for lack of memory. We do not achieve greatness when it blooms among us; we let it wither in silence. I wrote this book because Sanwo-Olu’s story—his sacrifices, his vision, his silent triumphs—must not be left to the mercy of rumour or forgetfulness.”

    For Alfred, the legacy of the governor is more than physical infrastructure — it lies in the calm strength of a man who carried Lagos through intense trials, including the darkest periods of 2020, while also pushing for the city’s renewal. “It would be unjust to history,” he said, “to let such a profound burden of grace pass undocumented.”

    To him, the book is not just a birthday memento; it represents a meaningful civic effort. He sees “The Man Who Carried a City” as a guiding document for both young people and current leaders in a time that desperately needs authentic role models.

    The biography highlights Sanwo-Olu’s accomplishments in areas such as infrastructure, social welfare, crisis response, and cultural revival, while also painting a vivid picture of the man behind the political role. In the chapter “Ibijoke”, Alfred takes a closer look at the First Lady, emphasizing the strength and partnership between the couple as a foundational part of Sanwo-Olu’s life, portraying love as both support and legacy.

    The book concludes with the section “Sixty Portraits in a Single Soul”, summarising Sanwo-Olu’s six-decade-long journey of service and dedication into a visual and narrative tribute that echoes not only his personal story but the spirit of Lagos itself.

    Looking ahead, “The Man Who Carried a City” serves as both a reflection of past leadership challenges and a guide for future city-bearers who aspire to lead with purpose and resilience.

  • Coronation Art Gallery’s Exhibition draws diplomats, business leaders, cultural icons to night of legacy, influence 

    Coronation Art Gallery’s Exhibition draws diplomats, business leaders, cultural icons to night of legacy, influence 

    Coronation Art Gallery’s first showcase of the year, held on 29 May, brought together an elegant gathering of Nigeria’s leading business minds, creatives, diplomats, and cultural custodians – an evening that reaffirmed the transformative power of art to connect, elevate, and preserve.

    Curated under the theme Custodians of Legacy: Collecting with Purpose, the exhibition featured the private collections of Mr. Hakeem Adedeji and Ms. Ngozi Edozien — two visionary collectors whose patronage of African art spans decades. Their works, thoughtfully selected and presented by curator Ugoma Ebilah, invited guests into a moving journey through identity, memory, and meaning.

    The event drew high-profile figures including JoEllen Gorg, Acting Consul General at the U.S. Consulate General, Lagos; Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede CFR, Chairman of Coronation Group; and a mix of CEOs, diplomats, clients, art patrons, and collectors. Among them were Nimi Akinkugbe, Femi Akinsanya, Nduka Obaigbena, Dr. Godwin Ehigiamusoe, among others. It was a night that bridged art and influence across sectors — from finance and investment to creativity and diplomacy.

    Held at the Coronation Art Gallery in Victoria Island, Lagos, the exhibition further reinforced Coronation’s commitment to platforms that elevate culture while deepening client engagement. Since its founding in May 2022 under the vision of Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede, the gallery has showcased rare private collections, including last year’s landmark exhibition headlined by the Honourable Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, which celebrated prominent female collectors and cultural leaders.

    Commenting on the May exhibition, Ngozi Akinyele, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Coronation, noted: “This exhibition is special because it reflects the full arc of the art ecosystem — spanning creation, curation, collecting, conservation, and commerce. Coronation is proud to be at its heart, using our own programming and partnerships to democratise access to art and support the growth of the creative economy in a way that’s both inclusive and enduring.”

    Jibola Odedina, CEO Coronation Securities, spoke on the broader vision: “The Coronation Art Gallery reflects who we are and what we value. Our quarterly exhibitions remind our clients and community that legacy isn’t just what you build financially; it’s what you preserve culturally, and pass on thoughtfully.”

    Hakeem Adedeji shared his personal journey as a collector and patron of the arts: “I have been collecting Samuel Ajobiewe’s works for over 25 years. We set up Kobomoje, a residency in Ibadan, and we run programmes that support artists. We support people who do various activities within the ecosystem — not because we want anything in return — but because it gives me satisfaction that I’m supporting the whole art ecosystem.”

    As the evening drew to a close, guests were encouraged not only to engage with the art, but to reflect on the deeper narrative behind the collections — one rooted in the timeless African values of care, memory, and the pursuit of impact.

    With each exhibition, Coronation Art Gallery continues to position itself as a platform that transcends aesthetics, serving as a meeting point for art, capital, and culture.

  • ‘Writers are not gods’

    ‘Writers are not gods’

    In continuation of the public reading of his latest book titled Juju Eyes, the author, Mr Sam Omatseye was at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile Ife, Osun State. In the course of the reading of the book, to an audience mainly of students and lecturers, he told them that Juju Eyes is a child of necessity. And that it takes comportment, discipline and self-denial to be a writer. Indeed, writers are no gods as he beseeched the audience to start on time to develop the habit of writing. EDOZIE UDEZE reports.

    The sprawling auditorium II of the Faculty of Arts, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife, Osun State, was the venue of the programme. The announcement for the event had earlier been made through the Head of Department of English, Professor Emmanuel Babalola. The announcement was in relation to the visit by Mr Sam Omatseye, the editorial board chairman of The Nation Newspapers. This sensational author of Juju eyes, a book that has been described and adjudged by many art critics and reviewers as the real Juju Eyes of a nation in search of sanity and direction. The public reading of the book by the author was announced to sensitize students and some stakeholders in this citadel of learning, that here comes a book that has succeeded in tearing the eyes of the juju that has been monitoring and misdirecting the affairs of the society.

    Now, Omatseye, a worthy graduate and ‘son’ of OAU one of its most pronounced, outstanding and recognised man of letters would appear on stage on May 20. And so it came to be. The deed was done. Omatseye, whose every visit to OAU has always been seen as homecoming (Omoluabi), of sorts, appeared in a blaze of glory. The students had gathered in clusters of groups, discussing the possible contents of this fictional narrative. As it turned out, they had been asked earlier to suspend lectures for three hours that day because of the programme. So, the auditorium was more than half full. The handler of the show, Professor Chijioke Uwasomba, a literature teacher of many years, took hold of the day. He was all over the stage and intimating everyone about the sequence of the reading while describing Omatseye as a prose fiction expert who loves women so incurably. Yes, because in his two previous narrative fictions Omatseye gave the main female characters erotic and elevated clarifications.

    But Omatseye’s love for women which he admitted, has also given him the vent and audacity to produce another remarkable book, Juju Eyes, building a female character, Shay that surpases mere mundane. So, it is in order when a male novelist pries deep into women to bring them out without reservations. The person of Shay Ekanem as portrayed by the author is beyond what any other narrator but the person of Omatseye, master storyteller, can create, unravel and even recreate. The character is almost utopian, reaching a point of crescendo that has not been witnessed or experienced in this clime.

    Therefore Omatseye is just being quintessential in the way he built Shay, a demonstration that shows the hidden characters of some society women and erotic men who veer into politics to swindle in the name of love and avariciousness. The author handled the whole reading himself so as to bring the students out of their cocoons. It was a solemn moment as he read on. The calmness in the hall was profound. He first situated in proper perspective why the story became necessary and why the message in it is good, timely and topical.

    Professor Oyeniyi Okunoye, Dean of Arts was present. Dr Bisi Chima Anyadike, Omatseye’s classmate, was also there with some of the pupils of her private school. Also present was Professor Chima Anyadike who was Omatseye’s teacher in the years of yore. He breezed in to identify proudly with one of his brightest students. Also present was Professor Oluwole Coker and some other scholars from different locations and disciplines. Thus, the hall was ignited with academic flavour as all ears became keen to listen to the hottest literary gist in town. Uwasomba introduced Omatseye as a proud great Ife, one of the greatest shining lights of the school. A man who came to study History as his major, but ended up taking literature as his greatest love. Today he has transcended all genres of literature in his writings. “Omatseye, you are a shining light to the students. Creative writing is not easy. However, the faculty produces quality graduates who shine everywhere in the world. You read History, but your soul was always here in English and Literature”, he said as the students heralded him.

    After reading a citation about the author, the hall erupted with acclaims for him. There are other authors produced by OAU like Ayobami and others who are currently controlling world attention with their spicy stories. Omatseye, a former human rights activist, journalist, who went to the United States of America for further studies has given the world more than a dozen books. He knows the values and importance of human experiences and foibles which he pours into stories. He uses his In Touch column in the Nation every Monday to reshape minds and remold opinions. This is why he believes that journalism is history in a hurry. Nonetheless as he Omatseye himself stood on the dais in front of the audience, he recounted how the same platform offered him and others the rarest moments to interact with their teachers in their days on campus.

    “It is a pleasure to be here once more” Omatseye began with that trademark habitual smile on his face. “It was on this stage that people like Professor Anyadike mesmerized with works of great writers in those days. We looked up to them as they taught us leadership through the values of literature. One day too, some of you students will have the same privilege to stand here and address people. I was a troublesome student. I was fond of arguing a lot with our lecturers, and most times, I would walk away when the argument did not turn out well. Infact I still remember vividly some of the events that took place in those years”, he noted with nostalgia.

    He then went on to read the prologue, a bit of it, though. Thereafter he read bonfire, chapter sixteen of the book. It is one of the most sensational part of the novel where, for the sake of political rascality and intoxication, someone had to set bundles of naira on fire. This was in Ibadan and those who witnessed it didn’t understand why and how that action could define the political future of somebody. The author said he read it to teach the younger ones the stupidity of some political leaders and how they can be avoided in the future. Politics is dirty. It is a dirty game. A situation where someone’s money is cremated to give him power, is utterly criminal, it is evil and devilish.

    To say the least, as the students followed the reading, the shock on their faces showed how scared they were. You see, there is a way mere stories told to reflect the society can pierce someone’s heart and bring it back to reality. Yes, juju eyes has assumed such power and the students were carried away by the aura of the juju eyes. The eyes of Shay, yes, her starry eyes are captivating. As the author read the story about Madam Lola, a woman who produced magic and miracle babies, the hall, in fact, the students themselves could not hold back their stunning surprises. But trust the author. He read it with accurate precision in order to allow the effect stir deeper and sink into their hearts. Here, the issue of baby factories, one of the most unfortunate scenarios that has come to dominate the nucleus of a rudderless society was registered. The author carefully established its modus operandi, the sort of racket it is and those who are usually behind it. Madam Lola and her cohorts are usually the greatest patrons of such evil cloning. Hence miracle babies, usually planned and executed with the connivance of equally evil and fake pastors abound.

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    One of the chapters that evoked empathy is thirty-three titled The Deck. There, Shay, the Juju Eyes herself is involved in female protests in Rivers State. Because her man Mista Naija was kidnapped just like some other foreigners who often strayed into enemy camps, Shay joined other women to protest half naked to effect his release. It is a well decked and orchestrated account by the author. It gives the picture of a society where lawlessness predominates.

    “Shay marched beside her as they climbed up the deck… Few knew why she would join a group of militant women… But she hardly expected that the fight for her man had emboldened and changed her life forever into a willowy radical and into one of the other women walking as God made them”’ (pg 216). This is vintage Omatseye, saying it to break the record and curry for the beauty of storytelling.

    Questions came in torrents. Students, particularly the pupils were eager to know how the idea of the story eventually climaxed into something so big and expository. How does the spark develop? One little girl asked. “Yes, when you read and follow your mind, the spark will definitely come”, Omatseye said in response. The book exposes also the vanity of the so called society women who also celebrate nothingness in order to belong. The author told the audience: If you want to write, write. Deny yourself a lot of comfort to be able to write. But first, you have to be a good reader of other people’s works. That is the starting point. You must have the right attitude, discipline… You can write protest Literature. Your work can be simple or complex like Ben Okri most of the time. Then you have to tell your story.

    “Yes, women in my stories are the emblems of the society. I love women; they produce events that generates stories, they are fundamental to Nigerian society. They are more daring in their actions and deeds. They also represent the foibles and otherwise of the society”. In the end the price of the book was reduced for the sake of the students who were ready to purchase. Professor Anyadike gave prize books to students who show interest in the area of Literature he taught. Some were procured for the library while some were taken to the bookshop for marketing and sales. The takeaway from Omatseye’s is that writers are not gods. What makes the difference is that where others are docile, the writer takes the bull by the horns, making unnecessary sacrifices to produce books.

  • Entourage MD Asagun named among Nigeria’s top 50 corporate leaders

    Entourage MD Asagun named among Nigeria’s top 50 corporate leaders

    The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Entourage Integrated Trust Limited, Mr Seyi Asagun, has been named one of Nigeria’s 50 most inspiring and influential CEOs.

    The recognition was published in a special report by The Guardian newspaper spotlighting top corporate leaders who are driving innovation, growth, and social impact across Nigeria’s business landscape.

    Mr. Asagun was commended for his outstanding leadership in advancing financial inclusion and expanding support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

    Under his guidance, Entourage Integrated Trust Limited has grown its footprint to 29 states, offering tailored financial services to underserved and economically marginalized communities.

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    The firm’s focus on digital lending and inclusive financial products has played a crucial role in enabling thousands of Nigerian entrepreneurs, especially women, to access capital and scale their businesses.

    Mr. Asagun’s leadership has not only empowered individual livelihoods but also contributed to broader economic development goals.

    Industry observers have lauded his approach to ethical leadership and sustainability, noting that his work continues to set a high standard in Nigeria’s corporate sector.