The Nation Newspaper

Category: Arts & Life

10-year-old reads 200 books in one year

Driven by his love for reading, especially storybooks, 10-year-old Osaivbie Izedonmwen, announced in February 2024 that he would read 200 books in one year.

The young bibliophile met his target precisely on December 18, 2024, when he read the last word of The Penguin Club, a book written by Achalugo Chioma Ilozumba.

Through his literary voyage, Osaivbie pore over diverse literatures including children’s storybooks, such as Enid Blyton’s The Secret Seven; and several of British author Roald Dahl’s books – such as his 1985 autobiography, Going Solo; Danny, the Champion of the World; The BFG; Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory; and, Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator.

This indeed broadened his knowledge and at the same time helped to shape his understanding of the world around him.

Beyond fiction, Osaivbie equally read educative books like Jude Idada’s book on on Sickle Cell Disease, Boom Boom; Cece Bell’s El Deafo; an account of how Bell coped with her deafness; Vaunda Micheaux Nelson’s The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem’s Greatest Bookstore. One notable outcome from Osaivbie’s reading challenge is that he emerged to have better understanding of humanity.

Referencing Dick King-Smith’s book, My Animal Friends, Osaivbie emphasises how the story teaches valuable human traits like patience, respect, interacting with nature and caring for animals in the environment.

Indeed, children like Osaivbie are a breath of fresh air. Especially, in the present times of reducing reading culture and where children and the youth would rather spend their time on gadgets and behind televisions screens.

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His focus from the outset is to promote reading, particularly, among the young ones. And, one of the ways he is inspiring others about his message is the challenge he had set for himself.

Right from early childhood, Osaivbie exhibited uncanny curiosity, showing attention in reading at only three years old. Not even Indian-born Charvi Dora, reputed as the “youngest person to read maximum number of books” has such a record as she only started reading at seven years old.

“I started reading at three years old,” Osaivbie says. “I read different books, and I can say that reading as a hobby has improved my knowledge and thinking. This is why I am encouraging other children to embrace reading too.”

It is noteworthy that Osaivbie equally reviewed the books on his Instagram page, which his mother Taiye Osayi-Izedonmwen manages on his behalf.

No doubt, he is a chip of the old block as his father, Osayi is the founder of Teesas Education, and a proponent of Franklin Covey’s “Leader in Me” program.

The wonder kid’s parents are excited about his chosen path, promising to give him more support.

“Charity begins at home. We cannot encourage other children to inculcate the Seven Habits of Happy Kids which teaches self-leadership without first teaching our children those principles. That Osaivbie read 200 books in one year is a testament that we practice what we preach,” Osayi said.

.Osaivbie’s sincerity of purpose is evident in his actions. Last April, after he started the reading challenge, he generously donated 100 books to children at a church in Lagos State.

Osaivbie’s story unarguably serves as a beacon of hope for a society where reading is increasingly becoming a lost art. His next challenge: to lead a global reading culture campaign.

February 6, 2025
How to speak flawless English

For less than five minutes in her YouTube channel, Deaconess Elizabeth Balogun, a language instructor and lecturer teaches her fans how best to communicate in English language Tagged: Pronunciation Simplified, the weekly programme spells out certain English words and phrases that are wrongly pronounced by most Nigerian speakers.

According to her, many Nigerians, particularly the youths do substitute vowel or consonant sounds with sounds they are comfortable with. In the process, they end up with wrongly pronounced English words.

Triggered by her desire to touch hearts academically and to impact positively on Oral English, Dcns. Balogun created the YouTube channel in the second quarter of 2024. She started hosting the programme mainly to teach her fans how to pronounce English words correctly. Her words: “’ It is imperative for everyone to speak English correctly in order to foster international intelligibility. Many Nigerians are comfortable with the usage of Nigeria English. We remember that whenever our children/students write examinations in English language, they are tested basically on standard British English, not Nigerian English. Therefore, there is an urgent need to sensitise our wards to get used to standard British English.”

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Deaconess Balogun who currently teaches at The Federal University, Oye Ekiti notes that many Nigerians do not have reading culture. Also, many of our youths prefer to watch drama skit to watching educative contents that will positively influence their vocabulary and spoken English. Our students, adults and youths in Nigeria should adopt good reading culture. They should feed their minds with quality educative contents such as Pronunciation Simplified. When they creative to watch my content on YouTube, they will definitely learn how to speak flawless English. My goal is to ensure that every student, worker, apprentice, housewives etc. speak English words correctly. For example, certain words like Market/ma:kit/, women/wimin/, womb/wu:m/, tomb/tu:m/, build/build/,bullet/bulit/, penis/pinis/ etc. are generally mispronounced by Nigerian speakers. I therefore encourage our people, irrespective of their culture, status,or language learn how to speak English words correctly. to subscribe to kwinelizabethTV and learn how to pronounce English words correctly.

February 5, 2025
‘Why we transformed from agro to tourism’

Managing Director, Xtralarge Farms & Resort Dr. Moji Davids, has called on governments at different levels to make agriculture more attractive to Nigerians in order to boost sufficiency and ensure food security in the country.

Speaking on a TV programme in Lagos, Dr Davids urged Nigerians to take advantage of the many untapped business opportunities in agriculture.

Explaining the concept of Xtralarge Farms and Resorts, which metamorphosed from being a farm to a tourist and real estate investment destination in the country, she said Xtralarge Farms was set up to raise a generation of passionate farmers to feed the world with healthy natural products and provide a sustainable platform for financial empowerment to its members through the food and agricultural business.

She added that as the pioneer digital farming in Nigeria in 2015, Xtralarge Farms and Resorts provided opportunities to people to participate actively in farming in a more dignifying form.

“Xtralarge Farms and Resorts, is gradually becoming a destination for relaxation and unique experiences. We came into existence as an agricultural business with the aim of producing foods that are free of chemicals which pose serious dangers to the human system and have evolved into a major destination for tourism with huge prospects for real estate investment in the area of holiday homes establishment in the resort,” she said.

On the vision of Xtralarge Farms and Resorts, Mrs Davids said Xtralarge Farms and Resorts was established to produce foods that are free of chemicals because there is a lot of damage and hazards, which chemicals bring to the body system. We want to ensure that people have quality, natural food products. With our experience over the years we have discovered that to be a very profitable farmer you need to have an accommodation facility in the farm because every time we farm we have to go home and before we come back a lot of things would have happened- stealing and even the workers need a lot of supervision. So, we decided to have a place where we can stay on the farm, relax and not miss home.”

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Davids disclosed that Xtralarge Farms was set up to redefine the practice of agriculture and wear a new apparel for agriculture in Nigeria in order to stimulate the interest of young Nigerians in farming. “As a nation if we try to wear a new apparel for agriculture; not just presenting the hardship side alone, we will be able to stimulate the interest of most people in agriculture. That’s what led to the establishment of the resorts.

“It’s been carefully named resorts not just a hotel but it is situated in a farm. All the comfort people have in their houses have been duplicated here. We place so much priority in ensuring the quality of the facilities we have there and the experience you get when you come there. Don’t forget that it’s a farm resorts, apart from all the fun, we also ensure we take you on a tour of the farm where you not only see all farm animals, we also tell you the process.

“We also have some mini-processing plants, whereby you can make some garri, palm oil. So, you experience it- you go to milk the cow, to feed the rabbits because we want to arouse the interest of people in farming. We have a goal to attract at least one million visitors to the resorts every year.”

She explained that Xtralarge Farms and Resorts also offers unique opportunity for home ownership. “A lot of people love the idea of real estate but at the end of the day most people just end up buying the house and they lock it. Or you buy a house with the aim of renting it out to tenants, but you don’t really get as much as you expect from rentals. But, at Xtralarge, a commercial city, a tourist centre, a lot of people are coming in for different reasons. We have a package that makes you have a holiday home. You own the home and at the same time it is an investment for you. You can authorise us to give out your house to vacationers and you earn money,” she added.

February 5, 2025
Flyzone boss decries deplorable state of tourist sites

A leading force in the Nigerian tourism industry, Flyzone Tourism, has officially opened its Lagos centre as part of its plans to expand the company’s scope and deliver greater value to the Nigerian travel ecosystem. Principal Executive Flyzone Tourism Mr. Awomoyi Ayodeji said the move to Lagos is not about competing with travel agencies but to explore untapped opportunities.

Ayodeji, who spoke at an interaction with the media in Lagos, said that Flyzone Tourism has been a trusted partner for travel agencies across the country, processing thousands of eVisas and travel products for over 4,900 agencies. “For over a decade, the company has specialised in creating innovative marketing campaigns for destinations ranging from bustling cities to serene beach resorts and breathtaking national parks, both locally and internationally. This expansion into Lagos is yet another bold step in Flyzone’s journey, fueled by a passion for excellence and a desire to bring new opportunities to the table.

He stressed that Flyzone is not entering Lagos to disrupt the travel agency market but to complement it by exploring untapped opportunities. “We’re targeting a different sector. Nigeria is a vast market with over 200 million people. Even with thousands of travel agencies, there is still room for growth and diversification. Our goal is not to compete but to expand, innovate, and provide value to all stakeholders in the industry,” he added.

Reflecting on the evolution of the travel industry in Nigeria, Mr. Ayodeji noted how the advent of Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) revolutionised the way people book flights and travel products. In the early 1990s and 2 000s, Nigerians relied heavily on traditional travel agencies for bookings. However, the rise of OTAs allowed clients to book directly online, bypassing intermediaries. This shift, while significant, did not render traditional travel agencies obsolete. Instead, it underscored their value as problem-solvers and trusted advisors in an increasingly digital world.

“Even today, the role of a travel agent remains crucial. When a client faces issues, it’s often easier to reach out to the travel agent who booked the ticket than to contact an airline, which has its hands full with other operational responsibilities. Travel agencies also benefit from exclusive discounts, creating a win-win situation for everyone. For instance, if we offer a product to a client for N100,000 and a travel agency gets it for N50,000 , the agency still retains its competitive edge. This synergy is vital, and we intend to preserve it while targeting a different segment,” he noted.

The decision to establish a presence in Lagos did not come easy. Mr. Ayodeji explained that Flyzone’s Port Harcourt office has been very efficient and served primarily as a back-end operation focused on processing requests and managing travel agency partnerships. The new Lagos office represents a shift toward more direct engagement with the market, enabling Flyzone to foster closer relationships with clients and partners.

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According to him, the reason many visa applicants are denied visas is due to a lack of knowledge of the destination they intend to visit. He, therefore, recommended that travellers thoroughly research their desired destination to enable them to confidently navigate embassy interviews.

“Port Harcourt allowed us to concentrate on back-end operations, but Lagos offers something different, which is a chance to engage directly with the industry and its stakeholders. In Port Harcourt, we rarely had visitors to our office because everything was handled online. While this model worked well, we realised over time that we were losing opportunities to connect with travel agencies face-to-face. Lagos changes that. It brings us closer to the action and allows us to build stronger relationships,” he said.

The Lagos office also places Flyzone in closer proximity to critical visa centres and other travel-related infrastructure. This strategic location enhances the company’s ability to serve both travel agencies and individual clients more efficiently. “For example, the UK visa centre and the South Africa visa centre were initially based in Port Harcourt but have since relocated. Being in Lagos allows us to respond quickly to changes like these and remain accessible to our partners and clients,” he explained.

Flyzone Tourism presence in Lagos also underscores its dedication to bridging the gap between traditional and modern travel services. While the online community continues to grow, he acknowledged that many Nigerians still value face-to-face interactions. “People’s past experiences shape their preferences. Some still feel more comfortable visiting an office or meeting someone in person before entrusting their travel plans to them. By establishing a physical presence in Lagos, we are meeting people where they are and offering them the best of both world such as online convenience and personal connection,” he added.

Making a call to action for travel agencies and potential clients alike, Mr. Ayodeji urged tourism stakeholders to explore what Flyzone has to offer and assured them of the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence. “We are here to make a difference. Whether you are a travel agency looking for a reliable partner or an individual seeking top-notch travel services, Flyzone is here for you. Together, we can create unforgettable journeys and open new doors for Nigerian tourism,” he assured.

He, however, decried the deplorable state of some tourist sites across the country, urging the Federal Government to consider concession to private operators for proper management. He called on federal and state governments to improve tourism destination management to attract tourists, noting that for a destination to be considered viable, it must possess certain essential qualities.He said these qualities included being visually appealing, easily accessible, and offering amenities such as accommodation, activities, as well as other attractions.

February 5, 2025
Triumph for Nigerian music

The 2025 Grammy Awards were a defining moment for Nigerian music, as Tems made history by winning her second Grammy. This achievement not only celebrated her extraordinary talent but also highlighted the global rise of Nigerian and African artists, reinforcing their dominant presence in the international music industry, Associate Editor ADEKUNLE YUSUF reports

In the glittering world of music, where the lights of the Grammy Awards shine brightest, a new star had emerged, blazing a trail that would forever change the course of Nigerian music. Her name was Tems, and her journey to the stage where she would claim her second Grammy Award is a tale of passion, perseverance, and dreams realised against all odds. The 2025 Grammy Awards held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles would become a monumental chapter in her story, as Tems did not just win an award—she made history.

Born Temilade Openiyi in Lagos, Nigeria, Tems’ rise to fame was not a mere stroke of luck. It was the result of years of hard work, self-belief, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. Her debut single “Mr. Rebel” in 2018 was a taste of what was to come, a soulful expression of her distinct sound that resonated with listeners both in Nigeria and abroad. But it was her 2019 hit “Try Me” that marked her breakthrough, a track that solidified her position in the African music scene. Tems had something different: her voice was a tapestry of vulnerability and strength, weaving together Afrobeat rhythms with contemporary R&B elements. Her storytelling, laced with both emotional depth and power, gave her an edge that set her apart.

However, it wasn’t until 2021 that Tems truly stepped onto the global stage. The song that would change everything was “Essence,” a collaboration with Nigerian superstar Wizkid. The track became an international sensation, topping charts across the world and earning her several award nominations. Tems was no longer just a star in Nigeria; she was a global force, her voice a bridge between cultures and continents. By the time the 2025 Grammy Awards came around, Nigerian music had already made undeniable strides in the global music industry. Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido had already opened doors, with their unique sounds and massive fanbases, creating a global stage for African talent.

Tems, however, was poised to leave her own indelible mark. Her single “Love Me Jeje,” from her debut album Born in the Wild, would be the track to propel her to even greater heights. “Love Me Jeje” was a beautiful fusion of Afrobeat rhythms and contemporary R&B, a reflection of Tems’ ability to bridge genres effortlessly. The song, which sampled the 1997 Nigerian classic “Love Me Jeje” by Seyi Sodimu, quickly became an anthem, with over 125 million listens on Spotify and 21 million views on YouTube. It was the song that would not only earn Tems her second Grammy but also her first in the newly introduced Best African Music Performance category—a category that was already brimming with other Nigerian superstars, including Burna Boy and Asake.

As the night of the 2025 Grammy Awards approached, there was palpable excitement in the air. Tems was nominated in three categories, including Best Global Music Album for Born in the Wild and Best R&B Song for “Burning.” But it was the Best African Music Performance category that had everyone talking. Burna Boy, who had already won the Best Global Music Album Grammy in 2021 for Twice as Tall, was a strong contender. Asake, a rising star with his blend of Afrobeat and street pop, was another favourite. The competition was fierce, but Tems stood tall, knowing that this moment was bigger than herself—it was a victory for Nigerian music, for Africa, and for the generations of artists who had come before her.

The Grammy ceremony itself was a blur of glamour and excitement. Celebrities, musicians, and fans alike filled the Crypto.com Arena, all eagerly awaiting the moment when the winner of the Best African Music Performance would be announced. Tems, clad in a stunning ensemble that spoke of both elegance and confidence, sat with her team, her heart racing with anticipation. She had worked for this moment, but like all great artists, she remained grounded.

When her name was finally read aloud as the winner, there was an eruption of applause. Tems, breathless and overwhelmed, stood up to make her way to the stage. Her hands trembled slightly as she took the microphone. The magnitude of the moment was not lost on her. “Dear God, thank you so much for putting me on this stage and bringing me this team,” she began, her voice breaking slightly with emotion. The crowd fell silent, captivated by her authenticity and humility. Then, in a moment that brought tears to many, Tems turned to acknowledge her mother, who was in the audience, her birthday falling just one day before the Grammys. “Tomorrow is my mum’s birthday, and this is her first Grammys. I just want to thank you, mum, because you’ve done so much for me and my brother,” she said, her voice filled with gratitude. Her eyes welled with tears as she gestured toward her mother, who was visibly moved by the acknowledgment.

It was a beautiful moment of connection, one that encapsulated Tems’ journey from the streets of Lagos to the global stage. She was not just representing herself; she was carrying the hopes and dreams of her family, her country, and her continent. The victory was monumental for Nigerian music. Tems became the first Nigerian artist to win the Grammy for Best African Music Performance, a category introduced just a year earlier, underscoring the growing influence of African artists on the global stage. Her win also marked her second Grammy, having taken home the Best Melodic Rap Performance in 2023 for her collaboration with Future on “Wait For U.”

As Tems stood there holding her Grammy, her mind drifted back to the journey that had brought her to this moment—the long hours in the studio, the sacrifices, the challenges she had faced, and the unyielding belief she had in herself. She had overcome every obstacle in her path, and now, she was basking in the glow of her success. But Tems knew this moment wasn’t just about her. It was a victory for the Nigerian music industry. Over the years, Nigerian artists had worked tirelessly to break down barriers, to show the world that African music is not just a fleeting trend but a cultural movement that is here to stay. The success of Afrobeat artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido had paved the way for others, and now, Tems is a shining example of what is possible when talent, determination, and culture converged.

Tems’ win is also a triumph for women in Nigerian music. In an industry that has often been dominated by men, Tems had risen to the top, not through compromise, but by staying true to her unique sound and vision. She had become a role model for young women in Nigeria and across Africa, proving that with passion and resilience, they could achieve anything. Her victory is not just about the recognition, but about the doors it would open for future generations of African artists. The world is now listening to Nigerian music in a way it had never done before, and Tems’ Grammy win is a testament to the power of African voices in shaping the global music landscape.

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President Bola Tinubu, along with music stars Davido, Ayra Starr, and many other fans, extended heartfelt congratulations to Nigerian music sensation for winning the Best African Music Performance award at the 67th Grammy Awards. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu, on behalf of the nation, praised the artist’s unique artistry that continues to elevate Nigeria’s pride on the global stage, marking this as her second Grammy victory. He also celebrated the emergence of a new generation of young, multi-talented Nigerian musicians who have propelled Afrobeats to international acclaim, further cementing the country’s status as a global hub for musical innovation, creativity, and cultural influence. “From Africa to Antarctica, Asia to Australia, Europe to the Americas, the Nigerian music industry, particularly, Afrobeats has become a source of national pride, promoting a sense of identity and self-expression while uniting people across borders,” he said.

Mr President also extended his congratulations to other Nigerian artists nominated for this year’s Grammy Awards, including Yemi Alade, Asake, Wizkid, Lojay, Davido, and Burna Boy. He expressed his gratitude to these exceptional talents for placing Nigeria firmly on the global map of musical achievement and for showcasing the country’s creative brilliance. “You are all an inspiration and role models to countless young people. The nation is deeply thankful for your contributions to music, job creation, and the promotion of tourism. I wish you all continued success in your musical journeys,” he added.

As she left the stage, her Grammy in hand, Tems and other Nigerian super stars – Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Femi Kuti, Seun Kuti, Santi, and Mr Eazi who have all earned Grammy nominations or wins – couldn’t help but reflect on the long journey ahead for Nigerian and African music. For them all, the night at Los Angelis had been historic, yes, but it is also a reminder of the work still to be done. As the whole world has attested time and again, the future of Nigerian music remains very bright, and the music icons are just getting started. With Tems’ win at the 2025 Grammys, her victory is not just hers—it is

February 5, 2025
National Gallery poised to make innovations

Emeka Odiari is the Director in charge of media with the National Gallery of Art (NGA). NGA is a parastatal of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy. In this interview with Edozie Udeze, he enumerates some of the programmes the Ahmed Bashir Sodangi administration has lined up for revival. He also states why NGA is ever ready to work in partnership with all stakeholders, home and abroad, to keep the parastatal ever active and alive.

Emeka Odiari heads the media department of National Gallery of Arts. Just relocated from Lagos to Abuja, Odiari is up to the task, detailing all the programmes the Sodangi administration has in stock for the people. He says, “some of achievements of Bashir Sodangi’s as the Director General of National Gallery of Art in the past one year includes the following.

He restructured and repositioned the departments for better service delivery in line with ministerial deliverables and presidential mandate.

He brought sanity and peaceful relationships amongst workers. He has done much to encourage the members of staff to face their work more vigorously both in Abuja and in Lagos office.

He was also involved in training staff training and retraining. This also improved under his administration in spite of the meagre allocation. Departments were encouraged to conduct in-house trainings for their staff.

In terms of staff welfare. Sodangi has done very well in this regard, he has been able to start payments of staff outstanding claims and allowances some of which were in arrears of over ten yrs.

He also refurbished and continued maintaining staff busses which bring staff to work on daily basis, this is a great relief considering the humongous cost of transportation. He also successfully conducted staff promotion exams which were overdue since Jan 2023, this has made staff start enjoying their new salary regime. He has also taken time to visit almost a the outstations to meet with staff and share in their challenging, this has also motivated staff and improved their productivity as they now work with a more caring leader.

The National Gallery programmes under Sodangi have been revived and repackaged for better impact. Saturday Art Club, which is a major programme of the Gallery designed to discover young budding talents from primary and secondary schools across the 25 outstations have received financial boosts, more children and schools are now participating in the programme. It’s almost looking like competition among the outstations to see who outshines the other, this is because of the incentives from DG.

In the area of partnerships and collaborations he has passionately continued to pursue this are of his duty, signing memorandum of understanding’ with reputable art institutions and groups like Female Artists Association Nigeria (FEAAN), International Institute for Creative Development (IICD). More of such MOU’s would be signed soon. He has also Partnered with Embassies like the Spanish, French Egyptian, Czech Republic on Programmes to promote the visual art. He has also interfaced with various Art groups like the Society of Nigerian Artists. Today, NGA enjoys very cordial relationships with stakeholders. This partnership is also replicated with the Ministry and other sister parastatals.

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He has also reviewed the act establishing NGA. This is one area which is at the frontburner of Sodangi as the DG. He is working hard with all relevant stakeholders including the National Assembly Committees on Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy towards ensuring this is achieved in no distant Time.

The Gallery has been resolute in pursuing this dream which is very passionate to the growth of the gallery. Again, the gallery has been lobbying and discussing with everybody that matters towards making this dream a reality. The National Gallery has been consistent in its policies to meet the needs of artists and others who have professional relationship with the gallery. The welfare of artists is always uppermost in the everyday programme of the gallery and as a director Sodangi’s administration is conscious of this.

He has also improved relationship with Artists through the setting up of internet platforms to document, exhibit and sell their works locally and internationally.

Bashir Ahmed Sodangi is determined to ensure that all programmes of the Gallery, including new ones being created are carried out this year. From our national exhibitions, stakeholders forum, annual distinguished lectures, art-of- friendship, children-inart talent hunt and exhibition, Saturday art club, and others. Have been lined up for this year.

Aside the comprehensive coverage of all NGA programmes, the media department will also undertake Press parley/briefings, mast awards.

Station and facility visits among others. All these will help to pep up the image of the gallery for better service to the nation and to the artists.

Furthermore, the NGA is passionate about children’s art. This is demonstrated by programmes like the Saturday art club, children-in-art exhibition, and others. These programmes are strictly designed and created to identify with children in primary and secondary schools who can demonstrate clear talent in the art.

The relationship between Nigerian artists and the gallery is very cordial. As a parastatal of the federal ministry of culture, the NGA understands the place of the stakeholders. And this includes artists and they are happy with the level of conviviality the parties enjoy.

We also hope to refurbish and repaint and renovate the Aina Onabolu building. We have always regarded it as our best building in Lagos and we have regards for Aina Onabolu, one of Nigeria’s greatest masters of the visual art. Onabolu was a great man and that is why the building is dedicated to him as a mark of respect and recognition.

February 2, 2025
Songs of Sorrow for Saro

(To Kenule Beeson Saro Wiwa in memoriam, part of an anthology)

So stuffy and fluffy is my flute

Shall I borrow now a poet’s lute?

To help me spin this yarns on stage

…this yarns of rage?

Of one wronged heart

Of a miscarriage of justice

Of dogs eating dogs

Of such callous mediocrity!

So stuffy and fluffy is my flute

Shall I borrow now a poet’s lute?

To help me spin this yarns on stage

…this yarns of rage?

Of a man betrayed by

A tribe of Judas

’cause he never tired

To speak the ills;

Of a man who all his life

Gave voice to the dictum

‘Whatever persecution a man may face TRUTH will out!’

So stuffy and fluffy is my flute

Shall I borrow now a poet’s lute?

To help me spin this yarns on stage

…this yarns of rage?

Of a tragedy of the oppressed

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Of the bestiality in man

Of the crude rape of innocence!

So stuffy and fluffy is my flute

Shall I borrow now a poet’s lute?

To help me spin this yarns on stage

…this yarns of rage?

Of a gory sad tale

Of a rooted sorrow

Of a man shanghaied to

A fortress of torture;

To suffer a rainbow of abuse

And then burn to ashes;

I tell you of a man

Who has ceased to be forever more!

So stuffy and fluffy is my flute

Shall I borrow now a poet’s lute?

To help me spin this yarns on stage

…this yarns of rage?

Of a man caused

To hurry off this life;

At zero-zero hours

Without even the benefit of

His swansong!

But nay! Some dreams come true

Even when callously truncated

The same goes for a glorious revolution

Only if you don’t mind the

Death of your Age!

So stuffy and fluffy is my flute

Shall I borrow now a poet’s lute?

To help me spin this yarns on stage

…this yarns of rage?

Of a man who laid down his life

’cause he wanted no one

To SHELL their dream

Even after knowing that the stage was

Obviously an arrangee;

He yelled ‘Aluta Continua!’

Believing that Que sera sera

So stuffy and fluffy is my flute

Shall I borrow now a poet’s lute?

To help me spin this yarns on stage

…this yarns of rage?

Of a people whose final abode

Shall be the nethermost region

Then will they know that only

God is Nemesis

And at the crack of dawn

There will be no more victor nor vanquish

Then all shall indeed receive Poetic Justice

Nay! I’m yet at my tethers end

Can my heart yet amend?

Indeed our hearts bleed

With eyes tears are shed

But where wailing faces be

Happiness shall never again be!

Well now my Saro

As you listen to this

Songs of sorrow for Saro

Here’s saying cheerio!

February 2, 2025
A book of difference in Yoruba history

Book Review

Title: Labe Odan

Author: Timothy Olatunde Kolawole

Pages: 102

Publishers: Timagay Nigeria Limited

Reviewer: Gbenga Aderanti

‘Labe Odan’ (Under the Byran Tree) is a 102-page compilation of short Yoruba stories written in the Yoruba language. These tales are undoubtedly inspired by the experiences of an octogenarian, Chief Timothy Olatunde Kolawole, whose life has significantly influenced his writing.

At a time when the tradition of nighttime storytelling has faded, Chief Timothy Olatunde Kolawole seeks to revive this age-old practice of the Yoruba people in Southwest Nigeria. In the book’s foreword, a high chief from Imesi-Ile in Osun State expresses his surprise that many students of Yoruba descent struggle to read and write in their native language. He raises concerns that if this trend persists, the language could face the risk of extinction.

To help preserve the Yoruba language and its folklore, some of these tales have been compiled into a single book. The stories are firsthand accounts that the author heard as a child, and they are written in pure Yoruba prose.

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As you read the book, you feel as if you are part of the narrative. In the opening chapter, “Ija O Dola,” the author crafts an introduction that immerses the reader in the plot. Additionally, the book is illustrated with drawings, making it accessible for both non-literate individuals and toddlers to understand the messages being conveyed. At the end of each chapter, the author poses questions and provides a recap, helping to reinforce the key points.

‘Labe Odan’ is designed for secondary school students and encourages teachers to include Yoruba in the curricula for both primary and secondary schools. If successful, this initiative will ensure that reading in Yoruba does not become a barrier for students in tertiary institutions in the future.

Besides providing entertainment, the stories convey valuable lessons and morals that will benefit young readers. This book is essential for everyone, especially in an era where morality seems to be declining. Although written in simple Yoruba, it contains ten chapters filled with engaging stories that stimulate the reader’s conscience.

I suggest that the book be translated into English so that others can enjoy the stories and benefit from the wisdom and moral lessons it imparts. The visual illustrations at the beginning of each chapter will surely appeal to children. Currently, secondary schools in Lagos and Osun states are utilizing this book.

February 2, 2025
Why Aro culture remains superior – Eze Ibom Isii

Eze Ibom Isii, His Royal Highness, Amos Ngwu Egbu Okoro is one of the three traditional rulers in Arochukwu kingdom. Arochukwu is in Abia State and is made up of three constituents dating back in time. Today the three kings rule pari pasu with the Eze Aro himself as the first among equals. Edozie Udeze who spoke with him in his domain in Arochukwu reports on the age-long trends that make their tradition and culture including religion superior to other people around them. Eze Ibom Isii is forthright in his responses and clears the air about certain other situations.

AMOS Ngwu Egbu Okoro is the king of Ibom Isii, one of the villages that made up the ancient kingdom of Arochukwu. Arochukwu is one of the oldest known kingdoms in the history of Nigeria is now in Abia State. His Roya Highness Igwe Okoro goes by the title Eze Ibom Isii and his role in the making of the ancient kingdom of Arochukwu is never in contest. A trip to Arochukwu from Lagos to have a chat with him was an intriguing and inspiring experience. Arochukwu is a town located almost outside the confines of Igbo land. It is more easily accessible from Umuahia, the state capital through Ini and Ikono two local government areas in Akwa Ibom State. It shows the natural affinity they have with the cultures of Anang, Ibibio and parts of Efik in Cross River State.

Eze Ibom Isii himself is an interesting person to talk to. He holds the dual responsibility of an Eze (King) and a Pastor. He comes from the genealogy of Ibini Ukpabi in charge of the famous long juju oracle of Arochuckwu. About a year ago he mounted the throne of his forefathers in Nde Okorro, Ibom village, Arochukwu. He said, “So I was crowned exactly a year ago. It was on January 26 2024 that I assumed office. It was a tough battle. We have a dethroned Eze Ibom Isii whose name is His Royal Highness Mazi Nwakanu. He however had some issues with the community. So the community wasn’t comfortable with that. Because of this, the community wrote letters for his suspension. While at that he went on ahead to crown the wrong person as king. He sidelined a committee that was set up to screen and appoint the rightful person.

It was a seven man panel and five of them voted for his Eminence Eze Eberechukwu Oji and the two voted for Mazi Goddy Kanu. But for reason best known to him, Mazi Nwakanu decided to crown the wrong person. As a result of this, the state government frowned at that decision. Even before now he had been given a suspension letter with series of petitions against him. So Ibom citizens compiled these petitions which were sent to the chieftaincy panel of enquiry. Then the dethroned Eze was duly invited to face the panel. However, during the four sittings of that panel of enquiry he refused to appear. Consequently, what he did was undone. This paved the way for my own crowning. That was how the mantle fell on me and I was made the Eze Ibom Isii on January 26 2024”.

But how come Arochukwu has three kings in charge of the affairs of the people? Eze said, “No, we do not have autonomous communities. If you know the history of Aro, you would realize that we have a constituent arrangement in this kingdom. Even in pre-colonial period, Aro was a state unto itself, with three kings ruling the empire. So it is not a new development. It dates back in time, into history long before the Europeans arrived and it is still so till date. That is why it is called a constituent state with a superior king who is seen and considered and taken to be the first among equals. And that is the Eze Aro himself, a position being occupied now by Eberechukwu Kanu, the Eze Aro.

As we have Eze Aro who is first among equals like I said before, we have Eze Ibom Isii who is second in command. Then we have the third person who is Eze Agwu in Aro kingdom”. But how come Aro kingdom is divided into three constituent arrangements? Eze Ibom was asked. “Yes, Arochukwu is actually a very large kingdom, very expansive in terms of people, in terms of landmarks and areas of influence. If you go back to history, you would know that Aro has other Diasporan communities. You know in what we have today as Nigeria, we had five well-known kingdoms and empires. We had the Sokoto Empire, Kano, Oyo, Benin and the Aro. These were the five prominent and known empires and kingdoms in Nigeria since timeless history. These were also known as kingdoms and duly recognized by the colonial overlords”.

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So for the sake of administrative convenience, Aro was naturally patterned based on the exigencies of a large kingdom. It has overtime made it possible to rule and administer the people more comprehensively the result of which has shown that the people can only be well-guided, not by force, but by precedence and wisdom. Eze Ibom Isii is also very conscious of this fact as he has come to follow the natural order of things while presiding over the affairs of his people. He has his own challenges at least within this one year in office. He said, “Yes, uneasy lies the head that wears the crown. We have had more of challenges. We came into office and the dethroned Eze had his group of what I can describe as bandits. These groups of people were into a lot of nefarious activities such as cultism and drugs and all sorts of related crimes. Some of these boys also killed our former president general. On my emergence, they were not happy because they knew it was not going to be business as usual. So we met a lot of resistance and threats to our lives. But by the grace of God we are weathering the storm”.

In all these, Arochukwu is a well-planned town with accessible roads and streets all over. At least seventy per cent of the streets and inner roads are tarred making it a beautiful encampment. “Yes”, Eze Ibom quickly conceded. “If you realize that Aro is the cradle of civilization in the entire Igboland, you will then appreciate where we are coming from. Many people have interest in Aro. Not just other people but Aros in diaspora, all Aros scattered home and abroad will give anything to ensure that they will come back where they have their original roots. This has inadvertently made development quite possible. Aros think home all the time, whether you are abroad or within Nigeria. You know that we have at least 360 Diasporan Aro settlements and communities all over the world. The Arondizogu have at least three local government areas in Imo State. We also have the Aro Ndikerionwu in Anambra State. All of them still hold allegiance to their cradle of origin.

“But then you will agree with me that compared to other four kingdoms, we are still lagging behind in terms of development. That is a fact. But all the same we have who is who in this country. Yes we do in all areas of life. Our people are everywhere in prominent positions in commerce, in government, in politics, in religion and more. So I think it is the courtesy of their efforts that Aro has come this far”. In all these, Aros are located in all corners of Igboland where they settled down and continue to dominate. Ezi Ibom replied. “Somebody will say that Arochukwu is a gift from God to Igboland. Yes. This gift was to bring civilization to the people across Igboland. I don’t know how it came to be the way it is. But if you look at a place like Port Harcourt, you will notice that the Aros are in the place. Look at Calabar, the Aros are also there. We have Aros in Ikwerre. The Port Harcourt you see today was one of the beaches where the Aro traded with the White man.

“The same applied to Calabar in Cross River. The Aros were the centre of Igbo civilization and this helped them to move and mingled and intermingled and settled down anywhere they went to. So we have had relationship with other people in the hinterlands where we had traded with them. Before, it used to be the trade in slaves. No, it was religion we first used to teach the Igbos in the hinterland. From there also we started the oil business with lots of communities and then expanded into different areas. This was even before the White man came and introduced slave trade to us. This we also capitalized on to expand our frontiers. So it has been a long business relationship with the Aro man and the rest of his people. What we did was that everyone got closer to where he would get the commodity. Then he settled down there and began to sell those commodities to other parts where those commodities were in demand. Thus the Aro people mastered and did well to profit from business wherever they settled down”.

He corroborated the fact that the Aro man is too intelligent for you to nose-drive him. There is this slogan that you do not rule or impose yourself on the Aro person. You rather follow or guide him. He said, “So when you are dealing with Aro man, you lead by dialogue. Dialogue with him or her, you do not impose yourself on him because it will not work. A superior argument will always take the upper-hand when dealing with the Aro person. There is hardly an Aro person you can deceive easily. That is why we say no Aro person can tell a fellow Aro person; Ibini Ukpabi said I should greet you. No, it does not work because every Aro person has allegiance or access to the Ibini Ukpabi. You can’t deceive him or her in that regard. Whatever you want to tell him he knows already. You only have to come out clean to negotiate with him”.

February 2, 2025
The Arts are unified in a magical interplay – Alexander Olomo

Popular poet, Classicist and Lawyer, Alexander Olomo, is not a name that suddenly leapt out of nowhere. Through sheer hard work, dedication and determination, he has risen to the ranks of his career. In this interview with Alao Abiodun, the author of ‘Nature is In Everything’ talks about his academic sojourn, the issues that inspire his poems and writing; and how far it has taken him within Nigeria and beyond

Can we meet you?

I am Alexander Olomo, a native of Otan Ayegbaju town in Osun state. I was born and raised in Ibadan. I earned a B.A Classics degree in 2014 and an Ll.B degree in 2020 at the University of Ibadan. Basically, I write poems. I was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2024. I am a poet, classicist and a lawyer. I have poems published in Latin and translated into English in the University of Southern California’s Multilingual Journal titled ‘Trojan Bloom’. I have also been published by The Society of Young Nigerian Writers in an anthology titled, ‘Moonlight Songs for Pa Nelson Mandela’. I am currently a graduate student at the University of Southern California.

How did you begin to write?

I remember writing my first poem probably as an eleven years old boy one night, while it rained. I wrote it with a kerosene lantern we had then. The title was, ‘rain’. It was short. I didn’t keep it. However, I can say my writing started in its full emergence in 2010 in my first year when I started studying classics at the university of Ibadan. I wrote poems in a notebook. Some of them are on nature and included in the collection of poems I published last year. But in 2012, when I was in my third year of studying classics, I started writing love poems about a lady I fell in love with. I wrote a lot about the lady. Some of the poems are featured in my recent book too because they still connected to the subject-matter of nature even though they talk about love.

What does writing mean to you?

Writing pacifies the surge always within me. The surge bears many messages that are tired of living in wherever they come from and through me, want to begin to live in lines and pages. I am just a medium. It is often very disturbing. A lot of things surge all at once and I get restless and disturbed deeply. It was when I started writing profusely at the University of Ibadan when studying classics that I became aware of the therapeutic service writing could render. I have no choice than to continue If I want to keep including peace in the features of my life. Also, I see writing as an activity that is both metaphysical and physical. It is metaphysical because after writing, I return to what I have done and not only marvel at it but learn from it too. I still wonder where they do come from. The physicality is in the actual penning down or typing. I see myself as an initiate in the cult of literature with no choice than to keep being its symbol. I view writing as a very sacred thing that requires ritualistic seriousness and devotion.

For how long have you been writing?

I have been writing for 15 years now and publishing poems and essays (since 2011) which are both literary writings.

Why did you choose poetry out of the three genres of literature?

I will not say I chose it. I just discovered myself having the outstanding ability to write poems. I have attempted short stories but never published them. I see myself extending to fiction and drama, with time. I view art as a body with different arms that carry the overall identity of it. So, there is a representation of the entire body of art in the separate arms of it. This is my way of demonstrating the relationship among the branches of art.

What are the functions of poetry and would you say the works you have written represent these functions?

Generally, functions of a writing include (but not limited to): educating, informing, criticizing, satirizing, and so on. Poetry has these functions too since it is a type of writing. However, I think poetry may have more specific functions like: philosophizing, telling of truth, driving out of emotions, setting of morals and values, outstanding use of language to its finest form attainable and so on. Yes, my works reflect these functions. They have the high capacity to plunge one into a deep thinking about things one may either be learning for the first time or relearning in a different fashion, thus, leading to a total overhauling of the mind.

Many people seem to be less interested in poetry. What do you think are the reasons?

You are correct. Many times, I have heard that poetry is difficult to understand and that fiction and drama are easier to comprehend. I don’t think that view is wrong. Notwithstanding, I think it is due to the uniqueness of these genres. The philosophical and cryptic characteristics of poetry may be reasons why it is considered tough to read. In as much as I support participatory writing whereby everything should not be given to the readers and have then do some work to interpret the work, I also think poetry should not be extremely difficult to unravel. My book, Nature is in Everything’ has poems that are comprehensible. I think an interesting thing about my book is that one does not need to read the entire collection to feel intellectually satisfied. A poem may be so stimulating and enough at a point in time. In fact, a phrase or stanza may create a light in one’s mind and that may be on for the day or even the week. Many poetic works are like that.

Have your classical and legal backgrounds influenced your poetic writings?

Classics and law are two disciplines that have the capacity to enhance one’s reasoning and analytical functioning. So far, my writings do not have legal content. However, there are various instances of the inclusion of classical antiquity in my debut collection of poems, ‘Nature is In Everything’ which just got published. I don’t think I staged-managed it to be so. I just wrote the poems and later discovered they contain some features of classical antiquity. In the poem ‘Silence’, there is a line there that goes thus: “Silence, the telephone line through which the nine daughters of Zeus communicate with mortals…” The nine daughters being referred to here are the Muses who are in charge of different aspects of art. They are seen as the source of inspiration to artists. This is Classical Greek Mythology and literature in display. In another poem in the book, I write, “Hope brightens, like the eyes of Athene. Athene is regarded as the Greek goddess of wisdom always depicted to have glistening eyes. This poetic construction is to demonstrate the degree at which hope increases in the context being examined in my poem.

How did you write your works?

I mostly write when I conceive ideas. One significant way to conceive ideas is for me to read. That can easily create the creative spark. Other forms of arts like music, drama and visual arts can help give me ideas as well. Arts are unified in a magical inter-play. Sometimes, I force myself to write but it may not be easy to do compared to writing when what to write hits me naturally. I get pierced by ideas anywhere and anytime. So, I find a way to write it instantly. If the poem comes complete, I finish it right there. If fragmentary, I jot down the fragment and return to it later when I can go further. When I was writing,’ Nature is in Everything’, most times, I was with a blue file that contained white numbered A4 sheets which I was using as my writing pads. When I had written a lot of poems, I started typing them on my computer to prevent the loss of the poems.

What can you say are the usefulness or importance of your book – Nature Is in Everything?

The work is useful in terms of messages it contains and also in terms of the effect it can have on the reader. I think the following are the messages in the book: Nature as a metal-smith that forges life and its components and puts everything to check; The functionality of Nature in its mingling with our lives as humans; Nature’s qualification of time; Nature as an instrument for clarity in communication; The correspondence among time, seasons and Nature; Nature as a tool for reflection ; Nature as an agent for the propagation of love; Nature as the trainer of men. The work can have influence on its readers in the sense that it can inspire them to write their own works which will either extend the frontiers of nature-centered literary assessments or explore different subject-matters and themes. The work can create a sensibility and consciousness in its readers toward the utilization of nature to live a more satisfactory life.

What is your piece of advice for aspiring writers?

I have read biographies, autobiographies and interviews of writers and the message a lot of them have given on writing is, “to read a lot and sit to write habitually”. Writing just has to be your practice if you want to gain a mastery of it, just like everything we do in life with the intention of excellence. When I was writing my book, I was reading a lot of Classical authors like Virgil, Horace, Juvenal, Cicero, Julius Caesar, Plutarch, Thucydides, Herodotus, Petronius, Martial and so on. Also, I consumed contemporary authors like Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, Peter Abraham, Steve Biko, Rabindranath Tagore, Maya Angelou, Niyi Osundare and so on. Although, one can focus on books on the exact type of writing he / she does, it is still alright to read books that do not focus on the type of writing one does. Those books can still offer learning in terms of diction, subject-matters and themes.

February 1, 2025