Category: New Woman

  • Wandering in the desert

    Wandering in the desert

    When you think about the desert, the image that readily comes to mind is a state of emptiness. In a love desert you would be thinking of a lost love and trying to fill in the gaps in your own way. It is at this stage that the one at the center of an emotional storm becomes a wanderer. No matter how hard you try, it may just be difficult to get your bearing.

    Even when it seems like you have gotten a substitute, you just can’t let go and your mind just keeps wandering and wandering. But you can move on when you forget the negatives and build on the positive emotions that you had in the past. Here

    you can scroll down memory lane recalling the sweet memories you encountered here and there to get the emotional peace that you deserve. Dreaming about it would certainly lift your spirit taking you close to the fairy tale stories that you have heard about. Still in doubt? No need to do that to yourself. Relax and cross over a bountiful emotional harvest. The type that happens once in a while and one that brings lots of happiness. Here you would find trees and shrubs of affection growing and churning out love branches that inspires and affects others. From the trees you reap fruits that fill the hearts with tears of joy.

    Read Also; I saw music as a hobby, not a career – Yemi Alade

    Alternatively, you may find yourself stranded in an emotional desert. Here all you are bound to be feeling is a state of hopelessness, helplessness and rejection. But the big question is what where you hoping to get in this emotional Sahara in the first place. It is obvious that the emotional cargo that you have decided to pitch your tent with is as stranded as you are. No matter how hard you try, you guys aren’t going to go far.

     The one you desperately trying to cruise with it has little or nothing to offer and this state of dryness isn’t going to do you anyone any good. To get a better experience, it is better for you to move out of the desert to locate someone who would provide emotional sunshine as well as take you to the next level.

    In Coleridge’s Poem, “The Rime of the ancient Mariner the Wandering Albatross is actually referred to as ‘bird with good omen’.  Here we are also told about the metaphor of ‘an albatross around his neck indicating an unwanted burden causing anxiety or hindrance.

    Interestingly, in the days when sailing was popular, the bird often accompanied ships for days, not merely following it but wheeling in wide circles around it without ever being observed to land on the water. It continued it flight, apparently not tired, in temptuous as well as modest weather. It is one of the largest birds in the world with the largest wingspan measuring up to about 3.5 meters. From the records, you would also find that the bird is one of the best studied species of bird in the world. Distance travelled each year is hard to measure but one banded bird was recovered travelling about 6000 km in twelve days. They spent most of their life on the wing returning to land only to court a mate and to breed.

    The behavior of the bird is also very interesting having a range of displays from screams, whistles, grunts and bill clapping. When courting they actually spread their wings, wave their heads as well as rap their bills together.

    Interestingly, these birds the bones from its wings are used to produce needles; tobacco pipe stems fishhooks and flutes that would ultimately churn out romantic lyrics and songs.

    Of course, you would agree with yours truly that there are a number of romantic connections with this type of bird. However, if this bird is taken away to a lonely desert, so many things would happen. First it is going to lose its clear white color at adulthood. Life without emotional water can be a nightmare and of course, life in the desert is going to be very lonely.

    Instead of languishing in the desert, it is better to take emotional flight with a great pal. On the other hand when you want to take a flight, it is better to seek emotional refuge in a love garden? Here there would be a variety of fruits to choice from and you would certainly get something you desire.

    Conversely if you are in an emotional desert, all you would find are dry bones.  Nothing good is ever going to come out of this kind of relationship because the environment is stiff and the dust of confusion won’t take you far. You would definitely be far from your low height and all the lullabies that you are used to won’t sound nice in this environment. To make a headway this lovebird must move out of this environment to a better environment to look and feel good.

  • Osun gets new Commissioner of Police 

    Osun gets new Commissioner of Police 

     A new Commissioner of Police, Bzigu Dali Kwazhi, has been posted to Osun State to replace CP Isyaku Mohammed.

    Mohammed had assumed office in the state on Nov. 10, 2023.

    In a statement by SP Yemisi Opalola,  Osun Police Spokesperson, the new CP reported at the state police command in Osogbo on Thursday.

    “The deployment is sequel to the recent redeployment of former Commissioner of Police, CP Isyaku Mohammed,” she stated

    Opalola added that the new CP was born in Mildu Shalmi, Madagali L.G.A of Adamawa State.

    “The new Commissioner of Police holds  B.A in History/Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria and was SEC 45 alumnus of the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) Kuru, Jos.

    Read Also: I risked my life to Abuja for Osun’s sake, says Adeleke 

    “He joined the Nigeria Police Force in May 1992 as Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police (Cadet ASP).

    “He has served in various capacities at different states of the country and outside Nigeria.

    “He also served at different departments of the Nigeria Police, namely Administration, Operations and Investigations like a colossus.

    “He was a Contingent Commander, Nigeria Formed Police Units to the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL).

    “He was the Pioneer Police logistics Officer/NCC, Team Coordinator ECOWAS mission, Guinea Bissau and Chief of Training, Department of Peacekeeping Operations, FHQ Abuja among others,” She said.]

    (NAN)

  • Red wine Christmas: Pamper yourself

    Red wine Christmas: Pamper yourself

    Babes, but why…? Why did they have to make it mandatory for us to wear a red dress?”

      Those were the words of Tinu, the geologist, who came out of her room that Monday evening, complaining about the choice of colour for the estate’s ‘Red wine Christmas’ party, grabbed a cup of water and walked back in still fuming about the matter. 

    “What if somebody does not have one? What if I didn’t have one? I would now be forced to order for one by force … imagine…!”  Hello o … Evelyn, why are you not talking?” quizzed the angry Tinu, who was somewhat suspicious of my silence.

    But Tinu’s complaint was the last thing on my mind as I busied myself with the bowl of catfish pepper soup in front of me. The head was like a hard knot I needed to crack – in fact, the entire dish was a mystery to me. With every sip, I tried to decipher the ingredients, particularly the spices, used in preparing it.

    My silence seemed to worry her as she poked her head from inside the room and said: “Evelyn …, no be you I dey talk to. Wetin you dey do sef?”

    “Hmmm…so sorry my sister,” I apologised as I caught my breath after swallowing a large chuck of fish. “This pepper soup want finish me. Na wetin you take cook am?”

    The words seemed to draw a smile on her face and for one minute, it took her attention from the red dress issue, compelling her to explain the process and just as she concluded, the doorbell rang. It was Sexy Jola and Ada. And they were looking fabulously gorgeous – all in red dresses.

    “See fine babes! Gals, you fine. I love your outfit,” I praised.

    “What are you girls doing? The party has started downstairs; and Christabel, the Fashionista and Tamara have outdone themselves. Everything is on point. Oya na make we dey go,” urged Jolaolu. But on seeing my plate, she joined me at the dinning and raised the alarm over my plate.

    “This one na cheating o. Tinu, I thought we were very close. How come na only Evelyn dey enjoy this banquet?”

    Read Also; BOOK REVIEW: The story behind the glory

    “No vex, I still have some in the pot. I will pack some for you after the party,” pleaded Tinu.

    “Pack for me too o. No be only Jola like better thing,” Ada interjected and joined us at the table.

    “I will, dear. Before you walked in I was complaining to Evelyn about the choice of colour for the dress. They should have just left it open and asked that we wear an evening dress or something formal …” and so began another session of complaint by Tinu.

    “I think we ladies should look beyond the colour to what inspired the party. Let’s just relax and unwind and pamper ourselves and share happy moments with our loved ones. That’s my take on the whole thing o,” Ada offered.

    “I agree with you, Ada. Abeg Tinu relax joor,” I urged.

    Reiterating my words, Jola stated: “I too didn’t like them mandating us to wear red dress. And what is this thing about the colour red that people usually associate with Christmas that made them choose it as a colour to wear sef? I didn’t like it initially. But then my husband reminded me of one red dress I haven’t worn in a long while. And after seeing the sparkle in his eyes when I wore it, I knew tonight na tonight. I forgot about the reason I was fusing in the first place,” laughed Jola. We laughed too, stood up and left for the party.

  • ‘Hair, for me, is celebratory’

    ‘Hair, for me, is celebratory’

    For multidisciplinary artist Jessica Soares, beauty standards start with one’s hair. The 33-year-old, a self-taught artist, with a background in Marketing from Redeemer’s University, has since become a passionate voice that encourages people, particularly women, to embrace their beauty.  Her compelling recent debut exhibition, tagged ‘Who We Are When The Glory is Gone’, held at Rele Gallery, Lagos, delves into the profound emotional and artistic journey of as she wrestles alopecia—a condition characterised by hair thinning and loss. Soares lives with this condition which she inherited from her mother. Through her creative voice, she speaks on her journey and more. EVELYN OSAGIE writes

    Beauty: Why is alopecia such an issue

    It is important because hair is important to every woman. Imagine you having to deal with the thought of losing your hair all the time compared to others who have healthy hair. You go to the salon and you’d hear sad remarks about your hair. Hair is a very important aspect of beauty. Beauty standards start with your hair.

    Beauty to me

    The world has projected beauty to be of a certain standard. Even if you don’t have hair, some people will ask you ‘When are you going to grow your hair?’ Some men even think that not having hair is about you just wanting to be dominating, be in control of the man. There are different myths around not having hair that many people are still battling with.

    Hair, for me, is celebratory. If I have hair, I am very happy. I try to do what I can with it knowing that in the next few weeks, I may not have them. If I don’t have them, it is still fine for me. It is a win or lose situation. I am happy when I have it and when I don’t; I am doing whatever I can. I am coming to an acceptance with it and there will be a day that I will completely go bald because there is nothing left to keep.

    Relationship of a woman to her hair

    The woman’s hair is a crowning glory. In Yoruba, it is called ‘Eleda’ or ‘Ori Ade.’ People would see hair as what defines a woman. Imagine you being without your crown, who are you as a person.That is why I ask the question, “Who Are We When the Glory is Gone?’ Does that make me less of a woman? Does that make me less beautiful? That is where all that was coming from.

    My journey

    It has been very good. I suffered from the condition so this is just me documenting my experience and what I have been going through since I was a child. I inherited the condition from my mother and my mother also inherited it from her mother. It is hereditary.

    My mother often wore wigs to conceal her hair loss, opposing wearing scarves, the more appropriate option. My grandmother also hid her hair beneath scarves, becoming a mystery as people never saw her without her head covered. I wish I could have told her before she passed. It had a name and it was okay. Although my hair played a profound role in my life because of hereditary alopecia, I only discovered the name and nature of her condition in 2020 during the pandemic, when my hair suddenly fell out again.

    This transformative moment compelled me to delve deeper into my research on the health condition, reshaping my perspective and inspiring my art. I shifted from wishing for voluminous hair to embracing vulnerability, a pivotal step I took at the Rele Art Foundation in 2021. My art became a canvas for documenting my journey, from childhood experiences to evolving self-perception and strategies for life with alopecia.

    Read Also; BOOK REVIEW: The story behind the glory

    My research findings

    During my research, I found that the male folks also suffer from alopecia. It is not just for children. The male suffers. There are different kinds of alopecia: some affect the back of the head, some right in the middle or in the front. Some men don’t really care whether they have hair or not.

    My art journey

    Having no formal training about art, I went ahead to learn to develop and build her works through different mediums of art. I nurtured my passion into pursuing art as a full time job, studying and creating with different styles and techniques to finally find that one unique style that differentiates me and truly tells my story

    My works express/show my love for hair and the struggles I faced having to grow hair as a child. My creative drive for art grew from story books; my grandma would encourage me by always making me makeshift tracing papers (using cooking oil and plain paper).

     In 2021, I was selected to be part of the Rele Arts Foundation Young Contemporaries Residency and have gone on to take part in the group exhibition ‘Good Things Come In Threes’, (2022), Rele Gallery, Los Angeles, as well solo exhibition ‘Who We Are When The Glory Is Gone’ (2023) Rele Gallery, Lagos.

     My exhibition beyond the human hair

    My works draw from personal experiences in exploring the complexities and social notions around women’s hair in contemporary society. Combining drawing and painting techniques, my feature elaborately detailed figures swathed in colourful fabrics. My works also utilise the Adire fabric in exploring issues of legacy and familial bond.  I want people to be able to relate and see themselves in it as well in different areas of their lives. This is about expectations and the things people are going through as individuals. The times with hair are moments of vibrant expression, while my thinning patches symbolise life’s cycles, prompting me to cut her hair. I can be vulnerable enough to define myself this way. Even if it’s not hair you’re dealing with, just know that it doesn’t define you. With my works, I just don’t want to talk about hair alone. I want to talk about different things bothering women that are not able to speak about. I will be their voice and use my art to speak about it.

    My connection with the exhibition curator, Wana Udobang

    Udobang played a vital role in creating my exhibition. It was much more than curatorial passion for her. We met during the Young Contemporary Art that we had last year at the National Museum. She suffered alopecia, which led her to shave her hair as well; so, it was more or less a deep connection for her and she just wanted the show because it tells her story as well. It was more or less a match made in heaven.

    On my installation that looks like a salon

    Due to what I am experiencing, going to the salon has been a lot for me because people are constantly asking me about my hair and it was always a problem for me. I would rather stay at home and have people. I am a very shy person and probably always the last to leave the salon because I didn’t want people to see my hair. Growing up, I just found comfort in the home service for my hair.This is like the home service set up in my house and this is called ‘Jessica Salon.’

    Inspiration behind my exhibition

    I intend to bring more awareness into the situation and to let people know that it is not okay to think that women without hair are not enough or not beautiful enough. This is to make people be comfortable with whatever they are going through and not let a condition define you. The truth of the matter is that you are still beautiful in and out. You should not let the world project whatever they see on you. I see myself taking the campaign outside the country. I want to speak more on it and be more elaborate on it.

  • I will stay indoors till 2024 – Vee laments traffic situation in Lagos

    I will stay indoors till 2024 – Vee laments traffic situation in Lagos

    Singer, actress, and reality TV star, Victoria Adeleye, popularly known as Vee has expressed her concern about the surge of people attending social gatherings and the prevalence of fake products in Nigeria.

    Vee took to the X platform to share her thoughts on the current situation in Lagos, where she lamented the increasing chaos as Christmas approaches.

    She cried out over the prices of things soaring as well as the rapid climb of fake products being sold in Lagos.

    Read Also: I want to be unnecessarily s3xy in December, says BBNaija’s Veeiye

    Vee also called out restaurant owners slamming them for their inability to handle a lot of people by this time of the year.

    She expressed that most restaurants and clubs cannot handle the pressure that comes with the holiday season.

    She also cried out over the traffic in Lagos which she termed as crazy.

    Assuring of her indoor activity for the end of the year, she promised her fans to be out by January 2024.

    She said: “Restaurants and clubs clearly can’t handle the amount of people flooding into Lagos. Concerts are starting at 2 am. The traffic is crazy. Cab prices are extortionate. Everything is fake. Everything is expensive. I’ll see all of you in January abeg.”

  • Staying above waters this season

    Staying above waters this season

    The holiday is here already. With the term, “Seasons Greetings”, comes the headache of how to cope with the holidays, not with the hike in prices vis-à-vis inflation. How does a sister cope as Christmas is less than a week away and the year runs to the end ?

    Here are some suggestions that would keep your sanity and pocket intact this season.

    Coping with Christmas countdown

    Everyone thinks that Christmas Day is the time you can feel stressed, depressed or lonely, but for many people the lead up to Christmas can be just as overwhelming. 

    For a lot of people that means sorting out your plans, who is coming and who isn’t, organise food, buy presents and put up the decorations.These are just the basic, most common stressors. We know that for many people, there is a raft of other, often more complex issues, at play. Now that the countdown to Christmas has begun, here are just a few tips for keeping your mental wellbeing in check: 

    Stay healthy – eating well, exercising and getting enough sleep can help you cope with Christmas stress. Remember, overindulging in food and alcohol often adds to your stress and guilt. 

    Plan – Make sure you do a budget and stick to it. Don’t overspend. Work out your shopping list and get it done early to avoid the crowds and the risk of making last-minute, over expensive purchases! 

    Be creative – if your money is not stretching as far as you’d like with the rising cost of living, then look at how you can do things differently.  Consider a simpler version of Christmas lunch – perhaps a BBQ or picnic and ask guests to bring a plate. 

    Get crafty and make some presents or give the gift of your time – maybe a voucher to do some dog walking or gardening – there’s always something you can do that others need! 

    Connect – If you’re separated from your family and friends by distance, make sure you stay in touch with them online or by phone.  If you are on your own, there are ways to connect with others such as volunteering or attending local community events such as Carols by Candlelight.    

    Read Also: StarTimes unwraps festive season with promo

    Be realistic – Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect or the same as other years.  Situations and families change….children grow up, relatives pass away, some parents may divorce.  Nothing stays the same forever.  Just make sure that you acknowledge and appreciate any feelings of loss or disappointment you may have and realise that its normal to feel that way. 

    Chill out – Amongst all the Christmas parties, planning and shopping, it is important that you stop and take some time for yourself.  Go for a walk, listen to some music, take a long bath or read a book.  Even if its just for 15 minutes at a time, it can make the world of difference. 

    If you feel like it is all getting on top of you, remember its okay to reach out and get some help.  Talking to someone can be great to put things into perspective.

    • CULLED FROM: https://bq.org.au/bike-life-blog/christmas-countdown/
  • Do you December: A collective pot

    Do you December: A collective pot

    Hello o,” came the call and startling knock on my door that morning. It was raving hot all night and I was feeling really hot. I was just coming out of the kitchen, naked with a cup of chilled banana smoothie in hand, when I heard the knock.

    Fearing that Tinu would barge in on me like my lovely friend Sexy Jola does, I ran into the bedroom to grab a wrapper, while the persistent Tinu went on, “Evelyn, are you there? Are you sleeping! Please, come downstairs.”

    By the time I got to the door, she had left. But I found a note, stating: “Come with a sack and a bowl”. That was when it dawned on me that our Food Ministers – Christabel and Tinu – have arrived with their booty. I rushed to the bathroom, took my bath faster than Flash, the legendary cartoon figure; donned a top and jeans shorts, and ran downstairs with my sack and bowl in hand.

    We had named Christabel and Tinu, ‘Food Ministers’, after the former had suggested that we borrow a leaf for the Black Friday concept to have a collective pool that would afford us the opportunity of engaging in affordable bulk buying. They came up with a list of household essentials: we vetted it and came up with a final list. Each then contributed an agreed amount towards the project.The duo later engaged the service of Mummy Yinusa of the ‘Coconut water’ saga, who, in turn, got an older friend, skilled in the bush markets (local wholesale market for foodstuff in town), involved. 

    I rushed out in excitement to find that other ladies were there already except Jolaolu and Tamara, who were were missing and just while I was about reaching the gathering, I saw Sexy Jola rushing down with a huge sack and very big basin.

    “Na trailer, you wan come carry wey you carry your house dey come,” Mummy Fawaz teased.

    “You took the words from my mouth, Mummy Fawaz. Wetin be this,” screamed Ada, pointing to Tamara who was rolling a drum towards us. We  burst into laughter as she joined us. 

    “You ladies go kill person o! I’m thinking of going back to bring a bigger basin myself,” I laughed.

    “Stay there! I don’t have time to start dragging bag and basin about,” a laughing Tamara stated and placed her drum by the pickup truck near the ebelebo tree.

    Read Also: How to meet rich, high-profiled men in December – Toke Makinwa advises ladies

    Tinu and Christabel have done a good job in arranging the wares for each lady. It made it easy for us to just pick your wares; even the cow had been properly divided.

    “See how dem dey look o, See how dem people dey look,” sang Tamara, referring to other neighbours, who were watching from their balcony.

    “Na pepper them things,” Mummy Fawaz said, while handing over her sack to her sons who  carried it to their flats. Seeing how heavy it was, I asked Tamara to assist me in carrying mine when I’m done.

    Christabel cleared her throat and asked us to gather round. “Ladies, you gave us an assignment and as you can see, we have delivered,” she announced. “Thanks to Mummy Yinusa and Yeye Ajoke.This is surely going to be a merry Christmas. I call it ‘Do you December’.”

    “Indeed, it would be a December to remember,” I concurred.

    “Fortunately for us, we made the arrangement ahead of the recent cash crunch as if we saw what was coming. Women are prophets indeed,” Ada added.

    “Oya, make una carry go…enjoy,” urged Christabel. 

  • ‘My husband is the master behind my compositions’

    ‘My husband is the master behind my compositions’

    Gospel music artiste, Udeme Udom, rose from the trenches of life to become a public relations strategist after being orphaned at an early age. She has since become a diehard optimist, who is inspiring lives through music.This mother of three, who is married to singer and songwriter Richard Udom, believes a woman is the spice of every home while the husband is the tree that keeps the family together. She is also multi-talented voice-over artiste, creative director and writer. In this interview with EVELYN OSAGIE, she shares her passion for music, God and orphans.

    Growing up for me was quite challenging. I didn’t have the luxury of life, many people don’t usually do. It is often said when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade out of it. Losing my parents early traumatised me through primary and secondary school but I overcame when I decided I was going to be the best version of myself. I am still on that journey. I have become an optimistic woman with a ‘can- do’ attitude in the face of adversity. Nothing can shake me off balance any more.

    Ironically, while growing up, I wanted to become a journalist or a lawyer. A lawyer was not an option as I couldn’t afford the cost because I trained myself through school. I ended up as a Broadcast Journalist.

    My passion for the young

    Besides music, I am also passionate about young people. I love to groom young girls while sharing my optimism and enthusiasm to spur them to thrive without limit. I am passionate about impacting the lives of orphans. Growing up for me as an orphan was horrendous. I don’t want to see orphans suffer. I want to own an NGO that goes to orphanage homes, feed, clothe and sponsor their education. As God keeps me alive and prospers me, I will do it.

    My years in the media

    I have been in the media industry for 12 years. I started my media journey as a radio presenter. That was where music found me. I ‘ve since went on to become a Public Relations practitioner.

    My music journey

    Music is my passion. For me, singing is not just a passion but a gift from God. I actually don’t see music as a career but as a ministry. It is a missionary assignment that I do temporarily since I received messages from pastors and prophets that I have a calling in the music ministry. I have tried to marry my career and ministry alongside but I know someday in the nearest future I will face music ministry squarely.

    The journey has been beautiful. I have done music for over 25 years, now but I started music professionally 10 years ago when we released the first album. I have two albums of 20 tracks together with my husband. My husband is the master behind my compositions. He arranges and rearranges my music to give it the best. He is a music instructor and my support system in music. I’ve just released a new inspirational single entitled Amazing God – it tells of how wonderful God is; when we call on him, He answers.The release of my second album “Faithful God” in 2022 and it’s streamed on digital stores has been encouraging. Testimonies from friends and fans have been inspiring.

    Challenges you encountered

    Doing music is expensive. At some point I thought of throwing in the towel. I’ve even asked God to reassure me if He truly has called me into the ministry. I have invested millions into the ministry. I have made sacrifices. I don’t want to struggle to do ministry. In this ministry, you have to lobby, make calls, and make connections. And I don’t know how to do that. So, I only rely on God to carry me. Getting professionals to work with you is another huddle. You cannot do music alone. No singer can sing, play the instruments; backup, produce and do video cover alone. These are man power that must be part of your team. If they don’t believe in your ministry, they won’t work with you or take what you offer them. And then, you’d keep losing good hands and searching for replacements. Musicians are always in search of the highest paying platform except they are God sent. And, unfortunately, record label business is not trending in the gospel music ministry that is where all these could have been easily managed. Funding is another huge challenge – sponsorship and financing are hard to come by. The church should begin to fund gospel music artistes. The banks should start funding gospel music too.

    Inspiration behind my songs

    Most times, I don’t create songs. God gives me songs in my dream and I just sing it. Other times, my husband sings the tunes and we work on the lyrics together on the keyboard. My songs are inspirational and it is aiming at soul winning. My songs are inspirational; and they are aiming at touching lives by inspiring people to have a positive outlook, and soul-winning. 

    Kind of music I enjoy

    I love rock, afrobeat and highlife. They are my styles of music. My style of music is unique. I do African blend of Igbo and Southsouth music as well as English contemporary music. It is rare to find singers who can deliver contemporary music and African music very well. I enjoy stage performances because I have the luxury of expressing myself to my audience. 

    My most memorable moments

    My most memorable moments in the course in my music career was when I got  Pastor Kunle Ajayi to feature on my song Bo-Itoro (Take All the Praise) It is on all digital stores. It was such a remarkable memory I am still yet to get over.

    My take on Nigerian music industry

    The Nigerian music industry is making remarkable impact across the world more than before.The Industry is, arguably, one of the largest in the world. It is a huge economic force that is growing rapidly and it is projected to grow more in the coming years. Afrobeat artistes sell out premier venues abroad and locally. However, we are not there yet, we hope to see gospel music receiving sponsorship and support as those in the circular industry.That will encourage gospel music ministry in Nigeria. I appreciate what Pastor Paul Adefarasin and Pastor Chris Oyakhilome are doing to encourage gospel artistes. They have been seen to celebrate encourage and support gospel musicians in Nigeria. 

    Read Also: ‘There is no one like you’ – Josh2funny’s wife celebrates husband’s birthday

    Marrying both careers along with family life

    Actually, it hasn’t been an easy venture balancing work with family and ministry. But God is helping me to balance taking care of my family, while working and doing ministry. My husband makes it easy when he covers up for me in the areas I can’t meet up. That does the magic because I definitely cannot be everywhere at the same time. I must say that I feel so blessed being married to a wonderful man, who does not classify roles at home. We both make it work by covering up for one another.

    Being a woman

    Womanhood means kindness, gentleness, compassion, assertiveness, strong-willed and powerful, loving and intelligent. Being a woman means being myself unabashedly. While sharing my ideas, pushing boundaries and finding my own voice. Although gender is classified, it should never restrict women to the cultural boundaries of how a woman is expected to be. In the family, a woman is a support system to her husband and family. We, women, are the spice every home needs to be sweet. In modern times, globally, women are no longer limited to the traditional role of care-givers but are financial supporters which place extra demand on them as well.

    Beauty to you

    For me, beauty is the virtue of the body as virtue is the beauty of the soul. It is inside out. 

    My fashion style

    I have a different style for each occasion. The occasion depicts my style. I am a very creative and stylish woman. Since, I am a career woman, I dress corporately to work, dress as the occasion demands as a wife and dress distinctly also as a music minister. 

    Fashion item I cannot do without

    My bag is one fashion item I cannot do without. I love bags.

    My escape

    I relax by going on a picnic to fun places. I love travelling, reading and going on retreat. 

    What’s next or new

    My latest single  “Amazing God” official Video is out on YouTube. Bo-Itoro official video Ft. Pastor Kunle Ajayi is coming soon too. I hope to partner music marketing sponsor.

    My advice to aspiring gospel singers

    It is a lot of work. Be ready for it. If God has called you, He will carry you through.

  • ‘Beauty is being comfortable in your skin’

    ‘Beauty is being comfortable in your skin’

    Hottest filmmaker in town Princess Zainab Jummai Ado Bayero is set to premiere a documentary on her late father, Alhaji Ado Bayero of Kano, who ruled from 1963 to 2014. In the film, entitled: My Father, The Emir, A Portrait of Ado Bayero, the vocal filmmaker chronicles the life and times of her father as the longest-reigning monarch in the history of Kano. In this chat with EVELYN OSAGIE, she shares her film journey, on how women in the North are breaking boundaries.

    Growing up for you that impacted the woman you became

    I grew up loving books I’m an introvert I love fashion I was raised by a string woman who instilled in me the virtues of being independent, ambitious and been honest and brave. My father was also strict but he was kind and loving to me; and during Durbar, watching him ride on his horse was always exciting. He didn’t really like me watching movies. I have fond memories of him making me watch discovery channels or history channels growing up. I also read a lot. These two hobbies and my love of history sparked the storytelling in me. Since I was interested in creating, I figured movies would be perfect for me.

    Before movie production

    I’ve always loved writing but I never published I guess I was thinking it’s just a hobby I guess I was trying to find a path until last year I decided to try the world of movies.

    My filmmaking journey

    The film, entitled: My Father, The Emir, A Portrait of Ado Bayero, is a piece of Nigeria history from the eyes of an iconic leadfilm chronicles Bayero’s journey as a young prince of the Fulani caliphate in the ancient city of Kano, his childhood, his achievements and his record as the longest reigning monarch in the history of Kano and Africa. I had decided to make a documentary rather than writing historical books, because documentaries are really easy and cool to watch these days. And I decided on making a documentary on my late father on his life and times as a powerful, influential monarch is my first project. I wanted people to have a feel of the historic and cultural beauty of the north, and that of a great and enduring dynasty told in in documentary format. In addition to the fact that it is a daughter telling the story of her father makes it unique and different, it reveals another side of Nigeria, which is the royal culture aspect.

    The idea was inspired by my mom who I discussed ideas of what my first movie project should be about. She advised that one on the life and times of my father would make a wonderful documentary. And after much thought, I decided on it and began researching the subject.

    That was the beginning of my journey of becoming a filmmaker. And that was last year.

    From pre-production, writing, researching, filming post production, it took a period of six to seven months. I began writing the script last November, and began shooting in January; then I wrapped it up in June. And now it’s ready for the screens. Apart from the screen, I am working on getting it on different streaming platforms for a global audience.

    My father’s qualities that inspired the film

    My father, the late Ado Bayero is a revered Muslim leader, who is regarded as the longest-serving Emir of Kano. He was renowned as a successful businessman and one of the strongest and powerful Emirs in Northern part of the country. He was a natural born leader and really charismatic. I am really inspired by the fact he was someone who believed in unity, peace and harmony. He was a detrabalised Nigerian with friends from all walks of life and from different religious backgrounds and tribes. He encouraged acceptance which was rare for a northern man. Even till date not much people from the north are so accepting. That’s why there’s so much division in Nigeria, we need more men like that. He loved to protect people and wanted the citizens to have comfortable stable lifestyles. I think he would have been really disappointed with the current economic crisis and the insecurities and would have encouraged the political leaders to work harder to create peace, safety and try to stabilise the economy.

    Challenges encountered as first time filmmaker

    As the writer, producer, narrator and director of my first movie, it was a challenging and yet rewarding experience for me. I hope people support this project, as one by a young woman in a male dominated industry

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu donates 300 vehicles to security agencies

    As a woman in a male dominated field, it’s never easy. And as a Muslim royal from Northern Nigeria, it’s ten times tougher. I’m from a conservative society and women in the Royal families are not usually in the spotlight. The belief is women should be seen not heard. But today, women are breaking boundaries. I’ve encountered so many obstacles in the making of this documentary and that has impact on my timeline for premiering it. I’ve even been sabotaged by members of my dad’s family but I’m still holding on. I’m fighting to be free of the shackles of a patriarchal system: and I’m promoting the North in a positive light. I think in future, they will appreciate what I’m doing for the northerners that they don’t see it now. I’m going against the ideals, so the odds are stacked against me. I am open to partnerships and sponsorships with people who appreciate history and culture. 

    Being a woman, particularly from the North

    As a woman from the north, it’s tough and for me. Being different in a Conservative society was stifling. It was crazy because I was judged for been half southern. I was perceived as not part of the culture. I had a different mindset. I had dreams of being so much more than a typical religious girl. In the North, girls aren’t encouraged to be ambitious or strive to be more than marriage. Don’t get me wrong, being a wife and mom is a great duty as a woman, but there’s so much more. Muslim girls in the North need more outlets need to be exposed and have a different mindset to try and achieve more.

    I’m shy and calm but I’m opinionated and not submissive. When I was younger I tried to conform to the proper Fulani girl. I knew I was fighting a part of me – the Edo part. I tried to kill it because the society I was raised in was against that nature; but as I grew older I had to embrace that fiery part of me today. I’m a modern woman ready to be on a grand stage. Islam doesn’t oppress women so it’s not wrong to be out there. There are not many opportunities for girls in North. I hope to help girls in the future. 

    Beauty to you

    For me, beauty is to be comfortable in your own skin; embracing your flaws and been natural. I’m not a makeup person. I love being natural. I love my skin and I feel confident without makeup. When I do put on makeup, it’s for fun. 

    My fashion style

    My style is classic and chic. I have an edgy feminine aesthetic. I love classic staples in neutral tones. I love been elegant and sexy but minimalistic also. 

    Fashion item I can’t do without 

    I love been comfortable and casual. So, I love denim jeans. It’s a classic fashion staple: you can dress it up in sexy blouses, in a simple tee for a casual outing or classic in a white buttoned down shirt. It’s such a versatile clothing item. 

    My escape place

    I love to read and watch movies. I love to travel and experience new places. 

    What’s next 

    I hope to do a lot more.  I would love to work on more documentaries as well as feature films both historical and contemporary issues. I hope to do partnerships.

  • Countdown to Christmas: Tips for coping during Yuletide

    Countdown to Christmas: Tips for coping during Yuletide

    If you find Christmas a difficult time of year, no worries here are some tips to help you cope. Try not to think too much about Christmas. If it turns out to be good then that’s a bonus, if not then at least I haven’t got myself worked up over nothing! Here are some tips from Mind, a website that promotes mental health solutions.

    Coping with money worries

    It can be tough to cope with the financial pressures of Christmas. This can be especially difficult if you’re already struggling with money. And for many of us, rises in the cost of living will have made things even harder.

    How you cope with the costs of Christmas will depend on your circumstances. You might not find all of these tips realistic. But it may help to try some of them:

    •Access financial support. You could use the Turn2Us benefits calculator to work out what support you’re entitled to. Citizens Advice has information on how to get help if you’re struggling to pay your bills. And you could call Trussell Trust’s free helpline for advice on accessing financial support.

    •Make lists, plans or a budget. Noting things down can make them feel a bit more manageable or help you think more clearly. Creating a budget could also help you feel more in control of what you can spend. See our page on organising your finances for more tips. You could also use Money Helper’s free online budget planner.

    •Be open with others. It can be hard to talk about money. But being honest with others can help. You may be able to agree ways to make Christmas plans free or low cost. Or they might be able to offer other kinds of support. Step Change’s festive support has information on talking to other people about money worries.

    Read Also: UHC Day: Tinubu unveils plan for massive investments in health sector

    •Look for local offers or events. Local organisations, such as charities and community centres, may have free or low-cost events for Christmas. Or they may be able to offer support with things like gifts or food.

    •Look for free or low-cost items online. You may be able to find free items to use as gifts or decorations online, for example through websites like Freecycle.

    •Try to avoid comparisons with the Christmas you see in adverts and social media. These often do not reflect reality and can make us feel bad about ourselves. It may help to take breaks from social media.

    •Be kind to yourself. Money worries can have a big impact on our mental health. They might make us feel concerned, embarrassed or angry.

    And they can affect our self-esteem. Try not to blame yourself for your situation or how you’re feeling about it.

    Looking after yourself

    Be gentle and patient with yourself. It might help to think about what is best for your wellbeing during Christmas, and prioritise what you need. 

    Remind yourself that it won’t last forever. You could set a ‘start’ and ‘finish’ time for what you count as Christmas. 

    • Set your boundaries. Try to say no to things that aren’t helpful for you.
    • Let yourself experience your own feelings. Even if they don’t match what’s going on around you, they’re still valid. For example, if you don’t feel like celebrating Christmas when everyone else does.
    • Take time out. Do something to forget that it’s Christmas or distract yourself. For example, you could watch a film or read a book that’s set in the summer. Or you could try learning a new skill.
    • Let yourself have the things you need. For example, if you need to take a break instead of doing an activity, or need a little bit of quiet time.

    ·