The Nation Newspaper

Category: Arts & Life

  • Handle It Africa’s She Creates recognises filmmaker with $1,000 grant

    Handle It Africa’s She Creates recognises filmmaker with $1,000 grant

    Handle It Africa recently gathered more than 60 female creators from diverse sectors, including film, media, design, tech, and digital storytelling, for its She Creates event.

    Organized in partnership with the British Council, the event, held at the British Council Lagos, provided a vibrant platform for learning, networking, and empowerment.

    A standout moment of the evening was the surprise business grant competition, where five participants were randomly selected to pitch their ideas on scaling their creative ventures.

    With no prior notice, each had two minutes to present their business concepts, after which fellow attendees voted on the most compelling pitch.

    Temi-Ami Williams, a gifted filmmaker and cancer survivor, won the contest and received a $1,000 grant from Donna McGowan, Country Director of the British Council Nigeria.

    The event also featured an exclusive screening of Williams’ short film, which highlights the resilience of cancer survivors through the power of storytelling.

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    “Seeing the talent and passion in this space reinforces the importance of platforms like She Creates,” McGowan remarked. “The creative industry thrives when women are given the resources to turn their visions into reality.”

    A panel discussion moderated by strategic cultural and creative consultant Tope Sanni explored key themes, including financing, breaking barriers, and leveraging networks and collaborations.

    Panelists included Adetutu Laditan, Creative Director at Wolf Studios and former YouTube Marketing Manager; Nora Awolowo, an award-winning movie producer and cinematographer; Ife’s Kitchen, a leading food content creator; and Yolanda Okereke, a top costumier in Nollywood.

    They shared practical insights on funding strategies, navigating industry stereotypes, and building successful partnerships.

    Brenda Fashugba, Head of Arts at the British Council Nigeria, acknowledged the creative industry’s progress while emphasizing the ongoing challenges women face in accessing critical resources.

    She reaffirmed the British Council’s commitment to promoting equity and creating opportunities for women across all regions.

    For Olufemi Oguntamu, Founder of Handle It Africa, the event’s impact transcends the day’s activities.

    “African women in the creative space are reshaping global narratives. This event proves that with the right platform, their voices, businesses, and stories can drive meaningful change.”

    As Africa’s creative industry continues to grow, events like She Creates remain essential in ensuring that women are not just participants but also key decision-makers and industry leaders.

    The success of the initiative underscores the need for sustained efforts in funding, mentorship, and visibility to build a more inclusive and thriving creative economy.

  • Truth or Dare: The dangerous s3x game in Nollywood

    Truth or Dare: The dangerous s3x game in Nollywood

    A seemingly innocent game of Truth or Dare spirals into a shocking scandal that shatters Ijoba Lande and Dara’s marriage. Assistant Editor GBENGA BADA delves into the complex web of allegations, with MaryGold and Baba Tee playing pivotal roles in the infidelity scandal that has rocked the Nigerian entertainment industry.

    In the early hours of Monday, March 3, a highly controversial video surfaced online. A content creator and actor, Kehinde Ganiyu Morufu, popularly known as Ijoba Lande, made shocking allegations against his wife of four years, Darasimi (Dara), accusing her of multiple infidelities. In the video, Ijoba Lande spoke candidly about his shock and heartbreak, explaining that his initial trust in his wife was absolute, so much so that he never suspected her of cheating. But by the summer of 2024, a growing unease set in. “To be sincere, I never suspected her of cheating at first. I used to swear it was impossible. But I began to suspect something around June or July 2024, when she started avoiding intimacy. By December, I confirmed my fears,” Ijoba Lande revealed.

    The gravity of his statement was not lost on his viewers. Ijoba Lande alleged that Dara had slept with no fewer than 21 men, including several prominent figures in the Nigerian film industry, some of whom he personally knew and held in high regard. His voice quivered with frustration as he detailed the betrayal: “I can count at least 21 men who have slept with my wife in the industry alone. If I mention their names, I might not make it home alive because powerful men are involved. I have evidence.”

    The accusation rocked social media, drawing a frenzy of speculation and outrage. The question on everyone’s lips: Who were the men involved in this sordid affair? The drama escalated even further the following day when another bombshell video emerged, implicating actor and comedian Babatunde Tayo Bernard, better known as Baba Tee. Initially, Baba Tee denied the allegations, insisting he had only met Dara through a mutual friend, MaryGold, and had been unaware of her marital status.

    However, the mounting pressure soon forced him to admit his involvement. In an emotional confession, Baba Tee recounted the events that led to his brief encounter with Dara. He described a game of ‘Truth or Dare,’ initiated by MaryGold, which took a turn into dangerous waters. “I deeply regret what happened between Ijoba Lande’s wife and me. Right now, I am extremely disappointed in myself,” Baba Tee stated. “We do many things in private, but we must uphold moral values. I never imagined this would become public.”

    With his admission, Baba Tee offered an apology, taking full responsibility for his actions. “Please join me in apologising to Ijoba Lande. To my fans, I appreciate every single one of you. Please consider me a first-time offender because, to the best of my knowledge, I have never done anything like this before.” This public apology only served to fuel the fire, with accusations and counterclaims continuing to swirl in every direction. MaryGold, who had been the catalyst for this tragic chain of events, found herself at the centre of intense scrutiny.

    Dara, on her part, made a public attempt to downplay the situation. In a TikTok interview, she denied engaging in s3xual intercourse with Baba Tee, instead claiming that the most intimate act between them was simply sitting on his lap. “MaryGold had dared Baba Tee and me to engage in doggy,” Dara explained, “However, I refused and told him I would sit on him. We then told MaryGold to turn to the wall so she wouldn’t watch us. I only sat on his lap; we didn’t do anything.”

    But Baba Tee quickly shot down Dara’s version of events, insisting that they had indeed slept together. He echoed his earlier regret, reaffirming that he deeply regretted the affair. The involvement of MaryGold in the drama further deepened the sense of betrayal felt by all parties. In her own response to the scandal, she expressed remorse for her role in introducing Dara to Baba Tee. “I’m pleading with Lande to forgive me for taking his wife to Baba Tee’s house,” MaryGold confessed, “and for also allowing her and the other guy she cheated with to treat an infection in my house.”

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    After several days of allegations and counter-allegations, Dara revised her initial claim of innocence, stating that she had been drunk during the game. She maintained that her intoxication may have clouded her memory of the events, but she recalled sitting on Baba Tee’s lap and regretting both participating in the game and being in that situation.

    In a separate interview with her colleague, Biola Adebayo, on her podcast, Dara opened up about how MaryGold was allegedly responsible for the end of two of her relationships, including her breakup with Ijoba Lande. Dara explained, “When I met Lande, I didn’t date him for his money. There were a lot of people who didn’t want us together. At the time, I was in another relationship, but my friend, MaryGold, convinced me to give Lande a chance after he showed interest in me at a party we attended in 2021. Lande has a problematic habit of gambling—he plays Aviator (an online betting game) so frequently that it drained him of millions. He even sold his car to fund his betting addiction. He was always on his phone, glued to those betting sites, and barely paid any attention to me.

    “I even had to borrow food while living with him. He didn’t take care of me, and on top of that, he physically abused me due to his anger issues. Our relationship started to deteriorate when he began supporting MaryGold for defaulting on a monthly contribution of N100,000, which was meant to contribute to a larger N1 million fund. When I challenged MaryGold to pay up, Lande sided with her, telling me I should leave her alone because she was broke. I wasn’t having it, especially since MaryGold had no problem taking money when it was her turn to contribute, which was coming from other people.

    “Before I left, Lande and I had even planned a skit together about me leaving his house. I paid for the money for our introduction ceremony myself. When I left, I didn’t take anything with me—my clothes and other belongings were still at his place,” she revealed.

    The fresh allegations of infidelity come almost a year after Ijoba Lande went missing for four days, sparking a public outcry. His family and friends announced his disappearance in a video posted on his Instagram page. Dara, his now-estranged wife, had explained in the video that the comic actor left their home on March 26 without his phone, leaving no clue about his whereabouts. Upon his return, Ijoba Lande addressed the situation in an Instagram live session, stating that he had not been kidnapped but had left voluntarily. He explained, “I was under spiritual attack. I left home on my own because all the prophecies I had heard about myself were coming true.”

    Marital background

    MaryGold, an actress, film producer and talent manager, finds herself at the centre of the scandal involving Ijoba Lande, Dara, and Baba Tee. Her role in the unfolding drama is pivotal, as she is the common thread connecting the parties involved in the infidelity scandal. MaryGold has a multifaceted career in the entertainment industry, acting as both a talent manager and a film producer. She was managing Ijoba Lande’s career while simultaneously maintaining friendships with Dara and Baba Tee, who are industry colleagues. It was at MaryGold’s event in December 2020 that Dara and Ijoba Lande were introduced to each other.

    Following the event, the two soon became a couple and started living together in 2021, though Dara was still involved with another man at the time—someone whose identity remains undisclosed by Dara, though it is known that he was married. Dara claims that her relationship with this former lover ended abruptly because of MaryGold’s interference. She also suggests that MaryGold played a significant role in the breakdown of her marriage to Ijoba Lande. Before her marriage to Ijoba Lande, Dara was previously married and had two children. After her divorce, she became engaged to Ijoba Lande, and they later married, having one child together during their four-year marriage. Despite being aware of Dara’s past relationships, including her affair with a married man, Ijoba Lande and Dara’s marriage faced its own share of challenges, particularly with the involvement of MaryGold.

    In an interesting turn of events, Baba Tee and Ijoba Lande have managed to resolve their differences and move forward after the fallout from the controversial incident. In fact, Baba Tee went ahead and produced a skit themed around “Truth or Dare.” However, Ijoba Lande clarified that the skit wasn’t an apology or an expression of gratitude, as many people had assumed. He explained that he had no intention of working with Baba Tee due to unresolved issues, despite being repeatedly invited to collaborate. Ijoba Lande revealed that whenever he learned Baba Tee would be part of a project, he declined the opportunity, though he stressed that it wasn’t a personal vendetta against him.

    Lande shared that he had agreed to work with fellow actor Yemi Elesho, unaware that Baba Tee would also be present. When he arrived at Elesho’s apartment, Baba Tee showed up unexpectedly and began apologising before even parking his car. “I know Baba Tee has already apologised publicly, and I’ve accepted it. If I hadn’t accepted it, that’s on me, but I didn’t want to blame him because it was MaryGold and Dara who initially went to his house,” Ijoba Lande said.

    Despite the public apology, Ijoba Lande made it clear that he wasn’t ready to work with Baba Tee at that moment. He also clarified that he was unaware of being filmed during the apology. “Someone from Baba Tee’s team recorded the video without me realising, and although it looked like I was the one begging, I couldn’t let him kneel like that. As an older colleague, I had to hold his waist to show respect,” Ijoba Lande explained.

    “Truth or Dare” is a popular party game where players take turns choosing between answering a personal question truthfully (“truth”) or completing a challenge (“dare”). If a player selects “truth,” they must answer honestly, even if the question is uncomfortable. If they choose “dare,” they must perform a task, which can range from the playful to embarrassing. The game doesn’t have a traditional winner; it focuses on fun and social interaction instead. In the digital age, “Truth or Dare” has evolved with apps and websites offering randomised prompts, making it accessible for both in-person and online play, continuing to engage players in various settings.

  • Family celebrates two young authors

    Family celebrates two young authors

    The Ayodele family from Akinyele Local Government Area, Oyo State, has made history by celebrating their two children, Delight Ayodele and Divine Ayodele, who have been recognized as some of Nigeria’s youngest authors.

     11-year-old Delight Ayodele, a JSS 3 student of Wisbel International Schools Ozuboko, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, inspired by the likes of Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and other people who started small but eventually achieved their dreams, wrote her book titled “ The child who dares to dream”.

     Delight, in her book, dared children and adults alike to discover their talents and nurture them into reality. She encouraged her readers to face their fears, be resilient, and persevere to nurture their dreams into goals.

     She also urged her readers to be consistent, celebrate their little successes, tell self-truths, and see their dreams achieved.

    Eight-year-old Divine Ayodele wrote his first book, My Book of Insects,” at six. He is a curious scientist who made a remarkable change in the world with his discoveries.

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    Divine, in Super Fact Book, talked about facts about animals, plants, dinosaurs, insects, galaxies, space, and science in general.

     At the book launch at the weekend, the author’s mother, Mrs Mary Ayodele expressed her gratitude to God for finding her children worthy. She said they were able to get to this height with the help of the Holy Spirit.

     “ When they started writing, we didn’t take them seriously and so we kept misplacing their manuscripts in the house but one day, the Holy Spirit called my attention to their writings, we talked about it and decided to give it a try”

     For Engr. Ayodele Olusegun, the author’s father, said: I’m excited because I have seen Delight and Divine grow in all areas. Their passion for writing, creativity, and confidence is so unique.

    Dear Delight and Divine, I’m very proud of you. Thank you for choosing me as your father”.

     The editor, Abuh Monday Eneojo said: this is a testament to unwavering dedication to nurturing children’s creativity. It is the love and support of a mother who would stop at nothing to help her children shine”.

     “Parents, observe your children’s passions, support them, and help make their dreams a reality. That’s the secret to raising talented and confident individuals like Ayodele Delight and Ayodele Divine.

     “Let’s rally behind this young author and her brother! They’re the future of literature, and with our support, they’ll soar to great heights” he added.

  • AI movie sparks conversation on smart city

    AI movie sparks conversation on smart city

    The Multipurpose Hall, State House, Marina, the residence of Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has hosted a star-studded unveiling of Africa’s first shot Artificial Intelligence-based feature movie Makemation. Like the film, the gathering was a convergence of tech experts, entrepreneurs and Nollywood stars of various generations who shared thoughts on how to build a smart Lagos. The hall inaugurated in 2013 by former Governor Raji Fashola, was literarily overrun by a large army of journalists including the online media, Assistant Editor (Arts) OZOLUA UHAKHEME reports.

    The anxiety was palpable in the hall as guests were eager to watch Africa’s first feature AI film that spotlights the fast-rising impact of Nigerian youths particularly girls, showcasing how they leverage artificial intelligence and technological innovations to tackle some of Africa’s most pressing challenges. 

    To whet the appetite of the guests, a trailer from Makemation was screened for few minutes providing insights to the thrust of the movie. Accompanying the Governor at this historic event were his wife, Ibijoke, three commissioners; Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr Olatunbosun Alake   and other aides. He charged young people to come up with their projects, pledging to support them the way he supported Toyosi Akerele-Ogunlusi, Creator and Producer of Makemation.

     “In this very hall, you get to meet some of your favourite actors. Some of you have contributed your time and money to this industry. Young and old collaborating together to build the creative sector. Lagos Colony has been in existence before creation of Nigeria. Today, you are on ground that has a lot history. I’m happy and truly excited that you can put this together-power of a vision.

    “The future is now. Our role is to be an enabler, create the channel and you fly with it. It’s a Lagos success, not individual success. We have consistently prioritised the growth of our creative industry and believe that fostering creativity and innovation is crucial for our state’s development.

    “By supporting initiatives like this, we aim to promote our talented filmmakers and artists while showcasing technology’s immense potential in storytelling. Together, we are building a vibrant creative ecosystem that entertains, drives economic growth, and positions Lagos as a leading hub for the arts in Africa,” the Governor said.

    To Sanwo-Olu, the creative industry is a game-changer, adding that ‘we want to catch up with the rest of the world. We don’t have any excuse; the world is a single village. There’s a plan to ensure that we do big things.’

    Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the producer and cast of the film, assuring creatives of his willingness to collaborate on transformative ideas that project and develop the state’s creative industry.

    The film is already enjoying global attention with an international teaser screening at the 2024 Global AI Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, while a private stakeholders’ viewing in Kenya will premiere nationwide on the 18th of April. It will be followed by a tour of tertiary and secondary schools across the country.

    Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, highlighted the state government’s sustained moves to empower creatives over the past six years.

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    She said that about 20,000 young Nigerians have received training in filmmaking, content creation and other creative fields through partnerships with institutions such as EbonyLife Academy, Gidi Creatives, AMA Creative Academy, and Delyork Academy.

    Beyond skills development, Benson–Awoyinka said the government has also provided financial support to filmmakers, ensuring that Nollywood productions can compete on the global stage. “By investing in local storytelling, we ensure our narratives reach global audiences while creating jobs within the industry,” she added.

    She hinted that there are efforts to move Lagos into digital innovation, citing a recent visit to San Francisco to engage with tech entrepreneur Ghazi Shami. “Our visit to San Francisco to engage with tech entrepreneur Ghazi Shami was a strategic step toward fostering strong digital partnerships. We aim to build a globally competitive workforce ready to dominate the creative economy,” she said.

    Managing Director Nigerian Film Corporation, Ali Nuhu, commended Lagos State government’s support for the industry. “As part of the cast, I am excited about this project. The governor’s support is commendable. We now need the media’s backing to create buzz around this innovation,” he said.

    Toyosi Akerele-Oguniji, a human development expert-turned-filmmaker, expressed her satisfaction with her team’s efforts in producing the first African feature film on Artificial Intelligence, Makemation.

    Elated Toyosi said she dedicated three years of her life to researching, producing, and editing the ambitious film.

     “The future is here and you can see the way technology is radically transforming the world. AI is a career path I chose a few years ago while pursuing my PhD degree. My thesis was on ‘The Role of AI: National and Economic Security’. I am very passionate about the way AI is revolutionizing everything.

    “The film is a convergence of generative AI and live action. It’s also important to take into consideration AI that works for the interest of humanity. We have this belief that the role of AI is to elevate humanity and not to eliminate the role of creativity and traditional filmmaking in this process. This is just the beginning. We are going to shoot six episodes of Makemation. My dream is to ensure that this film is going to be a definitive, creative material that will open the minds of young people in Nigeria and Africa at large to the possibilities of technology.

    “I dedicated my life for the past three years to producing, researching, and working on the music, picture and editing. Nigerian films should showcase our indigenous innovations. This film is for the future. Success isn’t reserved for a select few,” she said.

    She described the film as a convergence of AI and action, noting that robots and AI will still depend on man, noting that Lagos is a city of possibilities and is capable of showing the best of Africa.

    “We cannot continue to consume the products of the West. Our films in Nigeria are made with love plus attention for details. This is the film for the future,” she added.

    Starring top Nollywood actors such as Richard Mofe-Damijo, Tony Umez, Shaffy Bello, Ibrahim Chatta, Toyin Afolayan, and Ali Nuhu, Makemation explores the intersection of real life and AI, showcasing young people using technology to solve problems.

    The film, according to Toyosi, goes beyond entertainment and delves into critical themes such as STEM education, digital skills, financial literacy, gender equality, and accessible technology. The film also explores AI’s transformative power and its impact on the fourth industrial revolution. Toyosi said she started producing Makemation with her team in June 2022, with principal photography commencing in 2023.

    Examining the impact of AI in building a smart Lagos, a panel discussion moderated by Tobi Ayeni spoke to many factors that would shape the new direction. In her contribution, Microsoft’s Country Manager, Olatomiwa Williams, stressed the importance of building young Nigerians with responsible AI skills and called for collaborative efforts between the government, tech hubs, schools, and private organisations to drive AI education. “This initiative is inspiring. With government support, we must focus on educating Nigerians on responsible AI use. Recently, Microsoft launched the AI tools specifically for women. For us, there is a lot of benefit by accessing the tools and skills,” she said.

    Co-founder co-founder Livespot360, Dare Art Alade highlighted AI’s impact in preserving African culture and history, noting that technological innovation should be harnessed not only for entertainment but also for cultural preservation.

    Prof Yinka Davies-West of Lagos Business School emphasised the need for tools and infrastructure in order to translate ideas of smart city into action adding that entrepreneur ship is already part of us.

    He identified policy, producers and consumers as part of the mix needed to digitise transactions.

    Iyinoluwa Aboyeji of Future Africa said talents in the creative sector must be identified before investing on them. According to her, tech that is being built in Lagos is powering the sector as it is a leading smart city in Africa. “Of the 100 investment in Nigeria, Lagos has 90 of it. Policy is more important and government should think of capturing and monetising intellectual property. We need to create the framework and Lagos represent the largest work force in Nigeria.

  • How to make your prayers effective

    How to make your prayers effective

    Title: Make Your Work A Prayer
    Author: Olusola Adeyegbe
    Publisher: Lulu.com
    Reviewer: Raymond Mordi
    Pagination: 54

    If there is any voluntary activity that Nigerians are preoccupied with daily, it is prayer. Everyone across the various religious spectrums believes he knows how to pray and spends a considerable part of his daily life praying. However, a new pocketbook by Olusola Adeyegbe, “Make Your Work A Prayer: Spiritualise the Work of Your Hands,” asserts that the notions and forms of prayer held by many, which often centre around personal desires, are wrong.

    The book offers a unique insight into what true and effective prayer is and how one may and should set about it with the certainty of it being granted. The author admonishes the reader to approach the book with an open heart, “ready to learn and grow” because it offers a different perspective of prayer. “One that views prayer as the expression of what truly moves us, reflected through our actions. It is not about imposing our desires on the Almighty but rather aligning our thoughts, words and deeds with Divine wisdom,” he adds in the book’s introductory part.

    According to the author, prayer must not be a ritual or obligation to satisfy societal convention. He says if one must pray, it should be deeply felt within to carry the necessary fervour to link it with the streams of Light from above from where help could be attracted. Otherwise, man should ideally pray with the totality of his being in thoughts, words and deeds through his daily activities. The author states: “In his performance, every task should become a reverential worship of God, in gratitude that God has given you the chance to accomplish something extraordinary among all the creatures of this Subsequent Creation, of only you so wish.”

    The subtle idea recurring in the book is that humans are born equipped to tap into the Creator’s storehouse of plenty and be successful and happy if they understand how to pray aright. The book is inspired by thework, In the Light of Truth: The Grail Message” by Abdruschin. A quotation from The Grail Message encapsulates the essence of prayer.

    It reads: “If you begin your day with truly heartfelt gratitude to God, and if you also finish it with equally heartfelt gratitude — be it only gratitude for the lesson you have learned on this day through experiencing — you will live well! Through diligence and care, let everything you do arise as a prayer of gratitude! Let each word you speak reflect the love which God grants you! Then life on this earth will soon become a joy for everyone who is allowed to live upon it.”

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    Make Your Work A Prayer is a book of seven chapters in just 54 pages. In Chapter 1, titled “First Recognize God”, the author explains the nature of God, as far as man can perceive Him, through His laws that govern the entire universe and how the interplay of these laws and man’s conduct shapes his fate. Chapter 2, with the title “What Does it Mean to Pray?” deals with the concept of prayer and it is based on the author’s grasp of the Grail Message.

    For instance, Adeyegbe states on page 6: “Coming before the Lord Almighty in prayer requires a humble spirit and pure thoughts. To approach His Sublimity, one must do so with reverence, casting aside distractions, and entering a state of quietness and purity. As expressed in the Grail Message, true prayer calls for a quiet, and pure inward sensing, which is far more potent than thousands of spoken words. This inner perception, filled with sincerity and devoid of hypocrisy, is what shapes a prayer that reaches the Luminous Heights.

    “In moments of joy or distress, a single, heartfelt intuitive perception – even if it lasts only a fraction of a second – holds far more power than prolonged spoken prayers. Such deep, genuine prayers ascend to realms where help can be found. When a prayer is pure and free of selfish motives, it attracts the fulfilment that is most beneficial, leading to true advancement of the individual’s entire being.”

    In Chapter 3, the author states some things to avoid in prayer. For instance, he states: “Prayer should never be a mere routine or obligation. If you do not feel an inner urge to pray, then it is best not to force it. Prayer that does not resonate deeply within your heart and soul holds no real value and will have no effect. Genuine prayer must arise from an authentic, inner impulse; otherwise, it becomes empty words.”

    The author also admonishes against the habit of reciting prayers at set times hurriedly and mechanically. He states: “This approach misuses God’s Name and borders on blasphemy. Formulated prayers, especially when they are lengthy, often become mere recitations without any genuine inner response. Such actions are an affront to the Holiness and Greatness of God. As stated in Matthew 6:7-8, “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.”

    In Chapter 4, “How Prayer Works in the Life of Man on Earth”, Adeyegbe explores how prayer interacts with the basic Laws of Creation in shaping the life of man. For instance, he states on page 19: “Just like seeds planted in fertile soil, prayers that are positive and pure will yield a harvest. When you ‘sow’ a prayer in this way, you may reap calmness, strength, healing, sudden insights or solutions to seemingly impossible problems. Something good will always emerge, whether it is an increased sense of composure or balance of mind. This newfound inner peace often paves the way for a solution or an escape from the difficulty you face.

    “Moreover, prayers sent out into the world can, through the Law of Attraction, find their way to others who might provide the help needed to fulfil the prayer. In this way, prayers act as bridges, connecting the person who prays with the right people, circumstances or possibilities that will bring about the desired outcome.”

    Chapter 5 centres on the promise of the Son of Man who will come for the judgment and the greatest prayer of intercession ever spoken by the Son of God, Jesus of Nazareth: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do!” Adeyegbe states on page 26: “Before His agonising crucifixion, Jesus addressed an intercessory prayer to His Father, requesting the sending of the Spirit of Truth. The Spirit of Truth would proclaim the Word of Truth once more to the faithless, providing salvation to those still willing to listen. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed fervently for His followers, ‘Father, I pray for them: let them not be lost! Sustain them in Thy Truth, in Thy Word, and in Thy Light until the day when the Son of Man will come for the Judgment. Then I will entrust them to Him, that they may serve Him too…’.”

    Chapters 6 and 7 are devoted to “The Teachings of Christ and Other Spiritual Teachers on Prayer” and “How Can We Spiritualise the Work of Our Hands”.

    The pocketbook has a visually appealing cover design. Each chapter is well illustrated with a relevant photo on the opening page. Written in simple, everyday English that will appeal to the various categories of readers, Make Your Work a Prayer is an easy book to read. The author uses practical illustrations and analogies from everyday life to drive home his points. Though he drew his knowledge mainly from the Grail Message, he also used relevant quotations from other spiritual teachers, particularly the Son of God, Jesus Christ, to validate his assertions.

    The book, which rolled out of the press in the last quarter of 2024, challenges the prevailing societal notions about prayer. It is recommended for those open to learning in their spiritual journey. It can be described as a beautiful Christmas present from Adeyegbe, a lawyer.

  • Gbenga Hashim honoured with Thomas Sankara Pan-African leadership prize

    Gbenga Hashim honoured with Thomas Sankara Pan-African leadership prize

    A former presidential candidate and businessman, Dr Gbenga Hashim has been awarded the Thomas Sankara Pan-African Leadership Prize in recognition of his outstanding contributions to leadership and his alignment with the ideals of the late revolutionary icon, Thomas Sankara.

    The award was presented by the Youth Partnership for Africa’s Development (YOUPAD), an African youth organization dedicated to fostering leadership and entrepreneurship across the continent.

     The presentation took place during a courtesy visit to Dr. Hashim’s office in Abuja over the weekend.

    In a statement, YOUPAD President Henry Nwankwo praised Hashim for his “selfless leadership, astute erudition, and articulate attributes,” highlighting his remarkable influence on the African continent.

    “Dr. Hashim is one of those rare African leaders writing their names into the very heart of history through their unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and social development,” Nwankwo stated.

    According to him, “His leadership style reflects the core values espoused by Thomas Sankara — self-reliance, integrity, and a deep sense of service to the people.”

    Hashim, who contested Nigeria’s 2019 presidential election, has long been recognized for his role in shaping Africa’s political and economic landscape.

     His work in promoting leadership, entrepreneurship, and governance reform has been widely acknowledged as a driving force for positive change in Africa.

    James Uneze-Nigerian Coordinator, Nwankwo Henry Nken- President, H.E. Dr. Gbenga Hashim- Chairman/CEO Beersheba Energy Ltd., Austine Kuusi-Vice President from Côte d’Ivoire, Paul Kwabena- Secretary from Rwanda, Daniel Donald- Director Finance and Kamaldeen Sanni- Chief of Staff to H.E Gbenga Hashim

    The Thomas Sankara Pan-African Leadership Prize is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the advancement of African unity, social justice, and grassroots empowerment. 

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    Upon receiving the award, Hashim expressed his gratitude, dedicating the honour to young Africans striving to create a better future for the continent.

    “This award reaffirms the importance of principled leadership and the need to remain committed to the ideals of justice, equity, and self-reliance. Africa’s future rests in the hands of its youth, and we must continue to create opportunities for them to thrive,” Hashim said.

    Dr. Hashim has previously received prestigious honours from international youth and student movements. In 2003, he received the Kwame Nkrumah Africa Leadership Award from the All-African Students Union (AASU) based in Accra, Ghana. In 2005, he was honoured with the Veteran Award by the World Federation of Democratic Youths (WFDY) in Caracas, Venezuela.

     Also, In 2000, he received the Award for Professional Excellence from the Nigeria Union of Journalists.

    Other members of the YOUPAD delegation included James Uneze, Nigerian Coordinator; Austine Kuusi, Vice President from Côte d’Ivoire; Paul Kwabena, Secretary from Rwanda; Daniel Donald, Director of Finance; and Kamaldeen Sanni.

    Caption from Right: James Uneze-Nigerian Coordinator, Nwankwo Henry Nken- President, H.E. Dr. Gbenga Hashim- Chairman/CEO Beersheba Energy Ltd., Austine Kuusi-Vice President from Côte d’Ivoire, Paul Kwabena- Secretary from Rwanda, Daniel Donald- Director Finance and Kamaldeen Sanni- Chief of Staff to H.E Gbenga Hashim

  • Integrating my PR competence into my political passion – Ayobami Eruobami

    Integrating my PR competence into my political passion – Ayobami Eruobami

    Ayobami Eruobami, one of Africa’s Leading Public Relations Executive, A Political Enthusiast, and the founder of Africa’s Most Prominent Public Relations & Media Firm, Erumedia group, has Highlighted and shared insights on his Journey, moving forward in life.

    “As I embark on my journey towards becoming a prominent political Leader in the nearest future, I reflect on the experiences that have shaped my political ambitions and my dedication to public relations.

    “My leadership prowess was first honored during my time as the chairman of all university students, where I learned the importance of service, collaboration, and empowering others.

    “This experience ignited my passion for helping people and instilled in me a profound understanding of the impact that effective communication can have on community engagement.”

    In the realm of public relations, “I have developed skills that are crucial for any successful political career. Public relations is about building relationships, managing perceptions, and communicating effectively with diverse audiences.

    “I believe that these skills are not only applicable in the corporate world but are essential in the political arena as well. By fostering open communication and transparency, I can create a strong bond with my constituents, ensuring they feel heard and valued.

    “This I have been doing already with my media company, Erumediagroup. This approach will be the cornerstone of my political strategy, allowing me to connect with people on a personal level while addressing their needs and concerns.”

    Moving forward, I intend to blend my political life with my public relations expertise by prioritizing community engagement and strategic communication. I will harness the power of social media and traditional communication channels to share my vision and gather feedback from the public.

    “By creating platforms for dialogue, I aim to build trust and foster a sense of community involvement in the political process. My commitment to selflessness and empowerment will guide my actions, as I work to uplift not only myself but also those around me, nurturing future leaders and creating a brighter future for our state.

    Through this integration of politics and public relations, I am confident that I can make a meaningful impact, ensuring that my leadership is characterized by empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to serve. Together, we can create a political landscape that reflects the voices of the people and champions their aspirations.

    Erumedia group is rated top 5 in Lagos as leading Public Relations (PR) firm and has been committed to doing more and delivering effective service

  • Lagos Gallery Weekend celebrates art and culture

    Lagos Gallery Weekend celebrates art and culture

    With the assemblage of about twenty art galleries and five cultural institutions, Lagos Gallery Weekend is ready to celebrate art and culture.  The dates are 28th, 29th and 30th March.  It will be weekend of varieties of art and culture programmes meant to spice the visual art scene in Nigeria.  The organizers led by Lady Sunshine stated that both the Island and Mainland areas of Lagos will feel the heat of the festival for three amazing and art-filled days.  At a press briefing in Lagos, Sunshine maintained that this is the second edition and it is to keep the sector ever busy.  Edozie Udeze reports.

    It is an annual event instituted by Lagos Gallery Weekend to ignite flavor in the art and culture scene in the city of Lagos.  This is its second edition and it has been planned to be the best ever.  By the way, Lagos Gallery Weekend art festival was begun by a group of art promoters and entrepreneurs who formed Lagos Gallery Weekend to promote and celebrate visual art.  They are keeping the sector alive year in year out.  The celebration does not only involve art, but culture and other aspects of the art like music and fashion and more.

    Addressing the press during the week, the promoter and handler of the show, Sunshine stated that about twenty private art galleries located within Lagos State will be involved in the three day art jamboree and festival.  The programme itself will begin on March 28 and last till 30th March.  It will be an opportunity for gallery owners to showcase their art and cultural materials during which also tourists, art enthusiasts, patrons, collectors and stakeholders and all will have the opportunity to move from one gallery to the next to view, enjoy, patronize and generally be part of the celebrations.  The idea is to redirect attention to the galleries and to the art scene generally in order to ensure that there is no dull moment in the sector.

    This is why it is not just a celebration, it is a funfair, it is also like a carnival and festival of arts in more ways than one.  Sunshine made it clear that there will be music to entertain guests.  One or two life bands will be on stage.  The performing artists will be provided by some certain gallery owners.  The idea also is to spice the vibes and add true festive concepts to the outing.  The gallery owners will have their shows as they deem it fit.  However, there will be uniformity in the areas of timing.  This is where the organizers have the final say so as to give the necessary colours and vent to the show.  It will be time for art galleries in the Island, in the Mainland, indeed in the whole of Lagos to act as one for the sake of giving impetus to the art world in Nigeria.

    Not only that the show will cement love and togetherness amongst twenty galleries, five notable cultural institutions will also be involved.  All of them are domiciled in Lagos.  Along side colourful art exhibitions and other artistic razzmatazz performances and tours and exchange of ideals based on cultural matters and experiences over time and age will also take place.  Artists will have the opportunity to discuss and ferment ideas on concepts, forms, styles, experimentation and more.  The whole landscapes will be peopled by cultural ideas that pertain to the welfare of galleries and how they relate to the visual nay cultural sectors in the entire society.  By this, art collectors will have the rare opportunity not only to mingle, but to equally see ways to further engage art enthusiasts, artists and more people with the hope to prosper the sector the more.

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    Sunshine’s ideas are germane and they curry for support to ensure that the concepts of art economy does not elude artists and those managing the sector.  This is why the organizers are involving some of the most consistent and vigorous Nigerian artists in the sector.  They include Obinna Makata, Gerald Chukwuma, Emma Prempeh and some others.  Their concepts will dwell essentially on new works that address and delve into themes of identity, memory and cultural heritages.  These artists are known for their restless ideas that border on new experiments from time to time.  These themes have always helped to enhance the over all ideals of Nigerian contemporary and modern art.

    Sunshine said: “this will be an opportunity for all to engage with the heart of Lagos art scene.  Whether you are a first time visitor to Lagos, an art lover or enthusiast, or a collector, Lagos Gallery Weekend show will offer you an unparalleled moment to be at home with and explore arts at their best”.  The act of creativity for which Nigerian artists are known all over the world will be seen to define the ever restless and boisterous Lagos hubs.  The hours for the show will be as follows: On Friday March 28, the events will open simultaneously by 11.00a.m and close by 8.00p.m.  Same on March 29 being a Saturday.  But on Sunday March 30, it will open by 12 noon and also close by 8.00p.m.  Each day offers different arrays of shows and cultural displays.

    Tagged art, culture, Lagos, some of the galleries involved include Aina, Alexis, Affinity, AMG, Bloom Art.  Others are Windsor, Tiwani, CCA Lagos, Yemisi Shyllon, Grillo Art, Alliance Francaise, Soto, Nike Art and lots of others.  “The beauty of the show is that there will be no dull moment.  Art sector has to be busy.  Art week has to involve a group of students from Yaba College of Technology, Lagos.  We also have individuals who want to see how they can fit into a bigger scene.  Some of these are technologically-driven.  We have curators, artists and others who are fully part of the programme”, she said.

    On the whole, the tours will be led by industry professionals.  This means that people who know the arts and culture Landscape of Lagos will take care of tourists and those who will be interested in using the buses provided by the organizers.  These people will be assigned specific location or locations of where to pick people and where to take them to.  There would not be any reason for people to complain because all their needs and concerns in terms of moving around will be professionally handled.   Security will also be provided.  Art galleries will be involved in different programmes like workshops, talk-shows, exhibitions, tours and so on.  As it is, it is almost all the private galleries in Lagos that will be engaged in the events.  Artists involved will come from all genres of the art but then music, fashion and talk-shows will be part of it.

  • Osundare @78: Voice for the voiceless

    Osundare @78: Voice for the voiceless

    By Eriata Oribhabor

    The opportunity of meeting Prof. Niyi Osundare for the first time, happened at the Freedom park, Lagos, during one of the editions of the famous Lagos Book and Art Festival (LABAF). Having built the courage to walk up to his unmistakable personality and immense presence, his dignified candour was a breath of fresh air, calm and warmly inspiring. I hardly mentioned my name when he said, “oh Eriata, how are you? I see all you do for poetry in our country.” Via the brief moment I had with him, I was enraptured by his palpable passion for poetry which was relatable. Ever ready to lend his ears to anyone, Prof’s adorable mien would capture anyone’s heart, attesting to his willingness to go the extra mile for cross fertilisation of creative ideas. Always leaving an open window to creatives across the board, Prof is an unassuming poet, who conquered the infamous barrier that distances the proverbial gown from the town. When another opportunity offered itself at the PAWA-NAL conference at the University of Ibadan in 2022, nature placed me at an earshot from him. His gentle but reassuring voice was what I needed to kickstart plans for an upcoming edition of Cross Country Poetry Celebration (CCPC) in which he was the Keynote speaker. Having explained his very busy schedule, he enthused that he would speak to audiences from anywhere in the world. This was resounding. However, and for the record, it was during one of our telephone conversations, prior to the CCPC, that the theme for the mentioned CCPC slipped from him – “the power and pleasure of poetry.” The rest, as we commonly say, is history.

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    Born 12th March 1947, Prof. Niyi Osundare hails from Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, a rare poet, academic who deliberately connects with men and women in the streets of literary promotion in Nigeria, playwright; literary critic; linguist, worthy of being celebrated for several reasons for which commitment to giving back to society via mentoring of younger poets and literary minds, stands out. By his sincerity and practical approach in this regard, he takes delight in making reference to the works of younger ones, including my humble self. He personally requested all my books. His forthrightness and nationalistic dispositions are amply demonstrated via his actions and writings.

    On behalf of Poets in Nigeria Initiative and Literary creatives worldwide, I gladly join in the singular honour and opportunity of celebrating a renowned Nigerian poet, father of many children of poets and voice for the voiceless @78. Wishing him good health and more years of impactful living.

  • Celebrating Osundare at 78

    Celebrating Osundare at 78

    …artists pay deserving tributes to a wordsmith

    Since 12th March when erudite and distinguished Professor of English, Niyi Osundare turned 78, artists, writers, authors and well-wishers from all over the world have been celebrating him. In this report, Edozie Udeze reached out to some Nigerian writers who poured  encumiums on him.

    In his own tribute Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, President of Association of Nigerian Authors, author and academic described Osundare as a renowned poet and quintessential gentleman. He said “In June 2022, I attended the Pan African Writers Association convention at the University of Ibadan, where I met Professor Niyi Osundare, one of Nigeria’s most distinguished living poets for the first time. As a member of the Association of Nigerian Authors, I had previously met renowned writers of the older generation.

    Professor Osundare’s poetry, rivalled only by Christopher Okigbo’s, had captivated me. Meeting him was delightful, and he seemed pleased to discover my parentage, expressing admiration for my late father. His exceptional humility, despite remarkable achievements, left a lasting impression.

    We met again in December 2024 at the book launch of Okinba Launko. His modesty, despite his stature, was impressive. On his 78th birthday, I join the chorus of praise for Professor Osundare’s authenticity, kindness, and dedication to excellence. Here’s to many more years of peace, good health and literary excellence”.

    In his own tribute, Mallam Denja Abdullahi, former president of Association of Nigerian Authors, culture technocrat, playwright and an award winnig author, described Osundare as a poet that exemplifies the best of the poets of the ” alter-native tradition” as theorized  by the late Funso Aiyejina. These are poets who deviated from the non- ideological stand of the poets of the first generation of Nigerian literature. The added distinctive mark of these poets are their immersion in the  lyrical orature of their various traditional backgrounds. Niyi Osundare’s poetry since the earliest time to now have been unabashedly committed to the common causes of the people and have been written in their idioms, metaphors and languages. Osundare as a poet birthed a whole generation of poets that can be said to belong to the ” Osundare School of Poetry.” I am one of the poets that belongs to that school and I am proud of his influence on my own poetry. As a person,he has been steadfast to the ideology of his poetic  enterprise. He is not one who writes a text and lives another life outside the text. He is earthy, a humanist and a social crusader that speaks truth to power all the time. One other remarkable thing about him is that even outside poetry , he is a delightful and powerful communicator. Reading his prose or criticism is a delight of its own. Each of his words are imbued with every possible meaning. The only other Nigerian writer who communicates that way is Wole Soyinka but Osundare does this without the long- winding convolution of a Soyinka. He is a great teacher too in and out of the classroom. He is a great encouragement to younger writers ; never turning away from them and even defending good poetic sensibility when it may not be politically correct to do so. A case in point is his National Merit Award Lecture which he presented in Abuja in 2023 which can be called ” in defence of performance poetry.” Lately, a lot of snobbery against that art form from some highfalutin critical standpoints prevails but Osundare in that lecture through revealing and poignant analogies drew us all to the primacy of performance which poetry in Africa entails. Osundare is a poet that acknowledges other poets with talents both young and old. He does not miss anyone writing good poetry and that affirmation ,typical of him, has saved many from abandoning poetry. For a poet and a human like that, he will always continue to “flourish” to use his favourite word when encouraging other poets. It is the prayer of those of us his poetic disciples that he should live his life to the fullest and that many more poetic laurels should come his way in the near future. former president,ANA.

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    For Professor Sunday Ododo of the University of Maiduguri, Osundare is  a shining star of Nigerian literature. In his own words “as we celebrate the 78th birthday of Professor Niyi Osundare, we honour a literary giant whose works have illuminated the world with the beauty, richness, and complexity of Nigerian culture.

    A renowned poet, scholar, and public intellectual, Niyi Osundare has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape of Nigeria and beyond. His poetry, infused with the rhythms and cadences of Yoruba oral traditions, has captivated readers and listeners with its lyricism, depth, and emotional resonance.

    Through his writings, Osundare has given voice to the hopes, struggles, and aspirations of the Nigerian people. His work has explored themes of identity, culture, politics, and social justice, offering a searing critique of the injustices and inequalities that have shaped our nation’s history.

    Osundare’s contributions to Nigerian literature extend far beyond his own writings. As a scholar, teacher, and mentor, he has nurtured generations of writers, critics, and scholars, helping to shape the contours of Nigerian literary studies.

    As we celebrate this milestone birthday, we honour not only Osundare’s remarkable achievements but also his enduring legacy. His work continues to inspire, educate, and delight readers around the world, offering a testament to the power of literature to transform, uplift, and redeem.

    Happy 78th birthday, Professor Niyi Osundare. May your pen never run dry, and may your voice continue to resonate with the beauty, wisdom, and passion that have characterized your remarkable career.

    For Dr Olatubosun Taofeek, academic and author, Osundare needs all the praises we can give him. “It is a time for praise and reflection as we celebrate our poet, Niyi Osundare, on his 78th birthday as a writer. He is one of the best poets and foremost writers from the Ibadan School of Writers after independence, and his contributions to African and Nigerian Literature are significant. For the few times I was privileged to meet Prof. Niyi Osundare, he reflects an epitome of humanity with a high spirit of humility. He demonstrates selflessness by projecting himself as Poet-King. His personality portrays no unnecessary drama, and he is gentle from soul to crown, representing the ideal of the best of us, writers.

    His works are testimonials to his simplicity and care for his environment. As a romantic poet who draws his fountain from the Yoruba orality, he touches every subject through his poetry, which can be described as a gift rather than a talent. Osundare is an exquisite Nigerian poet with strong themes of revolution and originality. Thus, making him and his poems a school for us and the generations yet unborn.

    For Paul Ugah, former chairman of Association of Nigerian Authors Benue State chapter, and a publisher, “Niyi Osundare is a great Nigerian poet among people of all classes in Nigeria and beyond the country.

    Your writing has brought light into the genre of poetry that was seen to be obscure and absurd to many in the past.

    Professor Niyi Osundare you deserve all the accolades now that you are still breathing, dreaming and eating poem on a daily basis to nurture the green horns in the literary firmament. Soldier on! Soldier on! Proud son of Africa. Happy birthday Prof . We wish you many more years for us to continue savour your delicious poems.