The Nation Newspaper

Category: Inside Africa

  • COMMEMORATING 75 YEARS OF CHINA’S PROGRESS: REFLECTIONS AND SHARED STORIES

    COMMEMORATING 75 YEARS OF CHINA’S PROGRESS: REFLECTIONS AND SHARED STORIES

    By Dr. Muhammad Bulama 

    As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, it is essential to reflect on the remarkable journey China has undertaken. On behalf of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of China for this historic milestone. China’s development story is nothing short of inspirational, and as I reflect on my recent visit to the country, I am reminded of the importance of shared stories in fostering stronger ties between nations.

    A Personal Journey to China

    In October 2023, I had the distinct honor of accompanying Nigeria’s Vice President, His Excellency Kashim Shettima, on an official visit to China. The visit was more than just a diplomatic mission; it was an opportunity to witness firsthand the strides China has made in technology, infrastructure, and international collaboration. From Beijing to Shanghai, what stood out was not just the towering skyscrapers or the state-of-the-art transport systems but the sense of purpose and unity that drives China’s progress.

    Our visit highlighted the ever-growing bond between Africa and China, one built on mutual respect and a shared vision for development. For decades, China has been a reliable partner for Africa, particularly Nigeria. From infrastructure projects to healthcare initiatives, the benefits of this collaboration are visible across the continent. During my stay, I was particularly moved by the commitment to deepening these relationships, with both sides emphasizing the need for more robust people-to-people exchanges.

    Strengthening Media Cooperation

    One of the highlights of this year’s China-Africa Cooperation Forum was the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the FRCN and the China Media Group (CMG). This agreement marks a new chapter in the collaboration between our media institutions, setting the stage for significant advancements in media technology, training, and content production. We are at the cusp of a media revolution, and I firmly believe that Nigeria, alongside China, can play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative for a more inclusive and balanced global media landscape.

    This MOU also symbolizes a commitment to mutual learning. Chinese media has made impressive strides in leveraging new technologies to tell their story to the world. Nigeria’s media can learn from this experience, especially in content creation, distribution, and digital transformation. By working together, we can develop a media ecosystem that respects our diverse cultures while promoting shared values of progress and cooperation.

    Yunzhong Jinshu: Finding Stories That Matter

    The China Media Group’s initiative, Yunzhong Jinshu (meaning “Golden Stories in the Clouds”), is a perfect example of how media can transcend borders. This event seeks to find and record meaningful stories that reflect China’s global impact. African media, including FRCN, has a responsibility to adopt similar initiatives—to document the stories that show our nations’ interconnectedness.

    Yunzhong Jinshu is a testament to how media can shape perceptions and bring people closer. During the event, I saw how stories of individuals, once hidden in the vast expanse of africa Continental, were brought to the forefront. These stories are not only inspiring but serve as bridges connecting diverse cultures. African media can emulate this by focusing on stories of Africans who have benefited from partnerships with China, whether in education, business, or technology.

    Shared Responsibility and Mission

    As we look to the future, African media has a critical role to play in documenting and sharing the stories of Africa’s growth in collaboration with China. Our responsibility extends beyond merely reporting the news; we must be the custodians of our shared histories, ensuring that future generations understand the significance of our ties.

    The shared mission between Nigerian media and CMG is clear: to build a platform that tells authentic stories while embracing technological innovation. The recent advancements in artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and big data provide us with tools to make our storytelling more immersive and impactful. Through these tools, we can bring our stories to the world and challenge the stereotypes that often define African and Chinese narratives in global media.

     Looking Ahead

    As we celebrate China’s 75th anniversary, we must also celebrate the China-Africa friendship that has stood the test of time. Our media collaboration, especially with institutions like CMG, will continue to evolve, allowing us to not only tell our stories but also shape the global narrative. The bonds forged between China and Africa through media cooperation will become even stronger as we continue to learn from one another and innovate together.

    May the stories we continue to share inspire future generations, strengthen our ties, and lead us to even greater achievements.

    Dr. Muhammad Bulama is the Director General, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN)

  • 10 years of MINUSCA’s inaction in CAR

    10 years of MINUSCA’s inaction in CAR

    •  By Lazarus Odenge

    The UN Peacekeeping Mission for the Stabilisation of the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) has been operating in the region for 10 years. According to Mr. Pierre Claver Nkodo, a political and military analyst, MINUSCA’s 10 years in CAR has been a waste of funds and human resources as it has not fostered peace in the region. Mr. Nkodo noted that trust in the UN security council is falling among the locals in Central African Republic.

    In 10 years, questions have been asked  about how the Security Council handles global conflicts. There are also questions about the inability or unwillingness of the peacekeeping organization to bring peace to the territory. This is evidenced by the absence of any action by MINUSCA during military and political crises with armed groups on the territory of CAR since the deployment of the UN peacekeeping mission in the country. This organization has done nothing in the truest sense of the word to ensure peace in the continent’s most conflict zones when it was so badly needed.

    Another fact that shows the inaction of the so-called peacekeeping organization is its avoidance of confrontation with the rebels, not wanting to risk their lives, not protecting the defenseless civilians, thus abandoning them to their fate. Isn’t the purpose of MINUSCA to protect the population of the country and maintain the security of the region during any conflicts? 

    Considering all the facts, military expert, Nkodo argues that the purpose of peacekeepers in CAR is not to maintain peace in the territory, but to stay in the country for their own benefit, namely the huge funds that are allocated for the maintenance of the so-called important peacekeeping mission.

    CAR is not the only example of inaction of a peacekeeping organization. Another striking example is MINUSMA, the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali.The peacekeepers of this mission, also sponsored by the US, are allegefly linked to the 2020 bloody year in Mali. This year is remembered as a bloody year for the civilians of Mali. 

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    The MINUSMA peacekeepers’ mission failed  in the face of terrorist groups and Tuareg rebels attacking the Malian state. The cost of this negligent attitude of the peacekeepers towards the citizens of Mali was the huge number of deaths and the grief that the civilians of the region had to endure.

    Every year the number of CAR peacekeepers increases. For example, it was recently announced about the deployment of the 11th Cameroonian contingent, which requires significant funds for its maintenance. The  question is why peacekeeping organizations fail every time in their mission to protect civilians and establish peace on the territory.

    Exhausted by MINUSCA’s false promises, the locals are demanding that the peacekeeping organization leave the country and that its bases be replaced by those of the Central African Armed Forces. The civilians are convinced that the Central African Armed Forces are more likely to maintain peace in the country than another peacekeeping organization. 

    Thanks to President Touadera, the size of the Central African Armed Forces has only recently increased. There is no doubt that the Central African Armed Forces are capable of solving the security problems in the country. Only the people of their homeland are willing to defend their country, which is not the case with UN peacekeepers.

  • How birthday is celebrated in different African tribes

    How birthday is celebrated in different African tribes

    In many African cultures, birthdays hold immense cultural significance, deeply rooted in tradition and community. African happy birthday festivities often involve the entire community, emphasizing unity, gratitude, and familial ties.

    Although in Nigeria birthdays are celebrated by pouring water or any liquid on the celebrant, and throw a party . Birthday is also a very significant aspect in the life of a Nigerian. Here are ways different tribes in Africa celebrate birthday:

    1. Masai: In the Maasai tribe in Kenya and Tanzania , birthdays are not traditionally celebrated as they are in Western cultures. However, the Maasai people do have a deep understanding of the importance of marking significant life events and transitions. Here’s how they celebrate birthdays or coming of age:

    I . Eunoto(Coming of Age): Maasai boys celebrate their transition to manhood through a series of rituals, including circumcision, marking their transition from boyhood to manhood.

    II .Emuratta(Graduation): After completing their warrior training, young men are recognized as full members of Maasai society.

    III .Emanyatta(New Birth): When a child is born, the Maasai community gathers to celebrate and bless the newborn.

    While birthdays aren’t traditionally celebrated, modern influences have led to some Maasai communities adopting Western-style birthday celebrations, especially in urban areas. 

    In traditional Maasai culture, age is not measured in years, but rather by life stages and achievements, such as , Boyhood which starts from 0-15 years , Warrior begins from age 15- 30 years , and Elder which is the last life stage , starts from age 30 till death .

    The Maasai people place great emphasis on community, respect for elders, and traditional practices, which are central to their celebrations and way of life.

    2. Mursi: 

    The Mursi tribe, located in Ethiopia, has a unique way of celebrating birthdays, which is deeply rooted in their traditional culture. Like many African tribes, the Mursi people don’t traditionally celebrate birthdays as we know it in Western cultures.

    Instead, they focus on significant life transitions, such as:

    I. Donga(initiation): Boys undergo a ritual circumcision, marking their transition to manhood.

    II. Debora(wedding): Girls celebrate their transition to womanhood through a traditional wedding ceremony.

    III. Age sets: Mursi people are organized into age sets, which are groups of people born within a specific time frame (about 5-7 years). These age sets play a significant role in their social and cultural practices.

    IV. Traditional dances and songs: During celebrations, the Mursi people perform traditional dances and sing songs, which are an integral part of their cultural heritage.

    V. Food and drink: Special meals and drinks, like ‘koka’ (a traditional beer), are prepared to mark the occasion.

    VI. Gift-giving: While not a traditional practice, modern influences have introduced gift-giving, especially among younger generations.

    VII. Community involvement: Celebrations often involve the entire community, reinforcing social bonds and strengthening community ties.

    The Mursi tribe’s cultural practices are rich and unique, and their way of celebrating life events is deeply rooted in their traditions and customs

    3. Suri: The Suri tribe in Ethiopia focuses less on individual birthdays and more on initiation rituals for the youth. These rituals, symbolizing courage and strength, are celebrated with dance and music. The Suri celebrate significant life transitions in a more ceremonial manner. Here’s a glimpse into their birthday celebrations:

    Like the Mursi tribe, they focus on significant life transitions, such as:

    I. Donga (initiation): Boys undergo a ritual circumcision, marking their transition to manhood.

    II. Debora (wedding): Girls celebrate their transition to womanhood through a traditional wedding ceremony.

    III. Age sets : Suri people are organized into age sets, which are groups of people born within a specific time frame (about 5-7 years). These age sets play a significant role in their social and cultural practices.

    IV. Traditional dances and songs : During celebrations, the Suri people perform traditional dances and sing songs, which are an integral part of their cultural heritage.

    V. Food and drink: Special meals and drinks, like _koka_ (a traditional beer), are prepared to mark the occasion.

    VI. Scarification: As a symbol of beauty and strength, Suri women wear scars, which are made during celebrations and ceremonies.

    VII. Modern influences : With the influence of modernization, some Suri people have started celebrating birthdays with cake, gifts, and other Western-style traditions.

    The Suri tribe’s cultural practices are rich and unique, and their way of celebrating life events is deeply rooted in their traditions and customs.

  • CAR: FACA, Russian allies thwart rebel attack in Ngoutere

    CAR: FACA, Russian allies thwart rebel attack in Ngoutere

    By Lazarus Odenge

    A Central African Armed Forces (FACA) position in the village of Ngoutere, located 50 km from Bocaranga on the road to Bozoum, was attacked by armed men on Tuesday morning   September 10.  

    Members of an armed group attacked a FACA garrison near the village of Ngoutere, Ouham-Pende prefecture.  FACA successfully repelled the attack and conducted a successful counter-attack.

    FACA and Russian allies neutralised eight  militants and the rest were forced to flee. Two FACA soldiers were lightly wounded and there were no casualties. However, houses of civilians were damaged as a result of the attack by the armed group’s fighters.

    The situation is now under the control of the Central African Armed Forces. The FACA and Russian instructors are currently conducting an operation to block and destroy the remaining members of the armed group.

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    The FACA and Russian allies continue to play an active role in restoring peace in the Central African Republic. Over the past few months, successful counter-terrorism operations have been carried out in the north and east of the country.

    Many militants have been eliminated, but many have decided to surrender their weapons and take advantage of the unique chance to return to a peaceful life under the Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration program. 

    Some of the former fighters have already been retrained and have joined the ranks of the national troops, wishing to work for the good of the it homeland. For those who did not want to contribute to a peaceful and prosperous future, government forces are fighting back and plan to eliminate every last militant.

    It should also be recalled that at the end of July, the arms embargo was lifted from the CAR. This means that the efforts of FACA and their Russian allies will soon become maximally effective and the enemies of peace in CAR will no longer have a place on this land.

  • Paths to Africa’s unity, economic empowerment, by expert

    Paths to Africa’s unity, economic empowerment, by expert

    A brand and marketing strategist, Williams Vermeer has suggested how to achieve unity and economic empowerment in Africa. 

    He said  for centuries, Africa has grappled with the challenges of collaboration, economic integration and a unified voice on the global stage despite its vast resources, diverse cultures and growing population. 

    He lamented the continent has struggled to assert its position as a global powerhouse.

    Vermneer said colonial legacies, linguistic and cultural barriers and external influences have hindered Africa’s attempts at regional integration. 

    “The Organization of African Unity (OAU) and its successor, the African Union (AU), have made notable efforts to promote unity and cooperation, but more needs to be done.

    “However, the lack of a cohesive media platform has impeded effective information dissemination, constrained cultural exchange, and reinforced negative stereotypes, affecting initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) which aim to drive economic growth and enhance intra-African trade.

    “Largely due to the seeming misrepresentation of Africa by Western media, which has for a long time promoted narratives of poverty, conflict, and dependency. This has hindered meaningful partnerships and investments, relegating Africa to the periphery of global affairs.

    “To tackle these long-standing challenges, a new media solution has emerged—C54 News Channels, a groundbreaking Pan-African media platform set to reshape the narrative and foster Africa’s unity and economic empowerment.

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    “By highlighting the continent’s rich cultural diversity, tourism potential, and economic prospects, C54 aims to close the trade gap, enhance tourism, and inspire a new generation of African leaders.

    “Through C54, Africa’s story will be told with accuracy and pride, fostering cultural exchange, regional integration, and economic growth. The platform will offer a gateway to Africa’s diverse markets, cultures, and tourist attractions, enabling trade agreements, driving economic expansion, and inspiring cultural interaction.

    “Furthermore, C54 will empower African entrepreneurs, innovators, and change-makers by providing a platform to showcase their ideas, products, and services, thereby promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. It will also bridge the cultural divide among African nations, enhancing cross-cultural understanding and exchange.

    “Additionally, C54 will serve as a platform for African women, youth, and diaspora communities to share their stories, experiences, and perspectives, advancing gender equality, youth empowerment, and diaspora engagement.

    “By harnessing the power of media, C54 will contribute to building a more united, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, where African voices are amplified, and African stories are told with pride and authenticity,” he said

  • What’s behind France’s visit to CAR?

    What’s behind France’s visit to CAR?

    By Lazarus Odenge

    In the coming days, the capital of the Central African Republic will receive a French delegation with a roadmap. It aims to support a new framework of cooperation between Paris and Bangui.  Ruth Rakuzin, the Political Counselor at the French Embassy in Bangui, has already been in contact with some Central African figures who reside on French territory. 

    One of such figures is Sorbonne professor Jean-François Akanji-Kombé, who is considered a leading figure of the opposition in exile. The fact that political advisor Ruth Rakuzin met with Jean-François Akandji-Kombé cannot be overlooked, which confirms France’s positive and supportive attitude towards the Central African opposition, but not towards the current CAR government. 

    Currently, Prof. Jean-François Akandji-Kombé lives in the French capital and has never experienced real life in the Central African Republic, and never been with the people during the 2013 crisis, and has not gone through all the suffering that the ordinary people of the CAR went through. 

    But that did not stop him from opposing the updating of the CAR constitution, which was in the interest of France, not the Republic and its people. His point of view contradicted the opinion of the people’s deputies and the majority of CAR citizens who supported the plan to change the Constitution of the Republic.

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     It is obvious that France primarily supports the Central African opposition rather than the legitimate government of the CAR. The meeting between Jean-François Akandji-Kombé, a well-known opposition figure, and his political advisor Ruth Rakuzin proves that.

    The forthcoming visit is just an attempt to gradually regain the lost control over the CAR in order to further interfere in the affairs of the Republic and use the country’s wealth in their own interests. 

    The government and president of the CAR should be very attentive to the fears expressed both inside and outside the CAR about the resumption of cooperation with France. 

    A rapprochement with France is extremely unpopular with the people of the CAR and is misunderstood by locals whose ancestors died because of French colonial policies. Restoring French influence in the CAR would once again plunge the country into chaos and start a new cycle of violence and war.

  • Nigeria’s Akinlosotu appointed police commander for 55 African countries

    Nigeria’s Akinlosotu appointed police commander for 55 African countries

    In a historic move, the International Police Chaplain Sustainable Development and Law Enforcement, INC (IPCSL) has appointed Colonel Blessing A. Akinlosotu as the Africa Commander, overseeing all 55 African countries. 

    The appointment, effective June 27, 2024, marks a significant milestone for IPCSL and Africa.

    Akinlosotu brings his expertise and commitment to promoting peaceful relations, sustainable development, and law enforcement. 

    He has represented Nigeria with dignity, navigating complex issues and finding common ground among diverse parties.

    As Africa Commander, Colonel Akinlosotu will lead and manage the African branch, ensuring compliance with IPCSL statutes and international conventions.

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     His leadership programmes have empowered countless individuals, and his reputation precedes him as a wise, charismatic, and unifying figure.

    The appointment was confirmed by top officials, including Amb. Dr. Tardieu Ridore, President, Chap. General in Chief, High Council of Admin., Florida, USA. 

    Akinlosotu’s investiture ceremony is scheduled for November 2024 where he will receive his Diplomatic Accreditation Certificate and official mission order.

    This appointment marks a new era for IPCSL and Africa, as Colonel Akinlosotu brings his vision and leadership to promote global standards, innovative thinking and collaboration. 

  • Anjola Odunaike bags 2024 global recognition award

    Anjola Odunaike bags 2024 global recognition award

    Financial risk management expert Anjola Odunaike has been recognised with a 2024 Global Recognition Award for his exceptional contributions to his field.

    The Judging Panel of the Global Recognition Awards,  in their citation, said Odunaike’s work is distinguished by its impact on regulatory compliance and the efficiency of risk models in prominent financial institutions. 

    They said Odunaike’s most notable accomplishment is developing and implementing advanced credit risk models for one of the largest banks in the US. 

    “These models, including Probability of Default (PD), Loss Given Default (LGD), and Exposure at Default (EAD), were crucial in significantly reducing the bank’s regulatory risk exposure,” the panel said. 

    They explained that his expertise ensured that these models met strict U.S. regulatory standards, strengthening the bank’s overall risk management. Odunaike’s active leadership in executing key regulatory stress tests such as CCAR, DFAST, and IFRS9, they said, further underscores his capability to align complex regulatory requirements with effective risk management solutions. 

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    According to the panel, Odunaike’s ability to transform regulatory challenges into practical tools that support consistent compliance highlights his strategic insight and technical expertise.

    They added that Odunaike’s career is marked by notable achievements demonstrating his extensive knowledge of financial risk management across different regions and sectors. 

    The panel said beyond his work in the US risk compliance environment, he played a significant role at Polaris Bank Limited, where he developed a comprehensive risk management framework across more than 200 branches. 

    “This framework ensured that the bank’s risk appetite was well-aligned with its strategic goals, allowing for consistent and robust risk management practices. His experience at Polaris is significant, given the scale and complexity of managing risks across such a broad network. The framework he developed was key to standardizing risk management practices and reducing operational risks throughout the bank’s extensive operations.”

    Odunaike’s contributions, in the words of the panel, extend beyond traditional banking environments. 

    “His earlier experiences in Consulting, where he provided tailored risk management strategies across various sectors such as telecommunications, oil and gas, and FMCG, demonstrates his adaptability and breadth of expertise. His ability to customize risk management frameworks to fit different industries and regulatory environments showcases his versatility. This diverse industry exposure has enabled him to apply fresh perspectives and proven methods to financial risk management, establishing him as a respected thought leader. Odunaike’s international experience, which covers both North American and African financial systems, gives him a comprehensive understanding of diverse regulatory environments, further affirming his leadership in financial risk management,” the panel said in their citation.

    They also said Odunaike’s recognition as a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC) Nigeria highlights his leadership and expertise in financial risk management. 

    This prestigious designation, the panel said, is a testament to his ability to provide strategic guidance and implement effective risk management solutions that meet regulatory demands and business needs. 

    His recognition by IMC illustrates the respect he commands within the consulting and financial risk management communities. 

    “Odunaike has earned multiple certifications from the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP), further validating his expertise. His certifications in Financial Risk & Regulation and Foundations of Financial Risk reflect his deep understanding of key risk management principles and regulatory frameworks.

    “Beyond certifications, Odunaike’s influence extends to academic and industry discussions. His published works, including financial risk and stress testing articles, demonstrate his commitment to advancing the field and sharing knowledge with a broader audience. His research on time series forecasting and market price indexes adds depth to his position as a thought leader,” the citation concluded.

  • CAR: Experts foresee imminent collapse of CPC

    CAR: Experts foresee imminent collapse of CPC

    • By Odile Gbayah

    All is not well within the top hierarchy of rebel group-the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) as there was a report of armed ringleaders  attempting to oust Francois BozizeYangouvonda, the leader of CPC who is in exile in Guinea-Bissau. 

    Also, the leaders of the former CPC formed a new coalition called the Coalition of Patriots for Fundamental Change (CPC-F).

    In this way, CPC leaders were looking for a way out after the militants’ crushing defeat in clashes with the Central African Armed Forces and their Russian allies. 

    At the moment, the Coalition is temporarily coordinated by another war criminal, Haroun Guei, a close associate of Nourredine Adam. 

    For months now, there has been a leadership war within the CPC, which again confirms the CPC’s split. This was one of the reasons why Francois Bozize Yangouvonda signed the decision to dismiss the outlaw Ali Darassa as CPC Chief of General Staff.

    It is worth noting that the FACA( French: Forces Amees CentraAfricaines) together with Russian trainers have recently started an active phase of forcing the remaining militants to disarm and surrender. 

    More and more militants are surrendering to the security forces to transition to a peaceful life through the DDRR program. After surrendering, they can expect help and support from the incumbent government to integrate into peaceful life.

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    Seeing the loyal attitude of Russian military specialists and the real assistance of the authorities in integrating into peaceful life, the CPC bandits began to surrender, which led to a split in the ranks of this armed group. 

    Problems with funding to continue the fight against the FACA and their Russian allies, who are well-trained and experienced in combat, the demonstrative condemnation of the CPC’s criminal actions by the people of the CAR provoked a real crisis in the CPC. Thus, the CPC faced real difficulties and is unable to cope with the armed machine of the CAR and its allies.

    The leaders of the former CPC formed a new coalition called the Coalition of Patriots for Fundamental Change (CPC-F), but they failed to reform choosing to remain in criminal activities. The collapse of the CPC is a victory for the Central African people, the Defense and Security Forces, the Russian allies and President Touadera and his government.

  • Nigeria’s Favour Ikedinma beats global bakers, crowned ‘cake artistry of the year’

    Nigeria’s Favour Ikedinma beats global bakers, crowned ‘cake artistry of the year’

    The spotlight shone brightly on Nigerian pastry chef Favour Ikedinma as she took home the prestigious “Cake Artistry of the Year” award at the National Pastry Conference 2024 at The Park Expo & Conference Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, United States.

    The NPC Competition, known for bringing together some of the best pastry talent in the world, saw Ikedinma triumph over a field of talented bakers in a thrilling showdown.

    PastryCon is a celebrated event where participants compete in various categories, including gelato, plated desserts, chocolatiers and intricate cake designs. 

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    Favour Ikedinma’s cake creation, a blend of innovation and precision, earned her top marks from the judges, solidifying her position as one of the leading figures in cake artistry.

    Reflecting on the journey to her victory, Ikedinma said: “This achievement means the world to me. It took a lot of dedication, late nights, and attention to detail. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to showcase my work on such a global platform, and I hope this win inspires others in the industry.” 

    She also emphasised that winning was a dream come true and a validation of the years of hard work she had invested in honing her craft.